Simple Map Of Florida
Introduction
Florida is a state that offers something for everyone, from world-class beaches to theme parks and cultural attractions. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll discover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
Florida is home to some of the most famous attractions in the world, such as Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld. But there’s more to Florida than just theme parks. Visit the Kennedy Space Center to learn about NASA’s space program, or head to the Everglades National Park for a chance to see alligators and other wildlife. Don’t miss out on the beautiful beaches, such as Clearwater Beach and South Beach, or the historic St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States.
Hidden Gems
While Florida has plenty of well-known attractions, there are also plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Explore the Coral Castle, a mysterious structure built by a single man over 28 years, or take a trip to Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, where you can watch live mermaid shows. For a truly unique experience, visit Solomon’s Castle, a castle made entirely out of recycled materials.
Food Scene
Florida is known for its fresh seafood, Cuban cuisine, and citrus fruits. Don’t miss out on trying key lime pie, conch fritters, and Cuban sandwiches. For a truly unique dining experience, head to the Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City, the oldest restaurant in Florida.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Visiting Florida can be expensive, but there are plenty of ways to save money. Consider visiting during the off-season, and look for deals on hotels and attractions. Many attractions offer discounts for students, seniors, and military personnel. Consider renting a vacation home instead of staying in a hotel, and take advantage of free activities such as visiting state parks and beaches.
Outdoor Adventures
Florida is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and kayaking. Explore the Florida Keys by paddleboard or kayak, or take a guided tour of the mangrove forests. For a truly unique experience, take an airboat tour of the Everglades and see alligators up close.
Historical Landmarks
Florida has a rich history, with many historical landmarks waiting to be explored. Visit the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fortress in St. Augustine, or explore the historic homes and buildings in the Coconut Grove neighborhood of Miami. Don’t miss out on the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, where you can learn about the lives and inventions of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.
Family-Friendly Activities
Florida is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that kids will love. Visit Legoland Florida, where kids can explore a Lego-themed world, or take a trip to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where you can see rescued dolphins and sea turtles. For a fun day out, head to the Crayola Experience in Orlando, where kids can create their own works of art.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, Florida has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. Visit the Skunk Ape Research Headquarters, where you can learn about the elusive Skunk Ape, or take a ghost tour of St. Augustine. For a truly unique experience, head to the Coral Restoration Foundation in Key Largo, where you can help plant coral reefs.
Natural Wonders
Florida is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world. Visit the Dry Tortugas National Park, a remote island paradise accessible only by boat or seaplane, or explore the crystal-clear springs at Ichetucknee Springs State Park. For a chance to see manatees up close, head to Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge.
Vibrant Nightlife
Florida is known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. Head to South Beach in Miami for a night out, or check out the live music scene in downtown St. Petersburg. For a more laid-back experience, visit the beach bars in Clearwater Beach or the tiki bars in Key West.
Local Markets
Florida has a thriving local market scene, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Visit the St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market, where you can buy fresh produce and handmade goods from local vendors, or head to the Coconut Grove Farmers Market for a taste of local cuisine. For a truly unique experience, visit the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks, where you can buy natural sponges harvested from the Gulf of Mexico.
Beaches and Mountains
Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, but it also has some impressive mountains. Visit the Appalachian Mountains in the northern part of the state, where you can hike and explore the scenic beauty of the region. For a beach experience, head to Siesta Key Beach, named the best beach in the United States by TripAdvisor in 2017.
Cultural Immersion
Florida is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Cuba, the Bahamas, and many other countries. Immerse yourself in the culture by taking a salsa dance class in Miami, or exploring the Little Havana neighborhood. For a taste of the Bahamas, head to the Annual Goombay Festival in Key West.
Art and Music Scene
Florida has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries, museums, and live music venues to explore. Visit the Salvador Dali Museum in St. Petersburg, or explore the art deco architecture in Miami Beach. For a chance to see live music, head to the House of Blues in Orlando or the Fillmore Miami Beach at the Jackie Gleason Theater.
Walking Tours
Walking tours are a great way to explore Florida’s cities and learn about their history and culture. Take a walking tour of the Art Deco District in Miami Beach, or explore the historic neighborhoods of St. Augustine. For a truly unique experience, take a ghost tour of Key West and learn about the city’s haunted past.
Architectural Marvels
Florida is home to some impressive architectural marvels, from the Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales to the Singing Tower in Miami Beach. Don’t miss out on the stunning architecture of the Florida State Capitol building in Tallahassee, or the historic Coral Gables City Hall.
Historical Sites
Florida has a rich history, with many historical sites waiting to be explored. Visit the Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park in Key West, or explore the historic homes and buildings in the DeLand Historic District. For a chance to learn about the history of the Seminole Indians, head to the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum in Clewiston.
Biking Routes
Florida has plenty of scenic biking routes, from the Overseas Heritage Trail in the Florida Keys to the Pinellas Trail in St. Petersburg. Explore the Tamiami Trail in the Everglades, or take a leisurely ride through the charming town of Winter Park.
Wellness Retreats
Florida is a great destination for wellness retreats, with plenty of options for yoga, meditation, and spa treatments. Visit the Amrit Ocean Resort and Spa in Singer Island, or explore the wellness programs at the Hippocrates Health Institute in West Palm Beach. For a truly unique experience, head to the Salt Therapy Grotto in Sarasota, where you can relax in a cave made entirely of salt.
Adventure Sports
Florida is a great destination for adventure sports, with plenty of opportunities for surfing, kiteboarding, and parasailing. Explore the underwater world by scuba diving or snorkeling in the Florida Keys, or take a zip line tour of the canopy at the Brevard Zoo. For a truly unique experience, try flyboarding in Miami, where you can soar above the water propelled by a jet of water.
With so much to see and do in Florida, this travel guide is just the beginning of your adventure. Whether you’re looking for theme parks, beaches, or off-the-beaten-path experiences, Florida has something for everyone.