There is more to Florida besides the famous theme parks at Universal and Disney World. This sunshine state has plenty to offer, from luxury stores, national parks to beautiful beaches. In Florida you get the satisfaction of choosing which city to visit based on what you enjoy and want to experience. Below is a list of the top ten places you should consider visiting the next time you are in Florida.
1. Orlando
This is one of the top world-famous travel destinations because of the theme parks, such as Walt Disney, Gator Park, SeaWorld, Universal Studios, and Epcot center. Adventure and magic are awaiting you in every corner when you visit Orlando. Besides the theme parks, Orlando is great for eco-tourism, shopping, and dining.
2. Miami
If beaches are what you love, you will enjoy Miami. The most exciting beach in Miami is South Beach. It is popularly known for its ultra-trendy pedestrian mall and Art Deco District where you’ll find entertainment and outdoor restaurants facing the water.
Off the beach, you can find posh eateries and high-end stores are at the Design District and Brickwell neighborhood. For hearty soul food and rich African American history, visit the Overtown neighborhood. And then for more historical attractions, you can visit Flagler Street in Downtown Miami or the Vizcaya Museum in Coconut grove. Here you’ll find plenty of sidewalk cafes, various street entertainers, and peacocks strutting.
3. Naples
This is an upscale area with a beautiful stretch of beach and a quaint city center. It has condo towers lining the ocean, a couple of luxury resorts, and elegant houses. Visit the Naples pier, a historical landmark where you can often spot dolphins swimming nearby.
On the other hand, the downtown area maintains its small-town feel. 5th Avenue South and 3rd St. South have some of Naples’ trendiest restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries. Naples also has unique water parks and historical attractions that can provide fun for all interests.
4. Key West
Key West has a slow pace, old architecture, and a distinct island feel. It is a historic, laid-back, and picturesque city and home to multiple well-known authors like Earnest Hemmingway and Robert Frost. There are plenty of entertainment options in Key West, also a popular cruise ship port. The main tourist area is Duval Street, which has historic homes, restaurants, souvenir shops, and boutiques.
Other places worth visiting are the Tortugas National Park, Key West Aquarium, and shipwreck museum. Getting around is easy.
Key West offers a beautiful view of the chain of islands that make the Florida Keys. If you can, drive to the Key West where you will cross many stunning bridges with amazing views.
5. St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg has a mild climate and plenty of oceanfront beaches. There are many unique areas to explore, including historic Pass-a-Grille, the restaurants and dockside shops of John Pass, Indian Rocks beach’s soft sand, and St. Petersburg Pier. Enjoy the prominent art museums and theatres on land or take a boat tour to explore the waters. You can also visit Clearwater, a popular resort destination with some of the best beaches in Florida.
6. Tampa
Tampa is a popular travel destination in Florida for families who enjoy the vast wildlife attractions it has to offer. For instance, you can visit Busch Gardens, a huge amusement park with a zoo, with a list of endless things to do and see. There are several places for animal lovers to visit in Tampa, including Big Cat Rescue, the Tampa Aquarium, or the Tampa Zoo.
Consider visiting the Museum of Science and History and the Glazer Children’s Museum if you have younger kids. Lastly, visit the famous Columbia Restaurant for a meal and Ybor City to explore historical sites.
7. Sanibel Island
Sanibel Island is popular for its resorts that are filled with elegant amenities. Besides the resorts, there are plenty of activities you can partake in when you visit Sanibel Island. This includes shopping leisurely at their galleries and boutiques as well as beautiful ocean adventures. Sanibel is dedicated to conservation, which has helped protect half of this Island’s land. It also led to the establishment of organizations such as Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation and Sanibel Sea School.
Many resorts have curated programs to educate tourists about the amazing wildlife and delicate ecosystem. Sanibel’s wildlife includes the hundreds of bird species, dolphins, manatees, and the loggerhead sea turtle.
Sanibel Island is a tranquil little escape and an excellent choice for a change of scenery. The whole Island is exploratory and safe. Besides being a great family vacation spot, it is also great for individuals looking to find their path. This Island might be the change of scenery you need.
8. Fort Myers
Downtown Fort Meyers provides a wide range of activities for travelers from sightseeing to various dining options, to shopping. A top favorite amongst the families would be the IMAG History & Science Center.
Fort Meyers Beach is a must-visit destination in Florida. As beaches are less crowded here compared to most of the other popular beaches in Florida you can truly get a quiet vacation. The top-notch resorts are popular with celebrities, couples, and families alike. Enjoy the sun, surf, fresh seafood, and boardwalk treats. There is plenty of fun to be had in Fort Meyers.
9. West Palm Beach
On your next visit to Florida, consider visiting West Palm Beach. It has trendy fine dining restaurants and fascinating museums. West Palm Beach is defined by its miles of beautiful soft sandy beaches that many tourists come to enjoy.
Besides beaches, West Palm Beach offers plenty of other attractions, many that are family-friendly. Consider visiting the Lion Country Safari, the Manatee Lagoon, the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society, and the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium.
10. Daytona
Daytona is a popular tourist destination in Florida because its beaches draw in tourists all year long. Daytona Beach has grown into a family-oriented destination. The beaches feature a boardwalk that is activity-filled and is home to a long pier, special events, restaurants, games, and amusement rides.
Be sure to visit the Cici and Hyatt Brown Museum of Art, as it has the most extensive collection of Florida art globally. Other attractions in Daytona include the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse (175ft high) and the Stetson mansion.
While most people know Florida for alligators and hurricanes, there is much more to see in Florida. Try a new spot listed above on your next visit – enjoy a new beach, experience the theme parks and historical sites, and shop until you drop. Whether you like to vacation here to soak up the sun at the sandy beaches or are looking to retire to Florida to fully enjoy your golden years, this sunshine state provides something for everyone.
