The Sunshine State of Florida deserves its reputation as the perfect tropical vacation spot in the United States. Florida means sun, sea, stunning beaches, and Mickey Mouse. That in itself is enough reason to hop on the next plane.
To help you decide where to go, I’m putting together the best places to visit in Florida, with the most awe-inspiring beaches and memorable landmarks.
43 Best Places to Visit in Florida
Explore the historic charm of St. Augustine, Miami’s vibrant nightlife, or the wilderness of the Everglades. Collect seashells on Sanibel Island, swim with manatees in Clear Water, or snorkel in Key Largo.
One thing is for sure; it only takes a little searching to find something you love in Florida.
Read on to discover my top places to visit in Florida.
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1. Key West
Key West is a small island town in the Florida Keys known for its clear blue waters, sandy beaches, and sunny weather. It is also home to several historic sites, including the Ernest Hemingway House and the Key West Lighthouse.
You can enjoy a wide range of activities, from snorkeling and swimming tofishingand exploring the island’s many shops and restaurants.
Take a day trip north on Highway 1 from Key West. You will cross the historic Seven Mile Bridge on your way to Islamorada, known as the “sportfishingcapital of the world.” Another popular tourist attraction is a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park, a great day trip to swim and snorkel.
Don’t forget to grab a piece of key lime pie before you leave.
Read this post to discover morefun things to do in Key West.
2. Tampa
Tampa is a buzzing business and commercial hub of West Florida, infused with Cuban and Spanish culture.
There are many things to explore in Tampa, from visiting the world-famous Busch Gardens to taking a stroll through Hyde Park Village or 7th Avenue in Ybor City.
Ybor City is a historic neighborhood located in Tampa, Florida, with a heavy Cuban influence. This historic district was once the ‘cigar capital of the world’ and today is home to the best clubs, bars, Latin American restaurants, and cigar factories.
Take a stroll down 7th Avenue in Ybor City to explore the unique shops – from antique stores to vintage boutiques.
A visit to Tampawouldn’t be complete without spending some time outdoors at the beautiful parks. Check out Hillsborough River State Park in Thonotosassa or Lettuce Lake Park in north Tampa.
Related: 24 Best Places To Travel in January for a Fantastic Vacay
3. Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park is one of the United States’ most uniquenational parksand a UNESCO world heritage site. A large portion of the park comprises sawgrass marshes and various wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and birds.
Kayakingand canoeing are popular activities in the park, with many different paddling trails. You can also take an Everglades National Park airboat tour to see the park from a different perspective.
Although you can visit the Everglades any time of year, consider visiting during winter when the weather is cooler and drier.
4. Orlando
There is no doubt thatOrlando is the theme parkcapital of the world. Popular tourist attractions, Walt Disney World, Epcot Center, and Universal Studios, are all located inOrlando, making it a prime destination for family vacations.
However, there aremore fun things to do in Orlandothan just theme parks. Orlando is also home to variousmuseums, art galleries, and historical sites.
In addition, Orlando boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of bars and clubs to keep you entertained.
Read more:
Top Reasons Why Locals Prefer Universal Studios over Walt Disney Park
5. Destin
Destin, Florida, is a popular vacation spot for families and couples. The Emerald Coast is known for its beautiful white sandy beaches, crystal clear emerald waters, and laid-back atmosphere.
While in Destin, you can enjoy plenty of sunshine, swimming, and beach activities.
There are also several parks and attractions in the area, including Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park, Henderson Beach State Park, and the Destin Harbor Boardwalk. Plus, there are numerousrestaurants, shops, and nightlife options.
There issomething for everyone in Destinso if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or a fun-filled vacation, add Destin to your list of potential Florida travel destinations.
6. Rainbow Springs State Park
Rainbow Springs State Park is an excellent place to explore the outdoors in Dunnellon. The park is a natural oasis and home to various wildlife, including turtles, alligators, and otters.
With its crystal clear water with shades of blue and green, this place is ideal for swimming, kayaking, or tubing.
You can float down the Rainbow River on a tube or take a dip in the swimming hole at the freshwater springs. You can rent tubes at the Tube Entrance on SW 180TH Ave. Rd.
Or simply enjoy a walk in the lush greenery.
Keep in mind that the park gets filled up quickly in the summer months, so it’s best to get there early.
Unfortunately, there aren’t any manatees in the river because Rainbow Springs is landlocked, but there is plenty of other great aquatic life to see.
You can also rent kayaks andpaddle boards(SUP) or bring your own equipment.
With so much to see and do, Rainbow Springs is a great place to spend a day or two andenjoy Florida outdoors.
7. Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach is a popular beach destination with beautiful white sand beaches, clear turquoise water, and plenty of fun activities to keep you busy.
Located on the Gulf of Mexico in northwest Florida, Panama City Beach is a popular spring break destination forcollegestudents. In addition, it is a family-friendly spot year-round.
With over 27 miles of coastline on the Gulf Coast, there are plenty of beaches to explore. Popular watersport activities include swimming, fishing, boating, and parasailing.
For those looking for more than just a beach day, Panama City Beach also has countless shopping and dining options and tourist attractions like Pier Park and Ripley’s, believe it or not.
Panama City Beach is also home to Gulf World Marine Park, where you can have close-up dolphin encounters and swim with them.
8. Miami
Miamiis a great vibrant city to explore, and the Art Deco District in South Beach is a great place to start.
This historic district is home to a wide variety of art deco architecture, from the iconic pastel-colored buildings lining Ocean Drive to the more understated art deco details throughout the neighborhood.
A walk down Ocean Drive will give you a front-row seat to some of the most iconic examples of the style, including the Art Deco Welcome Center.
In addition to its rich architectural heritage, the Art Deco District is also home to many galleries, shops, and restaurants.
Other best places to visit in Miami are the beaches and the Ancient Spanish Monastery, the oldest building in the western hemisphere with stunning architecture.
If sun and sand are your top priorities, head to Miami Beach or Lauderdale beach, about 45 minutes north.
On top of that, Miami is one of the best places to visit in Florida for nightlife – from rooftop bars and clubs to a winery and breweries.
Read on:
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9. West Palm Beach
West Palm Beach is an energetic city on the Atlantic Ocean. There are plenty of things to see and do there.
One of the highlights is Rosemary Square, where you can explore the local shops and restaurants and take in the sights and sounds of the city’s cultural attractions.
West Palm Beach is also home to several beaches, parks, and other outdoor spaces, making it the perfect place to enjoy the Florida sunshine.
10. Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
Located in St. Augustine, Florida, the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is the oldest masonry fort in the lower 48 states. The Spanish built the fort in the late 1600s to protect the city from attacks on the new world.
Today, you can explore the fort’s many rooms and tunnels and learn about its important place in American history.
Ranger-led activities are offered throughout the day to learn more about the fort’s history.
In addition, the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is an excellent place to learn about America’s past and experience some of its most beautiful architecture.
11. Daytona Beach
Daytona Beach is a Florida hotspot for spring breakers looking to let loose, but the area has a lot to offer beyond its party reputation. With 23 miles of sandy beaches, Daytona is a paradise for sunbathers, fishermen, and anyone who loves to build sandcastles.
This is a great place to learn how to surf. Plenty of restaurants and bars are within walking distance of the beach.
Another option is to explore the Daytona International Speedway, home of the famous Daytona 500 race, or take a walk through one of the city’s parks.
12. Kennedy Space Center
Kennedy Space Center is one of the top-rated tourist destinations in Florida.
Located on Cape Canaveral, Kennedy Space Center offers you the chance to explore the history of the US Space Program and see some of the most iconic spacecraft ever built.
This tourist attraction also houses the massive Vehicle Assembly Building, where astronauts prepare for their journey into space.
You can also tour the launch pads and see where famous missions such as Apollo 11 and STS-135 took off.
13. Naples
If you’re an art lover, you’ll love browsing the art galleries and one-of-a-kind boutiques and cafes of Old Naples.
Baker Museum of Arts is also exceptional.
For something more outdoorsy, visit Naples Botanical Garden and white powdery Naples beaches, some of the best in Florida.
But there is also a lot to discover just outside the city.
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a beautiful boardwalk trail where you can spot a fantastic variety of wildlife – from alligators, otters, and white-tailed deer to turtles.
14. St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg has been nicknamed Sunshine City for its beautiful weather and warm crystal clear waters.
You should stop by the Salvador Dalí Museum to marvel at one of the largest collections of Dalí’s paintings outside Spain.
If you’re into art,Chihuly Collectionwith epic glass sculptures is also worth the visit.
There is much to see and experience in St. Petersburg, from the Sunken Gardens, a lush botanical paradise, to the lively downtown with cute shops and cafes.
Enjoy the walk at St. Pete Pier, a waterfront area extending from downtown St. Petersburg to Tampa Bay.
Take advantage of Fort De Soto Park, with miles of sandy beaches, great for swimming and sunbathing.
If you travel with kids, they’ll love Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center, where they can see real alligators.
You’ll find stunning St Pete beach just half an hour’s drive outside the city.
15. Clearwater
One of the top tourist attractions in Clearwater is Pier 60, a 1080-foot-long fishing pier that offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico and even more beautiful sunsets. Here you can enjoy the nightly festivals with live music, craft vendors, and food stands.
Just a few minutes away, you can find the Clearwater Marine Aquarium – an incredible underwater world of rescue dolphins, sea turtles, and other species.
Clearwater Beach is also an excellent spot for water activities like parasailing, jet skiing, paddle boarding, deep-sea fishing, and more.
Your kids will loveCaptain Memo’s Pirate Cruisedeparting right from Clearwater beach.
16. St. Augustine
St. Augustine, also named the “The Nations Oldest City,” is full of culture, history, and charm. It’s one of the best places to visit in Florida for couples.
St. Augustine has many iconic landmarks, such as the Pirate and Treasure Museum, Castle Otttis, Fountain of Youth, and the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument.
The Castillo de San Marco fort has an interesting museum exhibit that tells a story of Spanish colonization.
You can also take a walk through St. Augustine’s charming cobblestone streets, explore some of the oldest churches in the US, discover hidden public parks and gardens, or take a ride on a horse-drawn carriage.
Picture terracotta roofs and narrow balconies.
There is also no shortage of great beaches in St. Augustine. Anastasia State Park and Crescent Beach have beautiful sand dunes and endless ocean views.
For some nightlife entertainment, you can attend one of the events at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre or explore one of the many bars and pubs located in the historic downtown.
A must-visit is St. Augustine distillery, where you can taste free samples of potent bourbon and learn about distilling processes. It’s still fun to visit, even if you’re not much of a drinker.
17. Fort Lauderdale
With temperatures that rarely dip below the high 50s (10°C) and miles of beautiful coastline, it’s no surprise that Fort Lauderdale is one of the best places to visit in Florida.
Fort Lauderdaleis a relaxing spot popular with yachters and a modern growing city at the same time.
From beachfront promenade and lovely boutiques on Las Olas Boulevard to riverfrontgondola rides on the canals, experience the “Venice of America.”
For a taste of Florida culture, head to the Arts and Entertainment District. This area of town is full of small galleries, cafes, art festivals, and concerts.
If you’re looking for beautiful beaches, head to Fort Lauderdale Beach Park with its lovely white sand, or take a stroll in Hugh Taylor Birch State Park.
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18. Sanibel Island
Sanibel Island, just a short drive from Fort Myers, is known for shell picking and as the bird-watching paradise.
For family fun, spend a couple of hours collecting seashells and taking in all the shades of blue. “Sanibel Stoop,” a small beach, is almost completely covered with seashells.
Ding Darling National Wildlife Reserve is also on Sanibel Island. It’s one of the best bird-watching spots on the Gulf Coast.
Another fun activity is kayaking or boating in Calusa Blueway. You can rent a kayak fromTarpon Bay Explorersfor some outdoor adventures. They also provide guided tours.
19. Fort Myers
Fort Myers is a unique historic place and one of the best beach towns in all of Florida.
The city is also referred to as the “City of palms,” and it’s easy to see why. The endless rows of palms create a welcoming and exotic vibe.
The Edison & Ford Winter Estates is a historical museum that takes you back in time. The museum contains exciting artifacts, photographs, and stories about the famous inventor Thomas Edison who owned a vacation home in Fort Myers.
Fort Myers beach is famous for its white sand, the perfect temperature of the water, and fantastic sunset views.
20. Pensacola
Pensacola is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the United States and has been home to many different cultures throughout its history. The city is also known as “The City of Five Flags” for having been under British, Spanish, French, Confederate, and US rule.
Pensacola’s beaches are stunningly beautiful. Natural white sand, crystal clear waters, and abundant marine life make Pensacola an ideal vacation spot if you love the ocean.
The National Naval Aviation Museum is one of the top attractions in Pensacola. The museum has interactive exhibits on naval aviation history and even offers flight simulators.
In summer, Pensacola hosts the renowned Blue Angels Airshow, where pilots show off their incredible aerobatic stunts.
Downtown Pensacola is a mix of architectural styles – from classic red-tiled roofs and narrow balconies to modern buildings. You can find plenty of shops, restaurants, bars, and nightlife in the area. So enjoy a glass of wine and some delicious seafood in historic downtown.
21. Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach
Amelia Island in northeast Florida is an ideal getaway if you want to unwind in a tranquil secluded place away from the crowds.
The island offers a unique blend of cultures from its past French, Spanish and English settlers.
The highlights arehorseback ridesalong the Atlantic Ocean shore andpink bottlenose dolphin cruises.
If you love seafood, head to Fernandina Beach Main Street with plenty of restaurants serving freshly caught seafood.
Amelia Island is also home to many upscale resorts and hotels for some luxurious pampering.
22. Crystal River
Located along Florida’s beautiful Nature Coast, Crystal River is a paradise for nature lovers and golfers.
It’s one of the few remaining places in the world where you can experienceswimming with manateesin their natural habitat.
The best time to see manatees is from November to April. It’s one of those experiences that you should add to your bucket list.
There are other ways to see manatees if you don’t like snorkeling. For example, you can go ona clear kayak touror see them fromhom*osassa Springs State Wildlife Park.
You can also spot these gentle giants in Three Sister Springs or Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. Wildlife Refuge is a beautiful oasis that consists of 20 islands. Enjoy the walking trails and warm turquoise waters of fresh springs.
You can also learn more about manatees and buy souvenirs at the Wildlife Refuge visitor center.
If you’re a golfer, you should head straight to thePlantation on Crystal River, which has a 27-hole golf course.
23. Sarasota
Sarasota offers fine dining, pristine white sand beaches, the beautiful Myakka River, and interesting art and cultural sites.
Circus magnate John Ringling and his wife, Mable, had a close connection to Sarasota and left their mark here.
You can visit the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, which pays tribute to the Ringling family, who created America’s most famous circus.
The main attraction is John Ringling’s impressive art collection in the massive, pink-tinted Museum of Art, including Peter Paul Rubens’s paintings and many more.
The museum also carries circus artifacts from costumes, sketches, clown masks, and giant roller skates.
The Ringlings lived in an impressive Venetian-style mansion, Ca’ d’Zan, that is now open for visitors.
Another highlight is Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, with its rose labyrinth and diverse gardens and greenhouses.
Sarasota is also a beautiful beach getaway, with Siesta Beach being the most known. Beautiful Anna Maria island is only a short drive away.
The town also offers plenty of shopping opportunities, from exclusive boutiques in St. Armands Circle to funky thrift stores with great vintage selections.
24. Anna Maria Island
As soon as you cross the bridge from Bradenton to Anna Maria Island, you’ll be amazed by a seven-mile strip of beautiful white-sand beaches such as Coquina beach, Cortez beach, or more private Bean Point beach.
Anna Maria Island has an old-town feel and excellent dining options.
You can gohorseback riding on the beachorparasailingfor something more adventurous.
Manatee Beach Park, located on the island’s north end, is a great spot for a picnic with stunning sunset views.
If you want to take in some culture, visit Island Gallery West which has artworks from local artists.
25. Apalachicola & St. George Island
Apalachicola is a charming fishing town with miles of pristine beaches on St. George Island.
Apalachicola is known for delicious seafood, especially oysters. However, the town is starting to restrict oyster harvesting to protect marine life.
St George Island and Cape San Blas are perfect for beach lovers.
You can take in the Gulf Coastline and relax on miles of white sand beaches.
While here, check out the historic St. George Lighthouse, which has been rebuilt multiple times after getting damaged by hurricanes.
26. Islamorada
In Spanish, Islamorada means ‘purple island.’ Islamorada is part of the Florida Keys and is one of the world’s top fishing destinations.
This area has a small-town Florida vibe and offers plenty of opportunities to explore nature. You can take a mangrove kayak tour, go diving or snorkeling, and see some unique fish species, such as rainbow parrotfish, moray eels, and even nurse sharks.
Islamorada is also home to many chic beachfront resorts, restaurants, and bars.
Make sure to check out Lazy Days Restaurant, with beautiful ocean views and fresh seafood, or Morada Bay restaurant, where you can enjoy delicious dinner on the beachfront while watching the sunset.
You can also take a leisurely boat tour around the islands or rent a bike and explore Islamorada on two wheels.
To have a close-up encounter with dolphins, visit the Theater of the Sea.
27. Key Largo
Key Largo is the largest and longest of all the Florida Keys and a diving paradise.
The absolute highlight of Key Largo is diving orsnorkelingin the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. The protected area is home to hundreds of fish species and coral formations.
One of the best places to visit in Florida for scuba diving is the USS Spiegel Grove, a 510-foot-long warship that sunk in 2002, creating an artificial reef with plenty of sea life, including sharks, turtles, and barracudas.
If you’re looking for a full nature experience, visit John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park with its crystal clear waters, lush mangroves, and abundant wildlife. The park is also home to the Christ of the Abyss underwater statue.
In addition to diving and snorkeling, Key Largo also offers plenty of other outdoor activities. You can go fishing, mangrove kayaking, or biking along the Overseas Heritage Trail that runs through the island.
28. Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park is a must-see if you’re visiting Key West. This secluded park is located about 70 miles from Key West, and it definitely deserves a spot as one of the best places to visit in Florida.
You can get here by seaplane or boat from Key West.
The waters here are extremely clear and azure, ideal for snorkeling and swimming around the historic Fort Jefferson.
The fort dates back to 1846 and is one of the largest masonry structures in the Americas.
29. Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach along the Atlantic Coast is known for its surfing and beach culture.
The world-famous Cocoa Beach Pier stretches 800 feet over the ocean, offering stunning ocean views and nearby islands. You can also find plenty of restaurants and bars to enjoy a relaxed evening.
Surfers flock toCocoa Beachto take advantage of the perfect waves.
Moreover, many international surfing competitions and festivals take place here each year.
If you’re looking for surfing gear, make sure to visit Ron Jon’s, the world’s largest surf shop.
Cocoa Beach is also home to the historic Cocoa Village, full of restaurants, shops, and galleries.
Another highlight is the nearby Kennedy Space Center, with its fascinating exhibits and historic spacecraft.
30. Biscayne National Park
Biscayne National Park is another popular diving spot in Florida, and for a good reason. It’s a wonderland for water activities, as 95% of the island is underwater.
Picture coral reefs, abundant marine life, coastal mangrove forest, and historic shipwrecks.
Biscayne National Park can be accessed by car and is about an hour from Miami.
Alternatively, you can book an excursion through theBiscayne National Park Institute. They provide a variety of tours, from visiting the lighthouse to kayaking or sailing.
31. Caladesi Island State Park
Caladesi island is only accessible by ferry from Honeymoon island, making it an exclusive beach paradise.
It’s been voted one of the top beaches in the United States because it’s one of the few remaining undeveloped Florida islands.
What makes this beach special is the serenity away from the crowds.
Honeymoon Island State Park is also another gem in Florida.
Picture pristine beaches with stunning views of the Gulf Coast.
32. Marco Island
Marco island is one of the largest of Ten Thousand islands, just a short drive from Naples. The island offers luxury resorts, world-class golf courses, and plenty of beautiful beaches, such as Tigertail beach or South Beach.
There are also many outdoor activities to enjoy here, from fishing and kayaking to exploring the Ten Thousand islands by boat.
Don’t miss Everglades National Park and the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. If you luck out, you may spot manatees, alligators, and sea turtles in endless mangrove tunnels.
If you’re into golf, I recommend staying atJW Mariott Marco Island Beach Resort whichfeatures three outdoor pools and two private 18-hole golf courses.
In the evening, enjoy an authentic laid-back atmosphere at the waterfront with a plate of seafood and ocean views at one of the many restaurants, such as Snook Inn or Stan’s Idle Hour.
33. Siesta Key
Siesta Key public beach is known for its pure white quartz sand and has been voted the nation’s best twice.
Siesta Key is an island paradise that offers shopping, dining, stunning resorts, and nightlife to keep you and your family entertained for days.
It’s also an excellent romantic getaway, making it one of the best places to visit in Florida for couples.
Siesta Key is located off the coast of Sarasota, another Florida gem with plenty of fun things to do.
34. Daytona 500
Daytona Beach is about a 2.5-hour drive from Tallahassee.
The city is famous for its legendary Daytona 500 race.
Daytona International Speedwayis where the race kicks off every year (since 1902). In addition, the venue offers tours of the legendary race track on top of various car shows and events throughout the year.
February is the biggest month for events at International Speedway.
The Race museum is dedicated to NASCAR and displays a great selection of racing cars.
Even if there’s no race, Daytona beach is worth the visit. What’s unique about this beach is that you can bring your cars onto the beach.
Double-check which times of the year areaccessible for beach drivingif that’s your primary reason for a visit.
If you’re into racing, this is one of those must-see places in Florida.
35. Southernmost Point Buoy
Did you know Key West has a Southernmost point in the continental USA?
It’s a landmark made of the anchored concrete buoy. It’s a cool spot, but the waiting line for taking photos can get pretty long.
The good news is that the street vendors nearby sell fresh coconuts, so you can keep hydrated while waiting and enjoy the ocean view.
It’s probably not the most fun place to go in Florida, but it’s worth seeing nonetheless.
After all, when is the next time you’ll have a chance to be in the southernmost point of the US?
36. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens
Morikami in Delray Beach is one of the most peaceful destinations in South Florida, with a Japanese museum and equally relaxing zen gardens.
The museum documents the history of the Yamato Colony of Japanese farmers that settled here in the early 20th century.
Exhibits include:
- Several thousand Japanese artifacts.
- Pieces of fine art.
- A big collection of items used in the Japanese tea ceremony.
Even if you’re not into Japanese culture, you’ll appreciate the beauty of perfectly manicured and beautifully curated gardens with Bonsai trees, pine forests, and more.
The atmosphere is zen-like and ideal for a stroll with family or friends.
You can even attend traditional tea ceremonies or educational classes and workshops on topics like calligraphy, ikebana, origami, or sushi making.
The little store on site has cool Japanese souvenirs.
Make sure to stop by their cafe with Japanese-inspired cuisine.
37. Seacrest Wolf Preserve
Seacrest Wolf Preserveis undoubtedly one of Florida’s coolest places to visit. This place is located in Chipley, Florida, about a 1.5-hour drive from Tallahassee and about 45 minutes from Panama City.
Preserve offers a rare and unique opportunity to experience and interact with wolves up close and is sure to be an unforgettable adventure.
The tours include fascinating educational information about wolves and humorous stories about wolf families living at Preserve.
All visits require a reservation, so plan accordingly.
Their gift shop sells all things “wolfy.”
38. Florida Caverns State Park
In Pandhandle, Florida Caverns State Park is one of the state’s lesser-known gems.
It’s the only state park in Florida that offers cave tours to the public.
Explore underground caves with interesting rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites.
Florida Caverns State Park also includes a visitor center with museum exhibits, picnic tables, campsites, horse stalls, and hiking trails.
The nearby Chipola River and Blue Hole spring are great for fishing, canoeing, and boating.
The park is ideal for a family adventure.
39. Venetian Pool
Venetian poolis a historic swimming pool in Coral Gables, Florida, that first opened to the public in 1924.
The pool is carved out of limestone quarry and fed by spring water every day.
It’s a unique facility that looks like an Italian waterfront village. It’s a must-experience if you’re in the area.
The place also depicts vintage photos of events that took place at the Venetian pool many years ago.
And just as they did back in the day, the pool is drained in an environmentally friendly manner, and concerts are held inside the pool for special events. The sound quality is spectacular.
Even if you don’t want to swim, take a peak. Check out caves, waterfalls, a bridge, and the beautiful De Soto Fountain. Once you’re done exploring, grab a few snacks from their snack bar.
Related: 34 Fun Things to Do in Florida
40. Bok Tower Gardens
Bok Tower Gardens is one of Florida’s oldest must-see attractions, located between Tampa and Orlando in Lake Wales.
The highlight of this outdoor sanctuary is the 205-foot tall Singing Tower and Mediterranean-style Pinewood estate.
The tower is made from seashells and pink, white, and gray marble.
The garden pathways are lined with ferns, palms, oaks, and pines, not to mention the beautiful seasonal blooming flowers.
You can also grab an ice cream from their cafe or enjoy a picnic in the lush gardens.
Fun Fact: the garden was designed by Frederick Law Olmstead Jr., whose father designed Central Park in New York City.
41. Neptune Memorial Reef
Neptune Memorial Reef is an artificial reef that is also an artwork inspired by the lost city of Atlantis.
It’s been designed to work in harmony with underwater life and withstand the natural elements.
It’s located east of Key Biscayne in Miami, Florida.
The reef is accessible by boat or by arranging a dive trip. Here’s the list ofdiving companiesthat provide dives in the Memorial.
What’s unusual is that the Memorial reef also contains thecremation ashesof people who choose to be buried here.
42. Walt Disney World
Without mentioning Walt Disney World, the list of the best places to visit in Florida wouldn’t be complete.
Let’s face it who wouldn’t want to see Mickey and other Disney characters? Not to mention having a picture of yourself in front of Cinderella Castle.
Walt Disney World is full of nostalgia and thrilling roller coasters.
The list of Walt Disney attractions is long, including fireworks, laser-light displays, arcade games, parades, and more.
It’s the perfect place to make unforgettable family memories.
The place gets jam-packed no matter what time of the year it is, but regardless is one of the must-have experiences to tick off the Florida bucket list.
43. Devil’s Den
Attention scuba lovers.Devil’s Denis a prehistoric spring and natural wonder in Williston, Florida.
This cavern is one of the most unique diving spots in the US.
If you’re not into diving, you can keep it simple and do snorkeling instead. Divers don’t need reservations, but if you want to do snorkeling, then you have to reserve the spot.
The feeling of stepping into the cave with azure water is hard to beat.
After Devil’s Den, you can explore the nearby Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens.
Final Thoughts on Best Places in Florida
There are plenty of cool places to visit in Florida, each with its unique attractions.
From its iconic beaches, theme parks, stunning springs, and vibrant cities to historical landmarks and natural wonders – you’ll always have things to do here.
I hope that after reading this post, you have plenty of inspiration for the best places to visit in Florida.
Read more to discoverfun things to do in Florida.
Steve Morrow
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Steve is the owner of Paddle About, a blog that's all about helping people get out and enjoy nature. He loves to kayak, camp, hike, and spend time outdoors with his wife and two kids. When he's not out exploring the great outdoors, Steve enjoys writing about his adventures and sharing tips for getting the most out of your outdoor experiences. He has a lot of interesting stories to share, and he's always happy to help others get more out of life.
