After a long year of nonstop work and stress, it’s time to kick back your feet and take a little time for yourself, right? Well, now you have to decide where you’re going to go on vacation, and Florida sounds like the perfect choice.
Of course, now you have to narrow down where you should go. In a state full of vacation opportunities, what can’t-miss features do you have to see for yourself?
Well, that’s where we come in. It’s time to take a look at our list of the best places in Florida!
But enough preamble, right? Grab your suitcase and let’s dive in!
Theme Parks Galore
Table of Contents
When most people think of vacationing in Florida, they think of the myriad of famous theme parks the state hosts. Walt Disney World is an obvious classic, boasting entertainment for the whole family and a crew of dedicated employees focused on ensuring everyone who comes has a magical experience. Coaster warriors can tackle the Rock n’ Roller Coaster at Hollywood Studios while those looking to relax can walk through representations of different nations and cultures in Epcot.
Universal Studios is also another big-name theme park in Orlando, boasting attractions inspired by the decades of movies Universal Studios produced over the years. If your kids love the Minions from the Despicable Me franchise, you’ll want to hop aboard the Minion Mayhem ride. Meanwhile, older kids can thrill at the lifelike animatronic dinosaurs featured in the famous Jurassic Park ride.
And it doesn’t stop there! Seaworld Orlando, Busch Gardens, Legoland…all these and more are guaranteed to make your vacation unforgettable.
Walk on the Wild Side
If you’re looking to see flora and fauna you couldn’t find anywhere else in the country, Florida is the place for you! Lion Country Safari is one such place, located a short drive from Palm Beach. Free from the gated enclosures of normal zoos, this place allows you to see animals interacting in a more natural setting. The thrill of seeing exotic creatures like rhinos or giraffes walking so close to you has little equal.
For a more classic zoo experience, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, as well as ZooTampa in Lowry Park, fit the bill. Both zoos pack a wild array of wildlife species as well as fun activities to help you learn more about the animals.
The Jacksonville Zoo and Garden’s headlining attraction is the Kapok Tree. A massive structure that guests can climb to see all assortment of apes and monkeys up close, you won’t want to miss it.
Beaches Are Some of the Best Places in Florida
But of course, what would be a trip to Florida without relaxing on one of its famous beaches? Daytona Beach lies as one of the more popular examples, with prime access to the Daytona International Speedway (where some NASCAR races are held). It also packs a killer water park, a vast collection of outdoor concerts, and relaxing scenery to let you kick back and soak it all in.
If you’re looking for something a little quieter, Delray Beach is more your speed. In addition to sunny beaches, Delray also offers a thriving local art community. As a result, art galleries abound, and street musicians and live concerts are around every corner.
Fort Meyers is another big beach area, with sand and ocean stretching on for miles. Historical buffs will appreciate tours of the Edison And Ford Winter Estates. Meanwhile, young train enthusiasts will enjoy hopping aboard a miniature train at Lakes Regional Park.
And of course, no list of Florida beaches would be complete without mentioning Key West. In addition to beaches, this place packs a stunning nightlife, with clubs and bars sure to keep the party going for hours.
Combine that with snorkeling trips in the Key West reef and visits to the actual house of famous writer Ernest Hemingway? You’ve got an unmissable experience.
Kicking It Small-Town
Of course, some people prefer their vacations away from crowds of people. If that sounds like you, consider taking your vacation to the small Florida town of Micanopy. A vast departure from big tourist spots and sandy beaches, Micanopy is a rural town with tall trees and dirt roads.
Small doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do, though. Micanopy is famous for its annual Fall Festival, which is packed with fun games and delicious food. You can also visit the Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park to see some wild horses or visit one of the quaint shops located throughout the town.
Mount Dora is another such small-town delight, featuring a menagerie of museums and antique shops for the curious mind. Characterized by its serene lakes and art festivals, a trip to Mount Dora should hit your vacation itinerary.
But what if you’re looking for something smaller without abandoning the sand and waves vibes of the rest of Florida? In that case, check out Sanibel Island. Its perpendicular position to Florida (As opposed to parallel, like most islands in the area) ensures unique shells wash up on the beaches.
Even if you’re not a shell collector, Sanibel Island offers fishing piers, boardwalks, and old-school lighthouses for you to explore to your heart’s content.
Kicking Up the Thrills
If you’re looking to add a little adrenaline into your Florida vacation, considering traveling on down to the Florida Keys. This is the home of Ultimate HeliTours, the premiere helicopter guide trip across the Florida Keys. You can even click here to find out more about the ride today!
For those looking for a show, check out the Mai Kai show in Fort Lauderdale. With a mix of Polynesian food and music (alongside fire dancers), this place offers a true sensory experience.
So Kick Back and Relax
And there you have it! Now that you have our list of the best places in Florida to vacation, you’re ready to kick back and relax in paradise! And if you need more fun ideas about where to go on vacation, make sure to check out the other articles on our website! Also, read about the best Dog Friendly Beaches in Florida.
