Florida Travel Guide

Your ultimate guide to exploring Florida, including top tourist attractions, outdoor adventures, cultural and historical sites, food and drink scene, local customs, safety tips, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Florida

Located in the southeastern region of the United States, Florida is a state that offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. It is home to numerous tourist attractions, cultural and historical sites, natural wonders, and outdoor activities. Known for its sunny beaches, vibrant nightlife, and unique cuisine, Florida attracts millions of visitors every year.

Whether you are planning a family vacation, romantic escape, or solo adventure, Florida has something to offer everyone. In this comprehensive tour guide, we will share with you the best things to see, do, eat, and experience in Florida, from the bustling cities to the peaceful countryside.

List of Places to Visit in Florida

Florida is a vast state, with a multitude of destinations to explore. Here are some of the top places to visit in Florida:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Florida has a rich history that is reflected in its numerous museums and historical sites. Here are some of the must-visit cultural attractions:

  • The Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota
  • The Salvador Dali Museum in St. Petersburg
  • The Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral
  • The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum in Key West
  • The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Miami
  • The Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers

These sites offer a unique glimpse into Florida’s past and cultural heritage, and are perfect for history buffs and culture enthusiasts.

Natural Attractions of Florida: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Florida is also known for its natural beauty, with numerous parks, beaches, and outdoor activities to enjoy. Here are some of the best outdoor attractions in Florida:

  • Everglades National Park
  • The Florida Keys
  • The Ocala National Forest
  • The Canaveral National Seashore
  • The Dry Tortugas National Park
  • The St. Johns River

Whether you enjoy hiking, camping, kayaking, or birdwatching, Florida’s natural attractions offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and scenic views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Florida

Florida also boasts some of the best hiking and biking trails in the country. Here are some of the top routes to explore:

  • The Florida Trail
  • The Tamiami Trail
  • The Legacy Trail
  • The Withlacoochee State Trail
  • The Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail

These trails offer stunning views of Florida’s natural landscapes, from coastal areas to forests and wetlands.

Best Things to Do in Florida: Activities and Tours

Florida has no shortage of fun activities and tours to offer. Here are some of the best things to do while in Florida:

  • Visit Walt Disney World or Universal Studios in Orlando
  • Take an airboat ride in the Everglades
  • Go snorkeling or scuba diving in the Florida Keys
  • Attend a baseball game at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg
  • Take a hot air balloon ride over the countryside
  • Go on a sunset sailboat cruise in Tampa
  • Attend a music festival or concert in Miami

From adrenaline-pumping activities to laid-back experiences, Florida has something to offer everyone.

Week-Long Itinerary for Florida

If you have a week to spend in Florida, here is a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

  • Day 1-2: Orlando (visit Walt Disney World or Universal Studios)
  • Day 3: St. Petersburg (visit the Salvador Dali Museum and Tropicana Field)
  • Day 4-5: Miami (visit the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, attend a concert or festival)
  • Day 6-7: Key West (snorkel or scuba dive, visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum)

This itinerary will give you a taste of Florida’s major cities, cultural sites, and natural attractions.

Food and Drink Scene of Florida

Florida’s cuisine is a blend of various culinary traditions, with a focus on fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and spicy flavors. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Florida:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Conch fritters
  • Key lime pie
  • Gator tail
  • Cuban sandwich
  • Stone crab claws
  • Fried green tomatoes

These dishes reflect the diverse cultural influences in Florida’s cuisine, from Cuban to Southern to Caribbean.

Local Beverages

  • Orange juice (Florida is the largest producer of oranges in the U.S.)
  • Rum (Florida has a long history of rum production)
  • Cuban coffee (a strong and sweet espresso drink)
  • Craft beer (Florida has a growing craft beer scene)

Where to Stay in Florida: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Florida offers a wide variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of the top places to stay in Florida:

  • The Don CeSar in St. Pete Beach
  • The Ritz-Carlton in Orlando
  • The W South Beach in Miami
  • The Pelican Grand Beach Resort in Fort Lauderdale
  • The Pearl Hotel in Rosemary Beach

These hotels offer stunning views, excellent amenities, and world-class service for an unforgettable Florida experience.

What to Buy in Florida: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you are looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring home from Florida, here are some suggestions:

  • Key lime products (such as Key lime pie mix or Key lime hot sauce)
  • Seashells and sand dollars
  • Cuban cigars
  • Orange blossom honey
  • Florida-made hot sauces or barbecue sauces

Local Culture and Customs of Florida

Florida has a rich cultural heritage, with a diverse mix of ethnic, racial, and religious groups. Here are some of the key cultural customs and traditions in Florida:

  • Beach culture (including swimwear and sunbathing norms)
  • Southern hospitality (friendly and welcoming attitude)
  • Spanish and Cuban cultural influences (in food, music, and language)
  • Spring break tradition (a popular time for college students to visit Florida beaches)

Best Time to Visit Florida

The best time to visit Florida depends on your preferences and itinerary. Generally, the peak tourist season is between December and April, when temperatures are mild and there is less rainfall. However, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly trip, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (May-June or September-November) when prices are lower and crowds are smaller.

Do’s and Don’ts of Florida

To have a safe and enjoyable trip to Florida, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Apply sunscreen regularly (the sun can be intense, even in the winter)
  • Stay hydrated (especially when participating in outdoor activities)
  • Respect wildlife (do not disturb or feed animals)
  • Observe beach rules and regulations (such as no glass containers or dog restrictions)

Don’t:

  • Leave valuables in your car (car break-ins are common in some areas)
  • Swim alone (always have a buddy or join a group)
  • Feed alligators or approach them too closely (alligators are common in some areas and can be dangerous)
  • Litter or leave trash behind (help keep Florida beaches and parks clean)

Safety and Health

Florida is generally a safe state for visitors, but it is always important to be aware of potential risks and take precautions. Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy in Florida:

Safety in Florida

  • Use caution when driving (Florida has some of the highest rates of car accidents in the country)
  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid poorly lit areas at night
  • Keep personal belongings secure and use common sense when carrying cash or credit cards
  • Follow hurricane warnings and evacuation orders (Florida is prone to hurricanes and tropical storms)

Health in Florida

  • Protect yourself from mosquito-borne illnesses (such as Zika or West Nile virus) by wearing insect repellent and long sleeves and pants in wooded areas
  • Stay hydrated and seek medical attention if you experience heat exhaustion or other heat-related illnesses
  • Be aware of jellyfish or other marine life in the water when swimming or participating in water activities

Getting to Florida: Transportation Options and Logistics

Florida is accessible by air, land, and sea, with numerous transportation options to choose from. Here are some of the major transportation hubs and logistics to consider:

Airports Near Florida

  • Miami International Airport
  • Orlando International Airport
  • Tampa International Airport
  • Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport

Bus Stations Near Florida

  • Greyhound bus stations in Miami, Orlando, and Tampa
  • Amtrak stations in Miami, Orlando, and Tampa

Other Options

  • Cruise ships (Miami and Fort Lauderdale are popular embarkation ports)
  • Driving (Florida has numerous highways and interstates connecting it to other states)

How to Get Around in Florida

Once you arrive in Florida, you will need to consider how to get around. Here are some transportation options:

  • Rental cars (available at airports and other locations)
  • Public transportation (including buses and trains)
  • Ride-sharing services (such as Uber and Lyft)
  • Bike rentals (available in many cities and towns)
  • Walking (especially in pedestrian-friendly areas)

Where to Go Next from Florida: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore after your visit to Florida, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Savannah, Georgia (historic city with beautiful architecture)
  • New Orleans, Louisiana (vibrant city known for its music and cuisine)
  • Charleston, South Carolina (quaint, historic city with southern charm)
  • The Bahamas (just a short flight or boat ride away)

Conclusion

In conclusion, Florida offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. From natural wonders to cultural sites, from beaches to theme parks, Florida has something to offer everyone. Use this comprehensive tour guide to plan your perfect Florida itinerary and make unforgettable memories.

American white ibis at the Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area in Everglades National Park American white ibis at the Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area in Everglades National Park The Call-Collins Plantation House, The Grove- Tallahassee, Florida The Call-Collins Plantation House, The Grove- Tallahassee, Florida A view south on Collins Avenue in the Miami Beach/South Beach A view south on Collins Avenue in the Miami Beach/South Beach Hurricane Frances makes landfall on the morning of September 5, 2004 near Stuart. Its impact, however, was felt throughout Central Florida and most of Florida's east coast. Hurricane Frances makes landfall on the morning of September 5, 2004 near Stuart. Its impact, however, was felt throughout Central Florida and most of Florida's east coast. A full-service Marriott hotel is directly within Orlando International Airport A full-service Marriott hotel is directly within Orlando International Airport The skyline of Miami/Brickell The skyline of Miami/Brickell The Overseas Highway to Key West. The Overseas Highway to Key West. link=https://www.floridasturnpike.com link=https://www.floridasturnpike.com A Brightline train at the station in Fort Lauderdale. A Brightline train at the station in Fort Lauderdale. Gatorland in Orlando. Gatorland in Orlando. The Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse in Ponce Inlet. The Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse in Ponce Inlet. alligators alligators The world-famous Spaceship Earth at Walt Disney World's Walt Disney World/Epcot The world-famous Spaceship Earth at Walt Disney World's Walt Disney World/Epcot A typical Florida orange grove near Sebring. A typical Florida orange grove near Sebring. The art deco hotels and clubs of Miami's Miami Beach/South Beach The art deco hotels and clubs of Miami's Miami Beach/South Beach The gentle white sands of Siesta Key The gentle white sands of Siesta Key


    Central Florida
    First Coast
    Florida Keys
    Florida Panhandle
    Florida West Coast
    Greater Miami
    Inland Florida
    North Florida
    South Florida
    Space Coast
    Treasure Coast
    Volusia County