Looking for the best things to do in Florida?? Here’s the list with all the travel information that you need to plan a family tour.
Florida is one of the fascinating states in the United States. It is filled with fantastic beaches, entertaining amusement parks, national parks, and many other tourist attractions.
For example, Miami Beach, Everglades National Park, Dry Tortugas National Park, Walt Disney World, The Ringling, and Kennedy Space Center are some highlighted destinations in Florida.
Aside from that, its world-famous cities like Miami, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Key West, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Sarasota, Destin, Tampa, and Naples offer unlimited tourist attractions for any traveler.
So, let’s discover the complete list of the best things to do in Florida, United States.
Things to do in Florida
1. Things to do in Florida: Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park is a huge national park that stretches for 1.5-million-acres on the southern tip of Florida.
This wetland preserve contains coastal mangroves, rivers, pine Flatwoods, diverse animal species, sawgrass marshes, and swamps.
Especially, Everglades National Park is home to American crocodiles, alligators, river otters, West Indian manatee, Florida panthers, egrets, deer, endangered leatherback turtles, birds, and many other species.
Therefore, Everglades National Park is like a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife photographers.
This nature preserve contains two main sloughs named Shark River Slough or River of Grass and the smaller Taylor Slough. And both sloughs slowly discharge into Florida Bay.
And also, its shallow river that flows from Lake Okeechobee to the Bay of Florida has porous limestone at the bottom called Tamiami Formation. This particular bedrock formation acts as the main water reservoir of southern Florida by catching the rainfall.
However, these water areas are home to plenty of American crocodiles and alligators. So, visitors can catch an airboat ride to spot them.
Usually, these airboat rides last for 30 minutes and ensure spotting crocodiles and alligators while providing more information about the park’s wildlife.
Aside from that, Everglades National Park features exciting walking trails too. But, surely hire a guide and follow the park guidelines for your safety.
Address: Everglades National Park, Florida, United States Phone: +1 305-242-7700
Things to do in Florida
2. Things to do in Florida: Universal Orlando
Universal Orlando Resort is a famous film studio, a theme park, and an entertainment resort complex located in Orlando, Florida. Opened in 1990, this place is operated by Universal Parks & Resorts Company.
It features a wide range of rides, live entertainment, attractive locations designed based on the films released by Universal, restaurants, and shopping areas.
Especially, the amusement park’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter is the most popular recreated set. It features unique places of the world-famous movie Harry Potter including Hogwarts, Diagon Alley, Hogsmeade shops, restaurants that serve delicious Butterbeer, Hogwarts express, and all the other memories.
Are you ready to forget your muggle life??
On the other hand, Universal Orlando offers you thrill rides, 3D- and 4D-simulator rides, tamer rides for younger children, and wild rides at its Volcano Bay.
That’s why visiting Universal Orlando is one of the best things to do in Florida with kids.
Address: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, United States Phone: +1 407-363-8000
Things to do in Florida
3. Things to do in Florida: Walt Disney World, Orlando
The Walt Disney World Resort or Walt Disney World is a popular entertainment complex in Orlando, Florida.
This giant amusement park ensures unique experiences beyond the traditional theme parks.
It features several themes, including Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom Park, Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, Blizzard Beach, Disney Hollywood Studios, and several thrill rides like Space Mountain.
And also, it offers exceptional dining options, shopping areas, and live shows too. That means Orlando’s Walt Disney World is not only for kids; it welcomes everyone.
Address: Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, FL, United States Phone: +1 407-939-5277
Things to do in Florida
4. SeaWorld Orlando, Orlando
SeaWorld is another famous theme park chain in the United States. And SeaWorld Orlando is its headquarters.
It conserves dolphins, whales, sea lions, otters, and many other sea creatures. Therefore, you can observe the amazing relationship between these amazing aqua creatures and caretakers. Especially, the Killer Whales are the stars of shows.
After watching dolphin and whale shows, you can walk through impressive aquariums in SeaWorld Orlando that features all kinds of marine life.
On the other hand, SeaWorld Orlando’s Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin offers a chance to take an imaginary ride through Antarctica. It is awe-inspiring, and your kids will love it.
And also, SeaWorld Orlando has high-speed thrill rides like Journey to Atlantis water coaster ride and high-speed Mako roller coaster.
Address: 7007 Sea World Dr, Orlando, FL 32821, United States Phone: (407) 545-5550
Things to do in Florida
5. The Wheel at ICON Park, Orlando
The Wheel at ICON Park or Orlando Eye is a giant Ferris wheel that opened in 2015.
Since it is 400 ft high, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of Orlando. Therefore, The Wheel at ICON Park attracts thousands of visitors annually.
Just like the London Eye, the Wheel at ICON Park is also one of the best romantic night tours to go with your sweetheart.
If you are in Orlando with kids, surely reserve a tour on the Wheel at ICON Park. They will love it.
Address: 8375 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819, United States Phone: +1 407-601-7907
Things to do in Florida
6. Things to do in Florida: Discovery Cove, Orlando
Discovery Cove is the sister park of SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica Orlando. But, this place allows you to snorkel with manta rays, swim with bottlenose dolphins, and get close to a range of marine creatures.
On the other hand, Discovery Cove features a large freshwater lagoon with a family of otters too. Also, this theme park is home to several tropical bird species. And visitors are allowed to feed these birds.
Kids will love this unique experience of interacting with marine creatures and birds.
Address: 6000 Discovery Cove Way, Orlando, FL 32821, United States Phone: +1 407-513-4600
Things to do in Florida
7. WonderWorks Orlando
WonderWorks Orlando is a mix of a theme park, an amusement arcade, and a children’s museum located in Pointe Orlando.
It features over 100 hands-on science exhibits, amazing laser tags, a 6D motion ride, and an exciting ropes course.
Most importantly, WonderWorks Orlando is an upside-down building. So, you will love this place from the first impression.
Inside the WonderWorks Orlando, you will find a hurricane simulator which is the most popular interactive exhibit.
Therefore, WonderWorks Orlando is not only targeting kids, but also there are so many things to experience by adults.
Address: 9067 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819, United States Phone: +1 407-351-8800
Things to do in Florida
8. Wynwood Walls, Miami
Wynwood Walls is a unique outdoor art museum located in Miami, Florida. It features huge, colorful street murals designed by talented artists all over the world.
Therefore, this public green space attracts millions of art lovers to see the best of street art in the world.
Wynwood Walls contains over 50 art pieces with beautiful murals and paintings. So, you can take memorable photos with these gorgeous backdrops.
Address: 266 NW 26th St, Miami, FL 33127, United States Phone: +1 305-531-4411
Things to do in Florida
9. South Beach, Miami Beach
Miami Beach is the most popular and entertaining beach city in Florida. Being an island city, it connects to the mainland by a bridge.
Its North Shore is famous for the North Shore Open Space Park and the Lummus Park.
On the other hand, the most popular South Beach is known for entertaining beaches, Art Deco Historic District with colorful buildings on Ocean Drive, and the glamorous fashion world.
Let’s talk about the Art Deco Historic District in South Beach, which features impressive early-20th-century architecture. It contains beautifully restored colorful buildings dating from the 1930s and early 1940s, representing Miami’s glorious history. (Especially along the Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue)
Currently, many of these buildings are high-end hotels and restaurants that attract even world-famous celebrities and models.
Aside from that, the picturesque shoreline and the entertaining nightlife of South Beach attract millions of entertainers annually.
Visitors can join with fun beach parties, live musical shows, experience water activities, sunning, and dining delicious seafood.
Why are you waiting? Just plan your family beach tour to Miami’s South Beach this weekend.
Address: Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139, United States Phone: (888) 735-2872
Looking for more fun things to do in Miami?? Here’s the list. Just read and add to your bucket list.
Things to do in Florida
10. Things to do in Florida: Dry Tortugas National Park, Key West
Dry Tortugas National Park is a unique national park made with seven islands and a protected coral reef on the Gulf of Mexico. (70 miles west of Key West, Florida)
Being a National Registered Historical Place, Dry Tortugas National Park has seven attractive gardens and the magnificent Fort Jefferson built in the 1800s by the US Government.
If you like swimming and snorkeling to see amazing corals and marine creatures, Dry Tortugas National Park is perfect for that. Since it is safe even for kids, bring them and teach them how to snorkel.
Its beaches are breathtakingly beautiful as there are soft white sands and crystal clear shallow waters.
After spending time on beaches, you can visit Fort Jefferson and spend rest while discovering the history. Further, you can plan beach camping at Dry Tortugas National Park with your family.
Hire a ferry and visit Dry Tortugas National Park to spend an unforgettable weekend with your family.
Address: 40001 SR-9336, Homestead, FL 33034, United States Phone: (305) 242-7700
Things to do in Florida
11. Duval Street, Key West
Duval Street is a commercially zoned street that stretches 1.25 miles from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean in Key West, Florida Keys.
Therefore, you can see many shops, restaurants, and beautifully restored old buildings along this street. That means Duval Street is like heaven for shopping lovers.
After visiting shops and restaurants on Duval Street, you can visit other nearby attractions, including the Southernmost Point and Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.
Taking a walk along this Caribbean charm will add fun memories to your Florida tour. So, do not miss Duval Street.
Looking for more fun things to do in Key West?? Here’s the list. Just read and add to your bucket list.
Things to do in Florida
12. Salvador Dalí Museum, St. Petersburg
The Salvador Dalí Museum is a famous art museum located in downtown St. Petersburg, Florida. Obviously, it is dedicated to the impressive artworks done by the great Spanish artist Salvador Dalí.
You can observe unique paintings, sculptures, famous soggy clocks, and the life story of Salvador Dalí if you visit this museum.
Are you an art lover? Surely visit the Salvador Dalí Museum when you are in St. Petersburg, Florida.
Address: 1 Dali Blvd, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, United States Phone: +1 727-823-3767
Things to do in Florida
13. Clearwater Beach, Clearwater
Like its name, Clearwater Beach is a pristine, soft, white sand beach in Florida.
Therefore, Clearwater Beach draws thousands of beach lovers for jet-skiing, stand-up paddleboarding, parasailing, swimming, kayaking, rollerblading, and cycling.
And its beachfront is lined with delicious seafood restaurants, cafes, and rental shops.
On the other hand, Clearwater Beach and its Pier 60 host entertaining events like nightly festivals, street performers, live music, parties, and craft vendors.
That means Clearwater will not disappoint whenever you visit there.
After experiencing beach activities, do not miss the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, home to the most famous dolphin in the World.
Address: Clearwater, FL 33777, United States Phone: (727) 464-7200
Things to do in Florida
14. Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Fort Lauderdale is a famous city for stunning beaches and boating canals located on Florida’s southeastern coast.
So, you can experience unlimited outdoor activities at Fort Lauderdale Beach, including swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, boating, surfing, diving, rollerblading, and beach volleyball.
Also, you can easily find bars, restaurants, boutiques, and luxury hotels in front of the beach.
Aside from fun beach activities, Fort Lauderdale also features the Museum Of Science And Discovery, International Swimming Hall of Fame, and Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. Surely visit these places too.
Address: A1A between Las Olas and Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301, United States Phone: (954) 828-4597
Things to do in Florida
15. Things to do in Florida: The Ringling, Sarasota
The Ringling is an outstanding 20th century, Venetian-inspired property located in Sarasota, Florida. Yes, it is the property of The Ringling Bros, the American traveling circus company.
It features John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, which exhibits an impressive art gallery and provides high-quality art education. This art museum is located in a pink color attractive palace and showcases artworks done by world-famous artists like Peter Paul Rubens, Velazquez, Van Dyke, El Greco, and Veronese.
And another attraction in The Ringling is the Circus Museum which displays various circus costumes, posters, props, and many other memorabilia of the world-famous Ringling Bros circus company.
Also, you cannot miss the Ca’ d’Zan on your The Ringling visit. It was the stunning residence of John and Mable Ringling built-in 1926. Since they loved Venetian-style architecture, you can see it in this 36,000-square-foot magnificent home.
And of course, still, it considers an architectural masterpiece in Florida. So, are you ready to be impressed?
Address: 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243, United States Phone:(941) 359-5700
Looking for more things to do in Sarasota, Florida?? Just check this list.
Things to do in Florida
16. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, Merritt Island
The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is one of the most exciting educational attractions in Florida. So, if your kids are passionate about Space-related stuff, take them to this place.
It is located on the Space Coast, Merrit Island, Florida. And it is a vast complex that features historic spacecraft, spaceflights such as Space Shuttle Atlantis, other impressive exhibits, bus tours of the spaceport, space shows, and two IMAX theaters.
All the exhibits are categorized under various themes.
Obviously, the most attractive thing to do at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is to take the “Behind the Gates Kennedy Space Center Bus Tour.” It will show you historic launch sites and some other rare exhibits in restricted areas.
This tour will take more time; therefore, ready to spend a whole day at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
If you are coming from Orlando, it will take only one hour. So, plan your day trip now.
Address: Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL 32953, United States Phone: +1 855-433-4210
Things to do in Florida
17. Henderson Beach State Park, Destin
Henderson Beach State Park is a Florida State Park that features impressive natural features. Especially, it ensures an authentic beach experience for all visitors.
Destin’s stunning natural beach park offers crystal clear emerald green waters, soft white sands, and scenic views. If you like a secluded environment, Henderson Beach State Park is an excellent alternative to Clearwater Beach.
And it is suitable for all water activities too.
So, pack your swimsuit, food, and a grill to have a fun picnic day with your family at Henderson Beach State Park.
Address:17000 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL 32541, United States Phone: +1 850-837-7550
Things to do in Florida
18. Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens, Jacksonville
Looking for things to do in Florida with kids??
Then, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is an unmissable place. It is a zoo in Jacksonville, Florida, at the mouth of the Trout River.
Spreading around 122 acres of land, it is home to over 1,000 diverse plant species and 2,000 animals.
The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens takes care of animals like flamingos, tigers, otters, giraffes, and many more. And they improve the house with new animals every year.
After grabbing all the beach experiences in Florida, surely visit the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens with your kids.
Address: 370 Zoo Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32218, United States Phone: +1 904-757-4463
Things to do in Florida
19. Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, Augustine
Here’s the oldest masonry fort in North America, the Castillo de San Marcos. Located on the shore of Matanzas Bay in St. Augustine, Florida, this historical site was opened in 1695.
The Castillo de San Marcos National Monument showcases the impressive Spanish Colonial architecture style designed by Pedro Ruiz de Olano and Ignacio Daza.
Aside from the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, there’s another unique place to visit in St. Augustine’s Historic District. It is Flagler College which was built in the late 19th-century.
Actually, it was built as a hotel by Henry Flagler. And now, it is one of the most photographed places in St. Augustine.
Address: 1 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084, United States Phone: +1 904-757-4463
Things to do in Florida
20. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is an African-themed animal theme park in Tampa, Florida. Spreading for 335-acres of land, this park is operated by the SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment Company.
Opened in 1959, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is home to over 12,000 animals. Therefore, it is one of the top tourist attractions in Florida, attracting over 4 million visitors annually.
So, you can see lions, tigers, elephants, zebras, rhinos, giraffes, gorillas, ostrich, and penguins like animals.
This zoo features safari tours in open-air vehicles, animal feeding sessions, animal shows, close-up encounters, and many other programs for the visitors.
Aside from that, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay also offers all kinds of thrill rides, including wet rides. Especially, wild and fast roller coasters are the most popular rides.
Actually, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is one of the largest zoos in North America too.
Come along with your kids and grab all these experiences. Plan your day trip now.
Address: 10165 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612, United States Phone: +1 813-884-4386
Things to do in Florida
21. Things to do in Florida: Devil’s Den, Williston
If you are looking for an adventurous place to visit in Florida, try Devil’s Den in Williston.
Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring is a scuba tour agency in Williston, Florida.
They take you to the mysterious cave pool formed by a karst window called Devil’s Den. And it contains hot water (constant 72 °F degrees) even during winter.
The explorers dive through the waters at the mouth of the cave and see this fantastic hidden cave. Or, if you do not like taking that risk, just walk to the cave.
However, snorkeling through the turquoise water inside the cave is divine. But, you have to schedule an appointment for a snorkeling session. So, hurry up.
Address: 5390 NE 180th Ave, Williston, FL 32696, United States Phone: +1 352-528-3344
Things to do in Florida
22. Things to do in Florida: Beaches of Naples
We all know that beaches on Florida’s Gulf Coast are one of the top attractions in the United States. Reasons for that are its Mediterranean-like climate, warm, calm, shallow waters, and soft sands.
For example, you can find some of the best beaches in Naples, southwest Florida. Naples features powdery sand, crystal-clear waters, and enough space on the beach for having fun.
Especially, you can have an unforgettable beach day near the historic Naples Pier that contains volleyball courts, playgrounds, and uncrowded picnic areas.
Things to do in Florida
23. Things to do in Florida: Lovers Key State Park, Fort Myers Beach
Lovers Key State Park is a Florida State Park located on Lover’s Key, Black, Long Key, and Inner Islands.
Spreading for 712-acres, this park offers romantic beach experiences with scenic views. Therefore, Lovers Key State Park attracts couples for engagement and wedding celebrations on the beach.
Surrounded by well-preserved natural resources, Lovers Key State Park features a lot of outdoor activities to do such as hiking, kayaking, swimming, sunbathing, boating, observing marine creatures and wildlife.
So, plan a romantic tour to Lovers Key State Park with your sweetheart.
Address: 8700 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931, United States Phone: +1 239-463-4588
Things to do in Florida
Things to do in Florida
- Everglades National Park
- Universal Orlando Resort
- Walt Disney World, Orlando
- SeaWorld Orlando, Orlando
- The Wheel at ICON Park, Orlando
- Discovery Cove, Orlando
- WonderWorks Orlando
- Wynwood Walls, Miami
- South Beach, Miami Beach
- Dry Tortugas National Park, Key West
- Duval Street, Key West
- Salvador Dalí Museum, St. Petersburg
- Clearwater Beach, Clearwater
- Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- The Ringling, Sarasota
- Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, Merritt Island
- Henderson Beach State Park, Destin
- Panama City Beach
- Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens, Jacksonville
- Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, Augustine
- Busch Gardens, Tampa
- Devil’s Den, Williston
- Weeki Wachee City of Live Mermaids, Spring Hill
- Beaches of Naples
- Lovers Key State Park, Fort Myers Beach
