The 13 best things to do in Florida

Florida has an incredible blend of experiences, combining its rich and multicultural history with diverse cities, sweet beach towns, and freshwater springs and other natural wonders.

Starting with the fabulous beaches and world-class amusement parks, and moving on to dance the night away in Miami, look for alligators in the Everglades or snorkel in a remote national park, your must-see list will quickly become a mile long. 

Any visit to the Sunshine State will likely have you plotting your next trip before you even head home. Make sure to include these 13 incredible things to do in your plans.

1. Spend a day at one of the many amusement parks

Florida is known for its dozens of amusement parks scattered around the state, particularly near Tampa and Orlando.

The one that started it all, of course, is Walt Disney World, about 20 miles from downtown Orlando. In the 1960s, Walt Disney Productions purchased nearly 25,000 acres of land that would become the sprawling resort that now features four distinctive theme parks, two water parks, numerous hotels, a campground, golf courses, spas and the dining, shopping and entertainment complex Disney Springs. The opening of the Walt Disney World Resort in 1971 cemented Central Florida as the premier destination for theme park vacations. 

Just 10 or so miles up the road from Disney, you can immerse yourself in the magic of Hollywood on the movie-themed, thrill-seeking rides at Universal Studios. At DreamWorks Land, guests can explore attractions from the animation studio's most famous franchises, like Shrek and Kung Fu Panda.

Over at Legoland, an hour's drive south of Disney World in Winter Haven, little builders will be inspired in the martial arts-themed area called Ninjago and the painstakingly recreated American cities in Miniland USA. If you're traveling with kids who are avid Peppa Pig fans, they'll squeal with delight at the chance to run through the Peppa Pig Theme Park.

On the Gulf Coast, both animal lovers and adrenaline seekers flock to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay for wildlife encounters and some of the best roller coasters in the country. Brace yourself for the 206ft plunge on the steel-wood hybrid Iron Gwazi, and embrace the heart-stopping twists and drops of the innovative Tigris. There’s plenty of family fun as well, including interactive animal exhibits, safari tours, kid-friendly shows and attractions suitable for young adventurers. 

Planning tip: Look for special offers on the websites of the theme parks you want to visit. Promotions and discounted rates are often available, especially if you extend your days at the park.

2. Discover the Urban Trail in downtown Orlando

There is much more to Orlando than whimsical theme parks. The so-called City Beautiful is brimming with art and history museums, picturesque lakes, buzzy eateries and charming neighborhoods. After a swan boat paddle on Lake Eola, make your way to the Orlando Urban Trail, an approximately 3-mile paved walking and cycling pathway that weaves through the city. 

This easy route stretches from Magnolia Ave, near the heart of downtown, to Loch Haven Park, where you’ll find the Mennello Museum of American Art, a small but excellent lakeside art museum featuring a fusion of pop and folk art. The Orlando Museum of Art has a larger collection and also hosts adult and family-friendly art classes.

Detour: A few blocks east of where the trail passes Lake Formosa, 50 acres of tropical plants fill the Harry P Leu Gardens. The citrus grove’s 50 kinds of citrus trees highlight Florida’s agricultural bounty, while a wetland garden attracts wading birds and other wildlife.

3. Get a taste of Japanese culture in Delray Beach

Keen on experiencing a taste of Japan without the roughly 17 hours of flight time from Florida? The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach, about 50 miles north of Miami, brings a bit of Japan to South Florida.

Established to preserve Japanese culture in Florida and build cultural understanding between Japan and the US, the site includes a museum and a 16-acre garden that vividly showcases Japanese landscape design, including a bonsai collection and lakes filled with koi fish. The museum houses over 7000 Japanese art objects and artifacts, the cafe has a Pan-Asian menu, and the gift shop is a great place for unique items.

Planning tip: On select Saturdays, a traditional Japanese tea ceremony is performed at the on-site Seishin-an Tea House. Consider planning your visit around one of these or other cultural demonstrations.

4. Explore the Everglades

Spread over 1.5 million acres of subtropical wilderness an hour due west of Miami on US 41, Everglades National Park is one of the great natural treasures of the United States. The vast expanse of shimmering wetlands and lush marshes is home to a diverse range of plants and animals, including various threatened and endangered species. You can stroll on family-friendly nature trails on the lookout for alligators and herons, or go the active route and kayak through mangrove trees. 

Planning tip: The park has several entrances, each a gateway for different pursuits. The 15-mile paved Tram Road from Shark Valley Visitor Center is great for cycling, walking and (yes) tram rides. Outside Homestead, Royal Palm Visitor Center directs visitors to boardwalks over the marshland, and the Flamingo Visitor Center, about 40 miles south of Royal Palm, offers access to the mangrove-draped Florida Bay.

5. Embark on a safari from the comfort of your car in West Palm Beach

Your vehicle becomes a vessel of exploration at the Lion Country Safari in West Palm Beach, some 70 miles north of Miami. Cruise the park's 4-mile safari route for sightings of giraffes, alpacas, lions, zebras and ostriches. Equal parts conservation area and safari, the park also has walking areas that provide closer views of animals like goats in the petting zoo area. There are free pontoon boat rides, too, for closer views of birds and primates.

Planning tip: Parking is expensive in West Palm Beach, and traffic is slow, so after the safari drive, it’s best to get around using the affordable, all-electric rideshare fleet from Circuit West Palm Beach, or check out the fixed routes run by Ride West Palm Beach.

6. Explore popular neighborhoods in Miami

Miami is a cultural whirlwind, and each of the city's neighborhoods has its own rhythm. Taking the time to explore them will show you a side of the city that many visitors miss.

In Little Havana, the air is infused with soulful melodies of salsa music, while the historic landmarks tell tales of Cuban heritage. Not far away, the markets, dance studios, and spiritual businesses of Little Haiti form a community that proudly highlights Haitian culture. Stop by Historic Overtown, one of Miami's oldest neighborhoods: it was a cultural hub for Black artists during segregation. 

Planning tip: For an in-person, on-the-ground experience and the opportunity to ask questions about the different communities, book a tour with a reputable company like Tap Tap Tours. The guides are knowledgeable and give personal insight. 

7. Speed across Biscayne Bay in Miami

Miami is a high-energy city, and there is perhaps no better experience to match that intensity than a ride on Thriller Miami's speedboats. Setting sail from the docks at the Bayside Marketplace, the 45-minute sightseeing tour clocks speeds up to 40mph. You'll see Biscayne Bay and Fisher Island, and finish with a loop around the mansions on Star Island, where celebrities like Jennifer Lopez live. 

Planning tip: Angle for a seat toward the front or middle of the boat to avoid getting completely soaked. The last few rows are known to leave riders more drenched than they probably planned to be.

8. Spot manatees through a clear kayak near Crystal River

Manatee season in Florida runs from November to April. This is when the gentle animals known as sea cows migrate to the state's warm waters around Crystal River, about 80 miles north of Tampa, for the winter. You can observe them from an observation deck at facilities like the Manatee Lagoon, but Get Up and Go Kayaking puts you right in the water in a transparent kayak for an up close yet respectful and ethical encounter in the Chassahowitzka River. 

Planning tip: Remember to observe the animals passively, and never approach or touch them. Move slowly and quietly in their presence, and avoid splashing. Never pursue or feed a manatee, and be sure to never get between a calf and its mother or to separate them.

9. Learn about Florida's Black history near Daytona Beach

Florida's Black history encompasses stories of resilience, triumph over adversity and remarkable contributions that have had an impact on modern-day Florida. A number of established historical sites across the state are worth a visit. 

The Mary McLeod Bethune Home in Daytona Beach, across from Tampa on the state's eastern coast, is a testament to the life and legacy of educator, founder of Bethune­-Cookman University and activist Mary McLeod Bethune. Some 30 minutes south via the coastal road, the Mary S Harrell Black Heritage Museum in New Smyrna Beach displays exhibits that reflect the history of race relations in Florida throughout the 20th century. 

Planning tip: The Daytona 500 has raced for 200 laps around the Daytona International Speedway since 1959. Upward of 150,000 pumped-up fans descend on the venue in February. Tickets sell out a month or more in advance, and hotels even sooner. Other Speedway events include the Bluegreen Vacations Duel 150, the week before the Daytona 500, night races in August and January’s Rolex 24.

10. Immerse yourself in space exploration on Cape Canaveral

The Kennedy Space Center near Cape Canaveral (an hour west of Orlando) is a dream destination for kids and adults who are fascinated with space travel and innovative technology. Organized into Mission Zones, where the attractions and tours are arranged by chronological era, the center takes you on a journey of the work that has been done in the industry and what's planned for the future.

Planning tip: If you're really lucky, you might visit during a live rocket launch, but it's hard to plan for since launches aren't frequent and even scheduled ones are regularly postponed. Check the launch schedule for more info.

11. Paint the walls at Miami's outdoor street art museum

The brightly colored murals at Wynwood Walls, an outdoor museum, have become a must-visit when in Miami. The artwork is commissioned from artists from around the world, and most pieces are on display for a year or two before being replaced, though some of the more famous pieces are permanent.  

Planning tip: If you want to get hands-on, book a Spray Freestyle ticket. You'll learn how to spray paint and contribute your own piece of artistry to the walls.

12. Celebrate the sunset in Key West

In Key West, Mallory Square is the place to be as the sun goes down. In fact, the celebration begins 2 hours before sundown, with musicians, acrobats, street performers and throngs of tourists throwing a party along the water’s edge. If crowds aren't your thing, hop aboard a sunset cruise for a more intimate experience; Danger Charters and Argo Narvis both offer charter experiences. 

During the day, sample Florida specialties like key lime pie and conch fritters, and visit the cats at the Hemingway Home and Museum. If you’re on a budget, don’t worry – there are plenty of free things to do in Key West, from making your way to the Southernmost Point buoy to paying tribute to local legends at the Key West Historic Memorial Sculpture Garden. 

Planning tip: During snowbird months (November through February), things are busier in the Keys' bigger towns. Summer to early fall (June to September) is the best time to visit for bargain seekers, though tropical weather – and hurricane season – may affect the area.

13. Snorkel in the pristine waters of Dry Tortugas National Park

Approximately 70 miles from Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote destination accessible only by boat or seaplane. The small islands that make up the park are surrounded by pristine blue waters, shipwrecks and colorful reefs. Only 1% of the park is on dry land, so get ready to swim, snorkel and scuba dive. 

On the north side of Loggerhead Key, the Little Africa Coral Reef offers a shallow, calm snorkeling area perfect for families. Toward the south end of the island, the Windjammer (Avanti) shipwreck is favored for its large size and marine life. 

While topside on Garden Key, explore historic Fort Jefferson and stroll the secluded shores of South Swim Beach. This island is also where you'll find the park's only campsites, with opportunities for spectacular stargazing and night dives. 

Planning tip: Seats on the Yankee Freedom Ferry, which takes you to Dry Tortugas, are extremely limited, and tickets tend to sell out far in advance. Book early to guarantee your trip. And always check for up-to-date info on closures, fees and regulations in the park.