In 2024, 142.9 million people visited the Sunshine State! Florida’s beautiful beaches, unique wildlife, thrilling theme parks, and historic sites draw millions of visitors each year. If you’re planning on visiting Florida, here’s a list of 10 places you should consider adding to your itinerary.
Table of Contents
10 Places Everyone Must See in Florida
1. Walt Disney World (Orlando)
- Best Time to Visit: January–February (fewer crowds, mild weather)
- Visiting Hours: Typically 9 AM – 9 PM (varies by park)
- About: The most famous theme park resort in the world, featuring four parks—Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom.
- Things to Do: Ride thrilling attractions, meet Disney characters, watch fireworks, enjoy themed dining, and explore immersive lands like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
2. Universal Orlando Resort (Orlando)
- Best Time to Visit: September–November (cooler weather, fewer crowds)
- Visiting Hours: Generally 9 AM – 9 PM
- About: Home to Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay water park.
- Things to Do: Explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, ride roller coasters, experience movie-themed attractions, and enjoy live shows.
3. Everglades National Park (South Florida)
- Best Time to Visit: December–April (dry season, fewer mosquitoes)
- Visiting Hours: 24/7, visitor centers typically 8 AM – 5 PM
- About: A massive subtropical wilderness filled with alligators, birds, and rare wildlife.
- Things to Do: Take an airboat tour, go kayaking, hike nature trails, and spot manatees.
4. Key West (Florida Keys)
- Best Time to Visit: March–May (pleasant weather, fewer crowds)
- Visiting Hours: Open 24/7 (attractions vary)
- About: A laid-back island known for its sunsets, history, and vibrant culture.
- Things to Do: Visit Ernest Hemingway’s house, snorkel at Dry Tortugas, explore Duval Street, and watch the sunset at Mallory Square.
5. Miami Beach & South Beach (Miami)
- Best Time to Visit: December–April (warm, dry weather)
- Visiting Hours: Open 24/7
- About: A world-famous beach destination with art deco buildings and a lively nightlife.
- Things to Do: Relax on the beach, stroll through the Art Deco Historic District, enjoy fine dining, and experience the nightlife.
6. St. Augustine (Northeast Florida)
- Best Time to Visit: March–May or September–November (pleasant weather, fewer tourists)
- Visiting Hours: Varies by attraction (Castillo de San Marcos: 9 AM – 5 PM)
- About: The oldest city in the U.S., founded in 1565, filled with Spanish colonial history.
- Things to Do: Tour Castillo de San Marcos, visit the St. Augustine Lighthouse, explore historic streets, and take a ghost tour.
7. The Florida Keys & Overseas Highway
- Best Time to Visit: November–April (less humid, ideal driving weather)
- Visiting Hours: Open 24/7
- About: A stunning 113-mile drive over turquoise waters with scenic stops along the way.
- Things to Do: Drive across the Seven Mile Bridge, snorkel in Key Largo, visit the Dolphin Research Center, and enjoy fresh seafood.
8. Clearwater Beach (Gulf Coast)
- Best Time to Visit: March–May (warm but not too hot)
- Visiting Hours: Open 24/7
- About: A soft, white-sand beach with clear, warm waters, ranked among the best beaches in the U.S.
- Things to Do: Swim, sunbathe, visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, go dolphin watching, and enjoy the nightly Pier 60 Sunset Celebration.
9. Destin & The Emerald Coast (Panhandle)
- Best Time to Visit: April–June or September–October (great weather, fewer tourists)
- Visiting Hours: Open 24/7
- About: Known for its sugar-white sand beaches and emerald-green waters.
- Things to Do: Go deep-sea fishing, explore Henderson Beach State Park, take a dolphin cruise, and visit Crab Island for a fun boating experience.
10. The Florida Springs
- Best Time to Visit: May-September (for swimming), January-February for manatee viewing
- Visiting Hours: Open 24/7
- About: Florida has more than 1,000 natural springs, many of which are in State Parks.
- Things to Do: Snorkeling, swimming, floating, diving, paddle boarding, etc.
Free Family Road Trip Starter Kit
🎶 Ready to hit the road with magic in the speakers?
Don’t forget to grab our FREE Family Road Trip Starter Kit — packed with printable checklists, kid-approved games, and snack ideas for your next adventure!
🎒 Includes:
Packing checklist
I Spy game
Travel Bingo boards
Snack list
Activity ideas
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