What Makes Florida The Perfect Vacation Destination?
Anyone thinking of vacationing in the US is going to be spoiled for choice. There’s the buzz and excitement of New York with its sights, museums and buzz. Or there’s LA for an altogether more laid-back experience. Maybe exploring the stunning landscapes of Colorado could be exactly what you look for in a break.
But, for many people, there’s one place that stands head and shoulders above the rest and that’s Florida. After all, it’s not called The Sunshine State for nothing, and it’s also somewhere that attracted over 140 million visitors in 2023. And here’s what attracted them.
Museums and Theme Parks
For anyone looking for the ultimate in theme park experiences there’s one place to head for, and that’s Orlando. This is where you’ll find the legendary Disney World, home of Micky, Goofy and Elsa all waiting to meet you in person. Nearby is also Universal Orlando with its many rides as well as the magical world of Harry Potter, so don’t forget your wand.
At Cape Canaveral there’s the equally famous Kennedy Space Center, the launch pad for so many Apollo and Sky Lab missions. As well as being home to many of the actual rockets, it also provides a fascinating history of space exploration by the US.
History and Culture
These might not be the first two things that spring to mind when it comes to Florida. But you’ve some big surprises in store.
For example, St. Augustine lays claim to being the oldest city in the country. Founded by the Spanish in 1565 it boasts a stunning fortress called the Castillo de San Marcos as well as a great deal of architecture dating back centuries.
For art lovers, the Salvador Dali Museum in St. Petersburg is home to one of the world’s largest collections of the surrealist’s work with nearly 100 pieces. And if you want to see where Ernest Hemingway wrote some of his famous novels including The Old Man and the Sea then head for his house in Key West.
Nightlife and Casinos
There are vibrant bars, restaurants and nightclubs wherever you head in Florida. Miami Beach is especially famous for clubs like Clubspace, Story and LIV. Orlando also has more than its fair share of places including The Attic, Cosmo Lounge and Eve.
For casino action it might not be Las Vegas but you’ll still have plenty of choice. Just outside of Miami there’s the Miccosukee Resort and Gaming and in Hollywood (not that one!) you’ll find the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino.
If you prefer to stay in your hotel and enjoy a game on the online slots then the Bally Casino is there for you 24/7, 365 days a year.
Nature and Wildlife
You’ll find that nature and wildlife is abundant in The Sunshine State. Go down to the Everglades on the Florida peninsula and you’ll find that the National Park has over 350 different kinds of birds to spot, fish, both fresh and saltwater, dolphins, alligators and also the famous manatee. Also called the sea cow for its gentle, slow movements, the manatee is native to Florida, and one of its most cherished residents.
Time your visit right and you might even see the mass migration of monarch and swayer butterflies that they make their way from the north down to Mexico every fall. With millions filling the sky it’s an unforgettable sight.
Beaches
Whatever you want from a beach, you’re going to find it in Florida. There are so many to choose from, all with soft white sand and warm, welcoming sea. One of the most famous is Daytona Beach, a big favourite for Spring Breakers while you can look forward to a more tranquil experience somewhere like Fort Myers Beach, one of the best on the whole of the West Coast.
There are also a whole host of water sports to enjoy from water skiing to windsurfing and from snorkelling to scuba diving. Deep sea fishing off the coast is also very popular.
Shopping
If you think that no trip is complete without a little retail therapy, then you’ve come to the right place. That’s because almost everywhere that you go you’ll find fabulous malls with all of the big designer names present.
If you’re in Key West, make sure to head for Duval Street for stores packed with souvenirs to remind you of your awesome Florida break. And if your travels take you to Jacksonville the Avonlea Antiques Mall is a treasure trove of pieces that you’ll love forever.
So if you’re planning to vacation soon, make sure that you put Florida at the top of your list. And prepare to return again and again if you want to be sure of enjoying everything this great State has to offer.
Amélie is a health and wellness junky. Certified yoga instructor with Yoga Alliance in the Vinyasa and Ashtanga styles, she has a Yoga Instructor Certification – Level I (300 hours) and Yoga Instructor Certification – Level II (200 hours) under her belt. She also has a certified Open Water Diver certification with PADI and SSI Scuba Schools International Freediving Level I certification with SSI Scuba Schools International. She’s been vegan for over 15 years and is obsessed with anything wellness-related.