13 of the best things to do in Florida

There's no denying that Florida has fabulous beaches and world-class amusement parks but there's also so much more. The Sunshine state has an incredible blend of experiences that combine a rich, multi-cultural history, diverse cities and natural wonderlands. Your must-see list will quickly become a mile long.

Whether you're dancing the night away in Miami's Little Havana, looking for alligators in the Everglades or snorkeling in a remote national park, a visit to Florida will have you planning your next trip before you even leave. Here are 13 of our favorite things to do when you get there.

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

Florida is known for its world-class amusement parks that promise endless excitement and unforgettable memories for people of all ages. There are dozens of them scattered around the state from Tampa to Orlando.

Of course, there's the one that started it all: Walt Disney World. 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. Since its opening in 1971, Walt Disney World Resort cemented Central Florida as the premier destination for theme park vacations. 

Just 15 minutes up the road from the Disney resort, though, you can immerse yourself in the magic of Hollywood as you embark on movie-themed, thrill-seeking rides at Universal Studios. DreamWorks Land opened  in 2024, where guests can explore attractions from the animation studio's most famous franchises like Shrek and Kung Fu Panda.

Over at Legoland, little builders will be inspired in the martial arts-themed area called Ninjago, plus a set of painstakingly recreated American cities in Miniland USA and a space to build your own block masterpiece. If you're traveling with little ones who are avid Peppa Pig fans, they'll squeal at the chance to run through the newly opened Peppa Pig Theme Park.

On the Gulf Coast, animal lovers and adrenaline-junkies alike 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 suited for young adventurers. 

Planning tip: Check out the "Offers" page on the websites of the theme parks you visit: there are often promotions and discounted rates available, especially if you extend your days at the park.

Add these theme parks to your Florida itinerary

2. Discover downtown Orlando along the city’s Urban Trail

There is much more to Orlando than whimsical theme parks and tourist hot spots. The “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 walking and cycling pathway that weaves through the city. 

This easy paved path 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. There's a larger collection at the Orlando Museum of Art, which also hosts adult and family-friendly art classes. Take a detour from the trail to stroll through 50 acres of tropical gardens at the Harry P. Leu Gardens. Then, grab dinner at Otto’s High Dive, a rum bar and restaurant in the eclectic Milk District.

3. Get a taste of Japanese culture at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

Keen on experiencing a taste of Japan without the 10+ hour flight from Florida? The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach brings a bit of Japan to South Florida.

Built to preserve Japanese culture in Florida and build cultural understanding between Japan and the US, the site includes a museum and a garden that vividly showcases aspects of Japan's culture. The 16 acres includes Japanese-inspired gardens, a bonsai collection and lakes filled with koi fish and other structures.

The museum houses over 7000 Japanese art objects and artifacts, each telling a unique story of the country's rich culture. The on-site cafe has a Pan-Asian menu allows visitors to indulge in tasty Japanese treats and the gift shop is a great place for unique items.

Planning tip: On select Saturdays, there's a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at the on-site Seishin-an tea house. Consider planning your visit around one of the days when these or other cultural demonstrations are happening.

4. Skim the waters of the Everglades on a kayak or an airboat

Spread over 1.5 million acres of subtropical wilderness, Everglades National Park is one of the great natural treasures of the United States. It's a vast expanse of shimmering wetlands and lush marshes, home to a diverse range of plants and animals, including various threatened and endangered species.

You can stroll family friendly nature trails, on the lookout for alligators and herons or go the active route and kayak through mangrove trees. One of the most popular ways to explore the Everglades, though, is on an airboat, on which companies like Everglades Safari Park make it possible to spot alligators, turtles, birds, and other wildlife.

Looking for more great experiences? Here are our top picks in Everglades National Park

5. Embark on a safari from the comfort of your car

Your vehicle becomes a vessel of exploration at the Lion Country Safari, in West Palm Beach, where you can enjoy wildlife sightings as you drive the park's 4-mile safari route. Giraffes, alpacas, lions, zebras, and ostriches are just a few of the many animals you can expect to see.

Equal parts conservation area and safari, the park also has walking areas that provide up-close encounters with animals like goats in the petting zoo area. There are complimentary pontoon boat rides, too, for closer views of birds and primates.

6. Explore popular neighborhoods in Miami

Miami is a melting pot of cultures, and each of its neighborhoods has a unique rhythm. Experience as much as you can.

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 the Historic Overtown, one of Miami's oldest neighborhoods: it was a cultural hub for Black artists during segregation. 

You can learn more about each of the city's areas in our ultimate neighborhood guide 

Planning tip: For an in-person, on-the-ground tour and the opportunity to ask questions about some of the businesses and infrastructure of the different neighborhoods, book a tour with a reputable company like Tap Tap Tours, whose guides are knowledgeable and give personal insight. 

Staying for the weekend? Save this ultimate weekend itinerary for Miami's South Beach

7. Cruise on Biscayne Beach at high speeds with Thriller Miami

Miami is known as a city with high energy, and there is perhaps no better experience to match that intensity than the Thriller Miami Speedboat. Setting sail from the docks at the Bayside Marketplace, the speedboat takes riders on a 45-minute sightseeing tour at speeds up to 40 mph.

You'll see Biscayne Bay, the City of Miami Beach and Fisher Island, and finish with a tour of the mansions on Star Island from the water, where you'll see the homes of celebrities like Will Smith. There are plenty of speedboat thrills on this ride; you might even get a little wet.

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

Put in some towel time at these Florida beaches

8. Spot manatees through a clear kayak in Crystal River

Manatee season in Florida runs from November to April. This is when the gentle animals known as "sea cows" migrate to Florida's warm waters for the winter. You can watch manatees 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. 

9. Learn about Florida's Black History

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

The Mary McLeod Bethune Home in Daytona Beach is a testament to the life and legacy of educator, activist and founder of Bethune­-Cookman University, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune. In New Smyrna Beach, the Mary S. Harrell Black Heritage Museum houses and displays exhibits that reflect the history of race relations in Florida throughout the twentieth century. 

10. Immerse yourself in space exploration at the Kennedy Space Center

The Kennedy Space Center, near Cape Canaveral, 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 run by chronological era, the Kennedy Space Center takes you on a journey of the work that has been done in the industry and what might be to come.

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 frequently postponed. Check the Kennedy Space Center launch schedule for more info.

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

The brightly colored, street-art covered walls of Wynwood Walls, an outdoor museum, have become a must-visit when in Miami. The artwork is commissioned by 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.  

If you want to get hands-on, sign up for the "Street Art Experience," in which you'll learn how to spray paint and contribute your own piece of artistry to the walls. 

Planning tip: If you're a student, don't forget to bring your student ID card to receive 50% off the admission fee!

12. Hit Mallory Square in Key West

In Key West, Mallory Square is the place to be as the sun goes down. In fact the “Sunset Celebration” begins two 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 local delicacies 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 in the Key West Historic Sculpture Garden. 

13. Snorkel 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 series of small islands that make up the park are surrounded by pristine blue waters, shipwrecks and colorful reefs home to an abundance of marine life. 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 a 19th-century sailing ship 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: Reservations on the Yankee Freedom Ferry, which takes you to Dry Tortugas are extremely limited and tend to sell out far in advance, so be sure to book early to guarantee your trip. Check the park website prior to your visit for the most up-to-date notices, closures, fees and regulations.

Keep planning your trip to Florida

• Find out the 11 things you need to know before you visit

• Don't know where to start? These are our 9 favorite places in the Sunshine State

• Keep the kids entertained with our guide to visiting with tiny travelers in tow

• Stretch those cents and find out how to visit on a budget

• Plan the ultimate weekend in Tampa with these tips