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Florida Travel Guide

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Brochure images of tanning tourists and Mickey Mouse give an inaccurate and incomplete picture of Florida. Although the aptly nicknamed “Sunshine State” is indeed devoted to the tourist trade, it’s also among the least-understood parts of the USA. Away from its overexposed resorts lie forests and rivers, deserted strands filled with wildlife, and vibrant cities within reach of primeval swamps. Contrary to the popular retirement-community image, new Floridians tend to be a younger, more energetic breed, while Spanish-speaking enclaves provide close ties to Latin America and the Caribbean.

Brief history

East coast florida, everglades national park, when to go: florida’s weather, orlando and the theme parks travel guide, the panhandle, west coast florida.

The essential stop is cosmopolitan, half-Latin Miami. A simple journey south from here brings you to the Florida Keys, a hundred-mile string of islands known for sport fishing, coral-reef diving and the sultry town of Key West, legendary for its sunsets and liberal attitude. Back on the mainland, west from Miami stretch the easily accessible Everglades, a water-logged sawgrass plain filled with alligators, a symbol of the state that can be found on college campuses (well, as a game mascot, anyway) and innumerable billboards. Much of Florida’s east coast is heavily built-up – a side effect of the migration of so-called “sunbirds” seeking to escape the cold climes of the northeast USA. The residential stranglehold is loosened further north, where the Kennedy Space Center launches NASA shuttles. Further along, historical St Augustine stands as the longest continuously occupied European settlement in the US.

In central Florida the terrain turns green, though it’s no rural idyll, thanks in mainly to Orlando and Walt Disney World, which sprawl out across the countryside. From here it’s just a skip west to the towns and beaches of the Gulf Coast, and somewhat further north to the forests of the Panhandle, Florida’s link with the Deep South.

The first European sighting of Florida, just six years after Christopher Columbus reached the New World, is believed to have been made by John and Sebastian Cabot in 1498. At the time, the area’s one hundred thousand inhabitants formed several distinct tribes: the Timucua across northern Florida, the Calusa around the southwest and Lake Okeechobee, the Apalachee in the Panhandle and the Tequesta along the southeast coast.

In 1513, a Spaniard, Juan Ponce de León, sighted land during Pascua Florida, Spain’s Easter celebration; he named what he saw La Florida, or “Land of Flowers”. Eight years later he returned, the first of several Spanish incursions prompted by rumours of gold hidden in the north of the region. When it became clear that Florida did not hold stunning riches, interest waned, and it wasn’t until 1565 that conquistador Pedro Menéndez de Avilés founded St Augustine. In 1586, St Augustine was razed by a British naval bombardment led by Francis Drake, and the ensuing bloody confrontation for control was eventually settled when the British captured the crucial Spanish possession of Havana, Cuba; Spain willingly parted with Florida to get it back. By this point, indigenous Floridians had been largely wiped out by disease. The Native American population that was left largely comprised disparate tribes that had arrived from the north, collectively known as the Seminoles.

Following American Independence, Florida once more reverted to Spain. In 1814, the US general (and future president) Andrew Jackson – with the intention of taking the region – marched south from Tennessee, killing hundreds of Native Americans and triggering the First Seminole War. Following the war, in 1819, Spain ceded Florida to the US, in return for American assumption of $5 million of Spanish debt. Not long after, Jackson was sworn in as Florida’s first American governor, and Tallahassee selected as the new administrative centre.

Eleven years later, the Act of Indian Removal decreed that all Native Americans in the eastern US should be transferred to reservations in the Midwest. Most Seminole were determined to stay, which ignited the Second Seminole War; the Native Americans were steadily driven south, away from the fertile lands of central Florida and into the Everglades, where they eventually agreed to remain. Florida became the 27th state on March 3, 1845, around the same time that the nascent railroad system first brought prosperity to the area.

At the beginning of the twentieth century, the country’s newspapers extolled the curative virtues of Florida’s climate, and northern speculators invested their fortunes. These early efforts to promote Florida as a tourist destination brought in the wintering rich: the likes of Henry Flagler and Henry Plant extended their railroads and opened luxury resorts here. After World War I, everyone wanted a piece of Florida, and chartered trains brought in thousands of eager buyers. But most deals were only as solid as the paper they were written on, and in 1926 the banks began to default. The Wall Street Crash then made paupers of the millionaires whose investments had helped shape the state.

What saved Florida was World War II. During the war, thousands of troops arrived to guard the coastline, providing a taste of Florida that would entice many to return; postwar, the government expanded its facilities in and around Jacksonville, Tampa and Pensacola, bringing in thousands of residents and billions of investment dollars. Furthermore, in the mid-Sixties, the state government bent over backwards to help the Disney Corporation turn a sizeable slice of central Florida into Walt Disney World. Its enormous commercial success helped solidify Florida’s place in the international tourist market.

Behind the optimistic facade, however, lie many problems. Gun laws remain notoriously lax, and the multimillion-dollar drug trade shows few signs of abating – at least a quarter of the cocaine entering the US is said to arrive via Florida. Recently, too, the environment along Florida’s Gulf Coast was imperilled by 2010’s Deepwater Horizon oil spill. While the area has largely recovered from the disaster, the state filed suit against the oil company and its contractor in 2013, hoping to recoup some of the estimated billions of dollars it lost in tax income.

Florida’s East Coast presents a tremendously built-up mix of hotels, resorts, beaches and affluent developments north of Miami all the way to St Augustine. This is not to say this section of Florida is without merit, but it’s a lot less laidback than the state’s western Gulf Coast. Fort Lauderdale, no longer the party town of popular imagination, is today a sophisticated cultural centre with a bubbling, increasingly upmarket social scene. To the north, Boca Raton and Palm Beach are quiet, exclusive communities, their Mediterranean Revival mansions inhabited almost entirely by multimillionaires. Beyond Palm Beach, the coast is less developed; even the Space Coast, anchored by the extremely popular Kennedy Space Center, is smack in the middle of a nature preserve. Just north, Daytona Beach attracts race car- and motorcycle-enthusiasts with its festivals and the Daytona International Speedway. Just south of the Georgia state line, St Augustine is the spot where Spanish settlers established the first permanent European foothold in North America.

By car, the scenic route along the coast is Hwy-A1A, which sticks to the ocean side of the Intracoastal Waterway, formed when the rivers dividing the mainland from the barrier islands were joined and deepened during World War II. When necessary, Hwy-A1A turns inland and links with the much less picturesque US-1. The speediest road in the region, I-95, runs about ten miles west of the coastline, and is only worthwhile if you’re in a hurry.

St Augustine

Forty miles north of Daytona Beach, US-1 passes through the heart of charismatic ST AUGUSTINE. Eminently walkable, with a densely packed city centre and a Mediterranean feel, it bucks the daunting sprawl of much of Florida’s East Coast. The oldest permanent settlement in the US, with much from its early days still intact along its narrow streets, it also offers two alluring lengths of beach just across Matanzas Bay.

Bordered on the west by St George Street – once the main thoroughfare and now a tourist-trampled, though genuinely historic, pedestrianized strip, its entrance anchored by the eighteenth-century City Gate – and on the south by Plaza de la Constitución, St Augustine’s Old Town holds the well-tended evidence of the town’s Spanish period. It may be small, but there’s a lot to see: an early start, around 9am, will give you a lead on the tourist crowds, and should allow a good look at almost everything in one day.

Though Ponce de León touched ground here in 1513, European settlement didn’t begin until half a century later, when Spain’s Pedro Menéndez de Avilés put ashore on St Augustine’s Day in 1565. The town developed into a major social and administrative centre, soon to become the capital of east Florida. Subsequently, Tallahassee became the capital of a unified Florida, and St Augustine’s fortunes waned. Since then, expansion has largely bypassed the town – a fact inadvertently facilitating the restoration programme that has turned this quiet community into a fine historical showcase.

The Kennedy Space Center

The Kennedy Space Center is the nucleus of the US space programme: it’s here that space vehicles are developed, tested and blasted into orbit. Merritt Island has been the centre of NASA’s activity since 1964, when the launch pads at Cape Canaveral US Air Force base, across the water, proved too small to cope with the giant new Saturn V rockets used to launch the Apollo missions. With the shuttle Atlantis in 2011, NASA concluded its manned launch programme for the foreseeable future; hundreds of workers were phased out and the area businesses that catered to them have taken a bit of a hit.

Crowds are thinnest at weekends and in May and September – but at any time, allow an entire day to see everything. The various exhibits in the Visitor Complex – mission capsules, spacesuits, lunar modules, a mock-up Space Shuttle flight deck – will keep anyone with the slightest interest in space exploration interested for a couple of hours. Afterwards, be sure to watch the two impressive IMAX movies and take a stroll around the open-air Rocket Garden, full of deceptively simple rockets from the 1950s, cleverly illuminated to show how they looked at blast-off. The newest attraction is the Shuttle Launch Experience, a simulation ride where passengers get to see what it’s like to be an astronaut, vertically “launching” into space and orbiting Earth aboard the Space Shuttle. The remainder of the visit is comprised of a two-hour guided bus tour, which passes the 52-storey Vehicle Assembly Building (where Space Shuttles are prepared for launch), stops to view the launch pad and winds up with an opportunity to inspect a Saturn V rocket and witness a simulated Apollo countdown. For the dates and times of real-life launches, check the website, or sign up for event reminders by email.

Near the Space Center, on Hwy-405 in Titusville, the Astronaut Hall of Fame (included with regular admission) is one of Florida’s most entertaining interactive museums, where exhibits allow you to experience G-force and a bumpy ride along the surface of Mars.

One of the country’s most celebrated natural areas, the EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK is a vast, tranquil wildlife reserve, with a subtle, raw appeal that lies in stark contrast to America’s more rugged national parks. The most dramatic sights are small pockets of trees poking above a completely flat sawgrass plain, yet these wide-open spaces resonate with life, forming part of an ever-changing ecosystem that evolved through a unique combination of climate, vegetation and wildlife.

Though it appears to be flat as a table-top, the limestone on which the Everglades stands tilts very slightly towards the southwest. For thousands of years, water from summer storms and the overflow of nearby Lake Okeechobee has moved slowly through the Everglades towards the coast. The water replenishes the sawgrass, which grows on a thin layer of soil formed by decaying vegetation. This gives birth to the algae at the base of a complex food chain that sustains much larger creatures – most importantly alligators. After the floodwaters have reached the sea, drained through the bedrock, or simply evaporated, the Everglades are barren except for the water accumulated in ponds – or “gator holes” – created when an alligator senses water and clears the soil covering it with its tail. Sawgrass covers much of the Everglades, but where natural indentations in the limestone fill with soil, fertile tree islands – or “hammocks” – appear, just high enough to stand above the floodwaters.

In the nineteenth century, the Seminole and Miccosukee Native American tribes were forced to live hunter-gatherer existences in the Everglades, and still maintain a sizeable presence here. By the late 1800s, a few towns had sprung up, peopled by settlers who, unlike the Native Americans, looked to exploit the land. As Florida’s population grew, the damage caused by hunting, road building and draining for farmland gave rise to a significant conservation lobby. In 1947, a section of the Everglades was declared a national park, which today affords federal protection to a comparatively small area at the southern tip of the Florida peninsula. Urban development over the last century has edged the Everglades’ boundaries further south, and unrestrained commercial use of nearby areas continues to upset the region’s natural cycle. The 1200 miles of canals built to divert the flow of water away from the Everglades and toward the state’s expanding cities, the poisoning caused by agricultural chemicals from local farmlands, and the broader changes wrought by global warming could yet turn Florida’s greatest natural asset into a wasteland.

Warm sunshine and blue skies are almost always the norm in Florida. The state does, however, split into two climatic zones: subtropical in the south and warm temperate in the north. Orlando and points south have a mild season from October to April, with warm temperatures and low humidity – this is the peak tourist season, when prices are highest. Conversely, the southern summer (May–Sept) brings high humidity and afternoon storms; the rewards for braving the mugginess are lower prices and fewer tourists.

North of Orlando, winter is the off-peak period, even though daytime temperatures are generally comfortable (although snow has been known to fall on the Panhandle). During the northern Florida summer, the crowds arrive, and the days and nights are hot and very humid. Bear in mind that June to November is hurricane season, and there is a strong possibility of major storms throughout the entire state.

Encompassing a broad and fertile expanse between the east and west coasts, most of Central Florida was farming and ranching country when vacation-mania first hit the state’s coastal strips. From the 1970s on, this tranquil picture was shattered: no section of the state has been affected more dramatically by modern tourism. A clutter of highway interchanges, motels and billboards now arch around the sprawling city of ORLANDO, which welcomes more visitors than any other place in the state. The reason, of course, is Walt Disney World, the biggest and cleverest theme-park complex ever created, along with Universal Orlando and a host of other attractions, though the downtown area still holds the city’s best nightlife.

Accommodation in Orlando Theme Parks

If you’re on a budget, or want to spend time visiting the other parks, you’d do best to stay outside Walt Disney World. The chain hotels on International Drive are close to universal orlando and seaWorld orlando, with numerous restaurants and shops within walking distance. Plenty of hotels are dotted around disney property in an area called Lake Buena Vista, while budget hotels – and even a hostel – line Hwy-­192 (also close to disney). Downtown Orlando has a handful of charming, privately run hotels and B&Bs.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park

An animal-conservation theme park with Disney’s patented over-the-top twist, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park was opened in 1998. The park, home to 250 species and some 1700 animals, is divided into seven “lands” – Africa, Asia, Discovery Island, Oasis, Camp Minnie-Mickey, DinoLand U.S.A. and Rafiki’s Planet Watch – with Africa and Asia being the most visually impressive, each re-creating the natural landscapes and exotic atmosphere of these two continents with admirable attention to detail.

The best-realized attraction is Africa’s Kilimanjaro Safaris, where a jeep takes you on what feels very much like a real African safari, to view giraffes, zebras, elephants, lions, gazelles and rhinos, as well as take part in anti-poacher manoeuvres. Elsewhere in Africa, the troop of lowland gorillas at the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail are definitely worth a look. Crossing over to Asia, you’ll get an astounding up-close look at the healthiest-looking tigers in captivity at the Maharajah Jungle Trek. DinoLand U.S.A.’s Dinosaur is a slower but still exciting ride full of small drops and short stops in the dark while scary dinosaurs pop out of nowhere.

Eating in Orlando Theme Parks

The pick of the locals’ eating haunts are downtown and around; most visitors, however, head for International Drive’s inexpensive all-day buffets and gourmet restaurants. you are not allowed to take food into any of the theme parks, where the best restaurants are in Epcot’s World Showcase – particularly the French- and Mexican-themed establishments.

Orlando Theme Parks nightlife and entertainment

The closure of the nightclubs at Disney’s shopping and entertainment complex, Downtown Disney, several years ago means that orlando’s nightspots are now concentrated in two main areas, each with a quite different atmosphere. Citywalk, part of universal orlando (6000 universal Blvd; citywalkorlando.com), consists of thirty acres of restaurants, dance clubs and shops wedged between universal studios and islands of adventure. away from the theme parks, downtown Orlando has a large, eclectic and much more appealing crop of bars, lounges and clubs. most of the after-dark action happens along orange avenue.

SeaWorld Orlando

One of Orlando's big-three theme parks, SeaWorld offers acres of ocean-related attractions, whale and dolphin shows and thrill rides, attracting some five million visitors a year. However, since the release of the 2013 film Blackfish, an exposé on the dangers and questionable ethics of keeping killer whales in captivity, it has been embroiled in an epic PR disaster. Visitor numbers and stock price have both been hit, and several airlines, tour operators and performing artists such as Willie Nelson have ended their ties with the brand.

Given the global opportunities to watch whales and dolphins in the wild, SeaWorld's use of these fiercely intelligent marine mammals for entertainment seems increasingly anachronistic; its recent pledge to invest more money in research and enlarge its killer whale enclosures is unlikely to see a U-turn in public or corporate opinion any time soon.

The World of Walt Disney

When the brilliant illustrator and animator Walt Disney devised the world’s first theme park, California’s Disneyland, he left himself with no control over the hotels and restaurants that quickly engulfed it, preventing growth and erasing profits Disney felt were rightly his. Determined not to let that happen again, the Disney corporation secretly bought up 27,500 acres of central Florida farmland, acquiring by the late 1960s a site a hundred times bigger than Disneyland. With the promise of a jobs bonanza for Florida, the state legislature gave the corporation the rights of any major municipality (via a special jurisdiction called the Reedy Creek Improvement District), empowering it to lay roads, enact building codes and enforce the law with its own security force.

Walt Disney World’s first “land”, the Magic Kingdom, opened in 1971, and was a huge success. Unveiled in 1982, the far more ambitious Epcot represented the first major break from cartoon- based escapism – but its rose-tinted look at the future received a mixed response at the time. Partly due to this, and to some bad management decisions, the Disney empire (Disney himself died in 1966) faced bankruptcy by the mid-1980s. Since then, the corporation has sprung back from the abyss, and steers a tight and competitive ship that encompasses broadcast networks, publishing and movies – as well as a substantial merchandising arm. It may trade in fantasy, but when it comes to money, the Disney Corporation deals in the real world.

Universal Orlando

For some years, it seemed that TV and film production would move away from California to Florida, which, with its lower taxes and cheaper labour, was more amenable. The opening of Universal Studios in 1990 appeared to confirm that trend. So far, though, for various reasons, Florida has not proved to be a fully realistic alternative. Even so, this hasn’t stopped the Universal Studios enclave here, known as Universal Orlando, from becoming a major player in the Orlando theme-park arena. Though Disney World still commands the lion’s share of attention, Universal has siphoned off many visitors with its high-tech movie-themed attractions and the excellent thrill rides at Islands of Adventure. And with all the nightclubs at Disney now closed, CityWalk has become the main competition to downtown Orlando for nightlife dollars . Furthermore, Universal has achieved fully fledged resort status with its three luxurious on-site hotels.

Walt Disney World

As significant as air conditioning in making the state what it is today, WALT DISNEY WORLD turned a wedge of Florida farmland into one of the world’s most lucrative holiday destinations. The immense and astutely planned empire also pushed the state’s media profile through the roof: from being a down-at-heel mix of cheap motels, retirement homes and alligator zoos, Florida became a showcase of modern international tourism overnight.

Disney World is the pacesetter among theme parks. It goes way beyond Disneyland – which opened in Anaheim, California, in 1955 – delivering escapism at its most technologically advanced and psychologically brilliant, across an area twice the size of Manhattan. Its four main theme parks are quite separate entities and, ideally, you should allow at least a full day for each. The Magic Kingdom is the Disney park of popular imagination, where Mickey mingles with the crowds – very much the park for kids, though at its high-tech best capable of captivating even the most jaded adult. Known for its giant, golfball-like geosphere, Epcot is Disney’s celebration of science, technology and world cultures; this sprawling area involves a lot of walking, and young children may grow restless. The smaller Disney’s Hollywood Studios takes its inspiration from movies, TV and music, offering some good thrill rides and live shows that will appeal to all ages. The newest of the four, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park, brings all manner of African and Asian wildlife to the theme-park setting.

Along with the main parks, other forms of entertainment have been created to keep people on Disney property for as long as possible. There are two excellent water parks, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon, a sports complex called Disney’s Wide World of Sports and Downtown Disney, where you can eat, drink and shop to your heart’s content.

Rubbing hard against Alabama in the west and Georgia in the north, the long, narrow Panhandle has much more in common with the states of the Deep South than with the rest of Florida. Hard to believe, then, that just over a century ago, the Panhandle was Florida. At the western edge, Pensacola was a busy port when Miami was still a swamp. Fertile soils lured wealthy plantation owners south, helping to establish Tallahassee as a high-society gathering place and administrative centre – a role which, as the state capital, it retains. But the decline of cotton, deforestation and the coming of the East Coast railroad eventually left the Panhandle high and dry. Much of the inland region still seems neglected, and the Apalachicola National Forest is perhaps the best place in Florida to disappear into the wilderness. The coastal Panhandle, on the other hand, is enjoying better times: despite rows of hotels, much is still untainted, boasting miles of blinding white sands.

In the three hundred miles from the state’s southern tip to the junction with the Panhandle, Florida’s West Coast embraces all the extremes. Buzzing, youthful towns rise behind placid fishing hamlets; mobbed holiday strips lie just minutes from desolate swamplands; and a world-class art collection competes with a glitzy theme park. Surprises are plentiful, though the coast’s one constant is proximity to the Gulf of Mexico – and sunset views rivalled only by those of the Florida Keys.

The west coast’s largest city, Tampa, has more to offer than its corporate towers initially suggest – not least the lively nightlife scene in the Cuban enclave of Ybor City, and the Busch Gardens theme park. For the mass of visitors, though, the Tampa Bay area begins and ends with the St Petersburg beaches, whose miles of sea and sand are undiluted holiday territory. South of Tampa, a string of barrier-island beaches run the length of the Gulf (including those on beautiful Anna Maria Island), and the mainland towns that provide access to them – such as Sarasota and Fort Myers – have enough to warrant a stop.

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updated 26.04.2021

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Ah, Florida. What state conjures such a mix of emotions in those who live here and venture here? With more than 1,300 miles of coastline, sandy beaches are a dime a dozen in this sun-splashed land. Miami lives and breathes to a Latin beat and hosts one of the world’s most important art festivals every winter during Art Basel Miami. Tampa’s Cuban culture harkens back to a much earlier era than Miami’s, when immigrants arrived to pursue their cigar fortunes. Moneyed Palm Beach, with its enormous oceanfront mansions and exclusive shopping, is known as the state’s Gold Coast, and the Florida Keys are as close as you can get to Caribbean-style escapism in the Lower 48. And who could forget Orlando: theme park capital of the world, yes, but also with its own surprising urban vibe that’s home to a burgeoning foodie scene set to rival any in the South. It’s impossible to arrive in Florida without some sort of expectations. But dive into the Sunshine State with an open mind, and you’re sure to be surprised.

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When’s the best time to go to Florida?

A year-round destination, Florida has something to offer in every season. Winters here are as good as summer gets in most places, with balmy temperatures and cloudless skies (though expect the ocean to be rather cool for swimming in the state’s northern reaches and the Panhandle). The southern part of the state—from Vero Beach south, and from Sarasota to Naples on the Gulf Coast—is particularly seasonal, drawing large crowds of “snowbirds” (people from more northern states on an annual migration to esape the cold) from about January through April. March and April are busy all over the state with spring break crowds, and spots like Panama City, Miami, Clearwater Beach, Daytona, and St. Pete Beach are particularly packed. Hurricane season runs from late May through late November; that’s also the warmest time of year and when hotels are most likely to offer deals (outside of holiday periods, at least). Major festivals to put on your calendar includ e Key West’s 200th Anniversary (March 25, 2022) and Art Basel Miami every December. But there are many more festivals and gatherings all over the state, celebrating everything from LGBTQ+ pride to Florida’s seafood bounty.

How to get around Florida

Florida has major airports all over the state that see arrivals from across the country and around the world. The biggest and best-connected include Miami International Airport (the hub for South America and Caribbean flights), Fort Lauderdale International Airport, Orlando International Airport, and Tampa International Airport. While all of the major cities have public transportation, it’s well worth renting a car here to make the most of your time and to reach outlying attractions with ease.

Can’t miss things to do in Florida

The best Florida trip takes in a mix of cultural and city highlights, stunning beaches, and the state’s formidable wilderness, home to many spring-fed rivers supporting an amazing mix of birdlife and reptiles. Everglades National Park, an International Biosphere Reserve and the third-largest national park in the Lower 48, is the famed natural wonder to see. But there are many smaller state parks with equivalent wild beauty on offer, too. Also experience authentic Cuban culture in Miami’s Little Havana and Tampa’s Ybor City, catch an unforgettable sunset with a cast of island characters in Key West, and enjoy thrills like no place on the planet at the many theme parks of Orlando.

Food and drink to try in Florida

Florida dishes up a world of flavors, pulling from the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico’s seafood bounty for meals to remember. The flavors of Miami skew largely Latin, and this is where you’ll find some of the best Cuban, Brazilian, Argentinean, and Peruvian restaurants in the country, not to mention authentic New York bagels, sushi, French fare, and more. On the state’s Gulf Coast and in the Panhandle tastes tend toward the simpler, with grouper sandwiches and fried seafood popular staples—along with the ubiquitous key lime pie, made famous in the Florida Keys. Downtown Orlando surprises visitors with its thriving Asian district, with the best selection of Vietnamese restaurants in the state. And in Apalachicola, on the Gulf, don’t miss a heaping platter of Florida’s most famous oyster crop. The state’s favorite seasonal seafood offering by a long shot, however, is stone crab, fresh on menus from mid-October to mid-May. With sweet, tender meat, they’re usually served with a mustard dipping sauce and are as good as seafood gets.

Culture in Florida

The constant sunshine may make for a mellow, tropical mindset, but Florida is far from a cultural desert: World-class museums like the Salvador Dalí Museum in St. Pete and the Bass Museum of Art in Miami are merely scratching the surface. Sarasota is home to the famous Ringling Museum, Orlando has the world’s largest collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, and even party-minded Key West oozes culture and history, with its Hemingway House and an important literary festival on the schedule every winter. Make for St. Pete and Miami’s Wynwood Walls for a street art experiences unlike any other on the East Coast.

For Families

Family itineraries are a cinch to cobble together in Florida; the hardest part will be narrowing your focus. For theme-park action, you’ll stay busy for days between Orlando’s many parks and Busch Gardens Tampa, an hour’s drive west on Interstate-4. If it’s a beach vacation you’re after, you need to decide between the calm shores along Florida’s Gulf Coast and Panhandle and the surf-friendly action on the endless East Coast beaches. During the cooler months, the state’s pretty inland campgrounds along the many crystal-clear springs and rivers are a good option for a budget-minded holiday, too.

Local travel tips for Florida

Floridians live a bit differently than folks elsewhere in the country. Winter is their favorite time of the year, and that’s when you’ll find them packing up tents or loading up RVs to make for the many beautiful state campgrounds, mostly mosquito-free from January to March, both along the beaches and inland, too. Come spring break (March is the bullseye month), those who can will often bolt out of state, heading for the mountains or a city escape—the beaches are too packed at that time and traffic in towns picks up. During the summer, Floridians beat the heat by ditching inland spots like Orlando and Gainesville and making a break for the coasts, where hotels offer discounted rates, particularly from June through August.

Local Resources

• Visit Florida
• Miami New Times
• Orlando Weekly
• Creative Loafing (Tampa Bay)
• Folio Weekly (Jacksonville)
• New Times Broward - Palm Beach

Guide Editor

Terry Ward has lived around the world and across the Sunshine State, including stints in Jacksonville, Cocoa Beach, Orlando, and, most recently, Tampa. She’s been a freelance travel writer since 2000, when she quit her advertising job to travel the world, and has written for The Los Angeles Times , Conde Nast Traveler , USA Today , Endless Vacation Magazine , and many other publications. Her hobbies including scuba diving, snorkeling, and sailing. Read more at terry-ward.com .

It can be argued that just about any day in Miami is a perfect day – but choices must be made, right? Start the day South Beach, with a stroll along the beach or the Art Deco district before grabbing lunch; spend the afternoon shopping on Lincoln Road or take a relaxing cruise on Biscayne Bay. Head downtown to enjoy dinner with views over the city and bay, followed by some late-night music and fun back in South Beach.

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Best places to visit in florida in 2024.

With more than 8,000 miles of shoreline, the Sunshine State is prime vacation territory. But with so many diverse destinations in Florida, it can be hard to pick which place is right for your next getaway. That's why U.S. News considered factors like the number of attractions, availability of accommodations and the opinions of everyday travelers to pick the best places to visit in Florida. Vote for your favorite spots below to help determine next year's list.

Clearwater Beach

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This picturesque barrier island off the coast of Sarasota is a prime vacation spot for relaxation-seeking travelers. Spend your getaway lounging on Siesta Beach, often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world , and enjoy powdery white sands and a bevy of family-friendly amenities including beach volleyball, a playground and concession stands. Or, head to quieter Turtle Beach for shelling and kayaking. In the evening, catch some live music in Siesta Key Village.

Clearwater Beach's beautiful white sand , crystal clear water and small-town vibe make it an ideal destination for a family vacation on the Gulf Coast. Spend the day getting a snapshot of the city during a Segway tour or visit Caladesi Island State Park (only accessible by boat) for its untouched natural splendor. Also save time for a visit to one of the area's biggest attractions, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where the dolphins that inspired the "Dolphin Tale" movies were rehabilitated. Later, head to Pier 60 to catch a sunset, purchase locally made crafts and watch various street performances.

History buffs should make a beeline for St. Augustine. Founded by the Spaniards in 1565, this town in northern Florida is the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the U.S., earning it the nickname the Ancient City. Constructed from local coquina, a unique type of stone made from compressed shells and limestone, St. Augustine's structures and monuments (including the buildings lining pedestrian-friendly St. George Street and the imposing Castillo de San Marcos National Monument) act as a living guide to history. When it's time to relax after taking in the sights, head to Anastasia State Park for its unspoiled beaches and sand dunes.

This tranquil barrier island located roughly 35 miles south of St. Petersburg is the perfect place to recharge your batteries. Kick back on gorgeous white sand shorelines like Bean Point and Coquina Beach, then grab a bite to eat along Pine Avenue, the island's historic main street. And if you're traveling with children, Mote's Marine Science Education & Outreach Center features several kid-friendly programs worth checking out. Meanwhile, history enthusiasts should pencil in time for a tour of the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum.

Made up of six islands in the Florida Keys – Plantation Key, Windley Key, Indian Key, Lignumvitae Key and Upper and Lower Matecumbe Keys – Islamorada boasts tranquil parks, colorful coral reefs and art galleries. Thanks to its position between the Florida Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, this laid-back coastal village is a renowned sport fishing destination, bringing in species like sailfish, marlin, mahi-mahi, tuna and tarpon. But if you don't feel like casting a line, you can check out the History of Diving Museum or put a dent in your wallet at the shops in Rain Barrel Village. 

Sitting about 70 miles off the coast of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is known for its premier snorkeling and wildlife-viewing opportunities. Home to nearly 300 species of birds, five types of sea turtles and about 30 species of coral, this remote seven-island park in the Gulf of Mexico is a popular Florida day trip destination for nature lovers. Plus, travelers can go on a self-guided tour of the 19th-century coastal fortress Fort Jefferson, located on Garden Key. Keep in mind, Dry Tortugas National Park can only be reached by boat or seaplane, and an entrance fee is required.

The elegant and romantic city of Naples is all about luxury and relaxation. This spot on Florida's Paradise Coast is known for its gorgeous sugar-white sand beaches and incredible golf courses. High-end shops and gourmet restaurants abound, especially along Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South. Plus, flora and fauna lovers have access to all kinds of nature-focused attractions here, such as the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, the Naples Botanical Garden and Clam Pass Park. Those who appreciate art won't want to miss The Baker Museum or one of the city's many art galleries.

Known as the Diving Capital of the World, Key Largo offers access to the only living coral reef in the continental U.S., the country's first undersea park (John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park) and the only underwater hotel in the world solely accessible by scuba diving. The largest island in the Florida Keys is also a prime spot for other aquatic activities, including snorkeling, deep-sea fishing and glass-bottom boating. When you're ready to trade your sea legs for solid ground, grab a bite to eat and a rum runner cocktail at one of Key Largo's laid-back eateries.

World-famous attractions such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Florida make Orlando a year-round tourist destination, but there are many attractions and activities outside of the theme parks . Travelers can shop till they drop at outlet malls, hit the links at one of the area's many golf courses, and get up close and personal with dolphins and stingrays at Discovery Cove. Those without little ones can explore Orlando's revitalized nightlife and restaurant scenes in the downtown area.

Travel to this island in the Florida Keys to relax at a beachside resort and see the southernmost point in the continental United States. Key West is known for its free-spirited locals, colorful conch-style homes and coral reefs ripe for snorkeling and scuba diving. Between boat tours and margaritas, bibliophiles will enjoy visiting the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where they can learn more about the famous writer and see descendants of his six-toed cat, Snow White. Or, head to Key West's main drag, Duval Street, for its cafes, shops and nightlife.

The largest of Southwest Florida's Ten Thousand Islands, Marco Island is a haven for water sports like boating, fishing and kayaking. Its sunny skies and white sand beaches invite visitors to sunbathe, swim and search for seashells. Those who want a break from the sand can learn about the island's ties to the ancient Calusa Native Americans at the Marco Island Historical Museum or look for manatees, sea turtles and other wild animals in Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge.

Located about 30 miles northeast of Jacksonville, Amelia Island's historical charm and 13 miles of uncrowded beaches make it a top vacation destination. Stroll through Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach, where pirates used to roam and the modern shrimping industry was born. For some fun yet relaxing activities, go horseback riding by the water or play a round of golf on one of the island's highly regarded courses.

This spot along the Florida Panhandle's Emerald Coast is a home away from home for thousands of summer vacationers. Its unique, postcard-worthy white sands made from Appalachian quartz and its clear, bright blue-green water help Destin stand out from other Florida beaches. The nearby Henderson Beach State Park is a must-visit shoreline, with its 30-foot white sand dunes. And Destin's manicured golf courses, optimal fishing conditions and shop- and restaurant-lined boardwalk continue to attract travelers year after year.

Relaxation is a given on Sanibel Island. Severely impacted by Hurricane Ian in 2022, Sanibel Island continues to recover but is once again welcoming tourists. Your first stop here will no doubt be the beach – Bowman's Beach offers prime shelling opportunities and Captiva Island is an excellent place for water sports like snorkeling and kayaking – but it would be a shame to visit the area without also exploring its many art galleries, bike trails and shops. Plus, you'll want to save time for activities like birding and fishing in the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Just plan ahead; lodging options remain limited.

Few places in the world compare to colorful, vibrant Miami Beach. From the one-of-a-kind art deco architecture along Ocean Drive to the scantily clad beachgoers on South Beach, this Miami offshoot attracts everyone from relaxed retirees to night owls. But you'll want to bring along your credit card because those fashionable dance clubs and chic, trendy restaurants don't come cheap. To save some money, consider buying a Go Miami card before your trip to access to some of the area's museums and tours for a fraction of the price.

Florida is almost as famous for its alligators as it is for its beaches and theme parks, and one of the best places to see them is in Everglades National Park. As the largest subtropical wilderness in the country, the park is the world's only environment where alligators and crocodiles coexist. It's also home to rare species like manatees and panthers. The Everglades offers several hiking trails and guided tours for navigating its vast 1.5 million acres. Be sure to visit between November and April (the park's dry season) to enjoy lower temperatures, fewer mosquitos and increased chances of spotting wildlife.

Holding the Guinness World Record for most consecutive days of sunshine, St. Petersburg appeals to all types of travelers. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy St. Pete Beach and the 7 miles of waterfront parks. Away from the shore, downtown St. Petersburg offers plenty of attractions, including a museum dedicated to the works of Salvador Dalí and the Sunken Gardens, the city's oldest living museum. The city also hosts one of the largest Pride events in the U.S. every summer and is home to a large LGBTQ+ community.

If you're looking for sun, sand and superb shopping, Fort Lauderdale is the place to go. Fort Lauderdale features palm-tree-lined beaches, and its 165 miles of waterways and canals have earned it the nickname the Venice of America. Those looking to partake in some retail therapy will find plenty of shops and restaurants on Las Olas Boulevard and in Galleria Fort Lauderdale and Sawgrass Mills, the largest outlet mall in the country. When you're not exercising your wallet or lounging on beautiful Las Olas Beach, don't forget to check out the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, which was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1984.

Much like its sunny neighbor, St. Petersburg, Tampa attracts visitors with its balmy weather and outdoor pursuits. But as the third largest city in Florida, Tampa also offers a little more action. Visitors can stroll along the lively Tampa Riverwalk to get a glimpse of public art and dazzling light displays, or visit one of the area's museums, such as the Tampa Bay History Center. Those bringing kids along can also explore Glazer Children's Museum or The Florida Aquarium (with a stop at Sparkman Wharf for lunch), or tire them out with some thrills at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

Cocoa Beach appeals to everyone from space enthusiasts to surfers. The nearby Kennedy Space Center offers a firsthand look at NASA's shuttles and launch pads. In the northern part of Cocoa Beach, visitors will find one of the best places in Florida to surf and the flagship Ron Jon Surf Shop, the largest surf shop in the world. Here, you'll also find the Florida Surf Museum, where you can learn more about the history of Florida surfing. Vacationers can also sign up for bioluminescent kayaking tours of the area's waterways or play beach volleyball next to the Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier.

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9 of the best places to visit in Florida

Mar 14, 2024 • 7 min read

From cities packed with art, culture and nightlife to top beach destinations, these are the best places to visit in Florida © John Coletti / Getty Images

From sunny, white-sand beaches and untamed subtropical mangrove forests to bustling space centers and theme parks packed with excited kids, the Sunshine State is one gigantic fantasyland.

Choosing the best places to visit in Florida is no mean feat because this peninsular paradise is equally beautiful in many ways. Whether you're slipping away on a romantic sojourn or making family memories, here's a list of the places you simply shouldn't miss.

1. Miami, the "Magic City"

Best for parties and nightlife

With pastel-colored art deco buildings trimming sparkling azure waters,  Miami screams tropics. One of America's most visited cities, this bustling metropolis scores big with urban see-and-be-seen types. Crowd lovers bask in  South Beach's iconic energy, slathering on sunscreen to soak up scorching rays and indulging in the best people-watching opportunities the planet offers. And, for those who energize after dark, Miami's packed, world-renowned clubs epitomize wicked all-nighters. Miami scores big with foodies, too, who savor its tasty cuisines enhanced with strong Cuban and Caribbean flavors. 

Detour: A world apart, yet only 50 miles away, the Everglades offer a very different kind of wildness. Airboat, camp or take scenic drives to see gators and other exotic wildlife.

Here's how you can plan the ultimate long weekend in Miami.

2. Vero Beach 

Best for calm, romantic getaways

For a more sedate experience, visit the skyscraper-less beach of this under-the-radar jewel, just 150 miles north of Miami. There's little in the way of nightlife, but many find it a delightful reprieve. Embrace each new day with meditative yoga, digging your toes into warm sand as the sun rises over the ocean at popstar Gloria Estefan's  Costa d'Este resort (non-guests welcome). Grab an award-winning burger at  Casey's Place , a throwback to outdoor burger shacks of the 1970s, and learn the juicy history of Florida oranges at the tiny  Indian River Citrus Museum .

Detour: Visit  A.E. Backus Museum and Florida Highwaymen Museum in nearby Fort Pierce and become instant fans of this famous Florida landscape artist and the talented African-American painters he inspired.

Want more ideas for a beach vacation? Discover  Florida's best beaches .

Best for theme parks and family activities

A place where dreams come true,  Orlando  is a cosmopolitan city sprinkled with pixie dust. Sure, there's serious business going on here, but you wouldn't know it basking inside a sun-kissed swan paddleboat on Lake Eola , surrounded by towering skyscrapers in the heart of downtown. The ultimate in family fun, Orlando offers  Disney parks  and  Universal  – theme parks that are bound to keep kids awake weeks before arriving. There's also a  chocolate museum , a  star-car museum  and, for when you really need a break from all the crowds and chaos (and you will!),  Leu Gardens , a tranquil 50-acre botanical paradise.

Detour: See what it's like to be an astronaut at  Kennedy Space Center , less than an hour's drive away.

Continue the fun at  Florida's best theme parks .

4. St Augustine

Best for history and arresting architecture

Step back in time by wandering ancient cobblestone streets in St Augustine , America's oldest city. Settled by Spaniards in 1565, the facades of Old Town buildings reflect the Spanish-Colonial and Spanish Renaissance Revival eras. Its main thoroughfare, St George Street, is packed with charming boutiques, tacky souvenir shops, and restaurants overlooking the glimmering waters of the Matanzas River. If museums, galleries and churches are up your alley, there are plenty of those nearby as well.

5. Fort Lauderdale

Best for tantalizing beaches and boating

Blessed with an impressive stretch of white-sand beaches and seemingly endless canals,  Fort Lauderdale is heralded as the yachting capital of the world and "The Venice of America." Its  annual boat show  in October is the world's largest in-water boating show. Stroll the famous  Riverwalk , stop for a beer at the legendary  Elbo Room , watch mermaids perform at America's only underwater burlesque show , or shop and dine along famous  Las Olas Boulevard .

Detour: Take a narrated  water taxi tour to Hollywood Beach's lively  Broadwalk , passing mansions of the rich and famous along your journey. Buy an express pass or a hop-on, hop-off day pass with eleven scenic stops to enjoy.

6. Key West

Best for barhopping and snorkeling

Rows of pastel yellow, pink and green conch island homes with gingerbread trim complement  Key West's crystal-clear turquoise waters, transporting you to a world seemingly immune from daily problems. It's no wonder that world traveler and celebrated author Ernest Hemingway chose this Caribbean-style jewel to settle in during the 1930s (don't miss the museum about his life ).

Though laid-back by day, a festive party vibe dominates at night. (Some dive bars along Duval Street get rowdy, so avoid staying in Old Town if you want to sleep!) Foodies take note:  Key Lime Pie Co  bakes up some of the country's best, and  Conch Republic Seafood Company serves killer conch fritters, another Key West delicacy.

Detour: Ferries  and  seaplanes  shuttle to the secluded island paradise of  Dry Tortugas National Park , which has some of the world's greatest snorkeling in the shallow Florida Reef.

7. West Palm Beach

Best for shopping and bargain hunting

West Palm Beach's palm-lined boulevards welcome visitors to some of Florida's best shopping. At the heart of it all is  The Square , a 72-acre shopping, dining and entertainment complex featuring brand-name retailers and specialty boutiques. Fill your bags, then relax by the central fountain to enjoy free classic rock and country music concerts. Don't miss the spectacular  GreenMarket , a downtown farmers market with more than 120 vendors, every Saturday morning (October to April). Sixty additional flea market booths leading up Clematis St certify it as a bargain hunter's utopia.

Detour:  Take a 10-minute ferry ride to nearby  Peanut Island , a snorkeler's paradise, where crystal-clear waters promise a captivating underwater adventure. It's all the more extraordinary for being the location of a nuclear bunker built for JFK, though it's currently closed to the public.

8. Fort Myers, "the City of Palms"

Best for local arts and fishing

Despite the devastation wrought upon  Fort Myers  Beach's seven miles of stunning coastline by Hurricane Ian in 2022, the recovery is well underway – with  Margaritaville Beach Resort leading the pack.

Sadly, its signature quaint pubs and boardwalk taco stands will be gone as the blank canvas is repainted with glossy chic. But that doesn't detract from the other riches this beautiful Gulf Coast area boasts. The bricked, palm-lined boulevards of downtown Fort Myers' River District are enhanced with colorful murals and artistic sculptures and dotted with bistros, cafes, galleries, museums and theaters. Deep-sea anglers reel in massive tarpon and swordfish nearby, while paddleboarders love navigating the Gulf Coast's calm, clear waters.

Detours:  Nearby  Sanibel Island  boasts a motherlode of almost 400 species of shells, while  Bonita Springs is a quiet enclave with cafes and microbreweries. Also, don't miss  Wonder Gardens , a lush botanical garden and animal rescue facility that first opened in 1936 and is still a throwback to "Old Florida."

9. Pensacola

Best for learning to surf

With emerald-green waters kissing 18 miles of powdery, sugar-white sand, Pensacola's spacious beaches are heaven to those seeking a secluded getaway. The unspoiled terrain of  Gulf Islands National Seashore , America's largest stretch of protected coastline, extends from both sides of Pensacola Beach, a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Its warm waters and gentle summer waves make it perfect for people learning to surf.

The city itself feels like a cross between an urban hub and a chill beach town, with award-winning eateries and chic boutiques. Seville Quarter , a former cigar warehouse complex, is packed with busy bars and trendy restaurants. Seville Square, a small historic park, hosts many unique music, food and art festivals throughout the year.

Detour: Dolphins regularly swarm the warm coastal waters off nearby Destin. Several local boat-tour operators offer guided excursions to observe these splendid creatures from a safe distance within their natural environment.

Planning a trip to Florida? Here's more of our expert advice:

From beaches to theme parks, don't miss these top experiences Here's when the Sunshine State gets the most sunshine (and other great times to visit) This is what you should know before any Florida trip These road trips will take you to all the highlights in Florida

This article was first published March 2018 and updated March 2024

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Orlando, According to Theme Park and Travel Experts

Here’s everything you need to know before planning a trip to Orlando, Florida.

Jacqueline Dole is a freelance food and travel journalist based in Maine. A lifelong New Englander, her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure , Food & Wine, TimeOut, Insider, Thrillist, Eater, and more. With a background as a pastry chef, she’s always on the lookout for the next best snack. She is a theme park enthusiast and expert, and embroidered hotel robes, amazing pools, and hot dogs are some of her favorite things.

Best Hotels and Resorts

Best things to do, theme parks, best restaurants, best time to visit, how to get there.

• Neighborhoods to Visit

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Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Orlando is so much more than home to some of the best theme parks in the country. Last year, 74 million visitors came to Orlando, making the Florida city the number one travel destination in the country. With lush landscapes, historic architecture, award-winning food, and world-class entertainment, there is something for every kind of traveler in Orlando. 

While it’s easy to spend an entire vacation exploring the city’s famous theme parks, there’s enough outside of the Disney and Universal “bubbles” to make an entire trip out of as well. I visited the area often when I was growing up and have traveled there frequently as an adult; last year, I spent over a month in the area, and I truly consider it my second home.  

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Live out your mid-century modern dreams at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, a dream come true for retro enthusiasts. 
• Book a guided kayak tour through Wekiwa Springs, one of the oldest tourist destinations in the state.
• Visit Capa for a Michelin-starred meal followed by an unbeatable view of the Magic Kingdom fireworks from their rooftop patio. 
• Take an hour-long scenic boat tour through Winter Park’s historic canals.
• Book a wine tasting led by one of only 273 master sommeliers in the world at Wine Bar George.

Courtesy of Four Season Resorts

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World

The Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World is located on Disney property within the ultra-exclusive Golden Oak neighborhood. With fantastic onsite dining options, one of the best lazy rivers in town, and service and suites fit for royalty, you may not want to leave the property for the nearby Disney parks once you check in. It’s one of the very best Disney World hotels , according to Travel + Leisure editor and theme park aficionado Elizabeth Rhodes , too. 

The Walt Disney World Swan, Dolphin, and Swan Reserve

The Walt Disney World Swan, Dolphin, and Swan Reserve are within a short walking distance of both Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. While they may not have over-the-top Disney theming, they do come with their own perks: transportation and proximity to the parks, on-site dining offerings that are open later than most other neighboring resorts, access to exclusive benefits such as theme park early entry and extended evening hours, and room service. Plus, each fall, the property hosts the annual Food & Wine Classic that serves up sips and snacks from all of the restaurants and bars at the property. Best of all, the hotels are operated by Marriott, so guests can use Bonvoy points to pay for their stay. 

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

The lush grounds of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort are a peaceful escape from busy theme park crowds. One of the best places to stay on Walt Disney World property — and one of the opening-day resorts dating back to 1971 — the Polynesian offers top-notch pools, a highly themed interactive tiki bar, and quick transportation to Magic Kingdom via boat or monorail. There’s no greater way to end a day at Disney than catching the nightly fireworks while relaxing on the white-sand beach with a tropical cocktail in hand. 

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort

A paradise for mid-century modern enthusiasts, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort offers an extensive list of on-site amenities and detailed theming at an affordable price. The hotel is decked out in retro flair, from the Eames chairs and terrazzo floors to vintage-inspired toiletries. “My favorite budget hotel at Universal Orlando is Cabana Bay. When it opened in 2014, it redefined what a theme park 'value resort' should offer,” says Len Testa, co-author of The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World. “The decor is American mid-century modern throughout, and the resort includes dining, multiple bars, a Starbucks, a fitness center and bowling alley, a giant pool, and a lazy river. I know many Orlando residents who use Cabana Bay as a staycation.”

Evermore Orlando Resort

The newly opened Evermore Orlando Resort isn’t a typical hotel; the multi-bedroom apartments, villas, and houses are perfect for those traveling with large groups, not to mention the eight-acre human-made clear lagoon, two golf courses, and high-end spa. Travelers who don’t need the extra space but still want to enjoy Central Florida’s newest beach resort can book a stay at the on-property 433-room Conrad Orlando. While it may feel like you’re worlds away from the hustle and bustle, the resort is just a few miles from the gates of Walt Disney World. 

JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes

Centrally located near the largest theme parks, the airport, and downtown Orlando, the JW Marriott sits on 500 acres of property. The resort shares many on-site activities with the adjacent Ritz-Carlton, such as eco-tours that paddle down the headwaters of the Florida Everglades via kayak, a falconry class, and a sunrise safari led by a certified master naturalist offering the chance to spot whitetail deer, bobcats, otters, alligators, and more. The property has extensive dining venues, including Michelin Guide-recommended Primo from award-winning chef, Melissa Kelly. 

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Catch a show at the Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts. 

The Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts offers a variety of events, from traveling Broadway musicals and ballet to concerts and comedy shows, in a gorgeous setting. Check the calendar for your trip dates to see what’s on. 

Splash around Wekiwa Springs State Park. 

Located minutes north of Orlando, Wekiwa Springs State Park is one of the most beautiful freshwater springs in Florida . One of the oldest tourist attractions in the state, the park offers more than just swimming in the half-acre spring. Visitors can book guided kayak tours , hike, fish, and even book an overnight campsite at the park. 

Shop and eat your way through Disney Springs.

For visitors looking for a taste of the theme parks without purchasing a ticket, consider a stop at Disney Springs, Walt Disney World’s outdoor entertainment center. Here, you can find stores and restaurants from award-winning chefs, like Jaleo by Jose Andres, Chicken Guy by Guy Fieri, and Wine Bar George from Master Sommelier George Miliotes. 

If you’re more interested in malbec than Mickey, make sure to get tickets to the new Wine Experience at Wine Bar George. Offered twice weekly, Miliotes leads a small group of guests through a blind tasting of six selections of wine, teaching them how to identify aromas, tasting notes, and growing regions from different varieties of grapes. Drawn to Life presented by Cirque du Soleil is a show from the legendary acrobatic company. The performance draws inspiration from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ 100 years of storytelling, celebrating iconic Disney stories with multiple performances a day, Wednesdays through Sundays. 

Orlando is known as the theme park capital of the world for good reason. From world-class parks like Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World to regional parks like Gatorland , there’s no shortage of amusements in this Central Florida city. 

Universal Orlando

With two theme parks (plus one more on the way), one water park, and an outdoor shopping and dining district, Universal Orlando has so much to offer guests. 

Universal Studios Florida is home to rides and lands based on favorite films and television franchises. The rides are fantastic, the park design is stunning, and the food is truly next-level. If you’ve ever dreamt of what it would be like to be having a butterbeer inside of The Leaky Cauldron or sipping on a Flaming Moe in Springfield, here’s where you can find out. If you’re visiting Islands of Adventure, you have the option to either take The Hogwarts Express between parks or use the main gates at the front of the park. This is also the epicenter of holiday celebrations throughout the year, such as Halloween Horror Nights and Universal’s Mardi Gras. During these events, find specialty food booths and limited-time entertainment like stage shows, parades, and musical performances. 

Islands of Adventure features themed lands based on favorite properties like Marvel, Jurassic Park , and even more Harry Potter . The rides in this park tend to be more thrilling, including some of the best roller coasters in town, like Velocicoaster and Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure. 

CityWalk is an outdoor dining and entertainment destination, featuring restaurants and attractions like The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen, VooDoo Donuts, Hollywood Drive-In Golf, and Universal’s Great Movie Escape Rooms. The Coconut Club undergoes seasonal transformations to match several different celebrations in the parks throughout the year, such as the Red Dead Coconut Club during Halloween Horror Nights. Volcano Bay may be the best water park in the world. With not one but two lazy rivers, more than 20 slides, and a great selection of food and beverages, it’s easy to spend a full day at Volcano Bay. Universal is set to debut its newest park, Epic Universe , in 2025. The new park will have five themed lands, including the much-anticipated East Coast debut of Super Nintendo World. 

With eight hotels on property and three more debuting next year, there’s a fit for every budget. From the affordable and family-friendly Universal's Endless Summer Resort — Dockside and Surfside Inn and Suites to the more luxe Portofino Bay, it’s worth it to stay on-site. “We think the benefits of staying at a Universal-owned hotel are worth the cost,” says Testa. “Those benefits include extra time in the parks before the general public is admitted; and (at the fancier hotels) free front-of-line access to most rides, including on your check-in and check-out days. You'll also get priority access to restaurant reservations, plus free transportation to and from the parks.” 

Walt Disney World

Whether it’s your first or 50th trip to the “Most Magical Place on Earth,” there’s always something new to experience and learn. With four theme parks, two water parks, Disney Springs, and more than 25 resorts, there’s more to do at the 43-square-mile property than any one single vacation can ever include. 

Sara Maciel, a travel advisor for Carry on the Magic , specializes in booking Walt Disney World vacations. Her top tip for first-time visitors? “Lower your expectations. It seems impossible, but when you’re planning a Disney trip, you put so much money and research into making it the perfect trip, that if things don’t go perfectly, you can quickly get disappointed. Let each person in your group pick one thing they want to accomplish each day and prioritize those things over everything else. Then once you’ve worked through that list, everything else feels like extra magic.”

Another tip from Maciel is to stay on property. “Staying on the property means staying ‘in the Disney bubble.’ Every Disney resort provides free transportation to and from the parks, which saves money and stress when it comes to navigating your way across the four theme parks. Staying on property also grants you an extra 30 minutes in the parks before non-resort guests are let in.” 

These extra 30 minutes can be a serious game changer, allowing you access to the most popular rides with the lowest wait times. Testa says, “Be at the park, admission in hand, 60 minutes before the official opening. On most days, Disney will let you into the park and allow you to line up for your first ride well before the park opens. This is a tremendous advantage over those who can't get up and out the door that early. You'll be well on your way to your second (or third) ride before most people have gone through the turnstiles.” Maciel says, “Rope Drop can feel like you have the park to yourself if you can get up and get to the parks early enough. If rides are your primary focus, I recommend rope-dropping at least one day of your trip. You can usually get the same number of rides done in the first hour the park is open as you can in the next three hours. And if you’re staying on-site, you get that extra 30 minutes in the park as well!”

Another way to conquer crowds and make the most of your time? Defer to the experts. “Have a touring plan. Crowds grow and shrink at Disney World's rides in mostly predictable ways. Knowing when to visit those rides, and in which order, is the best way to stay ahead of those crowds,” Testa explains. I have been subscribed to Touring Plans for the last five years, and it’s indeed been a total game changer. In addition to providing customizable touring plans, their crowd calendar identifies the best days to visit certain parks, their dining reservation finder allows users to set alerts for hard-to-get reservations, and their room request form allows you to select the ideal room for your upcoming stay and submit a request for that specific room. 

There are more ways to reduce your time spent in lines, whether it’s for food or rides. Susan Veness, travel writer and author of The Hidden Magic of Walt Disney World and Walt Disney World Hacks, 2nd Edition says, “Guests should get familiar with mobile ordering. There is something incredibly satisfying about mobile ordering a Dole Whip and sauntering up to the pick-up window without spending an hour standing in a sweltering line.” And for rides? “Guests will also want to learn as much as they can in advance about the Genie+ system: when to use it, when not to use it, which parks benefit from using it, and how to make the most of it if they decide to purchase the paid-for version or Individual Lightning Lane selections to spend less time waiting in line for attractions. With young children, it’s most helpful at Magic Kingdom, but can be skipped for, say, Epcot,” says Veness. 

Related: The Best Rides at Disney World 

Orlando may not be the first place you think of for world-class sushi, but Norigami is one of the city’s several fantastic Japanese restaurants. The eight-seat sushi counter is in the middle of Winter Gardens Plant Street Market. I recommend making reservations early as the restaurant was named on the 2023 Michelin Bib Gourmand list and the waitlist can get lengthy. Dishes include popcorn hamachi with popcorn cream, toro carpaccio with truffle sauce, and an a la carte selection of different cuts of fish served as nigiri, sashimi, aburi, or temaki. For those overwhelmed by choice, the ten-piece omakase menu is the perfect decision. 

Susuru is a Japanese izakaya with a retro theme, serving up eats like chicken karaage, okonomiyaki, and king salmon tataki. The real star is the selection of yakitori, with skewers of every part of chicken imaginable, short ribs, pork belly, and more. The menu also has a selection of ramen, rice bowls, and an unforgettable matcha tiramisu for dessert. The cocktail menu is great; get the Godzilla, a yuzu-forward drink served in a Godzilla toy. Reservations aren’t accepted, and they don’t offer takeout, so be prepared to get here right at opening or wait for a table.

Domu has two locations in Orlando, one near Dr. Phillips and one in the East End Market in Winter Park. The spot is a dream come true for ramen lovers, serving up house-made noodles in savory broths. The appetizer list features two standouts, the Domu Wings coated with kimchi butter sauce and the Cheezus, a roasted corn and cheese skillet that you’ll be dreaming about long after going home. 

Located on the top floor of the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World, Capa offers the best of both worlds — the Spanish steakhouse is a Michelin-starred restaurant within eyeshot of Magic Kingdom’s nightly fireworks. Helmed by Chef Malyna Si, the menu features a selection of Spanish meats, cheeses, and tapas, including some of the best pan con tomate that I’ve ever had. The real showstoppers are the steaks, most notably the selection of wagyu, served by the ounce or as a flight of selections from around the world. This is the perfect place to grab a cocktail, like the Capa Gin and Tonic, and watch the fireworks from both Epcot and Magic Kingdom from the outdoor patio. 

Strong Water Tavern Orlando

Strong Water Tavern Orlando is a Caribbean and Latin American-influenced restaurant located in the lobby at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando. The food isn’t just outstanding food for a theme park or a hotel — it’s outstanding in general. The menu has a selection of Cuban, Jamaican, Mexican, Puerto Rican, Columbian, and U.S.V.I. dishes. Billed as a “rum lover’s paradise,” Strong Water has one of the best mai tais in town, as well as an impressive selection of rums from around the world. Chef Carlos Castano and his team also serve up some of the best hospitality in town, making you feel truly at home in their restaurant. 

Winter and early spring are the best times to plan a trip to the area. Orlando can become extremely busy during popular times to travel, such as school holidays and summer breaks. Note that the Atlantic hurricane season lasts from June through November, often bringing afternoon thunderstorms along with it. Be sure to protect your trip with travel insurance, especially when making plans during that time of year. “The best weather is generally between November and March, with daytime highs between 75 and 80 degrees,” says Testa. My favorite time to visit is the week after Thanksgiving: School is still in session, which means lower crowds, and the parks are decorated for the holidays. The weather can be slightly cool, which is a welcome change from the blazing hot summer temperatures. 

Related: The Best Times to Visit Disney World  

The Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the best airport to fly into, serving a wide range of carriers and routes. The airport opened its brand new Terminal C in 2022 , and it’s an absolute delight to fly into and out of, with culinary outposts from beloved Disney Springs restaurateurs Art Smith and George Miliotes. The Brightline high-speed railway now offers an easy way to travel between Orlando and other destinations in the state, like Miami and West Palm Beach. 

Neighborhoods to Visit 

Winter garden.

Located about 20 minutes west of Orlando, Winter Garden is a former citrus town complete with a historic downtown that’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The town has a theater, art museums, and a weekly farmers market each Saturday. Plant Street Market is Winter Garden’s food hall featuring Crooked Can Brewing Company and more than 20 food vendors. 

Winter Park

While Winter Park is a short drive north of downtown Orlando, it’s a destination all its own. Founded in 1887 as a winter escape for Northerners, the picturesque area has opportunities for antique shopping, an hour-long Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour that winds through historic canals, and The East End Market for legendary Gideon’s Bakehouse Cookies (without the long waits you’ll find at the company's Disney Springs location). Stationary fans, take note: Cult-favorite Rifle Paper Co. is headquartered in Winter Park, and with any luck, you’ll be in town for one of their legendary sidewalk sales. 

Mills 50 , located north of downtown Orlando, got its name from its location at the intersection of Mills Avenue and State Road 50. The community tagline is “The Intersection of Creativity and Culture,” and it’s home to several large murals and more Michelin Guide-recommended restaurants than any other district in Orlando, including Hawkers Asian Street Fare and Sticky Rice . 

Lake Nona is located southeast of the airport and is one of the fastest-growing communities in the country. Inside the Lake Nona Wave Hotel is BACÁN , a Michelin Guide-recommended Latin American restaurant. Boxi Park is Central Florida’s first outdoor food hall constructed with shipping containers. The Lake Nona Sculpture Garden is a 50,000-square-foot space with free admission, featuring a selection from one of the world’s largest private art collections, The Lewis Collection. 

While it’s possible to get around Orlando without a car, it isn’t easy — or cheap. Rideshare services are all quickly available, however pricing does fluctuate drastically depending on the traffic conditions and time of day. Renting a car can be the most convenient option, however, parking fees can add up if they’re not included in nightly resort rates.

The SunRail is the city's commuter rail, originating north of Sanford and taking passengers southbound, all the way to Kissimmee. The train runs Monday-Friday, every half-hour during peak travel times and less frequently at times throughout the day. One-way fares start at $2 with weekly, monthly, and annual passes available as well. 

LYNX bus service provides transportation throughout Orlando and Orange County. The bus does travel near popular tourist destinations, so travelers with a limited budget can find this option much more economical if they’re willing to follow the sometimes limited schedules certain routes have. Single ride fares are $2 and an all-day pass is $4.50, with 7-day and 30-day passes available as well.

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Your Guide to a Florida Keys Road Trip: Key Largo to Key West

Posted: March 12, 2024 | Last updated: March 13, 2024

Your road trip guide to the Florida Keys

One of the best state road trips in America has to be the sun-kissed drive from Key Largo to Key West in the Florida Keys. This road, known as the Florida Keys Overseas Highway, takes you through a 125-mile island chain that begins just south of Miami. It hopscotches over 42 bridges and five islands, and has turquoise waters stretching in every direction into the Atlantic Ocean, Florida Bay and Gulf of Mexico.

So if you're looking for the perfect Atlantic Coast road trip or cheap beach vacation , look no further than this road trip guide from Key Largo to Key West. And if you'd rather travel from Key West to Key Largo, rest easy—the route works either way. There are shuttles that run from Key Largo to Key West, but keep in mind, you'd be missing out on all the fun in between.

By the way, once you embark on the Florida Keys Overseas Highway, you'll notice that many sites along the way use mile markers (MM) in their address. We use those mile marker points in this story to help you navigate the drive.

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Mile marker: 108–90

The first of the Florida Keys you'll hit after driving about an hour south from Miami en route from Key Largo to Key West is, well, Key Largo. Often referred to as the Dive Capital of the World, Key Largo includes one must-see stop: John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (MM 102.5), the first underwater preserve in the United States.

Experienced and novice snorkelers and SCUBA divers will be enthralled by the teeming marine life that lives just below the water's surface, like parrot fish, barracudas and sea turtles. More experienced divers enjoy exploring the USS Spiegel Grove, one of the largest ships ever intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef where pretty fish can thrive.

Back on dry land, travelers can wander nearly six miles of trails at Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park, home to more than 80 species of plants and animals. You can also peruse the work of local artists at myriad galleries.

Best beach: Cannon Beach, found within John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, has shallow waters that are perfect for wading. You may even spot cannons and anchors on the beach that remain from a 1715 Spanish shipwreck.

Where to eat: Dig into the catch of the day at The Fish House, Key Largo Conch House or Snook's Bayside Restaurant & Grand Tiki Bar, some of the best traditional restaurants in the area. If you'd rather turf than surf, check out Jimmy Johnson's Big Chill.

Where to stay: If you can't get enough of the underwater world, stay at Jules' Undersea Lodge , the world's first underwater hotel. If you'd rather keep dry, try the adults-only Bungalows Key Largo .

Mile marker: 90–63

Next up en route from Key Largo to Key West is the fisherman's paradise known as Islamorada. Considered the Sport Fishing Capital of the World, it's where backcountry sport fishing and saltwater fly-fishing got their start. Countless seasoned boat captains are ready for hire to take you out to catch the wahoo, marlin, mahi-mahi and tuna that swim in these waters.

There's an even quirkier way to interact with fish here: hand-feeding the tarpon off the docks of Robbie's Marina (MM 77.5). Since 1976, countless Keys visitors have stopped to feed them, and more than 100 kinds of fish gather at the docks for their daily snacks. Feeding the fishies there is so popular, it's been named the No. 1 activity in all the Florida Keys.

Islamorada is also a terrific spot to kitesurf, stand-up paddleboard, go for a hike or take a bicycle ride. Stop by the Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary, where injured or displaced birdies now make their homes. Or visit the History of Diving Museum, which boasts one of the world's largest collections of diving helmets.

Best beach: Anne's Beach is popular with families (and dogs) because of its shallow waters and lack of waves. Take a walk along the boardwalk or enjoy a picnic at one of the covered tables.

Where to eat: For a quintessential casual Florida Keys meal, go to the Hungry Tarpon. If you want more elegant fare, make reservations at Chef Michael's for creatively inspired local dishes.

Where to stay: When it's time to lay your head for the night, check in to one of the new oceanfront suites at Cheeca Lodge & Spa , or your own cottage at The Moorings Village & Spa .

Mile marker: 63–40

Marathon is the island chain's top boating destination—and for good reason. The area boasts nearly 2,400 boat slips and plenty of facilities to accommodate sailors passing through. But you don't need your own boat to enjoy Marathon and its waters.

For a truly different experience, hop on over to Cruisin' Tikis and have a floating tiki bar adventure. Sunset, mangrove and harbor cruises are all available, as is a swim-stop cruise for a chance to jump into the water.

While you're here, you should also visit Pigeon Key, an island that is accessible by boat, trolley or walking the 2.2-mile Old Seven Mile Bridge. It has a museum to explore, either on a guided tour or on your own. The Bridge is open for walking, running, bicycling, rollerblading and, of course, watching the killer sunrises and sunsets.

Best beach: Sombrero Beach is one of the prettiest beaches in the Florida Keys—not to mention one of the best beaches in Florida . And it's not just popular with humans; sea turtles nest here between April and October.

Where to eat: For any meal, stop by Castaway, which has been serving guests for more than 70 years. Or make a night of it at Hide Away Café, which has an extensive wine list.

Where to stay: The Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club is set on the waterfront and gives you a taste of marina life. Lime Tree Bay Resort on Long Key has spacious townhomes for rent.

The Lower Keys

Mile marker: 40–4

After crossing the Old Seven Mile Bridge out of Marathon, you'll find yourself in the Lower Keys, where natural habitats and wildlife refuges thrive. It's no wonder this part of the Florida Keys is known as the Natural Keys. You might even want to consider taking an electric vehicle on this road trip so you don't disturb the animals.

Your best chance to spot a native Key deer, a subspecies of the Virginia white-tailed deer that somehow made its way south, may be in the National Key Deer Refuge, comprised of 9,200 acres stretching from Bahia Honda Key to Sugarloaf Key on the edge of the Gulf of Mexico. More than 20 endangered and threatened plant and animal species can be found within the refuge. Take a quiet walk at dusk or dawn for your best chance to glimpse a Key deer, or join a ranger-led tour to learn more about the area.

Aside from all the eco-friendly fun, Stock Island is well worth a stop. Their maritime history goes back generations, and the marina is filled with shrimping and fishing boats. Artists have been flocking to Stock Island, too, and share their works in galleries dotted across the small island.

Best beach: The shallow, clear water and white sand at Calusa Beach make it a locals' favorite. The beach is a perfect spot for snorkeling too.

Where to eat: In addition to the freshest of seafood, Big Pine Rooster serves up ribs and a special-recipe meatloaf. Or sip like the locals at No Name Pub, located on Big Pine Key.

Where to stay: Consider the waterfront Sugarloaf Lodge , stay in an Airstream at Big Pine Key Resort  or pop a tent on one of the reserved campsites at Bahia Honda State Park.

Mile marker: 4–0

You've made it to the end! Closer to Cuba than Miami, Key West is known for its nightly sunset celebrations, party atmosphere and laissez-faire vibe, but it's really so much more.

If you're a writer or bookworm, you'll certainly want to make plans to visit the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, where you should keep an eye out for the famous six-toed cats. Then wander through Key West's Bahama Village, a 12-block area of historic homes and restaurants.

Consider a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park, about 70 miles west of Key West in the Gulf of Mexico, where you'll find some hidden gems . The island, accessible by boat or seaplane, is popular for snorkeling and feeling like you're on your own private island, not to mention touring the Civil War–era fort.

Best beach: Fort Zachary Taylor Beach—or Fort Zach, as locals call it—predates the Civil War and boasts the island's very best sandy stretch.

Where to eat: No visit to Key West is complete without a meal at Blue Heaven, where you can dine with wandering roosters for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Or snag a spot on the tiny balcony at Santiago's Bodega for tapas and flowing wine.

Where to stay: The boutique Gardens Hotel , the adults-only Kimpton Hotels Ridley House  or the new Capitana Key West , to name a few. Wherever you stay, you're sure to find your place in Key West, and it's likely you'll follow so many others' lead and start planning your return visit before you even leave.

Art and history in the Florida Keys

Road-tripping from Key Largo to Key West, it's easy to appreciate all the natural beauty. That said, the Keys aren't just a terrific destination for eco-travelers, but artists and history buffs too.

It's easy for artists to find inspiration throughout the Florida Keys. Fortunately for road-trippers, there are many spots to stop and admire their work. One of the largest artists' communities in the Florida Keys is Stock Island in the Lower Keys, just about three miles from the commercial area of Key West. What was once a shrimping boat marina is now a blend of fishermen and painters, sculptors and other artisans who have created an energetic and supportive community.

For history buffs, in addition to Pigeon Key in Marathon and the Civil War–era Fort Jefferson in Dry Tortugas National Park, other must-stops in Key West include the Audubon House & Tropical Gardens, Harry S. Truman Little White House and the Southernmost Point in the continental United States.

Planning your Florida Keys road trip

Now that you're inspired to hit the road, it's time to start planning. After budgeting for a road trip , your next step is to decide whether you will travel south from Key Largo to Key West, or north from Key West to Key Largo. Or maybe you'll opt for a roundtrip.

If you're starting off in Key Largo, it's important to note that the Florida Keys Overseas Highway begins at the Miami-Dade/Monroe County line. So if you're flying to Florida, Miami International Airport (MIA) is the way to go. If you begin in Key West, the airport (EYW) is on the island.

If you're already driving one of the best road trip cars to get to Florida, you're all set. But if you need a loaner, choose one of the best cars to rent for a road trip . Consider packing these road trip essentials and download some of the best podcasts for road trips to make the miles fly by.

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Where and how to order city travel guides.

By Lauren Tjaden

By all accounts, the Internet is a marvelous thing.

With it, you can look up events in Naples, Pensacola Beach, or countless other destinations, for the dates that you’ll be in town. You can book a hotel in those same cities, with the benefit of reviews from people who’ve stayed there. Google Maps will let you virtually stand on the shores of Florida beaches, and you can rotate the view, almost as if your bare toes were planted in the sand.

There’s something about a print guide that the Internet’s vast flow of information can’t match.

Some folks are simply old-school, more comfortable with flicking through pages than clicking a mouse. But it runs deeper than that. Brochures invite you to curl up on the couch with them, tempting you with white-sand beaches, frolicking dolphins, and exotic pools. They beg to be passed around the coffee table, shared with friends and family, and to be savored at leisure. And you can unfold a map as you drive, exploring and choosing the routes that strike your fancy, instead of following a line on your phone.

Read on to discover where you can order print brochures, wherever you’re dreaming of going in the Sunshine State.

North Florida  |  Central Florida  |  South Florida

You can order a free print map and other guides covering the whole state from VISIT FLORIDA here . 

North Florida is home to hidden gems like St. George Island.

- Lauren Tjaden

Alligator Point: www.saltyflorida.com/

Alys Beach: visitsouthwalton.com/content/visitor-guide

Amelia Island: ameliaisland.com/Plan-Your-Trip/Request-Visitors-Guide

Apalachicola: www.saltyflorida.com/

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Carrabelle: www.saltyflorida.com/

Destin: emeraldcoastfl.com/travel-tools/visitors-guide/

Dune Allen: visitsouthwalton.com/content/visitor-guide

Eastpoint: www.saltyflorida.com/

Fernandina Beach: ameliaisland.com/Plan-Your-Trip/Request-Visitors-Guide

Flagler Beach: www.visitflagler.com/where-we-are/visitors-guide.stml

Fort Walton Beach: emeraldcoastfl.com/travel-tools/visitors-guide/

Gainesville: visitgainesville.com/visitor-guide-request/

Grayton Beach: visitsouthwalton.com/content/visitor-guide

Gulf Islands National Seashore: visitpensacolabeach.com/get-our-visitors-guide/

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Inlet Beach: visitsouthwalton.com/content/visitor-guide

Jacksonville Beach: visitjacksonville.com/travel-tools/visitor-guide/

Jacksonville:  visitjacksonville.com/travel-tools/visitor-guide/

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Mexico Beach: mexicobeach.com/mexico-beach/request-visitors-guide/

Milton: visitpensacola.com/plan-your-trip/request-free-visitors-guide/

Miramar Beach: visitsouthwalton.com/content/visitor-guide

Navarre Beach: floridasplayground.com/navarre-beach/vacation-guide/

Okaloosa Island: emeraldcoastfl.com/travel-tools/visitors-guide/

Palm Coast: www.visitflagler.com/where-we-are/visitors-guide.stml

Panama City Beach: visitpanamacitybeach.com/plan-your-trip/visitors-guide/

Pensacola Beach: visitpensacolabeach.com/get-our-visitors-guide/

Pensacola: visitpensacola.com/plan-your-trip/request-free-visitors-guide/

Perdido Key: visitperdido.com/visit-perdido-key/visitors-guide/

Ponte Vedra: www.floridashistoriccoast.com/order-guide

Port St. Joe: visitgulf.com/visitor-guide

Rosemary Beach: visitsouthwalton.com/content/visitor-guide

Sandestin: visitsouthwalton.com/content/visitor-guide

Santa Rosa Beach: visitsouthwalton.com/content/visitor-guide

Seagrove: visitsouthwalton.com/content/visitor-guide

Seascape: visitsouthwalton.com/content/visitor-guide

Seaside: visitsouthwalton.com/content/visitor-guide

St. Augustine: www.floridashistoriccoast.com/order-guide

St. George Island: www.saltyflorida.com/

St. Joe Beach: visitgulf.com/visitor-guide

St. Joseph Bay: visitgulf.com/visitor-guide

Tallahassee: visittallahassee.com/visitor-guide/

 WaterColor: visitsouthwalton.com/content/visitor-guide

Watersound: visitsouthwalton.com/content/visitor-guide

Central Florida, with its flat terrain, is ideal for skydiving.

- Lauren Tjaden for VISIT FLORIDA

Anna Maria Island: bradentongulfislands.com/visitor-guide/

Auburndale: visitcentralflorida.org/vacation-guide

Babson Park: visitcentralflorida.org/vacation-guide

Bartow: visitcentralflorida.org/vacation-guide

Bradenton: bradentongulfislands.com/visitor-guide/

Brooksville: floridasadventurecoast.com/brochures/

Clearwater Beach: visitstpeteclearwater.com/form/free-destination-magazine

Clearwater: visitstpeteclearwater.com/form/free-destination-magazine

Cocoa Beach: visitspacecoast.com/plan/vacation-planner/

Crystal River:  discovercrystalriverfl.com/visitors-guide/ 

Dade City: www.visitpasco.net/p/visitorsguide

Davenport/Disney: visitcentralflorida.org/vacation-guide

Daytona Beach: daytonabeach.com/resources/visitors-guide/

Dundee: visitcentralflorida.org/vacation-guide

Floral City:  www.discovercrystalriverfl.com/visitors-guide/

Fort Meade: visitcentralflorida.org/vacation-guide

Frostproof: visitcentralflorida.org/vacation-guide

Grant: sebastianchamber.com/about-us/request-a-free-visitors-guide

Haines City: visitcentralflorida.org/vacation-guide

Homeland: visitcentralflorida.org/vacation-guide

Homosassa:  discovercrystalriverfl.com/visitors-guide/ 

Indian River Shores: sebastianchamber.com/about-us/request-a-free-visitors-guide

Kissimmee: experiencekissimmee.com/visitor-information/maps-area-guides

Lake Alfred: visitcentralflorida.org/vacation-guide

Lake Wales: visitcentralflorida.org/vacation-guide

Lakeland: visitcentralflorida.org/vacation-guide

Longboat Key : bradentongulfislands.com/visitor-guide/

Madeira Beach: visitstpeteclearwater.com/form/free-destination-magazine

Melbourne: visitspacecoast.com/plan/vacation-planner/

Micco: sebastianchamber.com/about-us/request-a-free-visitors-guide

Mulberry: visitcentralflorida.org/vacation-guide

New Port Richey: www.visitpasco.net/p/visitorsguide

New Smyrna Beach: visitnsbfl.com/travel-guide  

Palm Bay: visitspacecoast.com/plan/vacation-planner/

Pass-a-Grille: visitstpeteclearwater.com/form/free-destination-magazine

Polk City: visitcentralflorida.org/vacation-guide

Port Canaveral: visitspacecoast.com/plan/vacation-planner/

Sebastian: sebastianchamber.com/about-us/request-a-free-visitors-guide

St. Pete Beach: visitstpeteclearwater.com/form/free-destination-magazine

St. Petersburg: stpete.com/our-city/visit-st-pete/visitors-guide/

Tampa:  visittampabay.com/visitors-guide/

Titusville: visitspacecoast.com/plan/vacation-planner/

Treasure Island: visitstpeteclearwater.com/form/free-destination-magazine

Vero Beach: sebastianchamber.com/about-us/request-a-free-visitors-guide

Viera: visitspacecoast.com/plan/vacation-planner/

Weeki Wachi: floridasadventurecoast.com/brochures/

Wesley Chapel: www.visitpasco.net/p/visitorsguide

Winter Haven: visitcentralflorida.org/vacation-guide

Ybor City: visittampabay.com/unlock-tampa-bay/visitors-guide/

Zephyrhills: www.visitpasco.net/p/visitorsguide

South Florida's Gulf coast promises golden sunsets over the waves, like this beauty in Boca Grande.

Ave Maria: paradisecoast.com/guide

Boca Grande: charlotteharbortravel.com/maps-more/visitors-guide/  

Boca Raton: thepalmbeaches.com/free-visitors-guide

Boynton Beach: thepalmbeaches.com/free-visitors-guide

Captiva Island: www.visitfortmyers.com/order-travelers-guide

Fort Lauderdale: sunny.org/free-visitor-guide/

Casey Key: visitsarasota.com/request-free-sarasota-county-visitors-guide

Dania Beach: sunny.org/free-visitor-guide/

Deerfield Beach: sunny.org/free-visitor-guide/

Delray Beach: thepalmbeaches.com/free-visitors-guide

Englewood: visitsarasota.com/request-free-sarasota-county-visitors-guide

Everglades City: paradisecoast.com/guide

Fort Myers Beach: fortmyers-sanibel.com/order-travelers-guide

Fort Myers: fortmyers-sanibel.com/order-travelers-guide

Hollywood: sunny.org/free-visitor-guide/

Immokalee: paradisecoast.com/guide

Juno Beach: thepalmbeaches.com/free-visitors-guide

Jupiter: thepalmbeaches.com/free-visitors-guide

Key West: web.keywestchamber.org/webinput/brochure-request.aspx

Lake Worth: thepalmbeaches.com/free-visitors-guide

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea: sunny.org/free-visitor-guide/

Lido Key: visitsarasota.com/request-free-sarasota-county-visitors-guide

Longboat Key: visitsarasota.com/request-free-sarasota-county-visitors-guide

Manasota Key: visitsarasota.com/request-free-sarasota-county-visitors-guide

Marco Island: paradisecoast.com/guide and www.marcoislandchamber.org/request-a-copy/

Miami Beach: miamiandbeaches.com/plan-your-trip/miami-guides

Miami: miamiandbeaches.com/plan-your-trip/miami-guides

Naples: paradisecoast.com/guide

Nokomis: visitsarasota.com/request-free-sarasota-county-visitors-guide

Osprey: visitsarasota.com/request-free-sarasota-county-visitors-guide

Palm Beach: thepalmbeaches.com/free-visitors-guide

Pompano Beach: sunny.org/free-visitor-guide/

Port Charlotte: charlotteharbortravel.com/maps-more/visitors-guide/  

Punta Gorda: charlotteharbortravel.com/maps-more/visitors-guide/   

Riviera Beach: thepalmbeaches.com/free-visitors-guide

Sanibel Island: www.visitfortmyers.com/order-travelers-guide

Sarasota: visitsarasota.com/request-free-sarasota-county-visitors-guide

Siesta Key: visitsarasota.com/request-free-sarasota-county-visitors-guide

Singer Island: thepalmbeaches.com/free-visitors-guide

South Beach: miamiandbeaches.com/plan-your-trip/miami-guides

Venice: visitsarasota.com/request-free-sarasota-county-visitors-guide

Wellington: thepalmbeaches.com/free-visitors-guide

West Palm Beach: thepalmbeaches.com/free-visitors-guide

PLACES TO REMEMBER

Amelia Island

Pensacola Beach

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• Last Updated On
• April 26, 2024

This Eerie Limestone Castle In Florida Is Said To Be Haunted The Spirit Of Its Creator

Have you ever experienced the mystical aura of a place where every shadow and light seems to tell a story?

Down south here in Florida, there’s a place where stone walls whisper tales of a love lost and a man’s unyielding dedication—the Coral Castle.

Carved single-handedly from over 1,100 tons of coral rock, this architectural marvel raises more questions than answers.

With gates that move at a touch and chairs balanced with precision, could the spirit of the man who made the impossible possible still linger?

Tucked away in the sunny city of Homestead , this eerie limestone fortress stands as a monument to one man’s enigmatic abilities and possibly, his broken heart.

Built by the reclusive Edward Leedskalnin from 1923 to 1951, the Coral Castle, previously known as Rock Gate Park, is an architectural anomaly that has puzzled scientists and tourists for decades.

Dive into the lore and you’ll find that Ed, a Latvian immigrant, supposedly erected this stone behemoth single-handedly, using nothing but simple tools.

They say he toiled away under the cloak of night, away from prying eyes, moving massive coral blocks that weigh as much as 30 tons each.

Some folks even whisper about supernatural or alien assistance—but let’s keep our feet on the ground and our heads out of the clouds for now.

Visitors to the Coral Castle can wander through a garden of monolithic sculptures that include a 9-ton gate that moves with a touch and a Polaris telescope perfectly aligned with the North Star.

There’s also a sundial that tells time within two minutes of accuracy.

It’s a marvel of engineering and a testament to human willpower—or perhaps something a tad more otherworldly.

The story goes that Ed’s fiancée jilted him the day before their wedding.

Heartbroken but determined, he spent over 28 years crafting this monumental ode to his lost love.

It’s a classic tale of romance, mystery, and DIY to the extreme.

Whether it’s haunted by Ed’s spirit or not, you can feel the emotion etched into every block.

Exploring the grounds of Coral Castle in Florida is like stepping into a real-life mystery novel.

Now, this place is something else.

The builder was a tiny fella, but he managed to single-handedly construct this monumental limestone structure, which has left scientists and tourists scratching their heads for ages.

As you meander through the garden, it’s like walking through Ed’s diary—if his diary were written in 1,100 tons of coral rock.

There are swinging gates that move with a gentle push, despite their hefty weight, and chairs fashioned so perfectly to the human form that you half expect them to offer you a cup of tea.

And then, you come across his living quarters.

Imagine a two-story tower, but instead of Rapunzel’s locks cascading down, it’s full of the secrets of a man dedicated to his craft.

This was his workshop and his castle, complete with a heart-shaped bathtub, because why not?

The man had a sense of humor—perhaps that’s what happens when you spend too much time with inanimate objects as your only company.

Related: The Tiny Yet Iconic Florida Lighthouse that Proves Size Isn’t Everything

Related: Uncover the Quaint Charm of America’s Smallest Post Office in this Little-Known Florida Town

Related: This Hand-Built Castle in Florida is the Whimsical Wonderland Your Family Will Adore

It’s a place that’s both haunting and whimsical, with every sculpture and tool offering a clue to the great puzzle of Ed’s life and work.

It’s as if he’s saying, “Figure me out if you can!”

And let me tell you, that’s an invitation you just can’t turn down.

The Castle isn’t just a solemn place of heartache, though.

There’s a sense of whimsy here, too.

Children often giggle at the stone rocking chairs and the 8-foot-tall “throne room” that makes them feel like kings and queens of their own castle.

It’s a family-friendly spot where imagination is the only limit to what you can discover.

Interactive tours are available, and they’re a fantastic way to get the inside scoop on the Castle’s secrets.

Guides are well-versed in the lore and love sharing theories about how Ed, a slight man of just 100 pounds, managed his feats of strength and precision.

You’ll hear about the “magnetic current” and “perpetual motion holder,” terms Ed used in his writings that still baffle the minds of many.

What’s a trip without a little treasure hunting?

The gift shop at Coral Castle offers unique souvenirs, from books on the Castle’s mysteries to themed trinkets that serve as perfect mementos of your journey into the unknown.

And for the romantics at heart, a replica of Ed’s 9-ton gate in miniature might just be the ticket to inspire your own labor of love.

Before you pack up and head out, make sure to snap some photos.

The Castle is a photographer’s dream, with its curious sculptures and the haunting beauty of the stone structures set against Florida’s vibrant skies.

You might just capture something unexpected in your shots—some visitors claim to see orbs or ghostly figures in their pictures.

Remember, if you’re yearning for more information on this enigmatic attraction, a quick search will reveal its website and Facebook page .

They’re chock-full of fascinating tidbits and visitor information to help plan your trip.

To make your journey as smooth as possible, use this map to find your way to the Coral Castle’s enchanting realm.

Where: 28655 S Dixie Hwy, Homestead, FL 33033

So, are you ready to explore the Coral Castle and uncover its secrets for yourself?

Could Edward Leedskalnin’s spirit really be lingering among the stones, ensuring his life’s work continues to enchant and mystify?

Why not pay a visit and see what you can feel in the air—and maybe, just maybe, in the depths of your own heart?

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• The First MICHELIN Key Hotels: All the Keys in the United States

The MICHELIN Guide announces top honors for U.S. hotels in 2024.

Hotels NYC California Washington D.C. MICHELIN Keys

New York City by The MICHELIN Guide

See the New York City guide

On April 24, 2024, the MICHELIN Guide revealed the brand new list of One, Two, and Three Key hotels in the United States. In this first ever announcement of MICHELIN Keys in the United States, hotels in Atlanta, California, Chicago, Colorado, Florida, New York, and Washington DC were eligible for the distinction. This announcement of the most outstanding hotels in the country comes four years into a comprehensive refresh of our hotel selection. The MICHELIN Guide now includes over 5,000 hotels across the world, and not a single one is simply a room for the night. These are places that significantly add to your experience as a traveler, each vetted and judged excellent in five categories: architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, overall personality and character, value for the price, and a significant contribution to the guest experience in a particular setting. Which brings us back to the Keys. The culmination of countless hours of evaluation by our team of experts, the Key hotels below represent the highlights of our broader selection. Like the MICHELIN Stars for restaurants, the MICHELIN Keys are our most outstanding hotels. In total, the 2024 MICHELIN Guide hotel selection in the United States includes 11 Three Key hotels, 33 Two Key hotels, and 80 One Key hotels. Want to know more about the MICHELIN Key? Here’s everything you need to know . Or, head below to look at all the Keys.

How To Look Through the List

Jump straight to the list or take a deeper dive into select key hotels..

Take a peek at SingleThread, the five room inn with Three Keys and Three Stars. Explore the one street in Chicago that leads to seven Key hotels. Or find out more the Cliff House suite at our only Three Key hotel in Big Sur, California. Subscribe to our newsletter for more like this.

Highlights of the United States 2024 Key Hotel List

The Three Key Club in New York City

Expect: The highest luxury and impeccable design in Soho, Midtown, and the Financial District. Within the small club of Three Key hotels in the United States, four make their home in New York City. The Aman New York (Midtown) and Casa Cipriani (the Financial District) both make use of glamorous Beaux Arts buildings, the former a gold-crowned skyscraper in Midtown, the latter a glamorously restored ferry terminal at the very southern tip of Manhattan. Each is a refuge: an elegant, painstakingly designed escape from bustling city life. Meanwhile, two Firmdale hotels round out the list of Three Key hotels in New York City. Each is a quintessential example of the style and execution of the group’s co-owner and interior designer, Kit Kemp. Click the links here to explore the whirl of colors and collage of art that define the Crosby Street (Soho) and the Whitby Hotel (Midtown). Also read: Every Three Key Hotel in Paris

Jewels on the Coast: Up and Down California

Its sheer breadth of size and variety means it’s no surprise to announce California as the state with the most Key hotels in America. Here, we’ll point you towards coastal gems like the sublime architectural achievements in Big Sur ( Post Ranch Inn and Ventana ), beachside luxuries in Santa Monica (in particular: the newly opened Georgian ), and wine country favorites like SingleThread and the Madrona . What we love: how each one of these hotels opens the door to the very best of their locations — and gives us a look at each setting through fresh eyes.

Across America: The Golden Age of Celebrity

Our French Keys bask in the tradition of ancient vineyards, stone chateaus, and historic palaces. In the United States, we see a different tradition. In Los Angeles, places like Chateau Marmont , the Paramour Estate , Sunset Tower , and the Charlie date back to guests and residents as illustrious as Clark Gable and Marilyn Monroe. These are spaces that play ingeniously with their history, even as they forge ahead with cutting-edge amenities and experiences. But it’s not just California. New York’s historic artist hotspot, the Hotel Chelsea , once hosted Bob Dylan and Andy Warhol. Today, it decorates every space with art donated by former residents. Look too to the Chicago Athletic Association , a former member’s club for 20th century business magnates and athletes — now among the city’s most impressive and vibrant hotels. Also read: Hollywood Glamor at the First Key Hotels in Los Angeles

Click below to jump to each distinction: 

The three key hotels.

California (Beverly Hills):  The Beverly Hills Hotel, Dorchester Collection California (Big Sur): Post Ranch Inn California (Healdsburg): SingleThread Inn California (Los Angeles):  Hotel Bel-Air, Dorchester Collection California (Rutherford):  Auberge du Soleil, Auberge Resorts Collection California (St. Helena):  Meadowood Napa Valley California (Woodside):  Canyon Ranch Woodside New York (NYC):  Aman New York New York (NYC):  Casa Cipriani New York New York (NYC):  Crosby Street Hotel, Firmdale Hotels New York (NYC):  The Whitby Hotel, Firmdale Hotels

NEW: New York by The MICHELIN Guide – expert insights on where to dine, stay and explore

The two key hotels.

California (Beverly Hills): L'Ermitage Beverly Hills California (Beverly Hills): The Maybourne Beverly Hills California (Beverly Hills): The Peninsula Beverly Hills California (Carmel Valley): Bernardus Lodge & Spa California (Big Sur): Ventana Big Sur California (Guerneville): The Stavrand California (Healdsburg): Montage Healdsburg California (Healdsburg): The Madrona California (Laguna Beach): Montage Laguna Beach California (Montecito): Rosewood Miramar Beach California (Napa):  Milliken Creek Inn & Spa California (San Francisco):  Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at Embarcadero California (San Francisco):  The Battery California (Sausalito):  Cavallo Point Lodge California (West Hollywood): Chateau Marmont California (West Hollywood):  Pendry West Hollywood California (Yountville):  Bardessono California (Yountville):  North Block Washington D.C.:  Rosewood Washington, D.C.   Washington D.C.:  The Jefferson Florida (Miami):  Mayfair House Hotel & Garden Florida (Miami Beach):  Faena Hotel Miami Beach Florida (Miami Beach):  Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club Florida (Miami Beach):  The Setai Miami Beach   Illinois (Chicago): Pendry Chicago Illinois (Chicago):  The Langham, Chicago Illinois (Chicago):  The Peninsula Chicago New York (NYC): Hotel Barrière Fouquet's New York New York (NYC):  Nine Orchard  New York (NYC):  Pendry Manhattan West New York (NYC): The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel New York (NYC): The Fifth Avenue Hotel New York (NYC):  The Mark Hotel

The One Key Hotels

Washington D.C.

Hero Image: Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection — Aspen, Colorado

In Photos: Every Three Key Hotel in New York City

The ins and outs of the most outstanding hotels in the city.

The Most Outrageous Design Hotel In Miami

The Faena Miami Beach is a Two Key hotel with a $15 million gilded woolly mammoth.

A Brief Guide to All the Key Hotels in Washington D.C.

Seven hotels earned at least one MICHELIN Key in Washington D.C.

Keep Exploring - Stories we think you will enjoy reading

Inside the Top Suite of the Only Three Key Hotel in Big Sur

The so-called "Cliff House" has the views you're looking for.

SingleThread: The 5-Room Inn with Three Keys and Three Stars

Revered for its Three MICHELIN Star restaurant and biodynamic farm, the SingleThread Inn earns Three Keys for its tiny, food-driven hotel.

Inside the Top Suite of Three Key Aman New York

The Aman Suite — among the most impressive suites in New York — brings the city to you.

The Guilty Pleasures of the Chicago Athletic Association

The One Key Chicago Athletic Association has had an illustrious and sometimes sordid history that dates back to 1893, when it wasn’t quite a hotel. A lot has changed since then, but the ghosts of the past are never far away.

Eaton DC Is a Launchpad for Progress

Katherine Lo’s Eaton DC isn’t just one of the best hotels in the United States capital. It’s also a headquarters for activism, community, social justice, and sustainability. And it’s not shy about it.

Key Street: Michigan Ave. Leads to 7 Key Hotels in Chicago

A brief guide to all the MICHELIN Key hotels in Chicago.

Hollywood Glamour at the First Key Hotels in Los Angeles

A brief guide to all the Key hotels in Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and Beverly Hills.

Chef Rob Rubba's Indefatigable Commitment to Sustainability

A Glass Act.

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