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Florida Trippers

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visiting bok towers is one of the best things to do in florida

36 Things To Do In Florida In 2023: FL Bucket List

August 26, 2023 //  by  Florida Trippers

Looking for some of the best things to do in Florida? I’ve got you covered!

Florida is full of adventure and unique places. From theme parks to sunken gardens, our famous beaches , historical cities, and hole-in-the-wall surprises, this state is great for any tourist or resident to explore!

As a Florida local, I have explored so much of the state and know all the best and underrated areas to visit! From top museums to beautiful beaches, I love exploring my amazing state!

Here I have put together a list of the cool things to do in Florida. But be warned: they are spread across the state, so be prepared to travel a bit!

And don’t forget you don’t have to visit all these stops, I just love them so much that I wanted to make sure you had a Florida bucket list to help navigate this wild, Sunshine State.

Here are some ideas of what to do in Florida!

Girl stands on a platform in water underground at Devil's Den, one of the best things to do in Florida.

Below I have included some of the most fun things to do in Florida as well as some of the most unique things to do in Florida. Visit where and when you can, and keep in mind that these are in no particular traveling order! Just go and have fun exploring the Sunshine State!

Devil’s Den

This underground spring is one of the U.S.’s most prehistoric places, so of course, I had to add it to your Florida bucket list! In my experience, it is one of the best hidden gems in Florida!

The spring of Devil’s Den is 120 feet in diameter and averages 72 degrees year-round. With a depth of 54 feet, many people come here to snorkel, scuba dive, and even rent a cabin or park their RV for some overnight adventure!

Recreationally, there are huge cabanas, charcoal grills, pavilions, lawn games, and a heated swimming pool, so this spring is full of things you can enjoy!

I used to dive here with my sister and dad before he passed so it holds a special place in our family. It really is such a cool place to explore!

You cannot miss out on Devil’s Den because it is a must-see in Florida attraction!

Where To Stay Near Devil’s Den! Little Ridge Ranch: Check Rates on Booking.com

Underwater shot of a girl swimming straight up in a ray of light.

Ginnie Springs

Ginnie Springs is a private park near High Springs, Florida, and is located near the Santa Fe River. Known for its clear and cold water, this is one of the best things to do in Florida during a hot summer day!

Make sure to check out my master post on the best time to visit Florida including a breakdown by month, weather, events, and more!

There are accessible caverns with sand and limestone bottoms at this spring, and you can float your way around the springs on inner tubes, kayaks, paddle boards, and more.

If interested you can also scuba or snorkel in “Florida’s favorite freshwater dive” or camp by at the wooded acres for a full adventure!

Personally, this is my favorite spring in Florida if I had to pick just one! My favorite part is the Devil’s Ear and Devil’s Eye caves.

Ginnie Springs really is one of the popular Florida things to do!

Where To Stay Near Ginnie Springs! BlueGem Motel : Check Rates on Booking.com

A woman with long hair uses a stand up paddle board in Ginnie Springs, one of the best things to do in Florida.

Ringling Museum

One of the coolest things to do in Florida is the Ringling Museum in Sarasota .

This museum is HUGE as it has a variety of different exhibits to explore. If you plan to visit, don’t forget to check out my tips for visiting the Ringling Museum !

From the John and Marble Ringling Museum of Art, which displays antiques and modern works, to the Circus Museum at the Ringling, which is an interactive American circus museum, you can spend hours exploring here.

The Bayfront gardens are also gorgeous, and you can visit the Ca’ d’ Zan mansion on the property! This is to say that this museum is massive (66 acres to be exact!) so give yourself time to marvel at everything!

There is a reason that this tops my list of places in Florida that feel like Europe!

I love that the Ringling Museum feels like Europe. It is a place I always recommend to people visiting Florida.

Check in advance for discounted or free days!

Where To Stay Near The Ringling Museum! Sandcastle Resort at Lido Beach : Check Rates on Booking.com

A woman standing in front of the Ringling museum in Sarasota wearing a blue dress.

Bok Tower Gardens

Florida is known for its nature and beautiful views on summer days, so it only makes sense to add gardens and sanctuaries to your Florida bucket list!

Bok Tower Gardens is a contemplative garden and bird sanctuary in Lake Wales, Florida. With 250 acres of vast plants, flowers, trees, and art, this place will leave you breathless.

It features a 205-foot tall Singing Tower with carillon bells, and you can also hike the Pine Ridge Trail or visit the Pinewood Estate if you’re feeling adventurous! Just check out the visitor center when you first stop here!

I first visited this site when I was really young and the memory stayed with me. It is so cool and unique!

This is one of the best things to do in Central Florida .

Where To Stay Near Bok Tower Gardens! Hampton Inn & Suites Lake Wales : Check Rates on Booking.com

The Bok Towers surrounded by trees in front of a pond.

Disney World

Would it really be a Florida bucket list without Disney? Walt Disney World is one of the most famous things about Florida, and I highly recommend checking out these theme parks!

I am an annual pass-holder and have been visiting the Disney parks my whole life!

The four parks– Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and Epcot– feature different rides and themes. With character meet and greets, fantastic food, shows, and rides around every corner, you’re bound to have fun here!

Disney is one of the best things to do in Florida with kids, but even adults can have a magical time! Can you really say you’ve been to Florida without the iconic photo in front of the Magic Kingdom castle ?

This really is a must-do in Florida activity for making family memories.

There is also the surrounding area of Disney you can check out, such as the resorts and Disney Springs! Either way, there is so much to do here. If you want more information about Disney, check out my site: Disney Trippers .

Where To Stay Near Disney World! Buena Vista Suites Orlando : Check Rates on Booking.com

Woman in a red dress stands in front of the castle in Magic Kingdom, one of the best things to do in Florida.

Universal Studios

Often seen as Disney’s “competitor” Universal Studios is another theme park in Orlando that is a cool place to visit in Florida, especially for those who love Marvel and Harry Potter!

Featuring thrill rides, Universal has three parks: Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is split between two parks and you can take the Hogwarts Express between the two!

Volcano Bay is one of the best water parks in Florida perfect for a summer day.

For movie lovers alike, this theme park is one of the best things to do in Florida, as there is so much history and love for classic films throughout each park. And you can enjoy Citywalk before or after your adventure inside the parks!

Where To Stay Near Universal Studios! Universal’s Endless Summer Resort: Check Rates on Booking.com

Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter section of Universal Studios with the dragon breathing fire.

Dome Houses in Florida

Close to Cape Romano Island (which is close to Marco Island ), the Dome Houses are one of the most unique things in Florida to visit!

The Cape Romano Dome Houses are only accessible via water, and their offshore location catches the attention of many. Six dome-shaped homes sit on stilts, surrounded by water.

These homes are abandoned. After being built in the 80s, the firm beach on which the domes were built eventually faded away, and now the domes are surrounded by water, making them the perfect setting for wildlife and tall tales. Make sure to check out the legends when you visit!

If you are looking for things to do in West Florida , make sure to add this to your list!

Where To Stay Near The Dome Houses! Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort and Spa: Check Rates on Booking.com

The dome houses are abandoned and on stilts, surrounded by water.

Kennedy Space Center

The Kennedy Space Center is one of ten National Aeronautics and Space Administration field centers. Located on Merritt Island, this is one of the coolest things you can do in Florida! It is a great day trip from Orlando .

At the space center, you can meet an astronaut, see the Space Shuttle Atlantis, go through the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, and visit the rocket garden.

This center lets visitors get an up-close and hands-on view of humans in space. From exploring NASA’s space shuttle program to discovering more about upcoming space exploration, the Kennedy Space Center is educational and fun.

Growing up, I visited the Kennedy Space Center with my dad. It is such a unique experience!

Book Here: Orlando: Kennedy Space Center Visit with Options

Where To Stay Near The Kennedy Space Center! Beachside Hotel and Suites: Check Rates on Booking.com

NASA sign in front of the Kennedy Space Center.

Saint Petersburg Sunken Gardens

Located in Saint Petersburg , the Sunken Gardens is one of the most unique things to do in Florida, as there aren’t many gardens like it (they are literally sunken! Below sea level!).

The Sunken Gardens are 4-aces of botanical gardens that have existed for more than a century. They are one of the oldest attractions in the U.S., let alone in Florida.

This paradise located in the city is a great living museum that has a vast amount of tropical plants, meandering paths, waterfalls, and more. The gardens also offer tours, special events, and horticultural programs if it interests you!

A romantic stroll here is one of the best things to do in Florida for couples . Take photos and admire the views together.

I love the Sunken Gardens and think it is the best place to visit in the Tampa area. I have brought many people here including my guy cousins who loved it!

Where To Stay In Saint Petersburg! Crystal Bay Historic Hotel: Check Rates on Booking.com

A woman in a dress walks a colorful path through the Sunken Gardens.

Clearwater Beach

Would you really have a Florida bucket list if you didn’t have a beach on it? Known for its stretch of soft, white sand, the calm waters of Clearwater draw tourists and residents year-round. It is one of the best cities in Florida !

With a winding beachfront lined with restaurants, cafes, and Pier 60 (which has nightly festivals that feature street performers and craft vendors), this place is always busy! This is also our favorite place to catch the sunset in Clearwater Beach!

From jet-skiing to parasailing and paddle boarding, many people love to spend hours on this beach and then retreat to the promenade for food, shopping, museums, and more.

This beach is one of the best free things to do in Florida.

Where To Stay In Clearwater! Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach: Check Rates on Booking.com

Clearwater Beach with a pier in the background.

Dry Tortugas National Park

It’s strange to think of national parks in Florida , but Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most fun things to do in Florida!

Located along the Gulf of Mexico, east of Key West, the 7 islands of this park are surrounded by coral reefs ripe for exploration. Many beaches are popular, too!

Famously, Loggerhead Key has a lighthouse and is known for its sea turtles because Loggerhead Reef is nearby. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can check out Windjammer Wreck, which is the remains of an 1875 ship! It’s perfect for scuba and snorkeling in Florida !

Visiting Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the best activities to do in Florida!

Where To Stay In Key West! Truman Hotel: Check Rates on Booking.com

A woman in red swim suit and sun hat stands in the tide in front of the fort on Dry Tortugas, one of the best things to do in Florida.

Castillo De San Marcos in Saint Augustine

Saint Augustine is arguably one of the most historical cities in Florida, so of course, I are adding it to your Florida bucket list!

The Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest masonry fort in the United States. Located on the western shore of Matanzas Bay, it is now a national monument!

With Spanish stones, this monument was built to protect and defend Spain’s claims in the New World. While visiting you can explore rooms that once housed soldiers and prisoners, tour the courtyard and gun deck, and watch weaponry demonstrations while learning about its history!

If you are interested in history, this is one of the best historical sites in Florida !

Where To Stay In Saint Augustine! Bayfront Inn : Check Rates on Booking.com

Sunset over the Castillo De San Marco and water.

Daytona International Speedway

Daytona Beach is known for two things: the beach, and NASCAR! Of course, I had to add this to my list of things to do in Florida!

Daytona International Speedway is a racetrack that opened in 1959, where it has been home to the Daytona 500, which is arguably one of the most prestigious races in NASCAR history.

When you’re not witnessing a famous event, though, you can also participate in speedway tours and enter the world of racing!

A race here is one of the top things to see in Florida!

Where To Stay In Daytona Beach! Daytona Grande Oceanfront Resort: Check Rates on Booking.com

Cars race on the track at the Daytona International Speedway in Florida.

Butterfly World

Located in Coconut Creek, Florida, Butterfly World is one of the most best things to do in Florida because it is the largest butterfly park in the world!

Opening in 1988, this facility houses 20,000 live butterflies across 3 acres. But the best part is that it doesn’t solely feature butterflies: there are also botanical gardens, a working butterfly farm, and a research facility featured here!

Recently the park has expanded to include aviaries for tropical birds and a lorikeet center! The owners here are adamant about supporting the conservation of butterflies!

Where To Stay Near Butterfly World! Residence Inn Fort Lauderdale Coconut Creek : Check Rates on Booking.com

Close up of a butterfly on a pink flower.

Duval Street in Key West

Duval Street is a downtown street in Key West, Florida , that runs from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean. This is one of the coolest things to do in Florida, as it is full of adventure and iconic stops!

With its vibrant, hole-in-the-wall bars, historical haunts, shops, and galleries there is not a dull moment on this street! Exploring here is one of the things to do in Florida at night.

You can embark on bar crawls here, run with the bulls, go on a ghost tour, visit Hemingway’s house (which features 6-toed cats!), and eat famous Key lime pie all while enjoying the sun and nearby Key West beaches !

Book Here: Key West: 2.5-Hour Duval Street Pub Crawl

Where To Stay Near Duval Street! The Casablanca Hotel : Check Rates on Booking.com

A woman in a floral dress sits on the steps of a colorful house on Duval Street in Key West.

Legoland is another theme park in Florida that you can add to your Florida bucket list! This theme park is known for being family-friendly, as it focuses on the construction of Lego toys.

Here at Legoland, everything is designed to be like a Lego! The rides look like blocks and pieces, and the park is filled with displays of the famous bricks.

This is one of the best things to do in Florida for adults and kids alike! Everyone will have great childhood fun.

Better yet? There is an awesome hotel you can stay at to really immerse yourself with the brand! Staying here feels like you have shrunk down and are now a little Lego too! Just don’t step on any!

Where To Stay Near Legoland! LEGOLAND Florida Resort: Check Rates on Booking.com

Entrance to Legoland Florida, an immersive and family friendly theme park.

Naples Botanical Garden

Of course, I am adding more botanical gardens to your best things to do in Florida itinerary! Florida has so many of them, and they’re beautiful– especially the Naples Botanical Garden!

Naples Botanical Garden is a 170-acre paradise and one of the best things to do in Naples .

Stepping in here, you can see plants from all around the world with beautiful horticultural design and attention to sustainability!

Today, the garden welcomes over 220,000 guests per year to experience the education centers, shops, halls, themed gardens, and flora that continue to grow.

The is one of the prettiest places to visit in Florida !

Where To Stay Near Naples Botanical Garden! Inn at Pelican Bay : Check Rates on Booking.com

A path under a flower arch at the Napels Botanical Garden.

The Dali Museum

The Dali Museum is one of the most unique things to do in Florida, and probably because Dali himself was so unique!

This museum houses the largest collection of Salvador Dali’s work outside of Europe. Set on a waterfront setting, the architecture and exhibits of this museum call people to St. Pete for this gorgeous experience.

Make sure to also check out the Avant garden for a sense of tranquility and do not miss out on the building itself– the cafe is also cute, and the gift shop has so many unique souvenirs!

This is a great activity in one of the best beach towns in Florida .

Where To Stay Near The Dali Museum! Hilton St. Petersburg Bayfront : Check Rates on Booking.com

The exterior of the Dali Museum with a surreal bench.

Wynwood Walls

The Wynwood Walls in Miami are some of the best things to do in Florida! This unique outdoor destination features HUGE street murals from artists across the globe.

The walls are now considered a museum as they feature some of the greatest artists that have worked in graffiti and street art. People come from all over to experience this art.

You can take official tours here or just navigate the murals by yourself! You can also stop by the Kitchen and Bar to support locals!

Where To Stay Near Wynwood Walls! Sentral Wynwood: Check Rates on Booking.com

The entrance to Wynwood Walls where there are great artistic murals in Miami.

Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is a 1.5 mullion acre preserve that features wetlands on the southern tip of Florida ! This is one of the must-do Florida activities!

Made up of coastal mangroves, marshes, flat woods, and a variety of animal species, this is a fantastic thing to do in Florida, as you can drive through the Everglades or take a boat out to enjoy the natural beauty.

Don’t forget to book an Everglades airboat tour !

Lots of Florida hiking trails also help you navigate this beautiful park, and if you’re lucky, you can see some endangered Florida animals such as the Florida Panther and West Indian manatee!

It is one of the best places to see alligators in Florida .

This is a great place to stop on your Florida bucket list.

Book Here: Everglades National Park: Airboat Tour and Wildlife Show

Where To Stay Near Everglades National Park! Hampton Inn & Suites Homestead Miami South : Check Rates on Booking.com

Aerial view of Everglades National Park swamps.

Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens is a great addition to your Florida bucket list as it is a perfect combination of a zoo and theme park! This is one of the best things to do in Florida with kids!

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is an African-themed theme park that is over 335 acres and features a variety of animals such as hippos, elephants, otters, and more. You can even see some surgeries take place in the watch center of the animal hospital!

Aside from the animals, there are also shows and SO many thrill rides. Known for its high-speed coasters, you will love the adventure this park brings! It is easily one of the most fun places in Florida!

You will not want to pass up on one of the best things to do in Tampa !

Where To Stay Near Busch Gardens! Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Tampa Busch Gardens Area : Check Rates on Booking.com

Close up of a roller coaster at Busch Gardens, one of the best things to do in Florida.

Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S.A.

I’ve already talked about some things to do in Florida in regard to Key West, but I am adding more to your Florida bucket list because there is so much to do here!

In particular, make sure to check out the Southernmost Point of the Continental United States. This is the lowest latitude in the North American States and is anchored by a concrete buoy.

Eighteen feet above sea level, this is a popular destination and tourist attraction off of Whitehead Street. It is one of the most visited and photographed attractions in Florida!

This is one of the top things to do in Key West !

Where To Stay In Key West! The Capitana Key West : Check Rates on Booking.com

The southernmost point of the US is in Key West!

Anna Maria Island

I am adding another beach to your list of best things to do in Florida! Anna Maria Island is a barrier island located on the Gulf Coast offering many Florida vacation activities.

It is well known for its broad, family-friendly beaches , such as Manatee Beach Park, and its small city is like a resort, lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants on Anna Maria Island .

With a wooden pier and cute markets, lots of tourists love to explore the area that sells food, art, and jewelry in between their time on the sand and in the water!

Where To Stay In Anna Maria Island! Sunrise Garden Resort : Check Rates on Booking.com

Anna Maria Island is known for its wonderful sands and broad beaches.

Venetian Pool

The Venetian Pool is another cool thing to do in Florida. It is a historical swimming pool located in Coral Gables and was completed in 1924!

Created across 4-acres, the pool has gone through several phases over the years, and has become a National Historical Place.

Occupying over 820,000 gallons of fresh water from artesian wells, this is the largest freshwater pool in the United States. It varies in depth (4 feet from 8 feet), features a waterfall, and has a kiddy pool, bridges, grottos, cafes, and sandy areas!

If you are looking for relaxing Florida vacation things to do, this is it!

Where To Stay In Coral Gables! Hotel St. Michel : Check Rates on Booking.com

The Venetian Pool is the largest freshwater pool in America.

Manatee Springs

Manatee Springs State Park is one of the few Florida state parks that have a spring (Manatee Spring) flowing directly into the Suwannee River, one of the best Florida rivers .

This spring features boardwalks beneath cypress forests and in the cooler months, you can spot manatees in some of the clearest water in Florida .

One of the best activities in Florida is kayaking with manatees . Other birds, mammals, and fish are spotted year-round.

From camping to tubing in Florida to walking the 32-mile Nature Coast State Trail, this park is full of adventurous things to do and explore, so therefore it is one of the most fun things to do in Florida!

Overall, this is one of the best state parks in Florida ! If you want to see manatees in Florida , add this to your bucket list.

Where To Stay Near Manatee Springs! Quality Inn near Manatee Springs State Park : Check Rates on Booking.com

Aerial view of Manatee Spring Park, a great place to see manatees in the cooler months.

Weeki Wachee: City of Live Mermaids

The 12,000-acre Weeki-Wachee preserve is one of the most unique things in Florida because they have mermaids! Yes, live mermaids! This is what to see in Florida!

The Weeki Wachee Springs Park is one of the most commonly visited areas in Florida, as the springs feature cool, clear waters, slides, diving platforms, areas to sit and eat, and more.

It is one of the best swimming holes in Florida !

Better yet, though, this city is known for its legend of mermaids: every day there is a live mermaid show, but if you’re not feeling the fictional wildlife, you can go down the springs and onto the river to kayak and see more wildlife.

This is one of the best springs near Tampa for a relaxing day trip from the city.

Where To Stay Near Weeki Wachee! Lydia’s Retreat : Check Rates on Booking.com

View of the blue water of Weeki Wachee Springs, one of the best things to do in Florida.

Cassadaga is one of those things in Florida that is so strange but so wonderful. This small town in Voluisa County, Florida, is known for its psychics and mediums.

Known as the “Psychic Capital of the World,” many travel far and wide just to experience the vibe and spiritualness of this area. The streets and small homes are quaint but provide a specific energy.

Between its medium, psychics, healers, haunted hotels, and healing energy, this city is really a village that feels a world away from everything else.

I recommend stopping by for a tour and a reading!

Where To Stay Near Cassadaga ! The Ann Stevens House : Check Rates on Booking.com

Street of old houses in Cassadaga, a spiritual town known for its healers and energy.

Miami Marine Stadium

Located in Virginia Key, Miami, the Miami Marine Stadium was once one of the best things to do in Florida. Even though it hasn’t been used in years, it is still a unique stop on your Florida bucket list!

Once used to host water sports and famous for its scenic views of Downtown Miami, this stadium is now abandoned. However, it is still worth a stop!

Today the entire concrete stadium still stands tall, slanting down toward the water with a folded plate roof, and every inch of it is covered in graffiti. There are claims for it to be haunted as a speed boat driver was killed on opening day, but you might just have to check it out for yourself when stopping to explore and take photos!

If you are looking for unique things to do in Miami , this is it!

Where To Stay Near Miami Marine Stadium! Novotel Miami Brickell : Check Rates on Booking.com

Aerial view of the Miami Marine Stadium, one of the best things to do in Florida.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Previously known as Villa Vizcaya, the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is the former villa and estate of James Deering and was built in 1916. This is one of the best activities in Florida for both history and architecture lovers.

This National Historic Landmark is an experience and therefore I am adding it to your things to do in Florida itinerary as it is a unique cultural gem and one of the best museums in Florida .

This Gilded Age estate on Biscayne Bay is surrounded by 10 acres of gardens, mangroves, and rocky lands. During your tours here you can do a food lab, discover what is in bloom near the Fountain Garden, and explore the estate’s stunning architecture.

Come walk the grounds here and enjoy one of the most romantic things to do in Florida.

Where To Stay Near Vizcaya Museum and Gardens! Hilton Garden Inn Miami Brickell South : Check Rates on Booking.com

View of Vizcaya across a pond and surrounded by trees.

Florida’s Volkswagen Graveyard

One of the most unique things to do in Florida includes going to Florida’s Volkswagen graveyard. Although this isn’t an expected stop on any Florida bucket list, it is strange and fun!

Referred to as the “Disney World for Volkswagen enthusiasts,” this junkyard features vintage VWs and you can wander through a field of aging VWs, parts, and more.

With over 300,000 cars here, this graveyard is unique, cool for photo ops, and perfect for any car enthusiast!

The graveyard is found near Dade City.

Where To Stay Near The Volkswagen Graveyard! Hampton Inn Dade City – Zephyr Hills : Check Rates on Booking.com

An old Volkswagen Beetle surrounded by decaying leaves in a forest.

Juniper Springs

Juniper Springs is another of the best springs in Florida and is perfect for a day of relaxation.

Found in the Ocala National Forest, this is the place to go for swimming, kayaking, and hiking. It is also a great place for wildlife viewing, including otters, American eels, and even albino gray squirrels.

The beautiful blue water is super clear making it ideal for snorkeling. With a year-round temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit, it is refreshing in the heat of a Florida summer.

You can also camp at this spring . The dense canopy provides plenty of shade, picnic tables, and restrooms. This is considered one of the best places for camping in Florida .

Where To Stay Near Juniper Springs!

Big River Marina & Lodge: Check Rates on Booking.com

A woman in a red dress and sun hat sits on a wooden fence overlooking the blue water of Juniper Springs in Florida.

Bahia Honda State Park

As one of the best state parks in the Florida Keys , Bahia Honda State Park is truly a slice of paradise!

There are three beaches in Bahia Honda , both with beautiful, clear water. This is one of the best places in Florida to scuba dive .

You can also have fun swimming, kayaking , playing in the best white sand of Florida , or relaxing in the shade of a swaying palm tree. Make sure to walk the trail up to the Old Bahia Honda Bridge too so you can find amazing views of the beaches and ocean.

If you chose to camp in the Keys , you will be rewarded with gorgeous stars overhead. Since this Florida Keys island is so remote, the sky is dark, making it one of the best places for stargazing in Florida . There are even stargazing programs led here so you can learn more about the night sky.

Make sure to check out some of my other favorite things to do in the Lower Keys in addition to Bahia Honda!

Where To Stay Near Bahia Honda!

Blackfin Resort and Marina: Check Rates on Booking.com

High angle view looking down at the beach in Bahia Honda State Park in Florida.

Crab Island

You’ll find Crab Island off the shore of Destin on the panhandle. This huge sandbar is a great place to anchor your boat and enjoy some classic Florida vibes.

The calm water makes it perfect for swimming, and you can even order some food at one of the floating restaurants. Grab a drink and float on a raft as you soak up the sun.

You can also play water volleyball, jump on water trampolines, or play on water slides. Ley your inner child out! This is a family-friendly attraction too, so bring the kids!

To get here, you can charter a boat, ride the Crab Island Shuttle Boat, or kayak. This is easily one of the best things to do in Destin .

Where To Stay in Destin!

Hampton Inn & Suites Destin: Check Rates on Booking.com

Aerial view of boats dotting the sand bar called Crab Island, one of the best things to do in Florida.

Ocala National Forest

One of the best things to do in Ocala is visiting the national forest. At 383,000 acres, this is the largest sand pine scrub forest in the country.

There is so much to see and do in Ocala National Forest , making it one of the cool places to go in Florida for nature. You’ll enjoy springs, rivers, lakes, and amazing hiking trails.

This forest is also a great place to spot wildlife such as black bears, alligators, deer, and tortoises. Make sure to bring your camera for amazing nature shots!

After hiking or biking, cool off by swimming in one of the beautiful springs in Ocala .

Where To Stay in Ocala! Equus Inn : Check Rates on Booking.com

Wooden walkway going through a tropical forest.

Silver Springs State Park

Silver Springs State Park is on the edge of Ocala National Park so you can easily visit both of these fun places in Florida on the same day.

Found on the Silver River, this park has a history dating back to the 1870s. Like many tourists before you, come and enjoy the clear water and scenic nature.

One of the top things to do here is taking a glass-bottom boat tour. You will love the unobstructed view of aquatic life.

Other Silver Springs activities include kayaking, canoeing, hiking, camping, and spotting wild monkeys. Keep in mind, though, that swimming is not allowed.

Where To Stay Near Silver Springs State Park! Holiday Inn Express Silver Springs: Check Rates on Booking.com

Looking down on  couple canoeing in Silver Springs State Park.

Looking for small towns to explore near Orlando? You will love all the fun things to do in Mount Dora .

Set on Lake Dora, this is a quaint town full of shops, restaurants, museums, and historic buildings. The town also hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year.

You will have a great time relaxing at the lake or enjoying views from the water as you kayak. Keep an eye out for bald eagles, turtles, and alligators. Fishing is also popular.

Whether you are golfing, shopping, or taking a seaplane tour, you will have a memorable time in Mount Dora!

Where To Stay in Mount Dora! Hampton Inn Mount Dora : Check Rates on Booking.com

Woman in a dress stands in front of a restaurant in Mount Dora, FL.

What is the Most Visited Destination in Florida?

Orlando is one of the top vacation destinations not only in Florida but in the whole country! People from all over the world travel here to enjoy the best things to do in Orlando .

This Florida city is home to top theme parks such as Disney World, Universal Studios, and Legoland. These are some of the most fun things to do in Orlando with kids !

Even if theme parks are not your scene, there are great museums, world-class dining, rooftop bars, relaxing spas, sporting events, and more.

Because Orlando is centrally located, nature is not far away too. There are many nearby springs, rivers, and hikes.

Orlando is popular because of of all the Florida must-see attractions!

Aerial view of the Orlando skyline at dusk.

What is the Least Touristy Part of Florida?

The Sunshine State might be a tourist hot spot, but there are plenty of hidden gems in Florida where you can avoid the crowds.

Head away from the major cities and enjoy quiet time in some of the cute small towns in Florida .

North Florida is usually less touristy as well, but still with lots to do. Check out the best things to do in Gainesville or take a trip to the pretty Amelia Island .

Overall, Florida is a big state with many undeveloped areas where you can stay away from the main crowds.

Underwater photo of a Hawkbill sea turtle swimming in a reef.

And there you have it: a Florida bucket list that is full of stops that are perfect for any tourist or resident alike.

From unique places to highly anticipated beaches or theme parks and all the natural beauty in between, Florida is not a dull state.

You can spend forever exploring all Florida has to offer, but these 36 stops are where I recommend starting!

And if you’re worried about what to pack on these adventures, check out my Florida packing list , or even my Florida road trip itinerary to help with this bucket list!

Go on and explore the Sunshine State, I promise you won’t be disappointed with the best things to do in FL!

Did You Find This Post Helpful?

If so, we would love to keep in touch! We enjoy seeing photos and comments about your experiences in Florida! You can follow us on Instagram and we will repost your photos on our feed and comment too! Just tag us at @floridatrippers and hashtag #floridatrippers. We can’t wait to see your travels!

seafood plated on clams at one of the best venice FL restaurants. the clams are on a white plate

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