Do you already have a bad case of the winter blues? If so, you’re certainly not alone. After all, the colder it gets, the more excited most people get at the thought of warm weather and sunny days. That’s why so many people start dreaming of taking Florida vacations.
If you’ve been thinking of visiting Florida for the first time, you’ve come to the right place for some great advice. This article takes a look at the top 7 destinations in the Sunshine State that you should put on your list of places to visit. Keep reading to get the inside scoop.
- Orlando
Let’s start with one of the largest and most popular destinations in the state. Yes, Orlando is perhaps the most well-known city in the state, and for good reason. After all, it is home to some of the greatest theme parks anywhere in the world. These include Disney World and Island of Adventure at Universal.
Orlando is the kind of place that dreams are made of, offering entertainment and adventure opportunities for just about everyone, regardless of age. And the fun doesn’t end with those amazing theme parks. They also have some of the best museums and art galleries found anywhere, along with world-class restaurants, fabulous resorts, and tremendous live music that will keep you dancing all night long.
Many people have the mistaken impression that Orlando is primary for family fun. And yet this really couldn’t be further from the truth. It’s also one of the ultimate destinations for great nightlife, with awesome nightclubs and bars. But if you do plan to bring the kids along for a family vacation, you’ll never run out of fun for every member of your family. Plus, you can also take a drive to the beach to enjoy long days of sun and fun in the sand. Or take your Orlando adventure to the next level by renting jet skis or a boat. See more about making reservations with Disney Vacation Club.
- Miami
When people dream of visiting Florida for the first time, Miami is often the first place that comes to mind. It’s no mystery why this is true. After all, Miami offers everything you could ask for when it comes to perfect weather, great food, and rich cultural diversity. For your first stop, it’s hard to beat South Beach. Because when it comes to having a good time, South Beach is party central. Feel free to leave your cares at home and join in the revelry. There’s more art here than you could possibly imagine, and the restaurants, bars, and clubs could keep you busy for months at a time.
But Miami is also a great destination for a family vacation. Just take one look at the color of the ocean here and you’ll likely fall in love forever. Miami is also close to the swamps of Everglades National Park, allowing you to encounter a richly diverse ecosystem that will truly capture your imagination. The Everglades are gorgeous yet wild, providing a close look at nature at its very best. In fact, on any given day, you could be treated to an up-close look at anything from alligators to some of the deadliest snakes on the planet.
- Tallahassee
Next up is the great southern city of Tallahassee. This is actually the capital city of Florida, making it an extra special place to explore and enjoy. Located in the panhandle, this is an area of the state blessed with lush forests and gorgeous rolling hills. In fact, the terrain here actually feels quite different from most of the rest of the state. This is an area overflowing with Southern charm and history, with plenty to see during your visit, including the Goodwood Museum and Gardens, along with Tate’s Hell State Forests and Apalachicola National Forest. From sublime natural surroundings to the fabulous art and some of the best food in the state, Tallahassee is a city you’ll want to return to again and again.
- Florida Keys
It should certainly come as no surprise that the Florida Keys rank among the most gorgeous destinations on earth. In fact, when you imagine what paradise looks like, the picture in your head very likely resembles what you’ll find in the Keys. These islands stretch for the better part of 120 miles off the coast and truly represent the best of what the state has to offer. In short, this is a tropical delight. When it comes to outdoor activities, you can choose between any number of fun things to do in and around the water. These include fishing, boating, scuba diving, or just mellowing out on the beach with your favorite intoxicating beverage. From sunrise to sunset and beyond, you’ll find yourself letting your troubles drift away as you pour another drink and turn up the music once the sunset arrives.
- Kennedy Space Center
Since you were a kid, you’ve probably spent more than a few evenings staring up at the moon and the stars. Well, when you visit the Kennedy Space Center, you’ll have the chance to experience the machines that actually traveled into outer space. That’s right, Kennedy Space Center provides the opportunity to see these amazing marvels of modern technology first-hand. It’s truly an awe-inspiring experience, and you’ll find yourself feeling like a kid again, even if you haven’t been a kid in many decades. There are tons of exhibits and tours that will make your imagination come alive and reawaken your spirit of adventure.
- Sarasota
Sarasota is another coastal city that offers great beaches and enough museums and restaurants to keep you busy all day and all night. Nearby beaches include Siesta Key, which is like a dream come to life. You’ll want to park yourself on the cool quartz sand and never go home.
Sarasota is also home to some extraordinary museums, including The Ringling Art Museum, with a beautiful Renaissance-style architecture and 21 impressive galleries (featured photo of this post).
- Destin
And don’t forget about Destin. This coastal city offers plenty of activities for kids and adults alike. With tons of clear waters and an endless variety of marine life, you’ll feel like you discovered a slice of heaven that will rank at the top of your Florida getaway.
