Overview

Florida is the Sunshine State in more ways than one. With a tropical vibe, diverse cities, world-renowned theme parks, and over 1,300 miles of coastline, Florida is a destination where beach days, thrilling adventures, and cultural discoveries all coexist. From the magic of Orlando to the nightlife of Miami, the history of St. Augustine to the natural wonders of the Everglades, Florida is as dynamic as it is sunny.

  • Capital: Tallahassee
  • Largest Cities: Jacksonville, Miami, Tampa, Orlando, St. Petersburg
  • Population: ~22 million (2024 est.)
  • Time Zone: Eastern Time (most of the state), Central Time (Panhandle)
  • Climate: Subtropical to tropical — hot, humid summers and warm, mild winters

Top Destinations in Florida

Orlando

The theme park capital of the world — home to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and countless attractions for families and thrill-seekers alike.

Miami

A vibrant multicultural city with art deco architecture, international cuisine, world-famous nightlife, and beautiful beaches.

The Florida Keys

A string of tropical islands known for turquoise waters, coral reefs, Key lime pie, and a laid-back vibe — all the way to Key West.

Tampa Bay Area

Combining beach towns, a growing foodie scene, sports, and family-friendly attractions like Busch Gardens and the Florida Aquarium.

St. Augustine

The oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the U.S., rich with Spanish colonial history and charming streets.

Must-See Attractions

  • Walt Disney World Resort (Orlando) – The most visited vacation resort in the world
  • Everglades National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with gators, airboat tours, and sawgrass prairies
  • South Beach (Miami) – Iconic pastel lifeguard stands, art deco buildings, and buzzing nightlife
  • The Overseas Highway (US-1) – A stunning drive from Miami to Key West across bridges and islands
  • Kennedy Space Center (Cape Canaveral) – Space history and launch experiences on the Space Coast

Things to Do

  • Swim, surf, or sunbathe on beaches from Clearwater to Cocoa
  • Take a boat or kayak tour through mangroves, springs, or the Everglades
  • Experience nightlife and art in Wynwood, Downtown Orlando, or Ybor City
  • Snorkel or dive in Key Largo’s coral reefs
  • Explore museums and historic sites from Tampa to St. Augustine

Getting There & Around

Major Airports

  • Orlando International (MCO), Miami International (MIA), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Tampa (TPA), Jacksonville (JAX)

Transport

  • Amtrak and Brightline connect several cities along the East Coast and South Florida
  • Rental cars recommended for exploring between cities, coasts, and parks
  • Public transit available in Miami, Orlando, and Tampa, but limited outside metro areas

Best Time to Visit

  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Peak tourist season, mild weather, great for snowbirds
  • Spring (Mar–May): Less crowded, ideal beach weather
  • Summer (Jun–Aug): Hot and humid, popular for family travel, afternoon storms common
  • Fall (Sep–Nov): Lower prices, fewer crowds, but still warm and hurricane season-aware

Local Food & Culture

  • Cuisine: A mix of Caribbean, Latin American, Southern, and seafood specialties
  • Specialties: Cuban sandwiches, conch fritters, stone crab, Key lime pie, grouper sandwiches
  • Drinks: Mojitos, rum runners, orange juice, and craft beer from coastal breweries
  • Events & Festivals:
  • Art Deco Weekend (Miami Beach)
  • Fantasy Fest (Key West) – A bold and colorful annual celebration
  • Florida Strawberry Festival (Plant City)
  • Calle Ocho Festival (Little Havana)
  • Gasparilla Pirate Festival (Tampa)

Souvenirs from Florida

  • Key lime-flavored treats and sauces
  • Seashell crafts and beachwear
  • Cuban coffee or cigars from Miami’s Little Havana
  • Alligator-themed souvenirs and Florida oranges
  • Art deco prints and local beach photography

Fun Facts

  • Florida is the flattest state in the U.S., with its highest point only 345 feet above sea level
  • It’s home to three national parks: Everglades, Biscayne, and Dry Tortugas
  • Walt Disney World is roughly the size of San Francisco
  • The city of Ybor in Tampa is known as the birthplace of the U.S. cigar industry
  • The Florida Keys are connected by 42 bridges, including the 7-Mile Bridge

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day South Florida Getaway

  • Day 1: Miami – explore Wynwood, Little Havana, and South Beach
  • Day 2: Drive to the Keys – snorkeling or relaxing in Islamorada
  • Day 3: Key West – Duval Street, Ernest Hemingway Home, and sunset celebration

5-Day Family Adventure

  • Day 1: Orlando – Walt Disney World or Universal Studios
  • Day 2: Orlando – Kennedy Space Center day trip
  • Day 3: Drive to Tampa – Busch Gardens + Florida Aquarium
  • Day 4: Clearwater Beach – relax and enjoy the Gulf Coast
  • Day 5: Return via Orlando – outlet shopping or Gatorland

Cities

  • Miami