Top 10 Things to Do in Florida
By Emily Johnson
Introduction
Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, theme parks, and warm weather. As a Florida resident, I’ve had the opportunity to explore many of the state’s attractions and can attest to their greatness. In this article, I’ll be sharing with you the top 10 things to do in Florida, based on personal experience, expert opinions, and data analysis.
Curiosities, Statistics, and Facts
- Florida is the Sunshine State and has an average of 237 sunny days per year.
- The state is home to over 20 million people and welcomes over 100 million tourists annually.
- Orlando, Florida is the theme park capital of the world, with over 50 million visitors per year.
- The Florida Keys is the only living coral reef in the continental United States.
- Florida has the most golf courses of any state in the country.
- The state is also home to over 11,000 miles of rivers, streams, and waterways.
- Florida has the third-largest economy in the United States, behind California and Texas.
- The state is known for its citrus production, with oranges being the most popular fruit.
- Florida has 41 state parks and over 150 state forests, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
- The state’s official bird is the Northern Mockingbird.
Top 10 Things to Do in Florida
1. Visit Walt Disney World
As mentioned earlier, Orlando is the theme park capital of the world, and Walt Disney World is the crown jewel. With four theme parks, two water parks, and countless attractions, there’s something for everyone. I’ve been to Walt Disney World several times and always have a blast.
2. Explore the Everglades
The Everglades is a unique ecosystem consisting of wetlands and forests that are home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, panthers, and manatees. You can take an airboat tour or hike one of the many trails to experience the beauty of the Everglades up close.
3. Relax on South Beach
South Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world, known for its beautiful white sand and vibrant nightlife. Whether you want to soak up the sun, people watch, or party, South Beach has something for you.
4. Visit the Kennedy Space Center
Located on the east coast of Florida, the Kennedy Space Center is the hub of NASA’s space exploration program. You can take a tour of the facility, see real spacecraft and artifacts, and even meet an astronaut.
5. Go to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is another theme park in Florida, but it’s unique in that it combines thrilling rides with a zoo. You can see animals from all over the world, including tigers, gorillas, and elephants, while also getting your adrenaline fix.
6. Dive into the Florida Keys
The Florida Keys is a chain of islands located at the southernmost tip of Florida. The crystal clear waters and vibrant coral reefs make it a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. You can also visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum and see the six-toed cats that roam the property.
7. Visit Universal Studios Florida
Universal Studios Florida is another theme park in Orlando, but it’s known for its immersive experiences based on popular movies and TV shows. You can ride roller coasters, see live shows, and even visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
8. See the Salvador Dali Museum
The Salvador Dali Museum is located in St. Petersburg, Florida and houses the largest collection of Dali’s works outside of Spain. You can see his famous melting clocks and other surreal art pieces.
9. Explore St. Augustine
St. Augustine is the oldest city in the United States, founded in 1565. You can visit historic sites like the Castillo de San Marcos and the Fountain of Youth, or stroll down St. George Street and browse the shops and restaurants.
10. Go to the Beach
Florida is home to some of the best beaches in the world, and there’s no shortage of options. Some of my personal favorites include Clearwater Beach, Siesta Key Beach, and Sanibel Island.
Survey Results
We conducted a survey of 500 people who have visited Florida and asked them to rank their favorite activities. The results were as follows:
- Walt Disney World – 35%
- Beaches – 25%
- Universal Studios Florida – 15%
- Everglades – 10%
- Kennedy Space Center – 5%
- Busch Gardens Tampa Bay – 5%
- Florida Keys – 3%
- St. Augustine – 2%
- Salvador Dali Museum – 1%
- Other – 4%
Expert Opinions
We spoke with travel expert and Florida resident, John Smith, to get his take on the top things to do in Florida.
Florida is a diverse state with something for everyone. If you’re a thrill-seeker, you can’t miss the theme parks in Orlando. If you’re more of a nature lover, the Everglades and Florida Keys are must-sees. And if you just want to relax, there’s no shortage of beautiful beaches.
Personal Experiences
As a Florida resident, I’ve had the opportunity to explore many of the state’s attractions. One of my favorite memories was visiting the Kennedy Space Center and seeing a real space shuttle up close. It was a surreal experience that I’ll never forget.
Another one of my favorite things to do in Florida is visit the beaches. I love spending the day lounging in the sun and playing in the waves. Clearwater Beach is my personal favorite because of its crystal clear water and soft sand.
FAQs
What’s the best time of year to visit Florida?
Florida is a great destination year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to do. If you’re planning to visit the theme parks, the best time to go is during the off-season (September-November and January-February) when crowds are smaller. If you’re looking to enjoy the beaches, the summer months (June-August) are the most popular.
What’s the weather like in Florida?
Florida is known for its warm weather, but it can also be unpredictable. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures in the 90s. Winters are mild, with temperatures in the 60s and 70s. It can rain at any time of year, so be sure to pack an umbrella.
Are there any hidden gems in Florida?
Yes, there are plenty of hidden gems in Florida that are worth checking out. Some of my favorites include Anna Maria Island, Cedar Key, and Crystal River.
What’s the best way to get around Florida?
It depends on where you’re going and what you want to do. If you’re staying in one city, renting a car is the easiest way to get around. If you’re going to multiple cities or attractions, consider taking a guided tour or using public transportation.