While it is understandable that most tourists head to Florida for its amazing beach offerings, the state offers more than just miles of stunning coastline. Here is a list of the top 10 ideas of things to do in the Sunshine State that do not involve the beach.
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Photo by Jorge MartÃnez |
Orlando is the theme park mecca of the world for a good reason. With four Disney World theme parks and two Universal Studios parks, it is easy to find something to suit every taste and preference. While the granddaddy of all theme parks is Walt Disney World, thrill-seekers will want to make sure to spend some time in Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. The Harry Potter sections of the park are especially popular with those who love the lore of Hogwarts.
Immerse yourself in the quintessential Latin beat of South Florida by taking in the vibrant Miami nightlife scene. You can dance your heart out at the pulsating nightclubs, sip a fruity cocktail on a rooftop patio, or look for celebrities at the hottest spots in the state.
Florida’s diverse dining scene makes it easy to plan a trip solely around food. While in Miami, be sure to visit Calle Ocho in Little Havana for authentic Cuban cuisine. Versailles Restaurant is a Little Havana institution, serving up Cuban sandwiches, arroz con pollo, and picadillo. An abundance of fresh seafood offerings is available throughout the state. Favorites include conch, Florida grouper, stone crab, and spiny lobsters.
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Photo by Jorge MartÃnez |
Also, in Orlando, you will find the SeaWorld park. This is an excellent choice for marine life enthusiasts who want to get up close and personal with sea animals while enjoying their non-beach vacation. The adjacent Discovery Cove gives you the chance to swim with bottlenose dolphins, feed tropical birds, and splash around in the tropical lagoon.
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Airboat in Florida’s Everglades |
Experience the swamps of Florida with an Everglades airboat tour. Located on the southern tip of Florida, Everglades National Park is filled with alligators, mangroves, and other exciting sights. While you can explore the region in a variety of different ways, an airboat tour is a quintessential Florida adventure.
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Photo by Christian Wagner |
Although it is technically located on the beach at Cape Canaveral, a trip to the Kennedy Space Center is an experience like no other. The vast complex offers a myriad of activities and exhibits. Highlights include the IMAX 3D theater, landing training simulators, and tours of launch sites. You will be able to immerse yourself in the exciting world of NASA with a trip to the Kennedy Space Center.
Located in Tampa, Florida, this 335-acre animal theme park features thrilling rides mixed with a host of animal attractions. Guests can take a spin on exciting roller coasters, enjoy a cornucopia of live entertainment options, and view over 200 animals that call this park home.
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Photo by Juan Salamanca |
You do not have to go to the beach to take advantage of the water. Florida is home to a bevy of waterparks just begging to be explored. Popular choices include Disney’s Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon, Universal Studios’ Volcano Bay, Tampa’s Adventure Island, Sun Splash Family Waterpark in Cape Coral, and Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park in Destin.
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Put yourself in the ultimate relaxation mode with a visit to Key West. As the southernmost point in the US, this tropical paradise is the perfect place to escape the realities of life. Tour Ernest Hemingway’s House, nosh on the conch fritters at Sloppy Joe’s Bar, or people-watch at the iconic Mallory Square.
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Photo by Tim Trad |
What could be more thrilling than watching a race at the legendary Daytona International Speedway? Depending on the time of year that you visit, you may get lucky enough to catch a NASCAR race. The facility also offers a variety of daily tours, giving you access to numerous behind-the-scenes parts of the speedway.
This list just scratches the surface of all of the fun things to do in Florida. Before you head out on your Florida adventure, be sure to take the time to check the details of the local forecast. Equipping yourself with this information will ensure that you are prepared for any weather that hits while you are exploring this delightful state.