Florida is bold, sun-soaked, and incredibly diverse. If you are planning a trip and searching for the Best Things to Do in Florida, you will quickly see that the state offers far more than beaches and theme parks. From tropical islands and wildlife reserves to vibrant cities and historic towns, Florida blends relaxation, adventure, culture, and entertainment in one destination.
The most memorable Best Things to Do in Florida combine world-famous attractions, natural wonders, waterfront escapes, and unique local experiences. Whether you are travelling with family, as a couple, or solo, Florida offers year-round sunshine and activities suited to every interest. This guide is structured into clear sections with short introductions so you can plan a balanced and enjoyable itinerary.
Theme Parks and Entertainment Best Things to Do in Florida
Florida is known worldwide for large-scale entertainment. These attractions define many of the Best Things to Do in Florida, especially for families and first-time visitors.
1. Experience Walt Disney World Resort
Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando is one of the most visited vacation destinations on the planet. With four major theme parks, themed resorts, and entertainment districts, it offers days of immersive fun.
Visiting this resort remains one of the absolute Best Things to Do in Florida because of its scale and storytelling. From classic characters to cutting-edge rides, it appeals to every age group and delivers a full holiday experience.
2. Visit Universal Orlando Resort
Universal Orlando Resort is another essential stop among the Best Things to Do in Florida. Known for movie-themed rides and immersive lands, it brings blockbuster stories to life.
Thrill rides, interactive attractions, and themed dining make it especially appealing for teenagers and adults who enjoy cinematic adventures.
3. Explore Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay blends roller coasters with wildlife exhibits. It stands out among the Best Things to Do in Florida because it combines adrenaline with animal encounters.
Visitors can enjoy high-speed rides and then explore habitats featuring exotic animals. It offers a well-balanced day of excitement.
4. Discover LEGOLAND Florida
LEGOLAND Florida Resort is designed especially for families with younger children. Bright, interactive environments make it one of the family-friendly Best Things to Do in Florida.
The park focuses on creativity and hands-on fun, offering a relaxed but engaging atmosphere.
5. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex provides a completely different type of excitement. Here, visitors learn about space exploration and NASA missions.
Adding this destination to the Best Things to Do in Florida gives your itinerary an educational and inspirational dimension.
Beach and Coastal Best Things to Do in Florida
Florida’s coastline stretches for hundreds of miles along both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Beach culture is woven into daily life here, and spending time by the water is central to experiencing the Best Things to Do in Florida. From lively city shores to peaceful island escapes, Florida’s beaches offer something for every type of traveller.
6. Relax in Miami Beach
Miami Beach is one of the most iconic coastal destinations in the country. Known for its white sand, turquoise water, and colourful Art Deco architecture, it blends beach relaxation with bold city energy.
Spending time here ranks high among the Best Things to Do in Florida for travellers seeking glamour, dining, and nightlife alongside ocean views. South Beach offers vibrant atmosphere, while quieter stretches provide space to unwind. The mix of sunshine, culture, and music makes Miami Beach unforgettable.
7. Visit Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach is widely praised for its soft white sand and calm Gulf waters. The gentle waves and family-friendly environment make it one of the most relaxing Best Things to Do in Florida.
The beach is ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and long shoreline walks. As evening approaches, the sunsets over the Gulf create golden skies that attract photographers and couples alike. Clearwater Beach delivers simplicity, comfort, and natural beauty in one setting.
8. Explore Key West
Key West sits at the southernmost point of the continental United States and offers laid-back island charm. Its tropical setting and colourful streets make it one of the most distinctive Best Things to Do in Florida.
Walking along Duval Street, enjoying waterfront dining, and joining the nightly sunset celebration at Mallory Square create lasting memories. The surrounding coral reefs also provide excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities. Key West feels relaxed yet vibrant at the same time.
9. Discover Siesta Key
Siesta Key is famous for its powdery quartz sand, which remains cool even during the hottest summer days. This natural feature consistently places it among the most scenic Best Things to Do in Florida.
The clear Gulf waters and calm atmosphere attract couples and families seeking a quieter coastal escape. Beach picnics, sunset walks, and simple relaxation define the Siesta Key experience.
10. Visit Naples Pier
Naples Pier is a historic Gulf Coast landmark that captures the essence of classic Florida. Stretching into the Gulf of Mexico, it offers views of dolphins, seabirds, and dramatic sunsets.
Fishing, strolling along the wooden pier, and watching the sky change colours at dusk make this one of the timeless Best Things to Do in Florida. Naples combines coastal elegance with natural beauty, creating a peaceful and refined beach experience.
Nature and Wildlife Best Things to Do in Florida
Beyond the beaches and theme parks, Florida’s natural ecosystems reveal a completely different side of the state. Wetlands, tropical islands, freshwater springs, and protected forests create some of the most diverse landscapes in the country. These outdoor adventures are essential Best Things to Do in Florida for travellers who want wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and immersive nature experiences.
11. Explore Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park protects a vast subtropical wilderness made up of mangroves, wetlands, sawgrass marshes, and slow-moving rivers. It is one of the most unique ecosystems in North America and a major highlight among the Best Things to Do in Florida.
Airboat tours glide across the marshes, offering opportunities to see alligators, wading birds, and native plant life. Visitors can also kayak through mangrove tunnels or walk along raised boardwalk trails. The Everglades offer raw, untamed scenery that feels completely different from Florida’s coastal resorts.
12. Visit Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park lies about 70 miles west of Key West and is accessible only by boat or seaplane. Its remote location makes it one of the most extraordinary Best Things to Do in Florida.
The park is home to Fort Jefferson, a massive 19th-century coastal fortress surrounded by turquoise waters. Snorkelling here reveals colourful coral reefs and marine life in clear, shallow water. Because of its isolation, Dry Tortugas feels peaceful and untouched, offering both history and natural beauty in one experience.
13. Swim in Weeki Wachee Springs
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is known for its crystal-clear spring water that stays cool year-round. Swimming or kayaking through these natural springs ranks high among refreshing Best Things to Do in Florida.
The park is also famous for its long-running mermaid shows, where performers swim in underwater theatres. This blend of natural scenery and classic Florida entertainment creates a nostalgic yet relaxing experience for visitors of all ages.
14. Visit Crystal River
Crystal River is internationally recognised for its manatee population. During cooler months, these gentle marine mammals gather in the warm spring-fed waters, making wildlife encounters one of the most meaningful Best Things to Do in Florida.
Guided tours allow visitors to observe or swim near manatees in a respectful and regulated environment. The experience is calm, quiet, and unforgettable. Crystal River offers a rare chance to connect closely with wildlife in its natural habitat.
15. Hike in Ocala National Forest
Ocala National Forest covers more than 600 square miles of protected land in central Florida. It features freshwater springs, long hiking trails, and diverse ecosystems that support a wide range of plant and animal life.
Outdoor enthusiasts consistently include hiking and camping here among the peaceful Best Things to Do in Florida. The forest provides shaded trails, clear swimming areas, and a quiet escape from busy tourist centres. It is ideal for travellers seeking calm, open space, and authentic natural surroundings.
Cultural and Historic Best Things to Do in Florida
Florida’s story begins long before modern skylines and theme parks. From Spanish colonial settlements to immigrant neighbourhoods and artistic estates, the state carries layers of history that add depth to the Best Things to Do in Florida. These destinations highlight architecture, literature, heritage, and art, offering travellers a richer understanding of Florida beyond its beaches.
16. Explore St. Augustine
St. Augustine holds the title of the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the United States. Founded in 1565, the city preserves centuries of colonial architecture and cobblestone streets.
A visit to Castillo de San Marcos is essential. This 17th-century stone fortress overlooks Matanzas Bay and stands as a reminder of Spanish military influence. Walking through the historic district, visiting small museums, and exploring centuries-old buildings make St. Augustine one of the most historically rich Best Things to Do in Florida.
17. Visit Ybor City
Ybor City is a culturally vibrant district in Tampa known for its Cuban and Spanish heritage. Once a thriving cigar manufacturing centre, it remains a symbol of immigrant entrepreneurship.
Strolling through brick-lined streets, visiting historic cigar shops, and sampling Cuban cuisine add cultural variety to the Best Things to Do in Florida. By evening, the area comes alive with music and nightlife, blending history with modern energy.
18. Discover Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens offers a glimpse into early 20th-century luxury. This waterfront estate features European-inspired architecture, ornate interiors, and carefully designed gardens overlooking Biscayne Bay.
Exploring the mansion and its landscaped grounds stands out among the elegant Best Things to Do in Florida. The estate feels refined and artistic, providing a peaceful contrast to Miami’s fast-paced city life.
19. Tour The Ringling
The Ringling in Sarasota is a cultural complex that includes an art museum, the historic Ca’ d’Zan mansion, and exhibits dedicated to circus history.
Art lovers and history enthusiasts consider this one of the most enriching Best Things to Do in Florida. The European paintings, waterfront views, and preserved architecture create a sophisticated experience that highlights Florida’s artistic heritage.
20. Visit Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum preserves the residence where the famous writer lived and worked during the 1930s. The house remains much as it was during his time, complete with lush gardens and the well-known six-toed cats.
Literary fans include this stop among the thoughtful Best Things to Do in Florida. Walking through the rooms where Hemingway wrote some of his most recognised works adds an intimate and reflective element to a Florida itinerary.
Urban and Lifestyle Best Things to Do in Florida
Modern city energy brings balance to the Best Things to Do in Florida. Beyond beaches, wildlife, and historic landmarks, Florida’s urban districts offer dining, nightlife, waterfront promenades, and luxury shopping. These experiences showcase the contemporary side of the state, blending skyline views with relaxed coastal living. For travellers who enjoy vibrant streets and stylish neighbourhoods, these urban highlights complete the Best Things to Do in Florida.
21. Explore Downtown Orlando
Orlando is often associated with theme parks, but its downtown district reveals a completely different atmosphere. Lake Eola Park sits at the heart of the city, offering walking paths, swan boats, and skyline reflections across the water.
Restaurants, rooftop bars, and live music venues create an energetic evening scene. Exploring this area adds urban diversity to the Best Things to Do in Florida, especially for visitors who want to experience local culture beyond resort areas.
22. Visit Tampa Riverwalk
Tampa Riverwalk stretches along the Hillsborough River, connecting parks, museums, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Walking or cycling along the promenade blends scenic water views with city architecture. The Riverwalk hosts festivals and outdoor events throughout the year, making it one of the relaxed yet lively Best Things to Do in Florida. It provides a comfortable way to explore Tampa while enjoying open-air space.
23. Experience Fort Lauderdale’s Las Olas Boulevard
Las Olas Boulevard is the stylish heart of Fort Lauderdale. Lined with boutiques, art galleries, cafés, and waterfront dining spots, it offers a refined yet approachable atmosphere.
Strolling along Las Olas Boulevard ranks high among fashionable Best Things to Do in Florida. The mix of shopping, culture, and marina views creates a setting that feels both relaxed and sophisticated.
24. Explore Palm Beach
Palm Beach represents the polished and elegant side of the state. Known for luxury shopping, manicured streets, and upscale resorts, it attracts travellers seeking refinement.
Walking along Worth Avenue, enjoying ocean views, and admiring Mediterranean-style architecture highlight the more exclusive Best Things to Do in Florida. Palm Beach offers calm beauty paired with high-end experiences.
25. Take a Scenic Drive Along Overseas Highway
Overseas Highway connects the Florida Keys through a series of bridges stretching across turquoise waters. Driving this route is one of the most visually striking Best Things to Do in Florida.
The journey itself becomes the attraction, with endless ocean views, small island towns, and opportunities to stop for seafood or snorkelling. The Overseas Highway captures the essence of tropical Florida and provides a memorable finale to any itinerary focused on the Best Things to Do in Florida.
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Conclusion:
Florida rewards travellers with variety and energy. When exploring the Best Things to Do in Florida, you experience world-famous theme parks, tropical beaches, wildlife reserves, and centuries of history within one state. The balance between entertainment and nature makes Florida unique.
The true strength of the Best Things to Do in Florida lies in diversity. You can move from space exploration to sandy shores, from colonial streets to vibrant nightlife, all within a single trip. Whether you visit for relaxation, adventure, or culture, Florida offers experiences that stay with you long after your journey ends.
