We’re sharing all our favorite locations but, before we jump right in did you know Florida joined the union as the 27th state in 1845? It is nicknamed the Sunshine State and known for its climate and beaches.
Juan Ponce de Leon led the first European expedition in 1513 and paid tribute to Spain’s Easter celebration known as “Pascua Florida” or Feast of Flowers. That’s how the state got its name. During the 20th century, tourism became Florida’s leading industry as those from the North would head South to escape cold winters. The Sunshine State is known for its oranges and grapefruits as 80% of America’s citrus is grown there. Aside from all of the history, the landscape and cool art deco design of the buildings is such a sight for sore eyes. The diversity, especially down in Miami is a beautiful thing. It’s sort of like a melting pot and just divine to hear different languages from all over the world.
Table of Contents
X Florida Points of Interest to Visit
Orlando
Orlando is most likely the most popular city in central Florida and every child’s dream. It is the home to more than a dozen theme parks. The most popular one being, Walt Disney World which, is part of the Magic Kingdom and Epcot Center. It’s absolutely magical and will make any adult feel like a kid again. It is perfect for the entire family. Be sure to have plenty to spend because it is not cheap but, worth every penny. After all, memories are priceless and that’s why one goes. There are also water parks for the entire family to enjoy.
Another major destination in Orlando is Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Here one will find the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. If one is looking for the beach in Orlando expect to drive for about 75 minutes. For those that love to shop Orlando has incredible outlets! Go ahead and add Orlando International Premium Outlet which is the biggest one in town on the itinerary if shopping is a must. The other outlets such as Orlando Vineland Premium Outlet and Orlando Outlet Marketplace are home to 200 stores. Orlando is definitely home to some incredible Florida points of interested.
Miami
The first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Miami is the beach. The white sand and warm beach water will put a smile on anyone’s face. At certain parts of the beach, they have banana boat rentals, Jet Ski rentals, and parasailing. Ocean Drive is 1.5 miles of fun! It is located right in front of the beach and the city has preserved some of the art deco buildings. Ocean Drive is definitely a hot spot of Florida points of interest. On one side there are restaurants, lounges, and bars and on the other side of the street is the boardwalk and the beach.
Read More: A New York Vacation Off the Beaten Path
A tourist spot on Ocean Drive is the Versace Mansion. That’s where the once famous designer Gianni Versace lived. They’ve recently turned it into a hotel. Another fun place in Miami is Lincoln Road. It’s full of great shopping and restaurants. Depending on the time of the year sailboats and yachts of every size are for rent. It is so much fun to spend time around Biscayne Bay and enjoy the Miami heat. The nightlife and restaurant scene in Miami quite the treat and has plenty to explore.
Southwest Florida
The Everglades is home to one of the most unique ecosystems in the country. It’s also one of the most exciting places in South Florida to explore. These wetlands occupy 1.5 million acres of sawgrass prairies, hardwood hammocks, saltwater marshes and a diverse population of wildlife that includes bald eagles, white-tailed deer, and of course the Florida alligators. There are plenty of ways to experience the excitement the Everglades has to offer from hiking, biking or even gliding on an airboat.
Read More: 6 Best Restaurants in Naples, Florida
The popular locations in this region are the Coopertown Airboat Tour and Restaurant, Shark Valley Tran Tour and Miccosukee Indian Village and Airboat Rides. The airboats are usually the first thing that comes to mind when one thinks of the Everglades. It’s a flat bottomed, fan propelled boat specifically designed to move across shallow waters. When visiting this destination one will learn about the ecosystem and the history of the Everglades while alligator watching. How could this not be a favorite in Florida’s points of interest?
Daytona Beach
Located on Florida’s Atlantic coast Daytona is known for its iconic Daytona 500 NASCAR race. Their boardwalk and beaches have hard sand and driving is permitted in designated areas. Their boardwalk is full of rides and arcade games and during the summertime, they have free concerts. Not too far from the beach is Daytona Lagoon Water Park with go-karts, waterslides and laser tagging for the whole family. Daytona Beach is also known as the festival capital of Florida. There are over 60 festivals through the year and that will rise as more are created. Don’t miss the Ponce Inlet museum if in the area. It is the tallest lighthouse in Florida with exactly 175 feet of fun and spectacular views. If Miami is not the vibe one is looking for, Daytona Beach is another option which is why many add it to their Florida points of interest list.
For the Sports Fans
Depending on the season one can absolutely catch a game of their Florida team of choice. During the winter one can head south and catch a Miami Heat game or watch the Miami Dolphins play. In Tampa, once can catch the Tampa Bay Buccaneers or even the Tampa Bay Lightning, or head north to check out the Jacksonville Jaguars. From college games to professional sports there are many to choose from and obviously a draw for vacationers when it comes to Florida points of interest.
Florida itself is a point of interest. Some areas are so exquisite it feels like one is not in the US but, on a tropical island. The people are just wonderful and happy to help out of towners navigate to their destination. The weather during the off-season is HOT. Yes, there is an off-season due to heat and hurricane season which is roughly around June – September. However, Florida points of interest are great to cultivate special memories for those on girl trips, family vacations, and honeymoons.
WANT TO READ MORE?
ENJOYED THIS? CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
• Newsletter: Every Avenue Travel delivered to you
• Facebook: @EveryAvenueTravel
• Instagram: @TravelEveryAvenue
💖WANT TO TRAVEL MORE?💖
Subscribe to receive trip ideas and inspiration right into your inbox once a week!
📌PIN THIS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE 📌
