The Best Things to Do in Florida: Beyond the Theme Parks

The best things to do in Florida extend far beyond its world-famous theme parks, offering countless adventures for every type of traveller. With sun-drenched beaches, thrilling attractions, incredible natural landscapes, and vibrant cultural scenes, the Sunshine State delivers experiences that create lasting memories for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.

During our explorations across Florida, we’ve discovered that the state’s true magic lies in its remarkable diversity. Whether you dream of feeling powdery white sand between your toes, screaming from the top of your lungs on thrilling roller coasters, encountering unique wildlife in pristine habitats, or soaking up art and history in sophisticated cities, Florida’s varied offerings cater to every interest and travel style.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through Florida’s top attractions – from world-class beaches and theme park magic to hidden natural wonders and cultural treasures. We’ll also share insider tips to help you make the most of your Florida adventure and suggest the ideal times to visit different regions of the state.

Captivating Beaches

Florida’s 1,350 miles of pristine coastline offer some of the world’s most spectacular beaches, each with its distinct character and charm. From the powdery white sands of the Gulf Coast to the energetic surf spots of the Atlantic, these breathtaking shores provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable holiday memories.

Cocoa Beach

Located on Florida’s aptly named Space Coast, Cocoa Beach offers kilometres of picturesque shoreline with a relaxed atmosphere that sets it apart from Florida’s busier beach destinations. The laid-back surf town vibe creates the perfect setting for a truly relaxing beach holiday, with far fewer crowds than you’ll find at many of the state’s more commercialised coastal areas.

One aspect we particularly appreciated during our visit was how accessible this beach is for everyone. Families with young children will find the gentle waves and wide shoreline ideal for building sandcastles and splashing in the shallows, while surf enthusiasts can catch waves at spots made famous by 11-time world champion Kelly Slater, who grew up in this very town.

For the best experience, arrive early (before 10 am) and consider stopping by a local Walmart to pick up beach essentials, as rental umbrellas and deck chairs on the beach can be quite costly. A cooler packed with cold drinks and snacks will also save you from making trips back and forth to the beachfront eateries.

For more adventure, explore the nearby Banana River, where you can embark on kayaking expeditions that often include close encounters with manatees and dolphins. The Thousand Islands Conservation Area showcases the region’s impressive biodiversity with a network of kayaking trails through mangrove tunnels and estuarine waters.

After a day of sun and surf, pop into the famous Ron Jon Surf Shop for souvenirs or grab lunch at RikiTiki Tavern, which offers stunning panoramic views overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Time your visit to coincide with local events like surf competitions or music festivals for an extra dimension to your beach experience.

Clearwater Beach

Consistently ranked among the best beaches in the United States, Clearwater Beach on Florida’s Gulf Coast is truly a postcard-perfect destination. Its distinctive sparkling white sand slopes gently into the warm, crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico, creating an idyllic setting that lives up to its reputation.

During our time at Clearwater Beach, we were struck by how family-friendly the environment is. The calm waters provide safe swimming areas for children, while the beach is wide enough that you never feel crowded, even during busier periods. The cleanliness of both the beach and the surrounding areas is immediately noticeable – a testament to the local community’s commitment to preserving their natural treasure.

For the quintessential Clearwater experience, take an evening stroll down Pier 60 to witness the spectacular sunsets that paint the sky in dramatic oranges and pinks. The pier comes alive each evening with street performers, artisans, and musicians as part of the daily “Sunsets at Pier 60” celebration – a tradition that perfectly captures the area’s relaxed, joyful atmosphere.

Thrill-seekers can rent jet skis or charter a boat for the day to explore the coastline from a different perspective. Dolphin-watching tours are particularly popular, with most guaranteeing sightings of these playful marine mammals in their natural habitat.

The beach boardwalk is lined with charming souvenir shops, ice cream parlours, and casual restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood with your toes practically in the sand. Just a short drive over the bridge, historic Clearwater town offers more boutique shopping and dining options in a less touristy setting.

To make the most of your Clearwater Beach experience, we strongly recommend arriving before 10 am to secure a prime spot for your beach day, especially during peak season. The early morning hours also offer the most peaceful atmosphere for truly appreciating the natural beauty of this exceptional coastline.

Legendary Theme Parks

Florida’s world-famous theme parks offer magical experiences that transform ordinary holidays into extraordinary adventures for visitors of all ages. From Walt Disney World’s enchanting kingdoms to Universal’s thrilling movie-inspired attractions, these incredible entertainment complexes create memories that last a lifetime.

Walt Disney World

No trip to Florida would be complete without visiting the “Most Magical Place on Earth” – Walt Disney World. This entertainment complex spans an impressive 47 square miles (larger than Manhattan!). It encompasses four distinct theme parks, two water parks, two entertainment districts, and a wide range of hotels and dining experiences.

The classic Magic Kingdom Park remains the heart of the Disney experience, where Cinderella Castle beckons visitors into a world of fantasy and adventure. With over 50 magical attractions and shows that bring beloved Disney films to life, this park creates moments of wonder for guests of all ages. During our most recent visit, we were particularly moved by the “Happily Ever After” fireworks and projection show, which transforms the castle each evening into a canvas of Disney storytelling – a truly emotional experience that captures the essence of Disney magic.

Animal lovers shouldn’t miss Disney’s Animal Kingdom, where conservation meets imagination. The park’s Kilimanjaro Safaris offers an authentic wildlife experience with giraffes, elephants, lions and more roaming in carefully designed habitats. The Festival of the Lion King show consistently ranks as one of the most spectacular live performances across all Disney parks, featuring acrobatics, puppetry, and beloved songs from the classic film.

For thrill-seekers, attractions like Expedition Everest at Animal Kingdom and the Tower of Terror at Hollywood Studios deliver heart-pounding excitement amid immersive theming. Meanwhile, EPCOT provides a unique blend of technological innovation and cultural exploration, particularly in the World Showcase, where 11 countries are represented with authentic architecture, cuisine, and entertainment.

Beyond the parks, Disney’s influence extends to other attractions like water parks, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach, perfect for cooling off during Florida’s warmer months. The newly renovated Disney Springs shopping and dining district offers a more relaxed Disney experience without requiring park tickets – ideal for evening entertainment after a day of attractions.

One of our favourite hidden gems within the Walt Disney Resort is the Boardwalk area, which hosts three hotels, charming souvenir shops, and excellent restaurants within walking distance to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. The evening ambience here, with the boardwalk lit by twinkling lights reflected in the water, creates a romantic atmosphere that feels worlds away from the excitement of the theme parks.

For first-time visitors, we recommend allowing at least four days to explore the main parks, though dedicated Disney enthusiasts could easily spend a week or more discovering all that the resort has to offer. The FastPass+ system (or its current equivalent) is essential for maximising your time and experiencing popular attractions without excessive waits.

Universal Studios Orlando

Universal Studios Orlando provides another world-class theme park experience that appeals to film buffs, thrill-seekers, and fantasy enthusiasts alike. The resort features two primary theme parks – Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure – alongside the newer Volcano Bay water park and the CityWalk entertainment and dining complex.

At Universal Studios Florida, movie magic truly comes to life through immersive attractions based on blockbuster films and popular television shows. Feel the adrenaline rush on the high-tech Transformers: The Ride-3D or plunge into darkness on the heart-pounding Revenge of the Mummy roller coaster. The attention to detail throughout the park creates convincing environments that transport visitors directly into their favourite cinematic worlds.

Islands of Adventure delivers even more thrills across uniquely themed areas devoted to Marvel Super Heroes, Jurassic Park, and the incredibly popular Wizarding World of Harry Potter. During our explorations, we found that this park offers a perfect balance of family-friendly attractions and more intense experiences for adventure seekers. The Jurassic Park River Adventure water coaster provides a refreshing respite on hot days, culminating in an 85-metre plunge that’s guaranteed to soak everyone on board.

Without question, the standout experience at Universal is the meticulously crafted Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which spans both parks with Hogsmeade Village in Islands of Adventure and Diagon Alley in Universal Studios. Connected by the Hogwarts Express train ride (requiring a park-to-park ticket), these areas set the gold standard for themed entertainment. Sipping a frozen Butterbeer while wandering the snow-capped streets of Hogsmeade creates a magical moment that resonates with fans and non-fans alike.

Thrill ride enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Velocicoaster, one of Florida’s newest and most impressive roller coasters. This Jurassic World-themed attraction features multiple launches, inversions, and a 155-metre “top hat” element that briefly suspends riders 155 metres above the ground. The combination of speed, airtime, and near-miss elements makes it one of the most exhilarating coaster experiences in the entire state.

When hunger strikes, we’ve discovered that CityWalk often provides better dining options than those within the parks themselves. With shorter wait times and more diverse cuisine choices, it’s worth planning a mid-day break here rather than settling for quick-service options inside the parks. The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium offers particularly memorable steampunk-themed dining with desserts that are as photogenic as they are delicious.

For the optimal Universal experience, consider staying at one of the on-site hotels, which offer the valuable perk of Early Park Admission – allowing you to enter the Wizarding World of Harry Potter one hour before regular guests. This head start can mean experiencing popular attractions like Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure with minimal waiting, saving hours later in the day.

Natural Wonders

Beyond its beaches and attractions, Florida harbours extraordinary natural landscapes that showcase the state’s wild, untamed beauty. From the vast, mysterious Everglades to crystal-clear natural springs and wildlife-rich coastal wetlands, these ecological treasures offer travellers authentic adventures far removed from the manufactured excitement of theme parks.

Everglades National Park

The magnificent Everglades National Park represents a vital aspect of Florida that many visitors overlook in their rush between beaches and theme parks. Spanning over 1.5 million acres, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is not simply a swamp as commonly misunderstood, but rather a slow-moving river system often called the “River of Grass” that supports an incredible diversity of life.

An airboat tour provides the quintessential Everglades experience, allowing you to zip through sawgrass prairies while spotting alligators basking in the sun. These noisy but exhilarating rides offer unparalleled access to remote areas of the park, though we recommend choosing tour operators that emphasise ecological awareness and maintain appropriate distances from wildlife.

For a more immersive and quieter experience, the Nine Mile Pond Canoe Trail offers a marked water path through mangrove tunnels and open water. During our paddle here, we encountered numerous bird species, including the majestic great blue heron and the distinctive roseate spoonbill. The silence of a canoe or kayak allows for closer wildlife observation without disturbing the natural behaviours of the park’s inhabitants.

Hiking trails wind through various ecosystems, from cypress domes to hardwood hammocks. The Anhinga Trail is particularly accessible with its paved paths and boardwalks, offering nearly guaranteed alligator sightings year-round. During the winter dry season (December through April), wildlife concentrations increase around remaining water sources, making this the optimal time for viewing the park’s diverse fauna.

Conservation efforts are vital to the Everglades’ survival, as this unique ecosystem faces threats from pollution, invasive species, and water management challenges. Visitors gain a profound appreciation for the delicate ecological balance that sustains this wilderness and the importance of preserving it for future generations.

When planning your Everglades adventure, consider the season carefully. Winter months offer pleasant temperatures and fewer insects, while summer brings intense heat, humidity, and mosquitoes that can challenge even the most dedicated nature enthusiasts. Regardless of when you visit, proper preparation with sun protection, insect repellent, and plenty of water is essential for a comfortable experience.

Cultural Gems

Florida’s vibrant cultural scene offers a fascinating mix of world-class art, diverse heritage, and innovative creativity that surprises many visitors. From Miami’s colourful Art Deco district and cutting-edge galleries to the space-age wonders of Kennedy Space Centre, these cultural treasures provide enriching experiences that complement Florida’s natural beauty and recreational attractions.

Art and Culture in Miami

Miami has evolved far beyond its reputation for beaches and nightlife to become one of America’s most dynamic cultural destinations. The city’s multicultural identity is reflected in its thriving arts scene, diverse architectural styles, and rich culinary landscape.

The Wynwood district exemplifies Miami’s creative transformation. Once an industrial warehouse area, Wynwood now showcases the world’s largest collection of street art and murals. The famous Wynwood Walls outdoor museum features rotating works by renowned international artists, surrounded by galleries, boutiques, and innovative restaurants. During our exploration of this neighbourhood, we were struck by how art has completely revitalised the area, creating an open-air gallery that changes with each visit.

For fine art enthusiasts, the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) presents modern and contemporary works in a stunning waterfront building designed by Herzog & de Meuron. The museum’s architecture is as impressive as its collection, with hanging gardens and expansive views of Biscayne Bay providing a perfect backdrop for contemplating challenging artworks. The adjacent Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science completes the cultural campus in Museum Park, offering interactive exhibits that engage visitors of all ages.

Miami’s cultural identity is perhaps most vibrantly expressed in Little Havana, the heart of the city’s Cuban community. Walking along Calle Ocho (8th Street), you’ll encounter domino players in Máximo Gómez Park, the aroma of Cuban coffee from ventanitas (window cafes), and the sounds of live Latin music spilling from local venues. This neighbourhood offers an authentic glimpse into the immigrant experience that has shaped Miami’s character.

The city’s architectural heritage deserves special attention, particularly in the Art Deco Historic District of South Beach. This compact area contains over 800 preserved buildings from the 1920s-1940s, distinguished by their pastel colours, geometric patterns, and tropical motifs. The Miami Design Preservation League offers insightful walking tours that reveal the stories behind these iconic structures and their place in American architectural history.

For a deeper understanding of Miami’s evolution, the HistoryMiami Museum presents engaging exhibits on the city’s development from a frontier settlement to an international metropolis. The museum’s walking tours of historic neighbourhoods provide context that enhances appreciation of Miami’s diverse communities.

When exploring Miami’s cultural attractions, consider visiting during the annual Art Basel Miami Beach in December, when the city becomes the centre of the international art world. However, even outside this high-profile event, Miami’s cultural calendar remains full with film festivals, literary events, and performing arts programmes throughout the year.

Kennedy Space Centre

The Kennedy Space Centre offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into humanity’s greatest adventure – space exploration. Located on Florida’s Space Coast near Cocoa Beach, this working spaceport and educational complex brings the epic story of America’s space program to life through immersive exhibits, historic spacecraft, and behind-the-scenes tours.

The crown jewel of the visitor complex is the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit, where the actual orbiter is displayed as if floating in space, with its payload doors open just as it would appear in orbit. During our visit, we were struck by the emotional impact of seeing this magnificent vehicle up close – the thermal tiles bearing scorch marks from atmospheric reentry tell the story of its 33 missions to space. The surrounding interactive exhibits explain the engineering marvel of the shuttle program and honour the astronauts who flew these remarkable spacecraft.

For an adrenaline rush that approximates the astronaut experience, the Shuttle Launch Experience simulator provides a taste of what it feels like to blast off from Earth. This motion simulator replicates the g-forces, vibrations, and sounds of an actual launch, designed with input from veteran astronauts to ensure authenticity. While obviously not matching the intensity of an actual launch, it offers enough realism to give visitors a newfound appreciation for what astronauts endure.

The Kennedy Space Centre Bus Tour takes visitors into the heart of NASA’s operations, including views of the massive Vehicle Assembly Building, where rockets are prepared and the historic launch pads that sent humans to the moon. The tour culminates at the Apollo/Saturn V Centre, home to a 110-metre Saturn V rocket – the largest and most powerful rocket ever flown successfully. Standing beneath this 363-foot engineering marvel provides a humbling perspective on the scale of lunar mission architecture.

For families with younger children, the Planet Play indoor exploration area offers space-themed climbing structures and interactive games that educate while entertaining. The Astronaut Training Experience (ATX) provides more in-depth activities for older children and adults, including simulated Mars surface exploration and mission control operations.

Timing your visit to coincide with an actual rocket launch adds an unforgettable dimension to the Kennedy Space Centre experience. Launch schedules are available on the centre’s website, though dates are subject to change due to weather and technical considerations. Witnessing the raw power of a rocket ascending into the sky creates a profound connection to humanity’s ongoing space exploration journey.

We recommend dedicating a full day to the Kennedy Space Centre to appreciate all it offers fully. As suggested in the original article, rainy days often mean smaller crowds, allowing more time to explore the indoor exhibits without long queues. The centre is constantly evolving with new exhibits and experiences, making it worth revisiting even for those who have been before.

Planning Tips for Your Florida Adventure

Thoughtful planning transforms a good Florida holiday into an exceptional experience that maximises enjoyment whilst minimising stress and expense. These insider recommendations, gathered from our extensive travels throughout the Sunshine State, will help you navigate everything from the ideal timing of your visit to practical considerations for transportation, accommodation, and weather preparedness.

Best Times to Visit

Florida enjoys warm weather and sunny skies nearly year-round, making it an appealing destination in any season. However, each period offers distinct advantages and considerations that can significantly impact your experience.

Spring (March to mid-May): This represents Florida’s sweet spot for comfortable weather conditions. Temperatures typically range from 20-28°C (68-82°F), humidity remains moderate, and rainfall is minimal. This period falls just before hurricane season, reducing the likelihood of weather disruptions. Spring Break (particularly March) brings crowds to beach areas and theme parks, so early May often offers the best balance of pleasant weather and manageable visitor numbers.

Summer (June to August): Florida’s summer brings high temperatures regularly exceeding 32°C (90°F) with significant humidity that makes it feel even warmer. Afternoon thunderstorms are a near-daily occurrence, though they typically pass quickly. While this season sees heavy domestic tourism due to school holidays, many international visitors avoid these months, creating an interesting dynamic where some attractions are crowded while others remain relatively quiet. Water parks and beach destinations reach peak popularity during this period.

Autumn (September to November): Early autumn falls within hurricane season (June through November), with September and October historically seeing the most storm activity. However, by late October and November, the weather becomes particularly pleasant with reduced humidity and temperatures ranging from 18-26°C (65-79°F). This “shoulder season” often features lower accommodation rates and shorter queues at major attractions. The trade-off is accepting a slightly higher weather risk during the early part of the season.

Winter (December to February): While northern Florida can experience occasional cold snaps, the southern portion of the state enjoys mild temperatures that typically range from 15-24°C (59-75°F) – ideal for exploring outdoor attractions without overheating. This period brings international visitors seeking winter sun, alongside domestic travellers escaping colder northern states. December holiday weeks see peak crowds and prices at theme parks, but January and February (outside of school holidays) can offer excellent value.

Special events worth considering when planning your visit include:

• Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom (November-December)
• EPCOT’s International Flower & Garden Festival (March-May)
• EPCOT’s International Food & Wine Festival (August-November)

For families with flexibility, we strongly recommend visiting outside of major school holiday periods, particularly mid-January through early March (excluding Presidents’ Day weekend) and September through mid-December (excluding Thanksgiving week). These periods consistently offer the best combination of pleasant weather, reasonable prices, and manageable crowds.

Making the Most of Your Trip

Based on our extensive travels throughout Florida, we’ve compiled these practical tips to enhance your experience:

Transportation Considerations: Florida is significantly larger than many visitors anticipate, with Orlando and Miami separated by a nearly four-hour drive. Renting a car provides the greatest flexibility for exploring beyond major tourist centres, though rideshare services are readily available in urban areas and major attractions. For longer distances, consider regional flights between cities like Orlando, Miami, Tampa, and Key West to maximise your vacation time.

Accommodation Strategy: Staying on-property at theme park resorts offers conveniences like early park access and transportation, but comes at a premium price. Consider splitting your stay between on-site accommodations for a portion of your theme park visits and more affordable options outside the resort areas. Vacation rentals provide excellent value for families or longer stays, particularly in beach destinations.

Sun Protection is Essential: Florida’s subtropical sun is intense year-round, even on cloudy days. Pack broad-spectrum sunscreen (minimum SPF 30), UV-protective sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat. Reapply sunscreen every two hours when outdoors, especially after swimming. Lightweight, UV-protective clothing provides additional protection during extended outdoor activities.

Hydration Habits: Florida’s heat and humidity increase your body’s water requirements. Carry refillable water bottles for each person in your group and drink consistently throughout the day, not just when feeling thirsty. Most public attractions offer water fountains or bottle-filling stations, and restaurants will provide tap water upon request.

Weather Preparedness: Afternoon thunderstorms are common, particularly during the summer months. Pack a lightweight, packable rain jacket or poncho rather than relying on umbrellas, which are impractical in crowded areas and theme parks. Download a reliable weather app with radar capability to track approaching storms and plan indoor activities accordingly.

Insect Protection: Mosquitoes and no-see-ums can be problematic, especially near water and in natural areas during warmer months. Pack insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin for exposed skin, and consider treating clothing with permethrin-based products for extended outdoor activities like hiking or camping.

Advance Reservations: Florida’s popularity means that spontaneity sometimes comes at the cost of disappointment. Book accommodations, rental cars, and special dining experiences well in advance, particularly during peak periods. Many theme parks now require or strongly recommend advance ticket purchases and reservations, with same-day availability often limited or unavailable.

Final Thoughts: Creating Your Florida Story

Florida’s remarkable diversity offers something truly special for every type of traveller. While we’ve covered many of the state’s highlights in this guide, the Sunshine State contains countless additional treasures waiting to be discovered – from the bohemian charm of Key West to the Spanish colonial history of St. Augustine, from the pristine springs of the Ocala National Forest to the sophisticated cultural scene of Sarasota.

The most memorable Florida experiences often come from balancing iconic attractions with personal discoveries. Allow time in your itinerary for unexpected detours, whether that’s a roadside fruit stand selling fresh-picked citrus, a hidden beach accessed by a nature trail, or a family-owned restaurant serving authentic Cuban cuisine. These unplanned moments frequently become the stories you’ll share for years to come.

As you plan your Florida adventure, consider how different regions might complement each other. The energy of Orlando’s theme parks pairs beautifully with the relaxation of Gulf Coast beaches. Miami’s cosmopolitan flair contrasts wonderfully with the natural wonders of the Everglades. The cultural richness of St. Augustine provides a historical context that enhances appreciation of modern Florida’s development.

We hope this guide helps you discover the magic of the Sunshine State and create your own unforgettable Florida story. Just remember to pack that sunscreen!

FAQs About the Best Things to Do in Florida

We’ve compiled answers to the most common queries we receive from our readers planning Florida holidays. These concise responses address essential concerns about timing, transportation, attractions, trip duration, and wildlife safety to help you prepare with confidence.