“Florida is a wild, wet, wonderful place. The best thing you can do is get lost in them.” – Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings
Going to Florida in 2024 will be an unforgettable experience full of a wide range of sights and things to do. It offers a delightful combination of old-world allure and modern energy.
Whether you want to relax, go on an adventure, or learn about other cultures, Florida has so many exciting things to offer to make your trip unforgettable.
In this article, we will provide a detailed travel guide to Florida, covering everything from the best things to do and accommodations to stay.
Are you ready to explore Florida with us in today’s article? Well, let’s get into it.
How to Get To And Around Florida?
It mainly depends on your budget and your travel type. Let’s see all the options you have.
Flying In
Florida’s blessed with a sprinkle of airports, so you’ve got choices. The big guns are Miami International (MIA), Orlando International (MCO), and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FLL). These hubs connect you to pretty much anywhere but expect higher prices during peak season.
Smaller airports like Tampa International (TPA) and Southwest Florida International (RSW) in Fort Myers offer more budget-friendly options, especially for specific destinations.
Once You’re Landed
Renting a car
Renting a car gives you the most freedom, especially if you plan to explore beyond city limits. Florida has a decent highway system, with the Turnpike offering a faster (and pricier) alternative to regular roads. Remember, tolls can add up, so budget accordingly.
Public Transportation
It’s not as extensive as other states, but it’s there! Amtrak trains connect major cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa, and Greyhound buses cover a more comprehensive network. Local buses and trolleys are your ride for shorter distances, especially in popular tourist areas.
Ride-sharing
Uber and Lyft are your best friends in most cities, offering convenient door-to-door service. Perfect for quick trips and avoiding parking hassles.
Taxis
Available, but pricier than ride-sharing. Stick to them for late-night emergencies or if you prefer the old-school taxi charm.
Beyond the Mainland
The Keys
Renting a car is the classic Keys experience, cruising down the Overseas Highway with the turquoise ocean glistening beside you. But shuttles and even ferries connect key islands if you’re not keen on driving.
Islands like Sanibel and Captiva
It is accessible by causeway bridges, so your rental car or a taxi will get you there.
Point To Be Noted: No matter your choice, always factor in traffic, especially during peak season. Google Maps can be really helpful for real-time updates and avoiding detours.
Top Things to Do In Florida
Here are some amazing things you can try doing in there.
Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando
Image by harryHermione from Pixabay
Walt Disney World Resort is a must-visit if you’re a fan of magic and enchantment. From iconic Cinderella Castle to thrilling rides like Space Mountain, it’s a dream come true for families and Disney enthusiasts alike. Don’t forget to meet your favorite characters for that extra magic touch.
Universal Orlando Resort
Image by Kes Sinanan from Pixabay
Home to the thrilling Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal Orlando Resort offers a unique blend of movie magic and adrenaline-pumping rides. Get swept away to Hogwarts, battle alongside the Minions, or face the colossal Jurassic World Indominus Rex – the thrills are endless!
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
This African-themed amusement park is a wild adventure for all ages. Take a thrilling rollercoaster ride through the Serengeti, encounter majestic cheetahs and elephants, or cool off with a refreshing splash at the water park.
Key West
Image by Michelle Raponi from Pixabay
Experience the laid-back charm of Key West, the southernmost point of the U.S. Walk down historic Duval Street, visit the Hemingway Home and Museum, and witness the vibrant sunset at Mallory Square. Key West combines history, culture, and stunning natural beauty.
Dry Tortugas National Park
Journey by ferry to this remote island paradise, home to Fort Jefferson, a Civil War-era marvel. Snorkel shipwrecks teeming with colorful fish, sunbathe on pristine beaches and feel like you’ve stumbled upon the set of a pirate movie.
Little Havana, Miami
Drag yourself in the vibrant Cuban culture of Little Havana. Savor authentic Cuban cuisine at family-run restaurants, sip strong Cuban coffee at ventanitas (street kiosks), and catch the infectious rhythms of live salsa music.
Kennedy Space Center
Image by Ulrike Mai from Pixabay
Blast off into the world of space exploration at the Kennedy Space Center. Tour the iconic launchpads, witness awe-inspiring rockets, and learn about the history and future of space travel.
Naples Pier, Naples
Image by Pat Cooper from Pixabay