Welcome to the sunshine state! Florida is easily recognizable as the state of endless beaches, and while that may be fitting, few can recognize the individual cities attached to these golden coasts. In Florida not only can you soak up some sun in either the Gulf Coast or Atlantic Ocean, but you can also visit several top of the line theme parks, and stroll some truly magnificent cities both new and old.
Florida’s calling card may be the beach, but it has so much more to offer alongside that! To start planning your best weekend getaway, check out this list of the best places to go in Florida.
Probably most famously known as one of the getaways for billionaires, Palm Beach is a luxury weekend you’re going to want to indulge in. Here, it’s not just the spectacular beaches pulling you in (although: wow!) it is also a big name in some of the finest shopping, eateries, and entertainment in the state. And don’t let the fancy reputation scare you, Palm Beach has plenty of affordable options as well! Stay here like a budget traveler, and live life in luxury.
While most tourists don’t typically think of the panhandle when planning their getaway, it is one place not to be ignored. Panama City Beach is a truly dazzling display of Mother Nature’s hand in beachside beauty. It is crisp, teal waters contrasted nicely by soft white sand. And although the Panama City Beaches deserve sonnets dedicated in their honor, if you’re in the area check out some of the best nature reserves in Florida that are just down the road.
Imagine a big, bustling city center with some of the best beaches in the world on the outskirts! Miami is a great place to go if you’re looking to do it all. Located at the very bottom of Florida, Miami is a place for city lovers, beach goers, and adventurers. It is also incredibly versatile. If you’re looking for a good party, try South Beach, and if you’re looking for serenity, try South Point Park Pier. Regardless of what you do in Miami, you’re sure to never forget your time here.
Residing on the Gulf Coast of Florida, Clearwater Beach is the perfect place to go if all you’re dreaming of is a soft patch of sand to sit on and the sound of waves lapping in your ears. Clearwater Beach is one of the most serene locations in Florida, and it holds a particular reputation for being incredibly well maintained and kept up. While the public beach access may not be as empty as you might like, walk in either way and you’re sure to find your little slice of paradise.
What was once only dubbed a place to crash at during Spring Break, has now transformed into a tourists paradise. Fort Lauderdale has spent years reshaping their city and infrastructure to create an environment that calls to all travelers and beach lovers alike. Its design is intricately shaped by the winding canals that flow through it and its beaches are pristine making Fort Lauderdale one of the best places to go in Florida.
Miles upon miles of federally protected land makes the Everglades a truly becoming sight. The Everglades include swamp lands, mangroves, prairies, and jungles teeming with fresh Florida life. If you truly want to experience the Everglades, consider stopping by the visitor’s center along the road that takes you to the Everglades dubbed “Alligator Alley”. Here you can join a boat tour of the water ways that will take you in and through some of Florida’s most interesting land.
Dazzling blue waters and golden expanses of sand await at the famously stunning Key West, Florida. Floridians and tourists alike flock to this beachside haven for the kind of relaxation you just can’t get anywhere else. Key West is Florida’s ‘southernmost point’, and technically counts as an island city. Due to this there are beaches no matter which way you look! Key West is also known for scuba diving and snorkeling if you’ve taken all the rest you need and are now looking for a little bit of memorable action.
Another famous name in a city of a thousand attractions, Daytona Beach is for those who like a little bit of salt and sand with their soiree. For years, Daytona Beach has been known as one of the best ‘spring break hotspots’. It is a city that draws the crowd, and keeps them entertained! It is also the proud home of the Daytona International Speedway. Visit on NASCAR racing days to experience the thrill, or visit on an off day to tour the location---- regardless, this is one place you’re not going to want to miss.
Easily one of the most popular destinations in Florida for tourists, and with good reason! In Orlando City, there are theme parks galore! Check out the many parks of Walt Disney Land or check out some of Universal’s claims to fame such as Islands of Adventure, or the new waterpark Volcano Bay. If you’re not feeling the theme park prices, there are even more places to enjoy a good rollercoaster such as FunSpot, and Sea World just down the road. Or: check out the city! There is a vibrant and lively nightlife scene as well as a few national sports teams such as Orlando City Soccer and the Orlando Magic.
St. Augustine is one of the oldest settlements known to Florida. It is a city with rich history and impressive architecture, all found on the golden coasts of the Atlantic Ocean. St. Augustine is a romantic excursion for those who want to wander the streets of the old quarter. It also has old Spanish fortresses, bridges, and tours that reside on the beautiful and sunny East Coast as well as miles of coastland available for public use. Take your beach vacation and supersize the fun with more than enough things to do in St. Augustine, Florida.
