Best Places to Visit in Florida
Searching for the best places to visit in Florida? Well, you are in the right place! Whether you like beaches with many activities, museums, restaurants, or calm, secluded spots, this updated guide is full of my favorite ideas in The Sunshine State that I hope you will love too. If you are looking for hotel and resort-focused weekend getaways in Florida, I recommend this article as well.
Where to Go in the Florida Keys
For me, the Florida Keys are easily the most unique and exciting place in all of the U.S. Where you go will depend a lot on how much time you have to spend on vacation. You can fly directly to Key West International Airport and base yourself in Key West of a relaxing 3-day weekend. Or for a longer road trip, you can fly to Miami, and drive south down the famous scenic highway and make multiple stops.
1. Key West
This Florida Keys city is one of my absolute favorite Florida getaways. Every time I go, I’m amazed at how much charm and magic this little island packs in. I love that I can go snorkeling in the morning, have a casual lunch at a cafe, enjoy a vintage scooter ride in the afternoon, then stroll through Old Town’s streets before ending the day with fresh seafood.
We caught the Key West Express ferry from Fort Myers (about 3.5 hours, $95–$125 one way) and stepped right into Old Town’s lively streets.
For an overnight stay: If you are bringing the kids to Key West, 2-star Ibis Bay Beach Resort is my favorite, with 600 feet of white beach and hammocks for everyone.
One of the coolest things about Key West is the food scene, and I can’t talk about it without mentioning two of my favorite spots that completely won me over. The Stoned Crab is an awesome waterfront restaurant where I indulged in the freshest seafood—think stone crab claws, oysters, and fish caught that very morning.
Then there’s La Crêperie French Café, which quickly became my go-to for breakfast and brunch. It’s a hidden gem tucked into a cozy corner of the island, and the crêpes are honestly some of the best I’ve ever had.
In addition to the food, Books & Books at The Studios of Key West was another highlight for me.
In addition, last year I timed my visit with two friends during Fantasy Fest, a 10-day costumed extravaganza, which was a great idea.
- Location: Southernmost city in the continental USA; located in Monroe County
- Location Map
- Size: Approximately 7.2 square miles (island and city area)
What I loved best:
Mallory Square at sunset was my personal highlight.
Best Places in Florida on the Atlantic Coast
Next are my favorite places to visit along the Atlantic Coast, organized South to North because we usually land in Miami and start our road trip from there.
2. Miami
For me, this city is perfect for beach lounging, boardwalk strolls, and relaxed evening dining, all of which we enjoyed during our four day stay at The Betsy South Beach after flying in from Austin, Texas.
I loved spending mornings exploring the city’s creative side at the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM), with its hanging gardens and open-air terraces overlooking Biscayne Bay, then drifting into nearby neighborhoods like Wynwood for murals, cafés, and indie shops. In addition, we checked out an innovative exhibition at Laundromat Art Space, a cool artist-led organization.
- Location: Southeast Florida, along Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean
- Location Map
What I loved best:
Dinner at LT Steak & Seafood, The Betsy's flagship restaurant was my personal highlight. I especially enjoyed their raw bar and delicious seafood.
3. Fort Lauderdale
I thought this South Florida city was absolutely dazzling with its palm-lined boulevards, waterways, and the coolest skyline!
A scenic 45 minute drive north from our previous stop in Miami along I-95 brought me right into the heart of Fort Lauderdale. I started exploring the city’s famous canals, relaxed on the beach for an hour, and strolled along Las Olas Boulevard.
But my favorite stop was the Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale Museum — a hidden gem preserving the city’s World War II heritage. Walking among vintage aircraft and the stories of pilots who trained here, including a young George H.W. Bush, felt like stepping back into a chapter of quiet courage and history.
- Location: Southeastern Florida, along the Atlantic Coast north of Miami
- Location Map
What I loved best:
Dinner at Shooters Waterfront with Chris was unforgettable. We both loved their sushi rolls and the view!
4. Delray Beach
Delray Beach is one of my favorite places to visit in Florida when I want a walkable downtown, artsy corners, and a great beach to watch a scenic sunrise.
A pleasant 30 minute drive north from Fort Lauderdale brought us straight into the heart of the city. After relaxing on the beach, I decided to explore the city's culinary side.
I was happy to discover that dining in Delray Beach is diverse and delicious, from coastal favorites on A1A to cute bistros downtown. Don’t miss Burt & Max’s in West Delray for elevated comfort food and crafted cocktails—perfect for a relaxed dinner. Closer to the beach, my favorite is Deck 84 offering waterfront views.
- Location: Southeast Florida on the Atlantic Coast, centered around Atlantic Avenue
- Location Map
- Best Airport: Palm Beach International (PBI); Fort Lauderdale (FLL) as a secondary option
What I loved best:
Wakodahatchee Wetlands for boardwalk wildlife viewing, and exploring the tranquil Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens just a short drive away.
5. Palm Beach
I thought this place was absolutely enchanting! I was swept away by its blend of pristine golden beaches, turquoise waters, and Mediterranean-style architecture!
A short 25 minute drive south from Delray Beach brought me across the Royal Park Bridge. Stately rows of palms welcomed me onto this world-famous island which was lush, and refined, with flower-filled courtyards and perfectly trimmed tropical gardens.
I spent a sun-soaked day in Palm Beach (nicknamed "Wall Street South"), strolled along Worth Avenue (often called the “Rodeo Drive of the East Coast”), admired the European-inspired architecture of the 5-star Breakers hotel, and relaxed on the silky sands of Midtown Beach. I also toured the Flagler Museum (the Gilded Age mansion of Henry Flagler), walked through the tropical beauty of Pan’s Garden, and paused for coffee at Via Roma Cafe.
- Location: Southeastern Florida, on a barrier island along the Atlantic Coast near West Palm Beach
- Location Map
What I loved best:
My highlight was dining at Buccan for small plates full of flavor. I ordered the short rib empanadas—crispy on the outside, savory and tender within—and the smoky aroma made the whole meal linger in memory.
One thing to note, Palm Beach carried higher prices across the board for lodging, meals, even parking. You should plan your budget ahead so you can enjoy the best of it without money stress.
6. Cocoa Beach
What I loved most about this beach town was was its wonderfully nostalgic vibe, sunny beaches, and that classic surf-town charm that feels both retro and timeless.
A smooth 1 hour 40 minute drive north from Palm Beach brought me right into Cocoa Beach where I spend two relaxing days at Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront.
We headed to the iconic Cocoa Beach Pier where you'll find most restaurants, bars, and surf shops. Lori Wilson Park was the second stop for its nature trails and family-friendly amenities. Wherever you go, however, the beach is the heart of the experience.
The Florida Surf Museum (adult $5 donation suggested) was a highlight for me personally, because it's so authentic and rooted in local culture. Inside, boards lined the walls, each telling the story of decades of wave riders here.
Days here revolve around the surf and sand. If you've never surfed, this is the perfect time for a beginner surf lesson at the famous Ron Jon Surf Shop. You can also rent paddleboards, or fish off the pier. Families shouldn’t miss the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex just up the road. Nature lovers can spot manatees and dolphins on a kayaking tour through the Thousand Islands mangrove area.
- Location: East-central Florida, on the Atlantic Coast near Cape Canaveral
- Location Map
- Best Airport: Orlando International (MCO) or Melbourne Orlando International (MLB)
What I loved best:
For me, Cocoa Beach has been one of the best places to visit in Florida since my first trip 30 years ago because it offers a little bit of everything. Catching a rocket launch from the beach with my husband and son was a truly unforgettable sight!
A downside? Parking near the pier can be tricky on weekends, and the crowds sometimes felt overwhelming. You should plan to arrive early in the day if you want a relaxed start.
7. Daytona Beach
May was such a dreamy month to visit this breezy Atlantic Coast gem — soft sunshine, light surf, and the scent of blooming jasmine along the Riverfront Esplanade made everything feel blissfully calm before summer’s rush.
I timed my visit for the start of sea turtle nesting season and the colorful Halifax Art Festival, both of which brought extra magic to the coast.
Driving up from Cocoa Beach for about one hour and 25 minutes, I soon settled into the chic Max Beach Resort (about $193/night), my seaside home for five slow, sun-drenched days filled with barefoot morning walks, sunset cocktails on ocean-view terraces, and visiting the excellent Museum of Arts & Sciences (MOAS) — a must-see with its planetarium, exhibits, and lush Tuscawilla Preserve.
- Location: Northeastern Florida, on the Atlantic Coast along the Halifax River and the “World’s Most Famous Beach”
- Location Map
What I loved best:
Dinner with a view at Ocean Deck Restaurant & Beach Bar was my personal highlight - I had delicious Rasta Chicken Quesadillas (Seasoned Chicken with melted Cheddar and Jack cheese, Sautéed Mushrooms, Onions, Diced Tomatoes on a Flour Tortilla, Salsa and Sour Cream.
Best Florida Places to Visit on the Gulf Coast
If you prefer the beaches on Florida's Gulf Coast, I don't blame you. I love them too - I live in Texas and all our beaches are on the Gulf coast. Here are all my favorite Florida Gulf Coast stops, ordered from north to south.
8. Destin
Emerald-green waters, sugar-white beaches, dunes...I thought Destin was one of Florida’s most stunning Gulf coast destinations when I moved to the South.
In fact, to me the water didn’t look real at first, too clear, too green. I stood at Henderson Beach State Park on the Gulf, toes in sugar-white sand, and just stared. Destin had that postcard-vacation vibe.
After a quick flight from Austin into VPS (Destin–Fort Walton Beach Airport), the short drive along the Emerald Coast Parkway brought me to this lively beach town where we stayed at Henderson Beach Resort for two relaxing days. I went snorkeling, enjoyed lounging on the soft sand at Henderson Beach, wandering along the boardwalk at Destin Harbor, and paddling a kayak.
I also recommend Beach Sand Sculptures, a mobile sand-sculpting class where you’ll learn pro tips like the correct sand-to-water ratio and build a sand sculpture a few feet high!
- Location: Florida Panhandle, on the Emerald Coast along the Gulf
- Location Map
What I loved best:
Dinner overlooking the water at Boshamps was my personal highlight.
9. Venice, Florida
I thought this was one of the Gulf Coast’s most quietly beautiful beach towns with its turquoise Gulf waters, soft sand, peaceful nature preserves.
After a scenic 7-hour drive south from Destin, we spent two relaxing days at the 3-star Inn at the Beach. I spent my days admiring shells and fossil fragments along Venice Beach, walking along the wide pier at sunset, kayaking through the mangrove-lined Intracoastal Waterway, and exploring the shaded trails of Oscar Scherer State Park.
- Location: Southwestern Florida, along the Gulf of Mexico south of Sarasota
- Location Map
- Best Airport: Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ)
So where should you eat in Venice? Dining in Venice highlights coastal flavors with a relaxed atmosphere.
What I loved best:
Sharky’s on the Pier was my favorite for fresh seafood with a view. For breakfast, Croissant & Co. was my local favorite.
A downside? This place felt quieter than other Florida beaches which I liked, but if you’re seeking nightlife or big entertainment, you may find evenings here a little slow.
10. Bonita Springs
Welcome to this hidden gem on Florida’s Gulf Coast between Naples and Fort Myers, nicknamed the “Gateway to the Gulf”. I found Bonita Springs quieted than its bustling neighbors while still delivering that classic Florida sunshine-and-sand experience.
After a smooth 1-hour drive south from Venice, we based ourselves at Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa for three days.
I spent my days floating in the calm turquoise water at Bonita Beach, kayaking along the mangrove-lined Imperial River, wandering the boardwalk trails at Barefoot Beach Preserve, and watching dolphins arc in the distance as the sun set.
Dining here is coastal and casual with plenty of fresh seafood. Try Doc’s Beach House right on the sand for a toes-in-the-sand meal, or enjoy upscale dining with Gulf views at C Level Bistro & Wine Bar. For local flavor, Survey Café is a favorite breakfast and lunch spot with Southern charm.
- Location: Southwestern Florida, along the Gulf of Mexico between Naples and Fort Myers
- Location Map
What I loved best:
For us, the highlights were floating in the calm Gulf waters at sunset, and spotting dolphins just offshore.
11. Things to Do in Tampa
For me, this is Florida’s dynamic Gulf Coast city where history, culture, and waterfront living come together. It has a great downtown and I think it's one of the best places you can visit in Florida!
After an easy 2.5-hour drive north from Bonita Springs, we based ourselves at 4-star JW Marriott Tampa Water Street for two days. While there, I enjoyed walking along the Tampa Riverwalk, exploring the colorful streets of Ybor City, relaxing in the sunshine at Curtis Hixon Park, visiting the best Tampa beaches, and ending the afternoon watching boats glide across the wide blue expanse of Tampa Bay.
My son and I visited the Tampa Museum of Art, Florida Aquarium but he was most excited by Busch Gardens Tampa Bay (he loved the roller coasters and animal encounters).
- Location: West-central Florida, along the Gulf Coast on Tampa Bay
- Location Map
What I loved best:
I had a great Cuban sandwich at Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City, oysters at Ulele on the Riverwalk, or creative small plates at Rooster & the Till in Seminole Heights.
12. Marco Island
I thought this was one of the most peaceful and tropical-feeling destinations on the Gulf Coast! Locals told me that it's the largest of Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands.
After a 2.5-hour drive south from Tampa, we crossed the bridge onto this sunny barrier island and checked into 4-star JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort for three nights.
I spent my day relaxing at South Marco Beach, looking for shells along the quiet tidal edges, paddling through mangrove tunnels in Rookery Bay, and watching dolphins play just offshore (there are some great dolphin tours to choose from!).
So where should you eat in Marco Island? Dining is all about fresh seafood and waterfront views. Snook Inn is best for a casual meal on the water, Fin Bistro for a more refined experience, or Doreen’s Cup of Joe for a standout breakfast.
- Location: Southwestern Florida, on the Gulf of Mexico at the southern end of the Ten Thousand Islands
- Location Map
What I loved best:
One morning we drove to Tigertail Beach Park which offers tidal pools, birdwatching, and a wilder, more natural feel.
A downside? this place had a resort feel, which made it more expensive than other coastal towns. You should expect higher prices for lodging and dining, especially during peak season.
Other Amazing Places to Visit in Florida
From south to north (so that you can land in Orlando!), these are my favorite places to visit inland in Florida. I love it here because of diverse landscapes and special features like lakes and natural springs... I hope that you will check them out on your own day trip or weekend getaway in Florida.
13. Orlando
Stopping in Orlando was one of the best choices of my early-spring getaway with warm evenings, classic Florida sunsets, relaxing lakeside strolls, and even great beaches nearby.
I flew in from Austin in just a few hours and spent four sun-soaked days wandering through leafy neighborhoods, exploring Orlando’s creative side, and discovering how much more the city offers beyond its famous parks.
What I loved best:
Staying at the lush, lakeside-adjacent Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando — I adored the art-filled lobby, rooftop pool with skyline views, and live jazz drifting from the Bösendorfer Lounge.
14. Mount Dora
This charming lakeside town in Central Florida is one of my favorite places to escape when I want a blend of small-town history, lake views, and a relaxed, walkable downtown. Every time I visit, I’m surprised by how much there is to enjoy here on vacation.
I drove about 40 minutes northwest from Orlando on a day trip to Mount Dora, a town known for its hilly streets (a rarity in Florida!), tree-lined neighborhoods and the Historic Downtown District.
We stopped at The Highland Street Café, then made our way to the Mount Dora Lighthouse and Palm Island Park Boardwalk (the views were absolutely beautiful!). We marveled at the serenity of Lake Dora which feels worlds away from Orlando, even though it’s so close.
- Location: Central Florida, about 30 miles northwest of Orlando
- Location Map
What I loved best:
The lakeside views around Palm Island Park and the Mount Dora Lighthouse absolutely took my breath away, my personal highlight!
15. Gainesville
This North Florida city is one of my go-to places when I want a mix of nature, college-town energy, and great food.
I drove about 1 hour and 45 minutes northwest from Mount Dora to Gainesville, a straight shot that takes you from rolling Central Florida landscapes into one of the most iconic college towns in the state.
Over our two-day stay at Hotel Eleo (around $146/night), we mixed culture with pure outdoor fun: catching Gator spirit around the University of Florida campus, exploring local breweries with live music, visitibg the Cade Museum, browsing weekend markets, and cooling off in spring-fed parks just outside town.
- Location: North Central Florida, about 1.5 hours southwest of Jacksonville and 2 hours north of Orlando
What I loved best:
Swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking at nearby springs like Poe Springs, Ginnie Springs, and Ichetucknee—some of the clearest waters in Florida.
16. DeLand
This charming Central Florida town completely swept me up with its oak-shaded streets, freshwater springs, and lovingly preserved historic architecture.
Just a quick 35 minute day trip west of Daytona Beach, this was such cool stop for me personally, with lots of Southern character, and outdoorsy Florida magic. My favorite stop (of course!) was Blue Spring State Park, where we admired manatees.
17. Wakulla Springs
One of my favorite Florida day trips has to be this spectacular hidden gem 2 hours northwest from Gainesville.
It’s honestly one of the coolest and most unusual places I’ve explored in the state, and I always feel like I’ve stepped into a dream when I arrive.
The spring itself is massive, with crystal-clear waters that stay cool year-round, which makes it such a refreshing escape on a hot day. I couldn’t believe how affordable it was in June to spend a whole day surrounded by such natural beauty.
I hopped on the famous glass-bottom boat tour, and it was absolutely the best way to see the magic beneath the water’s surface. Watching fish, turtles, and even manatees glide past felt like something out of a nature documentary, but it was real and right in front of me.
Wakulla Springs is tucked inside Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park, which makes it a fun family adventure. I loved how peaceful the hiking trails were, winding through cypress swamps and shaded hammocks that felt so different from other Florida landscapes I’ve seen.
- Location: Northern Florida, south of Tallahassee in Wakulla County within Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
- Location Map
- Size: Approximately 6,000 acres including the park
What I loved best:
My personal highlight was that this is also a place full of history and movies like "Tarzan" and "Creature from the Black Lagoon" were filmed here. I thought it was so cool to walk the same spots where Hollywood once captured its magic.
18. Lake City
About 1 hour and 45 minutes east from our last stop in Wakulla Springs, this small city is surrounded by some of the state’s most beautiful freshwater springs, rivers, and forests. That's why Lake City nickname is Florida’s “Gateway to the Springs.” We based ourselves at Best Western Plus Lake City for two nights this month. Here, instead of beaches you get crystal-clear swimming holes, tubing adventures, and shaded trails with plenty of Spanish moss.
The city has a historic downtown, but the real magic is just outside of town at natural gems like Ichetucknee Springs, Ginnie Springs, and O’Leno State Park, an easy drive away.
- Best Airport: Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) or Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV)
- Time of Year to Visit: Late spring through early fall for warm weather and tubing season; winter for camping and hiking
My favorite places to eat are Marion Street Bistro for elevated Southern fare, or try the brisket at Phish Heads, or grab a hearty breakfast at Shirley’s.
- Location: North-central Florida, at the intersection of I-75 and I-10 near the Suwannee and Santa Fe Rivers
- Location Map
What I loved best:
For me, Lake City is one of the best places to visit in Florida.
The highlight here for me is getting out on the water. Floating down the Ichetucknee River in an inner tube, snorkeling in the crystal-clear springs, and paddling a kayak along the Santa Fe River.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
