45 Superb Issues to Do in Florida Different Than Disney

Florida’s sheer dimension alone makes it an infinite haven for each type of traveler. Positioned ideally between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, it’s simple to get right into a enjoyable summer season temper straight away whenever you’re right here.

Most vacationers see the Sunshine State because the Disney capital of the world, however those that know tips on how to navigate this charming state can attest that it’s extra than simply its man-made points of interest.

Get to expertise an abundance of tradition in its many artwork museums, historic sights, eating places, seashores, and, better of all, its distinctive ecosystem of subtropical wilderness and barrier reefs that helps wildlife distinctive to Florida.

Contemplate this record your introduction as you’re employed your means via the nation’s charming Sunshine State.

40+ Superb Issues to Do in Florida Different Than Theme Parks

Go to Everglades Nationwide Park

The nation’s second-largest pure park after Yellowstone, Everglades Nationwide Park is a 1.5 million-acre protect of unspoiled swamp and subtropical marsh with flatwoods and mangroves finest explored by way of climbing, guided boat excursions, and tram rides.

It’s additionally deemed a World Heritage Website and is dwelling to a whole lot of animal species, together with endangered ones just like the American crocodile, Florida panther, and West Indian manatee.

Go Swimming With Horses (Bradenton)

Swimming with horses in Bradenton, FL, is actually an unforgettable expertise; no horseback driving expertise is required. About 95% of those horses are rescues, so that you get to share of their expertise with a second probability in life. Along with the distinctive expertise of swimming on horseback, you’ll get pleasure from gorgeous bay views and possibly even some wildlife sightings of dolphins, stingrays, and manatees.

Snorkel Satan’s Den – Florida’s Pure Springs (Williston)

Satan’s Den is a hidden gem in Florida and is among the nation’s prehistoric underground rivers. Named for the steam rising from the cave’s opening, it’s now a preferred scuba diving and leisure facility.

Dive under the clear waters to see historical coral reefs with fossils, or swim and discover the icicle-like stalactites dangling above the cave’s open construction.

Discover the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Artwork (Sarasota)

Spend hours exploring the eclectic Ringling Museum of Artwork, an interactive circus museum that includes the non-public antiques and artwork assortment of circus magnate John Ringling and his spouse, Mabel.

It’s been lovingly restored to incorporate pretty botanical gardens alongside Sarasota Bay and the couple’s very personal Ca’ d’ Zan mansion, a colourful architectural delight.

Go to the Kennedy House Heart

A NASA gem and one of many ten Nationwide Aeronautics and House Administration facilities, you’ll discover all issues space-related on the Kennedy Space Center.

Study every part there’s to learn about astronauts, rocket launchers, and see the House Shuttle Atlantis up shut. The middle spans a whopping 140,000 acres and has been a historic launch web site for shuttle missions over time.

Snorkeling with Manatees in Crystal River

Referred to as the House of the Manatees, Crystal River, FL, is the one place in the US the place it’s authorized to swim with manatees of their pure habitat. Crystal River additionally has the most important focus of those mild-natured “sea cows” than anyplace else on the earth. (Please guide a tour with a good native firm, and DO NOT attempt to snorkel with them by yourself.)

Dwell it Up in Miami Seaside

The quintessential Florida expertise might be present in Miami Seaside – Florida’s haven for genuine seaside life, tradition, and native experiences. Take in the solar and expertise the luxe life in one of many many beachfront leases.

You can too dabble in watersports, pattern native eats, and discover the encircling galleries, museums, and theatres. You can too head to South Seaside and South Pointe Park for a much less crowded scene.

Chill out on Amelia Island

Amelia Island is a part of the barrier island chains that stretch alongside the East Coast and is a 4-mile broad and 13-mile-long pure surprise. Roaming pirates used to make it their dwelling base, and far of the island’s environment stay unspoiled.

In addition to the various spas, motels, eating, and outside actions to entertain you throughout your trip, the island’s quiet allure, idyllic sceneries, and unspoiled seashores will definitely win you over.

Discover Dry Tortugas Nationwide Park (Key West)

Since its discovery in 1513 by Juan Ponce de Leon, Dry Tortugas has been the principle hub of retailers, explorers, sailors, and spectacular forts—one in all which is Fort Jefferson, constructed within the 1800s.

It’s lived via numerous wars and is among the most historic and delightful locations to go to in Florida accessible solely by way of seaplane or boat. Now a big park, guests can discover the grounds and check out snorkeling on the encircling seaside.

Benefit from the Ernest Hemingway House & Museum (Key West)

Over 20 years’ price of memorabilia from the well-known author, Ernest Hemingway, might be discovered on this Spanish-inspired dwelling in Key West on Whitehead Avenue.

The creator moved to the home through the Nineteen Twenties and it’s the place he wrote Farewell at Arms, For Whom the Bell Tolls, and To Have and Have Not. Whereas the creator lived in lots of locations all through his life, this one has nice significance and is a must-see when in Florida.

Discover the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

Key West’s Butterfly and Nature Conservatory affords a singular and thrilling expertise for butterfly lovers because it homes a whole lot of butterfly species and moths of their pure habitat.

Study all about metamorphosis and see a wide range of unique birds and flamingos within the conservatory as properly. See them take flight in colourful technicolor renditions by way of the Wings of Creativeness artwork gallery. (One in all my favourite reminiscences as a child was visiting this butterfly conservatory!)

See the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens (Delray Seaside)

The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is a tranquil oasis set within the coronary heart of Delray Seaside.

Study in regards to the Japanese tradition and the way the gardens got here to be via the various artifacts featured on the museum, after which head outdoors the manicured gardens to absorb the fantastic thing about the encircling nature and Zen out.

Discover the Florida Caverns State Park (Marianna)

Florida Caverns State Parokay is the place to go see Florida’s pure and historic limestone magnificence that fashioned 38 million years in the past.

The caverns are wealthy with stalagmites, stalactites, flowstones, corals, and even fossils—a testomony to how all the caves’ parts started forming underwater to create distinctive works of pure artwork.

Go to the Historical Spanish Monastery (North Miami Seaside)

One other one in all Florida’s hidden charms is the Historical Spanish Monastery constructed between 1133-1141 AD that includes three cloisters deemed to be the oldest constructed construction within the Western Hemisphere.

The cloisters served as constructions of a Cistercian monastery for nearly 700 years. It was lastly reconstructed in Florida in 1925 as a vacationer spot that takes guests 12 centuries again to a Romanesque and Gothic old-world monastery.

Expertise The Kampong (Miami)

The Kampong (named after a Javanese phrase “compound”) positioned in Coconut Grove is a tropical paradise and one of the best trip spot within the coronary heart of Miami.

Established by well-known plant explorer Dr. David Fairchild, it’s the one one of many 5 nationwide botanical gardens which might be located in Florida, whereas the remaining are in Hawaii.

Chill out and breathe within the lush ambiance as you stroll via over 200,000 forms of unique vegetation, foliage, and tropical flora.

Style Your Approach By way of the Jax Ale Path (Jacksonville)

House to dozens of award-winning native breweries in Jacksonville, Jax Ale Path is a self-guided tour to a number of the finest beers and attractive bites on the town.

Every customer shall be given a brewery passport to be stamped by every brewery; those that full the problem will win a shock reward on the finish, though it’s principally executed for the expertise.

Admire the Wynwood Artwork District (Miami)

Wynwood District in Miami is the place to be for vibrant artwork and tradition. It’s one in all Florida’s hippest neighborhoods graced with colourful murals generally known as the Wynwood Partitions created by well-known avenue artists.

As you stroll across the neighborhood, you’ll additionally discover craft breweries, bistros, boutiques, quaint artwork galleries, and bars for a splendid night time out.

Snorkel or Scuba Dive the Coral Reefs in Key Largo

Self-proclaimed because the Dive Capital of the World, Key Largo is dwelling to one of the best pure coral reefs within the nation, in addition to the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the African Queen.

It’s the hub of vacationers who wish to strive snorkeling, diving, and glass-bottom boating. There’s additionally watching the spectacular sundown with a tropical drink in hand.

Really feel Surreal at The Dali Museum (St. Petersburg)

The Salvador Dali Museum, positioned in St. Petersburg, is the world’s second-largest museum, that includes a captivating assortment of the well-known artist’s life and work.

The constructing itself epitomizes a few of Dali’s inventive essence in its geometric home windows, melting clocks, and bubble-like constructions. It turned an expanded museum in 2011, housing greater than 2,000 items of assorted oddities and suave wonders.

Uncover the Historical past of St. Augustine

One of many oldest cities and the primary European settlement in Florida, St. Augustine will enchant you with its cobblestone streets, outdated church buildings, and stone fronts and even spook you with its cemeteries.

You may discover fascinating buildings and structure relationship again to Spanish colonial occasions in addition to stretches of gorgeous seaside, roads, and quirky eateries.

Have fun Artwork and Tradition at Artwork Basel Truthful (Miami)

Art Basel is a complete worldwide artwork truthful the place over 250 galleries from varied nations showcase the works of greater than 4,000 artists.

It’s held on the Miami Seaside Conference Heart yearly and marks the start of Miami Artwork Week. The occasion attracts in hundreds of artistic aficionados, collectors, and sellers to have a good time a spectacular week of arts and tradition.

See Bok Tower Gardens (Lake Wales)

Bok Tower Gardens is a shocking backyard and fowl sanctuary positioned in Lake Wales, Florida.

The backyard has over 250 acres of lush bushes, vegetation, flowers, and artwork surrounding the Iron Mountain, a 205 ft. tall neo-gothic model “singing tower” that performs the enchanting carillon all through the day.

Its library can also be filled with books, recordings, pictures, scores, and articles in regards to the carillon.

Discover Downtown Orlando

For those who’re searching for issues to do in Florida aside from Disney, why not make a journey to downtown Orlando?

This bustling metropolis heart is a world away from the theme parks, providing a mix of arts, tradition, nightlife, and nice eating experiences.

For artwork lovers, the Orlando Museum of Artwork and the CityArts Manufacturing unit are a must-visit. They host a wide range of exhibitions, showcasing each native and worldwide artists.

On the subject of eating, downtown Orlando has one thing for everybody. From upscale eating places to informal meals vans, you will discover a variety of cuisines to strive.

Go to Orlando Tree Trek Journey Park

For those who’re searching for an journey that is a bit totally different from the same old theme parks, why not strive the Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park? This outside journey park affords an exciting expertise for all ages.

Positioned only a quick drive from the Disney space, this park is a hidden gem that vacationers usually overlook. However belief me, it is definitely worth the detour. The park options a wide range of impediment programs set excessive up within the bushes, every yet one more difficult than the final.

You may swing on ropes, climb ladders, navigate swinging logs, and even fly via the air on zip strains. It is an effective way to get some train, benefit from the stunning Florida climate, and have a number of enjoyable on the similar time.

The employees at Orlando Tree Trek Journey Park are pleasant {and professional}, making certain everybody’s security whereas additionally encouraging you to push your limits.

Meet Some Alligators At Gatorland (Orlando)

For those who’re searching for an journey that is uniquely Florida, Gatorland is the place to be.

This 110-acre theme park and wildlife protect, positioned in Orlando, is named the “Alligator Capital of the World”. It is a must-visit for many who love nature and wildlife and wish to expertise one thing aside from the standard theme parks.

At Gatorland, you will have the prospect to see hundreds of alligators and crocodiles, a few of that are uncommon and endangered. You may watch thrilling exhibits just like the Gator Jumparoo or the well-known Gator Wrestlin’ Present.

For those who’re feeling courageous, you possibly can even take a zipline experience over the alligator breeding marsh!

Gatorland additionally affords an opportunity to fulfill different animals, like flamingos and wild cats. And do not forget to take a look at the petting zoo, the place you possibly can rise up shut and private with some pleasant cattle.

Go to LEGOLAND Florida Resort (Cypress Gardens)

LEGOland is one other nice possibility! This vibrant, family-friendly resort is positioned in Winter Haven, simply an hour’s drive from Orlando.

LEGOLAND Florida Resort is a enjoyable different to the same old Florida points of interest. It is a theme park, a water park, and a world-famous botanical backyard all rolled into one. With over 50 rides, exhibits, and points of interest designed for teenagers aged 2-12, it is a spot the place your little ones can let their imaginations run wild.

What makes LEGOLAND distinctive is that it is totally constructed from LEGO bricks – over 58 million of them! From the gorgeous replicas of well-known world landmarks in Miniland USA to the heart-pounding curler coasters, there’s one thing for everybody right here.

Bowl a strike at Kings Eating & Leisure (Orlando)

In search of a fun-filled night in Florida? Make your technique to Kings Dining & Entertainment. This is not your common bowling alley. It is a vibrant, energetic place that gives a singular mix of enjoyable and leisure.

However Kings Eating & Leisure is extra than simply bowling. It is a full-service, upscale eating expertise. The menu affords a wide range of mouth-watering dishes, from juicy burgers to contemporary salads. Pair your meal with a chilly beer or a handmade cocktail from the in depth drink menu.

If bowling is not your factor, don’t fret. Kings Eating & Leisure additionally affords a wide range of different video games, together with billiards and shuffleboard. Plus, there is a spacious lounge space the place you possibly can sit back and watch the most recent sports activities video games on large-screen TVs.

Eat and have enjoyable at Worldwide Drive (Orlando)

You can too check out a ton of enjoyable eateries multi functional place. Merely head over to Worldwide Drive, fondly known as I-Drive, the place you will discover a smorgasbord of eating choices. From international cuisines to native seafood specialties, there’s one thing to fulfill each foodie’s craving.

However I-Drive is not nearly meals. It is a vibrant, bustling strip that is filled with leisure choices. I will point out some extra as we undergo this final issues to do in Florida record!

Feed the giraffes on the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens (Sanford)

If you cannot head to the Giraffe Manor in Kenya simply but, then head to the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens to feed giraffes! Nestled within the coronary heart of Sanford, this lush oasis affords a ton of actions which might be each enjoyable and academic.

The spotlight of the zoo, nonetheless, is the interactive giraffe feeding expertise. It is a lot enjoyable and a one-of-a-kind expertise I extremely advocate.

However the enjoyable does not cease there. The Central Florida Zoo homes over 350 animals from all over the world, providing you with an opportunity to rise up shut and private with every part from cheetahs to sloths.

Hang around at Orlando Icon Park

Whenever you consider Orlando, Disney could also be the very first thing that involves thoughts. However there’s extra to this vibrant metropolis than simply the mouse home. One in all my favourite spots to spend a day is Icon Park.

Icon Park is a vigorous outside leisure advanced positioned within the coronary heart of Orlando. It is an excellent place to take a break from the theme parks and luxuriate in a special type of enjoyable. This place is a hub of points of interest, eating places, and retailers that cater to all ages and pursuits.

The centerpiece of Icon Park is The Wheel, a 400-feet tall commentary wheel that gives a shocking view of the town. It is a must-try for everybody, particularly at night time when the town lights up.

Go Kayaking at Rock Springs (Apopka)

For those who’re searching for an journey that is a bit off the overwhelmed path, why not take into account kayaking at Rock Springs? This pure spring is positioned in Apopka, only a quick drive from Orlando.

It is an ideal different to the same old theme park actions and affords a possibility to attach with Florida’s distinctive pure magnificence.

Rock Springs is a transparent, cool spring that is supreme for kayaking. The spring run is a delicate, winding journey via lush, tropical foliage.

It is a calm, peaceable expertise that is a world away from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks. You may lease a kayak on web site, and there are additionally guided excursions accessible.

Go on a Scorching Air Balloon Trip

Scorching air balloon rides can be found in a number of components of Florida. One standard location is the Orlando space, the place you possibly can see the town, theme parks, and surrounding pure magnificence from above. Different places embody Tampa Bay and the Miami space.

A scorching air balloon experience in Florida is a peaceable expertise. You will rise with the solar, watching because the panorama under involves life. As you ascend, you will see every part from metropolis skylines to rural farmland, forests, and rivers.

Be mindful, that scorching air balloon rides are depending on the climate, so it is at all times a good suggestion to have a versatile schedule. However when you’re up within the air, you will understand it is definitely worth the wait.

Strive Indoor Skydive at iFLY Orlando

In search of an adrenaline rush with out the curler coasters? Then, iFLY Orlando is your subsequent cease.

This indoor skydive facility affords a singular expertise that you just will not discover in any amusement park. Right here, you will get to really feel the joys of free-falling however inside the security and luxury of a managed surroundings.

At iFLY, you will be guided by skilled instructors who guarantee your security and pleasure. They will information you thru a coaching session earlier than you step into the wind tunnel.

As soon as inside, you will expertise the feeling of sky diving with out really having to leap out of an airplane. The highly effective wind lifts you off your toes and also you’re out of the blue floating, spinning, and hovering within the air.

Go to Andretti Indoor Karting & Video games (Orlando)

Positioned in Orlando, Andretti Indoor Karting & Games affords a high-speed journey that each adults and children will certainly love.

The electrical superkarts are designed to ship the last word adrenaline rush. They’re eco-friendly, offering a quieter and fewer smelly expertise than conventional gas-powered karts.

However that is not all. Past the enjoyable kart racing, the venue additionally options a wide range of arcade video games, a ropes course, and a digital actuality racing simulator. The number of actions ensures there’s one thing for everybody, no matter age or curiosity.

Be part of an airboat tour at Boggy Creek (Kissimmee)

An airboat tour at Boggy Creek affords a singular alternative to discover the state’s gorgeous wetlands.

You will glide over the water at excessive pace, feeling the frenzy of wind in your hair as you’re taking within the breathtaking surroundings. It is a enjoyable technique to expertise Florida’s various wildlife up shut.

Hold your eyes peeled for alligators, turtles, birds, and loads of different creatures that decision these wetlands dwelling.

Renting a Swan Boat on Lake Eola (Orlando)

Florida is thought for its sunny climate and delightful seashores, however there’s extra to see past the shoreline.

For a singular and fun-filled expertise, take into account renting a swan boat on Lake Eola. Nestled within the coronary heart of downtown Orlando, this stunning lake is a must-visit for these searching for a leisurely journey.

Renting a swan boat is an effective way to get a special perspective of the town. These cute pedal-powered boats are designed for enjoyable and leisure.

As you pedal across the lake, you will get pleasure from gorgeous views of the Orlando skyline, the fountain on the lake’s heart, and the varied number of birds that decision the lake dwelling.

Spend the Afternoon at Enjoyable Spot America (Orlando and Kissimmee)

For those who’re searching for a substitute for Disney, Fun Spot America must be in your record. This family-owned theme park affords a singular expertise that differs from the same old Florida points of interest. With places in Orlando and Kissimmee, Enjoyable Spot America is definitely accessible irrespective of the place you’re within the state.

One of many highlights of Enjoyable Spot America is its number of thrilling rides. From curler coasters to traditional fairground points of interest, there’s one thing for everybody. For those who’re a fan of go-karting, you are in for a deal with. Enjoyable Spot America has multi-level tracks that cater to each learners and seasoned drivers.

Nevertheless it’s not simply in regards to the rides. Enjoyable Spot America additionally affords tons of choices for video games and actions. Strive your hand at arcade video games, or take a look at your expertise on the halfway video games. For those who choose a extra relaxed afternoon, there are many spots to take a seat again and luxuriate in some food and drinks.

Go to Madame Tussauds Orlando

Madame Tussauds is thought for its extremely lifelike wax figures, and the Orlando location is not any exception.

From Hollywood heavyweights like Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie to music icons like Michael Jackson and Taylor Swift, you will be amazed on the degree of element in every determine.

Nevertheless it’s not simply in regards to the celebrities. Madame Tussauds Orlando additionally options an unimaginable historical past part the place you possibly can study in regards to the folks and occasions that formed our world.

You may even step into the sneakers of an astronaut within the area exploration exhibit.

Cling Out at Disney Springs (Lake Buena Vista)

Disney Springs is one other enjoyable spot to go to whereas in Florida. You will get to hang around on the scenic waterfront and flick through a ton of various stylish boutiques and iconic brand-name shops. You will discover every part from distinctive Disney merchandise to trendy style and equipment.

There are tons of nice meals locations there, too, so as soon as the solar units, Disney Springs actually comes alive. Get pleasure from reside music performances on the outside phases, catch the most recent blockbuster on the AMC DINE-IN Theatre, or bowl a couple of video games at Splitsville Luxurious Lanes.

Marvel On the Titanic Artifact Exhibition (Orlando)

A visit to Florida affords extra than simply theme parks and seashores. For historical past buffs, the Titanic Artifact Exhibition in Orlando is a must-visit. This outstanding exhibition transports you again in time to the ill-fated maiden voyage of the RMS Titanic in 1912.

The exhibition homes a powerful assortment of over 300 artifacts recovered from the shipwreck. These artifacts embody private belongings of passengers, items of the ship’s construction, and even a full-scale recreation of the ship’s grand staircase. Strolling via the exhibition, you will really feel as for those who’ve stepped right into a time capsule.

What units this exhibition aside is the storytelling side. Every customer receives a boarding go of an precise passenger aboard the Titanic. As you navigate the exhibition, you will study in regards to the ship’s journey, the lives of its passengers, and the tragic occasions that unfolded on that fateful night time.

Go to SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium

For those who’re searching for issues to do in Florida, apart from the well-known Disney parks, ensure that so as to add SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium to your itinerary.

This magical underwater world is dwelling to hundreds of aquatic creatures, from the tiny seahorses to the big sharks.

The 360-degree tunnel is extremely enjoyable. The interactive touchpool expertise means that you can rise up shut with starfish and sea anemones. Plus, the aquarium’s devoted staff affords instructional talks and feedings all through the day, offering a enjoyable studying expertise for all ages.

Swim with dolphins at Discovery Cove (Orlando)

For those who’re searching for a singular and unforgettable expertise in Florida, then swimming with dolphins at Discovery Cove must be in your record.

This all-inclusive day resort in Orlando affords an intimate, immersive expertise the place you possibly can work together with bottlenose dolphins, tropical fish, and unique birds.

Upon arrival, you will be assigned a time on your dolphin swim. The encounter begins with a quick informational session the place the trainers share attention-grabbing details about dolphin habits and biology.

Then, you will step into the shallow water of the dolphin lagoon on your private interplay with one in all these wonderful creatures.

In the course of the 30-minute swim, you will get the prospect to hug, kiss, and even experience a dolphin. Plus, the skilled pictures taken throughout your swim will be sure you have a memento of this unforgettable expertise.

Study One thing on the Orlando Science Heart

You want to go to the Orlando Science Center. This is not simply any peculiar museum – it is a spot the place enjoyable meets data. With 4 flooring of thrilling displays, interactive shows, and interesting packages, it is an ideal spot for households, particularly these with younger children.

Begin your journey with a go to to the Crosby Observatory, dwelling to Florida’s largest publicly accessible refractor telescope. Right here, you possibly can gaze on the stars, planets, and far-off galaxies. Subsequent, step into the world of DinoDigs, the place you possibly can uncover fossil replicas of prehistoric creatures.

For the little ones, KidsTown is a must-visit. This interactive zone is specifically designed for kids aged 7 and below, providing seven totally different play areas.

Take a Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour (Winter Park)

For those who’re searching for one thing distinctive to do in Florida, apart from the same old Disney go to, I extremely advocate taking a Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour. Nestled within the coronary heart of Florida, Winter Park is an enthralling metropolis that gives actions for all ages.

The scenic boat tour, particularly, is a must-do. It supplies a possibility to discover the gorgeous chain of lakes and canals that make up this metropolis.

You will be handled to breathtaking views of lush landscapes, towering cypress bushes, and indulgent personal houses. Plus, the tour information will share attention-grabbing tidbits in regards to the space’s historical past and wildlife.

Get pleasure from Dinner Exhibits in Orlando

For those who’re searching for a singular technique to spend a night in Florida, why not take into account attending a dinner present in Orlando? It is probably the most thrilling actions you are able to do outdoors of Disney. One of the standard dinner exhibits is Medieval Occasions!

At Medieval Times, you will get pleasure from a hearty four-course meal whereas watching an exciting reside present. The present options expert horsemen, courageous knights, and delightful horses.

The performers are wearing genuine medieval apparel, and the setting is a duplicate of an Eleventh-century citadel.

Nevertheless it’s not simply in regards to the present – the meals is a giant a part of the expertise too. You will dine on roast rooster, garlic bread, tomato bisque soup, and a candy dessert, all served in true medieval model – with out silverware!