I’ve visited Florida numerous times over the years, and one thing I’ve learned is that no two trips ever feel quite the same. One visit might be spent relaxing on Gulf Coast beaches, while another revolves around road-tripping through the Keys or exploring Miami’s ever-changing neighbourhoods.
That’s one of the reasons Florida remains such a popular destination. Beyond the theme parks and postcard-perfect beaches, there’s an incredible variety of experiences on offer. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or planning a return trip, these are five of the best things to do in Florida based on my own experiences and the destinations that have left the biggest impression on me.
1. Drive Through the Florida Keys
If there’s one Florida experience I would recommend to almost anyone, it’s driving through the Florida Keys.
The journey itself is every bit as enjoyable as the destination. As you leave the mainland behind, the Overseas Highway carries you across a chain of islands connected by bridges, with turquoise water stretching out on both sides. It’s one of the most scenic drives I’ve experienced anywhere in the United States.
I particularly enjoyed stopping along the way to take in the views, explore smaller islands and simply slow down a little. Whether you’re interested in snorkelling, fishing, boating or waterfront dining, there are opportunities around every corner.
While Key West is the obvious highlight for many visitors, I think part of the charm lies in exploring the islands between. Marathon has seen some impressive new resorts open in recent years, while places like Islamorada offer a more relaxed atmosphere that feels distinctly different from mainland Florida.
Once you finally arrive in Key West, spend some time wandering through the colourful streets, visiting local galleries, and enjoying the island’s famously laid-back character.
2. Experience the Energy of Miami
No matter how many times I visit Florida, I always find myself drawn back to Miami.
There’s simply nowhere else in the state quite like it. The city’s mix of cultures, architecture, food, and nightlife creates an atmosphere that feels completely unique within the United States.
Of course, South Beach remains one of Miami’s most iconic locations, but I’ve often found myself preferring some of the quieter areas north of the city. Places like Surfside and Bal Harbour still offer beautiful beaches, but with a far more relaxed pace.
I also enjoy exploring neighbourhoods such as Wynwood, where enormous murals transform entire streets into open-air galleries. The food scene is another major highlight. Miami’s Cuban influence can be felt throughout the city, and some of my favourite meals in Florida have been enjoyed in small cafés and restaurants serving traditional Cuban dishes.
Whether you’re interested in shopping, dining, architecture, or simply spending time by the ocean, Miami offers enough variety to fill several trips.
3. Spend Time on Florida’s Gulf Coast Beaches
Some of my favourite beach experiences in Florida haven’t been on the Atlantic coast at all—they’ve been along the Gulf Coast.
The beaches here often feel calmer, quieter, and more relaxed than many of Florida’s better-known destinations. The water is typically gentler, the sunsets are spectacular, and there’s a laid-back atmosphere that immediately puts you into holiday mode.
Anna Maria Island made a particularly strong impression on me. It’s one of those places that manages to feel peaceful without feeling isolated. Long stretches of white sand, low-rise buildings, and a slower pace of life give the island a charm that’s becoming increasingly difficult to find.
I’ve also been impressed by areas around Sarasota, Longboat Key, Sanibel, and Captiva Island. In some spots, the scenery genuinely looks more Caribbean than Floridian.
For travellers seeking relaxation rather than crowds, I think Florida’s Gulf Coast is one of the state’s biggest highlights.
4. Visit Orlando and the Space Coast
Even though Florida offers so much beyond its theme parks, Orlando remains one of the state’s biggest attractions for good reason.
Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort continue to set the standard for large-scale family entertainment. The sheer number of rides, attractions, and experiences available means it’s easy to spend several days here without running out of things to do.
That said, one attraction I find particularly fascinating is the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
Standing beneath the enormous Saturn V rocket and learning about America’s space programme is an experience that stays with you long after you leave. Depending on your timing, you may even have the opportunity to witness a live rocket launch—something that’s becoming increasingly common thanks to ongoing missions from Florida’s Space Coast.
For me, Kennedy Space Center offers one of the most memorable and distinctive experiences anywhere in the state.
5. Explore Sarasota and Naples
Some of my biggest Florida surprises have come from destinations I knew very little about before visiting, and Sarasota and Naples both fall firmly into that category.
Sarasota combines excellent beaches with a cultural scene that many first-time visitors don’t expect. During my visit, I found myself enjoying not only the coastline but also the galleries, gardens and restaurants scattered throughout the city. It felt like a destination with far more depth than its beach-town reputation might suggest.
Naples left a similar impression. Known for its upscale atmosphere and beautiful waterfront, it somehow manages to feel sophisticated without becoming intimidating. I particularly enjoyed walking along Naples Pier and spending time on the pristine beaches nearby.
Both cities provide a different perspective on Florida—one that focuses less on major attractions and more on quality of life, scenery, and enjoying the slower pace that makes the Gulf Coast so appealing.
Final Thoughts
What I enjoy most about Florida is its variety. Few destinations allow you to combine vibrant cities, tropical islands, world-famous attractions, and some genuinely beautiful stretches of coastline within a single trip.
If I were planning a Florida itinerary today, I’d combine several of these experiences. A few days in Miami, a road trip through the Keys, and some time unwinding on the Gulf Coast would provide a fantastic introduction to the Sunshine State.
And if my own trips are anything to go by, chances are one visit won’t be enough. Florida has a habit of giving you plenty of reasons to come back.
