Best Places to Go in Florida: Attractions, Tips & Local Gems

Florida isn't just about Disney or Miami Beach. After a decade of exploring the state, I've seen it all—from overcrowded tourist traps to serene spots most visitors miss. Let's cut to the chase: if you're looking for places to go in Florida, you need a mix of iconic attractions and local favorites. This guide covers exactly that, with concrete details like ticket prices, addresses, and hours so you can plan without guesswork.

Top 5 Can't-Miss Destinations in Florida

These are the heavy hitters. You've probably heard of them, but here's what you need to know beyond the brochures.

Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando

Address: 1375 E Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830. Open daily, but hours vary by park—check the official website. Tickets start around $109 per day for one park, but multi-day passes offer better value. I recommend parking at the Transportation and Ticket Center if you're driving; it's $25 per day.

Disney is magical, but it's easy to blow your budget. A common mistake? Trying to do all four parks in two days. Focus on Magic Kingdom and Epcot if you're short on time. The food can be pricey, but skip the character dining unless you have kids—it's overrated for adults.

Miami Beach and South Beach

Address: Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139. No entrance fee, but parking is a nightmare—expect $20-$40 per day. Best time to visit is early morning to avoid crowds. The beach is free, but rentals like chairs cost around $20.

South Beach is iconic, but honestly, it gets packed. Go for the art deco architecture and people-watching, but don't expect a peaceful swim. For a quieter vibe, head to Mid-Beach or North Beach.

Everglades National Park

Address: 40001 State Road 9336, Homestead, FL 33034. Open 24/7, but visitor centers run 9 AM–5 PM. Entrance fee is $30 per vehicle, valid for 7 days. Airboat tours are popular but can be touristy; I prefer the Shark Valley Tram Tour for a more educational experience.

Bring bug spray—the mosquitoes are no joke. And wear light, long sleeves even in summer. Many visitors skip this, thinking it's just swamps, but it's a unique ecosystem worth half a day.

Key West

Address: Southernmost Point Buoy, Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040. No fee to explore, but attractions like the Hemingway Home cost $18. The drive from Miami takes about 3.5 hours—plan for traffic on US-1.

Key West is all about sunset at Mallory Square. Get there early to snag a spot. Accommodation is pricey; consider staying in Marathon or Big Pine Key if you're on a budget.

Universal Orlando Resort

Address: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819. Hours vary, typically 9 AM–9 PM. Tickets start at $114 for one park. The Express Pass is worth it if you hate lines—adds about $80 per day.

Universal excels for thrill rides and Harry Potter fans. But if you're not into franchises, it might feel repetitive. I've seen families spend a fortune here only to leave overwhelmed.

Beyond the Obvious: Hidden Gems You'll Love

Most guides stop at the big names. Here are spots that locals frequent, often overlooked by tourists.

Cedar Key: A tiny island on the Gulf Coast. Address: 2nd St, Cedar Key, FL 32625. No admission fee. It's a 2-hour drive from Gainesville—perfect for a day trip. The seafood here is fresh and affordable; try the clam chowder at Tony's Seafood Restaurant. Hours vary, but most places open 11 AM–8 PM.

St. Augustine: The oldest city in the U.S. Address: Historic District, St. Augustine, FL 32084. Many sites are free to walk around, but attractions like the Castillo de San Marcos cost $15. Parking is tricky; use the Historic Downtown Parking Facility at 1 Cordova St.

I love the ghost tours here, but book ahead—they sell out fast. Avoid summer weekends when it's sweltering and crowded.

Dry Tortugas National Park: Accessible only by ferry or seaplane from Key West. Ferry tickets are about $190 per person, including lunch. It's remote, so plan a full day. The snorkeling is incredible, but bring your own gear to save money.

These places offer a slower pace. You won't find massive crowds, but you might need to plan logistics more carefully.

How to Plan Your Florida Adventure: Essential Tips

Florida is huge, and getting around requires strategy. Here's how to avoid common pitfalls.

Transportation and Getting Around

Renting a car is almost essential unless you're sticking to Miami or Orlando's tourist zones. I've used services like Enterprise from Miami International Airport—prices range from $30 to $70 per day. Traffic on I-95 and I-4 can be brutal; use apps like Waze for real-time updates.

Public transport exists but is limited. In Orlando, the Lynx bus system covers Disney and Universal, but it's slow. For a stress-free option, consider rideshares for short hops.

Accommodation: Where to Stay Without Breaking the Bank

Hotels near theme parks are convenient but expensive. Look for vacation rentals in Kissimmee for Orlando visits—they often have kitchens, saving on food costs. Here's a quick list based on my stays:

Book at least a month ahead, especially for peak seasons (December–March). I've seen prices double last-minute.

When to Visit and Weather Considerations

Summer (June–August) is hot and humid, with afternoon thunderstorms. It's cheaper but less comfortable. Winter is peak season—mild weather but crowded. My sweet spot? April–May or September–October. You'll avoid the worst crowds and still get decent weather.

Hurricane season runs June to November. Check forecasts and consider travel insurance. I once got stuck in a storm in Key West; it's no fun scrambling for flights.

FAQ: Answering Your Florida Travel Questions

What are the best places to go in Florida for families on a tight budget?

Focus on free or low-cost attractions. Beaches like Clearwater Beach or Fort DeSoto Park have minimal fees. State parks like Bahia Honda in the Keys charge $8 per vehicle. For theme parks, look for discounted tickets through AAA or undercover tourist websites. Avoid on-site dining—pack lunches to save.

How can I avoid crowds at popular Florida destinations like Disney World?

Go on weekdays, especially Tuesday through Thursday. Arrive at park opening or late afternoon when lines thin out. Use mobile apps for ride wait times. A trick most miss: skip the parades—that's when ride queues are shortest. Also, consider visiting during off-peak weeks like early September.

What are some underrated places to go in Florida for outdoor enthusiasts?

Try the Ocala National Forest for hiking and springs—address: 40929 State Road 19, Umatilla, FL 32784. No entrance fee. Another spot is the Crystal River area, where you can swim with manatees (permit required, book ahead). These places offer raw nature without the commercial feel.

Is it worth renting a car for a Florida trip, or can I rely on public transport?

Unless you're only in a dense city like Miami, rent a car. Florida's sprawl makes public transport inefficient. I've tried relying on buses in Orlando and ended up wasting hours. For flexibility, especially to reach hidden gems, a car is essential. Compare rental rates from airports versus downtown locations.

Florida has something for everyone, but planning makes all the difference. Don't just follow the crowds—mix iconic spots with local havens. Share your own finds; I'm always looking for new places to explore.