Choose from 156 Fun Things to Do in Florida
ShowingFilter 1-20 of 156 listings.
Coconut Grove
Coconut Grove is a bayside village in Miami, recognized as the oldest modern continuously inhabited neighborhood in the city. Originally settled in the 1800s, Coconut Grove is sometimes referred to as “Bohemia on the Bay.” Complete with a pedestrian-friendly village center where visitors can wander galleries, go shopping or enjoy lunch at a quaint sidewalk café. There are some recognizable chain restaurants and open-air malls but also college bars, as students from nearby Florida International University and the University of Miami flock to the area, especially as the sun goes down. Known locally as “the Grove,” its bay-front location also showcases a number of various parks.
Village West, a noted sub-area, is the modern-day historic home of Bahamian and African-American descendants of Coconut Grove’s earliest settlers. There is evidence that settlers from the Bahamas came via Key West in order to work at the Peacock Inn, the first hotel in the area, which was originally called the Bay View Inn.
Coconut Grove has been a popular location for the filming of various television series and movies, including Meet the Fockers, Marley & Me and Burt Reynolds’ 1985 Stick. Shows like Dexter, CSI: Miami and The First 48 have been filmed in the village as well. If you remember George Michael’s “Careless Whisper” video, the shot of him looking out to sea from a hotel balcony was shot in Coconut Grove too. The village’s popularity extends not only to set locations, but also to some noted celebrities. Sylvester Stallone and Madonna both called the village home for a few years, and professional athletes like the NFL‘s Frank Gore and the NBA’s LeBron James are among Coconut Grove’s residents as well.
Practical Info
Coconut Grove is bordered by North Prospect Drive to the south, LeJeune Road to the west, South Dixie Highway (US 1) and Rickenbacker Causeway to the north, and Biscayne Bay to the east. There is an information kiosk located on Grand Avenue, steps away from CocoWalk.
Address: Miami, Florida, USA
From $ 29
Coral Castle Museum
The Coral Castle Museum in Miami, Florida, is a castle and stone garden surrounded in mystery. It was built from 1923 to 1951 by Edward Leedskalnin, who was originally from Latvia and stood at just over five feet tall and weighed only 100 pounds. Despite his small size, he worked alone to build his castle during a time before modern construction equipment. His creations were carved out of more than 1,100 tons of coral rock, and he worked at night so no one saw how he built it—people began to say he had supernatural powers. All Ed would ever say was that he knew “the secret of the pyramids.” His secrets died with him.
Today you can explore Coral Castle with the help of an audio guide, available in English, Spanish, German or French, or on a tour with a knowledgeable guide. You will see many features of the museum, such as a nine-ton gate that moves with just a touch of the finger, a Polaris telescope and functioning rocking chairs, all are made entirely of stone.
Practical Info
The Coral Castle Museum is located at 28655 South Dixie Highway in Miami. When using GPS to get to the museum, use Homestead instead of Miami. The museum is open Sunday through Thursday from 8am to 6pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 8pm. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors 65 and up, and $7 for children 7-12. Children 6 and under are free.
Address: 28655 S Dixie Hwy, Miami 33033, USA
Hours: Sun-Thurs 8am-6pm; Fri-Sat 8am-8pm
Admission: Adults $15, Seniors (65+) $12, Children (7-12) $7, 6 and under Free
From $ 19
Aventura Mall
If you’re looking for a dose of retail therapy while in Miami, Aventura Mall is the place to go. This expansive shopping complex exudes sophisticated style, with upscale boutiques such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Burberry alongside trendier favorites including Apple, Anthropologie, and Topshop.
The Basics
Aventura Mall’s vaulted interior contains retail shops alongside restaurants and a collection of art installations from local and international artists. Inside you can peruse designer boutiques, enjoy a quick bite or formal sit-down meal, and stroll past a varied assortment of paintings and sculptures. Visit on a private Miami tour to shop at Aventura Mall and also see city highlights such as South Beach, Little Havana, Coconut Grove, and Ocean Drive.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Aventura Mall is a must-do for shopping aficionados.
- On-site restaurants include a food court and more than 15 sit-down spots, including the Cheesecake Factory, Le Pain Quotidien, and Serafina Miami.
- Parking is available, along with a valet service.
- The mall is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Aventura Mall is near Oleta River State Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Golden Beach, roughly a 30-minute drive from downtown Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Public transportation is available, although car travel is typically faster.
When to Get There
Aventura Mall is open seven days a week, with shorter hours on Sundays. To avoid crowds, arrive in the morning or opt for a weekday visit.
Shops at Aventura
Luxury brands at Aventura Mall include Burberry, Dior, Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Chanel, Givenchy, Missoni, and Tiffany and Co., while other popular shops include Ann Taylor, Anthropologie, Gap, H&M, Splendid, Ugg Australia, Urban Outfitters, and Zara.
Address: 19501 Biscayne Blvd, Aventura, Florida 33180, USA
From $ 89
Daytona International Speedway
Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines. The Daytona International Speedway, a 500-acre interactive motorsports complex, is home to the world-famous NASCAR Cup and its "Great American Race," otherwise known as the Daytona 500.
In addition, many other types of racing events fill the grandstands here, including go-cart, monster truck and motorcycle races. The arena also draws travelers for instructional driving lessons, driving experiences and ride-along programs when no races are in session. Daily complex tours are also available—climb atop the podium in Gatorade Victory Lane, see champion cars (scratches, dents and all) and check out the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America.
Practical Info
Daytona International Speedway is four miles (six km) west of Daytona Beach. The Motorsports Hall of Fame of America and souvenir shop can be found in the tours and tickets building.
Address: 1801 West International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114, USA
Hours: Vary
Admission: Varies
From $ 149
De la Cruz Collection
The De la Cruz Collection Contemporary Art Space contains works from the personal collection of Carlos and Rosa de la Cruz and covers 30,000 square feet with art. Before moving to this site in 2009, the original space was an extension of the couple’s home of 25 years and focused on international contemporary art.
The art space includes various rooms with rotating exhibits, including one dedicated to showcasing local Miami artists’ works. Look for lectures designed to increase public awareness of art history and modern-day art practices. To help further promote the local art scene, Miami creative often submit proposals for site-specific installations, and classes and workshops designed with local schools take place as well. The De la Cruz family has also developed internship opportunities and a scholarship program for high school and college students. The De la Cruz Collection Contemporary Art Space is privately owned and funded by Carlos and Rosa de la Cruz.
Practical Info
The De la Cruz Collection is located at 23 NE 41 Street in Miami’s Design District. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10am until 4pm and its collection, programs, lectures and library are all free of charge to the public.
Address: 23 NE 41 Street, Miami, Florida, USA
Hours: Tues-Sat 10am-4pm.
From $ 85
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) was opened in 1972 as a marine biology learning center in Clearwater, Florida, about 40 minutes from both Tampa and St. Petersburg. Over the years, it has grown and expanded into a center for public education and animal care (their motto is "rescue, rehab, release") while retaining its focus on marine research.
CMA is perhaps most famous for one of its residents, a dolphin named Winter who, at three months old, got tangled in a crab trap line and was unable to escape. She was rescued and brought to CMA for rehabilitation, but her injuries were so serious that her tail had to be amputated, along with two vertebrae. The story has a happy ending, though. Through collaboration with a human prosthetics company, a marine veterinarian and the folks at CMA, Winter now has a prosthetic tail and she’s doing well. The film Dolphin Tale (2011) was based on Winter’s story; she still lives at CMA and can be visited at Winter's Dolphin Tale Adventure (WDTA), located just a short (free) trolley ride away from CMA.
Practical Info
Clearwater Marine Aquarium is located at 249 Windward Passage in Clearwater, Florida. It is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Some exhibits are located outside, so in the case of inclement weather, certain exhibits may be temporarily closed throughout the day without notice. Admission is $21.95 for adults ages 13 to 59; $19.95 for seniors 60 years of age or older and $16.95 for children ages 3 to 12. Children 2 and under are free.
Address: 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, Florida 33767, USA
Admission: Adults: $21.95; Children: $16.95
From $ 107
Alafia River State Park
Mountain bikers rejoice! Alafia State Park is the perfect destination for off-road bikers, with unique topography that contributes to some of Florida’s most extreme elevation changes. Located on what was once a phosphate mining site, Alafia State Park is home to 17 miles of bike trails, with difficulty ranging from beginner to advanced levels. Other activities to enjoy at Alafia River State Park include kayaking and canoeing, hiking and geo caching.
Alafia River State Park is also a unique spot to share with your four legged buddies. No, not your dog: your horse. With 20 miles of equestrian trails to explore (hikers can also enjoy these trails), you and Black Beauty can traverse over hills, through the woods and around lakes. At the end of the day, you can even camp with your equine friend. Twelve of the campsites in the campground are equipped for equestrian campers. Available on a first-come, first-served basis, there is no additional fee to stall your horse.
Practical Info
Alafia River State Park is located 10 miles southeast of Tampa on County Road 39. Alafia River State Park is open from 8 a.m. until sundown, year-round. Entrance fees are $5 per vehicle, with a limit of two to eight people per vehicle; $4 for a single occupant vehicle; $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists and extra passengers over eight people in cars.
Address: 14326 S County Road 39, Lithia, Florida 33547, USA
Admission: $2-$5
From $ 155
Clematis Street
Clematis Street is right at the historic heart of West Palm Beach and is home to some of the area’s best restaurants, shopping and nightlife. Busy by day and perhaps even busier by night, the colorful district is home to twelve historic landmarks that tell the story of the area. Detailed architecture represents centuries of eclectic styles, while the many fountains and gardens (along with oceanfront location) make this an especially scenic spot.
Boutiques line the street, which is full of antique shops, restaurants, art galleries, and cafes (Antique Row features 40 specialty shops alone.) Boats dock at the floating pier at the water’s edge, and year-round water sports and activities can be launched from nearby. By night there are often live music performances or music booming from one of many nightclubs. The area is known for its nightlife particularly on Thursday nights, when it transforms into a lively street party called ‘Clematis By Night.’ The event also hosts weekly free concerts on the waterfront.
Practical Info
Clematis Street runs parallel to Okeechobee Blvd in downtown West Palm Beach, which is also the name of the nearest exit off of I-95. The main area of Clematis Streets beings at Flagler Drive on the Intracoastal Waterway and continues west. Street and garage parking is available. Walking is the best way to get around, though there is also a free shuttle that runs the length of the main street.
Address: Clematis Street, West Palm Beach, Florida 33401, USA
From $ 69
Dania Beach Pier
If you’re an angler— or just an aspiring angler—head to Dania Beach Pier in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This pier has some of the best fishing in the area, plus everything to help you get started, with on-site fishing pole rentals and bait, plus prime spots for catching yellowtail snapper, grouper, and bluefish.
The Basics
Dania Beach Pier, a 974-foot (297-meter) pier jetting out across the Atlantic Ocean, is occasionally surrounded by manta ray, barracuda, or even some sharks. You can either watch the locals fishing—or, better yet, cast a line yourself. Buy bait and rent rods at the sundry store right on the pier; there are benches and tables used for cleaning fish. There’s also a restaurant, Quarterdeck, and lights should you be interested in night fishing.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This is a great stop for people who like to fish, as well as those who want to watch locals doing their thing.
- You don’t have to have a Florida fishing license in order to fish on the pier.
- A small entry fee varies based on whether you’re fishing or spectating.
- There are restrooms at the pier.
How to Get There
Dania Beach Pier is located in Dania Beach, about 5 miles (8 kilometers ) south of Fort Lauderdale. From Fort Lauderdale, take U.S. 1 South to Dania Beach Boulevard. Metered parking is available in a nearby lot. The closest stop on Broward County Public Transit is Dania Beach B/Gulfstream R, just a 5-minute walk from the pier.
When to Get There
You can access the pier from 6am to midnight daily; the best time to fish is generally in the early morning or late afternoon. If you can avoid fishing on weekends, during spring break, and other times when the pier will be most crowded, you might have the best luck.
Quarterdeck Restaurant
Quarterdeck, the restaurant on the pier, offers delicious seafood and some of the best views around. You can’t go wrong ordering up some fresh fish—the sushi’s great here, too. Best of all, every table overlooks the water.
Address: 300 N Beach Rd, Dania Beach, Flordia 33004, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 63
Bal Harbour
Separated from the mainland of Florida by only a small strip of water, Bal Harbour is a small, upscale community on the island of Miami Beach. The affluent area is most known for its luxury shops, high rise apartment buildings, and St. Regis hotel. The beautiful Bal Harbour Shops include high-end retailers and designers such as Prada, Gucci, Versace, Hermes, Chanel, and Tiffany. And the open-air shopping center features many palm fronds and a tropical feel that is fun to explore.
The Bal Harbour Beach is a wide expanse of fine white sand in the shadows of the nearby buildings. It is difficult to access without direct access to the surrounding structures, so the tropical beach is (for the most part) private. Bal Harbour has fine dining and cocktail options as well — though the island is mostly quiet and peaceful in the evenings.
Practical Info
Bal Harbour is located on the northern tip of the barrier island known as Miami Beach, between Surfside and Haulover beaches. The island is about 10 miles from north to south. To get there from downtown Miami, take I-195 E. It’s about a 40 minute drive, and taxis run about $30 from South Beach.
Address: Bal Harbour, Florida 33154, USA
From $ 179
Art Deco Historic District
Miami Beach’s Art Deco Historic District is a colorful, vibrant section of the trendy South Beach neighborhood. The area includes about 900 unique buildings—from nautical-themed hotels to pastel-colored mansions—and was the first 20th-century neighborhood to be recognized by the National Register of Historic Places.
The Basics
Building elements in the district include sleek curves, glass blocks, terrazzo floors, pastel exteriors, and porthole windows and railings that are reminiscent of the ocean liners that docked in the area during that time. Ocean Drive is one of the best-known streets in the area, home to many Mediterranean Revival-style houses. Notable buildings include Casa Casaurina, a 1930s Spanish-style mansion that was once the home of Gianni Versace, and the 1937 Park Central Hotel, where Hollywood legends like Clark Gable and Rita Hayworth were noted regulars.
A walking tour is the most popular way to explore the area around Collins Avenue and Lincoln Road. Some Miami tours, by vehicle or Segway, include art deco–themed walking tours in the Miami Beach Historic District. Group tours available through the Art Deco Welcome Center include themes like gay and lesbian life, Jewish heritage, Miami scandals, and self-guided audio tours; they offer private tours as well.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Art Deco Historic District is a must for architecture aficionados.
- Restrooms and other amenities are available at the Art Deco Welcome Center, but once you start on a walking tour, there are few public facilities along the way.
- The welcome center houses an art deco museum and gift shop.
- Those with special mobility needs should contact the Art Deco Welcome Center 72 hours in advance of any tour to seek assistance.
How to Get There
The Art Deco Welcome Center, home to the Miami Design Preservation League, is at Ocean Drive and 10th Street, and is a good starting place to pick up brochures and books. The neighborhood stretches to the Atlantic Ocean in the east, Sixth Street to the south, Alton Road to the west, and Dade Boulevard to the north.
When to Get There
The Art Deco Welcome Center is open from 9am to 5pm every day, and different tours run throughout the day. In the summer heat, it’s advisable to book a walking tour in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun—and the crowds. You may want to avoid Miami’s rainy season, June to September.
Art Deco Weekend
The historic district hosts the popular Art Deco Weekend every year, during which Ocean Drive is closed to traffic and vendors showcase vintage and handmade paintings, photography, jewelry, sculptures, posters, and more. There are classic cars, food vendors, and street entertainment, all set against the famous art deco backdrop.
Address: Ocean Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida, USA
From $ 8
Disney Springs
Disney Springs (formerly known as Downtown Disney) is an outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment center in Florida’s Lake Buena Vista, near Walt Disney World and other Orlando theme parks. When you need a break from amusement park rides, head to Disney Springs to pick up souvenirs, dine, or see a show.
The Basics
Disney Springs' Town Center is built around the natural springs that first attracted settlers to the area. From there, walkways lead to The Landing, the West Side, and the Marketplace. Each offers themed architecture, a playful atmosphere, and spots offering live music and waterfront views. Specialty shops and restaurants range from casual to upscale, while entertainment options include Cirque du Soleil performances and The Boathouse, which offers vintage amphicar rides and Italian water taxi rides on Lake Buena Vista. There is also a bowling alley, movie theater, carousel, and multiple concert venues.
Tours from downtown Orlando often include a stop at Disney Springs as well as other area highlights such as Walt Disney World, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Magic Kingdom, and SeaWorld Orlando. For a bird’s eye view of Disney Springs, opt for a helicopter tour of the Orlando area.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Walk-up reservations are available for Italian water taxi tours and amphicar tours.
- Designated parking spaces for guests with disabilities are available in both the Orange and Lime Garages, as well as in the Strawberry, Watermelon, and Grapefruit surface parking lots.
- Parking is free; preferred parking and valet parking are available for a fee.
How to Get There
Disney Springs is accessible by car as well as bus and water transportation. One-way bus service from the four Disney theme parks operates daily, and the promenade is accessible by complimentary water transportation from select Disney resorts.
When to Get There
Disney Springs is open daily from 10am to 12am. While there are plenty of indoor activities at Disney Springs, it’s essentially an outdoor mall so check the weather forecast before heading over.
Tips for Beating the Lines at Walt Disney World
Lines are an inevitable part of the Disney experience, especially at popular rides such as Pirates of the Caribbean, but with a little planning, you can avoid the worst of them. Get to the park before it opens, and immediately head toward the big ticket rides near the back of the park, scheduling your three Fast Passes as you go. Lines tend to be shorter during parades and fireworks shows, and the slower-paced rides are often quieter in the evening after families with young kids have headed home for the day.
Address: 1486 Buena Vista Drive, Orlando, Florida 32830, USA
From $ 37
Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge
If you've ever dreamt of swimming with manatees in their natural habitat, Florida’s Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge is where to go. Established in 1983, the 177-acre (71-hectare) refuge is home to America’s largest concentration of the 1,000-pound gentle giants. West Indian Manatees flock to the more than 70 turquoise-colored springs in Crystal River for warmth during winter. With hundreds of manatees in a small area, sightings are frequent.
The Basics
Visitors to the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge must approach the area by boat. Trained wildlife experts lead excursions onto the river for visitors to view the sea cows and snorkel among them. Whether on a private or a group tour, visitors should receive safety instructions to give the wild animals plenty of space and admire their beauty from a distance. In addition to manatees, you may see dolphins, birds, fish, and turtles. Though manatee encounters are never guaranteed, the refuge is one of the few natural habitats where people are permitted to swim with them.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The waters at Crystal River are comfortably warm, about 72°F (22°C) and clear year-round.
- Most guided tours are led by US Coast Guard-licensed captains and include a wetsuit and snorkel gear.
- Travelers should not intentionally approach the manatees; touching, chasing, and feeding are prohibited.
- Tours often include underwater photography and meals or snacks for the day.
- Manatee season is mid-November to late March and most tours start early in the morning.
How to Get There
The Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge sits alongside the town of Crystal River in Kings Bay, about 80 miles (129 kilometers) north of Tampa and 85 miles (137 kilometers) northwest of Orlando. The refuge doesn’t offer water access facilities for visitors.
When to Get There
The manatee season at Crystal River refuge begins in mid-November and ends in late March. The visitor center is open daily from 8am to 4pm in winter and on weekdays from May through October. The refuge staff may close parts of the sanctuary during winter.
Three Sisters Springs
There are three major sites within Crystal River from which the Florida manatee can be observed. King Spring, where the refugee started, is the largest. Three Sisters is considered the most beautiful and important to the manatees. Shuttles from the Three Sisters Springs Center to a boardwalk along the water run daily.
Address: 1502 Southeast Kings Bay Drive, Crystal River, Florida 34429, USA
From $ 52
Bayside Marketplace
Bayside Marketplace, a vibrant waterfront mall in downtown Miami—and the city’s most-visited attraction—sits above Biscayne Bay and features many shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The open-air market has more than 100 shops ranging from apparel to bath products to electronics, and often live performers are on hand to keep shoppers entertained.
The Basics
Feel warm tropical breezes as you step out of the shops and onto the promenade at this two-story complex of retailers. Bayside Marketplace features both local and national brands, as well as items—including souvenirs—for all budgets. In addition, boat tours, bike tours, water taxis, and fishing charters leave from here: It’s a great place to board a bay cruise or boat ride on the bay.
Things to Know Before You Go
- In the evenings and on weekends, the market’s atmosphere often gets energetic with dancing and live music.
- Vehicle parking, handicapped parking, and stroller parking are all available.
- Aside from many restaurants, there is a food court serving more fast, casual dining options.
How to Get There
Bayside Marketplace is located right on the water on Biscayne Boulevard. There is plenty of paid parking available, and many routes arrive on Miami Beach and South Florida public transportation and Metrorail. It is about a 15-minute walk (less than one mile/1.6 kilometers) from the heart of downtown Miami.
When to Get There
The marketplace is open daily from 10am. Closing hours, and individual restaurant and shop hours, vary—all are available on the Bayside Marketplace website.
See Miami from the Water
After exploring Miami by land, see a different side of the city by heading out onto the water. Sightseeing tours of Biscayne Bay allow for uninterrupted views of the Miami skyline, its many landmarks, and even some celebrity homes. Check out the Port of Miami, Fisher Island, Star Island, and the Venetian Islands while enjoying a relaxing cruise.
Address: 401 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, USA
From $ 10
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Tampa’s Busch Gardens combines the thrills of a theme park—replete with myriad roller coasters, ziplines, a white rapids ride, and other rides—with the wonder of a zoo, including more than 12,000 animals from 300 different species. Across its 335 acres (136 hectares), the Africa-themed park also hosts live performances for the whole family.
The Basics
Purchase tickets to Busch Gardens in advance to save money over gate prices—and save time waiting in line. Ticket options include single-day admission to Busch Gardens, combo admission to Busch Gardens and other Tampa hot spots such as SeaWorld, and all-day dining. The Tampa Bay CityPASS gives you access to five attractions, including Busch Gardens, at a deep discount, while other packages roll in admission to area water parks. On extra busy days at Busch Gardens, it may pay to purchase Quick Queue to bypass lines for the most popular rides.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Busch Gardens is ideal for families with children visiting the Tampa area.
- A dining pass saves money—and time—if you plan to eat at least two meals at the park.
- There are several dining options available throughout the park, from grab-and-go snacks to buffets and sit-down dining.
- An air-conditioned kennel is available for pets at the front of the park for $10 per day.
- The park is accessible to wheelchair users. Strollers, wheelchairs, and scooters are available to rent.
How to Get There
Busch Gardens is located about 8 miles (13 kilometers) northeast of downtown Tampa, about a 20-minute drive; approximately one hour from Orlando via I-4; and 30 minutes east of Tampa area beaches and the Tampa International Airport. Paid parking is available on-site. An advance-purchase ticket includes free round-trip transportation, through Mears Destination Services, to Busch Gardens from several Orlando area locations.
When to Get There
Busch Gardens is open every day of the year. The most crowded days tend to track with American school holidays—namely summer and spring break. Beat the crowds by visiting the park on a weekday, and arrive at or close to the park’s opening time.
How to Use Child Swap
Like many other major theme parks, Busch Gardens offers Child Swap for parents who are with a child too small to ride an attraction. This allows one adult to ride alone or with an older child, while the other adult waits with the small child; then they swap so the waiting adult can ride, relieving both adults from having to wait in line.
Address: 3000 East Busch Blvd., Tampa 33612, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 99
Aquatica
Aquatica Orlando is a sister park of SeaWorld Orlando and Discovery Cove. It follows a South Pacific theme with Australian and New Zealand mascots such as Roa (kiwi), Wae Wae (a takahē), Wai (dolphin) and more. Aquatica Orlando features thrill rides, family fun adventures and several themed animal areas.
Dolphin Plunge is Aquatica Orlando’s signature thrill ride, in which side-by-side tube slides pass through a pool with a pod of Commerson’s dolphins. Hoo Hoo Run is another popular attraction that features a triple-dip multi-person raft slide, and Ihu’s Breakaway Falls is the tallest, steepest and only multi-drop tower of its kind in Orlando.
Families will find no shortage of attractions to enjoy here, including Roa’s Rapids, a lazy-river-style attraction with geysers, speed zones and center islands. Loggerhead Lane is another lazy-river-style attraction that passes through the Commerson’s dolphin exhibit, while areas designed for kids include Kata’s Kookaburra Cove and Walkabout Waters.
If you want to check out some animal exhibits, you don’t have to be on Dolphin Plunge or Loggerhead Lane to see the Commerson’s Dolphin exhibit. These dolphins are rather distinctive with primarily black heads, flippers and fins, with white dominating other parts of their bodies. They are small and typically found in the shallow coastal waters of the sub-Antarctic. Another animal exhibit at Aquatica Orlando is the African Spurred Tortoises that are often found along the Sahara Desert’s southern edge.
Practical Info
Since Aquatica is a family park, be sure to wear appropriate swim attire. Swimsuits with buckles, rivets or other sharp objects are not allowed on body slides. If you are bringing children in diapers, they must be in waterproof protectors. If you don’t want to worry about carrying cash or credit cards during your day, get a cashless wristband at any ticket booth, Guest Relations or the Information & Reservations Counter.
Address: 5800 Water Play Way, Orlando 32821, USA
Hours: Daily 10am-5pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 44
Clearwater Beach
With expansive white sand beaches on the Gulf of Mexico, Clearwater Beach is a waterfront Florida community known for its aquatic activities and warm, turquoise waters. Clearwater Beach is an ideal launching pad for kayaking, parasailing, boating, and biking. It’s known as being more low-key than its southern neighbor, the bustling St. Pete Beach, and many consider Clearwater Beach to be among the best beaches in America.
The Basics
There’s an activity for every age and interest at Clearwater Beach, from relaxing on the sand with beach chairs, umbrellas, and cabanas to jet-skiing, speed boating, and fishing. Families with kids enjoy the gentle surf, prime for swimming and water sports. Visitors often steal away from nearby theme parks to spend time on the water, sometimes on day trips from Orlando and St. Petersburg.
Things to Know Before You Go
- At three miles long, Clearwater Beach is easy to navigate by car, bike, or foot.
- Mandalay Avenue, which runs parallel to the beach, is a mile-long stretch of restaurants, shops, and hotels.
- To get an overview of the area, jump on the Jolley Trolley (fees apply), which travels around Clearwater Beach and up to Sand Key.
- Be sure to bring sun-protection gear and beachwear. Restroom and shower facilities are offered at most area beaches.
- Beach wheelchairs are available at the Main Beach Lifeguard Station, south of Pier 60.
How to Get There
Clearwater Beach is about 22 miles north of St. Pete Beach and two miles west of downtown Clearwater. The road south is South Gulfview Boulevard, and north is Mandalay Avenue, Clearwater Beach’s main drag. The nearest airports are in Tampa, about 20 miles (32 kilometers) away, and St. Petersburg-Clearwater, 12 miles (19 kilometers). The beach is about a two-hour drive from Orlando.
When to Get There
Clearwater Beach is warm year-round, with peak temperatures from April to October. Summer temperatures often hit upwards of 90°F (32°C), when the humid, subtropical climate often also sees short thunderstorms. The mild winters attract the largest crowds.
More Than Just a Beach
Visitors to Clearwater Beach can do more than just lounge by the famously clear water. Plan ahead and book a deep-sea fishing tour or a dolphin boat tour, or check out the “Sea Screamer,” a speedboat that zooms along the coast. Don’t miss the 1,080-foot (329-meter) Pier 60, with its bait shop, playground, and evening sunset festival, or beautiful Sand Key Park, which sees smaller crowds.
Address: Clearwater Beach 33760, USA
Hours: Daily
Admission: Free
From $ 65
Coral Gables
All across America are wealthy suburbs, where the houses are big and new and designed to resemble European abodes. But Coral Gables, called the City Beautiful, was the first. For in the posh neighborhood, you’ll see Italianate villas, Mediterranean mansion, mini-Alhambras, and cookie-cutter Cordobas, shaded and lovely under lving walls of banyan grove and ficus copse.
After you’ve spent some time driving around looking at all the beautiful homes, head up Granada Boulevard to Anastasia Avenue to marvel at the palatial landmark Biltmore Hotel. Then zip up the diagonal Desoto Boulevard, past the gurgling stone fountain of DeSoto Plaza to the perfectly sculpted landscaping, waterfalls, palm groves, and shaded pavilions of Venetian Pool. For a little respite, head east past wedding-cake houses and an organic pavilion of banyan branches to Miracle Mile, a sparkling stretch of the Gables’ finest shopping outlets.
To the south is the University of Miami, where the gorgeous grounds and its student body inject a nice dose of punky youth into this aristocratic neighborhood. Art lovers should stop at the Lowe Art Museum to see the stunning collection of pre-Columbia and Mesoamerican art. The museum also has a lovely collection of Renaissance and Baroque art.
Practical Info
Coral Gables is located southwest of downtown Miami and borders Coconut Grove and Little Havana. The City Beautiful is packed with dining establishments and gourmet shops, along many international retailers.
You can easily spend an entire day here sightseeing, shopping, and eating. Though you can get here by public transportation, you’ll get the most of your visit by car, as you can easily see more sites.
Address: Miami, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 39
Bass Museum of Art
The Bass Museum of Art in Miami Beach, founded in 1963, specializes in global art, primarily from the Renaissance period on. The museum is located in the 1930s Miami Beach Public Library and Art Center and includes traveling exhibitions from national and international collections to contribute to the cultural activities available in the area. A large expansion took place between 1998 and 2002, more than doubling its size from 15,000 to 35,000 square feet, and more expansions are planned.
There is a year-round calendar of contemporary exhibitions, artists’ projects, educational programs, lectures, workshops and concerts at the museum. Don’t miss the Art History Lab, a spot that mixes different works of art from various eras in art history to create visual and thematic relationships between them. Pieces are displayed in a “salon style” format as well, so visitors can perhaps also consider the connections between art created in different countries at different points in time.
Practical Info
The Bass Museum of Art is open Wednesday through Sunday from noon until 5pm. On Friday night, the museum stays open until 9pm. The site is located at 2100 Collins Avenue, between 21st and 22nd streets. Photos are permitted in most exhibitions, but ask the front desk personnel to verify which are approved.
Address: 2100 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida, USA
Hours: Wed-Sun from noon until 5pm. Friday nights open until 9pm.
Admission: Adults $8
From $ 40
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
The oldest masonry fort in the United States, the Castillo de San Marcos has exchanged many hands and undergone many name changes throughout the years, but has evolved into a symbol of the cultural clashes that ultimately unify the United States today. Occupying 2.5 acres (101 km²) in downtown St. Augustine, it was first constructed by the Spanish starting in 1672 in order to protect Spanish territories in the New World. Over the next 23 years, the fort was fashioned from a stone called coquina (Spanish for "little shells"), made of ancient shells that have bonded together.
Throughout the years, the fort changed hands between Spanish, British, and American owners, changing its name each time. It also played a vital role in many famous conflicts, from the Civil War to the Spanish-American War. Today, it is a site worth visiting because of its storied history and impressive stature. Walk among the 30 foot (9 m) stone walls and admire the site that was at the center of many of the greatest conflicts in the history of numerous nations.
Practical Info
The monument is located right in downtown St. Augustine.
Address: USA
From $ 28