Choose from 156 Fun Things to Do in Florida
ShowingFilter 21-40 of 156 listings.
Downtown Tampa
The central business district of this popular Florida destination is known by both travelers and locals as Downtown Tampa. This part of the city is ripe with a diverse arts and culture scene, as well as lively night life, dozens of museums and a handful of historic performances spaces. Visitors can spend the afternoon exploring the impressive Florida Aquarium or the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts. The Glazer Children’s Museum, next to the Tampa Museum of Art, offers up plenty of interactive fun for the family set, and a stroll along the scenic river walk showcases striking views of the Tampa city skyline. Travelers who prefer an evening out on the town will find what they’re after in the Uptown District, where some of the city’s best restaurants and bars are located, while those in search of an urban escape can enjoy the outdoors in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park.
Practical Info
The easiest way to navigate Tampa is by private car or hired taxi. But the city does have its own metro system known as HART, as well a streetcar system known as TECO for travelers who prefer to the convenience of mass transit.
Address: Tampa, Florida, USA
From $ 70
Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
Nestled among towering palm trees on Key West, the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum allows you to see where one of the United States’ most famous writers and greatest thinkers lived and worked. The Hemingway Home is a National Historic Landmark and Literary Landmark, and recorded at the Library of Congress as an Historic American Building.
The Basics
The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, in the building where Hemingway lived from 1931 to 1939, offers an intimate glimpse into the Nobel Prize winner’s life. Walk along the narrow pathway through the luscious gardens overflowing with tropical plants, or check out the round wooden desk where one of Key West’s most famous residents typed out some of his famous works on an old typewriter.
Key West’s hop-on hop-off trolley tours are a popular way to explore the island, and most stop at the Hemingway Home. To visit the museum on your own, simply purchase tickets at the front entrance (cash only); reservations are not required. If you’re not staying in the Keys, a number of full-day tours from Miami include stops at this location and other island highlights.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Hemingway Home & Museum is a must for literary buffs visiting Key West.
- The on-site bookstore sells all of Hemingway’s books, as well as other works related to Key West and the Florida Keys.
- Check the museum’s website for the local cruise ship schedule, which could save you from waiting in line with the throngs of newly arrived passengers.
- The museum’s gardens and lower level of the house are accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum is located on Whitehead Street, near the southernmost point of Key West, less than a 10-minute drive from the airport. It is right across the street from the Key West Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarters Museum, another popular Key West attraction.
When to Get There
The Ernest Hemingway house is open from 9am to 5pm every day of the year, including holidays. The Florida Keys are a popular winter and spring destination due to pleasant temperatures; you’ll find the local attractions to be most crowded during this time. Summers can be sweltering and humid, and fall is hurricane season.
In and Around Key West
The Hemingway Home, famous for the horde of cats that roam the grounds (some are said to be descendants of Hemingway’s own six-toed cat), is not far from Key West’s other highlights, including the historic Old Town, bustling Duval Street, the Key West White House, and Mallory Square, a popular place to watch the sunset. Exploring Key West is very easy on foot, and most attractions are within easy walking distance of each other.
Address: 907 Whitehead Street, Key West, USA
Hours: Open daily year-round from 9am - 5pm
Admission: Adults: US$14 Children: US$6
From $ 62
Duval Street
Your ultimate destination for a tasty bite to eat or a night on the town while in Key West is Duval Street. Running north and south from the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico, Duval Street is home to many famous restaurants and bars. Among the most notable of these establishments is Sloppy Joe's, the haunt of Ernest Hemingway while he stayed in Key West. He helped select the bar's name. Now, Sloppy Joe's pays homage to its most famous patron by holding an annual Hemingway look-a-like contest.
You can also check out the Southernmost House, a huge pink Victorian mansion that currently operates as a museum and inn. Its name comes from the fact that it is located on the southernmost end of Duval Street in Key West, the southernmost city in the continental U.S, making it, in theory, the southernmost house in the U.S.
On certain nights, Duval Street hosts a carnival that lasts well into the wee hours of the night.
Practical Info
Duval Street is located on the southwestern end of Key West, and is less than a 10 minute drive from the airport.
Address: Key West, USA
From $ 20
Florida Aquarium
The perfect place to take the entire family for an afternoon, the Florida Aquarium offers exciting views of nature within the comfort of an air-conditioned building. Home to more than 20,000 aquatic plants and animals, the aquarium offers 200,000 square feet (23,000 square meters) worth of fun and adventure.
If just walking around the expansive building and enjoying the amazing wildlife isn't enough, the aquarium also has additional opportunities for more in depth exploration. Some of these family friendly attractions include a Swim with the Fishes Tour, Penguins : Backstage Pass opportunity, and a Wild Dolphin Ecotour.
If you ever want to head outside, the 2-acre "Explore a Shore" water adventure zone provides opportunities for the kids to cool off with water games while parents can relax under the shade of the Tampa Tribune Cantina bar and grill.
Practical Info
For those extra daring, the Florida Aquarium offers a unique opportunity to go diving with sharks! Certified SCUBA divers can dive into the enormous Shark Bay, home to different species of sharks and sea turtles. Enjoy the stunningly clear, warm water that allows perfect viewing opportunities, without the hassle of having to take a boat trip to complete the dive!
The aquarium is about a 10-minute drive east from downtown Tampa.
Address: 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa 33602, USA
Hours: Open daily 9:30am - 5pm. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas
Admission: Adults: US$19.95, Children (under 12yrs): US$14.95. Separate fees for tours
From $ 25
Fort De Soto Park
Located off the coast of St. Petersburg, Fort De Soto Park is not your average ‘park.’ It’s actually 1,136 acres made up of five interconnected islands (keys) and is the largest park in the Pinellas County park system. With seven miles of waterfront, including almost three miles of beautiful, white sand beaches, Fort De Soto is a popular destination for both visitors and guests to the St. Petersburg area.
There’s plenty to do in Fort De Soto Park. History buffs can explore the historic fort while cyclists and walkers can enjoy seven miles of paved trails that run through the park. For nature lovers, it’s worth noting that the park is the start of the Great Florida Birding Trail (328 species of birds have been documented over 60 years and new species are being added every year) and offers the one of the greatest diversities of bird, sea life, plant and wild life in Florida. The beach is also a nesting ground for the loggerhead sea turtle between April and September. Add in the picnic area, kayak trail, camping areas, dog park and the ferry to Egmont Key State Park and there is plenty to see and explore during a visit to Fort De Soto.
Practical Info
Entry to Fort De Soto Park is located at 3500 Pinellas Bayway S. in Tierra Verde, FL. There is a daily parking fee of $5, but entry is free if you enter on foot or by bicycle. The Fishing Pier is open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. and a lifeguard is on duty from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily from March to September.
Address: 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde, Florida 33715, USA
From $ 325
Epcot Center
Epcot Center, part of the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, is a theme park packed with internationally and futuristic-themed attractions, rides, pavilions, shows, and entertainment. Created from a concept developed by Walt Disney himself, Epcot is dedicated to human achievement, technological innovation, and international cultures.
The Basics
Epcot—an acronym for Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow—moves at a slower pace than many other parts of the Magic Kingdom, with no roller coasters screeching overhead, no parades, no water rides, and plenty of greenery. Here you can smell the incense in Morocco, listen to the Beatles in the United Kingdom, eat sushi in Japan, and munch on an authentic pastry in France. Epcot Center is divided into two. The modern Future World, with its can’t-miss iconic geosphere known as Spaceship Earth, explores modern technologies through myriad rides and displays. The World Showcase allows visitors to tour the world in a day by dipping their toes into the cultures of 11 countries, including Mexico, Norway, China, France, Germany, and Italy.
Tours of Epcot from Orlando include those with a private guide, which allow insiders to get expert advice on the best ways to navigate the park, or helicopter tours that offer aerial views of the park and greater Orlando.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Unlike other parts of the Magic Kingdom, most stores and restaurants in Epcot serve alcohol.
- Illuminations: Reflections of Earth is an award-winning light show that takes place every night at 9pm just before the park’s closing.
- Epcot is connected to the Magic Kingdom by the Disney World monorail system. To make the entire trip, transfer at the Transportation and Ticket Center.
- Epcot is accessible to strollers, wheelchairs, and guests with mobility, hearing, and visual disabilities.
How to Get There
Epcot Center is easily accessed via Florida Interstate 4 (I-4). Pay for preferred parking (close to the entrance gate) or ride the tram from your spot to the gate. Orlando International Airport is 22 miles (35 kilometers) away, about a half-hour drive.
When to Get There
Epcot is open every day from 9am to 9pm. The holiday season and spring break bring huge crowds and long lines for rides and attractions. Throughout the year Epcot hosts a variety of festivals, including the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival; the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival; and Holidays Around the World, which showcases each pavilion’s traditional holiday celebrations.
Visiting Epcot with Small Kids
Although there is a distinct lack of animated characters prancing around Epcot, that doesn’t mean there’s nothing for small kids. Upon entry, pick up a guide map and entertainment schedule. Look for Kidcot stops, play and learning stations for the younger set. The Soarin’ ride is a winner, and Mission: SPACE is good for getting the adrenaline pumping after a string of educational exhibits. Additionally, three fountains in the park encourage splashing and playing; these are particularly great for kids too small for traditional water rides in other parks.
Address: 1375 N Buena Vista Drive, Orlando 32830, USA
Hours: Open daily 9am - 9pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 37
Florida Mall
Orlando may be best known for the Magic Kingdom, but travelers who want to shop ‘til they drop will find a different kind of excitement at the Florida Mall. Home to more than 250 stores and restaurants, this retail Mecca attracts some 20 million visitors each year.
Travelers will find all the shops they know and love lining the well-lit halls of this popular mall. And top-hits like one of the few M&M’s World shops, an American Girl store and a massive interactive Crayola Experience store make this the perfect place not just for a girlfriends’ getaway, but a day trip away from Disney, too.
Practical Info
Visitors can opt for a shop and stay package with discount hotel rates and easy access to the Florida Mall, or book an Orlando shopping tour and hit all the city’s hot spots. This top destination proves the ideal spot to escape sweltering Florida sun for a bit of retail therapy.
Address: 8001 S Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, Florida 32809, USA
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 10am-10pm; Friday 6am-10pm; Saturday 10am-10pm and Sunday 12pm-9pm.
From $ 20
Flagler College
With its red-tiled roofs and wide landscaped lawns, the campus of Flager College features some of the most beautiful Spanish Renaissance architecture in the country. It is routinely named one of the most beautiful universities in the United States, which makes sense given that it was converted into a school from a former resort.
The Ponce de Leon luxury hotel (now the college) was first built in 1888. Today it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and was one of the first buildings to granted electricity by General Electric. Often sunny, Flagler College is also a remarkably pleasant place to stroll through. Its brick archways, gleaming fountains, and tall palm trees are reminiscent of southern Spain.
Luxurious details such as Tiffany stained glass windows and painted murals now adorn campus facilities such as dining halls, but that doesn’t make them any less beautiful to behold. Don’t miss the original lobby complete with an elegant 68-foot domed ceiling.
Practical Info
Flagler College is located on 19 acres in downtown St Augustine, just four miles from the ocean. Visitor designated parking is available at the entrance to the university. Guided tours of the campus are given daily.
Address: 74 King Street, St Augustine, Florida 32084, USA
Hours: Daily from 7 am - 1 am
From $ 28
Exploration Tower
You can enjoy one of the best views along the Space Coast with a visit to Cape Canaveral’s new Exploration Tower. Built in 2013, the curved, sail-like building is a design match with the myriad cruise ships that venture in and out of Port Canaveral, and the viewing platform atop the seven-story structure offers an ideal vantage point for watching the bustle of the port or a NASA rocket launch from Kennedy Space Center, which sits about 10 miles to the north. Exploration Tower also features inside exhibits, including interactive movies in a two-story auditorium, and a simulator where would-be cruise captains can try their hand at navigating Port Canaveral.
Practical Info
Exploration Tower sits just off the waterfront in Port Canaveral, right next door to the major cruise ship terminals. Visitors can come any day to explore the exhibits and the view, while rocket-launch viewings only happen on occasion.
Address: 670 Dave Nisbet Dr., Cape Canaveral, Florida 32920, USA
Hours: Daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission: $6.50 for adults, $3.75 for children
From $ 80
Downtown St Augustine
St. Augustine holds the title of “America’s Oldest City,” and its historic downtown district arguably holds more history than any other in the United States. Founded by Don Pedro Menendez de Aviles of Spain in 1565, St. Augustine is the oldest continuously-inhabited city in America that was settled first by Europeans. The multicultural city has centuries of stories built into its streets and walls. A stroll through the downtown unfolds influence by the Spanish and English, as well as Native Americans, African Americans, and even Greeks.
The heart of the area is St George’s Street, a pedestrian-only promenade lined with historic architecture and specialty shops, galleries, and restaurants. Parts of the historic downtown have been preserved as living museums, some with artifacts dating back to the 1500s. Don’t miss the “Fountain of Youth,” a monument dedicated to Juan Ponce de Leon (who claimed Florida for Spain in 1513.) The old schoolhouse, old jail, colonial Spanish Quarter, and Castillo de San Marcos all offer a glimpse into the past.
Practical Info
Downtown St Augustine is pedestrian-friendly and most of the historic sights can be seen on foot. Many of the streets are narrow and designed for foot traffic as opposed to cars, so parking in the historic area itself can be a challenge — though some public lots are available.
Address: St Augustine, Florida 32084, USA
From $ 17
Edison and Ford Winter Estates
Step back into old Florida and explore the prestigious estates of two of America’s most prominent men. The Edison and Ford Winter Estates are registered as national historic sites for the 20 acres of beautiful landscaped lawns and early Florida era buildings that tell the stories of not just the life and times of these inventors but about early Florida as well. Walk the award-winning Moonlight Garden or use the grounds to picnic or enjoy breeze form the cove. Also on site are the Edison Botanic Research Lab and the Edison Ford Museum. More than just a walk through museums, a visit to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates is an opportunity to enjoy the park-like environment
Practical Info
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates are located at 2350 McGregor Blvd. in Ft. Myers, Florida. Ticket prices vary based on the extent of the tour, but start at $20 for adults and $11 for children.
Address: 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 33901, USA
Hours: Open daily from 9am to 5:30pm
Admission: Varies but start at $20 for adults and $11 for children
From $ 35
Dow Museum of Historic Houses
This popular city attraction is the ideal destination for history, architecture and art lovers. Travelers can saddle up to a city block that dates back some 400 years and learn about the stunning collection that was once Kenneth Dow’s. The nine homes and stunning courtyards that make up this worth-while stop showcase the life of locals during historic times and pay homage to the gardens, traditions and artistry this part of the state is known for.
Practical Info
The Dow Museum of Historic Houses is located at 149 Cardova Street, near the corner of Bridge Street in St. Augustine, in the old town section of the city. It is open daily from 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. with tours offered at 11 am, 1 pm and 3 pm.
Address: 149 Cardova Street, St Augustine, Florida, USA
Hours: Daily from 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. with tours offered at 11 am, 1 pm and 3 pm.
From $ 28
Everglades Holiday Park
Everglades Holiday Park is a classic—if a bit kitschy—introduction to the Florida Everglades and its wild inhabitants. Geared toward the whole family and nicknamed the "Gateway to the Everglades," the 29-acre park has been entertaining and educating visitors for more than 30 years. Most famous for its guided airboat rides, Everglades Holiday Park is also the home to Animal Planet’s Gator Boys show.
On an airboat tour, see where Florida gators make their home and learn why it's so important to protect these areas. An experienced guide will point out some of the region's unique features, including wild birds, snakes, and other flora and fauna that are not found anywhere else in the United States.
As a working park and rescue operation, Everglades Holiday Park believes the best way to raise awareness about the importance of conserving natural wetlands is by allowing its visitors access to some of its best-known inhabitants. All the alligators featured at Everglades Holiday Park are natural inhabitants of the Everglades, or rescue animals, and their health and wellbeing is taken very seriously.
Practical Info
Everglades Holiday Park is located at the western end of Griffin Road, off U.S. 27. Admission includes an airboat tour, a gator show, and a group photo. While Viator does not sell these activities, animal encounters are available for purchase at the park for an additional cost of $99. Airboat tours operate daily, departing every 20 minutes during the park's opening hours. Children 3 years of age and younger enter free.
Address: 21940 Griffin Road, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33332, USA
Hours: Daily 9am–5pm
Admission: Adults $30.99; children (3–11) $18.99
From $ 33
Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary
When visiting the Florida Keys it is hard to miss the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary as most of the water surrounding the Florida Keys is part of the sanctuary. Covering 2,900 square nautical miles, the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary protects the incredible underwater world of the Florida Keys, where reefs and animals flourish.
During a visit to the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, you have a few different options for how to experience this protected area of nature. The sanctuary is home to the world’s third largest barrier reef and is an excellent spot for scuba diving or snorkeling. There are even a series of shipwrecks you can explore as a diver called Shipwreck Trail.
If you’d rather stay above water, you can rent a boat to explore the sanctuary and possibly do some fishing. When boating it is important to use mooring buoys for your anchor as they won’t damage the reef. In addition, boaters should pay attention to the commands of other buoys in the sanctuary as they are strategically placed to protect the environment.
To learn more about the history and conservation efforts of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, a visit to the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center is a must. Through interactive exhibits you’ll learn about the land-based and under the sea wildlife and plants of the Florida Keys. There is also a living reef tank, which has an abundance of coral and fish living in it.
Practical Info
The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary starts just south of Miami and stretches through the Florida Keys to the Dry Tortugas. If visiting the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, head to 35 East Quay Road in Key West; it is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and has free admission.
Address: 33 E Quay Rd, Key West, Florida 33040, USA
From $ 181
Fisher Island
Just three miles of the coast from Miami, Fisher Island is one of the world’s most exclusive beach communities. Cut off from the mainland by the creation of a canal in 1906, it has then been owned by some of Florida’s wealthiest citizens. Today it’s an upscale oasis with private shoreline access and golf course.
Real estate here is prime, and the last census revealed that Fisher Island has the highest per capita income of any place in the United States. No roads or bridges lead to the island - it is accessible only by ferry or private invitation. Aside from the warm, turquoise waters and white sands of its shores, there are mansions, apartments, a private marina, an observatory, and one hotel located on the island. Luxurious and tropical, a visit to the private island offers a glimpse into a community that truly is home to the rich and famous.
Practical Info
Fisher Island is located off of the southern tip of Miami on Biscayne Bay. It is accessible only by ferry, and typically only by invitation. The ferry runs 24 hours a day and runs every thirty minutes from Terminal Road of Miami Beach’s MacArthur Causeway.
Address: 1 Fisher Island Drive, Miami Beach, Florida 33109, USA
From $ 26
Econlockhatchee River
Known as the Econ River for short, Econlockhatchee flows from Lake Conlin through three counties in central Florida. Its name originated from “river of many mounds,” named for the Indian mounds located along its waterfront.
The area has a unique, densely forested landscape. Water levels vary based on rainfall, but there’s usually plenty of wildlife to see. The upper section of the river is swampland, and resident alligator sightings tend to be frequent. Canoe and kayak padding is a common way to enjoy the natural beauty of the river.
Other wildlife that calls the river home includes bald eagles, sandhill cranes, ospreys, and other wildfowl, as well as deer, turkey, and river otters. The river was deemed an Outstanding Florida Waterway and is one of few unspoiled rivers in Central Florida. Flowing through moss-covered cypress and palm forests, it comprises some of the state’s most beautiful natural scenery.
Practical Info
The river, located just east of Orlando, flows for 54 miles. Divided into three sections (upper, middle, and lower,) Various trails, waterways, and campsites can be found throughout. Boats can be launched from the Hidden River Park off of Highway 50.
Address: Econlockhatchee River, Florida, USA, USA
From $ 86
Egmont Key
Egmont Key off St. Petersburg, Florida is a tiny island with a grandiose past that’s only accessible by boat. This 450-acre island was used as a jail for Seminoles, and was held by the Union in the Civil War for its strategic location in the bay. With the threat of war against the Spanish in 1898, a fort was built on the seashell shore to guard against potential attack, and stands today as concrete reminder of the island’s historic past. When visiting Egmont Key today on a boat ride from Fort DeSoto Beach, pack along shoes to enjoy the hiking trails that weave through the island’s interior, and keep a lookout for gopher tortoises that inhabit the sandy the island. Also bring your bathing suit, of course, for wading in the cerulean waters, and sunscreen to keep your skin protected while lounging out on the beach. Towards the end of the island is Egmont Key Lighthouse, which has stoically stood here since 1858 as an aid to passing ships. Today it’s one of the only structures that still remain on the key, which is a calming retreat of seashells and wilderness just minutes from bustling Tampa Bay.
Practical Info
Egmont Key is a Florida State Park and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. There are no shops or facilities on the island, so you’ll have bring everything with you, including food, water, sunscreen, and anything you need for the beach. From March-September ferries run twice per day, departing Fort DeSoto at 10am and 11am, returning at 2pm, 3pm, and 4pm. From after Labor Day through the end of February, one ferry per day runs at 11am, returning at either 3pm or 2pm depending on the time of year.
Address: St. Petersburg, Florida, USA 33711, USA
Hours: Open daily 8am-Sunset
Admission: Prices vary from $15/ferry ticket to fares for a private boat
From $ 37
Disney's Animal Kingdom
Disney’s Animal Kingdom takes the best parts of a theme park and a zoo, blending them seamlessly into one encompassing experience. Visitors can go on safari through the Sahara (and see real animals in naturalistic habitats), explore the world of Pandora from Avatar, ride the rapids of an Asian river, or encounter a yeti on Mount Everest.
The Basics
The newest of Walt Disney World’s four parks is a favorite with families. Admission options vary, from a single-day ticket that gets you into Animal Kingdom to single or multi-day Park Hopper passes that allow you to freely move between any of Disney’s four parks (including the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios). Travelers based in places like St. Augustine, Tampa, or St. Petersburg may even visit the park on a very long day trip.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a must-visit for animal lovers and families traveling with kids.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to do a lot of walking.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Book your tickets early to save time waiting in the long ticket office queues.
- Much of the park is wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs are available to rent.
How to Get There
Disney offers free bus transportation to Animal Kingdom from Disney hotels and other Disney parks. The only other way to get there is to drive yourself or book round-trip transportation.
When to Get There
Plan to arrive a few minutes before the park opens, and head straight for the animal exhibits before it gets too hot. If possible, plan your visit during months when school is in session to avoid the high season crowds.
Shows at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
While this park may lack the fireworks and parades Disney is known for, there’s no shortage of entertainment options. The Festival of the Lion King and Finding Nemo—The Musical, both Broadway-style musicals, are popular with visitors of all ages, and once the sun goes down, the River of Lights illuminates Discovery River in a spectacle of light and sound.
Address: 2901 Oceola Pkwy, Orlando 34787, USA
Hours: Open daily 9am - 5pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 37
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
Set on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is best known for its population of West Indian manatees. The park is primarily a rehabilitation center for the creatures, which swim in the freshwater spring while they are treated. On land, native Florida wildlife thrives in the dense surrounding forest.
The Basics
Homosassa Springs houses treasures both on land and below the water’s surface. Head to the Fish Bowl underwater observatory to see the manatees and 34 varieties of fish at close range, or board a pontoon boat to cruise the Homosassa River, keeping an eye out for gators, turtles, and otters, plus dozens of bird species. A Wildlife Walk winds through the forest, offering a chance to spot elusive wolves, bobcats, and panthers. Most tours of the park leave from Orlando and include opportunities to swim and snorkel with the docile manatees in nearby Crystal River.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The park is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, with ramps, elevators, and accessible boats and trams.
- Picnic areas are located along the Garden of the Springs and near the Fish Bowl.
- The Wildside Café, located at the park’s west entrance, offers concessions and coffee.
- While pets are not allowed in the park, a free kennel at the entrance offers a place to house your pet while you explore.
How to Get There
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is located off Highway 19 near Homosassa Springs, roughly 70 minutes from Tampa and 90 minutes from Orlando by road. Parking is available on site.
When to Get There
Plan to spend about four hours at Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park to hit all the walking trails, enjoy the educational programs, and take a pontoon boat tour. Winter is an especially good time to visit because the manatee population typically peaks during this season.
West Indian Manatees
Also known as the sea cow, West Indian manatees inhabit Florida’s freshwater springs. Slow-moving bottom feeders, these docile animals are at high risk for being injured by boat propellers. Since a dip in population in the 1990s, the manatees have been protected under the Endangered Species Act, and their population has rebounded to around 6,000 individuals in Florida.
Address: 4150 South Suncoast Boulevard, Homosassa, Florida 34448, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 139
Dolphin Mall
Miami is known for its lively nightclub scene, sandy beaches and fiery flavors. But Dolphin Mall has put this colorful city on the map for shopping and entertainment, too.
With more than 240 stores, shops and restaurants—including high-end discount outlets—Dolphin Mall has become a destination for travelers eager to shop ‘til they drop. Visitors can explore the mall’s unique layout—which includes areas like Ramblas, Playa and Moda, which pay homage to Miami’s multicultural roots. Guests can comb through casual apparel, home design and décor, and even high-end boutiques that offer up one-of-a-kind designs.
Practical Info
Easy access via public transportation, airport shuttle and the Florida Turnpike make this retail Mecca convenient trip from just about anywhere in the county. Travelers can select ground transfer options direct from the airport, or venture on their own to this top shopping destination.
Address: 11401 12th St NW, Miami, Florida 33172, USA
Hours: 10am-10pm Saturday through Tuesday. Wednesday and Thursday 10am-11pm and Friday 9am-11pm
From $ 27