Florida Travel Guide: 6 Spots to Visit, 2 to Skip

A long-time resident of Florida has compiled a guide to the state's tourist attractions, separating the must-visit destinations from the ones that can be skipped. Based on more than 25 years of experience exploring the Sunshine State, the guide identifies six hot spots that genuinely live up to their reputation.

The recommended locations offer a diverse range of experiences, from cultural and artistic hubs to breathtaking natural wonders. These include the vibrant city of St. Petersburg, the immersive Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando, the remote Dry Tortugas National Park, the colorful Wynwood Walls in Miami, the wild Everglades National Park, and the stunning white-sand beaches of the Florida panhandle. In contrast, two popular locations—International Drive in Orlando and South Beach in Miami—are identified as places to avoid, citing issues like tourist-trap environments, high costs, and overcrowding. The guide also offers practical advice on timing and alternative destinations to enhance a Florida vacation.

After exploring nearly every major tourist spot in the state, a 25-year resident has identified several locations that are truly worth a visit. These destinations are celebrated for their unique character, natural beauty, and memorable experiences.

Cultural and Urban Gems

The city of St. Petersburg is highlighted as a cultural hot spot on Florida's Gulf Coast. It is described as a vibrant city with an artsy, laid-back vibe. The downtown area is filled with colorful murals, markets, and excellent dining options. A specific recommendation is to visit the St. Pete Pier for beautiful waterfront views and great restaurants, with a suggestion to arrive in the late afternoon to catch the stunning sunset.

In Miami, Wynwood Walls offers a unique, artsy experience. This outdoor street-art museum is an explosion of color and creativity, featuring massive, changing murals from artists around the world. The surrounding Wynwood neighborhood also contains art galleries, shops, and trendy restaurants. Recommendations for the area include grabbing a drink at Panther Coffee or having dinner at Bakan, which is known for its authentic Mexican cuisine.

Magical and Natural Wonders

For a truly immersive experience, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando is highly recommended. The attractions at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure are praised for their incredible detail, bringing the magical world to life. The experience is split between Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade, and the Hogwarts Express connects both lands, making a park-to-park ticket essential for the full experience.

Nature lovers have several excellent options. Dry Tortugas National Park, located about 70 miles west of Key West, is a remote and stunning destination. It is home to Fort Jefferson, a 19th-century coastal fort surrounded by crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling. Access is limited to ferry or seaplane, making it a true off-the-grid getaway. Booking in advance is highly recommended as space fills up quickly. Similarly, Everglades National Park offers a taste of Florida's wild side. This massive ecosystem is home to alligators, manatees, and diverse bird species. Visitors can take an airboat tour or explore the park up close by kayak.

Relaxing Beach Getaways

The beaches of the Florida panhandle are described as absolutely stunning, featuring some of the softest, whitest sand available. This area, which includes Pensacola, Santa Rosa Beach, and the scenic 30A stretch, is perfect for a mix of relaxation and outdoor fun. Destin, known for its clear emerald waters, is noted as a family favorite. The best time to visit is recommended as late spring or early fall to enjoy warm weather without the summer crowds.

Not every popular destination lives up to the hype. Based on extensive experience, two specific locations are recommended to be skipped in favor of better alternatives.

International Drive, Orlando

International Drive is a shopping and entertainment area in downtown Orlando. While it contains a few decent spots like Icon Park and the Orlando Premium Outlets, much of the area is described as feeling like a tourist trap. For those looking for shopping, dining, and entertainment in Orlando, a better recommendation is Disney Springs. This destination offers a taste of Disney magic without requiring a park ticket.

South Beach, Miami

South Beach is an iconic area in Miami, but it may not be suitable for all travelers. Unless the goal is to party, the experience can be more of a headache than a highlight. Specific drawbacks include pricey food and drinks, crowded beaches, and difficult parking. For a more peaceful and scenic Miami experience, especially for families, Crandon Park Beach is suggested as a superior alternative.

Planning a trip to Florida involves navigating a vast array of options. The key is to focus on destinations that offer genuine value, whether through natural beauty, cultural enrichment, or unique experiences. The panhandle beaches and national parks provide opportunities to connect with Florida's natural environment, while cities like St. Petersburg and Miami's Wynwood neighborhood offer rich cultural scenes. Theme park enthusiasts can find unparalleled immersion at Universal Orlando's Harry Potter attractions.

Conversely, avoiding high-traffic, commercialized areas like International Drive and South Beach can lead to a more relaxing and enjoyable vacation. By choosing alternatives such as Disney Springs or Crandon Park Beach, travelers can still enjoy shopping and beach activities without the associated drawbacks. This curated list, based on long-term local knowledge, provides a framework for a well-rounded and memorable Florida trip.