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When you think of vacations in Florida, you could be forgiven for immediately thinking of a certain cartoon mouse and his animated friends. But beyond Disney, Florida has a lot to offer for families, couples or groups of friends.
The sunshine state offers everything from vibrant urban areas like Miami with its pastel art deco buildings to laid-back beach communities such as Key West. As amazing as Disney World and other theme parks like Universal Studios and Six Flags are, you can look beyond that to plan a holiday full of relaxation and culture.
Watersports in St Petersburg
Fun loving families will love the destination known locally as St. Pete for an outdoorsy, action-packed break. For a variety of activities such as kayaking, hiking, snorkeling, and camping, Fort De Soto State Park offers stunning scenery and a taste of the wild. There are lots of high-end resorts waiting to host you for some much-needed rest and relaxation, plus a thriving restaurant culture to cater to your foodie side.
Become a History Buff in Tallahassee
If American history interests you, then find a hotel in Tallahassee, Florida and discover the fascinating tapestry of politics, ancient cultures, the space age and more. You can visit places such as the Bellevue Plantation at Tallahassee Museum where you can learn about the world of antebellum agriculture. Then, leap straight into the Challenger Learning Centre which is complete with an IMAX movie theatre and a Planetarium. A state of the art space mission simulator and 32,000 square feet of space-themed artifacts make for a fascinating visit.
Discover Nature In Orlando
Orlando is full of great escapes to do with the natural environment, far from the artificial landscapes of the theme parks. Right in the shadows of the roller coasters, in Kissimmee, you can explore the Florida Everglades by airboat, gliding over the still waters at up to 40mph to spot animals such as alligators and other exotic nightlife. You can even do a night expedition if you’re feeling brave!
Search For Seashells at Fort Myers
If the laid-back beach life is calling your name, the white sands and crystal clear waters of Fort Myers and the picturesque Sanibel Island will soothe your soul. Chill out by the tranquil coastline, enjoy a selection of excellent restaurants from casual cafes to fine dining, visit the wildlife sanctuary and witness the spectacular sunsets. The amazing seashells that stud Sanibel Island will have you happily beachcombing for hours and drinking in the blissful scenery.
Go Swimming at Juniper Springs
This central Florida gem, located at Ocala National Forest, boasts with sparkling springs in a subtropical setting. If taking a splash is your thing, visit this oasis with hundreds of tiny bubbling springs and massive springs gushing out of crevices in the earth beneath a dense canopy of palms and oaks.
Get Racing At Daytona
If you have a need for speed, the world famous Daytona International Speedway plays host to thrilling NASCAR races and is heaven for motor enthusiasts and thrillseekers. Take a tour of the racetrack, get in pole position for some of the rally, such as the Red Bull Global Rallycross and learn about the history of this legendary racetrack. Speed demons will love it!
Pack Your Bags!
And if you yearn to escape from the snow this season….well, the Sunshine State awaits for you 🙂 Now tell me, what is your favorite Florida activity (that’s not theme park related, lol)?
Cheers, Y’all! 🙂