Perennial sunshine, lush landscapes, bustling cities and some of the best beaches in the world- there’s a lot to like about Florida. From the glamorous Miami to adventurous Orlando, Florida presents ample avenues for tourists to have a time of their lives here. Add to it its diverse culture and wildlife, and you have a state that has an equal charm for all kinds of visitors.
Though every nook and corner of Florida is worth a visit, here are our top five picks for places that you must visit when in the state.
Fort Lauderdale
With its 165 miles of waterways and canals, Fort Lauderdale is a great alternative if that Italy trip seems distant. The beaches here are as beautiful as you would expect them to be in Florida, and are lined with luxury yachts. For excellent dining and shopping options, make way to Las Olas Blvd located far inland. With a bevy of new restaurants and nightclubs, Fort Lauderdale has also started holding the attention of families who would earlier shy away from the destination because of its popularity amidst the college crowds. Find some inspiration for planning your next trip to the Caribbean while watching the ships heading toward the destination from Port Everglades.
The Morikami Museum
How rare is it to find a museum devoted to another country’s living culture in a different country? Very rare! But Florida surprises with its beautiful Morikami Museum dedicated to the celebration of the culture of Japan. Located on the Delray Beach, the museum is also home to beautiful Morikami Gardens called Roji-en which translates to Garden of the Drops of Dew. The history and aesthetics of the garden are explained in detail by local guides. Try to visit the garden when a cultural programme has been organised to get deep insights into the culture of Japan.
The Amelia Island
The fact that eight colonial powers have overthrown each other to fly their flag over the island says a lot about its beauty. Amelia Island boasts 13 miles of pristine Atlantic beaches that are thronged by crowds looking for swimming, snorkelling and sunbathing. Don’t forget to look for shark’s teeth while you are exploring the beaches. Also adding to its beauty are 117 lush golf courses. Start your day by exploring the historic district and end it on a sunset cruise into the Atlantic Ocean. For the lovers of the quiet, a hike through the maritime forests and marshlands of the island is going to be one of the most cherished experiences.
The Everglades National Park
The largest subtropical wetland ecosystem in the country, the Everglades National Park is the second largest national park in the US. The 1.5 million acres of the park are home to alligators, American crocodiles, Florida panthers, deer, turtles, egrets, manatees, river otters and many other species. Regular fishing and bird watching tours with experienced guides are organised to the park to educate visitors on the diverse wild life and vegetation of the Everglades National Park.
The Florida Springs
Florida has more than 900 freshwater springs that add to the beauty of this state. From just a trickle of water to the ones that emit over 500 million gallons, Florida’s natural springs and underwater caves add an element of drama to the beautiful landscapes of the country. The bubbling springs are an oasis for swimmers away from the maddening crowds of the city.
