Florida

95 places in Florida

• Things to see and do at the Florida AquariumVisited September 2017Located in the heart of downtown Tampa, The Florida Aquarium is one of the city’s top attractions—and for good reason. It’s more than just tanks and touch pools. It’s an immersive journey through Florida’s aquatic ecosystems and beyond, designed to educate, inspire, and spark curiosity about the curiosity about the natural world.
• Things to see and do at the Florida Botanical Gardens and Heritage VillageVisited July 2018Tucked into the heart of Pinellas County in Largo, the Florida Botanical Gardens is one of the most underrated gems on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Spanning over 100 acres, this lush, free-admission oasis is a peaceful escape from the nearby beaches and city streets. Whether you're a plant lover, photographer, walker, or just someone who needs a break from the chaos, this place delivers a a dose of calm and natural beauty with zero pretense.
• Things to see and do at the Florida Caverns State ParkVisited August 2015When people think of Florida, they picture beaches, swamps, and palm trees—not underground caves. But tucked away in the Florida Panhandle, near Marianna, is a place that flips that stereotype on its head. Florida Caverns State Park is the only state park in Florida where you can take a public tour of dry caves. It’s a rare chance to swap sunshine for stalactites.
• Things to see and do at the Florida EvergladesVisited January 2024Stretching across 1.5 million acres of South Florida, the Everglades is unlike any other place in the U.S. It’s not a swamp—it’s a slow-moving river, wide as a lake and shallow as a puddle, flowing through sawgrass plains, mangrove forests, and freshwater marshes. It’s raw, wild, and teeming with life. And if you think it’s just gators and mosquitoes, you’re missing the bigger picture.
• Things to see and do at the Guana Reserve in FloridaVisited March 2025If you’re looking for a side of Florida that isn’t paved over or packaged into a theme park, head to the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve—or just Guana Reserve for short. Located between Ponte Vedra Beach and St. Augustine on Florida’s northeast coast, this protected area is one of the state’s best-kept secrets. It's where coastal wilderness still reigns and where hiking boots and binoculars are more useful than beach towels.
• Things to see and do at the Hillsborough River in FloridaVisited July 2023Winding 60 miles from the green heart of Central Florida to downtown Tampa Bay, the Hillsborough River is more than just a body of water. It’s a living artery that feeds ecosystems, cities, and weekend adventures alike. Whether you're kayaking past cypress knees in near-silence or watching the skyline rise from a riverfront park, the Hillsborough River is Florida’s wild soul in motion.
• Things to see and do at the Homosassa Springs in FloridaVisited February 2015If you want to see Florida at its most real and raw—manatees, moss-draped oaks, crystal-clear springs, and zero hype—head to Homosassa Springs. Tucked away on the state’s central Gulf Coast, this small town and its iconic state park offer an unforgettable mix of natural beauty, wildlife, and old-school Florida charm. It’s not about thrill rides or mega-resorts here. It’s about slowing down and and soaking in something authentic.
• Things to see and do at the Myakka River in FloridaVisited February 2024If you want to understand the wild side of Florida—the real, untamed Florida—you go to the Myakka River. Flowing through Sarasota County and slicing its way through one of the state’s oldest and largest state parks, the Myakka isn’t your average river. It’s raw, winding, and full of life. And it doesn’t care if you’re ready for it or not.
• Things to see and do at Troy Springs, FloridaVisited April 2026Troy Springs, Florida is a hidden gem for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in North Florida. Located near Branford in Suwannee County, Troy Springs is a first-magnitude spring that flows into the historic Suwannee River. Known for its crystal-clear waters, shaded swimming areas, and lush natural surroundings, Troy Springs offers visitors a serene escape and a taste of Old Florida.
• Things to see and do at Wakulla Springs, FloridaVisited April 2026Wakulla Springs, Florida is one of the most iconic natural attractions in North Florida, famous for its crystal-clear waters, abundant wildlife, and historic significance. Located in Wakulla County, just south of Tallahassee, Wakulla Springs State Park is home to one of the world’s largest and deepest freshwater springs. Visitors flock here for swimming, boat tours, wildlife viewing, and a chance to experience Florida’s natural beauty in a pristine setting.
• Things to see and do at Wes Skiles Peacock Springs, FloridaVisited April 2026Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park is one of the Florida’s most unique and fascinating natural attractions. Located in Suwannee County, this state park is renowned for its crystal-clear freshwater springs, extensive underwater cave systems, and diverse wildlife. Named in honor of renowned underwater photographer and explorer Wes Skiles, the park offers visitors a rare opportunity to experience Florida’s underwater world and natural beauty in a pristine setting.
• Things to see and do in Apalachicola, FloridaVisited April 2026Apalachicola, Florida is a hidden gem along Florida’s Forgotten Coast, offering a peaceful alternative to the state’s more crowded beach destinations. Located at the mouth of the Apalachicola River along the Gulf of Mexico, this small town is known for its historic charm, world-famous oysters, and relaxed coastal atmosphere. For travelers seeking authentic Old Florida, Apalachicola delivers a unique and memorable experience.
• Things to see and do in Apollo Beach, FloridaVisited January 2018Nestled just 17 miles south of Tampa along the eastern shore of Tampa Bay, Apollo Beach is a thriving waterfront community with around 26,000 residents. Originally a low-lying mangrove swamp, it was reimagined in the mid-20th century as a canal-laced paradise framed by serene coastlines and wildlife preserves.
• Things to see and do in Bayport, FloridaVisited April 2020Bayport, Florida is a hidden gem on Florida's Nature Coast. Tucked away at the mouth of the Weeki Wachee River in western Hernando County, Bayport is a quaint, unincorporated village with a population of just 45—an evocative remnant of "Old Florida" charm. Encompassing a mere 0.64 square miles, this tiny community packs in history, natural beauty, and serene riverside living.
• Things to see and do in Bradenton, FloridaVisited January 2026Bradenton, Florida is a laid-back Gulf Coast destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant arts scene, and scenic waterfront parks. Located along the Manatee River just south of Tampa Bay, Bradenton offers visitors a mix of coastal relaxation and small-city culture.
• Things to see and do in Brooksville, FloridaVisited September 2024Tucked away in the rolling hills of Hernando County, Brooksville is a charming blend of Southern hospitality, storied past, and lush outdoor escapes. Founded in the mid-1800s and named after Congressman Preston Brooks, the city has weathered fires, railroads, and a Civil War-era reputation—emerging today as a vibrant Main Street community with several wineries and breweries in the area.
• Things to see and do in Busch Gardens, FloridaVisited September 2021Busch Gardens Tampa Bay isn’t just another theme park—it’s a rare fusion of high-octane rides and immersive wildlife experiences, all wrapped in one vibrant, African-inspired package. Located just outside of Tampa, Florida, this 335-acre park delivers a full-day adventure that rivals any other destination in the state.
• Things to see and do in Camp Blanding, FloridaVisited April 2023Located just east of Starke in northeast Florida, Camp Blanding spans over 73,000 acres as the Florida National Guard’s premier training site, with origins dating back to 1939. Named after Major General Albert H. Blanding—an esteemed figure in Florida’s military history—the camp has evolved from a National Guard training post into a nationally significant military and conservation resource.
• Things to see and do in Cedar Key, FloridaVisited November 2020Tucked along Florida’s beautiful Nature Coast, Cedar Key is a hidden gem that feels suspended in time. With a year-round population of under 1,000, this island city on the Gulf of Mexico blends coastal tranquility, rich history, creative expression, and so much legendary seafood.
• Things to see and do in Chassahowitzka, FloridaVisited May 2024If you’re tired of the usual Florida vacation—theme parks, crowded beaches, overpriced resorts—there’s a place that still feels raw, wild, and beautifully untouched. It’s called Chassahowitzka. Locals just call it “The Chaz.” And once you paddle its glassy spring-fed waters, you’ll understand why it’s one of Florida’s best-kept secrets.
• Things to see and do in Clearwater, FloridaVisited May 2022Clearwater, Florida isn’t just another beach town—it’s a blend of postcard-perfect coastline, low-key charm, and year-round sunshine. Nestled on the Gulf Coast just west of Tampa, Clearwater has earned national attention for its sugar-white sand and calm, clear water. But it’s more than a pretty beach. It’s a full experience, whether you’re here for a long weekend or thinking about making it your new home base.
• Things to see and do in Clermont, FloridaVisited April 2025Clermont isn’t your typical Florida town. Forget the flat landscapes and coastal crowds—this Central Florida gem is known for its rolling hills, sparkling lakes, and small-town energy with big potential. Located about 30 minutes west of Orlando, Clermont is one of the fastest-growing cities in the region, but it hasn’t lost what makes it special: charm, community, and a connection to nature.
• Things to see and do in Cocoa Beach, FloridaVisited May 2021Cocoa Beach isn’t just another Florida beach town—it’s a lifestyle. Tucked along the Atlantic coast, just an hour east of Orlando, Cocoa Beach is where surf culture, space history, and small-town charm collide. It’s casual, unpretentious, and full of personality.
• Things to see and do in Croom, FloridaVisited April 2017If you’re looking for the wild side of Florida—the kind with dusty trails, dense woods, and no crowds—Croom is calling your name. Located in Hernando County, just north of Brooksville and a little over an hour from Tampa or Orlando, Croom is part of the massive Withlacoochee State Forest. It’s not a town exactly—more like a region—but to outdoor enthusiasts, "Croom" means one thing: adventure.