We have chosen top recommendations for exploring Florida beyond the usual Miami and Orlando attractions, including beaches, museums, culture, and abundant nature.
When you think of Florida, the first things that probably come to mind are the Orlando theme parks and the beautiful beaches of Miami. However, the state offers much more than just these popular tourist spots.
Travel Tips was invited by Visit Florida for a road trip to explore various state destinations. Over 10 days, we visited diverse locations across Florida, including beaches, race tracks, and rivers to spot crocodiles. It’s surprising to see crocodiles sometimes crossing the streets in Florida.
Don’t be afraid. This guide shares safe methods to observe these intriguing creatures. Explore lesser-known cities in Florida for a unique road trip experience.
In this article, you will find:
- Our schedule for Florida
- When is the best time to visit Florida?
- How long should I stay in Florida?
- Screenplay for Florida featuring Sebring, St Petersburg, Clearwater, Adventure Coast, and Daytona Beach.
- Sebring
- St Petersburg and Clearwater are both cities in Florida.
- Adventure Coast – Coastal Adventure
- Daytona Beach in Florida
- In Florida, you can spend 1 to 2 days in Sebring, 3 to 5 days in St. Petersburg and Clearwater, 6 to 7 days in the Adventure Coast, 8 to 10 days in Daytona Beach, 11 to 12 days in Naples, 13 to 14 days in St. Augustine, 15 to 17 days in Sarasota, and 18 to 20 days in Key West (Florida Keys).
- Sebring – within a period of one to two days
- St Petersburg and Clearwater typically take 3 to 5 days to visit.
- Adventure Coast – 6 to 7 days
- Daytona Beach typically takes 8 to 10 days.
- Naples typically takes around 11 to 12 days.
- St. Augustine takes about 13 to 14 days.
- Sarasota – 15 to 17 days
- Key West in the Florida Keys typically takes 18 to 20 days.
- Script recommendations for Florida for couples, families, solo travelers, and on a budget.
- Couples’ guide.
- Guide for families
- Traveling solo script
- Economic situation
- Access additional recommendations provided by Florida American Visa.
- Visa for the United States
- Frequently Asked Queries
- Sebring is the subject of the text.
- St Petersburg and Clearwater are two cities.
- Adventure Coast – Coast of Adventure
- Daytona Beach in Florida
- Sebring can be expected within 1 to 2 days.
- St Petersburg and Clearwater typically take 3 to 5 days to visit.
- Adventure Coast – 6 to 7 days
- Daytona Beach – 8 to 10 days
- Naples takes around 11 to 12 days.
- St. Augustine takes about 13 to 14 days.
- Sarasota typically experiences 15 to 17 days of a certain event.
- Key West in the Florida Keys typically takes 18 to 20 days.
- Couples’ guide
- Family guide
- Script for solo travel
- Economic situation
- Visa for the United States
Our schedule for our trip to Florida
chsyys/GettyImages
Our team has been invited to learn more about the state and will provide additional details about Florida, known for its stunning beaches considered some of the finest globally.
Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach are popular destinations for beach lovers in search of elegant and picturesque landscapes in Florida.
Tampa, situated near Orlando and Miami, is a worthwhile destination to explore. It boasts numerous attractions, with Busch Gardens being a standout feature. This park is renowned for its thrilling rides, making it a great choice for roller coaster enthusiasts. Additionally, accommodation options in Tampa tend to be more budget-friendly compared to those in other cities.
All the cities mentioned are ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to take a genuine road trip through Florida. A useful suggestion for enjoying this Florida itinerary is to rent a car in Orlando and leisurely continue the journey.
When is the best time to visit Florida?
The optimal period for your screenplay in Florida is during the spring season. Known for its transitional weather, spring offers moderate temperatures, minimal rainfall, and excellent value for money.
Winter, despite the cold weather, is distinguished by race competitions such as the 24 hours of Daytona held in January.
Autumn is a popular choice as it is the off-peak season and offers a more peaceful atmosphere.
The summer in the state is very warm and is the busiest time of the year. If you want to save money on your trip, it’s best to avoid this season.
How long should I stay in Florida?
It is advisable to spend a minimum of 7 days in Florida to fully explore the region, with 10 days being the ideal duration to visit both popular and lesser-known cities along the way.
Parents can choose to take it slow if their children are tired, while couples or solo travelers can maximize their travel experience by exploring various tour options.
If you have extra time, you can create a 20-day itinerary for Florida, and we’ll explain how in this post! 😉
Screenplay for the city of Florida.
We will then outline the selected cities to visit in Florida for those who prefer to plan their trip according to location in our alternative Florida itinerary.
Sebring
Our different plan originating in Florida began in Orlando and proceeded directly to our initial stop, Sebring, located around 140 km from Orlando, with a travel time of about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Sebring is a captivating city known for its numerous lakes and diverse attractions. One enjoyable way to discover the lakes of Sebring is by taking an airboat tour, a propeller-driven boat that can navigate through shallow mangroves. It’s a highly entertaining experience!
The murals in Lake Placid are a great spot for visitors to the city, perfect for capturing vibrant photos for social media.
St Petersburg and Clearwater are both mentioned.
Our next destination on the different route was in St. Petersburg, known as St. Pete, and Clearwater on the west coast of Florida. Visitors can explore stunning beaches and immerse themselves in the region’s blossoming cultural offerings.
The region features the renowned Museum of Salvador Dalí, housing around 2,000 pieces by the artist, the biggest collection outside Europe. Another popular site in the area is the St. Pete Mural Tour.
There is no shortage of things to do in the city, with activities ranging from helicopter tours for a bird’s eye view to sampling craft beers.
Adventure Coast – Coast of Adventure
We journey to the Adventure Coast, the Ecological Adventure Route in Florida, connecting Weeki Wachee to Brooksville.
The Adventure Coast is completely encompassed by natural surroundings, with the Gulf of Mexico to the west and the Withlacoochee River to the east, making ecotourism a central focus of the area.
The Florida Bird Watching Track, known as the Great Florida Birding Trail, offers opportunities to see numerous bird species. Some birds reside in the area year-round, while others can be spotted between October and April. Planning a visit is recommended.
You can also join guided tours to learn how to identify boi fish, or engage in outdoor activities such as biking on one of Florida’s top trails.
Daytona Beach is the location stated.
Our ultimate arrival point was Daytona Beach, which is labeled as “the most famous beach in the world” at the city entrance sign. The city is located around 90 kilometers away from Orlando, taking just over 1 hour to drive there.
There are approximately 38 kilometers of tranquil beaches in the city, which is famous for being the home of NASCAR, the largest automobile association in the United States. Additionally, it hosts the primary North American Stock-Car competition, the Daytona International Speedway, where visitors can experience high-speed car rides.
Florida’s screenplay will last from 10 to 20 days.
Below, you will discover recommendations for things to do and tours that can fill a ten- to twenty-day trip if you are seeking a different route to Florida. The suggestions include the top routes that take you through key landmarks and attractions in the area.
We provide advice to help you maximize your experience at this destination, rather than creating custom scripts. 😉
Sebring – 1 to 2 days
- Key attractions include an Airboat Ride, Sebring International Raceway, Highlands Hammock State Park, and Lake Placid.
- Places to dine at: Cowpoke’s Watering Hole, Good News Coffee, Faded Bistro & Beer Garden, Maxwell Groves
- SEVEN Sebring Raceway Hotel, Inn on The Lakes, Residence Inn by Marriot, and La Quinta by Wyndham Sebring are recommended places to stay.
- Explore the murals on the streets and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings to save money.
We begin the alternate journey to Florida in Sebring, which is 1 hour and 40 minutes away from Orlando by car or 2 hours and 50 minutes from Miami.
Get up early, enjoy a nice breakfast, then go on an Airboat Ride to observe crocodiles. Visit Sebring International Raceway in the afternoon for a tour and end the day with a tasting at Sebring Soda and Ice Cream.
On the second day, visit Highlands Hammock State Park, one of Florida’s oldest forest parks, where you may spot alligators. Then, experience a rum and vodka tasting at Sugar Sand Distillery before exploring the unique art at Lake Placid’s graffiti walk.
St Petersburg and Clearwater typically take 3 to 5 days.
- Dalí Museum, Fort de Soto Park, St. Pete Beach, Chihuly Collection, Florida Holocaust Museum, Clearwater Beach are some popular places to visit in the area.
- The Hangar Restaurant and Flight Lounge, Locale Market, Juno & The Peacock, and Mad Beach Craft Brewing are recommended dining options.
- Postcard Inn On The Beach, Hollander Hotel, Hyatt Place St. Petersburg, and Sunset Inn and Cottages are recommended hotels for a beach vacation.
- Walking along the shores and docks is cost-free and provides enjoyable experiences.
Wake up in the morning to head to St. Petersburg, also known as St. Pete by locals.
After you arrive at the hotel, take a helicopter tour to enjoy a stunning perspective of the Gulf of Mexico and its surroundings. Later in the day, explore the Dalí Museum, which showcases the art of Salvador Dalí, and wander through streets adorned with colorful murals. Conclude your day with live music at Jannus Live.
The following day, start your day by heading to Fort de Soto Park in Pinellas County. Spend time relaxing at North Beach or visit nearby beaches like St. Pete Beach and Madeira Beach. Witness the sunset at John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk pier.
The Chihuly Collection is important to visit, showcasing artist Dale Chihuly’s glass sculptures, and the Florida Holocaust Museum was established by two German Jews who survived the Holocaust.
On the third day, head to Clearwater, which is a 40-minute drive from St. Pete. Clearwater Beach is renowned for its white sandy beaches and clear waters. Don’t miss the beautiful sunset at Pier 60 and end the day with a beer tasting at 3 Daughter’s Brewing.
Adventure Coast – Explore for 6 to 7 days
- Top Places to Visit in Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Bayport-Linda Pedersen Paddling Trail, and Chinsegut Hill Museum.
- Papa Joe’s Italian Restaurant, The Bistro, Silver Dolphin Restaurant, Florida Cracker Kitchen, and Willy’s Tropical Breeze Cafe are dining options.
- Travel advice: Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Spring Hill/Weeki Wachee, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites, Hampton Inn Brooksville Dade City
- The admission ticket for Weeki Wachee Springs State Park includes access to the Mermaid Show.
The Adventure Coast cities provide numerous exciting activities for tourists, including a morning kayaking tour on the Weeki Wachee River, exploring the Bayport-Linda Pedersen Paddling Trail after lunch, and ending the day with a sunset boat ride on the Gulf of Mexico.
Explore the Chinsegut Hill Museum in the morning, enjoy an off-road quad biking experience in the afternoon, and end the day with a visit to the N’Joy Spirits distillery for tastings of whiskey and rum.
Daytona Beach typically experiences an 8 to 10 day duration.
- Key sights include Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach Pier and Boardwalk, Racing’s North Turn, Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum, and Marine Science Center.
- Where to dine: Racing’s North Turn, Off the Hook at Inlet Harbor, Houligan’s, Pig Stand, Grind Gastro Pub, and Kona Tiki Bar
- Reviews of Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach, Hampton Inn Daytona Beach/Beachfront, and The Shores Resort & Spa.
- Walking along the pier and waterfront is cost-free and offers wonderful experiences.
Visit the renowned Daytona International Speedway racing track at the beginning of the day, where you can explore the facility, check out the museum, and potentially experience a high-speed drive on the track, even when not in season.
After having lunch, stroll along the Daytona Beach Pier and Boardwalk by the ocean, and for those seeking excitement, the top recommendation is to try the “Slingshot” attraction that catapults riders 100 meters in the air. Conclude your day with a meal at Racing’s North Turn, a renowned eatery situated at the original starting point of the Daytona Beach Races.
Visit the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum, the tallest lighthouse in Florida, on the second day for a scenic coastal view and to explore the museum showcasing the area’s maritime history. Afterwards, check out the Marine Science Center to discover more about the local marine life. End the day at Daytona Lagoon amusement park, where you can enjoy waterfalls, mini golf, and go-karting.
Naples – Approximately 11 to 12 days
- Top places to visit: Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Naples Pier, Lowdermilk Park, Naples Botanical Garden, Fifth Avenue South
- Michelbob’s Ribs, The Dock at Crayton Cove, Brooks Gourmet Burgers & Dogs, and USS Nemo Restaurant are recommended dining options.
- Travel advice: Accommodations in Naples include Naples Park Central Hotel, Hyatt House Naples 5th Avenue, Cove Inn on Naples Bay, and Best Western Naples Inn & Suites.
- Happy hour is typically less expensive in the United States, making it a good opportunity to save money.
Continue your Florida detour in Naples, a city renowned for its pristine beaches and vibrant cultural scene. Begin your day at Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary to observe manatees, followed by a visit to Naples Pier and the popular Naples Beach in the afternoon.
Wake up on the second day and head to Lowdermilk Park beach. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through Naples Botanical Garden. Finish the day by exploring Fifth Avenue South, known for its charming galleries and shops.
St. Augustine lasts for 13 to 14 days.
- Top sights include Castillo de San Marcos, St. George Street, Lightner Museum, St. Augustine Lighthouse, St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, and Vilano Beach.
- Where to dine: The Floridian, Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille, Columbia Restaurant, O’Steen’s Restaurant
- Travel Tips for the Best Western Historic Bayfront in Saint Augustine, Villa 1565 at Bayfront Inn.
- Children under the age of 16 can enter Castillo de San Marcos for free.
St. Augustine was the initial colonial settlement in the U.S., making it a worthwhile destination for exploring its history through a guided tour. Begin the day at Castillo de San Marcos to appreciate its historical architecture. Follow up with a stroll along St. George Street and a visit to the Lightner Museum to delve deeper into the city’s past. For the adventurous, a ghost tour at night offers a unique experience in the city’s most haunted spots.
Start your second day by exploring the St. Augustine Lighthouse for a scenic morning sight. Next, visit the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, which has been in operation since 1893. In the afternoon, relax at Vilano Beach, a peaceful beach with nearby shops. Wrap up your day by having dinner at a local seafood restaurant.
Sarasota typically takes 15 to 17 days.
- Top sights: Siesta Key Beach, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, St. Armands Circle
- Where to dine: The Cottage, Owen’s Fish Camp, Dry Dock Waterfront Grill, Duval’s Fresh Local Seafood.
- Ameniti Bay at Best Western Signature Collection, Tropical Beach Resorts in Sarasota, Hibiscus Suites in Sarasota, and Spark by Hilton Sarasota Siesta Key Gateway are recommended places to stay.
- Beach parking is less expensive in the morning.
Sarasota is a city known for its beautiful beaches and lovely streets. Begin your day by unwinding at Siesta Key Beach and grabbing lunch in the area. In the afternoon, visit Marie Selby Botanical Gardens to see their orchid collection, and explore the downtown parks.
Wake up on the second day and visit the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, which features the largest art collection in Florida. Explore the Ca’ d’Zan Mansion located inside, the former home of the museum’s collectors. End the day by strolling through St. Armands Circle and enjoying the sunset at Bayfront Park.
Key West in the Florida Keys typically has a stay of 18 to 20 days.
- Fort Zachary Taylor Beach, Duval Street, Hemingway House, and Dry Tortugas National Park are some of the main tourist spots.
- El Siboney, Louie’s Backyard, Blue Heaven, and Salute! On The Beach are recommended dining options.
- Hotel Reviews: Truman Hotel, Blue Marlin Motel, Southernmost Point Guest House & Garden Bar, El Patio Motel
- Larger group tours offer discounts on how to save.
Key West, the final stop on our Florida journey, is situated near Cuba and is heavily influenced by Cuban culture, especially in its diverse local food scene. Enjoy the beautiful coral beaches at Fort Zachary Taylor Beach during the day, and explore the numerous dining options and cafes along Duval Street in the evening.
Visit the Ernest Hemingway House museum on the second day. In the afternoon, go on a boat trip at Dry Tortugas National Park. Consider exploring nearby islands or taking a boat ride in Key West for more adventure. End the day with a special waterfront dinner. 🙂
Scripts recommendations for Florida
Explore additional script advice for Florida featuring various cities and options tailored to your travel preferences, financial plan, and companionship.
Couples’ guide
Begin your journey to Amelia Island, a charming island located to the north of Florida. Stroll along peaceful shorelines and explore Fort Clinch State Park, perfect for outdoor gatherings and capturing scenic moments. Experience a stay at the sophisticated Elizabeth Pointe Lodge, a delightful boutique hotel situated by the beach. Indulge in a romantic evening by having a candlelit dinner at Salt, a renowned dining establishment.
Head to Mount Dora, a charming city with a European village atmosphere. Discover its scenic waterfronts, enjoy a boat tour on Lake Dora, and meander through streets lined with cafes and shops. Experience a stay at the historic Lakeside Inn, offering beautiful lake vistas. Conclude the day with a cozy dinner at The Goblin Market.
Explore Sanibel Island, a serene escape in the Gulf of Mexico. Wander along Bowman’s Beach, known for its stunning scenery and distinctive seashells. Enjoy a stay at Island Inn with convenient beach access. Conclude your visit by witnessing the sunset and dining at the elegant Bleu Rendez Vous French Bistro.
Family guide
Begin your Clearwater journey by exploring the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and then unwind at Clearwater Beach. Enjoy your stay at Sandpearl Resort, known for its children’s activities and ocean views. Indulge in meals at Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill, offering casual cuisine and a kids’ menu.
Explore LEGOLAND Florida in Winter Haven, where you can enjoy both theme attractions and a water park. The LEGOLAND Hotel offers uniquely themed rooms for a delightful and enchanting stay.
Head to the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral to discover rockets and space exploration. Pair this with a trip to Blue Spring State Park, where kids can observe manatees in winter or swim with them in summer.
Conclude your journey in Destin, Panhandle, enjoying tranquil beaches and tours on glass-bottom boats. Rest at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Destin Miramar Beach, providing various amenities for families. Have a meal at Pompano Joe’s in Destin, known for its fresh seafood and relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Traveling solo script
chsyys/KaboomPics
Begin your adventure in Key Largo, a haven for diving and snorkeling. Discover the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, America’s inaugural underwater park, perfect for independent explorers with a passion for marine creatures. Enjoy a comfortable stay at the intimate Amoray Dive Resort and savor the laid-back, authentic Florida Keys fare at Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen.
Head to Everglades National Park for an airboat tour through the swamps, then make your way to St. Petersburg to visit The Dalí Museum and explore the galleries in the Central Arts District. Stay at the fashionable Hollander Hotel, ideal for meeting fellow travelers, and enjoy a meal at Birchwood Canopy with its stunning seaside view.
Conclude your exploration of Amelia Island by visiting peaceful beaches and the historic Fort Clinch State Park. Enjoy a stay at the delightful Blue Heron Inn, a perfect bed and breakfast for unwinding.
Economic situation
Begin your journey at Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park in Homosassa, where you can enjoy budget-friendly admission to see manatees and other wildlife. Walk around the park or take a boat tour. Save money by trying the delicious homemade food at Wild Sassa. Next, head to Blue Spring State Park, where you can swim in pristine waters or relax in the complimentary picnic spots.
Head over to Pensacola in the Panhandle region and bask in the beauty of the Gulf Islands National Seashore beaches, offering budget-friendly admission and stunning scenery. Explore the National Naval Aviation Museum, a captivating attraction suitable for visitors of all ages, and enjoy a cost-effective stay at the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, complete with complimentary breakfast.
Explore the Castillo de San Marcos and stroll along historic St. George Street in St. Augustine. Stay at the affordable Villa 1565 and enjoy budget-friendly meals at the Burrito Works Taco Shop.
Find additional advice from Florida.
The tips are not finished yet!
Visa for the United States
One essential requirement for individuals intending to travel to the United States is the interview for the American visa. It is mandatory for anyone looking to enter the country, regardless of the purpose, be it for work, education, or leisure. The initial stage involves filling out the DS-160 form on the internet, and upon approval, proceeding to the interview with the American consul.
This stage is conducted in Portuguese and verifies the details provided in DS-160. It is recommended to be truthful and respond only to the specific questions asked. The interviewer will likely concentrate on the information you provided in the form. By approaching the interview confidently and attentively, you can secure your visa.
We provide a list of full articles to assist you in organizing your journey.
- How to obtain a US visa
- United States of America
- Florida is a state in the United States.
- Florida Travel List
- Adventure Coast – Coast of Adventure
- Sebring
- St. Petersburg is the location.
- Daytona Beach is a coastal city in Florida.
- Orlando – Text about Orlando
- Activities in Orlando
- Accommodations in Orlando
- Orlando Accommodations
- Miami
- Activities in Miami
- Accommodation options in Miami
- Miami Accommodations
- Fort Lauderdale is the location mentioned.
- Cover page
- Accommodations in Tampa
- Hotels in Tampa
Frequently Asked Questions
Still unsure? Check out the main questions from our readers about this.
Some of the top cities to explore in Florida besides Orlando and Miami include Fort Lauderdale, Palm Beach, Tampa, Sebring, St. Petersburg, Daytona Beach, and the Adventure Coast area.
To plan a family trip in Florida, consider visiting Orlando’s theme parks, exploring LEGOLAND Florida in Winter Haven, observing alligators at the Everglades, relaxing on the beaches of Naples, and attending a race in Daytona Beach.
The top romantic route in Florida includes the lovely Clearwater beach, the stunning St. Augustine, and the fantastic Amelia Island and Sarasota.
Florida boasts top dining establishments such as Cowpoke’s Watering Hole, The Hangar Restaurant and Flight Lounge, Pope Joe’s Italian Restaurant, and Racing’s North Turn.
When in Florida, make sure to visit Orlando’s theme parks, discover Clearwater and Miami beaches, experience an airboat tour in the Everglades, attend a stock-car race in Daytona, and explore the historical Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine.
The top route for Florida excluding Orlando runs through Fort Lauderdale, Sebring, Naples, Clearwater, St. Pete, St. Augustine, and Daytona Beach, towns rich in natural wonders, beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and Everglades adventures.
A great itinerary along the West Coast of Florida features Clearwater Beach for enjoying beautiful beaches, St. Petersburg for discovering The Dalí Museum and the lively Central Arts District, Sarasota for exploring the Ringling Museum and the famous Siesta Key Beach, and finally Naples, where you can take nature tours at Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary and watch the sunset at Naples Pier.
A winter itinerary for Florida should start at the Everglades for airboat rides in the mild climate. Explore St. Augustine for its historic sites like Castillo de San Marcos and St. George Street, then head to Naples for serene beaches and Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. End your trip in Key West, where you can enjoy the pleasant weather and beautiful sunsets at Mallory Square.
