The Best Experiences in Florida: Top 10 Must-Do Activities (Currently Open)

Florida isn’t just a destination—it’s a lifestyle of sunshine, adventure, and unforgettable memories. From the powdery beaches of the Gulf Coast to the thrilling theme parks of Orlando and the laid-back island vibes of the Keys, every corner of the Sunshine State offers something magical. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, nature lover, foodie, or history buff, there’s no shortage of things to do that capture the true spirit of Florida.

Here’s your guide to the top 10 must-do activities in Florida, all currently open and waiting to be explored.

Explore the Magic of Walt Disney World Resort – Orlando

There’s no place on Earth quite like Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, the most visited vacation destination in the world. Spanning over 25,000 acres, this iconic attraction includes four major theme parks—Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom—each with its own brand of enchantment.

The Magic Kingdom captures nostalgia with Cinderella Castle, thrilling rides like Space Mountain, and classic character encounters. Over at EPCOT, visitors can travel the globe in the World Showcase, or step into the future with cutting-edge attractions. For Star Wars fans, Galaxy’s Edge at Hollywood Studios is a dream come true.

Beyond the parks, Disney Springs offers shopping, dining, and live entertainment. Whether you’re visiting with kids, friends, or your inner child, Disney World delivers joy and magic for all ages.

Ride the Waves at Clearwater Beach – Gulf Coast

Few places capture Florida’s coastal beauty like Clearwater Beach. With its sugar-white sand, gentle Gulf waters, and family-friendly atmosphere, it consistently ranks among the best beaches in the United States.

Spend the day swimming, paddleboarding, or sailing along the turquoise waves. At sunset, head to Pier 60, where street performers, artisans, and live music create a nightly celebration known as the Sunset Festival.

If you’re traveling with kids, don’t miss the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, home to rescued dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life. Whether you’re chasing relaxation or adventure, Clearwater Beach is a slice of paradise that perfectly embodies the Florida Gulf Coast spirit.

Step Back in Time at St. Augustine’s Historic District

Founded in 1565, St. Augustine is the oldest continuously inhabited European-settled city in the United States—and walking through its cobblestone streets feels like stepping into another century.

Explore the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fortress overlooking Matanzas Bay. Visit the Lightner Museum, filled with Gilded Age treasures, or climb to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse for breathtaking coastal views.

Downtown, charming boutiques and cafés line St. George Street, offering the perfect blend of old-world architecture and modern charm. For a deeper dive into history, take a guided ghost tour or trolley ride through the city’s storied past. St. Augustine is where history comes alive in the heart of Florida.

Dive into Adventure at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park – Key Largo

In the heart of the Florida Keys, you’ll find one of the state’s most spectacular natural treasures—John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. As the first undersea park in the U.S., it protects over 70 nautical square miles of vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

Visitors can explore this underwater wonderland by snorkeling, scuba diving, or glass-bottom boat tours. Schools of tropical fish, sea turtles, and even the famous Christ of the Abyss statue await beneath the surface.

For those who prefer to stay dry, the park also offers mangrove kayaking and sandy beaches perfect for relaxation. It’s a must-do experience for anyone who loves the ocean and wants to witness Florida’s marine magic up close.

Feel the Thrill at Universal Orlando Resort

For adrenaline junkies and movie lovers, Universal Orlando Resort is pure excitement from start to finish. The resort features two world-class theme parks—Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure—plus the vibrant CityWalk entertainment district.

Universal Studios puts you in the middle of your favorite films with rides inspired by Harry Potter, Jurassic World, and Transformers. Over at Islands of Adventure, thrill-seekers can conquer roller coasters like The Incredible Hulk Coaster or explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade.

Don’t miss the new Jurassic World VelociCoaster, one of the fastest and most intense rides in Florida. With great dining, nightlife, and themed hotels, Universal Orlando is more than a park—it’s an unforgettable experience that brings imagination to life.

Glide Through the Everglades on an Airboat Tour

For a true taste of wild Florida, head to the Everglades National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that covers over 1.5 million acres of wetlands. The best way to experience its beauty is by airboat, gliding across the marshes as you spot alligators, herons, and other native wildlife.

Popular starting points like Everglades City, Shark Valley, and Homestead offer tours led by knowledgeable guides who share insights into the delicate ecosystem. Some operators even offer night tours, where you can see the Everglades under the moonlight.

It’s a one-of-a-kind adventure that connects you to the heart of Florida’s natural heritage—untamed, raw, and awe-inspiring.

Experience Island Bliss in Key West

When it comes to laid-back luxury, Key West reigns supreme. Located at the southernmost tip of the continental U.S., this quirky island paradise is known for its colorful architecture, tropical cocktails, and sunsets that stop time.

Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum to meet the famous six-toed cats, stroll along Duval Street for lively bars and music, or take a sunset sail from Mallory Square.

Food lovers can’t miss Blue Heaven, a whimsical outdoor restaurant serving Caribbean-inspired dishes under swaying trees and wandering roosters. For a more upscale evening, dine at Latitudes on Sunset Key for oceanfront elegance.

In Key West, time slows down, worries drift away, and every day feels like a vacation.

Discover Space Exploration at Kennedy Space Center – Merritt Island

Located on Florida’s Space Coast, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is a must-visit for anyone fascinated by science and discovery. This legendary site has launched every U.S. human spaceflight since 1968 and remains one of the most inspiring destinations in the country.

Visitors can walk beneath real rockets, meet astronauts, and even see a live rocket launch if you time your trip right. The Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit offers a jaw-dropping look at NASA’s space history, while the Astronaut Training Experience lets guests try simulations that mirror real-life missions.

It’s educational, inspiring, and utterly thrilling—a journey beyond Earth that’s perfect for both kids and adults.

Snorkel with Manatees in Crystal River

Few experiences in the world are as heartwarming as swimming alongside gentle manatees in Crystal River, located on Florida’s Nature Coast. This is the only place in the United States where you can legally swim with these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

During the winter months, hundreds of manatees migrate to the warm springs of Three Sisters Springs, offering incredible viewing opportunities. Local tour operators provide wetsuits and snorkeling gear, ensuring safe, respectful encounters with these “sea cows.”

Even if you prefer to stay dry, you can kayak or paddleboard through the crystal-clear waters and watch the manatees glide peacefully below. It’s an unforgettable encounter with Florida’s wildlife and natural beauty.

Relax and Reconnect in Naples

For travelers seeking serenity, Naples on Florida’s Gulf Coast offers elegance, charm, and some of the state’s most beautiful beaches. Spend your days strolling along Fifth Avenue South, lined with boutiques, galleries, and bistros, or explore the Naples Pier, perfect for fishing and sunset watching.

Nature lovers will enjoy the nearby Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, home to stunning boardwalk trails through ancient cypress forests. Golfers can choose from dozens of championship courses, while foodies can savor upscale seafood at waterfront restaurants.

Naples combines sophistication with natural beauty—an ideal place to unwind, recharge, and enjoy the finer side of Florida living.

Bonus Experience: Scenic Drive Along the Overseas Highway

Few road trips are as breathtaking as driving the Overseas Highway, which stretches 113 miles from Miami to Key West across turquoise waters and coral islands. Stop at Bahia Honda State Park for beach time, grab fresh seafood in Marathon, or take in panoramic views from the Seven Mile Bridge.

This legendary drive is as much about the journey as the destination. Windows down, ocean breeze flowing, and endless blue horizons—it’s pure Florida freedom on four wheels.

The Sunshine State Awaits: Plan Your Florida Adventure

From the wild beauty of the Everglades to the thrilling roller coasters of Orlando, Florida is a world of discovery waiting to be explored. Its mix of natural wonders, cultural treasures, and world-class attractions makes it one of the most diverse travel destinations in America.

Whether you’re swimming with manatees, wandering historic streets, or soaking up sun on white-sand beaches, every corner of the state offers something unforgettable.

So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to experience the best of Florida—because the Sunshine State isn’t just a place to visit, it’s a place to feel alive.