Let’s talk about all the fantastic adventures in Florida!
When you plan a vacation in the Sunshine State, you’re probably thinking of the gorgeous sandy beaches and Walt Disney World. While these are incredible places to visit and have fun, there’s so much more to this state. If you’re looking for the perfect adventure in Florida, you’re at the right place.
You can do many things besides sunbathing and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Whether you like visiting culturally rich cities, taking part in incredible festivals and events, going on a boat trip, or riding the craziest rollercoaster ever, this story is for you. If you’re looking for new and exciting places, Florida won’t disappoint! Let’s start with the fun part because this one will be good!
1. Glass-bottom boat in Silver Springs State Park
Would you dare to hop on a glass-bottom boat in Silver Springs State Park? This has been one of the most loved tourist attractions in the Sunshine State since the 1870s. If you’re afraid of water, this might make you feel anxious, but otherwise, it’s a thrilling experience, as you can catch a glimpse of clear waters fed by Hollywood underwater movie props at the park and also local marine life.
You can either choose a 30-minute boat ride or a 90-minute extended ride, and I guarantee you’ll have the time of your life. If this sounds like your cup of tea, make sure you book tickets in advance, because they tend to sell out fast.
…If going on a glass-bottom boat isn’t for you, maybe you want to try the glass-bottom kayak tours offered by Viator. They’re just as fun and thrilling!
2. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Let’s continue with these stunning adventures in Florida because we have many things to discuss today. Speaking of that, if you’re a thrill-seeker looking for adrenaline and constant entertainment, you must plan a Busch Gardens trip. You’ll have several drops and high-speed turns here, especially if you dare to try the new Serengeti Flyer.
Claiming to be the tallest and fastest ride of its kind in the world, the 135-foot-tall coaster reaches speeds of up to 68 mph and features many negative-G experiences during the exhilarating ride.
If you’re not that adventurous (and no judgment here—I’m not either), try the 65-acre Serengeti Plain for a laid-back, open-air off-road tour. In just 30 minutes, you’ll be treated to stunning, up-close encounters with African wildlife like antelopes, zebras, rhinos, and giraffes. It’s the perfect way to experience the magic of a safari without stepping too far out of your comfort zone.
If you travel with your family, kids can enjoy lots of rides and tours that will keep them busy and happy. So, if you were looking for the craziest adventures in Florida, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay might be exactly what you need.
3. Ichetucknee Springs State Park: Fort White
The Sunshine State is home to many incredible places, and if we haven’t convinced you about it yet, read along with us until the end of this article. Ichetucknee Springs State Park is a nearly 2,700-acre state park located in Fort White, approximately 80 miles southwest of Jacksonville.
You’ll be impressed by a variety of wildlife species, including wood ducks, limpkins, beavers, and softshell turtles. Did you know that the 6-mile-long Ichetucknee River is made of 8 significant springs, one of which is recognized as a National Natural Landmark? The majority of visitors gush over the park’s natural splendor and the experiences available there.
This place is known for providing many adventures in Florida, and you won’t be disappointed. If water is your jam, you can try swimming, tubing, scuba diving, canoeing, kayaking, and hiking along the three nature trails. Moreover, the Great Florida Birding Trail includes the state park as a component and the landscapes are to die for.
4. Castillo de San Marcos National Monument: St. Augustine
Let’s continue with these magical adventures in Florida because now is all about history enthusiasts! The gorgeous Castillo de San Marcos was built in the late 1600s by Spanish colonists as a way to defend their settlement of Florida and the Atlantic trade route.
In 1924, President Calvin Coolidge declared the well-preserved building, which is the oldest masonry fortification in the continental United States. Castillo de San Marcos is dotted with park rangers and volunteers dressed in period attire, which will make your experience even better and more authentic. Moreover, they’re also available to answer questions while you explore on your own, so don’t forget this.
If you’re curious about the experiences of the colonists who resided at the fort hundreds of years ago, you’ll discover all the key details here. Moreover, if you visit the Sunshine State on weekends, you’ll be lucky to catch demonstrations of muzzle and cannon fire.
5. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: Merritt Island
The Kennedy Space Center offers a thrilling dive into space exploration across 5 Mission Zones, featuring interactive exhibits, 3D simulators, and iconic attractions spread over 144,000 acres. Pretty impressive, right? For an unforgettable experience, opt for an 11-hour VIP tour with a space expert, then complete it with a behind-the-scenes bus tour and hotel transportation.
Even if you’re not a space enthusiast, visitors rave about this must-see destination in the Sunshine State. To make it even more exciting, time your visit with a scheduled launch and watch space exploration unfold before your eyes! If you take your grandkids with you, they’ll have the time of your life!
…If you love spending time outdoors, this next spot is perfect for you!
6. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens: Miami
Located in Miami’s Coconut Grove neighborhood along Biscayne Bay, this 45,225-square-foot Mediterranean-style estate is a treasure trove of art, sculptures, and antiques. James Deering, a retired businessman and bachelor, began building this stunning estate in 1914 and lived there until he left the earth in 1925. Thanks to his family’s dedication, Vizcaya opened as a museum in 1953, and everyone is now able to enjoy its beauty.
Since this article is all about adventures in Florida, if you visit Vizcaya, you can explore 34 of the Main House’s 54 decorated rooms, which cover over 38,000 square feet. The estate also features stunning European-inspired gardens, which are considered some of the most meticulously designed in the U.S.
According to sources, visitors often rave about the beauty of both the house and gardens and recommend dedicating a few hours to fully enjoy the experience. You can opt for a guided tour for a small fee or use the free audio tour available on your smartphone, both of which offer fascinating insights into the family and estate.
7. Everglades National Park
We can’t talk about adventures in Florida without mentioning the prettiest national parks in the country. Speaking of that, the Everglades National Park is the biggest subtropical wilderness in America and is considered by many visitors an international wonder.
The Cartagena Treaty protects the Everglades National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an International Biosphere Reserve, and a Wetland of International Importance. For the best experience, experts recommend visiting during the dry season from November to April, when wildlife like American crocodiles, Florida panthers, and manatees are most active. To fully explore the park, you should definitely choose from ranger-led tours, airboat trips, or guided tours by kayak, canoe, tram, or boat. If you’re a photographer or want to take incredible pictures (this is a stunning camera to try), you can book a specialized tour.
Florida is full of adventures waiting to be discovered. From breathtaking natural parks to thrilling wildlife encounters, your next unforgettable journey starts here. Pack your bags and dive into Florida’s wonders! Until next time, here’s another great post for you: The Top 4 Most Common Scams and How to Avoid Them
