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Why Visit Florida Beyond Orlando

13/06/2025


When asked “where should I go in America?”, Florida is a top must-visit and for good reason. One of the world’s most popular family holiday destinations, when most UK travellers think of a Florida holiday, Orlando tends to steal the spotlight. But Florida is so much more than rollercoasters and cartoon characters.

That’s why we’re taking a look beyond Orlando to show you what else you can do in Florida, where you can stay, and why it should be at the top of your USA travel bucket list. 

Miami – More Than Just a Party City

Holidays to Miami might have a glitzy reputation of lounging under palm trees, riding jet skis, or turning up the heat all night to the break of dawn. But it’s full of surprises for families and couples alike too.

For couples, picture art deco architecture, salsa music drifting through the streets of Little Havana, and rooftop cocktails with a view. For families the Miami Children’s Museum, Jungle Island, and boat trips around Biscayne Bay offer loads of fun without the candy-fuelled chaos of a theme park.

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Explore the Everglades – Florida’s Wild Side

Ready for a unique activity the whole family will love? Think airboat rides, alligator sightings, and swampy serenity. The Everglades National Park and its 1.5 million acres of protected wonders is a must-see for nature lovers.

Enjoy the thrill of spotting wildlife on a guided tour, kayak through peaceful mangroves, or join a sunset eco-cruise and see the Everglades come alive. With over 500 species of wildlife lurking in its waters and glass lands, Florida has nature adventures covered.

Florida’s Gulf Coast: Beach Dreams Come True

Looking for the best beaches in Florida? Welcome to paradise. Florida’s Gulf coast is made for picture-perfect beach holidays, offering stunning white-sand shores, crystal-clear waters, and a more laid-back, family-friendly vibe.

Clearwater Beach is our top choice, after all, it has been voted one of the best beaches in the USA multiple times. Shallow waters make it ideal for younger kids, and couples will love the boat trips and evening pier festivals. But if you’re looking for a romantic Florida beach holiday instead, Naples brings boutique hotels, high-end dining, and serene beaches perfect for sunset strolls.

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St. Augustine – History Meets Holiday

Did you know Florida is home to the oldest city in the USA? One of the best places to visit in Florida besides Orlando, St. Augustine, is packed with cobblestone streets, centuries-old forts, and ghost stories galore.

Families can explore the pirate museum and climb the lighthouse, whereas couples can wander charming alleyways, sip wine at cellar bars, and stay in a historic inn. With history tours for everyone, if you want a cultural trip in Florida, this is your perfect stop.

The Florida Keys – Laid-Back Island Living

Ready to hit the road on one of the best Florida road trips? Drive the scenic Overseas Highway from Miami to Key West, and pass through a string of tropical islands where time slows down. 

Snorkel coral reefs, spot dolphins, or just swing in a hammock with a frozen Key lime pie (yes, that’s a thing). Families can enjoy marine centres and calm shallow beaches, while couples will fall hard for Key West’s bohemian charm. Perfect for a Florida road trip itinerary or a beachy honeymoon, if you’re ready to hit the road without the huddled highway hassle, Florida Keys is for you. And we can get you there!

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Florida Is More Than Just Theme Parks

Whether you're planning your first trip to Florida from the UK or looking to skip the long queues and cartoon crowds, from peaceful beach towns to hidden islands and historic gems, Florida has a holiday for everyone- no theme park ticket needed... but we wont blame you if you add on a quick visit to Orlando. 

Find your Florida Holiday