Known universally as the Sunshine State, Florida enjoys blissfully warm weather all year round, so whether you’re basking on MIami Beach or visiting famous Florida Keys, you’re guaranteed to stay warm. The perfect climate for sightseeing, if real Disney-free Florida holidays are what you’re looking for, then consider these top five alternative attractions instead. From hovercraft adventures to historic discoveries, you’ll soon see why Florida is such a haven for holiday-makers, ex-pats and A-Listers.
Everglades
One of the largest wetlands in the world, the Everglades is a must-visit for anyone holidaying in Florida. This national park, a myriad of rivers, canals, springs and swamps, is best explored via the water. Whether you choose to dip in and out of the creeks on an airboat, hop on a hovercraft and head to Alligator Alley (did we mention the locals?), or get acquainted with the pond life on a canoe trip, you’ll be spoilt for choice on how to travel around the 1.Five million acres of marshes. And, should you prefer not to get your feet wet, you can always discover the park by tram, bike or on foot for a drier experience.
Key West
One of the most popular and most southern points in Florida Keys, Key West is a favourite with water sports enthusiasts. Occupy yourself snorkelling, sailing or fishing, or for something that’s a little more up close and personal, experience swimming with the Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins. Literary fans can brush up on the famous works of Ernest Hemingway at his home and museum in the Old Town, while golfing afficionados can brush up on their back nine at the impressive Key West Golf Club. Then, as the day draws to a close, watch the sunset from the decks of a Liberty Clipper ship as you’re wined and dined in the bays there.
Miami Beach
In his hit single, Miami, Will Smith sang about “partying in the city where the heat is on, all night on the beach ’til the break of dawn”, and quite frankly, we couldn’t have put it better ourselves. Renowned for providing the backdrop for 80s cop show Miami Vice; trend-setters, party animals and sun worshippers continue to flock here to soak up the sun and A-list atmosphere. The most fashionable beach is without doubt South Beach, where crystal clear waters and golden sands come hand in hand with cocktail bars and designer outlets. However, if you’d prefer to dodge the flashing lights of the parties and paps, the nearby art deco area is dotted with museums and is a great place to work the brain cells and stretch the legs.
St Augustine
The oldest European city established in America, turn back time with a stop-off at St Augustine. Culture vultures and history buffs will love the quaint and charming Old Town with its narrow streets and craftmakers on every corner. Florida has excellent transport options, so getting around and seeing the famous sights is easy. Visit the Bridge of Lions, the Old City Gates, the St Augustine Lighthouse, and the Fountain of Youth. Expect the views from every angle to be truly breathtaking, whether from a horse drawn carriage, an old town trolley tour or a helicopter ride over the city.
Kennedy Space Center
Beam me up, Scotty, or should that be Kennedy? NASA’s launch headquarters is just the ticket for a truly out of this world Florida holiday. A stone’s throw from Orlando’s plethora of world famous theme parks, the Kennedy Space Center attracts millions of visitors each year. And it’s pretty easy to see why. The only place where spectators can bear witness to real-life space shuttle launches, you can also enjoy a completely simulated experience where you get to try out the sights and sounds of heading into space for yourself. Add to that the opportunity to have lunch with an astronaut and learn about famous flights into space from past and present, and you’ll be over the moon.
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