When it comes to taking a vacation within the 48 contiguous, there’s one state that usually stands head and shoulders above the rest. We’re talking about Florida, of course, the place that’s practically synonymous with taking a vacation. And, the other good thing about Florida is that it has nice weather (even if it does get a bit hot and humid) pretty much year round.
That means that even though summer has officially come to a close, there’s still plenty of time to plan a trip down to America’s own personal vacation land! And, if you’re going to be taking a trip down to Florida, then you’ll want to know what you should be checking out, and that’s just what we’ll be doing below!
On this list, we’re going to share our 20 picks for the most beautiful places in Florida to see. No doubt, you’ve probably heard of some of these places before. However, we’re willing to bet there will be a few surprises for even the most grizzled Florida-vacation veteran out there! So, take a look at our list, and see if there aren’t a couple new spots worth checking out in the great state of Florida!
1. Everglades National Park
The Florida Everglades are truly awe inspiring, and no picture you’ve ever seen of them can truly do the experience of visiting them justice.
2. St. Bernard de Clairveaux Church
Located in Miami, this monastery was originally built in Spain, before being purchased by William Hearst, torn down and then reassembled.
3. Overseas Highway
Driving the overseas highway through the Florida Keys is an experience that every road traveler should have at least once in his or her life.
4. Gulf Islands National Seashore
Those who have a yen for hiking will want to sample the various trails and locations along Florida’s portion of the Gulf Islands National Seashore.
5. Blowing Rocks Preserve
Located on Jupiter Island, this incredible spot is famed for its limestone cliffs that interact in stunning ways with the crashing waves.
6. Salvador Dali Museum
Those who have an appreciation for the artistic work of this surrealist artist simply must visit this museum.
7. Key West
There’s just something about the colors and vibe of Key West that make it near impossible to resist…
8. Boneyard Beach
Located on Big Talbot Island, this location gets its name for the driftwood that lines the coastline.
9. Christ of the Abyss
Located off the coast of Key Largo, you’ll have to dive 25 feet below the waves to take a look at this massive bronze statue.
10. Big Cypress National Preserve
It’s not just the landscape that makes this destination worth a trip, it also offers some of the best stargazing in the United States.
11. Sanibel Island
In the eyes of many beachgoers, Sanibel Island offers some of the best stretches of sand in all the United States.
12. Bowman’s Beach
In particular, you may wish to check out Bowman’s Beach on Sanibel Island where those who like to collect seashells will find plenty and then some.
13. Ringling Mansion
Located in Sarasota, this mansion was formerly owned by John Ringling of circus fame and is modeled after the buildings of Italy’s Venice.
14. Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge
Created as a place for the protection of manatees, this wildlife refuge is also the only place in the United States where you can interact with manatees.
15. St. Augustine
When you’re checking out the skyline from certain angles, you might be able to convince yourself that you’re not even in the United States!
16. Ocean Drive
When you want to sample the wonderful Art Deco architecture of Miami Beach, this is where you want to head.
17. Big Lagoon State Park
Located in Pensacola, this park provides incredible boardwalks for tourists to traverse while surveying the stunning marshes.
18. South Pointe, Miami Beach
To really get a flavor for the Miami skyline and its ideal environs, you’ll want to hit this popular spot.
19. Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
Located in Miami, you’ll feel like you’ve set foot on the set of Scarface when you visit this manse.
20. Dry Tortugas National Park
Located off the coast of Key West, there are many who believe that this is the most beautiful place in all of Florida.