I’ve lived in Florida for over 25 years and always tell tourists to visit these 7 spots

In my opinion, Key West is one of the best places to visit in Florida.

Zhukova Valentyna/Shutterstock

I’ve lived in Florida for over 25 years and love exploring the state’s many beautiful spots.
In my opinion, popular spots like Miami and Orlando are worth visiting.
I suggest heading to Sanibel and Captiva Islands or the panhandle for a relaxing beach vacation.

Florida is so much more than theme parks and sandy beaches — it’s a place I’ve fallen in love with over the last 25 years for its gorgeous views, amazing weather, and the excitement of always finding something new to explore.

As someone who has lived in Orlando for decades, I’ve traveled Florida from coast to coast and have learned of lots of hidden gems along the way.

Here are seven places in Florida no tourist should miss.

Visiting St. Augustine feels like stepping back in time.

A walkway surrounded by charming two-story buildings and palm trees. — Ultima_Gaina/Getty Images

If you love history, St. Augustine, located on the northeast coast of Florida, is a dream destination. Known as the oldest continuously-settled city in the US, its brick streets and Spanish colonial architecture transport you back in time.

Start with a tour of the Castillo de San Marcos, a centuries-old fort overlooking the Matanzas River. Then, wander through the shops and restaurants on St. George Street.

There’s more to Miami than the nightlife.

A street lined with Art Deco buildings, restaurants, and palm trees in Miami. — Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

Stunning beaches, incredible nightlife, and a mix of art and culture make Miami a must-visit destination. I recommend exploring the colorful murals of Wynwood Walls, diving into Cuban culture in Little Havana, and strolling through the Art Deco buildings of South Beach.

Foodies will love Miami’s Latin flavors and eclectic-dining scene, and of course, no trip is complete without soaking up the sun on Miami’s pristine beaches.

For a quieter Miami experience, I suggest heading to nearby Key Biscayne or visiting the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.

Sanibel and Captiva Islands offer the perfect relaxing getaway.

Seashells on a beach with aqua-colored water in the background. — ablokhin/Getty Images

Sanibel and Captiva Islands on Florida’s Gulf Coast are the perfect destinations for a slower-paced getaway.

Famous for their beautiful beaches and seashells, these islands are great for cycling and kayaking. I also suggest visiting the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island to spot wildlife like manatees and colorful birds.

These islands offer a laid-back vibe with incredible sunsets and some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste.

Orlando vacations are popular for a reason.

Cinderella's Castle at Walt Disney World in Florida. — Cinderella’s Castle at Walt Disney World in Florida.

Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for Disney Dreamers Academy

No list of Florida destinations would be complete without mentioning Orlando. It’s consistently one of the most-visited cities in the US — and for good reason.

Home to popular theme parks like Disney World, Universal, and SeaWorld, Orlando is the ultimate playground for families.

Beyond the parks, I recommend spending the day pedaling on a swan boat on Lake Eola or kayaking in crystal-clear waters at the nearby Wekiwa Springs State Park.

The city also has a thriving food scene, making it a great destination for foodies.

There’s so much to do in Key West.

A painted marker at the Southernmost point in the Continental United States, with the ocean in the background. — Peter Unger/Getty Images

Key West, which is home to the southernmost point in the continental US, offers a laid-back vibe with plenty of character.

Visitors can explore Ernest Hemingway’s home, indulge in fresh seafood, and sip cocktails as they watch the sunset at Mallory Square.

For a quieter side of Florida, visit Mount Dora.

A small lighthouse near the water, with palm trees and benches surrounding it. — Jillian Cain Photography/Shutterstock

Known for its boutique shops, antique stores, and waterfront views, Mount Dora is a charming small town located less than an hour north of Orlando.

If you’re visiting during the weekend, I suggest heading to Renninger’s Flea Market & Antique Center for unique finds and vintage treasures.

Don’t miss a sunset boat tour on the lake or a walk along Mount Dora’s historic downtown streets. It’s a quieter side of Florida that feels like a step back in time.

Florida’s Emerald Coast is one-of-a-kind.

An aerial view of a city along a white-sand beach with bright blue water. — Jason Finn/Shutterstock

Known as the Emerald Coast, the Florida panhandle is a must-visit destination. Its white-sand beaches, emerald-green water, and countless quaint beach towns make it an amazing way to explore some of Florida’s most stunning locations.

Destin is one of my favorite spots in this area. It’s a paradise for beach lovers, with plenty of water sports, fishing, and family-friendly activities.

Just a short drive from Destin, 30A features quaint seaside towns like Seaside and Rosemary Beach, where you can enjoy boutique shopping, outdoor concerts, and some of the most beautiful views in Florida.

This story was originally published on January 28, 2025, and most recently updated on October 20, 2025.

Read the original article on Business Insider

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