things to do in florida other than disney

While Disney is a major draw for many visitors to Florida, there are plenty of other exciting things to see and do in the state. Here are some ideas:

Beaches and Outdoor Activities

1. Key West: Visit the southernmost point in the US, enjoy beautiful beaches, and explore the charming town.
2. Clearwater Beach: Relax on the white sand beaches and enjoy water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking.
3. Everglades National Park: Take an airboat tour or hike through the unique ecosystem of the Everglades.
4. Sanibel Island: Collect seashells and enjoy the beautiful beaches and wildlife refuge.
5. Kayaking or Paddleboarding: Explore the many waterways and mangrove tunnels throughout the state.

Cities and Culture

1. Miami: Visit the vibrant neighborhoods of Wynwood, Little Havana, and South Beach.
2. St. Petersburg: Explore the Dali Museum, the Chihuly Collection, and the vibrant arts scene.
3. Tampa: Visit the Florida Aquarium, the Tampa Museum of Art, and the historic Ybor City neighborhood.
4. Jacksonville: Explore the Riverside Arts Market, the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, and the historic Riverside neighborhood.
5. Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum: Visit the legendary author’s former home in Key West.

Theme Parks and Attractions

1. Universal Orlando Resort: Experience the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, ride thrilling roller coasters, and explore the Universal Studios Florida theme park.
2. SeaWorld Orlando: Get up close with marine animals, ride roller coasters, and enjoy the park’s many shows and attractions.
3. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: Learn about the history of space exploration and see real rockets and spacecraft.
4. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: Ride roller coasters, see animal exhibits, and enjoy the park’s African-themed attractions.
5. Gatorland: See thousands of alligators and crocodiles, and enjoy the park’s many shows and exhibits.

Food and Drink

1. Try fresh seafood: Enjoy the state’s famous seafood, including stone crab claws, conch fritters, and grilled fish.
2. Visit a citrus farm: Learn about the state’s citrus industry and sample fresh oranges, grapefruits, and other citrus fruits.
3. Take a brewery or winery tour: Explore the state’s craft beer and wine scene, with many options in cities like Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Jacksonville.
4. Try Cuban cuisine: Experience the flavors of Cuba in cities like Miami and Tampa, with dishes like ropa vieja, arroz con pollo, and Cuban sandwiches.
5. Visit a farmers market: Many cities in Florida have weekly farmers markets, where you can sample local produce, artisanal cheeses, and other specialty foods.

Other Attractions

1. St. Augustine: Visit the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the continental US, with many historic landmarks and attractions.
2. Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge: See manatees in their natural habitat and enjoy the beautiful springs and waterways.
3. Fort Lauderdale: Visit the historic Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, and enjoy the city’s scenic beachfront promenade.
4. Pensacola Beach: Relax on the beautiful beaches and enjoy water sports like surfing and paddleboarding.
5. Cedar Key: Visit the charming island community, with its historic architecture, beautiful beaches, and natural attractions like the Cedar Key State Park.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Florida beyond Disney. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or simply relaxing on the beach, there’s something for everyone in the Sunshine State!