Florida

14 Exciting and Relaxing Things To Do This Summer in Florida

Published

2 years ago

July 23, 2024

Sarosh

The sign board that states the words welcome to Florida, the sunshine state

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It’s Called The Sunshine State For A Reason

If you didn’t already know, Florida is one of the best states to visit during summertime. Why, you might think? It has incredible places to explore, a warm climate, clear skies, and many fun activities.

After all, it’s called the Sunshine State for a reason. Whether you love exploring, are into thrill, or just wanna vibe to some calming landscapes, there’s something for everyone.

So take your sunscreens and make your plans immediately, as we have curated the best 14 things you can do in Florida in the summer.

Christ of the abyss statue in the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

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Coral Reefs Are In The House

Have you ever visited an underwater state park with living coral reefs? One such state park is the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

Located in Key Largo, it’s the only living coral barrier reef in the US. Here, you can swim with 500 species of colorful fishes and discover 40 species of stony coral.

Since summers are jam-packed, you’ll need to book your snorkeling sometime in advance so your trips have no hiccups.

A close up shot for the shuttle from the Apollo 11 mission

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The First Space Travel Is Here

Want to see the rocket that took Neil Armstrong to the moon? The most significant and educational place that you need to see is NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex located on the Meritt Islands.

The place that served as the launching site is a pivotal point you shouldn’t miss. You can see the mission rocket and relieve the excitement that created human history.

As a bonus, you get to meet some real astronauts there and maybe ask your weird space questions that haven’t been answered yet.

Baby American Alligator sitting on a branch above water in Everglades National Park

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Mangroves Are Really Beautiful

A remarkable site to must-see in the Sunshine State is Everglades National Park. It is a nature paradise with millions of acres of land that make it the largest tropical wilderness.

The mangroves with tall canopies are saving almost 20 or more endangered species. Wow! You’ll witness many extraordinary animals here, like the Florida Panther, Alligator, if you’re lucky, the American crocodile.

Some other animals you’ll pass by on the boat are white-tailed deer, manatees, bobcats, and many others. These wetlands are accessible only through airboats.

Fire Dept. making a huge key lime pie in the Key Lime Festival

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Do You Like Key Lime Pie?

A literal treat that is an annual tradition in Florida is the Key Lime Festival in Key West. This bittersweet pie is like what peaches are to Georgia.

Each year, this festival is a celebration that has masterclasses, pie-eating competitions, sampling a variety of key lime pies, and so many fun activities.

If you’re a fan of this sugary edible, you must go to this festival and enjoy great performances and stunning waterfront sights.

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Mini Europe In America

Thought of traveling to Europe? The quaint European buildings with marvelous architecture and warm vibes are what exactly you’ll get when you check out St. Augustine in Florida.

Titled as the Nation’s Oldest City, its magnificent aura is what will draw you in. The Spanish explorers in the 1560s settled here, and you’ll find their reflection in almost everything, like the masonry fort, Hotel Ponce de Léon, National parks, streets, and just everywhere.

Plus, it’s right on the ocean, so you can even have a beach vacation here!

The light house at Biscayne Bay National Park

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Emerald Waters Remind Me Of Jewels

Now, this one is pure bliss. Imagine clear waters, coral reefs filled with stunning fishes, and unbelievably lush islands.

The Biscayne Bay National Park, placed within reach of Miami, is jaw-droppingly enchanting. You can go diving, snorkeling, or evening boating here in the refreshing waters and cool off in the summer heat while you enjoy views of aquamarine life.

This breathtaking adventure is a must-see if you want to be close to the marine ecosystem!

Monarch butterfly in Harry P. Leu Gardens in Florida

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Green Thumb? Yes or No!

Another nature gem in Florida is a must-see, but it’s purely on land and has nothing to do with water. Were you born with a green thumb?

Whether you nodded in approval or no, you’re gonna fall in love with this place. With over 40 and more plants stretched over 50 acres of land is the Harry P. Leu Gardens.

This is something out of a movie; you’ll find everything here, from flowers like roses to tropical plants to mesmerizing vibrant butterflies. So why not check out this eye-cooling place and feel refreshed in nature?

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Beach Day Out

Moving from land to water, there are a few beaches that you might wanna go to when coming to Florida. Firstly, visit Grayton Beach State Park in Santa Rosa.

With white salty sand and majestic waters, this is the perfect beach getaway that takes you away from your daily hectic routine.

The Sunshine State’s 2000-acre gem has hiking trails jeweled with magnolias for people interested and nearby campsites for those who wanna camp. If you don’t want to do either, watch the sunset while sitting on the shoreline and take in the serenity.

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Maybe This Beach Has Seashells

Seashell lovers, be aware, as this is your paradise right here! The Blind Pass Beach on Sanibel Island has calm waters, an epic variety of intact seashells, and many magical views.

The seashell-studded shore has clams, whelks, cockles, and many fighting conchs that regularly wash up on the shore.

This beach is a popular spot for locals, this beach has everything you might crave in the summers. Even if seashell collecting isn’t your thing, you’ll still enjoy dunking your feet in the thje gorgeous clear waters.

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Okay This One Is A Surfer’s Getaway

When talking about beaches, how can we forget the surfers? New Smyrna Beach in New Smyrna is a hot spot for surfers and swimmers.

It is also a vibrant and hip beach with many shops and eateries scattered all around, making it a haven for locals and tourists alike.

The splashing waves and granny sands with the sun shining make it an amazing beach where you can have fun and have a good time. But if you go for a swim or feel like surfing, just be aware of the rip currents.

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Cooling Springs Are So Refreshing

Do you like going to natural springs? Experience refreshing, clean waters with an open setting where you can lay your beach towel, soak in the sun, and have a picnic.

This spring is called Wekiwa Springs State Park in Apopka, nestled near Orlando towards north, only 20 minutes away.

It’s an almost 7000-acre park with diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. You swim in crystal-like waters and stunning landscapes.

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It’s Getting Spooky Out Here

Okay, now this one is an actual mystery that you must check out at any time of the year because it’s that exciting. The Spook Hills in the small town of Lake Whales are actually defying all logic. Why?

Well, if you put your car in the neutral right at the bottom of the hill, suddenly, defying all rules of gravity, it would start rolling uphill. YIKES!

This spooky place has garnered much attention, and many visitors come here to explore and figure out what is happening. So what say a lil magic show during summer?

People dancing and vibing at the Sunset Celebration

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Let’s Party Together

Tell me, is there one person on this Earth who doesn’t like having a good time and partying? So why not go to Florida’s famous Key West city that hosts the Sunset Celebration on Mallory Square?

This plaza is famous among tourists, and every day before sunset, people gather, and the party starts. You’ll see street dancers, performers, and live music.

Just picture yourself basking in the sunset while enjoying live music and vibing to its tunes! Pure bliss!

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Saved Best For Last

Okay, the last one on this list is Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, which is another educational place that plays an important role in learning more about coral reefs, marine life, and their ecology.

This 6000-square foot in Key West teaches about coral reef conversation, mangrove conversation, and the ecology of subtropical life here.

You’ll get to participate in hands-on activities and multiple informative displays. This allows you to get a deeper knowledge of the delicate balance that sustains the Florida Keys’ natural beauty.

Family walking towards the beach happily

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Sunshine State Has It All

With natural beauty, mindblogging hills, beautiful gardens, relaxing beaches, and educational sites, this state has it all.

Whether you decide to visit Florida in winter or summer, you’re guaranteed that you’ll have an amazing time here. This state has something for everyone.

Just loosen yourself and explore the offerings of the state. So grab your bags and plan your summer trip here!