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Look beyond Orlando’s world-famous theme parks for exciting things to see and do in this vibrant and eclectic destination.
While Orlando is internationally renowned for its theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, there’s so much more to explore in and around this bustling city. From cosmopolitan beach towns to stunning national parks, fantastic golf courses, and botanical gardens, Florida has something to offer for every type of traveler. With destinations like Miami, Tampa, Naples, Fort Lauderdale, and the Florida Keys, each boasting unique attractions, adventures, and natural beauty, you can craft an unforgettable itinerary. Join us as we take a deep dive into the best neighborhoods and destinations near Orlando, showcasing why Florida is a must-visit locale for any avid explorer.
Miami, Florida: 6 Days Touring In and Around the City
Miami is a cultural melting pot with a vibrant arts scene, beautiful beaches, and captivating nightlife. Spend your days exploring the Art Deco District in South Beach, visiting the Perez Art Museum, and enjoying mouth-watering cuisine in Little Havana. The city’s diverse neighborhoods each have their own unique flair and attractions, making it a playground for tourists.
If you have six days to explore, take the time to venture outside the city. Visit the stunning Everglades National Park for a unique airboat ride through the marshes. Drive down to the scenic Florida Keys for a day trip, or take a boat tour to see the exotic marine life. Miami is more than just a city; it’s an experience you won’t forget.
Orlando to Tampa: Where to Stop on Your Florida Road Trip
A road trip from Orlando to Tampa offers a variety of fascinating stops. Start with Winter Park, home to charming streets lined with boutique shops and fine dining establishments. Take a scenic boat tour through the city’s chain of lakes or visit the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art.
Further down the road, consider a detour to Lakeland to wander around the serene Hollis Garden, or visit Circle B Bar Reserve for bird-watching and alligator spotting. By the time you reach Tampa, you’ll find a mixture of cultural and historical sites, from the Tampa Museum of Art to the historic Ybor City district.
Naples, Florida: Al Fresco Attractions in a Cosmopolitan Beach Town
Naples is a sophisticated coastal city known for its high-end shopping, world-class golf courses, and beautiful beaches. Don’t miss the Naples Botanical Garden, a vast space dedicated to preserving Florida’s natural flora and fauna, and the historic Naples Pier, a great spot for fishing and dolphin-watching.
Outdoor enthusiasts will also appreciate the myriad of nature preserves and parks, such as the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary and Clam Pass Park. Whether you’re interested in a leisurely day at the beach, a round of golf, or exploring nature, Naples has it all.
Fort Lauderdale and Beyond: Explore Southeast Florida by Land and Sea
Fort Lauderdale, known for its boating canals and stunning beachfront, is a perfect destination for aquatic adventures. Consider taking a gondola ride through the Venice of America or participating in deep-sea fishing. The city also offers some excellent museums, including the Museum of Discovery and Science.
Exploring beyond Fort Lauderdale opens up even more opportunities. Head over to the nearby beaches of Hollywood and Pompano Beach, or visit Butterfly World in Coconut Creek, the largest butterfly park in the world. Whether by land or sea, Fort Lauderdale offers endless exploration options.
Sun and Fun in Miami and the Florida Keys
Make your way from Miami down to the Florida Keys for an extraordinary adventure. Start in Miami with a visit to the famous South Beach and art-centric Wynwood Walls. Then, drive down the picturesque Overseas Highway, stopping in Key Largo for some incredible diving or snorkeling in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
Continuing your journey, you’ll find picturesque small towns like Islamorada, known for fishing and water sports. Finally, arrive in Key West, the southernmost point of the continental USA, famous for its laid-back atmosphere, historic sites, and vibrant nightlife.
20 Amazing Views You’ll See in U.S. National Parks
The U.S. National Parks offer some of the most breathtaking vistas you’ll ever witness. From the majestic Grand Canyon’s awe-inspiring depths to the serene landscapes of Yellowstone, each park provides stunning views that are a feast for the eyes.
Near Orlando, consider visiting Biscayne National Park and Dry Tortugas National Park, both within reach for an adventurous day trip or short vacation. These parks offer unique ecosystems, pristine waters, and unparalleled snorkeling opportunities, making them a must-visit.
5 Flowers You’ll Only Find in the USA
The United States is home to a variety of unique flowers that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. The California Poppy, for example, paints landscapes with vibrant orange hues during its blooming season.
In Florida, the Ghost Orchid is a rare find, mostly located in the swamps of the Everglades. Other exclusive flowers include the Texas Bluebonnet, the Western Wallflower, and the Coastal Plain Milkvetch, creating uniquely American floral landscapes.
7 Beautiful Urban Gardens in the USA
Urban gardens offer peaceful green spaces amidst bustling city environments. The United States showcases several stunning examples, such as the New York Botanical Garden and the Chicago Botanic Garden.
In Florida, the Harry P. Leu Gardens in Orlando provide an immaculate retreat with tropical and subtropical plants. Similarly, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Miami is a spectacular horticultural paradise worth exploring.
5 Beautiful Golf Courses the Pros Love to Play
Florida is renowned for its exceptional golf courses. Topping the list is TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, famous for its challenging design and iconic 17th Island Green. Equally notable is the Blue Monster at Trump National Doral in Miami, a favorite among professionals.
Orlando’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge, home to the Arnold Palmer Invitational, and the challenging Copperhead Course at Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor are also highly recommended. These courses offer not just incredible play but beautiful scenery.
Beach Time and Theme Parks in Orlando and Tampa, Florida
Orlando and Tampa offer a perfect blend of beach time and thrilling theme park adventures. Close to Orlando, Cocoa Beach serves as a delightful sandy retreat, ideal for surfing and sunbathing. Meanwhile, the theme parks, including Disney World and Universal Studios, are a go-to for families.
Tampa boasts magnificent beaches like Clearwater and St. Pete Beach, where you can relax by the Gulf of Mexico. Additionally, Tampa’s Busch Gardens offers an exciting mix of thrill rides and exotic animal exhibits.
TripAdvisor’s Top U.S. Destinations
According to TripAdvisor, popular U.S. travel destinations often blend urban excitement with natural beauty. Cities like New York, Las Vegas, and San Francisco make the list, brimming with iconic landmarks and rich culture.
In Florida, destinations such as Key West and Miami feature prominently, admired for their unique charm, vibrant cultures, and diverse activities. Each offers numerous tourist attractions that cater to various interests.
USA Party Cities
The United States has a bevy of cities known for their nightlife and festive atmospheres. New York’s electrifying club scene, Las Vegas’s around-the-clock entertainment, and Miami’s pulsating beach parties top the list.
Other notable mentions include New Orleans, famous for its jazz and Mardi Gras celebrations, and Austin, renowned for rocking music festivals and live performances. These cities guarantee unforgettable nights filled with energy and excitement.
Add These USA Stops to Your Instagram Wish List
For avid Instagram enthusiasts, the USA offers countless “Insta-worthy” spots. Los Angeles’s Santa Monica Pier, New York’s iconic Times Square, and the picturesque landscapes of the Grand Canyon are surefire hits.
In Florida, Capture the Art Deco beauty of Miami’s South Beach, the stunning sunsets of the Florida Keys, and Orlando’s whimsical theme park moments. These locations are perfect for creating an enviable travel feed.
Bradenton
Bradenton, tucked away on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is a hidden gem worth exploring. Visit the Village of the Arts, an eclectic neighborhood filled with colorful cottages housing galleries, eateries, and studios.
Another must-see is the Robinson Preserve, offering scenic trails, kayak launches, and observation towers. The nearby Anna Maria Island boasts pristine beaches, embodying the quintessential charm of a Florida beach town without the overcrowded tourist spots.
6 Spectacular Displays of Holiday Season Lights
The holiday season brings enchanting light displays across the United States. The Rockefeller Center in New York, Georgia’s Callaway Gardens, and Las Vegas’s Glittering Lights are a few top-rated displays that dazzle visitors.
In Florida, the Nights of Lights in St. Augustine and the Magic Kingdom’s Cinderella Castle covered in thousands of twinkling lights are highly recommended. These displays offer magical experiences for all ages.
6 Places to Be Outside in the USA This Winter
Even during winter, the United States offers fantastic outdoor destinations. Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, for instance, are perfect for skiing and snowboarding, while California’s Yosemite National Park provides breathtaking snowy landscapes.
In Florida, the warmer climate lets you enjoy outdoor activities year-round. Visit the Everglades for wildlife spotting or take a peaceful walk on one of Florida’s many scenic beaches. Winter in Florida is mild and inviting.
David Frankel’s Lush Tropics and Urban Miami
Director David Frankel often captures the lush, tropical vibe of Florida in his works. Urban Miami, with its vibrant neighborhoods and lush landscapes, serves as a great backdrop for various film and art projects.
Visitors can explore this artistic side by touring the Wynwood Walls for graffiti art, the Perez Art Museum, and the tropical environs of Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. Miami fuses urban sophistication with natural beauty seamlessly.
Soak Up the Sun at These LGBT-Friendly Beach Towns
Florida is home to several LGBT-friendly beach towns that welcome all with open arms. Fort Lauderdale is renowned for its inclusive atmosphere, lively nightlife, and beautiful beaches.
Key West also offers a welcoming environment with a vibrant LGBT community, numerous bars, and annual events like Fantasy Fest. These destinations ensure a sun-soaked, inclusive, and welcoming experience for all visitors.
Pretend You Live in ‘The Jungle Book’ in These 7 Stunning Tree Houses
If you’ve ever dreamt of living in a treehouse reminiscent of “The Jungle Book,” the USA has some enchanting options. The Treehouse Point in Washington, for example, offers cozy, luxurious treehouses surrounded by nature.
In Florida, the Treehouse Lodge in Sebring takes you closer to nature with elevated views of lush surroundings. These treehouses provide a unique lodgment experience, allowing you to connect with nature in a magical way.
Exploring the Everglades from Naples and Marco Island, Florida
The Everglades is a unique natural treasure that can be explored from Naples and Marco Island. Take a guided airboat tour or rent a kayak to navigate through the mangroves and sawgrass marshes, spotting diverse wildlife like alligators and exotic birds.
Also, visit Clyde Butcher’s Big Cypress Gallery to appreciate fine art photography that captures the ethereal beauty of the Everglades. These adventures provide insight into Florida’s rich natural landscape, offering memorable experiences for nature enthusiasts.
In summary, the diverse neighborhoods and destinations near Orlando offer a plethora of activities, from cultural excursions and natural escapes to vibrant nightlife and exclusive experiences. Here’s a quick snapshot to help you plan your trip:
| Destination | Key Attractions |
|---|---|
| Miami | Art Deco District, Everglades, Florida Keys |
| Orlando to Tampa | Winter Park, Lakeland, Ybor City |
| Naples | Botanical Garden, Naples Pier, Corkscrew Sanctuary |
| Fort Lauderdale | Boating Canals, Beaches, Butterfly World |
| Miami & Florida Keys | South Beach, Overseas Highway, Key West |
| U.S. National Parks | Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Biscayne |
| Unique U.S. Flowers | California Poppy, Ghost Orchid, Texas Bluebonnet |
| Urban Gardens | New York Botanical, Harry P. Leu Gardens |
| Golf Courses | TPC Sawgrass, Blue Monster, Bay Hill |
| Beach & Theme Parks | Cocoa Beach, Disney World, Clearwater Beach |
| Top U.S. Destinations | New York, Las Vegas, Key West |
| Party Cities | New York, Las Vegas, Miami |
| Instagram Stops | Santa Monica, Times Square, South Beach |
| Bradenton | Village of the Arts, Robinson Preserve, Anna Maria Island |
| Holiday Lights | Rockefeller Center, Nights of Lights |
| Outdoor Winter Spots | Rocky Mountains, Yosemite, Everglades |
| David Frankel’s Miami | Wynwood Walls, Perez Art Museum |
| LGBT-Friendly Beaches | Fort Lauderdale, Key West |
| Treehouses | Treehouse Point, Treehouse Lodge |
| Exploring Everglades | Airboat Tours, Big Cypress Gallery |
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