Fancy Florida? Here’s why the Sunshine State should be on your bucket list

10 reasons to choose Florida as your next holiday hotspot – along with some of our insider tips and a bonus driving itinerary.

Welcome to Florida, a state of endless adventure, where the world’s most thrilling theme parks sit next to vast, alligator-filled wetlands. Where one minute you’re designer shopping and the next you’re exploring space. Whether it’s riding the coasters; stepping into the wizarding world of Harry Potter; taking in a baseball game; partying in Miami or savouring Key Lime Pie while lazing on a white-sand beach, the Sunshine State is one of those destinations that keeps on giving and seems to tick every box all at the same time. 

For so many of our clients, whether families, couples, solo travellers or groups, Florida is always a sure-fired hit. This article goes some way to explaining why. Here are my top 10 reasons why you should visit Florida. I also pass on some invaluable tips to help ensure your holiday goes like a dream. Plus, I have thrown in a driving itinerary in case you want to hit the road and pack it all in. 

So let’s set off.

Let’s start with the obvious: Walt Disney World. No trip to Florida is complete without a touch of Disney magic.

As soon as you enter the park, the fantastical Cinderella’s castle takes centre stage and sets the magical scene. 

Disney World is not just a theme park – it’s an entire universe of fantasy, nostalgia and boundless creativity. It actually consists of four very different theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom), two water parks, more than 20 themed hotels, golf courses and no end of entertainment.

Begin your journey at Magic Kingdom, the park that started it all. This is where the classic Disney magic lives – think fireworks, enchanting parades, the smell of warm churros in the air and all the beloved Disney characters roaming around ready for you to snap a selfie.  

Kids (and grown-ups) will be grinning from ear to ear as they explore lands such as Adventureland, Fantasyland and Tomorrowland. Hold on tight as you brave the park’s big coasters: Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. And I dare anyone not to adore the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. 

Next, step into the future and around the globe at Epcot. Part science fair, part global food festival, you can see, taste and experience all the world’s cultures in this one park. Work up the appetite to embark on a round-the-world culinary journey — think tacos in Mexico, pastries in France and sushi in Japan, all in one sitting. And of course, it’s got its fair share of thrilling coasters – which I suggest you try before lunch! 

At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the magic of the movies comes alive. Thrill-seekers won’t want to miss the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror or the Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith. Star Wars fans can pilot the Millennium Falcon or face off against the First Order in Rise of the Resistance within the immersive Galaxy’s Edge.

And then onto Animal Kingdom where animals as opposed to make-believe Disney characters take centre stage (although The Lion King and Nemo get a look in). Meanwhile, Pandora – The World of Avatar is a visual spectacle that transports you to another planet, while Expedition Everest is a coaster ride up the world’s highest mountain (watch out for the yeti).

Finally, don’t overlook the water parks, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon, or Disney Springs, the place to go if you want to grab a bite, catch a show or do some shopping.

When it comes to the logistics, to skip the worst of the queues, get Lightening Lane passes. This can save you hours. Also, start early. The rope-drop crowd gets so much done before lunch.

If you're staying onsite, take advantage of Early Theme Park Entry and Extended Evening Hours. Early Entry allows access to select attractions 30 minutes before the park’s official opening.  Extended Evening Hours, available at Deluxe Resorts and Villas, allows guests to stay in select parks after regular closing hours on certain nights. I can ensure I secure the right hotels for you. 

And as for dinner reservations, beware it can be a battlefield. I advise you to book a table at your favourite restaurants as far in advance as you can – especially if you’re eyeing restaurants like Be Our Guest or Space 220. I can help you with this too.

A short drive from Disney is Universal Orlando, which I tend to think of as Disney’s edgier cousin. It’s built for thrill-seekers and fans of film and fantasy. 

The resort includes Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure and Volcano Bay. Each area feels like a different adventure. 

At Universal Studios, you’ll step into the screen and find yourself part of your favourite film or TV show. This is your moment to become a student at the world’s most infamous school of wizardry: Hogwarts. And brace yourself as you dodge danger on the Revenge of the Mummy coaster. There’s cinematic action around every corner.

Islands of Adventure is where superheroes, dinosaurs and wizards coexist. Be prepared for high-octane rides like The Incredible Hulk Coaster, and what out as you encounter animatronic dinos in Jurassic Park.

Universal’s Volcano Bay is a water park like no other. Designed with a lush tropical island theme, it’s got thrilling slides, lazy rivers and the massive Krakatau volcano centrepiece. Volcano Bay has to be one of the most relaxing water parks you’ll ever visit thanks to its TapuTapu wearable technology, which makes queueing a thing of the past.

As with all of the Florida parks, our one piece of advice is: arrive early. You can then make a beeline for your favourite ride and snag your place near the front of the queue.  

I can organise Express Passes for you allowing you to skip the regular lines at the most popular rides and attractions. This will get you to the front faster and fit more fun into your day. 

If I book you into one of the Premier Hotels you’ll get the Express Passes included, which is a massive perk. 

Our other tip is to download the Universal app. This will give you real-time updates on ride times and mobile food orders.

If you’re travelling with little ones (or if you just love Lego—no shame in that), Legoland Florida is a must. Located in Winter Haven, just 45 minutes from Orlando, it’s quieter than the Orlando giants, but no less delightful. 

There’s a laid-back charm in this whimsical park and a real sense of creativity. It’s less about spectacle and more about imagination.

The park features more than 50 rides, shows and attractions all designed with kids aged two to 12 in mind. Don’t expect an extreme adrenaline rush on the rides, but the likes of the Dragon coaster and Lego Ninjago will certainly get the heart pumping. 

And don’t miss Miniland USA – a miniature world built entirely from millions of Lego bricks, showcasing famous American landmarks. The attention to detail is insane.

Beyond the main theme park, Legoland also includes a water park with splash zones, lazy rivers and interactive play areas – all featuring giant Lego bricks and blocks. 

For the ultimate immersive experience, families can stay overnight at the Lego-themed hotel right next to the park. The whole place looks like it’s been built out of toy blocks, right down to the dragon in the lobby.

While Legoland can get crowded in the peak season, the joy of having pre-school-aged children is that you can go during term time. So if this is you, then go for it. The off-season is delightful – less chance of tantrums having to stand in lengthy queues (and that’s from the parents). 

Legoland has also built itself a reputation for its Apple Fries. Sounds weird to eat chips made from apples, but believe us when I say “they were delicious” (even better with a side of caramel dipping sauce). 

There’s a whole other Florida beyond the man-made theme parks and this comes in the form of the Everglades National Park – vast swathes of river grass stretching to the horizon, airboats skimming the surface, alligators lurking beneath. It’s as serene as it is thrilling.

Spanning more than 1.5 million acres across southern Florida, the Everglades is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a Wetland of International Importance and an International Biosphere Reserve.

Glide through mangrove tunnels and wide-open sawgrass marshes where alligators, manatees and rare birds roam free. The park is home to more than 360 species of birds and countless other creatures. 

It’s nature’s very own theme park and the adrenaline rush comes as you explore this slow-moving river of grass via airboat, kayak or on foot. 

 I would suggest starting at Shark Valley Visitor Centre, where you can rent bikes or take a guided tram tour. From here you can also hop aboard an airboat. Your local guide knows these waters intimately and is a font of knowledge when it comes to the flora, fauna and ecosystem that abounds here. 

Keep your eyes peeled for the scaly grey backs of alligators floating on the surface or basking on the muddy banks. 

Your guide will whisk you across the waters – a ride that’s just as thrilling as a rollercoaster in our opinion. 

However, our favourite way to explore is to quietly paddle a kayak through mangrove tunnels. Half the magic is just being still and listening to nature.

As for tips: bring insect repellent, water and sun protection. And wear shoes you don’t mind getting muddy. 

If you're up for a taste of local flavour, try stone crab claws or gator nuggets – both delicious local delicacies.

If you’ve ever dreamed of being an astronaut – or simply admired their bravery – don’t miss the Kennedy Space Center. This has to be one of the most humbling places you’re likely to ever go. It’s not every day you get to stand underneath a real Saturn V rocket, the largest rocket ever flown. The sense of history here is tangible.

Located on Merritt Island near Cape Canaveral, it’s been NASA’s primary launch site for human spaceflight since the 1960s.

The Visitor Complex offers a thrilling journey through America’s space history and future. Experience a simulated shuttle launch and hear the roar of a real rocket engine. The Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit allows you to get up close with the iconic spacecraft.

Time your visit right and you could witness a real launch. Standing there as the countdown echoes across the marshland is an unforgettable, goosebump-inducing moment.

The best way to visit is to book tickets online in advance – especially if there's a scheduled launch. The Behind the Gates bus tour is essential. It gets you close to historic launch pads and the Vehicle Assembly Building. 

Allow at least a full day here and don’t leave without touching a moon rock in the Apollo/Saturn V Center – it’s oddly humbling.

Shopping might not be a priority on your Florida checklist, but it should be. The state is a haven for everything from high-end fashion to unique local finds. 

It’s easy to lose entire afternoons in Miami’s Design District, flipping between designer boutiques and art installations. It’s a haven for haute couture, where you can browse stores like Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Dior amid chic galleries and cafés.

Orlando’s ‘malls’ (what I call shopping centres) are a goldmine for deals – especially the Premium Outlets for designer bargains and Mall at Millenia for high-end fashion. 

Further north, Tampa’s Hyde Park Village blends upscale shopping with leafy streets and alfresco dining. Meanwhile, Sawgrass Mills near Fort Lauderdale is the largest value outlet in America, making it worth the trip for serious bargain hunters. 

If you’re a shopaholic (and even if you’re not) the temptations are such that I highly recommend bringing (or buying) an empty suitcase – you’ll fill it. Many shops offer international shipping and tax-free shopping for visitors, so bring your passport and ask at checkout.

If you come to Florida and skip the beaches, you’ve missed the soul of the state – in our opinion. 

With the Atlantic to the east and the Gulf of Mexico to the west, Florida boasts more than 800 miles of glorious coastline.

While Miami tends to hog the headlines on the Atlantic coast, there’s far more to it than its pristine white sands. Miami is a veritable catwalk. Bustling South Beach is iconic for its art deco architecture, vibrant nightlife and celebrity sightings, while the quieter North Beach offers a more laid-back vibe.

Destinations like Daytona Beach, Cocoa Beach and Fort Lauderdale offer everything from surfing and jet skiing to boardwalks and beachside cafés. 

On the Gulf Coast you’ll find gems, such as Clearwater Beach and Siesta Key, both boasting sugar-soft, white sands and warm, shallow waters ideal for families. The sunsets here are legendary, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.

Clearwater Beach has a great mix of family-friendly fun and nightlife. In Naples, the pier is perfect for sunset views. Siesta Key’s quartz sand is so soft it squeaks beneath your feet.

Whether to go Atlantic or Gulf is a tough decision. Our advice is to do both coasts. Each beach town has its own personality, but they all share that irresistible Florida sunshine.

And then there’s those famous Florida Keys. Stretching 120 miles off Florida’s southern tip, the Keys are a string of tropical islands connected by the scenic Overseas Highway. 

The drive down to the Keys is one of the best road trips in America – mile after mile of bridges over endless blue water. By the time you reach Key West, it feels like the mainland is a lifetime away. Life slows down here, and that’s exactly the point.

Key West, the southernmost city in America, is famous for its pastel-coloured conch houses, bohemian spirit and Ernest Hemingway’s former home. 

Islamorada is known as the sport-fishing capital of the world, while Marathon is perfect for boating and family-friendly attractions like the Turtle Hospital. Wherever you go in the Keys, the water is never far away—inviting you to snorkel, sail, kayak or simply float your worries away.

Florida’s cultural side is just as captivating as its natural beauty.

Miami is vibrant, loud and full of character. Art Deco buildings, Latin rhythms, beachside joggers and drag brunches collide in this city that literally never sleeps.

In Little Havana, Latin America meets the Caribbean. Head here to sip a cortadito and watch dominoes being slapped down at Máximo Gómez Park. 

Art lovers shouldn’t miss a wander around Wynwood Walls, an outdoor museum made up of giant wall murals. Covering six buildings, these walls have become a blank canvas for major artists all over the world.

For more art, the Salvador Dalí Museum in St Petersburg houses the largest collection of the surrealist’s work outside Europe. Meanwhile, Sarasota’s Ringling Museum of Art blends classical art with circus history in one of the state’s most unique cultural experiences.

Up the coast from Miami, St Augustine feels like stepping into a Spanish colonial village. It’s the oldest European settlement in America and walking its cobbled streets at dusk is magic. 

Florida’s culinary scene is a blend of flavours inspired by its diverse population and abundant local produce. 

You’ve got Cuban sandwiches (who’d have thought a ham and cheese sandwich could taste this good?) in Miami; stone crab claws in the Keys and fried gator bites up in the panhandle. The seafood is outstanding just about everywhere.

Orlando has become a foodie's paradise, offering everything from global fine dining to creative food trucks. 

And of course, no Florida experience is complete without sipping a tropical cocktail at sunset.

When the sun goes down, the state lights up. From beach bars to jazz lounges, dance clubs to intimate live music venues, Florida knows how to throw a party. 

Of course, Miami is the epicentre of high-energy nightlife. South Beach is famous for a reason – it’s all neon lights, rooftop bars and world-class DJs. 

In Orlando, downtown pulses with energy, and CityWalk at Universal Orlando is a hotspot for evening entertainment, offering everything from karaoke bars to themed restaurants and dance floors.

Tampa and St Petersburg have fantastic craft beer scenes. Gainesville and Tallahassee buzz with live music thanks to their college crowds, while Fort Lauderdale leans into its beachy nightlife with laid-back bars and dockside seafood spots.

But the parties don’t just happen in the bars after dark. Florida lives and breathes sport. From slam dunks to home runs, Florida boasts an exciting sports calendar that will make your holiday in a league of its own.

Catch a basketball game with the Miami Heat; American football action with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers or baseball game with Miami Marlins. And don’t overlook college football – it’s practically a religion here.

Tickets go like wildfire, so plan ahead and be part of the raucous cheer in true gregarious American style.

Golfers too are in for a treat. Courses like TPC Sawgrass are legendary. 

One of the best ways to explore Florida is by car. The roads are generally well-maintained, signage is clear and drivers are (usually) laid-back.

I can pre-arrange your hire car to be waiting for you as soon as you land. All you need is a valid driver’s license and a credit card – and most UK visitors don't need an International Driving Permit.

Parking is plentiful in most areas (though watch for meters in city centres) and toll roads are common.

Distances between major attractions are surprisingly manageable. Orlando to the Gulf Coast beaches? Around two hours. Miami to Key West? About four hours, but it’s one of the most scenic drives in America. Everglades to Naples? Just a couple of hours through the Alligator Alley highway.

Here’s our suggested 10-day self-drive itinerary. It’s a loop that packs a punch and captures Florida’s thrills, nature, culture and coastlines.

Day 1-3: Orlando

Base yourself here to explore Disney, Universal and/or Legoland. Stay near International Drive for access to restaurants and shops.

Day 4: Kennedy Space Center

Head east for a day of rockets and history. Cocoa Beach makes a fun lunch or beach break afterward.

Day 5-6: Miami

Drive south and soak up art, beach life and Cuban culture. Don’t miss Wynwood Walls and South Beach.

Day 7-8: The Florida Keys

Hit the Overseas Highway and unwind. Snorkel, kayak or just chill in Key West.

Day 9: Everglades

Make your way back north with a detour into the swamps. Airboat rides and wildlife await here.

Day 10: Gulf Coast

End your trip in Naples or Clearwater for a beach day and sunset. 

If you’ve read this and like the idea of flying to Florida, then give me a call.

I can help you plan for the parks; hire your car; secure your hotel accommodation and work our Disney magic to curate your dream itinerary.

Let me do all the ground work for you. I can make booking your holiday feel like a holiday, so you’ll be stress free even before you’ve taken off. And the (other) great thing is that I don’t charge a penny for my service! So what’ve you got to lose?

Give me a call and I can help you make unforgettable memories in Florida.