Four Non-Disney Florida Destinations
There are three main destinations that people think of when they’re going to Florida: Disney World, Miami, and Key West. These areas are packed during the spring and summer months with college students, travelers, and families looking to get their mouse ears. While these are all fun places to visit, Florida offers so much more to people who are seeking to travel a little off the beaten path. Next time you’re thinking about a Florida vacation, consider going to these four places instead.
Weeki Wachee Springs
It’s possible to enjoy the magic of Florida without visiting Mickey Mouse. Weeki Wachee is known for its mermaids, which have been performing in the springs for more than sixty years. The mermaids swim and dance in the waters and tell their own story of Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Little Mermaid.”
Weeki Wachee is located just north of Tampa — about an hour from the airport — and visitors can take day trips around the area to enjoy other adventures. You can snorkel with manatees in Crystal River, visit the Sponge Docks or Tarpon Springs, or enjoy the Scottish heritage of Dunedin. You can spend each day in a different part of the area and still feel like there’s more to see. While this area is certainly off the beaten path of Tampa tourism, there are plenty of activities to entertain your family throughout your stay.
St. George Island
If you’re looking for a beach getaway but don’t want to fight for space in Daytona or Panama City, consider getting away to St. George Island. Located on the Panhandle a short drive from Tallahassee, St. George Island is a local secret offering one of the best beaches in North Florida. It’s a wonderful option if you want to rent a beach house and spend your vacation curled up with a book. It’s also one of the most pet-friendly areas, so you can bring your dog along with you.
Once you step off the beach, St. George Island is a short drive from the Apalachicola National Forest, which is worth a visit whether you’re camping overnight or just hiking for a day. It’s an excellent choice if you’re driving to Florida and don’t want to get too deep into the state once you arrive.
Sarasota
Located an hour south of Tampa, Sarasota is considered to be an older, quieter town. It’s known for its vibrant art and theatre scene, and visitors will see the Ringling Museum of Art as soon as they leave the airport. Sarasota is also home to the Van Wezel Performing Arts Center and the Sarasota Opera.
Along with the arts, Sarasota has some of the best beaches in the state. Siesta Key has been ranked the top beach in the nation because of its pristine white sand and soft waves. It’s a delightful place to bring small children — especially if you’re worried about them in the ocean. Siesta Key Beach recently completed major renovations to its parking area, so there’s space for more guests to park without trolling for a spot.
St. Augustine
If you’re looking for historic charm and architecture, then you have to visit St. Augustine. Grab your Samsung Galaxy S7 edge and get ready to enjoy the picturesque Flagler college with a backdrop of gorgeous sunrises. The S7’s dual-pixel camera takes gorgeous photos, even in low light.
St. Augustine is tucked away from the bustle of Daytona and Jacksonville, but is close enough that you can fly into either of them then drive out to the area. While adults will enjoy the history and culture of the city, there’s still plenty that kids will enjoy. Take them to explore Menendez or hop on a historic trolley tour around the city. Of course, St. Augustine is on the water, so your family can go fishing, boating, or kayaking to enjoy the Florida sun.
Disney is a great place to visit, but there’s so much more to Florida than theme parks. Next time you’re planning a trip, consider spending a few days in Orlando and then moving out to one of these destinations to enjoy everything the Sunshine State has to offer.
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