Whether you’re basking on Miami Beach or visiting world famous Florida Keys, expect blissfully warm weather all year round - it’s easy to see why Florida is nicknamed the Sunshine State. The perfect climate for sightseeing, if real Disney-free Florida holidays are what you’re looking for, then consider these top five alternative attractions instead. From historical discoveries to hovercraft adventures, it’s easy to see why Florida is such a haven for holidaymakers, ex-pats and A-listers.
Everglades
One of the largest wetlands in the world, the Everglades is a must-visit for anyone holidaying in Florida. The best way to explore this national park, a myriad of rivers, canals, swamps and springs, is via the water. Whether you decide to dip in and out of the creeks on an airboat, glide on a hovercraft through Alligator Alley (did we mention the locals?), or get acquainted with the pond life on a canoe trip, you’ll be spoilt for choice on how to travel around the 1.Five million acres of marshes. And, should you prefer not to get your feet wet, you can always discover the park by tram, bike or on foot for a drier experience.
Key West
One of the most popular and most southern points in Florida Keys, if you like water-based activities, you’ll love Key West. Try snorkelling, sailing or deep sea fishing, or if you fancy something a bit more up close and personal, get an unforgettable experience swimming with Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins. Golfing enthusiasts will love the impressive Key West Golf Club, and literature fans will delight in the famous works of Ernest Hemingway at his home in the Old Town, which doubles up as a museum. Then, when the day comes to an end, watch the sun go down whilst being wined and dined aboard one of the Liberty Clipper ships that dock in the bays there.
Miami Beach
In his hit single, Miami, Hollywood star Will Smith sums it up in one line: “Party in the city where the heat is on, all night on the beach ‘til the break of dawn”. Renowned for providing the backdrop for 80s cop show Miami Vice; trend-setters, party animals and sun worshippers continue to flock here to soak up the sun and A-list atmosphere. The most fashionable beach is undoubtedly South Beach, where clear blue waters and golden sands go hand in hand with designer outlets and cocktail bars. However, if you’d prefer to dodge the flashing lights of the parties and paps, the nearby art deco area is dotted with museums and is a great place to work the brain cells and stretch the legs.
St Augustine
The oldest European city established in America, turn back time with a stop-off at St Augustine. The Old Town is quaint and charming, and a real paradise for culture buffs who delight in its narrow streets and craftmakers. There are plenty of transport options, making it easy to make the most of your time-warp trip and visit such famous sights as the St Augustine Lighthouse, completed in 1874, the Bridge of Lions, the Old City Gates and the Fountain of Youth. From horse drawn carriages and Old Town trolley tours to glitzy helicopter rides over the city, expect the views to be breathtaking from any and every angle.
Kennedy Space Center
Beam me up, Scotty, or should that be Kennedy? NASA’s launch headquarters is just the ticket for a truly out of this world Florida holiday. Not far from Orlando’s plethora of theme parks, the Kennedy Space Center attracts millions of visitors each year. And it’s clear to see why. The only place on earth where you can bear witness to real life space shuttle launches, it also offers a simulated experience, during which you get to experience the sights and sounds of heading into space for yourself. Add to that the chance to lunch with an astronaut and learn about past and present flights into space, and you’ll be well and truly over the moon.