Florida Travelers Recommend

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, International Biosphere Reserve, and Wetland of International Importance—only a few places on earth make all three lists—the Florida Everglades are a must-do in southern Florida. Here’s what you should know about visiting from Miami.

Airboat Tours

The best way to see the Florida Everglades is by airboat, a flat-bottomed, fan-propelled boat that skims across the shallow, marshy waters where normal boats aren’t able to go. An airboat’s simple, open-air design provides unobstructed views of the mangroves and swamp grass, where you might spot wildlife such as gators, manatees, or ocelots in their natural habitat.

Combo Tours

For a longer experience, Everglades airboat tours can be combined with another activity, whether urban or environmental. Some combo tours include Miami or South Beach sightseeing or a Biscayne Bay cruise, while others feature a wildlife show, alligator tour, or a visit to Big Cypress National Preserve, which borders Everglades National Park.

Things to Know

• Tours from Miami typically last three to five hours.

• Not all tours from Miami go to Everglades National Park but instead take travelers to a separate area of the Everglades region, which is larger than the park itself.

• Not all tours include transportation from Miami; some require that you get yourself to the starting point in the Everglades.

• An Everglades airboat ride exposes you to the elements, so make sure you have sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, and water to stay hydrated in the Florida heat.  

From speedboat tours on Biscayne Bay to salsa dancing lessons in South Beach, Miami is full of things to do by day and night. Plan ahead to balance water adventures, neighborhood exploration, and day trips to the Florida Keys or Bahamas. Here are a few ways to spend three days in Miami. 

Day 1: Miami by Bus, Boat, and Seaplane

Get a broad view of Miami on an introductory tour. Explore on a hop-on hop-off bus tour, with the freedom to stop at more than 40 locations, or climb aboard a speedboat for a fast-paced tour of Biscayne Bay. Other adventurous options include a seaplane tour with take-off and landing in the bay, or a parasailing excursion—both of which offer a bird’s-eye view of the water. Combination tours also provide an overview: some tours combine city sightseeing, a scenic cruise in Biscayne Bay, and a wildlife-spotting airboat ride in the Everglades. 

Day 2: Food, Culture, and Dancing

Discover Miami’s vibrant culture with a day focused on exploring its neighborhoods, food, and dance traditions. Visit the Cuban neighborhood of Little Havana for a food-focused walking tour or a food-themed bike tour that covers ground quickly. Or if you prefer, take a South Beach food tour, focused on the history of the Art Deco District with tastings at Latin American restaurants. By night, keep the cultural crash course going with an evening of mojitos and salsa dancing. Follow the lead of your dance instructor and take in live entertainment such as cabaret shows. 

Day 3: Explore Beyond Miami

While the sun and surf of Miami make it tempting to stay put, there are adventures beyond South Beach. Discover the natural beauty of the Florida Keys with a day trip that might include sailing and snorkeling, or via seaplane from Miami to the Keys to maximize time. Those interested in space can plan a day trip to the Kennedy Space Center. For something further flung, book a Bahamas day cruise. Families can head to Orlando on a tour that includes 1-day admission to Disney World and transportation from Miami. 

It's a bridge to the tropics and the Caribbean by car—whatever vision you have of Key West, turn it into a sunny reality on a tour from Miami. Just pack your beach bag, a sense of adventure, and remember to bring the sunscreen. Here are your options.

Guided Day Trips

Choose a guided tour that's most catered to your interests, whether it's following in the footsteps of writer Ernest Hemingway or parasailing through the air. You can snorkel and sail on a catamaran cruise, hang out in Mallory Square, or snap a photo at the southernmost point in the continental US.

Independent Tours with Round-Trip Transport

If you're the type of traveler who prefers to explore a new destination on your own, opt for a self-guided tour of Key West with included transport from Miami. Hotel pickup and drop-off from Miami area hotels are included, and you can even arrange for a multi-day stay and return to Miami at your leisure.

Things To Know

• Key West is set 165 miles (265 kilometers) southwest of Miami, a journey of about 3.5 hours by road each way.
• Day trips typically depart between 5:30 and 7am to maximize time on the island, and some include a stop for breakfast at one of the 32 islands en route.
• Because there's so much to do in Key West, it's best to choose a day tour that focuses on the activities you'll enjoy most.
• You'll want to pack extra clothes in case you go for a dip.

From juicy sunsets to coral reefs, three days in Key West mean time to soak up the quirky charm of the island escape. Come to join the party crowd, watch ocean sunsets, and take in historical sites, then head offshore to see the Gulf of Mexico’s castaway islands and mangroves. Here’s how to make the most of your time in the Conch Republic.

Day 1: Island Orientation

Find the high points of Key West’s tree-shaded streets and waterfront on a tour through the heart of town by trolley or train. In the afternoon, visit some of the stops in-depth, whether you’re following in Hemingway’s footsteps, browsing the shops at Mallory Square, or gazing out from the southernmost point in the United States. In the evening, snag a coveted spot on a sunset cruise from the waterfront; it’s worth booking in advance to ensure your spot. Since the trips range from sails aboard historical vessels to party boats with free-flowing drinks, you can make the night as relaxing or wild as you want.

Day 2: Offshore Explorer

With a full day to explore you can head as far as Dry Tortugas National Park, a cluster of islands with powdery beaches, coral reefs, and a historical military fort. Alternatively, simply snag a kayak, paddleboard, Jet Ski, or cruise boat to see everything from mangrove forests to the surrounding reefs. For an up-close look at the bright corals of the Florida Reef, choose a tour that goes beneath the waves: glass-bottom boat cruises and snorkeling trips give you perfect views, and beginner-friendly dive trips mean you don’t need certification to try scuba diving in Key West.

Day 3: Conch Republic Relaxation

Start your last day with a slow walk on the sand of Higgs Beach, known for catching the best morning light on the island. Instead of committing to lunch in a single restaurant, explore the best of Key West food, from fresh-caught seafood to Key Lime pie, on a food tour of downtown. It’s a shortcut to finding the best bites on the island, with plenty of themed options that offer a delicious take on the history and culture of the Florida Keys. As daylight fades, head to Mallory Square to catch one final Key West sunset alongside celebrating crowds and oddball buskers. Toast your final night with a drink in one of Key West’s many bars—they range from wild daiquiri joints to historic Hemingway hangouts perfect for a leisurely cocktail.

The cultural hub of Miami attracts visitors to its sandy shores for water sports and to its clubs and restaurants for a vibrant nightlife scene. With 48 hours in Miami, there’s time to parasail, cycle through Little Havana, and learn to salsa. Here are a few ways of the best ways to spend two days in Miami.

Day 1: Setting Sail and Cocktails

Morning: Get an introduction to Miami with a comprehensive sightseeing tour. Take a hop-on hop-off bus tour with more than 40 stops across Miami or a city tour complete with a sightseeing cruise to catch a glimpse of Biscayne Bay, Downtown Miami, and Star Island. 

Afternoon: Join an afternoon tour designed to get your adrenaline pumping. Adventurous travelers might try parasailing with an excursion into Biscayne Bay. Several boat tours are also available, including a speedboat sightseeing cruise.

Night: Taste the many cultures of South Beach with an evening food and walking tour. Follow your guide to several eateries for snacks from different Latin American cultures and learn about the art deco history of South Beach. 

Day 2: Little Havana and Miami by Air

Morning: Explore Miami beyond South Beach with a trip to Little Havana. Get to know this Cuban neighborhood a food-focused guided walking or bike tour. Learn about Little Havana’s history and taste Cuban snacks. 

Afternoon: See Miami from a new perspective on a tour by air. Air tour options include a  helicopter tour, a seaplane tour that takes off and lands in Biscayne Bay, and a sunset air tour by small plane. All flights include views over South Beach, Downtown Miami, and Biscayne Bay. 

Night: Discover Miami’s famed nightlife with an evening of cocktails and dancing in Miami Beach. Follow an instructor to learn to dance salsa on a evening out that includes mojitos, music from a live band, and live entertainment such as cabaret shows. 

Easily accessible from Orlando, the subtropical Florida Everglades offer a change of pace from the theme parks of Orlando. Combine an airboat safari through the wildlife-rich wilderness with other nearby sights for a full-day experience—here’s how.

Airboat Tours

Half-day tours begin with a short drive from Orlando into the northern reaches of the Everglades. Here you’ll enjoy an airboat safari through the swamps and marshes of Wild Florida Airboats & Wildlife Park, looking for alligators, eagles, and wild boars along the way. Then learn more about alligators, their habits, and their dangers in a live alligator demonstration.

Combo Tours

Combine an airboat safari, either in the northern Everglades or at Everglades National Park, with other exciting experiences for a full-day excursion from Orlando. Visit the Kennedy Space Center and tour NASA’s launch headquarters; swim with manatees at Crystal River and watch a manatee-feeding session at Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park; or visit Miami to enjoy a cruise on Biscayne Bay and check out the art deco architecture on South Beach.

Things to Know

• Airboat safaris last between 30 and 90 minutes.

• Many tours include pickup and drop-off from select Orlando hotels.

• Note that not all tours enter Everglades National Park; some instead run airboat excursions in the northern Everglades.

• Full-day tours typically run from 11 to 15 hours long.

• Tour destinations are fewer than two hours from Orlando by road—except Miami and the official Everglades National Park, which are closer to four hours away.

From daiquiri-fueled parties to mangrove tunnels and coral reefs, Key West offers a lifetime of ways to kick back, explore nature, and enjoy some island sunshine. But since Key West highlights are often just a stone’s throw apart, you can take in the scene even if your time is limited. Here’s how to make the most out of one day in Key West.

Morning: Explore the Conch Republic

Check out the key areas of Key West, where Front Street bars lead to the waterfront and historic neighborhoods, on a flexible morning of exploring. Leaving your car parked saves you the considerable hassle of finding parking on narrow streets, and a hop-on, hop-off bus tour or trolley tour is an appealing alternative to fighting traffic. Since buses and trams are both open-sided, you can enjoy the sea breeze and snap photos of key landmarks as you cruise by.  

Afternoon: Sun, Sea, and Sand

Some of Key West’s most memorable experiences aren’t on land at all, so it’s worth leaving the island behind for some time at sea. Once you’re on the water, you’ll see dolphins, vibrant coral reefs, and mangroves that are home to colorful birds. Checking out the natural world in Key West can be as active or as laid-back as you want, with options that include guided paddling tours, snorkeling trips, and glass-bottom cruises to the coral reefs just offshore. For something that takes in the coast with a side of adrenaline, Jet Ski tours and parasailing are gorgeous ways to get your heart racing.

Night: Catch a Tropical Sunset

Catching the sunset in Key West is one of the island’s don’t-miss experiences—and locals and visitors alike make it an excuse to celebrate another day in the islands. Book early if you’re hoping to snag a spot on one of the sunset cruises that ply the shoreline, since the most popular boats can fill up well in advance. There are lots to choose from, and options range from party boats with free-flowing cocktails to schooner cruises where you can unwind to the sound of wind and waves.

Orlando is best known for its theme parks, from the Walt Disney World Resort to Legoland Florida. But parents and children can also enjoy a variety of other attractions within a short drive from Orlando. Here are a few to try.

• Ride an airboat through the Florida Everglades and watch an alligator handling demonstration.

• Participate in a simulated space shuttle launch at the Kennedy Space Center and tour NASA's launch headquarters.

• Spend a day at Clearwater Beach and enjoy a dolphin encounter cruise in the Gulf of Mexico.

• Tour the Wild Florida Wildlife Park and see as many as 200 different animals, including lemurs, sloths, and zebras.

• Kayak along the Indian River and try to spot manatees along the way.

• Make your own crayons and channel your creative side at the Crayola Experience.

With two days in Key West, you can relax into the pace of life in the Conch Republic. Whether you’re a lifelong sailor or a devoted landlubber, come to explore mangroves, spot native dolphins, and check out local landmarks, with time left over for island sunsets and umbrella drinks. Here’s what you need to know when planning your escape.

Day 1: Conch Republic Essential s

Morning: Snag tickets for the hop-on, hop-off bus or open-sided trolley that make the rounds of Key West to get your bearings. If you’re going to continue sightseeing in the afternoon, consider an option with all-day access, which is a convenient way to avoid driving and parking.

Afternoon: Tune into the parts of Key West that interest you most by choosing a guided walking tour focused on food, drinks, or history. Key West has plenty of hidden foodie hot spots, and the tree-lined streets are packed with ghost stories and colorful characters that you’ll encounter along the way.

Night: Kick off the night with a Key West sunset; there’s always a crowd at Mallory Square, or you can board a sunset cruise to catch last light on the water. Sunset cruises in Key West range from laid-back sailing trips to parties with free-flowing drinks, so choose your boat accordingly.

Day 2: Natural Wonders

Morning: Get a salt-water start with an active morning of fishing, paddling among the mangroves, or parasailing. Back on land, fuel up for an afternoon of exploring with a Key West seafood lunch followed by chilled Key lime pie.

Afternoon: Now that you’ve seen Key West from above water, it’s time to peek beneath the waves. Snorkeling and scuba trips feature coral reefs just off the coast—there are even scuba options for noncertified divers—or you can skip the wet hair altogether by hopping a glass-bottom boat.

Night: Finish your Key West adventure with a taste of the local bar scene, which goes from rustic Hemingway haunts to theme bars with a rainbow of tropical drinks. Pub crawls and bar tours are a fun way to meet fellow travelers while getting a feel for the town’s colorful nightlife.

Covering the southern tip of Florida with a green swath of forests, mangroves, estuaries, and pineland, Everglades National Park is an outdoor adventurer’s dream. To go deeper than a day trip, allow three days to explore the World Heritage wetlands. From airboat and hiking tours to swimming with manatees, read on for inspiration.  

Day 1: River of Grass

If you’re coming from Miami and have your own wheels, take a scenic drive via the historic Tamiami Trail, visiting an alligator farm or vintage-style gift shop along the way. Stop at Shark Valley, a gateway to Everglades National Park and the perfect place to scout for gators and birds on a 15-mile (24-kilometer) paved trail. Look for wildlife on a tram ride to the Shark Valley Observation Tower, offering an aerial view of the “River of Grass.” From there, continue west along the Tamiami Trail to Big Cypress National Preserve—hiking tours depart from inside the preserve and from trailside outposts like Ochopee. If you’re starting from Fort Myers or Naples, just enter the park from the west. 

Day 2: On the Water

Bisected by a network of estuaries, rivers, and other waterways, the Everglades are best experienced by boat. See how Ten Thousand Islands earned its name, on a tour of this patchwork section near Chokoloskee Bay. Airboat tours give you a high-speed ride, while kayak and canoe tours are a slower, more athletic way to glide beneath mangrove canopies. Naturalist guides point out wildlife like herons, alligators, and even dolphins. For a close encounter with one of the Everglades’ most enchanting creatures, swim with manatees on a Crystal River ecotour. And if you’re a fishing enthusiast, book a charter to hook trout and other freshwater species. 

Day 3: Flamingo

Make your way to Flamingo, the Everglades’ southernmost base camp. Water lovers can rent a canoe or kayak to explore a section of the 99-mile (159-kilometer) Wilderness Waterway, while hikers will find plenty of trail options. When you reach the Royal Palm Visitor Center (heading north), wander the Gumbo Limbo Trail and the Anhinga Trail, one of the park’s prettiest wildlife-rich spots. Linger after dark for spectacular stargazing in this remote area free from most light pollution. After a full day, there’s still time to return to Miami and freshen up for dinner or a night out in South Beach. 

Touring the Everglades by airboat is one of the best ways to see the largest subtropical wilderness in the US. Half-day tours and full-day trips combining other nearby sites are available from several cities in south Florida. Here's what to know.

Highlights

• You’ll spot wildlife such as alligators, fish, turtles, manatees, dolphins, and wading birds from the airboat.

• Choose a tour that allows for time to watch manatees at play in Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park and then observe a manatee-feeding session.

• It’s possible to get out of the boat and stroll along a jungle walking trail.

• Some tours offer the chance to to learn about alligators during a live show and demonstration.

• Combine an airboat safari with a visit to the Kennedy Space Center and tour NASA’s launch headquarters.

• Kick off a day-long tour with a tour of Miami and cruise on Biscayne Bay before heading to the Everglades for your airboat safari.

Things to Know

• Wear insect repellent and plenty of sunscreen. The mosquitoes tend to stay away while the boat’s moving, but they will find you when it stops.

• Airboats sit low in the water, so it's possible that you may get wet—dress accordingly.

• Depending on the tour, hotel pickup and drop-off may be available for Miami, Miami Beach, Naples, Orlando, Fort Myers, or Fort Lauderdale. Confirm departure points before booking.

• Half-day tours typically run two to six hours, while full-day tours last from nine to 12 hours.

Miami offers diversions that go beyond its famous sun and sand. Stroll through the Art Deco District, climb aboard a speedboat for a fast-paced tour, or cycle through Little Havana to get a taste of Miami’s Cuban food—all in 24 hours. Here are a few ways to spend one day in Miami. 

Morning: Welcome to Miami

Start your day in Miami by getting the lay of the land. Choose among several tours that allow you to maximize time in the city, such as a hop-on hop-off with more than 40 stops throughout Miami or a Segway tour that zips through South Beach and its Art Deco District. Visitors who are interested in Miami beyond South Beach may want to check out a food tour by bike, which takes you on a scenic cycle through a Cuban neighborhood complete with Cuban snacks. Learn about Miami’s history and cultural influences from your guide. 

Afternoon: Miami by Sea and by Air

Get a new perspective on Miami with an afternoon tour by boat or plane. Adventurous travelers can sign up for a parasailing excursion in Biscayne Bay or a speedboat sightseeing tour of Miami. Another option for an adrenaline-inducing ride is a seaplane tour of Miami, which takes off and lands in the waters of Key Biscayne and offers views over South Beach, Coconut Grove, and Star Island. Sightseeing cruises offer a more relaxed option to see Miami by water; keep an eye out for dolphins. 

Night: Eat, Drink, and Dance

Experience Miami’s renowned nightlife with a mojito and salsa-themed tour. Spend a night in South Beach sipping cocktails and learning how to salsa with music provided by a live band. To catch the sunset from a different perspective, sign up for an airplane tour at dusk. A twilight tour over Biscayne Bay offers panoramic views and countless photo opportunities. Visitors interested in Miami’s diverse food scene might opt for a food and walking tour. Sample bites from several Latin American cultures on a guided evening stroll. 

With three days in Orlando, you’ll have time to experience a theme park or two, explore the galaxy at the Kennedy Space Center, and even venture further afield to take in the highlights of Miami, the sights of Central Florida, or the beaches on the coast. Here are some options for how to make the most of your three days in Orlando.

Day 1: Pick Your Park

A trip to the theme-park capital of the world wouldn’t be complete without a day at one of its famous parks. Pick a single park—Disney and Universal both have multiple options—for a thorough exploration, or spend the morning in one park and the afternoon in another. Pre-book admission with included transportation, and for the sake of making the most of your time, stick to Walt Disney World Resort or Universal Orlando Resort for your park-hopping rather than trying to transfer between the two. Each has its own water park if you’re in need of an afternoon cool-down.

After a day at the park, spend your evening on property at Downtown Disney or Universal CityWalk, or escape from the world of theme parks altogether by heading to nearby International Drive with its myriad assortment of restaurants, shops, and live entertainment options.

Day 2: Water, Earth, Air

More theme-park time is always an option in Orlando, but if you’ve had enough, you’re in luck. Spend some time communing with Mother Nature on an airboat tour of the Florida Everglades, take a self-guided sightseeing tour on the hop-on hop-off trolley (with stops all along International Drive), go kayaking, try stand-up paddleboarding, or spend the day learning all about space travel at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. 

Alternatively, get a feel for the city on a guided sightseeing tour: Take a boat ride on the canals of Winter Park; shop the boutiques of Park Avenue; see the downtown skyline from Lake Eola; and travel through the quirky community of Celebration.

Day 3: Explore Florida

Orlando’s location in Central Florida makes it an excellent base for exploring surrounding destinations. One of the most popular day-trip options takes you to Miami for shopping at Bayside Marketplace, cruising on Biscayne Bay, and exploring the Art Deco architecture of South Beach. Those with an interest in American history might opt for a day trip to St. Augustine, one of the oldest towns in the nation, while sun seekers can get their daily dose of Vitamin D in sunny Clearwater Beach. 

Called the “Venice of America,” Fort Lauderdale boasts a network of yacht-filled canals lined with marinas. Just 23 miles (37 kilometers) north of Miami, this sophisticated city ditched its rowdy spring-break reputation years ago and has become a buzzing cosmopolitan base for experiencing Florida. Here’s how to see this city in one day.

Morning: Take a Water Taxi

See the sights of Fort Lauderdale from its famous waterways. While many cities offer hop-on hop-off bus tours, this Florida town offers the same service via water taxis, with routes that include stops at various scenic points. Tickets are usually valid for 12 hours, so you can use it throughout the day, allowing you to jump off for a drink and bite to eat before hopping back aboard. Or join a more structured tour aboard a grand paddle steamer along the New River and Intracoastal Waterway. Landlubbers can tour the town via Segway or bike or on foot.

Afternoon: See the Everglades

Located about 30 minutes away from Fort Lauderdale, the Everglades are a unique Floridian landscape where you can spot local wildlife such as alligators, fish, turtles, and wading birds while on an airboat tour. Glide across the grassy water, reaching speeds of up to 40 miles per hour (64 kilometers per hour) in this subtropical ecosystem. At Sawgrass Recreation Park, which features exhibit areas where rescued reptiles and mammals such as turtles, iguanas, and snakes live, you can learn about the park’s conservation efforts. Or join an afternoon food tour and stroll down Las Olas Boulevard, known for its restaurants, bars, and boutiques, stopping for tastings while window-shopping.

Night: Evening Cruise or Pub Crawl

End your day on a riverboat cruise, such as the popular Jungle Queen, which includes a stop on land to enjoy a buffet dinner and live entertainment. Travel down Fort Lauderdale's New River, sailing past the lavish homes of Millionaire's Row. Some cruises include dinner aboard the boat, or you can simply grab cocktails instead of a meal. Alternatively, join a party bike pub crawl for happy hour and pedal around Fort Lauderdale, stopping at bars along the way. It’s a fun, safe, and social way to explore the city’s nightlife scene.

Two days in Orlando lets you experience the thrills of a theme park, the chills of a water park, and some of the area’s natural and cultural attractions. Here are some options for how to spend two days in the theme-park capital of the world.

Day 1: Thrills and Chills

**Morning:**Pick your park and get an early start to enjoy all the rides and attractions before the crowds arrive. Thrill seekers should try Universal Studios and Universal’s Islands of Adventure, while travelers with young kids might prefer the milder attractions at Disney’s four parks: the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. 

**Afternoon:**Cool off at a waterpark—no matter where you spent your morning, there’s likely one nearby. Disney guests can head to Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon, while Universal parkgoers will find Universal’s Volcano Bay nearby. Legoland is loaded with water features as well.

**Night:**Near the top parks, International Drive is where you’ll find the city’s heaviest concentration of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Take a spin on the ICON Orlando observation wheel to see the city illuminated at night, catch an improv comedy show, or attend dinner theater at one of the many shows located along I-Drive.

Day 2: Nature and Neighborhood Exploration

**Morning:**Commune with nature, Florida-style. The nearby Florida Everglades are a popular spot for airboat tours and alligator spotting. Alternatively, head to the Crystal River for the chance to swim and snorkel in the clear, warm waters where manatees are often seen. 

**Afternoon:**Spend the afternoon exploring Winter Park, one of Orlando’s most vibrant communities. Take a bike tour past the neighborhood’s most notable landmarks, try a paddleboarding lesson on the Chain of Lakes, or book a food walking tour. 

**Night:**Splurge on your last night in Orlando by pre-booking a table at one of the area’s many lavish hotel restaurants. For the ultimate night out on the town, snag an open bar card for Señor Frogs or a drinks discount card for savings at 50 Orlando locations. For something a little different, pedal a party bike down International Drive.

With two days in Fort Lauderdale, you can experience the best of this sophisticated coastal city and still have time to explore areas off the Florida coast, as well as nearby Miami. From fishing to airboat rides, take advantage of Fort Lauderdale’s canals and its proximity to other coastal attractions. Here’s how to make the most of two days.

Day 1: Explore the Waters

**Morning:**Sightseeing in Fort Lauderdale is best done via the city’s waterways, either on board a hop-on hop-off water taxi or by joining a guided tour. Dotted with pricey yachts and lavish homes, the city’s canals offer picturesque views and are a scenic way to get around town.

**Afternoon:**About a 30-minute drive from Fort Lauderdale, the Everglades are a quick and easy excursion, with airboat rides that allow you to spot local wildlife such as alligators among the grassy waters. Visit Sawgrass Recreation Park to view rescued reptiles and mammals, plus see rare gopher tortoises and learn about the park’s conservation efforts.

**Night:**Watch a live performance by Polynesian dancers while enjoying a Cantonese and American meal at a local restaurant, where the tiki bar atmosphere hearkens back to kitschy 1950s Fort Lauderdale. Alternatively, book a pub crawl to help you navigate the city’s nightlife scene, which is still thriving minus the spring break atmosphere.

Day 2: Head to Key West

**Morning:**From daiquiri-fueled parties to mangrove tunnels and coral reefs, Key West offers a lifetime of ways to kick back, explore nature, and enjoy some island sunshine. But since Key West highlights are often just a stone’s throw apart, you can take in the scene even if your time is limited.

Alternatively, head out in the morning on an all-day fishing trip in Fort Lauderdale.

**Afternoon:**For those hanging around Fort Lauderdale, stroll down the city’s main thoroughfare, Las Olas Boulevard. Lined with restaurants, bars, and shops, the street provides plenty of fun distractions and is a relaxed way to spend the afternoon. You can also rent a Segway or join a bike tour to see more of the sights by land.

**Night:**Cap off your stay with a classic dinner cruise. Paddle steamboats travel along the waterways, stopping on land to dine or serving a meal aboard the boat. Alternatively, join a dinner tour of nearby Pompano Beach, just north of Fort Lauderdale, and swing by various restaurants for tastings as you watch the sunset.

There are very few places in the United States where you can hop on a boat, visit another country, enjoy a day of sunshine and adventure, and still be back in time for dinner. Florida is one of those places. Here’s what you need to know about visiting the Bahamas from Miami.

Things to Know

• Ferries take run from the port of Miami to Freeport, Grand Bahama Island, or Bimini, where you’ll pass through customs.

• Don’t forget to bring your valid passport, as well as anything you might need for a day at the pool or the beach, such as sunscreen, a hat, and a change of clothes. 

• The boat ride takes about three hours, but most ferries are stocked with a full bar, a casino, and duty-free shopping, making the journey an experience in its own right. 

• Spend your free time in the Bahamas wandering around town, sunbathing on the white-sand beaches, relaxing at a resort, or shopping in the famous Straw Market.

• A Bahamas day trip from Miami often involves an early-morning wake-up and can last upwards of 14 hours.

• Most tours to the Bahamas include pickup and drop-off at your Miami hotel.

No trip to southern Florida is complete without a visit to Everglades National Park, the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States and an International Biosphere Reserve boasting nine distinct ecosystems. Whether you’re traveling from Miami, Fort Myers, or Naples, here’s how to make the most of one day in the UNESCO-listed wetlands. 

Morning: Hit the Tamiami Trail

If staying in Miami, leave the glitz of South Beach behind and enter the everglades the historical way, along the Tamiami Trail. Stop for a Florida-style breakfast at one of the vintage roadside cafés along the way, then get oriented to the park at the Shark Valley Visitor Center. Look for gators and herons while strolling along part of a 15-mile (24-kilometer) paved trail, or connect with a tram tour here to reach an observation tower with panoramic views of the “River of Grass.” Shark Valley can also be reached if entering the park from Fort Myers or Naples in the west. 

Afternoon: Wetlands Safari

The vast, snaking estuaries of the Everglades are best explored by boat. Join a fan-powered-airboat tour to cover lots of acreage, with speeds of up to 40 mph (65 kph). Alternatively, go at a slower pace and paddle your way past bird habitats and tangled mangrove islands on a kayak or canoe tour. If exploring on foot is more your style, many sections of the park—such as Big Cypress Reserve—boast hiking trails. Whatever form your safari takes, naturalist guides can offer eco insights and point out native Florida species such as egrets, turtles, and even dolphins and manatees. 

Night: Gators After Dusk

Most visitors leave Everglades National Park once the sun goes down, but for a different perspective on the wetlands, join a night airboat tour at Sawgrass Recreation Park. Browse the park’s reptile and large-cat exhibits before taking to the water for a high-speed ride. Listen to the swamp come live with nocturnal frogs and insects, and keep an eye out for alligators and crocodiles gliding just below the inky water’s surface. 

Just beyond Fort Lauderdale lie the Florida Everglades, a magnificent subtropical wilderness—and lots of it—protected by one of the largest national parks in the United States. Here’s what you need to know about exploring this vast, wet, and wild “river of grass” on a tour from Fort Lauderdale.

Small-Group Tours

Small-group tours to the 100-mile-long (161-kilometer-long), 60-mile-wide (96-kilometer-wide) Florida Everglades from Fort Lauderdale offer travelers a budget-friendly way to experience this Wetland of International Importance, International Biosphere Reserve, and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Options are varied depending on interest: On a typical Everglades day trip, you might enjoy a nature walk through a cypress forest; take an airboat ride through the Everglades National Park or Sawgrass Recreation Park to spot beautiful birds, panthers, and alligators; or explore the wilderness after dark to experience the sights and sounds of the Everglades by night.

Private Tours

Opting for a private tour of the Everglades affords several benefits, including greater flexibility of your itinerary and the chance to ask as many questions as you want of your very own tour guide while skimming across the water at speeds of up to 40 miles (65 kilometers) per hour. A private Everglades airboat tour uses a small boat that can travel deeper into the Everglades for longer periods of time than larger boat tours. 

Things to Know

• Everglades day trips from Fort Lauderdale can last between four and 10 hours.

• Choose between the value of a small-group tour and the flexibility of a private tour.

• Many tours include hotel pickup and drop-off in Fort Lauderdale.

• Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent.

Settled by Spanish explorers in 1565, led by Pedro Menendez de Aviles, St Augustine is the oldest continuously-occupied European settlement in the USA. Landing on the feast day of Augustine of Hippo, they named the town San Agustin and quickly dug in fortifications to protect themselves. And so a town was born and continues to thrive over 400 years later with many of the original buildings still standing.

These days visitors flock to Saint Augustine for its history and beauty. Horses clip-clop through the 144-block National Historic Landmark District as the townspeople drift by in period costume. There are regular historical re-enactments and music festivals. And when you get tired of venturing into the past, there’s that long sandy beach to head for, or even Florida’s oldest alligator farm.   Day 1: Step Back in Time If you’re in Saint Augustine you’re obviously ready to step into the past. Take the trolley tour and find out about the history, sights and attractions from a well-informed trolley conductor. Check out Saint Augustine’s oldest house; the old jail – definitely haunted; the Fountain of Youth; Lightner Museum; and the magnificent 17th century fortificiation, Castillo de San Marcos. Wander through the old colonial Spanish neighborhoods, and sit in an old-time café and imagine it’s 200 years ago.

Day 2: Take to the Skies To get a wider perspective, take a helicopter tour. Check out Saint Augustine, Porpoise Point  and Old Downtown from a bird’s point of view. Or fly high over Saint Augustine Beach, perhaps even include neighbouring Viliano Beach, Conch Island, Bird Island, San Jose Forest and Fort Matanzas and Saint Augustine Lighthouse on a long ride through the skies. If you’re a bit of a romantic, take an evening flight and let the sunset add that extra bit of beauty.

Day 3: Beach and Island It’s time to get back into this century with a bit of beach fun. Head out to Anastasia Island for long, sandy beaches: Saint Augustine Beach, Crescent Beach and Matanzas Inlet. Then in the evening, just when you’ve forgotten all about history, meet some of Saint Augustine’s oldest residents on the ghost trolley ride.

Located on Florida's southeastern coast, Fort Lauderdale is known for its beaches, canals, and bustling arts scene. With a sophisticated vibe that’s a far cry from the spring-break setting of yesteryear, the city is a prime starting point for day trips thanks to its proximity to Miami and the Bahamas. Here’s how to make the most of three days in Fort Lauderdale.

Day 1: See It by Sea

Around 7 miles (11 kilometers) of Atlantic beaches stretch out from Fort Lauderdale, offering cooling breezes in this tropical climate that averages 85°F (30°C) in summer and a balmy 75°F (25°C) in winter. View the area’s over-the-top mansions from the water on a sightseeing cruise of the port and yacht marina before spending the afternoon on the sand. Alternatively, head out to the Everglades to spot alligators from an airboat. In the evening, take a dinner cruise with live entertainment aboard the popular Jungle Queen riverboat. Another option is a live Polynesian performance at a local landmark restaurant that serves Chinese dishes and tropical drinks; the kitschy 1950s tiki setting is fun for the whole family.

Day 2: Go Fish

Head offshore on a half- or all-day fishing trip to catch snapper, grouper, trigger fish, grunts, and amberjacks, or travel to the Everglades where you can snag bass. Half-day trips typically offer morning and afternoon departure times, and private charter options are available. For those who prefer their fish on a plate as opposed to a hook, stroll down Fort Lauderdale’s picturesque Las Olas Boulevard with a small-group food crawl to sample a variety of restaurants and bars. Alternatively, join a Segway or bike tour to catch more of the city’s sights, or rent a Vespa scooter and motor around on your own. At night, grab a cocktail aboard a sunset cruise or go barhopping with a pub crawl.

Day 3: Out and About

Spend your last day exploring beyond Fort Lauderdale. Less than an hour’s drive away, Miami is a popular option; guided tours that include round-trip transportation from Fort Lauderdale are ideal for first-time visitors. Alternatively, venture off coast with a ferry ticket to Freeport Harbour on Grand Bahama, where you’ll have free time to snorkel, sunbathe, and explore the island—just remember to bring your passport. A guided day trip to Key West involves a long bus ride, so it may not be ideal for some travelers, but it offers a taste of the Keys and the chance to see top attractions such as the Ernest Hemingway House without committing to a full stay there.

Tampa is a great destination for a relaxed family holiday. Its excellent beaches, theme parks, and opportunities to experience wildlife first-hand mean it's popular with adults and kids alike.   Day 1: Theme Parks Tampa has several popular theme parks that’ll keep the whole family entertained.  Take your pick from the Florida Aquarium, Lowry Park Zoo or Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. The Florida Aquarium is known for its unique glass architecture and has over 20,000 species of aquatic plants and animals. Lowry Park Zoo has over 2,000 animals and takes an educational approach with its interactive exhibits. African-themed Busch Gardens is a definite favorite with the kids who love seeing the African wildlife and taking a white-knuckle ride on its thrilling roller coasters.

Day 2: Get Wet The deep-water port of Tampa Bay is home to over 400 bottlenose dolphins and is one of the best places in Florida to view birds and native fish. Enjoy a leisurely cruise of the bay that includes a long lunch or a spot of cruise-ship dancing , or go dolphin spotting on a 72 foot (22 meter) catamaran – the choice is yours!

Day 3: Animal Encounters Spend a day at the incredible Big Cat Rescue, a non-profit educational sanctuary devoted to rescuing and housing abandoned or abused exotic cats. Home to tigers, lions, leopards, cougars, bobcats, lynx, ocelots and more, you can tour the center by day (special kids tour on Saturdays) or leave the kids behind and tour the center at night. You can even watch the big cats devouring their daily meat feed (over 18's only). More up close and personal encounters can be had at the Florida Aquarium where the kids can swim with the fishes and mom and dad can swim with the sharks!

Three days in Naples gives you enough time to see the sights around town, explore the mangrove forests, waterways, and white sand beaches surrounding the city, and venture further afield to another destination in south Florida. Here are some suggestions for how to spend three days in Naples.

Day 1: City Sightseeing

Kick off your time in Naples by sightseeing around town. Start with a morning sightseeing cruise for a view of town from the water. See the millionaire mansions of Port Royal and pristine Keewaydin Island, all while keeping an eye out for dolphins, Florida manatees, and seabirds. Continue exploring on your own in the afternoon. Stroll down Fifth Avenue, see the collection of tropical plants at the Naples Botanical Garden, or head to Naples Beach and Pier for some fun in the south Florida sun. Families might head to the Naples Zoo, while history buffs should plan a visit to the the Revs Institute, home to a collection of vintage cars, boats, motorcycles, and aircraft. Have dinner along Fifth Avenue South before heading back to the pier for sunset.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventure

Naples and its surroundings teem with outdoor adventure, and today you have time for one or two favorite Florida activities. Spend the day stand-up paddleboarding through the mangrove estuaries of protected Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, Jet Ski through the waters of Ten Thousand Islands, head offshore for some deep-sea fishing, or paddle the waterways of Everglades National Park by kayak. Most of these activities can be done in half a day, so you can pick two—one for the morning and another for the afternoon—or spend half a day relaxing on the beach or by the pool. In the evening, set sail on a sunset cruise in the waters of Naples Bay.

Day 3: South Florida Day Trip

When it comes to activities and attractions about an hour outside of Naples, you have choices. You could spend the day shelling and birdwatching on Sanibel and Captiva islands, touring the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, soaking up the sun on the beaches of Bonita Springs, canoeing or fishing on Marco Island, or exploring the planned community of Ave Maria. No matter how you choose to spend your day, head back to Naples for your final night. Enjoy a picnic dinner on the beach at sunset, or book a table at a waterfront restaurant with a view—the perfect setting for a farewell toast.

From alligators to otters to birds, the Everglades National Park offers great opportunities to spot and even interact with wildlife. Explore by boat, kayak, or on foot to learn from the experts and see as much as possible. Here are a few ways to do so.

• Visit the Reptile Exhibit at the Sawgrass Recreation Park to see native and exotic wildlife, including rare tortoises, iguanas, snakes, alligators, and peacocks.

• Paddle a kayak through a mangrove forest to get safe close-up views of herons, ducks, alligators, ducks, otters, and more.

• Listen to an expert naturalist or biologist to learn about the animals in the Everglades.

• Take a nature walk in Big Cypress National Preserve.

• Swim or snorkel with manatees while on a boat cruise along the Crystal River.

• Explore the Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park with a park ranger looking for bears, panthers, alligators, and hippos.