Contrary to popular opinion, Florida is more than just theme parks and beaches—it’s magical in many ways. The state offers a wide range of attractions and activities for people of all ages and backgrounds, including architecture, wildlife, nature, and history. 

However, given the amount of ground that needs to be covered, it’s important to plan well in advance and make necessary reservations and bookings, including flights, hotels, and rental vans to explore the state. 

Also, if it’s your first time visiting Florida, make sure you keep these tips in mind for a smooth trip.  

DO: Plan A Trip to Disney World

Most people plan trips to Disney World for their kids and end up having a magical time themselves. So, we suggest you plan a Disney World trip even if you don’t have kids. It’s a truly wonderful place designed for people of all ages, and you will have the time of your life in this place—take our word for it!

The parks pay great attention to detail and are created to bring out the child in you. It’ll feel like an escape from reality, almost everyone’s idea of a perfect vacation. 

DON’T: Go in The Summers 

Given summer holidays and other conveniences, we understand why many people plan their Florida trips in the summer; however, we suggest you avoid it if you can. During July and August, the weather in Florida is brutal—the temperature is between 73° F to 95°F, which is hot for most people. 

Also, as most Florida residents will tell you, it’s not the heat in Florida but the humidity. The air is downright swampy and makes every place outdoors feel like a steam room, and given that some of the best tourist attractions in Florida are outdoors, it’s best to visit after October and before March.  

DO: Start Your Days Early

There are many outdoor activities you can do in Florida, and if you’re visiting during peak tourist season, the crowd will be crazy there, so make sure to start your day early. 

If you avoid sleeping in, you can enjoy Florida’s beaches peacefully before they get noisy and crowded. Also, places like theme parks are easier to access early in the day since you get shorter queues. 

DON’T: Forget To Stick To A Budget

Florida is a bit heavy on the pocket, especially in tourist season, since it’s a very popular tourist destination, so it’s important to set a realistic budget and stick to it. You’d be spending thousands of dollars alone on theme parks, so make sure you save elsewhere. 

This means booking cheaper flights to looking for the most affordable hotels. Also, make the most of free tourist attractions like the beaches, State Parks, and nature reserves. 

DO: Explore The Beaches 

Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, so not planning a beach day would be a mistake. Also, the beaches here differ from the other coasts—you must see them and understand what we mean. 

And since, in Florida, you’re almost always just about sixty miles from a beach, or probably less, it’s not something you should have trouble planning. A relaxing day at the beach might be the perfect way to end your exciting Florida vacation!

DON’T: Spend All Your Time At The Beach

Florida has stunning beaches, and while your trip would be incomplete without them, you can’t just spend the entire trip hanging out at the beach. Florida has some beautiful attractions and many other outdoor activities that you can try. 

From an underwater national park to wildlife, gardens, safaris, and of course, amazing theme parks, there is a lot to explore and appreciate; make the most of your time there.  

DO: Check Out All The Wilderness 

As we mentioned, it’d be silly to spend all your time at the beach, but you also don’t have to visit every theme park in the state; there are other outdoorsy things you can try. 

For instance, you can go to Silver Springs for a mind-blowing glass bottom boat tour, or you could explore the Rainbow River in a tube. You should also check out Devil’s Den and the snorkeling opportunities there. And of course, don’t forget to go kayaking on Crystal River, Florida Keys, Rock Springs, or Sanibel Island!

DON’T: Forget About Hurricane Season 

People living in Florida are well-equipped for hurricane season with shutters and emergency drills. However, a hurricane could take you by surprise if you’re there for the first time. 

The hurricane season starts in June and lasts until late October. So, it’s a good idea to avoid that period. Also, if you still decide to visit in the summer and encounter one of the daily summer storms, know that it usually just lasts for about an hour, and you can wait it out in the summer instead of calling it a day. 

DO: Drive Carefully

The traffic in Florida can get pretty crazy, and it’s easy to get traffic tickets in the state, especially when you don’t know the roads or the laws. Ideally, take your time to go through the state’s traffic laws before hitting the road and always be a model driver. 

Also, if you’re a bigger group, don’t rent too many smaller cars; look into group transportation options in and around Tampa. For instance, you could book a 15-passenger van rental from Tampa International Airport from TPA Van Rentals. They offer large passenger van rentals in Tampa, Florida, with airport pickups and other facilities. 

Give them a call to learn more or book right away! 

About the Author 

The author is the owner of one of Florida’s most popular tour companies. They have years of experience serving tourists in Florida and offer some of the best suggestions and ideas for exploring Florida. 

The post The Ultimate Dos And Don’ts For Your First Visit To Florida appeared first on My Annabelle Lane.