Florida Travel Guide

Florida Facts & Info

• Population: Approximately 21.5 million.
• Total Area: Florida covers a total area of about 65,755 square miles.
• Highest Elevation: The highest natural point in Florida is Britton Hill, with an elevation of 345 feet (105 meters) above sea level.
• Capital: Tallahassee 
• Time Zone: Florida is located in the Eastern Time Zone (ET).
• Main Cities: Major cities in Florida include Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, and Fort Lauderdale.
• Key Attractions: Florida is famous for its theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, beautiful beaches including Miami Beach and Clearwater Beach, the Everglades National Park, Kennedy Space Center, and the Florida Keys.
• Main Airports: Miami International Airport (MIA), Orlando International Airport (MCO), and Tampa International Airport (TPA).
• Main Hospitals: Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, Cleveland Clinic Florida, and Baptist Hospital of Miami.
• Nickname: Florida is known as the “Sunshine State.”
• Demonym: People from Florida are called Floridians.
• Abbreviation: FL
• Governor: Governor of Florida is Ron DeSantis. 
• Country: United States of America.

Best Time To Visit

Best Time Overall: The best time to visit Florida is from November to April when the weather is mild, dry, and perfect for outdoor activities. There are fewer crowds, lots of events, and a reduced risk of hurricanes.

• Spring: Spring in Florida brings mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and events like the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, making it an ideal time for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
• Summer: Summer offers sun-soaked beach days and lively events like the Miami Spice culinary festival, attracting those seeking vibrant nightlife, water sports, kid-centric theme-park vacations, and cultural celebrations.
• Fall: Autumn in Florida brings comfortable weather, fewer crowds, and events like Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights, making it a great time for theme park enthusiasts and those looking for a quieter, enjoyable vacation experience.
• Winter: Florida’s winter entices visitors with warm days, festive events like the Night of Lights in St. Augustine, and the chance to escape cold climates, making it a popular destination for snowbirds and holiday travelers.

Getting Around Florida

• Airports: Major airports in Florida include Miami International Airport (MIA), Orlando International Airport (MCO), and Tampa International Airport (TPA), ensuring convenient access to various regions of the state.
• Taxi: Taxis in Florida are readily available in urban areas and at airports, offering convenient, metered transportation to destinations. 
• Rideshare: Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate widely across Florida, providing an affordable alternative to traditional taxis.
• Buses: Florida boasts an extensive bus network, especially in urban centers, offering an economical and efficient way to travel within cities and even between some major cities.
• Scooters: Electric scooters, available for rent through apps like Lime and Bird, in many cities and beachfronts.
• Biking: Whether you own a bike or need to rent wheels at one of the many rental locations in Florida, the flat terrain and bike-friendly paths make cycling a breeze.  
• Walking: Many parts of Florida, especially urban centers and beachfronts, are pedestrian-friendly offering easy access to dining and shopping.

Florida Travel Tips

• Tip 1: Florida gets HOT so stay hydrated and wear sunscreen, especially during the hot and humid months. 
• Tip 2: Plan your theme park visits strategically, arriving early in the morning or in the evening to avoid the crowds. 
• Tip 3: Embrace local cuisine and seafood at coastal restaurants for an authentic taste of everything the state has to offer like grouper and Cuban sandwiches. 
• Tip 4: Be mindful of wildlife and follow safety guidelines because Florida is home to alligators, pythons, bears, panthers, and even wild monkeys (non-native).
• Tip 5: Check the weather forecast and pack layers, as Florida’s climate can change quickly so it’s wise to be prepared for sudden rain showers or cooler evenings.

Costs & Budget

• Budget ($100-$150): Traveling on a budget in Florida typically means spending around $100-$150 per day, allowing for affordable accommodations, dining at casual restaurants, and enjoying various low-cost or free sites and activities. 
• Midrange ($200-$400): Midrange travelers can expect to spend between $200-$400 per day, which provides comfortable accommodations, dining at a mix of mid-range and upscale restaurants, and the opportunity to enjoy popular attractions.
• Top-End ($500 plus): For travelers seeking a premium experience, a top-end budget in Florida can range from $500 and above per day, allowing for lavish accommodations, fine dining experiences, exclusive tours, and access to high-end entertainment/activities

What To Pack

• Lightweight Clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing (a jacket in the winter) to meet the changing weather of the state. 
• Sun Protection: Don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong Florida sun(there are reasons why they call it the Sunshine State).
• Nice Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring cities, parks, and attractions. 
• Water Bottle: Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day; many public places in Florida have water refill stations for your convenience.
• Umbrella: A compact umbrella is handy, as Florida weather can be unpredictable, and sudden afternoon thunderstorms are common.