Whether you’re planning a trip for spring break, a family vacation, a bachelorette party or anything in between, Florida is a must-visit destination. There’s so much to do and see in the Sunshine State—from beaches and theme parks to historical towns and national parks. You can’t go wrong when you’re trying to pinpoint the best places to visit in Florida.
According to VISIT Florida, 34.6 million visitors traveled here in Q3 2024, marking a 1.8% increase from Q3 2023 and the highest visitation for any third quarter. Travel to the popular sunny destination isn’t slowing down anytime soon and it’s a highly sought out destination for people across the globe.
Looking to plan a trip? We spoke with Helene Sula, travel expert with over 790k Instagram followers and author of Two O’Clock on a Tuesday at Trevi Fountain, about some of the very best places to visit in Florida. Here’s what she had to say.
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7 Best Places To Visit in Florida in 2025, According to Helene Sula
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1. Beaches of 30A
You can’t visit Florida without stopping at a beach to take in some sun and look at the beautiful ocean water. Sula recommends visiting the beaches of 30A on Florida’s panhandle.
“There are so many beach towns here, like Seaside, which you might remember from The Truman Show, Grayton with the iconic Red Bar restaurant,” Sula tells Parade. “Watercolor is my favorite, it is like stepping into a vibrant painting, perfect for serene walks or just soaking up the artsy, laid-back vibe.”
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2. Universal Studios for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Harry Potter fans must make a trip to Universal Studios to check out The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. “No need for a letter from Hogwarts; just head to Universal Studios,” Sula says. “Sip on a Butterbeer, wander through Diagon Alley, and experience the magic of Harry Potter.”
If you plan on visiting Universal Studios in late May or early June, then you’ll want to be sure to visit Epic Universe. This highly-anticipated park will have five themed lands including another Harry Potter one called “Ministry of Magic.”
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3. Rock Springs
After visiting Universal Studios and Walt Disney World, you might need a vacation from that vacation with all the walking. Sula recommends taking a trip to rock springs which is located just outside Orlando.
“This little slice of paradise offers crystal-clear, cool waters that are perfect for tubing,” she says. “It’s a refreshing escape from the typical tourist spots.”
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4. Crystal River
Fans of aquatic life will want to head on over to Crystal River to swim with manatees in their natural habitat. “This gentle, giant experience is as magical as it sounds and gives you a peek into the aquatic life of these beautiful creatures,” Sula tells Parade.
Aside from swimming with manatees, Crystal River is home to hiking trails, world class dining options, and diving which are great to experience as a solo traveler or with family and friends.
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5. Tarpon Springs
Located 30 minutes north of Clearwater, Tarpon Springs is known as the “Sponge Capital of the World” and is filled with shops, restaurants and rich history.
“This vibrant Greek community is famous for its sponge docks and authentic Greek cuisine,” Sula says. “It’s like a mini trip to Greece right in Florida and don’t leave without trying some baklava.”
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6. Key West
Literature fans will want to make a trip to Key West to see where the great Ernest Hemingway once lived.
“Dive into the eclectic vibe of Key West, visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, and maybe even meet the six-toed cats,” Sula says. “It’s a place where the sunsets are stunning and the history is as colorful as the buildings.”
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7. Fort Myers
Aside from watching the dolphins in Fort Myers, Sula recommends exploring the winter homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.
“It’s a fascinating look into the lives of two of America’s greatest inventors, set in a gorgeous estate,” she says.
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