Map of Florida
Florida, known as ‘The Sunshine State’ is a popular winter destination and attracts many tourists throughout the year. Now the majority of the visitors are snowbirds – people escaping winter season, from Canada and UK as they do not require any tourist visa to enter USA. But people of other nationalities visit Florida too as getting US visa through Visa Center offices in Canada and UK has made the process completely hassle free. The main attractions of Florida are beaches and theme parks like Disney World, Universal Studios and Busch Gardens.The place is very popular with the kids as they love to spend a lot of time at Sea World.
1. Amelia Island
This is the southernmost of the Sea Islands and stretches from South Carolina to Florida. The most famous attraction here is the Fernandina Beach which is actually a shrimping village with stretches of historic buildings, eateries and golf courses.
2. Castillo de San Marcos
It is the oldest masonry fort in the United States. The fort was built in the late 1600s but is still in excellent shape.The rampart, which looks like a diamond, on each of the four corners gives it a unique look.
3. Universal Orlando Resort
It is the largest of the Universal Studios Theme Parks and many regard it as a challenge to The Disney Land. The resort has two theme parks – The Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. There are many other attractions like nightclubs, restaurant complex and three world class resort hotels.
4. Fort Lauderdale Beach
The intricate and the expansive canal system has conferred the title of ‘Venice of America’ on Fort Lauderdale. The city is famous for its beaches and boats. This city is always popular as a weekend getaway during the spring when the weather is just fine for short trips.
5. Kennedy Space Center
The Kennedy Space Center is the launch site for unmanned rockets and is the a top draw tourist attraction too. The Visitor Complex has museums, movies, a rocket garden and bus tours. You can view a rocket launch and buy a launch pass from the Visitor Complex. However, the closest approach is almost 4 miles away due to safety reasons. You can always the check their schedule for the launch dates.
6. Walt Disney World
It is located in Lake Buena Vista in Orlando and is easily the most recognized tourist spot in Florida. It is also the world’s largest and the most visited theme park. The Walt Disney World is divided into four magical divisions – The Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom. It is the ultimate place for fun and fantasy.
7. Key West
Key West is the largest town in Florida and is home to almost one million tourists every year. The town has a unique character that sets it apart from the rest of Florida. Perhaps this is what lures the travelers to this island. There are many noteworthy tourist attractions here like the former home of Ernest Hemingway, the Southernmost Point, the lighthouse and many other restaurants and bars.