Explore The Best Of South Florida Map Counties
Explore The Best Of South Florida Map Counties
South Florida is a popular tourist destination that encompasses a diverse range of counties, each with its unique charm. From the vibrant city life of Miami-Dade to the serene beaches of Palm Beach, South Florida offers a perfect blend of adventure, nature, culture, and history. To help you plan your itinerary, we have curated a comprehensive travel guide that covers the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
South Florida is home to some of the most iconic attractions that are a must-visit for any tourist. The Miami Beach, Key West, Everglades National Park, and the Kennedy Space Center are some of the top attractions that should be on your list.
Miami Beach
Located in Miami-Dade County, Miami Beach is a perfect blend of sun, sand, and sea. The beach boasts of crystal clear waters, white sand, and a vibrant nightlife. From water sports to beach parties, Miami Beach has something for everyone.
Key West
Located in Monroe County, Key West is the southernmost point of the United States. The island is famous for its stunning sunsets, water activities, and a vibrant nightlife. The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory and the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum are some of the top attractions on the island.
Everglades National Park
Located in Miami-Dade County, the Everglades National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site that spans across 1.5 million acres. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including alligators, panthers, and manatees. The park offers several activities, including airboat tours, hiking, and camping.
Kennedy Space Center
Located in Brevard County, the Kennedy Space Center is a must-visit for any space enthusiast. The center offers a range of interactive exhibits, including space shuttle Atlantis, rocket garden, and the Shuttle Launch Experience.
Hidden Gems
South Florida is also home to some hidden gems that are off the beaten path but are worth exploring. The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, and the Coral Castle are some of the hidden gems that you should add to your itinerary.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Located in Monroe County, the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is the first underwater park in the United States. The park boasts of crystal clear waters, coral reefs, and a diverse range of marine life. The park offers several activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and glass-bottom boat tours.
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Located in Miami-Dade County, the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a historic estate that boasts of a beautiful Italian Renaissance garden, a museum, and a villa. The estate offers a glimpse into the life of the wealthy in the early 20th century.
Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens
Located in Palm Beach County, the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is a hidden gem that offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The museum showcases the history and culture of the Japanese community in South Florida, while the gardens offer a tranquil space to relax and unwind.
Coral Castle
Located in Miami-Dade County, the Coral Castle is a mysterious structure that was built by a single man, Edward Leedskalnin, in the early 20th century. The castle is made entirely of coral rocks and is a testament to the human spirit of creativity and perseverance.
Food Scene
South Florida is a melting pot of cultures, and the food scene reflects this diversity. From Latin American cuisine to seafood, South Florida offers a range of culinary experiences that are sure to delight your taste buds. The Versailles Restaurant, Joe’s Stone Crab, La Sandwicherie, and El Palacio de los Jugos are some of the top restaurants that you should try.
Versailles Restaurant
Located in Miami-Dade County, the Versailles Restaurant is a Cuban institution that has been serving authentic Cuban cuisine since 1971. The restaurant is famous for its Cuban coffee, croquetas, and ropa vieja.
Joe’s Stone Crab
Located in Miami-Dade County, Joe’s Stone Crab is a seafood restaurant that has been serving the best stone crabs since 1913. The restaurant is famous for its stone crabs, key lime pie, and fried chicken.
La Sandwicherie
Located in Miami-Dade County, La Sandwicherie is a must-visit for any sandwich lover. The restaurant offers a range of fresh, made-to-order sandwiches that are perfect for a quick bite.
El Palacio de los Jugos
Located in Miami-Dade County, El Palacio de los Jugos is a local favorite that offers a range of fresh juices, Cuban sandwiches, and empanadas. The restaurant is a perfect spot for a quick, budget-friendly meal.
Outdoor Adventures
South Florida is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. From kayaking to hiking, South Florida offers a range of outdoor activities that are perfect for adventure seekers. The Dry Tortugas National Park, the Loxahatchee River, the Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, and the John D. MacArthur Beach State Park are some of the top outdoor destinations in South Florida.
Dry Tortugas National Park
Located in Monroe County, the Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote island that is accessible only by boat or seaplane. The park is home to a 19th-century fort, a coral reef, and a diverse range of marine life. The park offers several activities, including snorkeling, camping, and birdwatching.
Loxahatchee River
Located in Palm Beach County, the Loxahatchee River is a beautiful waterway that offers several outdoor activities, including kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The river is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and birds.
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
Located in Miami-Dade County, the Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is a beautiful park that offers several outdoor activities, including swimming, fishing, and hiking. The park is home to a historic lighthouse that offers stunning views of the ocean.
John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
Located in Palm Beach County, the John D. MacArthur Beach State Park is a beautiful park that offers several outdoor activities, including swimming, fishing, and hiking. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including manatees, sea turtles, and ospreys.
Family-Friendly Activities
South Florida offers several family-friendly activities that are perfect for a day out with the kids. The Miami Children’s Museum, the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium, the Lion Country Safari, and the Miami Seaquarium are some of the top family-friendly destinations in South Florida.
Miami Children’s Museum
Located in Miami-Dade County, the Miami Children’s Museum is a fun and interactive museum that offers several exhibits, including a mini supermarket, a cruise ship, and a castle. The museum is perfect for kids aged 1-12.
South Florida Science Center and Aquarium
Located in Palm Beach County, the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium is a fun and educational destination that offers several exhibits, including a planetarium, an aquarium, and a science playground. The center is perfect for kids of all ages.
Lion Country Safari
Located in Palm Beach County, the Lion Country Safari is a drive-through safari that offers a chance to see a diverse range of wildlife, including lions, zebras, and giraffes. The park also offers several animal encounters and a water park.
Miami Seaquarium
Located in Miami-Dade County, the Miami Seaquarium is a marine park that offers several animal encounters, including swimming with dolphins and sea lions. The park also offers several shows, including a killer whale show.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
South Florida offers several off-the-beaten-path experiences that are perfect for those looking for something different. The Coral Gables Venetian Pool, the Wynwood Walls, the Little Havana Cultural Walking Tour, and the Bahia Honda State Park are some of the top off-the-beaten-path experiences in South Florida.
Coral Gables Venetian Pool
Located in Miami-Dade County, the Coral Gables Venetian Pool is a beautiful pool that was built in