I've lived in Florida for over 25 years. These are the 6 tourist hot spots worth visiting and the 2 you can skip.

In my opinion, the panhandle beaches are popular Florida tourist spots worth visiting. WanderDrone/Getty ImagesAs a Florida resident of over 25 years, I know which tourist hot spots are actually worth visiting.I recommend going to St. Petersburg, Dry Tortugas National Park, and the panhandle beaches.However, I'd skip places like International Drive in Orlando and South Beach in Miami.World-famous theme parks, stunning beaches, and natural beauty are just a few of the many reasons tourists flock to Florida every year.After living in the Sunshine State for over 25 years, I've explored just about every major tourist spot there is. In my experience, some absolutely live up to the hype, but others aren't worth your time or money.Here are the six tourist attractions worth visiting and the two you might want to skip on your next trip to Florida.In my opinion, St. Petersburg lives up to the hype.St. Petersburg is on Florida's Gulf Coast.Paola Giannoni/Getty ImagesA vibrant city with an artsy, laid-back vibe, St. Petersburg is a cultural hot spot on Florida's Gulf Coast. The downtown area is filled with colorful murals, markets, and great dining options.I recommend visiting the St. Pete Pier for beautiful waterfront views and great restaurants. Plan on arriving in the late afternoon to catch the stunning sunset.The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando is truly magical.Harry Potter fans should definitely visit Universal Orlando. Veronica CroesWhether you're a lifelong fan or new to the magic of the Harry Potter universe, the level of immersion in the Universal Orlando parks is unlike anything else I've ever experienced.Split between Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida and Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure, the attractions bring this magical world to life with incredible detail.From sipping Butterbeer to riding Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, there's magic at every turn. The Hogwarts Express connects both lands, making park-to-park tickets a must for the full experience.Dry Tortugas National Park is worth a visit.Dry Tortugas National Park is home to a 19th-century coastal fort.Erica Avallone/Getty ImagesA hidden gem located about 70 miles west of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is one of Florida's most remote and stunning destinations.It's home to Fort Jefferson, a 19th-century coastal fort surrounded by crystal-clear waters that are perfect for snorkeling.The park is only accessible by ferry or seaplane, making it a true off-the-grid getaway. I recommend booking a ride on the Yankee Freedom III ferry or a spot on a seaplane tour well in advance, as space fills up quickly.For a unique, artsy experience, check out Wynwood Walls in Miami.Artists from around the world have contributed to Wynwood Walls.Erika Cristina Manno/ShutterstockWynwood Walls in Miami is a vibrant outdoor street-art museum that provides an explosion of color and creativity.Located in Miami's artsy Wynwood neighborhood, the area features massive, changing murals created by artists from around the world.Beyond the walls, you can find art galleries, shops, and some of Miami's trendiest restaurants.I suggest grabbing a drink at Panther Coffee or stopping for dinner at Bakan, known for its unique and authentic Mexican cuisine — some of which feature insects.Visit Everglades National Park for a taste of Florida's wild side.I suggest taking an airboat tour in Everglades National Park.David Pardoe/Getty ImagesThe Everglades are more than just a swamp — they're a massive, incredibly diverse ecosystem home to alligators, manatees, and stunning bird species.I recommend visiting Everglades National Park for an airboat tour. For a quieter experience, you can also get out on a kayak to explore the park up close.The panhandle beaches are absolutely stunning.Destin is one of our family's favorite destinations.WanderDrone/Getty ImagesThe Florida panhandle's beaches, including Pensacola, Santa Rosa Beach, and the scenic 30A stretch, have some of the softest, whitest sand I've ever seen.This area is perfect for those looking for a mix of relaxation and outdoor fun.Destin, which is home to clear emerald waters, is one of our family's favorite destinations. I recommend visiting in late spring or early fall to enjoy the warm weather without the summer crowds.However, I recommend skipping International Drive in Orlando.In my opinion, International Drive feels like a tourist trap.VIAVAL TOURS/ShutterstockInternational Drive is a shopping and entertainment area in downtown Orlando. Although it's home to a few decent spots like Icon Park and the Orlando Premium Outlets, a lot of I-Drive feels like a tourist trap.If you're in Orlando, I recommend heading to Disney Springs instead for shopping, dining, and entertainment. You'll get a taste of Disney magic without needing a park ticket.In my opinion, there are better spots in Miami than South Beach.Parking can be difficult in South Beach.Alexander Spatari/Getty ImagesSouth Beach is an iconic area in Miami, but unless you're there to party, it can be more of a headache than a highlight. In my experience, the food and drinks are pricey, the beaches are crowded, and parking can be difficult.I think there are better beaches and neighborhoods in Miami that offer a more enjoyable experience (especially if you're traveling with family or kids).For example, I recommend checking out Crandon Park Beach for a more peaceful and scenic Miami experience.Read the original article on Business Insider

Comments

Business News

Cash ISA frenzy as savers race to beat Rachel Reeves crackdown before May deadline

Comments

Similar News

I've spent 20 years raising 3 student athletes. Being a sports mom was both awful and rewarding.

I've earned $74,000 renting out space in my yard that I wasn't even using. The side hustle requires almost no effort.

Timesaving robot lawnmower named the 'best garden purchase I've ever made' gets £50 price cut

I've been to all 63 national parks. These 4 are my favorites &mdash; but these 3 didn't impress me much.

Our neighbour’s huge newbuild is an eyesore monstrosity – they’ve spoiled our views, taken parking & council don’t care

This couple gave up high-paying tech jobs to travel the world after a car crash and major burnout. Here's what they've learned on the road.

'I've had Premium Bonds for 6 years and not won a penny - should I invest elsewhere?'

Shark handheld vacuum cleaner that is a 'game-changer if you've got kids' plummets in sale

I've been to 45 countries and think every traveler should add these 5 incredible places to their bucket list

Get ready to pay more for that engagement ring you've been eyeing

I've tested dozens of white linen trousers and this is the only £65 pair I recommend

I took a 10-day road trip up and down Florida with my mom &mdash; these 6 things could've made our trip even better

I've toured countless colleges with my kids, and the visits can be a drag. Here's how we made them more fun.

I've learned that working multiple part-time jobs works better for me as a mom. I like making my own schedule.

I've learned that part of raising emotionally strong teens is letting them experience uncomfortable feelings

A move that would've surged married student-loan borrowers' payments was a mistake, Trump's admin says

I've visited over 50 cities on the West Coast. Skip the tourist hot spots and try these 5 smaller coastal towns instead.

I’ve just been housed. Now I’m paying someone else’s debt on my prepay meter

In an Easter post, Trump said the businessmen who've criticized his tariffs are bad at both business and politics

When your pension will bounce back from Trump’s Tariffs – and what to do if you’ve lost money

Business News

Cash ISA frenzy as savers race to beat Rachel Reeves crackdown before May deadline

Why is the North Sea not being prioritised as urgently as UK steel?

North Sea hailed as strategic asset that 'deserves national attention'

Student flats developer to challenge council for refusal over 'safe access'

Tariff bell tolls for the UK banking sector

The student housing pioneer trying to solve climate and create a better society

Entire portfolio of 11 Scottish forests on market for under £1 million

Mark Carney’s Liberals Win Canadian Elections After Vowing To Take On Trump—What To Know

FTSE 100 Live 29 April: BP profit below forecast, index run set to continue

How to squeeze the most out of your work pension

How does a care annuity work? It comes with special features to fund fees long-term

Summer holidays might cost you a £500 fine for one particular motoring offence...

I'm a property expert: Investment advisor Anna Clare Harper says Labour won't build 1.5million homes

New Russian footage shows North Korean troops training with modern rifles, grenade launchers, and anti-drone tactics

HMRC tax update as it vows to fight in courts and says 'check payslip'

Lloyds Bank customer refused service because of how much cash they wanted to withdraw

HSBC announces fall in quarterly pre-tax profit amid ‘economic uncertainty’

Getting Pep Talks From Generative AI To Lift Your Spirit

Unlike Clay Holmes, The New York Yankees Expect Devin Williams To Return To Being The Closer

Canelo Alvarez Vs. William Scull Undercard

HSBC announces fall in quarterly pre-tax profit amid ‘economic uncertainty’

Mandate solar panels on new homes to cut bills, councils urge government

Citroen's new C5 Aircross promises an electric version with 422 miles of range

Jamie Oliver says teaching his kids how to cook didn't keep them away from junk food

Carney and Liberal Party projected as winners as Canadians rally against Trump's tariffs

Trump on Signalgate: 'I think we learned: Maybe don't use Signal'

Amazon launches its first internet satellites to compete against SpaceX's Starlinks

More people worrying at benefit changes say centre

Second-hand school uniform scheme 'flat out'

Prince Andrew's firm linked to controversial PPE millionaire

Japan's Ishiba will discuss Chinese aggression in disputed seas and US tariffs on Philippines visit

Aldi selling stunning garden essential that will help turn your garden into a Mediterranean paradise

Your Energy Bills Are High, And This Is Why

Damian Lillard Suffers Torn Achilles against Pacers

Congress Is Shining A Light On Proxy Advisory Firms

PIP claimants issued 50-week warning ahead of major benefits shake-up

Shoppers 'obsessed' with £13 retinol serum that 'smooths deep wrinkles' in two months

Citroen unveils its New C5 Aircross - and promises an electric version with 422 miles of range

Duolingo's CEO lays out 3 ways AI will be used to hire, review, and decide head count

Australian PM dismisses warning over AAA credit rating

Trump set to ease tariff impact on US carmakers

Trump Administration Looks to Take Steps to Ease Pain From Car Tariffs

Trump requires truck drivers to speak English with new executive order

Expert shares how you could save £150 on energy bills with a simple upgrade

Premium Bonds alert for all savers after prize allocation change

Australia’s Woodside Energy Green Lights Big U.S. LNG Project

Red Sox’ Trevor Story Productive Following Three Injury-Filled Seasons

WWE Raw Results, Winners And Grades On April 28, 2025

Inside The Atlantic magazine's circuitous route to interviews with Trump

Bryant Park Grill’s future in doubt after judge’s ruling boots iconic eatery in favor of famed chef

House price momentum cooling but sales growth expected across 2025 – Zoopla

Michigan Democrat Introduces 7 Impeachment Articles Against Trump

Netflix’s TUDUM Preview Gives Brief Looks At Upcoming Movies And TV Series

How ‘Star Wars’ Tapped Into Audience Enthusiasm In $25 Million Weekend

SEVENTEEN’s HxW, P1Harmony, IVE, JO1 and More Joining KCON LA 2025

Cheehoo Raises $10 Million To Build AI Tools For 3D Animation

Acclaimed Mystery Thriller ‘Drop’ Arrives On Streaming This Week

I've been to all 63 national parks. These 4 are my favorites — but these 3 didn't impress me much.

I took a 10-day road trip up and down Florida with my mom — these 6 things could've made our trip even better