Excellent One Week Florida Itinerary: Central and South Florida

Welcome to Florida, the place the solar is all the time shining and the seashores are all the time calling! For those who’re searching for a fun-filled week of journey, rest, and pleasure, then you definitely’ve come to the best place. With its beautiful seashores, thrilling theme parks, and various cultural points of interest, Florida has one thing for everybody. Here is a one week itinerary that may assist you benefit from your journey in Central and South Florida.

Florida is a state that gives countless prospects for vacationers, from theme parks and seashores to pure wonders and cultural experiences.

Planning a one-week itinerary could be difficult, as there may be a lot to see and do. Nonetheless, with cautious planning, you’ll be able to discover the highlights of Central and South Florida in simply seven days. On this weblog publish, we’ll share our excellent one-week Florida itinerary, which incorporates visits to Orlando’s theme parks, swimming with manatees, touring historic estates, and exploring the colourful metropolis of Miami.

Here is a map of all of the locations I will cowl:

Day 1: Harry Potter World at Common Studios Orlando

Begin your journey in Orlando, the theme park capital of the world. Your first cease: the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Common Studios. Break up over two parks, this magical world is a must-see for any Harry Potter fan. Begin your day at Islands of Journey, the place you’ll be able to discover the snowy village of Hogsmeade and take a trip on the Hogwarts Categorical to Diagon Alley at Common Studios. Be certain to get the categorical move so you’ll be able to skip the traces and benefit from the rides twice. Do not miss the prospect to sip on a frozen butterbeer and take an image in entrance of Hogwarts Citadel. Be certain to remain within the night to observe the citadel illumination and the Dragon breathe hearth in Diagon Alley!

We had the categorical move to be able to see and do and far as attainable! You possibly can see my whole information to the Wizarding World Harry Potter in Orlando proper right here.

We stayed at this resort for two nights which I extremely advocate!

Day 2: Extra Harry Potter World and Rock Springs State Park

As we speak is all about Harry Potter World! Head again to Common Studios and proceed your magical journey by way of Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. Do not miss the prospect to trip Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Escape from Gringotts. For those who’re feeling courageous, take a trip on the Jurassic World VelociCoaster, one of many latest and most fun rides within the park.

Within the afternoon, take a brief drive to Rock Springs State Park, the place you’ll be able to float down a real-life lazy river for simply $3! We rented inflatable tubes simply down the highway on the bar- you actually cannot miss it as you make your strategy to the springs. Benefit from the serene environment and the light circulation of the river. We did it twice!

Rock Springs State Park is a hidden gem that gives a enjoyable and enjoyable tubing journey. The park has a crystal clear spring that flows right into a lazy river, creating the proper setting for tubing. The water is refreshing and funky, making it an effective way to beat the Florida warmth. The park presents tube leases, so all you have to carry is your self and a way of journey.

The tubing journey takes about half-hour to finish, and you’ll float downstream by way of stunning surroundings, together with lush vegetation and towering timber. The river is calm and mild, making it appropriate for all ages and talent ranges. You possibly can take your time and benefit from the surroundings or choose up the tempo and have some enjoyable bouncing over the small rapids.

For those who’re feeling adventurous, you can even discover the park’s mountaineering trails and pure springs. The park has a number of picnic areas, so you’ll be able to carry a lunch and spend the day enjoyable in nature. Rock Springs State Park is an effective way to expertise Florida’s pure magnificence and have some enjoyable within the solar.

From right here, we drove a brief means close to Crystal River and spent the evening on the Finest Western Crustal River Resort resort.

Day 3: Swim with Manatees and Ringling Home

As we speak, head to Crystal River and swim with the manatees, one of the vital unimaginable experiences Florida has to supply. These light giants are curious and pleasant, so do not be afraid to rise up shut and private. You will even have the prospect to discover the beautiful Three Sisters Springs.

Swimming with manatees is a very unforgettable expertise. These light creatures are referred to as the “sea cows” of Florida and are identified for his or her curious and pleasant nature. Nonetheless, it is necessary to do not forget that these are wild animals and there are strict pointers in place to make sure their security and well-being.

When swimming with manatees, it is necessary to maintain a respectful distance and keep away from touching or harassing them in any means. You must also keep away from chasing or following them, and by no means try to trip or seize onto them. These actions could be dangerous to the manatees and are unlawful below Florida regulation.

To make sure a protected and pleasing expertise, it is advisable to guide a guided tour with a licensed operator. These excursions will offer you all the mandatory tools, together with wetsuits, masks, and snorkels. The guides will even offer you details about manatees and their habits, in addition to the foundations and laws for swimming with them.

It is also necessary to pay attention to the environmental affect of swimming with manatees. Manatees are a protected species and their habitat is below menace from air pollution, boat strikes, and habitat loss. As guests to Florida, it is our duty to respect their residence and do our half to guard these unimaginable creatures for future generations to take pleasure in.

For lunch, head to Tarpon Springs, a Greek group with wonderful Greek delicacies. Tarpon Springs is a captivating metropolis situated on the Gulf Coast of Florida. It is identified for its wealthy historical past and robust Greek group, which dates again to the early 1900s. Actually, Tarpon Springs has the very best share of Greek People of any metropolis within the US.

One of many highlights of a go to to Tarpon Springs is the meals. The town has quite a few Greek eating places and bakeries, serving up scrumptious dishes like moussaka, spanakopita, and gyro sandwiches. Make sure you strive among the well-known Greek pastries, like baklava and kataifi.

Along with the meals, Tarpon Springs can also be identified for its sponge diving business. The town was as soon as the biggest sponge market on the earth, and immediately you’ll be able to nonetheless go to the Sponge Docks space and see sponge boats and divers in motion. There are additionally a number of outlets promoting sponges and different nautical-themed souvenirs.

For those who’re eager about historical past, Tarpon Springs has a number of museums value visiting. The Tarpon Springs Space Historic Society Museum showcases the town’s previous, whereas the Safford Home Museum is a restored Victorian-era residence that gives a glimpse into the lives of early settlers.

General, Tarpon Springs is a novel and charming vacation spot that gives a style of Greek tradition and historical past within the coronary heart of Florida.

After lunch, take a tour of the Ringling Home, Ca’d’Zan, a European-style palace in Florida. The Ringling Home is a phenomenal instance of the opulence and luxurious of the Gilded Age. Ca’d’Zan, which suggests “Home of John” in Venetian dialect, was the winter residence of John Ringling, one of many 5 Ringling brothers who owned and operated the well-known Ringling Bros. circus. The mansion was constructed within the early Nineteen Twenties and is situated on the waterfront in Sarasota, Florida.

The structure of Ca’d’Zan is impressed by Venetian Gothic and Renaissance kinds, with components like intricate carvings, stained glass home windows, and a hovering tower resembling St. Mark’s Campanile in Venice. The inside of the mansion is equally spectacular, with ornate furnishings, tapestries, and paintings collected by John and his spouse, Mable Ringling.

The Ringlings hosted many lavish events and occasions at Ca’d’Zan, entertaining visitors just like the Duke and Duchess of Windsor and the Astors. The mansion fell into disrepair after John’s demise in 1936, however was finally restored and opened to the general public as a museum within the Nineteen Fifties.

As we speak, guests can take a guided tour of Ca’d’Zan and marvel at its grandeur and historical past. The tour contains entry to the primary and second flooring of the mansion, in addition to the attractive gardens and grounds. There’s additionally a museum on website that showcases the Ringling’s intensive artwork assortment, together with works by Rubens, Van Dyck, and Velázquez.

Within the night, take within the sundown at Siesta Key Seaside. This stunning seaside is thought for its white sand and clear waters. Sadly, throughout our go to, the seaside had Pink Tide, which created loads of coughing and lifeless fish. For those who encounter Pink Tide throughout your go to, don’t be concerned, there are many different seashores to discover in Florida.After lunch, tour the Ringling Home, Ca’d’Zan, a European-style palace in Florida. Finish the night with sundown at Siesta Key seaside.

We drove to Sarasota that evening and stayed on the Siesta Key Seaside Resort.

Day 4: Edison and Ford’s Winter Estates and Everglades

As we speak is a day of studying and journey. Begin your day by touring the Edison and Ford winter estates, the place you’ll be able to be taught in regards to the life and innovations of two of essentially the most well-known inventors in historical past. We took the provided guided tour which gave a lot historical past about Edison and his life. It was fascinating! You will additionally see a group of Ford’s vehicles.

Afterward, cease by Robert is Right here Fruit Stand, the place you’ll be able to style unique fruit and even order a milkshake together with your fruit buy. Robert is Right here Fruit Stand is a very distinctive and must-visit spot in Florida. It was based by a younger boy named Robert, who started promoting his household’s surplus vegetables and fruit on the aspect of the highway within the Nineteen Fifties. Many years later, the fruit stand is now a beloved establishment, with all kinds of unique and tropical fruits that you simply will not discover in your typical grocery retailer.

Among the standout fruits at Robert is Right here Fruit Stand embrace dragon fruit, starfruit, lychee, and fervour fruit. You possibly can pattern most of the fruits earlier than buying them, and the employees are educated and pleasant. For those who’re feeling adventurous, strive one in all their well-known milkshakes, which are available flavors like key lime, mango, and banana.

The fruit stand additionally has a petting zoo, the place you’ll be able to work together with goats, pigs, and different animals. There’s additionally a playground for youths, a mini golf course, and a present store promoting native honey, jams, and different goodies.

General, Robert is Right here Fruit Stand is a enjoyable and quirky place to cease in your Florida itinerary, and an effective way to strive some new and unique fruits. Do not miss it!

Finish the day within the Everglades, the place you’ll be able to see alligators and different wildlife up shut and private. The Everglades is an unlimited wetland ecosystem that spans throughout south Florida, masking an space of roughly 1.5 million acres. It is residence to a various array of plant and animal species, together with alligators, panthers, and manatees. Exploring the Everglades is a must-do exercise on any Florida itinerary, because it presents a novel alternative to expertise one of many state’s most iconic pure wonders.

The most effective methods to discover the Everglades is by taking an airboat tour. These excursions are provided by numerous firms all through the world, and assist you to glide by way of the waterways and rise up near the wildlife. You will additionally be taught in regards to the historical past and ecology of the area out of your educated information.

For those who favor a extra low-key expertise, you can even take a strolling or biking tour by way of one of many many trails within the Everglades. That is what we opted for. There are a number of customer facilities and ranger stations all through the park that provide maps and knowledge on the very best trails to discover.

Regardless of the way you select to discover the Everglades, ensure to carry loads of bug spray and sunscreen, because the mosquitos and solar could be intense. And all the time bear in mind to respect the wildlife and their habitat by conserving a protected distance and following all park guidelines and laws.

General, the Everglades is a must-visit vacation spot in Florida, providing a novel and unforgettable expertise for nature lovers and journey seekers alike.

From right here, we drove to Fairfield Inn in Marathon Key, we stayed right here 2 nights.

Day 5: Florida Keys

As we speak, head south to the attractive Florida Keys, a sequence of islands situated south of Miami. The Florida Keys are a paradise for seaside lovers and water sports activities fans. The crystal clear waters and white sandy seashores are excellent for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. For those who’re a fan of fishing, the Keys are additionally top-of-the-line locations on the earth for deep-sea fishing, with all kinds of fish species to catch.

Snorkel in Bahia Honda State Park, the place you’ll be able to see an array of tropical fish and even spot some sea turtles. Afterward, cease for lunch at Hogfish, a neighborhood favourite.

Hogfish Bar and Grill is thought for its contemporary seafood and laid-back environment. We had a scrumptious Hogfish sandwich and the well-known Florida Keys pink shrimp.

After lunch, we drove right down to Key West, the southernmost level within the continental United States. We hopped on a prepare tour to be taught in regards to the historical past of the island, which was as soon as a thriving port and residential to many well-known writers and artists, together with Ernest Hemingway.

We additionally toured Ernest Hemingway’s residence, which is now a museum. The home is superbly preserved, and we noticed Hemingway’s writing studio and discovered about his life on the island. Ernest Hemingway’s residence, often known as the Hemingway Home or the Ernest Hemingway House and Museum, is among the hottest points of interest in Key West. The home was in-built 1851 and was bought by Hemingway in 1931. Hemingway and his spouse Pauline spent over a decade residing in the home, and it was right here that Hemingway wrote a few of his most well-known works, together with “For Whom the Bell Tolls” and “The Snows of Kilimanjaro.”

The home is a phenomenal instance of Spanish Colonial structure, with a red-tiled roof, white stucco partitions, and a lush tropical backyard. One of the putting options of the home is its massive, wraparound porch, which presents beautiful views of the backyard and the encircling neighborhood.

Inside the home, guests can see lots of Hemingway’s private belongings, together with his writing desk, his assortment of searching trophies, and his typewriter. The home additionally has a big assortment of Hemingway’s books, lots of that are first editions.

One of the distinctive options of the Hemingway Home is its inhabitants of six-toed cats. Hemingway was given a six-toed cat by a neighborhood fisherman, and the cats have been residents of the home ever since. As we speak, there are over 50 cats residing on the property, all of whom are descendants of Hemingway’s unique cat.

We watched the sundown on the pier, which was a panoramic sight, and watched the numerous road performers. There have been musicians, acrobats, singers, and extra. Then weheaded to Sloppy Joe’s, a historic bar that was frequented by Hemingway himself. We had a drink and listened to some reside music earlier than heading again to our resort.

Day 6: Florida Keys and Miami

We began the day by visiting Sombrero Seaside, which is situated within the metropolis of Marathon. The seaside is thought for its comfortable sand and clear waters, and we spent a couple of hours swimming and absorbing the solar.

After the seaside, we headed to Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen, a neighborhood restaurant that’s well-known for its key lime pie and conch fritters. The meals was scrumptious, and we loved the laid-back environment.

It would not be the final word journey to Florida if we did not cease in Miami!

From there, we drove to Miami and spent the night in Little Havana, a vibrant neighborhood that’s residence to many Cuban immigrants. We went to Ball and Chain, a historic bar that has been round because the Nineteen Thirties, and loved some scrumptious Cuban meals and reside music.

We additionally toured among the native cigar outlets, which provide quite a lot of handmade cigars and equipment. The realm has a wealthy cultural heritage, and we loved studying extra in regards to the Cuban group in Miami.

Little Havana is a must-visit neighborhood in Miami, and it is simple to see why. The realm is thought for its vibrant Latin American tradition, colourful structure, and scrumptious meals. As quickly as you enter the neighborhood, you will be transported to a distinct world, with Spanish music taking part in within the streets and the scent of Cuban espresso filling the air.

The most effective issues to do in Little Havana is to easily stroll round and discover the world. The streets are lined with colourful buildings and murals, and there are many outlets promoting conventional Cuban items, corresponding to cigars, guayabera shirts, and handmade jewellery. It’s also possible to discover many artwork galleries and boutiques, showcasing the work of native artists and designers.

In fact, no go to to Little Havana could be full with out making an attempt among the scrumptious meals. The realm is thought for its Cuban delicacies, with many eating places and cafes serving up traditional dishes like black beans and rice, plantains, and Cuban sandwiches. Among the hottest spots to eat embrace Versailles Restaurant, El Rey de las Fritas, and La Carreta.

For those who’re eager about studying extra in regards to the historical past and tradition of Little Havana, there are additionally loads of guided excursions obtainable. These excursions can take you to among the space’s most necessary landmarks, such because the Bay of Pigs Museum and the Cuban Memorial Boulevard. You will additionally get to be taught in regards to the experiences of Cuban immigrants in Miami, and the way they’ve helped form the town’s tradition and id.

After our time in Little Havana, we spent the night in Miami exploring among the metropolis’s different points of interest. We took within the stunning views of the ocean and the long-lasting Artwork Deco structure. We then walked down Ocean Drive, identified for its colourful buildings and bustling nightlife.

The place to remain: we stayed at this resort in Miami.

Day 7: Miami

On our final day in Florida, we began with breakfast on Miami Seaside and a leisurely stroll alongside Ocean Drive. We loved the beautiful views of the ocean and the Artwork Deco structure that Miami Seaside is thought for.

Miami’s Artwork Deco structure is among the metropolis’s most iconic options. This design model originated within the Nineteen Twenties and Nineteen Thirties and is characterised by daring geometric shapes, vivid colours, and complex detailing. Miami’s Artwork Deco buildings are identified for his or her pastel colours, curved traces, and neon lights, which create a vibrant and playful environment.

Among the most well-known Artwork Deco buildings in Miami could be discovered within the South Seaside neighborhood. This space is residence to over 800 Artwork Deco buildings, lots of which have been restored to their unique glory. The buildings are a mixture of inns, eating places, and outlets, and they’re typically used as backdrops for photoshoots and movies.

The most effective methods to discover Miami’s Artwork Deco structure is to take a guided strolling tour. These excursions will take you thru the streets of South Seaside, stating essentially the most vital buildings and sharing tales about their historical past and design. You will additionally be taught in regards to the position that Artwork Deco performed in shaping Miami’s id as a glamorous and trendy vacation spot.

Along with the historic Artwork Deco buildings, downtown Miami can also be residence to many up to date artwork galleries and museums. The Pérez Artwork Museum Miami (PAMM) showcases fashionable and up to date artwork from all over the world, whereas the Institute of Modern Artwork (ICA) focuses on rising and mid-career artists.

We then visited the Design District, which is thought for its high-end outlets and galleries. We stopped by among the native boutiques and galleries, admiring the attractive paintings and distinctive designs.

Subsequent, we headed to the Wynwood Partitions, a vibrant outside artwork exhibit that options colourful murals and graffiti. We strolled across the space, taking within the beautiful paintings and studying in regards to the artists behind each bit.

Lastly, we went to the Institute of Modern Artwork Miami, which is a contemporary artwork museum situated within the coronary heart of the town. The museum options a variety of latest artwork from all over the world, and we spent a couple of hours exploring the galleries and studying in regards to the completely different artists and their work.

When to Go to Florida

Due to the beautiful climate, there’s actually no unhealthy time!

The most effective time of yr to go to Florida for one week actually relies on your preferences. For those who’re searching for heat and sunny climate, then the summer time months of June by way of August are a great choice.

Nonetheless, remember the fact that that is peak vacationer season, so points of interest and seashores could be crowded and costly. For those who favor cooler climate, then the autumn months of September by way of November could be a nice time to go to. The temperatures are delicate and there are fewer crowds.

Winter months, from December to February, can be a good time to go to when you’re searching for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, however remember the fact that some points of interest could have restricted hours or be closed throughout this time.

Spring, from March to Might, can be a great time to go to with comfy temperatures and blooming flowers, however once more, it may be crowded throughout spring break season. Finally, it relies on what you are searching for in a trip and what actions you wish to do whereas in Florida.

An alternative choice could be to cease in Tampa and take a look at Busch Gardens. This amusement park is thought for its thrilling curler coasters and animal reveals. It is an ideal place to spend a day or two when you’re searching for some adrenaline-fueled enjoyable. One other common vacation spot in Florida is the Kennedy Area Heart, situated on the east coast of Florida. Right here, you’ll be able to be taught in regards to the historical past of area exploration and even see actual rockets and spaceships up shut.

At a look, Florida One Week Itinerary:

For those who’re planning a one-week journey to Florida, there are many wonderful points of interest to go to. Here is a steered itinerary on your excellent Florida trip.

Day 1: Begin your journey by flying into Orlando and heading straight to Common Studios to discover Harry Potter World. Be certain to get the categorical move to skip the traces and benefit from the rides twice.

Day 2: Head again to Common for extra Harry Potter World and check out among the different rides within the park. Within the night, go to Rock Springs state park to drift on the lazy river.

Day 3: Go to Crystal River to swim with the manatees earlier than heading to Tarpon Springs for lunch. Tour the Ringling Home and finish your day watching a sundown on Siesta Key seaside.

Day 4: Tour Edison and Ford’s winter estates, cease at Robert is Right here Fruit Stand for some unique fruit, and finish your day within the Everglades.

Day 5: Head to the Florida Keys for some snorkeling in Bahia Honda, lunch at Hogfish, and a tour of Ernest Hemingway’s residence. Take pleasure in sundown on the pier and a drink at Sloppy Joe’s.

Day 6: Swim at Sombrero Seaside, have some key lime pie and conch fritters at Mrs. Mac’s, and spend the night in Little Havana in Miami.

Day 7: Have breakfast on Miami seaside, take a look at the graffiti at Wynwood Partitions, stroll by way of the Design District, and go to

Have extra time? Here is what I recommend you do in Florida

In case you have extra time to spend in Florida, I extremely advocate visiting Dry Tortugas Nationwide Park. Positioned about 70 miles west of Key West, this distant park is simply accessible by boat or seaplane, nevertheless it’s undoubtedly well worth the effort.

The park is residence to Fort Jefferson, an enormous Nineteenth-century brick fortress that was constructed to guard the Gulf of Mexico. As we speak, you’ll be able to discover the fort and find out about its fascinating historical past. It’s also possible to snorkel within the crystal-clear waters across the fort and see quite a lot of marine life, together with colourful fish, sea turtles, and even shipwrecks.

One of many highlights of visiting Dry Tortugas is seeing the nesting sea turtles. From April to September, you’ll be able to watch the turtles lay their eggs on the seaside and see the hatchlings make their strategy to the water.

There are additionally loads of alternatives for fowl watching, because the park is residence to quite a lot of seabirds, together with frigatebirds, terns, and pelicans.

For those who’re planning a go to to Dry Tortugas, remember the fact that there aren’t any amenities on the island, so you will have to carry your personal meals, water, and tenting gear when you plan to remain in a single day. It’s also possible to guide a day journey or a tenting journey with a tour operator.

General, Dry Tortugas is a novel and delightful park that is undoubtedly well worth the journey. Whether or not you are eager about historical past, wildlife, or simply absorbing the solar, this park has one thing for everybody. So, in case you have some additional time in Florida, make sure you add it to your itinerary!

You possibly can additionally spend time on Key Biscayne, a phenomenal island situated simply south of Miami. Right here you’ll be able to go to the historic lighthouse at Invoice Baggs Cape Florida State Park, calm down on the picturesque seashores, and even lease kayaks or paddleboards to discover the waters. It’s also possible to go to the close by Miami Seaquarium, which has quite a lot of marine reveals and reveals that includes dolphins, sea lions, and extra.

One other nice choice is to discover the quaint city of St. Augustine, situated in northeast Florida. This historic city is the oldest constantly inhabited European settlement in the USA and is stuffed with allure and character. You possibly can go to the Castillo de San Marcos, a Seventeenth-century fortress, stroll alongside the cobblestone streets, and even take a ghost tour at evening. There are additionally loads of outlets and eating places to discover.

One other nice choice for these with extra time is to discover the Gulf Coast of Florida. There are many stunning seashores and charming coastal cities to go to, corresponding to Sarasota, Naples, and Sanibel Island. It’s also possible to take a scenic drive alongside the Tamiami Path and spot alligators, birds, and different wildlife within the Everglades.

Regardless of how a lot time you’ve in Florida, there’s all the time one thing new and thrilling to find. From theme parks to nationwide parks, seashores to museums, this state really has all of it. So, begin planning your excellent Florida itinerary immediately and prepare for a trip you will always remember!

Our one week Florida itinerary was filled with journey, tradition, and pure magnificence. We skilled the magic of Harry Potter World and the joys of the Jurassic World VelociCoaster, swam with manatees, explored hidden gems like Robert is Right here Fruit Stand, and soaked up the solar on a few of Florida’s finest seashores. We additionally discovered about Florida’s wealthy historical past and cultural heritage, from the Ringling Home to Little Havana. We hope you take pleasure in your Florida journey as a lot as we did!

General, our week in Florida was full of journey, tradition, and pure magnificence. From the theme parks in Orlando to the seashores of the Keys, we skilled the very best that Florida has to supply and might’t wait to return.

Hope you loved our excellent one-week Florida highway journey itinerary! For those who’re searching for a fun-filled journey that takes you from the theme parks of Orlando to the beautiful seashores of the Florida Keys, then you definitely’re in for a deal with. This itinerary covers among the finest locations in Central and South Florida and contains a mixture of outside actions, cultural experiences, and theme park enjoyable. So pack your baggage, buckle up, and prepare for an unforgettable week of exploring the Sunshine State!