This post was inspired by a follower who was moving to Florida and asked for my top recommendations of things to do in Florida.

Here in Florida, we have so many beautiful springs, animals, and parks to explore all offering their own magic. It’s was hard to choose just ten favorites.

I think this list is a great place to start if you are new to Florida, just passing through, or want to make sure you see the best of your home state.

~ Spring Hop

Florida is famous for its beautiful sandy coastlines, but the real magic is at the springs. Snorkel, tube, kayak or just take a swim in these cool crystal blue waters.

Check out my Springs Guide and Map for more recommendations and photos.

~ Become a Cave Dweller

You really can’t go wrong with a cave adventure. Anytime I visit a new state, I want to check out the cave systems and formations as they vary so greatly in material, shape, size.

The cave above is located in the Florida Caverns State Park, which I visited when I explored the panhandle. I documented that trip here Exploring Florida’s Panhandle: Caves, Waterfalls, and Springs.

~ Chase a Waterfall

Waterfalls are spectacular natural wonders. Luckily, Florida is home to several waterfalls despite our mostly flat terrain. Check out my Guide to Florida’s Waterfalls.

~ Swim with a Dolphin

This activity just creams “Florida” Visit Marineland and treat yourself and your loved ones to one of Marineland’s dolphin encounters.

I promise you they will make lifelong memories they will tell everyone about! Read more about our Marineland trip here.

~ Swim with a Manatee

Manatees are beautiful peaceful creatures and we are so lucky to have them coexist with us here in Florida. I love seeing their cute faces in my feed often munching on grass or swimming with their babies.

Add swimming with manatees to your Florida Bucket list for a swim to remember.

The colder weather in the winter months causes these mermaids to seek warmer water in many springs, so that’s one of the best places to see them.

To increase your chances of swimming with a manatee, book a tour with Manatee Tour and Dive.

~ Pick Fresh Florida Oranges

Florida is well-known for its delicious juicy oranges. They are even pictured on our license plates. I personally love fresh-squeezed orange juice as it’s sweet and has fewer added chemicals so why not pick your own?

The best time to pick oranges is in the fall and winter and you can find a farm near you to pick from here.

~ Visit Disney’s Magic Kingdom

I think everyone, everywhere knows Florida is home to the most magical place on earth, Dinsey World. No Florida vacation would be complete without visiting at least one of the parks. Reconnect with your childhood or let your kids enjoy theirs at Disney World..

~ Snorkel a Reef

I have snorkeled in the keys several times. For about $50 a person, you can take a boat ride out to a reef. If you’re lucky you’ll spot a sea turtle amongst the fish and jellies.

Check out 24 hours in The Upper FL Keys for more information.

~ Zipline over live Gators

You can’t visit Florida and not see a real-life gator! Why not make Florida Man proud by doing something as crazy and ziplining over a pit of possibly hungry gators?

I suggest you check out Gatorland for this wild experience.

~ Visit a Beach

Don’t immediately shoot this recommendation down. You can’t visit Florida and not hit the beach. Even if you’re not a fan of the beach, you can not deny the beauty of our beaches.

If you’re looking to spend some time on the coast, you will usually find the most unique beaches in our State Parks.

Check Out: Dry Tortugas, Ponce Inlet & Lighthouse, Clearwater Beach, St. Pete, Fort De Soto, Destin, Cocoa Beach, Anastasia State Park, Daytona Beach and Pier, Flagler Beach and Pier, Bahia Honda State Park, Sanibel Island, Marco Island

I hope you enjoyed this list! With so much diversity, unique nature scapes, amusement parks, and attractions, this list could go on forever.

What are your top recommendations for things to do in Florida?