12 Unforgettable Florida Day Trips, One For Each Month Of The Year
By Marisa Roman|Updated on May 17, 2024(Originally published May 31, 2023)
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Marisa Roman
Author
A New Jersey native with over 15 years of writing experience, Marisa has studied at both New York University and Florida International University. She has lived all over the country, including a decade stint in South Florida. Marisa is well-versed in exploration as she travels a good majority of the year in her self-converted Sprinter van. Her articles have been featured in various notable publications over the years, she has a published collection of short stories, and three completed screenplays under her belt.
If you’ve been in Florida for a while, then there is a chance that you’ve forgotten what it was like to have one of the prettiest states at your disposal all the time. But don’t worry, Floridians: we’ve hatched a plan. Not only will you be able to get out there and travel, but you can also keep it simple and low-cost with some of the most unique day trips in Florida. Need a few ideas on where to go and when? These 12 unforgettable Florida day trips cover the entire year! Some of these hot spots may need to be an overnight getaway, depending on which part of the state you live in. Check it out:
If you live in Florida and you haven’t yet traveled to Key West, then this is the time to do it. Not only will you find some of the best January temperatures in the country here (highs in the 70s, lows in the 60s) but you’ll also score some serious beach vibes. Stay in this incredible beachy hotel and walk the area on foot for a perfect day trip excursion. Looking for things to do while you are in Key West? Check out this video from Through My Lens for some great suggestions:
2. February - Kite Days Festival
HAULOVER PARK (PLAYITA), 10801 Collins Ave, Bal Harbour, FL 33154, USA
Taking place every February, Kite Days Festival will take over Haulover Park for an epic family day filled with fun and color. Bring your own kites or purchase one there and fly high along with the pros for an experience you won’t soon forget.
While there are so many small towns in Florida to love, Mount Dora might just be one of the coolest around. Not only will you be able to check out all the antique shops located throughout town, but on weekends you can stroll through Grantham Point Park or visit Renninger's Antique Center & Flea Market for a truly unique experience.
One of the crown jewel attractions in Florida is none other than the Kennedy Space Center. Visitors to the Kennedy Space Center can see old relics of some of the most significant accomplishments NASA has ever made. Plus, there are tons of interactive games, including a simulator shuttle launch! Check out this video from Youtuber America's Parks to see Cape Canaveral and The Kennedy Space Center:
5. May - The Butterfly Rainforest In Gainesville
Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum of Natural History, 3215 Hull Rd, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
The Butterfly Rainforest in Gainesville is a stunningly cool experience located at the Florida Museum of Natural History. This living exhibition has hundreds of butterflies from around the world right at your fingertips. Don’t be surprised if some of these beauties land on you for a rest, as this is a completely interactive exhibit. To learn more about this lovely place check out this video from the Florida Museum's youtube channel:
6. June - Captain Hirams Resort
Capt Hirams Resort, 1580 US-1, Sebastian, FL 32958, USA
If you’re around the Sebastian area, or you’re looking for a waterfront resort that will have the ultimate beachside relaxation you need, check out Captain Hiram's Resort. This one-of-a-kind tropical paradise will make you feel like you’re in the Caribbean no matter when you visit.
Just 70 miles off the coast of Key West you’ll find Dry Tortugas National Park. This abandoned 19th-century fort was never completed but is still quite an impressive masonry feat. Visitors can check out The Dry Tortugas and Fort Jefferson by boat, seaplane, or ferry, as it becomes a popular attraction for most. Check out this video from Youtuber Through My Lens to see this glorious national park:
8. August - Devil’s Den
DEVIL'S DEN, 5390 NE 180th Ave, Williston, FL 32696, USA
Devil's Den is the type of place that you’ll only find in Florida. This one-of-a-kind swimming hole is considered a karst window, which is when the roof over a subterranean river collapses, exposing the water below. You can spend the afternoon swimming, snorkeling, or just snapping photos of this natural beauty.
Looking to take a hike this fall? Wanting to work up a sweat on the trails and then take a refreshing dip in a nearby swimming hole? Head to Blue Springs State Park! This natural hike will keep you on your feet moving, but then also still able to enjoy the nearby swimming holes throughout. Check out this video from Youtuber America's Parks to see this beautiful spring and over 500 manatees:
During this spooky month of October, it’s only right that you visit one of the coolest haunted spots in Florida. Sure this lighthouse is bright and beautiful during the daytime but at night, it turns into a whole other place. Visit St. Augustine Lighthouse during the month of October and learn all about the sordid tales.
Just because it’s November doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice your favorite swim holes. Not in Florida, at least. Head on over to Silver Glen Springs, smack dab in the Ocala National Forest, a beautiful spring-fed swimming hole with crystal clear water, surrounded by towering pines and oaks in an all-natural space.
White Springs, Florida is a tiny town that is rich in history and tradition. But during the month of December, this small town turns into a holiday wonderland. Visit White Springs during Christmastime to see how this town transforms into a magical Christmas spot the whole family will love.
So, what do you think? Are these some of the best places to visit in Florida? With these unique day trips in Florida, you can fill your year with adventure! Share with us some of the spots you’re looking forward to the most in the comments section! Or if you want to keep this list going, then add some more of your favorite spots, too. Know another amazing destination we should feature? Nominate it through our online form. Need more to do when you get here? Check out all the awesome goings-on with our friends at Viator.
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More to Explore
Day Trips In Florida
Marisa Roman|July 26, 2020
What are the most highly rated attractions in Florida?
Florida attractions are some of the most exciting in the entire country. Heck, maybe even the entire world! People will come from all over to visit The Sunshine State and participate in the attractions, from visiting Miami Beach to the Kennedy Space Center. While the number one attraction in Florida is obviously Walt Disney World, there are still plenty of other attractions worth checking out, too. Take a look at our list of day trips in Florida featuring some pretty phenomenal attractions.
What are the most well-known things to do in Florida?
The state of Florida is known for having a seemingly endless amount of things to do. Some of the most well-known things to do in Florida include:
