Your Ultimate Guide To Spring Attractions And Activities In Florida
Megan Todaro
Author
Spring in Florida brings a burst of vibrant colors and even better weather, making it the perfect time to indulge in some outdoor activities. From exploring nature in various botanical gardens in central Florida to paddle boarding on the Gulf Coast, there are plenty of fun and affordable things for all interests and budgets. Families can delight in activities like visiting state parks such as Wekiwa Springs State Park or Blue Spring State Park, where they can hike, swim, take a glass-bottom boat tour, or picnic amidst breathtaking natural scenery. For those seeking budget-friendly options, exploring local small town farmers’ markets or hitting the various beautiful beaches can provide a taste of Florida’s unique culture without breaking the bank. Couples can indulge in romantic sunset strolls along picturesque beaches like Clearwater Beach or take a scenic boat tour through the Everglades, where they can spot wildlife and enjoy each other’s company in the tranquility of nature. No matter your preferences, Florida offers various springtime activities to suit every taste and budget, ensuring a memorable season filled with adventure and relaxation. As far as spring in America goes, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a place more exciting than the Sunshine State.
Flower Blooms In Florida
As far as Florida spring activities go, there is nothing more beautiful than checking out the various flower blooms within the state. spring brings a stunning display of colorful flower blooms across the state, and we have a few coveted places to spot them. From the vibrant azaleas in North Florida to the delicate orchids in South Florida’s Everglades, the diverse landscape offers a spectacle of floral beauty.
1. Pepper Ranch Preserve
Pepper Ranch Preserve located in Immokalee, Florida, encompasses over 2,500 acres of pristine wilderness. This natural oasis offers visitors the chance to explore diverse habitats, including pine flatwoods and wet prairies, as well as wildflowers! Swamp Daisies can be found in various fields throughout the preserve, and looks like a long-leaf cousin to a traditional sunflower.
2. Paynes Prairie Preserve
Paynes Prairie Preserve near Gainesville, Florida, spans over 21,000 acres of unique ecosystems, including wetlands, prairies, and forests. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing while exploring the park's diverse habitats. Home to a variety of wildlife, including bison and wild horses, Paynes Prairie Preserve offers unforgettable outdoor experiences. Just keep an eye out for alligators!
Botanical Gardens In Florida
Visiting your local botanical garden is a great way to welcome in the spring season. Family things to do in Florida in spring often involve trips to the zoo, or nearby botanical gardens, where you can get outside and enjoy the weather but also let your kids learn! Florida boasts an array of botanical gardens showcasing the state’s rich biodiversity. From the lush tropical landscapes of Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Miami to the serene beauty of Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, visitors can immerse themselves in a world of colorful flowers, exotic plants, and tranquil surroundings.
3. Bok Tower Gardens
Bok Tower Gardens located in Lake Wales, Florida, is a serene botanical garden and bird sanctuary spread across 250 acres. Visitors can admire the majestic Singing Tower, stroll through lush gardens, and enjoy peaceful moments by tranquil reflecting pools. Bok Tower Gardens offers a tranquil escape amidst stunning natural beauty.
4. McKee Botanical Garden
McKee Botanical Garden in Vero Beach, Florida, is a tropical paradise spanning 18 acres. Visitors can wander through lush landscapes featuring exotic plants, waterfalls, and tranquil ponds. With historic structures and themed gardens, McKee Botanical Garden offers a serene retreat where nature and art intertwine in perfect harmony.
5. Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens situated in Jacksonville, Florida, spans 120 acres of diverse natural habitats. Visitors can explore over three miles of scenic trails winding through forests, wetlands, and gardens. With educational programs and events, the arboretum offers a delightful opportunity to connect with nature in an urban oasis.
Parks To Visit In Florida This Spring
Spring in Florida offers the perfect opportunity to explore its diverse array of parks, and boy do we have some of the best for you to choose from! Visitors can bask in the natural beauty of Everglades National Park, spotting wildlife and enjoying airboat tours. For a coastal escape down in the Florida Keys, the pristine beaches and hiking trails of Bahia Honda State Park beckon. Even just spending the day at Biscayne National Park is a rewarding endeavor for all ages. Families can enjoy the history of St. Augustine and outdoor activities at Orlando’s iconic Lake Eola Park. Whatever your preference, Florida’s parks provide endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation this spring.
6. Blue Spring State Park
Blue Spring State Park located in Orange City, Florida, is the perfect place to grab a tube this spring and hit the river! The crystal clear waters paired with the warm spring temperatures make for this the perfect place to cool off. Other activities within the park include wildlife viewing, hiking, and fishing, too!
7. Manatee Springs State Park
Manatee Springs State Park nestled along the Suwannee River in Chiefland, Florida, is renowned for its pristine natural beauty and abundant wildlife. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and canoeing in the crystal-clear spring waters while marveling at the majestic manatees that frequent the area during the winter months.
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8. Myakka River State Park
Myakka River State Park located in Sarasota, Florida, is a sprawling wilderness sanctuary encompassing diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, prairies, and hammocks. Visitors can explore the park's extensive network of hiking trails, go kayaking or canoeing on the scenic river, or brave the treetop canopy walkway!
Spring Hikes In Florida
Searching for a few fun things to do in Florida in spring? How about free things to do in Florida in spring? If you answered yes to either of these questions, then it’s about time you plan for some spring hikes in Florida! Spring hikes in Florida offer a delightful mix of scenic beauty and outdoor adventure. Trails like the Florida National Scenic Trail wind through diverse ecosystems, from pine forests to cypress swamps, providing opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy blooming wildflowers. For coastal views, trails in state parks like Anastasia State Park offer sandy paths and ocean vistas. Whether exploring lush forests or coastal dunes, spring hikes in Florida provide an unforgettable getaway immersed in nature’s wonders.
9. La Chua Trail - Gainesville
Nestled within Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park lies the hidden gem of the La Chua Trail a 2.9-mile out-and-back hike ideal for nature enthusiasts. Located in Gainseville, this trail offers a gentle route, perfect for families with children, strollers, and wheelchairs, boasting minimal elevation changes. The trailhead, situated at the preserve's northern end, leads to an unexpected delight: an observation platform awaits at the trail's conclusion, offering panoramic views before the return journey.
10. Longleaf Greenway - Santa Rosa Beach
Point Washington State Forest boasts the renowned Longleaf Greenway Trail, spanning 14.2 miles round trip and captivating adventurers for over four hours. This year-round gem offers moderate difficulty, featuring a subtle 200-foot elevation gain. Embraced by mountain bikers, birdwatchers, and hikers alike, the trail reveals diverse wildlife habitats, including sightings of turtles and tortoises. As you traverse, immerse yourself in the natural splendor and keep watch for these charming forest dwellers.
11. Black Rock Trail - Big Talbot Island State Park
The Black Rock Trail in Jacksonville, Florida, offers a scenic one-mile out-and-back adventure ideal for hiking, walking, or wildlife exploration. Taking approximately 20 minutes to complete, it's a quick yet rewarding journey through the captivating landscape of Big Talbot Island State Park. What sets this trail apart is its direct access to the beach, where visitors can marvel at the distinctive black rock formations. Strewn with intriguing driftwood and tide pools, this natural enclave offers a unique glimpse into the park's charm.
Spring Picnic Spots In Florida
For anyone who wants to find some cheap things to do in Florida in spring that won’t break the bank, we recommend packing a picnic and checking out some beautiful areas that maybe aren’t on your radar. Spring in Florida offers an abundance of picturesque picnic spots for enjoying the outdoors. Parks like Hillsborough River State Park boast riverside picnicking with scenic views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Coastal areas such as Fort De Soto Park provide sandy beaches and tranquil waterside settings perfect for a seaside picnic. One of the most romantic things to do in Florida in Spring is just a picnic basket away, so make sure to find your favorite cold cuts and sandwich staples (hello, Pub sub!) and prepare for a day outside.
12. Washington Oaks Gardens State Park
Washington Oaks Gardens State Park along the coast of Palm Coast, Florida, offers a tranquil seaside retreat amidst lush gardens and scenic landscapes. Visitors can enjoy al fresco dining in designated picnic areas, surrounded by blooming flowers, towering oaks, and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
13. South Pointe Park
14. Fort De Soto State Park
Picnicking at Fort De Soto State Park is a one-of-a-kind experience, located near St. Petersburg, Florida. The park's pristine beaches, lapped by the gentle waves of the Gulf of Mexico, offer endless opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Its centerpiece, the historic fort, stands as a testament to its past, inviting exploration and contemplation.
Springtime in Florida always brings about a variety of activities, from visiting theme parks like Walt Disney World and Epcot to bike rentals along the Key West waterways and beyond. We also host a wide variety of natural springs, including Ginnie Springs and Ichetucknee, to name a few. There are loads of family-friendly adventures to be had or even just some spring break fun. Do you have a favorite spring spot in Florida? Sound off in the comments section!
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