There are so many ways to have fun in Florida! Mild winters are a draw and one of many reasons why Florida is the place to be when it’s cold everywhere else. Why not join the snowbirds from all over the country who flock to the Sunshine State from November to May? Here are 10 of the best ways to keep busy and have fun during winter in Florida.
1. Swim with the manatees.
These gentle giants are beloved in Florida and a joy to swim with any time of year. However, Florida’s warmer natural springs draw manatees in large numbers during the winter. Crystal River, about an hour north of Tampa, is one of the best places to see them. The water is clear, and the area is surrounded by beautiful trees and flowers, making it a lovely destination. These endangered species are easy to spot, so get your camera ready!
You can also help spread awareness about safe boating practices to help keep more manatees alive every year.
2. Visit the Key West Aquarium.
At the Key West Aquarium, you’ll be able to visit giant sea turtles, exotic fish, and native species to Florida. You can also learn about aquatic life in the Gulf of Mexico, such as sharks and stingrays, as well as hundreds of tropical fish.
The area around the Key West Aquarium is one of the most captivating and distinctive. This southernmost point in the United States has plenty of restaurants, bars, and historical sites–like Hemingway’s home and Truman’s summer White House.
3. Go boating.
Florida’s many lakes, bays, and inlets, as well as the ocean and gulf, provide endless boating adventures. Go sightseeing, fishing, or snorkeling. Many boating companies allow you to stop and swim for a while. Want to try some scuba diving? No matter your interests, getting out on a boat is a great way to spend the day.
4. Ride bikes.
Hundreds of miles of trails meant for walking, running, and cycling are found all over Florida. Some paths go from Key West in the south to St. Augustine in the north. Most are scenic trails where you can ride for miles surrounded by shady trees and wildlife.
5. Visit St. Augustine.
Our country’s oldest city, St. Augustine, is over 450 years old, and there is always plenty to do. This is a place with historical charm and lots of fun. Whether you’d like to visit a military fort, tour America’s first schoolhouse, or look for the fountain of youth. You can even spend the day at Alligator Farm for a truly unique look at Florida’s unofficial state mascot.
6. Enjoy the Florida Strawberry Festival.
Year after year, Florida’s annual winter festival offers live music, fair food, arts and crafts, and exhibits about livestock. You’ll take in parades, marching band shows, dances, and contests. Then enjoy all the ripe and delicious strawberries you’d ever care to eat.
7. Visit theme parks in Tampa and Orlando.
Do you enjoy roller coasters? There are several theme parks with exciting rides in Florida. During the winter, it can be less crowded than in the summertime. Some parks even offer discounts for seniors or students. Fun parks to visit in the area include Busch Gardens in Tampa and Universal and Disney parks in Orlando.
8. Check out the action at a hockey game.
Don’t let the name Sunshine State fool you. Hockey is serious fun in Florida. You can enjoy two National Hockey League teams: the Florida Panthers in Miami and the Tampa Bay Lightning a few hours north.
9. Watch a basketball game.
If you’re down south, catch the Miami Heat. If you’re in Central Florida, consider the Orlando Magic. College basketball games are also fun at the University of South Florida in Tampa, the University of Florida in Gainesville, or Florida State basketball in Tallahassee.
10. Visit the beaches.
Yes, it’s winter. But Florida winter weather is usually mild, and many northern visitors think the water is refreshing rather than cold. And even though the beaches are less crowded, they’re no less beautiful. Check out the soft white sands, as well as stunning sunrises and sunsets.
In short, there are many fun things to do in Florida in winter. When visiting, many folks decide to stay. If you want to make the Sunshine State your home year-round, or you’re looking to relocate from one area of Florida to another, contact Moving Squad to get started.
