Disney World. Miami. Seaworld. Florida has some seriously famous tourist attractions. But while you can’t visit the state without stopping off at a theme park or two, you’re missing out if you don’t venture off the beaten path as well. There are all sorts of other things to do on cheap Orlando holidays, and here are 6 of the best of them:
Photographed by deckchair
Visit The Everglades.
The diverse animals of Florida aren’t only found in the zoos and aquariums. The Everglades, a vast wetland area in the south of the state, is home to many rare and unusual species, including alligators, turtles, snakes, thousands of birds and even the odd Florida panther. The classic way to tour the region is aboard an airboat, which propels you through the waterways at break-neck speed, but walking tours are equally as interesting.
Photographed by josue armando serrano
Go fishing.
Florida’s cuisine is all about seafood, and with so much coastline, it’s hardly surprising. There are few more satisfying experiences than catching supper, and then cooking and eating yourself, and there are few better places to do that than Florida. Hop on a fishing trip for the day, and experienced guides will take you to places where you can catch more fish than you could possibly eat. Then come back to the beach, set up the BBQ, and grill your catch, Florida-style.
Photographed by Edgar Barany
Learn to sail.
If waiting for a fish to bite isn’t your idea of excitement, sailing in the Florida Keys might just be. With plenty of sailing schools around, and safe areas with steady wind, the Keys is the ideal place for beginners. You’ll also find plenty of big yachts planning to head further out, where even the most experienced of sailors can get their thrills.
Photographed by Kim Seng
Swing a golf club.
Thousands of retirees move to Florida for the chance to indulge in their favourite hobby. But visitors often get caught up in more fast-paced activities, and forget about the caliber of the golf courses available. With over 1000 to choose from, it can be a challenge to decide where to play, but a visit to TPC Sawgrass should be at the top of your to-do list.
Photographed by Kelly V
Visit the weirder attractions.
With so many theme parks and attractions around, some of the littler ones get lost in the shuffle. But who wouldn’t want to see what the International Hamburger Museum has in its display cases, or explore the ruins of Bongoland? The Holy Land Experience takes a whole new approach to theme parks, and religious education, for that matter, and to understand why Hemingway Home and Museum is home to 50 six-toed cats, you just have to visit yourself.
Photographed by JR 88 Rules
Smell the rubber burn.
The Daytona International Speedway is known as the “World Centre of Racing”, and if you visit the massive track, you’ll see why. If you can get tickets to a race, the atmosphere really is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but even just a tour of the track is worth a trip. Much of Florida is peaceful and beautiful. But the Daytona Speedway is all about noisy, rip-roaring excitement.
Florida isn’t only the place for theme park fans. It’s also a fantastic destination for nature lovers, adventure activities people, sports fans, and even those who simply enjoy diversity of culture. If you’re looking for a holiday with a bit of a difference, Florida might just be the perfect place for you.
