It cannot be doubted that Florida is indeed one of the most popular travel destinations in the United States of America, if not the world. You simply have to look at the mind-boggling tourism statistics to realize just how beloved Florida is to the travelling community. Perhaps it has something to do with the fact that Florida is after all the “Sunshine State”. Or maybe it is because of the large variety of activities and attractions on offer. No matter what the reason is, the allure of Florida for tourists, especially families, cannot be ignored. Whenever anyone mentions the words ‘Florida’ and ‘vacation’, the first image that always pops into mind is Disney World. While no doubt it is one of the greatest amusement parks in the world, it would be unfair to claim that Walt Disney World is the be-all and end-all of Florida tourism. Here are 3 of the best tourist attractions that the beautiful state of Florida has to offer:
Kennedy Space Center
NASA has been one of mankind’s greatest successes and the Kennedy Space Center played host as the launch site for every manned mission into space. Even after the scrapping of the Space Shuttle program, the Space Center continues to host launches for unmanned rockets. Visiting the Kennedy Space Center is an ideal way to spend a whole day marveling at the scientific wonders that humanity is capable for. For science and space enthusiasts, there are few destinations in the world that can match the excitement of a visit to the Kennedy Space Center. One of the best times to visit Florida is when NASA is launching a rocket mission. Witnessing a powerful rocket take-off successfully is one of the most awe-inspiring sights and many travelers organize their trips to Florida in such a way so that they coincide with rocket launches.
South Beach, Miami
For decades, there has been an East-coast West-coast rivalry between Florida and California over who has the better beaches. Beaches in and around the Miami and Los Angeles area are always at the top of the list for any debate. As far as Florida is concerned, the ace up its sleeve has always been South Beach, Miami. To claim that it is one of the most beautiful and happening beaches in the world would seem like a gross understatement. The reputation of the beach may have been built on the success of Miami Vice, but has gradually developed into its own subculture within the vivid Miami society. Tourists will find South Beach not only visually exhilarating, but also a great opportunity to see the Hispanic and Latino influence on Miami and Florida culture. It is perhaps also one of the best places in world to spy some of the best tattoos and modified cars.
The Everglades
Many tourists dismiss the Everglades as a swamp that is not worth their time. These are clearly tourists who have never actually been to the Everglades. The swamps and marshes are one of the most important ecological venues in North America and its biodiversity makes it a hoot for environmentalists. Other southern states have their own swamps, but few can offer the wide range of activities as the Everglades. The destination is definitely seeing a rise in popularity, especially with families who find it quite refreshing to introduce their children to nature after days of running around in amusement parks. After all, what child would miss the opportunity to see an alligator basking in the Florida sun? Certainly a very different prospect from shaking hands with Mickey Mouse.
For those who love to travel, Florida represents the ultimate playground thanks to the wide range of destinations and activities it has to offer. You do not have to be too adventurous to realize that Florida is more than just amusement parks and golf courses. Even the everyday life of a city like Miami can prove to be amazing and full of wonders.
This post was written by a guest contributor. About the Author:
Susan Close is the author of this post. She helps provide travel tips along with working with the team at www.mega.co.uk to plan your holidays economically.
* Kennedy Space Centre (Photo credit: RobiNZ).
* Panoramic image of South Beach, (Photo credit: Wikipedia).
* Everglades, Florida, U.S.A., (Photo credit: Wikipedia).
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