Summer Getaways: 9 Florida Destinations From The Panhandle To The Keys

FLORIDA — Looking for the ultimate Florida getaways? Whether you’re interested in an outdoor adventure, a relaxing day at the beach, soaking in arts and culture, or checking out some of the many quirky destinations the Sunshine State is known for, there’s plenty to experience from the Panhandle to the Keys.

1. Florida Keys

This archipelago off the southern coast of Florida offers a stretch of gorgeous tropical islands each with something different to offer visitors. It’s about 98 miles to drive from the start of the Florida Keys to the Southernmost Point, making for a gorgeous, scenic drive. The Keys are broken up into five unique destinations — Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, The Lower Keys and Key West — according to FloridaKeys.com. There’s plenty of outdoor, beach and water activities — from snorkeling and diving to big game fishing — and lots of arts, history and culture. Stroll down the historic and boisterous Duval Street in Key West, soak in the remote beauty of the Dry Tortugas National Park, snorkel at Key Largo’s John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, learn about our dolphin friends at the Dolphin Research Center and check out Robbie’s marina in Islamorada, where you can feed tarpon, enjoy a bite to eat, and enjoy various water activities.

2. Sanibel & Captiva islands

These two small barrier islands just off the coast of Fort Myers are known for their tranquil beauty and laidback vibe. Between both islands, you’ll have access to about 15 miles of amazing beaches, according to Sanibel-Captiva.org. they’re also a haven for shellers, as more than 250 different seashells from the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean have been found on Sanibel and Captiva. If you’re looking to do something other than hang out on the beach, visit the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum, tour the Sanibel Lighthouse or explore JN “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, the largest underdeveloped mangrove ecosystem in the U.S.,

3. Cedar Key

This small island community off the northwest coast of Florida gives off strong Old Florida vibes and boasts less than 1,000 permanent residents, according to FloridaRambler.com. Stroll through historic downtown Cedar Key for some adorable shops, attractions, and waterfront dining and drinks. If you’re interested in birding, you’ll find plenty of birds and other wildlife at the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge. If history is your thing, the 18-acre Cedar Key State Park is home to the Cedar Key Museum and Whitman House. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, as well, especially fishing.

4. Mount Dora

Just an hour outside Orlando, this charming, historic town draws visitors from all over the world and is known for hosting numerous festival and events throughout the year. The city was also once known as the “Antiques Capital of Florida,” and still boasts numerous antique shops and a stop on Florida’s Antique Trail, according to WhatToDoInMtDora.com. Be sure to visit the unique Modernism Museum, search for treasures at Renninger’s Flea Market and Antique Center, and learn about the area’s history through a ghost tour.

5. Orlando

Orlando might already be on your list because its home to Walt Disney World and Universal. But there’s so much to do outside the theme parks. If you’re into arts and culture, the Orlando Museum of Art is a must visit. Old Town in Kissimmee, with shopping, dining, rides and more, is a throwback to kitschy old Florida. Gatorland is a 110-acre privately owned theme park and wildlife preserve founded in 1949. There are also plenty of interesting neighborhoods and districts for shopping, dining and more, including Mills 50, The Milk District, Ivanhoe Village, Audubon Park Garden District and the nearby city of Winter Park,

6. St. Augustine

In northeast Florida, the nation’s oldest city boasts more than 500 years of history and presents many options to guests that flock to it from all over the world. Be sure to explore the historical sites, including the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, the Lightner Museum in a former Gilded Age resort hotel, and Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth. If you’re looking to enjoy some time in nature, visit the nearby Anastasia State Park and its 1,600 acres of beaches, tidal marches, sand dunes and more. And the Old Town Trolley is a fantastic way to see this historic city with one day of free unlimited re-boarding with every ticket.

7. Matlacha & Pine Island

This laid-back, colorful community might be located along a single road and surrounded by water on both sides, but it still has plenty to offer visitors. This island village near Cape Coral and Fort Myers is known for its wide array of art galleries, shops, restaurants and fishing. You can also take the bridge through Matlacha to Pine Island, where you’ll find more to explore, including aquatic preserves great for kayaking and canoeing. Be sure to check out the whimsical Leoma Lovegrove Gallery & Gardens, head out on the water with Hook’d Up Fishing Charters, grab a bite at the Yucatan Waterfront Bar & Grill, and learn about the area’s history at the Museum of the Islands.

8. Cassadaga

Hidden in the woods just north of Orlando, this colorful town of psychics has seven parks and meditation gardens throughout the small community, according to Cassadaga.org. Even if you don’t want a psychic reading, there’s still plenty to explore. Visit the beautiful and haunted Cassadaga Hotel or take one of the daily tours through the spiritualist camp – both historical tours and after-dark tours focused on the paranormal. There’s also an array of adorable shops.

9. St. Petersburg

This small, vibrant city is an art-lovers dream with both stellar world-class museums, galleries featuring works by local artists and colorful public art everywhere you turn. Bustling Central Avenue is filled with shops, restaurants and bars. If you’re craving some nature, you’re just a short trolley ride or drive to the Gulf Coast beaches to the west, and the St. Petersburg Pier and bayfront parks to the east. Be sure to explore the largest collection of Dali’s works outside Spain at the Salvador Dali Museum, check out The Factory including the immersive Fairgrounds St. Pete in the Warehouse Arts District, experience the city’s popular downtown mural tour, kayak among the mangroves at the Weedon Island Preserve or experience some old Florida at the Sunken Gardens.