4-Day Florida Explorer: Local Secrets, Sightseeing & Nightlife for Friends
Florida
4 days
About Florida
Experience the magic of Florida, a paradise of sun-kissed beaches, vibrant cities, and world-class attractions. Start your journey in Miami, renowned for its Art Deco architecture, Latin-inspired cuisine, and lively nightlife. Venture into the Everglades National Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Don't miss Orlando, home to Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, offering endless fun for families. Explore the historic city of St. Augustine, the oldest city in the U.S. Head to the Florida Keys for a tropical escape, perfect for snorkeling, fishing, and boating. Whether you're seeking thrilling adventures, cultural experiences, or serene relaxation, Florida offers a diverse range of experiences to cater to every traveler's taste.
4-Day Itinerary
Day 2
A Magical Day in Orlando
Morning
Start your day in Orlando with a visit to the world-famous Walt Disney World Resort. Explore the Magic Kingdom and meet your favorite Disney characters.
Lunch
Have lunch at one of the themed restaurants in Disney Springs.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring Epcot, where you can travel around the world in a day.
Dinner
Dine at a restaurant in Disney's BoardWalk area, where you can enjoy a variety of cuisines.
Evening
End your day with a spectacular fireworks show at the Magic Kingdom.
Day 3
Discovering Miami's Vibrant Neighborhoods
Morning
Start your day in Miami with a visit to the vibrant neighborhood of Little Havana. Explore Calle Ocho and Domino Park.
Lunch
Enjoy a Cuban sandwich for lunch at a local eatery in Little Havana.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Art Deco Historic District in Miami Beach. Don't miss the iconic Ocean Drive.
Dinner
Have dinner at a trendy restaurant in the Wynwood Walls area, known for its vibrant street art.
Evening
End your day with a night out in Miami's famous South Beach, known for its lively nightlife.
Day 4
Key West Adventures
Morning
Start your day in Key West with a visit to the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.
Lunch
Enjoy a seafood lunch at a local restaurant on Duval Street.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. Then, visit the Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S.
Dinner
Have dinner at a waterfront restaurant with views of the sunset.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to Mallory Square for the famous Sunset Celebration, featuring street performers and local artisans.
Attractions in Itinerary (20)
1Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
NASA's primary launch center of human spaceflight. Offers tours, exhibits, and even the chance to meet an astronaut.
2Jetty Park
Jetty Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, camping, and beach lounging, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
3Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach is known for its beautiful beaches, excellent surfing conditions, and laid-back atmosphere, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals.
4Ron Jon Surf Shop
Ron Jon Surf Shop is a landmark in Cocoa Beach, offering a wide range of beach and surf-related products, from clothing and accessories to surfboards and beach gear.
5Cocoa Beach Pier
Cocoa Beach Pier is a popular spot for dining, fishing, and enjoying stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
6Walt Disney World Resort
Walt Disney World Resort is a world-renowned entertainment complex offering four theme parks, two water parks, and a variety of dining and shopping options.
7Disney Springs
An outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment complex at the Walt Disney World Resort.
8Epcot
Epcot is a theme park at Walt Disney World Resort that celebrates human achievement and international culture, offering a variety of attractions and entertainment options.
9Disney's BoardWalk
Disney's BoardWalk is a quarter-mile promenade of dining, shops, and nightlife inspired by the charm and elegance of a 1940s Atlantic coastal village.
10Little Havana
A vibrant Cuban neighborhood featuring Latin American art galleries and busy restaurants. Calle Ocho is the main thoroughfare running through the district and home to Cuban restaurants, popular ventanitas and the Walkway of the Stars.
11Calle Ocho
Calle Ocho is the heart of Miami's Little Havana, offering a vibrant mix of Cuban culture, food, music, and art.
12Domino Park
Domino Park is a popular gathering spot in Miami's Little Havana, where locals come to play dominoes and engage in lively conversation.
13Art Deco Historic District
Iconic neighborhood known for its distinctive Deco architecture.
14Ocean Drive
Ocean Drive is a famous street in Miami's South Beach, known for its vibrant nightlife, iconic Art Deco architecture, and beachfront dining.
15Wynwood Walls
An outdoor museum showcasing large-scale works by some of the world’s best-known street artists.
16South Beach
Known for its beaches and the Art Deco Historic District. South Beach is also famed for its nightlife, with numerous clubs and bars.
17Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
The former home of famous writer Ernest Hemingway, now a museum showcasing his life and work.
18Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
A butterfly park home to more than 50 different species of butterfly, tropical birds, and other fauna.
19Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S.
The Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S. is a popular tourist spot in Key West, marked by a colorful buoy.
20Mallory Square
Mallory Square is a popular spot in Key West, known for its lively atmosphere, nightly sunset celebrations, and variety of shops and restaurants.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Key Lime Pie
A classic Florida dessert made from the juice of Key limes, condensed milk, and egg yolks, all baked together in a graham cracker crust. Key limes are native to the Florida Keys, hence the name.
Stone Crab
A popular seafood dish in Florida, particularly in the Keys and Miami. The crabs are harvested for their claws, which are filled with sweet, tender meat.
Cuban Sandwich
A staple in Florida, particularly in Tampa and Miami, which have large Cuban populations. The sandwich is made with ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard, and sometimes salami on Cuban bread.
Gator Bites
A unique Florida dish made from alligator meat, which is often compared to chicken but with a slightly gamier flavor. The meat is typically breaded and fried.
Conch Fritters
A popular dish in the Florida Keys, made from the meat of conch, a type of sea snail. The meat is mixed with peppers, onions, and a batter, then deep-fried.
Florida Oranges
Florida is famous for its oranges, which are sweet and juicy. They are often enjoyed fresh, or in the form of orange juice.
Shrimp and Grits
A classic Southern dish that's popular in Northern Florida. It consists of shrimp served with a sauce of bacon, garlic, and green onions, over creamy grits.
Mahi-Mahi
A fish species common in the warm waters off Florida's coast. It's often grilled, blackened, or made into fish tacos.
Florida Spiny Lobster
Unlike its Maine counterpart, the Florida spiny lobster doesn't have claws. The tail meat is sweet and tender, and it's often grilled or boiled.
Key West Pink Shrimp
These shrimp are known for their sweet, tender meat and are a staple in many Florida seafood dishes.
Florida Orange Juice
Florida is known for its high-quality oranges, which are used to make fresh, sweet, and tangy orange juice.
Mojito
A popular cocktail in Florida, particularly in Miami, due to its Cuban influence. It's made with white rum, sugar, lime juice, soda water, and mint.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Florida is typically during the spring months, from March to May. During this time, the weather is warm but not too hot, making it perfect for beach activities and exploring outdoor attractions. Additionally, this period avoids the peak tourist season, offering a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds. However, if you're interested in visiting theme parks like Disney World, the winter months of January and February can be a good choice due to lower crowd levels.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 15 | Mon | Martin Luther King Jr. Day |
February 19 | Mon | Presidents' Day |
May 27 | Mon | Memorial Day |
June 19 | Wed | Juneteenth |
July 4 | Thu | Independence Day |
September 2 | Mon | Labor Day |
October 14 | Mon | Columbus Day |
November 11 | Mon | Veterans Day |
November 28 | Thu | Thanksgiving Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
How to get around
Car Rental
Renting a car is one of the most popular ways to get around Florida. It offers the flexibility to travel at your own pace and visit off-the-beaten-path destinations. Most major car rental companies have offices at airports and city centers.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Florida's major cities and tourist areas. They offer a convenient and often cost-effective way to get around, especially for short trips or when public transportation is not available.
Public Transportation
Many of Florida's cities have public transportation systems, including buses, trams, and trolleys. For example, Miami has the Metrorail and Metromover, while Orlando has the LYNX bus system and SunRail commuter train.
Bicycles
Many Florida cities are bike-friendly and offer bike rental services. This is a great way to explore local neighborhoods, parks, and beaches. Some cities even have bike-sharing programs.
Ferries
In coastal areas and islands, ferries can be a practical and scenic way to get around. For example, the Key West Express ferry connects Fort Myers and Marco Island with Key West.
Water Taxis
In cities like Fort Lauderdale and Miami, water taxis are a unique and enjoyable way to travel. They offer services along the cities' waterways, providing access to many attractions and points of interest.
Monorail
In Orlando, the Walt Disney World Resort operates a monorail system that connects the theme parks and resorts. It's a convenient and fun way to get around the resort.
Shuttle Services
Many hotels, resorts, and attractions in Florida offer shuttle services for their guests. These can be a convenient way to travel, especially to and from airports or theme parks.
Pedestrian
Florida's cities are often pedestrian-friendly, especially in tourist areas. Walking can be a pleasant way to explore, especially in areas like Miami's South Beach, St. Augustine's historic district, or the Disney Springs shopping area in Orlando.
Important information
Currency$ USD
Time zoneUTC-5
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone911
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage120 V
Things to know about Florida as a first time visitor
1
Florida is known for its hot and humid weather, especially in the summer months (June - August). Temperatures can reach up to 90°F (32°C), so pack light, breathable clothing.
2
Hurricane season in Florida runs from June 1st to November 30th. It's important to check weather forecasts regularly and be prepared for possible disruptions to your travel plans.
3
Florida is a large state with diverse regions. The northern part of the state can be quite different from the southern part in terms of climate, culture, and attractions.
4
Florida is known for its wildlife. This includes alligators, which can be found in many bodies of water. Always observe warning signs and never feed or approach these animals.
5
Florida has a sales tax rate of 6%, but it can be higher in some counties due to local surtaxes. This will be added to most of your purchases.
6
Florida's sun can be intense. Always wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days, to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
7
Florida is a popular destination for spring break (mid-March to mid-April). During this time, some areas can be crowded and prices may be higher.
8
Florida has a diverse food scene, with influences from Cuban, Caribbean, Southern US, and seafood cuisines. Try local specialties like key lime pie, conch fritters, and Cuban sandwiches.
9
Florida is a peninsula, so you're never more than 60 miles (97 kilometers) from the ocean. However, rip currents can be dangerous, so always swim in designated areas and heed lifeguard warnings.
10
Florida law requires seat belts to be worn by all drivers and passengers in a vehicle. Children must be in a car seat or booster seat until they are at least 5 years old.
11
Tipping is customary in Florida. For good service in restaurants, a tip of 15-20% is standard. It's also customary to tip taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides.
12
Florida has a large Spanish-speaking population, particularly in the Miami area. While English is widely spoken, knowing some basic Spanish phrases can be helpful.
13
Florida is home to many species of mosquitoes, especially in the summer. Bring insect repellent to protect yourself from bites.
14
Florida's drinking age is 21. It's illegal to consume alcohol if you're under this age, and it's also illegal to provide alcohol to anyone under 21.
15
Florida has strict laws against drinking and driving. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08%, but penalties can be severe even for lower levels.
16
Public transportation in Florida can be limited, especially outside of major cities. Renting a car can be a convenient way to get around.
17
Florida has a high rate of lightning strikes, especially in the summer. If you hear thunder, seek shelter indoors immediately.
18
Florida has a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets, from luxury resorts to budget motels. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
19
Florida's time zone is Eastern Standard Time (EST). It observes daylight saving time, so clocks are set forward one hour from the second Sunday in March until the first Sunday in November.
20
Florida has strict laws protecting its natural environment. Always follow guidelines for interacting with wildlife, disposing of trash, and respecting protected areas.
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear (4 pairs)
Socks (4 pairs)
T-shirts (4)
Shorts (2 pairs)
Jeans/Pants (1 pair)
Swimsuit
Pajamas
Lightweight jacket
Walking shoes
Flip flops
Hat for sun protection
Sunglasses
Toiletries
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Floss
Deodorant
Razor
Shaving cream
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Lip balm
Makeup (if applicable)
Contact lenses and solution (if applicable)
Travel documents and essentials
Passport/ID
Flight tickets
Hotel booking confirmation
Rental car confirmation (if applicable)
Travel insurance documents
Credit cards
Cash
Emergency contact information
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Camera (if applicable)
Charger for camera (if applicable)
Power bank
Travel adapter (if applicable)
Miscellaneous items
Books or e-reader for the flight
Travel pillow for the flight
Snacks for the flight
Water bottle
Beach towel
Reusable shopping bag
Umbrella
First aid kit
Prescription medications (if applicable)
Travel guidebook
Weather Conditions
Florida, known as the Sunshine State, offers warm weather throughout the year, but it's important to note that the climate can vary significantly depending on when and where you visit. In general, Florida experiences a tropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures typically range from 80 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit (27 to 32 degrees Celsius), while winter temperatures can range from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (16 to 24 degrees Celsius). However, Florida is also known for its sudden rain showers, especially during the summer months. These showers are usually brief but intense, so it's always a good idea to carry an umbrella or raincoat. Hurricane season runs from June 1st to November 30th, with peak activity in August and September. If you're planning a trip during this time, it's essential to stay updated on the weather forecast and have a contingency plan in case of severe weather. Despite the heat and humidity, summer is a popular time for tourists, especially families, due to school vacations. If you're visiting during this time, be sure to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun with hats, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen. Winter, on the other hand, is an ideal time to visit for those who prefer milder temperatures. This is also the dry season, so you'll experience less rainfall. However, it's also the peak season for tourists, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. No matter when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Florida's weather can be unpredictable, so it's best to be prepared for a variety of conditions.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 24° / 10° | January is the coldest month in Florida, but it's still relatively warm compared to many other places. It's a great time to visit if you want to avoid the heat and humidity. |
February | 25° / 11° | February is a bit warmer than January, but still quite pleasant. It's a good time to visit for outdoor activities without the extreme heat. |
March | 27° / 13° | March sees a slight increase in temperature, making it a great time to hit the beach. The weather is warm but not too hot. |
April | 30° / 16° | April is when the temperature starts to rise, but it's still not as hot as the summer months. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy warmer weather. |
May | 33° / 20° | May is the start of the hot season in Florida, with temperatures often reaching into the 30s. It's a great time to visit if you love the heat and want to spend time at the beach. |
June | 35° / 23° | June is one of the hottest months in Florida, with high humidity levels. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy tropical weather, but be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms. |
July | 36° / 24° | July is the peak of summer in Florida, with high temperatures and humidity. It's a great time to visit for beach activities, but be aware of the potential for hurricanes. |
August | 36° / 24° | August is similar to July, with high temperatures and humidity. It's a good time to visit if you love the heat, but keep in mind that it's hurricane season. |
September | 35° / 23° | September is still quite hot, but the temperatures start to drop slightly. It's a good time to visit if you want to enjoy the beach without the extreme heat of the summer months. |
October | 32° / 19° | October sees a significant drop in temperature, making it a great time to visit if you prefer milder weather. The humidity also decreases, making outdoor activities more comfortable. |
November | 28° / 15° | November is a pleasant month in Florida, with mild temperatures and low humidity. It's a great time to visit for outdoor activities and sightseeing. |
December | 25° / 11° | December is one of the cooler months in Florida, but it's still quite warm compared to many other places. It's a good time to visit if you want to escape the winter chill. |
Did you know?
Places near by Florida
Savannah Historic District
Historic district with 18th and 19th century architecture and green spaces
Stone Mountain Park
A park with a massive quartz monzonite dome and relief sculpture of Confederate leaders
Bahamas
An archipelago with white sandy beaches, clear water, and a vibrant nightlife
Atlanta Botanical Garden
A 30-acre garden with a tropical rainforest and rare plants
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
A national park with diverse plant and animal life, and the remnants of Southern Appalachian mountain culture
New Orleans
Known for its round-the-clock nightlife, vibrant live-music scene, and spicy cuisine
