23 Fun Things To Do in FLORIDA (Exciting, Enjoyable & Nice)
The Sunshine State welcomes millions of visitors and tourists every year.
Thanks to an endless list of fun things to do, there is no limit to the memorable experience you can have.
You can live in Florida for over 100 years and always have fun things to do and discover.
Wherever your journey takes you in Florida, an adventure of fun awaits you.
The list goes on and on, from museums to shopping centers to beaches, parks, restaurants, nightclubs, roller coasters, and more.
There is something new to discover and explore daily in the state.
So whether you are a resident trying to find fun amidst the chaotic everyday life or a tourist who needs help knowing where to go, this article is for you.
Check out the list of fun things to do below, and you will soon discover why millions of people visit the state yearly.
And by the way, you may also want to check out the Things to Do in Florida with Kids.
Fun Things To Do in Orlando, Florida
1. Explore the Universal Island of Adventure
This spot is for those who say yes to adventure, magical creatures, superheroes, and dinosaurs.
Get your camera ready because there are many famous characters to see and meet.
The adventures on this Island never end.
Take a spin or two on the ride.
It might drain you, but the fun is worth it.
Start with a thrilling roller coaster ride as you fly into the forbidden forest and the paths of magical creatures.
Go on to explore Harry Porter and the Forbidden Journey as you make your way through the school of witchcraft and wizardry.
After that, join Harry Potter and his friends on a mind-blowing adventure.
Take the kids to a dinosaur egg nursery or explore the play area.
After all that adventure, check out any restaurants for a tasty bite.
They offer everything from pretzels to ice cream, churros, soda, and gourmet cuisines.
Take advantage of the feel and immersion that the park offers.
Address: 6000 Universal Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32819, United States
2. Tour the Universal Studios Florida
Discover everything that makes Florida worth visiting.
Universal Studios is the first of the three themed parks in Universal Orlando Resort.
Get ready for twists, turns, and drops.
The park features many attractions, live shows, rides, food, fun, games, and entertainment.
Expect the unexpected!
They have got dragons here, giant dragons that breathe actual fire.
Ready to fly through the sky?
Board a flying bike and enjoy a thrilling ride over the sky.
Try the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, where you choose a song to listen to on your ride at a 90-degree angle above.
Yes, you are leaving with a memorable experience, but you can go with shopping bags too.
Check out the Universal Studios store and find a piece of the park to take home with you.
Experience unforgettable thrills and mind-blowing fun at this park.
Address: 6000 Universal Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32819, United States
3. Visit SeaWorld Orlando
There are many roller coasters, water rides, and thrills to enjoy at this park.
The fun never stops, from the Surf Coaster to Ice Breaker, Mako, Kraken, Manta, Infinity Falls, Cookie Drop, and many more.
Pipeline: The Surf Coaster takes you to the Pacific in Florida.
It launches you into an ocean adventure that is a must-try.
The Ice Breaker ride takes you back and forth into a vertical drop.
Only get on Kraken if you like adrenaline-pumping adventures.
The ride is a monster coaster like no other.
Feel your heart racing as the Infinity Falls drops you into white waters.
For a more calm adventure, take a walk with the family down Sesame Street and connect with all the fun it brings.
Explore the marine world with presentations like Dolphin Adventures, Orca Encounters, and Sea Lions.
Visit the theme park and enjoy the rides, roller coaster, and up-close encounters with marine animals.
Address: 7007 Sea World Drive, Orlando, FL 32821, United States
4. Explore Walt Disney World Resort
You must have heard of Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida.
But do you know it offers an endless amount of fun and entertainment?
Here is why you need to check it out.
You get to enjoy thrill rides, shows & fireworks, parades, character experiences, and play Disney parks.
Get on the Avatar Flight of Passage and feel your mind racing.
You have to climb on top of the mountain banshee for a stunning 3D flight over the incredible landscape of Pandora.
Explore the world beyond the ordinary with the Guardian of the Galaxy.
This attraction is one of the most extensive enclosed rides in the world.
You get to discover the wonders of Xandar and its technology.
Join Rocket, Groot, Gamora, and Star-Lord on an extra-terrestrial escapade where you must carry out an urgent mission to help save the Guardian of the Galaxy.
After all that exploration, enjoy a delicious meal with your family at the Space 220 Restaurant.
Plan your visit with family and create magical memories that last a lifetime.
Address: Orlando, FL, United States
5. Spend a day at Lake Eola Park
This 23-acre site is of Orlando’s top natural playgrounds.
It’s a fantastic spot for a picnic, festivals, paddle boating, or a quick escape from life’s reality.
There are lots of activities and fun to enjoy.
The park has an impressive theater hosting events like fundraising, festivals, live performance, outdoor movie screenings,
Getting on a paddle boat is one of the best ways to soak in and enjoy the park.
A 30-minute ride costs about $15.
It gives you a tour of the park to the corners of the Lake and an up-close view of the fountain.
If you are in the area on a Sunday, don’t miss out on the farmer’s market.
It takes place between 10 and 4 pm, and you can expect local produce, live music, authentic crafts, and a beer garden.
You can also bring a picnic basket and blanket to have a picnic at the park.
This park has a lot to enjoy, and you might need more than a day to explore it all.
Address: 512 East Washington Street, Orlando, FL 32801, United States
Also see our article on Planetariums in Florida.
Fun Things To Do in Destin, Florida
1. Relax at Henderson Beach State Park
You can find this park about 3 miles east of Downtown Destin.
Basking in the sun and wading through warm waters is what happens here.
Although the park is a perfect spot to relax, unwind, and recharge, that’s only some of what goes on.
You can fish, behold nature’s beauty, grab a paddle, hike, picnic, or swim.
Try your luck fishing and see if you catch species like catfish, redfish, pompano, and flounder.
Set up a camp and enjoy a pleasant time with family and friends.
Imagine your dream wedding by the shoreline of blue-green waters.
It can be a reality at this park.
Walk down the white sand and make your vows to everlasting love.
You do not want to miss an experience of this paradise.
Enjoy the beautiful sparkling waters and create unique memories at the park.
Address: 17000 Emerald Coast Parkway, Destin, FL 32541, United States
2. Go for a walk at Destin Harbor Boardwalk
The fun never ends here!
Destin Habor Boardwalk is a famous destination for family and friends.
It is named one of the top 10 most popular beaches in the United States.
The Boardwalk is long enough to spend a fun-filled day.
There are a lot of fun and exciting activities to enjoy, like parasailing, jet skiing, dolphin cruises and tours, fishing, and pontoon boating.
A dolphin cruise is one of the best ways to peek into the aquatic world.
Get on a boat or jet ski and explore the islands and beaches by the shoreline.
Kayaks and paddle boat rentals are also available if you would rather stay close to the land.
With plenty of shops and restaurants, the fun goes on.
There are multiple places to drink, eat, and snack, from food trucks to casual and fine dining.
This spot has many fun things you can do, and you want to take advantage of it.
So why not visit?
Address: 102 Harbor Boulevard, Destin, FL 32541, United States
3. Go shopping at Destin Commons
Time to explore Destin’s favorite shopping destination.
It is a must-visit for any tourist or resident in Destin, Florida.
Everything you love is here, food, live entertainment, stores, and restaurants.
Explore the lineup of over 85 stores and restaurants and find what you love.
Enjoy shopping at its best with men’s and women’s apparel, electronics, beauty, health, footwear, books, cards, toys, jewelry, and accessories.
Restaurants and city food halls offer treats and specialties for quick bites and fine dining.
The mall offers about 16 dining options that cater to any palate.
You can try Red Brick Pizza, Another Broken Egg Cafe, Party Fowl, World of Beer, or Gulf Coast Burgers Co.
End your day with blockbusters on the big screen at Dolby IMAX Theatre.
Adventure awaits you at this shopping center; go for it.
Address: 4100 Legendary Drive, Destin, FL 32541, United States
4. Explore History at Destin History & Fishing Museum
For a real taste of history, consider a visit to this museum.
You can find the museum at the foot of Destin Bridge across from the community center.
It offers a peek into the maritime past of northwest Florida.
At the museum, you will understand why Destin is “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.”
It delves into the city’s history and how it has moved from a fishing village to a tourist center.
The museum exhibits a collection of fish mounts, from snooker to triggerfish, sharks, marlin, tarpon, and sailfish.
Several of these mounts hang on the Mike Long Memorial Fish Wall.
The wall also showcases Destin Peninsula, and the mural explains why Destin is the closest port for all Gulf of Mexico species.
You can also learn the story behind the running fishing tournament in the Destin Fishing Rodeo exhibit.
The story focuses on how the tournament started and what it means to the people.
Overall, the museum is a great place to be if you are interested in learning about the fishing history of the city.
Address: 108 Stahlman Avenue, Destin, FL 32541, United States
5. Get on the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise
In search of a lifetime adventure?
Then get on the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise.
Let them take you through the clear waters of the Emerald Coast.
The captain and the whole crew will delight you from the beginning to the end with fun pirate activities, dancing, singing, banters, and fun.
Be a part of the firework cruise that takes place every Thursday.
Come aboard the Destin Pirate Ship Cruise for treasure hunting and family fun activities.
Take the Ecotour Dolphin Cruise for a more chill and relaxed adventure and watch dolphins in their natural habitat.
If willing, participate in pirate training, water gun battles, sword fighting, and treasure hunts.
You can join the Scallawags and Lil Bucs if you are brave enough to complete them.
Get on the cruise and enjoy a fun adventure like no other.
Address: 100 Harbor Boulevard Unit B, Destin, FL 32541, United States
Also see our article on Ziplining in Florida.
Fun Things To Do in Tampa, Florida
1. Visit Busch Garden Tampa Bay
Enjoy animal experiences, rides & attractions, award-winning shows, and seasonal events, all at this spot.
There are coasters and thrill rides whether you love adventurous activities or want a fun time.
Take on a family spin coaster or launch into an epic coaster ride.
Experience the mind-blowing thrill of Serengeti.
It takes you high above the park with multiple negative – G moments.
Iron Gwazi takes the thrill to a new level.
It plunges from a 206-foot peak to a 91-degree drop.
Besides the twists and turns, check out the animal attractions.
You can tour to learn about elephants, cheetahs, orangutans, tigers, gorillas, hippos, penguins, and more.
Refuel your energy at any of the restaurants and snack shops.
Relax, rewind, and refuel your energy for a long fun day.
Address: Tampa, FL 33612, United States
2. Check out The Florida Aquarium
The aquarium allows you to explore the animal habitat from the sea to the tree level.
It is home to over 9,000 aquatic animals.
You will find both the regular sea animals to the mysterious ones.
There is much to explore, from tiger sharks to otters, seahorses, sea turtles, alligators, and others.
Immerse yourself in the freshwater and terrestrial environment of these animals.
The aquarium has a touch pool where you can learn about sea animals up close and personal.
Get to know the beautiful Roseate Spoonbill.
A fun fact about the pink bird is that it gets its beautiful color from its diet.
As they grow older, the pink gets darker.
You get to explore these and more when you visit The Florida Aquarium.
So what’s stopping your visit?
Visit the aquarium, and you never know what you might discover.
Address: 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa, FL 33602, United States
3. Watch a show at Tampa Theatre
Enjoy top-notch entertainment under the night sky.
Tampa Theatre is a community favorite for classic movies and new releases.
It is one of the historical places in Tampa, built-in 1926.
Enjoy classic movies like Titanic, Planet of the Apes, Casablanca, Mamma Mia, Enter the Dragon, Antasia, and The Lion King.
All seats are plush and comfortable with cupholders for the best possible experience.
Besides movies, the theatre hosts events like weddings, educational programs, concerts, and corporate events.
The theatre is also a backdrop for many movies, local programs, and music videos.
It is within walking distance of many hotels and restaurants.
So, after enjoying pure entertainment, you can walk into any restaurant and have a good meal.
That sounds like a romantic date or good family time.
Address: 711 North Franklin Street, Tampa, FL 33602, United States
4. Take the kids to explore the Glazer Children’s Museum
The kids need to have fun, too, and what better place for that than a children’s museum?
Since its opening in 2010, Glazer has been a top destination for the learning and development of kids.
The 53,000-square-foot museum along Tampa Riverwalk features interactive exhibits and themed areas for kids.
It is also a great place to have an outdoor family activity.
They play, learn, connect, and discover the world around them.
The museum allows them to explore many identities to help them discover their talents and the world around them.
Imagination is critical to the experience here, whether putting on a show at the theatre, cooking something at the pizza place, or saving the day in the firehouse.
Let your kids thrive and experience impactful play at Glazer’s Children’s Museum.
Address: 110 West Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602, United States
5. Say Hi to the animals at ZooTampa at Lowry
As an 11-time TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Award winner, you know the adventure will be fun.
The zoo is in a tropical setting in a natural animal habitat.
Over the years, the zoo has grown to encompass 56 acres now.
Visit the Flight Aviary and get up close with several species of birds.
Click pictures of beautiful macaws as they fly around Manatee Circle.
It’s one experience you don’t want to miss.
Splash around in the Manatee Fountains or take a seat and watch the breathtaking macaws do a lap around the circle.
You can stop by Nature’s Kingdom Gift Shop and find a gift and souvenirs to take back home with you.
Grab a bite at Macaw’s Landing Cafe and fill your tummy before your adventurous day.
They offer burgers, sandwiches, salads, fries, and more.
Make the most of your visit to the zoo and explore everything it has to offer.
Address: 1101 West Sligh Avenue, Tampa, FL 33604, United States
Also see our article on Apple Picking in Florida.
Fun Things To Do in Miami, Florida
1. Visit the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
The Mediterranean architectural style of the museum will blow your mind.
Here is where you have a bit of two worlds; Italy and Miami
The museum is the former estate of James Deering.
It has an Italian Renaissance style with woodland landscape, gardens, and lush surroundings.
Inside, you can find collections dating back to the early 20th century.
It is home to over 2,500 antique furnishings and art.
There are about 34 nicely furnished rooms in the main house.
The dining and music room, library, and many reception rooms are on the first floor.
The centerpiece of Vizcaya has to be the courtyard.
A visit to the museum is sure to be a memorable and enlightening one.
Thousands of visitors flock to the museum worldwide, and you should be one of them.
Address: 3251 South Miami Avenue, Miami, FL 33129, United States
2. Shop at Bayside Marketplace
Spend a day at this open-air shopping center for everything shopping and entertainment.
Nothing beats shopping with a beautiful view of the waterfront.
The marketplace is home to about 70 shops and 30 restaurants.
You can find both boutiques and familiar brand stores.
Some of them include Bath & Body Works, Shoe Palace, Victoria’s Secret, and Foot Locker.
There is also a wide variety of options to indulge your taste buds.
Grab a table at restaurants like Bubba Gump Shrimp Co, Chili’s, Five Guys, Hard Rock Cafe, Mojito Bar, and Pucci’s Pizza.
What’s a waterfront destination without boating?
Take a jet ski or boat tour to see Miami Beach and nearby destinations.
You can also enjoy virtual reality gaming or embark on a bike tour.
Bayside Marketplace is a top destination, no matter your desire.
Address: 401 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, United States
3. Visit Zoo Miami
Ready to get closer to the wild side?
The zoo has all sorts of birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles.
You can enjoy various activities, from animal feeding to rides, presentations, and a fun animal factory.
Let the kids feed giraffes and parrots or participate in any animal Encounters.
They can also enjoy Wildlife Carousel, Safari Tram Tours, and Lostman’s River Rides.
Explore exhibits like Conservation Action Center, Wings of Asia Aviary, Amazon & Beyond, and Critter Connection.
Hold on, that’s not all the zoo offers.
There is also a garden with trees, plants, and flowers.
Some include the Baobab Tree, The Asian Trail, Bismarck Palm Tree, Copse Flower, Graceful Bamboo, Hong Kong Orchid Tree, Sausage Tree, and Zebra Plant.
Enjoy a family day at this zoo, and you will be back again.
Address: 12400 Southwest 152nd Street, Miami, FL 33177, United States
Also see our article on Tubing in Florida.
Fun Things To Do in Pensacola, Florida
1. Tour the National Naval Aviation Museum
Experience the hands-on history and journey through the growth of Naval Aviation.
Check out many historic cockpits, aircraft, artifacts, and interactive exhibits.
The best thing about the museum is that it offers an exciting experience for all ages, young and old.
Every year, thousands of visitors stop by to see the restored aircraft and memorabilia.
You can explore the aircraft gallery, which displays different kinds of aircraft
The museum has a 325-seat theater that features a state-of-the-art digital projection system.
You also get the opportunity to climb into a cockpit, move the control stick, turn bottoms, and flick switches.
The experience allows you to familiarize yourself with the layout and basics of the cockpit.
Check out the museum and see why it is constantly voted a must-see in the city.
Address: 1750 Radford Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32508, United States
2. See a show at Saenger Theatre Pensacola
The Spanish Baroque architecture of the theatre took 13 months to complete.
It is the premier entertainment spot in Downtown Pensacola.
Find the theater on the National Registry of Historic Places; this differs from your average theater.
You can enjoy dance, music, comedy, and drama here.
It is home to the Pensacola Symphony, Broadway in Pensacola, Pensacola Opera, Ballet Pensacola, and many others.
Some of the rich entertainment offerings include concerts, comic shows, annual summer classic movies, and children’s shows.
It displays shows like Harry Connick Jr, David Copperfield, John Tesh, and Ziggy Marley.
The theater has hosted thousands of events featuring many prominent artists from all over the world.
You can enjoy an exquisite meal at any restaurant surrounding the theater, like Angelina’s Ristorante Italiano, Carmen’s Lunch Bar, and Jackson’s Steakhouse.
Visit this historic theater and enjoy a classic show.
Address: 118 South Palafox Street, Box office, 22 East Intendencia Street, Pensacola, FL 32502, United States
3. Explore the Pensacola Museum of Art
This museum has served Pensacola for over 60 years and is the only art museum currently in the city.
The museum provides a mix between culture and art.
It offers a growing collection of contemporary and modern art from the 19th century.
You can find works by world-class artists like Alexander Calder, Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, Leonard Baskin, and Louis Comfort Tiffany.
The collection ranges from paintings to sculptures and works on paper.
You can explore some of the exhibits available on display.
“Depths of Field” displays photography from the museum’s permanent collection.
Another additional highlight of the exhibit includes vintage cameras, tintypes, and glass negatives.
There is no better place to host your art events and cocktail reception than the Pensacola Museum of Art.
All you have to do is contact them and secure your space.
Check out the museum and explore the interaction of culture, science, art, and technology at this museum.
Address: 407 South Jefferson Street, Pensacola, FL 32502, United States
Also see our article on Kayaking in Florida.
Fun Things To Do in Clearwater, Florida
1. Check out Sand Key Park
This 95-acre site is a beach and park in one location.
It is a good spot if you want to get away from the chaos in the city.
You can call it “the beach with the million-dollar views”.
The beautiful sunset and white sand views make the park a natural gem.
If you are onto some serious beach time, rent a beach umbrella, cabana, or chair, relax, and watch the clashing of the waves.
What’s a beach getaway without riding the surf?
Rent a board or kayak and paddle the waters.
Head out for a day of fishing and book a fishing charter.
See if you can catch any of the abundant fishes in the waters.
When you are tired, fire up a grill and enjoy your meal at one of the picnic pavilions.
Check out Sand Key Park and enjoy a peek of paradise.
Address: 1060 Gulf Boulevard, Clearwater, FL 33767, United States
2. Visit Clearwater Marine Aquarium
This wildlife center and aquarium in Clearwater has all you need for a fun animal adventure.
Enjoy a snorkel adventure with a boat ride and a stop at a snorkeling spot.
You can get up close and personal with crabs, sea stars, snails, and sea urchins.
Take on an aquatic adventure with a two-hour kayak tour through Clearwater Bay.
When you book the Aquatic Adventure, they provide the kayak, life jacket, paddle, and guide.
For a more relaxed vibe, get on the Tropical Sunset Cruise.
It is a 90-minute voyage with music and fun throughout the entire ride.
You also enjoy the breathtaking views of the sunset on the water.
Adults above 21 get complimentary beer, soft drinks, and wine.
Now, that’s living la Vida Loca.
You can also go on a guided tour to learn about pecan habitats and river otters.
Visit Clearwater Marine Aquarium for family fun and lifelong memories.
Address: 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL 33767, United States
If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Hiking Trails, Bowling Alleys, and Skiing Spots in Florida.
Looking beyond Florida? Check out our article on the Fun Things to do in New York and California.