These weekend getaways are for people who want to explore new destinations where they can hike, bike, paddle and experience historic sites. We picked our favorites from years of exploring Florida.
Florida Roundups

Florida botanical gardens: Spectacular scenery at 21 special sites
People have always loved Florida botanical gardens. Some specialize in orchids or water lilies or bonsai or native plants. As you make travel plans, consider adding one of these to your itinerary.
Red Tide returns to Cape San Blas, Mexico Beach
In some the first red tide reports of the season, health alerts have been issued for areas around Cape San Blas, Mexico Beach and Panama City.
‘Tis the season for houseguests; ideas on places to go with Florida visitors
Where to take your Florida visitors? From gardens to boat tours to boardwalks, we have some tips on outings with specific places to consider.
Florida’s 12 best county parks are treasures
These terrific county parks are popular with locals, rich in things to do, awaiting discovery by the Florida traveler.
Top 75 Florida events, fairs & festivals in 2026
Our festival calendar is constantly updated and we’ve been following the festival scene for 15 years. Here are 75 hand-picked festivals around the state that range from off-beat local bashes to huge nationally known cultural events.
13 scenic drives are among best ways to experience Florida
No mountains. Few curves. But Florida has plenty of scenery and a handful of roads that take you through unspoiled natural beauty and picturesque historic sites.
8 exceptional National Wildlife Refuges in Florida
National Wildlife Refuges are sometimes called “America’s best kept secret.” Florida has 29 refuges, the third most of any state. We think these eight are particularly worth discovering.
Florida Seafood Festivals Calendar 2026-2027
Updated and revised for the 2026-27 season, our Seafood Festival Calendar covers every corner of the state.
Best lil’ beach towns
The best Florida beach towns are cozy and quaint, reflecting an Old Florida ambience. Here are seven of our favorites, all small enclaves worth discovering.
Cool Escapes: Florida’s best springs to swim, tube, snorkel & dive
Floridians survive the heat and humidity of our brutal summers by turning to the state’s wealth of cool, clear, refreshing springs. These are our picks for the best springs in Florida.
6 coolest places to visit in Florida for epic summer fun
It’s hot, but that doesn’t mean you have to seal yourself in air conditioning for the summer. You can enjoy the natural and authentic Florida — and stay cool in the process.
