By Florida, often referred to as the “Sunshine State,” is known worldwide for its stunning beaches. But this sun-drenched state has much more to offer than just sand, sun and sea. Join us on a journey of discovery to discover the best sights and activities that make Florida an unforgettable destination.
A Journey Through Time
Florida’s history is as colorful as its landscapes. Native American groups settled here 10,000 years ago, and in 1513 the land was explored by Juan Ponce de León. In 1565 the Spanish founded St. Augustine, the oldest permanently inhabited settlement in the United States. After an eventful history, Florida became the 27th state of the USA in 1845. This rich historical past is reflected in numerous historical sites and museums that take visitors on a fascinating journey through time.
A paradise for nature lovers
In addition to its history, Florida is also known for its unique nature. The Everglades National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers unparalleled insights into one of the most spectacular wild landscapes in the USA. Here you can observe alligators in their natural habitat, discover rare bird species and explore the unique flora and fauna on exciting boat tours.
Economy and Culture
In addition to being a tourist paradise, Florida plays an important economic role in the United States and the Caribbean. The state is a leader in citrus and vegetable production and a center of the aerospace industry, led by the Kennedy Space Center. In addition, Florida is known for its vibrant culture, especially in cities like Miami , where a large Cuban community ensures a vibrant cultural heritage.
Unforgettable attractions
For families and adventure seekers, Florida offers a wealth of attractions. Disney World in Orlando is a magical destination for visitors of all ages, while the Universal Studios theme parks transport film and TV enthusiasts into a world of entertainment. But the coastal towns with their charming promenades, exquisite restaurants and lively cultural events also invite you to linger and enjoy.
Flag
The center of the Florida flag features the state coat of arms on a white background, surrounded by a red St. Andrew’s Cross, reminiscent of the time when Florida was still a Spanish colony.
The state coat of arms, adopted in 1868, features a Native American (a Seminole woman) scattering flowers, a Sabal palmetto (the state tree), a steam-powered ship, and sunrays over a hill. The images symbolize Florida’s indigenous culture, natural beauty, and its history as a port state.
The state name ‘Florida’ and the state motto ‘In God We Trust’ can be read around the seal.
| Capital city | Tallahassee |
|---|---|
| Resident | 21.5 million |
| In the USA since | March 3, 1845 |
| time zone | mainly Eastern Standard Time (EST) UTC -5:00 / -4:00 |
| Area | 170,000 km² |
| Left: | myflorida.com |
Highlights
The beaches of Florida
Florida is famous for its stunning beaches along the Gulf Coast and the Atlantic Ocean, including Siesta Key, Clearwater Beach and Miami Beach, which offer visitors crystal clear waters and fine sand.
Walt Disney World Resort
Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando is a world-famous destination that attracts families and Disney fans with its theme parks, water parks and entertainment.
Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park offers unique insights into an ecosystem that is home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, manatees and numerous bird species.
Key West
Key West, the southernmost tip of the continental United States, is known for its laid-back lifestyle, historic sites and the spectacular sunset at Mallory Square.
Kennedy Space Center
The Kennedy Space Center on Florida’s Space Coast allows visitors to explore the history of American space travel and offers the opportunity to experience rocket launches up close.
Miami
Miami impresses with its vibrant culture, Art Deco architecture in South Beach, vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary scene.
For more information about Florida’s highlights, including cities, natural wonders and cultural attractions, see the following pages.
cities
cities in Florida
Known as the Sunshine State, Florida offers much more than just its world-famous beaches and theme parks. Florida’s cities, each with their own unique flair, form a mosaic of cultural diversity, historical richness and modern flair that attracts visitors from all over the world. From the bustling streets of Miami to the quiet coastal towns along the Gulf of Mexico, Florida’s cities invite you to enjoy the sunny side of life and explore the state’s deep cultural roots.
Miami is at the heart of Florida’s cultural melting pot, a city known for its vibrant arts scene, cosmopolitan lifestyle and influential music. Miami Beach, with its Art Deco district and world-famous beaches, offers the perfect mix of history, culture and laid-back beach life. But Miami is also the gateway to Latinx culture, with neighborhoods like Little Havana offering a rich heritage of music, food and traditions.
Further north, Orlando attracts families and thrill-seekers from around the world with its numerous theme parks and attractions. But beyond the magic of Disney World and Universal Studios, Orlando offers a growing local arts scene, green parks and a variety of cultural festivals that make the city a vibrant place for residents and visitors alike.
On Florida’s west coast lies Tampa , a city known for both its historic neighborhoods and modern skyline. Tampa offers a fascinating mix of cultural influences, particularly from the Cuban and Spanish communities, which is reflected in the local cuisine and festivals. The Tampa Riverwalk is a great place to stroll and explore, while historic Ybor City opens a window into Florida’s rich past.
In the far south of the state, Key West offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. Known for its laid-back lifestyle, colorful houses, and sunset views at Mallory Square, this idyllic island town was once home to Ernest Hemingway. Key West captures the spirit of the Keys, with a combination of natural beauty, historic architecture, and a welcoming atmosphere.
St. Augustine , as the oldest permanently settled city in the United States, offers a glimpse into Florida’s early history. With its cobblestone streets, historic Castillo de San Marcos fortress, and charming antique shops, St. Augustine is a living museum preserving Florida’s rich history and cultural heritage.
National Parks, State Parks,
Everglades: A River of Grass
The Everglades are a natural wonder of the world and symbolize Florida’s wild side. This unique wetland, often described as a slow-flowing river of grass, is home to an impressive variety of animal species, including alligators, the rare Florida panthers, and countless bird species. The Everglades are not only known for their biological significance, but also for the deep cultural roots of the Seminoles and Mikasuki tribes. An airboat tour or hiking trail through Everglades National Park offers insight into this fascinating world where water rules.
Keys and Coral Reefs: A Tropical Paradise
The Florida Keys , a chain of tropical islands stretching from the southern tip of Florida to the Gulf of Mexico, offer a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, sun worshippers and nature lovers. The centerpiece of this maritime wonder is the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo, America’s first underwater nature reserve. Here, visitors can snorkel and scuba dive to experience the vibrant coral reefs and their colorful inhabitants up close.
The protective dunes and beaches
Florida’s beaches are more than just vacation destinations; they are living ecosystems preserved by protected areas like Canaveral National Seashore . These pristine stretches of coastline, free from development, offer a rare glimpse of Florida’s natural coastal landscape, with its protective dunes, sea turtle nests, and mangrove forests.
spring water miracle
In addition to its coastlines and wetlands, Florida is also home to crystal-clear freshwater springs that are among the cleanest in the world. Places like Ichetucknee Springs State Park offer tubing, swimming and diving in a natural setting that is both refreshing and awe-inspiring. These springs are vital ecosystems that support unique flora and fauna.
Places Worth Seeing
Between Disney World and Space Travel
Walt Disney World Resort , the heart of Florida’s theme parks, is more than just a theme park; it’s a world of its own, with four theme parks – Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom – and numerous resorts that exceed expectations and captivate visitors of all ages.
The Kennedy Space Center on Florida’s Space Coast opens the window to the universe. It not only offers insights into the history of space travel through exhibitions and the impressive Space Shuttle Atlantis, but also enables encounters with astronauts and a look behind the scenes at NASA.
St. Augustine , the oldest European-settled city in the United States, enchants with its cobblestone streets, the historic Castillo de San Marcos fortress and charming colonial buildings that tell of a rich past.
The picturesque Florida Keys stretch out into the sea like a string of pearls and, with Key West at the southern end, offer a tropical paradise known for its relaxed lifestyle, Ernest Hemingway’s house and picturesque lighthouse.
Not to be forgotten is Fort Lauderdale with its endless waterways, which have given the city the nickname “Venice of America”, and Sarasota , which attracts more than just art lovers with its magnificent Ringling Museum of Art.
A state that makes dreams come true, Florida is a mosaic of experiences ranging from magical moments at theme parks to encounters with the wilderness of the Everglades to the wonders of space. Each of these places tells a story that expresses the diversity, beauty and adventure of Florida.
Find hotels
After a day of exploring Florida’s exciting recreational activities, it’s time to put your feet up and relax for another exciting night in this powerful state. Accommodation options range from world-renowned resorts to family-friendly hotels to luxurious bed and breakfasts. The type of accommodation you choose depends entirely on your preference.
In popular vacation destinations like Orlando and Miami, hotel and resort prices can range from $150 to over $500 per night during peak season, especially if they are located near major attractions.
For visitors looking for a quieter atmosphere, the smaller towns and the Keys offer a selection of charming bed and breakfasts and boutique hotels, with prices ranging from $100 to $300 per night.
Campsites and holiday apartments offer a more cost-effective alternative for families and groups, with prices varying depending on facilities and location.
facts
6 Interesting Facts about Florida
- Tourism, agriculture, aerospace and sailing are the most important economic sectors.
- The Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon gave the state the name “Florida” in 1513.
- Florida is the second most visited state in the United States after California .
- The state is the flattest state in the United States. Britton Hill is the highest point in the state at just 105 meters above sea level.
- St. Augustine, located in the northeastern part of the state, is the oldest city in the United States.
- It has more toll roads and bridges than any other state in the United States.
reasons
4 Reasons to Visit Florida
- The pace of life is just incredibly relaxed. The people here are so relaxed and friendly that it’s simply infectious!
- The landscape is a dream – white sandy beaches, turquoise sea and incredibly green vegetation.
- There are endless recreational activities for the whole family in Florida. From water sports to golf and shopping to the numerous theme parks, there is something for everyone!
- The climatic conditions are just perfect – warm and sunny, but not too hot. In autumn and winter you can even visit the beautiful Christmas markets in Orlando !
insider tips for Florida
- Hidden Beaches: Away from the well-known tourist beaches, Florida has hidden gems to discover. Look for remote stretches of coastline like Caladesi Island State Park or Cumberland Island to enjoy unspoiled natural beauty and quieter beach experiences.
- Unique wildlife: Florida is known for its fascinating wildlife. Take the opportunity to see manatees in Crystal River, discover alligators in Everglades National Park or watch turtles laying their eggs on the beaches of Sanibel Island.
- Charming coastal towns: Away from the major tourist centers, there are charming towns to discover along the coast of Florida. St. Augustine, the oldest city in the USA, delights with its historic charm and relaxed atmosphere. Also discover the picturesque towns such as Apalachicola, Amelia Island or Anna Maria Island, which have retained their original charm.
- Nature parks: Florida is rich in nature reserves and national parks. Explore Biscayne National Park with its coral reefs and underwater world or hike through the scenic hills of Torreya State Park. Discover the beauty of the Florida Keys at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park or go bird watching at Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary.
- Local Cuisine: Immerse yourself in Florida’s diverse cuisine. Enjoy fresh seafood, including freshly caught shrimp, oysters and lobster. Also try the unique culinary influences like Cuban specialties in Miami , Creole cuisine in New Orleans or Key Lime Pie in the Florida Keys.
- Everglades: A visit to Florida is not complete without a trip to the Everglades. Take a boat tour or kayak through the lush mangrove forests and observe the fascinating wildlife, including alligators, waterfowl and exotic plants.
- Arts and culture scene: Florida has a vibrant arts and culture scene. Visit the Salvador Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg, explore the galleries in Wynwood, Miami , or experience world-class musicals and theater performances at the theaters of Orlando .