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Craigmillar Castle is one of Scotland’s most beautiful and well-preserved castles, and a must-visit. The castle has existed since the 15th century and was inhabited by royals including Mary Queen of Scots. At the entrance to the castle, a pair of yew trees stand in the same place they have been for centuries, having once supplied wood for weapons. Explore the castle’s stunning stone architecture, grand halls and living chambers. Climb the castle tower for spectacular views across Edinburgh, as well as Queen Mary’s Room, where Mary Queen of Scots once lived. Craigmillar Castle is an ideal place to learn about Scottish history and culture, and to spend a day in gorgeous surroundings.

Holyrood Abbey is a ruined abbey built in 1128. The abbey was later used partially as a royal residence, and as a location for the Scottish Parliament from the 13th to the 15th centuries. The abbey has seen a large chunk of Scottish history, politics and culture, including the end of the First War of Scottish Independence, and the birth and coronation of kings. The remains still show beautiful and impressive original architecture which have inspired numerous painters and writers. Book a guided tour to learn about the history of the abbey and to catch stunning views of the nearby Arthur’s Seat.

Located within Edinburgh Castle, the National War Museum explores Scotland’s history of war. The collections here showcase military artefacts and wartime materials, such as medals, uniforms, banners and posters. The museum examines Scotland’s place in war from the Highland-Lowland battles in the 17th and 18th centuries, all the way up to Scotland’s modern-day military presence. Learn about the experience of war from the perspective of Scottish soldiers and see how recruitment material has changed over the years. The museum also holds regular events and exciting temporary exhibitions to offer an in-depth insight into the experience and effects of war throughout history, all from a unique Scottish point of view.

Gladstone’s Land is located in Edinburgh’s Old Town. It is a 17th-century tenement house, consisting of six storeys that tower above the street. The building has been well-preserved and restored to offer visitors an insight into life in Edinburgh during the 1600s. Explore the narrow staircases and historical rooms where people once lived and worked. Gladstone’s Land has been decorated with period pieces to showcase a number of different lifestyles: from the merchant, to the wealthy resident, to the cramped conditions of the poor. This is a fascinating and immersive slice of life in the Old Town, and an ideal way to learn more about Scottish culture. Be sure to check listings for the gallery, located on the second floor and frequently used by local artists to showcase their work in a gorgeous, eye-catching location.

The Scottish National Portrait Gallery is housed in an iconic gothic-style building in the centre of the city. Built in 1889 as the world’s very first purpose-built portrait gallery, the building features wide open galleries and small intimate spaces. The gallery holds an expansive collection of portraits showcasing Scottish history through its people. See portraits of Mary Queen of Scots, Robert Burns and more, and works by artists such as Sir Henry Raeburn, Allan Ramsay and William Brodie. With many temporary exhibits exploring important facets of Scottish culture, history and people, there is always something new on at the National Portrait Gallery. Finish your trip with a break in the café for delicious food, with gluten or dairy-free options, in a beautiful and inspiring setting.

Greyfriars Kirk has been standing since 1620 in the heart of Edinburgh. It has been a popular place of worship for centuries and an important part of the city’s history. Book a tour to learn about the history of the church, including its importance for the Scottish Covenanters and its use as a barracks during the 17th century invasion of Scotland by Cromwell. Today, you can still attend a Sunday service, or visit the Kirk when a concert is on, as the church is also used as a venue for music and performance. With a diverse and ever-changing rota of events, be sure to catch some culture in this unique setting. Don’t forget to stop by the Greyfriars Museum and Shop to see an original copy of the National Covenant signed in 1638.

Edinburgh’s Royal Botanic Garden was created in 1670 to aid in the scientific study of plants for medicinal purposes. Today, the garden is used for conservation and study, as well as being a popular tourist attraction. The current building was obtained in the early 19th century, including the Temperate Palm House which was built in 1858. The palm house is the tallest in Britain even today. Around 275,000 plants can be found in the garden today, spread across 70 acres of beautiful landscaped gardens. The diversity of the plants on show means that each new area of the garden is a wonder to explore. On-site is Inverleith House, an 18th century mansion that is now used as an art gallery. The gallery features a constant rotation of contemporary art with a focus on Scottish artists. Edinburgh’s Royal Botanic Garden is a delightful place to spend a sunny day amongst flowers, plants and culture.

The Scott Monument is located by Princes Street and a popular landmark in Edinburgh. Built with a distinctive gothic-style architecture, the Scott Monument was constructed in 1844 as a dedication to Scottish author Sir Walter Scott. It is the world’s biggest monument to a writer and reaches 61 metres high. The tower is adorned with 68 statues featuring a number of prominent Scottish writers, poets and people of interest including Mary Queen of Scots, Robert Burns and Lord Byron. Climb the steps to the top of the monument to find stunning views of the city and the adjacent Princes Street Gardens.

The Scottish National Gallery is Scotland’s national art gallery, making it a must-see for visitors to Edinburgh. The building was opened in 1859 and features beautiful neoclassical architecture, the perfect setting for the rich collections of fine art housed within. Located in the heart of the city, the National Gallery features work by Van Dyck, Gainsborough and Rubens. One of the highlights is the collection of pieces by Scottish artists, featuring unforgettable landscapes, portraits and scenes of everyday life by artists such as Peter Graham, Sir David Wilkie and Sir Henry Raeburn. Settle down for a snack and a tea at the Scottish Café and Restaurant which features gorgeous views across the Princes Street Gardens. An ideal place to go for a slice of Scottish culture and art.

St Giles’ Cathedral is the principal church in Edinburgh and a key feature of the city’s skyline. It was built in the 14th century and showcases a distinctive gothic-style architecture that is commonly found in Edinburgh. The cathedral is home to a number of memorials for Scottish people of note, as well as beautiful stained glass windows. The church holds original bells dating from the 15th century, as well as the King’s Pillar. The Pillar bears the coats of arms and medieval shields of ancient British kings. Be sure to stop by the Thistle Chapel which commemorates the Order of the Thistle, a group of 17th century knights who protected Scotland. The chapel features stunning architecture and beautiful archways. St Giles’ Cathedral is a focal point of the city and a wonderful place to learn about Edinburgh’s history and ancient culture.

Mary King’s Close is part of Edinburgh’s Old Town, which consisted of a number of winding and narrow alleyways called ‘closes’. Today, Mary King’s Close is a warren of underground passages and streets, having partially collapsed centuries ago. Book a tour with The Real Mary King’s Close to explore the fascinating history of this once-bustling Edinburgh street. Learn about life in the closes, as well as the rumours of hauntings and gristly murders that have sprouted since the collapse of the close. The close has been well-preserved so that its history is visible in every inch of every street. Tour guides are even costumed to provide an immersive and interesting experience. This is a great way to learn about life in old Edinburgh.

For outdoors enthusiasts, Arthur’s Seat is a must-visit. Arthur’s Seat is a dormant volcano and one of the highest points in Edinburgh. Hike to the top for breath-taking views of the city and a touch of wild nature in the heart of Edinburgh. Here you will also find a hill fort, dating from around 600 A.D. although there are remains of older structures nearby dating from 2 A.D. In mythology, Arthur’s Seat is considered to be a possible location for Camelot, the legendary castle of King Arthur. Arthur’s Seat is a dramatic and historical place, and the perfect starting point to explore the nearby hills around Holyrood Park.

Opened in 1835, Camera Obscura is Edinburgh’s oldest tourist attraction. The gallery focusses on visual illusions, featuring a number of experiences and hands-on activities to explore and enjoy. On site, you will find a mirror maze, an Ames room which will appear to shrink around you, and a vortex tunnel which will provoke a sense of imbalance even though you are completely stable! Climb to the roof to see the city from an excellent vantage point, with free telescopes available for close-up views. Camera Obscura provides a fun and family-friendly way to spend a day, tricking your brain and experiencing all sorts of unique sensations.

Holyrood Palace is the Scottish residence of the British monarchy, located near Edinburgh Castle. The palace was built in 1678 and has housed generations of kings and queens. Today, much of the historic palace has been preserved in order to showcase royal life in the 17th century. Explore Mary Queen of Scots’ chambers which includes a room where her secretary was murdered by her husband in 1566. For some art and a view into regal responsibilities, stop by the State Apartments which feature fine art and are still used today by the British Royal Family. Finish your trip with a rest at the palace café to enjoy a classic afternoon tea in an extravagant setting.

One of the first places you will visit after arriving in Edinburgh is the historic Princes Street. This main thoroughfare has been the heart of the city since 1770, and is now one of Edinburgh’s most popular retail hubs. Visit Princes Street for a spot of shopping – you’ll find all the big high street stores along this road. Princes Street is also a wonderful location for history, with a number of key landmarks nearby. Here you will find gorgeous views of Edinburgh Castle, a number of galleries, and the Scott Monument, making it ideal for photography. After shopping or snapping, take a break in the Princes Street Gardens, which feature a beautiful floral clock, a war memorial, and lovely green lawns that are perfect for a picnic.

Edinburgh Castle is a key component of the city’s skyline. The castle sits atop a tall rock, making it visible from many parts of the city. The site has been used since the 2nd century as its position is a perfect defensive location. For centuries, the castle has been seen as the ‘key to the city’ – controlling the castle meant controlling Edinburgh. The castle has housed important figures in Scottish history, including Mary Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie. Pay a visit to Edinburgh Castle to gain an insight into historic life in the castle. On display are the crown jewels of Scotland, as well as the Stone of Destiny which has been used in the coronation of British monarchs for centuries. Be sure to stick around for the firing of the One O’Clock Gun, which has been fired every day except Sundays since 1861.

Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland, and a vibrant city full of culture, history, and beautiful landscapes. Edinburgh has been an important city for centuries, with a focus on education and art. Today, it is home to 500,000 people and a number of cultural events including the Edinburgh Fringe and Edinburgh Festival. The city has a relaxed but lively vibe, with something new and exciting happening every week. Edinburgh is the perfect gateway city into Scotland and Scottish culture. Here are some of the best things to do in this beautiful, calm, and active city.

The ocean graces more than 70 percent of our planet, and millions of marine species call these waters home. Whether you are a novice or an experienced snorkeler, there are plenty of places to witness enchanting underwater life. All you need is a mask, snorkel, and fins to experience the beauty of coral reefs and the intriguing creatures that thrive beneath the waves. From sharing the sea with manta rays in the Maldives, to humpback whales in the Dominican Republic, and being surrounded by vibrant schools of fish in the Caribbean, these are the best places to go snorkeling in the world.

West Palm Beach on Lake Worth, inland from Palm Beach, has a number of interesting museums and many trendy and fine dining restaurants. As the city's name suggests, it is often defined by its amazing miles of soft, sandy beaches, and many tourists come primarily to soak up the sun and enjoy the water. West Palm Beach is also home to plenty of other attractions, many of them family-friendly animal encounters. The South Florida Science Center and Aquarium is popular for its numerous exhibits and underwater residents, and the Manatee Lagoon gives visitors the chance to see these gentle giants up-close and free of charge. Sea creatures don't get all the attention, though - the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society is home to 700 animals from habitats around the world, and Lion Country Safari gives visitors an opportunity to ride through the park to see some amazing African animals, as well as interact at the petting zoo and giraffe feeding station, and cool off in the water pla...

The port of Pensacola, situated on the best and largest natural harbor in Florida, is the economic center of the western edge of the Panhandle, the "Miracle Strip." Its history goes back more than 400 years, and the carefully restored Historic Village contains buildings of the Spanish, French, and British colonial periods. Features of interest in the surrounding area are the U.S. Naval Aviation Museum, Fort Pickens (1834) at the west end of Santa Rosa Island, and Pensacola Beach with its expanses of sugar-white sand. Visitors will find that Pensacola has less of the Floridian resort-town atmosphere and more of the down-home influences of the deep south. Here, you will find plenty of grits, a slight southern drawl, and a slower pace. Despite its smaller size, Pensacola is home to plenty of things to do, including family activities, museums, and several performing arts companies.

St. Augustine is often referred to as the oldest city in the USA. Pedro Menéndez de Avilés landed here on September 8, 1565 and claimed the territory in the name of King Philip II of Spain. Colonial architecture and old homes line the streets of the historic center, which has become a popular tourist attraction. The Colonial Quarter is a living history museum that introduces visitors to life in St. Augustine from the 1500s through the 1700s, including the construction of the replica of a 16th-century boat and a working blacksmith shop. St. Augustine is proud to be home to several of Florida's most significant historic attractions, including the Ximenez-Fatio House Museum, Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, and the Castillo de San Marcos. Mariners will also enjoy seeing ships like the Galeón and admiring the exhibits at the Maritime Museum.

The southernmost city along Florida's Gulf Coast is Naples, an upscale area with a quaint city center and lovely stretch of beach. A mix of elegant houses and tall condo towers line the ocean, but the downtown has maintained a small-town feel. Naples' Third St. South and 5th Avenue South are home to its trendiest restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques. A visit to Naples Pier, the city's most beloved historic landmark, is a must for tourists and the perfect place for spotting dolphins without getting on a boat. Despite its reputation as a high-end golf resort town, Naples has several historic attractions, as well as unique nature parks. The historic Smallwood Store trading post is now a museum that remembers the days of fur trading, and the Museum of the Everglades explores 2,000 years of the region's history back to the Calusa Indians. Both properties are on the National Register of Historic Places. The Gulf Coast Everglades Visitor Center is the park's only admi...

Sanibel Island sits off the west coast of Florida as an important barrier island, connected to Fort Myers by a causeway. Sanibel is best known for its high-end resorts, which are popular with families, celebrities, and couples. Beyond each resort's generous amenities, tourists will find no lack of things to do, from ocean adventures to leisurely shopping at Sanibel's numerous boutiques and galleries. One of the most appealing aspects of Sanibel and Captiva is the dedication to conservation, a mission that has resulted in the protected status of half of the island's land and the establishment of organizations like the Sanibel Sea School and the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation. Many resorts also have their own programs led by naturalists to educate tourists about the delicate ecosystem and amazing wildlife. Some of the island's most treasured wildlife includes the loggerhead sea turtle, which nests on the pristine beaches; manatee and dolphins, which play in the w...

Downtown Fort Myers, also known as the River District, is full of things to do, from plentiful shopping options to a wide variety of dining choices, as well as sightseeing in this historic area. Families will enjoy the IMAG History & Science Center, which includes dozens of hands-on exhibits; exciting wildlife interactions, including the chance to touch an alligator; and even the opportunity to see the original fort at Fort Myers in a 3D virtual reality experience. Fort Myers Beach is on the shores of Estero island, separated from the mainland by a narrow inland waterway and connected by bridges. The expansive beach is known for being an ideal place to see dolphins playing in the water and is full of top-notch resorts that are popular with families, couples, and celebrities. Fort Myers also attracts many New England baseball fans, who come to watch Red Sox spring training games and hope for chance sightings of their favorite sports heroes around town.

Daytona's main claim to fame is the Daytona 500 Nascar Race held here each February, but the beaches also draw visitors year-round. Daytona Beach, once known as a spring break hot spot, has become more of a family-oriented destination that also attracts seniors. Daytona's beaches stretch along 23 miles of coastline and feature an activity-filled boardwalk that is home to amusement rides, games, restaurants, special events, and a long pier. Cultural attractions include the Cici and Hyatt Brown Museum of Art, which houses the largest collection of Florida art in the world, and the Stetson mansion. Visitors can also admire Florida's tallest lighthouse, the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse, which reaches 175 feet tall.

Historic Key West, at the far southern tip of the continental USA, has a distinctly island feel, with old architecture and a slow pace. This picturesque and laid-back city is famed for having been home to several well-known authors, including Robert Frost, Tennessee Williams, and Ernest Hemingway. Its location has led to a rich cultural mix that includes influences from many Caribbean islands, which have brought a relaxed attitude, interesting architecture, and culinary variety to the region. Key West is also a popular cruise ship port, full of entertainment options and things to do. Duval Street is the main tourist area, home to boutiques, souvenir shops, restaurants, and even some historic homes. Some of the city's top attractions include a shipwreck museum that explains the area's long history of salvaging, and the Key West Aquarium. Those interested in ocean ecology will want to visit Dry Tortugas National Park, which consists of seven reef islands that form an archipelago....

Across the bay from Tampa is neighboring St. Petersburg and nearby Clearwater. Visitors, particularly travelers from northern states, come here to escape cold winters and enjoy the oceanfront beaches and mild climate. Some unique areas to explore include the St. Petersburg Pier, the dockside shops and restaurants of Johns Pass, the quaint atmosphere of historic Pass-a-Grille, and the soft sand of Indian Rocks Beach. Clearwater is also known for its beach, one of the best beaches in Florida and also a popular resort destination. St. Petersburg has many cultural tourist attractions, including several theaters and prominent art museums, like the Dali Museum and the Morean Art Center. One of the most popular things to do when visiting St. Petersburg is taking boat tours that range from dolphin-spotting and eco-tours to recreational cruises. Nature lovers will appreciate the abundance of peaceful spots, like Caladesi Island State Park, which has remained undeveloped thanks to its offshore l...

The city of Tampa sits on an inlet on Florida's west coast, just across the bay from St. Petersburg. Tampa is especially popular with families, who come to enjoy its many wildlife-filled attractions. Busch Gardens is the best-known, a giant amusement park combined with a zoo that has endless things to see and do. Animal-lovers can also visit the Tampa Zoo at Lowry Park and the Tampa Aquarium and a public manatee-viewing center. Tourists can also visit Big Cat Rescue, a sanctuary for abused and abandoned cats, including lions, tigers, jaguars, and more. Families with younger kids will love the Glazer Children's Museum, which focuses on learning through creative play, and the whole family will enjoy the Museum of Science and Industry, where you can explore the world of technology with hands-on exhibits and take in bigger-than-life shows at the IMAX theater. Tampa's Ybor City is one of its most historic areas and the center of the city's Latin community, where a meal at th...

Located in southern Florida, Miami is one of the state's hippest cities. Miami and nearby Miami Beach showcase the old and new side of Florida. The thriving modern city center stands in contrast to the much more laid-back atmosphere of Miami Beach. South Beach is the most exciting of Miami's beaches, known for its Art Deco District and ultra-trendy pedestrian mall that stretches out parallel to the beach, full of water-facing outdoor restaurants, entertainment, and plenty of things to do. Downtown Miami's Flagler Street has a good number of historic attractions, while the Brickell neighborhood and the Design District are home to a plethora of high-end stores and posh eateries. Caribbean influences are found in Miami's lively ethnic neighborhoods of Little Haiti and Little Havana, and the Overtown neighborhood is known for its rich African-American history and hearty soul food. The Vizcaya museum and historic homes made of coral rock are found in Coconut Grove, an area...

At the heart of Florida's tourist industry is the city of Orlando, home to internationally known theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld. These have expanded over the years to include large themed water parks, like Discovery Cove, Typhoon Lagoon, and Volcano Bay. Families descend on these huge amusement parks in large numbers during school holidays, but the city is a popular destination year-round. This constant influx of tourists has brought a full range of recreational activities and services to the Orlando area, from championship golf courses and chic spas to restaurants and huge shopping centers. Other nearby attractions can be a refreshing change of pace, including the Kennedy Space Center on Cape Canaveral and the Orlando Science Center.

The most popular tourist destination in Florida, every year millions of visitors descend upon the city for the magical theme parks that lie all around it. While Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando are rightly the main draws, the city itself, although often overlooked, is worth spending time in, and is a lot more relaxing than the plethora of parks. Here, you can wander through the lovely gardens and parks that give way to tree-lined avenues. There are also several great museums and fantastic restaurants to check out. There is a lively performing arts scene, some gigantic shopping malls, and if you still have energy after a theme-park filled day, there a few good spots with raucous nightlife.

The Everglades is a huge wetland ecosystem that is home to a large variety of wild animals, including but not limited to the endangered Florida panther, alligators, crocodiles and manatee. In addition, Everglades National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise. One of the best ways to enjoy the Everglades is on an airboat. These boats skim along the surface of the water and allow visitors to go deep into the Everglades where they can look for wild creatures, including crocs and alligators. The Main Entrance of the park is near Homestead, about 45 miles (72 km) from downtown Miami.

Fort Lauderdale, which is located about 35 minutes north of Miami, offers visitors a more laid-back atmosphere than its big-city cousin. But that does not mean Fort Lauderdale is a boring town. Far from it. Like Miami, Fort Lauderdale is graced with beautiful beaches, as well as a large number of bars and restaurants. This city is also a major yachting center and it boasts one of the nicest promenades in Florida. Fort Lauderdale has also been referred to as the Venice of America because of its canals, on which visitors can enjoy scenic boat rides.

About a three hours drive from Miami, Key West is famous for its fun-loving attitude and for being the southernmost city in the continental United States. Over the years, many famous people have been attracted to this charming and offbeat town, including Tennessee Williams, Jimmy Buffet and Ernest Hemingway. Fans of the latter will enjoy visiting Key West’s Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where they can learn more about this famous author. Travelers to Key West will find plenty of places to enjoy good food, live entertainment and fun cocktails. This town is also famous for its many festivals, including PrideFest in June and its Fantasy Fest in October. For sea lovers, the waters off of Key West are great for swimming, scuba diving and snorkeling.

Unlike a typical national park that protects acres of land, Biscayne National Park is 95 percent water. This unusual park includes Florida’s Biscayne Bay as well as more than 40 Keys. In addition, it also contains part of the Florida Reef, which is teeming with sea life and is the third largest coral reef in the world. Biscayne National Park also boasts the longest stretch of mangrove forest on the East Coast of Florida. Located just 35 miles (56 km) from Miami, Biscayne National Park is very popular with boaters and fishermen as well as with scuba divers and snorkeling enthusiasts.Unlike a typical national park that protects acres of land, Biscayne National Park is 95 percent water. This unusual park includes Florida’s Biscayne Bay as well as more than 40 Keys. In addition, it also contains part of the Florida Reef, which is teeming with sea life and is the third largest coral reef in the world. Biscayne National Park also boasts the longest stretch of mangrove forest on the East Coas...

This Florida state park, which is located in Key Largo, was the first undersea park in the United States and is famous for its beautiful coral reefs. While John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is not surprisingly popular with scuba divers and snorkelers, its reefs can also be enjoyed by non-swimmers, who can enjoy viewing them on glass-bottom boat tours. The park is probably best known as being home to a copy of the underwater statue called “Christ of the Abyss.” This bronze statue sits under 25 feet (8 meters) of water and depicts Christ raising his arms up toward the surface of the water.

Orlando is practically synonymous with Disney World, but the city is also home to a Sea World and Universal Studios parks, making it an ideal destination for some family fun. It is about a 4 hours drive, so this is going to be a long day trip from Miami. Travelers can take the stress out of getting to one of these theme parks from Miami with a convenient one-day admission ticket that includes transportation from their Miami hotel.

Grand Bahama is the northernmost of the islands of the Bahamas, lying 56 miles (90 kilometers) off Florida. Travelers who want to check out Grand Bahama can hop aboard a three-hour cruise from Miami to this beautiful Caribbean island. Once there, visitors can spend the day exploring Freeport, which is the second largest city on the island. Or if they prefer a little sun and relaxation, they can head to one of island’s many stunning sugar-white sand beaches. Some tours to the Grand Bahama may also include a visit to the Grand Lucayan Hotel, which boasts a beautiful private beach, several restaurants and a large casino.

Miami is a cosmopolitan and exciting city that is world famous for its vibrant nightlife, stunning beaches and beautiful people. It is also within easy driving distance to surreal swamps, abundant wildlife and many lovely tropical islands and keys. The following are a few excellent day trips from Miami that visitors might enjoy.

The Florida Keys are a 120 mile long chain of tropical islands curving around the base of the Florida peninsula, connected to the mainland by a series of bridges. The most spectacular bridge, the Seven Mile Bridge in the Lower Keys, has been frequently used as a location for films including True Lies and Fast 2 Furious. US Highway 1, the “Overseas Highway” runs from Key Largo, Islamadora, Marathon, Lower Keys and finally to Key West, the most distant and most famous of the Florida Keys. In addition to the beaches, diving and snorkeling, the Florida Keys offer botanical gardens, a variety of museums, family attractions like the Theater of the Sea, and several outstanding state and national parks where tourists can enjoy a wide variety of outdoor recreation and wildlife viewing.

One of the most vibrant cities in the USA, Miami is best known for its Latin culture and sizzling nightlife. Located in southeastern Florida off the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, Miami is also a major port city managing the world’s largest number of passenger cruise ships. Attracting tourists from all over the planet, Miami is a melting pot of ethnic cultures with a wide array of exciting attractions and activities. One of Miami’s main draws is its sunny beaches that range from family friendly to party scenes. Across the bay from Miami on a barrier island is Miami Beach, known for its Art Deco architecture and glamorous South Beach.

Orlando is theme-park city, having more theme parks than any place else in the world. . There’s Walt Disney World, Epcot Center, Universal Studios, SeaWorld and Gator Park, to name a few, all of which bring 51 million visitors a year to this central Florida city of 2 million people. This Sunbelt city doesn’t get hit by hurricanes as much as other parts of the state, which makes it a popular place to visit in Florida. One of American’s most visited cities, Orlando is also home to the University of Central Florida, which has the second largest college enrollment in the United States.

The Tampa Bay area, on the Gulf of Mexico, includes Tampa Bay, a large natural harbor and several popular cities, including Tampa and St. Petersburg. Tampa is home to the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Family-oriented activities include Busch Gardens, a theme park said to have Florida’s best roller coaster rides as well as a zoo dedicated to animals from Africa’s Serengeti Plain. As for beachcombing, St. Pete Beach can’t be beat. It was named the best beach in the United States and fifth in the world by TripAdvisor readers in 2012 because of its white sand beaches and clear water.

One of Florida’s best natural treasures, the Everglades feature a unique combination of ecosystems that include swamps, sub-tropical jungles, saw-grass prairies and the largest mangrove complex in the Western Hemisphere. Much of the Everglades are protected within the Everglades National Park and provide shelter to a wide variety of birds, fish and reptiles, including endangered species like the American crocodile and the Florida panther. From the Gulf Coast Visitor Center, visitors can arrange boat tours to the Ten Thousand Islands, a labyrinth of mangrove islands. Other visitor centers offer ranger-led tours and programs. An air boat tour is one of the most exciting ways to experience the Everglades.

Boasting miles of white sandy beaches, Clearwater Beach is separated by the city of Clearwater by the Intracoastal Waterway. USA Today readers in 2013 named it Florida’s Best Beach Town. Besides laying in the white sand and swimming in the clear water there are also many activities offered such as fishing, sailing, kayaking, and dolphin tours. Clearwater Beach is also a happening place, with a variety of events taking place throughout the year. The Philadelphia Phillies hold their spring training camp here the Clearwater Jazz Festival, takes place in October. Or visitors can take in the weekly sunsetting festival at Pier 60, a sports fishing pier.

No longer the Spring Break destination of popular imagination, Fort Lauderdale is today a sophisticated cultural center with an increasingly upmarket social scene. Located on the Atlantic Ocean about 23 miles (37 km) north of Miami Beach it is also known as the “Venice of America” due to its expansive canal system. The city has an impressive tourist infrastructure with plenty of hotels, golf courses, marinas and museums. The city’s Port Everglades is one of the busiest cruise-ship ports in the world, with megaships departing daily for the Caribbean, Mexico and beyond. The most popular section of the city beach is called “The Strip” with eating and drinking establishments that run along the land side of the beach road.

Sanibel Island is located just off Fort Myers in the Gulf of Mexico. It is connected to the mainland by a causeway. It is known as a quiet, natural travel destination, well-suited for families. Wildlife refuges take up more than half of this long narrow island, whose beaches are also popular as places to hunt for shells. This island of less than 7,000 permanent residents may have harbored pirates in the days of yore, if local legends are to be believed. Aside from beachcombing and looking for wildlife, attractions include a highly-rated historical museum, a botanical garden, a lighthouse and an arts center.

Naples may have had rustic beginnings, but today this Gulf of Mexico city is one of the wealthiest cities in the United States, with houses selling for more than $40 million. As on Sanibel and Captiva Islands, development along the shoreline has been kept residential. It got its name because the bay it’s located on was said to be prettier than the Bay of Naples in Italy. Besides its beautiful city beach, the nearby wildlife refuges make it a popular tourist destination. These include Everglades National Park, Florida National Wildlife Reserve and Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary that has a 2.5-mile long boardwalk meandering through it. The city also has vibrant arts and shopping districts.

Panama City Beach on the Florida panhandle offers 27 miles (43 km) of white sand beaches on the Emerald Coast. The beach is a popular destination for residents of the southern United States as well as tens of thousands of high school and college students on spring break. Besides having fun in the sun in the emerald green waters, this town of just over 12,000 permanent residents offers sports fishing on the gulf, plenty of golfing, marine parks including one for alligators, amusement and water parks …in short, something for everyone in the family.

When most people think of Florida, they think of sunshine, theme parks, orange juice and alligators. But this former Spanish colony, which became the 27th state to enter the Union, is much more than that. Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other, it has mile upon mile of white sand beaches. This is the US state where you’ll find Miami and its immediate neighbor Miami Beach – both famous for their Art Deco architecture, Cuban culture, and beaches, of course. More sun, sea, and sand can be had in the south, where the Florida Keys fling themselves for around 120 miles along the Florida Straits. Come here for more beaches, scuba diving, snorkeling, and the potential for one of the most picturesque road trips ever, thanks to the feat of engineering that is the Overseas Highway. There’s also Cape Canaveral, home of NASA, but then again there’s Orlando, too – famous for its sheer amount of amusement parks, including Disney World. Here’s a look at the be...