Truly the epitome of the Sunshine State, Florida is home to beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, unique wildlife and a rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a native Floridian or considering visiting the state, you might be wondering what Florida is known for.
From hidden gems to iconic landmarks to delicious cuisine, Florida has so much to offer. Whether you’re settling in Miami, looking for an apartment in Orlando, or just passing through, read on to find out why living in Florida is so appealing.
A vibrant tourism and hospitality industry
Florida’s tourism and hospitality industries are thriving, with world-class attractions and sunny weather drawing millions of visitors each year. From enchanting theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios in Orlando to the vibrant nightlife of Miami’s South Beach, Florida offers something for everyone.
Major cities such as Miami, Orlando and Tampa are major tourist hubs, offering a blend of cultural experiences, entertainment options and natural beauty.
Top 5 Tourist Destinations in Florida
- Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando: The world’s most visited vacation resort offers fascinating experiences for all ages.
- Miami Beach: It’s known for its attractive beaches, vibrant nightlife and Art Deco architecture.
- Everglades National Park: Explore this unique ecosystem, home to crocodiles, panthers and a variety of bird species.
- Key West: Experience the laid-back island life, colorful architecture and famous sunset celebrations.
- Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral: Learn about the history of space exploration and witness a rocket launch firsthand.
Good food and gourmet cuisine
Florida cuisine reflects diverse cultural influences, fusing the flavors of Latin America, the Caribbean and the Southern U.S. From fresh seafood and tropical fruits to Cuban sandwiches and Key lime pie, Florida’s food culture is a delicious journey that will satisfy your taste buds.
5 Must-Visit Restaurants in Florida
Rich cultural heritage and entertainment
Florida’s cultural heritage is as diverse as its population, with influences from Native American, European, African and Latin American communities. The state is home to renowned museums, theaters and music venues showcasing a wide range of artistic expression.
Music festivals such as Miami’s Ultra Music Festival and Tampa’s Gasparilla Music Festival attract music lovers from all over the world. Florida’s film industry is also growing, with productions being shot in cities such as Miami and Orlando.
5 Cultural Landmarks to Explore in Florida
Top-ranking higher education institutions
Florida is home to prestigious universities and colleges known for academic excellence and cutting-edge research. With a wide range of programs and campuses across the state, Florida offers students ample opportunities to pursue their educational goals.
Here are the top 6 colleges in Florida.
- University of Florida
- Florida State University
- University of Miami
- University of Central Florida
- Florida International University
- University of South Florida
Incredible natural beauty and outdoor recreation
Florida’s diverse landscape is home to pristine beaches, lush forests, and unique ecosystems. The state is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching. Additionally, Florida’s beaches are some of the best in the world, with destinations like Clearwater Beach, Siesta Key, and Key West attracting visitors with their white sand and turquoise waters.
5 Must-Visit State Parks in Florida
- Everglades National Park – Explore the “River of Grass” and spot alligators, birds and other wildlife.
- Dry Tortugas National Park – Discover remote islands, historic forts and vibrant coral reefs.
- Florida Caverns State Park – Explore underground caverns and limestone formations in the Panhandle region.
- Bahia Honda State Park – Relax on the sandy beaches of the Florida Keys or snorkel in the crystal clear waters.
- Blue Springs State Park – Observe manatees in their natural habitat during the winter.
Did you know that? The Florida Everglades is the largest tropical wilderness in the United States, covering more than 1.5 million acres of wetlands.
A mecca for sports
Florida’s warm climate and outdoor lifestyle make it a haven for sports enthusiasts. From professional teams to outdoor adventures, Florida offers a wide range of sporting activities for residents and visitors alike.
Florida professional sports teams
- Miami Heat (NBA)
- Miami Dolphins (NFL)
- Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)
- Orlando Magic (NBA)
- Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL)
Fun fact: Florida has hosted 11 Super Bowls, making it one of the most popular locations for the NFL’s biggest game.
Popular phrases in Florida
- “Sunshine State” – reflecting Florida’s sunny climate and cheerful disposition.
- “Salt Life” – Embrace the coastal lifestyle and love of the ocean.
- “Florida Man” – refers to strange news about unusual occurrences or strange behavior that occurs in Florida.
- “crocodile” – Short for alligator, a species commonly found in the freshwater habitats of Florida.
- “Orlando: A Beautiful City” – Orlando’s official nickname, highlighting the city’s picturesque scenery and vibrant community.
- “Cuban Coffee” – A strong, sweet espresso enjoyed by many in Florida, especially by Miami’s Cuban community.
Other things Florida is famous for
- Space Exploration: In Florida NASA Kennedy Space CenterIt’s a place where historic space missions have been launched since the 1960s.
- Spring Training: Florida is home to numerous major league teams for spring training, drawing fans from across the country.
- Wildlife diversity: Florida’s diverse ecosystems support a wide variety of wildlife, including manatees, dolphins, and sea turtles.
- Golf Paradise: With over 1,000 golf courses, Florida is a golfer’s paradise that attracts enthusiasts from all over the world.
- Cultural Festival: From Tampa’s Gasparilla Pirate Festival to Miami’s Calle Ocho Festival, Florida celebrates its cultural diversity with vibrant festivals throughout the year.
