Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Florida

Chris O

You’ll get the best deal on theme park tickets by purchasing them ahead of time.

Chris O

Do not underestimate the Florida sun and the humidity. Take it easy, hydrate, and consider planning your itinerary to be inside (or by the pool) during the mid-afternoon.

Melanie F

Bring an umbrella if you're visiting the Florida Keys during the summer.

In the words of those who've been there before ...

Stephen S

Florida is not all Disney; it has much more to offer!

Katherine B

No trip to Central Florida would be complete without a visit to the Magic Kingdom. All the Disney parks are fabulous of course, but this is the best.

JaniceK11

The Everglades have been the highlight of my Florida road trip so far. I have never seen so many alligators. I also saw loads of birds, turtles, snakes and smaller wildlife.

Madison S

Orlando may be known for its theme parks, but it is also one of the best United States destinations for water sports and outdoor fun.

ellycmc7

We had a blast at Universal Studios Florida. Really enjoyed all the rides, especially at HP World, Fast and Furious, Minions, Transformers, and the Horror Make Up Show.

What is the best way to get there?

Flying

Florida’s largest airports are Orlando International Airport and Miami International Airport. There’s also the Fort-Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, Tampa International Airport, Daytona Beach, and Jacksonville.

Train

Amtrak trains have daily connections between New York and Miami, stopping at Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, and other destinations along the way.

Do I need a visa?

If you’re visiting the United States from overseas, use the government’s Visa Wizard to see if you need a visa.

When is the best time to visit?

November-May: Year-round sunshine means there’s no bad time to visit Florida, but temperatures are most pleasant in the south during the winter months. Expect temperatures to reach 77°F (25°C) between November to May; perfect for lounging on Miami’s beaches, visiting Orlando’s theme parks, or cruising around Florida Keys.

Hurricane season lasts from June to November, so heed local weather warnings and expect frequent thunderstorms if visiting during this period.

Car

While it’s easy to get around Miami or Orlando without a car, state-wide travel is most convenient with your own transport. Car and motorcycle rentals are available from airports, cities, and major hotels around the state.

Bus

Greyhound buses connect Florida’s principal cities, while local buses will take you to beaches and smaller towns. For timetables and fares, see here.

Trains

Amtrak has daily train services between Jacksonville, Orlando, Miami, and Tampa.

Ridesharing

Uber and Lyft are available around Florida on your smartphone.

Bicycle

Large parts of Florida are flat, and cycling is a popular way to explore; there are numerous long-distance routes including the Florida Coast to Coast Trail. Bike-share systems (such as CitiBike and Lime) are also in place in Orlando and Miami.

Find more information about local customs and etiquette in the United States generally here.