**Best Florida Attractions**
Florida has the longest coast line of any state in the contiguous United States encompassing over 1,300miles. It offers both sub-tropical and tropical climates with plenty of beautiful beaches. The state is known for its climate and its state nickname is the sunshine state. With over 18 million people it is the fourth most populous state and the latest consensus predicts growth. Tourism makes up the largest sector of Florida’s economy. Warm weather, numerous amusement parks, and thousands of beaches attract about 60 million visitors to the state each year.
This article will point out the state’s most popular points of interest. You can use this guide to plan your vacations and keep your whole family entertained. Here are eight great Florida attractions and some tips on where to stay during your Florida vacation.
1. Best Florida Beaches. I recommend Siesta Key Beach and South Beach because the sand is beautiful and the views are breath taking. According to Travel magazine Siesta Key Beach has been ranked number one in the nation for its unique amenities and charm. Siesta Key Beach is located near Sarasota, FL where there is plenty of dining, shopping, Golf, and nightlife. Similarly, South Beach Miami has great views, sand, and even surf. There are plenty of restaurants and hotels that line the beach enabling you to people watch. Also, South Florida is a tropical climate making it the perfect place to break out your bikini and board shorts. Soaking up some sun and producing healthy vitamin D may cause some office envy.
2. Busch Gardens. This Amusement park is sure to please the whole family. The park has roller coasters, animal exhibits, great dining, shows, and up close tours. If you like roller coasters it has plenty of rides and if you appreciate tamer rides they have easy going water rides too. Personally I recommend that you visit the park during their Howl O Scream event in the weeks prior to Halloween. The rides make me a little queasy, so during Howl O Scream the whole place is haunted giving you many things to do instead of the rides. The rides are still open during this event. They really impressed me with their Halloween event with over ten different haunted houses throughout the campus. I would guesstimate that they spend tens of millions of dollars to create this entertaining event. They hire several hundred actors who enjoy giving you a thrill. www.howloscream.com was by far the best haunted house I ever experienced. It’s scary so not for all ages, but it was a lot of fun in my opinion.
3. The Ringling Museum. In 1911, John Ringling and his wife, Mable purchased 20 acres of waterfront property in Sarasota, Florida. Today, that investment welcomes visitors from around the globe with fine art, historic mansion, two circus museums and a jewel-box of a theater. To learn more visit the Ringling Museum Website. To experience Sarasota like a local you may browse Sarasota seasonal rentals by owner.
4. Epcot Theme Park. Walt Disney may never have physically seen the park, but he certainly had the vision for it. With rides, interesting technological exhibits, and dining from around the world Epcot has something for everyone. In Epcot theme park, creativity is encouraged, imagination is celebrated and countries are united. Be amazed, inspired, enlightened and entertained.
5. Key West, FL also called the conch republic is the southern most city in the continental United States. This island is packed full of tourist attractions and fine dining. Additionally, the port has a rich history and if you are interested in visiting I recommend this Key West Wiki Article.
6. The Kennedy Space Center. Just east of Orlando lies the launch pad for The U.S. space program. The experience is inspiring and the scale of the facilities is truly awesome. It is the ideal Florida attraction for families that enjoy the spectacle of science and human achievement. For more background information and tickets visit Kennedy Space Center.
7. Florida Golf South Western Florida is known as the cradle of golf because of their abundance of year round golf courses. With course designers like Bobby Jones and Arnold Palmer you are sure to find a challenging course in Florida. If you manage to avoid the gators and infamous water hazards I’ll see you at the 19th hole.
8. The Mote Marine Aquarium. This aquarium has nice exhibits for all ages including a preserved giant squid and two healthy manatees. This facility is also very close to St. Armands circle Sarasota’s shopping gem.
By Troy Johnson
SnowbirdSeeker Travel Writer
Regardless of where you decide to start your vacation be sure to research all of your housing options. Often times you can find savings by booking seasonal rental homes instead of hotels. Check vacation rental websites for availability and vacancies.