Table of Contents
Golf Courses In Florida Map
Introduction
Florida is a golfer’s paradise, with over 1,000 golf courses across the state. If you’re planning a golf trip to Florida, you’ll want to make the most of your time by exploring everything the state has to offer. From top-rated courses to hidden gems, there’s no shortage of options for golf enthusiasts. But Florida is more than just golf. The state boasts a diverse range of attractions, activities, and experiences that cater to all interests and budgets. This travel guide will help you plan your ultimate golf trip to Florida, with recommendations for top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and more.
Top Attractions
Florida is home to some of the world’s most famous attractions, including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and the Kennedy Space Center. But there are plenty of other must-see spots that are worth a visit. In Miami, check out the Art Deco District and the Wynwood Walls, a vibrant outdoor gallery of street art. In Tampa, visit the historic Ybor City neighborhood, known for its cigar-making history and lively nightlife. The Everglades National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers, while the Florida Keys offer a laid-back island vibe with stunning beaches, snorkeling, and fishing.
Hidden Gems
While Florida has plenty of popular attractions, there are also many hidden gems that are worth exploring. For a unique golf experience, check out Streamsong Resort in central Florida, which boasts three top-rated courses and a luxury spa. The small town of Mount Dora, located just north of Orlando, is known for its charming downtown area and scenic boat tours. The Dry Tortugas National Park, located 70 miles off the coast of Key West, is a remote island paradise with crystal-clear waters and historic Fort Jefferson.
Food Scene
Florida offers a diverse range of cuisines, from fresh seafood to Cuban sandwiches. For a taste of Florida’s famous stone crab, head to Joe’s Stone Crab in Miami Beach. The Columbia Restaurant in Tampa is the oldest restaurant in Florida and serves up traditional Spanish and Cuban dishes. For a casual beachside bite, try the fish tacos at Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille in Sanibel Island. And for a sweet treat, don’t miss the key lime pie, a Florida specialty.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Florida can be an expensive destination, but there are plenty of ways to save money while still enjoying all the state has to offer. Consider visiting during the shoulder season (September-October or April-May), when prices are lower and crowds are smaller. Many attractions offer discounted tickets for seniors, students, and military personnel, so be sure to ask. And don’t forget to take advantage of free activities, such as visiting the beaches, hiking in state parks, and attending outdoor concerts and festivals.
Outdoor Adventures
Florida’s warm climate and diverse landscapes make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Try kayaking through the mangrove tunnels in the Everglades, hiking the trails at the Ocala National Forest, or biking the scenic routes in Sanibel Island. For a unique adventure, take an airboat ride through the swamps to spot alligators and other wildlife. And of course, golfers will have no shortage of courses to choose from, with options for all skill levels and budgets.
Family-Friendly Activities
Florida is a popular destination for families, with a wide range of activities to keep kids (and adults) entertained. Visit the theme parks in Orlando, such as Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld. Take a trip to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium to meet Winter the dolphin, star of the movie “Dolphin Tale.” And for a hands-on learning experience, check out the interactive exhibits at the Museum of Science and Industry in Tampa.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, Florida has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to discover. Take a ghost tour in St. Augustine, the oldest city in the U.S. Visit the Salvador Dali Museum in St. Petersburg to see the largest collection of the artist’s work outside of Europe. Go on a shelling excursion in Sanibel Island to collect unique seashells. And for a truly unique experience, take a hot air balloon ride over the scenic landscapes of central Florida.
Natural Wonders
Florida is home to a diverse range of natural wonders, from the Everglades to the coral reefs of the Florida Keys. Visit the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge to swim with manatees in their natural habitat. Take a scenic drive through the Florida Keys to see the stunning turquoise waters and abundant marine life. And for a truly unique experience, head to the Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park in Gainesville to see a 120-foot-deep sinkhole.
Vibrant Nightlife
Florida has a vibrant nightlife scene, with options for every taste and budget. In Miami, check out the trendy clubs and bars in South Beach, or head to the live music venues in the Wynwood neighborhood. In Tampa, Ybor City offers a lively nightlife scene with bars, clubs, and live music. And for a more laid-back vibe, head to the beach bars in St. Petersburg or Clearwater.
Local Markets
Florida is home to many farmers’ markets and craft fairs, where you can sample local produce and handmade goods. The St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market is one of the largest in the state, with over 200 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses. The Winter Park Farmers’ Market, located just north of Orlando, offers a wide range of local and organic produce. And for a unique shopping experience, check out the Red Barn Flea Market in Bradenton, which boasts over 600 vendors selling everything from antiques to fresh seafood.
Beaches and Mountains
Florida may be known for its beaches, but the state also has a surprising amount of elevation. The highest point in Florida is Britton Hill, located in the panhandle region, which stands at just 345 feet above sea level. For mountain views, head to the scenic drive along the Apalachicola National Forest, where you can see rolling hills and dense forests. And of course, no trip to Florida is complete without visiting the state’s famous beaches, such as Clearwater Beach, Siesta Key, and South Beach.
Cultural Immersion
Florida has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from Spanish, Cuban, and African-American cultures. To immerse yourself in Florida’s diverse culture, visit the Little Havana neighborhood in Miami to sample Cuban food and music. In St. Augustine, the oldest city in the U.S., you can explore historic Spanish architecture and learn about the city’s colonial past. And in Pensacola, visit the National Museum of Naval Aviation to learn about the state’s military history.
Art and Music Scene
Florida has a thriving arts and music scene, with many museums, galleries, and music venues to explore. The Salvador Dali Museum in St. Petersburg is a must-visit for art lovers, featuring the largest collection of the artist’s work outside of Europe. The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in Orlando hosts a wide range of concerts, theater productions, and dance performances. And for live music, check out the venues in the historic Ybor City neighborhood in Tampa.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore Florida’s cities is on foot. Many cities offer walking tours that take you through historic neighborhoods, cultural landmarks, and hidden gems. In Miami, take a walking tour of the Art Deco District to learn about the city’s iconic architecture. In St. Augustine, take a ghost tour to explore the city’s haunted history. And in Tampa, the Ybor City Historic Walking Tour takes you through the city’s cigar-making history and vibrant nightlife scene.
Architectural Marvels
Florida is home to many impressive architectural marvels, from historic landmarks to modern skyscrapers. The Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables is a stunning example of Mediterranean Revival architecture, with ornate columns and a grand lobby. The Ringling Museum in Sarasota features the stunning Ca’ d’Zan mansion, a Venetian Gothic-style home built in the early 1900s. And in Miami, the Frost Science Museum is a modern marvel, with a stunning rooftop aquarium and interactive exhibits.
Historical Sites
Florida has a rich history, with influences from Native American tribes, Spanish explorers, and European settlers. To learn more about the state’s history, visit the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument in St. Augustine, a 17th-century fort built by the Spanish. The Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers offer a glimpse into the lives of two of America’s most famous inventors. And in Tallahassee, visit the Florida Historic Capitol Museum to learn about the state’s political history.
Biking Routes
Florida offers many scenic biking routes, from the beachside paths in Sanibel Island to the mountain trails in the panhandle region. The Legacy Trail in Sarasota offers a 12-mile paved path through scenic parks and nature preserves. The Pinellas Trail in St