Are you looking for the best things to do this summer in Florida for your vacation?
Well look no further, I’ve beach you to it!
With summer in the air, it’s time to get outdoors, relish the moments, and dive into the endless adventures that are waiting to be had.
From beach escapes and incredible attractions to off the beaten path hidden gems, the Sunshine State is the place to be for an unforgettable summer.
So, let’s seas the day!
Here’s a list of the top 15 things you can’t miss this summer in Florida to help you put together your ultimate summer bucket list!
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Florida Summer Bucket List at a Glance:
- Explore DreamWorks Land at Universal Orlando and head to Shrek’s Swamp, Panda Village, hop on the Trollercoaster, and fill your phone with epic insta-worthy pics
- Visit Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards, Florida’s largest premium winery where over 1 million bottles are produced a year for a free tasting
- Be amazed by the incredible colors of Three Sisters Springs and swim with the adorable manatees that live within
- Visit the “Psychic Capital of the World” and uncover the supernatural in Cassadaga
- Fill your passport and eat your way around the Epcot Food and Wine Festival
- Turn back time and discover the Fountain of Youth in St. Augustine
Keep reading to get a full guide on the best way to plan the most epic Florida summer bucket list like a pro!
1. Discover the Fountain of Youth in St. Augustine
St. Augustine is the ultimate summer adventure. It is full of so many amusing and unique things to do, it’s the perfect blend of historic old-world charm with vibrant energy.
This historic city has something around every corner from wine to ghost tours, historic landmarks, and fun old jail tours to its gorgeous coastline.
Why We Love This for Your Florida Summer Bucket List
One of the coolest things you can’t miss in St. Augustine is sipping on eternal youth at Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park.
This little wonder feels a bit magical and you can even pick some up to bring home to keep that youthful spring in your step.
The Old Jail Experience is another must-visit in St. Augustine, with some of the most amusing tour guides dressed in character telling the fascinating history and stories of the past.
Don’t forget to stay for one of the town’s ghost tours, it is a scary good time!
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2. Soak up the History of Tarpon Springs
Tarpon Springs is always a favorite place to spend some time, it has its own kind of energy.
The small-town vibes, sponges of all interesting shapes and sizes everywhere you look, and some of the best Greek food you have ever tasted.
Why We Love This for Your Florida Summer Bucket List
This is one of the best places to go in Florida as a solo traveler, with family and friends, or for a casual date. The coastal town is quaint, friendly fun, and easy to walk around and explore.
If you want to get to know a little more about the rich history there is also some great Sponge Boat Tours.
Dining out on the sponge docks in one of the Mediterranean or Greek restaurants after soaking up all the history of the town is one of the best parts of visiting Tarpon Springs.
3. Take a Glass Bottom Boat Tour at Silver Springs State Park
Silver Springs State Park is one of Florida’s natural wonders that is an absolute must with its gorgeous crystal-clear springs.
There is no better way to see what lies beneath than hopping on the world-famous glass bottom boat. It takes exploring to a whole new level!
Why We Love This for Your Florida Summer Bucket List
The views are absolutely stunning out on one of America’s largest springs.
Just think these tours started back in the 1870s and are a part of Florida’s treasured history.
You may even recognize this Florida summer bucket list place from the big screen in Tarzan and Creature from the Black Lagoon.
So come out and experience the magic of this one-of-a-kind destination this summer with glass bottom boat tours starting at $14, or head out and rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard.
4. Visit Lakeridge Winery
One of Florida’s best-kept secrets is nestled within the countryside and rolling hills of Clermont, just outside of Orlando.
Here lies over 80 acres of sprawling beautiful landscape at Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards.
This is one of Florida’s largest premium wineries where over 1 million bottles are produced a year, and you can take a free tasting and tour here.
Why We Love This for Your Florida Summer Bucket List
The tours are complimentary, taking place 7 days a week, they also have live entertainment, Weekends at the Winery, and special events. Best of all they wine slushies!
If you want to take your tasting to the next level and make it a true Florida summer bucket list experience, then try out the Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards VIP Tour & Tasting.
This is one of the best things to do in the summer in Florida for wine enthusiasts!
You will get a specialty access tour of the winery that the complimentary tour would not and have you on cloud wine.
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5. Explore Ybor City
Walking the cobblestone streets of Ybor City you will easily come to know why this historic city is The Former Cigar Capital of the World.
This Latin quarter has a distinctly Cuban flair where you can feel a mix of old-world charm amongst the vibrance of an eclectic modern community. It mixes perfectly!
Why We Love This for Your Florida Summer Bucket List
I love visiting Ybor City and strolling through its iconic main street taking in all the old buildings and its rich history.
The mouthwatering aromas will lead your way, Ybor City is a foodie’s haven. The neighborhood has an eclectic culinary scene that will take your tastebuds on an epicurean journey.
The Columbia Restaurant, is worth the trip alone to this must-visit destination in Florida.
Not only is it the oldest in Florida, but the largest Spanish restaurant in the world. With flamenco performances, incredible food, and gorgeous decor it is one of the best places to eat in Florida.
Be sure to stop by the gift shop to bring a little piece of Columbia back home with you!
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6. Spend a Day with the Manatees
If you are looking for that one-of-a-kind destination this summer in Florida, then Crystal River is an excellent choice.
You will be amazed by the incredible colors and lush vegetation, and during the summer months, you can still find a small population of manatees within the gorgeous waters.
Why We Love This for Your Florida Summer Bucket List
Three Sisters Springs is an incredible oasis, you will feel like you’ve floated into the movies. The waters are super calm since boats cannot enter this sanctuary.
So, it’s perfect for everyone in the family, beginners and all! Homosassa Springs is another amazing place to see these gentle giants. There are so many options whether you choose to kayak, snorkel, or swim.
I recommend going in the mornings if you want the best chance of living out this Florida summer bucket list dream.
These gentle giants are more active earlier in the day and it is an absolutely unforgettable summer adventure in Florida.
7. Uncover the Supernatural in Cassadaga
If you love discovering off-the-beaten-path places in Florida, then you will want to find your way to the small village of Cassadaga.
Known as the “Psychic Capital of the World,” there is a little bit of magic in the air here.
Why We Love This for Your Florida Summer Bucket List
You don’t need to be in search of a spiritual reading to visit this psychic town, however, if so, this would definitely be the place to be. It’s also a wonderful place for a peaceful outing.
Stop in for lunch at the haunted Cassadaga Hotel, wander through the fairy trail, or check out the bookstore and all the supernatural items inside.
Even a stroll through the unique neighborhood of healers, psychics, and mediums is interesting with its quirky street names within the village.
8. Small Town Charm of Mount Dora
The scenic streets of Mount Dora have you strolling around in a picture-perfect postcard.
This quaint little town on Lake Dora is one of the best places to visit this summer in Florida.
Those who love soaking up small-town charm, antique shopping, and looking for hidden treasures amongst all the whimsical and fun shops must put this delightful little town on their must-visit places in Florida this summer.
Why We Love This for Your Florida Summer Bucket List
I love wandering along the streets stopping into all the boutique shops, and cozy cafes admiring the vintage homes and just letting my curiosity lead the way.
While there you can also visit the Mount Dora Historic Inn, nature areas like Lincoln Avenue Community Park, Kelly Park/Rock Springs, and Wekiwa Springs State Park.
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9. Go on a Serengeti Safari at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
With over 335 acres and more than 2000 animals onsite, Busch Gardens is a must-do theme park in Florida.
They have some of the best coasters in Florida along with some wild thrill rides. But that’s not the only thing that’s wild at this must-visit Florida destination this summer.
Why We Love This for Your Florida Summer Bucket List
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay offers some wildly adventurous and up-close experiences and tours at this magnificent theme park.
Top 8 Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Tours You Must Do This Summer
- Penguin Insider Tour
- Keeper for a Day Tour
- Elephant Insider Tour
- Sloth Encounter Tour
- Australian Insider Tour
- Serengeti Safari
- Aldabra Tortoise Insider Tour
- Hippo Insider Tour
From gorillas to orangutans, to giraffes and tigers the wilds of Africa are right here in the Sunshine State of Florida and is one of the best things to add to your Florida summer bucket list.
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10. Cruise the Canals in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale, known as the “Venice of America,” is an absolutely beautiful spot to visit this summer in Florida.
If you love beach bars, delicious food, and epic water views you may want to consider Fort Lauderdale Beach as one of your top bucket list places to visit in Florida.
Why We Love This for Your Florida Summer Bucket List
Exploring the Fort Lauderdale canals is a must-do activity giving you a whole new perspective into this city’s beauty, charm, and luxury lifestyles.
The canal boat rides cruise by luxurious and famous waterfront homes, and iconic landmarks while the guides let you in on many of the stories behind them.
The views are breathtaking with mansions, the sights and sounds of the canals, and fascinating yachts while you navigate through the waterways.
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11. Eat Your Way Around Epcot Food and Wine Festival
It’s that time of year again when Epcot’s biggest event of the year comes to Walt Disney World.
July/August to November serves up the deliciously delightful Epcot Food and Wine Festival.
Why We Love This for Your Florida Summer Bucket List
This is your chance to eat your way around the globe without the jet lag. But leave your passport at home, because you’ll get a free Festival Passport here that you can personalize.
Just remember to pace yourself while you are globetrotting, there are a lot of delicious festival dishes to dig into.
Plus, it’s the perfect time to try a new international cuisine since the serving sizes are smaller.
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12. Have Fun at the New Universal Studios Experiences
The theme park is the perfect place to spend any part of your summer.
But with Universal Orlando Resort revealing their new exciting collection of experiences to debut for summer 2024, summer just got monumental.
Why We Love This for Your Florida Summer Bucket List
DreamWorks Land brings an epic new area to Universal Studios Florida with inspiration from some of the best of DreamWorks Animations like Shrek, Trolls, and Kung Fu Panda.
13 brand new floats and close to 100 dazzling performers will fill the streets for the biggest daytime parade yet for Universal Orlando in the larger-than-life Universal Mega Movie Parade.
Then the Tribute Store will be carrying on the excitement for their new summer theme with inspiration from the Universal Mega Movie Parade.
Enjoy a bit of nostalgia from your favorite classic films along with themed rooms, plenty of must-have merchandise, and endless photo ops.
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13. Go Horseback Riding on the Beach of Cape San Blas
Cape San Blas is a majestic small beach town in the heart of the Panhandle on Florida’s Forgotten Coast.
This hidden gem is the ultimate laid-back getaway for a memorable summer in Florida.
Why We Love This for Your Florida Summer Bucket List
Enjoy some of the best fishing in the state of Florida, rent a kayak unwind through the pristine waters of St. Joseph Bay, and treat yourself to the magnificent coastal scenery.
Cape San Blas is one of only three beaches in Florida where you can saddle up and go horseback riding on the beach.
The Forgotten Coast Sea Turtle Center is just outside of Cape San Blas where you can come out for dawn patrol in search of turtle tracks and nests. Sea turtle nesting season runs from May 1st until October 31st in Florida.
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14. Escape into Florida’s Mini Rainforest
Did you know that Florida has its own mini rainforest
If you add Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park in Gainesville to your Florida summer bucket list, then you will see for yourself this incredible place created by a unique sinkhole.
Why We Love This for Your Florida Summer Bucket List
Making your way down into the sinkhole and into the rare ecosystem you will quickly find out why this is one of Florida’s hidden gems.
Devil’s Millhopper Sinkhole is full of tons of wildlife, the thick green canopy engulfs you with so much greenery and you start to feel the temperature drop.
It makes it hard to believe you are just a short drive from the hustle and bustle of the city.
15. Cool Off in Ginnie Springs
They don’t call Florida the Sunshine State for nothing, so when the dog days of summer roll around it gets hot.
Ginnie Springs is the ultimate place to cool down and float all your worries away.
Why We Love This for Your Florida Summer Bucket List
With incredible crystal clear cold waters, seven different springs, and caverns be sure to bring a snorkel and mask for this ultimate summer adventure in Florida. They also have tubes, snorkels, masks, fins, life jackets, and even scuba diving rentals.
A day at Ginnie Springs is one of the best ways to reconnect with nature, immerse yourself in the pure natural beauty of the state of Florida and most of all have fun!
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Wrapping Up Your Perfect Florida Summer Bucket List
There is no shortage of epic fun to be had in the summer in Florida, there truly are so many things to do and see.
I hope this list has inspired you to create your own ultimate Florida summer bucket list filled with memories that will last a lifetime.
What’s a hidden Florida gem that you’d love for me to add? Let us know in the comments section below.
Until next time, Happy Florida Travels Hipster!
About the Author
Sarah Jordan is a solo traveler enthusiast, professional travel writer, and proud mama to her rescue dog Coconut.
With a love for destinations across the globe, she made Epcot her first theme park and still treasures her EPCOT World Showcase passport to this day.
After finally following her inner wanderlust, she discovered the freedom and empowerment that solo travel brings.