Southeast · Everglades to the Keys · Statehood 1845
Florida
State
Field Guide
A slow river of grass, a highway that hops across the sea on 42 bridges, and white sand along the Gulf. Florida is more than theme parks. These are three classics and one island fort at the end of the road.
Updated October 2026 · Written by artist Nick Scacco
Classic Experiences
01.
South Florida · Everglades National Park
Explorethe Evergladesby Boat
Everglades National Park protects about 1.5 million acres at the southern tip of Florida, the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. Slow-moving, shallow water flows through sawgrass, mangroves and hardwood hammocks, supporting alligators, manatees and hundreds of bird species. Boardwalk trails like Anhinga Trail make wildlife viewing easy, and guided boat tours and paddling routes go deeper. The winter dry season has fewer mosquitoes and better wildlife viewing.
02.
Florida Keys · Overseas Highway
Drive theOverseas Highway
The Overseas Highway, U.S. 1 through the Florida Keys, runs about 113 miles through the Florida Keys to Key West and crosses 42 bridges. The longest is the Seven Mile Bridge, which gives views of green and turquoise water on both sides. Stop at Key Largo, Islamorada and Bahia Honda State Park, then end at Key West with its historic streets, sunsets and the southernmost point marker. Traffic builds on weekends and holidays, so go early in the day.
03.
Florida Panhandle · Gulf Islands National Seashore
Walk theWhite Sand Beachesof the Gulf
Gulf Islands National Seashore protects about 160 miles of barrier islands and coast from Mississippi to Florida's Panhandle, including beaches near Pensacola. The sand is fine, bright white quartz, and the water is clear in calm weather. Fort Pickens, a 19th-century brick fort at the end of Santa Rosa Island, is open to explore. Dolphins and sea turtles are regular sights, and the beaches are quieter than the tourist strips nearby.
Little-Known Gem
Dry Tortugas: theIsland Fort at the End of the Road
Dry Tortugas National Park · Gulf of Mexico · 70 Miles West of Key West
Most visitors to the Keys stop in Key West. About 70 miles farther west, in the Gulf of Mexico, Dry Tortugas National Park protects seven small islands and Fort Jefferson, a huge 19th-century brick fortress and one of the largest masonry structures in the Americas. The park can be reached only by ferry, seaplane or private boat, and day trips allow time to snorkel the clear water around the fort and see the coral and fish. There are few services, so bring supplies.
Florida Travel Questions
What are the best places to visit in Florida besides the theme parks?
Three classics are Everglades National Park, the Overseas Highway through the Keys, and Gulf Islands National Seashore on the Panhandle. A lesser-known stop is Dry Tortugas National Park. The Everglades and the Keys combine on a south Florida trip, while the Panhandle is a separate trip.
When is the best time to visit the Everglades?
December through April is the dry season, with cooler weather, fewer mosquitoes and better wildlife viewing. Summer is hot, wet and buggy, and hurricane season runs through November.
How do I get to Dry Tortugas National Park?
Reach it by ferry or seaplane from Key West, or by private boat. Book well ahead, and check the National Park Service for current schedules and fees.