Florida Vacation Rentals

Florida Vacation Rental: How to Get There

If your Florida vacation rental is located in the heart of the state or close to Disney World, Orlando International Airport is the most practical gateway. From here, you can easily rent a car to set off on your Florida vacation or take the free shuttle to Disney World. Miami International Airport is another major hub, while Tampa International Airport is ideal if you're staying at a beach condo on the Gulf Coast.

If you are coming from the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, boarding the Amtrak Auto Train is one option. For New Yorkers, the Amtrak Silver Star and Silver Meteor ending in Miami are convenient, with many more stops in Florida along the way.

If traveling from an adjacent state, you could always take the Interstate or other additional highways to get to your Florida vacation rental. Alternatively, opt for a cruise as part of your trip and arrive in Florida in style, docking at Tampa, Miami, or Port Canaveral.

Best Foods to Try in Florida

If you love desserts try the Key lime pie, which is the official pie of this state. This delicious tart dessert originated in the Florida Keys and is made from the native Key lime. It is usually served on a crust made of graham crackers and is topped with whipped cream or meringue.

As Florida is located on the coastline, this state is renowned for its mouth-watering seafood. When you are here try the stone crab, which is considered to be even more delicious than lobster by many local people. If you want to enjoy a variety of succulent seafood, the best time to visit Florida is between October and May.

What Weather to Expect in Florida

Florida largely enjoys a subtropical climate, meaning that you will not be short on sun. Summer in Florida runs from June to September and tends to be very hot and humid throughout the state. Spring sees warm temperatures but is prone to tropical showers. Fall, from September to November, is a great time to visit, as the days are still warm and dry but with less intense humidity than the summer months. Winter is an option too, as the weather is still temperate. Whatever time of year you plan to visit Florida, you are likely to be greeted with pleasant weather - it is the "Sunshine State" after all!

Florida's Sights and Attractions

Florida's most popular attraction, Walt Disney World, entertains visitors of all ages with its numerous themed rides and performances. Universal Studios is a close second, attracting film buffs and thrill seekers alike.

Aside from its outstanding theme parks, Florida is home to a vast array of natural wonders, including the Everglades National Park. The second largest in the country, the park is largely made up of swampland and hosts a huge amount of wildlife. If you opt for a vacation in Key West, then take a trip to Dry Tortugas National Park on the reef islands. Here, you can explore historic Fort Jefferson, picnic on the beach, and snorkel in the clear waters.

Florida's Cultural Highlights

It may be famous for its beaches and theme parks, but Florida also has some fantastic museums and galleries to discover. Among these, the Salvador Dali Museum in St. Petersburg, near Tampa, is a real gem. Here you will find the biggest collection of Dali's work outside of Europe, while the stunning building is also worth seeing. The Museum of Fine Arts, also in St. Petersburg, is another great spot for art fans. If you happen to be based in Miami, head to the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens and stroll through the Italian Renaissance-style villa and gardens or take the kids to the Miami Museum of Science and Planetarium for a fun and educational day out.

Attractions for children in Florida

You cannot come all the way to Florida with your kids and not visit Walt Disney World or the Universal Studios in Orlando. While Disney World allows your kids to experience the magic of Disney, Universal Studios is a theme park and filmed studio combined. One day is never enough to explore everything that these attractions have to offer.

Florida is known for its pristine white sand and crystal blue water beaches. Miami Beach is the perfect place to build sand castles or go swimming with your kids. There is more to Miami Beach than just beaches. One of the places that you can explore with your kids in Miami Beach is the Art Deco District.

Nature at its best in Florida

Florida offers you a unique opportunity to explore the subtropical wilderness. The Everglades National Park was created in 1947 and is home to 1.5 million acres of marshy land. This national park is also home to various animals like American crocodiles, manatees, alligators, and Florida panthers.

Another place to visit is the Dry Tortugas National Park which is located approximately 68 miles west of Key West. This park is famous for its beautiful coral reefs, abundant sea life, and a variety of tropical birds as well as for the legends of sunken treasures. It is also home to Fort Jefferson, which was built in the 1800s.

Florida: A world of family fun

SeaWorld Orlando

Part theme park and part wildlife sanctuary, SeaWorld is home to killer whales, sharks, and dolphins. Regular shows and roller coasters guarantee a fun-packed day.

Walt Disney World

Comprised of four theme parks and two water parks, along with hotels and other entertainment spots, this is undoubtedly Orlando's main attraction. Magical themed rides, costume characters, and nightly fireworks displays make for an unforgettable experience.

Universal's Islands of Adventure

Based around all your favorite television shows and films, this sprawling theme park has rides and shows suitable for all ages from toddler to adult.

Discovery Cove

This water-based park gives visitors the opportunity to meet dolphins, snorkel along a coral reef, float on a tropical river, and view exotic birds.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Dedicated to the books about the young wizard, this theme park is a must for Harry Potter fans. Exhilarating rides, a recreation of Diagon Alley and much more feature.