Florida Bucket List: 13 Adventurous Things to Do in the Sunshine State

Are you thinking of adventurous things you can add to your Florida bucket list? We’ve got you covered!

The sunshine state is undoubtedly filled with adventurous things to do and unique places. This makes Florida great for tourists and locals alike. 

In this post, we’ve put together the ten cool and adventurous things that you can add to your Florida bucket list: 

1. Swim with dolphins at Discovery Cove

If you’re a dolphin lover, then you certainly shouldn’t miss out on Discovery Cove. This 39-minute swimming adventure is undoubtedly an experience of a lifetime. 

You’ll be a part of a small group along with a trainer who will teach you a couple of dolphin behavior and communication styles. That way, you can go on to an unforgettable deep-water dorsal fin ride. 

In the encounter, you have the chance to rub, kiss, and even hug a bottlenose dolphin. Wouldn’t that be adorable? 

2. Have some crab at Bayou Bill’s Crab House

This is a classic restaurant along Sta. Rosa Beach offers diners a full seafood-to-table menu.

There’s undoubtedly something in this restaurant for everyone- from fresh fish to raw oysters. There’s also a raw oyster bar that offers a range of half shelf and char-grilled delightful Apalachicola oysters. 

You shouldn’t miss out on their Crab Fish for Two, and take a photo with the Giant Alligator- since Florida is, after all, well-known for this. 

You can then top the night off at the restaurant’s fully stocked bar, as you bask in the entire coastal experience. 

This is certainly a local favorite, offering one of the best and most original seafood dishes in the whole state. 

3. Explore the beauty of the Sunken Gardens

Walk across hidden paths, stumble across exotic plants, and marvel at the sparkling waterfalls of this quaint, botanical paradise. 

The Sunken Garden also features an impressive museum that is home to the area’s oldest tropical houseplants.

4. Go for fun turtle walks

Every summer, Florida beaches are covered with neon signs and tapes where turtles have buried their eggs.

If you’re lucky to get a spot in the coveted turtle walk, then you’d get to witness how a sea turtle lumbers out in the ocean. You can also watch them dig their nest and then lay their eggs while slowly heading back to the sea. 

For instance, in the Indian River, St. Lucie, and Martin Counties, the nesting season is from March 1 to November 15.

Sometimes, the arrival of these three species overlap. The leatherbacks are usually first to arrive, followed by the loggerheads, and finally, the green sea turtles.

5. Head snorkeling at Dry Tortugas National Park

Apart from an impressive historic fort and several camping areas, the place features beautiful crystal blue waters that are ideal for snorkeling. 

Note that there distinct areas in Dry Tortugas that are worth checking out:

1. Along the Moat Wall
2. The Southern Wharf Ruins
3. The Northern Wharf Ruins. 

6. Get up close with the giant tortoise at Lowry Park Zoo

This zoo is famous for featuring one of the most impressive tropical wildlife zoological settings, not just in Florida but in the world. 

It’s certainly a fantastic location that brings families and animals together to create natural, up-close connections. 

The zoo provides kids the opportunity to get up close and touch the giant tortoise, walk with wallabies, feed the giraffes, and so much more.

7. Mingle with the gators

Want to channel your inner wildlife expert?

Ride through the everglades via the airboat at around 40 mph over hundreds of feisty alligators!

Once you’re done zipping through the swamp, you might want to check out the animal and alligator show, which is offered for free for all airboat tours. 

Visitors can get the chance to get a close up look at alligators, lions, tigers, the famous Florida tiger, and so much more. 

8. Watch a movie at the Sci-Fi Dine-in Theater

Located in Disney’s Hollywood Studio, the place is modeled as one of the retro dine-in theaters in the 50s and 60s. 

This sci-fi theater allows guests to sit in their classic car as they watch vintage black and white sci-fi flicks over delectable diner-style food. 

9. Catch the NASCAR race at Daytona International Speedway

The Daytona International Speedway is well-known for its Daytona 500 race, hosting lots of Daytona 500 races all year long. 

Tours are also offered, giving visitors the chance to buy tickets so that they can ride with one of NASCAR’s professional drivers. 

10. Discover cool sea animals at Key West Aquarium

The place is undoubtedly filled with fascinating creatures to see and discover. This includes sea turtles, jellyfish, sharks, stingrays, and many more.

It even features a touch tank that allows visitors to handle several sea creatures- even get to touch the real tail of a shark!

11. Take on kite surfing lessons with Miami Kiteboarding

Kitesurfing is a sport that requires part skiing and part surfing. A fantastic way to enjoy the waters of Florida while getting your adrenaline fix at the same time. 

Miami Kiteboarding provides equipment rentals and beginner courses. You can also hire an instructor who can help you get the most out of your lessons here. 

12. Be a kid at heart and visit the Disney World

No visit to a Florida city destination will be complete if you don’t swing by the world-famous Disney World. From castles, princesses, delicious foods, and unique shops, Disney World seems to have it all. 

Whether you’re out with family or friends, you definitely shouldn’t miss this theme park.

13. Ride the Hogwarts Express at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Take out your wand, and put your wizard clothes on as you hop aboard the Hogwarts Express!

As you step into Universal Studios’ Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you can witness how a dragon breathes fire. You can also get the chance to drink the tasty butterbeer, cast a wizarding spell with a wand, and hop on to the famous Hogwarts Express. 

From breathtaking beaches, fantastic food to fun theme parks, there’s no doubt that Florida is an excellent vacation destination. So, stop waiting! It’s time to head out on a new adventure in your Florida bucket list.

Author Bio:

Geraldine writes for Montem Life, and she specializes in writing tips in choosing the best hiking poles for all hiking junkies. She is a self-confessed wanderlust and loves exploring mountain trails. You can read more of her articles by visiting https://maptia.com/geraldinewalks