Theme parks, beaches, coastal getaways and exceptional nightlife — each of Florida’s major cities offers travelers a unique and distinct experience, though it can be hard to sort out which destination best caters to a visitor’s vacation needs. To help travelers discern these key differences, read on to discover the atmosphere, attractions and activities that make the Sunshine State’s top cities stand out.
Tampa
In short: A traditional metropolis experience with upscale dining, shopping, nightlife and professional sports.
Situated on Florida’s Gulf Coast to the west, Tampa has more of a traditional metropolis feel. Many visitors associate the bustling city with a vibrant nighttime crowd, and with areas like the historic Ybor City housing a range of bars in one central space, it’s easy for locals and vacationers alike to change venues throughout the evening.
Like with many urban destinations, Tampa also has a notable upscale dining and shopping scene, evident in the city’s Hyde Park. Here, international chain stores and boutique sellers line the streets, with global restaurants, steak houses and distinguished cocktail bars drawing in those with a refined appreciation for gastronomy.
Compared to Florida's other cities, Tampa has a younger population at an average age of 36, according to the Census Reporter. This energetic crowd pairs perfectly with some of the city’s most popular attractions, such as the Busch Gardens theme park, the Florida Aquarium and professional sports stadiums. Despite its hustle and bustle, Tampa does have easy access to beaches and waterfront activities should visitors want to incorporate a day of rest and relaxation into their itineraries.
Miami
In short: Family-friendly attractions and quieter beaches mixed with late-night crowds and a prominent Latin American culture.
Florida’s second-most populous city and situated on the state’s southeastern coast, Miami strikes a balance between warm-weather activities and high-energy nightlife for travelers who want a little bit of both experiences. Attractions like Crandon Park Beach, Wynwood Walls (an outdoor street-art museum) and Zoo Miami are not only family-friendly, but also lean more into the chill vibe that some vacationers prefer on their getaways.
Latin American and Caribbean cultures also have a strong presence in Miami, influencing everything from the city’s music (Reggae, salsa or Cuban jazz, anyone?) and cuisine to events like the Calle Ocho Festival. The seamless integration of these cultures means visitors are privy to a delicious culinary scene filled with specialties like Cuban sandwiches, Haitian griot and more.
Of course, what’s Miami without after-hours shenanigans? Miami is frequently cited as one of the best nightlife destinations simply because of the culture and variety in bars. Whether it’s a club crawl on South Beach or a warehouse party, the quality of these experiences plays a considerable role in Miami’s pristine nighttime reputation.
Jacksonville
In short: An intriguing mix between urban and suburban lifestyles with a laid-back atmosphere. Offers plenty of outdoor activities and a growing arts scene.
The largest city by area in the contiguous United States at 874 square miles, Jacksonville may be expansive, but it still offers visitors pockets of relaxation. In fact, the city is home to the largest urban park system in the U.S., with green spaces covering over 80,000 acres. Hiking, scenic picnic spots and an extensive network of biking trails are a handful of the ways visitors can experience Jacksonville’s lush greenery. The numerous beaches and waterways throughout this city’s 500 neighborhoods will also encourage travelers to soak in the unbeatable weather.
Aside from Jacksonville being an outdoor lover’s paradise, it also calls to the art enthusiasts. Home to the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Ritz Theatre and Museum, travelers will find eclectic works with roots in European, American and African-American cultures. Vacationers don’t even have to step foot into any of these establishments to see creative minds at work, as the city is covered in stunning (and ever-changing) murals that are sure to captivate onlookers.
Orlando
In short: A family-friendly city teeming with theme parks. Offers a welcoming vibe and tends to favor a younger crowd with the University of Central Florida’s nearby location.
It goes without saying, but Orlando, aka the “Theme Park Capital of the World,” is good for exactly that. The sprawling central city is home to or close to more than a dozen theme parks, including Universal Orlando Resort, Walt Disney World, SeaWorld Orlando and LEGOLAND Florida. Because of all these theme park options, Orlando is truly a space for any and all types of travelers, with its age-appropriate activities and appeal to a variety of interests.
While the theme parks are Orlando’s specialty, this city is also a cultural melting pot, as reflected in the surrounding neighborhoods. Many immigrant families have settled down in the city, oftentimes working as employees in the parks, with the resulting cultural fluidity creating a diverse and especially welcoming population.
Fort Lauderdale
In short: Blending relaxing beaches with busy city streets, Fort Lauderdale is known for its water activities and upscale experiences.
Located 28 miles north of Miami, Fort Lauderdale is often considered the “Venice of America” because of its extensive canal system. In the same way that gondolas are quintessentially Italian, water-based activities like scenic boat rides, waterfront dining and other sightseeing experiences are customary when visiting this city. Fort Lauderdale is also quite prominent in the marine industry with its large concentration of marinas, yachting services and related expenditures, offering visitors a chance to interact with the city’s canal systems in a different manner.
The beaches and natural landscapes outside of the city are good for relaxation, while the inner workings of Fort Lauderdale boast upscale shops, eateries and galleries. Iconic areas like Las Olas Boulevard and the Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District are hubs for these high-end arts, culture and entertainment experiences.
About the Author
comments