Welcome to
Florida
t Neon lights illuminating the street as evening falls over Miami’s Ocean Drive.
Florida is well known for its theme parks and beautiful beaches, but there’s so much more to experience here: nature trails and national parks, great food and nightlife, cosmopolitan cities and fascinating history. Whatever your dream trip to Florida includes, this DK Eyewitness travel guide is the perfect companion.
Florida’s beaches are second to none, and sun seekers flock to the scenic coastlines at places like St. Augustine, Naples, and down through the Florida Keys, the beautiful string of islands south of the peninsula. Nature lovers can get up close and personal with the state’s flora and fauna at one of Florida’s many national parks, the swamps and gators of The Everglades being the most well known, although the inland national forests and wildlife preserves add even more options.
Florida’s cities offer food, culture, and nightlife in abundance, with each city giving off its own unique vibe: urban chic in Miami, historic beauty in Pensacola, and the laid-back seaside town feel of Fort Lauderdale and Tampa. Orlando, meanwhile, feels like a world apart with its acres of unique attractions. The twin giants of Walt Disney World® Resort and Universal Orlando Resort™ draw millions of visitors every year, and the city’s neighboring Space Coast offers a whole new world of adventure in its own right.
From the historic towns of the northern Panhandle to the laid-back islands of the Keys over 500 miles (800 km) south, we’ve broken Florida into easily navigable adventures, with expert local knowledge, detailed itineraries, and colorful, comprehensive maps to help you plan the perfect visit. Whether you’re here for the famous theme parks or want a vacation off the beaten path, this Eyewitness guide will help you make the most of all that the state has to offer. Enjoy the book, and enjoy Florida.
1 Riding the Astro Orbiter at the Magic Kingdom®.
2 Sunrise over a pristine beach at Fort Lauderdale.