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U.S. state
Photo: Hans Hillewaert, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Florida is the southernmost state in the continental United States of America. Known as "The Sunshine State", over a century ago it became a popular winter destination for the well-to-do from colder climates; it has grown to become the second-most visited state in the nation. Tourists have long been drawn to Florida by its white-sand beaches and unique and diverse cities. Since the mid-twentieth century, world-class theme parks and attractions have become a top draw as well. In the 21st century, Florida has become the preferred retirement destination for rich Americans from all over the country.
The end of the St. Johns River is the location of Jacksonville, one of the largest cities in the state, and some coastal towns including America's oldest city, St. Augustine.
A beach county, also known as the "Fun Coast," frequented by snowbirds, Inland Florida residents, and fans of the Daytona 500.
The Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral, and some coastal towns to the south are within this region, which is synonymous with Brevard County.
Between Miami and the rest of the Atlantic coast, there are some medium-sized cities here, but it is still more off the beaten path than the counties to the south.
Miami and its surroundings (called the "Gold Coast") are known for their ethnic diversity, proximity to Latin America, and tourist appeal along the many miles of beautiful beaches.
A chain of islands off the southern tip of the peninsula, and one of the state's main tourist destinations with its breathtaking tropical beauty.
Particularly in the north, more rural than its eastern counterpart, the western coast is known for its Tampa-St. Petersburg metro area and many beautiful beaches in the southwest of the state, with the Everglades separating the region from Miami.
The Florida panhandle is a "Deep South" region of antebellum plantations, red hills, and white sand beaches. Cities include the state capital of Tallahassee, Destin, Pensacola, and Panama City Beach.
A few cities dot this mostly rural region, including the college town of Gainesville, the theme parks of Orlando, and small towns throughout the rest.
By car
Three Interstate highways connect Florida with adjacent states:
By bus
Many bus companies operate services to Florida from neighboring states and from the major airports in the states.
By train
By boat
Florida is possibly the largest state for cruise ship vacations in the United States.
By plane
Flying may be a more reasonable option for crossing large expanses of the state especially between South Florida (Miami and Ft Lauderdale) and the Panhandle (Pensacola and Tallahassee) while others…
By bus
The bus is not the most glamorous way to get around the state, but it can be the cheapest.
By train
By ferry
A high speed ferry service, the Key West Express, operates from the cities of Fort Myers and Marco Island with daily service to the Historic Seaport district of Key West.
Choose an airport to see hotels, stations, taxi ranks and car rental desks around it.
Lakeland · Regional · LAL
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The state capital and thriving college town home to three schools, including Florida State
The "Venice of America" with its expansive canal system, also known for beaches and boating
Sprawling city encompassing large beaches, world-class museums, and award-winning golf
The center of Caribbean and Latin American culture, famed for its beachfront nightclubs
The theme park capital of the world also features exciting dining, a lively arts scene, and ample recreation
White-sand beaches draw tourists to this town of ancient shipwrecks and military fighter jets
The oldest city in the country is home to two more-than 400-year-old Spanish forts, restaurants, and shops
Large Gulf Coast metro area home to bustling nightlife as well as famed natural sites
Ritzy town home to the rich & famous, featuring high-end shopping and beautiful beaches
Historic island at the north end of the state, with excellent golf resorts and a lively downtown
A massive marine park protecting a wide range of animals and coral reefs
The longest stretch of unspoiled beach on the Atlantic coast, near rocket launches
Massive, vital, and delicate ecosystem protecting a great variety of plants and animals
Chain of islands stretching into the Caribbean, offering tropical scenery and a laid-back lifestyle
12 islands along the Gulf Coast, featuring excellent beaches and sea turtles
Extensive inland forest giving visitors a taste of old Florida charm
The "happiest place on earth", encompassing 4 theme parks, 2 water parks, and countless other amenities
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