I need Florida suggestions! I’m heading to Orlando (staying in the Disney/Epcot area) for a conference in a few weeks. Pretty sure my wife is going to come along, and we’ll have about three days after the conference to do whatever. Not really interested in theme parks or shopping, would rather see some sights and keep it relatively low-key. Considering either driving out to the keys, heading for Tampa and the Gulf coast, or maybe Daytona area. Are the keys worth the six extra hours each way? Any other recommendations in/around central/southern Florida that are a must see/do?
Gulf coast is awesome. You could rent a spot near the beach there and have a few relaxing beach days.
Keys are def worth the drive. You could get a place there or in Miami area to split up the drive. Daytona is not really worth it, all strip malls and run down hotels. Gulf coast is super nice. I'd take the run down through Tampa, Fort Myers, across to Miami, out to the keys, and then back up the Atlantic coast to catch the Space coast stuff. Middle of Florida sucks. This all assumes you want to be moving and see stuff, as you will spend a lot of time driving. That's kind of how I like it, not a beach bum type.
Well, that settles it. Wife will get a bunch of downtime while I’m at the conference, and I don’t sit still very well, so we’ll do some traveling and head for the keys. Thanks gents!
Key Large is awesome if you want to relax. Key West is best visited in the evening. I have family in Key Largo and Marathon Key and love it there. Take a jet ski rental while you are there. The water is so clear and warm it's like boating in a giant bath tub.
We always go to Sarasota, siesta keys. I love that spot. Small beach town vide with an incredible beach
Pretty sure we’re going to stay somewhere around Key Largo. Probably spend one full day from there to Key West and back. Any must see/do/eat/drink places out that way? It’ll be a bit quicker visit than I’d like, but at least we’re getting there.
Cheap/clean. Wont be spending any time wherever we stay anyway. Just a place to shower/sleep. I have zero fancy, and am paying through the nose for a nice resort while at the conference.
I'd look at Islamorada or Marathon Key. Might find something a little chesper in the neighboring keys. There's a Marriot and Holiday Inn near there or go can do one of the independents. If your just looking for a bed you're probably best going there.