A unique blend of culture and nature exists in the largest cities of Florida, the Sunshine State. For a travel addict, such as, there awaits stunning beaches, dream studios, serene views, amazing adventures, and many more. So, mark the calendar and visit the notable cities of Florida on your next vacation.
Florida is the home to many vibrant cities that are well known for the perfect blend of natural beauty and serenity. Whether you are an adventurer, sports fanatic, history enthusiast, or nature lover, there are plenty of things to do in Florida that are engaging and venturesome for all. From Walt Disney World to SeaWorld, Sunken Gardens to Florida State University, a contrasting perception can be achieved by the best places to visit in Florida. However, for your ease to pick from many. Here is a list of Top 20 largest cities in Florida that are sure to give a thrilling and sensational experience.
1. Jacksonville: The largest and most populous city
With a population of over 800 and an area of 2 thousand square km. Jacksonville stands as the most populous and largest cities in Florida. This place has always something in its stock to offer for everyone.
The city has automated metro system named as the Jacksonville Skyway with eight stations serving the residents well. Moreover, when it comes about skyline, the Bank of America Tower, constructed in 1990s, stands as the tallest building in Jacksonville.
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is the perfect place for a great family outing. To explore European themed gardening, one must pay a visit to the Cummer Museum of Arts and Garden. There are lots of things to do in Florida. The Little Talbot Island has a long five mile of shoreline and nautical forest in addition to plenty of native wildlife animals.
2. Miami: City of beaches
Being one of the safest cities in Florida. Miami offers its visitors soothing beaches, entertaining activities, and comfortable warm weather. Art Deco Historic District, Bayside Marketplace, and Everglades National Park is the central attractive places of Miami.
Miami is also popular for the entertaining night life, lively cafes & bars at night, tasty cuisine and Cuban coffee. Miami skyline is glorified with magnificent skyscrapers. The Panorama Tower, Aston Martin Residence, Brickell Flatiron are some of the tallest building of Miami.
Little Havana, Miami’s vibrant Cuban centre is a promising attraction for the travelers. Miami is one of the largest cities in Florida, that boasts the popular vibes, like Miami beach and South beach.
3. Tampa: City of parks, zoos, and museums
Situated at the west seacoast of Florida, also near Gulf of Mexico. Tampa is the third-largest city in Florida by size. Two famous museums of Tampa are Henry B. Plant Museum and Glazer Museum for children.
The Tampa Theatre is also popular for showing foreign and classic films. Tourists love to take a safari at Busch Gardens to explore more about the wildlife. Featuring animals from all around the world. Tampa Lowry Park Zoo is famous for keeping its animals in their natural habitats.
100 North Tampa is considered the tallest building along Florida’s Gulf Coast and it has stunning architecture. The city of Tampa has a booming economy and major industry is Avionics, Defense and marine electronics.
4. Orlando: The most visited place
Being the home of Disney World and Universal Studios, Orlando is the most visited tourist spot in Florida. The most famous water-based destinations are Orlando’s SeaWorld and the Discovery Cove. The city attracts many visitors each year for its prominent theme parks, golf courses and shopping malls.
Two more interesting tourist attractions are Orlando Science Center and the Gatorland. The sensational nightlife and outdoor adventures are pleasurable for every tourism enthusiast. Starting from young professionals to retirees, everyone can be benefited staying here in Orlando since the city provides an abundance of facilities and comforts.
For corporate travelers, Orlando Executive Airport (OEA) is the leading choice. For smooth transportation, Orlando’s Lynx Bus Service plays a vital role, Although it is the safest and fastest.
5. St. Petersburg: City of sunshine
St. Petersburg, the 5th largest city in Florida, is located on Florida’s Gulf Coast. The city has sunny weather for almost 360 days a year, which is one of the reasons its residents for love the place.
Fort De Soto Park and Salvador Dali Museum are perfect family gateways that offer so many things to see. Among some of the places of visitor’s interest is the Sunken Gardens, Sawgrass Lake Park, and the Museum of Fine Arts that nobody rather wants to miss. Furthermore, one can also stroll around Mazzaro’s Italian Market and taste some mouth-watering Italian cuisine.
St. Petersburg comprises many rich communities with peaceful environment. Downtown St. Petersburg, situated on the Eastern edge, includes the city’s main commercial and residential skyscrapers.
6. Hialeah: Place that reflects Cuban culture
The city of Hialeah consists of a large percentage of Cubans and Cuban-Americans. Being included among one of the largest cities in Florida, Hialeah plays role in uplifting the culture of Cuba since the place is filled with fancy Cuban restaurants and the Cuban Culture in Exile Heritage Park.
Here, one can wish to visit the Leah Arts District, Garden of Arts and the Hialeah Park Racing and Casino to spend fun and exciting hours. The Babalu Kafe is something you will mot wish to miss as it serves exquisite Cuban food and converts into electric club during weekends when becomes crowded.
The city of Hialeah is a crucial trade center in Miami-Dade-County that conducts most of the commercial activities. Miami-Dade Transit serves Hialeah’s transportation system through assuring secured journey by Miami Metrorail, Metrobus and Amtrak.
7. Tallahassee: The college town
The capital city of Florida, Tallahassee is regarded as the ultimate college town, since both Florida State University and Florida A&M are situated here. To facilitate college students, the neighborhoods are made affordable as well as secured.
The most significant archeological site in Florida indeed is Lake Jackson Mounds Park. Some of the other eye-catching attributes of Tallahassee include St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, Mission San Luis de Apalachee, Cascades State Park, and St. Marks Lighthouse. Therefore you can wish to attend late-night sports events at Tom Brown Park.
Some of the well-known organized neighborhoods inside the city are Frenchtown, All Saints, Betton Hills, and Buck Lake. Having a height of 101 meters, Florida State Capitol stands tallest in the city.
8. Port St. Lucie: A thriving urban area
Located at the center of Florida’s Treasure Coast, Port St. Lucie ranks eighth on the basis of area and population.
If you are planning to get amazed by lots of delightful activities then put Port St. Lucie Botanical Garden and Savannas Preserve State park at the top of list. To get a close up look at Florida’s wildest creatures, pay a visit to River Lilly Cruises. On the other hand, if you are looking for a slice of serenity, then explore the Oxbow Eco-Center. The Jensen Beach is a divine spot for its unparalleled sunset views.
9. Fort Lauderdale: City of rich culture
Famous for profuse culture, the city of Fort Lauderdale is home to many museums that depicts the history of Florida. The Bonnet house and the NSU Art Museum are two significant historical omen of Florida’s rich culture.
Choose the Fort Lauderdale Beach and Las Olas Boulevard at first, if you are planning to get amazed by lots of delightful activities and classy restaurants. One must not miss navigating through the channels of Intercoastal Waterway that have earned the city’s nickname “Venice of America”.
The most momentous event in this city is the International Boat show where hundreds of industry’s latest boats gather for exhibition. City’s by-road communication is seamless due to its well maintenance of over thousand kilometers roadway.
10. Cape Coral: Place with number of cannels
Located on Florida’s Gulf of Mexico, Cape Coral is a stunning destination for travelers highly popular for gulf coast beaches. It is one of the largest cities in Florida, that is packed with over 400 miles of intricate canals.
The Sun Splash Family Waterpark is the most appealing destination that allows to enjoy boating and fishing. Wicked Dolphin Rum Distillery and Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve are places for people to explore and wonder. One may wish to pay a visit at Veterans Memorial Park to appreciate the brave history of the country.
Cape Coral’s economy is mostly based on health care services and the Lee Memorial Hospital provides most employment opportunities. The giant Cape Coral Bridge plays a vital role in transportation.
11. Hollywood: Site of coastal landscapes
Hollywood is included in one of the largest cities of Florida and is a place of amazing attractions. Comprising of 27 square miles of seaside landscapes, Hollywood is placed between Miami and Fort Lauderdale.
The blissful Hollywood Beach Boardwalk is more than 2 miles long. The city has palm trees lined serially to offer its visitors a serene place for strolling. Other allurements of the city include Topeekeegee Yugnee Park and the Anne Kolb Nature Center that has nature preserves with spectacular ambiances. Yellow Green Farmers Market is a noteworthy warehouse with many interesting stalls where you may find your favorite food items or accessories.
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, the 22nd busiest airport in the United States moreover, it serves the city of Hollywood. The headquarters of HEICO and Invicta Watch Group lies here in the city.
12. Miramar: A family-oriented destination
The city is filled with cultural touchstones. Florida’s Miramar offers dozens of family-friendly entertainments for both the locals as well as tourists. Miramar is situated in Miami’s principal metropolitan area and the same depicts a Caribbean vibe in its structure and flavor.
The city is your favorable ticket if you are a sports-music freak. It can be said emphatically you are definitely going to love the Monster Mini Golf, Ansin Sports Complex, and Sunset Lakes Community Center. And while you can manage a little more time, visit Miramar Pineland Park and Miramar Regional Park to freshen up your mind and soul.
Miramar Branch Library Education Center has a wide collection of various literary items. Live concerts outdoor entertainments are arranged in Miramar Regional Park Amphitheater.
13. Gainesville: Home to exotic butterflies
Gainesville is the city where culture infuses with nature to create a different blend than that of other cities. The Butterfly Rainforest exhibits hundreds of exotic butterflies and birds which are various types.
Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park has a forest and a hill. It’s a Spot that interests the tourists automatically for its name. So The Konapaha Botanical Garden and the Florida Museum of Natural History are other two prominent natural sites. To gaze at the night sky filled with stars, don’t forget to visit the city’s Kika Silva Pla Planetarium.
Gainesville created its first feed-in tariff (FIT) to promote solar power in the United States. And thus the city’s economical condition accelerated upwards. The University of Florida is the main economic engine of the city that generates a large amount of state and federal money.
14. Coral Springs: City with iconic landmarks
The City of Coral Spring is exuberant with multiple landmarks. The preferred places are Stranahan House, Coral Spring Covered Bridge, Veterans Park, Lavender House, and many more. The natural charms and wildlife preserve enables the visitors not only to surf, swim and sunbathe but also to hike.
One must check out the Coral Springs Center for Arts while visiting the city for the first time. It’s a renowned landmark here. The Aquatic Complex is famous worldwide for its amazing accessibility and maintenance. For the golf enthusiasts, there is the Country Club of Coral Springs. That has made newly renovated courses.
Almost 11 years back, Coral Springs was ranked 3rd in Florida on a study of the ‘100 Best Places to Live’ list created by Money Magazine. Although not filled with many tall buildings. The sprawling city’s tallest building is Country Club Tower, a 12-story condominium.
15. Lehigh Acres: A classical suburban town
Lehigh Acres, situated in southwest Florida, has varied groups of people living in there. If you are willing to spend hours after hours on fun-fishing then the city’s Harn’s Marsh is the right place to be.
Lehigh Acres Trailhead Park and Five Star Stables are well known for their picturesque backgrounds. The Majestic Golf Club and Westminster Golf Club are favorite places for golf lovers. To get a catch of snook, redfish, and trout, one can head towards the Gulf of Mexico. Moreover, this place is occupied with green parks and lakes. this fascinating suburban is one of the safest and affordable vacation spots for families and solo tourists.
16. Clearwater: The bright and beautiful city
Famous for the palliative Gulf Coast beaches and comfortable weather. The city of clearwater sits between old Tampa Bay and Gulf of Mexico.
A long 3-mile beautiful sandy beach and several luxurious restaurants and hotels are there in Clearwater beach. Sand Key Park and Pier 60 are some best places to enjoy a peaceful sunset. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium will allow you to play with the dolphins and show some animal care. Furthermore, the other appealing places of the city are Moccasin lake Nature Park and Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise.
The city indeed appears to be vibrantly bright for its sunny weather. The beautiful clear skies all around the year in this city. In recent years, Clearwater’s downtown has been redeveloping for its beautification and completion of high-raised buildings.
17. Brandon: A growing community
Though Brandon has not yet become a full-fledged advanced city. It has several eye-catching features for its residents and visitors. One can shop at the Westfield Brandon Mall, enjoy a fancy dine at Jesse’s Steak and Seafood or taste some fine class beer at Bootleggers Brewing Company.
The grown-ups can spend some pleasant time in Eureka Springs Park. The Tampa Bay History Center where the children can find their interests in Glazer Children’s Museum. For the rapid growth rate and flourishing conditions of Brandon, one can certainly term it as a promising city, as well as one of the largest cities in Florida.
Brandon is home to the famous Beef O’Brady’s. The family-based bar and grill restaurant even generates cash for the economy. Although the city has no metro rail facility, Hillsborough Area Regional Transit bus lines are risk-free and speedy.
18. Palm Bay: An Adventurous Area
The secret venturesome spots of Florida’s Palm Bay are not well known to many but to the adventurers. Drive through the broad highway beside the Indian River Lagoon. They participate in sports and endless outdoor activities or walk along the 4-mile sandy Palm Bay beach.
Running, hiking, and cycling through the nature trails are suited for the young at Palm Bay Regional Park. One can also wish to kayak in the fresh clean waters of the Turkey Creek Sanctuary and further enjoy diversified sporting-themed parks with soccer and baseball fields. Some other attractions of Palm Bay include the Brevard Zoo. Though Ais Lookout Point Lagoon House as well as the Margaret Hames Nature Center.
The city was ranked 11th most innovative city in the nation. Forbes Magazine says in the year 2010. L3Harris Technologies, Intersil, and Palm Bay Hospital are of course prime three working corporations in the city.
19. Pompano Beach: A relaxing city
Often called the heart of the Gold Coast. Pompano Beach is located between Miami and Palm Beach. Indeed, Pompano is one of the largest cities, which is popular for Fisher Family Pier where there boast boating and fishing amenities.
Surely, If you are a scuba driver or snorkeler, you can go down the deep and experience the magnificent living coral reef in Pompano Beach Drop Off. The Hillsboro Lighthouse is a perfect spot to chill around with family, friends, and partners. Some interesting monthly special events of the city are the holiday boat parade, seafood festival, and fishing rodeo.
Pompano Park, Walmart, Broward County Sheriff’s Office are in fact, the largest employment providing factors in the city. Along with Tri-Rail, Pompano beach’s transportation is also facilitated by Broward County Transit.
20. Lakeland: The multipurpose city
Of course, Lakeland has an enriched history, serene natural spots and fascinating entertainments for people of all ages. In Safari Wilderness Ranch, one can immerse oneself in an abundance of wildlife and amazing natural sceneries.
The colorful Bok Tower Gardens and striking Safari Wilderness park are the best places for interesting local jaunts. The city is also famous for its pre-1900s architecture and vintage shops that will create an antique vibe in you. Shop in the Dixieland Historic District, enjoy a movie at Polk Theatre, or moreover. Explore the beautiful Lakeside Village to make your stay at Lakeland even more special.
Regarded as a transportation hub, Lakeland’s FedEx Freight and FedEx Services employ many people every year to maintain a standard per capita income. Moreover, The city has two power plants run by Lakeland Electric for producing uninterrupted electricity.
The enormous cities in Florida are great places, for traveling as well as for settling. Although, with relatively low rates of crime and stable economic conditions, the best cities of Florida become the heart of interest for many. Filled with scopes, the largest cities in Florida are promising for professionals and young students. And it goes without saying that the land has rich natural scenic beauty and thrilling activities for the travelers.