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6 Amazing Landmarks To Visit In Florida (USA)

6 Amazing Landmarks To Visit In Florida (USA)

Florida, known as the “Sunshine State,” is a treasure trove of incredible landmarks that captivate visitors from around the world.

These include pristine beaches, vibrant cities with rich history, and unique natural wonders. It is a lovely place for holidays as the warm temperatures and sea breeze invite everyone with a cozy hug.

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In this article, you will get to know about the following incredible landmarks in Florida,

  1. The Florida Reef
  2. Castillo De San Marcos
  3. Gulf Island National Seashore
  4. Kennedy Space Centre
  5. The Everglades
  6. Bonnet House

Let’s see each of these points in detail.

1. The Florida Reef

The Florida Reef

The Great Florida Reef, also known as the Florida Reef, is a vibrant coral barrier reef located just six miles off the coast of the Florida Keys. It holds the distinction of being the only living coral barrier reef in North America and encompasses over 6,000 individual reefs.

As the third-largest coral barrier reef in the world, it spans several national and state parks, including the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. These reefs are more than 5000 years old and are home to various marine creatures.

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The reef is home to more than 50 species of corals and a myriad of marine creatures, including various fish species, anemones, spiny lobsters, sea stars, and the impressive great barracuda. The underwater colors are breathtakingly beautiful.

Its immense beauty makes it a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The underwater world here is a different realm, where you can observe marine animals in their natural habitat. Swimming alongside the fish in the cool blue waters and among the stunning corals is a mesmerizing experience. Additionally, locals enjoy fishing in this area. Exploring and navigating through these ancient living reefs is truly enthralling.

2. Castillo De San Marcos

Situated on the west shore of Matanzas Bay, Castillo De San Marcos is another popular landmark in Florida. It was built between 1672 and 1695 by the then-Spanish governor.

The castle is one of the oldest in the United States, boasting a history that spans over 450 years. It was constructed to protect Florida from the outsiders. Much more history is there wrapping the place related to the invaders of the fort and taking control of the place.

The structure of the fort was designed by the Spanish Engineer Ignacio Daza. It is a masonry Star Fortification that was made out of Coquina stone. The look is simply magnificent. There are four bulwarks along with a ravelin to protect the sally port. Also, distinctive elements are there to the fort, which makes it fascinating.

While strolling around, you will encounter hallways and huge rooms that were once used by the soldiers. The gripping part is the dark prison cells, where captives used to await their fate.

Visit the gun deck to admire the alluring panoramic view of the ocean and the surrounding land, evoking a sense of the past that is sure to give you goosebumps. You can take a guided tour of the castle. It provides insights into the fort’s history, along with daily cannon firings and weaponry demonstrations. Several other things are also there to do at this age-old fortress.

3. Gulf Island National Seashore

Gulf Island National Sea Shore is a pristine location cherished by both locals and tourists. This protected area includes the mainland and seven islands of Florida and Mississippi.

The seashore is occupied by several natural and historical treasures, offering a plethora of delightful activities. The nature of this region is mesmerizing, with emerald waters glistening under a clear blue sky. Gentle waves roll on the white quartz beaches creating soothing sounds mixed with the oceanic breeze.

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The sea beaches on this island are among the finest on the planet. Get to the beach and enjoy a walk on the salty white sand. If you are feeling adventurous, then try Snorkelling, Kayaking, and Paddle Boating. After this sit back on a beach chair while looking at the mystical vista.

There are trails for biking and walking as well. While at the place, a ride on the Pensacola Bay City Ferry is a must. Next up, you can explore Fort Pickens, go for birding, and pitch a camp at the Fort Pickens Campground. This is not the end of the list of activities. Take your time to discover all that this beautiful area has to offer.

4. Kennedy Space Center

A Bus at John F. Kennedy Space Center

Nestled on Merritt Island, the John F. Kennedy Space Center has been NASA’s primary launch site since 1968. This iconic location is pivotal for American spaceflight, research, and technology, serving as the launchpad for all U.S. space ventures.

Spanning 580 square kilometers, the center has overseen historic launches, including the first Apollo missions and all Project Gemini and Project Mercury flights. The site boasts nearly 700 buildings and facilities, such as the towering Vehicle Assembly Building, the Launch Control Center, a Space Station Processing Facility, and the expansive Shuttle Landing Facility.

A highlight for visitors is the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Here, you can take a bus tour to the Apollo/Saturn V Museum and see the Space Shuttle Atlantis up close.

The complex is filled with engaging exhibits and activities, including the chance to sample astronaut food at the on-site cafes.

5. The Everglades

The Everglades

Everglades National Park, the largest tropical wilderness in the United States, preserves 20 percent of the original Everglades in southern Florida. As the third-largest national park in the contiguous U.S., it attracts about one million visitors annually.

In 1947, the park was established to protect the fragile ecosystem that was fading quickly. The Everglades features forests and wetlands, housing various species of flora and fauna. Here you will notice the Florida Panther, West Indian Manatee, and American Crocodile along with along with numerous species of fishes, mammals, and reptiles.

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The location is simply extraordinary. The landscapes create a scenic beauty worth all the praise. It gives a unique experience and the credit goes to the biome that exists there. The Pine Rockland Forest looks surreal. While touring around, you will also come across conifers and ancient cypresses that stand tall in the freshwater.

Everglades National Park consists of five visitor centers, each offering various activities. Trum tours are available and you can even try canoeing through the Everglade wilderness waterway. Inside the park, there are hiking trails as well. If you are the one who adores offroad cycling, this will be the site for you. Birding, camping, dark sky observation, and several other joyous things are there for you to take part in.

6. Bonnet House

The historical home called the Bonnet House is situated on 900N. Birch Road, Fort Lauderdale. Originally, the property belonged to a Chicago Lawyer, Huge Taylor Birch. He had gifted the property to his daughter and her husband, Frederic Clay Bartlett.

Constructed in the 1920s, the house was named after the Bonnet lily, a type of pond lily. This plantation-style home is now a museum and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

It is a remarkable landmark as it is one of the few preserved homes and studios of two renowned American artists, complete with their original furnishings. Every item in the house is winded with a piece of the past. It is simply like a time capsule that transports the visitors to a different era.

The property is extremely beautiful, dotted with trees and plants. There are paintings and ceiling murals that Bartlett created himself. Guided tours are available that will take you around the outbuildings, the main house, and the stretched gardens. You will be able to learn about the life of the people who once lived there.

Haven’t planned a trip to Florida yet? This is your chance to do so! The list of extraordinary landmarks is long and they will make sure to impress you in all the ways possible.

Pack all the essentials and book the tickets too. Tag your friends or family along with you, to make the most of your vacation. Pictures are a must.


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The images used in the article are for representation purposes only.