Florida is celebrating its 500th anniversary this year and here’s how you can see the best of the Sunshine State in 500 hours on a fantastic road trip. Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon first set foot in Florida in 1513 and the Viva Florida 500 commemoration is ongoing throughout the year with more than 200 events.
Witness historical re-enactments, taste Florida heritage on the Viva Florida culinary trail, see a shuttle launch, sail aboard a historic ship, and much more.
A 21-day road trip costs from £1,545 per person and includes return flights, room-only accommodation fully-inclusive economy car hire. Here’s where you’ll go:
Day 1 – Orlando, Arrive in Orlando and stay four nights in the theme park capital.
Day 5 – St. Augustine, explore the cobbled streets and quaint restaurants of the oldest city in the USA.
Day 6 – Cocoa Beach, Drive along the Atlantic coast to the famous surf city of Cocoa Beach, just a short drive from the Kennedy Space centre where you can get a fascinating insight into space history.
Day 7 – Fort Lauderdale, Continue south and spend two nights in Hollywood Beach where you can catch some rays and enjoy the beautiful sandy beaches.
Day 9 – Islamorada, stay for one night in Islamorada, known for its white sandy beaches and charming resorts.
Day 10 – Key West, Head to the furthest point south in Florida and discover Key West where you will have two nights to enjoy the Old Town attractions and the third largest coral reef in the world.
Day 12 – Miami, Drive back north through the Keys and spend two nights in Miami where you can relax by day and party by night in this trendy hotspot.
Day 14 – Naples and Marco Island, on your way to the Gulf Coast stop over for two nights in the Everglades where you can take a thrilling airboat ride through the wetlands.
Day 16 – Fort Myers, stay for two nights in Fort Myers, and enjoy deep-sea fishing, golf courses and beautiful beaches.
Day 18 – Sarasota, stay for two nights in the cultural mecca of Florida. Enjoy sunset cruises and award-winning beaches as well as the renowned John & Mable Ringling Museum of art, ballet and opera.
Day 20 – St Petersburg, to finish off your Florida Discovery stay for two nights in St Petersburg where you can see the famous dolphin Winter who inspired the film ‘Dolphin Tale’ or visit the Dali Museum before heading to Orlando to catch your flight home.
Click here to book with www.americaasyoulikeit.com
Also see www.visitflorida.com
