Florida is more than theme parks and crowded beaches. For that reason, we haven't included Orlando in the mix. Even though we definitely did want to, because who can argue with the magic of Disney?
The rest of it is raw, wild, and full of surprises if you take the slow road. Read on for our top 3 places to visit if your backpacking travels take you through Florida.
Start in the north. Jacksonville will do nothing short of impress you. And for us, it's one of the most underrated places in Florida that people don't talk about. The beach here stretches for miles and feels like a true locals' beach. You’ll see surfers who don’t perform for tourists and families who grew up on these sands.
The downtown area is making a comeback, so you’ll find street art next to old diners and cheap tacos that beat any fast food. And how can we not mention Riverside? It’s the kind of spot that feels laid back but still gives you something to do. There are record shops and bookstores where no one’s trying to sell you anything. Just stories and people.
And when you're done, the Jacksonville hotels are some of the most inviting, relaxing places you can stay without paying a fortune like some of the places in Florida (we're definitely talking about Miami).
We think a lot of Florida is fast-paced, big money, and appearances. Jacksonville is everything but that. Feel the benefit of taking life slowly around good people.
Speaking of Miami, this is the place you go to see it all. And you really will see it all. Brad Pitt is on one corner, and a Lamborghini superyacht is around the other. Fear not, you can still backpack on a budget here if you stay on the outskirts of Miami and don't dine at the mid- or top-range restaurants. But still, this wouldn't be an article about Florida if we didn't tell you to go to Miami.
If you come to the beach, you’ll find it. If you come for the energy, you’ll feel it. There are the obvious places to go, like South Beach and the main strip, but if you want our advice, here are the best places to go in Miami:
South Beach might get all the attention, but if you walk long enough, you’ll find your own Miami.
When you need to breathe again, follow the road south to the Florida Keys. It's an absolutely sensational archipelago of tropical islands spread over 120 miles. Each one has a different mood.
Key Largo is the place to snorkel if you’ve never done it before. The reefs are alive and close enough to reach without a guide. Keep going, and you’ll reach Marathon. The sunsets here are arguably some of the best.
There's also Big Pine Key. Even though it's quiet, it's still worth visiting. The deer are tiny and wild, and they’ll walk right past you like they own the place. By the time you get to Key West, you’ll understand why some people just stay. It’s quirky and sun-soaked, and nobody really cares who you are.
Backpacking through Florida means skipping the usual. Unless you want the usual, then we'll see you in Disney and Miami South Beach. You’ll find the best parts where tourists aren’t always looking.
In our opinion, this state was made to be wandered.
