Are you looking for budget-friendly places to explore in Florida? Look no further! Florida is a popular tourist destination with plenty of affordable and exciting spots to visit. From Orlando’s theme parks to white-sand beaches, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the Sunshine State without breaking the bank. Here are the top 10 cheapest places to visit in Florida on a budget.
1) Apalachicola
Apalachicola is an affordable and beautiful destination in the Florida Panhandle, located along the Apalachicola Bay. The city has a rich history and culture, evidenced by its many historic sites and buildings. Stroll through the charming streets, lined with beautiful old houses, or visit one of the two major museums dedicated to Apalachicola’s past. Nature lovers will enjoy the gorgeous scenery at Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve, which includes miles of trails and boardwalks for bird watching and exploring the local wildlife. Visit nearby St. George Island for stunning beach views, perfect for swimming, fishing, and more. Shopping and dining are both abundant in Apalachicola, so you won’t have to worry about finding something delicious to eat or unique souvenirs to take home. Best of all, Apalachicola is incredibly affordable, making it a great choice for budget-minded travelers.
2) Crystal River
Situated in Citrus County, Crystal River is one of the cheapest places to visit in Florida. Its tranquil ambiance is the perfect backdrop for a budget-friendly getaway.
Popular attractions include the Crystal River Preserve State Park, which has five nature trails that are ideal for biking and hiking. Nature enthusiasts can explore the area’s diverse wildlife, including manatees, dolphins, and alligators. Other activities such as kayaking and canoeing are also available.
For a cultural experience, take a trip to the Crystal River Archaeological State Park. Here, visitors can explore the remains of the 7,500 year old Crystal River Indian Mound, or visit the Museum of Anthropology to learn about the area’s Native American history.
Crystal River is also a great spot for shopping and dining. Local markets and craft stores offer unique souvenirs while casual eateries feature locally-sourced seafood dishes. After a long day of sightseeing, be sure to unwind with an evening stroll along the riverfront.
With its peaceful atmosphere and array of activities, Crystal River is the perfect destination for a budget-friendly vacation.
3) Daytona Beach
If you’re looking for an affordable beach vacation in Florida, look no further than Daytona Beach. Located on Florida’s Atlantic coast, Daytona Beach is a popular destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its many attractions and activities, Daytona Beach makes for an affordable getaway.
One of the main attractions of Daytona Beach is its 23 miles of white sand beaches and blue-green water. It’s the perfect place to catch some rays, swim, surf or just relax. The beaches also provide access to fishing, jet skiing, kayaking and more. If you’re looking to take your beach experience to the next level, head to the Daytona International Speedway to watch NASCAR races.
The pier at Daytona Beach is also a popular attraction. It’s one of the oldest wooden piers in Florida and provides stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. On the pier, visitors can enjoy fishing or simply relax and take in the incredible views. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops along the pier that offer great food and souvenirs.
Daytona Beach has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an affordable beach vacation or a unique racing experience, this beach has it all. From the bustling boardwalk to the calming ocean waves, Daytona Beach provides an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
4) Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park is a must-see destination in Florida. This natural area protects the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including endangered species like the manatee and the Florida panther. The park spans more than 1.5 million acres of grassland, wetlands, and sawgrass prairies, and is the only place in the world where alligators and crocodiles live together.
The park offers a range of activities for visitors, including guided tours, biking trails, canoeing and kayaking, and camping. With its unique ecosystem, Everglades National Park provides an opportunity for visitors to experience an incredible natural area. The best way to explore the park is on a guided tour, which can take you through different habitats and provide opportunities to view native wildlife in their natural habitat.
In addition to its stunning landscape, Everglades National Park also offers a range of affordable accommodations. You can choose from campgrounds, airbnbs, or even cabins located right in the park. If you’re looking for something a bit more luxurious, there are nearby resorts that provide access to all of the park’s amenities.
No matter what type of vacation you’re looking for, Everglades National Park is one of the cheapest places to visit in Florida. From exploring its unique ecosystem to taking part in outdoor activities, this national park provides an unforgettable experience at an affordable price.
5) Fernandina Beach
Located in the beautiful state of Florida, Fernandina Beach is an excellent destination for budget-minded travelers. With stunning white sand beaches, charming shops and restaurants, and plenty of activities to choose from, you will have plenty to keep you busy in Fernandina Beach!
Fernandina Beach has a lot to offer, including free public beach access, fishing piers, boat launches, kayak and paddleboard rentals, nature trails, and plenty of historical sites to explore. Plus, there are several museums such as the Amelia Island Museum of History and the Fort Clinch State Park.
In addition to its many attractions, Fernandina Beach also offers some great dining options. You can try the local seafood at the historic Fernandina Beach Seafood Market or the famous Original Café Nola. There are also some excellent restaurants like Sandbar & Kitchen and The Salty Pelican which offer delicious fare with a beach view.
If you’re looking for a cheap place to stay in Fernandina Beach, consider one of the many budget-friendly hotels like the Best Western Fernandina Beach or the Comfort Suites. For a more luxurious stay, you can try one of the area’s oceanfront resorts such as The Ritz-Carlton or The Omni Amelia Island Plantation.
Overall, Fernandina Beach is an excellent option for those looking for a budget-friendly getaway in Florida. With plenty of activities and attractions to choose from, you won’t be disappointed by this charming coastal town.
6) Fort Lauderdale
Known as the “Venice of America” for its scenic network of canals and beaches, Fort Lauderdale is an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers. A bustling beach city that offers plenty of things to do and see without breaking the bank, Fort Lauderdale is the perfect destination for those looking to get a taste of the sunshine state without spending too much money.
The stunning beach is the main attraction in Fort Lauderdale, and luckily it’s also one of the most affordable spots in the area. With soft white sand, crystal clear water, and an array of beach activities like jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding, it’s easy to spend a day on the shore without spending a dime.
Fort Lauderdale also offers a variety of attractions that are easy on the wallet. The famous Riverwalk, filled with shops, bars, and restaurants is always a great way to spend a few hours. Visit the numerous art galleries, take a ride on the Water Trolley, or simply stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy the scenery.
For those looking to explore further afield, Fort Lauderdale makes an excellent base for exploring the rest of South Florida. Rent a car or take a bus to nearby cities such as Miami, Palm Beach, and Naples to see what the rest of the region has to offer.
No matter what type of budget traveler you are, there’s something for everyone in Fort Lauderdale. Whether you want to relax on the beach all day or take advantage of all that the city has to offer, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience.
7) Fort Myers
Located on the Gulf Coast of Florida, Fort Myers is one of the cheapest places to visit in the Sunshine State. With numerous family-friendly attractions, stunning beaches, and a laid-back vibe, it’s easy to see why so many people flock to this area. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or some exciting activities, Fort Myers has something for everyone.
The city’s premier attractions include the world-famous Edison and Ford Winter Estates, the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium, and the Imaginarium Hands-On Museum. There are also plenty of shopping opportunities along the historic downtown River District, from antique shops to art galleries.
For those seeking an outdoor adventure, Fort Myers has several parks and preserves for hiking and biking, as well as boating on the Caloosahatchee River. There are also several public beaches in the area, including Sanibel Island and Captiva Island. These two islands are home to some of the best shelling in Florida, as well as great snorkeling and fishing spots.
When it comes to nightlife, Fort Myers offers something for everyone. There are dozens of bars, clubs, and restaurants scattered throughout the city, from dive bars to chic lounges. Be sure to check out the infamous “Twisted Tuna” for some live music and delicious seafood.
From its beautiful beaches to its exciting nightlife, Fort Myers is definitely one of the cheapest places to visit in Florida. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or some wild nights out, this city has something for everyone.
8) Gainesville
Gainesville is an affordable destination located in north-central Florida. It is home to the University of Florida and offers a wide range of attractions and activities. Visitors to the area can explore the university’s various museums, galleries and gardens or take part in a number of outdoor activities such as kayaking and fishing.
The University of Florida also has a variety of restaurants, cafes and bars to enjoy, as well as a lively nightlife scene. With its easy access to public transport, Gainesville is a great option for those looking to explore Florida without breaking the bank. Visitors can also visit nearby natural attractions, such as Ichetucknee Springs State Park, which is perfect for swimming and tubing. With so much to do, Gainesville is a great destination for travelers looking to explore Florida on a budget.
9) Jacksonville
The largest city in Florida, Jacksonville is an ideal destination for those who want to explore without breaking the bank. With its beautiful beaches and vibrant downtown area, this bustling city offers a plethora of activities that are perfect for budget travelers.
From visiting historic sites such as the Fort Caroline National Memorial to taking in the stunning views of the St. Johns River, there’s plenty to explore. For a dose of culture, check out the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens and the Museum of Science & History. Plus, there’s no better way to end the day than with a sunset walk along the beach.
There’s also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Spend a day in the woods at Big Talbot Island State Park or take a paddle down the scenic river in a canoe or kayak. Nature lovers can also take advantage of Jacksonville’s nearby wildlife refuges, such as the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve and the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve.
For the foodies, Jacksonville offers a great selection of restaurants from upscale eateries to local dives. The historic neighborhood of San Marco is full of cafes and bistros, while Five Points is home to some of the best dining spots in town. And don’t forget about the classic seafood shacks at Jax Beach for a low-cost meal with a view!
10) Key West
Key West is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Florida and the ultimate destination for a beach getaway. Although it is known for its abundance of resorts, there are still plenty of affordable options available.
If you’re looking to save on accommodation costs, consider staying at one of the many guesthouses or bed and breakfasts in the area. There are also a number of low-cost camping sites located nearby. Additionally, take advantage of the many street food vendors, as well as the area’s many festivals and events to keep costs down.
When it comes to activities, Key West offers something for everyone. Enjoy sunbathing at the beautiful beaches, swimming in the turquoise waters, exploring the colorful Duval Street, and visiting some of the city’s renowned attractions such as Hemingway House and Mallory Square.
You can also find plenty of affordable restaurants that serve up local delicacies like Cuban sandwiches and seafood dishes. Finally, don’t forget to visit the nearby Dry Tortugas National Park, where you can go snorkeling and see some of the best coral reefs in the region.
Overall, Key West is an amazing destination that won’t break your budget. With so much to explore, you can experience a memorable trip while saving money.
Final Words
Florida is a beautiful and diverse state that offers plenty of exciting activities and attractions for tourists on any budget. From vibrant cities to serene beaches, there are plenty of places to visit in Florida that won’t break the bank. The top 10 cheapest places to visit in Florida offer a great range of experiences and sights, from the picturesque Apalachicola to the fun-filled Daytona Beach. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous trip, you can find it in Florida without spending too much money. So, if you’re planning your next vacation, consider these 10 cheapest places to visit in Florida. With so many options, you’re sure to find something that fits both your budget and your interests.
