Florida is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the United States, and millions of travelers flock there every year, lured by the promise of sun, sea and sand that “The Sunshine State” has to offer.
Home of many upmarket tourist attractions, such as Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando, it is nonetheless still possible to enjoy the sights, sounds and cities of your Florida holidays 2014 on the slimmest of budgets. Here are a few lesser-known destinations that will help you squeeze more out of your dollars on a trip to Florida.
Everglades City
If you think Florida is all about beaches, then you’re in for a real surprise, as the Florida Everglades also attracts millions of visitors each year.A protected region of tropical wetlands in the southern state, the Everglades promises miles of stunning nature to hike, completely free of charge. Exchange the guided boat tours for hiring your own canoe and you can split the $24 rental with up to two other people.
For somewhere to base yourself on your adventures, Everglades City offers a tranquil escape from busier centres like Orlando, as well as lots of opportunities for fishing and sailing. The Museum of the Everglades offers free admission to all visitors and gives a great insight into the natural and social history of the area.
Downtown St Petersburg
If the quiet lull of Everglades City isn’t quite your thing, then Downtown St Petersburg offers a number of low-cost cultural attractions for tourists.
Often referred to affectionately as “St Pete”, Downtown St Petersburg has many sights and attractions. The Morean Arts Centre offers visitors the chance to view the best of St Petersburg’s artworks at the center and the nearby Morean Hot Shop for less than $20, and the tickets last 30 days, allowing for repeat visits. Or, if you like your arts to be live, then American Stage Theater Company offers high-quality productions on a “pay what you can” basis.
For food, head to Central Avenue and treat yourself to some of the city’s best culinary delights for great prices, such as lunch for $10 or less in participating restaurants.
Pier 60, Clearwater
You’ve heard of people talk about South Beach in Miami, but Pier 60 in Clearwater might just have a more unique Florida experience and it’s much more budget-friendly.
Voted “Best Beach Town in Florida” by USA Today readers in 2013, Clearwater is a great place to go to wind down. It only costs 50 cents to walk along to the end of the pier while experiencing the “sunset celebration”; a cocphony of musicans, acrobats and street performers.
Over on dry land, it costs nothing to wander along Beach Walk, a pedestrian-friendly street that’s lined with palm trees and offers travelers on a budget the chance to spend the rest of their money on ice cream and another free pastime: people watching.
Have you even been to Florida and have some budget travel tips to share with us?
27 thoughts on “Low Budget Guide To Florida”
Some great suggestions here. There is little doubt that the theme parks can be quite pricey as I found out earlier this year.
Florida is renowned for good weather so having these experiences like the Everglades sound like an enjoyable day out.
Nice, have you ever been to Florida? :)
Hi Agness and Cez,
My name is Stefan and me and my wife are going to Florida next month. We would like to say thank you for your budget guide and we will follow your recommendations.
Best regards,
Stefan and Flora.
Hi Stefan! Many thanks for stopping by. I’m happy to hear about your trip to Florida. If you have more questions, please send me an e-mail. Enjoy it!
It’s great to see someone write about my city! I love the beaches!
Thanks Brenda!!
I went years ago but hopefully planning a return trip soon, there’s just something about the place :-)
I hope to find out soon :)
I love the idea of having a nice lunch and dinner for $10! Still not as cheap as SE Asia, but that would do with me!
It’s pretty cheap, but we could easily do it for $2 or $3 :)
I didn’t make it to Florida last year when backpacking North America and I kinda regret it now, maybe I can make it there in 2-3 years as I’m planning to get back there- loooooooved it!
What a pitty. Hope you can make it there next time x
I’ve been to Florida MANY times. Mostly for the beach and Disney World. I am currently writing all about our last trip to Disney. Not a lot of saving money went on. ;)
Disney World, YEAH! I look forward to it!
I’ve only been to Florida for Walt Disney World and Universal Studios and to get on the cruise. Those weren’t all cheap. I’m glad there are some alternative cheaper cities and activities I need to check out another time.
Once I make it there, I am definitely going to the World Disney and Universal Studios :)!!
orlando is pretty easy to do on a low budget too.
Thanks for the info!! x
Never been, but would love to go someday. Nice insights by you!
I’ve only been to Florida once, Agness. When I was married with my ex who was a flight attendant. She and I had a stop over in Orlando flying stand-by but we didn’t get to experience any of the fun stuff. I absolutely want to go to the Everglades though! Phoenix vs an Alligator…he would trick them with a tennis ball for sure! Bardzo podobał mi się obraz stóp w Clearwater Beach … :)
Was your ex-wife a flight attendant? How did she like it? I was thinking of becoming one maybe in the future, but heard so many bad things about working hours and payment :(.
Yes, she was a flight attendant, Agness. I also have some retired family who were in-flight (attendants). But, I have no clue as to the benefits or overall quality of the job now. If you wish me to find out more let me know via email, my friend.
It’s ok Mike, it’s nothing urgent, but thanks for asking. I was just thinking of doing it or becoming a Social Media consultant, but I guess I’m more into Social Media right now than in flying :).
I was born and raised in Florida most of my life and during all of my childhood. I highly recommend getting lost in the Ocala National Forest along the Florida Trail for about a week. It’s perfect during the Winter time since it’s cooler for backpacking than usually. Also, it’s a super budget friendly itinerary and requires no guide although I do recommend bringing a local onboard for the trip. You’ll see some amazing wildlife and a side of Florida you never even knew existed! :-)
Thanks for sharing Ron! We will definitely add this place to our Florida must see and go places!
Now this is great! I’ve been travelling for many years now and I must say that sometimes I have to think of the money I’m investing on it. Although it’s fun to travel but there are also things and ways on how to have fun in travelling and don’t get to spend too much. I’m glad I was able to read this post since I’ll be travelling soon with kids to Florida. Thanks for posting!
We know something about it. Travelling isn’t much fun when you start running out of your money… :-(