12 Ideal Florida Destinations for a 3-Day Weekend in 2024
Florida is a famous travel destination because of its stunning beaches, small towns, and historic landscapes. The Sunshine State is also famous for extended stays because of the attractions and cultural exhibits, including living history events and historical recreations with period-appropriate actors. The bigger metropolises like Orlando and Miami are well known, but the smaller towns and villages exude a coastal charm that is hard to beat.
Boating, scuba diving, and fishing are popular in Florida, but the state also offers exotic shopping and dining opportunities. Resort towns like Key West seemingly never sleep, while quaint towns like Mount Dora are famous for their antiquing and charming small-town atmosphere. Here are 12 ideal Florida destinations for a three-day weekend in 2024.
St. Augustine
St. Augustine, in northern Florida, was founded in 1565 and is the oldest inhabited town in the US. The historic district is mainly pedestrian-only, and guests mingle with costumed actors from bygone centuries. The community centers around Castillo de San Marcos, a legendary Spanish fort that once protected the small town. There are daily recreations, including cannon fire and the changing of the guard.
Several musical acts, such as Norah Jones and Buddy Guy, will perform at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre in 2024. Other can't-miss events are the Concerts in the Plaza and Music and Art by the Sea festivals. The most famous event is the annual Nights of Lights, held from November through January. More than three million dazzling lights illuminate this coastal town every winter, and local businesses stay open later so guests can enjoy the views. St. Augustine is a gorgeous historical town and one of the best-extended destinations of 2024.
Amelia Island
Amelia Island is a quaint northeast Florida town and home to historic Fernandina Beach. Along with the elegant tree-lined roads, there are several historic sites like the Amelia Island Lighthouse and Fort Clinch State Park. The lighthouse is the oldest in Florida, first lit in 1838, and daily tours are available. Fort Clinch was built in the 19th century and boasts many ecological wonders around the fort.
Visitors in the winter should not miss Dickens on Centre. The annual Christmas event transforms the beach into a Victorian London event and has two stages for entertainment along with the Tiny Tim's Kids Zone. One of the best ways to explore the island is on horseback. Amelia Island Horseback Riding Tours offers guided beach tours, including sunrise and sunset expeditions. The culinary landscape ranges from quaint coffee shops to elegant evening dining.
Key West
Key West is a famous resort town and the southernmost town in the contiguous United States. It is known for its offshore adventures and coral reefs, but the small island is also a hot party destination, perfect for a long weekend. Sunsets at Mallory Square and bar hopping or exploring historic structures on Duval Street are just two must-see events in town. Duval Street is home to most nightlife entertainment and bars, including the famous Sloppy Joes, Ernest Hemingway's favorite bar. Hemingway's house has been preserved and is available for daily tours.
Several live events, like the Key West Tropical Heat in August, promise to make 2024 memorable in Key West. The five-day event celebrates diversity and includes pool parties, themed parties, and live entertainment. The 27th annual Lobsterfest is also being held in August and is a seafood lover's dream. Several resorts, quaint inns, and an eclectic dining atmosphere make Key West an unforgettable destination for an extended weekend stay.
Islamorada
Known as the "Sportfishing Capital of the World," Islamorada, comprised of six Florida keys, is a tropical paradise. Offshore fishing and scuba diving are among the best in the world, and several attractions on the island honor this fact. The History of Diving Museum has several live presentations and exhibits, including a 16th-century treasure chest. The Theatre of the Sea, opened in 1946, has lush tropical gardens and marine mammals, and guests can swim with dolphins.
Several live events are scheduled 2024, including REEF Fish ID Citizen Workshops, Women's Dive Day, guided tours at the History of Diving Museum, and live cabriolet shows. The Cheeca Lodge and Spa offers exceptional lodging and dining on a 27-acre beachfront property. There is also a dock with fishing charters and expeditions to America's only living barrier reef.
Naples
Naples is a sophisticated town on the southwest coast, known for its shopping and refined dining culture. The town's symbol is the Naples Pier, built in 1888. The 1,000-foot pier is located downtown at the end of 12th Avenue South. 5th Avenue South is another notable downtown road, and people travel worldwide for high-end shopping and dining. The first Friday of the month throughout summer brings the live music event Evening on Fifth, where the musical acts play up and down 5th Avenue.
The downtown area has many popular restaurants, such as Aqua Seafood and Steaks, Bice Ristorante, and Hobnob Kitchen and Bar. Nature lovers will enjoy Naples Botanical Garden, which has everything from rainforests to waterlily garden ponds. The lush gardens host live special events throughout the year, such as the November Dia De Los Muertes Celebration. This is an elegant town with many interests and one of the best towns on the Gulf Coast.
Mount Dora
Mount Dora is a charming small town in Central Florida known for its famous lighthouse and as an antiquing destination. The 35-foot landmark Mount Dora Lighthouse was erected in 1988 and is the only inland lighthouse in Florida. Downtown, shaded by canopy oak trees, is a hub of activity, events, and shopping. Mount Dora promotes local artisans and retailers and hosts the Small Business Saturday event in November.
The Scottish Highland Festival in October includes events like Celtic music, dancing, and bagpipers. The historic Donnelly House, a Queen Anne-style home built in 1893, is one of the town's most famous landmarks. Several vintage dwellings, such as the iconic Lakeside Inn, have been converted into quaint inns. The 140-year-old inn is a short walk from downtown, features a 200-foot verandah and the charming Tremain's Tavern, and is an ideal way to experience Mount Dora fully.
Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach, or PCB, is a tropical party beach on the Emerald Coast, but it also offers many family-friendly activities. Such attractions include Cobra Adventure Park and Shipwreck Island Waterpark. The most notable attraction is the white sand beaches and clear-colored water, making PCB among the prettiest beaches in the world. Shell Island is an uninhabited and unspoiled seven-mile beach accessible by boat, and it has deer, sea turtles, and ghost crabs.
Several memorable events are coming to PCB this year, such as the Oktoberfest Craft Beer Tasting Festival and the annual Kickoff Jam. There is also the annual Summer Concert Series, a free live event held at Aaron Bessant Park Amphitheatre every Thursday in the summer. For a quiet three-day visit, St. Andrews State Park is a must. The park has five different ecological landscapes and is a migratory layover for migratory birds and butterflies. Panama City Beach offers several dining and lodging options, perfect for an extended stay.
Cedar Key
Cedar Key is a charming barrier island off the coast of Florida's panhandle region, known for its authentic old Florida atmosphere and scenery. Not only are there historic structures and local shops in the walkable island town, but the outer islands are a National Wildlife Refuge for birds and other indigenous wildlife. The Cedar Key Museum State Park is the best way to experience the island's history, including the historic Whitman House. The home was built in the early 1920s and contained Native American artifacts and seashells the original occupant, St. Clair Whitman, discovered.
The Seahorse Key Lighthouse is holding an open house in October. The free event allows visitors to explore the historic lighthouse, the NCBS research facilities, and the light station. In November, the Cedar Key Pirate Fest will be a good time with its motto, "Pillage with a purpose," and live reenactments. A stay at the historic Island Hotel completes a visit to Cedar Key. The 1859 hotel features 12-inch oak beams and workmanship that has stood the test of time. It also offers aj glimpse into the undeveloped Cedar Key, the island's most endearing charm.
Sanibel Island
Known as the seashell capital of the world, Sanibel Island is off the coast of Fort Myers and provides a relaxing tropical holiday. It was one island with Captiva until a hurricane in the early 20th century caused a division between the two islands. Due to the island's location in the Gulf of Mexico, it collects an abundance of seashells, which is a big draw for most visitors. The Sanibel Island Lighthouse is another popular attraction that has been standing since 1884.
Hurricane Ian caused severe damage, but the resilient island is quickly rebuilding and will be worth visiting in 2024. A new cast iron leg was placed on the historic lighthouse, and the island is hosting several live events this year. The Love Sanibel Businesses Back initiative is a way to help locals recover from Ian's destruction, and the August event is being held at Tutti Pazzi Italian Kitchen. The Jog N Jam Promises to be a lively concert held on the beach in December. Sanibel Island is known for being laid back and remains a popular destination in 2024 despite the damage caused by the hurricane.
Crystal River
Crystal River, along the Gulf Coast, has crystal-clear springs, manatees, and other natural attractions. The manatees can be enjoyed at the Crystal River Preserve State Park, one of the state's most diverse ecological parks. The Crystal River Archaeological Park is inside the preserve and is a fascinating study of Native American mounds over 1,600 years old.
Annual events include the Stone Crab Jam Festival, the Kings Bay Pirate Festival, and the Florida Manatee Festival. The historic downtown area is also vibrant and part of the Main Street America initiative. The Town Square hosts numerous live acts throughout the year, including First Fridays, which has live music and local vendors. There is much to do in this town year-round, making it one of the best places to visit on the Gulf Coast.
Grayton Beach
Grayton Beach is a scenic waterfront town in Florida's Emerald Coast. Grayton Beach State Park is one of the main attractions, offering camping, kayaking, and fishing on West Lake. One could easily spend a three-day weekend exploring the 2,000-acre park and sleeping in a rustic cabin or at the primitive campground. Scuba divers will love the Underwater Museum of Art. Only .93 feet offshore from the state park and 58 feet down is an array of sculptures that become vital ecosystems for marine life.
In town, visitors are greeted by a sign with the motto, Nice Dogs, Strange People, which sums up the town's quirky attitude and atmosphere. The downtown district has art galleries, boutiques, and live music. The Zoo Gallery is one such gallery featuring local exhibits. There is also the Grayt Wall of Art, a former fence that residents turned into a communal art piece. Grayton Beach is a year-round destination with a laid-back attitude and fun events held throughout the year.
Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach is a favorite surfing spot in Florida. It is on the "Space Coast" for its proximity to Cape Canaveral and NASA. Between the local surfing spots, bustling downtown, and unique attractions, it is easy to unwind in Cocoa Beach for a long weekend. Downtown and Main Street grew in popularity during the space boom of the 1950s and today boasts more than 150 businesses and 15 annual live events.
Murals and artwork adorn the downtown streets and walls, along with the statue of the world's best male surfer, Kelly Slater, who was born and raised in Cocoa Beach. The 800-foot boardwalk extending over the Atlantic Ocean is ideal for watching the sun rise or grabbing something to eat at one of the many restaurants. Cocoa Beach is a prominent surfing town on Florida's Atlantic Coast and offers enough sites and events for a longer-than-usual visit.
There are many reasons Florida is a world-renowned vacation destination. The tropical beaches, abundance of state preserves and parks, and laidback towns are ideal for relaxation and adventure. Cocoa Beach is a known surfing hub; Key West and Islamorada offer some of the best fishing and diving in the world, and St. Augustine is one of the most historic towns in America.
Everybody has their version of a perfect tropical holiday, and there is a fair chance it can be found in Florida. Whether relaxing, exploring ancient landmarks, or going on an offshore adventure, this state has it all. The smaller towns showcase the best of what Florida offers, and these 12 towns offer the ideal three-day weekend destinations in 2024.
