Adventure in Florida: 7-Day Itinerary

Sunday, October 15: Miami

Start your trip by exploring the vibrant city of Miami. In the morning, head to Everglades National Park for an exhilarating airboat ride and wildlife spotting. In the afternoon, visit the Wynwood Walls, a colorful outdoor art gallery showcasing street art. As the evening sets in, experience the bustling nightlife of South Beach, known for its party atmosphere and beautiful beaches.

• Everglades National Park: Estimated cost $30, Time spent 3-4 hours
• Wynwood Walls: Estimated cost Free, Time spent 1-2 hours
• South Beach: Estimated cost Free, Time spent Evening

Monday, October 16: Key West

Embark on a scenic drive from Miami to Key West, crossing the stunning Overseas Highway. In the morning, explore the charming Old Town and visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. In the afternoon, snorkel or scuba dive in the crystal-clear waters of the Florida Keys. As the evening approaches, don't miss the famous Mallory Square Sunset Celebration, where street performers entertain and the sunsets across the water.

• Old Town Key West: Estimated cost Free, Time spent Morning
• Snorkeling/Scuba Diving: Estimated cost $50-100, Time spent Afternoon
• Mallory Square: Estimated cost Free, Time spent Evening

Tuesday, October 17: Orlando

Head to the thrill capital of Florida, Orlando. In the morning, visit Universal's Islands of Adventure for heart-pumping rides and attractions. In the afternoon, explore the magical world of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. As the evening sets in, experience the vibrant nightlife and entertainment at Disney Springs.

• Universal's Islands of Adventure: Estimated cost $120, Time spent Full day
• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Estimated cost Free with park admission, Time spent Afternoon
• Disney Springs: Estimated cost Free, Time spent Evening

Wednesday, October 18: Tampa Bay

Make your way to Tampa Bay for an action-packed day. In the morning, visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay for thrilling roller coasters and up-close animal encounters. In the afternoon, explore the Florida Aquarium and get a chance to swim with sharks. As the evening approaches, enjoy a scenic waterfront dinner at the historic Ybor City.

• Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: Estimated cost $100, Time spent Full day
• Florida Aquarium: Estimated cost $30, Time spent 2-3 hours
• Ybor City: Estimated cost $50, Time spent Evening

Thursday, October 19: St. Augustine

Discover the historic charm of St. Augustine, the oldest continuously inhabited European-founded city in the United States. In the morning, explore the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, a 17th-century fortress. In the afternoon, take a ghost tour to uncover the city's haunted past. As the evening sets in, stroll along St. George Street and indulge in delicious local cuisine.

• Castillo de San Marcos: Estimated cost $15, Time spent 2-3 hours
• Ghost Tour: Estimated cost $20, Time spent 1-2 hours
• St. George Street: Estimated cost Free, Time spent Evening

Friday, October 20: Ocala National Forest

Escape to the natural beauty of Ocala National Forest. In the morning, hike the scenic trails and visit Silver Springs State Park for a glass-bottom boat tour. In the afternoon, go kayaking or canoeing in the clear springs. As the evening approaches, set up a campfire and enjoy stargazing in the wilderness.

• Ocala National Forest: Estimated cost Free, Time spent Full day
• Silver Springs State Park: Estimated cost $10, Time spent 3-4 hours
• Kayaking/Canoeing: Estimated cost $20, Time spent Afternoon

Saturday, October 21: Kennedy Space Center

End your adventure-filled week by visiting the Kennedy Space Center. In the morning, explore the exhibits and take a bus tour to see launch pads and the Apollo/Saturn V Center. In the afternoon, experience the awe-inspiring Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit. As the evening approaches, witness a rocket launch if available.

• Kennedy Space Center: Estimated cost $60, Time spent Full day
• Space Shuttle Atlantis: Estimated cost Free with admission, Time spent Afternoon
• Rocket Launch: Estimated cost Free, Time spent Evening (subject to availability)

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For adventure seekers, consider visiting the challenging trails of the Big Cypress National Preserve, where you can go hiking, biking, or even take an off-road swamp buggy tour. Another local favorite is Devil's Den Prehistoric Spring, a unique underground spring where you can snorkel or scuba dive amidst fossilized remains.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites: Big Cypress National Preserve, Devil's Den Prehistoric Spring

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