Trip planning - help required.

Question

Hi friends, I’m planning a trip to Florida from 13/12 to 30/12. We are a family of four (including two teenagers), arriving in and departing from Miami. I’ve never been to Florida, so I’m a bit unsure where to start.

We’d like to visit Universal Studios for one or two days, and spend the rest of our time exploring cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa to see what they have to offer. We’re particularly interested in beaches, local attractions, and regional cuisine. I’m happy to hire a car so we can explore farther-off places—this might even turn into a road trip!

Your help is much appreciated.

Sam

Answer

Hi Sam,

It sounds like you have an exciting trip ahead! Florida in December is usually very pleasant — cooler and less humid than the summer months, with plenty of sunshine and mild temperatures, which is perfect for sightseeing, beaches, and theme parks.

Here’s a suggested framework for your 17-day trip covering Miami, Orlando, Tampa, and surrounding areas, with options for beaches, attractions, and local cuisine.

Day 1–3: Miami

Beaches: South Beach (iconic, colorful, and bustling), North Beach (quieter), or Sunny Isles Beach for a more relaxed vibe.
Attractions: Art Deco Historic District, Wynwood Walls for street art, Little Havana for Cuban culture, and Bayside Marketplace for shopping and waterfront views.
Food: Cuban cuisine at Versailles or La Carreta, fresh seafood at Joe’s Stone Crab, casual bites at Coyo Taco, and trendy cafes in Wynwood.

Day 4–7: Orlando & Theme Parks

Spend 1–2 days at Universal Studios Florida and/or Islands of Adventure. Consider purchasing Express Passes to minimize lines.
Optional day trips: Walt Disney World parks if you want, or Kennedy Space Center (approx. 1 hour from Orlando) for an educational experience with teens.
Food in Orlando: Try The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen for fun family dining, and local favorites like Se7en Bites for breakfast or brunch.

Day 8–10: Tampa & Surroundings

Explore Tampa Riverwalk and Bush Gardens if your family enjoys rides and shows.
Visit Ybor City for Cuban sandwiches, historic streets, and local nightlife (even if teens don’t participate, the area is interesting during the day).
Clearwater Beach is about 40 minutes from Tampa — one of Florida’s best beaches, perfect for sand, water activities, and sunset views.

Day 11–17: Florida Keys & Return to Miami

Consider driving from Miami down to Key Largo or Key West if you enjoy road trips along scenic US-1. Stop at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for snorkeling or glass-bottom boat tours.
Key West highlights: Duval Street for shopping and restaurants, Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, Southernmost Point, Mallory Square sunset celebration.
Seafood and local cuisine: Try conch fritters, fresh Key West fish sandwiches, and Cuban-style seafood dishes.
Return to Miami for your departure. If time allows, enjoy one last beach day or check out Miami Design District for art and architecture.

Tips for Your Trip

Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility, especially if planning to visit Tampa or the Keys. Make sure to check parking policies for hotels and attractions.
Book theme park tickets and popular attractions in advance to save time.
Consider weather: December is usually dry, but bring light jackets for cooler evenings in Orlando and Tampa.
Plan beach days in the morning to avoid strong afternoon sun, and stay hydrated.

This itinerary balances theme parks, city experiences, beaches, and scenic drives. With teenagers, mixing adventure with sightseeing keeps everyone engaged, and the regional cuisine adds a fun flavor to the journey. You can adjust days depending on your interests and energy levels.

Enjoy your Florida adventure!

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