6 Places in Florida I Wouldn’t Take My Worst Enemy

It’s safe to say that many Floridians have a love-hate relationship with the Sunshine State. Sure, the sunny days, peasant weather (minus the humidity, of course), and the sandy beaches are great, but there are several places I avoid for one reason or another. Major cities like Miami, Orlando, Daytona, and Tampa feature popular tourist attractions that are too crowded or too pricey for my budget.

Don’t get me wrong, some of the tourist traps in Florida are worth exploring at least once, but as a local, I don’t mind skipping them for a more authentic Florida experience. You might want to skip them, too! Here’s my list of overrated tourist attractions in Florida that I wouldn’t take my worst enemy to.  

1. Magic Kingdom at Disney World, Orlando

I might face some hate for naming the most magical place on earth as a spot to avoid. But I have been to Magic Kingdom enough times to know that I am not in a hurry to return. Trust me, there is so much to love about this happy kingdom, including interacting with the characters, seeing Cinderella’s Castle, the adorable parades, and the fireworks. However, when it comes to the crowds and the overstimulation from the little ones, I would rather skip the entire experience.

If you’re a die-hard Disney fan and you insist on going, have fun - I don't mind being your designated driver for the day. The park opens until about 10 or 11 p.m., so you'll have lots of time to see everything. An alternative? Nothing can beat the once-in-a-lifetime experience you'll have at Disney, but if you're looking for a more low-key spot for the little ones, consider Legoland in Winter Haven, Florida.       

2. South Beach, Miami

Beach days are supposed to be peaceful and relaxing. Don’t you agree? However, South Beach is so popular, especially during the holidays (like Spring Break) and special events, that it’s not worth the hassle. Between the traffic on Ocean Drive, the overcrowded beach, and the many distractions, exploring the area becomes its own adventure. Also, the lines for the popular bars and restaurants are usually wrapped around the corner.

Truly, South Beach isn’t bad during the off-season - late spring and early fall. You can score some great hotel deals during this time. Personally, I would take my friends and family to Hollywood Beach instead. It’s the same pretty blue waters and beach vibes, without the crowds. Plus, the oceanfront hotels in Hollywood Beach are cheaper, meaning I'll have more money for food and drinks. That’s a win-win for me.  

3. Mango’s Tropical Cafe, Orlando and Miami

If you’re visiting Florida and you want to experience a night at Mango’s, I would recommend it. It's a fun spot for a night on the town. What can I say about Mango’s? My best description is that it’s a nightclub on level 10. With high-tempo music, multiple dance floors, and stage performances, it’s a place for younger folks and die-hard partygoers to have a good time. Should you experience Mango’s at least once? Sure, but be prepared to keep up with the high-energy vibes and non-stop entertainment all night long or until about 2 a.m. when the nightclub closes.  

4. Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Tampa

Since gambling is heavily regulated in Florida, you won’t find many casinos here. And this Vegas-style activity is not something I care to do often. If you ever need a gambling fix, I would recommend Hard Rock Casino in Tampa. As one of the largest casinos in the country, featuring a Diamond-rated hotel and concert venue, you’ll be getting an experience that's close to Las Vegas vibes. And it's open 24 hours, so the action never stops.

I prefer a low-key venue, a place where I don't get too stimulated. Instead, I would head to Cape Canaveral and cruise the ocean on the Victory Casino Cruise. With fewer crowds, live entertainment, dining options, complimentary adult drinks (when gambling), and the extra perk of the ocean and dolphins swimming alongside the boat, it’s a no-brainer that I opt for this cruise. I love that there is plenty of extra entertainment on this 6-hour excursion when I don’t feel like gambling. Would I take my worst enemy to Hard Rock? Absolutely, as long as they’re paying for me to gamble and buying my adult cocktails.   

To support the Seminole Tribe with your tourism dollars, consider visiting the Big Cypress Reservation in the Florida Everglades which includes the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum and Big Cypress RV Resort & Campground.

5. Crab Island, Destin

Destin is my favorite beach town in Florida. Many locals and visitors flock to this popular fishing village in the Panhandle to walk along the sugary sandy beaches and to make a splash in the calm waters of the Emerald Coast. Crab Island is a 24-hour sandbar off the coast of Destin with the most crystal-clear shallow waters that you can imagine. Getting to the sandbar requires renting a boat or watercraft.

Since it’s the most popular thing to do in town, it’s usually crowded with folks partying and snapping those Instagram-worthy pics in waist-deep water. In the summer and during holidays, the party vibes are in full effect here, and if you don’t mind a vibrant atmosphere, I’d recommend it at least once or twice. I personally enjoy Destin in the off-season, before and after the summer crowds fizzle out.

6. Daytona Beach, Daytona

Two words: Heavy traffic! After being stuck in traffic for hours trying to leave Daytona Beach on a holiday weekend, I have little desire to return on a busy weekend. These include special events like the Daytona 500 at the Daytona International Speedway, Bike Week, and Spring Break.

Outside of the heavy traffic, I do like that you can drive on the sandy shores, but of course, that comes with a fee. Not to mention, food and drinks are a bit pricey because it’s a popular tourist town. Is Daytona Beach worth the hassle? It can be, but my worst enemy might thank me for skipping this tourist trap in Florida. For a more laid-back vibe, I would take them to New Smyrna Beach instead. After all, my sanity is important, too. 

Should You Visit These Popular Tourist Spots in Florida?

Although I could name additional destinations and venues in Florida to avoid due to overpricing, lack of authenticity, or large crowds, many are, in fact, worth visiting. I honestly don't hate them; they all serve a purpose - to entertain locals and visitors alike. I would take my worst enemy to these touristy spots, so they can experience these destinations for themselves. After all, these attractions will be around forever, and as a local, I can easily visit whenever I choose to.   

What do you think about my list of popular attractions in Florida? Do you agree with it? While visiting the state, I encourage you to check them out just for the experience. If you want to enjoy something authentic, plan a trip to Silver Springs State Park near Ocala. Not only is it Florida's first tourist attraction, but the springs here are magical, and if you get lucky, you can see monkeys and manatees in the wild. Or visit the quieter corners of the state on this fun road trip in Central Florida.