Visiting Florida in January: 15 Must-Do Activities

Visiting Florida in January? It’s a fantastic time to visit the Sunshine State.

After the holiday and college bowl games, traffic ends early in the month, the Sunshine States starts off the New Year with many fun things to see and do. I have only listed 15 below, but there are so many others.

Depending on where you are vacationing, January is a great month to spend outdoors. The farther south you are, the warmer it is in Florida.

Enjoy a mix of warm weather and fun things to do.

Thank you for reading this post. Don't forget to subscribe! This way you never miss an update, travel deals, discounts and more!! Subscribe to the right------>

15 Activities To Enjoy While Visiting Florida in January

Below are 15 fun-filled activities to enjoy while visiting the Sunshine State during this January:

Witness the Gasparilla Pirate Festival: Tampa hosts this lively event, featuring parades, music, and pirate-themed revelry—a perfect mix of history and fun. Usually towards the 20th of the month.

Explore the Everglades: Embrace nature’s wonder by taking an airboat ride through the Everglades, spotting wildlife and soaking in the unique ecosystem. You can enjoy a visit to the Everglades any day this month. Cooler and fewer bugs to “bug” you.

Everglades Bluegrass Festival: Before we leave the topic of the Everglades, if you plan to visit at the end of the month, plan to enjoy the Bluegrass Festival. This festival is held in South Florida at Greynolds Park, generally the end of January. Plenty of things to do including the music, camping, hiking, and more.

Attend the South Florida Fair: Indulge in classic fair fun with rides, games, livestock shows, and delectable fair foods in West Palm Beach, Palm Beach County. Fair generally begins mid-month.

Visit the Edison and Ford Winter Estates: Explore the historic homes and gardens of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford in Fort Myers for a glimpse into the past. This Southwestern beach town is a perfect choice to warm up in January.

Enjoy Art Deco Weekend in Miami Beach: Miami Beach is always hopping. But in January, you can experience a vacation with art, music, and vintage cars all in celebration of Miami’s iconic Art Deco architecture. Usually mid-January.

Discover the Key West Food and Wine Festival: Is there ever a bad or even a better time to visit Key West? No, if you ask me. However, if you are a foodie that loves to indulge in exquisite wines and gourmet food, January is the month to visit Key West. The event is usually held towards the end of the month.

Go Whale Watching: Whale watching? In Florida? Absolutely, and January is a great month to see them. Head to beach towns like Jacksonville Beach, Ponte Vedra Beach or St. Augustine for a chance to witness majestic North Atlantic right whales migrating south.

Relax at Siesta Key Beach: Ranked at the top of the list for beautiful beaches worldwide. Again, another beach town that is always great to visit, with powdery white sands and stunning Gulf sunsets for ultimate relaxation.

Attend the Florida Manatee Festival: Manatees! I love manatees. Want to see them? When the temps dip in the many rivers throughout Florida, manatees head inland to stay warm in the springs.

You can head to Crystal River to celebrate the gentle giants during the peak of manatee season with educational programs and boat tours. Usually mid-January. Be sure to include Three Sisters Springs when you visit.

Hike at Ocala National Forest: This is a beautiful forest with something for everyone. Explore the trails and natural springs, including the beautiful Alexander Springs, Salt Springs and more are perfect for a refreshing dip.

Attend the Sarasota Seafood & Music Festival: If you are in Siesta Key, why not book a two-fer with a side trip to nearby Sarasota. The Seafood & Music Festival is generally held toward the end of January and will delight your taste buds with fresh seafood dishes and live music.

Discover Harry P. Leu Gardens: Wander through beautiful gardens in Orlando, featuring over 50 acres of lush landscapes and floral displays.

Orlando Wetlands Park: If you are visiting the gardens or in Orlando, squeeze in a trip to the Orlando Wetlands Park. Very cool. This park was designed to give advanced treatment for reclaimed water from the City of Orlando and other local cities. Alligators, alligators, and did I say alligators? Also watch for water birds and migratory birds.

Engage at the Orlando Science Center: Still in Orlando, this one is perfect for families. It is an interactive center that provides a wonderful experience with exhibits, labs, and planetarium shows.

Attend the Orchid Festival in Naples: And one more stop in the Southwest. Immerse yourself in the beauty of orchids with stunning displays, sales, and expert advice on orchid care.

Whether you’re into cultural celebrations, outdoor adventures, or simply basking in the Florida sunshine, January offers a plethora of activities across the state, catering to every taste and interest.

Embrace the new year in Florida style!

The links below will help you plan that January Sunshine State Getaway: