In the 1900s, families piled into cars and drove down long highways such as US 1, US 27, and US 41 that were lined with roadside attractions. According to historian Ken Breslauer, "A major feature of the roadside attractions in Florida is their use of the state's natural resources to generate a profit. From springs to rivers to wildlife, many entrepreneurs saw profit in Florida's natural surroundings."

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One big part of Florida’s early tourism was its amazing natural springs. People believed the clear, sparkling waters had healing powers, and they loved to swim, boat, and take glass-bottom boat rides at places like Silver Springs and Weeki Wachee Springs. At Weeki Wachee, visitors could even see “mermaids” perform underwater shows! These attractions mixed nature, fun, and a bit of magic, making them unforgettable stops for travelers.

Florida also became famous for its beautiful gardens. Spots like Cypress Gardens, which opened in the 1930s, showed off colorful flowers, water-skiing shows, and Southern charm. Visitors could stroll among tropical plants and watch performers glide across the water in bright costumes. These gardens celebrated Florida’s warm climate and natural beauty—and they helped visitors slow down and enjoy the outdoors.

Of course, no Florida trip was complete without a visit to the beach! From the white sands of Clearwater to the lively shores of Miami Beach, families have always loved building sandcastles, collecting seashells, and watching the waves roll in. These sunny spots made Florida famous as a place where history, nature, and fun all meet.