5 Unexpected Things I Learned Visiting Florida
Florida is one of my least-visited states in the Southeast. It’s not exactly a "pass-thru" state, and since I’m not much of a beach person, I’ve never had much reason to visit. That changed last month when I took a work trip to St. Petersburg. As I made my way through the Sunshine State, I discovered a few things I hadn’t known before. Here are five surprising things I learned during my visit to Florida.
1. Florida Visitors Centers Give Out Free Orange Juice
One of the most delightful surprises on my trip was learning that Florida’s visitor centers hand out complimentary orange juice! It’s a small but refreshing gesture, welcoming visitors to the Sunshine State with a taste of its most famous export. If you’re driving into Florida, be sure to stop by a visitor center to grab a glass of fresh orange juice. It’s a sweet way to start your trip and an iconic Florida experience.
2. Florida is a Low-Lying State
Florida is unique geographically because most of the state is at or below sea level. The highest point is just 417 feet above sea level, which is surprisingly low compared to other states. This low elevation creates a risk for flooding, particularly during hurricanes and heavy rains, which are common in Florida. Flood warnings are frequent, and it’s important to be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially during the rainy season.
Understanding the geography can give visitors better insight into why storm preparedness is such a priority in Florida. Whether you’re visiting coastal areas or inland, keeping an eye on the weather forecast is essential when traveling in Florida.
3. Navigating Florida’s Toll Roads: What You Need to Know
Driving through Florida means navigating a lot of toll roads. In fact, Florida has the most toll roads of any state in the U.S. While it may seem like a hassle, toll roads often provide the quickest way to get around the state, especially in more congested areas. Be prepared by either carrying enough cash or having the proper toll pass.
4. The Georgia Peach Pass Works in Florida (And So Do Many Others)
If you’re traveling with a toll transponder, you’re in luck—Florida accepts a wide range of toll passes. I used my Georgia Peach Pass on toll roads throughout the state without any issues. Florida’s SunPass system is compatible with several other states’ transponders, including E-ZPass, North Carolina Quick Pass, and more. This makes driving through the Sunshine State much easier for road-trippers who frequent other states as well.
For a full list of accepted passes, check out SunPass.com, and ensure your pass is valid to save time and money on Florida’s toll roads.
5. Dealing with Florida's Humidity: How It Affects Your Gear
Florida’s famous humidity is more than just an annoyance—it can affect your gear in ways you might not expect. During my visit, I found that the humidity caused my camera lenses and glasses to fog up almost immediately after stepping outside from an air-conditioned room. This was a real issue for my outdoor photography, as it took a few minutes for the fog to clear each time I started shooting.
If you’re visiting Florida, especially in the summer months, be aware that the humidity can also affect other electronics. Give your gear some time to adjust when moving from indoor air conditioning to the outdoor heat. Patience is key, and it’ll save you frustration when capturing those perfect shots.
Final Thoughts
Florida turned out to be full of surprises during my trip. From free orange juice at visitor centers to navigating the many toll roads, I learned a lot during my time in the Sunshine State. Whether you’re preparing for the humidity or planning your route around the tolls, these are just a few things that can make your trip smoother. Next time you find yourself heading to Florida, keep these tips in mind—and don’t forget to enjoy a refreshing glass of orange juice along the way.
