When you think of Florida, you probably think of Disney World and the Everglades, maybe even the notorious Florida Man, and as fun as the first two of those things may be, you might end up thinking that Florida is not for someone like you who enjoys the finer things in life. But, you know what? You can do Florida the sophisticated way without all of the theme parks and plastic flip-flops. Here’s how:

1. Start Your Stay at Armature Works

If your idea of a good vacation is fewer rollercoasters and more champagne, then you will love the Armature Works in Tampa. It is a wonderful historical building filled with beautiful social spaces and utterly divine restaurants, making it one of the most stylish and sophisticated hotels you will likely ever spend time in no matter how far and wide you travel. Best of all? It has some amazing views of the Hillsborough River that you can sit back and enjoy after a day of exploring, while you sip a cocktail on the rooftop, of course!

2. Avoid the Beach Bum Look

Sure, Florida has some of the best beaches in the world, not just the USA, but sophisticated Florida isn’t about blending in with the sunburned masses. Ditch the flip-flops and oversized t-shirts (save those for your beachside escape) and embrace your inner Audrey Hepburn or James Bond. Whether you’re heading to a rooftop bar in Miami or a classy dinner in Naples, a sharp outfit instantly elevates your holiday game. Remember: classy travellers don’t chase seagulls—they sip martinis by the waterfront.

3. Wine and Dine in Style (Hold the Chips)

Forget the fast-food chains and suspiciously cheap buffets. A sophisticated Florida holiday requires fine dining, and luckily, the Sunshine State knows how to serve up some world-class cuisine. Head to Miami for top-notch seafood at the elegant Stubborn Seed or enjoy the French-inspired flavours of Le Colonial. In Tampa, take a stroll to the restaurant scene at Hyde Park Village, where gourmet meals come with beautiful settings and even better people-watching. Whatever you do, don’t settle for soggy chips wrapped in paper. You’re here to indulge!

4. The Art of the Afternoon Stroll

Nothing says “sophisticated” quite like a gentle, purposeful stroll. Florida’s coastal towns are perfect for this. Take a morning amble along Worth Avenue in Palm Beach, where you can browse luxury boutiques and art galleries, pretending you’re in Cannes. Or, head to St. Augustine for a cultural tour of the oldest city in the US. Bonus points if you wear oversized sunglasses while you do it.

5. Culture, Darling, Culture

Florida isn’t just for beach bums and thrill-seekers—there’s a whole world of culture waiting to be explored. From the Salvador Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg (yes, you read that right) to the renowned Pérez Art Museum in Miami, there’s no shortage of places to get your dose of the arts. Sprinkle in a few gallery visits between spa treatments and designer shopping sprees, and you’ll leave Florida feeling like a well-travelled connoisseur.

Here’s to the finer things in life, Florida style!