Home to some of the best beaches in America, Clearwater is a great family beach destination. Sure, it’s in Florida, but it’s not Giant Rodent Florida (a.k.a. Orlando) or Crazy Spring Break Florida (a.k.a. Fort Lauderdale). Rather, it’s Calm, Old-Fashioned Florida… which is something worth seeing. Oh, and the weather’s outstanding.

Let the Gulf Shore breeze carry you to a weekend of sun-kissed fun. The Tampa-St Pete area is Florida's second-biggest metropolitan area. Not as flashy as Miami or as crowded as Orlando, the region has grown as a tourist destination, and it's easy to see why: miles of waterfront, sandy beaches, cultural attractions and exciting amusements. Busch Gardens has been drawing visitors for years, but the city also has another zoo, an aquarium and several major museums for those who need some time in the shade.

Boasting two of the nation's best beaches, Saint Petersburg has stunning sands, perfect whether you choose to soak up sun at Fort De Soto; swim, shell, fish or snorkel on Caladesi Island; or enjoy Clearwater's Pier 60 and unbeatable sunsets. Busch Gardens, Adventure Island and eight aquariums and zoos are nearby.

Florida's Southwest Gulf Coast contains a constellation of enticing coastal gems. Stunning beaches, including Fort Myers Beach, Tigertail Beach and Pensacola Beach, fringe the Gulf, down the I-75 from Tampa to Naples. Sanibel Island's shells attracts thousands. Cape Coral's waters are paradise for fly-fishing. Golfers adore spectacular courses in Marco Island and Naples. Glorious sunny days and deliciously warm turquoise waters beckon in this often overlooked corner of the Sunshine State.

What kind of beachgoer are you? Chances are, you’ll find something in the Sarasota area that appeals to you. Soft sand, fishing piers, shells—you can find it around here. Just don’t go looking for a nude beach—that’s the one thing they don’t have.

Davenport is a holiday destination in north eastern Polk County that is popular because of its close proximity to the Walt Disney World theme park. While small in size, the town is experiencing rapid growth. Most Davenport tourists stay in this town and spend their time at the major theme parks outside Orlando. However, Davenport has its own attractions that should not be missed. Visit Lake Kissimmee State Park and partake in nature trails, horse trails, and boating activities. Play a round on one of Davenport’s two large golf courses: the Highlands Reserve Golf Club and the Ridgewood Lakes Golf & Country Club. Davenport offers a variety of fast food options and chains, as well as several great local establishments. The Davenport Cafe is perfect for lunch, as is Camille’s Sidewalk Cafe. Try the Bob Evans Restaurant for the best American cuisine, or visit Zen Asian Grill for Asian and Chinese foods. For dinner on a budget, visit The Shamrock Pub and Grille. Don’t head back too early—there are many great bars and pubs in Davenport. Try the Tuscana Tavern or The Pub for a relaxing drink. The 11th Street Bar & Grill is a pub and a restaurant combined, so be sure to check it out on nights when you want food and entertainment in one place. Other popular bars include the Happy Hollow Tavern and Boozies Bar & Grill. There are several large shopping centres right outside Davenport in Orlando, Tampa, and Kissimmee. Visit Posner Commons for stores such as Dick’s Sporting Goods, JCPenney, and more. Most of the shopping centres have food courts as well, so they’re a convenient way to spend the day away.

Most holiday spots are either relaxing (Tahiti) or family-friendly (Orlando). Sanibel Island, however, is that rare place which is both. Spend a quiet afternoon shell-collecting, or find a hotel with a kids' programme so you can enjoy a trip to the spa or a round of golf.

Discover an essential chapter of America's history in the cobblestone streets, river walks and monuments of Richmond. Originally a colonial settlement, Virginia's capital is now a thriving hub for culture, shopping and outdoor fun. Explore Civil War history at the American Civil War Museum, stroll along the canal downtown or test your nerve whitewater rafting on the James River. With lively neighbourhoods and a vibrant restaurant scene, Richmond is perfect for a quick break or an extended getaway.

The legacy of Buddy Holly lives on in his birthplace of Lubbock, where a museum, a walk of fame and an annual music festival honor musicians hailing from the area. Its museums shed light on the agricultural and military history of the region. Lubbock's many parks, golf courses and wineries provide a relaxing break from it all. Add to all of this a hopping nightlife and Lubbock truly is the "Hub City" of activity in the South Plains area.

Greater Palm Springs is an oasis for art, culture, adventure and relaxation. Take in the views from the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the world’s largest rotating tram car, before exploring exhibits at the Palm Springs Art Museum and its Architecture & Design Centre. Visit the Empire Polo Club, home of the Coachella Music & Arts Festival and Stagecoach Country Music Festival. Dozens of spas in Desert Hot Springs let you soak in the healing mineral waters that flow beneath the city.