If you're here, then you're probably a big Disney fan, and specifically, Disney World.
It's a popular vacation destination for most of our readers, and many of us continue to go there again and again with our families and friends. But if you’re looking for the best destination to visit in Florida… Disney World may not have cut it!
National Geographic recently announced its Best of the World travel list for 2025. According to Fox Newsthe list includes 25 different destinations around the world, including three in the United States. Of those three, only one is in Florida.
The three U.S. locations include Boise, Idaho; Los Angeles, California; and the Ocala National Forest in Florida. In the list, Ocala received recognition for being one of Florida's “last wild places.”
Although theme parks or beaches tend to stand out as Florida travel destinations, Ocala was called a “green oasis” in the report. It is the southernmost forest in the United States, home to 387,000 acres of wildlife, including black bears, manatees and rare plants. You'll even find 600 natural lakes and springs across the property.
The other two locations in the United States, Los Angeles and Boise, are named after their artwork and Basque culture, respectively. “We have incredible international adventures, but the three U.S. destinations on our list prove that you don't have to travel far to have memorable experiences,” said NatGeo Editor-in-Chief Nathan Lump.
NatGeo hopes to highlight places that tourists might not immediately think to visit. So while Disney World is an obvious vacation destination for many, it's not exactly the kind of cultural destination that needs more hype. (He does it himself!)
Next time you're planning your trip to Disney World, maybe consider heading down and stopping in Ocala on your way. A little natural beauty will be a great way to re-center yourself before visiting one of the busiest places in America!
Click here to see the cheapest month to visit Disney World in 2025!
Have you ever been to the Ocala National Forest? Tell us in the comments!
