Things to do in Gulf of Mexico

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Visit Gulf of Mexico

Types of activities

Where to stay

Gulf of Mexico Travel Guide

Photo provided by Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau

Vibrant nightlife and lively atmosphere in French Quarter, New Orleans at dusk

Vibrant nightlife in the French Quarter of New Orleans featuring bars and live music on Bourbon Street

Vibrant atmosphere in the French Quarter showcasing culture and community on a sunny day

Explore thousands of activities with free cancellation and no added fees.

Design your experience with airport transfers, excursions, day tours & more.

Get an insider's look in what to book before you travel.

Gulf of Mexico must see attractions

1. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Busch Gardens is an African-themed adventure park featuring more than 2,000 exotic animals, roller coasters, thrill rides, shows and exhibits. The 335-acre (135-hectare) site is divided into eight themed areas. Each area has its own attractions, and animals living in natural-style habitats.

Learn more

2. Bourbon Street

Located in the middle of the French Quarter, the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans, Bourbon Street saw the growth of jazz as a new and individual music genre. It was here in the early 1900s that local musicians such as Jelly Roll Morton and King Oliver experimented and developed a sound now known as jazz. Off-beat and full of energy, Bourbon Street has come to embody the qualities this music is famous for the world over.

Learn more

Bourbon Street which includes a city and street scenes

3. Canal Street

Come to Canal Street on the first day of your visit to New Orleans to get a great sense of what the city has to offer. Rich with history and full of interesting stores, theaters, museums and other attractions, this street offers enough to keep you busy for hours. And when you are ready to see another part of the city, Canal Street’s central location means you will be able to walk to many of the other highlights of the French Quarter and beyond.

Learn more

4. Siesta Key Beach

Siesta Beach has earned a reputation of being among the most beautiful in the United States. The beach is known for its crystal-clear water and powdery white sand, made almost entirely of pure white quartz. The soft, clean sands are reflective so it’s never too hot underfoot, despite the warm Florida sun. Siesta Key’s public beach is equipped with all the amenities necessary for a full day of relaxing on the soft sands and splashing around in the clear, shallow water.

Learn more

Southwest Florida featuring general coastal views and a beach as well as a large group of people

5. Duval Street

Coming to Florida’s Key West and not experiencing Duval Street is missing one of the area’s most important commercial roads. It’s the main street on the island. Visit at any time. At the end of the day, when the heat abates and beachgoers have packed up, the street truly comes into its own. Being bored on Duval Street is a rarity.

Learn more

What to do in Gulf of Mexico

Discover the most popular places to visit in Gulf of Mexico

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

4.5/5(1,674 reviews)

Exotic animals and thrill rides all on the one site at this theme park and zoo designed for the whole family.

Bourbon Street

4/5(8,025 reviews)

The birthplace of jazz is a vibrant city boulevard where the history and music of New Orleans comes to life.

Port of Tampa

4/5(1,773 reviews)

Explore the waterfront in Tampa with a trip to Port of Tampa. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

Canal Street

4/5(7,943 reviews)

Start your exploration of New Orleans with the many attractions on this buzzing pedestrianized street, which is located right in the heart of the downtown area.

Navarre Beach

Head over to Navarre Beach, a favorite beach in Navarre to enjoy the surf and sand, along with fishing. Wander the seaside or discover the sunsets in this relaxing area.

Siesta Key Beach

4.5/5(1,425 reviews)

The soft, white sand on Siesta Key’s award-winning family-friendly beach is perfect for relaxing under a sun umbrella and taking part in a game of volleyball.

Port of New Orleans

4.5/5(3,614 reviews)

Explore the waterfront in New Orleans with a trip to Port of New Orleans. Experience the acclaimed art scene and fascinating museums in this walkable area.

Duval Street

4.5/5(3,475 reviews)

Along one of the southernmost streets in the continental U.S., enjoy a lively area filled with shops, pubs, restaurants and lots of sidewalk acts and vendors.

Gulf Shores Beach

4.5/5(1,223 reviews)

Nothing says vacation like spending a lazy day at Gulf Shores Beach, a popular beach in Gulf Shores. Experience the great live music or attend a sporting event in this relaxing area.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Gulf of Mexico

Rosemary Beach

4.5/5(40 area reviews)

Experience European Colonial charm in this Gulf Coast community, offering warm waters, beach activities, and a mixed-use town center with shops, restaurants, and live music at Peddler's Pavilion. Explore nearby parks and trails for a dose of nature.

Seaside

4/5(1 area review)

This unincorporated area on Florida's Panhandle boasts a Seaside Farmers Market and a picturesque interfaith chapel. Explore the town center and stroll along pedestrian alleys radiating from the heart of the community.

French Quarter

4.5/5(9,221 area reviews)

Historic buildings and lively atmosphere entice tourists and locals alike, offering live music, street performances, and vibrant nightlife. Must-see spots include Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and Café du Monde.