Looking to experience the real Florida beyond the theme parks and crowded beaches? The Sunshine State offers a treasure trove of cultural attractions to discover, from world-class art galleries and museums to historic theatres and gardens. Here’s your insider’s guide to some of Florida’s best-kept cultural secrets.

Uncovering St. Petersburg’s Arts Scene

Forget lounging on the beach – the lively Gulf Coast city of St. Petersburg tempts visitors to dive into its thriving local arts scene. Wander through the bounty of street art in the Central Arts District, embodied in over 600 vivid murals splashed across downtown. Peer into the eccentric world of Salvador Dalí at The Dalí Museum, home to the most comprehensive collection of the artist’s surrealist works outside of Europe. And don’t miss the Museum of Fine Arts’ 4,000 years’ worth of art from ancient civilizations through to the 19th century masters.

Of course, you can still soak up some sunshine – just be sure to catch one of St. Petersburg’s legendary orange-and-purple sunsets, best viewed while listening to live music at the nightly Sunsets at Pier 60 festival.

Architecture Aficionados in Lakeland

For architecture buffs, Lakeland is a must-see, specifically the Florida Southern College campus. Here sits the largest single-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright structures on the planet. Join a guided tour taking in the 12 stunning examples of mid-century modern design, like the sharp angles of the William H. Danforth Chapel and the circular waves of the Water Dome. And just next door is another cultural draw – the Polk Museum of Art and its standout collections of modern painting and sculpture.

Later, take your seat beneath the atmospheric midnight-blue ceiling dotted with hand-painted stars in Lakeland’s elegant 1928 Polk Theatre. Enjoy anything from cinema premieres to musical concerts while admiring the flamboyant art deco embellishments.

Cattle Country in Kissimmee

Contrary to popular belief, cowboys roam well beyond the American West – they are alive and well in the ranching country around Kissimmee! Watch all the bronco riding, calf roping, and barrel racing action at Silver Spurs Rodeo’s professional events. Or better yet, immerse yourself into cattle ranch life by bunking down in a teepee at Westgate River Ranch Resort, with campfire singalongs and river rides included.

When you’ve had your fill of the cowboy lifestyle, take the train to Miami to hit the city’s vibrant Cuban culture and famous art deco architecture along South Beach.

An Oasis of Art in Winter Park

For a cultured day trip from the theme park intensity of Orlando, pop over to the upscale town of Winter Park. Here you’ll find the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, internationally famed for its unparalleled collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany treasures. Walk under the jewel-toned leaded-glass canopy in the chapel interior he designed for the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair.

Just down the palm-lined streets sits scenic Rollins College, home to the Cornell Fine Arts Museum spanning over 500 years of European and American painting, including Golden Age Dutch works and 20th century pop art icons.

Gardens Galore Across Central Florida

Finally, nature and culture entwine beautifully across Central Florida’s gardens. Top of the list is Bok Tower Gardens, founded by Pulitzer Prize-winning editor Edward Bok. Stroll the manicured grounds dotted with historic pin oak trees and vibrant floral displays in the wisteria-draped Mediterranean Revival Villa. But the real showstopper is the gothic-inspired, pink marble Singing Tower, whose 60-bell carillon fills the air with glorious music.

So, next time you’re Orlando-bound, step off the typical tourist trail to uncover Florida’s cultural soul beyond the theme park gates.