By Kevin Mims
 

Ever try to find your way on a trip using a paper atlas?

Trust me, it’s not a good time. It can be done, but your navigation system (the person sitting in the passenger seat) had better be on their game.

Whoops, was that our exit?

Florida is a huge state, with so many things to do and places to visit. You're going to need a little bit of help on this journey, and thanks to the best travel apps to explore Florida you can get to the fun stuff quicker and easier.

Install these travel apps on your phone and start your adventure, my friends.

Allstays Camp and RV

I use this app almost every time I take a trip, even if I’m not in the RV or looking for a place to camp. In this wonderful piece of tech, you can locate good services needed for any road trip – gas stations (I love me some truck stops), rest stops (shouldn’t have drank that 64 oz. soda), lots of stores that offer camping/trip supplies and lots more.

Florida State Parks Guide

This is the official app for Florida State Parks, where you’ll find spots all around the state that should be on your must-visit list. Some of the best beaches, cultural treasures and historical point of interests are located right in Florida’s award-winning state park system.

Audubon Nature Florida

Florida is a goldmine for wildlife watchers. Whether you're a seasoned birder or just getting started, the Audubon Nature Florida app is for you. Over 2,100 species of flora and fauna of all types found in the Sunshine State are included in the app, so you can leave the bulky print field guide at home.

Urbanspoon

Hey, you’ve got to eat, right? Stop munching on those chips and get a decent meal by using the Urbanspoon app. You can find places to eat near you, and restaurants are categorized in lots of different ways. Hungry for sushi? Urbanspoon can find you the best spot.

Next Exit History

History buffs, this is the app that you need to install right now. Developed by the University of West Florida and Historical Research Services, Inc., you can locate historical markers with descriptions, museums and so much more. It’s grown from a Florida app to a full-blown national database, so use it for your travels anywhere you go.

Florida Trail Guide

Stretch out those legs by taking a hike (short or long, it’s up to you) on the Florida National Scenic Trail. Download the app, grab the trail section that’s nearest you, and explore Florida on foot.

For this and other Florida travel ideas, go to VISIT FLORIDA's official travelers guide.