As the United States prepares to commemorate its 250th anniversary, Florida is positioning itself at the heart of the national celebration with America 250: A Portrait of Florida, a seven-episode docuseries that explores the state’s profound influence on the nation’s history, culture and identity. Produced as part of Florida’s broader America 250 initiative, the series seeks to move beyond the state’s familiar image of beaches, theme parks and sunshine, offering audiences a deeper look at the people, places and stories that have helped shape the American experience.
In exclsuive this interview, Bryan Griffin, CEO of VISIT FLORIDA, discusses the inspiration behind the project and how it aligns with statewide efforts to celebrate America’s semiquincentennial. He explains how the series highlights Florida’s unique role in the nation’s development through destinations such as St. Augustine, Pensacola, Cape Canaveral, Miami, Tampa and the Everglades, each representing a distinct chapter in the American story.
Griffin also reflects on changing travel trends that increasingly favor immersive, authentic and culturally enriching experiences. He outlines how the docuseries serves not only as a storytelling platform but also as a practical travel guide, encouraging visitors to explore historic landmarks, museums, communities and heritage attractions across the state.
With Florida set to welcome heightened visitor interest during both the America 250 celebrations and FIFA World Cup 2026 events, Griffin shares his vision for leveraging this global spotlight to showcase the state’s rich historical legacy. Ultimately, he hopes the series will inspire travelers to see Florida through a new lens and return time and again to uncover its many untold stories.
What inspired the creation of “America 250: A Portrait of Florida,” and how does the series align with the broader America 250 celebrations?
Florida is all-in on celebrating America 250, and this docuseries was part of our effort to highlight Florida’s role in shaping the Republic and to encourage travelers to choose Florida to experience these stories firsthand by visiting the destinations, museums, landmarks and communities featured throughout the series.
Florida is often associated with beaches and theme parks. How intentionally did the series aim to reposition the state through heritage, culture and history-driven storytelling?
This series is all about the history you can experience in the State of Florida. We highlight the stories, people and places that have shaped not only our state, but the country as a whole. It’s an opportunity to showcase the innovation, pioneering spirit, and courage of Floridians.
What was the process behind selecting destinations such as St. Augustine, Pensacola, Cape Canaveral and the Everglades for the seven-episode series?
Each episode represents a different chapter of Florida’s contribution to what America is today—whether that’s St. Augustine (the nation’s oldest continuously occupied settlement), Pensacola’s deep military history, Cape Canaveral’s role in space exploration, Tampa’s heritage, Miami’s innovation, or the uniqueness of the Keys and the Everglades. Together, the series offers a portrait of Florida.
How do you see cultural and experiential travel trends influencing consumer interest in destinations featured in the series?
Today’s travelers are increasingly looking for experiences that feel immersive, authentic, and meaningful. We’re seeing growing interest in experiences that allow travelers to go deeper. The series aligns with this trend because it invites audiences to go beyond the expected and discover a different side of Florida through the stories, history, and traditions that make the state so unique.
With Florida preparing for increased tourism linked to both America 250 commemorations and FIFA World Cup 2026 events, what opportunities does this create for the state’s tourism industry?
With America250 and the FIFA World Cup driving heightened traveler interest this summer, Florida has a tremendous opportunity to showcase the full breadth of experiences available across the state. We hope to inspire travelers to extend their stays, explore beyond major gateway cities, and discover destinations or experiences they may not have previously considered.
Specifically for America250, there are statewide events and activations like the America250 Golf Trail, the Founding Father statue series, the “14th Colony” exhibit at the State Capitol, and many more opportunities to discover America’s story. Visit America250FL.com for more information about these opportunities.
Were there any lesser-known stories, personalities or historical moments uncovered during production that surprised the creative team?
Absolutely—and this series highlights those incredible stories. Watch and find out!
How is the series designed to serve as a practical travel inspiration guide for advisors and travelers planning milestone-year vacations?
We designed the series to inspire travel for America 250, but the assets will also be utilized to invite people to explore Florida’s historical landmarks for years to come. Beyond storytelling, each episode highlights destinations and experiences travelers can actually incorporate into their own itineraries.
For travel advisors especially, the series provides a fresh lens for discussing Florida with clients who may be looking for vacations that combine entertainment or special events, education, and memorable shared experiences.
What impact do you hope “America 250: A Portrait of Florida” will have on travelers’ perceptions of Florida and on visitation to the featured destinations beyond 2026?
Our hope is that the series leaves viewers with a broader understanding of Florida and inspires them to join in the celebration of America250. We want to inspire travelers to return again and again to continue discovering everything that Florida has to offer.
