Florida's electrifying downtowns heat up the winter season with a vibrant assortment of entertainment, history and culture.

Art shows, museums, ballets and theaters attract visitors and residents of all ages, as Florida's pulse races through the downtowns, stirring up feverish excitement within the brightly lit streets. Of all the small towns and up towns that speckle and sparkle the state, Florida's downtowns pulsate with a rhythm that resounds from the keys to the panhandle.

Florida's East Coast boasts a lively downtown atmosphere along the Jacksonville Landing, an entertainment-packed riverwalk where visitors amble amid fine restaurants with river views, sports bars and quaint shops of all varieties. Across the river, accessible by water taxi, art galleries display collections from Jacksonville's finest artists.

Nearby is a splash of theatres, along with the Jacksonville Ballet and Symphony Orchestra. Sports lovers and football fanatics can take the short ride over to Alltel Stadium, home of the Jacksonville Jaguars. Downtown Jacksonville has much to offer the traveler searching for a casual yet spirited occasion.

For the socialite, the district of Ybor City in Tampa comes alive at sunset. Outdoor cafes, restaurants, bars and nightclubs give Ybor the reputation of "party central" in the Tampa Bay area. Ybor City is the home of the original Columbia Restaurant, Florida's oldest and the world's largest Spanish restaurant.

Out in the street, the rhythms of blues, rock n' roll, techno, jazz, hip-hop, alternative and pop music combine to create a highly charged atmosphere. And if that's not enough for the party seeker, this colorful area also includes a lively Latin Quarter, which draws more than 30,000 people on weekend nights.

Channelside in Downtown Tampa offers an upscale social scene, including an entertainment-dining complex and luxurious resorts. Piano bars, theaters and fine stores line this waterfront district. The Port of Tampa bustles with cruise ships, freighters and sailboats as visitors stroll along the Channelside harbor.

Visitors are enveloped in arts and entertainment in historic downtown Old Naples. Art, history and culture collide in this charming city. Art galleries, theaters and a ballet offer plenty of amusement for the fine arts lover.

Fifth Avenue South is known for its one-of-a kind shops and eclectic assortment of artsy sidewalk cafés and festivals. This beautifully landscaped strip boasts boutiques specialising in jewelry, fashion, fine wines and spirits, premium cigars and exotic sea shells. The curiously classical collection of Old Naples is endearing to the trendsetter looking for something a little out of the ordinary.

Panama City's historic downtown possesses the charm of days gone by. Church bells ring along Harrison Avenue, and the notable architecture of Old St. Andrews neighborhood demands attention. Historic buildings house delightful boutiques with a variety of unique merchandise. MacKenzie Park hosts concerts and other recreational activities.

A rich history, vibrant culture and unique attractions are just a few qualities that make Florida's downtowns worth a visit. Between sight-seeing, gallery hopping and enjoying fine restaurants, you’ll never be bored of the endless options.

For more information on Florida or to order a copy of Visit Florida's free Vacation Guide, visit www.visitflorida.com, or call 1-888-7-FLAUSA (352872).