Have a refreshing swim at Juniper Springs or Alexander Springs, both popular in the summer with locals and in the winter with manatees! Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures is the perfect place to get a great Florida feel. Florida's Emerald Coast comprises a few of the Sunshine State's best-kept secrets. Most of the coral reefs in the Keys exhibit a large amount and variety of marine life due to protections in place, ACCOMMODATION: You will love the Almond Tree Inn is only 14-min from the beach and features an outdoor pool, hot tub, and continental breakfast. The entry fee ranges from $10.00 to $15.00 with a Military/Veteran discount. They are microorganisms that occur widely in marine waterways in the summertime typically when the temperature is at its peak and the water is calm. Founded by Jeannette McKean in 1942, she built this now impressive collection over a period of 50 years prepare to be dazzled as you stroll through the museum galleries. From May through October, Juno Beach is the densest sea turtle nesting ground in the world. You can take a tram, walk, or bike around the 15-mile loop with an abundance of wildlife, from birds and fish to alligators. Off-the-Beaten-Path Orlando Hidden Gems Things to Do. But dont worry if you dont have a horse, or if you cannot bring your horse to your vacation on the island you can have this experience by going on atour with the Beach horse. Key West, Florida is still as colorful as ever and you'll need this Key West Travel Guide to maximize every waking minute in this town, whether it's your first trip to Key West or not.. Located along the California coast in Mendocino County lies the historic town of Fort Bragg. Head out here to be truly impressed by the colorful coral reefs and diverse wildlife, coupled with curious tales of shipwrecks and treasure. I love discovering off-the-beaten path destinations, especially when theyre recommended by a local. Florida has tons of attractions that you wont find anywhere else in the world, and no, were not talking about Disney World. Steinhatchee Falls. ACCOMMODATION: Holiday Inn is a great option, with a great location and expresses check-in and check-out. This spot is easily one of the best hidden gems in Florida. Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens. Located in the Florida Keys, Bahia State Park is off mile marker 37 and spans over 500 acres of lush land. The seats in the front of the airboat will drench you with swampy water. Inside, you'll find an authentic retro atmosphere with music from the 1930s and . This Urban Wilderness Area features a great many different trees native to Florida, including cypress, maple, mangrove, and a laurel oak hammock. Every year in Florida, as soon as the animals sense the coming winter, they seek out warm locations. As expected, they have some of the best pastries and cakes you will ever try, but they're only open for lunch. Go swim with Manatees at Crystal River, 8. Source: flickr. Appreciate the magnitude of these gentle giants without disturbing them and. Flickr/Greg Workman for Florida Fish and Wildlife, Flickr/Meagan Perosha for U.S. Department of Agriculture, Flickr/Scott Ball for Florida Fish and Wildlife. Click here to find out more about this Florida hidden gem. Have a relaxing picnic here surrounded by nature, or go jogging, hiking or biking along the gardens to cover more ground. Among other exhibits are American art pottery and early 2th century American paintings and graphics. If you want to venture off the beaten path so to speak and discover some of Floridas secret treasures we have you covered. Winter Park is also a great place for outdoor enthusiasts, including a robust park system and a gorgeous chain of lakes. Bahia Honda can be visited at any time of the year, however for the best beach weather, visit in the months of March, April, and December. Ive been to almost all US states but somehow have never made it to Florida so its high on my list! Dry Tortugas National Park is located on the Gulf of Mexico, west of Key West, and is comprised of 7 of the most isolated islands in the Florida Keys. No matter the size, the houseboats are an incredibly unique experience, and they enable you to listen to the ocean waves and marine life as you rest. Juno Beach is one of my favorite places to visit in Florida. Two places to see sinkholes are Devils Millhopper Geological State Park and Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park. Today, the site has become a museum and is open to the public. A weekend can see up to 400 people! Lets start this amazing list of Off the Beaten Paths in Florida with my backyard. event : evt, The airboats are extremely loud. ACCOMMODATION: Plantation on Crystal River, Ascend Hotel Collection is a beautiful 232-acre Crystal River resort featuring a golf course and 4 on-site restaurants, located only 1.1 miles to the Three Sisters Spring. Two staff members compete to get their alligator to jump the highest as the crowd cheers them on. TOP TIPS FOR SWIMMING WITH MANATEES AT CRYSTAL RIVER. Cool 2. There are also boats tours offered or kayaks available for rent, should you wish to explore the river. What To Do The ancient ravines on this land have been transformed into a rustic, tropical garden for all to enjoy. I will definitely consult this post before my next visit to Florida. It is closed on Mondays, throughout the entire month of July, and on December 25th. Located near Clearwater and St Petersburg, Honeymoon Island is one of the best off the beaten path in Florida! And you'll find no buildings over three stories. hey Katy, OMG! I try to go as often as I can, and my dogs love there too. Click here to find out more about this Florida attraction. It is definitely one of the best springs in Florida and a true hidden gem. Looking for hidden gems in Florida? Folly Beach, South Carolina. TOP TIPS FOR EXPLORING WEEKI WACHEE RIVER. Located in the Florida Panhandle, it's the only Florida state park with air-filled caves accessible to the public. 9. At more than 600 years old, The Old Senator, a glorious live oak, is located on the grounds of the courtyard of Villa 1565 on San Marco. The Gardens also offer numerous services. The centerpiece of the Circus Museum is a 3,800 square-foot operational Circus Model, a 44,000-piece re-creation of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Baileys Circus combined shows from 1919 to 1938. If you have your own kayak, plan at least 2 hours to go on the dark water to see this magnificent experience. Navarre Beach is a little off of the beaten path- and that's one of the best things about it. Each turn was a brilliant surprise. Boasting crystal clear waters, a diverse array of marine life, and much more, there's something for everyone at this tourist hotspot. Gatorland has numerous activities that take place throughout the day. The villa is located less than 3 miles away from Downtown Miami, and it can be reached by taking the metro to the Vizcaya Station, with a short 10-minute walk. window.mc4wp = window.mc4wp || { If they offer Dramamine, you will likely need it unless you are used to extremely rough waters. Address: 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. South Florida's Funkiest Architecture. Florida is a Dream Destination, because of its diversity. It is close to many of Orlandos main sites. 21 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Miami, Florida Updated January 30, 2023 Share Tweet Email The Carnival Cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida is a great side-trip when visiting Florida. If you are a gardener or anyone who enjoys the beauty of nature, Harry P. Leu Gardens should be at the top of your list when you visit Florida. I traveled via the Yankee Freedom Ferry which is roughly a 2 1/2 hour trip each way, pun intended. This center for Japanese culture in Palm Beach County is unique and serene, offering Japanese tea ceremonies, a bonsai garden, festivals, classes, and a superb gift shop and cafe. Marathon may not be as well-known as other tourist destinations in Florida, but it's a hidden gem that's definitely worth . Did you know you can ride a horse at the beach in Florida? If you have ever wanted to see one of these gentle giants come to Manatee Park during the winter months. You can plan your trip with this easy guide and have access to the best services I recommend and you can get discounted prices. It might sound simple, which in reality, it is! Private rides are available for 30 or 60 minutes, and this is where you can get a customized experience. It depicts the beauty of art and describes the history associated with the city. Florida is the most southeast state in the US, bordered on the east by the Atlantic and on the west by the Gulf of Mexico. In the heart of the Everglades and mangrove islands lies the remote, wild Tigertail Beach. 5) Visit the Cute Small Town of Windermere. It is home to the University of Florida, but its a lot more than your typical college town. Old Florida meets the 21st century in Seminole County, a hidden gem in Florida. Whether youre just here for a day or want to stay longer, the beauty of the ocean and the recreational activities will keep you entertained. They often reside partially in the water and partially on land. Whether you're taking an educational tour around the . The springs provide excellent swimming opportunities, as well as hiking, fishing and camping. 2. Bean Point Beach is located in a residential area, and there is no public parking, There are no amenities on the beach, so take plenty of water and snacks with you, No pets or alcohol are allowed on this beach. Then there's the butterfly garden and reptile habitat, making the Secret Woods fun for nature-loving adults and kids alike. Home to the only air-filled caves open to the public in Florida, be sure to explore and take a cave tour to see the stunning limestone formations, soda straws, and draperies. It is a great experience for animal lovers, kids, and anybody to learn more about endangered animals because it is geared towards educating people and helping rehabilitate animals that are unable to be safely released into the wild. Hidden Gems in Florida 15 Awesome Secret Spots From a Local! 2) Alligator Kayaking Safari in Rocks Springs Run. Another off-the-beaten path in Florida for your bucket list! Universal Studios in Florida is a thriving and active place to go for family fun. Some of the caves are tall enough to stand in, with natural benches formed by the erosive power of the tides. A popular eatery in Jacksonville, eat like a local at this cozy location that has been a long-time local favorite French bistro. Relax and enjoy this untouched stretch of beach. Tropical Palms RV Resort: Hidden Gem - See 2,079 traveller reviews, 342 candid photos, and great deals for Tropical Palms RV Resort at Tripadvisor. There are a host of ravishing views visible as you walk around the island and fort. Meet my friend Rafiki at the giraffe feeding station. Whether you are stopping for the day or making an entire trip out of it, there is plenty to do to keep you entertained in this natural paradise. There are three cozy dining rooms lined with books, or a lush, green courtyard and patio. . Overall, Gatorland is nothing short of incredible and you can remain safe while exploring the land and visiting the enclosures that are filled with such dangerous beasts. Explore the Honeymoon Island State Park, 2. A tip for those who are frugal and like their drinks is to sit down at a slot machine and put in a few dollars and await your free drink. Try one of their variations on bruschetta or the sandwiches served on their fresh bread. 2. Great post, Paula! Address: 4923 20th Ave S, Gulfport, FL 33707, United States. The statue of Juan Ponce de Leon is located in downtown St. Augustine that is home to many historical monuments and memorials. The Manatee Sanctuary Park in Cocoa Beach is a must-see for those looking to explore the magnificent underwater world of Florida. || { if they offer Dramamine, you & # x27 ; s only! Them and been transformed into a rustic, tropical garden for all to.. 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