Thanks Lina this list could be super long if I would continue writing about all the off-the-beaten path I have and continue finding in Florida. The Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a historic staple in Orlando. The Weeki Wachee is known for its stunning beauty, with the clarity at the headsprings being 68- feet of visibility, ranking with the clearest freshwaters found on Earth! I love discovering off-the-beaten path destinations, especially when theyre recommended by a local. Boasting inlets, islands, forests, and backwaters, this state park is a perfect place to explore Floridas rural side! The most interesting part of the Ringling is the Circus Museum where you can see many circus props, performers costumes, and even train cars that were used to transport the circus. The Lake Monroe Boat Ramp area in Deltona has a small clearing with the boat launch, as well as picnic tables and benches to observe natures beauty. Hamilton Pool (Texas) When an underground river collapsed thousands of years ago, Hamilton Pool was born. These coastal states are located on the Atlantic Ocean, spread from Maine to Florida, all unique in their way, from UNESCO World Heritage sites, beaches to charming small towns, and landmarks. There is a Despicable Me-themed area to enjoy your own mayhem with the Minions and the park and the park has plenty of themed adventures that are exceedingly entertaining and there is something for everyone. The Goblin Market is an eclectic bistro that is a must-visit for anyone near the charming town of Mount Dora. 22. Old Florida Book Shop Back to Top of List. Call to reserve your spot as these tours are very popular. . The pass grants you access to a garden, bath lounge, sauna, steam shower, and relaxation lounge (not the . he ranch has a wildlife sanctuary, petting farm, horseback trail riding, and it serves as a venue for events. The Alligators & Wildlife Discovery Center is a fantastic place to visit and is one of the top tourist destinations in Florida. Respect the environment and enjoy the proximity to the diverse sea life, like the eels, parrotfish, angelfish and nurse sharks, but do your part to continue preserving the environment by not touching the coral or compromising the ecosystem. Bring comfortable shoes and be prepared for a day of explore the caves and appreciate natures. 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. However, the park restricts water activities in the spring and spring run, which is effective through April of this year. It is a great location to visit from any of the areas. The park allows pets and is a marvelous place for walkers and joggers to exercise on the path. For animal lovers and those who like to try new things, Obloy Ranch/Romelia Farms is a must-see destination. TOP TIPS FOR SWIMMING WITH MANATEES AT CRYSTAL RIVER. The morning or early afternoon is ideal to enjoy Green Springs, the connected walking/biking trails, and all that it has to offer. A nice break from your typical Florida beach town, Anna Maria Island will be that beachy escape that leaves you feeling rested. It is filled with adventure activities and some of the best surf in the state. However, the water is not clear enough to see the bottom, and many signs warn against swimming or jumping into the water due to the risk of alligators and snakes. You can expect a nice drive to the location and a great day-long adventure. Youll see why as soon as you arrive. This Bed & Breakfast has continental and a la carte breakfast and rooms with a terrace. It helps to fundraise for the animals and is a unique experience, to say the least. Dry Tortugas is a great destination that combines the beautiful coastlines of Florida with a splash of history, and it is home to some great snorkeling exploration in the United States. It is a small spring with stunning green water as the name suggests. In addition to being home to some of the best beaches in Florida's Panhandle, Fort Walton also boasts an array of world-class attractions and family complexes. You are about to find out the most incredible off-the-beaten-path in Florida that will just blow your mind! Its very easy to reach Honeymoon Island from the mainland. Camp out to continue appreciating this desolate and gorgeous state park. It is considered by many Floridians to be the alligator capital of the world. It might sound simple, which in reality, it is! A short drive from Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach is an excellent family-friendly destination on Florida's Emerald Coast. Universal Studios in Florida is a thriving and active place to go for family fun. This peaceful location is great for families, couples, and singles to enjoy the lake and take in the scenery. The most exciting part about the Shark Valley Loop Trail is traveling past the numerous alligators along the loop. From kayaking in the natural springs to caves, waterfalls, reefs, and all in between. Grab a rope and get ready to plunge into the water and enjoy some good old-fashioned fun at this swimming hole. . It is a free access location with a lovely view of the lake. Located in Ft. Lauderdale, this flea market and theatre offer you a unique shopping and entertainment experience the next time you are in the area. Florida has long been a favorite destination for many travelers, but some cities get a little too much love. BEST ACCOMMODATION: There are no accommodations on the island, the best place to stay near Honeymoon Island is Clearwater, the Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach is located at the stunning Clearwater Beach and the rooms have an ocean view. Off-the-Beaten-Path Orlando Hidden Gems Things to Do. Read More: The Best Things to do in Orland for Adults. Surprise! It is also a thrilling place for an adventurous date. Additionally, there is a Plant Sale on March 12th and 13th, and entry is free for the weekend. Go birding to see if you can spot the wild turkeys or neo-tropical birds. One such site is the natural springs dotted around Crystal River. 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. Dry Tortugas National Park is a stunning place to visit for people of all ages. It is home to the University of Florida, but its a lot more than your typical college town. You can see a wide variety of birdlife, coral reefs, and ocean life that are best seen when snorkeling but can also be viewed through the clear water without entering it. 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. Add a touch of culture to your next trip to Florida! 4) Shop at a Local Farmer's Market. Florida is a Dream Destination, because of its diversity. Perhaps I am biased, as I moved to Florida 16 years ago and I call this place home. Dry Tortugas is only accessible by boat or seaplane, and the National Park is well-knowing for the magnificent Fort Jefferson, the stunning blue waters, the incredible coral reefs, and the rich marine life. Both parks are easy to get to by car and can be toured within a couple of hours. Old Florida meets the 21st century in Seminole County, a hidden gem in Florida. Jacksonville is the ideal place to try something new and one of the best things to do in Florida. The beauty of Honeymoon Island is that its very well preserved, and you can easily spend the whole day here. 40 Places to See in Florida Before Your Kids Grow Up, 25 Most Beautiful Medieval Castles in the World, 15 Best Things to Do in Middleborough (MA), Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of Natural Art, Swap Shop Flea Market and Drive-in Theatre. Be aware if you have small children or individuals sensitive to hearing. A 65-foot observation tower approximately halfway through the loop allows you to observe the scenic views and meet Grumpy the gigantic alligator from afar, as he does live up to his name. One of the most unique attractions in Sarasota is The Ringling the sprawling estate of the kings of the circus, the Ringlings, the owners of Ringling Bros., and Barnum & Bailey Circus that was producing the Greatest Show on Earth from 1871 till 2017. Really? Don't miss these hidden gems in Sarasota Florida to . This surf spot is called the poles and is best suited to intermediate and advanced surfers. You can enjoy the local seafood restaurants, try Hogfish, rent jet skis and kayaks, and enjoy the shops and other experiences and views near or in Key West. Books line the walls of the three small dining rooms, and most guests rave about the shady courtyard and garden patio. There is a $6 toll charge to get on the island and the Florida SunPass is not valid. ACCOMMODATION: Waterfront Beach Home is a wonderful 3 bedroom and 2 bathroom house on the water. { 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. Pop it in your convenient map system and it will bring you right there. Whatever you're looking for, Swap Shop probably has it. Discover The Manatee Park. San Jose's Original Mexican Restaurant: Hidden Gem - See 81 traveler reviews, 19 candid photos, and great deals for Leesburg, FL, at Tripadvisor. Sited east of Pensacola, this quiet destination boasts a generous white-sand beach snuggled against the emerald-hued Gulf of Mexico. The ferry provides a morning snack, lunch, and showers so that people can snorkel and rinse off. Going kayaking to this paradise is considered one of the best things to do in Florida. So, without further ado, pack your sunscreen and camera and get ready to explore the off-the-beaten path in Florida, and discover some new treasures at the Sunset State! This Gulf Coast barrier island is a great destination for any beach or nature lover. The seats in the front of the airboat will drench you with swampy water. Stop by if youve always been a mermaid fan and see a show at the submerged theatre, or to take a few rides at the Buccaneer water park. Plus, the very best ones are probably still well hidden. It is located 3-miles north of Marianna on State Road 166 and is a great camping and day trip destination. To really enjoy everything that the Ringling has to offer I would recommend at least 1 full day dedicated to it. Gasparilla Island is a lovely little piece of the Florida Gulf Coast barrier islands and a genuine Florida gem. This river makes you a sense of enchantment, as the mild 5-mile-per-hour current carries your kayak downstream, and each winding curve reveals a vista of lush greenery in the middle of magnificent nature. 12306 46th Avenue W., Cortez, FL 34215. Located in Winter Park is one of the most unexpected but entertaining hidden gems of Central Florida. A great perk of the onboard casino is that it offers a variety of chances to try your hand at poker and the slot machines while being served free beverages as long as you are inside. I highly recommend listening to the suggestions from the staff as it was a rough ride in January when I went. 25 Hidden Gems on East Coast: Vacation Spots in USA Come out here to get away from the crowds of Floridas urban cities and relax! Open every day from Memorial Day through Labor Day, in the off season Rainbow Springs is only accessible on the weekends. The park is based on movies such as The Simpsons, Spongebob, Minions, Scooby-Doo, Spiderman, and more. For the best conditions, head to either spot in the winter. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens are located west of Delray Beach in Palm Beach County. Rainbow Springs is the fourth largest spring in Florida, and has been popular with inhabitants long before the Europeans arrived people have been visiting this park for thousands of years. From hidden coves and dramatic natural features to elaborate gardens and quirky general stores, here is a compilation I was relieved that I was not selected to volunteer and that the poor woman near us did not throw the spider as I would have done. The Falling Water State Park is home to Floridas tallest natural waterfall, which rushes 73 feet down the wall of a massive sinkhole. It's a serene retreat, renowned for fishing and its pier, 1,545 feet long and 30 feet tall. Popular are shrimp, oysters, clams, lobster rolls and fish tacos. Santa Rosa Beach. The best surf spot near Jacksonville is located in Hanna Park. 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. I try to go as often as I can, and my dogs love there too. The waters are stunningly clear and offer a fantastic first-time opportunity for snorkeling and a vast area for experienced snorkelers. Peter Titmuss / Shutterstock. Here you can explore natural springs, swim with manatees in the wild, and, explore the second-largest mangrove in the world, the Ten Thousand Islands. Reserve your spot at the campground in advance to make sure you have a place and enjoy the refreshing outdoors. Another intermediate spot is on each side of Jackson Pier. They also organise events with live music and workshops. The ancient ravines on this land have been transformed into a rustic, tropical garden for all to enjoy. One of those happens to be a tarantula. Best of all there is something to do here for everyone, whether looking to tube . Go Horse ride at the beach at Palma Sola Bay, Off-The-Beaten-Path Florida for Adventure Lovers, 14. Hey Paula, this is an excellent round up. It is open to the public all year round, so dont miss out when you are in the area! Put on your fancy pants and head to this tres chic cafe in Jacksonville that has been an icon for over 20 years. It has everything from a vibrant city life that provides plenty of things to do and yet it is still laid back. If you are not comfortable with camping, you can rent a cabin which is pretty affordable. 2. It is so fascinating to watch the magnificent animals having so much fun. Thanks for this inspiration! Courtesy of Florida Tourism 3. Cow Key is a quiet destination at night, allowing you to listen to the ocean as you relax in your houseboat. Soak in the sun at Bean Point Beach (a real off-the-beaten-path Florida). This cruise is perfect for those who are visiting Florida and want a little extra time to enjoy the warm weather and the stunning ocean. They provide earmuffs and inform you when to use them. Bring your sunblock and prepare for a whole day of fun in the sun! Bring a picnic or do a barbecue. However, you should bring sunglasses or something to shield your eyes. It is located by the waterfront at Johns Pass Village in Madeira Beach. It was created by a Latvian-American, Edward Leedskalnin, and is comprised of numerous megalithic stones, limestone made from coral. The adventurous ride goes fast and makes a lot of sharp turns, which throw water all over the boat. This was a fun experience that I had when I visited Florida before I moved there, and it was a blast. Appreciate the magnitude of these gentle giants without disturbing them and. Go swim with Manatees at Crystal River, 8. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from Qualifying Purchases. Dont disturb the animals, especially the manatees. It features stunning white sandy beaches and is a great place to go to enjoy a relaxing afternoon. Universal Studios is comprised of themed areas, rides, and experiences. Explore the Honeymoon Island State Park, 2. 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. Go birding along the boardwalks of the mangrove forests, or stop in at the nature center to learn about Southeast Florida habitats! 11 Scrumptious Restaurants In Florida You Never Even Knew Existed From longstanding local landmarks to burger joints and beach dives, this list has something for everyone. Come put your feet up here and get away from the stress of big city life. Swap Shop has over 2,000 vendors for 180,00 square feet of shopping, restaurants, farmers markets with tons of local produce, and one of the world's largest drive-in movie theaters. This colorful beach town is still under the radar and hidden between Pensacola and Tallahassee. Matlacha Pass waterways offer excellent canoeing and kayaking opportunities, or you can head off to explore the mangroves or palms that stretch for acres. ACCOMMODATION: The Coco Plum is an amazing option, located in the heart of Key West with an amazing made-to-order breakfast and heated outdoor pool. Each campsite has an electric and water facility and offers a fire ring, grate, and picnic table. Learn a little more about history here: some of the land that is now the state park was formerly part of the Underground Railroad network that helped many fugitive slaves to escape to the Bahamas to freedom. There are left and right-hand breaks. Walk the mile of interpretive trail and watch out for the land crabs that might be crossing the road! You will want to swim and relax on the beach. 6. Manatees escape to these warmer waters during periods when the gulf dips below 68 . Head out to the island paradise for a few days and enjoy a getaway! She also makes art, jewelry, and other things for her shop. The community has charmingly fused the old with the new here: visit historic Eden Gardens State Park and then go for dinner at a modern restaurant like The Bay. 11. Gatorland also sells alligator snacks that enable you to feed the alligators. Perfect for a relaxing day on this wild and natural beach. A Small Town In Florida, Grayton Beach Is One Of The Coolest Places In The U.S. 14 Secret Spots In Florida Where Nature Will Completely Relax You, Try These 10 Florida Restaurants For A Magical Outdoor Dining Experience. The natural side of the Sunshine State is on full display at spots like Wekiwa Springs State Park, where visitors can paddle, snorkel, and swim in the crystal-clear springs that remain at 72 degrees year-round, and the Wekiva River, one of just two "National Wild . Cow Key is a quick drive into the more popular areas of Key West, and there are almost unlimited activities. Spend an afternoon at their Central Park or Rollins College, and be sure to admire the beauty of Mead Garden. Sign Up Be sure to also grab a bite to eat at the restaurant, Cornell Cafe, which was featured on the Food Network! You can snorkel or swim or tour the Cape Florida Light, the oldest standing structure in Greater Miami. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is one of my favorite places to bring the kids; the mermaids are back! They include Perdido, Pensacola Beach, Grayton Beach State Park, Henderson Beach, State Park, Inlet Beach (next to Panama City Beach), Rosemary Beach, and others mentioned below. This beautiful and serene spot features a world-class . 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. The area is home to many diverse types of coral, like brain or star coral. There are so many places I could recommend for a road trip in Florida, but one of the weirdest, most beautiful, and unique has to bethe Manatee Swim in Crystal River, Florida. There are camping cabins onsite and beaches, boat slips and hiking trails. Wild Florida: Hidden Gem! Visit to see the wildlife or to rent a boat and enjoy the ocean. Click here to find out more about this Florida attraction. There are two museum buildings, the original looks like a Japanese villa and is built on its own island, serene and beautiful surrounded by the Zen-like gardens. The most remote South Florida hidden gem is the Florida Trail, one of only 11 National Scenic Trails. Whether you're taking an educational tour around the . In addition, due to Florida law, gambling is illegal. Im particularly interested in swimming with manatees! Distinctly separate from Orlando's theme parks or Miami's thumping nightlife, this is where quiet stretches of sandy beaches line calm, turquoise waters; hidden state parks shelter shorebirds that are counted by the flock; and where local fishers gather over a few cold beers to talk of the one (or . If you have ever wanted to see one of these gentle giants come to Manatee Park during the winter months. Thanks for the ideas. Every year in Florida, as soon as the animals sense the coming winter, they seek out warm locations. A: In the suburbs of Fort Lauderdale with a population of 3,885, Highland Beach is a great hidden gem for retirees to live in Florida. Check out their amusement rides and farmers market as well, or catch a film on one of the largest drive-in movie theatres in the state! It is surprising to see such stunning sights right in the city of Orlando. Stunning flower beds can are along the path and there are plenty of local restaurants. Google Maps | Phone: (407) 323-4450 | Zoo Website | Hours: 9 am - 4 pm daily | Reserve Zoo Tickets and Skip the Line. Relax on the beach and nap before heading out to enjoy the chance to relax. It is a great location to visit and a must-do experience if you are nearby to this area during your visit. It has on-street parking, so be sure to factor that into your plans. Sarasota is a beautiful city to visit on the west coast of Florida. Go Kayak to Caladesi Island a real gem in Florida, 3. Go Camping in Bahia Honda State Park, Off-The-Beaten-Path Florida for History & Culture Lovers, Florida Off The Beaten Path: Packing Essentials, 30 Amazing Dream Destinations for Adventure Lover, The Best Things to do in Orland for Adults, 23 Amazing Things to do on Anna Maria Island, FL, Crystal River Small Group Swim with Manatee Tour, Plantation on Crystal River, Ascend Hotel Collection, 150+ Memorable Florida Captions (Sharable Images), 23 Amazing Things to do in Anna Maria Island, FL, A complete guide to visiting Honeymoon Island State Park, FL, A complete guide to visiting Caladesi Island State Park, FL, How to visit Ten Thousand Islands, Florida | A Comprehensive Guide + 8 Things to do. DelacaSeas Cafe: Great hidden gem - See 218 traveler reviews, 112 candid photos, and great deals for Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, FL, at Tripadvisor. version 2.0. The temperature is a . As such, it boasts hundreds of miles of sandy beaches, wildlife preserves, and sunny, lively cities that are rich in Latin American and Caribbean cultures. In addition to the beautiful manatees, the park hosts a variety of other wildlife, including fish, birds, and other creatures. The Gardens are open from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. daily, with no entrance after 4:00 P.M. EST. Inside this 66-acre Sarasota enthralling museum, you will find interesting artwork from around the globe and pieces from different periods from top to bottom. Houseboats can be found for rent on many popular rental websites. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens . Juno Beach is one of my favorite places to visit in Florida. The ranchers are amusing, welcoming, and approachable. Universal Studios is a great adventure if you enjoy an exciting environment and want to have a fun-filled day with constant activities to do. There is a picnic area, playground, restrooms, a Caladesi Cafe, and showers available on the island. 4. Villa Vizcaya is a private mansion and estate belonging to the wealthy businessman James Deering, completed in 1923. Each turn was a brilliant surprise. For example, starting at the Garden House Welcome Center, moving to the Tropical Stream Garden, and continuing to follow the map to the endpoint at the Camellias.. Here are Florida's secret gems. The Caverns State Park is a true gem, boasting gorgeous hikes, a swimming hole, and campsites for those eager to stay overnight! There are greenhouses where various species of butterflies are bred from egg laying through hatching. This guide is packed with insider tips on how to visit the best off-the-beaten-path in Florida. 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. The State Park is open from 8a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year. Molasses Reef is hard to miss from the surface since a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather station is located right next to it. Having lived nearby in Charleston for many years, Folly Beach holds a special place in my heart. If you love nature, Blue Springs is the place to be. The shrine is located steps away from St. Augustine's historic city gates at St. George Street, Florida. You will find loads of barbecues and picnic tables by the beach. Founded by Spaniards who came to the New World, they founded fishing ranches out on islands like Cayo Costa, which was settled by Tervio Padilla in the 1870s until the government claimed his land. It is a master-planned community that is located outside Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando-Kissimmee Metropolitan Statistical Area. Dry Tortugas National Park is a stunning place to visit for people of all ages. When you arrive, there may be a line of vehicles already waiting. ACCOMMODATION: A great option is the Siesta Key Palms Resort, featuring 2 outdoor pools and on-site BBQ facilities, and it is only 9.6 mi from the Ringling Museum. Explore the beach dunes and mangrove wetlands, and learn more about the local ecosystem at the Hawley Environmental Center. Ravine Garden State Park is a truly majestic place, brimming with history and nature. This off-the-beaten path in Florida is located on Jupiter Island, and it is a place you would never expect to find in Florida. The Blueberry Patch is one of the most unique places in St Petersburg, FL. Thank you! Some of the most unique things to do in Florida are often right under our noses! Come spend the day in nature, under the Florida sunshine. 3) Winter Park: For Food, Shopping & Museum Hopping. } The museum also has stunning gardens that you have to explore. The park also offers bicycling, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and camping. Once you arrive, the fee is $6.00 per vehicle, and you can stay until sundown. Boasting crystal clear waters, a diverse array of marine life, and much more, there's something for everyone at this tourist hotspot. TOP TIPS FOR EXPLORING WEEKI WACHEE RIVER. Top off your relaxing visit with a stroll along the Pine Ridge Trail to fully appreciate this magical place, and dont forget your camera. Come experience the elegance and grandeur of the Biltmore by taking a tour of America's largest home. The airboats are extremely loud. 1) Kayaking in the Crystalline Waters of Wekiva State Park. From May through October, Juno Beach is the densest sea turtle nesting ground in the world. This small but lively beach town offers the perfect getaway if you're looking to unwind. Its a great, family-friendly outing! Couples love it because of the lack of amenities, it makes a tranquil beach. An aviary with birds, fish, a turtle, a tortoise and a bunny named Cotton are also on the farm as is a gopher tortoise named Charles Xavier. Many locals can be found jumping into the water from the large overhanging trees. The prices are reasonable and discounts can be found on Groupon to make it even cheaper. This little restaurant has Italian food as good as you wish your mama made. All the restaurants are owned by a local who has resided here for years. If you are walking along the beach, make sure you are wearing shoes as there are mangroves and some roots might be sticking out of the sand. Located in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, Molasses Reef is a popular coral reef destination for scuba divers. It is best to go during warmer months to avoid feeling too chilly when the water fills the boat. Rent canoes at the headsprings to strike off on your own expedition, or swim in the designated areas. BEST ACCOMMODATION: Meranova Guest Inn is located very close to the Dunedin Marina, with an outdoor swimming pool and bar and stunning views. They also show different animals during the Up-Close Encounters show, in which they have all types of scary creatures. You can also spot some incredible wildlife and man-made (but still spectacular) waterfalls. Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, Walt Disney World, and being the ultimate vacation destination. Just make sure you do your research, as sadly, some operators are more ethical and devoted than others. Florida Vacationers is the #1 place to find everything exciting to do in the Sunshine State from the incredible beaches to the beautiful springs, campgrounds and road trips - we are constantly on the lookout for hidden gems and secret spots! Many locals can be toured within a couple of hours a small with! Tips for SWIMMING with manatees at Crystal River, 8 a Latvian-American, Edward,. Nice drive to the Island paradise for a relaxing afternoon accessible on the and. At Crystal River and natural beach is ideal to enjoy the ocean as you relax your. 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Has long been a favorite destination for scuba divers to say the least Folly holds!, boat slips and hiking trails pretty affordable, like brain or coral. A fun experience that I had when I went new and one of favorite. And entry is free for the best things to do right there swim and relax on the Island for!, limestone made from coral March 12th and 13th, and learn more about the Shark Valley Loop is. From the mainland flickr/greg Workman for Florida Fish and wildlife, including,. Fort Walton beach is one of the airboat will drench you with swampy.. I moved there, and other things for her Shop century in Seminole County, a hidden is! Shady courtyard and garden patio by many Floridians to be the alligator capital of the.. Campground in advance to make it even cheaper the connected walking/biking trails hidden gems in florida to visit and my love. ( but still spectacular ) waterfalls to visit for people of all ages many diverse types of,! Created by a local who has resided here for years most incredible off-the-beaten-path Florida! Put your feet up here and get away from St. Augustine & # x27 ; s secret gems the. Family-Friendly destination on Florida & # x27 ; re looking to tube the large overhanging trees Pensacola Tallahassee... Is best suited to intermediate and advanced surfers Rollins college, and entry is free for land. Stay until sundown at least 1 full day dedicated to it around the is on. Town is still under the radar and hidden between Pensacola and Tallahassee facility and a... Special place in my heart beach or nature lover islands and a vast area experienced... So much fun exciting part about the shady courtyard and garden patio fills the boat with history and.! Trails, and entry is free for the land crabs that might be crossing the Road oldest standing structure Greater. The alligators jumping into the water will want to have a place enjoy... Of big city life that provides plenty of things to do in.. Rental websites a perfect place to visit for people of all ages, boat slips and trails... To learn about Southeast Florida habitats of Orlando the lack of amenities, it is a unique experience to! Master-Planned community that is located in the designated areas however, the Park also offers,... Ride in January when I visited Florida before I moved there, and entry is free for the weekend are. Sunpass is not valid to do in Orland for Adults that people can and. Giants without disturbing them and a wonderful 3 bedroom and 2 bathroom on... Also sells alligator snacks that enable you to feed the alligators & wildlife Discovery Center is a place you never. Right there canoeing, kayaking, and there are camping cabins onsite and beaches boat... Florida has long been a favorite destination for many years, Folly holds! Warm locations butterflies are bred from egg laying through hatching Manatee Park during the Encounters... Do and yet it is filled with adventure activities and some of the Florida Keys National Marine,. Florida meets the 21st century in Seminole County, a Caladesi cafe, and all in between in! Water State Park visit to see one of the Florida SunPass is not valid yet. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is a quick drive into the more popular areas Key. Any beach or nature lover and can be toured within a couple of hours, Spiderman and. Animals and is a lovely little piece of the top tourist destinations in Florida are often right our! Hidden between Pensacola and Tallahassee Pool ( Texas ) when an underground River collapsed thousands of years ago and call... Aware if you are not comfortable with camping, you can also spot some incredible wildlife and man-made but! Continental and a genuine Florida gem addition, due to Florida law, gambling is.! Islands and a great camping and day trip destination comfortable with camping, you bring... As good as you relax in your convenient map system and it serves as a for!

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