Located in the Florida Panhandle, it's the only Florida state park with air-filled caves accessible to the public. We are so happy to have you as part of our Florida Vacationers community! The beach is pristine, with crystal water, and white sands, surrounded by nature and framed with the blue sky almost all year long. The top deck is a fabulous place to soak in the sunshine and enjoy a cold beverage. listeners: [], Chris Cook-Leitz has worked in the travel industry since 2008 and opened her own travel advisor company in 2015. 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. A visit to one of the spookiest hidden gems in South Carolina will sure to please everyone in the family. If you want to venture off the beaten path so to speak and discover some of Floridas secret treasures we have you covered. 5) Visit the Cute Small Town of Windermere. 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. } Its a great, family-friendly outing! Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures is the perfect place to get a great Florida feel. 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. As the waves break against the limestone rock on the beach, water sprays through erosion holes in the rock, creating a breathtaking sight, although it could be slightly hazardous for those disinclined to get wet. version 2.0. I have been to more than 40 countries while following my fitness journey. Weeki Wachee River is one of the best places to go kayaking in Florida, and it is absolutely one of my favorite things to do in Florida. Meet my friend Rafiki at the giraffe feeding station. Youll find everything from one-on-one lessons to group lessons, and surf packages. Sitting atop the cruise ship presents stunning views of the ocean, wildlife, and if you look closely you may be able to observe basking sharks and other marine life. This amazing museum is the state art museum of Florida, yet it tends to get bypassed by tourists, ensuring it ranks on the list as one of the must-see hidden gems in Florida. Another intermediate spot is on each side of Jackson Pier. Some of the rock formations are sharp and prickly; others are smooth and wave-worn. 21 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Miami, Florida Updated January 30, 2023 Share Tweet Email It is also much less buggy earlier in the day, so instead of having to use as much bug spray, you may want sunblock and a lot of water. Glass Beach is a popular attraction in Fort Bragg and one of the best hidden gems in the US | Flickr/lyssah. Caladesi Island is considered a wild oasis in Florida, this hidden gem in Florida was elected the number one beach in the U.S. in 2018 The beach is the main reason people visit Caladesi Island.It stretches for 4 miles from the North tip of the Island to Dunedin Pass. 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. The most exciting part about the Shark Valley Loop Trail is traveling past the numerous alligators along the loop. The ancient ravines on this land have been transformed into a rustic, tropical garden for all to enjoy. 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. Relax and enjoy this untouched stretch of beach. He claimed that magnets had helped heal him from tuberculosis, and spend over 28 years building the Coral Castle. Come put your feet up here and get away from the stress of big city life. . Virtually all have natural chimneys exposing the sky above. 9. The beauty of Honeymoon Island is that its very well preserved, and you can easily spend the whole day here. From feeding giraffes to touching stingrays, it's the ultimate place to get close to the most fascinating animals. It stretches for 4 miles from the North tip of the Island to Dunedin Pass. One such site is the natural springs dotted around Crystal River. Spend some time getting to know the works of American designer, Louis Comfort Tiffany this museum boasts the worlds most comprehensive collection of his art. we just happen to be in the neighborhood she showed us around even gave us some small free vegetables please come and visit them true Florida people real locals. 11. Juno Beach sits between Jupiter and West Palm Beach, and it is home to the unspoiled coastline, blissfully laid-back vibes, and home of the most beloved residents, sea turtles! Sound like a dreamy way to escape your staycation rut? You need to plan your visit ahead, due to the parks remote location and limited transportation options. It is close to many of Orlandos main sites. Come spend the day in nature, under the Florida sunshine. 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. Ebyabe CC by SA 3.0. Tucked away along the Atlantic Coast of South Florida, Martin County offers an authentic slice of paradise, blending seaside allure with a dash of Key West whimsy and true "Old Florida" charm. The Leu House Museum is inside the Welcome Center and is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. EST. The desserts are especially scrumptious, especially the cheesecake! They are so amazing and docile, I love manatees and they are one of my favorite animals ever. The well-known landmark Mickey Pylon can be found in Celebration Florida is another hidden gem Florida has! Drive iconic scenic coastal highway 30A to discover a variety of the coolest Florida beach towns. Head out to the lagoon and cross it to find 3 miles of white sand beach and shells, with dolphins frolicking in the water. 25 Hidden Gems on East Coast: Vacation Spots in USA I will most likely have to write a second revision of this post soon. It is located in Kissimmee and is a moderate trip from downtown Orlando. Call to reserve your spot as these tours are very popular. You can also spot some incredible wildlife and man-made (but still spectacular) waterfalls. Visit what might be the only cave painting in Florida, and enjoy the waterfalls at the Falling Waters Sink, where the water cascades down into a 100ft sinkhole. You wouldn't believe you were in Florida while strolling through these historic gardens. Gatorland also sells alligator snacks that enable you to feed the alligators. A true definition of a hidden gem, many Floridians have never heard of Crystal River. 7908 Three Rivers Park Rd, Sneads, FL 32460. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Wekiwa Island and Wekiwa Springs. Ocala National Forest spans over 600 square miles of northern Florida, and is bursting with activities for any time of year. She also makes art, jewelry, and other things for her shop. Peter Titmuss / Shutterstock. Our Top Hidden Gems! The park is free and is open from 6:00 A.M. to 11:59 P.M. Swan Boat rentals are available on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, from 10:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. To ensure you get a chance to rent a swan boat, be sure to arrive earlier in the day. Make this a nice afternoon coffee and snack break the next time youre in Jacksonville! Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures offers a wild adventure and additional activities suited to children, so it is a worthwhile place to visit for anybody. This is displayed well in the Jumparoo Show, where the alligators are enticed to jump out of the water to grab a raw chicken that is hanging above them on a rope controlled by the staff. The Everglades is one of the best scenic and wild adventures that you can go on while still having the opportunity to visit the park at your own pace. It was named after the editor of the Miami News, Bill Baggs, who worked at the paper from 1957-1969. This Urban Wilderness Area features a great many different trees native to Florida, including cypress, maple, mangrove, and a laurel oak hammock. However, exploring something off the beaten path can be so much more rewarding. 6. On the way back, about 90% of the passengers purchased it. It is a fantastic spot to experience the best of nature and outdoor activities, with the famous bridge and offshore island. Hi Terri, yes the Ringling Circus is an amazing place and I am so glad you enjoyed this article. Did you know you can ride a horse at the beach in Florida? Steinhatchee Falls. Bring comfortable shoes and be prepared for a day of explore the caves and appreciate natures. The Manatee Sanctuary Park in Cocoa Beach is a must-see for those looking to explore the magnificent underwater world of Florida. While in the neighborhood, stop at Alma Sue's Quilts.. 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. Not really a hidden gem in Florida but no Florida list is complete without a mention of Universal Studios! I love discovering off-the-beaten path destinations, especially when theyre recommended by a local. 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. In the heart of the Everglades and mangrove islands lies the remote, wild Tigertail Beach. Caladesi Island State Park is located on the island by the same name in the Gulf of Mexico. Performances are still offered, and real-live mermaids, professional swimmers using fins, continue to delight guests. The forests boast versatile and diverse terrain, from palm-filled oases to sand pine flatlands and prairie wetlands. However, this cruise gives you the freedom to gamble in international waters. While you are here, be sure to check out the local farmers market, or explore the waterways on a scenic boat tour. Swimwear is a must on Honeymoon Island! You can also see a restored Byzantine-Romanesque chapel that was also designed by Tiffany himself for the 1893 Worlds Columbian Exposition. Among other exhibits are American art pottery and early 2th century American paintings and graphics. When you enter the Gardens, it feels like a whole different planet. But for my money, the best eating can be found in a quiet little neighborhood known as Pinecraft, home to an Amish-Mennonite community and its delicious home-cooking restaurants famous for their pies.. Explore the Ten Thousand Island Wildlife Refugee, 7. I traveled via the Yankee Freedom Ferry which is roughly a 2 1/2 hour trip each way, pun intended. A nice break from your typical Florida beach town, Anna Maria Island will be that beachy escape that leaves you feeling rested. 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. Have a relaxing picnic here surrounded by nature, or go jogging, hiking or biking along the gardens to cover more ground. The Blueberry Patch is one of the most unique places in St Petersburg, FL. Click here to find out more about this Florida attraction. The mornings are beautiful, and from the houseboat, I could eat my breakfast while watching the pelicans eat theirs. This is the smallest little organic farm but Susie runs a tight ship . You can also follow the signs at the Indian River Lagoon boardwalk to learn more about the nature that calls Blowing Rocks Preserve home. 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. Florida has tons of attractions that you wont find anywhere else in the world, and no, were not talking about Disney World. Home Florida Vacation Ideas Hidden Gems in Florida 15 Awesome Secret Spots From a Local! Come by for a quick lunch or to take advantage of their full bar and gourmet dinner fare. Enjoy the lagoon or the beach for emerald Gulf waters and bright white sand. For animal lovers and those who like to try new things, Obloy Ranch/Romelia Farms is a must-see destination. Dry Tortugas National Park is a stunning place to visit for people of all ages. Donated to the state in 1962, Falling Waters is a great nature retreat. Another tree makes the list of hidden gems in St. Augustine. Located just south of Chipley, Washington County, Falling Waters State Park encompasses 171 acres and is home to the highest waterfall in the state. Old Florida meets the 21st century in Seminole County, a hidden gem in Florida. The island is approximately 70 miles from Key West and is only accessible by seaplane or boat. The park also offers bicycling, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and camping. Boasting crystal clear waters, a diverse array of marine life, and much more, there's something for everyone at this tourist hotspot. In the early 20 th century, people dumped their trash off the cliffs by the ocean. 22. It can also be roamed freely, which I found to be the most exciting approach. Rent canoes at the headsprings to strike off on your own expedition, or swim in the designated areas. ACCOMMODATION: The best place to stay is at Everglades City at the Ivey House an eco-friendly hotel only 15 minutes walk from the main attractions. 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. 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 Juno Beach Pier is the main hub of activity in town, and you can find a Pier House with a bait shop, snack bar, and pole rentals. How To Visit Caladesi Island State Park in Florida, according to a Local! From May through October, Juno Beach is the densest sea turtle nesting ground in the world. he ranch has a wildlife sanctuary, petting farm, horseback trail riding, and it serves as a venue for events. Are you ready!? Hurricanes, age, neglect, and other factors destroyed most of the structures but there are still some to see. Since the opening of the canoe outfitter at the headsprings, Weeki Wachee is very popular and can be crowded especially on weekends. There are some stunning public beaches (with free parking), and it felt like a hidden gem on it's own. If you prefer to stay on land, hike the Florida Scenic Trail and spend the night there are several campsites in Ocala National Forest. Formed in a hurricane in 1921, sand and earth formed a beautiful beach that boasts a 3 mile nature trail, marina, pavilions and concession stand. Lake Monroe is a charming lake that can be accessed from Sanford, DeBary, and Deltona. Florida's Emerald Coast comprises a few of the Sunshine State's best-kept secrets. It might sound simple, which in reality, it is! However, near the boat launch is the quietest location. There are endless exciting encounters and opportunities to keep the entire family excited. Some of the most unique things to do in Florida are often right under our noses! Appreciate the magnitude of these gentle giants without disturbing them and. It is only 20 minutes northeast of downtown Orlando, Winter Park gained its name after the arrival of the South Florida Railroad in 1880. . Almost 100 years ago, Opa-Locka Florida popped up in Miami as a fantasy town modeled after Arabian Nights. - Opting Out of Normal. There are also shallow areas ideal for snorkeling at Elkhorn and Boulder Corals. The worst of the rainfall typically hits during the hottest months of the year: June, July, and August. Hydrophonic and aquaphonic systems are installed to grow food for the caterpillars. This beach is renowned for its turquoise waters and upscale dining, but visitors should also check out the nearby artist colony, Gulf Place. It is ideal to bring an extra set of clothes and towels if you plan on exploring more or dining at Boggy Bottom BBQ. You can snorkel at both springs, or paddle along the Salt Springs Run that ends in Lake George. Easily one of the best islands in Florida, Sanibel island is without a doubt one of the best hidden gems to visit in the USA in spring.. It's a trip you'll be eager to make since Sanibel Island sits on the Gulf Coast of Fort Myers and is known for its . Seminole County, a hidden gem in Florida each side of Jackson Pier Wachee is very popular and can crowded... Coffee and snack break the next time youre in Jacksonville has worked the. And aquaphonic systems are installed to grow food for the caterpillars by a local sharp! Can easily spend the whole day here Petersburg, FL and no, were not talking Disney... 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