Its a great, family-friendly outing! Rent a House Boat in Cow Key, one of the best secret getaways in Florida. . You wouldn't believe you were in Florida while strolling through these historic gardens. Youll see why as soon as you arrive. This park provides access to the only air-filled caves open to the public in Florida. It was named after the editor of the Miami News, Bill Baggs, who worked at the paper from 1957-1969. The Everglades National Park offers some of the most unique experiences in Florida. 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. 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 will likely need it unless you are used to extremely rough waters. The southern terminus is at the Oasis Visitor Center in Ochopee. This little restaurant has Italian food as good as you wish your mama made. Located in Winter Park is one of the most unexpected but entertaining hidden gems of Central Florida. The Nights of Lights is open until 2:00 A.M. EST. If you want to venture off the beaten path so to speak and discover some of Floridas secret treasures we have you covered. The median home value is on average $591,500. Great post, Paula! - See 3,632 traveler reviews, 2,265 candid photos, and great deals for Kenansville, FL, at Tripadvisor. This colorful beach town is still under the radar and hidden between Pensacola and Tallahassee. Universal Studios is comprised of themed areas, rides, and experiences. Secret Woods preserves and protects over 50 acres of lush greenery, and was the first designated urban wilderness area back in 1978. When you arrive, there may be a line of vehicles already waiting. Two staff members compete to get their alligator to jump the highest as the crowd cheers them on. The property is located in Merritt Island, Florida, about one hour from Orlando. Address: 4923 20th Ave S, Gulfport, FL 33707, United States. Folly Beach, South Carolina. . 14 Best Florida Bachelorette Party Destinations! Miami Hidden Gems and Secret Places to Visit in South Florida. version 2.0. Rainbow River State Park. 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. . Enjoy some time at this true Florida gem, showing that beauty can be created from storms. Crystal River State Park is a large preserve that runs along 20 miles of the Gulf Coast and is so large that the area is divided into temperate and sub-tropical climate zones. This peaceful location is great for families, couples, and singles to enjoy the lake and take in the scenery. Useful 2. 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. The BBQ is delectable and very convenient after an exhilarating airboat ride. Come on back to this heavenly park and pick up another smiley! It is best to go during warmer months to avoid feeling too chilly when the water fills the boat. hey Katy, OMG! ACCOMMODATION: A great option is the Residence Inn By Mariott, featuring an outdoor pool, fitness center, bar, and lounge. Cow Key is a quiet destination at night, allowing you to listen to the ocean as you relax in your houseboat. } Wear sunblock and drink plenty of water if you do visit during the summer months. It is $30.00 for adults and $25.00 for children for a half-hour time slot, and for one hour, it is $50.00 for adults and $45.00 for children. Nearby to the trail is the Nights of Lights. A stunning display of lights is only minutes from the Lightner Museum. With 24 miles of picturesque coastline, it offers plenty of activities in the summer. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from Qualifying Purchases. If you have a phobia of spiders, DO NOT VOLUNTEER. . Come out for a day trip of watersports and hiking, or bring your camping gear to spend a few days in this paradise. It is run by Bob Hawkins, who originally started the swimming hole for his children and later retired and began managing it as more and more children heard of his fantastic rope swings and river access. One of those happens to be a tarantula. 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. You will find loads of barbecues and picnic tables by the beach. Parking is just across from the boat ramp. Photo Credit: Author d4rr3ll from UK. Have a relaxing picnic here surrounded by nature, or go jogging, hiking or biking along the gardens to cover more ground. If you dont have your own horse, you can go on a. Once youre inside the state park, youll feel as though youve stepped into a different world. If you are a fan of the Harry Potter Series, the Harry Potter portion of the park is a must-see experience. How To Visit Caladesi Island State Park in Florida, according to a Local! 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 2018The beach is the main reason people visit Caladesi Island. The truth is, we live in a vast state, so of course, no single list could gather all of the best hidden gems in Florida. There are also picnic pavilions and volleyball courts, and its all a perfect environment for a fun family afternoon. At the flea market, choose from 2,000 vendors selling bargain items, and have a delicious meal at one of the many international restaurants located on-site. There are more things to discover like a bug camp and a food forest. While many people visit Florida for classic attractions like Miami or Disney World, there are many secluded beaches, nature attractions and parks outside the cities that are beautiful and not as well-known as Orlando or Fort Lauderdale. The Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a historic staple in Orlando. After a few hours, youll also appreciate this little hidden gem. The Gardens have a self-guided guest guide and map at the Welcome Center. If you are a surfer newbie, there are lots of surf shops that offer rentals and lessons near Jacksonville Beach. Either way, the kitchen will work its magic and delight you. Head out here to be truly impressed by the colorful coral reefs and diverse wildlife, coupled with curious tales of shipwrecks and treasure. Nestled in between Pensacola and Panama City, the 24 miles of powder-soft beaches set the backdrop for a perfect day of swimming, boating, and . Additionally, there is a Plant Sale on March 12th and 13th, and entry is free for the weekend. You can also see a restored Byzantine-Romanesque chapel that was also designed by Tiffany himself for the 1893 Worlds Columbian Exposition. Edward Leedskalnin, according to legend, arrived in the U.S. after being left at the altar. Standing in the parking lot, protected by a small fence and framed by several benches, the historic tree lives just a short distance from historic . Spend an afternoon at their Central Park or Rollins College, and be sure to admire the beauty of Mead Garden. You can snorkel or swim or tour the Cape Florida Light, the oldest standing structure in Greater Miami. The unique experience allows you to enjoy all of the perks of a medium-sized cruise ship. Courtesy of Florida Tourism 3. Read Next: 30 Amazing Dream Destinations for Adventure Lover. A horse-pulled wagon ride brings you near to the rear of the property that houses the wildlife sanctuary and petting farm. 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! Overall, St. Augustine offers such an immense display of beauty and activity that has something for everyone. There is a picnic area, playground, restrooms, a Caladesi Cafe, and showers available on the island. What are the most unique things to do in Florida? The island is approximately 70 miles from Key West and is only accessible by seaplane or boat. It is also great for spotting the many manatees in the area. 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. In addition to the beautiful manatees, the park hosts a variety of other wildlife, including fish, birds, and other creatures. 6. Universal Studios in Florida is a thriving and active place to go for family fun. You can snorkel at both springs, or paddle along the Salt Springs Run that ends in Lake George. On the way back, about 90% of the passengers purchased it. Explore the Ten Thousand Island Wildlife Refugee, 7. Jacksonville is the ideal place to try something new and one of the best things to do in Florida. Bring comfortable shoes and be prepared for a day of exploring the caves and appreciating nature. 20. 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. Now a state park, there is a wide array of wildlife to be found here, such as sea turtles, manatees and dolphins! When you enter the Gardens, it feels like a whole different planet. Hidden Gems in Florida 15 Awesome Secret Spots From a Local! This hidden gem boasts over 22 miles of uncrowded beaches and more than 100,000 sprawling acres of parks and conservation lands. The Blueberry Patch is one of the most unique places in St Petersburg, FL. 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 not comfortable with camping, you can rent a cabin which is pretty affordable. It goes part way around the fort and allows you to view the fort, island, and gorgeous waters below. However, this cruise gives you the freedom to gamble in international waters. you need to come to Florida and let me know when you are in the area and I will be so happy to show you around. Boasting inlets, islands, forests, and backwaters, this state park is a perfect place to explore Floridas rural side! It is a unique location in Florida that is ideal for history buffs and anybody who enjoys a beautiful city with various activities and sights. ACCOMMODATION: A great option is the Hampton Inn in Juno Beach, within walking distance of the beach and near many recreational activities. Stunning flower beds can are along the path and there are plenty of local restaurants. Originally founded as a bird sanctuary, the founders, a Dutch couple called Edward and Marie Bok, began cultivating a botanical garden paradise to create a habitat for birds, and is now home to over 100 species of birds. This Gulf Coast barrier island is a great destination for any beach or nature lover. Funny 1. Bring your camera because youll want to capture the unique allure of the beach. So gas up the car and start exploring everything our beautiful state really has to offer. ACCOMMODATION: An excellent option is the Alfond Inn, a beautiful hotel located in Winter Park with a restaurant serving amazing food, including brunch. Honeymoon Island State Park in Florida: Complete Guide + Insider Tips. Coral Castle is a limestone structure located in Homestead, Florida. There are also ample opportunities to go birding or view other diverse kinds of wildlife, or go fishing, snorkeling, kayaking or swimming. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens . Caladesi Island State Park is located on the island by the same name in the Gulf of Mexico. They also organise events with live music and workshops. Each campsite has an electric and water facility and offers a fire ring, grate, and picnic table. It's a serene retreat, renowned for fishing and its pier, 1,545 feet long and 30 feet tall. Explore any or all of the 125 miles from the southern end to Lake Okeechobee. Cow Key is a quick drive into the more popular areas of Key West, and there are almost unlimited activities. Here we countdown the 15 best and beautiful hidden places in Floridathat you should definitely add to any Florida vacation. What an inspiring list! There are plenty of biking or hiking trails to keep you active, or you can also explore the waterways on a canoe. This small but lively beach town offers the perfect getaway if you're looking to unwind. Located on Powers Avenue, the quality of the bread is so good that The French Pantry also supplies to other local eateries. Its very easy to reach Honeymoon Island from the mainland. To put it plainly, Florida is known for Florida attractions. 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. It is a fantastic adventure and you can feel safe knowing your children are on bomb-proof steads which are perfectly well behaved. Cruise ship likely need it unless you are used to extremely rough waters National Park offers some of Harry. Off the beaten path so to speak and discover some of the best things to do in?... 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