Folly Beach, South Carolina. If youre planning a trip to Florida, the best time to visit Florida is between October and May. 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. A curious structure built by an even more curious man, the craftsmanship is so detailed and the setup of the estate really is a marvel for one man to achieve on his own. 05 of 10. Gatorland is a park that houses thousands of animals, including birds, wild cats, snakes, tortoises, crocodiles, and of course, alligators. 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. The key lime icebox cup is amazing, made with whipped cream, cream . If you like animals, it is a guarantee that there will be some sort of creature there that you will love. There are also boats tours offered or kayaks available for rent, should you wish to explore the river. With 24 miles of picturesque coastline, it offers plenty of activities in the summer. The best surf spot near Jacksonville is located in Hanna Park. Bring comfortable shoes and be prepared for a day of explore the caves and appreciate natures. At its core, the attractions in Florida are a huge draw for visitors. Surprise! The property is located in Merritt Island, Florida, about one hour from Orlando. Florida has tons of attractions that you wont find anywhere else in the world, and no, were not talking about Disney World. The State Park is located at 1130 State Park Road Chipley FL 32428, Plan your visit to coincide with the recent heavy rain, so there will be lots of water. DeLand. There are greenhouses where various species of butterflies are bred from egg laying through hatching. It is also a thrilling place for an adventurous date. Near the Georgia border, this way out-of-the-way park is located where the Flint River and the Chattahoochee combine to form Lake Seminole above a dam. Located in the Florida Panhandle, it's the only Florida state park with air-filled caves accessible to the public. Some of the caves are tall enough to stand in, with natural benches formed by the erosive power of the tides. Address: 4923 20th Ave S, Gulfport, FL 33707, United States. If you love this article, I also recommend: If you found this guide useful, follow me on Instagram to stay up to date with my travels & Subscribe to my YouTube Channel to keep you with my workout videos. This is a great thing to do on Anna Maria Island, especially if you are traveling with kids. 20. A short drive from Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach is an excellent family-friendly destination on Florida's Emerald Coast. It can be quite impressive after a heavy rain, as the water rushes down 73 feet of limestone into a huge sinkhole. After a few hours, youll also appreciate this little hidden gem. Hey Paula, this is an excellent round up. It is a fantastic spot to experience the best of nature and outdoor activities, with the famous bridge and offshore island. Enjoy the relaxed pace and some good food while here. If you want to venture off the beaten path so to speak and discover some of Floridas secret treasures we have you covered. 2. Jacksonville is the ideal place to try something new and one of the best things to do in Florida. Cow Key is a quick drive into the more popular areas of Key West, and there are almost unlimited activities. Not really a hidden gem in Florida but no Florida list is complete without a mention of Universal Studios! If you're heading down AIA to the end of the line maybe doing that most famous of all Florida road trips, the Miami to Key West drive and looking for the best sites to see and things to do in Key . It is close to many of Orlandos main sites. There are some stunning public beaches (with free parking), and it felt like a hidden gem on it's own. Show off to your friends with a picture holding an alligator. Additionally, there is a Plant Sale on March 12th and 13th, and entry is free for the weekend. The worst of the rainfall typically hits during the hottest months of the year: June, July, and August. Have a refreshing swim at Juniper Springs or Alexander Springs, both popular in the summer with locals and in the winter with manatees! The home features 250 rooms, including 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms and 65 fireplaces. It is also recommended to check dates before going to the Gardens, as they sometimes close early on some dates or during certain events, such as tours and field trips. It is filled with adventure activities and some of the best surf in the state. 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. It is open to the public all year round, so dont miss out when you are in the area! You do not have to kiss it because holding it can be scary enough. 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. Today, the site has become a museum and is open to the public. 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. 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. forms: { Santa Rosa Beach also touches Point Washington State Forest, a 15,000-acre preserve for an alternative to beach days. Manatee sightings are very common during Manatee season when water activities are restricted. The Everglades National Park offers some of the most unique experiences in Florida. During these months, be prepared to bring a rain jacket and umbrella because the rain can be fierce. Don't miss these hidden gems in Sarasota Florida to . 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. 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. Tropical Palms RV Resort: Hidden Gem - See 2,079 traveller reviews, 342 candid photos, and great deals for Tropical Palms RV Resort at Tripadvisor. Visit Rainbow Springs and take a walk through paradise. You can take a ferry from Honeymoon Island or Clearwater Beach to go visit Caladesi Island. Blue Spring State Park is the place to be if you want a stunning body of water where you can do a vast array of activities, including swimming, snorkeling, tubing, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, diving, and similar activities. It is a fantastic adventure and you can feel safe knowing your children are on bomb-proof steads which are perfectly well behaved. Almost 100 years ago, Opa-Locka Florida popped up in Miami as a fantasy town modeled after Arabian Nights. Old Florida Book Shop Back to Top of List. However, you should bring sunglasses or something to shield your eyes. Head out to enjoy a vacation spot beloved by so many Florida residents. Santa Rosa Beach. The top deck is a fabulous place to soak in the sunshine and enjoy a cold beverage. Go birding to see if you can spot the wild turkeys or neo-tropical birds. Its easy to miss this Florida gem, hidden under a canopy of mangroves and off the junction of I-95 with I-595. The most remote South Florida hidden gem is the Florida Trail, one of only 11 National Scenic Trails. The park offers passes with a discount for Florida residents and a discount if you buy annual passes too. Drive iconic scenic coastal highway 30A to discover a variety of the coolest Florida beach towns. I will definitely consult this post before my next visit to Florida. Pack up your sunscreen and camera, and get ready to explore the hidden gems of Florida. It is just a must-see on your trip to Florida. Make this a nice afternoon coffee and snack break the next time youre in Jacksonville! There's no menu, no listed prices, and no tap water (only bottles for sale), but guests will be just fine if they bring their own wine and a few people to share the family-style food (and the bill) with. Dry Tortugas National Park is a stunning place to visit for people of all ages. Florida has tons of attractions that you wont find anywhere else in the world, and no, were not talking about Disney World. Now a state park, there is a wide array of wildlife to be found here, such as sea turtles, manatees and dolphins! Settle into the lovely courtyard and get ready for some original food options. Cayo Costa State Park is located south of Boca Grande, and is only accessible via boat, ferry or helicopter. This park provides access to the only air-filled caves open to the public in Florida. The Miami Beach Cinematheque is located at 1130 Washington Avenue and is known for showcasing indie films as well as classic films. You can easily drive there and park in one of the fields parking lots. The city of Gainesville is located in north-central Florida, a little less than two hours from Orlando. 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. It is a true gem, boasting gorgeous hikes, a swimming hole, and campsites for those eager to stay overnight! The entry fee ranges from $10.00 to $15.00 with a Military/Veteran discount. Many locals can be found jumping into the water from the large overhanging trees. You need to walk across the muddy lagoon and through some water to reach the beach, but it is so worth it. An excellent destination during the winter months, Winter Park is filled with arts and culture explore the downtown area yourself for some fun. You can also spot some incredible wildlife and man-made (but still spectacular) waterfalls. It is great place for adventurers, . Bring a picnic or do a barbecue. Click here to find out more about this Florida attraction. TIPS TO VISIT THE FALLING WATER STATE PARK, ACCOMMODATION: There is a Quality Inn close by, which is a good option if you are visiting the park, And with all the diversity, did you expect to also find this hidden gem in Florida? I love that it isnt as touristy as other spots and has many interesting activities nearby for those days when its not beach weather. 22. This incredible hidden gem in Florida is a coral reef located within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, just southeast offshore of the island of Key Largo. Shark Valley, within the national park, offers the experience of a lifetime. It is ideal to bring an extra set of clothes and towels if you plan on exploring more or dining at Boggy Bottom BBQ. Stunning flower beds can are along the path and there are plenty of local restaurants. A center for Japanese arts and culture, the grounds are named after George Morikami, a Japanese man who donated his farm to the county to be converted into a park. Some of the most unique things to do in Florida are often right under our noses! Perhaps I am biased, as I moved to Florida 16 years ago and I call this place home. As expected, they have some of the best pastries and cakes you will ever try, but they're only open for lunch. Another off-the-beaten path in Florida for your bucket list! However, this cruise gives you the freedom to gamble in international waters. The restaurant has a great ambiance that's only matched by high-quality steaks and seafood. 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. Catherine, I agree with you that Weeki Wachee is one of the best places. The island is approximately 70 miles from Key West and is only accessible by seaplane or boat. This list was prepared with some of the top Florida things to do and to give you some inspiration for your Florida bucket list. 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. 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. It is located in the center of Orlando and is a popular attraction for many locals and tourists. Houseboats can be found for rent on many popular rental websites. It is located in Kissimmee and is a moderate trip from downtown Orlando. Miami is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Florida with a number of well-known attractions, pristine beaches, and unique art and culture scenes like Art Deco buildings and Wynwood graffiti; Furthermore, the Everglades and the Florida Keys are on the outskirt of the city center that is only a few-hour drive away. Relax on the beach and nap before heading out to enjoy the chance to relax. Go Kayak to Caladesi Island - a real gem in Florida Caladesi Island was elected the #1 Beach in 2018. This peaceful location is great for families, couples, and singles to enjoy the lake and take in the scenery. 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. 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. 1) Kayaking in the Crystalline Waters of Wekiva State Park. This surf spot is called the poles and is best suited to intermediate and advanced surfers. In addition, due to Florida law, gambling is illegal. Best Places to Stay. If youre here in March, go to their annual Florida Azalea Festival, right around when 100,000 plants begin to bloom! Encompassing more than 200 acres, this garden also features the Singing Tower, a 205 foot structure built on Iron Mountain, one of the highest points on the Florida Peninsula. Im particularly interested in swimming with manatees! 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 Sunshine State has much more to offer with many other great choices, including that Florida is home to the best killer key lime pie on the whole Planet! Be aware if you have small children or individuals sensitive to hearing. Roadside Rusted Ford Trucks, Crawfordville, FL 32327, USA. If you dont have your own horse, you can go on a. 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. Visitors come to witness the great architectural structure dedicated to the first colony of Greeks to land in America in 1768. The airboats are extremely loud. Blowing Rocks Preserve is very unique, You will find here miles of sandy beaches, with craggy limestone shore that looks like it belongs in Maine or Hawaii. History buffs visit the shrine to learn about the life of early . 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. 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. Useful 2. Located in the Florida Keys, Bahia Honda State Park is off mile marker 37 and spans over 500 acres of lush land. 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. Weeki Wachee, derived from the Seminole name, means Little Spring or Winding River, is a spring located on the Weeki Wachee River. Located in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, Molasses Reef is a popular coral reef destination for scuba divers. Thank you! KOAs nearby: St. Petersburg / Madeira Beach KOA Holiday Clearwater / Lake Tarpon KOA Holiday. By Victoria from Florida Trippers. There are more things to discover like a bug camp and a food forest. Make sure to see Port Boca Grande Lighthouse, built in 1890 and still standing to this day. 5) Visit the Cute Small Town of Windermere. If you prefer to stay on land, hike the Florida Scenic Trail and spend the night there are several campsites in Ocala National Forest. Being so far removed from the mainland can be a good experience from time to time. When you arrive, there may be a line of vehicles already waiting. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Did you know you can ride a horse at the beach in Florida? This park on Key Biscayne is home to the Cape Florida Light (the oldest standing structure in Miami), was a stop on the Underground Railroad, and has one of the best beaches in the country. The island is approximately 70 miles from Key West and is only accessible by seaplane or boat. 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