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. I have visited the Ringling Circus Museum and can concur GO VISIT! On my trip, approximately 1/3 of the passengers bought Dramamine on the way to the island. Keep in mind this is a very busy time and it may be worth going another day if you do not plan to buy plants. The park offers express passes that can be purchased online. Catherine, I agree with you that Weeki Wachee is one of the best places. Click here to find out more about this Florida attraction. 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! This surf spot is called the poles and is best suited to intermediate and advanced surfers. There are also shallow areas ideal for snorkeling at Elkhorn and Boulder Corals. The Manatee Sanctuary Park in Cocoa Beach is a must-see for those looking to explore the magnificent underwater world of Florida. It depicts the beauty of art and describes the history associated with the city. Santa Rosa Beach. It is close to many of Orlandos main sites. Head out to enjoy a vacation spot beloved by so many Florida residents. 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. 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. Parking is just across from the boat ramp. The Goblin Market is an eclectic bistro that is a must-visit for anyone near the charming town of Mount Dora. Enjoy the relaxed pace and some good food while here. A popular eatery in Jacksonville, eat like a local at this cozy location that has been a long-time local favorite French bistro. Go swim with Manatees at Crystal River, 8. 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. Each campsite has an electric and water facility and offers a fire ring, grate, and picnic table. If you are a surfer newbie, there are lots of surf shops that offer rentals and lessons near Jacksonville Beach. })(); I am a Bodybuilder athlete and adventure seeker always on the lookout for authentic experiences especially if it involves active and adventure travel! The prices are reasonable and discounts can be found on Groupon to make it even cheaper. Love Florida? The prices were reasonable, and the staff was super knowledgeable and friendly. I spent a lot of my time on the boat enjoying the scenery. I highly recommend listening to the suggestions from the staff as it was a rough ride in January when I went. Head out to the island paradise for a few days and enjoy a getaway! Bookmark this blog as your go to place for all things Florida related. 3 St. Photios National Greek Orthodox Shrine. A 4 1/2 mile walk on Pine Island Trail allows for the sightings of these delightful animals. - See 3,632 traveler reviews, 2,265 candid photos, and great deals for Kenansville, FL, at Tripadvisor. 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. Another off-the-beaten path in Florida for your bucket list! In fact, this area is the most significant winter refuge from Manatees in the entire world. While in the neighborhood, stop at Alma Sue's Quilts.. You will receive your first email soon. An excellent destination during the winter months, Winter Park is filled with arts and culture explore the downtown area yourself for some fun. A hidden gem, the Jacksonville Zoo is known for its 2,000 animals, 1,000 species of flora, animal encounters, and behind-the-scenes tours. Thank you! Designated as a national park by President Franklin Roosevelt, this incredible destination is only accessible via seaplane or boat, preserving its nature and isolation. DeLand, southwest of Daytona Beach, is a small town with a big city feel and my favorite downtown in Florida. forms: { If you love the ocean and marine life, this is the experience of a lifetime. I try to go as often as I can, and my dogs love there too. 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.. However, this cruise gives you the freedom to gamble in international waters. There are some great things to do in Florida, some that spring to mind straight away, like say Disneyworld, which is a must-do on everyones Florida bucket list, but there are also some awesome hidden gems in Florida, secret spots that only locals know about. Take a look at this list of 14 things you can only find in Florida and prepare to be amazed. 22. Off-The-Beaten-Path Florida for Nature Lovers, 6. 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.. Sixteen acres of Japanese gardens are Delray Beach's best hidden gem. Check out our list of the best hidden gems in Florida and start planning your next getaway! Amaze of mangroves,where the waters of the Everglades meet the Gulf Coast, forming a labyrinth of water, and it is the second-largest mangrove forest in the world, only surpassed by Bangladesh. Go Kayak to Caladesi Island - a real gem in Florida Caladesi Island was elected the #1 Beach in 2018. callback: cb 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. Crystal River State Park in Citrus County, FL. This is a perfect diving expedition for trained scuba divers. Read: Hidden vacation spots in the US. There is no rush, as the entire garden can be covered easily in one day. 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. It is best to go during warmer months to avoid feeling too chilly when the water fills the boat. Hidden Gems in Florida 15 Awesome Secret Spots From a Local! Villa Vizcaya is a private mansion and estate belonging to the wealthy businessman James Deering, completed in 1923. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. It is a fantastic adventure and you can feel safe knowing your children are on bomb-proof steads which are perfectly well behaved. So here are the hidden gems on east coast of the USA. Devil's Den is a hidden gem in Florida and is one of the country's prehistoric underground rivers. For anyone sick of hearing that visiting Florida is solely about exploring Walt Disney World, this list is for you. Boasting inlets, islands, forests, and backwaters, this state park is a perfect place to explore Floridas rural side! I have been to more than 40 countries while following my fitness journey. Home Florida Vacation Ideas Hidden Gems in Florida 15 Awesome Secret Spots From a Local! One such site is the natural springs dotted around Crystal River. 20. It is located by the waterfront at Johns Pass Village in Madeira Beach. 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. Walk the mile of interpretive trail and watch out for the land crabs that might be crossing the road! The horses and ponies for the trail rides are in good condition and are very well-behaved. 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.. There are a lot of parks to spend leisure evening and also very liberal society. I am about to introduce you to the best-hidden gems in Florida that only some locals know about. An interesting opportunity there that is good for a thrill is the Kiss A Gator booth. The park also offers bicycling, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and camping. 3) Winter Park: For Food, Shopping & Museum Hopping. It is home to the University of Florida, but its a lot more than your typical college town. Florida Caverns State Park is the place to go see Florida's natural and historic . Almost 100 years ago, Opa-Locka Florida popped up in Miami as a fantasy town modeled after Arabian Nights. Access is not guaranteed, and given the popularity of this destination, arriving several hours before opening is advisable. Watching them dive for fish and swallow their live meals is not for everyone, but it is an experience you do not see every day. 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. One of those happens to be a tarantula. ACCOMMODATION: Holiday Inn is a great option, with a great location and expresses check-in and check-out. Stop by to see some breathtaking nature and appreciate the history of the area. Stop by next time you are in the area to appreciate the diverse wildlife. Sarasota is known for its haute cuisine and global fare. Bring your sunblock and prepare for a whole day of fun in the sun! 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. They also show different animals during the Up-Close Encounters show, in which they have all types of scary creatures. 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. Stop by to check out the unique rock formations along the beach and to appreciate the wildlife and diverse landscape on the preserve. TOP TIPS FOR RIDING A HORSE AT THE PALMA SOLA BAY, ACCOMMODATION: Renting a beach houseon Anna Maria Island is the best way to explore the area. Towards the southern end of the preserve, the rocks are worn into shapes not much higher than the sand and erosion has caused bowl-like holes and swirling lumps. The southern terminus is at the Oasis Visitor Center in Ochopee. There are also picnic pavilions and volleyball courts, and its all a perfect environment for a fun family afternoon. it is also an amazing spot for pictures, especially during sunset. During these months, be prepared to bring a rain jacket and umbrella because the rain can be fierce. There are plenty of biking or hiking trails to keep you active, or you can also explore the waterways on a canoe. Perfect to stay away from the crowds! Pine Island is the largest island off the Gulf coast of Florida and located just 30 minutes from Fort Myers. Head to a 1920's era fish house called Star Fish Company where you'll find a dockside, hole-in-the-wall-style eatery and market where the catch of the day was swimming just minutes before hitting your plate. The island is approximately 70 miles from Key West and is only accessible by seaplane or boat. It is great place for adventurers, . 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. Florida's Emerald Coast comprises a few of the Sunshine State's best-kept secrets. 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. Dry Tortugas National Park is a stunning place to visit for people of all ages. The forests boast versatile and diverse terrain, from palm-filled oases to sand pine flatlands and prairie wetlands. There are so many reasons to visit gorgeous Chincoteague, Virginia and it definitely is one of the hidden gems of the United States. Join my email list to receive the latest articles directly in your inbox. It is so fascinating to watch the magnificent animals having so much fun. A half-hour tour gives you plenty of time to enjoy the wild ride and see alligators. Located near Clearwater and St Petersburg, Honeymoon Island is one of the best off the beaten path in Florida! What a hidden gem in Vero Beach! It is located in the center of Orlando and is a popular attraction for many locals and tourists. Located in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, Molasses Reef is a popular coral reef destination for scuba divers. Ten Thousand Islands boat tour is the highlight of your visit, as you can see the islands and the wildlife, and I recommend. Matlacha Pass waterways offer excellent canoeing and kayaking opportunities, or you can head off to explore the mangroves or palms that stretch for acres. 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. 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. Some of the most popular beaches in Jacksonville include American Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach. Gatorland has numerous activities that take place throughout the day. By Victoria from Florida Trippers. 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. Honeymoon Island State Park in Florida: Complete Guide + Insider Tips. Flickr/psyberartist. Great post, Paula! Folly Beach is one of the best hidden gem vacation spots on the East Coast. To really enjoy everything that the Ringling has to offer I would recommend at least 1 full day dedicated to it. The ferry provides a morning snack, lunch, and showers so that people can snorkel and rinse off. Take a trip out here to appreciate the quiet, laid-back vibes and lush nature. Off-the-Beaten-Path Orlando Hidden Gems Things to Do. The Gold Coast Railroad Museum is certainly not one of Miami's most popular but that doesn't mean it's not worth visiting. To get the best experience in this historical area, tour the Braille Trail. Situated just north of Orlando is the charming small city of Winter Park. Our Top Hidden Gems! San Jose's Original Mexican Restaurant: Hidden Gem - See 81 traveler reviews, 19 candid photos, and great deals for Leesburg, FL, at Tripadvisor. ACCOMMODATION: Waterfront Beach Home is a wonderful 3 bedroom and 2 bathroom house on the water. It is recommended to ask questions about the variety of animals at the ranch. In addition, due to Florida law, gambling is illegal. Located about an hour south of Gainesville, the small town of Cedar Key is a quaint throwback to old fashioned times. It is a wild experience to watch them jump so high using the strength of their tails. It is a great location to visit from any of the areas. 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. Make this a nice afternoon coffee and snack break the next time youre in Jacksonville! There are Albino Alligators who are unable to survive in the wild that are unique to see. Rent canoes at the headsprings to strike off on your own expedition, or swim in the designated areas. Hydrophonic and aquaphonic systems are installed to grow food for the caterpillars. You can snorkel or swim or tour the Cape Florida Light, the oldest standing structure in Greater Miami. It's located in Florida, United States.Melbourne's Hidden Gem it back in action!! Top off your relaxing visit with a stroll along the Pine Ridge Trail to fully appreciate this magical place, and dont forget your camera. The quickest Everglades day trips from Ft. Lauderdale are Everglades Holiday Park and Sawgrass . 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. 3. Come on back to this heavenly park and pick up another smiley! Get more stories delivered right to your email. 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. It is considered by many Floridians to be the alligator capital of the world. This blog as your go to place for all things Florida related take throughout! Haute cuisine and global fare countries while following my fitness journey thrill is the largest island off the path! Is an eclectic bistro that is good for a fun family afternoon these delightful animals Johns Pass Village Madeira... Florida for your bucket list were reasonable, and picnic table recommend listening to the best-hidden gems in 15... Arriving several hours before opening is advisable is considered by many Floridians to be amazed or! For food, Shopping & amp ; Museum Hopping offer i would recommend at least full! 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