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. This is a real off-the-beaten path in Florida, even for us, locals. Old Florida Book Shop Back to Top of List. Soak in the sun at Bean Point Beach (a real off-the-beaten-path Florida). 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. San Jose's Original Mexican Restaurant: Hidden Gem - See 81 traveler reviews, 19 candid photos, and great deals for Leesburg, FL, at Tripadvisor. forms: { There are many unique animals, some of which are extremely friendly and playful during the guided petting zoo tour. Take a look at this list of, Here Are The 9 Most-Recommended BBQ Restaurants In Florida, According To Our Readers, Plan A Trip To This Underrated Historic Town In Florida, The Ambiance At This Boston-Themed Brunch Spot In Florida Will Transport Your Taste Buds Up North, Order Some Of The Best Seafood In Florida At Molly Goodheads, A Ramshackle Raw Bar, The Remote Lodge In Florida That Will Take You A Million Miles Away From It All. Be sure to also grab a bite to eat at the restaurant, Cornell Cafe, which was featured on the Food Network! Discover The Manatee Park. Ravine Gardens State park is located in Palatka, Florida and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. If youre planning a trip to Florida, the best time to visit Florida is between October and May. It is filled with adventure activities and some of the best surf in the state. Harry P. Leu Gardens is a stunning Botanical Garden found in the heart of Central Florida. Florida has tons of attractions that you wont find anywhere else in the world, and no, were not talking about Disney World. Cool off later with a dip at the Blue Hole Spring, or go for a hike. Go swim with Manatees at Crystal River, 8. It is recommended to go on a cooler summer day, to use sunscreen, and take a rest in the shaded areas to avoid sunburns. Crystal River not only has some of the clearest water in Florida, it is also the only place you can legally swim up close with endangered manatees. The City of St. Augustine is known by many Floridians for its historical sights. The restaurant has a great ambiance that's only matched by high-quality steaks and seafood. Many locals can be found jumping into the water from the large overhanging trees. Hey Paula, this is an excellent round up. 12306 46th Avenue W., Cortez, FL 34215. I will definitely consult this post before my next visit to Florida. Located in the Florida Keys, Bahia State Park is off mile marker 37 and spans over 500 acres of lush land. 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 ranchers are amusing, welcoming, and approachable. 1. A tip for those who are frugal and like their drinks is to sit down at a slot machine and put in a few dollars and await your free drink. Bring comfortable shoes and be prepared for a day of explore the caves and appreciate natures. ACCOMMODATION: A great option is the Hampton Inn in Juno Beach, within walking distance of the beach and near many recreational activities. Probably you will answer no. The prices are reasonable and discounts can be found on Groupon to make it even cheaper. Florida Caverns State Park is the place to go see Florida's natural and historic . 2) Alligator Kayaking Safari in Rocks Springs Run. TOP TIPS FOR SWIMMING WITH MANATEES AT CRYSTAL RIVER. A short drive from Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach is an excellent family-friendly destination on Florida's Emerald Coast. After a few hours, youll also appreciate this little hidden gem. Additionally, there is a Plant Sale on March 12th and 13th, and entry is free for the weekend. Lets start this amazing list of Off the Beaten Paths in Florida with my backyard. Read: Hidden vacation spots in the US. Photo Credit: Author d4rr3ll from UK. The entry fee ranges from $10.00 to $15.00 with a Military/Veteran discount. Houseboats can be found for rent on many popular rental websites. Located in the middle of the pine woods on the Suwannee, in Dixie County, is what many locals call the best swimming hole in Florida: Bobs River Place. Home Travel Guides United States Florida (FL) 30 Amazing Hidden Gems in Florida. The most remote South Florida hidden gem is the Florida Trail, one of only 11 National Scenic Trails. However, some alligators will sun themselves directly on the pavement. window.mc4wp.listeners.push( This off-the-beaten-path in Florida is a cluster of 7 islands about 70 miles (113 km) west of Key West. DelacaSeas Cafe: Great hidden gem - See 218 traveler reviews, 112 candid photos, and great deals for Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, FL, at Tripadvisor. The beauty of Honeymoon Island is that its very well preserved, and you can easily spend the whole day here. It is considered by many Floridians to be the alligator capital of the world. Parking is just across from the boat ramp. In the dark of the night, you can see fish swimming, the torpedo-like aura of a dolphin swimming by all spark the blue that many compare to the Avatar movie, as the gentle plankton leaves a trickling glow when holding it in your hands. Snag a table (if you can) and settle in for a delicious dining experience seating is in high demand!. 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! Ocala National Forest spans over 600 square miles of northern Florida, and is bursting with activities for any time of year. Here we countdown the 15 best and beautiful hidden places in Floridathat you should definitely add to any Florida vacation. This hidden gem tucked among Florida's barrier islands, is a small community that brings you back to turn-of-the-century Florida. 4. Stop by next time you are in the area to appreciate the diverse wildlife. 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. Located on Marco Island, a relatively developed suburban community, Tigertail has remained preserved and natural as a Collier County park. Santa Rosa Beach. The park also offers bicycling, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and camping. Blowing Rocks Preserve is located in Hobe Sound on narrow Jupiter Island, a barrier island between the Indian River Lagoon and the ocean. If you are not comfortable with camping, you can rent a cabin which is pretty affordable. Located in the Florida Panhandle, it's the only Florida state park with air-filled caves accessible to the public. Universal Studios in Florida is a thriving and active place to go for family fun. 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. I highly recommend listening to the suggestions from the staff as it was a rough ride in January when I went. 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.. You can also spot some incredible wildlife and man-made (but still spectacular) waterfalls. Filled with good fishing spots, spectacular natural preserves and lush beaches, Cedar Key might be a small town, but it is a much-loved getaway destination for Floridians. What are the most unique things to do in Florida? The Gardens also offer numerous services. There are Albino Alligators who are unable to survive in the wild that are unique to see. Coral Castle is a limestone structure located in Homestead, Florida. Located about an hour south of Gainesville, the small town of Cedar Key is a quaint throwback to old fashioned times. Reserve your spot at the campground in advance to make sure you have a place and enjoy the refreshing outdoors. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park extends over approximately a third of Key Biscayne Island and is home to a remarkably beautiful beach. This guide is packed with insider tips on how to visit the best off-the-beaten-path in Florida. It is ideal to arrive as early as possible. . DeLand, southwest of Daytona Beach, is a small town with a big city feel and my favorite downtown in Florida. Explore the area around Fort Jefferson. 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. Great post, Paula! } If you are around South Beach and consider yourself to be a lover of movies, the Miami Beach Cinematheque is definitely a place to visit. It is incredibly informative and ADA accessible. Choosing an amazing destination like the glamour and partying in Miami, or the family fun at Disney World, Orlando is always a great way to go. Explore the Ten Thousand Island Wildlife Refugee, 7. 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. This majestic 200-acre garden features a 205-foot singing tower facing a reflecting pool, a bird sanctuary, and acres of oaks, pines, ferns, camellias, jasmine, spider lily, and wetland plants. The park is open from 8:00 A.M. They also organise events with live music and workshops. You will pay a fee of $5 per vehicle and $10.75 per adult. This small but lively beach town offers the perfect getaway if you're looking to unwind. Ten Thousand IslandsNational Wildlife Refuge (NWR), is one of the most hidden paradises in Florida. All the restaurants are owned by a local who has resided here for years. That, and of course, the wonderful weather year-round. There are so many of these little treasures that youll never be bored. Take a trip out here to appreciate the quiet, laid-back vibes and lush nature. Click here to find out more about this Florida attraction. From hidden coves and dramatic natural features to elaborate gardens and quirky general stores, here is a compilation Tropical Palms RV Resort: Hidden Gem - See 2,079 traveller reviews, 342 candid photos, and great deals for Tropical Palms RV Resort at Tripadvisor. It is ideal to bring an extra set of clothes and towels if you plan on exploring more or dining at Boggy Bottom BBQ. 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. 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. The parking is ample, if the oceanfront lot is full, you can park across the street at the education center, Pets are not allowed at the Blowing Rocks Preserve. Bok Tower Gardens is a National Historic Landmark located in Lake Wales, Florida. Boasting inlets, islands, forests, and backwaters, this state park is a perfect place to explore Floridas rural side! Photo courtesy of Visit Florida Explore Florida Caverns State Park . The Alligators & Wildlife Discovery Center is a fantastic place to visit and is one of the top tourist destinations in Florida. It is a great location to visit and a must-do experience if you are nearby to this area during your visit. Read More: The Best Things to do in Orland for Adults. It can also be roamed freely, which I found to be the most exciting approach. 22. On the bright side, Blue Springs State Park is not all about water activities. It is close to many of Orlandos main sites. In addition, October, November, and December are lovely months to visit due to the lowering temperatures. 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