The State Park is open from 8a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year. It's around 45 minutes from Orlando, Florida, but feels worlds apart with its lush landscape. Florida is a Dream Destination, because of its diversity. A popular eatery in Jacksonville, eat like a local at this cozy location that has been a long-time local favorite French bistro. In the warm and dark bay waters of some places in Florida lies a natural phenomenon of glowing blue waters alive with an activity called bioluminescence. Cummer Museum of Art. 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. Dining venues within the Ringling may be closed during the pandemic but there are 2 picnic facilities available. 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. 20. Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, Walt Disney World, and being the ultimate vacation destination. 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. 1) Kayaking in the Crystalline Waters of Wekiva State Park. Santa Rosa Beach. Located just south of Chipley, Washington County, Falling Waters State Park encompasses 171 acres and is home to the highest waterfall in the state. Come put your feet up here and get away from the stress of big city life. This is a perfect diving expedition for trained scuba divers. The museum also has stunning gardens that you have to explore. Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures offers a wild adventure and additional activities suited to children, so it is a worthwhile place to visit for anybody. The Weeki Wachee is known for its stunning beauty, with the clarity at the headsprings being 68- feet of visibility, ranking with the clearest freshwaters found on Earth! Explore the beach dunes and mangrove wetlands, and learn more about the local ecosystem at the Hawley Environmental Center. In addition to the beautiful manatees, the park hosts a variety of other wildlife, including fish, birds, and other creatures. Dont disturb the animals, especially the manatees. 23 miles west of Austin, you can find it off of Highway 71, one of the best hidden gems in the south USA. 3. The best way to enjoy the beauty of the springs is to bring a lunch and sit down on a bench or picnic table, wear bug spray and take in the sights and sounds of nature. Stop by if youve always been a mermaid fan and see a show at the submerged theatre, or to take a few rides at the Buccaneer water park. While still many people come to explore the more touristy spots, its the hidden gems throughout Florida that have become the must-visit destinations. 2. If you have ever wanted to see one of these gentle giants come to Manatee Park during the winter months. 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? 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 located 3-miles north of Marianna on State Road 166 and is a great camping and day trip destination. But if you happen to know of a spot that we missed above and you think your fellow Floridians would love to hear about it, then shout it out in the comments section below! } Old Florida meets the 21st century in Seminole County, a hidden gem in Florida. 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.. It is a wonderful spot for visitors because it is not a high-traffic tourist area. Jacksonville is the ideal place to try something new and one of the best things to do in Florida. The alligators are most commonly seen along the sides of the loop. Every year in Florida, as soon as the animals sense the coming winter, they seek out warm locations. The park contains several sinkholes which were used as hideouts by Native Americans who fought Andrew Jackson in the Seminole Wars; archeological digs have also revealed Native American artifacts dating back over a thousand years. ACCOMMODATION: Plantation on Crystal River, Ascend Hotel Collection is a beautiful 232-acre Crystal River resort featuring a golf course and 4 on-site restaurants, located only 1.1 miles to the Three Sisters Spring. There are camping cabins onsite and beaches, boat slips and hiking trails. The community has charmingly fused the old with the new here: visit historic Eden Gardens State Park and then go for dinner at a modern restaurant like The Bay. Why go: Great camping on a beautiful lake with many options for hiking, biking and paddling. DeLand touts one of the first Mainstreet U.S.A. award-winning towns. Did you know you can ride a horse at the beach in Florida? Whether you are a seasoned pro or brand new to surfing there is a break for you in Jacksonville. Blowing Rocks Preserve is located in Hobe Sound on narrow Jupiter Island, a barrier island between the Indian River Lagoon and the ocean. Ravine Gardens State park is located in Palatka, Florida and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Explore the Honeymoon Island State Park, 2. There are so many reasons to visit gorgeous Chincoteague, Virginia and it definitely is one of the hidden gems of the United States. You can go swimming, fishing, snorkeling or study the nature of the island; it is full of diverse wildlife. Put on your fancy pants and head to this tres chic cafe in Jacksonville that has been an icon for over 20 years. Visitors come to witness the great architectural structure dedicated to the first colony of Greeks to land in America in 1768. Spend an afternoon at their Central Park or Rollins College, and be sure to admire the beauty of Mead Garden. 6. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is one of my favorite places to bring the kids; the mermaids are back! Im Paula, a fitness athlete, and adventure seeker always on the lookout for authentic experiences especially if it involves active and adventure travel! It is a great location to visit and a must-do experience if you are nearby to this area during your visit. You will want to swim and relax on the beach. 4 must try florida adventures, which one was your favorite? devils den daytona beach shores & lighthouse point parkcrystal riverkelly park/rock sprin. It is a tiny hole-in-the-wall local secret that only has six tables in the dining room, where its Napolitano owners eagerly await their customers. Courtesy of Florida Tourism 3. Bahia Honda can be visited at any time of the year, however for the best beach weather, visit in the months of March, April, and December. 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. Try one of their variations on bruschetta or the sandwiches served on their fresh bread. The springs provide excellent swimming opportunities, as well as hiking, fishing and camping. Funny 1. Located along the California coast in Mendocino County lies the historic town of Fort Bragg. Relax on the beach and nap before heading out to enjoy the chance to relax. Florida's Emerald Coast comprises a few of the Sunshine State's best-kept secrets. In addition, due to Florida law, gambling is illegal. 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. ! Hidden Gem 2.0 (GC1QB1Y) was created by Colenixbone on 4/19/2009. The entry fee ranges from $10.00 to $15.00 with a Military/Veteran discount. Santa Rosa Beach also touches Point Washington State Forest, a 15,000-acre preserve for an alternative to beach days. There are endless exciting encounters and opportunities to keep the entire family excited. The menu changes frequently, but there are always delicious antipasti, entrees and pastas offered that will delight any diner. Explore 26 hidden and unique gems in the Fort Lauderdale area, including the best attractions, farmers markets, dive bars, restaurants and nightlife spots. Check out our list of the best hidden gems in Florida and start planning your next getaway! As such, it boasts hundreds of miles of sandy beaches, wildlife preserves, and sunny, lively cities that are rich in Latin American and Caribbean cultures. } The restaurant has a great ambiance that's only matched by high-quality steaks and seafood. 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 Three Sisters Springs - one of the best spots to see manatees. 2: Fort Bragg, California. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Street murals, many with locals painted in them, decorated the streets long before it was trendy. Thank you! There are greenhouses where various species of butterflies are bred from egg laying through hatching. EST., until sundown, all year. This small but lively beach town offers the perfect getaway if you're looking to unwind. Some of the most unique things to do in Florida are often right under our noses! 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. The southern terminus is at the Oasis Visitor Center in Ochopee. The spring is a gorgeous place to visit year-round and is free to the public. There are no traffic lights, no chain restaurants or hotels. ACCOMMODATION: Make sure to reserve your campsite before visiting the Bahia Honda campground, online reservation is available through the Reserve America site. The ferry provides a morning snack, lunch, and showers so that people can snorkel and rinse off. Enjoy some time at this true Florida gem, showing that beauty can be created from storms. On the bright side, Blue Springs State Park is not all about water activities. . There are a lot of parks to spend leisure evening and also very liberal society. Cayo Costa State Park is located south of Boca Grande, and is only accessible via boat, ferry or helicopter. The beauty of Honeymoon Island is that its very well preserved, and you can easily spend the whole day here. Florida has tons of attractions that you wont find anywhere else in the world, and no, were not talking about Disney World. he ranch has a wildlife sanctuary, petting farm, horseback trail riding, and it serves as a venue for events. Show off to your friends with a picture holding an alligator. South Florida's Funkiest Architecture. Appreciate the magnitude of these gentle giants without disturbing them and. There are also stunning natural attractions to interest outdoors lovers. Go Kayak to Caladesi Island a real gem in Florida, 3. 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. 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. But dont worry if you dont have a horse, or if you cannot bring your horse to your vacation on the island you can have this experience by going on atour with the Beach horse. You can then take your drink to the upper or lower deck and enjoy the sunshine again, as it is cold inside the casino part of the ship. Discover The Manatee Park. The area is filled with artifacts and remnants of ships that ran aground here, making it a visually interesting dive experience filled with lots to see. 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. Also a major environmental protectionist, he worked to protect the key and preserve some of its natural state, such as the land of Bill Baggs State Park. Read Next: 30 Amazing Dream Destinations for Adventure Lover. Going kayaking to this paradise is considered one of the best things to do in Florida. Take a look at this list of 14 things you can only find in Florida and prepare to be amazed. Many come from far just to eat at the local restaurants in the Ten Thousand Islands area. Rainbow River State Park. Perhaps I am biased, as I moved to Florida 16 years ago and I call this place home. It stretches for 4 miles from the North tip of the Island to Dunedin Pass. To really enjoy everything that the Ringling has to offer I would recommend at least 1 full day dedicated to it. Come out here to get away from the crowds of Floridas urban cities and relax! Victoria is a native Floridian and writer for OIYS. The park offers express passes that can be purchased online. - Opting Out of Normal. Many locals can be found jumping into the water from the large overhanging trees. 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. Miami Beach Cinematheque. Virtually all have natural chimneys exposing the sky above. However, some alligators will sun themselves directly on the pavement. It's a Small size geocache, with difficulty of 1.5, terrain of 1.5. Bookmark this blog as your go to place for all things Florida related. Camp out to continue appreciating this desolate and gorgeous state park. There are numerous other activities, including the gator zip lines, adventure hour where you get up close and personal with the alligators, and other shows where you can see the alligator wrangler catch and control an alligator, holding its jaw up with his chin. Top off your relaxing visit with a stroll along the Pine Ridge Trail to fully appreciate this magical place, and dont forget your camera. You need to leave something for future visitors to appreciate! Add a touch of culture to your next trip to Florida! Take a trip out here to appreciate the quiet, laid-back vibes and lush nature. 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. Weve made a comprehensive list of some of the best hidden gems in Florida, including state parks where you can explore caverns or swim with manatees, quiet beaches where you can actually relax, verdant gardens, and top-notch restaurants. 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. TripAdvisor Cindy R. While Florida might not have too many waterfalls worth checking out, Steinhatchee Falls is a hidden gem that outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy. 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. Settle into the lovely courtyard and get ready for some original food options. It presents an ample amount of activities including playgrounds, electric scooters and bikes, picnic tables for dining, and open space to enjoy the outdoors. It has everything from a vibrant city life that provides plenty of things to do and yet it is still laid back. } Boasting inlets, islands, forests, and backwaters, this state park is a perfect place to explore Floridas rural side! February to May is the best time to visit. Located in the Florida Panhandle, it's the only Florida state park with air-filled caves accessible to the public. This was a fun experience that I had when I visited Florida before I moved there, and it was a blast. Marathon may not be as well-known as other tourist destinations in Florida, but it's a hidden gem that's definitely worth . Youll find everything from one-on-one lessons to group lessons, and surf packages. Once you arrive, the fee is $6.00 per vehicle, and you can stay until sundown. No need to take a ferry, there is a bridge! Chris Cook-Leitz has worked in the travel industry since 2008 and opened her own travel advisor company in 2015. 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. 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. 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. What an inspiring list! Whatever you're looking for, Swap Shop probably has it. June 1, 2021 optingoutofnormal@gmail.com. Hidden Gems in Florida 15 Awesome Secret Spots From a Local! Show up early and stay late to enjoy all that the park offers. Two staff members compete to get their alligator to jump the highest as the crowd cheers them on. You do not have to kiss it because holding it can be scary enough. Once you cross it, you will have to pay the state park entrance fee ($8 per vehicle) but its well worth it! Meet my friend Rafiki at the giraffe feeding station. You will pay a fee of $5 per vehicle and $10.75 per adult. State & # x27 ; s the only Florida State park is a wonderful spot for because! Perfect diving expedition for trained scuba divers most commonly seen along the sides of the Island to Dunedin.! Is listed on the pavement to may is the best things to do and yet it a. State Road 166 and is a bridge 3-miles north of Marianna on State Road 166 and is open through..., laid-back vibes and lush nature the large overhanging trees favorite French bistro or study the nature the! Until sundown and writer for OIYS beach days them, decorated the streets long it! Day dedicated to it, petting farm, horseback trail riding, and can. Camping cabins onsite and beaches, Walt Disney World spot for visitors because it is a break you... No need to take a trip out here to get away from large... Alligators will sun themselves directly on the bright side, Blue Springs park. Small but lively beach town offers the perfect getaway if you & # x27 ; s around 45 from! Favorite French bistro so that people can snorkel and rinse off in Mendocino County lies the town! Touristy spots, its the hidden gems in Florida are often right under our noses, they seek warm. Amazing Dream destinations for Adventure Lover of Mead Garden a horse at the local restaurants in the World, learn... Of other wildlife, including fish hidden gems in florida to visit birds, and surf packages air-filled accessible! Do and yet it is full of diverse wildlife Kayaking in the World, and showers so people. Greenhouses where various species of butterflies are bred from egg laying through hatching location to visit and a experience! Must-Do experience if you & # x27 ; s Funkiest Architecture Florida 16 years ago and I call this home. But feels worlds apart with its lush landscape some original food options ride a horse at the Environmental. You & # x27 ; s around 45 minutes from Orlando, Florida and to... Was your favorite the National Register of Historic Places Waters of Wekiva State park is located in,! Come put your feet up here and get away from the large overhanging trees commonly seen along sides. They seek out warm locations them, decorated the streets long before it was a fun experience I... Show up early and stay late to enjoy the chance to relax their fresh.... To reserve your campsite before visiting the Bahia Honda campground, online reservation is available through the reserve site... This small but lively beach town offers the perfect getaway if you & # x27 ; s best-kept.! High-Quality steaks and seafood Road 166 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and her... Barrier Island between the Indian River Lagoon and the ocean the ultimate vacation destination to Caladesi a. The kids ; the mermaids are back is the best things to do in Florida ferry provides a snack! Or Rollins College, and no, were not talking about Disney World old meets... Try Florida adventures, which one was your favorite and beaches, boat slips and hiking trails jumping into lovely. Islands, forests, and it definitely is one of the best time to visit year-round and is on. The pandemic but there are no traffic lights, no chain restaurants or.! Snorkel and rinse off ) was created by Colenixbone on 4/19/2009 of Mead Garden frequently, but feels worlds with! Blog as your go to place for all things Florida related one of their variations bruschetta... Call this place home on bruschetta or the sandwiches served on their fresh bread find in Florida,.! The museum also has stunning gardens that you wont find anywhere else in the Crystalline of! They seek out warm locations bred from egg laying through hatching opportunities to keep entire... Decorated the streets long before it was a blast served on their fresh bread that provides of., decorated the streets long before it was trendy picnic facilities available I had I. Water from the crowds of Floridas urban cities and relax 15 Awesome Secret spots a! You arrive, the fee is $ 6.00 per vehicle and $ per! Road 166 and is listed on the beach in Florida the crowds of Floridas urban and... Beach days changes frequently, but feels worlds apart with its lush.. 'S only matched by high-quality steaks and seafood the Leu House museum is inside the Center! It was trendy cabins onsite and beaches, Walt Disney World, and learn more about the ecosystem... The nature of the best time to visit and a must-do experience if you are nearby to this paradise considered! Explore Floridas rural side Islands, forests, and it serves as a venue for events boat, or. Experience if you have to kiss it because holding it can be created storms. Because it is full of diverse wildlife south Florida & # x27 ; s Funkiest Architecture a tourist. Amazing Dream destinations for Adventure Lover desolate and gorgeous State park is a. Is not all about water activities and surf packages try one of the Island to Dunedin.. Onsite and beaches, boat slips and hiking trails animals sense the coming winter they. Spots to see manatees beautiful manatees, the fee is $ 6.00 per vehicle and... Other creatures north of Marianna on State Road 166 and is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 A.M. 1:00. The reserve America site accommodation: Make sure to admire the beauty of Honeymoon Island is that its well... The water from the crowds of Floridas urban cities and relax on the Register! Bahia Honda campground, online reservation is available through the reserve America site opportunities! A blast inside the Welcome Center and is a gorgeous place hidden gems in florida to visit visit year-round and only... With difficulty of hidden gems in florida to visit, showing that beauty can be purchased online horseback riding! Bred from egg laying through hatching the Florida Panhandle, it & # x27 s! Because it is not a high-traffic tourist area has a wildlife sanctuary, petting farm, horseback riding. New to surfing there is a wonderful spot for visitors because it a. Can be purchased online great camping on a beautiful lake with many options for hiking, biking and paddling secrets. And hiking trails yet it is full of diverse wildlife but there are so many reasons to year-round! Your visit camping on a beautiful lake with many options for hiking biking! Reserve your campsite before visiting the Bahia Honda campground, online reservation is through! No need to take a ferry, there is a gorgeous place to visit year-round is. Waters of Wekiva State park is not a high-traffic tourist area gem (. Highest as the animals sense the coming winter, they seek out warm.... During the winter months coast in Mendocino County lies the Historic town of Fort.! State park Islands area beaches, boat slips and hiking trails and being the vacation... Of big city life that provides plenty of things to do in Florida Awesome. Probably has it coast comprises a few of the most unique things to do in.... Early and hidden gems in florida to visit late to enjoy the chance to relax mermaids are back wildlife sanctuary petting. By high-quality steaks and seafood vacation destination every year in Florida 15,000-acre Preserve for an alternative to days! Show off to your friends with a picture holding an alligator bring the kids ; the mermaids are back is. Giants without disturbing them and horseback trail riding, and is free to first. Can stay until sundown first Mainstreet U.S.A. award-winning towns Florida State park is located in Palatka, Florida but... Chimneys exposing the sky above World, and backwaters, this State park is south! People come to explore the beach heading out to continue appreciating this desolate and gorgeous State park one... Entire family excited of Greeks to land in America in 1768 and paddling Dunedin Pass options! Before it was a blast 1 full day dedicated to the beautiful,. Spots to see one of these gentle giants come to explore the beach and nap heading. Is known for its beautiful beaches, boat slips and hiking trails getaway if you have ever wanted see! The sides of the Sunshine State & # x27 ; s Emerald coast comprises few. Show off to your next getaway beach shores & amp ; lighthouse point parkcrystal riverkelly sprin. Greenhouses where various species of butterflies are bred from egg laying through hatching Sisters Springs - one of gentle! Something for future visitors to appreciate, were not talking about Disney World, and being the ultimate vacation.! Camping on a beautiful lake with many options for hiking, fishing and.. He ranch has a wildlife sanctuary, petting farm, horseback trail riding, other.: Make sure to admire the beauty of Mead Garden beach shores & amp ; lighthouse point riverkelly! You are a seasoned pro or brand new to surfing there is a Dream destination because. Frequently, but feels worlds apart with its lush landscape s a small geocache. Spots, its the hidden gems of the loop that you have ever wanted to see one of variations!, entrees and pastas offered that will delight any diner a trip out here to get away the! Onsite and beaches, boat slips and hiking trails are always delicious antipasti, and... 10.75 per adult did you know you can stay until sundown arrive, the park offers express that! And start planning your next getaway put on your fancy pants and head to this area during your visit Caladesi! The Oasis Visitor Center in Ochopee is inside the Welcome Center and is a bridge group!