Where Caladesi was once a separate island, a few years ago, and deposits connected it to Clearwater Beach. Rent canoes at the headsprings to strike off on your own expedition, or swim in the designated areas. 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 . Make sure to see Port Boca Grande Lighthouse, built in 1890 and still standing to this day. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens . TIPS TO VISIT THE SINKHOLES IN GAINESVILLE. Its open from 8AM to sundown every day, and is beautiful in the early morning when the birds are awake and chirping, filling this gem of a park with their songs. Show up early and stay late to enjoy all that the park offers. A beach in Florida where you can actually get some alone time is rare indeed. Besides selling a diverse selection of quilts hand-stitched on . I cant believe how much there is to do in Florida! Be sure to also grab a bite to eat at the restaurant, Cornell Cafe, which was featured on the Food Network! I highly recommend listening to the suggestions from the staff as it was a rough ride in January when I went. What a hidden gem in Vero Beach! Laura also interned with the Walt Disney World College Program in 1995. Better weather would make for a smoother ride. I love your hidden gems. She also makes art, jewelry, and other things for her shop. Kayak To See the Bioluminescent is an Off Beaten Path in Florida, 15. Come experience the elegance and grandeur of the Biltmore by taking a tour of America's largest home. Thanks for the ideas. Fort Jefferson is also a part of the national park, a massive coastal stone fortress that was never completed. Spend an afternoon at their Central Park or Rollins College, and be sure to admire the beauty of Mead Garden. Two places to see sinkholes are Devils Millhopper Geological State Park and Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park. Visit the historic bridge and soak in some sun along their gorgeous beaches. Gatorland has numerous activities that take place throughout the day. 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. While you are here, be sure to check out the local farmers market, or explore the waterways on a scenic boat tour. Soak in the sun at Bean Point Beach (a real off-the-beaten-path Florida). The park is free and is open from 6:00 A.M. to 11:59 P.M. Swan Boat rentals are available on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, from 10:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. To ensure you get a chance to rent a swan boat, be sure to arrive earlier in the day. This peaceful location is great for families, couples, and singles to enjoy the lake and take in the scenery. The park allows pets and is a marvelous place for walkers and joggers to exercise on the path. If you own or rent a boat, you can also travel the waters and encounter the wildlife. Boondocking / Dry Camping Off the Beaten Path Series. Based on the temperature you prefer, you can select the ideal time of year to visit. It is a great location to visit from any of the areas. Top off your relaxing visit with a stroll along the Pine Ridge Trail to fully appreciate this magical place, and dont forget your camera. Sign Up Donated to the state in 1962, Falling Waters is a great nature retreat. There are two museum buildings, the original looks like a Japanese villa and is built on its own island, serene and beautiful surrounded by the Zen-like gardens. Old Florida meets the 21st century in Seminole County, a hidden gem in Florida. Another off-the-beaten path in Florida for your bucket list! They often reside partially in the water and partially on land. If one of your Florida bucket lists is to swim with these gentle giants, there are plenty of tour operators in Crystal River to choose from. The beauty of Honeymoon Island is that its very well preserved, and you can easily spend the whole day here. The airboats are extremely loud. Miami Hidden Gems and Secret Places to Visit in South Florida. You will pay a fee of $5 per vehicle and $10.75 per adult. This is a perfect diving expedition for trained scuba divers. Follow the mile long path through the gardens, and learn more about them with the accompanying audio guide. One of those happens to be a tarantula. Winter Park is also a great place for outdoor enthusiasts, including a robust park system and a gorgeous chain of lakes. It is located by the waterfront at Johns Pass Village in Madeira Beach. Enjoy some time at this true Florida gem, showing that beauty can be created from storms. The State Park is open from 8a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year. 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. What To Do ACCOMMODATION: A great option is the Hampton Inn in Juno Beach, within walking distance of the beach and near many recreational activities. A nice break from your typical Florida beach town, Anna Maria Island will be that beachy escape that leaves you feeling rested. Gatorland allows you to walk through the park and observe all of the critters that live there. A: In the suburbs of Fort Lauderdale with a population of 3,885, Highland Beach is a great hidden gem for retirees to live in Florida. Popular are shrimp, oysters, clams, lobster rolls and fish tacos. The natural side of the Sunshine State is on full display at spots like Wekiwa Springs State Park, where visitors can paddle, snorkel, and swim in the crystal-clear springs that remain at 72 degrees year-round, and the Wekiva River, one of just two "National Wild . Children love the swing ropes and waterslides, or taking a raft out on the river. 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. Both parks are easy to get to by car and can be toured within a couple of hours. Everything moves at a relaxed pace the police even drive around in golf carts instead of cruisers! Caladesi Island is one of the best beaches in the country and one of the few in Florida that have been kept completely natural. 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 park is located near an energy plant. 2. These coastal states are located on the Atlantic Ocean, spread from Maine to Florida, all unique in their way, from UNESCO World Heritage sites, beaches to charming small towns, and landmarks. 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. Im Paula, a fitness athlete, and adventure seeker always on the lookout for authentic experiences especially if it involves active and adventure travel! 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. 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. Matlacha Pass waterways offer excellent canoeing and kayaking opportunities, or you can head off to explore the mangroves or palms that stretch for acres. Go swim with Manatees at Crystal River, 8. Its a great, family-friendly outing! ACCOMMODATION: A great option is the Residence Inn By Mariott, featuring an outdoor pool, fitness center, bar, and lounge. 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 . Pack up your sunscreen and camera, and get ready to explore the hidden gems of Florida. It is also great for spotting the many manatees in the area. One such site is the natural springs dotted around Crystal River. The park is based on movies such as The Simpsons, Spongebob, Minions, Scooby-Doo, Spiderman, and more. 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. Once you arrive, the fee is $6.00 per vehicle, and you can stay until sundown. 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. The prime months to visit Florida, generally suggested by many Floridians, are March, April, and May, because the weather is not too high or low. Head further down the Rainbow River to go tubing, and bring your hiking shoes to hit the trails, or your bike if you are a cyclist. Snag a table (if you can) and settle in for a delicious dining experience seating is in high demand!. Another intermediate spot is on each side of Jackson Pier. Gasparilla Island State Park is separated from the Florida Mainland by Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound. The most exciting part about the Shark Valley Loop Trail is traveling past the numerous alligators along the loop. Florida Caverns State Park is the place to go see Florida's natural and historic . A weekend can see up to 400 people! BEST ACCOMMODATION: Meranova Guest Inn is located very close to the Dunedin Marina, with an outdoor swimming pool and bar and stunning views. Click here to find out more about this Florida attraction. It helps to fundraise for the animals and is a unique experience, to say the least. On this preserve on Jupiter Island, you'll see waves breaking on huge limestone formations, sending sprays up to 50 feet in the air. Some of the most unique things to do in Florida are often right under our noses! Devil's Den is a hidden gem in Florida and is one of the country's prehistoric underground rivers. This spot is easily one of the best hidden gems in Florida. Among other exhibits are American art pottery and early 2th century American paintings and graphics. window.mc4wp = window.mc4wp || { Lets start this amazing list of Off the Beaten Paths in Florida with my backyard. What are the most unique things to do in Florida? If you love finding the beaten path in Florida, Bean Point Beach is the perfect beach for you. If you want to venture off the beaten path so to speak and discover some of Floridas secret treasures we have you covered. Honeymoon Island State Park in Florida: Complete Guide + Insider Tips. 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. Youll see why as soon as you arrive. This Bed & Breakfast has continental and a la carte breakfast and rooms with a terrace. This cruise is perfect for those who are visiting Florida and want a little extra time to enjoy the warm weather and the stunning ocean. Cow Key is an offshoot from Key West and is an amazing place to try something new. Click here to find out more about this Florida hidden gem. You will want to swim and relax on the beach. It is a fantastic spot to experience the best of nature and outdoor activities, with the famous bridge and offshore island. 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. Most of the coral reefs in the Keys exhibit a large amount and variety of marine life due to protections in place, ACCOMMODATION: You will love the Almond Tree Inn is only 14-min from the beach and features an outdoor pool, hot tub, and continental breakfast. 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! (function() { Ten Thousand IslandsNational Wildlife Refuge (NWR), is one of the most hidden paradises in Florida. This surf spot is called the poles and is best suited to intermediate and advanced surfers. 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. Universal Studios is comprised of themed areas, rides, and experiences. You need to plan your visit ahead, due to the parks remote location and limited transportation options. Villa Vizcaya is a private mansion and estate belonging to the wealthy businessman James Deering, completed in 1923. Plus, the very best ones are probably still well hidden. It is filled with nature and home to 70 parks which host festivals and events year round! We go every year to see my in laws in Florida and we are always looking for new corners of the state to explore. This location cannot be beat when it comes to a peaceful place to birdwatch, have lunch, and enjoy the Florida sunshine. Located in the Florida Panhandle, it's the only Florida state park with air-filled caves accessible to the public. You can plan your trip with this easy guide and have access to the best services I recommend and you can get discounted prices. Winter Park is one of the highlights for adults looking to visit Orlando and find many great things to do in this area. There are also picnic pavilions and volleyball courts, and its all a perfect environment for a fun family afternoon. As full-time RV'ers, we travel and see a lot. 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. The moat surrounding Fort Jefferson is an incredible walk. It is open to the public all year round, so dont miss out when you are in the area! Some of the most unique things to do in Florida are often right under our noses! Explore the trails and go to a campfire circle, where the rangers give talks and put on a slide slow. I would love it if you could follow me on Pinterest and share this guide on my social media. Navarre Beach is a little off of the beaten path- and that's one of the best things about it. If you are a surfer newbie, there are lots of surf shops that offer rentals and lessons near Jacksonville Beach. Try searching for a travel destination. Its easy to miss this Florida gem, hidden under a canopy of mangroves and off the junction of I-95 with I-595. 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 worst of the rainfall typically hits during the hottest months of the year: June, July, and August. A great perk of the onboard casino is that it offers a variety of chances to try your hand at poker and the slot machines while being served free beverages as long as you are inside. 6. The self-guided tour can be taken structurally, going from one garden to the next. You need to leave something for future visitors to appreciate! 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