On Maui, there plenty of off-the-beaten-track and hidden gems that only the locals know. Love Florida? Relax on the beach and nap before heading out to enjoy the chance to relax. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. It gets cold when you are speeding and soaked, so it was an ideal time slot for my husband and me. This spot is easily one of the best hidden gems in Florida. The Goblin Market is an eclectic bistro that is a must-visit for anyone near the charming town of Mount Dora. This small but lively beach town offers the perfect getaway if you're looking to unwind. Come put your feet up here and get away from the stress of big city life. 2. 21 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Miami, Florida Updated January 30, 2023 Share Tweet Email 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. I have visited the Ringling Circus Museum and can concur GO VISIT! 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. Caves in Florida? 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. Perfect to stay away from the crowds! Another off-the-beaten path in Florida for your bucket list! There is a $6 toll charge to get on the island and the Florida SunPass is not valid. It is considered by many Floridians to be the alligator capital of the world. Visit the historic bridge and soak in some sun along their gorgeous beaches. 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. BEST ACCOMMODATION: I really recommendrenting a beach houseon Anna Maria Island to enjoy the most of this island paradise. You can snorkel at both springs, or paddle along the Salt Springs Run that ends in Lake George. A beach in Florida where you can actually get some alone time is rare indeed. listeners: [], } Hi Terri, yes the Ringling Circus is an amazing place and I am so glad you enjoyed this article. Now children and adults in the area alike come out here on hot summer days. The Miami Beach Cinematheque is located at 1130 Washington Avenue and is known for showcasing indie films as well as classic films. In 1947, it was converted into a sort of natural aquarium, and a waterpark was added nearby to make this place a water adventure destination. No matter the size, the houseboats are an incredibly unique experience, and they enable you to listen to the ocean waves and marine life as you rest. Ten Thousand Islands in Florida is for anyone looking for an authentic adventure while enjoying some solitude, and being immersed in nature, and for anyone who seeks off-the-beaten-path destinations. Boasting crystal clear waters, a diverse array of marine life, and much more, there's something for everyone at this tourist hotspot. 3 St. Photios National Greek Orthodox Shrine. 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. In addition to the beautiful manatees, the park hosts a variety of other wildlife, including fish, birds, and other creatures. You will receive your first email soon. From feeding giraffes to touching stingrays, it's the ultimate place to get close to the most fascinating animals. 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. Drive iconic scenic coastal highway 30A to discover a variety of the coolest Florida beach towns. TOP TIPS FOR EXPERIENCING THE BIOLUMINESCENCE: ACCOMMODATION: theMonumental Hotel Orlandois a great option. San Jose's Original Mexican Restaurant: Hidden Gem - See 81 traveler reviews, 19 candid photos, and great deals for Leesburg, FL, at Tripadvisor. 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. Today, Winter Parks highlight is Park Avenue, a tree-lined, cobblestone street bursting with eateries, museums, and some of Orlandos best areas for shopping. Sign Up Lake Eola Park is a spectacular location to enjoy quality time with loved ones or roam solo. 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. The mornings are beautiful, and from the houseboat, I could eat my breakfast while watching the pelicans eat theirs. Cormorants flutter over you in the mangroves, along with many other extensive types of birds. Having lived nearby in Charleston for many years, Folly Beach holds a special place in my heart. It serves as a terrific engagement photography area or wedding venue. Photo Credit: Author d4rr3ll from UK. Rent canoes at the headsprings to strike off on your own expedition, or swim in the designated areas. 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. 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. The worst of the rainfall typically hits during the hottest months of the year: June, July, and August. 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.. 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 park is located near an energy plant. There are also ample opportunities to go birding or view other diverse kinds of wildlife, or go fishing, snorkeling, kayaking or swimming. Some of the most unique things to do in Florida are often right under our noses! It is a true gem, boasting gorgeous hikes, a swimming hole, and campsites for those eager to stay overnight! 25 Hidden Gems on East Coast: Vacation Spots in USA Some of the most unique things to do in Florida are often right under our noses! Surprise! Take the kids to see the marine life at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park or explore hands-on exhibits at the Emerald Coast Science Center. A weekend can see up to 400 people! Marathon may not be as well-known as other tourist destinations in Florida, but it's a hidden gem that's definitely worth . Get to know the locals while you enjoy a beer or two or some clam chowder, and stay at a house on stilts off the beautiful oceans to soak in the fresh ocean air. Best of all there is something to do here for everyone, whether looking to tube . The trail is paved and has a wide variety of options for people of any activity level. Thinking of this gives you something to appreciate while out on the mile of Atlantic beach. Click here to find out more about this Florida hidden gem. window.mc4wp.listeners.push( Located near Clearwater and St Petersburg, Honeymoon Island is one of the best off the beaten path in Florida! The best way to explore the Molasses Reef is to join a, Located only Approximately 20 minutes northeast of downtown Orlando. Winter Park is one of the highlights for adults looking to visit Orlando and find many great things to do in this area. Or, if you find yourself on the other end at Clearwater Beach, simply walk all the way out to Caladesi Island, as it technically connected to the mainland at this point at a narrow juncture. Sarasota is known for its haute cuisine and global fare. 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. Matlacha Pass waterways offer excellent canoeing and kayaking opportunities, or you can head off to explore the mangroves or palms that stretch for acres. There is a picnic area, playground, restrooms, a Caladesi Cafe, and showers available on the island. Thanks for the ideas. Honeymoon Island State Park in Florida: Complete Guide + Insider Tips. Navarre Beach is a little off of the beaten path- and that's one of the best things about it. The City of St. Augustine is known by many Floridians for its historical sights. If you have a phobia of spiders, DO NOT VOLUNTEER. If you are not comfortable with camping, you can rent a cabin which is pretty affordable. Coral Castle is a limestone structure located in Homestead, Florida. Books line the walls of the three small dining rooms, and most guests rave about the shady courtyard and garden patio. Enjoy some time at this true Florida gem, showing that beauty can be created from storms. 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. Thanks for this inspiration! Located in the Florida Panhandle, it's the only Florida state park with air-filled caves accessible to the public. On this preserve on Jupiter Island, you'll see waves breaking on huge limestone formations, sending sprays up to 50 feet in the air. In addition, October, November, and December are lovely months to visit due to the lowering temperatures. It is $30.00 for adults and $25.00 for children for a half-hour time slot, and for one hour, it is $50.00 for adults and $45.00 for children. Really? If you are a surfer newbie, there are lots of surf shops that offer rentals and lessons near Jacksonville Beach. 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. What a great destination for kids, families, couples and friends. TIPS TO VISIT THE SINKHOLES IN GAINESVILLE. Designated as a national park by President Franklin Roosevelt, this incredible destination is only accessible via seaplane or boat, preserving its nature and isolation. You need to plan your visit ahead, due to the parks remote location and limited transportation options. It is filled with adventure activities and some of the best surf in the state. Tropical Palms RV Resort: Hidden Gem - See 2,079 traveller reviews, 342 candid photos, and great deals for Tropical Palms RV Resort at Tripadvisor. Rent a House Boat in Cow Key, one of the best secret getaways in Florida. However, some alligators will sun themselves directly on the pavement. The Nights of Lights is open until 2:00 A.M. EST. It presents an ample amount of activities including playgrounds, electric scooters and bikes, picnic tables for dining, and open space to enjoy the outdoors. 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. This charming city north of Orlando offers lots of cute shops, restaurants, and parks to stroll through, as well as an excellent Saturday morning farmers market and cultural landmarks like the Morse Museum, which holds the most comprehensive collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany's works in the world. The median home value is on average $591,500. While in the neighborhood, stop at Alma Sue's Quilts.. 6. Stop by next time you are in the area to appreciate the diverse wildlife. Courtesy of Florida Tourism 3. Explore the area around Fort Jefferson. window.mc4wp = window.mc4wp || { 14 Best Florida Bachelorette Party Destinations! Join my email list to receive the latest articles directly in your inbox. If you have ever wanted to see one of these gentle giants come to Manatee Park during the winter months. You will pay a fee of $5 per vehicle and $10.75 per adult. Enjoy some time at this true Florida gem, showing that beauty can be created from storms. I want to swim with a manatee!!! It is incredibly informative and ADA accessible. It can also be roamed freely, which I found to be the most exciting approach. Dining venues within the Ringling may be closed during the pandemic but there are 2 picnic facilities available. Going kayaking to this paradise is considered one of the best things to do in Florida. If you are a gardener or anyone who enjoys the beauty of nature, Harry P. Leu Gardens should be at the top of your list when you visit Florida. Wekiwa Springs State Park, a large natural spring system, is a short 30-minute drive from Kelly Rock Springs. The swirling of your hand or the paddle stroke ignites the bioluminescence. Some of the rock formations are sharp and prickly; others are smooth and wave-worn. 4. Wekiwa Island and Wekiwa Springs. Youll walk away with more knowledge of the area and some great pictures of the waterfalls. With this unique blog, my goal is to inspire you to find a life balance betweenActive Travel & a HealthyLifestyle! There are camping cabins onsite and beaches, boat slips and hiking trails. This list was prepared with some of the top Florida things to do and to give you some inspiration for your Florida bucket list. 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. One of those happens to be a tarantula. They will ask the crowd for volunteers and have a few guests close their eyes while they place a creepy creature beside them or in their hands. Its very easy to reach Honeymoon Island from the mainland. 05 of 10. Fort Jefferson is also a part of the national park, a massive coastal stone fortress that was never completed. 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