Weeki Wachee, derived from the Seminole name, means Little Spring or Winding River, is a spring located on the Weeki Wachee River. 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. You can go swimming, fishing, snorkeling or study the nature of the island; it is full of diverse wildlife. The forests boast versatile and diverse terrain, from palm-filled oases to sand pine flatlands and prairie wetlands. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. The most remote South Florida hidden gem is the Florida Trail, one of only 11 National Scenic Trails. A true definition of a hidden gem, many Floridians have never heard of Crystal River. When you enter the Gardens, it feels like a whole different planet. ACCOMMODATION: A great option is the Residence Inn By Mariott, featuring an outdoor pool, fitness center, bar, and lounge. You will pay a fee of $5 per vehicle and $10.75 per adult. Bring a picnic or do a barbecue. Explore the Honeymoon Island State Park, 2. Kelly Rock Springs is definitely one of Florida's best hidden gems. . Grab a rope and get ready to plunge into the water and enjoy some good old-fashioned fun at this swimming hole. I was relieved that I was not selected to volunteer and that the poor woman near us did not throw the spider as I would have done. Wild Florida: Hidden Gem! I will most likely have to write a second revision of this post soon. The most exciting part about the Shark Valley Loop Trail is traveling past the numerous alligators along the loop. He lived in the second story of the castle tower and gave private tours until his death, never disclosing his construction techniques. Walk the mile of interpretive trail and watch out for the land crabs that might be crossing the road! Old Florida Book Shop Back to Top of List. 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. This is the most beautiful beach on Anna Maria Island in my opinion. Relax and enjoy this untouched stretch of beach. This beautiful and serene spot features a world-class . Sited east of Pensacola, this quiet destination boasts a generous white-sand beach snuggled against the emerald-hued Gulf of Mexico. It has everything from a vibrant city life that provides plenty of things to do and yet it is still laid back. An environmental preserve on Jupiter Island, Blowing Rocks Preserve is home to the largest Anastasia limestone outcropping on the east coast of Florida. The hotel offers modern accommodations, an outdoor pool, a hot tub, and free Wi-Fi. Go swim with Manatees at Crystal River, 8. This Urban Wilderness Area features a great many different trees native to Florida, including cypress, maple, mangrove, and a laurel oak hammock. ACCOMMODATION: Make sure to reserve your campsite before visiting the Bahia Honda campground, online reservation is available through the Reserve America site. Some of the most popular beaches in Jacksonville include American Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach. I highly recommend listening to the suggestions from the staff as it was a rough ride in January when I went. Try one of their variations on bruschetta or the sandwiches served on their fresh bread. 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! Blue Spring State Park is the place to be if you want a stunning body of water where you can do a vast array of activities, including swimming, snorkeling, tubing, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, diving, and similar activities. Rainbow River State Park. There are numerous other activities within the national park, but this was the highlight of the trip for my husband and me. In fact, this area is the most significant winter refuge from Manatees in the entire world. I traveled via the Yankee Freedom Ferry which is roughly a 2 1/2 hour trip each way, pun intended. An aviary with birds, fish, a turtle, a tortoise and a bunny named Cotton are also on the farm as is a gopher tortoise named Charles Xavier. Sign Up He claimed that magnets had helped heal him from tuberculosis, and spend over 28 years building the Coral Castle. 4. One of the most unique attractions in Sarasota is The Ringling the sprawling estate of the kings of the circus, the Ringlings, the owners of Ringling Bros., and Barnum & Bailey Circus that was producing the Greatest Show on Earth from 1871 till 2017. Amish Community. Gatorland is a park that houses thousands of animals, including birds, wild cats, snakes, tortoises, crocodiles, and of course, alligators. They have numerous animals to view and learn about, such as baby alligators, turtles, tortoises, lizards, and other marine life. Near the Georgia border, this way out-of-the-way park is located where the Flint River and the Chattahoochee combine to form Lake Seminole above a dam. Join my email list to receive the latest articles directly in your inbox. This small but lively beach town offers the perfect getaway if you're looking to unwind. 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. Located in the center, however, theres a beautiful place that may somehow fall out of the tourist radar Villa Vizcaya and its gardens. It is recommended to ask questions about the variety of animals at the ranch. The Rose Garden was the most impressive sight for me by far. Respect the environment and enjoy the proximity to the diverse sea life, like the eels, parrotfish, angelfish and nurse sharks, but do your part to continue preserving the environment by not touching the coral or compromising the ecosystem. Couples love it because of the lack of amenities, it makes a tranquil beach. The swirling of your hand or the paddle stroke ignites the bioluminescence. Ten Thousand IslandsNational Wildlife Refuge (NWR), is one of the most hidden paradises in Florida. The park allows pets and is a marvelous place for walkers and joggers to exercise on the path. If you love finding the beaten path in Florida, Bean Point Beach is the perfect beach for you. The Gardens also offer numerous services. 1) Kayaking in the Crystalline Waters of Wekiva State Park. Come spend the day in nature, under the Florida sunshine. You wouldn't believe you were in Florida while strolling through these historic gardens. Whether you're taking an educational tour around the . 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. Kayak To See the Bioluminescent is an Off Beaten Path in Florida, 15. 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. Make this a nice afternoon coffee and snack break the next time youre in Jacksonville! She specializes in booking Disney and . Winter Park is one of the highlights for adults looking to visit Orlando and find many great things to do in this area. It is recommended to go on a cooler summer day, to use sunscreen, and take a rest in the shaded areas to avoid sunburns. Visit Rainbow Springs and take a walk through paradise. Follow the mile long path through the gardens, and learn more about them with the accompanying audio guide. When you arrive, there may be a line of vehicles already waiting. TOP TIPS FOR EXPLORING WEEKI WACHEE RIVER. If you love nature, Blue Springs is the place to be. What To Do 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. Located in South Florida since 1957, the Gold Coast Railroad Museum is still one of the best hidden gems in Miami. (function() { Tucked away along the Atlantic Coast of South Florida, Martin County offers an authentic slice of paradise, blending seaside allure with a dash of Key West whimsy and true "Old Florida" charm. On land, there are often birds and forms of wildlife to observe. The southern terminus is at the Oasis Visitor Center in Ochopee. While you are here, be sure to check out the local farmers market, or explore the waterways on a scenic boat tour. Stop by in January for the Oshogatsu Festival, in April for the Hatsume Fair, or in October for their Lantern Festival. There is no rush, as the entire garden can be covered easily in one day. TOP TIPS FOR EXPERIENCING THE BIOLUMINESCENCE: ACCOMMODATION: theMonumental Hotel Orlandois a great option. } A curious structure built by an even more curious man, the craftsmanship is so detailed and the setup of the estate really is a marvel for one man to achieve on his own. Going kayaking to this paradise is considered one of the best things to do in Florida. Even among crowded areas you can find hidden gems and secret spots in . There are also boats tours offered or kayaks available for rent, should you wish to explore the river. The park also offers bicycling, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and camping. Florida has tons of attractions that you wont find anywhere else in the world, and no, were not talking about Disney World. Dry Tortugas National Park is a stunning place to visit for people of all ages. 7908 Three Rivers Park Rd, Sneads, FL 32460. The State Park is open from 8a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year. There are many unique animals, some of which are extremely friendly and playful during the guided petting zoo tour. 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. You can expect a nice drive to the location and a great day-long adventure. I love your hidden gems. However, exploring something off the beaten path can be so much more rewarding. Designated as a national park by President Franklin Roosevelt, this incredible destination is only accessible via seaplane or boat, preserving its nature and isolation. One of those happens to be a tarantula. } The park offers express passes that can be purchased online. BEST ACCOMMODATION: Meranova Guest Inn is located very close to the Dunedin Marina, with an outdoor swimming pool and bar and stunning views. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. A 65-foot observation tower approximately halfway through the loop allows you to observe the scenic views and meet Grumpy the gigantic alligator from afar, as he does live up to his name. While in the water with your horse, the trainer will teach you how to do some tricks on the horse. Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, Walt Disney World, and being the ultimate vacation destination. 23 miles west of Austin, you can find it off of Highway 71, one of the best hidden gems in the south USA. DelacaSeas Cafe: Great hidden gem - See 218 traveler reviews, 112 candid photos, and great deals for Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, FL, at Tripadvisor. Cow Key is a quiet destination at night, allowing you to listen to the ocean as you relax in your houseboat. It was recently created in the last several years by the strong Hurricane Wilma winds. Manatee Sanctuary Park. This is a great thing to do on Anna Maria Island, especially if you are traveling with kids. The island is approximately 70 miles from Key West and is only accessible by seaplane or boat. It means I have been exploring every corner of the Sunshine State. 22. The editors at TravelChannel.com have compiled a list of secret Florida destinations that have few tourists, but also much to offer in terms of natural beauty and family-friendly attractions. 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 best way to explore the Molasses Reef is to join a, Located only Approximately 20 minutes northeast of downtown Orlando. Snag a table (if you can) and settle in for a delicious dining experience seating is in high demand!. The Lake Monroe Boat Ramp area in Deltona has a small clearing with the boat launch, as well as picnic tables and benches to observe natures beauty. As the waves break against the limestone rock on the beach, water sprays through erosion holes in the rock, creating a breathtaking sight, although it could be slightly hazardous for those disinclined to get wet. Fort Jefferson is also a part of the national park, a massive coastal stone fortress that was never completed. The Singing Tower was constructed next to a reflection pool and is surrounded by a koi pond moat. 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. So here are the hidden gems on east coast of the USA. A 4 1/2 mile walk on Pine Island Trail allows for the sightings of these delightful animals. No need to take a ferry, there is a bridge! To get there, hop on the Beaches Trolley bus which runs by all the best beaches in Jacksonville. Off the Beaten Path in Florida. The Gold Coast Railroad Museum is certainly not one of Miami's most popular but that doesn't mean it's not worth visiting. 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. Not really a hidden gem in Florida but no Florida list is complete without a mention of Universal Studios! We go every year to see my in laws in Florida and we are always looking for new corners of the state to explore. 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. To get the best experience in this historical area, tour the Braille Trail. To put it plainly, Florida is known for Florida attractions. You need to plan your visit ahead, due to the parks remote location and limited transportation options. Check out our list of the best hidden gems in Florida and start planning your next getaway! 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. BEST ACCOMMODATION: There are no accommodations on the island, the best place to stay near Honeymoon Island is Clearwater, the Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach is located at the stunning Clearwater Beach and the rooms have an ocean view. Explore the Ten Thousand Island Wildlife Refugee, 7. on: function(evt, cb) { EST., until sundown, all year. Miami Beach Cinematheque. Honeymoon Island State Park in Florida: Complete Guide + Insider Tips. Click here to find out more about this Florida hidden gem. This guide is packed with insider tips on how to visit the best off-the-beaten-path in Florida. and North Shore Dr. There are greenhouses where various species of butterflies are bred from egg laying through hatching. Don't miss these hidden gems in Sarasota Florida to . You wouldn & # x27 ; re looking to visit Orlando and find great. 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