A visit to the great wanderlust destinations such as the Neon-lit city streets of Miami or roller coasters in Orlando connects you better with Florida. Its enormity means it is home to a healthy selection of less accessible landscapes and adventures. In our reporting, we will take you into the belly of one of Florida’s best-kept secrets.
Beneath are our listings of the top 14 factors to do in Florida with children all quiet attractions that can be completed outside the conventional Disney truths — from ancient forts you would possibly by no means have heard of or visits on your look out parks and water, gardens and intense gorgeous state tall White Mountain (it’s now not Dunk City).
Top 16 Hidden Gems in Florida
1. Read Hidden Coastal Relics of Cape Romano: Meet Nature’s Strength Echoes
But what was a private hideaway for the wealthy wanting to escape city life and revel in the serenity of beach living, today provides an environment for coastal critters. Indeed, over the past centuries erosion has taken much of this architectural wonder, largely submerging it. Today, the existing remnant — typically referred to as “the domes” — is developed into a wildlife refuge and also comes by boat only.
Sitting 30 miles south of Marco, this remote spot has seen the power of nature erase man’s work and is worth a trip for anyone interested in watching how human creations interact with natural events.
2. Uncover the Subterranean Splendor of Florida’s Caverns
Base your choice of destination to visit underground caverns in Florida on the type of amazing experiences you would like. Florida Caverns State Park offers guests a view of the limestone caves with LED lighting that highlights both the impressive rock formations and geomorphic features for an empowering visual experience.
Wildlife: Throughout your cave visit, you may encounter native wildlife such as bats and snakes. Temperatures in the cave are a constant 65-degrees so one advice is to bring along a light jacket. Note: There are stairs and a few narrow passages that require comfortable walking shoes.
The walking tour lasts just one hour, but offers breath-taking sights promising to make your visit unforgettable.
3. Stroll Through the Bok Tower Gardens Sanctuary in Central Florida
Set in Lake Wales, Central Florida, Bok Tower Gardens is a peaceful paradise created as a wild bird reserve that provides visitors with amazing Birds Of Prey. The setting is in citrus groves and wildflower fields adding to the already relaxing environment One of the main attractions here is the Singing Tower, which daily carries out its bell concerts making them a melodious site for miles around.
A reflective pool filled with koi sits next to the tower, which is an introspective oasis in its leafy setting. Once the home of Edward and Marie Bok, this 200-acre garden has since transformed into a sprawling sanctuary built for family adventures, a world away from civilization.
4. Experience Falling Waters State Park, Florida’s Tallest Waterfall
Although the thought of waterfalls in Florida may seem odd, Falling Waters State Park is home to what are likely the state’s highest falls – 74-foot Falling Water Falls drops into a sinkhole. Much more attractive with its greenery in the surrounding area, offering a perfect location for family outings – although it is not one of the highest.
A footbridge takes visitors right to the brink of the falls. In addition, the park has several recreational facilities — a lake for swimming and large picnic areas that make it a popular choice in summer.
5. Discover the Wonders of Blowing Rocks Preserve
Florida has a plethora of beaches along its coast and while Blowing Rocks Preserve is one of many places, the sight of tufts mangroves in salty fall-out are juts, eroded sand dunes and unearthed limestone formations make it stand out.
Results of this effort are reflected by the public as one walks through the preserve and catches glimpses of other slivers of preserved natural landscape. Endangered species are also present in this zone with seasonal sea turtles and manatee sightings near the shore.
The best way to experience it is at low tide, when the mile-long sweep of limestone cliffs that doubles up as a rock garden for the Subantarctic flora seem to glow above the waves.
6. Mystery at the Dry Tortugas: Historical Enchantment in a Tropical Paradise
The Dry Tortugas, a scenic archipelago that lies 70 miles west of Key West, serves up an appealing cocktail of natural beauty and historical intrigue – like something straight out of Pirates of the Caribbean. Remotely accessible only by seaplane or ferry, visitors can get a wide-ranging tour within a 4-hour visit that includes fort exploration as well as beachside activities.
Famed for offering some of the best snorkeling on the coast, thanks to its shallow, crystal-clear waters brimming with colorful marine life, it has something to captivate even those aged 0-100+.
7. Weeki Wachee State Park Kayaking Adventures
Kayak through the natural springs of Weeki Wachee State Park, and see a wide range of wildlife and take in some of Florida’s stunning views. Gently slide along the crystal flat waters and soak in an easy-going Floridian attitude.
There are also plenty of hiking trails, swimming spots and picnic areas for families to enjoy at the park. As the water remains a delightful 72 degrees wet-suit free, it is a fantastic place to take a dip in during those hot summer days.
8. The Ringling Museum: Art and History
Among the circus stuff, the Ringling in Sarasota is Florida’s state art museum. It is located on a 66-acre property once held by John and Mary Ringling, adorned with the sprawling of arts and surrounded by gardens that contain sculptures and fountains.
The museum also pays tribute to its circus roots with a collection of past props and tools. Top tip: aim to arrive on a Monday as entry is free that day, providing an no-cost way chance to get lost in the intricate worlds of art and history.
9. Molasses Reef in the Keys Snorkeling Trip
Molasses Reef: Located off Key Largo, this boat-accessed park is said to be the best area in all of the Keys for snorkeling. For a completely dry option, however, glass-bottom boat tours provide an optimal way for visitors to witness the marine life.
In the water, swarms of sea turtles and nurse sharks can be seen all around the reef offering a mystical viewing experience. If you want skip the crowds, plan your visit on a weekday and get yourself submerged in these underwater treasures.
10. Explore the Depths of Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring
Devil’s Den – Williston, FLSwim through the crystal clear water of a prehistoric spring inside this underground cave with skylight. Cooled underground by an artesian source upstream, the waters literally are pristine – it turns into these riveting underwater rivers that will take your breath away and make you crave them further – perfect for scuba diving fun.
This particular place is full of sea animals; fish and turtles included, offering a distinct underwater experience for scuba divers and snorkelers alike. Please be aware that this is a snorkeling or diving only entrance.
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11. Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens in West Palm Beach
West Palm Beach, FL: Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens—a tribute to legendary sculptor Ann Norton. You can visit her old residence that is now turned into galleries with her art pieces inside. Among towering trees and on lakesides, the gardens themselves are home to her grand sculptures, placed as cheeky surprises to visitors.
Apart from the art, myriad exotic palms and flowers are spread across the gardens that hail from various corners of the world making it an opulent cultural and botanical experience.
12. Seek Refuge at Caladesi Island’s Quiet Shores
Caladesi Island, a white sand island with more secluded beaches accessible by the Dunedin Causeway; it is located at the north end of Clearwater Beach. This is where the Tampa people can jump on a kayak or ferry to access this secluded spot.
Walk or rent a kayak to explore the mangroves of this island. Gulf-side means warm, calm water for swimming. While it is secluded, Caladesi does offer the modern conveniences kayakers need – with restrooms and a full-service café to recharge before you head back.
13. The Many Faces of Ocala National Forest
Another popular destination in NorthCentral Florida, spanning an area of 673 square miles the Ocala National Forest is a natural wonder full of ecological richness with countless species of animals and plants.
The park features many springs including Alexander, Juniper and Salt Springs, which are great for swimming and canoeing; a full-facility campground, picnicking facilities, and an extensive trail system. The forest is also home to many lakes and footpaths, such as the Yearling Trail a wonderful walk which leads you past a sinkhole, presenting Florida’s fine landform attributes.
14. Exploring Cedar Key – A Quaint, Historic fishing village along Florida’s Nature coast.
Located on the northwest coast of Florida, the historic charm and natural beauty at Cedar Key make it feel like one of the state’s longest-inhabit?ed towns. This lush surrounding is perfect as it is framed with a beautiful beachfront, some of Cairns best fishing spots and protected nature reserves.
Renting bikes is the best way to explore this charming town or enjoy paddleboarding and kayaking on its beaches. Cedar Key, too, is one of the best kept secrets in Florida – a fusion of history and nature.
15. View South Walton’s Coastal Charm
South WaltonCourtesy of South Walton Stretching 16 miles along the Panhandle’s white sandy shores, scenic South Walton county boasts a rich bevy of beachy similarities alongside its unique coastal towns. The area is perfect for families wanting a mix of luxury and tranquility.
Although visitors may rent bikes for getting a sense of each town’s quirks, or kayak the area’s rare coastal dune lakes. This unique situation allows for both freshwater and saltwater adventures to be enjoyed simultaneously in these lakes.
Accessible by scenic Route 30A, South Walton is a great place to set up camp and explore some hidden gems along Florida’s Emerald Coast.
16. Experience The Wild Elegance Of Beer Can Island
For a unique beach experience, visit the Beer Can Island on Longboat Key. It’s a stark contrast from the manicured shores one might expect from Florida, as this beach is raw and unspoiled with rough landscapes to match.
Along the shore you notice how many photogenic trees tend to slip and die making it a favorite location for photographers, social media enthusiats. The quiet, isolated ambiance it provides is the ideal place to find peace and connect with nature.
The best hidden gems in Florida are special because they offer completely unique experiences you almost never will find experiencing anything else most tourists settle for doing. Either swimming in an underground river, or crossing a garden with foreign trees and sculptures by artistonical recognized worldwide of the Sculpture Forest?
The less trodden tracks secreted all over Florida offer an amazing collection of unexpected treats and adventures that can wow even the most seasoned visitor.
