Florida boasts some hidden gems of stunning beauty that very few people are aware of. These places are often overlooked in the classic Florida tours, but they are more than worth a visit. If you’re considering relocating to the Sunshine State, here’s a list of some of the most noteworthy hidden attractions to include in your excursions.
1. Ringling Museum
The Ringling is Florida’s state art museum. It is located in Sarasota (discover the city) and was founded in 1927. Its history is closely linked to that of its founder, John Ringling, who, over the years, established what is now considered one of the best art institutions in the United States. The art museum exhibits more than 10,000 works ranging from paintings to sculptures, drawings, prints, and photographs.
Also noteworthy are the Bayfront Gardens, 66 acres of land located all around the property, where you can visit Mrs. Ringling’s rose garden, unquestionably one of the most fragrant corners on the estate, and explore the secret garden, in which many varieties of plants and flowers, including succulents, bougainvillea, and colorful bromeliads grow.
2. Blowing Rocks Preserve
If you want to witness a true spectacle of nature, we recommend visiting The Blowing Rocks Preserve, a nature reserve where sea waves crash over dark, jagged limestone rocks creating plumes of water up to 50 feet high. The Blowing Rocks Preserve is worth a visit in any season. The wind shapes the stone outcrop day after day forming puddles, vents, and shelters, perfect for exploring and that spark the imagination.
3. Molasses Reef
Have you ever heard of Molasses Reef?
This is a coral reef located within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, an area of U.S. waters where the marine environment enjoys special protection. This is an ideal place for divers and snorkelers. Located off Key Largo Island, the Molasses Reef is teeming with marine life and divers can easily come across corals of all kinds, sea turtles, nurse sharks, and green moray eels.
4. Caladesi Island
If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle, we recommend an excursion to Caladesi Island State Park, one of the few pristine islands along the Gulf Coast.
The park is accessible only by sea. Once on the island, you can choose whether to explore it on foot, in search of its flora and fauna, or by kayak (you can rent one directly on the island) and paddle through the intricate mangrove forests where birds, fish, and crabs shelter.
5. Ocala National Forest
Ocala National Forest is the second-largest protected forest in the United States. It is located in northern Florida and covers more than 670 square miles. With over 600 rivers, lakes, and natural pools, it is an ideal place for swimming, fishing, and snorkeling. But trekking lovers will not be disappointed either. There are plenty of trails, suitable for all abilities and physical fitness, that will allow you to spend a pleasant day outdoors. Ocala National Forest is also a noteworthy wildlife oasis. A huge variety of animals find refuge here, including migratory birds and manatees.
6. Cedar Key
Cedar Key is a gorgeous seaside town located in northwest Florida. It is the second oldest city in the country and has just over 700 inhabitants. Time here has stopped still. Its laid-back pace and rustic surroundings make it the perfect destination for unwinding. Attractions that are well worth a visit include the lighthouse, which in the olden days guided merchant ships as they sailed by, and the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge, which provides a haven for wildlife.
7. Rainbow River
Crystal-clear water and true inner peace are what characterize the Rainbow River, one of the most important in Florida. It flows from Dunnellon, specifically in Rainbow Spring State Park, a nature preserve surrounding the headwaters of the river, nearly six miles before reaching the Withlacoochee River.
Along its banks, you can enjoy a warm sunny day, floating with a tube in turquoise waters, or join an organized dive for watching turtles, manatees, and fish of all varieties.
8. Amphicar At Disney
Did you know that you can drive in a car on water in Orlando? The Amphicar is an amphibious vehicle designed in Germany and intended to transport people and it is now used at Disney Springs to ply the waters of Lake Buena Vista. If you think you might enjoy such an experience, all you have to do is book an Amphicar ride with the whole family!
9. The Wonder House
The Wonder House is a historic home in Bartow that is famed for being weird and wonderful because of its unique – and in some cases just bizarre – features. It was built by creative architect Conrad Schuck, who did not follow a proper blueprint (the first one was drawn a full 11 years after construction of the house began) to build it. The four-floor house is made of steel-reinforced concrete and the exterior is adorned with rock, carvings, and mosaics. Inside there is a central chimney and hollow pillars to collect rainwater and thus cool the house. Each bedroom has a balcony with an outdoor hot tub. There is a pond with goldfish on the third floor of the house. In short, amazement is everywhere you turn in the Wonder House. Are you curious? Book your historical tour now.
10. Lakeridge Winery
Many people think that wine, in the United States, is produced only in California, and indeed nearly 90 percent of all wine production comes from there. But Florida also has wine-making traditions and renowned labels. Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards, for instance, is the largest winery in the state. In addition to wine production, the owners organize guided tours of the vineyards and on-site tastings. If you also love the world of wine this experience is right up your alley!
