Exploring parts of Florida that remain relatively unknown to us all can be quite exciting. Let’s be honest, our state is massive, so there are tons of places to see that you may not even know to exist. We’ve come up with a handful of Florida hidden gems near the panhandle and extending out east that may be lesser-known to some, but worth checking out. If you’re ready for the ultimate hidden gems road trip in Florida, buckle up! The entire trip takes about 5.5 hours in travel time, but with added stoppage at each location, we recommend stretching it out into a fun weekend adventure. You can find the entire road trip itinerary here.

Google Maps
1. St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, 8899 Cape San Blas Rd, Port St Joe, FL 32456, USA
TripAdvisor Captain Andy ff
Kick off this road trip adventure with a stop at St. Joseph Peninsula State Park in Port Saint Joe. Stretching out 20 miles into the Gulf of Mexico, this state park is brimming with wildlife. Enjoy the white, powdery beaches and the coastal scrub as you explore this tucked-away gem in nature. Check out the St. Joseph Peninsula State Park webpage to find out more about this Florida hidden gem.
2. Oyster City Brewing Company
Oyster City Brewing Company Tallahassee, 603 W Gaines St Suite 7, Tallahassee, FL 32304, USA
TripAdvisor Craig M
There’s nothing quite like a cold beer after a day out in the sunshine. At Oyster City Brewing Company in Apalachicola, guests can sit indoors or outdoors and enjoy a bevy of craft beer surrounded by locals. While this brewery isn’t massive by any means, it does have that small-town appeal that makes it a true gem. The Oyster City Brewing Company website has all sorts of helpful information about this Florida hidden gem.

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3. Roadside Rusted Ford Trucks
Roadside Rusted Ford Trucks, Crawfordville, FL 32327, USA
TripAdvisor sfinnen88
In the heart of the small town of Crawfordville, Florida is a roadside attraction that is delightful for any car enthusiast. The Roadside Rusted Ford Trucks feature a semi-circle collection of vintage Ford trucks which have all been reclaimed by nature. Arranged in chronological order by owner Pat Harvey, come enjoy this incredible roadside stop. Click here to find out more about this Florida hidden gem.
4. Steinhatchee Falls
Steinhatchee Falls, Steinhatchee, FL 32359, USA
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. As the widest waterfall in the state, visitors can hike three miles to check out the waters carving through the rock. Read more about the small town of ​​Steinhatchee and why we consider this town to be a Florida hidden gem.
5. 1842 Daily Grind & Mercantile
1842 Daily Grind & Mercantile, 598 2nd St, Cedar Key, FL 32625, USA
TripAdvisor management
By now, you’ve probably worked up an appetite, so it’s only fair to head over to 1842 Daily Grind & Mercantile for a bite to eat in Cedar Key. This coffee shop is a quaint stopover for locals, especially anyone looking to feast on a delectable breakfast. This isn’t your average coffee shop by any means! Check out the Daily Grind's Facebook page to get all the details for your visit!
6. Three Sisters Springs
601 Three Sisters Springs Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429, USA
Google Karyn Payne
Three Sisters Springs are located on the Crystal River, east of Kings Bay. Consisting of three spring areas with tons of natural beauty, this hidden gem is worth a visit any time of year. Cool off in the summer in this steady spring flow, or come during winter to see all of the hibernating manatees! Check out the Three Sisters Springs website to find out more about this Florida hidden gem.

So, what do you think about this road trip to check out Florida’s hidden gems? Have you been to any of these places yet? Share with us your experiences in the comments section! Or if you have more little-known places in Florida you think we should know about, make sure to shout them out in the comments section, too.

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More to Explore

Places to Visit In Florida

Katie Feldkamp | November 15, 2022

What are some other Florida hidden gems?

Florida is full of hidden gems! No matter what secretive place you are in search of, you can find it on one of these lists of hidden gems in Florida:

If you’re still seeking more of the best-kept secret locations in the state, check out this list of hidden gems in Florida.

Where are some unique places to visit in Florida?

There are plenty of unique places to visit in Florida. Consider checking out the following places:

  • Skunk Ape Research Headquarters in Ochopee
  • Whimzeyland (The Bowling Ball House) in Safety Harbor
  • Airstream Ranch in Dover
  • Solomon’s Castle in Ona
  • The Bubble Room in Captiva

What are some things to do in Florida?

If you are looking for things to do, there is a nearly endless supply of things to do in Florida. It does not matter what your interest is, there is something for everyone.

And when you think you’ve exhausted every possible activity list, here are 10 more things to do in Florida when you thought you’ve done everything.

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