The Ultimate Florida Hidden Gem Road Trip Will Take You To 8 Incredible Little-Known Spots In The State
By Marisa Roman|Published April 22, 2021
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Marisa Roman
Author
A New Jersey native with over 15 years of writing experience, Marisa has studied at both New York University and Florida International University. She has lived all over the country, including a decade stint in South Florida. Marisa is well-versed in exploration as she travels a good majority of the year in her self-converted Sprinter van. Her articles have been featured in various notable publications over the years, she has a published collection of short stories, and three completed screenplays under her belt.
Many people visiting Florida often stick to the more well-known places when they explore. And while Disney World, Miami, and Key West are wonderful spots to really see what Florida has to offer, we have a different kind of trip altogether. Ready to see the most beautiful tucked-away gems throughout the Sunshine State? Then this road trip is for you! The ultimate Florida hidden gem road trip will take you to some really magical places, some of which you may not have ever heard about!
The entire road trip takes just under six hours in travel time and about 300 miles in total, but you’ll want to allow for stoppage time, too. That’s why this road trip is best enjoyed over a couple of days. To find the entire hidden gem trip itinerary, click here.
Kick off this road trip with a visit to an incredible 59-acre Florida gem. Ravine Gardens State Park is a real beauty in Palatka, where visitors can wander the area along the trails, enjoy rock gardens, and immerse themselves in the flora and fauna. Plus, this park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places!
Click here for more information about this Florida hidden gem. Address: 1600 Twigg St, Palatka, FL 32177-5637
Florida might not have as many wineries as other states, but the ones we do have are worth writing home about. Flagler Beachfront Winery is one of the coolest Flagler Beach attractions, serving up delicious wines right along the ocean. Try one of their slushie wines for real refresher on a warm afternoon.
Click here for more information about this Florida hidden gem. Address: 611 N Ocean Shore Blvd, Flagler Beach, FL 32136
With all that wine drinking, now might be the perfect time to take a break from driving and settle in for the evening at Si Como No Inn in Flagler Beach. This adorable beachside motel is as charming as it gets with a tiki hut, grilling area, not to mention close proximity to the ocean!
Click here for more information about this Florida hidden gem. Address: 2480 N Ocean Shore Blvd, Flagler Beach, FL 32136
Ahh, did you wake up refreshed? You’re probably hungry by now, which means the next stop better involve a delicious spread! At Third Wave Cafe in New Smyrna Beach, you’ll be able to enjoy some delicious fresh roasted coffee and breakfast specialities like Island Rum French Toast and house-made frittatas. Make sure to request a table in the secret garden behind the house.
Click here for more information about this Florida hidden gem. Address: 204 Flagler Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169
Now that you’re all fueled up, head to Wekiwa Springs State Park for an afternoon of biking, hiking, or swimming! If it’s a warm day, you’ll want to spend some time soaking up the sun and jumping into the springs to cool off. Open from 8 a.m. to sundown, 365 days a week, this is one natural gem not to be missed.
Want one of the best views in the state? Then head on over to The Florida Citrus Tower in Clermont. This 226-foot-tall gem of central Florida was once one of the most famous landmarks for Orlando. Visitors are still able to venture up to the observation deck in order to see for miles in every direction.
Click here for more information about this Florida hidden gem. Address: 141 S Hwy 27, Clermont, FL 34711
7. The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park - Ocala, FL
Who’s ready to fly through the air through some of the best scenery Florida has to offer?! At The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park, visitors are able to choose from three different zip tours, including the longest, highest and fastest in Florida. If you’re ready to get your adrenaline pumping, then this is the hidden gem for you.
Click here for more information about this Florida hidden gem. Address: 8045 NW Gainesville Rd, Ocala, FL 34475
The last stop on this list is Bob’s River Place in Branford. This privately-owned swimming hole is overflowing with opportunities for fun and excitement, from the tree houses and rope swings to the log roll, water slides, and floating rafts to sunbathe. Bob’s River Place makes for the perfect place to end the ultimate hidden gem Florida road trip.
Click here for more information about this Florida hidden gem. Address: 2878 Co Rd 340, Branford, FL 32008
So, what do you think about the ultimate Florida hidden gem road trip? Have you been to any of these places along the route before? Share with us your experiences in the comments section!
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