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Hidden Florida

13th September 2023

Florida is a true gem for both nature lovers and adventure seekers. Beyond the bustling cities and tourist attractions, the state is teeming with hidden wonders waiting to be explored. From pristine beaches and crystal-clear springs to enchanting wetlands and lush forests, Florida offers a wide range of natural landscapes.

Here are some of our favourite ‘off the beaten track’ places

First up is the Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. About an hour north of Tampa, the park  is home to one of the best natural springs in Florida and a great place to spot native flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for whooping cranes, endangered Florida panthers, black bears, bobcats, alligators, and red wolves within the park’s 210 acres. You can learn about the magnificent manatees that live here year-round by catching an educational program at the Fish Bowl Underwater Observatory. Afterward, go for a stroll along the 1.1-mile elevated boardwalk trail, take a boat tour, or give birding a try on the 0.75-mile Pepper Creek Trail.

On to the Kampong National Tropical Botanical Garden. If you’re seeking some respite from the South Florida crowds, head here in Miami’s Coconut Grove neighbourhood. At this former estate of botanical enthusiast Dr. David Fairchild, you’ll find Kampong Planting Heritage collections that hail from all over Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, Central and South America, and other tropical places. Experience the vivid colors and heady scents on a self-guided stroll, or take a guided tour if you want to learn more about the diverse plants in this beautiful place.

Now for Dinosaur World. For a quirky and low-key alternative to the other big Florida theme parks, head to Dinosaur World in Plant City, just a 20-minute drive from downtown Tampa or an hour’s drive along I-4 from Orlando. Dinosaur lovers of all ages will appreciate the life-size models of a triceratops, stegosaurus, and T. Rex, among other species. You’ll also be able to dig for replicas of fossils, explore the park’s many boardwalk nature trails, and check out the museum and its life-like animatronic dinosaurs. With two playgrounds, this dog-friendly attraction makes a great pit stop during a Florida road trip, or a fun day trip for the whole family.

Next the Miami Design District. Taking a break from the more nature-orientated places, we have this eccentric district full of life, and one of the hidden gems in Miami. The Miami Design District has everything creative, from fashion and design to architecture and art.

If you’re looking for a more vibrant spot, this Miami special has all you could want. If you find yourself hungry, a night out on this district’s streets will offer you delicious food ranging from cafes, sweet treats, cocktails, bistros, and even plant-based restaurants. In terms of art, everywhere you walk is all around. The architecture itself can be seen as art in its diversity from your everyday business buildings.

Another state park (there are many in Florida!). This time the Ravine Gardens State Park.This unique park in Palatka offers 60 acres of nature to explore. Suspension bridges cross the park’s ravines over 30 feet above the ground, and there’s a 1.8-mile loop that you can drive, bike, or walk to soak in the incredible views. If you’re an avid hiker, you might prefer the moderately difficult trails that go down into the park’s ravines. A greta place to relax and enjoy nature.

Finally, you’ll need a drink after all the activity! Try the Southwest Florida Ale Trail. Oregon and Vermont receive a lot of praise as the country’s best destinations for beer lovers, but did you know that there’s a brewery trail in Florida? The Southwest Florida Ale Trail connects 18 breweries across four Florida counties, and even offers a passport you can have stamped at the participating locations to win prizes. Many of them are just a short distance from the coast, too, making for a great day of beach and beer.

Enjoy your virtual tour of Hidden Florida. And click here for ten Great Books set in the State.

Tony for the TripFiction team

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