In this article, we’ll take a look at the 25 Best Kept Secret Places to Visit in Florida. We’ll also discuss Florida’s tourism industry, its contribution to the state’s economy, and the industry’s top players.
Renowned for its sun-kissed beaches, vibrant cities, and world-class attractions, Florida drives millions of tourists every year from around the globe.
According to VISIT FLORIDA, the state’s official tourism marketing agency, Florida attracted around 137.4 million visitors in 2022. This contributed to around $121 billion to its economy and created 2 million jobs in the state. Though the number dropped to 135 million visitors in 2023, it still leads 2019 visitation by 3%. If Florida was a separate country, it would have been the most visited country in the world, a cool 45 million more visitors than the current leader.
“Even as we faced the challenges of rising travel costs and widespread inflation, Florida’s tourism sector not only persevered but flourished (in 2023),” said the CEO and President of VISIT FLORIDA, Dana Young, in a recent news release.
The agency said the number of overseas visitors in 2023 increased by an estimated 18.3% compared to 2022, amounting to 8.3 million. In Q4 alone, nearly 2.3 million overseas travelers visited the state.
The importance of Florida as a top tourist attraction is further highlighted as Airbnb Inc (NASDAQ:ABNB) reported that Florida Airbnb rentals generated the most tourism tax revenue in the U.S. A new report by Airbnb Inc (NASDAQ:ABNB) published this month reveals that Floirda’s tourism tax revenue amounted to $387 million in 2023, higher than all states in the U.S. This makes 17.5% of the U.S. total tourism tax revenue of $2.2 billion for the year, as reported by Airbnb Inc (NASDAQ:ABNB).
Driven by the tourism surge in Florida, Merlin Entertainment, one of the largest amusement park companies, bought the Orlando Wheel at Icon Park on March 25. The company renamed the wheel as Orlando Eye. It’s a 400-foot-tall lit-up wheel — the tallest observation attraction on the East Coast of the U.S.
Icon Park President and CEO, Chris Jaskiewiz, in the March 24 announcement said, “We’re proud that Merlin recognized the global appeal of this attraction, and of Icon Park as a destination, in selecting us as the site to expand their popular brands in Central Florida.”
It’s not only Merlin, some big players in the hospitality industry and theme park industry have also set their strong foot in Florida.
For instance, Walt Disney Co (NYSE:DIS) is a top player in Florida’s tourism industry. Walt Disney World Resort, owned by Walt Disney Co (NYSE:DIS), has generated an impressive $40 billion in economic impact in Florida. Moreover, Walt Disney Co created around 263,000 jobs across the state. The company has also generated tax revenue of $3.1 billion in the state.
Likewise, Marriott International, Inc (NYSE:MAR) with its various branches has a significant presence in the state. In January 2024, Marriott International, Inc celebrated its first groundbreaking of the StudioRes brand hotel in Fort Myers, Florida. StudioRes is designed as a budget-friendly option for tourists looking for a stay for 20 nights or longer, with an estimated cost of $80 per night. This brand hotel by Marriott International, Inc is expected to launch in Spring 2025.
What is the Prettiest Part of Florida to Visit
Florida is home to various stunning landscapes and attractions. Some of its most renowned beautiful places include:
- Three Sisters Springs
- The Everglades
- Miami Beach Art Deco District
- The Breakers
- Boneyard Beach
- Weeki Wachee
- Naples
- Key West
- Sanibel Island
- Amelia Island
- St. Augustine
- Stiltsville
What Place in Florida has the Most Things to Do?
There are many places in the state that offer a lot of activities, from enjoying thrilling amusement parks to exploring hidden gems. Some of these top attractions are:
- Orlando
- Miami
- Fort Lauderdale
- Tampa
- Naples
- Panama Beach City
- Siesta Key
With this, let’s have a look at the best kept secret places to visit in Florida.
Ingus Kruklitis/Shutterstock.com
Methodology
To find the top hidden gems in Florida for our article “25 Best Kept Secret Places to Visit in Florida,” we turned to Reddit. Specifically, we searched for keywords like “secret places” and “hidden gems” in the r/florida subreddit. After browsing through several threads, we chose the most recent one with the highest level of activity and engagement from users.
From this thread, we compiled a list of the most recommended locations and attractions. We ranked these based on how often they were mentioned and how many upvotes they received from the Reddit community. The place with the highest number of recommendations and upvotes secured the top spot on our list, while the least-mentioned place was placed at the 25th spot.
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So, if you’re wondering where the best kept secret in Florida is, here’s our list of the least touristy parts of Florida, ranked in descending order from 25 to 1.
25 Best Kept Secret Places to Visit in Florida
25. Saint Cloud
Located in Central Florida, Saint Cloud is a charming city known for its small-town atmosphere and beautiful natural surroundings. You can explore Lakefront Park, which offers scenic views of East Lake Tohopekaliga and offers tranquil walking trails, picnic areas, and a fishing pier.
24. Kenansville
Tucked away in rural Osceola County, Kenansville is one of the best hidden places to visit in Florida. The Forever Florida Wildlife Conservation Area in Kenansville is a must-see as it offers diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, forests, and prairies. A perfect destination for outdoor adventures like zip-lining through the treetops, horseback riding across scenic trails, and meeting native wildlife.
23. Pass a Grille
The pristine white sandy beaches of This beachy town offer a laid-back vibe with stunning Gulf Coast views. You can explore the charming historic district dotted with colorful cottages, boutique shops, and waterfront restaurants. Plus, it offers unique accommodations ranging from beachfront cottages to boutique hotels with stunning views, making the town one of the unique places in Florida to stay.
22. Tarpon Springs
This coastal town located along the Gulf of Mexico is also one of the best kept secret vacation spots in Florida. You can stroll along the historic Sponge Docks, hop on a boat tour, or enjoy water sports in its scenic waterfront parks. Its seafood restaurants serve authentic Greek cuisine and cultural attractions like the Tarpon Springs Heritage Museum are a must-see.
21. Crescent City
This quaint town is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. Fishing enthusiasts will find abundant freshwater fishing spots in the town. Plus, you can explore scenic parks such as Ralph M. McLane Park and Dunn’s Creek Conservation Area, where you can hike, picnic, and observe wildlife.
20. New Smyrna
New Smyrna offers a relaxed vibe with fewer crowds, making it ideal for a peaceful getaway. You can soak up the sun on the soft sandy shores, explore charming boutiques and art galleries on Flagler Avenue, or indulge in fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants.
19. St. Augustine
St. Augustine is the oldest city in the United States, brimming with historic charm and cultural attractions. St. George Street offers a lively vibe with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants housed in colonial-era buildings. It’s also one of the best kept secret places to visit in Florida for couples with its romantic allure. You can stroll hand in hand along cobblestone streets, visit historic landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos, and dine at romantic restaurants housed in historic buildings.
18. Micanopy
Often referred to as “Florida’s Antique Capital,” Micanopy boasts a charming downtown area filled with antique shops, art galleries, and cafes. You can explore local landmarks such as the Herlong Mansion Historic Inn and the Micanopy Historical Society Museum, which showcases the town’s fascinating history.
17. Cedar Key
With its colorful waterfront buildings, art galleries, and seafood restaurants serving fresh local cuisine, the downtown area of Cedar Key is one of the best hidden gems in Florida to stay and explore. The island is a paradise for nature lovers, offering plenty of activities like birdwatching, hiking, kayaking, and fishing in the surrounding waters. Nature trails at Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve and Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge let you experience the area’s diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife.
16. Lakeland
Lakeland is a vibrant city known for its beautiful lakes, historic districts, and cultural attractions. Lake Mirror Park offers scenic views of the iconic Hollis Garden. The city is also home to the Polk Museum of Art, showcasing a diverse collection of works from local and international artists.
15. St George Island
This tranquil barrier island located off the coast of Florida’s Panhandle is popular for its pristine beaches and natural beauty. You can relax on the island’s sugar-white sandy beaches, swim in the clear emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico, and enjoy stunning sunsets over the horizon.
14. Oldsmar
Known for its scenic waterfront parks, recreational amenities, and family-friendly attractions, Oldsmar is one of the best places to visit in Florida. You can visit its R.E. Olds Park, which features a fishing pier, playgrounds, and picnic areas overlooking Tampa Bay. Oldsmar’s historic downtown area is also home to vibrant shops, restaurants, and cultural venues, offering a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
13. Venice Beach
Venice Beach is a picturesque coastal town located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, famous for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unique shark tooth hunting opportunities. You can stroll along the Venice Fishing Pier, go for a swim in the warm Gulf waters, or relax on the sandy shores while soaking up the sun.
12. Dunedin
Dunedin is a charming coastal city located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, known for its Scottish heritage and natural beauty, Dunedin is one of the best kept secret places to visit in Florida for couples and families alike. You can ride or walk on the Pinellas Trail, while the Dunedin Causeway provides access to beautiful Honeymoon Island State Park and Caladesi Island State Park.
11. Safety Harbor
This beautiful waterfront community located on the western shore of Tampa Bay is one of the top hidden gems in Florida for families. It’s best known for its natural springs, historic sites, and cultural attractions. Relax at the Safety Harbor Resort and Spa, enjoy scenic views at Philippe Park, or hike through trails of oak hammocks and mangrove forests.
10. Belle Glade
Known as the “Gateway to the Everglades,” Belle Glade is a small city located in Palm Beach County. One of its top attractions is the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge, where you can watch wildlife, go birdwatching, or enjoy guided airboat tours through the Everglades’ vast wetlands. Belle Glade also hosts events like the annual Black Gold Jubilee, celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage with parades, live music, and family-friendly activities.
9. Kendall
Popular for its diverse population, shopping spots, and recreational amenities, Kendall is a vibrant suburban community located in Miami-Dade County. Kendall is also home to several parks and green spaces, including Tropical Park, where you can enjoy picnicking, sports fields, and trails. The Kendall Ice Arena provides a cool escape from the Florida heat with ice skating and hockey facilities.
8. Gainesville
Gainesville’s mix of academics, outdoor adventures, and community spirit makes it a must-visit destination. With the University of Florida at its heart, it’s full of lively downtown spots for food, shopping, and fun. Nearby parks like Paynes Prairie offer hiking and wildlife watching. Museums like the Florida Museum of Natural History add to the charm.
7. Williston
The rural charm and outdoor fun activities of Williston make it a must-see hidden gem in Florida. The town is a popular destination for horseback riding, with several equestrian facilities and trails in the surrounding countryside. Williston hosts events such as the Williston Horseman’s Association Rodeo, showcasing traditional rodeo events and cowboy culture.
6. Havana
Known for its historic downtown district, antique shops, and Southern hospitality, Havana is home to vibrant views and vintage treasures. Havana also hosts lively events such as the Havana Pumpkin Festival and the Havana Music & Arts Festival, featuring live music, arts and crafts vendors, and delicious food. With its nostalgic charm and welcoming atmosphere, the town offers a delightful glimpse into Florida’s past.
5. Cassadaga
Visitors to Cassadaga can explore the town’s picturesque streets lined with Victorian-era homes and gardens, creating a serene atmosphere. The Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp offers opportunities for spiritual healing, psychic readings, and meditation sessions with certified mediums. The town also hosts workshops, lectures, and special events focused on topics such as holistic wellness, meditation, and metaphysics. Whether you’re seeking spiritual guidance or simply curious about the paranormal, Cassadaga offers a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors seeking enlightenment and inner peace.
4. Fernandina Beach
Known for its pristine beaches, historic architecture, and vibrant downtown area, Fernandina Beach is a charming seaside town located on Amelia Island. The town’s waterfront area offers various activities like boating, fishing, and dolphin-watching tours along the Amelia River and Cumberland Sound. Fort Clinch State Park boasts miles of scenic hiking and biking trails, as well as a well-preserved 19th-century fortress open for tours.
3. Nocatee
With its focus on healthy living, sustainability, and community engagement, Nocatee is a master-planned community located in Northeast Florida. The Nocatee Town Center offers plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options for residents and visitors alike. It is also home to several top-rated schools and community events such as farmers’ markets, concerts, and festivals.
2. Mount Dora
Mount Dora is a picturesque town with a vibrant downtown area, antique shops, and scenic beauty. Its historic downtown district features brick-lined streets, historic buildings, and specialty shops selling antiques, arts, and crafts. The town is surrounded by picturesque lakes, allowing you to enjoy boating, fishing, and waterfront dining.
1. Bithlo
The local attractions and rural character of the Bithlo make it an adorable small community with a relaxed pace. The community is home to the East Orange District Park, which features sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas for families and outdoor lovers. Bithlo Speedway hosts dirt track racing events and other motorsports activities, providing entertainment for racing fans of all ages.
Insider Monkey focuses on uncovering the best investment ideas of hedge funds and insiders. Please subscribe to our free daily e-newsletter to get the latest investment ideas from hedge funds’ investor letters by entering your email address below. You can also take a look at the 20 Best Small Towns in Florida to Retire and the 16 Best Places to Live in Florida.
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This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
