Florida, where most people vacation and few people call home. There are so many hidden gems of Florida that people should really visit. From nature to food, Florida has it all. So pack a few bags with a lot of bathing suits and bug spray because this summer will be full of adventures.
1. Blue Springs, Orange City
Blue Springs is one of the best places to go during the summer. The cold water is refreshing to the scorching sun on your skin. It's relaxing and exciting at the same time.
2. Crystal River State Park, Citrus County
If you are like any other human on this planet, you love manatees. It is illegal to swim with manatees everywhere else, but Crystal River allows it. You can look, you just can't touch.
3. St. Augustine
The oldest city in America had to make the list, with one of the oldest looking colleges. Along with the beautiful Flagler, Aviles Street in St. Augustine has a lot to offer, from galleries to restaurants, museums to shops, it has everything. If that isn't enough to make you go, the beach is one of the best in Florida and is a must see. There's also a haunted house tour that is to die for.
4. Swap Shop, Fort Lauderdale
Many locals know about this place, and don't tell them I sent you. It's a glorified flea market but that's not all, it has a drive-in theater. And as many of us know, there are few and far between of those left in the world. It is the largest drive-in theater and largest daily flea market in the world.
5. Ravine Gardens State Park, Palatka
Ravine Gardens is botanical garden with lots to do within its park. You can picnic, set up work meetings, see its many exhibits, hike it's trails and even have your wedding here. If you are a big nature buff and enjoy the outdoors, this state park is your dream come true.
6. Florida Caverns State Park, Marianna
Become a real life caveman in this underground park. This is the only state park in Florida that offers tours to the public, which is pretty astounding. You can fish, boat, canoe and kayak within the park as well. Along with that you can camp, horseback ride and even play nine holes of golf.
7. Gasparilla Island, Charlotte Harbour and Pine Island Sound
Take a small island getaway on Gasparilla Island. The most popular spot is located on it's largest city, Boca Grande, a lighthouse on the beach. You can snorkel, fish, boat, kayak and observe all the nature around.
8. Weeki Wachee River, Hernando County
Your eyes do not deceive you, that is a mermaid kissing a manatee. At Weeki Wachee they have mermaid shows with the manatees of the park. They have boat tours, animal shows for all ages and kayak trails.
9. Coral Castle, Homestead
The Coral Castle has always been a mystery to the locals and natives, the creator was never seen creating the Coral Castle but after it was created he gave tours of the museum made of stone. Since the 1940s there have been tours of the sculptures and they are still going on today.
10. Garbo's Grill, Key West
It may just look like a food cart, but to the natives it's heaven on earth. The couple met in Key West and created this food cart on the water just there. It offers hotdogs, burgers, tacos and burgers. So after strolling the beach and swimming, go to Garbo's Grill for a snack and a chat. It has even made it on the food network.
11. Jack's Hamburgers, Pompano Beach
From the locals themselves, Jack's Hamburgers was the number one place to go when in Pompano Beach. They have an old-fashioned diner feel to the place and it's a favorite of everyone that goes. Hit up the beach and those east coast waves and then come get a great burger.
Florida has a lot to offer and it's summertime so it is the best time to conquer the hikes and conquer the food. Just don't tell the locals I sent you.
