As the snowbirds head south for the winter so do the classic cars and the benefit of driving Florida without the summer heat. 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 places 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 will want to allow for stoppage time, too. That is why this road trip is best enjoyed over a couple of days.
Ravine Gardens State Park - Palatka, FL
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! Address: 1600 Twigg St, Palatka, FL 32177-5637
Flagler Beachfront Winery - Flagler Beach, FL
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. Address: 611 N Ocean Shore Blvd, Flagler Beach, FL 32136
Si Como No Inn - Flagler Beach, FL
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 proximity to the ocean!
Address: 2480 N Ocean Shore Blvd, Flagler Beach, FL 32136
Third Wave Cafe - New Smyrna Beach, FL
Ahh, did you wake up refreshed? You are probably hungry by now, which means the next stop better involve a delicious spread! At Third Wave Cafe in New Smyrna Beach, you will be able to enjoy some delicious fresh roasted coffee and breakfast specialties like Island Rum French Toast and house-made frittatas. Make sure to request a table in the secret garden behind the house. Address: 204 Flagler Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169
Wekiwa Springs State Park - Apopka, FL
Now that you are all fueled up, head to Wekiwa Springs State Park for an afternoon of biking, hiking, or swimming! If it is a warm day, you will 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. Address: 1800 Wekiwa Cir, Apopka, FL 32712, USA
Florida Citrus Tower - Clermont, FL
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 to see for miles in every direction. Address: 141 S Hwy 27, Clermont, FL 34711
The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park - Ocala, FL
Who is 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 are ready to get your adrenaline pumping, then this is the hidden gem for you. Address: 8045 NW Gainesville Rd, Ocala, FL 34475
Bob’s River Place - Branford, FL
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. Address: 2878 Co Rd 340, Branford, FL 32008
Finally
It is not your typical classic car cruise, but the whole idea of taking a road trip is for the fun of it so why not get out there and enjoy your time on a hidden gem road trip thru central Florida. If there weather allows you to get your classic car our during the winter, we have other road-trips for you.
