Many travelers head to Florida for beaches and theme parks. They often miss the true charm of the state. Crowded tourist spots leave them wanting more authentic experiences. Locals know the best places, but visitors struggle to find them.
Experts like Kara Franker highlight these hidden spots in travel guides. She points out 20 secret locations that residents love year-round.
This blog guides you from Miami to the Panhandle. It spotlights unique local businesses and gems. You will discover quirky restaurants, art galleries, and outdoor adventures.
Keep reading to plan your next trip.
Key Takeaways
- Kara Franker highlights 20 secret locations in Florida travel guides, focusing on unique local businesses from Miami to the Panhandle.
- El Palacio De Los Jugos started in 1977 as a family-owned Cuban restaurant in Miami, now with multiple locations serving dishes like Ropa Vieja and fresh juices.
- Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, established in 1977 by sculptor Ann Weaver Norton born in 1905, covers 2 acres in West Palm Beach with 9 monumental sculptures and over 250 palm varieties.
- Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach span 200 acres since 1977, feature over 7,000 Japanese art objects, and earn a 4.6 out of 5 rating from 2,178 reviews.
- Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, founded in 1929 by Edward W. Bok, include a 205-foot Singing Tower with daily carillon concerts and 50 acres of trails and plants.
Unique Local Businesses in South Florida
South Florida draws travelers with its mix of lively eateries and peaceful retreats. Locals run spots that blend culture, nature, and flavor to create memorable stops.
El Palacio De Los Jugos, Miami
### Unique Local Businesses in South Florida
#### El Palacio De Los Jugos, Miami
A family-owned Cuban restaurant started in 1977. Owners built El Palacio De Los Jugos into a local eatery that serves Cuban cuisine. Bright red and yellow awnings mark its identity across Miami.
Visitors enjoy traditional dishes such as Chicharrones, Ropa Vieja, and Vaca Frita. Staff prepare homestyle cooking with mucho amor. The menu features fresh tropical juices and comfort food.
This spot grew from a small chicharrones and juice shop. It now forms a mini-empire with multiple Miami locations.
The restaurant offers takeout services through Uber Eats. Customers use delivery options for easy access. Catering options suit events and gatherings. Publications like USA Today and Bon Appétit have featured it.
The place creates an atmosphere like abuelita’s home-cooked meals. Family-run vibes add to its charm in restaurant expansion. Head north to Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens in West Palm Beach for artistic wonders.
Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, West Palm Beach
Sculptor Ann Weaver Norton established the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens in 1977. She created this garden as an urban sanctuary for wildlife. The site covers two acres in the El Cid Historic Neighborhood.
Officials added it to the National Register of Historic Places in 1990. Visitors explore a historic home, exhibition galleries, and an artist studio. The garden contains nine monumental sculptures.
It also features over 250 varieties of palms and cycads.
Ann Norton was born in 1905. She received significant artistic education. Her works appeared in exhibitions at the Museum of Modern Art and the Whitney Museum of American Art. The gardens blend art, nature, and history.
Staff focus on education to enrich lives. This spot serves as a unique local business in South Florida.
No Name Pub, Big Pine Key
### Unique Local Businesses in South Florida
Visitors leave the artistic sculptures of Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens in West Palm Beach. They head south to Big Pine Key for a quirky stop at No Name Pub. This spot stands out among unique local businesses in South Florida.
No Name Pub sits at 30813 Watson Blvd, Big Pine Key, FL 33043. It opened in 1931 as a store and bait and tackle shop. Owners turned it into a pub in 1936. The pub earns a 4.0 out of 5 rating from 2,448 reviews.
It ranks #2 of 16 restaurants in Big Pine Key. Staff open it daily from 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM midnight. Dollar bills cover the walls and ceiling for a unique ambiance. The menu features pizza, smoked fish dip, Key Lime Pie, and coconut shrimp.
Tripadvisor gave it a 2024 Travelers’ Choice award. This places it in the top 10% of properties. The slogan reads, “It’s a nice place, if you can find it.” The pub lies near the National Key Deer Refuge.
The Kampong Botanical Garden, Coconut Grove
Dr. David Fairchild purchased this estate in 1916. He turned it into The Kampong Botanical Garden in Coconut Grove. The garden sits at 4013 Douglas Road, Miami, Florida 33133. This 11-acre site features rare exotic trees and stunning views of Biscayne Bay.
The name “Kampong” comes from a Malay term that means “village.” Fairchild, a noted plant explorer, introduced thousands of exotic plants to the U.S. through his work here.
Visitors need advanced reservations to enter. The entry fee costs $15 for adults. Guided tours run by appointment from September to June. Each tour lasts one hour and charges $25 per person.
Guests explore horticulture highlights like a swimming pool with coral stone boulders and a water-lily pond. The landscape promotes nature conservation and showcases diverse flora.
People enjoy the exotic plants during these informative tours.
Hidden Gems on Florida’s East Coast
3. Hidden Gems on Florida’s East Coast: Florida’s East Coast hides exceptional spots that blend culture, nature, and adventure through local attractions like peaceful gardens and wildlife havens; explore them in the full article to plan your next trip.
Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, Delray Beach
The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens sit in Delray Beach, Florida. This site covers 200 acres with botanical gardens, picnic areas, and nature trails. People established it in 1977 to honor the Yamato Colony.
Japanese farmers founded that colony in 1904. The museum features over 7,000 Japanese art objects. Staff hosts monthly cultural demonstrations. Gardens span 16 acres and showcase various Japanese garden design styles.
Visitors rate it 4.6 out of 5 based on 2,178 reviews. It ranks #2 among 90 attractions in Delray Beach. Tripadvisor recognizes it as a Travelers’ Choice destination for 2025.
Guests enjoy the bonsai garden, educational plaques, and tranquil environment. The museum offers permanent and temporary exhibits. It includes a theater, café, and tea house with ceremonies.
This spot preserves cultural heritage and historical significance. People participate in educational programs and community events. They explore scenic beauty through outdoor recreation.
Peanut Island, Riviera Beach
Peanut Island Park ranks as the top attraction in Riviera Beach, Florida. It spans about 80 acres and offers free admission. Visitors reach it by water taxi from Palm Beach, which charges a fee and leaves every 20 minutes.
This spot features recreation like kayaking, fishing, snorkeling, and viewing tropical fish. Nature lovers enjoy its man-made reefs and lagoons that draw vibrant aquatic life. The island houses a closed bunker built for President John F.
Kennedy; crews now renovate it.
Camping options include 17 campsites for overnight stays; experts recommend reservations. Tours provide clear kayak guided trips and sunset cruises. Wildlife thrives here, making it ideal for water activities and attractions.
TripAdvisor gives it a 4.5 out of 5 rating based on 633 reviews; it earned the Travelers’ Choice award for 2025. Head north along the coast to explore Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge in Vero Beach.
Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge, Vero Beach
Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge sits at 4055 Wildlife Way in Vero Beach, Florida 32963. This hidden gem spans over 5,400 acres of protected lagoons and marshes. It serves as the first federal area designated to protect wildlife.
Now, it holds status as a National Historic Landmark. The refuge features bird rookeries, fish spawning sites, a butterfly garden, and juvenile sea turtle nurseries. These elements support wildlife conservation and ecological preservation.
Visitors explore nature trails and coastal wetlands through guided walks or self-exploration. They observe wildlife such as bobcats, river otters, manatees, and dolphins. Hiking trails run along the river with mangroves.
Activities emphasize birdwatching, outdoor recreation, and environmental education. The site promotes biodiversity in marine habitats and the ecosystem.
Must-Visit Spots in Central Florida
Travelers explore Central Florida’s vibrant spots that blend history and nature. These places offer fresh ways to experience local culture and outdoor fun.
Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales
Bok Tower Gardens serves as a national historic landmark in Lake Wales, Florida. This site spans 50 acres and draws visitors for its natural beauty. Edward W. Bok founded it in 1929.
Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. designed the gardens. They showcase seasonal blooms and unique plant species. Guests explore two hiking trails amid diverse flora.
The 205-foot Singing Tower houses a 60-bell carillon. Staff perform daily carillon concerts at 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Notable features include Giant Victoria Water Lilies and a Japanese stone peace lantern.
Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden promotes conservation and nature interaction. Visitors enjoy exploration in this garden setting. Blue Palmetto Café operates on site from 9:00 a.m.
to 5:00 p.m. daily. Find it at 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853.
Silver Springs in Ocala National Forest
Visitors leave the serene Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales and travel north to experience the vibrant nature at Silver Springs in Ocala National Forest. This spot stands out as a must-visit in Central Florida for its clear springs and outdoor activities.
Silver Springs State Park provides year-round access from 8:00 am to sunset, including holidays. People enjoy activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, and observing wildlife in and around the springs.
The park gains fame for its Glass Bottom Boat Tours, which run daily from 10 am to 4 pm and cost $14 to $30.
Rental options include canoes at $45 to $85, paddleboards at $35 to $70, and kayaks at $30 to $60 for recreation. Silver Springs Paddling Adventures offers guided paddling tours for those seeking structured outdoor activities amid the nature and wildlife.
Upcoming events feature a Meet & Greet with photographer Rose Derkay on August 2 and a Pack Walk for shelter dogs on August 24. Contact the park at 352-261-5840 or SilverSpringsInfo@capeleisurecorp.com for inquiries.
Find it at 5656 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs, FL 34488.
Historic Sponge Docks, Tarpon Springs
Tarpon Springs boasts the largest Greek community in the U.S. Greek sponge divers established this community in the early 1900s. They turned the area into a hub for sponge diving and maritime history.
The Sponge Exchange has operated since 1908. It serves as a storage and auction venue for sponges. People once called Tarpon Springs the Sponge Capital of the World. This title lasted until the 1940s, when a sponge blight hit.
The historic waterfront now draws tourism with its cultural heritage.
The community holds the Epiphany celebration on January 6 each year. This event ranks as the largest in the U.S. It features a crucifix-throwing ceremony. St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral welcomes visitors.
The site displays stunning stained glass windows. George Billiris launched tourist boat rides in 1924. Operators still offer daily cruises and sponge diving demonstrations. The Pinellas Trail covers 38 miles.
It follows the historic railroad route for walkers and cyclists, promoting outdoor activities. Specialty stores, bakeries, and Greek restaurants line the area. They provide rich culinary experiences and showcase Greek culture.
Discovering Local Treasures in the Panhandle
Travelers visit the Panhandle to explore special local spots that highlight Florida’s coastal charm. They support small businesses that offer fresh brews, vintage vibes, and fishing history for a true taste of the area.
Airstream Row, Seaside
Airstream Row stands as a renowned food truck destination in Seaside, Florida. It features six food trucks that offer diverse culinary delights. The food truck scene started with Frost Bites, a shaved ice stand set up in the late 1990s.
Robert Davis founded Seaside. He let the stand use a vintage 1955 Airstream trailer. Local vendors now create a vibrant street food spot along Hwy 30A in Seaside, FL 32459.
Visitors enjoy gourmet options at Airstream Row. Frost Bites serves over 60 shaved ice flavors. Gyro Hero provides tasty gyros. Barefoot BBQ smokes barbecue slowly and mixes the signature Bushwacker cocktail.
Meltdown on 30A crafts gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. People gather here for a unique dining experience. Locals and visitors love this community gathering place.
Grayton Beer Company, Santa Rosa Beach
### Discovering Local Treasures in the Panhandle
Grayton Beer Company operates as a craft brewery in Grayton Beach, Florida. Visitors enjoy the taproom’s 25-tap draft wall. Beers like Beach Blonde Ale highlight the selection. The spot serves as a hub for community gatherings and regional craft beer.
People gather here near the beach in the Panhandle.
Food trucks and live music on Saturdays build a lively atmosphere. The brewery pauses operations after its last day at the current location on July 18. It plans to reopen at a new site.
Details on the new location’s opening date and address remain pending. The Grayton Beer Brewpub provides locally crafted food, eats, and cocktails. This gathering place emphasizes local cuisine in Santa Rosa Beach.
Cortez Historic Fishing Village, Cortez
Settlers from North Carolina founded Cortez Historic Fishing Village in the 1880s. This spot stands as one of Florida’s last small coastal fishing villages. Officials listed it on the National Register of Historic Places.
Visitors see preserved Old Florida charm in beach bungalows and cottages. Fishing drives the primary industry here. People enjoy local activities like fishing charters, kayaking, and jet skiing.
Tourism thrives in this community with strong maritime heritage. Diners love spots such as Tide Tables, Star Fish Company, and Cortez Kitchen. The Florida Maritime Museum presents history exhibits and skills classes.
Vacation rentals sit on nearby Anna Maria Island. Families find Cortez perfect for vacations with beaches, restaurants, and historical sites. Nature and recreation blend in this coastal haven.
Now, let’s sum up Florida’s unique local businesses in the conclusion.
Conclusion
Florida’s unique local businesses shine from Miami’s vibrant markets to the Panhandle’s historic villages. You gain practical tips to explore these spots with ease and joy. What hidden gem will you visit next on your trip? These places build strong community ties and spark real adventures.
Check Kara Franker’s guides for more travel ideas. Go chase Florida’s authentic magic now.