You might have noticed by reading our articles that we absolutely adore Florida. From the sunshine to the beautiful beaches, Florida has so much to offer the country and those who visit. And if it happens to be your first time visiting, then you’ll be in luck. There are so many unique things you can only find in Florida, which is what makes this state so special. Here are a few reasons why Florida is so exceptional and beloved, and they might not be what you’d expect.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate
Siesta Beach on Siesta Key near Sarasota, FL, has sand made up of 99% quartz, making it cool on your feet even on the hottest days. It's often named the best beach in the country, and it was named the top beach in the U.S. on TripAdvisor in 2015.
Click here to find out more about this Florida attraction. Address: 948 Beach Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242
Coral Castle in Homestead, FL, was built and sourced completely single-handedly by a lovelorn Latvian man. He lived alone in his creation and gave tours until his death.
Click here to find out more about this Florida attraction. Address: 28655 S Dixie Hwy, Homestead, FL 33033
Whimzeyland, AKA The Bowling Ball House, is a colorful artists' paradise in Safety Harbor, decorated with bright colors, all kinds of yard art and yes, tons of bowling balls. pained and arranged in different ways. It's kind of hard to explain, but it's definitely worth seeing for yourself.
Click here to find out more about this Florida attraction. Address: 1206 3rd St N, Safety Harbor, FL 34695
St. Augustine is one of Florida's most beautiful and historic cities. You can visit the oldest fort in the country, several incredible museums, a top-notch state park (Anastasia Island), and lots of great shops and restaurants.
Click here to find out more about this Florida attraction. Address: St. Augustine, FL
Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales features romantic, sprawling gardens, a bird sanctuary, and the jaw-dropping, 205-foot singing tower.
Click here to find out more about this Florida attraction. Address: 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853
You won’t find another place quite like Stiltsville, Florida. Located off of Biscayne Bay, these houses on the water date back to the 1930s. A man named “Crawfish Eddied Walker” built the very first shack on stilts above the water, and over the years more were constructed. However, eventually, the 27 structures were ravaged by hurricanes, fires, and more. A few still remain and can be seen via boat for ay curious adventurers.
Click here to find out more about this Florida attraction. Address: Biscayne Bay, FL
The Venetian Pool in Coral Gables, FL, was transformed from an abandoned coral quarry into an impressive pool styled after Venice, Italy, in 1924. It's the largest freshwater pool in the country and the only pool listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Click here to find out more about this Florida attraction. Address: 2701 De Soto Blvd, Coral Gables, FL 33134
This spiritualist camp located in Volusia County is an entire community made up of psychics and mediums established in 1894. Today, many visitors trek through the community which has psychic readings and other unique stops.
Click here to find out more about this Florida attraction. Address: Cassadaga, Florida
This unique museum in Delray Beach is a serene and special testament to the last member of the Yamato Colony to stay in the city after WWII. It features two museum buildings, an excellent restaurant, and many popular festivals.
Click here to find out more about this Florida attraction. Address: 4000 Morikami Park Rd, Delray Beach, FL 33446
This kitschy roadside attraction on the Tamiami Trail in Ochopee has a campground, exhibits, and Everglades tours to go along with its research on the elusive Florida Bigfoot. This is a unique and fun stop, especially for kids.
Click here to find out more about this Florida attraction. Address: 40904 Tamiami Trail E, Ochopee, FL 34141
Did you know the first and largest butterfly park in the country is right here in Florida? I bet a trip to this attraction in Coconut Creek would be an awesome excursion for the whole family.
Click here to find out more about this Florida attraction. Address: 3600 West Sample Road, Tradewinds Park Rd, Coconut Creek, FL 33073
Spook Hill is a strange Florida attraction in Lake Wales. Visitors who follow the posted directions will watch as their cars seemingly roll uphill, defying gravity.
Click here to find out more about this Florida attraction. Address: Lake Wales, FL 33853
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art is located in the circus magnate's impressive winter home in Sarasota. Stunning art and architecture, lovely gardens, and a circus museum are just a few of the reasons to visit.
Click here to find out more about this Florida attraction. Address: 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
Do you know of any other things you can only find in Florida? Please share your favorite unique places and attractions with us in the comments below!
Address: 28655 S Dixie Hwy, Homestead, FL 33033, USA
Address: 1206 3rd St N, Safety Harbor, FL 34695, USA
Address: St. Augustine, FL, USA
Address: 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853, USA
Address: Biscayne Bay, Florida, USA
Address: 2701 De Soto Blvd, Coral Gables, FL 33134, USA
Address: 51 Shoreland Dr, Key Largo, FL 33037, USA
Address: Cassadaga, FL 32744, USA
Address: 4000 Morikami Park Rd, Delray Beach, FL 33446, USA
Address: 40904 Tamiami Trail E, Ochopee, FL 34141, USA
Address: 3600 W Sample Rd, Coconut Creek, FL 33073, USA
Address: Lake Wales, FL, USA
Address: 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Things You Can Only Find In Florida
January 11, 2021
Marisa Roman
What are the most beautiful things to do in Florida?
Oftentimes the best things about Florida end up being the most beautiful. The varying terrain in Florida matched with the fascinating list of attractions offered really makes this state special. If you’re looking for some of the most beautiful things to do in the state then try checking out Sanibel Island and Captiva Island, both voted as two of the most beautiful places in the world by U.S. News Travel.
What are the local favorite unique things to do in Florida?
If you want to explore the more unique things about Florida, then we recommend getting on a more local level. Avoid those bigger, touristy spots and check out the hidden gem places that locals love. Check out this list of 18 hidden gems in Florida that will blow you away.
What are the oldest attractions in Florida?
Sometimes the most memorable things to do in Florida have a little bit of history attached. If you’re interested in some of the oldest attractions around, we suggest starting with the nation’s oldest city—St. Augustine. Visiting St. Augustine will give you so much to see and do, each with plenty of historical references.
