The Top 10 Unique Things in Florida to Do

Are you looking for some different and fun things in Florida to do? From awesome natural springs to historic towns. this state is so much more than just theme parks and beaches. We're here to show you just how much Florida has to offer.

We've been to Florida countless times, and honestly never cared for it. We always felt it was overpriced and overrated, and while some of it is, there are a ton of hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered! On our two week road trip, we searched high and low for unique things in Florida to do for all types of travelers.

In this guide we're going to share some epic spots to check out, and some truly unique things in Florida to do for all ages. 

Unique Things in Florida to Do #1: King's Landing

If you thought Orlando was just Disney and Orlando, you're extremely mistaken. One of the top things in Florida to do is King's Landing, a long winding river with blue waters and surrounded by greenery.

They have both single and double kayak rentals, and two different routes that you can take. Row through the stunning waters, take a dip, or be on the look out for plenty of wild life. King's Landing will make you feel like you've just teleported to Central America.

You'll need to reserve in advance for your time slot if your renting, or you can also take your own for a lower price. Rentals are on a 4 hour window basis, and the place is open from 8 am to 5 pm.

Unique Things in Florida to Do #2: Go Tubing at Rock Springs

Right around the corner from King's Landing is another hidden gem called Rock Springs. The waters are actually the same as King's Landing, but the properties are dividing simply by a bridge.

The amazing thing about Rock Springs is that it is essentially a giant lazy river! All you have to do is pay a small park entrance fee, and rent (or bring) a tube to float down the river.

The entrance for one car (1-8 people) is $3, and the park is open from 8 am to 6 pm.

Look for a place to stay near King's Landing or Rock Springs:

Unique Things in Florida to Do #3: Snorkel or Go Diving at Devil's Den

Want to teleport to Mexico? Well, maybe you want physically be in Mexico, but you surely will feel like it at Devil's Den. This is definitely one of the coolest things in Florida to do when it comes to diverse landscapes. Devil's Den is a natural sinkhole (just like the cenotes in Mexico), where you can either snorkel or go diving (that is if you are certified). 

Walk down the stairs and you'll truly be mesmerized by the turquoise waters and hanging greenery through the hole in the top. 

Devil's Den requires reservations in advance, and is open from 9 am to 5 pm, and you can either bring your own gear, or rent some out for $35.

Looking for a place to stay near Devil's Den? Just check the map below for accommodation options:

Unique Things Florida to Do #4: Kayak at Silver Springs

One of our favorite things in Florida to do was kayaking at Silver Springs. There are various companies that rent out kayaks at this state park, both on tours or hourly. We rented with Discover Kayak tours, and had 4 hours to do the main part of the springs. Our favorite part of Silver Springs was being able to witness all of the great wildlife.

Starting in mid November Silver Springs gets their manatee migration, and we were lucky to see four different groups, including a baby manatee. We also saw tons of turtles, interesting birds, crocodiles, and even a huge group of monkeys!

They are not originally native to the area, but a guy released a ton of them there decades ago, so now they call Silver Springs their home.

The park of  Silver Springs offers both kayaking and glass bottom boat tours. It opens at 8 am, and closes at 8 pm. Tours should be booked in advance, but can also be booked on the spot if there is any availability.

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💦 Some other things to know about Silver Springs:

• It is a state park, so there are certain regulations.
• Drones are strictly prohibited.
• You CANNOT feed any wildlife (especially the monkeys as they can be dangerous).
• It is forbidden to touch any animals, especially the manatees.
• Swimming is also prohibited.

Want to sign up for one of the tours at Silver Springs? Just check out the different options below:

Looking for somewhere to stay in the area of Silver Springs? Just refer to the map below:

Unique Things in Florida to Do #5: Swim with the Manatees at Three Sister's Spring

Not only are there manatees in Silver Springs, but they also migrate over to Three Sister's Spring. One of the coolest things in Florida to do is to be surrounded by these gentle giants, and in Three SIster's Spring you can actually swim right next to them!

They start to arrive in mid-late November, usually a little later than they do at Silver Springs. We visited on November 14th, and they were expecting the first one's to arrive shortly after.

Something important to note is that there are two different ways to visit Three Sisters Spring. The first way is to enter via the visitors center, which is where the ticket office is. There is a shuttle that brings you to the outside of the springs, where you can walk around and see the turquoise waters down below. (The picture below is that area). The viewing area is open from 8:30 am to 4 pm, and tickets are $12.50 in the off season, and $20 in the peak season.

The other way of visiting Three Sisters Spring is from the water, in which you'll need some type of vessel to enter. There are two different seasons, which have distinct rules. In the off season (from April 1st to November 14th) it is free to visit with any type of vessel.

In the peak season the restrictions change and motorized vehicles are not allowed in, as it can be dangerous for the manatees. Additionally, there may be restrictions on when people can swim, or how many people can be there if there is a very high manatee count.

Want to sign up for a tour to experience the best that Three Sisters Spring has to offer? Just check the ones we've picked out below:

Unique Things in Florida to Do #6: Row a Clear Kayak at Rainbow Springs

One of our favorite things in Florida to do is definitely exploring the springs, and one of our favorites was Rainbow Springs. You can visit by your own water vessel, or by going on a kayaking tour. We went on a clear kayak tour, and had the best time.

The two things that we loved about Rainbow Springs in particular was that there was a giant round area with super  turquoise waters, as well as this secret passageway that makes you feel like you've teleported to another country.

Unique Things in Florida to Do #7: Explore the Oldest Town in the US

While most people flock to the beach cities of Miami or Fort Lauderdale, they're missing out on one of our favorite towns in the whole state. St Augustine is located on the north east coast, and it is actually the oldest registered city in the country! 

St Augustine brings you back in time and truly charms anyone that visits. Between its stunning architecture, cute lighthouse, and special "nights of lights" celebration, there is a vibe like no other in this cozy beach town.

If you'd like to learn more about St Augustine and all there is to do there, then make sure to check out our full travel guide by clicking the link below.

Want to check out some fun tours in St Augustine? We've put a few good ones down below:

looking for a place to stay in St Augustine? You can refer to the map below:

Unique Things in Florida to Do #8: Myakka River State Park

This was one of the fun things in Florida to do that we unfortunately didn't get to experience (it was closed due to a storm). However, we heard all about it from locals, and it is a super fun day trip from Tampa.

Myakka River State park offers plenty of activities such as wildlife tours, boat tours, hiking, horseback riding, paddling, and a canopy walkway. Boat tours go at 9 am, 11 am, 1 pm, 3 pm, and 5 pm, and are $20 for a 45-60 minute tour.

Bike rentals coast $15 for one hour, $25 for two hours, and $40 for four hours. Tandem bikes cost $30 for one hour, $50 for two hours, or $80 for four hours. Kayak and canoe rentals are $20 for the first hour, and $5/hour after that.

🎣 Some other things to know about Myakka River State Park

• Fishing is allowed, but only to those that have a Florida fresh-water fishing permit.
• If you'd like to launch your own boat, it's a $4 launching fee.
• There are different camping options inside the park.

Want to visit Myakka River State Park as a day trip from Tampa? We have accommodation options for Tampa listed on the map below:

Unique Things in Florida to Do #9: Swim at Ginnie Springs

Another truly stunning hidden gem is Ginnie Springs. A privately owned spring, this place has some of the most crystal clear waters you'll ever find. and is a super cool place to spend the day with friends having drinks and swimming. Not only that, but you can actually spend the night camping there.

If you're not into camping and want to just spend the day, the closest big city is Gainesville. Simply check the map below for options of places to stay in Gainesville:

Unique Things in Florida to Do #10: Check Out Cape Romano Dome House

If you're looking for super unique things to in Florida to do, then checking out the Cape Romano Dome House definitely has to be on your list. It's an abandoned house that consists of 6 igloo-looking concrete domes on stilts. It is located off the shore of Cape Romano Island, which is part of the Collier Islands in western Florida.

Want to take a tour to visit the Cape Romano Dome House? We've found some for you to check out:

Also looking for a place to stay in Naples? Just check the map for the different options:

There are so many fun things in Florida to do that don't cost a fortune, and where you can escape the ridiculous crowds. Don't get us wrong- there are tons of fun things to do in Miami, and the other popular beach towns, but there is also such a variety of landscapes and cool spots to add to your Florida bucket list.

Want to explore more fun spots in the US? We have guides to super popular cities such as NYC, Miami, and Vegas, but also in lesser known places such hidden gems around Utah.

Ready to book a road trip but don't know where to start? We can help! With Scratch Your Mapa Travel Planning you can now save both time and money. Unlike traditional travel agencies, we dedicate our time to getting you the best deals, so you can explore more, and worry less. Want to know how it works? You can learn a bit more by reading our packages.

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