11 Unique Weekend Getaways in Florida

As one of the most visited states in the US, there are a lot of unique weekend getaways in Florida for visitors. From the theme parks, stunning beaches, shopping, natural wonders and history, there are areas up and down the entire state to check out. I’m sharing eleven of my favourite unique weekend getaways so you can plan a visit and explore these gems on your next Florida vacation. 

Unique Weekend Getaways in North Florida

1. High Springs

High Springs is a small Florida town known as ‘The Gateway to the Springs’. It’s around 20 miles north of Gainsville and is a nature lovers paradise. Florida is home to over 200 crystal-clear freshwater springs, and High Springs is close to some of the most beautiful. 

Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park is one of the most popular springs in the area as the park has several springs inside. Gilchrist Blue (Blue Springs) is the main second-magnitude spring which pumps out 44 million gallons of water per day. It’s followed by Little Blue Spring, Naked Spring, Kiefer Spring and Johnson Spring, which lead into the Santa Fe River. Ichetucknee Springs State Park also covers a large area as it has eight major springs that join to create the Ichetucknee River. Snorkelling at Blue Hole at Ichetucknee is also a main draw. Both state parks allow visitors to swim, go tubing, snorkel, and kayak the spring runs. 

Ginnie Springs is privately owned, with a similar setup to the state parks with seven springs feeding the area. It’s a popular spot to hang out on the weekend as alcohol is allowed in the park. But all of these springs are a unique way to experience the natural beauty of Florida. 

O’Leno State Park is one of Florida’s oldest state parks, and alongside the neighbouring River Rise Preserve State Park, they offer 20 miles of hiking and biking trails. The mile-and-a-half river trail in O’Leno is the most popular in the park. Start by crossing the suspension bridge across the Santa Fe River, through shaded forests, sinkholes and open savannahs. 

Where to Eat: The Pink Flamingo Diner is a classic American retro diner with live music and a mini golf course.  The High Springs Brewery is also a great spot in town.

Where to Stay: High Springs is a small town but offers a few accommodation types to suit. For a budget friendly stay, I recommend checking out the High Springs Country Inn. The BlueGem Motel and Grady House Bed and Breakfast are also great options in the area. However, if you’d rather have a peaceful escape in nature, check out Getaway House near Gilchrist Blue Springs.

2. St Augustine 

St Augustine might not be considered a unique weekend getaway, but as the oldest city in the United States, it deserves a spot on this Florida list.  

Founded in 1565, St Augustine is surrounded by history, beautiful architecture and a vibrant atmosphere. There are so many things to see but start your weekend by exploring the extremely walkable historical downtown area. There are also hop-on hop-off trolley tours that stop at the best sights.  

These places should be on your must-see list: Aviles Street (St George) is the nation’s oldest street, Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is a Spanish fortress with views over the St. Augustine Inlet. The Fountain of Youth is where Ponce De Leon discovered what are said to be healing waters. Tour Flagler College, once a luxury hotel built in 1888 by Henry Flagler, and admire the Spanish Renaissance architecture. The Lightner Museum is across the street and is also worth a visit. You can also climb 219 steps for breathtaking views of St Augustine and the beach from the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum.

The St Augustine Distillery offers free self-guided tours and tastings in their facilities in town. On the topic of booze, St Augustine also has a thriving nightlife scene. After doing one of the haunted ghost tours, you can party the night away at several bars and nightclubs. 

Where to Eat: St Augustine is home to several highly rated restaurants, and these are some I’ve eaten at and recommend. For an evening meal and great seafood Catch 27 never disappoints (sit outside in the courtyard). For a Southern comfort fix head to The Floridian, and also Casa Reina for tacos and margaritas.

Where to Stay: We’ve stayed at the Marion Motor Lodge in downtown St Augustine quite a few times now. It’s convenient location, free parking and reasonable prices attract us back. However, if you’d like to stay by St Augustine Beach there are multiple options to suit.

Looking for a perfect couple’s getaway in Florida? Check out this itinerary in St Augustine full of romantic ideas!

Unique Weekend Getaways in Central Florida

3. Tarpon Springs  

On the Gulf Coast of Central Florida lies Tarpon Springs, a little slice of Greece. Greek sponge divers settled here in the early 1900s, and today Tarpon Springs is home to the highest percentage of Greek Americans in the United States. From the architecture, food, language and historical sponge docks, it’s a unique weekend getaway in Florida like no other with plenty of things to do.

Sponge harvesting still happens today. Take a guided stroll around Greektown and the sponge docks, and you’ll see the boats, divers and museums explaining the town’s unique history. At certain times of the year, visitors can head out on a sponge boat to see the divers in action. Athens Street and Dodecanese Boulevard are the perfect areas to pick up authentic souvenirs like soaps and sponges (Lori’s Soaps) and imported Greek food (Agoda Food Market). I took a bunch of things back home with me.

Downtown Tarpon Springs is an area you can’t miss. The historical streets are home to antique stores, breweries, distilleries and restaurants. Spring Bayou is also worth checking out, a pretty bay that attracts a lot of wildlife. During the winter months, you can see manatees. For more fun things to do in the Tampa Bay area, check out City Pass.

Where to Eat: Dimitri’s on the Water is my favourite place to enjoy an evening meal at the sponge docks. Hellas Bakery is the spot for frappes, cakes and pastries. The smell alone coming from the bakery will lure you in. 

Where to Stay: If you’d like to stay in a historical home, several bed and breakfasts offer accommodation in this area. We loved our stay at the Blue Bayou Inn. There are also plenty of hotels in the area too.

4. Crystal River 

Crystal River is one of the only places in Florida where you can swim and snorkel with the state’s most famous resident, the West Indian Manatee. This small city, with its spring-fed crystal-clear waters, is home to migratory manatees. During the winter months, these gentle giants move into the warmer spring waters from the cooler Gulf temperatures.   

Three Sisters Springs is the most famous spring and Crystal River‘s crown jewel. Admire the spring waters from the park’s boardwalk trails or hit the water and swim or kayak with the manatees. There are also vessel launch areas from Kings Bay and Hunter Springs Park at any time of year, and they’re the perfect way to explore the area. 

Where to Stay: The Plantation Resort is a great place to stay. We liked that it was directly on the river with an activity centre for booking things like swimming with the manatees, boat rentals, kayak rentals, fishing, golfing and cruises. The resort is also a short stroll or drive into the town and has an old southern charm vibe with a choice of restaurants, bars and a spa.  

Where to Eat: Seafood Seller Cafe doesn’t look like much from the outside, but their food is amazing! The best grouper I’ve eaten in the state was from this place! The Crab Plant is the perfect place to enjoy casual but tasty seafood. The low country boil is great. It’s a cash-only place but has an ATM inside. 

Read about more amazing things to do in Crystal River in this handy guide! 

5. Fort Pierce & McKee Botanical Gardens 

If you’re looking for a small town full of old Florida charm, a rich history and a surprising food scene, Fort Pierce is the place for you. Located on the Treasure Coast between Vero Beach and Jupiter, Fort Pierce packs a punch for things to do. 

Every Saturday morning, the Farmers Market brings the historic waterfront to life. So enjoy the live music, range of organic food stalls and crafts on sale. Stroll through the compact downtown area for some shopping in the boutique stores and check out the colourful murals dotted around. The Treasure Coast Wine & Ale Trail is also a fun way to visit local breweries, winery, cidery and meadery. Collect stamps at each stop on the map to bag some swag. There are two museums, the Navy Seal and Bud Adams-Cobb Cultural Center (free admission) in the town centre that are worth checking out. 

You can also head into nature and explore the Fort Pierce Inlet State Park. Go on the water on a clear kayaking tour through the mangrove tunnels or go hiking and biking on the trail network.    

Where to eat: Check out 12a Buoy, it’s located in an unassuming location, but the food will not disappoint. 

Where to Stay: With it’s beachfront location, conveniently located between all Fort Pierce has to offer, the Hutchinson Island Plaza Hotel & Suites is my recommended place to stay.

McKee Botanical Gardens 

Around a 20-minute drive from Fort Pierce is the McKee Botanical Garden. It’s a little slice of art and nature combined, with a variety of tropical plants, art exhibitions and a specific children’s garden. It’s also a unique way to spend an afternoon and a great addition to any weekend getaway in Fort Pierce. Tickets cost $15 per adult. 

6. Pinellas Trail – Dunedin & Honeymoon Island State Park  

If you’re looking for a unique way to do some sightseeing and exercise, planning a ride on the Pinellas Trail is a great option. The Pinellas Trail is a 75-mile multi-use pathway between Tarpon Springs and St Petersburg. There are various entry points and things to see along the stretch of trails. We decided to visit downtown Dunedin and head off the trail to explore a beautiful state park, Honeymoon Island. But there are so many route options. 

Our accommodation included bike rentals, so we knew we wanted to head out and explore the area. Downtown Dunedin is a compact area with historical buildings, boutique stores and great restaurants. Along the Pinellas Trail, we cycled out to some breweries, stopped along the way, and checked out some thriving areas along the trail. 

Across the causeway we made our way to Honeymoon Island State Park. It is known for its white sandy beaches and abundant wildlife. There is a network of biking trails at the park which we explored; the island is beautiful. There is also a cafe overlooking a stretch of beach, so we locked up the bikes and enjoyed a coffee and the views.   

Check out the trail and plan a few unique weekend getaways in Florida, as this trail has so much to do. We’re planning to do the same. 

Where to Stay: We’ve found that accommodation rates vary a lot depending on the time you plan to visit Dunedin. So it’s worth checking out sites like Vrbo and booking.com for the best rates and deals.

7. Kelly Park & Rock Springs Run near Orlando 

If you’re in Orlando and looking for a unique getaway or day trip, the natural springs are a must-visit. Only 40 minutes from Orlando in Apopka lies a beautiful wilderness of springs with areas such as Kelly Park, Kings Landing, Rock Springs Run, Wekiwa Springs State Park and Wekiva Island.

Kelly Park is a popular tubing area with its own natural lazy river, making it the perfect family trip. Kings Landing is next door to Kelly Park, and the place to go if you want to explore the beautiful spring runs on a kayak/paddleboard. Launch your own vessel or rent from Kings Landing and explore Emerald Cut with the most crystal-clear waters, hence its name. Rock Springs Run is an 8.5-mile paddle through different habitats with a shuttle back to Kings Landing from Wekiva Island.

You can also go on the spring run to explore Wekiwa Springs State Park, enjoy a lazy day at Wekiva Island or explore the Wekiva River on a paddleboard tour. The choice is yours, go into nature and enjoy one of these unique weekend Florida getaways in the springs.   

Read a more detailed guide to Exploring the Springs near Orlando here.

Where to Stay: Two of the closest chain hotels to these areas are the Holiday Inn Express and the Hilton Garden Inn. They often have availability due to their size. For more fun things to do in the Orlando area, check out City Pass.

8. Anna Maria Island, Gulf Coast

Anna Maria is a barrier island, around 7 miles long (11km), on Florida’s west coast. Sandwiched between Sarasota and Tampa Bay, this beautiful island is my number one weekend getaway for relaxing and soaking up the laid-back lifestyle.   

There is no shortage of fun things to do on Anna Maria. Be prepared to spot some amazing animals as the island is a natural preserve and teaming with wildlife from birds, mammals and marine life. Anna Maria Island is also known for its stunning beaches. The blue waters and soft white sand surround the island, so there is no shortage of beaches to enjoy. The historical city pier is a must-visit, take a stroll to the end of the boardwalk and take in the scenic views. There are also numerous fishermen dotted along the pier, and it was great to see what they were catching. We spotted eagle rays, dolphins, fish and ospreys in the crystal-clear water. Alternatively, head to the skies and see the beautiful scenery from above. 

Where to Eat: The SandBar Restaurant is one of my favourites because some tables sit directly on the beach and in the sand. From the beach views, casual atmosphere and delicious food, this restaurant is a must visit. 

Where to Stay: I recommend renting a holiday home while on Anna Maria Island. There are a wide variety of options available and most come with bicycles, ideal for getting around the island, and beach accessories.

Unique Seasonal Activity – Bioluminescent Tours

Florida’s bioluminescent wonders look otherworldly. From the glow of the Indian River Lagoon to the light displays in Mosquito Bay, these natural phenomena leave onlookers in awe. Bioluminescence, a unique phenomenon where living organisms emit light, is a rare treat that can be witnessed at various locations along central Florida’s coastlines from mid-May to early October. The most popular way to see the bioluminescence is by heading out on a kayaking or boat tour. Tip: Pick a tour date 5 days after a full moon. The darker skies make the glow pop even more.

Unique Weekend Getaways in South Florida

9. The Ringling Museum, Sarasota

Overlooking the bay of Sarasota lies the Ringling Museum and Mansion. If you’ve ever heard of ‘The Greatest Show on Earth’, you likely know the Ringling Brothers. They had the best travelling circus in the U.S., and this unique museum preserves the legacy of John and Mable Ringling. So why does this make the unique weekend getaways in Florida list?   

The Ringling Museum has several areas and things to see, the Museum of Art, Circus Museum, Ca’ d’Zan and Bayfront Gardens. John and Mable Ringling enjoyed travelling to Europe, collecting art and taking inspiration from things they saw overseas, and the Ringling Museum showcases this perfectly.   

If you like architecture as I do, the Ca’ d’Zan Mansion is impressive. It was the home of John and Mable and designed to look like a Venetian mansion. If you don’t buy a ticket to go inside, it can be admired outside by walking around the perimeter. The Bayfront Gardens overlooking the bay are also impressive and cover much of the estate. The Museum of Art houses the extensive artwork collection the Ringling’s gathered throughout the years. There are some rare and sought-after pieces inside. I wasn’t sure what to expect from the Circus Museum, but I found the history fascinating. There are original props, advertisements, carts and models, they’re spectacular to see. 

The Ringling Museum is a truly unique place and a must-visit on any weekend getaways in Florida itinerary. I couldn’t get enough of this museum and spent around 6 hours exploring. 

Tip: The museum is free on Mondays. However, if you’d like a budget-friendly option, you can walk the grounds and gardens for only $5 per person. 

Where to Stay: I recommend staying in Sarasota and making the short drive to the museum. We stayed at the Embassy Suites by Hilton due to its location, roof top bar and happy hour specials for guests. I highly recommend it.

10. Glamping in the Everglades National Park 

A visit to the Everglades National Park is a fixture on many Florida weekend getaways, but a unique way to experience the park is by glamping in an eco-tent. There are limited accommodation options within the Everglades National Park, and these tents offer a touch of luxury and a sense of adventure. Whether it’s a couple or a family trip, there are tents to suit. 

At the base of the Florida Peninsula and overlooking Florida Bay is Flamingo. It’s at the Flamingo Campground these glamping eco-tents can be found. The safari-style tents are off the ground and feature a bed, lighting, fan, outdoor deck and built-in mosquito netting. With several trails and water activities nearby, it is perfect for exploring the national park. Also, don’t forget to look up at the night sky too. With a lack of light pollution, the stars are clearly visible and an incredible sight. 

Check out this detailed review about Glamping in the Everglades.

11. Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, Key West 

Key West is no stranger to visitors heading to Florida for a weekend getaway. However, one of the best public beaches in Key West is often overlooked, Fort Zachary State Park. Only ten minutes from the main street of Duval, it’s worth visiting for a fun family or couples’ day out.   

The beach is known for great swimming and snorkelling. There is a beach hut in the park with snorkel rentals, beach chairs and umbrellas, so you don’t need to bring your own gear. Fishing is also popular, and there are biking trails throughout the 54-acre park. 

The park is more than just a beach. There is also a National Historic Monument, Fort Zachary, rich in Civil War history. There are fort tours available, or you can take a self-guided walk around the fort and learn about its role in shaping Florida today. Also, don’t forget to watch the sunset from the park if the timing suits. 

Check out Where to eat in Key West, and the Florida Keys.

Thank you for reading. I hope I have inspired you to plan a visit to one or more of these unique weekend getaways in Florida. Would you add any other destinations to this list? Let me know in the comments below or find me on Instagram.

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