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Living near Orlando's theme parks, I've learned that some of Florida's best experiences often lie beyond the tourist crowds. These charming destinations offer slower-paced adventures perfect for every budget — from historic theaters and scenic waterways to world-class museums and pristine beaches. Ready to experience authentic Old Florida charm, serene elegance and stunning natural beauty?
DeLand
Nestled between Orlando and Daytona Beach, DeLand charms visitors with its Old Florida vibe enhanced by creative artisans and family-owned shops. The historic Athens Theatre, a restored 1921 Italian Renaissance-style jewel, offers quality entertainment, ranging from professional plays to concerts, in an intimate setting. Take photos along the Wings of the West mural trail, created by DeLand native and artist Erica Group. Step back in time at Barberville Pioneer Settlement, where moss-draped oaks shelter authentic pioneer buildings and hands-on demonstrations bring Florida's rural past to life. Enjoy gentle river cruises to spot manatees or cool off at nearby DeLeon Springs, where you can swim year-round in crystal-clear 72-degree water.
Where to stay: The Artisan Downtown, a boutique hotel with an artsy, Cuban flair in the heart of DeLand's cultural district. Other good options include The Deland Hotel and Comfort Inn & Suites Deland.
Ponte Vedra Beach
This sophisticated coastal retreat offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and quiet elegance. At pristine Ponte Vedra Beach, warm sand invites barefoot strolls while the gentle surf reveals shells and fossilized shark teeth. Drive the scenic A1A Coastal Byway to GTM Research Reserve (free admission!), where boardwalk trails wind through 76,000 acres of salt marshes alive with herons, egrets, and migrating birds. Browse art galleries and dine at waterfront eateries, then catch the latest exhibits at the First Coast Cultural Center. The nearby Intracoastal Waterway beckons with waterfront restaurants (like Valley Smoke for modern Southern BBQ) and spectacular sunset views.
Where to stay: Ponte Vedra Inn & Club, a historic AAA Five Diamond oceanfront resort offering quiet elegance and world-class amenities. Other good options include Hilton Garden Inn Jacksonville Ponte Vedra Sawgrass and Seahorse Oceanfront Inn.
Gulf County (Cape San Blas & Indian Pass)
This pristine stretch of the Forgotten Coast feels like stepping back into untouched Florida. Learn about sea turtle conservation at the Forgotten Coast Sea Turtle Center, where dedicated volunteers monitor nesting activity and guide hatchlings toward moonlit waves during the season (May through October). Saddle up for horseback rides along endless sugar-white beaches where your only companions are sandpipers and pelicans. Join gentle sunset cruises with local fishing guides who share sea-worthy stories while dolphins surface nearby and skies blaze with brilliant colors.
Where to stay: Cape San Blas Inn, a waterfront inn with panoramic bay views, a cozy deck for relaxing, a private dock extending into St. Joseph Bay, and complimentary kayaks for exploring. Other good options include Turtle Beach Inn and MainStay Suites Port Saint Joe South.
Dunedin
This charming Gulf Coast town combines Scottish heritage with modern Florida living. Stroll Main Street's walkable downtown, dotted with cafés, antique shops and boutiques. The scenic 38-mile Pinellas Trail cuts right through downtown, providing perfect opportunities for leisurely walks or bike rides. Grab a craft beer at Dunedin Brewery, Florida’s oldest microbrewery. Adventure awaits just offshore at Caladesi Island State Park, named one of America's best beaches, accessible by ferry across sparkling St. Joseph Sound. Nearby Honeymoon Island State Park offers four miles of Gulf Coast beaches and shaded trails through rare virgin slash pine forests — perfect for birdwatching and nature photography.
Where to stay: Fenway Hotel, a historic Jazz Age boutique property where Pinellas County's first radio station once broadcast, now features waterfront views and weekly live performances. Other good options include Grant Street Inn and Meranova Guest Inn.
Winter Park
This cultural oasis sparkles with world-class art and timeless charm. The magnificent Charles Hosmer Morse Museum houses Louis Comfort Tiffany's breathtaking masterpieces, including his reconstructed chapel, where jewel-toned windows create a colorful kaleidoscope. The Rollins Museum of Art offers free admission to its rotating exhibitions and a collection of 5,700 permanent works. Glide across tranquil lakes on a scenic boat tour while a local guide points out historic landmarks. Stroll ten tree-lined blocks of Park Avenue, browsing 140 boutiques from internationally renowned Rifle Paper Co. to artisanal Peterbrooke Chocolatier, then toast the day at sophisticated Flûtes Champagne Bar.
Where to stay: The Alfond Inn, an elegant boutique hotel featuring art-filled interiors where every stay helps fund scholarships for local Rollins College students. Other good options include the Park Plaza Hotel and the Hilton Garden Inn Winter Park.
Marathon (Florida Keys)
This laid-back slice of paradise perfectly captures the Keys' enchanting spirit. At the heartwarming Turtle Hospital, learn about conservation efforts while watching rescued sea turtles glide through rehabilitation pools. Walk or bike the famous Seven Mile Bridge, stretching over stunning turquoise waters in every direction. Step back in time at the iconic, five-acre Pigeon Key island — once a home base for workers building the Florida Keys Overseas Railroad. Wander through the 64-acre Crane Point Hammock Museum and Nature Trails, where exotic birds flit through the native tropical canopy, and historic ruins remind visitors of the early settlers.
Where to stay: Seascape Resort and Marina, a charming Old Florida waterfront property offering genuine hospitality, practical amenities and excellent value for budget-conscious travelers. Other good options include Rainbow Bend Resort and Coconut Cay Resort & Marina.
What's your favorite place to visit in Florida? Let us know in the comments below.
