National Plan for Vacation Day (January 28) is just around the corner, and what better time to start planning your 2025 getaway? The Sunshine state has a diverse range of destinations that showcase the side of the state that even seasoned travelers may not know about. Perfect for uncovering hidden gems and creating unique memories!
To help you and your readers plan their next getaway, VISIT FLORIDA has compiled a snapshot of hidden gem destinations, hotels, and unique experiences that should be on everyone’s vacation radar for National Plan for Vacation Day. Let me know if you’re interested in sharing this with your readers -- I’d be happy to pass along assets or more details as needed.
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Hidden Gem Destinations
- Sebring, Florida
- An up-and-coming destination that will soon be in the spotlight thanks to its feature in HGTV’s Home Town Takeover. Known for its historic charm, Sebring offers unique experiences such as outdoor adventures around its lakes, thrilling water sports, and a PGA-quality golf destination on the Citrus Golf Trail. Visitors can also enjoy its historic district, renowned Sebring International Raceway, Florida’s oldest state park, and events like the annual Sebring Soda Festival, making it a perfect blend of history, nature, and fun for all types of travelers.
- Micanopy, Florida
- Micanopy, Florida’s oldest inland town, is known for its antique shops, fall festivals, and perfect Instagram-worthy photo opportunities. Leisurely stroll as you browse Micanopy’s numerous antique shops, hear bluegrass tunes floating up from the front deck of dining establishments like the Old Florida Café, and explore attractions like the Micanopy Historical Society Museum.
- Clay County, Florida
- Clay County offers a variety of itineraries, including historic sites like Penney Farms Historic Museum and the Military Museum of North Florida, delicious foodie stops like Urban Bean Coffeehouse and Barley & Pie Brewing Company, and outdoor adventures at Jennings State Forest and Gold Head Branch State Park. For shopping, explore Now & Then Antique Mall, YUM – A Southern Market, and Walnut Street in Green Cove Springs.
Hotels
- Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, Miramar Beach
- Located on Florida’s Emerald Coast, the resort offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Guests can unwind on the private beach, enjoy spa treatments, or take a dip in the three on-site pools. With activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, golf, tennis, and nearby attractions at Baytowne Wharf, the resort provides endless opportunities for travelers of all ages to create unforgettable memories.
- Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa, Palmetto
- Nestled along Florida’s West Coast overlooking the Manatee River, the newly opened resort offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Guests can enjoy on-property amenities like waterfront cabanas, Revive Spa, and pickleball, while nearby attractions include citrus tastings at The Citrus Place, birdwatching at Felts Audubon Preserve, and vintage treasure hunting at The Vintage Collective.
Unique Experiences
- Ale Trail Pass, Fort Lauderdale
- The new digital Visit Lauderdale Ale Trail Pass allows beer lovers to explore 15 breweries and automatically check-in while receiving offers like Buy-One-Get-One-Free. Simply enter your details on the mobile landing page and receive a ready-to-use pass via SMS. Points earned during your visit can be exchanged for limited edition Visit Lauderdale items.
- Hidden Shore and Sips, Sarasota
- Explore Sarasota's secluded shores with a sandbar-hopping adventure through the hidden islands around the Gulf Coast followed by cocktails at a speakeasy. Accessible only by boat, spots like Midnight Pass and Skiers Island reveal pristine white sand, shallow waters and abundant wildlife. These less-traveled beaches offer a quiet paradise, ideal for travelers seeking a true escape from the crowds and a front-row seat to the natural beauty of Sarasota's gulf waters.