Explore Florida Like a Local
A Collection of Favorite Hometown Spots by Locals
There are many things to say about getting advice from locals. From the best coffee shops to the best grocery stores, travelers should give more credit to the residents recommendations because they know the reputation of a place and what you can expect. In this article you will be exploring Florida like a local with not just hidden gems, but travel hotspots that you shouldn’t miss based on the advice from the very people who live there. This is for you to experience local travel tips if you’re ever staying at or road tripping through the following destinations. It’s time to travel like a local and enjoy favorite hometown spots by locals!
Armature Works in Tampa, FL
Written by: Tatiana with Dale, Let’s Travel!
Armature Works is a fantastic place to spend a Saturday near Downtown Tampa! Inside the Heights Market, located in the brick building, you will find a food hall that contains various food options like Mediterranean, Italian, Cuban, Sushi, Pizza, BBQ, desserts, and many others. One of my favorites is Hemingway’s Cuban Kitchen, a quick-service restaurant that offers a modern twist on classic Cuban cuisine. I enjoy getting the steak sandwich with fried plantains. Butcher n’ Barbeque is also a great choice if you love BBQ – their loaded brisket fries are delicious! Moreover, there are a few sit-down restaurants like Steelbach and bars like M. Bird & Stones Throw within the establishment as well, making it perfect for any occasion. By the way, M. Bird is a rooftop bar with elevated shared plates and a gorgeous view of the Hillsborough River, the surrounding neighborhood, and the Downtown Tampa skyline!
More to explore
Inside Heights Market, you will also find Tonella’s Flower Shop, A.W. Mercantile, and a Show + Tell room. The Show + Tell room is an entertainment workshop and demonstration kitchen at Armature Works. They host hands-on activities in this room like cooking classes, wreath-making classes, and many others.
The fun does not stop indoors at Armature Works. There are plenty of activities and entertainment outdoors! For starters, Armature Works is on the North End of Tampa’s Riverwalk. As such, you can hop on the Water Taxi for a nice leisurely ride down the Hillsborough River or sit on one of the many lawn chairs and picnic tables and watch all the boats pass by. Armature Works also has lawn games where you can play checkers or Jenga.
Outdoor fun
Armature Works holds outdoor events, markets, and festivals throughout the month. Various nights during the week, there is live music or a DJ at one of the outdoor bars or the lawn. Typically, every weekend they have an event like a CrossFit bootcamp class, Rides by the River, a Food Truck Fest, etc. Occasionally, they have a Barre or Yoga class in the middle of the week. The second Wednesday of each month they have a night market, and the second Sunday of each month they have a daytime market with an art walk! The best part is that most of these events are free and open to the public! Certain things require tickets, like when they host Pied Piper’s Haunted Carnival during Halloween.
Armature Works is a fantastic place to spend a day, grab a meal, enjoy a workout, join a workshop, pick up some flowers, or grab a drink! Armature Works has plenty of food and entertainment options – there is something for everybody! For more information about Armature Works, check out A Day Out at Armature Works.
Bageland in Gainesville, FL
Written by: Rebecca with The Mobility Mom
Gainesville Florida is known to many as the home of the University of Florida and the football team, the Gators. It has also given us great people like Tom Petty, Maya Rudolph, and Tim Tebow. However, for me what makes Gainesville special is a little place called Bageland. Bageland is located in a Thornebrook Village shopping center off 43rd Street. This locally owned shop offers its customers a friendly atmosphere along with homemade bagels. Bageland was opened in 1980 and has been running consistently for four decades. Since the beginning, they’ve sold bagels rolled by an enormous, ancient machine in the kitchen, then boiled and baked every morning by J.T. Along the way, they introduced deli sandwiches and eggs, along with house-made croissants, muffins, and quiches, all made by Debbie.
How it began
The biggest change to the menu came one day when Debbie and Malay were eating lunch they brought from home. A customer saw the food and clearly stated that they wanted what they were eating. Debbie thought she was kidding, but a lightbulb moment happened and so she started bringing a few dishes to Bageland for customers to try. They quickly became a staple. Now, every Tuesday and Thursday Bageland sells green curry with rice, shrimp wonton soup with roast pork and pho ga which is a Vietnamese chicken soup with rice noodles. The dishes are aromatic and comforting, prepared in Bageland’s kitchen exactly as they are in Debbie’s home, down to the kaffir lime she grows in her garden.
The coffee, which only costs $1.20, is served in one of a few dozen mismatched mugs it has accrued over the years. Bageland is also one of the oldest restaurants in Gainesville. The one thing that hasn’t changed in the 40+ years that Bageland has been operating is the service. On any given day you can walk into a warm, friendly atmosphere. You can also count on Debbie or Malay to remember you and your order. I am always impressed by that because as a mom I am lucky to remember to drink my coffee before it gets cold.
Chill at Bageland
In all of my travels over the years, Bageland is one of my favorite places to hang out. I enjoy bringing my laptop there to work while enjoying a cinnamon bagel with cream cheese and a cup of fresh coffee. Whether you’re a regular to Gainesville or someone just passing through, I highly recommend you stop at Bageland for one of my favorite dishes, a cinnamon bagel piled high with cream cheese. I promise you the food will be good and the welcome warm and friendly. Bageland is located at 2441 NW 43rd St #6c, Gainesville, FL 32606, and is open 7 days a week.
North Beach in Miami, FL
Written by: Vicky with Buddy, The Traveling Monkey
A place that is not well-known to tourists visiting the Miami area is North Beach. It’s about 20 minutes north of popular South Beach. While South Beach is crowded and touristy, North Beach is much less crowded and it’s visited by locals.
North Beach is very clean. The water is clear and it stays shallow for a good distance, making it perfect for families with small children. Families will also be happy to know that there is a lifeguard on duty. There is also a lot of space on the sand to lay out, set up chairs or umbrellas.
To experience this beautiful beach, head to North Beach Oceanside Park. There is plenty of paid street parking in front of the park, although it’s free after 6pm. Once inside the park, you can walk through the park to the beach or hang out in the park. There are picnic tables, BBQ grills, and a kid’s playground. There are also trails for walking, running, or biking. Bathrooms and showers are accessible as well and are open until 6pm.
Once you’ve had fun at the beach, you should visit the nearby town of Surfside. There are many cute restaurants and shops.
Sand Key in Clearwater, FL
Written by: Victoria with Florida Trippers
If you’re looking for unique hidden gems in Florida then you cannot beat Sand Key. After all, this magical beach is located in Clearwater, Florida, and is often overlooked by visitors in favor of the infinitely more famous Clearwater Beach.
With that being said, Sand Key can get busy on weekends. However, it’s much quieter than other local beaches, making it a great place to enjoy pristine white sand beaches, go shelling, watch the sunset, go for a picnic, and more. Although, if you want the place all to yourself, try visiting on a quiet weekday morning.
Sea conservation
Additionally, there is an artificial reef program set up at this secluded beach, as well as protected areas where sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. So, be on the lookout for these gorgeous creatures as well as herons, spoonbills, fish, sting rays, dolphins, and more. If you’re lucky you might even see some coyotes running along the beach. Just remember to leave before sunset since the park is only open from 9:00 am to sunset every day.
Now, to get here you’ll need to drive south of Clearwater and head across the Sand Key Bridge. However, the entrance can be challenging to find. Therefore, use your GPS or Google Maps when visiting.
This is one of the few beaches in the Clearwater area that is not free to enter. As a result, you will need to pay $5.00 to park your vehicle at the park. However, that fee is good for the entire day! The nominal fee is worth it since you’ll enjoy access to a dog park, a playground, local salt marshes, barbeques, and picnic areas. Plus, your money will be used towards maintaining this beautiful park so I feel like the price is a total steal. Additionally, other facilities that make visiting a real delight include water fountains, restrooms, and kayak/bike rentals during peak season.
Park Avenue in Winter Park, FL
Written by: Christine with Live Love Run Travel
Park Avenue in Winter Park is a favorite suggestion for anyone visiting Orlando who wants to get away from the city and away from the theme parks. With great dining options, boutique shops, and a beautiful park, Park Avenue is great for an afternoon & evening stroll or a Sunday brunch.
The park itself often has events going on from the Winter Park Art Festival to movies in the park. At Christmas, several of the top things to do in Orlando at Christmas take place here including the famous Winter Park Christmas Parade that was featured once in a Budweiser Super Bowl commercial.
Even if there isn’t an event going on, the park is a great spot for an afternoon stroll. With blossoming gardens, massive oak trees, and plenty of space to spread out, you can find a bench to sit and relax or even enjoy a picnic here.
If the weather is nice, you can eat along the sidewalk at one of the many restaurants with outdoor dining. If you are visiting in the summer, there are plenty of air-conditioned options, too. Don’t miss the food at Pannullo’s Italian Restaurant. The Briarpatch is a popular spot for brunch or ice cream depending on when you go.
For those who like to shop, you’ll find everything from home décor, boutique clothing shops and popular chains. Walk along Park Avenue and window shop or head inside to see more of what is available.
On your next trip to Orlando, don’t miss a stop in Winter Park and a walk down Park Avenue.
The Garlic in New Smyrna, FL
Written by: Erin with The Simple Salty Life
For a super unique spot in a great location add The Garlic to your must-visit list when you’re in Florida! Located right off of A-1-A, this unassuming Italian restaurant is one of the best family things to do in New Smyrna Beach. Open every night of the week starting at 4pm except Christmas Day, locals come for fantastic food and live music in a fabulously, eclectic atmosphere. Most visitors would drive right on by the front door, not knowing what they are missing out on until stepping inside the gates of The Garlic!
At first glance
The first thing that hits you upon arriving is the fact that what looks like a small spot to dine is really an intricate maze of rooms, courtyards, fountains, fireplaces, bars and patios. Head out back first to put your name in and know that there is always a wait, no reservations (regardless of party size). This gives guests the perfect opportunity to grab a drink at the outside bar, pull up a few chairs, and listen to the live music. Even in the rain (it is Florida after all) the outside courtyard is full of crowds huddling under umbrellas because they know the best is yet to come!
Once your name is called it is showtime. Head inside through the vine-covered twinkling path and let your eyes adjust. You’ll smell the garlic first because it permeates the air and makes mouths start watering. Fresh bread and roasted garlic for dipping will come out first. Your server will bring your menu of the day written on a lasagna noodle, good luck choosing the best authentically-Italian dish. The best way is to have the table each try something different so you can all share! Picture Swordfish topped with baked brie and saffron rice, lasagna made with ground filet mignon, or spinach and ricotta raviolis with scallops. Yum!
After ordering, take time to really look around you. What can best be described as “junk décor” takes on new life when proudly displayed throughout the restaurant. The Garlic calls their style “One of a Kind,” utilizing recycled and vintage objects as centerpieces to an otherwise incredibly upscale and gourmet menu. Dress up or dress down (you are at the beach after all) and enjoy a delectable meal you will be talking about for a long time!
Knot on Main Street in Dunedin, FL
Written by: Cris with Wander Florida
Knot on Main Street in Dunedin, FL is a vintage and antique mall/store with more than 10,000 square feet of absolute delight. It began in a repurposed feed store in the heart of downtown Dunedin a few decades ago, but as they grew and needed more space, they moved to a new location away from Main Street. So the name Knot on Main Street came to be.
The Knot, as it’s affectionately called by locals, is family owned and supports over 100 small local businesses. The space is filled with vendors and dealers who each occupy an open stall-like space. They bring a huge variety of vintage items, handmade crafts, memorabilia and more to their shelves.
What can you expect to find here? A little of everything! The Knot’s vendors sell furniture, clothing, books, sports memorabilia, wall décor, outdoor décor, paintings, jewelry, and anything else you can think of. If you’re looking for something unique, this is the first place to search. It’s also a favorite place for locals to bring friends and family when visiting town, especially in the hot summer as The Knot is indoors and air-conditioned.
Knot on Main Street also supports local not-for-profit organizations. Some vendors are NFP’s (not for profit) and donate all of their proceeds while the Knot also holds drives for donations to other charities, such as collecting vases for Random Acts of Flowers. The store is open daily from 10am to 5pm. Visit at 2424 Bayshore Blvd Dunedin, FL 34698.
Phil Foster Park in West Palm Beach, FL & Cato’s Bridge in Jupiter, FL
Written by: Haley with Fernweh Foreigner
With Florida’s year round beach weather, spending time in the water and discovering what lives under the sea is one of the best things to do in the state. Both West Palm Beach and Jupiter in southeastern Florida are amazing places to snorkel.
Both towns are located pretty close to each other so you can easily spend time at each location in one day or spend a few days discovering each underwater destination. Although no snorkel gear is rented or sold at these snorkeling spots, with your own equipment this is one of the best free things to do within Palm Beach County.
Cato’s Bridge
Starting on the north end of Palm Beach County, Cato’s Bridge in Jupiter is the most local snorkeling spot that is not typically advertised to outsiders. The water in this little corner under the bridge is absolutely beautiful and clear, and you can potentially see manatees, sharks, starfish, and tons of fish.
Out on Singer Island in North Palm Beach, snorkeling out off of the beach won’t be quite as clear but you can still potentially swim with sea turtles, manatees, or even an octopus.
Phil Foster Park
The best place to snorkel in the area is at Phil Foster Park on the south side of the bridge in the inlet of West Palm Beach. There are statues, boats, and other structures underwater that were put there to create lively snorkeling or a scuba diving spot which is now home to loads of marine life like stingrays, eels, starfish, barracuda, tons of fish, and so much more.
Try going during high tide on a clear sunny day for the best visibility and bring a pool noodle to make swimming easier on yourself. What you see snorkeling can be different every time you visit so you’ll never get bored here!
River Rise Trail in High Springs, FL
Written by: Megan with Red Around the World
The River Rise trail in High Springs, Florida is a unique hiking trail. It’s unique to the point where the Santa Fe River rises out of the ground in River Rise State Park after having gone underground in O’Leno State Park three miles away.
This is an easy three-mile round-trip hiking trail just outside of downtown High Springs that is also popular for biking and horseback riding. The trail is wide and looks like an old road. It’s very easy to follow and while it’s not particularly scenic, it’s a very enjoyable walk through the Florida woods with this unique natural feature not found at many other places.
There are a few other trails that branch off of the main trail. Some trails lead back to it in a different spot and others go all the way to the river sink (where it goes underground) in O’Leno State Park.
After a walk through the woods you’ll come to a clearing where you can see the river ahead of you. It’s not a gradually widening river, either. It’s a full-sized river that looks like it just starts right where you are but it’s actually coming up from beneath you. This is a great hiking trail in High Springs and while you may see a few other people along the way, it’s not super busy so you’ll likely have most of it to yourself.
Hunter Springs Park in Crystal River, FL
Written by: Stephanie with Fleurty Girl Travels
There’s a hidden gem in Crystal River that I wanted to keep a secret, but it’s just so good, I need to share! Hunter Springs Park, 104 NE 1st AVE, Crystal River, won a certificate of excellence from Trip Advisor in 2019, and it’s easy to see why. A visit to Hunter Springs Park could allow you to swim with manatees during manatee season. Just offshore from the sandy beach, is one of the natural springs that feed into Crystal River, where the manatees seek refuge during the winter months.
Natural springs
The natural springs are crystal clear and a consistent 72 degrees, 26 Celcius, and it’s a refreshing swim. Hunter Springs Park offers a freshwater beach swimming area, restrooms, a wonderful paddle craft launch area, a picnic pavilion, and a boardwalk along the waterway.
My favorite paddle board launch site, Hunter Springs Park’s launch area is sandy and very shallow, with a gradual slope. It takes about 30 minutes to paddle to Three Sister Springs, depending on the wind direction. The park also has a limited loading zone to handle your paddle crafts, before parking.
The picnic pavilion is equipped with BBQ grills and is open to anyone. It is on a first come first served basis and cannot be reserved. The kids can play on the playground while you relax in the grassy area nearby or utilize the picnic area.
The boardwalk along the waterway is a great area to watch the birds, fish, manatees, and kayakers pass by while enjoying a great day at the park.
The City of Crystal River charges a nominal parking fee, plus a nominal fee for launching a paddle craft. The pay station accepts credit cards only. The parking fills up early on the weekends, but is ample during the weekdays.
Gulf Coast Sour Dough in Tampa, FL
Written by: Ingrid with Destination Unknown
If you’re visiting Tampa, Florida, there’s one locally-owned gem that absolutely shouldn’t be missed – Gulf Coast Sourdough on Florida Avenue. As a Tampa resident for 18 years, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring a multitude of dining options, but Gulf Coast Sourdough in Old Seminole Heights holds a special place in my heart.
What makes Gulf Coast Sourdough an unparalleled dining destination is its unwavering commitment to quality and innovation. They have perfected the art of crafting amazing sourdough bread that forms the foundation of their menu. Personally, I can’t get enough of their turmeric and black pepper loaf. The chewiness of the sourdough with the slightest kick and immense flavor is something I’ve not tasted anywhere else. It’s such good bread that I would buy one loaf to eat that week and store a second loaf in the freezer so I didn’t run out!
Pleasant ambience
It’s not just the bread that makes this place a standout. The atmosphere exudes a warm and welcoming vibe with murals, a small gift shop, and café tables for dining, making every visit a delightful experience. Whether you’re swinging by in the morning for a sourdough cinnamon bun and a cup of coffee to kickstart your day or you’re popping in at lunchtime to savor one of their mouthwatering sandwiches, Gulf Coast Sourdough caters to all your cravings.
This restaurant has become my go-to recommendation for friends and even the short-term guests who rent our cottage around the corner. If you’re seeking a dining experience that’ll leave you craving more, visit Gulf Coast Sourdough!
I hope you’ve enjoyed this collection of Florida local experiences. My wish is for you to be adventurous and explore Florida like a local. Many times we follow the crowds to the most touristy places. And, although there is nothing wrong with this, we tend to miss out on some fantastic local travel experiences that we never would have known about. So, go out, vacation like a local, and visit like a local!
For more on favorite Florida locations written by me, Cynthia of Mackintosh Travels™, click any of the below photos!
