23 Best Roadside Attractions in Florida (2024)

Last Updated on April 11, 2024

Roadside attractions in Florida may be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the weird, wacky, and wonderful world of the Sunshine State!

Tourism is the Sunshine State’s largest industry, thanks in part to Walt Disney World.

But even before the Walt Disney World resort opened in 1971, people still flocked to Florida for its gardens, parks, and various unique attractions.

Florida roadside attractions were created to pull people in while they were on their way elsewhere.

A billboard announcing the world’s largest something or other would have people turning off at the next exit. 

As the years have passed, many of these Florida roadside attractions have been forgotten, but that doesn’t mean the ones still around aren’t less worthy of visiting!

There are many alligator parks, museums, zoos, gardens, and other cool places to check out in the Sunshine State.

So, next time you plan a road trip through Florida, consider stopping by some of its best roadside attractions.

NOTE: Our list is not in any particular order.

Butterfly World – Coconut Creek

Butterfly World is the world’s largest butterfly park. Located in Coconut Creek, Florida, this South Florida roadside attraction includes beautiful walkways where you can encounter many different species of butterflies.

The attraction also has a museum, research lab, and bug zoo.

Visiting Butterfly World

You can purchase a day pass for children or adults. Children 2 and under are free.

This attraction is open 7 days a week and the last entrance to the attraction is at 4:00 pm.

They are closed on Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day. Weather can impact the opening of the attraction.

Butterfly World Address: 3600 W Sample Rd, Coconut Creek, FL 33073

St. Augustine Alligator Farm – St. Augustine

St. Augustine Alligator Farm has been around for over 100 years. The zoological park is located in St. Augustine and includes many different exhibits.

In addition to alligators and crocodiles, there are also birds, lemurs, and other animals, as well as shows and a zip line course.  

Visiting St. Augustine Alligator Farm

Tickets can be purchased for children and adults. Children 2 and under are free. There are additional fees for animal encounters that are not included with park admission. This attraction is open year-round with daily wildlife shows and more!

St. Augustine Alligator Farm Address: 999 Anastasia Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080

Looking for more ways to see alligators in Florida? Check out 8 Florida Alligator Parks You Won’t Want to Miss

Monkey Jungle – Miami

Monkey Jungle is a park and discovery center located in Miami. The attraction first opened in 1935.

It’s a place where you can see different species of primates while learning about their conservation efforts.

Monkey Jungle is known as the attraction ‘Where humans are caged and monkeys run wild!’

In the past, there were a variety of shows put on daily where resident animals got to showcase their natural talents. 

Visiting Monkey Jungle

Make sure to check the official Monkey Jungle website before visiting as attendance options change.

Monkey Jungle Address: 14805 SW 216th St, Miami, FL 33170

Looking for things to do near Monkey Jungle? Check out 7 Best Places to Get Key Lime Pie in Miami, enjoy 8 Adventures in Awesome, Authentic Miami, or have fun Exploring Miami’s Charming Coconut Grove.

Spook Hill – Lake Wales

Spook Hill is an optical illusion attraction located in Lake Wales. The attraction is a road that became popular in the 1950s as a gravity hill.

Driving uphill on Spook Hill gives passengers the feeling that they are going downhill on the short drive.

It’s near Bok Tower Gardens so you can make a day of it.

Visiting Spook Hill

Spook Hill is a free attraction. It’s a public road so it’s important to be mindful of other cars.

Spook Hill Address: 600 N Wales Dr. Lake Wales, 33853.

Spook Hill is located near Bok Tower Gardens so you can make a day of it.

Learn more about Bok Tower Gardens: A Visit to Florida’s Sanctuary: Bok Tower Gardens.

Dinosaur World – Plant City

Plant City’s Dinosaur World is a unique attraction located in the western part of Central Florida.

There are hundreds of life-sized dinosaurs to see as you explore dino-themed exhibits, a playground, and boardwalks.

Check out the Prehistoric Museum, which has motion-activated animatronic dinosaurs and a variety of fossils native to Florida.

Before you leave, stop by the gift shop to see artifacts and dinosaur souvenirs.

Visiting Dinosaur World

Dinosaur World has ticketing available at the door. Additional experiences such as a fossil dig will come at an added fee and can be purchased at the attraction.

Dinosaur World Address: 5145 Harvey Tew Rd, Plant City, FL 33565

Looking for others things to do in the area? Check out 15 Best Things to Do in Lakeland.

Sarasota Jungle Gardens – Sarasota

One of the early Florida theme parks, Sarasota Jungle Gardens is a popular Sarasota attraction that includes over 200 native and exotic animals.

The gardens are home to many different birds, alligators, and other reptiles, as well as primates and small mammals.

See the animal exhibits and shows, and walk down the jungle trails, which are full of tropical trees and flowers.

Visiting the Sarasota Jungle Gardens

Tickets for adults and children are available. Children three and under are free.

Some experiences are not included in the admission to the attraction and are offered at an additional fee.

This attraction is open year-round and closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Sarasota Jungle Gardens Address: 3701 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34234

Looking for other things to do near the Sarasota Jungle Gardens? Check out the Top 10 Awesome Things To Do in Sarasota!

Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park – St. Augustine 

Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park is located in St. Augustine. The attraction contains a lot of history regarding the oldest city in the United States.

Learn about the Spanish settlement through the site’s many exhibits, including a planetarium, blacksmith exhibit, and historic firearms.  

Visiting Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park

Tickets are available for adults and children. Children five and under are free.

This attraction is open from 9:00 to 5:00 daily and you can reserve tickets in advance via their website.

Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park Address: 11 Magnolia Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Looking to read more about St. Augustine and find things to do near Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park? Check out Step Back in Time in Charming St. Augustine.

Ponce Inlet Lighthouse & Museum – Ponce Inlet

The Ponce Inlet Lighthouse & Museum is located in Ponce Inlet, about an hour south of the oldest city. The attraction features a lighthouse that was built in 1887 and is Florida’s tallest lighthouse.

Climb to the top for an incredible experience, and when you come back down, check out the museum to learn more about the history of this National Historic Landmark.

Visiting Ponce Inlet Lighthouse and Museum

This attraction sells tickets for adults and children. Children two and under are free.

The hours of operation vary depending on the season. It can close at times due to weather or special events.

Ponce Inlet Lighthouse & Museum Address: 4931 S Peninsula Dr, Ponce Inlet, FL 32127

Looking to visit other lighthouses in Florida? Lighthouses may not be what you think of as a roadside attraction, but they have all the feels of yesteryear. Check out all the lighthouses in our Florida Lighthouse List.

Sunken Gardens – St. Petersburg

The Sunken Gardens in St. Petersburg have been around for over 100 years, making the site one of the oldest roadside attractions in the country.

Stroll through the botanical paradise, which has more than 50,000 plants and flowers of tropical varieties. Wander the pathways by gardens, waterfalls, and pink flamingos. 

Visiting Sunken Gardens

Tickets are available for adults and children. All ticket sales stop at 4:00 pm.

Hours vary depending on the day of the week.

Sunken Gardens Address: 1825 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704

Looking for things to do near Sunken Gardens? Check out these other fun things to do in the St. Pete area: A Getaway to Culturally Savvy St. Pete.

Coral Castle Museum – Miami

The Coral Castle Museum is located in Homestead. The attraction was built by one person, Ed, who carved over 1,100 tons of coral rock to build Coral Castle.

Check out the castle and the unique sculptures featured on the property. 

Visiting Coral Castle

Tickets are sold to adults and children. Children five and under are free. This attraction is only open Thursday-Sunday. The last tour is available at 5:00 pm.

Coral Castle Museum Address: 28655 S Dixie Hwy, Homestead, FL 33033

Looking for things to do near Coral Castle? Check out Robert is Here … and Has Been HERE since 1959! and Knaus Berry Farm in Homestead is Home to Florida’s Best Cinnamon Rolls. Plus, the Everglades is nearby.

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park – Weeki Wachee

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is a natural freshwater spring in Spring Hill (Central West Florida). The park opened in 1947, making it one of Florida’s oldest roadside attractions.

The park also features one of the deepest naturally formed underwater caverns in the United States.

Weeki Wachee is best known for its mermaid shows, where mermaid performers perform live in a submerged auditorium.

Make sure to arrive early, as the mermaid shows can fill up fast! Shows are included with park admission. 

Make sure to arrive early, as the mermaid shows can fill up fast! Shows are included with park admission. 

In October 2022, Weeki Wachee Springs will be celebrating its 75^th anniversary.

During the anniversary celebration  Destination Mermaids – the Tail Trail was unveiled to the public.

The Tail Trail features 25 life-sized mermaids on display in Hernando County. 

Visiting Weeki Wachee Springs State Park

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm. Tickets are available for adults and children 6 and up. Children 5 and under are admitted free.

For more information, visit the official website of the Florida State Parks.

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Address: 6131 Commercial Way, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Looking for things to do near Weeki Wachee Springs State Park? Check out: Exploring Florida’s Adventure Coast, Brooksville – Weeki Wachee.

Skunk Ape Research Headquarters – Ochopee

Skunk Ape Research Headquarters is a roadside attraction in Ochopee that celebrates the legend of the skunk ape. Considered a result of folk, the skunk ape is sometimes called the Sasquatch of the Southeast.

Visit this Everglades attraction for a swamp adventure! Pole boat tours, kayak tours, and hiking tours are all offered.

In addition, there are animal exhibits and a campground that add to this fun wildlife experience. 

Visiting Skunk Ape Research Headquarters

For more information on hours and ticketing, visit the official website of the Skunk Ape.

Skunk Ape Research Headquarters Address: 40904 Tamiami Trail E, Ochopee, FL 34141

Looking for things to do near Skunk Ape Research Headquarters in the Everglades? Check out these suggestions for Exploring the Extraordinary Florida Everglades.

Gatorland – Kissimmee

Gatorland is a well-known roadside attraction. The park and wildlife preserve is “The Alligator Capital of the World.”

At Gatorland, you’ll see a variety of alligators and crocodiles as well as birds, snakes, tortoises, and bobcats!

The park also has shows that feature alligators demonstrating their incredible survival tactics. Additional ticketed experiences include the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line and the Stompin’ Gator Off-Road Adventure. 

Visiting Gatorland

Gatorland is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm.

Tickets are available for adults and children, with discounted admission when you purchase online.

For more information, visit the official website of Gatorland.

Gatorland Address: 14501 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32837

Looking for more alligators farms in Florida? Gatorland is featured in 8 Florida Alligator Parks You Won’t Want to Miss.

Goofy Golf – Panama City Beach

Goofy Golf in Panama City Beach is one of the oldest mini-golf attractions in Florida, having opened in 1959.

This roadside attraction has two 18-hole miniature golf courses with giant statues that players can climb on and go inside. 

Visiting Goofy Golf

For more information on hours and ticketing, visit the official website of Goofy Golf.

Goofy Golf: 12206 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407

Looking for more Florida Golf Courses? Check out A Road Trip to the 9 Best Mini Golf Courses in Florida, and These Golf Courses in Florida are “Tee-Rific”!

Jungle Adventures – Christmas

Jungle Adventures, A Real Florida Animal Park, is an Old Florida adventure park located in the town of Christmas.

The park is home to alligators, crocodiles, wolves, panthers, black bears, tropical birds, and much more!

Check out their hands-on experiences and animal feedings, or hop on the Jungle Swamp Queen Riverboat and cruise through the Green Gator River, seeing natural Florida wildlife along the way.

Visiting Jungle Adventures

Jungle Adventures is open daily from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm.

Tickets are available for adults and children, with annual passes and group discount tickets available as well.

For more information, visit the official website of Jungle Adventures.

Jungle Adventures Address: 26205 E Colonial Dr, Christmas, FL 32709

Looking for more places to see alligators in Florida? Check out 8 Florida Alligator Parks You Won’t Want to Miss.

The Citrus Tower – Clermont

The Citrus Tower is another one of Florida’s oldest attractions. The tower was built in Clermont in 1956 and is a tribute to Central Florida’s citrus industry.

Standing 226 feet tall, the Citrus Tower’s glass-enclosed observation deck provides beautiful views of the South Lake County region.

Also on sight are Happy Troll Games, a unique board game store, Citrus Coffee Co., a small coffee shop at the base of the tower with specialty citrus products, and Uncle Kenny’s BBQ, a Midwest-style barbeque restaurant.  

Visiting The Citrus Tower

The Citrus Tower is open Monday through Thursday from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm, Friday and Saturday from 7:00 am to 11:00 pm, and Sunday from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm. Tickets are available for adults and children.

For more information, visit the official website of Citrus Tower.

The Citrus Tower Address: 141 S Hwy 27, Clermont, FL 34711

Near the Citrus Tower, visit An Authentic Florida Favorite: Southern Hill Farms.

Here are the 16 Best Things to Do in Clermont, FL.

Bok Tower Gardens – Lake Wales

Since it opened in Lake Wales in 1927, the Bok Tower Gardens, an attraction located between Orlando and Tampa, has been delighting visitors.

The attraction features the iconic Singing Tower carillon, beautiful landscaped gardens, and a 1930s Mediterranean-style mansion.

Explore nearly 50 acres that encompass the grounds of Bok Gardens, with paved walking paths, seasonal flowers, and peaceful resting spots.

Many different species of birds and other wildlife call this place home. 

The property has a gift shop, The Shop at Bok, which sells jewelry, candles, and apparel. Blue Palmetto Café is an onsite dining option for salads, soups, sandwiches, and more, with picnic locations nearby. 

Visiting Bok Tower Gardens

Breathtaking Bok Tower Gardens is open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Tickets are available for adults and children 6 and up. Children under 5 are free.

For more information, visit the official website of Bok Tower Gardens.

Bok Tower Gardens Address: 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853

Looking to read more about Bok Tower Gardens? Check out: A Visit to Florida’s Sanctuary: Bok Tower Gardens.

Flamingo Gardens – Davie

The famous Flamingo Gardens is a natural Florida attraction located in Davie. Established in 1927, it is one of the oldest gardens in South Florida.

The property includes the 60-acre botanical gardens, a wildlife sanctuary, and Wray Home Museum. As a matter of fact, the gardens include over 3000 species of plants and some of Florida’s largest trees.

The wildlife sanctuary is home to permanently injured and non-releasable Florida native wildlife, including flamingos, otters, bobcats, and black bear.

The property is also part of one of the last natural hardwood forests in South Florida.

The Wray Home Museum is a cultural landmark built in 1933 that has been restored and displays historical items from the 1930s.  

Visiting Historic Flamingo Gardens

Historic Flamingo Gardens is open daily from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm.

Tickets are available for adults and children 3 and up. Children 2 and under are free. Discounts are available if you book your tickets online.

For more information, visit the official website of Flamingo Gardens.

Flamingo Gardens Address: 3750 S Flamingo Rd, Davie, FL 33330

Marineland Dolphin Adventure – St. Augustine

The Marineland Dolphin Adventure is an aquatic attraction located in St. Augustine.

The attraction has been open for over 80 years and is known as the world’s first oceanarium.

During your visit, a variety of animal interactions are offered.

Experience unique activities, like swimming or painting with dolphins. Additionally, Marineland is also home to red-footed tortoises, who you can interact with and feed. 

Visiting Marineland Dolphin Adventure

Marineland roadside attraction is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Tickets are available for adults and children 5 and up. Children 4 and under are free.

For more information, visit the official website of Marine Land.

Marineland Dolphin Adventure Address: 9600 Oceanshore Blvd., St. Augustine, FL 32080

Looking for more places to swim with dolphins? Check out: 6 Best Places to Swim with Dolphins in the Florida Keys.

Solomon’s Castle – Ona

Soloman’s Castle is a roadside attraction in Ona, east of Sarasota. Don’t miss a tour of the castle, a unique creation from the artist, Howard Solomon.

Afterward, check out the onsite restaurant, The Boat-in-the-Moat, which is open for lunch and serves tasty salads, sandwiches, entrees, and desserts. 

Visiting Solomon’s Castle

Solomon’s Castle is open seasonally (it’s closed for August & September).

Tickets are available for adults and children four and up. Children 3 and under are free.

For more information, visit the official website of Solomon’s Castle.

Solomon’s Castle Address: 4533 Solomon Rd, Ona, FL 33865

Boyett’s Grove and Citrus Attraction – Spring Lake

Boyett’s Grove and Citrus Attraction is a family-friendly roadside stop with an old-fashioned Floridana gift shop, wildlife park, mini-golf, and citrus shipping area.

Afterward, stop by the hand-dipped ice cream parlor for a delicious sweet treat. 

Visiting Boyett’s Grove and Citrus Attraction

Boyett’s Grove and Citrus Attraction is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

For more ticketing information, visit the official website of Boyett’s Grove.

Boyett’s Grove & Citrus Attraction Address: 4355 Spring Lake Hwy, Brooksville, FL 34601

Looking for more Kitschy Florida fun? Boyett’s is featured in A Day Trip to Florida’s Kitschy Adventure Coast and Exploring Florida’s Adventure Coast, Brooksville – Weeki Wachee in 2023.

Silver Springs State Park – Silver Springs (Ocala)

Historic Silver Springs State Park is an iconic Florida attraction. Located east of Ocala in Central Florida, the springs have been a destination since the 1870s and are known for their glass bottom boats.

In addition to the glass bottom boats, the park also offers hiking, paddling, kayaking, and camping. Explore this natural area with tons of wildlife viewing opportunities.

Many animals call this area home, including monkeys, deer, alligators, turtles, manatees, and many species of birds.  

Visiting Silver Springs State Park

Silver Springs State Park is open daily from 8:00 am to sundown.

Entry fees are $8 per vehicle (up to 8 people), $5 for a single-occupant vehicle, and $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, and additional passengers. Children 6 and under are free.

For more information, visit the official website of Silver Springs.

Silver Springs State Park Address: 5656 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs, FL 34488

Looking for more Florida fun in the surrounding area? Check out Oh, Ocala! Things to Do in Ocala and Visiting the Historical Town of Cross Creek.

Wakulla Springs State Park – Wakulla Springs

Wakulla Springs State Park is home to the world’s largest and deepest freshwater springs.

Surrounded by an ancient cypress swamp, the park has guided boat tours, campgrounds, and a 1930s Spanish-style lodge.

Boat tours along the Wakulla River give visitors a glimpse of local wildlife and foliage and provide information about the park’s history, dating back to 1875.

Visiting Wakulla Springs State Park

Wakulla Springs State Park is open daily from 8:00 am to sundown. Entry fees are $6 per vehicle.

For more information, visit the official website of Florida State Parks.

Wakulla Springs State Park Address: 465 Wakulla Park Drive, Wakulla Springs FL 32327

Want to learn more about Wakulla Springs? Check out The Lodge at Wakulla Springs is a Step Back in Time and Our Favorite Things to Do in Wakulla Springs.

Florida Roadside Attractions Map

If you enjoyed this article about roadside attractions in Florida and are looking for a few other recommendations, check out these suggestions:

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