Looking for unique Florida restaurants and attractions that are local favorites? We’ve got the scoop! Skip the most crowded tourist spots and head to these local favorites.
Related Blog: Top Things To Do In Florida This Summer
We collected recommendations from year-round residents across Southwest Florida, including Pinellas County, Bradenton, Sarasota, and Fort Myers, to discover where the family fun really happens. So, if you’re looking forward to a truly fun and memorable family vacation, here are some must-visit hidden gems and local favorites in Southwest Florida.
Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Pinellas
Seabird Sanctuary:
A real gem for a family with kids looking for an afternoon activity! The Seabird Sanctuary is an Avian Rehabilitation Hospital & Sanctuary dedicated to the care of sick, injured, and orphaned native wild birds!
Take a stroll through the 1.5-acre sanctuary, underneath nesting trees, and discover a variety of bird species as they land on a branch right next to you. There is also a new Environmental Education Center and an observation tower where you can enjoy a breathtaking, panoramic view of the Gulf of Mexico. Located on the beachfront of Indian Shores, the Seabird Sanctuary is the perfect spot for families with kids to explore Florida’s wildlife while engaging in a fun learning experience.
Boca Ciega Millennium Park:
Boca Ciega Millennium Park is 186 acres in Seminole and is accessible to the Pinellas Trail. The park is recognized by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation as part of the “Great Florida Birding Trail.
Wander through trails and boardwalks surrounded by magnolia trees, flowers, vines, and mangroves. When you reach the waterfront, you’ll find the Boca Ciega Millennium Park Tower where you can see breathtaking views of the inlet and park. The park offers picnic shelters, restrooms, water fountains, a dog park, and a playground.
War Veterans Memorial Park:
Embark on an immersive historical journey back in time with your family at the War Veterans Memorial Park in St. Petersburg. This park is comprised of 122 acres of wooded land adjacent to an Intercostal Waterway of the Gulf of Mexico.
The park features a real army tank display that the kids can climb on, an equatorial sundial, a battlefield cross, and five plaques for each US military branch. There is also a canoe trail and a boat ramp. This stop offers a perfect mix of education and fun for all ages.
Dali Museum:
Don't miss this architectural gem and the unofficial heart of fine arts in St. Petersburg, FL - the Salvador Dalí Museum. Explore over 2,400 of his works, from oil paintings and original drawings to masterpieces like the iconic Fountain of Youth in the Avant-Garden.
St. Pete Pier:
When in St. Pete, you must visit the St. Pete Pier. This new waterfront attraction offers endless fun for everyone, from first-timers to long-time locals. Enjoy the outdoors, see a concert, grab a bite to eat, play with the kids on the Splash Pad– the list of fun activities is endless. From fine dining to casual family eats you will find something for everyone to enjoy at the St. Pete Pier.
Vinoy Park:
Situated along the downtown waterfront of St. Petersburg, Vinoy Park is a hotspot for concerts and festivals. The park’s spacious greenery and recreation trails along the waterfront make it a go-to destination for fitness enthusiasts who enjoy walking, biking, or running. It’s also one of the best places to relax in the shade with friends and family while taking in some of the most scenic views in St. Petersburg.
Sunken Gardens:
Nestled in the heart of St. Pete, Sunken Gardens is a lush, tropical oasis that is home to more than 50,000 exotic tropical plants and birds from around the world, including its iconic flock of flamingos.
The gardens are more than 100 years old, making Sunken Gardens St. Pete’s oldest living museum. Immerse yourself in nature and take a relaxing 1-2 hour stroll in the fresh air, surrounded by an abundance of tropical plants, flowers, and wildlife.
Heritage Village:
Wander back in time to Heritage Village, an exhibition of 21 wooded acres of restored homes and buildings from a bygone era. At this living museum, you can explore two museum galleries and witness regularly scheduled historical demonstrations of traditional crafts like spinning, weaving, and blacksmithing.
The Florida Botanical Gardens:
The Florida Botanical Gardens is a 100-acre Park in Largo, Florida, and is adjacent to Heritage Village. The Gardens inspire and educate visitors by showcasing flora, fauna, and natural resources in motivational surroundings that promote environmentally friendly techniques.
The new Majeed Discovery Garden, located on the west side of the Florida Botanical Gardens is the perfect place for kids of all ages and abilities to connect with nature. The Music Forest, Pollinator Landing, Trunk Jump, and the Bamboo Bridge are just a few of the areas that will delight young ones.
Best Places to Eat & Drink in Pinellas
Mahuffers Dive Bar:
Despite the sign out front stating, “Wurst Place on The Beech”, Mahuffer’s bar is a one-of-a-kind dive bar set in paradise. Decorated with dollar bills for wallpaper and mix-and-match seating, Mahuffer’s Bar in Indian Shores is one of those places that you just have to experience for yourself!
Ted Peters Famous Smoked Fish:
Family run for over 56 years, Ted Peters Famous Smoked Fish is a little piece of St. Pete history you don’t want to miss. The name says it all and the menu is short and to the point. Smoked Salmon, Mahi-Mahi, and the house favorite, Smoked Mullet.
If fish is not your thing, the cheeseburger is worth going for. Don’t forget to try the famous fish spread and potato salad. Oh, and bring cash! Debit/Credit cards are not accepted.
Don The Beachcomber:
This tiki-style restaurant and cocktail bar offers waterfront dining with Polynesian flavors and
authentic tropical cocktails. Whether you’re a Tikiphile or an adventurous local, the menu at Don The Beachcomber has something to delight every palate. They offer valet parking and boat slips are available for easy access by land or water!
Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Fort Myers
Edison Ford Estates:
With over 20 acres of historical buildings and gardens, the Edison Ford Winter Estates is the perfect mix of history and natural beauty. Enjoy a self-guided tour of the Edison and Ford families' historic homes, gardens, and the fully restored 1928 Edison Botanical Research Laboratory at your own pace.
Fleamasters Flea Market:
If you love to shop till you drop, then the Fleamasters Fleamarket is the place to go. With over 900 stores offering everything from antiques to the latest products, this huge, indoor flea market is the perfect destination for a shopping spree the whole family can enjoy.
IMAG History & Science Center:
This family-friendly destination is packed full of engaging wildlife exhibits and interactive displays of STEM. Grab your thinking caps because the IMAG History & Science Center’s NASA moon landing simulator, Google Earth Wall, and Lionfish Aquarium will leave your kids dying to learn more!
Lakes Park:
Often described as an oasis in the city, you’ll never get bored at Lakes Park. Spend the day relishing the outdoors, playing on the playground, canoeing, or kayaking in the freshwater lake. The kids won’t want to miss hitching a ride on the miniature train.
Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve:
Explore 2 km of boardwalk, intermingled with narrow wetlands and flowing freshwater, where you can catch a glimpse of Slough’s native creatures like alligators, turtles, otters, and more. With a 45-minute guided walk, observation decks, educational exhibits, and Lee County's first Green Building at the Interpretive Center, Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve is a must-visit for those eager to explore Florida’s ecosystem.
Best Places to Eat & Drink in Fort Myers
Bayside Grill:
Enjoy some freshly caught seafood and tasty burgers with a waterfront view from your tiki hut seating. For tourists looking for a place to eat with live entertainment, great food, and a front row seat at the beach, grab a table at Bayside Grill.
Rib City Grill:
You may have heard some buzz about this local restaurant chain as the ultimate destination for BBQ lovers in Florida. Rib City serves a mouthwatering array of expertly smoked meats, like tender ribs and savory pulled pork, along with a delicious variety of BBQ sauces.
Ron Daos Pizzeria:
Crispy and fresh pizza, anyone? Grab a slice at Rondaos Pizzeria, where you can enjoy the taste of every ingredient. With its dive-bar atmosphere and friendly and attentive service, it’s a local favorite.
Bimini Bait Shack:
Located at the foot of the Sanibel Island bridge, the Bimini Bait Shack has the perfect fun, tiki bar atmosphere you’ve been waiting for. Grab a seat indoors, outdoors, or even a swing seat! Order some seafood and a few frozen drinks and enjoy some live music!
Sun Harvest Citrus:
What better way to experience Florida like a local than with farm-fresh treats made from Florida’s official state fruit: The orange! Ever had orange-flavored soft serve ice cream before? Sun Harvest Citrus has been a local favorite for over 30 years and serves tasty treats –including jams, candies, freshly pressed juice, ice cream, shakes, slushies, and more– made from succulent Florida oranges grown on their farm in Fort Myers.
Must Visit Hidden Gems in Bradenton & Sarasota
Bay Park Sarasota:
This waterfront green space is a popular go-to destination for nature explorers and athletes alike. At The Bay Park, you can walk along the promenade and watch the boats come and go with a panoramic backdrop of Sarasota Bay.
From movies to fitness, nature walks to dog walks, as well as dancing and family events, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to check out the Bioswale where visitors are encouraged to spot native plants and local wildlife.
The Sarasota Bay Runner Trolley:
Find your way around like a local using Sarasota’s free trolley service, the Bay Runner! Cut down on travel time and make the most of the sunny weather while taking advantage of a free, open-air trolley ride through the best of Sarasota, from St. Armands Circle and Downtown Sarasota to the white sandy beaches. Make a stop and enjoy a cup of coffee, shop, or dine, and then hop back on the trolley for a round-trip ride that’s sure to be a fun time.
The Ringling Museum:
Why not take a quick detour to Venice, Italy by visiting the Ringling Museum? This elegant museum, one of the top family-friendly museums in Florida, is decorated with breathtaking Italian architecture and was established by John Ringling as a tribute to art and culture. Gaze at fine art from around the world, learn about the Ringling Brothers in the Circus Museum, and discover exquisite statues while wandering the Bayfront Gardens.
Siesta Key Drum Circle:
Head to Siesta Key Beach, renowned for having the “world’s whitest sand to see one of the largest drum circles in the US performing at sunset. The Siesta Key Drum Circle is a free, family-friendly event, where you can see a live fire sword or belly dancing performance. Before long, you’ll have the whole family dancing along to the rhythm of the drums.
Detwiler’s Farm Market:
Local only to Manatee and Sarasota County, Detwiler’s Farm Market is one of the best places to shop for fresh produce. With locally sourced meats from the deli, a great cheese selection, freshly caught seafood, and yummy homemade baked goods, you can get everything you need at great prices.
Detwiler’s is more than a grocery store, it’s an experience. Don’t forget to stop at the ice cream shop for a dip or two of their locally-made ice cream or an old-fashioned milkshake.
Robinson Preserve:
Nestled on a little peninsula in Northwest Bradenton, Robinson Preserve protects 682 acres of mangroves, tidal marshes, and former agricultural lands. The interior of the preserve features hiking paths, kayak and canoe waterways, bridges, picnic spots, mangrove forests, and a 53-foot-tall tower with a wide-open view of the Tampa Bay area.
The boat launch site is home to dolphins, manatees at play, and other wildlife. This local favorite has pedestrian trails, kayak launches, and a new NEST and Canopy Zone that make it an ideal escape for nature-loving tourists.
Best Places to Eat & Drink in Bradenton & Sarasota
Oma’s Pizzeria:
Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, attentive wait staff, and generously portioned pizza at this local, family-run pizzeria. Pizza is always a crowd-pleaser, but there’s no doubt that anyone who dines at Oma’s Pizzeria is going to walk out smiling.
Mirna’s Café:
This lively little hole-in-the-wall Cuban restaurant has a unique dining experience you won’t find anywhere else. All the food at Mirna’s Café is made from scratch, using only fresh and natural ingredients.
Cha Cha Coconuts:
Next time you visit St. Armand’s Circle in Sarasota, grab a seat outside Cha Cha Coconuts, sample their authentic Caribbean menu, sip a refreshing tropical drink, and watch the world go by. They also host live entertainment six days a week.
O’Leary’s Tiki Bar & Grill:
This laid-back, tropical-themed bar and restaurant in downtown Sarasota is the little slice of paradise you’ve been waiting for. Enjoy live music, classic bar food, and scenic views of the bayfront at O’Leary’s Tiki Bar & Grill-Bayfront Sarasota in Sarasota’s Bayfront Park.
Tide Tables Restaurant:
Looking for fresh-off-the-boat seafood? Head over to Tide Tables Restaurant on Anna Maria Island for scenic outdoor seating overlooking the Gulf Coast. You can also jump in your boat and dock right outside!
Shelf Indulgence:
Even if you’re only in town for a few days, Shelf Indulgence is a can't-miss spot for book lovers. Get great book recommendations from their super friendly staff, enjoy a laid-back atmosphere, and enjoy some great food and drinks at this little Sarasota bookshop.
Linger Lodge Restaurant:
The Linger Lodge isn’t just a restaurant, it’s also a campsite! Enjoy the great outdoors while you eat, then walk off your meal while exploring Florida’s wildlife. Enjoy outstanding service, indoor or outdoor seating with superb ambiance, and local dishes cooked to perfection at the Linger Lodge.
Kam’s Bubble Tea & Sushi:
If you’ve been searching for a place to get authentic and delicious bubble tea and sushi, add Kam’s Bubble Tea & Sushi in Sarasota to your agenda. Their boba tea is perfectly sweet and chewy, they have lots of options to choose from, and you can adjust the sweetness. And you can enjoy their fresh, handcrafted sushi rolls, among other Asian-influenced dishes, without thinking twice about the price.
Bob’s Train:
If you search hard enough, you will find a truly unique dining experience tucked away in Sarasota. Bob’s Train is a restaurant made up of four railroad cars. The oldest is John and Mable Ringling’s second railroad car, custom-built for them in 1916.
The owner, Bob, calls the cuisine, “American eclectic”. The train cars are also a museum that holds a lot of Sarasota history. Military, circus, and sports memorabilia cover the walls of the trains. If you venture to this obscure little train-themed restaurant in Sarasota, you are sure to meet the owner, Robert (Bob), who loves to chat with customers and swap stories about the town’s rich history.
Southwest Florida's Top Overall Family Favorite: Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf
Ask any local about Smugglers Cove, and their faces will light up and they’ll tell you they’ve been going there for years! Smugglers Cove –located in Fort Myers, Bradenton, Sarasota, Madeira Beach, and Indian Shores– is an adventure-style golf course with 18 pirate-themed holes winding through scenic landscaping and challenging obstacles.
Kids and kids at heart can pretend to be pirates for the day, exploring caves, waterfalls, lakes, rivers, shacks, and a pirate ship while playing mini golf. And don’t forget to visit the gator habitat, where you can feed baby alligators. This ultimate family favorite has a special place in the hearts of the locals and is an absolute must-visit experience in Southwest Florida for families of all ages.
Planning your next family getaway to Southwest Florida? Your vacation is sure to be an amazing one with so many wonderful activities and dining experiences awaiting your enjoyment! Southwest Florida offers an experience-rich culture, and we hope that this guide helps you make the most of your time.
Don't forget to visit Smugglers Cove! With locations in Fort Myers, Bradenton, Sarasota, Madeira Beach, and Indian Shores, this pirate-themed adventure-style golf course is the hidden gem and local favorite that the whole family will love.
