Florida Hidden Gems: Cedar Lakes Woods And Gardens

I have to tell Everyone about a Florida hidden jam I found on Instagram. Now I have to admit I’ve been fooled a few times by some videos with users trolling about where certain places are, but I can assure you this one is legit. Let me tell you about Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens.

One day, while I was in a deep scroll session on IG, I came across a video I couldn’t keep my eyes off. Usually when I see these videos I check them out for a quick second and keep it moving, but this video by @followmeawaytravel made me want to teleport there. First of all, the video titled Florida’s Most Magical Hidden Gem. The video showed different views and painted a beautiful picture of waterfalls and bridges overlooking gorgeous views. And I gotta be real with you, after actually witnessing it and visiting, the place lived up to the name of the video. 

Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens is a 100 plus year old limerock quarry that has been transformed into a 20-acre botanical garden. This Florida oasis is located in Williston, FL and takes about 2 hours to drive from Tampa. The place looks expensive, but it will only cost you a $12 admission fee. Don't worry though, the money will be going towards the quarry and and it's conservation. The botanical garden is also a part of the Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network. Their mission stated on the Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens' website vows "To instill in visitors respect and appreciation for environmental stewardship by inspiring the public with artistic botanical creations. Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens promotes peace, humane education, animal rescue, and environmental preservation."

There are a ton of things to see here. Gardens of flowers, ponds of humongous koi fish, tortoises, and a bunch more. However, my favorite views were of the waterfalls. You don't really get many chances to check one out, especially in Florida. Here it is though, hiding in Williston, Florida. There isn't just one either. There are a couple different sets of waterfalls to check out. Make sure you check it out while you have the chance.

Summer is almost here and it's time to start thinking about summer vacation. Forget beach days, the new craze for Florida families is packing up the car and heading to a natural spring. Most likely, this springs will be less crowded and it's a chance to get close to some Florida wildlife. Here are 5 springs that are definitely worth the drive from Tampa. If you don't want to make the trip, here are some springs that are 2 hours away from Tampa (or less).

Many of these state parks are cheaper to visit than a day of parking would cost you on Clearwater beach and are usually less populated, especially if you head there on a weekday. Cool down in the 72-degree water year round, if you're lucky enough you may even spot some manatees. It's worth noting that you should try to get to the springs as early as possible. On weekends and peak days they will close down due to capacity.

Travel & Leisure helped us build this list with the most pristine springs in Florida. We condensed the list and added a few of our own favorites. Most of the springs on this list are at least a 2 hour drive from Tampa.

King's Landing is only a 2 hour drive from Tampa which makes it our favorite spring to visit in Florida. If you get there early enough, you won't have to worry about getting a hotel or camping spot for the night! Here you'll find crystal clear waters, manatees, and even some river otters.

Ginnie Springs is one of the most popular camping grounds/springs in Florida. It's located in the Gainesville area making it about a 2.5 hour drive from Tampa. The clear waters will prove it's totally worth the drive!

Juniper Springs is also only about 2 hours from Tampa. It's located within Ocala State Park. It's also located near Silver Glen Springs, Juniper Springs, and Salt Springs.

Homosassa Springs was actually named one of the best summer destinations for 2023! Thankfully for us, it's about an hour and 15 minute drive from Tampa.

Devil's Den has become a super popular destination for tourists and locals. They offer scuba diving and snorkeling trips. Or, you can rent a cabin and stay for the weekend! It is also a short trip to Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve.