MOUNT DORA, Fla. – It is no surprise that Florida is a popular travel destination. Between the famous attractions and the beautiful beaches, the Sunshine State sees a record number of visitors each year.
However, there are some lesser-known aspects of Florida that draw tourists and are cherished by locals. The quaint and historic towns sprinkled throughout the state are hidden gems that make for an ideal short-term trip.
Recommended Videos
World Atlas released a list of “12 Ideal Florida Destinations for a Three-Day Weekend in 2024,″ and both Mount Dora and Cocoa Beach were recognized for their charm and allure.
Here is a little bit about each of these Florida cities and what makes them so special.
Mount Dora
Mount Dora is a small town located in Lake County northwest of Orlando. Known for its rich cultural landscape, signature lighthouse, artisan dining and shopping, this lakefront city has a bustling town center that features vibrant community events and festivals.
The 35-foot landmark Mount Dora Lighthouse was built in 1988 and is the only inland lighthouse in Florida, according to World Atlas. The town’s shaded downtown streets are lined with small businesses and vintage buildings, such as the historic Lakeside Inn.
Nicknamed “Festival City,” there is always something to do in this small town, whether it is the festivals or the live entertainment schedule. Some of the signature events that take place in Mount Dora throughout the year are the Scottish Highland Festival in October, which includes an array of Celtic music and dancing, the Mount Dora Arts Festival, the Small Business Saturday event and more.
Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach along Florida’s Space Coast is a favorite surf spot in Florida.
According to World Atlas, downtown and Main Street got popular during the space boom of the 1950s. Now, there are more than 150 businesses and 15 live annual events.
The city also features murals and artwork along downtown streets and on walls.
There is also the statue of the world’s best male surfer, Kelly Slater, who was born and raised in Cocoa Beach.
“The 800-foot boardwalk extending over the Atlantic Ocean is ideal for watching the sun rise or grabbing something to eat at one of the many restaurants. Cocoa Beach is a prominent surfing town on Florida’s Atlantic Coast and offers enough sites and events for a longer-than-usual visit,” World Atlas described.
Here are the other Florida cities that made the list:
- St. Augustine
- Amelia Island
- Key West
- Islamorada
- Naples
- Panama City Beach
- Cedar Key
- Sanibel Island
- Crystal River
- Grayton Beach
To check out what these cities each have to offer, click here.
You can listen to every episode of Florida’s Fourth Estate in the media player below: