5 Iconic Florida Roadside Attractions to Visit This Spring

Spring is here, which means it’s time for road trips across the Sunshine State. These five classic roadside attractions are a taste of Old Florida fun and entertain the whole family.

1. Sarasota Jungle Gardens 

Let flamingos nibble from the palm of your hand at Sarasota Jungle Gardens. It’s been welcoming visitors since 1939, making it one of Florida’s oldest continuously operating attractions. Walk the winding gardens to see other residents including lemurs, kookaburras, and more.

2. Robbie’s of Islamorada 

Hand feed tarpon at Robbie’s of Islamorada, a longtime roadside attraction in the Florida Keys. Buy a bucket of fish, head to the docks, and hold a fish over the water. It’s thrilling when tarpon launch out of the water and grab fish right from your hand!

3. Sunken Gardens in St. Pete 

Explore more than 50,000 tropical plants and birds from all over the globe at Sunken Gardens in St. Pete. At more than 100 years old, it’s the city’s oldest living museum. In addition to the beautiful gardens, Sunken Gardens is home to a famous flock of Chilean flamingos that you can watch feeding, socializing, and preening.

4. Gatorland Orlando

See more than 2,000 alligators of all sizes, along with crocodiles, up close at Gatorland Orlando. The Gator Jumparoo Show is a fan favorite, where you’ll see huge reptiles leap out of the water as experienced handlers tempt them with meat.

5. Wonder Gardens in Bonita Springs 

Non-releasable birds and reptiles call Wonder Gardens home in Bonita Springs. The gardens, located along the Imperial River, have been welcoming visitors since 1936. The Ornamental Duck Pavilion, Lorikeet Pavilion, and Tea House are some of the most photogenic spots on the property.

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