Discovering the Charm of Old Florida
Before the arrival of mega-theme parks and sprawling resorts, Florida was a land of roadside curiosities. Travelers driving down highways like US-27 and US-192 were greeted by giant oranges, wrestling alligators, and mermaids performing underwater ballets. While much has changed, the spirit of Old Florida is alive and well if you know where to look. In this guide, we’re taking a road trip to the state's most iconic, quirky, and beloved roadside attractions—many of which are just a short drive from Kissimmee.
1. Gatorland: The Alligator Capital of the World
No list of Florida roadside attractions is complete without the granddaddy of them all: Gatorland. Opened in 1949 by Owen Godwin, this 110-acre park hasn’t just survived the theme park era; it has thrived. Unlike the polished perfection of the big parks, Gatorland offers a raw, authentic Florida experience.
As you walk through the iconic gator mouth entrance, you enter a world dedicated to the Sunshine State’s most famous reptile. The main attraction, of course, is the thousands of alligators and crocodiles, including four extremely rare white leucistic alligators. But Gatorland is more than just a zoo; it’s an adventure park. The Screamin’ Gator Zip Line flies you over a marsh filled with 130 giant alligators—a thrill you won’t find anywhere else. For those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground, the Gator Jumparoo Show remains a crowd favorite, showcasing the incredible power of these prehistoric creatures.
2. Spook Hill: A Gravity-Defying Mystery
Located in Lake Wales, just about an hour south of Kissimmee, lies one of Florida's oldest and most puzzling legends: Spook Hill. It is one of the few “gravity hills” in the country and a registered historic landmark. The legend goes that a great Native American chief once fought a giant alligator here, and the spirit of that battle still haunts the land.
Here’s how it works: You drive your car to a designated white line at the bottom of a hill, put it in neutral, and take your foot off the brake. Instead of rolling backward, your car will appear to roll uphill, defying the laws of physics. Is it an optical illusion? A magnetic anomaly? Or a ghostly push? It’s a free, quick, and undeniably fun stop that has baffled tourists for decades.
3. The Skunk Ape Headquarters
Deep in the Everglades, the legend of the Skunk Ape—Florida’s version of Bigfoot—is taken very seriously. The Skunk Ape Research Headquarters in Ochopee gives you a glimpse into the lore of this elusive cryptid. Run by Dave Shealy, a lifelong researcher who claims to have seen the creature, this roadside stop is part gift shop, part zoo, and part museum.
While spotting the Skunk Ape itself is unlikely, you will see giant snakes, exotic birds, and plenty of alligators. It’s a reminder that Florida’s swamps still hold secrets, and the unique kitsch of the gift shop makes for perfect souvenir hunting.
4. Weeki Wachee Springs: City of Live Mermaids
Head west to the Gulf Coast, and you’ll find a place where mermaids are real. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park has been enchanting visitors since 1947 with its underwater mermaid shows. Performers don tails and dive into the crystal-clear, 74-degree spring water, performing synchronized routines while breathing through air hoses.
It’s a spectacle that feels like a time capsule from the golden age of Florida tourism. Beyond the show, the spring itself is a natural wonder. You can rent kayaks or take a river boat cruise to spot manatees and turtles in the wild. It’s a beautiful blend of natural beauty and classic roadside theater.
5. Bok Tower Gardens: A Singing Tower
Not all roadside attractions are kitschy; some are profoundly beautiful. Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales is a National Historic Landmark that offers a serene escape. The centerpiece is the 205-foot Singing Tower carillon, a magnificent gothic revival and art deco tower that plays bell music throughout the day.
Surrounding the tower are acres of ferns, palms, oaks, and seasonal flowers designed by the famous landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. It’s a meditative, artistic retreat that stands in stark contrast to the bustle of the theme parks.
6. Dinosaur World
Heading toward Tampa on I-4? You can’t miss the life-sized T-Rex inviting you to Dinosaur World. This attraction is exactly what it sounds like: a park filled with over 200 life-sized fiberglass dinosaurs set among lush native vegetation.
It’s fantastic for families with younger kids. There are fossil digs, gem mining, and a prehistoric museum. It’s simple, educational, and delightfully retro—a perfect leg-stretcher on a road trip across Central Florida.
Keeping the Tradition Alive
Visiting these roadside attractions isn’t just about seeing gators or gravity hills; it’s about connecting with the history of Florida tourism. Before fast passes and virtual queues, these family-run spots were the highlights of a summer vacation. They offer a slower pace, a lower price point, and a lot of heart.
So next time you're in Kissimmee, take a detour. Turn off the main highway and find the Florida that started it all. You might just find that the weirdest stops are the most memorable.