There is no shortness of incredible hotels in Florida, but if you want to steer clear of the cookie-cutter hotel chains, check into one of these unique accommodations, any of which would be sure to give you and your family a memorable experience.
Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, Lake Wales
You don’t have to go out West to feel like a cowboy, because Westgate River Ranch in Lake Wales has you covered. For all the western-themed fun you can handle, this top ranch resort in Florida allows you to indulge in activities that range from low-key hayrides, horseback riding, and a full-on rodeo with trick riding, bull riding, and calf roping! If you’re bored here, you’re doing it wrong, as the ranch also has bungee jumping, zip-lining, airboat rides, boat rentals, and a video arcade to keep you busy. Accommodation ranges from wagon rentals to luxury glamping.
Casablanca Inn on the Bay, St Augustine
Paranormal fans, this hotel might interest you. Casablanca Inn is not only a beautiful hotel but has an amenity that most would steer clear from – a ghost! This hotel in St. Augustine is said to be haunted by “The Lady with the Lantern,” who people claim is the former owner of the hotel. Even though she’s been dead for years, it is said that this lady ghost can be seen from the roof, swinging her lantern to warn the bootleggers that the feds are on site. There is no mention of whether the owner likes to peruse any of the occupied rooms, so only come visit if you’re truly brave.
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, Disney World
Since it is a Disney Resort, it’s not exactly unheard of, but this resort’s unique atmosphere warrants a spot on this list. Like stepping right into a wildlife preserve in Africa, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge provides one of the most unique and magical places to stay in Florida. A perfect day in this hotel includes waking up at sunrise and sipping your morning coffee on your balcony as you casually watch a giraffe, just mere feet away, enjoying a meal for himself through the trees. Next, you might see a gazelle, zebra, or flamingo roaming through the reserve right past you. Luckily for you, you won’t need your passport, as Animal Kingdom offers over 30 species of wildlife perfect for animal lovers or those who want an exotic vacation without all the effort.
Jules’ Undersea Lodge, Key Largo
Have you ever wondered what it was like to live underseas? If so, this quirky hotel is perfect for you. Jules Undersea Lodge in Key Largo is the only underwater hotel in the US, with rooms situated 21 feet deep and only accessible via scuba diving. Impressively, once you swim past the tropical mangrove habitat, the lodge has two bedrooms, a common room, a mini kitchen, an intercom, and even a phone. The highlight of this lodge includes a 42-inch window in every room, perfect for gazing out into marine life. If you’re feeling too guilty to have seafood for dinner, the hotel provides a “mer-chef” that will scuba dive down to make meals or even deliver a pizza, making a night at Jules’ a truly rare experience.
Torreya State Park, Bristol
If you’re a true nature lover, then you should probably check out the Yurt style accommodation in Torreya State Park, overlooking the Apalachicola River. While a proper yurt is an indigenous Mongolian dwelling, this is a cross between that and a cabin. The Yurt has a 20-foot round, domed tent with flooring and amenities include heat, an air conditioner, and a fully furnished space for up to five guests – taking camping to a whole other level. There’s even a skylight and three large screened windows with flaps that open and close.
Visit the official website for booking.
