Author: Greg Insco

Your Guide to Hiking in Florida: All the Routes You Need to Know

Written by Greg Insco on August 16, 2022. Posted in Parks and Outdoors, Things to Do.

Knowing that you want to go hiking in Florida is one thing, and knowing which hiking trails to take is something else entirely. Fortunately, we’ve identified just a few of the top hiking spots in Florida for you to investigate. Here’s where you’ll want to get started.

1. Big Shoals State Park Trail

This stunning Florida trail is in one of the State’s most well-known and well-loved tourist destinations. Open from 8 AM until sundown every day of the year, it has huge limestone cliffs, stunning views and of course its Class III Whitewater rapids. You have to be a decent navigator and kayaker if you want to sail the full length of the shoals, but hikers of any ability can manage the trail.

2. Bulow Woods Loops

This 5.3-mile-long trail runs in a loop (hence the name) and is right by Florida’s Flagler Beach. That makes it my favorite Florida trail for when I want to go for a stroll with my family before relaxing on the beach with an ice cream. And as you can tell from the “Woods” in the name, you can expect to see plenty of trees as well as fantastic year-round nature hikes and some of the best birdwatching you’ll find in a State Park. You can even take your dogs with you, as long as you keep them on a leash.

3. Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary

This Florida trail is to the west of the Everglades, and about 30 minutes east of Naples (no, not the one in Italy). Hikers love this one because it has everything that makes the Glades such a popular destination, from the wildlife to the fact that it feels as though you’ve traveled hundreds of years back in time. The trail will take you along for 1.5 mi or so and then eventually lead you out to the largest forest of bald cypresses in the whole of North America. Just make sure that the boardwalk is open before you go because you’re not going to want to miss it!

4. Highlands Hammock State Park

This is another one of those spots that makes you feel as though you’ve fallen through a wormhole and emerged hundreds of thousands of years in the past. Part of that is because of the fragile ecosystems that are still being preserved there for future generations to enjoy. This is a good one to visit if you’re a nature buff, but be sure to clean up after yourself and to respect the flora and fauna. They say it has more rare species than any other Florida State Park.

5. Prairie Lakes Loop

This Florida trail is a relatively new one, at least when you compare it to some of the others that hikers enjoy. It’s also no longer a State Park, although it did once hold that honor and that doesn’t mean that it’s fallen from glory. It’s a solid destination for everyone from hikers and wildlife photographers to families who are looking to spend a memorable vacation together. It’s also easy to get to and relatively cheap to park at, which means you can travel there on a budget, too.

6. Citrus Hiking Trail

This is one of the longest hiking trails in our list with over 43 miles for you to explore, so it can be a good one to spend a week at if you want to cover every inch of it. In particular, its backpacking loop is the second biggest of all of the hiking trails in Florida. Even the shortest loop is 7.5 miles long, making this one of the more challenging spots on this list, though don’t let that put you off. It’s worth it! You can even take a campervan if you have one as there are plenty of sites nearby for you to stay at.

7. Ocala National Forest Trail

This trail is an interesting one to think about because of its sheer versatility. Sure, if you like walking long distances and pushing yourself to your limits then you might want to cover the 100 mile or so backpacking route, but you can also take the half-mile stroll along to the boardwalk. You don’t have to be a backpacker to enjoy this one, but it does help as it’s particularly well-suited to backpacking and exploring.

8. Big Cypress National Preserve

The Big Cypress National Preserve is to the west of Miami and is home to some stunning freshwater marine estuaries as well as hundreds of thousands of acres of swamp that back onto the iconic Everglades. In particular, you’ll want to be on the lookout for the Florida panther, as this is the only State Park I know of where you’ll be able to see it. Don’t worry, though – they’re more afraid of us than we are of them.

9. White Springs Area Trails

White Springs was originally mostly known for being a natural springs spa town, but now the area is arguably much more well-known because of the facilities available for hikers, cyclists, canoers and kayakers who want to explore the area. It’s unique amongst all the other trails on our list because this is the only one that takes you literally right through the center of town. While you’re there, why not learn some more about the history of the spa?

The Best Springs in Northern Florida

Written by Greg Insco on August 16, 2022. Posted in Activities and Attractions, Springs, Springs and Lakes, Things to Do.

The glittering, crystal-clear waters of North Florida’s natural freshwater springs are one of the state’s most compelling tourist attractions. The gorgeous turquoise and azure-blue waters of the natural boils and aquifers are perfect for a cooling swim in the heat of the day, or snorkeling and scuba diving in the caves underground. The State Parks that surround the springs offer wonderful opportunities for boating and canoeing through the natural beauty of the area, hiking down shaded trails, or discovering the amazing birds and wildlife that call North Florida home.

North Florida is home to the largest collection of natural springs on the planet, and wherever you turn you can find a hidden pool or swift-flowing stream to explore. Some springs, however, stand out from the rest, and whether you are looking for a family-friendly place to relax and swim, or an adventurous day diving into deep caverns or taking on white-water rapids, these five North Florida springs offer unique, exciting and truly special experiences.

*Please check each park’s website for up-to-date details on amenities and pricing.

Blue Springs

Hours: 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days

Location: 2100 W French Avenue, Orange City FL 32763

Fees:

$6 per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people per vehicle.

$4 Single Occupant Vehicle.

$2 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicles with the holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.

Camping: $24 per night, plus tax, plus a non-refundable $6.70 reservation fee. Includes water and electricity.

Cabins: $95 per night, plus tax, plus a non-refundable $6.70 reservation fee.

Blue Spring State Park along the banks of the Santa Fe River is a truly special spot. Blue Spring itself boasts delightful 72-degree waters, perfect for a refreshing dip. The real standout feature of the Blue Spring run though, is its magnificent manatee population. Over 485 manatees call this stretch of water home during the winter months, making it an astonishing place to get up close to one of nature’s most fascinating creatures.

Snorkeling and scuba diving are available in the spring, while shaded trails in the State Park are perfect for hikers and explorers. Kayaking and canoeing are readily available, with several launch points along the river.

Rainbow Springs

Hours: 8 a.m. – Sunset, 365 days

Fees: $2 per person. Children under 6 are free

Location: 19158 SW 81st Place Rd., Dunnellon FL 34432

Pristine parkland, sapphire-blue waters and centuries of fascinating history await visitors at Rainbow Springs State Park. Although the springs modern history is obvious, with man-made waterfalls and ornamental gardens evidence of a time when it was a private tourist attraction and mining operation, humans have lived near the fresh waters of Rainbow Springs for over 10,000 years.

These days, visitors come to walk the trails through verdant, mossy hammocks, discover the amazing birds and wildlife that call the State Park home, and go tubing down the Rainbow River.

Ginnie Springs

Summer Hours:

Monday – Thursday – 8am – 7pm

Friday & Saturday – 8am – 9pm

Sunday – 8am – 8pm

Winter Hours:

Monday – Thursday – 8am – 4pm

Friday & Saturday – 8am – 8pm

Sunday – 8am – 6pm

Fees:

Adults (10% discount to seniors 62+) – $14.02

Children ages 6-12 – $3.73

Children 5 & under – Free

Location: Ginnie Springs Outdoors, LLC, 7300 Ginnie Springs Road, High Springs, FL 32643

The exquisite natural beauty of Ginnie Springs is genuinely breathtaking, with some of the clearest fresh spring water in the whole of Florida. 200 acres of gorgeous park and forest lining the banks of the Santa Fe River, and the springs offer an amazing array of activities for adventurous nature lovers, from stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing and tubing to snorkeling and cave diving. Shoals of colorful fish and turtles offer something for nature lovers, while the shaded Springside campsites are a wonderful way to get in touch with the natural environment.

Ginnie Springs is the perfect spot for visitors looking to discover the beauty of the world around them while not sacrificing a little bit of luxury. Amenities include volleyball courts, covered pavilions, playgrounds, and even wifi-access, alongside wooden decking and entry stairs to every spring.

Madison Springs

Hours: 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year

Fees: $4-5 per vehicle. $2 Pedestrians, bicyclists, and extra passengers.

Location: 8300 NE State Road 6, Lee FL 32059

Hidden amidst verdant pine and hardwood forest, this unbelievably picturesque spring is a breathtaking oasis of crystal-clear waters and pure natural tranquility. Voted the No. 1 swimming hole in the entire country by USA Today, Madison Blue Spring is certainly one of the finest of the North Florida Springs and is a haven for families and nature lovers looking for a beautiful setting for picnicking, canoeing, and swimming.

The freshwater spring rises into a limestone basin just a stone’s throw from the Withlacoochee River and offers great opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and cave diving, as well as some delightful shaded nature trails for hikers and birders. The river itself is a great spot for paddling and tubing, with canoes, kayaks, and tubes all available for hire nearby.

Ichetucknee Springs

Hours: 8 a.m. until sunset

Fees:

$6 per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people per vehicle.

$4 Single Occupant Vehicle.

$4 Motorcycle Fee (one or two people).

$2 Pedestrians, bicyclists, and extra passengers.

A tram and shuttle service is offered by our park concessionaire.

The cost of tram service is $5.50 plus tax per person.

The cost for shuttle service is $7.50 plus tax per person which also includes tram service.

Location: 12087 SW U.S. Highway 27, Fort White FL 32038

Ichetucknee Springs State Park is probably the best tubing spot out of all of the North Florida springs or State Parks. The 2,669 acres of State Park is a haven for wildlife, and home to a number of gorgeous natural springs and freshwater boils (including the wonderful Blue Hole), but the real draw of this amazing little slice of paradise in North Florida is tubing the six-mile stretch of the Ichetucknee River. Rent tubes nearby, or bring your own, then lie back and relax as you float downriver under the canopy of shaded hammocks. This is without a doubt one of the best ways to see North Florida’s natural beauty at its very finest.

Snorkeling in Florida

Written by Greg Insco on August 16, 2022. Posted in Parks and Outdoors, Springs, Springs and Lakes, Things to Do.

Year-round sun, golden sand, warm tropical waters, and coral reefs all make Florida the perfect destination for a snorkeling vacation. From gorgeous beaches and mysterious shipwrecks to crystal clear freshwater springs and tranquil lagoons, the state has everything snorkeling fans could want, and more.

Snorkeling in Florida guarantees amazing experiences wherever you are in the state. The diversity of options and habitats is incredible, with stark contrasts between the warm waters of the Gulf, the remote islands of the Keys, the rougher Atlantic, and the clear natural springs of North Florida. From tropical fish, dolphins, sharks, and stingrays to manatees and turtles, life underwater in Florida is remarkable and well worth discovering.

With over 1,000 miles of coastline to explore, deciding where to go snorkeling in Florida can be tough. We’ve put together a list of some of the best snorkeling spots in the Sunshine State, so all you need to do is pack your gear and plan your perfect Florida snorkeling vacation!

Florida Springs in North Florida

North Florida is famous for its extensive system of freshwater natural springs, where locals and tourists alike flock to escape the heat and humidity of the summer months. These picturesque destinations are also superb snorkeling spots, with crystal clear waters providing spectacular visibility.

Crystal River

Crystal River is probably the most famous snorkeling spot in North Florida. Emptying into the Gulf at Kings Bay, this beautiful waterway is home to various colonies of manatees who migrate to the warm waters during the winter months. The fresh, spring-fed water offers perfect visibility of these remarkable herbivorous mammals, whose curiosity and friendliness often allow you to swim alongside them.

Ginnie Springs

An incredibly popular spring system with the locals, Ginnie Springs is a superb spot for a family day out. The recreation area, complete with a volleyball court and a kids’ playground, offers a load of distractions, while the seven springs are a little slice of classic North Florida. The crystal clear water in the springs offers amazing views of freshwater fish and turtles, and the warm water makes the experience truly relaxing.

Ichetucknee Springs

Ichetucknee Springs State Park is widely considered to be the crown jewel of North Florida and is certainly one of the most picturesque places in the state. This national natural landmark is bursting with natural beauty, and the springs that make the park what it is are pristine and breathtaking. Snorkeling at Ichetucknee Springs in the cool, inviting depths of the Blue Hole or the open beauty of the main Head Spring is a delightful experience and is possible year-round, thanks to the natural warmth of the waters.

Alexander Springs

Only a short drive from Orlando, Alexander Springs is beautifully located in the heart of the Ocala National Forest. This wide, gentle, first magnitude spring is surrounded by gorgeous yellow pine forests, and its wide sandy beach makes it a lovely spot to relax and get back to nature. Snorkelers will enjoy exploring the natural limestone rock formations in the spring boil, and discovering all manner of aquatic life including bass, turtles, otters, and even Alice, the 12-foot alligator who calls Alexander Springs home.

Blue Springs State Park

A delightful collection of natural springs and a shallow spring run just a few miles west of High Springs, Blue Springs State Park on the Santa Fe River is the newest Florida State Park. The natural springs offer a number of possibilities for snorkeling, with the clear spring waters providing exceptional visibility and the chance to see turtles, sunfish, bass, and catfish.

Florida Keys

Stretching out into the Gulf of Mexico towards Cuba, the Florida Keys is a special part of the world. With colorful coral reefs and an extraordinary array of sea creatures, life underwater is pretty exciting too.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Key Largo

Most snorkeling adventurers who come to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park on Key Largo are here for the iconic underwater statue of Christ the Redeemer, and it is a very impressive draw indeed. 4,000 pounds of bronze standing three meters high submerged in the shallow waters near Dry Rocks, this beautiful sculpture is an exciting sight to encounter on a snorkeling trip. The coral reef here is a stunning sight too, an underwater state park created thanks to a huge conservation effort, with a variety of species to encounter, including barracuda and tarpon! While the best snorkeling can be had from the tour boats out on the reef, swimming out from Cannon Beach is almost as exciting, with the wreck of a Spanish galleon complete with cannons to be discovered.

Bahia Honda State Park

The 500 acres of Bahia Honda State Park in Big Pine Key are a wonderful choice for beginner snorkelers and young families. The reef is shallow and the waters are calm, and loads of stunning corals and fish can be found just a few strokes from the shore. The gorgeous golden beach fringed with palms makes the perfect place to relax, and there’s even a concession that serves tasty snacks.

Alligator Reef Lighthouse

Heading out on a boat tour from Islamorada will take you to Alligator Reef, one of the more picturesque snorkeling spots in the Florida Keys. A shallow reef, some way from the shore, provides an amazing gathering spot for literally thousands of tropical fish, while more advanced snorkelers might be tempted to head to the deeper reef wall near the lighthouse. This spot offers the chance to see barracuda, sea turtles, and even hammerhead sharks!

Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas offers an altogether different experience than most other snorkeling spots in Florida. Remote, even by the standards of the Florida Keys, this marine national park is about 70 miles west of Key West, so a boat trip is necessary. Once you get out here, you’ll find a paradise of shallow coral islands, deep open water, and the famous Windjammer Wreck, the sunken remnants of a ship built-in 1875. Snorkeling around this wonderful little slice of paradise is the perfect opportunity to get up close to a huge variety of electric tropical fish, huge queen conch shells, lobsters, and starfish. Due to its distance from Key West, Dry Tortugas has one of the healthiest coral reefs in Florida and is well worth a day trip.

South Florida

Plenty of people who visit South Florida think that to get good snorkeling they have to head down to the Keys, but there are plenty of excellent snorkeling destinations around Miami and Palm Beach, as well.

Biscayne National Park

The main event for snorkelers at Biscayne National Park is the Half Moon shipwreck. This ship, originally named the Germania, was moored offshore from Miami during the Prohibition era and was sunk in Biscayne Bay in 1930. It now lies just 10 feet below the surface, making it great viewing for beginner and expert snorkelers alike. The rest of Biscayne Bay is just as lovely, with shoreline mangrove forests and pretty coral reefs.

Phil Foster Park

Phil Foster Park boasts an outstanding snorkeling trail just 200 feet from the beach, which stretches for over two acres. The artificial reef system that has been created here attracts over 300 different species of marine life, including yellow-headed jawfish, seahorses, and even the occasional octopus! A nearby lifeguard stand makes it a safe place, even for beginners.

Coral Cove Park

Some wonderful natural limestone formations and the nearby Blowing Rocks Preserve make Coral Cove an excellent place for snorkelers. The rock formations attract a wonderful diversity of marine life, with brightly colored tropical fish in abundance. On a good day, you might even see larger species such as nurse sharks, barracuda, loggerhead turtles, and eels.

Peanut Island

A man-made island just off the coast of Palm Beach, Peanut Island boasts a tranquil lagoon that is home to plenty of tropical fish, as well as stingrays, small sharks, and even manatees. It is incredibly easy to access and provides a load of helpful amenities for non-snorkelers, including picnic tables, campsites, and the Kennedy Bunker historical site.

Jose Cuervo Margarita Bar

For something completely different, snorkeling enthusiasts and lovers of weird underwater sights might want to head to the Jose Cuervo Margarita Bar. Built as a promotional stunt for Jose Cuervo, it was deliberately sunk during the Cinco de Mayo Festival in 2000 and now sits at the bottom of the sea just off Miami Beach. Join the fishy regulars at what is probably the most unusual snorkeling spot in all of Florida!

Gulf of Mexico

Florida’s Gulf Coast is a real contrast to the glitz and glamor of Miami and the East Coast. Here, the lifestyle is more laid back and relaxed, and the lush tropical landscape makes for the perfect backdrop. The ocean conditions on this side of the state don’t always favor snorkeling, as the water has a tendency to be murky, but there are a number of excellent snorkeling spots in the Gulf if you are willing to look closely.

Destin

Destin really lives up to its Emerald Coast billing, with dazzling green waters and perfect sandy beaches. Snorkelers will find a wealth of potential underwater destinations here, from the soft white sand of Norriego Point and the clear Gulf water of Henderson Beach State Park to the artificial reefs at East Pass and Destin Jetties.

St. Andrews State Park

A former military installation with over one and a half miles of beach, St Andrews State Park is a gorgeous spot full of fascinating natural life, thanks to its five distinct ecological habitats. The extensive shoreline and rock jetties provide ample opportunities for snorkelers to explore marine life, while the beaches are equally perfect for swimmers and surfers too.

Regina Shipwreck

In 1940, the SS Regina sank off the coast of Sarasota in Southwest Florida. Now the remains of this huge tanker sit on the bottom of the sea at Bradenton Beach near Anna Maria Island and provide the best snorkeling experience in the area. The sea can get rough and murky in bad weather, so it is worth waiting for calm skies and tranquil seas before heading out to the wreck site.

Naples

There are a few decent snorkeling spots around Naples, a delightful town south of Sanibel Island just outside the Everglades in Southwest Florida. Delnor-Wiggins State Park offers a shallow coral reef that is easily accessible from the stunning beach, while in good weather you can even snorkel off Naples Municipal Beach. The jewel in the crown here though is Tigertail Beach at Marco Island, a short drive down the coast. The beaches and seas here are pristine due to its somewhat remote location, and the site is well known for dolphin sightings close to shore!

When to snorkel in Florida

Florida’s tropical climate means that it boasts warm weather year-round, and has the mildest winters in the continental US. Depending on where you go, you can find great snorkeling spots all year long. If you are heading to the Florida Keys or South or Southwest Florida, you’ll want to visit in summer, when the weather is warm and dry. Central Florida is great in the spring and early summer, while the springs of North Florida are the perfect place to cool off if you are on a summer vacation. But whenever you visit, you’ll always be able to find amazing snorkeling spots in this wonderful vacation destination.

14 Unique Things to Do in Florida

Written by Greg Insco on August 16, 2022. Posted in Parks and Outdoors, Springs and Lakes, Things to Do.

Florida’s state motto used to be “the rules are different here,” and it is truly a special and unique place to visit. As a vacation destination, it is almost unrivaled, with great weather year-round, beautiful beaches across the length and breadth of the state, and an amazing array of exciting experiences and magical locations to discover.

But there are some places in particular that are unique to Florida, offering things to do that you just can’t find anywhere else in the world. These wonderful spots, some hidden away and undiscovered, and some world-famous, are what make the Sunshine State such an amazing place to be.

To really get a feel for Florida, and to fully explore everything that this wonderful state has to offer, you might need to get off the beaten path and search for places a little under the radar. With that in mind, here are 14 of the most exciting, unusual, and amazing places to visit and things to do that you can only find in Florida.

Cool off in a swimming hole

The natural mineral springs of North Florida are one of the state’s most attractive natural wonders, and hands down the best places to cool off in the heat of the summer. These natural swimming holes are a wonderful way to get back to nature and offer a unique swimming experience, as well as beautiful scenery and fascinating flora and fauna.

Places like Blue Springs and Ginnie Springs on the Santa Fe River offer extraordinary sparkling blue pools with water so clear you can see your shadow on the sandy bottom. Alternatively, the emerald green waters of places like Poe Springs and Rum Island Springs offer a more surreal visual experience.

See glow-in-the-dark water

The breathtakingly beautiful and truly magical phenomenon of bioluminescence is one of nature’s greatest wonders, and can only be found in a few places in the world…of which Florida is one! Take a kayak tour on the famous Indian River Lagoon, and discover waters that literally light up with an almost neon glow with every stroke of your paddle.

This remarkable nighttime experience, made even more spectacular by the addition of transparent kayaks, will genuinely leave you breathless. If you go during the winter months, you might even see the mysterious comb jellies glowing their way alongside your boat.

Check out a rocket launch

Florida’s Kennedy Space Centre has been the launchpad for some of the most important and historic space missions in the history of the USA, and the entire world. Visitors have been able to tour the grounds and explore the amazing displays and exhibitions celebrating the remarkable history of space exploration in Florida.

More recently, Elon Musk’s SpaceX program has taken over the launch pads at the Kennedy Space Centre, and the site has been revitalized as an active launch site again. Check out the SpaceX launch schedule, and try to arrange your visit to coincide with liftoff. The experience of watching a rocket blast off into space is unlike anything else.

Dive underground

The natural springs and aquifers of North Florida are not just great places to cool off in the heat of the summer. They also offer the amazing experience of being able to scuba dive underground! Springs like Little River Springs, Blue Hole, and Wes Skiles Peacock Springs offer experienced divers the chance to explore the gorgeous and atmospheric caverns and passages that crisscross Columbia County and the rest of North Florida and feed the natural springs above.

Wes Skiles Peacock Springs is world-famous as one of the best cave diving experiences around, with 33,000 feet of interconnected caverns to explore. Blue Hole is the headspring of Ichetucknee Springs State Park and is a magnificent sight with its deep, dark blue entrance. Little River Springs empties into the Suwannee River, but also offers 1,200 feet of underground passageways to explore, for anyone brave enough to venture inside!

Snorkel in the Caribbean

The Florida Keys is a pretty special part of Florida all by itself, but one spot, in particular, is truly mind-blowing. Dry Tortugas is an astonishing location, flung out into the Caribbean off the coast of Key West. The history of this place is fairly astounding. Discovered in 1513 by Ponce de Leon when there was nothing there but sea turtles, it has been a refueling point for transatlantic shipping, a notable spot for shipwrecks, and a prison.

The main attraction is the splendid old fortress, Fort Jefferson, constructed in 1847 to help counter the threat of piracy in the Caribbean. These days it makes for a splendid snorkeling location, as the fort is abandoned and crumbling, and you can swim right up to the ramparts. The surrounding sea is also full of maritime relics, including 17th-century galleons, rusting cannons, and glistening bottles.

Ride an airboat

Exploring the Everglades is a quintessential Florida experience, and there is no better way to do it than on board an airboat! A Florida icon, airboats can be found the length and breadth of the magnificent Everglades National Park, from Jacksonville on the northern border all the way down to the southern reaches of the state.

Jumping aboard one of these light exciting crafts is an experience in itself, and is definitely the best way to explore the beautiful waterways of the Everglades, and get up close and personal with the unique flora and fauna that are native to them. From giant alligators and swamp snakes to wading birds and snapping turtles, a trip into the mangrove forests of Florida on an airboat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Swim with manatees

These bizarrely beautiful, gentle sea creatures are one of Florida’s most beloved residents. Believed to be the explanation for (presumably short-sighted) sailors’ legends about mermaids, they are incredibly amiable animals, and remarkably tolerant of humans.

While seeing manatees in their natural habitat is a pretty special experience, swimming or snorkeling with them is another level of excitement altogether. There are two locations in North Florida where you can dive into the water with these lovely animals, the Crystal River and Blue Springs State Park. Both locations offer snorkeling tours, and the opportunity is not one to miss out on!

Hit up the theme parks

Very much not under the radar or off the beaten track, but Orlando’s theme parks are still one of the most exciting things you can do in Florida, and one of the state’s most iconic destinations. Visiting Florida and not heading to Orlando, especially if you have kids, would be a shame.

Obviously, the biggest name when it comes to Orlando’s theme parks is Disney World (and it is magnificent, of course), but there are also loads of other options to explore. Fun Spot America is home to the only wooden roller coaster in Florida, while Universal Studios lets you discover the magic of Cinema from behind the scenes.

See the oldest city in the USA

Founded by the Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon, St Augustine began life back in the early 1500s, and remains an extraordinarily charming and historic spot, almost unchanged in parts for over 500 years.

St Augustine boasts a wide variety of historic attractions and delightful places to explore, including the most authentic collection of pirate artifacts in the world at the Pirate and Treasure Museum, and the magnificent 1880s Ponce de Leon Hotel, complete with Tiffany stained glass and Edison electricity. But the most atmospheric and exciting thing you can do in this ancient town is to explore the myriad haunted houses that are scattered across the city, including several hotels and B&Bs that you can spend the night in…if you dare!

Come face-to-face with mermaids

If you weren’t convinced by the manatee/mermaid comparison, you might want to check out the real thing instead. Just north of Tampa, one of Florida’s oldest tourist attractions has been delighting visitors with ‘live mermaid shows’ since the 1940s, long before Disney World opened its gates.

Weeki Wachee is the City of Live Mermaids, set in the deepest naturally formed spring in North America, and the shows remain captivating, with live performers swimming and dancing in an amazing underwater theater 20 ft below the surface. This is a real glimpse into the whimsy and charm of Old Florida, and something that you really won’t find anywhere else in the US.

See life on stilts

About a mile off the coast of Biscayne Bay, a tiny, unique community hover above the surface of the water, accessible only by boat. This is Stiltsville, a group of wooden homes on stilts, built in the 1930s as a way to get around the Prohibition Era laws – they originally were places where you could drink, gamble and party free from the landlubbers’ laws.

These days only seven of these almost dream-like structures remain, thanks to accidental fires and Hurricane Andrew in 1992. But visiting this community and getting a feel for life just a few feet above the ocean waves is something quite moving, and well worth experiencing.

Swim in a Listed swimming pool

Modeled on a Venetian grotto, and built with the aim of bringing Mediterranean style to the United States, the Venetian Pool in Coral Gables is the kind of destination that is uniquely Floridian, and really expresses the eccentric character of this marvelous part of the world.

The Venetian Pool is the largest freshwater pool in the US, as well as the only swimming pool in the country listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is emptied and refilled daily and is an extraordinarily elegant and stylish, albeit somewhat overblown place to swim. Built out of the remains of an abandoned coral rock quarry, the natural grotto caves offer another exciting element that swimmers can explore.

Sleep with the fish

While there are a few hotels around the world that offer ‘underwater views’, with windows or glass floor panels that take you beneath the ocean waves, none of them are quite as comprehensive an experience as the Jules Undersea Lodge in Key Largo.

Appropriately named after Jules Verne, you have to literally put on a scuba suit to get to your bedroom, situated two fathoms down on the ocean floor! While the ambiance is more ‘upmarket submarine berth’ than ‘luxury hotel’, the serenity and isolation of this unusual hotel room is just the ticket to escape the stresses and strains of everyday life and offers a genuinely one-of-a-kind experience for adventurous travelers willing to take the plunge.

Discover the Fountain of Youth

While St Augustine might be the oldest city in the USA, it is also (possibly) the location of the most youthful experience in the entire world, the literal Fountain of Youth! Ok, this may be an unverifiable claim, but it was supposedly what Juan Ponce de Leon was searching for when he founded the city back in 1513.

Today, you can visit the 15-acre Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, on the site where the Spanish explorer first landed, founded back in 1904. While the artifacts and archaeological discoveries here might be a little suspect (the well that is supposedly the Fountain of Youth is housed in what looks suspiciously like a salt cellar), the park is a charming and enjoyable tribute to the origins of the city.

As vacation destinations go, you will struggle to find anywhere as weird and wonderful as Florida. The Sunshine State really does have it all, from polished theme parks and gorgeous golden beaches to bizarre roadside attractions and unique cultural curiosities. Wherever you choose to go across the length and breadth of Florida, you are guaranteed to find something that couldn’t possibly exist anywhere else in the world. Happy travels!

exterior of Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park

Discover the Art and Culture of Columbia County, Florida

Written by Greg Insco on August 16, 2022. Posted in Activities and Attractions, Culture and History, Shopping, Things to Do.

Beating the heat doesn’t always mean taking a dip in the pool. During the summer months in Florida, Columbia County’s museums and cultural centers become hot spots (no pun intended) for locals and visitors to cool off and take in a history lesson. These cultural and interpretive centers provide great outlets to learn about the area. Get ready to get a dose of Old Florida, here is your art and culture guide to Columbia County.

Ichetucknee Springs Education and Exhibit Center

Located in Fort White, Ichetucknee Springs State Park attracts visitors for its crystal-clear river, towering trees and a wealth of wildlife like deer, wild turkeys and raccoons. After hiking or canoeing the area, stop in at the park’s Education and Exhibit Center, where an impressive display of pieces found in the springs shows the biology of urban growth, water usage and the impact they make on the river. There, you can walk through a replica of a spring cave to understand the biology of how the water flows and forms underground caverns. Rocks and fossils unearthed by cave divers are part of the interpretive exhibit, and before wrapping up the day, you are advised to visit the movie theater to watch a film about the mysteries of the spring.

Columbia County Historical Museum

Get a glimpse of what life and the area looked like in the 1870s at Columbia County Historical Museum. Located in Lake City, this museum has a pristine collection of artifacts, and the staff will also dress up in period attire to breathe life into a house built in the 1800s. The house was previously owned by the Vinzant family, and much of the original furnishings are still in immaculate condition for you to admire. Guided tours are available at the museum, but it’s suggested to make the appointment in advance instead of walking in so the tour will be ready for you when you arrive. During the tour, a guide will walk you through different rooms to see the genealogical research display and rare heirloom pieces left behind by the family. In addition to the family heirlooms, you’ll browse through various artifacts from Native Americans, Civil War, WWI, WWII, and early residents of Columbia County. Monitor the museum’s website to catch any upcoming scheduled events such as making candles and sewing garments.

Olustee Depot

Visit a train station turned into a museum at Olustee Depot near Lake City. The building has stayed in pristine condition and is nestled in the woods under Spanish moss trees in the Osceola National Forest. This museum has all things locomotive that the kids will love and has hands-on activity stations where you can press buttons to hear the sounds of the county’s wilderness. The exhibit tells the tale of the building’s history serving as a medical station for wounded soldiers during the Battle of Olustee. Before that, the station was an iconic destination in the South that exported goods and helped boost the economy. Afterward, lounge on its patio next to the train tracks and wait for the train to pull up.

O’Leno State Park Interpretive Exhibits

O’Leno State Park is another fantastic destination to get your nature fix. But did you know you could visit its three interpretive exhibits, including a nature center, Civilian Conservation Corps Museum and Bellamy Road Interpretive Panels while exploring the park? If you’re an animal lover, you’ll especially love the nature center as it’s filled with native animals of the park, including tortoises, deer and other year-round residents. The center has a built-in sanctuary to rehabilitate rescued animals before they are released back into the park. Civilian Conservation Corps is a work relief movement developed by late, former President Franklin D. Roosevelt, where inexperienced workers earned a living during the Great Depression. The entire Civilian Conservation Corps Museum will educate you and your group about the impact the movement made for families struggling during this era. Bellamy Road has its own center that highlights the road’s history as the first major highway in Florida, which was built by slaves.

Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center

Stephen Foster is a well-known Pennsylvania lyricist who wrote many old hits like “Old Folks at Home.” At Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center, the museum features the composer, crediting him for making the Suwannee River famous with a chronological display of his accomplishments in music. In addition, the Antebellum building houses dioramas depicting some of Foster’s most well-known songs. The park is also home to one of the largest musical instruments in the western hemisphere, the Carillon Tower, with 97 tubular bells. The park also offers demonstrations of quilting and a variety of seasonal crafts, hiking and biking trails, paddling and even camping. Plan to stay awhile by booking a campsite or one of the park’s five riverside vacation cabins and make your stay in Old Florida a grand experience.

Please note: This story has been updated to reflect most current information as of October 2022.

Top Reasons to Visit Columbia County, Florida

Written by Greg Insco on August 15, 2022. Posted in Activities and Attractions, Things to Do.

When planning your next getaway, picture Columbia County—the gateway to Florida. Nature, history and culture abound in this picturesque oasis and the county has the best the Sunshine State has to offer. Here are the top 10 reasons to visit Columbia County.

1. Stunning Freshwater Springs

With the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Gulf of Mexico to the west, the majestic springs in the Columbia County area are Florida’s best-kept secrets. Pictures hardly do them justice. The sparkling blue water flowing over colorful reefs add to the beauty. You have many ways to enjoy Columbia County’s springs. Swim, canoe, kayak or fish in the crystal clear water at Rum Island Springs. Jump off the diving platform at Gilchrist Blue Springs, or splash in the clear, sparkling green water at Poe Springs. See the life under the water with snorkeling at Ginnie Springs, or ride the waves with a tubing adventure at Ichetucknee Springs. At Ichetucknee springs, you’ll find the Blue Hole, a deep blue spring that leads to an underground cave system (scuba divers must be cave certified). After you’ve played in these springs, you still have more springs to discover in Columbia County.

Snorkeling at Ichetucknee Springs State Park, Columbia County, FL.

2. Florida’s Largest White Water Rapids

Enjoy a different adventure at Big Shoals State Park, which offers an exhilarating ride down the Suwannee River. It is a rare opportunity to ride rapids in Florida. The rapids range from Class I to Class III when the water level is between 59 and 61 feet above mean sea level. The Class III rapids are only for experienced canoers and kayakers, but hikers and bikers can take advantage of more than 28 miles of wooded trails that pass by the water as well as limestone bluffs that give scenic views from above. You can also sink your line and go freshwater fishing along the river.

View from the shore of Big Shoals on the Suwannee River.

3. The 200,000-Acre National Forest

Columbia County is clearly the place to visit if you love the outdoors. It is home to Osceola National Forest which has nearly 200,000 acres to explore. Start at the Olustee Depot, a former train station that is now the visitor center. Beginning around the Civil War, Olustee was a hub for passengers and commodities like timber and turpentine. Inside the depot building, you will see turpentine barrels and old graffiti decorating the walls. Today the landscape of Osceola National Forest has returned to its natural state with pine forests, prairies, swamps and lakes. Miles of hiking and equestrian trails will lead you past the local flora and fauna and range from a flat and easy walk to more challenging, rugged paths. One of the many gems about Columbia County is the Florida National Scenic Trail, which runs through Osceola National Forest. Walk along the 23 miles of trail as you enjoy the sights surrounding you. Don’t forget to pack your bathing suit for the sandy beach along Ocean Pond. You’ll enjoy swimming, boating, water skiing and camping at the 2-mile-wide lake.

Palmettos and pines of the Osceola National Forest.

4. Strolling, Shopping and Dining in Downtown Lake City

Southern charm and hospitality abound in downtown Lake City. It is the heart of Columbia County with fine and casual dining, boutiques and historic buildings. Visit The Blanche, a former hotel where famous guests included Johnny Cash and Al Capone. It’s on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and was the first building in Florida to have an elevator. Walk along Marion Street and you’ll see a number of commemorative plaques that describe significant events that took place in Lake City. You can learn more about the area’s past at the Lake City-Columbia County Historical Museum. While in town, you won’t want to miss the massive 3D mural depicting the springs at the intersection of Marion and Hamilton Streets. When you’re ready for a bite to eat, Columbia County has a variety of top-rated restaurants and you’ll find many of them in downtown Lake City. Click here to view some of the shopping available in downtown Lake City.

Downtown Lake City, FL.

5. One of Florida’s Most Unique Breweries

Get a taste of the local beer scene at Halpatter Brewing Co. Halpatter, meaning alligator in the Seminole language, is Columbia County’s first craft brewery. It’s named after Halpatter Tustenuggee, the best-known Seminole Indian who lived in the area. The brewery is located in downtown Lake City and brews a range of beers that pay tribute to the region’s history. Try the Big Hal American brown ale, O’Leno cream ale, or the 16 Springfields imperial IPA. Keep an eye out for limited-release brews like the Seymour & Finnegans Red Irish Ale, named after the commanding generals of the Battle of Olustee. The brewery also makes fruit-infused beers, apple cider and nonalcoholic sodas. Children and dogs are welcome, and the brewery hosts community events, themed parties, and live music often.

The front entrance of Halpatter Brewing Co.

6. One of Florida’s First State Parks

O’Leno State Park, located north of High Springs, was one of the original nine state parks that made up the Florida Park Service. It was developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and opened as a state park in 1940; an original suspension bridge still spans the river. You can learn about the conservation and its involvement in the park at a small museum open daily. O’Leno State Park has more than 6,000 acres, with the Santa Fe River running through it. Go hiking or biking on 11 miles of mixed-use trails, and enjoy swimming, paddling, or fishing along the river. Bicycles and canoes are available to rent at the park ranger station. The park offers excellent opportunities for birding; O’Leno State Park is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, a network of the top viewing sites across the state. It also has picnic pavilions, playgrounds, and a full-facility campground.

Suspension bridge over the Santa Fe river at O’Leno State Park.

7. A Disappearing River

While visiting O’Leno State Park, you’ll come across a unique phenomenon— a disappearing river! The Santa Fe River flows through the park and then seems to vanish into a giant sinkhole. The river actually flows underground for 3 miles, where it becomes part of the Floridian aquifer system. The Santa Fe River re-emerges as a circular pool in River Rise State Park and eventually flows into the Suwanee River. The natural land bridge between the Santa Fe River Sink and River Rise was an important travel route for early explorers in the area.

Santa Fe River at O’Leno State Park.

8. The River That Inspired Florida’s State Song

There’s something magical about Columbia County’s springs and waterways that can enchant and inspire. This is especially true with the Suwannee River, the inspiration behind the famous song by Stephen Foster. “Old Folks at Home,” commonly known as “Way Down Upon the Suwannee River,” was composed by Foster in 1851 and in 1935 became the official state song of Florida. Columbia County is home to a park honoring the composer and his musical legacy. You can learn about the area’s past at Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park. The antebellum mansion houses a museum dedicated to Foster and folk music, and there are quilting, blacksmithing, and stained glass demonstrations in Craft Square. You’ll also like the hiking and mountain biking trails, wildlife viewing, and paddling and fishing along the Suwannee River. Enjoy a night among the stars with its full-service campground and five riverside cabins available to rent. Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park hosts special events throughout the year including the annual Florida Folk Festival on Memorial Day weekend. First held in 1953, the Florida Folk Festival is the longest-running state folk festival in the United States.

The Stephen Foster Museum at Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park.

9. One of Florida’s Only Waterfalls

A short walk along an accessible boardwalk trail takes you to Falling Creek Falls, a hidden waterfall located north of Lake City. It’s a quick detour off Interstate 10, so it is an ideal place to stop and stretch your legs if you are passing through Columbia County. You’ll be in awe of the rushing water cascading 10 feet down a limestone rock formation. The park also has a loop trail that takes you through the woods and by the rapids, and after a day of adventure, enjoy lunch at one of the three picnic pavilions while the kids have fun on the playground.

Falling Creek Falls, Columbia County, FL.

Finding the Perfect Blend in North Florida

Written by Greg Insco on August 15, 2022. Posted in Culture and History, Shopping, Springs and Lakes, Things to Do, Where to Stay.

by Sharon Therien

A Mix of Culture and Nature in a Columbia County Getaway

I enjoy art and shopping, while my hubby Jim prefers natural surroundings and outdoor activities. One thing we both enjoy is the beauty and serenity of peaceful places. When we planned a romantic getaway from our normal lives, we discovered the perfect blend of culture and nature in Columbia County.

The Grand Dame of Lake City

A historic landmark that’s been around for more than 100 years, The Blanche hotel put us in a romantic mood as we stepped inside. With its grand staircase, pillars and polished wood floors, we could imagine the balls held under the sparkling chandelier during this grand dame’s storied life. Restored to her original beauty, the hotel now serves as a hub in downtown Lake City, which is where we planned to spend our first day.

After leaving our charming, modern, comfortable room equipped with a coffee maker and mini-fridge, we were already in the heart of Downtown Lake City, so we decided to take a stroll down North Marion Avenue.

A Taste of the Arts

Just steps from our hotel we discovered Gateway Art Gallery, featuring paintings, photography, woodwork, jewelry and other handcrafted items by North Florida artists. Run by the Art League of North Florida, the gallery even offers classes. Jim and I looked at each other and decided to do something we had been wanting to do for a long time. We signed up for a class later that afternoon, then headed off to do some more exploring.

Across the street, at Blue Goose Studios, I fell in love with the repurposed furniture and handcrafted items by local artist, Janet Moses. Next door, I discovered more furniture to love at Furnishings on Marion in their chic mix of old and new. At the cute Southern Sisters Boutique & Embroidery, there were so many unique gift items, I couldn’t resist picking up a personalized coffee mug for our pet sitter. After our afternoon art class, we strolled to the other end of Marion, where we stopped in at Treasures of Lake City and discovered a treasure trove of new and antique estate jewelry and furniture.

Savoring the Flavors

We had worked up an appetite during our afternoon of shopping so we crossed the street and headed down the block to Marion Street Bistro & Brew House. Jim loves craft beer so he was immediately in heaven and began reading through the offerings on the chalkboard. I opted for a Mai Tai from their extensive cocktail menu and admired the exposed brick architecture and original 1905 tiles in this historic former pharmacy.

We started with a dozen gulf oysters on the half shell and a bowl of French onion soup. The house-made garlic crostini, crust of melted cheese and drizzle of sherry put the soup over the top in flavor. For his entree, Jim opted for the Southern-style shrimp and grits. “This sauce is different from anything I’ve ever had,” he said, savoring each bite. He was talking about the house-made gravy made with house-smoked brisket, ham and tasso. I had a taste and it was indeed heavenly. I went with the Chairman’s Reserve signature filet mignon, which more than met its reputation. I ordered it Cajun style, adding blackened shrimp on top because when I heard Jim order shrimp I thought– Two can play that game.

We were enjoying this evening out and took our time, savoring our meals. We couldn’t pass up dessert when we heard they were house-made, so we split a heavenly creme brulee, my absolute favorite. The local musician playing guitar created such a nice ambiance that we took a seat at the bar for a nightcap to enjoy our evening out a little longer.

Serenity on the River

The next day was for outdoor adventure. We planned to go tubing down the Ichetucknee River at Ichetucknee Springs State Park. The park’s convenient tram service helped us get from place to place–between the parking lot, the general store, and the tube launch and pickup spots. We rented a two-person tube from the general store so we could float together. We chose the Midpoint Tube Launch, and after about an hour, we had the choice to get picked up or keep going. We were enjoying ourselves so much that we stayed on the water for an extra hour.

As we floated along, we let go of all of our stress and just immersed ourselves in our surroundings. The water was so clear, it shimmered turquoise. Looking down, we could see fish swimming through the river grass. We floated through shaded hammocks in the cool water, just enjoying the day. It was so relaxing and a wonderful way to spend quality time together away from the distractions of everyday life.

We returned to the adorable Ichetucknee General Store for lunch. It made us feel like we were at an old-fashioned ice cream stand, so we ordered classics that fit the setting. Jim got a cheeseburger and I ordered chicken tenders–both with fries of course. We capped off our lunch with some ice cream– a hand-dipped cone for me and a root beer float for him.

High Springs

For the next leg of our journey, we wanted to be away from the action and closer to nature so we found a cute place on the Santa Fe River on VRBO.com. It was the perfect vacation rental, set on a private, wooded lot, with a patio and large yard and located just two miles from Ichetucknee Springs State Park. It had everything we needed for the two of us, and more, and the friendly, thoughtful owner had provided coffee and the next day’s breakfast for us. We relaxed on the deck for a few hours before heading out for our evening adventure.

We followed the Santa Fe River 20 minutes south to a restaurant called Great Outdoors in the nearby city of High Springs. We sat out on the patio, surrounded by plants and live music. Hubby had the Root Beer Pork Chops with mashed potatoes and bacon gravy, while I went with the Caribbean Mahi-Mahi served over black beans and rice topped with fresh mango salsa and fried plantains. Everything was prepared perfectly and the atmosphere was just lovely.

Our next adventure was going to be another new experience for us– a magnificent moonlit paddle on the river, which we had reserved in advance. We chose a tandem kayak for the two of us and joined several other couples as we followed the ranger along the river. Here we were, just a few hours later, back on the river but with such a different view. The moment felt magical as the moonlight reflected off the ripples our paddles made on the water, twinkling like stars on the river. It was the perfect ending to our stress-free getaway.

What we discovered during our romantic getaway was that Columbia County had the perfect blend of everything we both needed for a relaxing, stress-free getaway. Jim ended up enjoying the art class and now has a new hobby, and I couldn’t get enough of the natural world. In the end, we both ended up loving every minute of our trip to Columbia County, Florida and every moment we shared together. (As of August 2022, the moonlight paddle adventure is no longer available, but may become available in the future.)

Plan your romantic getaway to Columbia County, Florida