This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products we love or would use ourselves. The Ocala National Forest is just north of Orlando and is a perfect destination for nature lovers. The …
Silver Springs State Park is one of Florida’s oldest tourist attractions. The park’s world famous Glass Bottom Boats have been delighting guests in central Florida since the 1870s. Silver Springs became a state park in 2013. Prior to that it was a privately owned “nature theme park” that featured zoo-type animal exhibits, entertainment and rides. …
This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park is one of North Florida’s many pristine natural springs. The crystal clear, 72-degree fresh water is perfect for swimming, snorkeling and paddling. And …
Little Manatee River State Park is a hidden gem featuring paddling, wildlife viewing, hiking and camping. The beautiful Little Manatee River is the star of this state park. Little Manatee River State Park is located in Hillsborough County south of Tampa and east of Bradenton. It’s pretty easy to access from I-75. There are two …
Sunken Gardens is a gorgeous tropical oasis in the middle of St. Petersburg teeming with gigantic palms, philodendrons, flowers and waterfalls. Spend the afternoon wandering the winding paths of this plant lovers’ paradise! The Sunken Gardens is over 100 years old, making it one of Florida’s oldest roadside attractions. The garden started in 1903 when …
Experience a Real Florida day hike through a variety of undeveloped ecosystems, with plenty of wildlife viewing and solitude at Terra Ceia. Less than an hour from Tampa, the surprisingly wild Terra Ceia Preserve State Park features 9 miles of trails through mangrove swamps, creeks, estuaries, wetlands, uplands and more. This 2,000 acre park is …
Enjoy the peace and quiet of one of Florida’s largest mature hardwood forests on the trails of San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park. The 7,360-acre preserve provides plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking and horseback riding. San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park is divided into two sections. The southern entrance to the park (located four miles …
Kanapaha Botanical Gardens is a 68-acre botanical garden in Gainesville, FL that is home to Florida’s largest public display of bamboo and the largest herb garden in the Southeast. Wind your way along the 1 1/2 miles of accessible paved pathway and explore the 24 unique plant collections found throughout the gardens. Some of these …
Hiking is an easy and enjoyable activity almost anyone can do. It’s relatively inexpensive and there are numerous places you can hike. But Florida is known for having unpredictable weather, heat, and lots of bugs. Consider bringing these items on your hike so you’re prepared for anything. Please note: This is not an exhaustive list …
Typically state parks get all the love, but there are a bunch of other parks around the Tampa Bay area that are just as fun. From boardwalks and observation towers to mangrove coastlines and even a birds of prey sanctuary — these lesser known Tampa Bay parks are worth a visit! Lettuce Lake Conservation Park …