Florida may be warm (surface of the sun hot), but there is no place I would rather be. With its beautiful beaches, colorful wildlife and fascinating culture, there is much to do and see. The Sunshine State is well-known for its beaches, but I believe it is time to give some of its other glorious attractions the spotlight. Here are a few things in Florida that you absolutely must see.
1. Silver Springs State Park
Located in Silver Springs right outside of Ocala on SR40, this glorious state park has the aesthetic of Disney World and the natural appeal of the Everglades. Go on a hike, camp, take a glass boat ride or kayak with alligators, turtles and wild monkeys -- yes, there are wild monkeys in Florida. There is a $5 entrance fee for single person vehicles and $8 for more than one. Other fees may apply for various activities within the park.
2. Bulow Creek State Park
Tucked away in Ormond Beach, this hidden gem is home to the remains of the Bulow Sugar Plantation. It is an incredible piece of history which can be reached by car or by foot. I recommend you hit the trails in this wooded park.
3. The Sponge Docks
Supposedly home to the second largest Greek community outside of Greece, the Sponge Docks in Tarpon Springs, Florida, boasts amazing Greek restaurants, bakeries and quaint little shops. Walk the streets, grab a bite to eat, hop on a boat ride and experience a taste of Greece within the confines of Florida.
4. Downtown St. Petersburg
St. Pete has it all. With live music on weekends, hipster coffee joints, cute little boutiques, and sandy white beaches, St. Petersburg should be a stop on the list for everyone traveling through Florida.
5. Sanibel Island
Most people equate Sanibel with the beautiful Gulf of Mexico, but this small island has so much more to offer. Bike trails wrap around its entirety making it easy to bike to the beach, the farmers market, the nature preserves and over to the Lazy Flamingo for the best grouper sandwich in the world. Don't forget about the toll to get over the bridge and onto the well-preserved island!
6. St. Augustine
The oldest city in America deserves to be on the Florida must-see list. Swing into this northeast Florida piece of history to see all that there is to offer.
7. Weeki Wachee
Home to the Florida mermaids, natural springs park is great for all ages. Come visit the roaming peacocks, take a boat ride, test out the water slides in Buccaneer Bay and catch the famous Little Mermaid show. An entrance fee is required.
8. Washington Oaks State Park
This glorious just south of St. Augustine on A1A is beloved by any and all nature lovers. With hiking trails, an exquisite rose garden and breathtaking beach access, this park is sure to please. A small fee is required upon entrance, but it will allow you to access all parts of the park.
Of course, there is much more beauty in Florida to see, but for now, this will give you a great start! Enjoy the sunshine!
