Florida: Gator Getaway

Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park

Each trip to Florida is always a unique experience. When I was on a road trip through the South, going from Louisiana to South Carolina, we stopped at the beautiful state park in Florida called Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park. It was so lush everywhere. We boarded a pontoon boat in the water and saw alligators, some as big as 15 feet, turtles, and manatees! Wakulla Springs SP is one of the world’s largest and deepest freshwater springs. At the park you can also visit the 1930s Spanish style lodge. I took advantage of the soda bar when I was there and got a root beer float. Perfect treat for a warm day. Fun fact: Tarzan’s Secret Treasure (1941) and Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954) were both filmed here.

In another trip to Florida I was in Fort Lauderdale and ventured to the Keys, stopping at Biscayne National Park and Everglades National Park. Sadly we didn't make it to Dry Tortugas National Park because we didn't have enough time, so we'll have to go back to Florida again. Also, I did go to Disney World, technically, but I was 2 years old. So I'll have to make a trip to Orlando, Florida, as well.

---

If you want to visit Florida, here's a list of possible things to see and do:

1. Walt Disney World Resort: Visit the magical world of Disney at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando. Explore the various theme parks, including the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios, and Disney's Animal Kingdom.

2. Miami Beach: Relax on the sandy beaches of Miami Beach and soak up the sun. Explore the vibrant Art Deco district of South Beach, with its colorful buildings, trendy restaurants, and nightlife.

3. Everglades National Park: Discover the unique ecosystem of the Everglades National Park. Take an airboat tour through the swamps and marshes to spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife.

4. Key West: Explore the laid-back island vibes of Key West, the southernmost city in the continental United States. Visit the historic sites, enjoy water sports like snorkeling and diving, and watch the sunset at Mallory Square.

5. Kennedy Space Center: Learn about the history of space exploration at the Kennedy Space Center on the Space Coast. Tour the visitor complex, see actual spacecraft and rockets, and even meet astronauts.

6. St. Augustine: Step back in time in the historic city of St. Augustine, the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the continental United States. Explore the Castillo de San Marcos, St. George Street, and the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park.

7. Florida Keys: Drive along the scenic Overseas Highway and explore the beautiful islands of the Florida Keys. Stop at Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, and other charming communities, and enjoy snorkeling, fishing, and boating along the way.

8. Universal Orlando Resort: Experience thrills and excitement at the Universal Orlando Resort. Explore Universal Studios Florida, Universal's Islands of Adventure, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

9. Miami Art Scene: Immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene of Miami. Visit the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM), the Wynwood Walls street art district, and Art Basel Miami Beach (held annually in December).

10. Gulf Coast Beaches: Relax on the pristine beaches of Florida's Gulf Coast. Destinations like Clearwater Beach, Sarasota, and Naples offer white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and stunning sunsets.

If you want more suggestions on what to do in Florida, I suggest you check out their tourism website.