10 reasons to visit florida

10 reasons to visit Florida now

Fun things to do, beautiful things to see, good food to eat—Florida remains the vacation kingdom with good reason.

There’s never been a better time to get down to Florida. Everything you need to recharge is there—sunny sands, blues skies, subtropical wilderness, and affordable luxury. Book ahead and find deals; that trip-of-a-lifetime could become an annual tradition.

Get Down to the Glades

Across the tip of the Florida peninsula, vast plains of saw grass are dotted with tree islands like ships in a verdant sea known as the Everglades . On a visit to Everglades National Park, you will be entering the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. That means a million and a half acres of dank mystery and wonder, from mirror-water haunts of rare and endangered species to swamp trails that invite exploration. Wood storks, American crocodile, and panthers have homes here among ghost orchids and old-growth cypress that live on, deep in the Everglades’ watery mazes.

Take a tram tour for sightings of wading birds and alligators. Get even closer to nature on a bicycle or paddling trail. Or simply cruise through on a scenic drive, stopping for the overlooks and leg-stretcher trails.

Sarasota: Perfect City

One of Florida’s finest cities, Sarasota pleases the eye in more ways than one. Its world-class art museum, clean downtown, attractive landscaping, and pristine beaches add up to a trip-worthy destination.

The family who created America’s most famous circus happened to love art. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art holds the world’s largest collection of Rubens’ paintings and many other treasures, including old circus costumes, wagons, and the world’s largest miniature circus.

In town, shop the chic boutiques, savor a meal at one of many fine restaurants, and then head over to the shore for a day of Gulf Coast fun.

Tour the Edison-Ford Estates

When America’s great inventors needed to get away, they came to Florida. But they didn’t just lie out in the sun. Thomas Edison and Henry Ford were good friends who had winter homes next to each other, and they stayed busy tinkering. Visit their homes in Fort Myers to see what genius does on vacation.

Tour Edison’s 1920s research laboratory and watch demonstrations that use his old equipment. Wander the 25-acre botanical garden that began as an experiment. It has more than 1,000 plant varieties from around the world, including a banyan tree Edison and friends imported for rubber experiments; it’s now an acre wide.

Beaches, Beaches

The sunny state’s Gulf coast beaches have variety to suit every taste. Do you crave powdery white shoreline and seashells galore? In the mood for Gulf sunsets and gentle waves? Looking for seclusion, or a place to party? Fishing or snorkeling? The Gulf shore has it all, so it’s no wonder that these beaches are consistently ranked among the best in the world.

Lido Key near Sarasota is a mecca for eco-tourism and sunset cruises; dolphin watching, sailing, and deep sea fishing also get top billing here. And the seafood is Gulf fresh. Go to St. Armands Circle for the best shopping around, and to Mote Marine Aquarium for nose-to-nose encounters with underwater life. Not far south, take a walk on lovely Venice Beach and find fossilized shark’s teeth.

Explore Florida’s Diverse History

Who are the Floridians? They are the descendants of Timucuan, Miccosukee, and Seminole, European explorers and freed slaves, Cuban and Haitian refugees. Their art and architecture, language and food have mixed through the centuries to present a place like no other. They welcome you to their museums, parks, and communities, where you can delve into the fascinating story of Florida.

Earthen temple mounds and shell mounds dot the Florida peninsula; archaeological parks show evidence of Native American occupation dating back to 200 B.C. Spanish missions, settled in the late 17 th century, are even older than those in California.

To see a living Native American community, visit the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation in South Florida. An impressive modern theater and museum tell the story of the Seminole, and a mile-long boardwalk weaves through a 60-acre cypress dome to an area where demonstrators exhibit traditional craftmaking. Try such local delicacies as frybread, frog legs, and gator tail nuggets.

St. Petersburg for the Love of Art

Not to be overlooked, St. Petersburg has a number of wonderful surprises. Glimmering between the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay, the town holds title to “most consecutive days with sunshine” at 768 days.

The Salvador Dali Museum has the largest collection of Dali’s work outside Spain. Bold colors work well in waterfront Florida. Come for a visit and prepare to be awed by the depth of this flamboyant surrealist, who had far more than dripping clocks in his oeuvre.

Elsewhere in town, check out the charming array of shops, restaurants, and bars. Among other great museums, the Chihuly Collection dazzles with colorful glasswork, and the Museum of Fine Arts showcases an impressive range of world masterpieces.

Paddling into the Wild

With so much of Florida about water, it would be a shame not to see it at water level. Get intimate with natural Florida in a kayak or canoe and experience the place the way the early explorers did.

Weedon Island Preserve shelters 3,190 acres of protected coastal wilderness in St. Petersburg. Take a leisurely two- or four-mile trail to discover the natural world flourishing on the edge of a city. South of Sarasota, Charlotte Harbor is the state’s second-largest estuary at 270 square miles. Its 830 miles of shoreline embrace a network of barrier islands, river passages, tropical hammock, pine flatwoods, freshwater marsh, and mangrove forests. Paddlers delight in finding new scenes worthy of camera, notebook, and memory.

Florida is a paddlers paradise—all you need are strong arms and the spirit of adventure.

Soothe Your Soul at Sanibel and Captiva

It’s hard to find a better strand of peaceful beauty than Sanibel and Captiva Islands. The sun-blessed coastline makes a graceful, 50-mile curve into the Gulf of Mexico. Developed just enough to provide a range of resorts from family to luxury, this double hit of barrier island life add to a pretty perfect vacation destination.

Most people head immediately to the beach, kick off their shoes, and squeak through soft white sand. In no time, they’re doing the Sanibel shuffle—walking slowly, head down, looking for the likes of sand dollars, whelks, and calico scallops. The shelling here is world famous. Take a tour with scientists from the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum, and see the museum’s hundreds of shells from around the globe.

Just north, Captiva has its own magical rhythm. Try sailing, biking, birding, and any number of water activities.

Visit Other Great Parks

The Everglades isn’t the only great park in Florida. With 200 state and national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges to choose from, you can design your own roster of activities and sights, and then find a park to match.

Big Cypress National Preserve protects more than 729,000 acres of swamp. Its tropical and temperate plant communities harbor a rich tapestry of wildlife, including the elusive Florida panther. The preserve also serves as a vital buffer for the neighboring Everglades. Explore its hidden nature by kayak or foot. Over on Sanibel Island, the Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge supports a staggering number of wild creatures in its bogs, canals, inlets, mangrove swamps, and upland forests. Look for roseate spoonbills and snowy egrets. Inland from Sarasota, Myakka River State Park is one of Florida’s oldest and largest state parks. A 40-mile trail winds through the wilderness, home to thousands of birds, gators, and deer.

Peaceful Naples and Marco Island

For a taste of both sophistication and wild Florida, head down along the Gulf of Mexico to Naples , a cocktail of resort and remote. Families, romantic vacationers, and everybody in-between will find a welcoming harbor. Nature lovers fall for the 15-acre Naples Nature Center, and beach aficionados take naturally to Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Recreation Area. Shoppers should head to the swank galleries and boutiques of Third Street South and Fifth Avenue South.

Marco Island spoils visitors with luxury resorts, to-die-for beaches, and lush parks. The only developed of the Ten Thousand Islands , Marco features a tropical climate and a laidback lifestyle. Take a walk into the wild on the Briggs Nature Center’s half-mile boardwalk. Nearby Collier-Seminole State Park offers more than 6,000 acres of wild Florida; a boat tour is a must.

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10 Reasons to Visit Florida in 2024

• February 5, 2024
• Beach Escapes

Florida, the Sunshine State, is a dream destination for many travelers. With its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and diverse attractions, it’s no wonder that millions of people flock to Florida each year. If you’re considering a trip to this vibrant state, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll give you 10 compelling reasons why you should visit Florida in 2024. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Quick Answer

Looking for a quick summary of why you should visit Florida in 2024? Here are the top 10 reasons:

• Explore the stunning Everglades National Park.
• Immerse yourself in the vibrant city of Sarasota.
• Step back in time at the Edison-Ford Estates.
• Relax on Florida’s breathtaking beaches.
• Dive into Florida’s rich history and culture.
• Discover the art scene in St. Petersburg.
• Paddle through Florida’s wild waterways.
• Find serenity on Sanibel and Captiva Islands.
• Visit other incredible parks and preserves.
• Experience the tranquility of Naples and Marco Island.

Now, let’s dive deeper into each of these reasons and explore what makes Florida a must-visit destination.

Quick Tips and Facts

• Best time to visit: The best time to visit Florida is during the winter months (December to February) when the weather is mild and pleasant.
• Must-try food: Don’t miss out on trying Florida’s famous key lime pie and fresh seafood.
• Transportation: Renting a car is the most convenient way to get around Florida, as public transportation options can be limited.
• Safety: Be aware of the local wildlife, such as alligators, and follow safety guidelines when exploring Florida’s natural areas.

Explore the Stunning Everglades National Park

✅ Everglades National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States, home to a diverse range of plant and animal species. From rare birds like wood storks to elusive panthers, the Everglades offers a unique opportunity to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.

✅ Activities in the Everglades are plentiful. Take a tram tour to explore the park’s vast expanse, go biking along scenic trails, paddle through picturesque waterways, or embark on a scenic drive to soak in the beauty of this unique ecosystem.

✅ Don’t forget to visit Shark Valley, a popular spot within the park known for its abundance of wildlife and stunning views. Take a tram ride or rent a bike to explore the area at your own pace.

Pro Tip: For an unforgettable experience, consider taking an airboat tour through the Everglades. These high-speed boat rides will take you deep into the heart of the marshes, offering a thrilling and up-close encounter with the wildlife.

CHECK PRICE on: Airboat Tours | Tram Tours

Immerse Yourself in the Vibrant City of Sarasota

✅ Sarasota is a hidden gem on Florida’s Gulf Coast, offering a perfect blend of culture, nature, and relaxation. The city is known for its pristine beaches, world-class art museums, and fine dining options.

✅ One of the highlights of Sarasota is the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. This impressive museum houses a vast collection of art, including works by renowned artists like Rubens. Explore the museum’s galleries, stroll through the beautiful gardens, and don’t miss the opportunity to see the circus memorabilia, a nod to the Ringling family’s circus legacy.

✅ When you’re ready to hit the beach, head to Siesta Key Beach, known for its powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters. Spend the day sunbathing, swimming, or engaging in water activities like paddleboarding or snorkeling.

Pro Tip: For a unique experience, visit the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota. This tropical oasis is home to a stunning collection of orchids and other exotic plants.

CHECK PRICE on: Sarasota Hotels | John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art

Step Back in Time at the Edison-Ford Estates

✅ If you’re a history buff, a visit to the Edison-Ford Estates in Fort Myers is a must. These estates were once the winter homes of two American icons, Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. Explore their beautifully preserved homes, laboratories, and botanical gardens, and gain insight into their remarkable lives and inventions.

✅ Take a guided tour to learn more about the innovative work of Edison and Ford, and stroll through the lush gardens that showcase a variety of exotic plants and trees. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the famous banyan tree, a massive tree with aerial roots that create a magical canopy.

Pro Tip: Check the schedule for special events and exhibitions at the Edison-Ford Estates. From antique car shows to botanical lectures, there’s always something interesting happening on the grounds.

CHECK PRICE on: Edison-Ford Estates Tours

Relax on Florida’s Breathtaking Beaches

✅ Florida is renowned for its stunning beaches, and no visit to the Sunshine State is complete without some beach time. Whether you’re looking for powdery white sands, secluded coves, or vibrant beach towns, Florida has it all.

✅ From the famous Miami Beach to the serene beauty of the Florida Keys, there’s a beach for every taste. Clearwater Beach on the Gulf Coast is known for its crystal-clear waters and lively atmosphere, while Cocoa Beach on the Atlantic Coast offers great surfing opportunities.

✅ For a unique beach experience, head to Lido Key or Venice Beach. These beaches are perfect for eco-tourism, sunset cruises, and fossil hunting. Keep an eye out for prehistoric shark teeth that wash up on the shores.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to pack your sunscreen, beach towel, and a good book for a relaxing day under the Florida sun.

CHECK PRICE on: Beach Essentials

Dive into Florida’s Rich History and Culture

✅ Florida has a rich and diverse history that spans centuries. From Native American sites to Spanish missions, there are countless opportunities to explore the state’s cultural heritage.

✅ Visit the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation to learn about the Native American communities that have called Florida home for generations. Immerse yourself in their traditions, crafts, and history.

✅ Explore the Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine, the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. This historic site offers a glimpse into Florida’s colonial past and the struggles for control of the region.

Pro Tip: Consider taking a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical significance of these sites and gain a deeper understanding of Florida’s cultural heritage.

CHECK PRICE on: St. Augustine Tours

Discover the Art Scene in St. Petersburg

✅ St. Petersburg is a vibrant city on Florida’s Gulf Coast, known for its thriving art scene. The city is home to numerous art galleries, museums, and public art installations, making it a paradise for art enthusiasts.

✅ The Salvador Dali Museum is a must-visit attraction in St. Petersburg. It houses the largest collection of Dali’s works outside of Spain, including his iconic surrealist masterpieces. Explore the museum’s galleries and immerse yourself in the world of this visionary artist.

✅ Take a stroll along the city’s Central Avenue, where you’ll find a vibrant street art scene. Admire the colorful murals and unique sculptures that add a touch of creativity to the city’s streets.

Pro Tip: Check the schedule for art events and festivals happening in St. Petersburg during your visit. From art walks to live performances, there’s always something happening in this artistic city.

CHECK PRICE on: Salvador Dali Museum

Paddle Through Florida’s Wild Waterways

✅ Florida is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, and one of the best ways to experience its natural beauty is by paddling through its waterways. From calm rivers to scenic coastal areas, there are endless opportunities for kayaking and canoeing.

✅ Weedon Island Preserve near St. Petersburg is a popular spot for paddling. Explore the mangrove tunnels, spot wildlife like dolphins and manatees, and enjoy the tranquility of this pristine natural area.

✅ Charlotte Harbor is another fantastic paddling destination. This estuary is home to diverse ecosystems and offers stunning views of the surrounding mangroves and wildlife.

Pro Tip: If you’re new to paddling, consider taking a guided tour or renting equipment from a reputable outfitter. They can provide you with the necessary gear and expert guidance to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

CHECK PRICE on: Kayak Rentals

Find Serenity on Sanibel and Captiva Islands

✅ If you’re looking for a peaceful and idyllic beach getaway, look no further than Sanibel and Captiva Islands. These neighboring islands are known for their pristine beaches, abundant seashells, and laid-back atmosphere.

✅ Spend your days strolling along the shell-covered shores, collecting unique seashells, and enjoying the gentle waves. Sanibel Island is particularly famous for its shelling opportunities, as it is located along the “Sanibel Stoop,” a term used to describe the posture of beachgoers searching for shells.

✅ Outdoor enthusiasts will also appreciate the islands’ nature preserves and wildlife refuges. Explore the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island, home to a variety of bird species and other wildlife.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to bring a mesh bag or bucket for collecting seashells, as well as a guidebook to help you identify the different types of shells you find.

CHECK PRICE on: Sanibel Island Hotels | Captiva Island Hotels

Visit Other Incredible Parks and Preserves

✅ Florida is home to a multitude of parks and preserves, each offering its own unique natural beauty and outdoor activities. While the Everglades is a must-visit, there are many other parks worth exploring.

✅ Head to Big Cypress National Preserve, a vast wilderness area that is part of the Greater Everglades ecosystem. Here, you can hike through cypress swamps, spot wildlife, and immerse yourself in the beauty of this untouched landscape.

✅ Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Explore the refuge’s trails, take a guided tour, or go wildlife spotting from the comfort of your car along the scenic drive.

✅ Myakka River State Park near Sarasota is another gem worth visiting. This expansive park offers opportunities for hiking, biking, boating, and wildlife viewing. Don’t miss the chance to take an airboat tour on the park’s namesake river.

Pro Tip: Check the park’s website for any guided tours or special events happening during your visit. These can enhance your experience and provide valuable insights into the park’s unique ecosystems.

CHECK PRICE on: Big Cypress National Preserve Tours | Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge Tours | Myakka River State Park Tours

Experience the Tranquility of Naples and Marco Island

✅ Naples and Marco Island offer a mix of luxury, natural beauty, and relaxation. These destinations are perfect for those seeking a peaceful and upscale beach vacation.

✅ Naples is known for its upscale resorts, world-class golf courses, and pristine beaches. Spend your days lounging by the pool, playing a round of golf, or exploring the charming downtown area with its boutiques and art galleries.

✅ Marco Island, located just south of Naples, is a tropical paradise with beautiful beaches and a laid-back atmosphere. Enjoy water activities like boating, fishing, or simply basking in the sun on the island’s sandy shores.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a sunset cruise from Naples or Marco Island. Witnessing the vibrant colors of the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico is a truly magical experience.

CHECK PRICE on: Naples Hotels | Marco Island Hotels

Why do people want to go to Florida?

People are drawn to Florida for its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, diverse attractions, and vibrant cities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an outdoor adventure, or a cultural experience, Florida has something to offer for everyone.

Read more about “How Many Days is Good for a Florida Vacation? …”

Why is Florida a good state to visit?

Florida is a good state to visit because of its year-round warm weather, stunning natural beauty, and diverse range of attractions. From the pristine beaches to the unique ecosystems of the Everglades, Florida offers a wide variety of experiences for travelers.

Read more about “10 Best Places in Florida for Young Adults to Vacation …”

Who should visit Florida?

Florida is a destination that appeals to a wide range of travelers. Families will love the theme parks and family-friendly attractions, outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the state’s natural beauty and outdoor activities, and culture lovers will appreciate the art, history, and vibrant cities.

Read more about “Is Florida Good for Tourists? …”

What is Florida unique for?

Florida is unique for its diverse ecosystems, including the Everglades, which is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. The state is also known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant art scene, and rich history and culture.

Read more about “Where is the Most Relaxing Place in Florida on the Beach …”

Florida is a destination that offers something for everyone. From the stunning natural beauty of the Everglades to the vibrant art scene in St. Petersburg, there are countless reasons to visit this diverse state. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on the beach, adventure in the wild, or a cultural experience, Florida has it all. So start planning your trip to Florida in 2024 and get ready for an unforgettable vacation!

Recommended Links

• Beach Escapes : Discover more about Florida’s beautiful beaches and beach destinations.
• Budget-friendly Trips : Find tips and recommendations for budget-friendly travel in Florida.
• Romantic Getaways : Plan the perfect romantic getaway in Florida.
• Local Insights : Get insider tips and recommendations from Florida residents.

Reference Links

• National Geographic – 10 Reasons to Visit Florida Now : Learn more about the top reasons to visit Florida according to National Geographic.
• Everglades National Park : Official website of Everglades National Park.
• John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art : Official website of the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art.
• Edison and Ford Winter Estates : Official website of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates.
• Salvador Dali Museum : Official website of the Salvador Dali Museum.
• Big Cypress National Preserve : Official website of Big Cypress National Preserve.
• Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge : Official website of Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
• Myakka River State Park : Official website of Myakka River State Park.
• Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau : Official website of the Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Join Jacob and his family on an exhilarating journey through the sun-kissed landscapes of Florida, where they've been exploring the hidden gems of the Sunshine State for over a decade. Their passion for adventure drives them to uncover the most captivating spots, often guided by tales and tips from locals who've called Florida home for generations. At 'Florida Getaways', we're not just sharing destinations; we're weaving stories that transform your Florida vacation into an unforgettable tapestry of experiences. Get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime with our insider's guide to Florida's best-kept secrets!

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July 09, 2021

4 minute read

Top Reasons to Visit Florida (& How to Make It Happen)

For decades, Florida has been a mainstay of American tourism. Drawing a record 131 million million visitors in 2019, it has remained one of the most popular states to travel to, and for many good reasons . 

Florida is home to hundreds of miles of beaches, a variety of renowned amusement parks and national parks, vibrant and lively nightlife, and a vast array of unique tourist attractions that make it a one-of-a-kind vacation destination. No matter what kind of trip you’re looking to embark on, here are the reasons you should consider Florida as your next destination.

Top 3 Reasons to Visit Florida

Beautiful beaches .

Florida is famous for its amazing beaches, and with miles of crystal clear waters, soft sand, and picturesque views as far as the eye can see, it’s no wonder.

Each beach has its own distinct vibe, whether you’re after the hustle and bustle of South Beach or Venice Beach, or a more quiet and secluded place for escape, such as Lido Key or Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. 

Even if you’d prefer to avoid the water, many of The Sunshine State’s beaches offer great biking and hiking trails, and boardwalks with fantastic dining and shopping selections.

What better way to enjoy this vacation paradise than by lounging by the sun and sea? No matter what you’re looking for, you have countless options to choose from to enjoy an amazing view, great weather, and relaxing vibes.

Theme Parks Galore

Florida is widely considered one of the premier destinations for family vacations in the country, and with 10 major theme parks and hundreds of smaller, kid-friendly attractions scattered throughout the state, it’s no wonder that families flock to cities like Orlando in droves every year. 

With Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, SeaWorld, LegoLand and Busch Gardens, there are almost too many fun and engaging activities to fit into one trip. And with new and highly anticipated additions to the theme park roster, such as Disney’s Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and upcoming Super Nintendo World heading to Universal Studios, there are even more reasons than ever before to book your visit. 

Each park provides unforgettable activities and adventures for kids of all ages. And far from just being a children’s paradise, there are plenty of memorable activities and experiences for adults to enjoy as well, such as EPCOT, Islands of Adventure, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. 

Thriving Nightlife

While it may be known as The Sunshine State, it’s only when night rolls around that parts of Florida truly comes alive.   

With plenty of clubs, bars, concert and entertainment venues, and more, Florida's nightlife scene is legendary , and if you’re looking to indulge in some drinking, dancing and night time exploring, there’s no better place than Miami.

Bursting with color and culture, The Magic City is a goldmine for urban exploring and late- night shenanigans. Enjoy a rooftop bar crawl, tour the unique art deco architecture unique to the area, peruse the boardwalk, or check out a concert. In Miami, the sky's the limit! 

There are many more reasons to visit, such as: 

Vibrant culture .

Florida is home to a phenomenal culture and arts scene, with nearly every major city dotted with concert venues, art galleries, museums, and more, enabling visitors to really immerse themselves in the unique environment.

Wonderful Weather 

Famous for its welcoming climate, Florida on average, maintains warm temperatures throughout the entire year, with only slightly lower temperatures during the winter. Summers tend to be long, warm and humid, lasting from May to October, while the winters throughout the state are quite short and dry, spanning December to February. Visitors flock here to take full advantage of the tropical climate in the winter months. 

World-Class Shopping 

Florida has some of the country’s largest and best malls and shopping centers, all across the state, so if shopping is your forte, look no further. 

Rich History

Explore the rich and diverse history of Florida, along with the art, architecture, and food that truly makes this a wonderful and unique place to visit. 

Natural Wonders 

Florida boasts a variety of wholly unique wildlife and natural wonders. With 200 state and national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges, including the Florida Everglades, there are ample opportunities to really embrace the beauty and majesty of nature.

Let InteleTravel Plan Your Next Phenomenal Florida Vacation

Now that you know all the reasons why Florida is such an iconic vacation destination, contact an InteleTravel Advisor today to help make it happen. With so many factors and considerations that go into planning a Florida trip, working with an InteleTravel Advisor is the best way to arrange your perfect vacation.

InteleTravel Advisors are travel experts who will work with you to help organize a completely customized itinerary based on your interests and budget, free of charge . 

So, what are you waiting for? The Sunshine State awaits!  

Connect With an InteleTravel Advisor Today , for Free! 

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11 Reasons Why You Should Visit Orlando

With 233 sunny days a year, thrilling theme parks, exciting sports and world-class spas, it’s no wonder Orlando, Florida was recently named the number one most visited city in the U.S. by Travel Pulse . To really grasp all that the city has to offer, install the Visit Orlando App , but in the meantime, here are our top 11 reasons why you should make Orlando your next vacation destination.

Be a kid again.

While there is nothing quite like seeing the magic through a child’s eyes, even grown-ups can be kids again at one of Orlando’s many theme parks . Walt Disney World ® alone boasts four uniquely different parks, while thrill seekers and Harry Potter lovers alike will marvel at Universal Studios and Universal Islands of Adventure ™. SeaWorld® Orlando’s more relaxed pace and animal exhibits make it an ideal option for families, big and small. And for those who are looking to escape the heat, cool off at one of the many water parks , such as Universal’s brand-new Volcano Bay ™. Orlando has something for the kid in everyone!

There’s always something new

If you happen to be at Walt Disney World’s® Epcot® between August 31, 2017, and November 13, 2017, expect to be taken on a gastronomical experience as flavors of the countries come alive. Sample delicacies and libations from around the globe, attend a beverage boot camp or the Eat to the Beat concert series. But you don’t have to visit Epcot to taste a variety of cuisine from around the world.

Nearby, International Drive plays hosts to a variety of restaurants such as the Greek, Taverna Opa ; Ethiopian, Nile Ethiopian Restaurant ; or the Brazilian Pão Gostoso Bakery . With such amazing culinary experiences on offer, it’s no surprise that WalletHub recently named it the Best Foodie City in the nation .

If you are looking to immerse yourself in the many cultural offerings of the City Beautiful, catch live music, Broadway shows, ballet, orchestra and even dance performances at the elaborate Dr. Philips Center for the Performing Arts . Or head to one of the many museums such as the Orlando Museum of Art or the unique Museum of Osteology .

Not only does Orlando offer a bevy of entertainment and attractions but an abundance of natural beauty as well. From pristine beaches , a little over an hour away to the more nearby nature parks, experience the untouched beauty that the city has to offer.

See what Florida was like years ago when the Timucuan Indians roamed the lands at the Wekiwa Springs State Park . Here you can swim in the crystal clear waters of the springs, which stay at a refreshing 72°F (22.2°C) year-round. Or head to the nearby Wekiva Island , rent a cabana and spend the day kayaking, listening to live music and grabbing a cold beer at Tooting Otter , the islands indoor/outdoor bar.

Adventure lovers can come up close and personal with live gators, the touristy way, at Gatorland , or experience these majestic creatures in their own environment at Black Hammock Adventures . If you prefer exploring along waterways, the Winter Park Boat Tour is a great way to see some of the area’s most beautiful, and pricey, real estate.

The much-anticipated 25,500-seat Orlando City Soccer Stadium , home of Orlando City SC’s Major League team, the National Women’s Soccer League’s Orlando Pride, and Orlando City B, recently made its debut in the city. U.S. Tennis Association (USTA) has also opened a new National Campus in the Lake Nona area of Orlando. The 65-acre complex is the largest tennis facility in the world, according to the USTA, encompassing 100 courts (hard and clay) and a multi-use building that includes a pro shop, fitness center, locker rooms, cafeteria and players’ lounge. But for those who would rather participate than be spectators, Orlando is home to over 170 golf courses. And, if you are really looking for a white-knuckled experience, get behind the wheel of a NASCAR race car at the Richard Petty Driving Experience at the Daytona International Speedway.

In 2016, Forbes Magazine named Orlando the most affordable destination in the country. Indeed, the city offers plenty of ways to save, including a free Visit Orlando App (available in Apple App and Google Play stores) with deals, assistance and even games to enhance any trip. There is also a host of activities in Orlando that range from free to under $25; these include Kings Bowl Orlando , The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art , Ripley’s Believe It or Not!® Orlando Odditorium , SAK Comedy Lab , Madame Tussauds , and The Coca-Cola® Orlando Eye .

Great for multi-generational families

Travel Pulse recently named Orlando an up-and-coming destination for multi-generational travel in 2017. Many of Orlando’s accommodations have family suites, including Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort , whose suites can accommodate up to six guests and feature a kitchenette. In order to provide all the comforts of home, the brand-new Grove Resort & Spa offers two- and three-bedroom residential-style suites that come with full kitchens, washers and dryers, plus multiple bathrooms.

Orlando’s attractions also offer something for everyone in the family. Universal Orlando Resort’s™ new Skull Island: Reign of Kong and Walt Disney World® Resort’s newly revamped Soarin’ Around the World at Epcot® aren’t wild rides, yet both of these attractions and many others at the parks are exciting fun for all.

Orlando for couples

Orlando is widely recognized as a must-see destination for families, but couples can find romance and memorable experiences just for them. In fact, Orlando was one of the top two Best Places to Get Married in 2017, according to WalletHub. Ivanhoe Village , named one of the top five most romantic main streets in the U.S., lies just two miles (3.2 kilometers) from downtown Orlando. Start your evening with dinner at Mesa 21 and catch the sunset over Lake Ivanhoe; grab a craft beer at The Thirsty Topher , and end the night with a seductive and decadent journey at Better Than Sex, the adult café offering sweet treats and chocolate-dipped wine glasses. If your journey takes you downtown, enjoy an intimate meal at newcomer DoveCote , an inviting French-style brasserie.

Relaxation and wellness

Say om because according to WalletHub , Orlando is one of the top five Best Cities for an Active Lifestyle for 2017. That may surprise many people, but the destination offers a plethora of unique ways to explore the city while also recharging and focusing on improving physical fitness. From tennis lessons at the new USTA national training campus and paddleboarding in a natural habitat to biking the West Orange Trail and enjoying a signature spa treatment at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World® Resort , there is a lot to make anyone happy. Orlando’s dining scene also offers a variety of healthy and fresh farm-to-table fare, so even vegetarians, vegans , and diet-conscious visitors can find something to elevate their Orlando experience.

Whether your idea of a night out consists of swanky cocktail bars, dancing the night away or a cozy pub, Orlando has a copious amount of options. If you are looking to stay near the resorts, grab a pint at Raglan Road™ Irish Pub at Disney Springs or dance to two levels of music at the lavish ultra lounge, the Red Coconut Club ™ at Universal CityWalk™.

Venture to downtown Orlando’s Church Street District and grab an expertly made cocktail at the swanky Bosendorfer Lounge , or for the budget conscious, don’t miss out on Cahoots , home of nickel beer Wednesdays. But for the “real” Orlando experience, see where the locals hang; the Mills 50 District packs an enclave of bars, such as Wally’s Mills Avenue Liquors, The Guest House , and The Thirsty Topher, in a walkable couple of miles.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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FloridaEscape

Why you should visit florida.

Looking for the perfect place to visit where you can have an amazing and memorable vacation? If that’s the case, then Florida is one of the perfect destinations that you should include in your list. Read on to learn more about why you should visit Florida.

Florida, as you probably know is named the Sunshine State and considered the home to Disney World. This place, on the other hand, offers the ideal outlet for those looking for an escape from the winter chills and those who want to spend quality time with their loved ones and friends.

From theme parks and beaches to wildlife, the fun and exciting experience that Florida can give you are limitless. Whether you’re a history lover, nature lover, sporty, or a beach buff, here are the reasons why you should consider visiting Florida.

Reasons Why You Should Visit Florida

1.  great culture and arts.

Florida is one of the places that is lined with entertainment venues and museums. When you go to this destination, you will be able to grab a ticket for dinner theater, Broadway-style shows, concerts, and among others in various major cities including Jacksonville , Tallahassee , Orlando, Miami , Sarasota , and Tampa . Furthermore, you can also visit cultural sites like the remarkable art museum, aviation museums, history museums, and even science museums.

2.  Beautiful Beaches

This is perhaps the most common reasons why you should visit Florida. With Florida’s amazing beaches, you can enjoy the warm water and soft sand, and watch the beautiful sunset.

In case you didn’t know, the beaches found in the Sunshine State are many but quite varied. From Siesta Key beaches near Sarasota to Tony South Beach located in Miami, you have tons of options to choose from. Wherever you go, you can easily find a beach in Florida where you can enjoy the view, sun, and of course, swim.

3.   Fantastic Theme Parks

If you love going to theme parks, you will never go wrong with Florida. In point of fact, Orlando is known as the world capital of theme parks. A lot of tourists and travelers choose to visit the place for this reason. In Orlando, you will be able to see 4 theme parks and one which is the Walt Disney World complex that can offer you an extraordinary experience. On the other hand, make sure to include Tampa along with its Busch Gardens Africa in your list. Here,y you will able to enjoy breathtaking coasters and even see the wildlife closely.

4. Visit Florida to Enjoy A Wonderful Nightlife and Nightclubs

At Florida, parties never stop. For example, the Miami Beach is popularly known for its impressive nightclubs like E11EVEN, Story, Club space, and LIV that operates 24/7. On the other hand, once the theme parks were closed, Orlando’s nightlife is beating with high-end bars, dance clubs, as well as lounges in Universal Studios City Walk, Downtown Orlando’s Orange Avenue, and Disney’s Pleasure Island.

5.  Diverse History

When you visit Florida you will get to know more about its diverse history. Floridians, for your information, are the generation of Seminole, Timicuan, and Miccosukee, freed slaves and European explorers, Haitian and Cuban exiles. In addition to that their food, language, architecture, and art have mixed throughout the years in order to present a destination like no other. Nevertheless, if you want to see a living community of Native Americans, consider visiting the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation that can be found in South Florida. What’s more, don’t forget to try their local delicacies like gator tail nuggets, frybread, and frog legs.

6.  Prominent Natural Parks and Sites

Another reason to visit Florida is that you will be able to see a lot of natural parks and sites. Mother Earth is very benevolent as it blessed Florida amazing places that people can enjoy such as the vivid Florida Reef and the remarkable Everglades National Park .

Your vacation in this place will not be completed if you do not see the periodic event of swayer butterflies that fly from Mexico and then take a rest at the Gulf Island National Shore. In fact, this only happens once a year and it is something not many persons all over the world will have a chance to experience. Thus if you see this during your visit to Florida, then you so lucky.

7.  Shopping, Shopping, Shopping

In Florida, shops are everywhere. However, despite the fact that a lot of people considered it the synonym of expensiveness, you can find all types of outlets, shops, and malls at a reasonable price. As a matter of fact, some of these shops can be found just outside the South Beach and Miami Beach.

The attractions in Florida are extremely vast. In fact, when you dig the surface, there’s a lot more going on. So if you are planning to have a vacation, don’t think twice and visit Florida. In fact, people who already visited Florida keep coming back year after year since they are fascinated with what this place offers.

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10 Awesome Reasons to Visit Florida

Known as the Sunshine State, Florida has always been a popular vacation destination for Americans and travelers from around the world. With its beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, nature activities, amusement parks, and more, it’s easy to understand why Florida draws over 120 million visitors every year. If you’re considering heading to FL for your next vacation, keep reading for 10 awesome reasons why Florida should be at the top of your destination list.

1. Warm Weather and Beaches 

Of all the reasons to visit Florida, the warm sunny weather and gorgeous beaches might top the list. With almost 1,200 miles of shoreline bordering both the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, you’re never far from a beach. Soak up the sun on the white sandy beaches of Miami, Clearwater, Destin, Panama City, and more. Don’t forget to look into getting to FL for less when you book flights and hotels. 

2. Orlando’s Top Theme Parks

If you love amusement parks, then Orlando is the place to be. Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld, Legoland, and more are found here. These world-famous parks are packed with thrill rides, themed lands, and character experiences that families or couples will enjoy. 

3. Everglades National Park

Visit one of America’s most unique and diverse national parks, Everglades National Park . An outdoors lover’s dream, you can spot alligators, unusual birds, and other wildlife by hiking, canoeing, or taking an eco-tour. As it is not far from Miami, you can easily make it a day trip.

4. Tampa Bay Sports

Tampa has a booming sports scene with the NFL’s Buccaneers, NHL Lightning Championship team , and baseball with the Tampa Bay Rays. Catch an exciting professional game, or head to a sports bar to catch it on the big screens.

5. Kennedy Space Center

Calling all future astronauts and space geeks – you won’t want to miss visiting the Kennedy Space Center near Orlando. Learn about the incredible history of the US space program with exhibits, artifacts, launch center tours, and more.

6. Exciting Nightlife 

If you love to dance, Florida cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Tampa have some of the nation’s hottest and trendiest nightclubs. You’ll find an endless selection of clubs playing top 40 hits, EDM, Latin pop, hip hop, and more.

7. Picturesque Fishing Villages

In addition to the major destinations, slow down and check out Florida’s charming small fishing villages. Some great options to check out for fresh seafood, relaxing beaches, small shops, and local art include Cedar Key on the Gulf Coast or Islamorada in the Florida Keys. 

8. Professional Sports Teams

Cheer for Miami’s top professional baseball team – the Miami Marlins or NBA team – the Miami Heat during the season. Florida also has NFL teams Jacksonville Jaguars and Tampa Bay Buccaneers and three NHL Hockey teams.

9. Delicious Local Cuisine

Get a taste of Florida’s delectable local food options from five-star restaurants to beloved diners. Be sure to sample fresh citrus fruits, seafood caught daily, Cuban sandwiches, Southern comfort food, and the famous Key lime pie. Don’t worry about gaining a few pounds on vacation!  

10. Historical Sites and Museums

History buff? Many visitors don’t realize what a long and fascinating history Florida has. St. Augustine, in northern Florida, is actually the oldest city in the United States, settled by Spain in 1565. Or visit fascinating museums covering the space program, pirates, Spanish forts and more.

From world-renowned attractions to outdoor adventures to incredible beaches, you’ll never run out of things to do in Florida. With a huge variety of destinations and activities, this beautiful state truly offers endless possibilities for your next sunny getaway. So, pack your sunglasses and swimsuit, and come discover the magic of Florida for yourself!

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Top 10 Reasons to Visit Florida - List of Reasons you Should Vacation in Florida this Year

Here is our list of reasons to visit florida:, see our list of free florida brochures, #10 – wildlife.

Where else can you see alligators and tropical birds in the wild.

#9 – Palm Trees

When you are in Florida the palm trees add to your ‘ Ahh… Paradise ’ experience.

#8 – Oranges

Nothing better than a sun ripened orange direct from Florida. Check out places in Florida where you can Pick-Your-Own Florida Oranges

#7 – Outdoor Activities

Why stay inside watching TV all day when you can be out exploring nature parks in Florida.

#6 – The Restaurants

What could be better than outdoor dining all year-long? Combine this with seafood, the beach, and a sunset, and you have a Beautiful Vacation!

#5 – Sunsets

Nothing more beautiful than seeing the sun set in Florida. There are very few states where you can see a sunset on the beach.

#4 – Theme Parks

You know them all: Disney World, Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure, Busch Gardens, and Lego Land ! – View our photos from all of these theme parks!

#3 – The Seafood

If you like seafood then Florida is the place to visit! Scallops, lobster, grouper and shrimp!

#2 – The Weather

Warm and Sunny, or Sunny and Warm. Nothing better than spending a vacation in flip flops and shorts!

#1 – The Beaches

Every coast of Florida has an awesome beach, everywhere from Clearwater Beach to Key West, to Daytona Beach. Most people visiting Florida on a vacation goes to see the beach at least once. Anna Maria Island is a must-see beach on the Gulf Coast .

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10 Reasons to Vacation in Florida

Florida fanatics don't need an excuse to make their way to The Sunshine State for a little R&R, no matter what time of the year it may be. But those who don't know this beautiful southern state as well as those Florida aficionados may not be aware of all the wonderful things waiting for them in the U.S.'s 4th most populous state. There are myriad reasons to vacation in Florida, but here are the top 10...  Drum roll, please!

10. Key Lime Pie - Okay, you can get this pie in some other parts of the South too but this delightful confection had its start in the Keys. In fact, nearly every restaurant in the Keys, especially in Key West, serves this dessert. The key lime tree arrived in here in the 1500s and recipes for the pie began appearing as early as the late 1800s, though it became really popular in the 1930s. Some restaurants make it with graham cracker crust, others with pastry crust. Either way, it's a must-have several times over.

9. Shopping - Every good vacation has a little shopping time built in. The shopping options are many and varied, ranging from upscale shops in ritzy South Beach, Miami and beautiful St. Armand's Circle near Sarasota to popular outlets in Ellenton (near Tampa), St. Augustine, Naples, Florida City, and Orlando. You'll also find everything in between at the many malls that dot the landscape.

8. Nightlife - Nightlife sizzles in many areas. On the east coast, the most popular nightlife spots are Miami Beach, Ft. Lauderdale (especially during Spring Break), West Palm Beach, and the other towns in that vicinity. In central region, the Walt Disney World complex has its Pleasure Island area, where adults can party like it's New Year's Eve each and every night. Universal's CityWalk appeals to nighttime revelers as well, with its many restaurants and bars. On the west coast, Tampa's lively Ybor City area is a favorite with the under-30 crowd, but the remainder of Gulf Coast beach towns also offer a good collection of nightclubs and other popular party spots geared towards various age groups.

7. History - While most people tend to visit here for the recreation, the region's interesting history is one of those side perks guests experience while exploring the region. From the Spanish-style architecture of St. Augustine - the oldest continuously occupied European-established city in the U.S., to Tampa and its ties to the cigar industry, to the rich military history of the Panhandle, Florida excites and educates visitors who enjoy gaining a little knowledge while on vacation.

6. Sports - Major league sports are an important part of life in Florida. With teams like the American League champion Tampa Bay Rays calling Florida home, it's no wonder some guests come here annually just to enjoy the sports that take place their year round, from NFL football to NHL hockey to pre-season and regular season baseball. Add to that all the wonderful college teams and it's easy to understand why this is a sportsman's mecca.

5. Arts and Culture - Florida is lined with museums and entertainment venues up and down both coasts and everywhere in between. Visitors can grab tickets for rock concerts, Broadway-style shows, dinner theater, and much more, in major cities like Tampa, Sarasota, Miami, Orlando, Tallahassee, Jacksonville, and others. Other cultural sites include incredible art museums (check out the Ringling Museum in Sarasota), history museums (found in nearly every county), aviation museums (like the National Museum of Naval Aviation in Pensacola), and science museums (including Tampa's excellent Museum of Science and Industry).

4. National Parks/Natural Sites - Florida is home to about a dozen national parks, monuments, and seashores, all of which are a joy for the visitor to explore. A must-see is expansive Everglades National Park, which occupies much of the southwest portion of the state. The largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S., the Everglades is home to many rare species of animals, birds, and plants, and an airboat ride to view them is a must. State Parks are excellent as well, like Sarasota's Myakka River Park where guests can experience a diverse natural area of wetlands, prairies, hammocks, and pinelands; or the Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park, where visitors can take a prairie buggy ride.

3. Watersports - Visit a state surrounded by water and you'll no doubt want to take advantage of the myriad watersports available there. Take your pick - from calm water-related pursuits like fishing or sailing to more exciting adventures, such as jet skiing, SCUBA diving, kite or wind surfing, wake boarding, parasailing, and more. With 8,500 miles of shoreline, 7,800 lakes, 320 springs and 35 rivers, the possibilities are endless! Many beach hotels offer free use of non-motorized watercraft and outfitters throughout the state peddle charter fishing cruises, dive lessons, and other opportunities to enjoy our warm waters.

2. Theme Parks - Many individuals would dub this their number one reason for vacationing in here. Theme park fanatics, most especially Disney fans, often head to The Sunshine State every year to get their dose of magic. Orlando, of course, is at the center of the theme park kingdom, with the four parks of the Walt Disney World complex, Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, and SeaWorld Orlando. But don't forget about Tampa's Busch Gardens Africa, which is also an excellent amusement park, almost always landing on annual top-10 lists for theme park enthusiasts.

1. Beaches, Beaches, Beaches! - By far, the number one reason for scheduling a Florida vacation is to sit on The Sunshine State's incredible beaches and enjoy the soft sand, warm water, and beautiful sunsets you'll find there. With thousands of miles of coastline, the beaches in Florida are many and quite varied. Choose your favorite - from tony South Beach in Miami, the place to see and be seen; to the white-sanded family-oriented beaches of Siesta Key, near Sarasota. There are also the Panhandle beaches like popular Destin or the beaches of the northeast, including Fernandina and Ponte Vedra, as well as the beaches of the Keys and those in the southwest, like Sanibel and Marco Islands. Wherever you go, you'll find a Florida beach where you can sun, swim, and enjoy the view.

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10 reasons to visit Jacksonville

Oct 31, 2017 • 5 min read

Tucked away in the northeastern corner of one the USA’s most visited states, Jacksonville, Florida’s most populous city, offers all the benefits of a beach town combined with city life and Southern charm. With warm temperatures year round – January’s highs average in the 60s – it’s always a pleasant time to visit.

Tracing history

Jacksonville is part of Florida’s First Coast, the first part of the state settled by non-native people. That not only means its stories date back to before many other places, but it’s also been ruled by a number of countries. History buffs should start their exploration with a visit to Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve , a national park that captures the history of the area’s earliest residents. The area was previously under Spanish and British rule and was also part of the Confederate States of America. Trace those tales with help from the Jacksonville Historical Society .

Museums for all

Museums are a definite perk of city life, and Jacksonville offers them in abundance. You’ll find an institution to entertain and educate nearly any traveler. The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens offers a soothing, inspiring respite from city life. You’ll find more unforgettable art at the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville . Or tickle your creative fancy with another way of thinking at the Museum of Science and History . MOSH is educational, sure, but it’s also interactive and fun for kids and adults alike.

Finding your niche

At 840 square miles, Jacksonville is the largest city by land area in the continental United States. But its system of 500 neighborhoods creates a more intimate sense of place. If you’re looking for art, boutiques and bistros, Five Points , San Marco or Atlantic Beach may be the place to stay. Want a historic flavor? The city includes three designated historic districts : Riverside/Avondale (of which Five Points is part), Springfield and St. Johns Quarter.

All-seasons sports

There are many perks of Jacksonville’s year-round warm weather, including near-unlimited access to sports. The most prominent is the National Football League’s Jacksonville Jaguars . EverBank Field includes unusual amenities such as pools with a gridiron view. Football fans will also love the annual Taxslayer Bowl . Or plan a vacation around the world’s largest outdoor cocktail party: the annual matchup between the University of Florida and the University of Georgia , which dates to 1933. Minor league baseball is also a hit with the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp , a Miami Marlins farm team. Are you more participant than spectator? Get out and run. There’s a race for every season, including Gate River Run , the country’s largest 15k, which attracts 13,000 people annually.

We can’t over emphasize those warm-weather perks, and golf is another. Jacksonville offers convenient access to 70 private and public courses scattered throughout Northeast Florida. These greens combine for a total of 1200 holes, leaving enthusiasts little reason to complain (except when they miss par). Jacksonville’s also a place to watch the greats. The Players Championship at Sawgrass in nearby Ponte Vedra returns every May. You might also plan a side trip to the PGA TOUR Golf Academy , located 30 miles south of downtown in nearby St Augustine .

Beach access

In many other places, you’re forced to choose from big-city amenities or a coastal pace. Not so in Jacksonville. Whether your current view is skyscrapers or sawgrass, you’re never far from the beach . It’s one of the city’s distinctive perks. And there’s a beach for every mood. Take in the charming, small-but-posh town feel of Atlantic and Neptune beaches, or the slower pace of Mickler’s Landing or Huguenot Park. Want every beach-side shop imaginable? Jacksonville Beach is for you.

In addition to the city’s 22 miles of beaches, Jacksonville offers 1100 miles of shoreline. That means every opportunity to get in the water, whether you prefer to surf or swim. It’s a fisher’s dream, with 60 species of fish and nearly every type of fishing you could want. Fly fishing? Yep. Or charter a boat to deeper waters. You can also get up close with aquatic life while scuba diving around 22 reefs. Or rent a kayak – perhaps at the beach’s Hanna Park – and explore the coast at a human-powered pace.

Parks and trails

Hanna Park offers abundant opportunity in a stunning coastal setting, with 20 miles of hiking or biking trails . (Rent a set of wheels at a number of nearby stores.) But it’s only 447 of thousands of acres of area parks. In addition to the city’s 400-plus parks, Jacksonville is home to seven state and two national park properties (the aforementioned Timucuan and Fort Caroline ). There’s nothing to keep you inside besides a little heat – and hey, that’s what all that water is for!

You’re visiting the birthplace of Southern rock, where the Allman Brothers Band was formed and Lynyrd Skynyrd inspired others to turn it up. Welcome to Rockville , an annual celebration of all things rock, has seen artists like Def Leppard, Limp Bizkit and Slash perform. But regardless of the genre you prefer, the city has a festival for you: Jacksonville Jazz Festival is the nation’s second largest, held every May; and Spring the Blues has brought its sound to the beaches of Jacksonville since 1991. With many annual music fests and a plethora of music venues, this city will keep you dancing.

Food and drink

With this much water, it’s no wonder there’s so much delicious seafood. And we’re serious – it’s good. But the culinary scene is also diverse, with dozens of food trucks  and international influence. If you’re looking for a big-name chef, stop by Moxie Kitchen + Cocktails . Chef Tom Gray has been a nominee twice for Best Chef: South in the James Beard Awards. Those who prefer craft beer over cocktails can hop on the Jax Ale Trail for a self-guided tour of seven local breweries. Want to stay in and cook? Swing by the Jacksonville Farmers Market , which dates to 1938 and is the state’s oldest.

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11 Reasons You Must Try Tampa!

August 26, 2016

By ATD’s Florida experts Susan & Simon Veness

It’s a city that sometimes gets overlooked as visitors dash from Orlando to the Gulf Coast beaches (and vice versa), but Tampa is now a major attraction in its own right and we are big fans of spending time there.

Not only is Tampa a happening place purely in city terms – it has seen a lot of development in the past five years and that doesn’t look like slowing down – it is popular with Hollywood, too, after featuring in the recent blockbuster The Infiltrator and the forthcoming Ben Affleck epic, Live By Night.

It is, of course, the home of the wonderful Busch Gardens theme park, as well as Lowry Park Zoo, the Florida Aquarium and the Museum of Science and Industry, but there is certainly more to Tampa than that quartet of attractions – much more. In fact, after a recent weekend visit to sample some of the best it has to offer, we have 11 top reasons to give Tampa a try.

1 – Cigar City Brewery

This is officially Beer City, USA, with 30 (count them, 30!) breweries all producing their own ales and ciders at a wonderful rate. It started in 1896 with the Florida Brewing Company but has mushroomed in recent years, with Cigar City Brewery leading the way. Established in 2008, CCB has become the gold standard for Florida beer-makers, with a fabulous range of regular beers, special releases and even nitro beers. Their best-seller is Jai Alai pale ale, but we sampled four other choices, of which the Goodnightmare Mekong (a Russian imperial stout) and Florida Cracker (a Belgian-style white ale) were superb. They offer regular brewery tours (Wed-Sun; $8/person, including samples and souvenir glass) and their Tasting Room is a great place to visit to sample the wares (11am-11pm).

2 – Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel

Tucked into the excellent International Plaza shopping and dining centre (which boasts the likes of department stores Dillards, Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom, as well as the Cheesecake Factory and Capital Grille), this wonderfully chic hotel is not only a great place to stay for a sophisticated couple’s weekend, but also inspired for food and drink. Main restaurant Pelagia Trattoria is a Mediterranean-style gem, while lobby bar Gabriella’s serves up wonderful cocktails, including a range of Florida distillers. Their daily Cocktail Ritual (Mon-Fri) offers superb free samples of fresh-made drinks and appetisers.

3 – South Howard (that’s SoHo to the locals)

This trendy district in South Tampa has boasted Bern’s Steakhouse – a Florida institution – since 1956, but now features a wide-ranging assortment of bars, shops and restaurants that attract locals and tourists alike. You should definitely find time for Haven, a spin-off from Bern’s, with fabulous cocktails, charcuterie and small-plate dining; the tastebud-tantalising patisserie Chocolate Pi, with its home-made pastries, sodas and coffee; and the outrageously fun 1920s style of Ciro’s Speakeasy and Supper Club, where you have to know the password to get in!

4 – The Epicurean Hotel

Possibly the jewel in the SoHo crown is this foodie haven of a hotel that is both blissfully comfortable (the rooms are gorgeous and there is a food and wine-themed spa!) and truly sensational for lovers of haute cuisine and hand-crafted cocktails. Not only does it feature a theatre kitchen (for demonstrations and classes), the food in main restaurant Elevage is inspired, and rooftop bar The Edge is simply divine for evening drinks (and, yes, more cocktails!). The overall ambience is also so different and distinctive, we would strongly recommend this for anyone looking for a two or three-night grown-ups getaway.

5- The Brew Bus

To get a wider taster of the city’s brewery world, we took the bus – the Brew Bus. This clever idea takes small parties on 3-4-hour tours of some of Tampa’s top ale producers, with the chance to sample a good range of their products, all in the convivial – and safe – confines of their own bus. We visited the SixTen, Southern Brewing and Angry Chair breweries and learned a LOT about the local beer scene, while also sipping some distinctly fine beverages. Oh, and the Brew Bus has its own brewery HQ, too!

6 – Oxford Exchange

Looking for breakfast with a difference? Then head for this converted 1890s stable building (it was part of railroad baron Henry Plant’s estate) close to downtown Tampa. This unique restaurant/bookstore/coffee house/gift shop is fabulous just to look at, but serves up great food in a distinctive environment that is a real one-off by any city standards. Open 7.30am-5.30pm (from 9am on Sat and Sun), it really excels at breakfast, when the array of choices include omelettes, sandwiches and flatbreads, plus some of the most heavenly pancakes you can find!

7 – Henry B. Plant Museum

After breakfast, head across the street to the unmissable former Tampa Bay Hotel (built 1892) that is now part of the University of Tampa as well as a museum dedicated to the railroad tycoon (one of the wealthiest men in the world at the turn of the century). It was home to the Atlantic Coast Line, which drew up right outside the Hotel for its wealthy clients. Among other period curiosities, the hotel boasted the first electric elevator in Florida and now offers a wonderful homage to the man who inspired this amazing level of grandeur.

8 – Le Meridien Hotel

Yes, Tampa really does have some wonderful – and individual – hotels, and this is another fine example. The former 1920s Federal Courthouse building, it has been sympathetically converted so that many of the rooms were former offices and judge’s chambers, with some of the original doors, ceilings and marbled floors. It has Le Meridien’s contemporary style – notably in the lobby, pool area and fitness centre – but retains its period charm and features another eye-catching restaurant in the chic Bizou Brasserie.

9 – Ulele and The Refinery restaurants

Did we mention Tampa is a real foodie city? It’s hard to go far without tripping over somewhere to eat that has its own high-quality style and decadent cuisine. We had lunch at Ulele – the former city water plant, now lovingly given new life – and enjoyed a terrific array of traditional Floridian fare given a real modern twist, along with a range of local craft beers that underline Tampa’s growing brewery claim-to-fame. Its riverside location is also idyllic on a sunny day (which, of course, is often!). For dinner, we headed to The Refinery in the Seminole Heights district, which is another area rapidly developing its food-and-beer culture. Here we sampled another variation on the farm-to-table culinary philosophy, where the menu changes on a week-to-week basis and features “blue collar beers.” The brainchild of Greg and Michelle Baker, it has quickly become a local highlight and is another we would heartily recommend for that ‘something different’ factor (as well as the superb array of fresh veggies on the menu).

10 – Tampa eBoats

When you’re ready to try something different, and get a good look at the city from the water, head to the downtown waterside (next to the Convention Centre) and drive your own boat, your own eBoat, in fact. eBoats Tampa is a unique operation, with a fleet of electric-powered water-craft that can take up to 12 along the Hillsborough River and into the Bay for a look at the cityscape, the elegant Riverwalk and the stunning mansions that line the coast hereabouts. You can hire the eBoats for 1-4 hours and then just poodle around to your heart’s content. It’s definitely life in the [i]slow[/i] lane, though – the boats do a maximum of 6mph!

11 – Ybor City

We finished up with half a day exploring the former Cigar Capital of the World, which is a story in its own right. You could easily spend two days here and not see everything. For our visit, we hooked up with tour guide Dr. Wally Reyes at the Ybor City Museum and spent several hours learning the fascinating background to this Cuban/Spanish/German/Italian-founded neighbourhood (which will be part of Ben Affleck’s film), where they produced a staggering 53,000 cigars a DAY in the 1890s. We had lunch at The Bricks, an eclectic emporium of hearty food, fine coffees, craft beer and, yes, more cocktails, and then visited another of the area’s main features at the huge Coppertail Brewing, where we took the tour, sampled some more (excellent) beer and left feeling this is a real Aladdin’s Cave for ale-lovers. Just to round out the experience, there was still time to visit Florida Cane Distillery, where small-batch vodkas and moonshine are their speciality, and Cigar City Cider & Mead, yet another variation on a delicious home-brewed theme.

Ready to try it yourself? Be sure to check out the  visit Tampa Bay website  for all the details. Us? We’re just going for a little lie down…!

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10 Reasons to Visit the Florida Keys

There are countless reasons to visit the florida keys — around 1,700 of them if you count all the keys here are 10 to get you started..

Unless you live within driving distance or arrive by boat, you will most likely begin your exploration of the Keys by flying into the Miami International Airport (MIA) and renting a car to head south, or by flying into Key West International Airport (EYW), as I did, where a “Welcome to the Conch Republic” sign looms larger than “Welcome to Key West” at the airport’s entrance.

Post-Hurricane Irma Update: After Hurricane Irma, on September 10, 2017, The Florida Keys officially reopened to visitors on October 1. Since that time, the majority of accommodations, restaurants, and attractions have reopened. The Florida Keys Overseas Highway, with 42 bridges providing scenic, over-water views, was designated safe for driving within five days after Hurricane Irma struck throughout the 125-mile island chain. Today, tourists are free to roam about the Keys in search of the perfect tan, beach views and a great margarita.

#1 Key West

Let’s start with key west, the southernmost point in the continental u.s..

While its quirky, irreverent reputation epitomizes the “Margaritaville” spirit of former resident, singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett, its appeal has run the gamut. Key West’s Little White House was the winter retreat of U.S. President Harry S. Truman, while literary giants Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams and Robert Frost all spent time here.

Key West’s best beach is at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park  where you can also tour the fort , one of a series built in the mid-1800s to defend the nation’s southeastern coastline.

Some of the $450 million in gold and silver bars and coins, emeralds, and other jewels recovered from the Atocha and the Santa Margarita in 1985 are on display at the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum.

And don’t leave without celebrating the nightly celebration of sunset at Mallory Square , which has become a Key West tradition.

#2 Bahia Honda State Park

Ready for a beach day? Stop at Bahia Honda State Park , located at Mile Marker 37. Calusa Beach on the park’s northwest side is near the historic railroad bridge known as Henry Flagler’s Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad. Railroad magnate Henry Flagler’s famed railroad helped to transform Bahia Honda Key into a subtropical destination appealing to all ages. Construction of Flagler’s Key West extension of the Florida East Coast Railway was completed in 1912.

From the old Bahia Honda Rail Bridge, known as the Over-Sea Railroad Bridge, the park offers stunning views. The original trestle railroad structure, with a highway built on top, is a must-see point of interest for visitors.

Two nearby campgrounds — Buttonwood, with 43 sites, and Bayside, with eight — are available for overnight camping, accommodating everything from large RVs to small tents.

Six cabins on stilts overlooking the bayside of the park are available for rent and can be reserved up to 11 months in advance through Reserve America .

Check this link for the latest updates on Bahia Honda:  floridastateparks.org/park/Bahia-Honda

#3 Seven Mile Bridge

From Mile Marker 0 in Key West to the top of the Keys at Florida City (Mile Marker 127.5), you will have traveled across a total of 42 bridges, including the longest and most famous — the Seven Mile Bridge, connecting Knight’s Key, part of the city of Marathon in the Middle Keys, to Little Duck Key in the Lower Keys.

Crossing the Seven Mile Bridge, one of the world’s longest segmental bridges at 6.79 miles or nearly 36,000 feet long, could be considered a reason to visit the Keys on its own. Until 1912, when the original bridge opened as an overseas railway, the Keys were accessible only by water. After a devastating hurricane closed the railway in 1935, a new bridge was built for vehicle travel, and then the current Seven Mile Bridge was constructed from 1978 to 1982. The old railway bridge, which had been used for bicycle and pedestrian traffic, was closed for repairs in 2016 and is scheduled to reopen in 2021 with a full restoration.

Whether you are a full-fledged pescatarian and only eat fish, or are just a seafood lover, the variety available on menus throughout the Keys is sure to please.

Put Key West pink shrimp, considered sweeter than other varieties, on your list to try, along with another Keys specialty — hogfish, a mild-flavored fish in the snapper family more likely to be found on menus in the Keys than elsewhere in Florida. Order it served in several ways at Hogfish Bar & Grill  on Stock Island while in Key West.

The fresh “catch of the day” is often snapper, grouper, or mahi mahi (dolphin fish), but you’ll also be able to find Florida spiny lobster, pompano, yellowfin tuna, swordfish, wahoo, sea bass, scallops, conch, octopus, and squid (calamari) on menus throughout the area, prepared in a multitude of ways to tempt the tastebuds of the most discriminating foodie.

If you see lionfish on the menu, order it! While it is an invasive species introduced to Florida waters during the 1980s, it is also quite tasty, and more restaurants are featuring it when available.

The signature dessert of the Florida Keys is, without a doubt — Key Lime pie. Don’t leave the Keys without trying at least one variation of the tart yet sweet pie made with the juice of the Key lime, some piled high with meringue, some without.

Fishing is a popular activity throughout the Florida Keys, both for expert and amateur anglers. Islamorada, known as the Sport Fishing Capital of the World, is where my travel companions and I boarded a 65-foot deep-sea fishing vessel at Robbie’s Marina , MM 77.5, for a half-day of party boat fishing .

We signed up for the Catch and Cook experience, which includes bait, tackle and fishing license. Our catch was cleaned, filleted and delivered to the marina’s restaurant, Hungry Tarpon, where it was prepared and served with two side dishes.

Recreational anglers can book guides and charter boats to seek out game fish — bonefish, tarpon, permit, redfish and snook. Some of the greatest sport fish in the world — blue and white marlin, sailfish and swordfish — are also caught in deep-sea areas.

Fishing tournaments are held throughout the year for a variety of species, but the longest is the Key West Fishing Tournament (KWFT) an eight-month long competition that is open to the public whether fishing from a boat, land or bridge.  In 2018, it began January 1 and continued through August 31.

#6 SCUBA diving and snorkeling

If you are a SCUBA diver or snorkeler, “getting wet” may be the number one reason to visit the Florida Keys. Designated a National Marine Sanctuary in 1990, the Keys are surrounded by the continental United States’ only living-coral barrier reef (third largest in the world), encompassing more than 2,900 nautical miles of protected waters.

Both snorkelers and divers can explore nine shipwreck sites stretching from Key Largo to Key West that make up the Florida Keys Shipwreck Heritage Trail .

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo (MM 102.5) was established in 1963 as the first undersea park in the United States. Besides being able to dive and snorkel in the 70 nautical square miles making up the park, visitors can also board a 65-foot, glass-bottom catamaran, Spirit of Pennekamp, for a 2 ½ hour excursion to the coral reef.

The park is also the site of one of the most photographed underwater sites in the Keys ­­— a nine-foot-tall “Christ of the Abyss” bronze statue. Since it’s submerged in only 25 feet of water, both divers and snorkelers can view it easily.

#7 Boating and Watersports

Think of a watersport you enjoy and you can pursue it in the Florida Keys, along with a few you may not have known existed. Boating, sailing, canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), flyboarding, waterskiing, windsurfing, parasailing, and jet skiing are among the options available throughout the Keys.

Ibis Bay Paddle Sports , located at Ibis Bay Beach Resort in Key West, offers nighttime guided tours on clear-bottom kayaks and stand-up paddleboards lit by super-bright waterproof LED lights on scenic Ibis Bay.

oTHErside Boardsports , Grassy Key (MM 59.3), offers lessons in wakeboarding, paddleboarding, kiteboarding and jetboarding on a seven-acre tidal lake surrounded by 26 acres of mangroves.

Sea turtle lovers will not want to miss visiting the Turtle Hospital in Marathon (MM 48.5). Opened in 1986, more than 1,500 injured or ill sea turtles (green, loggerhead, leatherback, Hawksbill and Kemp’s Ridley) have been rescued and rehabbed at the facility. Take a 90-minute guided tour (offered daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.), which includes a short presentation on the types of sea turtles cared for at the Turtle Hospital followed by a behind-the-scenes look at the hospital facilities. Reservations are recommended.

The hospital treats a wide range of ailments and damage to turtles caused by boat collisions, ingesting plastic, and entanglements in rope or fishing line. I was surprised to learn that more than half of sea turtles across the globe are affected by viral fibropapilloma tumors and their removal is the most common surgery performed at the Turtle Hospital.

#9 – Dolphins

Hawks Cay Resort , located at Duck Key at Mile Marker 61, offers guests the opportunity to have a hands-on experience at its on-site Dolphin Connection , the only resort in the continental U.S. that features a dolphin research facility.

I was thrilled to be able to commune with these amazing mammals in a saltwater lagoon next to the open ocean when I stayed at Hawks Cay several years ago. Guests can also become a trainer for a day or just observe them from the dock and admire their aerial acrobatics.

Other dolphin programs in the Keys include:  Dolphins Plus in Key Largo and Theatre of the Sea in Islamorada.

#10 Festivals

Time your visit to the Keys to coincide with a festival to suit most any taste or interest. Keys festivals run the gamut, from music and art, birding and wildlife, to pirates and literary festivals. Visit the Keys Arts website for a festivals directory or the Florida Keys calendar of events .

Lower Keys Underwater Music Festival – Our visit was timed to coincide with the Underwater Music Festival, held the Saturday following July 4 th at the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary/Looe Key Preservation Reserve. Boats filled with snorkelers and divers make their way to Looe Key Reef off Big Pine Key to explore the reef. Local radio station WWUS 104.1 FM pipes music underwater, adding a unique element to the event, now in its 34th year.

Hemingway Days – a 10-day festival held in July to celebrate Hemingway’s birthday, includes Look-a-Like Contest, Twilight Party, 5K Run, Street Fair, Regatta, Short Story Competition, Marlin Tournament, Literary Events, and more!

Fantasy Fest –Held each October in Key West since 1979, Fantasy Fest is billed as 10 days of “adult partying,” featuring costuming, parades, libations, and excitement.

Birding Festival of the Keys (B.E.A.K.S.) – Held in September in Marathon, it includes field trips, workshops, and lectures with top guides and biologists.

For more information on visiting the Florida Keys, go to www.fla-keys.com .

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10+ Artsy & Cool Reasons To Visit Tampa, Florida

By Jacquelin Carnegie

You may have arrived in Tampa on your way to St. Pete Beach or to get on a cruise, but it's worth adding a few days to experience the cool, cultural activities and the very-friendly locals:

MARCH ENTERTAINMENT MADNESS

All year long, Tampa has an amazing array of festivals . But, in March, culture is showcased--the arts, music, and film: 

Art lovers will bliss out at this terrific weekend festival featuring every kind of artwork imaginable: paintings, drawings, sculpture, photography, prints, glass art, and jewelry. Curtis Hixon Park, in front of the Tampa Museum of Art, becomes a wonderland of talent with work by some 250 artists on display. In the adjoining Kiley Garden, work by 15+ emerging artists is highlighted. Even spray-paint artists get to show off their vibrant style in the "Carmada" section. And, if you feel talented, pick up a brush to add some flourish to an old van. Another highpoint of the festival is The Art Collectors in Training program. Without the influence of adults, kids are encouraged to view and purchase a selection of festival artwork (for under $10) in a kids-only gallery.

Gasparilla Music Festival - gasparillamusic.com  

Gasparilla Film Festival - gasparillafilmfestival.com

This annual festival presents around 115 films, including premieres of international and regional features, documentaries, and short films. In addition to screening blockbuster movies with top-name actors, the festival highlights independent films made in Florida. There are also special tributes, master classes, panel discussions with film-industry bigwigs, and an impressive gathering of celebrities.

ARTSY PURSUITS

Tampa Museum of Art

120 W. Gasparilla Plaza; Tel: 813/421-8380; tampamuseum.org

This is such a lovely museum with collections dating from

Florida Museum of Photographic Arts

400 N. Ashley Dr; Tel: 813/221-2222; fmopa.org

Hidden away in The Cube, part of the Rivergate Tower, it would be a shame to miss the fantastic photographic efforts on exhibit here. The museum features work by internationally-acclaimed photographers (recent shows: Sandra Gottlieb and Gohar Dashti).

University of South Florida Contemporary Art Museum

3821 USF Holly Dr; Tel: 813-974-4133; http://bit.ly/24TYHTG

The collection features contemporary graphics, works on paper, sculpture, and photography.

Fourth Friday   (Year round, 4pm-9pm) Free with lanyard.

Downtown Tampa's arts and culture venues stay open late with free admission or discounts, and special programming. There's live music, restaurants offer special deals, and you can take refreshing beverages in Sip & Stroll cups with you on walks along the Tampa Riverwalk. Pirate Water Taxi provides complimentary rides. (For sports fans, visit the Tampa Bay Rays baseball team in MacDill Park and the Tampa Bay Lighting ice hockey team in Cotanchobee Park.)

GREAT ENTERTAINMENT

Straz Center for the Performing Arts

1010 N. Macinnes Pl; Tel: 813/229-7827; www.strazcenter.org

This amazing performing arts complex offers a little, quality something for everyone: a Broadway series, Opera, Comedy, Dance, and the Florida Orchestra, doing both wonderful classical and Pops concerts.

Tampa Theatre

Opened in 1926, the theatre is pure kitsch--a faux, Mediterranean palace covered by a night "sky" of twinkling stars. It's a glorious reminder of the lavish movie houses of yore and the perfect spot to see a film, concert, or special event. You can also take a Balcony-to-Backstage tour.

UNIQUE TO TAMPA

Here are Five Things You Didn't Know You Could Do in Tampa , plus:

Tampa Riverwalk - Extends along the waterfront for 2.5 miles and is a great place to stroll, bike , or just relax by the river. Exit points lead to museums, historical monuments, hotels, and restaurants. At night, Riverwalk becomes a work of art, lit up with changing colors.  

                                                    H.B. Plant Museum

401 W. Kennedy Blvd; www.plantmuseum.com

Railroad baron Henry Plant made Tampa Bay the commercial hub of Florida’s west coast in the late 1880s. The museum is housed in what was once the glamorous Tampa Bay Hotel, now a National Historic Landmark. The original, opulent, Victorian-era furnishings and artifacts provide a glimpse into Florida’s burgeoning tourist industry. 

Ybor City National Historic Landmark District www.yborcityonline.com  

In the late 1880s, Cuban, Spanish, Italian, and German immigrants came here to work in the thriving cigar factories, most of which closed by the 1960s. Today, with many of the historic structures renovated and restored, Ybor City has become a tourist attraction for its cafés, restaurants, and nightlife.

José Martí Park (1303 E. Eight Ave; open, M-F, 8am-1:30pm) - Set foot on Cuban soil without a passport; since 1956, this little park has been Cuban territory.

Columbia Restaurant (2025 E. Seventh Ave; Tel: 813/248-4961; www.columbiarestaurant.com ) - Founded in 1905 by Cuban immigrants, Florida’s oldest restaurant serves traditional Cuban and Spanish specialties, then dishes up a fantastic Flamenco show.

Dine in Style : Tampa's creative food scene is gaining recognition. Try some cool spots for a meal such as: 

Oxford Exchange (420 West Kennedy Blvd; oxfordexchange.com ) - Great for breakfasts, brunch & lunch.

Be sure to taste test the many local Tampa brews such as "Florida Cracker" or "Reef Donkey."

Making Your Visit Easier :

While most people drive, there are transportation options, including some fun ones: 

TECO Historic Streetcar - Ride the streetcar from Downtown, to Channelside (where the cruise lines dock; there's lots of shops & activities), and on to Ybor City.

Tampa CityPass  - If you're travelling with kids, the Pass gets you into the zoo, two aquariums, Busch Gardens, and the science museum.

Tampa Bay has an amazing array of activities for the whole family and sports fans will be in seventh-heaven.

Where To Stay : Plenty of choice accommodations such as:

Aloft Tampa Downtown (100 W. Kennedy Blvd; Tel: 813/898-8000; www.alofttampadowntown.com ) - A hip hotel for twentysomethings; if you don't care about service, it's a very convenient location.

Le Méridien (601 N. Florida Ave; Tel: 813/221-9555;  lemeridientampa.com

) - If you do care about good service, this is a lovely spot in a renovated, former Beaux Arts-style courthouse.

Epicurean Hotel (1207 S. Howard Ave; Tel: 813/999-8700; epicureanhotel.com ) - A great spot for "foodies" in the trendy Hyde Park district.

Augment your visit to Tampa with time at St. Pete Beach at the Don CeSar or TradeWinds. Or, extend your stay before or after a cruise. Port Tampa Bay homeports the cruise lines: Carnival,  Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean,  and Norwegian America.

Getting There : Delta and JetBlue offer frequent, convenient flights into Tampa.

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10 reasons to visit the stephen foster folk culture center state park.

I enjoyed my recent visit to the Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park in White Springs . This park is definitely "off the beaten path" and I'm going to make it my mission to encourage more people to discover it. Here are my top 10 reasons to visit:

1. New Mountain Bike Trail Loop

A nine-mile single track mountain biking and hiking trail developed and sponsored by the Suwannee Bicycle Association opened a couple of years ago. There was already a double track 10-mile trail that overlooks the river.

2. Antique Arts & Collectibles Day

Discover blacksmith, pottery, stained glass, basket making, weaving and painting by artists using time-tested skills.

3. Quilt Show & Sale

Workshops, keynote speakers and demonstrations are the highlight along with the 200 quilts on display.

4. Dulcimer Retreat

Jam session, concerts and workshops provide a unique opportunity for fans of this sweet-sounding instrument.

5. Christmas Festival of Lights in December

Three million lights fill the park until 9 p.m. On the first evening of the festival, a parade and bonfire for roasting marshmallows are among the highlights. And did I say shopping? The Stephen Foster Center has a fabulous giftshop for artwork and crafts.

6. Wild Azalea Festival  

The azaleas create a riot of color throughout North Florida. At this springtime event, the blooms are accompanied by artistic performances, storytellers and dancers, along with regional foods.

7. Take a hike!

Hike the many trails through the park including one of the most beautiful sections of the Florida National Scenic Trail, also known as the Florida Trail. During the spring, splashes of pink azalea and dogwood trees in bright white are seen against the mossy oaks. Close to the river, the cedar trees provide shade. The beauty is breathtaking.

8. Take a paddle on the Suwannee

The natural beauty of this unspoiled region of the Sunshine State quietly replenishes the soul. It’s no wonder that the nostalgic tune, "Old Folks At Home," initiated tourism to Florida.

9. Carillon Concerts

At the park, a 97-bell carillon plays more than 200 Stephen Foster tunes. The museum traces the history of the man known as the Father of American Music. Stephen Foster wrote many tunes that fully are part and parcel of American culture, including "Jennie with The Golden Hair," "Camptown Races" and "Oh Susannnah."

10. The Florida Folk Festival

This event welcomes thousands who come to listen to old-time music every Memorial Day weekend. Forget the electronics, stash the Blackberry and simply enjoy the harmony as musicians play on stages named Under the Oaks, Azalea, Gazebo, Old Marble and other folksy-sounding monikers.

I enjoyed hearing the variety of folk music at this year's Florida Folk Festival, including a couple of soulful renditions of Florida's State Song, "Old Folks at Home." Here's a YouTube video that I found particularly charming, from a musician I had never before heard, Karl Denver .

See you way down upon the Suwannee River Trail !

White Springs

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10 Reasons to Visit Venice, Florida

This charming town located on the gulf coast is known for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters..

If you're looking for a place to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, look no further than Venice, Florida. This charming town is located on the Gulf Coast and is known for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Here are 10 reasons why you should visit Venice this year!

Outstanding Weather

With an average of 246 sunny days per year, Venice boasts one of the best climates in all of Florida. The temperatures are mild and perfect for a day out on the beach or a relaxing day by the pool. Plus, cooler months provide ample opportunity to explore the area's many trails and outdoor attractions!

Beaches and Water Activities

Whether you're looking for some rest and relaxation or an exciting adventure, you can find it in Venice. Take a walk along Caspersen Beach where you can search for shells or build sandcastles with your family. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, go fishing from one of the local piers or charter a boat for a deep sea expedition.

Shopping and Dining Galore

Catering to all tastes, Venice offers a variety of shopping and dining options. From delicious seafood restaurants on the pier to quaint boutiques in town, you can find something for everyone! And don't forget to check out the Farmers Market every Saturday morning where you can buy locally grown produce and unique gifts. Some of the best Venice FL eats offers may be found downtown.

Relax With Nature

The beauty of nature is everywhere in Venice! Take a leisurely stroll along one of the many trails or canoe down the Myakka River. You can also explore nearby Caspersen Beach Preserve, which is home to several species of birds and other wildlife. Whether it's fishing, kayaking or birdwatching, you're sure to find something to do in Venice's natural surroundings.

Historic Venues

Venice is also known for its rich history, with many of the city's buildings dating back to the 1920s. Take a tour of the Venice Train Depot or explore the old-world charm of several historic hotels and inns throughout the town. For a unique experience, rent a bike and ride around the nearby Myakka State Forest, where you can view some of Florida's oldest cypress trees!

Art and Culture Scene

The Venice area has an active art and culture scene that offers something for everyone! Spend an afternoon at one of several local museums or take in a show at The Venice Little Theatre. And every Saturday night, you can head over to the Venice Farmers Market for a free concert in Centennial Park.

Festivals and Events

Venice hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, including the annual Sarasota County Fair and the St. Armand's Circle Art Festival. For something unique, check out one of Venice's popular holiday parades or take part in its monthly art walk. The possibilities are endless!

Golf Courses Galore

For golf lovers, Venice is sure to please with several challenging courses around town. From 9-hole executive courses to championship-level greens, there's something for all skill levels. And if you want to practice your swing , check out the local driving ranges!

Full of Life

Venice is a vibrant community full of life and activity. From weekly farmers markets to regular festivals and events, there's always something going on in this charming town. Plus, with its numerous parks and public gardens, you can easily find a spot to relax or take a pleasant stroll.

An Ideal Vacation Destination

Whether it's for a day trip or an extended vacation, Venice offers something for everyone. With its breathtaking beaches and array of activities, you can easily plan the perfect getaway—one that you won't soon forget! So what are you waiting for? Come visit Venice this year! You won't regret it.

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Two Sisters Abroad

two sisters exploring the world

10 Amazing Reasons to Visit North Captiva Island, Florida

Hi there! Thinking of visiting North Captiva Island and wondering if it’s the right vacation spot for you?

Then keep on reading!

In this post you will find 10 amazing reasons to visit the beautiful island of North Captiva, in Southwest Florida.

After visiting the island for more than 10 years, I can confidently say that North Captiva is absolutely incredible, and truly makes for the perfect vacation spot. It’s definitely a unique place, and once you visit you’ll want to go back again and again.

Sound good?

Keep reading for 10 amazing reasons to take a vacation on North Captiva Island, Florida!

10 Reasons to Visit North Captiva Island

1: it’s secluded.

North Captiva Island is only accessible by boat or small private plane!

Unless you’re taking your own private boat/plane, you need to book ferry tickets in advance. Because of this, there are a limited number of people on the island at all times, and it never gets overly crowded.

From the mainland in Cape Coral, the ferry ride to the island takes about 20 minutes.

Luckily, although the island is secluded and not accessible by cars, you’re still easily able to reach other parts of Florida from the mainland.

Once on the mainland, Fort Myers is less than an hour away! Once in Fort Myers you, of course, have access to the airport as well as to the ferry to the Florida Keys! You could easily visit the Keys before or after a trip to the island – be sure to check out this amazing guide to a 5 day Florida Keys road trip !

2: There are no cars on North Captiva Island

This is one of the best parts of North Captiva Island is that there are no cars! On the island everyone drives electric golf carts and it is so much fun.

There are no paved roads, so the island feels very rural and secluded.

3: You can walk the entire length of the island on the beach

North Captiva Island is relatively small, about four miles long and half a mile wide.

The entire southern half of the island is an undeveloped state park, so there are no houses built in that area.

Depending on the time of year, at low tide, you can sometimes walk down the beach from the northern to southern tip! It is such a beautiful walk and I highly recommend brining a picnic for sunset.

4: All homes/rental properties have beach access

There are no hotels on North Captiva, just private homes and rental properties .

Every single property has access to the beach, whether or not it is beachfront, through public beach access points. Because the island is so small, the beach is always a quick walk or golf cart drive away.

5: North Captiva has amazing shelling

Sanibel and Captiva, two neighboring islands, are known for having the best shelling in the USA . North Captiva is smaller, with fewer tourists, so the shelling is oftentimes even better!

6: It’s super laid back and relaxing

There’s no need to bring any dressy clothes to North Captiva, it’s super laid back and casual. Just make sure you pack your sandals and swimsuit! You’ll be spending most of your days at the beach, by the pool, or driving your golf cart around the island sipping a piña colada.

7: The sunsets are stunning

The sunsets on North Captiva are only rivaled by the sunsets I’ve seen in Greece. Watch them from a boat, the beach or a balcony, they are incredible.

8: The beautiful wildlife

About half of North Captiva is a Florida state park, and there is tons of wildlife on the island. Notably, you’ll see adorable turtles walking down the sand roads, as well as the occasional bobcat. In terms of ocean life, you’ll regularly see dolphins jumping and manatees swimming close by. We’ve also seen stingrays and small sharks. Lastly, if you’re lucky, you’ll also spot a bald eagle or two! If you’re not so lucky, you’ll see an alligator in a pond or a huge black snake. But there’s no need to worry!

9: There’s amazing fishing

If you like to fish, North Captiva is a great place for you! You can easily fish from the beach, or charter a boat and a guide !

10: It’s super safe

This almost goes without saying, but the island is so safe.

Of course, because of its small size, everyone is super friendly and helpful. It is a great place for kids, families, spring break trips, weddings and really any other type of vacation. If you visit the island, you can rest assured you’ll be safe and relaxed.

Well, there you have it!

Thanks for reading my top 10 reasons to Visit North Captiva Island, Florida! The island is truly an amazing place and makes the perfect vacation spot for families, couples or groups of friends.

Ready to book your trip? Be sure to check out our North Captiva Island packing guide as well as all of our best tips and advice for your trip !

If you have any questions about North Captiva, let us know in the comments below and/or reach out to us on Instagram, @twosistersabroad .

Lastly, we appreciate you sharing this post with someone you know who would love a trip to North Captiva Island!

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19 comments.

More about fishing in North Captiva here: https://www.instagram.com/p/B55pIS-Au8i/

This looks like the perfect place to get away to. I love that there are no cars allowed on the island. What a peaceful retreat!

Oooh nice Visit North Captiva Island looks like such a pleasant place to relax! I love spots like this where there are no cars – it’s mad what a difference that makes in terms of quietness while you enjoy the beaches!

p.s. Glad to see your doggo enjoyed it too.

I have never heard of this island before! I love that it’s so small and there aren’t any cars!

Looks like a lovely place. I love the secluded beach access and all the beautiful sunsets!

As a S. Floridan it’s been my dream to go to NoCap, but so tricky to find info on how to get there! I read your other post and it was so helpful! Can I ask some questions though? If I’d be driving from the east coast of Fl, is there an easy/safe place to park right near a ferry marina, for a few days? If so, approximately how much is it?

Once we get there, do we just buy ferry tickets and that’s our only fee (other than parking our car at the main marina, and the home rental fee of course 🙂 )?

Once the ferry lets you off at NoCap, do you drag your suitcases to the house you’re staying at? Or you’d need a taxi there?

Thank you so much for any info you can give!

Hi Nancy! Thanks so much for checking out our North Captiva posts, I’m so glad that you found them helpful! For the ferries, definitely book in advance (you can find the schedule here ). Tickets are $22 each way for adults, and $19.50 for kids! You can park at the ferry marina for $9 a night, and there is always plenty of parking available. Once you get to the island, you’ll take your suitcases to your home with a golf cart. Most homes include golf carts with their rentals, or you can rent them through the North Captiva Island Club! There are no cars on the island, just golf carts, which I think is so fun! If renting through the club, they will also help you bring your suitcases and groceries to your rental home for you! I hope this answers your questions, and please let me know if you would like additional information!

I have read a few of your posts in preparation for our trip later this month. Thank you for sharing all the information! How is the wifi on the island? I’m hoping it will be reliable enough for my daughter to log on to her zoom classes for one of the weeks.

Hi Wendy! I’m so glad you found the posts helpful! For wifi strength it will depend on the specific rental property you’re staying in, but we’ve always been able to Zoom into classes and meetings with no problem! So hopefully your daughter will be all set! I hope you have a fantastic trip and please let us know if you have any other questions.

The comment about wildlife is not as it used to be just 2 years ago. 🥺 Animals are harassed (and run over by crazy golf cart drivers) by many visitors and the island has become overrun by tourists and rentals wanting to “tame and profit” North Cap to be another Sanibel… Yes the article would be true as of 2018.

Hi M, I’m sorry you’ve had negative experiences with tourists and wildlife on the island recently, but our post is up to date and updated regularly. Our family lives on the island part time, and we’ve been traveling to North Captiva for over 15 years. Even in recent months, we’ve been able to see turtles, bald eagles and other animals thriving on the island. I totally agree that visitors need to be careful on the island, and let the animals live peacefully – they are such an important part of North Captiva and their home needs to be kept safe and clean for them!

Does anything shout vacation more than no cars allowed on the island!? That sounds so fun to just be using golf carts haha. I’m also SO jealous you found a sand dollar, that’s always my favorite find! Definitely would love to visit North Captiva Island at some point now, thank you for sharing!

From reading some of your other blog posts along with this one, it seems like we have similar taste in travel destinations! I’ve been here as well 🙂. It’s so nice visiting somewhere where cars aren’t allowed and everything is so safe and relaxing. Xx Sara

North Captiva Island, Florida sounds like it was created for me! Seclusion, beaches, laid-back, no cars…that’s definitely my kind of getaway – or maybe where I should live.

How have I never heard of this? Wow! How perfect can one place be? I love that there are no cars and no hotels. Thank you for teaching me something new today! I can’t wait to plan a visit.

I hadn’t heard of this area of Florida before but it looks amazing to go to as part of a weekend getaway. Thanks for sharing!

It looks so relaxing! I wonder if I could handle being that chill for more than a day LOL I need to practice!

Are there places to eat and get a drink on the island? It sounds great. Do they offer dolphin excursions? My other questions were answered above. Parking for a few days. Also, how has the island recovered after Ian?

Hi Bill! Thanks for your comment, the island is truly a d beautiful and special place and I think you’ll love it. There are places to eat and drink on the island, although post-hurricane these restaurants are operating a little differently. Over the Water serves lunch and dinner (make a reservation at 239-472-4762) and the food is really good. You can also get drinks and bar food at Mangos Pool Bar and it’s a nice place to hangout. Right now, there is also a pizza truck on the island that sometimes takes orders, but the days and hours aren’t set. Nick B’s is another post-hurricane option, they have a food stand on the island near the air strip and also offer in-home catering. I would definitely advise to plan to cook most of your meals and maybe go out to eat once or twice.

Island Girl Charters offers dolphin excursions and sight seeing tours. You can contact them at 239-633-8142. It’s also common to see dolphins on the ferry ride over and back to the island and from the beach.

The island is recovering, although slowly. There was a ton of damage and although many renters have been able to open their homes, there are still a lot that have significant damage. The beach is beautiful! You will see debris and vegetation on the sides of the road as the clean-up continues and there will be construction, but overall, considering the extensive damage, the island is recovering very well. It’s looking better every day!

For more information about North Captiva and things to do, I definitely recommend checking out our post “ Tips and Advice for Visiting North Captiva Island .” If you have any other questions please let me know! I hope you have an awesome trip to the island!

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10 Reasons Everyone Wants To Visit This Florida Town… And You Should Too

Marisa Roman

A New Jersey native with over 15 years of writing experience, Marisa has studied at both New York University and Florida International University. She has lived all over the country, including a decade stint in South Florida. Marisa is well-versed in exploration as she travels a good majority of the year in her self-converted Sprinter van. Her articles have been featured in various notable publications over the years, she has a published collection of short stories, and three completed screenplays under her belt.

More by this Author

This small, utopian beach town in Florida seems to get overlooked by many, especially when it comes to planning a summer trip. Yet, filled with coastal charm and a warm, welcoming community, it is a wonder why this place would not be added to every “best of” list. There are plenty of reasons why exploring this tiny town is worth the trek, and it all starts with the pristine beautiful beaches…

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What do you think? Do you have more reasons why visiting Boca Grande, Florida should be on your summer radar? Share in the comments section!

Otherwise, if you’re looking for more things to do this summer in Florida, check out this overnight stay in a yurt .

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The Top 10 Reasons to Visit Orlando, Florida

While we’re in the process of getting ready for the world to open up again, we get to go through the exciting process of planning out some future holidays for the next couple of years. But the hardest part, and the first big step, is picking the first excellent destination to visit. And thus, we are going to give a little helping hand, with these top 10 reasons to visit Orlando.

Orlando, Florida, is predominantly known for being home to Disney World. One of the biggest hotspots in the world, and for good reason, but Orlando has so much to offer alongside this. From the lovely Floridian paradise to great golfing holidays, you can get plenty done on your holiday to Orlando.

1. Disney World 

From the rides to the food, to the parades, the themed hotels and unique experiences,  Disney World  is definitely a holiday in and of itself. But, it can easily be a day trip inside a bigger holiday too, one of its great, adaptable qualities. If you have the self-restraint, you can go over to Disney World for the afternoon, or you can spend a whole week there and not have enough.

There’s also the nostalgia of the place. The colourful and joyous aesthetic, the happiness of the other people there, and the opportunity to experience all those adorable moments from films you love. It’s no doubt Disney World is well worth a visit, no matter how long or short.

Another one that could easily take up your whole holiday if you let it, Orlando is well known for its excellent range of golf courses and companies. Part of this is almost definitely because of how peaceful it is, to go golfing under the bright Florida sun and blue sky, near the ocean.

Plus, these courses are famously designed by professional, expert golf legends. These have been created for the perfect golfing experience and some good challenges, so if you’re a golf enthusiast, Orlando is going to be your heaven, the great scenery doesn’t hurt either.

3. Hotels & Resorts

Some classics are, of course, the Disney World and Universal hotels, all with varying themes and convenient locations. Walt Disney World Dolphin is a more expensive, luxurious experience of its own, with the perfect island paradise atmosphere. From that to full experiences like The Grove Resort & Water Park, perfect for the whole family.

For more affordable and accessible hotels, you can find ones like DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, one located right at the entrance of Universal, so you can step right out of your hotel into all the fun. If you choose to visit Orlando again, you might find a hotel you love and want to return to again and again, or you can experience a little of them all, relaxation and comfort is open to you.

4. Theme Parks

Other than Disney, which had to have its own mention, Orlando is overflowing with great places like SeaWorld, Universal, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay, all of which offer the most fun you could possibly wish for, in slightly different ways (hint: you should probably visit all of them, just to find out which is your favourite).

From roller-coasters to thrill adventures, magical underwater worlds, and plenty of parades, Orlando is going to have a little flavour of fun for everyone, whether you want to experience them all or just turn up for a specific one. This is easily one of the most popular reasons to visit Orlando.

5. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Not only do you get to see excellent shuttles like Atlantis, Apollo, and Gemini, but you will be entering a major operations centre. You can explore the programs for all of these fantastic vessels, and get a peek of where some of it took place.

There is also the Heroes and Legends exhibits which commemorate and teach you about the lives of those important people who made all of this happen. There are also over 60 exhibits displaying the masterpiece of the Atlantis alone, giving you a deep look into how everything was done and showing you the scars of its history.

6. Florida Sun

Florida is well known as a classic sunny destination all year round, right on the coast of the US, with plenty of beaches near the city to enjoy, and exquisite sunshine all day through, whether you’re at the top of a rollercoaster, or just meandering through the gardens.

Even in the evenings, as you’re enjoying a lovely meal out, perhaps dazzling your senses at Disney World with their array of worldly foods, the sun will still be keeping you warm, setting slowly over the ocean and giving you a summery sense of paradise.

7. Leu Gardens

This is one we recommend specifically for halfway through, or at the end of your holiday. Mainly because a lot of the attraction of Orlando is high energy fun, so we suggest saving this for a moment when you need a little respite, so you can appreciate the serenity of the gardens to its fullest after a high action-packed holiday.

Leu Gardens  is also not far from the city centre, so you won’t have to go too far out of your way to get there. From moss draped elm trees, to palm trees and rose gardens, there are so many fantasy worlds to explore in this 50-acre garden, you might find you want to return at different times of day to experience it all over again with new eyes.

8. Nightlife

Orlando has a huge range of options to offer. You can go from a cocktail bar to a cosy pub, to the dance floor in one night. You can even explore the nightlife in the parks Orlando is so famous for.

From Red Coconut Club in Universal to the Raglan Road Irish Pub at Disney Springs, your days will bleed into your nights spectacularly and it will be a holiday hard to take a rest from. Only the most strong-willed will be able to pull themselves away to sleep, so you might want to prepare for a dazzling all-nighter.

9. Nature Experiences

This could be a trip to the beach for the day or going to visit one of Florida’s many lakes. There are also nature parks in and out of the city, with animals and nature galore.

Lake Eola Park is in the city, and one of our favourites. It takes in the gorgeous few of Orlando while giving you the calm waters of the lake, and it’s a truly beautiful sight. You can rent out a paddleboat, watch some live music, enjoy the flower beds, and eat by the shore of the lake at some of the nice local restaurants.

Whether you’re more of a city person or a wilderness explorer, there are so many different nature experiences suited to all kinds of people, so you can relax after all the excitement.

10. Family-Friendly and Affordable

With all the fun parks, the pristine beaches, and the colourful environment, it’s a wonderful place to go as a family, not just for the kids, but to span multiple generations. A big family gathering is bound to be a good time in Orlando, there’s a little something for everyone.

Plus, it’s pretty darn affordable too. Perhaps for bigger group trips, and a hotspot for residents of Ireland for good reason, but flights over to Orlando and tickets into attractions are quite cheap, so you can get your money’s worth and then some with ease.

If you’d like to learn more and explore all the options of reasons to visit Orlando further, don’t forget to visit the  Orlando Tourism Board  ready to book your trip with your lovely PTS member. And if you need help picking one of our excellent members, you can call PTS directly at 0207 190 9988 .

When you want to learn more about your  consumer protection  and how the  package travel regulations  protect you on holiday, please visit our pages.

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Top 10 Reasons to Visit Destin FL

Visitor guide.

Here’s our take on the Top 10 Reasons To Visit Destin Florida and of course this is just the opinion of DestinFlorida.com. There are actually hundreds of reason to come visit this amazing place!

Destin Florida has some of the most beautiful beaches in the entire world with crisp white sandy shores, surrounded by emerald green waters! These one of a kind sugar white beaches stretch from Pensacola to Port St. Joe, and are truly unique. The sand is so clean and soft if you listen carefully enough you will even hear it squeak as you walk to your destination!

Crab Island is unlike any other place in the entire world, it is truly one of a kind. Crab Island at one point was an island, but drifting sands from the Gulf of Mexico eroded it over time, which left us with what is now a sandbar where thousands of boats tie up to. Depending on where you park your boat the water can range from waist deep to as low as your calves! Crab Island has become so popular that there are even a variety of restaurants, pizza delivery, waterslides, and watersport rentals available on spot for all to enjoy!

Destin offers a wide variety of dining options, many of which offer waterfront dining, were you are able to enjoy spectacular sunsets.  Most restaurants offer fresh local seafood caught right off the boat! In fact, Harry T’s offers a service where they will prepare your very own fresh catch for those who want to fish, but not cook!

Destin Florida has been coined “The Worlds Luckiest Fishing Village”, and for good reason! Deep Sea fishing in Destin offers the widest variety of catches in the Gulf with 20 species of edible game fish! Throughout the year there are many fishing tournaments that bring competitive fishermen to the area. Most fishing boats offer full service trips with licensed crew, tackle, licenses, bait, and ice. Another great thing is that once you have docked up after a fun day of fishing, the crews will clean, filet and bag the fish that you caught!

With more than 40 water attractions, Big Kahuna’s offers a wide variety of fun in the sun for every age. Whether you enjoy the thrill of a waterslide, or want to relax in the lazy river Big Kahuna’s will be a hit for everyone. There is even a half pipe for those surfers at heart, with 36,000 gallons of water flowing per minute.  Big Kahuna’s has been Destin’s one and only water park for over 25 years.

Who doesn’t love dolphins and sea turtles! The Gulfarium offers a wide variety of exhibits where you are able to interact with the animals. Several unique exhibits are snorkeling with stingrays, or giving a smooch to a harbor seal! The Gulfarium also offers a sunset camp which provides parents with an evening out while their children have an unforgettable experience that includes a dolphin encounter, sunset beach exploring, ocean themed activities, scavenger hunts and even a dinner with the seals!!

Harborwalk Village is your one-stop-shop for fun.  Young, or old Harborwalk offers anything you could expect from that downtown harbor “hot spot”.  There are a wide variety of waterfront restaurants, shopping, watersport rentals, parasailing, concerts, fishing boats, dolphin cruises, nightlife, and even weekly fireworks across the Destin harbor!

Scenic Highway 30A is a small stretch of paradise that is nestled along Florida’s beautiful Emerald Coast. 30A is unique in that it still offers that laid back beach lifestyle. On any given day you will see families riding their beach cruiser bikes, hanging out at the world famous Red Bar, or shopping in the trendiest of boutiques. 30A is unlike any other community, and it is truly a special place.

Destin offers a wide variety of water activities, such as playing on the beaches, jet skiing, boat rentals, parasailing, dolphin cruises, pirate ships, kiteboarding, water skiing, paddle boarding, kayaking, skim boarding, and even tubing. So depending on what you are in the mood for Destin should please any watersport fan!

Destin Florida offers an exquisite selection of beachfront condos and homes available for you to stay in, offering views of the emerald water and breathtaking sunsets.  Interested in visiting this one of a kind place? Destin truly offers that memorable beach vacation you and your families have been waiting for.  Check out some of our beautiful condos at Destincondos.com to book the vacation of your dreams!

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I've Visited All the Theme Parks in Florida — and These Are the Best Ones

These are the best theme parks in Florida, from Disney to Universal and beyond.

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

Florida is known for its white-sand beaches, year-round sunny weather, and a collection of some of the world's best theme parks. Here, you can enter the enchanting world of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando or shrink down to the size of a toy at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. It’s also the place where coasters take you to new heights at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and everything is awesome for mini thrill-seekers at Legoland Florida.

I’ve been lucky enough to visit all the parks in the state; here are 10 of the best theme parks in Florida so you can start planning your next trip.

Magic Kingdom

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

This park set the standard for the Florida theme park industry we know today when it opened in 1971. Today, Magic Kingdom Park bridges the old with the new, inviting guests to relive the tales of childhood and enjoy beloved attractions, like Pirates of the Caribbean. It’s also the home of Disney World's newest ride, TRON Lightcycle/ Run , a thrilling roller coaster.

Magic Kingdom is the park I often find myself returning to again and again, with its picture-perfect Cinderella Castle and the old-timey feel of Main Street, U.S.A. There’s a distinct charm here that hasn’t been replicated, and that feeling of nostalgia is especially palpable in classic attractions like It’s a Small World and Haunted Mansion.

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EPCOT is a unique park that started as a passionate vision from Walt Disney; its name stands for the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow. While it didn’t exactly pan out as he expected it to, it stands alone as one of the very best theme parks in the world , marrying entertainment with education in a world's fair-inspired experience. World Showcase features 11 different countries presenting their cultures through shopping, dining, and attractions. The other half of Epcot sparks imagination and inspiration, with a focus on advances in technology that explore space, time, and the future depicted in one-of-a-kind attractions, like Spaceship Earth and Living With the Land.

It’s my favorite park to dine at, thanks to its year-round restaurants — the very best at Disney World — and acclaimed food festivals. It also shines from season to season, with enchanting holiday décor in the winter and stunning topiaries come spring, offering something new to see visit after visit. Disney movie fans will also find some of the best film-inspired attractions, including high-spirited Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind , one of the longest indoor roller coasters in the world.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Disney’s Hollywood Studios takes the yesteryear glam of Tinseltown and combines it with the biggest films of the modern age, inviting park goers to step into the worlds of these beloved franchises. Without a doubt, its showstopper is the immersive Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge , a pioneering feat of Walt Disney Imagineering. Here, all five senses take an intergalactic journey with otherworldly bites and trailblazing experiences, like the astonishing Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance . And park newcomer, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, is pure family fun.

My very favorite rides at Disney World are here, including The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, known for its unique ride system, and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith. I also enjoy the vibrant Toy Story Land, adorably themed with stellar character interactions and great rides, including all-ages roller coaster Slinky Dog Dash. Its unique dining options have become a family mainstay, like the delightfully quirky Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater, which invites diners into a dimly lit indoor movie theater as they munch on American eats from within retro cars.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Disney World’s most beautiful park is inspired by the company’s devotion to animal conservation; they even tapped legend Jane Goodall to consult on the project’s conception. The park explores vast cultures of the globe, from Africa to Asia, within scenic lands. Its pinnacle, Pandora — The World of Avatar, will impress Avatar film superfans and casual viewers alike. Here, you can find one of Disney World’s best rides , the exhilarating 3D flying simulator attraction, Avatar Flight of Passage.

A visit here isn’t complete without experiencing Kilimanjaro Safaris, which guides riders on a tour of a wildlife reserve with hundreds of majestic creatures. Tapping into its global inspiration, food here is some of the most eclectic and ambitious I’ve found at Disney World.

Universal Studios Florida

Elizabeth Rhodes/Travel + Leisure

Inspired by the greatest moments from entertainment history, Universal Studios Florida is a movie and television-themed park that began as an actual working studio. Several lands pay homage to iconic backlot sets, including San Francisco and New York, and it’s since evolved to include a colorful Minion Land, Simpsons -themed Springfield U.S.A., and an upcoming DreamWorks Land. This is also where muggles can find The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Diagon Alley, one of the most impressive theme park feats of all time.

The Wizarding World here is a real treat, from its Butterbeer ice cream to Harry Potter and the Escape From Gringotts, a 3D indoor roller coaster that captivates with thrills and fun. Potter aside, the park carries a very retro feel maintaining much of the charismatic nature it debuted with in the 1990s. And I hope it never gets rid of the classics, like the E.T. Adventure dark ride and Men in Black Alien Attack. This park is all about the little nuances to me, like roaming characters impersonating Hollywood greats and kitschy entertainment as depicted in Universal’s Horror Make-up Show.

Related: The Complete Guide to Universal Orlando Resort — Including Everything to Know About the Theme Parks, Hotels, and More

Universal Islands of Adventure

A short ride on the Hogwarts Express (or walk to the gate) will take you to Universal Orlando's second theme park, Universal Islands of Adventure. Here, Universal takes its nod to movie magic and adds a serious dose of thrills, most notably in the form of its two best roller coasters, the impeccably themed Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and the heart-pounding Jurassic World VelociCoaster. You’ll also find a Harry Potter- themed land that transports guests to the snow-capped streets of Hogsmeade and even inside the iconic Hogwarts Castle.

There’s a transportive nature to this park that I just love as I wander from one highly themed land to the next, including the whimsical Seuss Landing. It’s a true day-to-night park that’s easy to navigate, home to incredible rides, and packed with lots of gems, including some of the best restaurants at Universal Orlando . 

Legoland Florida

Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/Orlando Sentinel/Tribune News Service via Getty Images

Themed to the brightly hued bricks, Legoland Florida is the place for the next generation of thrill seekers, home to entry-level roller coasters and kid-friendly attractions. The park's newest attractions include Pirate River Quest, a scenic boat ride through the former Cypress Garden, and Lego Ferrari Build & Race, a hands-on experience like no other. And park goers ages five and under can visit the first-ever Peppa Pig Theme Park, centered around the beloved British cartoon character.

While the attractions may focus on younger guests, this is really a park for everyone. I could spend hours exploring Miniland and its large-scale Lego structures portraying iconic cities around the globe. The park’s signature apple fries are worth a visit alone. And with several on-site resorts, a water park, and two theme parks, it’s become a bona fide destination.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Nik Wheeler/Corbis via Getty Images

Home to over 50 attractions, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is an animal-focused theme park with an emphasis on pushing boundaries. Here, you’ll find the tallest and fastest inverted roller coaster in the world, Montu, as well as the area’s largest zoo, with over 200 animal species. One of its newest coasters is the adrenaline-pumping Iron Gwazi which ascends 206 feet in the air and reaches speeds of up to 76 miles per hour.  

While Disney festivals get all the attention, this park's award-winning Food & Wine Festival is reason alone to visit and wows me with globally inspired bites and live entertainment.

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon

Courtesy of Disney World

Find quintessential Disney storytelling at Typhoon Lagoon, one of Disney World’s two water parks. There’s a rich backstory as you visit a former tropical paradise that’s been wrecked by a typhoon. It’s a delightful mix of approachable thrills and family fun, as evident with Miss Adventure Falls, an immersive whitewater family attraction. And you’ll feel a world away from Magic Kingdom as you float Castaway Creek, an over 2,000-foot-long lazy river.

There’s an effortless, relaxed vibe at Typhoon Lagoon, and although the slides are great, the highlight for me is North America’s largest wave pool set against a towering mountain. Snacks abound, including delicious Caribbean-inspired bites and even the famous Dole Whip.

Related: Disney Water Park Guide: What to Know About Typhoon Lagoon vs. Blizzard Beach

Universal’s Volcano Bay

Universal Creative took its excellence in theme park design and applied it to the world of water parks for the first-of-its-kind Volcano Bay. The park is 25 acres of pure South Pacific-inspired paradise centered around a 200-foot human-made volcano. Plus, Universal flexes its culinary skills with inventive foods so good you’ll forget you’re at a water park.

Admittedly, I’ve never been a water park person, but this one truly blows the others out of the water. If I’m feeling daring, I’ll ascend the daunting steps to the top of the volcano for the thrilling Ko’Okiri Body Plunge. I also love the fast-moving Fearless River which requires guests of all ages and sizes to wear a lifejacket because it’s that intense. But there’s also plenty to do for the non-sliders, like lounge on white-sand beaches or hit up one of the many beach bars reminiscent of a tropical resort.

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What we know about unauthorized immigrants living in the U.S.

The unauthorized immigrant population in the United States reached 10.5 million in 2021, according to new Pew Research Center estimates. That was a modest increase over 2019 but nearly identical to 2017.

The number of unauthorized immigrants living in the U.S. in 2021 remained below its peak of 12.2 million in 2007. It was about the same size as in 2004 and lower than every year from 2005 to 2015.

The new estimates do not reflect changes that have occurred since apprehensions and expulsions of migrants along the U.S.-Mexico border started increasing in March 2021 . Migrant encounters at the border have since reached historic highs .

Pew Research Center undertook this research to understand ongoing changes in the size and characteristics of the unauthorized immigrant population in the United States. The Center has published estimates of the U.S. unauthorized immigrant population for more than two decades. The estimates presented in this research are the Center’s latest, adding new and updated annual estimates for 2017 through 2021.

Center estimates of the unauthorized immigrant population use a “residual method.” It is similar to methods used by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Immigration Statistics and nongovernmental organizations, including the Center for Migration Studies and the Migration Policy Institute . Those organizations’ estimates are generally consistent with ours. Our estimates also align with official U.S. data sources, including birth records, school enrollment figures and tax data, as well as Mexican censuses and surveys.

Our “residual” method for estimating the nation’s unauthorized immigrant population includes these steps:

• Estimate the total number of immigrants living in the country in a particular year using data from U.S. censuses and government surveys such as the American Community Survey and the Current Population Survey.
• Estimate the number of immigrants living in the U.S. legally using official counts of immigrant and refugee admissions together with other demographic data (for example, death and out-migration rates).
• Subtract our estimate of lawful immigrants from our estimate of the total immigrant population . This provides an initial estimate of the unauthorized immigrant population .

Our final estimate of the U.S. unauthorized immigrant population, as well as estimates for lawful immigrants, includes an upward adjustment. We do this because censuses and surveys tend to miss some people . Undercounts for immigrants, especially unauthorized immigrants, tend to be higher than for other groups. (Our 1990 estimate comes from work by Robert Warren and John Robert Warren; details can be found here .)

The term “unauthorized immigrant” reflects standard and customary usage by many academic researchers and policy analysts. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Immigration Statistics also generally uses it. The term means the same thing as undocumented immigrants, illegal immigrants and illegal aliens.

For more details on how we produced our estimates, read the Methodology section of our November 2018 report on unauthorized immigrants.

The unauthorized immigrant population includes any immigrants not in the following groups:

• Immigrants admitted for lawful residence (i.e., green card admissions)
• People admitted formally as refugees
• People granted asylum
• Former unauthorized immigrants granted legal residence under the 1985 Immigration Reform and Control Act
• Immigrants admitted under any of categories 1-4 who have become naturalized U.S. citizens
• Individuals admitted as lawful temporary residents under specific visa categories

Read the Methodology section of our November 2018 report on unauthorized immigrants for more details.

Pew Research Center’s estimate of unauthorized immigrants includes more than 2 million immigrants who have temporary permission to be in the United States. (Some also have permission to work in the country.) These immigrants account for about 20% of our national estimate of 10.5 million unauthorized immigrants for 2021.

Although these immigrants have permission to be in the country, they could be subject to deportation if government policy changes. Other organizations and the federal government also include these immigrants in their estimates of the U.S. unauthorized immigrant population.

Immigrants can receive temporary permission to be in the U.S. through the following ways:

Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

In 2021, there were about 500,000 unauthorized immigrants with Temporary Protected Status . This status provides protection from removal or deportation to individuals who cannot safely return to their country because of civil unrest, violence or natural disaster.

Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) is a similar program that grants protection from removal. The number of immigrants with DED is much smaller than the number with TPS.

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals is a program that offers protection from deportation to individuals who were brought to the U.S. as children before June 15, 2007. As of the end of 2021, there were slightly more than 600,000 DACA beneficiaries , largely immigrants from Mexico.

Asylum applicants

Individuals who have applied for asylum but are awaiting a ruling are not legal residents yet but cannot be deported. There are two types of asylum claims, defensive and affirmative .

Defensive asylum applications are generally filed by individuals facing deportation or removal from the U.S. These are processed by the Department of Justice’s Executive Office for Immigration Review. At the end of 2021, there were almost 600,000 applications pending.

Affirmative asylum claims are made by individuals already in the U.S. who are not in the process of being deported or removed. These claims are handled by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). At the end of 2021, more than 400,000 applications for affirmative asylum were pending, some covering more than one applicant.

Here are key findings about how the U.S. unauthorized immigrant population changed from 2017 to 2021:

• The most common country of birth for unauthorized immigrants is Mexico. However, the population of unauthorized immigrants from Mexico dropped by 900,000 from 2017 to 2021 , to 4.1 million.
• There were increases in unauthorized immigrants from nearly every other region of the world – Central America, the Caribbean, South America, Asia, Europe and sub-Saharan Africa.
• Among U.S. states, only Florida and Washington saw increases to their unauthorized immigrant populations , while California and Nevada saw decreases. In all other states, unauthorized immigrant populations were unchanged.
• 4.6% of U.S. workers in 2021 were unauthorized immigrants , virtually identical to the share in 2017.

Trends in the U.S. immigrant population

The U.S. foreign-born population was 14.1% of the nation’s population in 2021. That was very slightly higher than in the last five years but below the record high of 14.8% in 1890.

As of 2021, the nation’s 10.5 million unauthorized immigrants represented about 3% of the total U.S. population and 22% of the foreign-born population. These shares were among the lowest since the 1990s.

Between 2007 and 2021, the unauthorized immigrant population decreased by 1.75 million, or 14%.

Meanwhile, the lawful immigrant population grew by more than 8 million, a 29% increase, and the number of naturalized U.S. citizens grew by 49%. In 2021, naturalized citizens accounted for about half (49%) of all immigrants in the country.

Where unauthorized immigrants come from

Unauthorized immigrants living in the U.S. come from many parts of the world, with Mexico being the most common origin country.

The origin countries for unauthorized immigrants have changed since the population peaked in 2007, before the Great Recession slowed immigration. Here are some highlights of those changes:

The number of unauthorized immigrants from Mexico living in the U.S. (4.1 million in 2021) was the lowest since the 1990s. Mexico accounted for 39% of the nation’s unauthorized immigrants in 2021, by far the smallest share on record .

The decrease in unauthorized immigrants from Mexico reflects several factors:

• A broader decline in migration from Mexico to the U.S.
• Mexican immigrants to the U.S. continuing to return to Mexico
• Expanded opportunities for lawful immigration from Mexico and other countries, especially for temporary agricultural workers.

The rest of the world

The total number of unauthorized immigrants in the U.S. from countries other than Mexico has grown rapidly. In 2021, this population was 6.4 million, up by 900,000 from 2017.

Almost every region in the world had a notable increase in the number of unauthorized immigrants in the U.S. from 2007 to 2021. The largest increases were from Central America (240,000) and South and East Asia (180,000).

After Mexico, the countries of origin with the largest unauthorized immigrant populations in the U.S. in 2021 were:

• El Salvador (800,000)
• India (725,000)
• Guatemala (700,000)
• Honduras (525,000)

India, Guatemala and Honduras all saw increases from 2017.

The Northern Triangle

Three Central American countries – El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala – together represented 2.0 million unauthorized immigrants in the U.S. in 2021, or almost 20% of the total. The unauthorized immigrant population from the Northern Triangle grew by about 250,000 from 2017 and about 700,000 from 2007.

Other origin countries

Venezuela was the country of birth for 190,000 U.S. unauthorized immigrants in 2021. This population saw particularly fast growth, from 130,000 in 2017 and 55,000 in 2007.

Among countries with the largest numbers of U.S. unauthorized immigrants, India, Brazil, Canada and former Soviet Union countries all experienced growth from 2017 to 2021.

Some origin countries with significant unauthorized immigrant populations showed no change, notably China (375,000) and the Dominican Republic (230,000).

Detailed table: Unauthorized immigrant population by region and selected country of birth (and margins of error), 1990-2021 (Excel)

U.S. states of residence of unauthorized immigrants

The unauthorized immigrant population in most U.S. states stayed steady from 2017 to 2021. However, four states saw significant changes:

• Florida (+80,000)
• Washington (+60,000)
• California (-150,000)
• Nevada (-25,000)

States with the most unauthorized immigrants

The six states with the largest unauthorized immigrant populations in 2021 were:

• California (1.9 million)
• Texas (1.6 million)
• Florida (900,000)
• New York (600,000)
• New Jersey (450,000)
• Illinois (400,000)

These states have consistently had the most unauthorized immigrants since 1990 and earlier .

At the same time, the unauthorized immigrant population has become less geographically concentrated. In 2021, these six states were home to 56% of the nation’s unauthorized immigrants, down from 80% in 1990.

Detailed table: Unauthorized immigrant population for states (and margins of error), 1990-2021 (Excel)

Detailed table: Unauthorized immigrants and characteristics for states, 2021 (Excel)

Unauthorized immigrants in the labor force

The share of unauthorized immigrants in the U.S. workforce was slightly less than 5% in 2021, compared with 3% of the total U.S. population.

Demographics help explain the difference: The unauthorized immigrant population includes relatively few children or elderly adults, groups that tend not to be in the labor force.

Overall, about 7.8 million unauthorized immigrants were in the U.S. labor force in 2021. That was up slightly from 2019 but smaller than every year from 2007 through 2015.

Detailed table: Unauthorized immigrants in the labor force for states, 2021 (Excel)

Here are some additional findings about unauthorized immigrants as a share of the workforce nationwide and in certain states:

• Since 2003, unauthorized immigrants have made up 4.4% to 5.4% of all U.S. workers, a relatively narrow range.
• Fewer than 1% of workers in Maine, Montana, Vermont and West Virginia in 2021 were unauthorized immigrants.
• Nevada (9%) and Texas (8%) had the highest shares of unauthorized immigrants in the workforce.
• Immigrant Populations
• Immigration Issues
• Unauthorized Immigration

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