Author: Bonnie Gross
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Alabama Jack’s: Classic way to start a trip to Florida Keys
Stopping at Alabama Jacks, a fish shack and dive bar on a remote road between Homestead and Key Largo, has been the classic way to start a Keys trip for decades. We revisited the open-air waterfront spot recently, and we’re happy to say: It’s as shabby and atmospheric as ever.
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Updated for 2019: Biking the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail; finding safe & scenic sections
We brought our bikes to the Keys to update our guide for 2019. Some of our favorites sections are still closed due to damage from Hurricane Irma in 2017. Still, there are sections that give you a fun day’s ride and a great sampling of all the Keys has to offer. We recommend these four segments for recreational bicyclists who aren’t looking to ride from Key Largo to Key West.
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Florida boat tours: Nine classic ways to enjoy the scenery
One of the classic experiences of an Old Florida vacation was a scenic boat tour. Here are nine iconic boat tours. How many of these have you taken?
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Naples: Rare ghost orchid blooms at Corkscrew for 2019 season
Florida’s celebrity in the orchid world — the ghost orchid — is blooming at the Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary in Naples, attracting orchid fans who want to spot this rare variety. The ghost orchid was made famous by the 2002 film “Adaptation” starring Meryl Streep and the best-selling “Orchid Thief,” by Susan Orlean.
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2019 Tour of Sebring: Labor Day bike ride is a Florida classic
Labor Day brings together about 600 bicyclists from around the country to enjoy pedaling on scenic roads over gentle hills with friendly drivers.
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Deering Estate: Hidden getaway, full of beauty and history in Miami
The Deering Estate is a serene spot in South Dade offering a sweeping view of Biscayne Bay and a fascinating tour of a castle-like home and a historic inn. There’s a good reason to make this a July getaway. Deering is offering $1 admission every weekend in July 2019 in honor of Park and Recreation Month. Admission is normally $15.
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Florida cabin rentals in state parks: Like camping, but with comfort
One of the best places to enjoy nature is in a cabin in a Florida state park. But the cabins book up fast, so now is the time to make reservations for the winter. Our guide explains which parks have cabins, what they offer and what they cost. Of the 21 parks in Florida with cabins, we’ve stayed in 12 of them.
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Best snorkeling in Florida without a boat
Snorkeling in South Florida doesn’t require a boat. Here are some great places where you can snorkel and see fish and other sea creatures right from the beach.
