Amateur astronomers and photographers love this peaceful savanna in the heart of Florida, an ideal destination for stargazing, bird watching, and not a bad getaway from the world at large.
Orlando/Central Florida
Central Florida Getaways
Things to do in Orlando and Central Florida, hiking, bicycling, kayaking and canoe, RV and tent camping, road trips, historic places and Funky Florida.
Silver Springs: Exquisite paddle trail may be best in state
Launch at the famous springhead and paddle a historic waterway with monkeys, manatees and otters. Silver Springs kayaking is as good as it gets.
Iconic Yeehaw Junction landmark demolished
The historic Desert Inn, a legendary pit stop since the 19th Century, has finally been demolished, five years after it was heavily damaged when an 18-wheeler crashed through its front door.
Kelly Park at Rock Springs: Cool swimming, shady campground, paddle Rock Springs Run
Kelly Park is a popular summer destination for swimming in cool springs and paddling scenic Rock Springs Run, including the stunning Emerald Cut.
Withlacoochee River Park, Green Swamp & dark skies
Withlacoochee River Park is a base camp for hiking and bicycling in the Green Swamp Wilderness Preserve with one special characteristic — it’s also a “dark sky” park favored by amateur astronomers.
Cool Escapes: The best springs in Florida for swimming, tubing, snorkeling, diving …
Floridians survive the heat and humidity of our brutal summers by turning to the state’s wealth of cool, clear, refreshing springs. These are our picks for the best springs in Florida.
Winter Garden: Old Florida town thrives around great bike trail
Here’s a great weekend getaway for bicyclists. The appealing West Orange Trail, a 22-mile rail-trail, goes right down the middle of the lively main street in Downtown Winter Garden. Stay in the Historic Edgewater Hotel for a great base with Old Florida charm.
Weeki Wachee Springs: Kayaking, manatees and mermaids
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is known for its iconic mermaid show and water park. The gorgeous spring-fed river is also a great place for kayak and SUP rentals, although the route from the park has been shortened.
Lake Louisa: Nature near Orlando with great hiking, cabins
Lake Louisa State Park is a half hour from theme parks, but is a natural world with 20 miles of hiking trails and great cabins. Located on the east end of the vast Green Swamp, you’ll find wildlife, old citrus groves, hills, cypress swamps and forests.
6 things to do in Ocala National Forest
Encompassing more than 600 square miles in North Central Florida, Ocala National Forest is your playground for adventure.