Here’s a great destination for hot summer weekends. New museums in St. Petersburg – each built to house extraordinary private collections – make this a Florida city with lots to do indoors. A new museum cafe adds another draw.
Historic
Florida Rambler is always on the lookout for places that capture the Florida that is being lost to expressways and development. We include historic destinations, Florida landmarks and places where the past lives on in big and small ways. Here’s a scene from Micanopy, located right off I-75 near Gainesville.
Cap’s Place, the oldest Broward restaurant, a former speakeasy & casino, is a fascinating visit
Cap’s Place is Broward’s oldest restaurant, where rum-runners and gamblers reigned, and presidents and celebrities visited. It’s a rustic old wooden shack now surrounded by mansions and yachts. History and atmosphere make it worth a visit.
Road Trip: Ormond Scenic Loop & Trail worth more than a quick ride
The Ormond Scenic Loop is a 30-mile road trip through live-oak canopies, waterfront postcard scenes, abundant wildlife, two state parks. It’s a great summer activity when paired with some time on the cinnamon-colored beaches you will pass.
‘Battle of Bloody Mose’: The defense of St. Augustine
On Saturday, June 28, the Fort Mose Historical Society hosts a reenactment of the Battle of Bloody Mose in St. Augustine.
Miami’s Stiltsville: See it by boat on tours in Biscayne National Park
Folks have been fascinated with Stiltsville since the first shack went up in Biscayne Bay a mile from land in the 1930s. Biscayne National Park and a non-profit partner offer regular boat tours that tell the Stiltsville story and take you close to the houses.
Pigeon Key: Island on Seven Mile Bridge has scenery, history
As you cross the Seven Mile Bridge, you pass the little green island with yellow cottages and palm trees surrounded by dazzling blue water. You can visit this tiny paradise, which offers fascinating history, tropical beauty, even great snorkeling.
Boca Grande: Quaint Old Florida beach town is worth the toll
The historic lighthouse at the tip of this charming Old Florida island has finally reopened after last year’s double-hurricane hit. Boca Grande is a favorite among the rich and famous. It’s beautiful and makes a satisfying daytrip, especially on a bike.
Safety Harbor: Beyond its healing waters
Safety Harbor is ranked among America’s Top 10 in USA Today’s 10Best reader surveys for “Best Main Street” and “Best Small Town in the South” in 2025.
Explore the Talbot Islands for camping, kayaking, hiking, beaches
The Talbot Islands harbor an awesome collection of state parks and wildlife preserves south of Amelia Island with striking beaches, historic forts and plantations, backcountry kayaking, off-road trails and camping.
Six things not to miss at McKee Botanical Garden in Vero Beach
McKee Botanical Garden in Vero Beach is a gem to discover. Once a top roadside attraction, go for its water lilies, Old Florida buildings and gorgeous vistas. A once-a-year waterlily festival, celebrating peak bloom for the lilies, is June 14.