These three Florida destinations have quaint Old Florida settings and go all-out with holiday decorations.

I had lived in Florida a long time before I discovered the rich and often tragic history of native Americans here. Here are seven parks and museums that tell those stories.

Florida Panhandle’s greatest treasure might be Gulf Islands National Seashore, with an unspoiled barrier island, sand as white as snow and a rare Civil War fort whose spooky spaces you can wander.

Atsena Otie island is a ghost town founded before Florida was a state. It’s a half-mile kayak trip from the Cedar Key beach and rewards you with a sandy beach, an atmosperic cemetery and good paddling and birding.

The Florida Strawberry Festival is set to return to its former glory in 2022 with a post-pandemic lineup of headline acts that includes The Beach Boys, Lady A, Jake Owen, Boyz II Men and more!

This gorgeous, wild, winding river is well-known in Florida, but can only be paddled when water levels are high enough — and thanks to recent rains, that is NOW. This river belongs on the bucket list of those who love the Florida outdoors.

It’s a long way from just about anywhere — and that’s part of its beauty. But it’s also a great place to bicycle, kayak, hike, watch sunsets and spot birds. An 1859 hotel, now a charming B&B, plus fresh seafood restaurants add to its appeal.

Autumn doesn’t bring a lot of color to the Sunshine State, but that’s only part of the fall story. We take great delight in “cool” fronts that drive out summer’s humidity.

Blooms of red tide have all but disappeared off Southwest Florida and the Panhandle.

The Big Bend Scenic Byway links a big national wildlife refuge, three state parks, three historic lighthouses, one of the best beach islands in Florida and picturesque fishing towns. It winds through an area that sees fewer tourists, and offers rustic Old Florida delights at every turn–from black bears to white squirrels.