These weekend getaways are for people who want to explore new destinations where they can hike, bike, paddle and experience historic sites. We picked our favorites from years of exploring Florida.

Endangered right whales are viewed close to shore from Daytona Beach to Amelia Island every winter. Sightings aren’t predictable, but here’s how to get a chance to see Florida’s largest endangered species. A family festival in Fernandina Beach Nov. 5-6 celebrates the whales.

Florida harvest festivals and farm tours demonstrate that you can soak up a little autumn spirit, even in Florida. All across Florida, farms create family fun with traditional harvest activities like pumpkin patches and corn mazes.

Comprehensive listing of Florida Oktoberfests, many of them sponsored by local German-American clubs, who go all out with authentic German bands, beers and German food.

Florida birding festivals bring together experts, pros and beginners at winter events. With its varied terrain and long coastline, Florida is birding heaven. The first major birding festival starts Oct. 20.

Surf fishing is a terrific family outing — or a quiet escape to get away alone. Be prepared with our popular checklist and how-to guide. (Photo by Jerry Lower, The Coastal Star)

The historic Nike missile site in Everglades National Park is a well-preserved relic of the 1960s Cold War. See a restored Nike Hercules missile during the winter season.

My idea of a great choice for a place to eat on vacation is a restaurant with a story behind it. Here are eight historic restaurants that fit that criteria — from Prohibition rum-runners to 1980s drug-runners; from authentic 1920s grand hotel to an authentic 1950s diner.

Legends suggest these places are haunted. I’m dubious, but I know this: These are beautiful, evocative spots worth discovering at Halloween or any time of year.

Kayaking the Braden River, with time at Jiggs Landing and Linger Lodge, is a delightful trip back into Old Florida. Both outposts date to the 1940s and the scenic river that connects them preserves much of its natural beauty.

It’s easy to find a beach in Florida. It’s harder to find a hidden beach, a beach where you experience a sense of discovery and delicious isolation. Here, however, I share my favorites, discovered over many years.

The Seminole Arts Celebration offers tradition — fry bread and alligator wrestling — but also celebrates the diversity of native cultures. In 2022, the highlight will be New Zealand’s HAKA Māori Cultural Experience.

Rooted in the boisterous days of pirates, wreckers and rum runners, inebriation is an established ritual in Key West. Celebrate with locals at these favored watering holes away from the hordes crawling Duval Street.

Florida Seafood Festival celebrates Apalachicola’s vibrant fishing industry, which produces 90% of the state’s oysters. This guide features camping, lodging and things to do near Apalachicola. The 2022 festival is scheduled for Nov. 4-5.

Tune up for the best campgrounds near the action for Biketoberfest in Daytona, October 13-16, 2022.

Florida Keys state parks are some of the most intriguing & beautiful places in the Keys. Some are little-known & off the beaten path. Get our insider tips.