Black Caesar was a pirate of some renown who plundered ships off the Florida Keys, or so goes a legend worthy of mention during Black History Month.
Tag: Old Florida
Koreshan State Park is Florida’s strangest historic site
Florida’s wackiness goes back to its first settlers, and Koreshan State Historic Site celebrates one of our earliest eccentrics. Thanks to this cult, though, a wooded site on the Estero River was preserved. A special moonlight tour is Feb. 7.
Pelican Island, the first National Wildlife Refuge, has been cherished by bird-lovers for a century
The first National Wildlife Refuge, Pelican Island, is a good place near Vero Beach to see wildlife, learn a little history and immerse in the beauty of the Indian River Lagoon.
Florida Civil War reenactment at Olustee: Feb. 13-15, 2026
BLACK HISTORY MONTH: At Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park near Jacksonville, Florida’s largest Civil War battle will be reenacted, with gun smoke, booming cannons and cavalry. Three of the famous “Colored Regiments” were among 10,000 troops that fought here.
Manatee Park & the Orange River: Fort Myers kayak trail ideal for winter day
When it’s chilly, you can see dozens of manatees at this free park. Even without manatees, the Orange River is a beautiful kayak trail through Old Florida scenery.
Florida State Fair: Feb. 5-16, 2026
Who doesn’t love the Florida State Fair, its magical midway, and food that is not very good for you — which, of course, is the appeal of a state fair!
Our favorite way to visit the historic Mai-Kai restaurant: Come for happy hour; see the gardens
Fort Lauderdale’s iconic Mai-Kai Polynesian restaurant reopened in 2024 after 4 years of loving restoration and reimagining. You don’t have to save it for a special-occasion outing.
Dade Battlefield Historic State Park: A serene spot to learn about Florida’s past
A peaceful park shaded by magnificent live oaks is a good place to soak up some Florida history. If you take the time to go through the visitor center and walk the battlefield, you’ll find it also tells a thought-provoking story.
Best Christmas lights in Florida
These Florida destinations offer over-the-top holiday lights and decorations in quaint Old Florida settings. Several of the displays continue into the new year.
Springs and wildlife make the Chaz a special kayak trail
Kayaking the Chaz on the central Gulf Coast takes you over turquoise springs, down twisty creeks, and you might just see a manatee, otter or bald eagle. This is one of Florida’s premier kayaking rivers.