Everglades Wonder Gardens in Bonita Springs has survived since 1936. Now it’s a small but serene spot to enjoy glorious flora, colorful birds, gators and more. It’s located on Old 41 Road, a pocket of Old Florida that is having a renaissance.
Tag: roadside attraction
Marineland Florida: St. Augustine site where dolphins first performed is saved again
Marineland was the original oceanarium and the first to discover you could train dolphins to perform. Now it has been saved from developers bidding on the oceanfront property in a bankruptcy auction. It’s the start of a new chapter in the property’s remarkable history.
Wakulla Springs State Park: Chill in a spring at an Old Florida lodge
Wakulla Springs State Park has a historic lodge, spectacular spring/swimming hole, scenic boat rides and many spots to hike, bike and kayak nearby. The Big Bend region of Florida is often overlooked by visitors, who are missing out on a rustic, rural area.
7 things to do in St. Petersburg for an Old Florida flavor
St. Petersburg is full of Old Florida treasures, from a beautiful brick 1927 comfort station next to the new bayfront pier to the Sunken Gardens, a cherished roadside attraction complete with a flock of flamingoes. St. Pete has grown younger and livelier, but it retains much of its original charm.
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.
De Leon Springs: ‘Pancake park’ is so much more
De Leon Springs, about an hour north of Orlando, is a state park with swimming, kayaking and fantastic history. It’s best known for — of all things — its pancakes. Our advice: spend the day and take in the adjacent Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge.