Attractions – Florida Inns

10 Things To Do for Nature Lovers in Indian River County

FL Inns — Mon, 07 Sep 2020 20:13:18 +0000

Some of Florida’s best attractions can be found in the great outdoors — and we’re not just talking about beaches. From amazing wildlife and world-class fishing to historic trails and pristine lakes, you’ll find these amazing outdoor adventures and more in Indian River County, Fla. From the shores of Sebastian to the town of Vero Beach, this east coast destination combines ecological wonders with miles of waterways to create a mecca of activities for nature enthusiasts. Here are 10 ways you can explore the best outdoor adventures during your stay in Indian River County.

Beach to scout out sea turtle nests. It’s possible you can catch a Loggerhead sea turtle laying eggs, disguising her nest and returning to the ocean during your journey. In 2019, sea turtles were observed during 38 of the 44 Turtle Walks at the park — so there’s a good chance you’ll see these turtles in action. Turtle Walks are offered five days a week, Friday – Tuesday, during June and July – and be prepared to stay up late, as the walks start at 9 p.m. and can last until 1 a.m. Reservations are required and can easily be made online. And if you’d like to get even more involved with turtle conservation, Coastal Connections, a non-profit dedicated to educational interactive sea turtle encounters and community conservation programs, offers Turtle Dig experiences in July and August where you can learn about sea turtle biology and ways to protect them.

Kayak the Magnificent Blue Cypress Lake

Grab a paddle and explore this jewel on Florida’s Treasure Coast. Blue Cypress Lake in Fellsmere is the largest lake in Indian River County, stretching seven miles long and three miles wide with 21 miles of shoreline. Here, bright blue skies meet deep blue waters and 130-foot Cypress Trees tower above the water’s surface. These impressive trees will appear blue in the morning sun’s reflection, so be sure to head out early so you don’t miss the sunrise. And while you kayak through the soaring cypress trees, be on the lookout for Osprey nests, as the lake is a top nesting site for these magnificent birds. The lake is surrounded by 29,000 acres of marshes, swamps and Cypress forests, so don’t be surprised if you spot a gator or two, as well as plenty of fish and the occasional bald eagle. Kayaking here is one of the most beautiful and rewarding experiences you’ll find on Florida’s east coast.

Tour America’s First National Wildlife Refuge

Nature and history combine for a unique wildlife experience in Indian River County, which is home to America’s first national wildlife refuge. Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge in Vero Beach was the first federally protected nature reserve to be designated as a wildlife refuge. It was established by President Theordore Roosevelt in 1903 to protect egrets and other birds from extinction. Today, hundreds of species of animals — including birds, fish and mammals — call this 3-acre island and its surrounding 2.5 acres of protected waters their home. You can experience this small, but very important piece of history for yourself through guided and self-guided tours. Other activities on the island include fishing, environmental education programs, and three hiking trails to explore the animal and plant life on the island. Don’t forget your camera so you can bring back memories from this incredible wildlife experience.

Peddle Down the Famous Jungle Trail

This old Florida trail off A1A in Vero Beach is not only great for hikers and bikers to enjoy an afternoon outdoors, but it’s also where multiple pieces of history converge to give you a glimpse into Indian River County’s past. This nearly 8-mile stretch of scenic, sandy road is where citrus growers would haul produce in the 1920s. As you peddle down the trail, you’ll also be able to see Pelican Island, the first national wildlife refuge, and the historic Jones Pier, the oldest pier in the county. As you travel under the lush canopy of trees, you’ll enjoy gorgeous views of Indian River Lagoon and there are plenty of spectacular lookout spots for bird watching. It’s truly a nature lover’s paradise that winds through old Florida history.

Hiking, Biking & More at Fort Drum Marsh Conservation Area

Lace up your hiking boots and get ready to explore the diverse wetland habitat at Fort Drum Marsh Conservation Area. You’ll find nearly 5 miles of trails to explore the dry prairie, pine flatwoods, hardwood swamp and freshwater marsh habitats that are home to Florida sandhill cranes, bald eagles, white-tailed deer and more native wildlife. One of the highlights of your hike is the wooden boardwalk that winds through the hardwood swamp and leads to Hog Island, where you’ll find more trails as well as a primitive camping site. The boardwalk is an Instagram-worthy photo op, as the sunlight peeks through the canopy of sabal palms and cypress and cedar trees. Canoeing, horseback riding, picnicking, fishing and bicycling can also be enjoyed during your time in this conservation area.

Take an airboat ride in Indian River County, FL

Glide Through Marshlands on an Airboat Adventure

Old Florida fun at its finest, an airboat adventure is a great way to explore the Florida ecosystem. Indian River County has a variety of airboat excursion outfitters that can take you and your friends or family through the marsh to learn about the landscapes and native wildlife. As you speed through the swampy waters, there’s no doubt you’ll stop to see a few alligators lurking around and you’ll also likely get a glimpse of a few Osprey nests too. An airboat tour combines a thrilling adventure with an educational eco-tour as airboat captains share informative facts about Florida’s storied marshlands.

Go Paddleboarding at Round Island Park

If you’re looking for a new way to explore the great outdoors, paddleboarding offers an immersive experience on the water — not to mention a great workout. One of the best places to paddleboard is at Round Island Park in Vero Beach, which has access to both the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian River Lagoon. While you paddle around, you’ll likely see some friendly manatees. These gentle giants are known for being playful and curious, and some may swim up to your board to say hello. You can also venture on land to hike and observe local wildlife or have lunch at one of the two picnic pavilions.

Waterlilies at McKee Botanical Garden

Visit the Historic McKee Botanical Garden

Once one of the largest natural attractions in Florida, McKee Botanical Garden in Vero Beach is an 18-acre tropical oasis home to a diverse collection of 10,000 native and tropical plants. It’s also home to the area’s largest collection of waterlilies, with more than 100 varieties grown here each year. The garden was established in 1932 and was once among the top attractions in the Sunshine State, with more than 100,000 visitors each year. Today, this lush landscape is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and its winding paths immerse visitors in nature as you walk through towering, twisting trees and colorful blooms. Pass by ponds with old wooden footbridges and walk through the magnificent Hall of Giants, where you’ll find the world’s largest single-plank mahogany table at more than 40 feet long.

Explore Nature at the Environmental Learning Center

Take the hands-on approach to nature with the activities and excursions at the Environmental Learning Center in Vero Beach. Hop in a see-through canoe and explore the Indian River Lagoon like never before or sit back, relax and learn about the local wildlife aboard a pontoon-style eco-tour. Meanwhile, kids and kids-at-heart can safely interact with a variety of marine animals in the ELC’s Touch Tank, including horseshoe crabs, sea urchins and spider crabs. Both the indoor and outdoor facilities provide educational opportunities, while also offering a chance to unplug and immerse yourself in nature.

Experience world-class fishing in Indian River County, FL

Get Hooked on World-Class Fishing

Cast a line and reel in the memories in one of the best fishing destinations on Florida’s east coast. Sebastian Inlet is a premiere saltwater fishing spot where anglers of all ages go to catch snook, grouper, redfish, Spanish mackerel, as well as various species of shark. Off the Sebastian coast in the Atlantic, you’ll fish for more challenging catches like sailfish, swordfish, tuna, amberjack and more. The best inshore fishing spots can be found on the Indian River Lagoon and the St. Sebastian River, where you’ll find trout, tarpon and redfish, just to name a few. Whether you take your own boat, hire a charter boat or enter a fishing tournament, you’re sure to get hooked on the endless fishing options in Indian River County.

Fort Drum Conservation Area

Combining outstanding outdoor pursuits with historic old Florida charm, Indian River County has something to offer for every type of nature enthusiast. Whether you explore land, lake or ocean, it’s easy to get lost in adventure and immerse yourself in the ecological wonders of this unique destination. This carefully preserved nature oasis is calling, so start planning your next outdoor adventure in Indian River County.

Trek Through Cool Trails: Top 5 Family-Friendly and Dog-Friendly Shaded Hikes

FL Inns — Thu, 03 Sep 2020 19:55:26 +0000

Spending time in nature has been proven to benefit the mind, body and spirit, so round up the kids, find the dog, or go solo and reacquaint yourself with the outdoors on Alachua County’s nature trails.

To get you started, we have compiled a list of shaded, family and dog-friendly nature trails for all skill levels. From the urban park in the middle of Gainesville to the natural wonders at Florida’s first state park, there is truly something for everyone.

Remember to bring water and bug spray, and binoculars if you have them to spot wildlife. Take time to reconnect with nature, it’s good for you!

Click here to check out more parks and trails to explore in Alachua County.

#gainesville #alachuacounty #floridahikes #floridastateparks #getoutside #whyilovegnv

Photo credit: @chrissy_martinez_photography

O’Leno State Park
410 SE O’Leno Park Rd., High Springs, FL 32643

O’Leno State Park and the neighboring River Rise Preserve State Park have over 20 miles of hiking trails and are known for having some of the most beautiful and diverse hiking in Florida. O’Leno’s Limestone Trail is a 0.7 mile loop that has a reputation for being the prettiest hike in the park. Take the mile and a half walk on the River Trail and get the opportunity to cross over the Santa Fe River on their wooden suspension bridge. Make sure to stop and relax at one of the pavilions located along the water’s edge. Admission is $5 per vehicle.

Insider tip: Book a cabin to get the true wilderness experience. And make sure to bring your fishing pole.

Photo credit: @outside.everyday

Loblolly Woods
3315 NW 5th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32607

Loblolly Woods has a 2.7 mile loop trail tucked away in the middle of Gainesville. Although so close to all the city amenities, it feels so far away. Loblolly has well-defined trails and boardwalks, with the bonus of the Hogtown Creek water feature.
Parking: Small, secluded lot located on the east side of 34^th Street, between University Ave. and 8^th Street.

Insider Tip: Take your time and look up, this stretch of woods is known to be one of the best birding spots in the county.

Photo credit: @outside.everyday

Alfred A. Ring Park
1801 NW 23rd Blvd, Gainesville, FL 32605

Located in the heart of Gainesville, Ring Park is a scenic 1.5 mile loop trail that winds alongside Hogtown Creek. Visit the scenic overlook to see where the clear water of Glen Springs mixes with the tannic water of Hogtown Creek. And make sure to allow enough time to relax on a bench and take in nature or to let the kids have fun on the playground.

Parking: Park next door in the Elks Lodge parking lot.

Insider tip: Pick up a beef or veggie patty from Caribbean Spice (2 minutes away) to enjoy at the pavilion or on a park bench.

Photo credit: @floridahikes

Tuscawilla Preserve
406 SE Tuscawilla Road, Micanopy, FL 32667

Although Tuscawilla Preserve is a short trail system, it offers a lot of diversity and beauty with majestic oak tree-lined paths and tall grass overlooks out into the wide-open space of Lake Tuscawilla. This is an excellent place to experience a vast change of scenery in a very relaxing way.
To hike the 0.7 mile outer loop, turn right at the trail’s entrance kiosk and follow the path west and stay right at the first junction.

Parking: Lot across the street from the trailhead at the Micanopy Native American Heritage Park (additional hiking trails).

Insider tip: Enjoy the rest of the day in historic downtown Micanopy, only 0.8 miles west of the trail. Get an ice cream and Coffee N’ Cream and walk through the shops in Florida’s oldest inland town.

Photo credit: @outside.everyday

San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park
11101 Millhopper Road, Gainesville, FL 32653

San Felasco Hammock Preserve Park has several hiking trails in a variety of lengths and skill levels. For beginners, or someone looking to hike a shorter trail, try Moonshine Creek Trail, a 1.2 mile loop. This trail starts off on a wide pine-forested path then transitions into a narrower winding trail surrounded by hickory, gum, and magnolia trees. Click here to view the map of all San Felasco’s trails.

Parking: Lot located on State Road 232 at 11101 Millhopper Road.
Admission: $4 per vehicle

Insider tip: Keep an eye out for sinkholes and wildlife like Whitetail Deer.

Scream N'Stream Halloween at Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures

FL Inns — Wed, 02 Sep 2020 22:18:59 +0000

Scream n’ Stream is a socially-distanced Halloween Event featuring a variety of safe experiences:
• “Drive-Boo” Trick or Treat: bring the whole family in your car to drive along our Halloween road
• “Night at the Die-In” Haunted Drive-Thru: Drive your car into a horror movie and witness terror all around your vehicle with live performers, light, sound and more.
• Nighttime Haunted Airboat Tours – Learn ghost stories and legends of the lake as you search for nocturnal wildlife.
• Meet the “Fog Queen”, our event icon.

You will be captivated with ghost stories and the legends of night creatures going deep into the swamp

Information provided by the business.

Check with the business for terms and conditions.

Altitude Trampoline Park

FL Inns — Sun, 30 Aug 2020 18:00:01 +0000

Looking for a Disney area Trampoline park? Welcome to Altitude Kissimmee! Channel your energy, cut loose with your best flips and tricks, and prepare to JumpLife℠ Featuring up to 35,000 square feet of indoor trampolines and other attractions, Altitude Trampoline Park is an exciting destination for families, groups, and individual jumpers to have healthy, athletic fun.

Ready for jumps and jams? For all you dodgeball dynamos and wipe-out wonders ready to be free and play—we’re ready too! Grab a jump pass and find the location nearest you.

As the ultimate party spot, Altitude is the perfect venue for any birthday party or group event. Choose from an array of party and event packages, which can be customized to fit your budget and accommodate groups of any size, large or small.

Attractions:
• MAIN COURT
• GYMNASTIC TUMBLE TRACK
• REACTION WALL
• PERFORMANCE TRAMPOLINES
• TRAMPOLINE BASKETBALL
• VALO JUMP
• KIDS’ COURT
• STUNT BAG
• BATTLE BEAM
• TRAPEZE SWING
• ZIP LINE
• DODGEBALL
• ROCK WALL
• ROPES COURSE
• WIPEOUT

Attractions kissimmee@atpflorida.com

2671 W Osceola Parkway

Kissimmee, FL 34741

United States (407) 705-2123 7253

Geolocation is 28.3441998, -81.4291002

https://www.altitudetrampolinepark.com/locations/kissimmee Kid Friendly Partial Day Full Day Recreation Tuesday, September 1, 2020 – 05:07

Craft Beer Festival at SeaWorld Orlando

FL Inns — Fri, 28 Aug 2020 11:10:17 +0000

SeaWorld® is serving up an incredible party for craft beer lovers. SeaWorld’s Craft Beer Festival features more than 100 crafts brews. Sample an unbeatable mix of domestic and local Florida favorites. Plus savor more than 20 food items expertly paired to match your preferred brew. This is the one craft beer celebration you won’t want to miss.

Saturdays and Sundays through September 20.

Information provided by the business.

Check with the business for terms and conditions.

Brick or Treat

FL Inns — Thu, 27 Aug 2020 17:20:47 +0000

This October, experience the spooky, kooky fun of one of the only Halloween Events in Central Florida! Enjoy neighborhood-style trick-or-treating plenty of spooktacular sweets plus seasonal shows and exclusive creepy-cool LEGO characters in the ultimate kids Halloween celebration– all included with regular day admission.

To ensure that you and your family can have confidence in the safety of being able to play at our Resort, we have introduced a range of new health & safety measures. These measures are in line with government guidance and the requirements of local health authorities. Some of the measures set out below may be clearly visible to you from the moment you arrive and others are things that we will be asking our guests to consider prior to their arrival. However, all of these pieces have been designed to ensure that we are able to build an even safer environment for you and your family to experience the fun of a LEGOLAND vacation.

Information provided by the business.

Check with the business for terms and conditions.

Disney World Plans to Reopen on July 11

SSL of Florida Staff — Tue, 02 Jun 2020 15:22:55 +0000

Walt Disney World has announced plans to start a phased reopening of its Orlando-area theme parks following a nearly four-month closure. Pending state approval, Disney will reopen the Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom on Saturday, July 11, followed by Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios on Wednesday, July 15.

Why the N.B.A. Is Planning on Going to Disney World

SSL of Florida Staff — Fri, 29 May 2020 01:57:00 +0000

Singing pirates and spinning teacups. Mickey Mouse-shaped waffles. Impossibly chipper employees chirping, “Have a magical day.” Stroller gridlock.

Pre-eminent sports venue?

Walt Disney World is known for many things, but few people would immediately associate it with athletics, unless you count endurance walking or Super Bowl winners gleefully exclaiming their intention to visit, a marketing gimmick that started in 1987. Tucked behind oak trees and sabal palms on the southern edge of the Florida mega-resort, however, is ESPN Wide World of Sports, a 220-acre basketball, soccer, volleyball, lacrosse, baseball and competitive cheer complex that serves as an overlooked Disney World engine — and is expected to soon become the capital of the basketball universe.

10 Places To Shop Till You Drop In St. Petersburg, Florida

SSL of Florida Staff — Thu, 28 May 2020 21:29:09 +0000

10 places to shop till you drop in St. Petersburg

After you experience the area’s soothing beaches, fine restaurants and enticing attractions, it might be time for a little retail therapy.

If you like indoor mall shopping, especially popular during the intense…

by Michelle da Silva Richmond