No Sand, No Surf, No Problem!

You hear the word “Florida,” and you think beach, right? Well, not anymore! Let me tell you about the natural areas in Alachua County. You won’t find sand or surf, but you won’t miss those beaches.

Visit A Few Of North Florida’s Preserved Historic Homes and Villages–

In spite of its international reputation for beaches, big cities and amusement parks, Florida is largely, and historically, a rural state. Soon after the Revolutionary War, settlers moved into Florida, seeking cheap land and opportunity. By the time of the Civil War, settlements had popped up all over the state. Many were based around farming …

“Eew” – Frog Legs! A Natural North Florida Favorite!

You no longer have to be the one to catch (and clean and skin—“Eew”) frog legs. Many seafood specialty shops sell them, and I’ve even found imported, frozen frog legs acceptable and tasty.  That’s a good option for visitors to our Natural North Florida region.  Also, you’ll find them in many restaurants in the region. …

Visit Island Grove Wine Company’s New Tasting House Near Gainesville, Florida

The newly-opened (2015) Island Grove Wine Company Tasting House is probably the most exciting thing that’s happened to the the small crossroads settlement at Island Grove, FL in years!  That said, realize that Island Grove is a peaceful little place that time forgot when US301 as almost abandoned by travelers due to the construction of …

Island Grove Winery Fall Winery Festival, Saturday November 7, 2015, Island Grove, FL

Yes, Florida is producing some very nice wines, and while many Florida wineries have appeared over recent years, there are few as big and sophisticated as Island Grove Wine Company in Alachua County.  Located just east of Gainesville, near Cross Creek, at Citra, this place produces some very tasty products.  And, on Saturday, November 7, …

Take a Tour and Taste a Sample at Island Grove Winery, near Gainesville

I’m a product of college in the 60’s.  That means when I hear the words “local”, “southern” and “blueberry wine” in the same sentence, I think of the  Boones’ Farm Apple wine and “Mad Dog 20/20” common at fraternity parties.  But I’m a pretty open-minded guy and recently took the opportunity to visit Island Grove …

Island Grove Blueberry Festival, Saturday May 16, 2015

>>>BLUE BERRY FEST 2015 SATURDAY MAY 16. IN ISLAND GROVE 8am – 4pm<<< Fun for the Whole Family! Delicious Florida foods, blueberry bake sale, arts and crafts vendors. Kids activities and entertainment, old time activities ( cow drop, turkey shoot, etc.) blueberries and plants. Proceeds benefit Cross Creek Volunteer Fire Department 21921 S HWY 301 …

Re-Live The Past at Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park Near Gainesville

Located in Cross Creek, just a short drive from Gainesville (and historic Micanopy), the Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park is a look back into the time when the famous author penned classics like her Pulitzer Prize winning book, The Yearling.  The Rawlings home at Cross Creek has been restored and is of interest to …

Bike Florida Horse Country & Springs Tour, April 19-24, 2015

This All-Inclusive Tour should be fun.  20 riders will get to visit Gainesville, High Springs, Micanopy, Cross Creek and lots of spots in-between.  There’s even a Pedal & Paddle event planned on Day 4 (April 23rd) on the Ichetucknee River! Here’s what’s included: Hotel Accommodation (double occupancy) Restaurant Meals Full SAG and Luggage Support Sweep …