One Day Trips
Big Bend Road Trip, Part 1: Natural North Florida–Yankeetown to Suwannee Town
Florida’s Big Bend has long been a preferred destination of travelers and tourists. This unspoiled region we call “Natural North Florida” encompasses the Gulf of Mexico coastline, and has developed largely along the spine formed by US19 and US98. On it’s interior US27, US90, US 301, US441 and Interstate Highways 75 and 10 have attracted …
Megalodon–and More–at Florida Museum of Natural History in Gainesville
I recently saw “The Meg”, a terrible sci-fi movie based around the reemergence of an extinct super-sized shark and its proclivity for biting submarines. Fun, but fiction! 100 million years ago, the “Meg” did exist. It roamed the seas and feasted mainly on large mammals, like whale. Now, all that’s left of it is a …
Highlights Of Your Paddling Adventure On Florida’s Mighty Suwannee River
Our Natural North Florida region is blessed to have the Suwannee River as its main freshwater attraction. Yes, we have no crowded beaches or amusement park, but we have Florida’s longest free flowing river. There are no dams and just a few obstructions along its path from White Springs to the Gulf of Mexico. While …
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 …
Art, Science and Culture–All A Part Of Gainesville’s Museum Offerings
Art, Science and Culture–All A Part Of Gainesville’s Museum Offerings There’s little argument against the fact that Gainesville is the “museum” capital of North Central Florida. Not only is the city historic, with roots into the 19th century, it’s a university town with lots of interest in science and art. ••• Gainesville’s world-class museums are …
Coming Soon! Best Western Premier Hotel in Fanning Springs, Florida
The town of Fanning Springs is located in Gilchrist County, at the junction of SR26 and US19/98, and on the banks of the mighty Suwannee River. Located here, with its namesake State Park, Fanning Springs State Park, it’s the logical place to begin your explanation of the Natural North Florida Region. The 95-room Best Western …
See North Florida’s Wilder Side at Carson Springs Wildlife Park
If you’re interested in rare and endangered species, a trip to Carson Springs Wildlife should be on your bucket list. You must plan your visit in advance, as the facility is open only on select days and hours. Tours are available every Saturday at 10AM. Tour prices are $25 for adults and $8 for kids …
White Springs: Florida’s Original Tourist Destination
Set among forests and a famous river in rural Hamilton County, White Springs, Florida doesn’t conjure the image of a bustling tourist town. As the town’s Vice Mayor Walter McKenzie describes it, you had to be there. “In the late 1800s and early 1900s, White Springs was the number one tourist destination in Florida because …
Birding and Bird Photography Opportunities in Natural North Florida
Blogger Note: Despite over fifty years as a photographer, my expertise in the art of bird photography is lacking. I thank my friend Rick Davidson, for this story and some excellent photos. I wish I had his patience! Our area is fortunate to have so many parks and wildlife management areas, but we’re also fortunate …
A High Springs Hiatus
It seems that all roads lead to High Springs, Florida, where Highways 27, 441 and 41 intersect. Located about 20 miles northwest of Gainesville in Alachua County, High Springs is a crossroads for those traveling through North Central Florida. If you find yourself near this part of the state, linger for an afternoon or weekend. …