Titanic: The Experience - Orlando. This is the first permanent museum dedicated to the doomed liner Titanic and the only one in the world with full scale re-creations, including the Grand Staircase. There are over 200 artifacts on display, some for the first time, as well as memorabilia from various movies about the ship. Admission. 7324 International dr., Orlando, FL 32819. Phone: (407) 248-1166.
Venetian Pool - Coral Gables. Originally a quarry pit, this one time eyesore was transformed in 1924 into what the City of Coral Gables says is "the only swimming pool of its kind with its vine-covered loggias, shady porticos, spanish fountain, three-story observation towers and cascading waterfalls that spill into a free-form lagoon complete with coral rock caves and palm-fringed island." It's 800,000 gallons are drained each night and replaced daily by its natural aquifer. Please note that children under age 3 are not permitted. Admission. 2701 De Soto Blvd., Coral Gables, FL 33134. Phone: (305) 460-5306.
Water Ski Hall of Fame - Polk City. Officially called the American water Ski Hall of Fame and Museum, the museum documents the history of waterskiing and the acomplishemnts of its participants. Exhibits include the first pair of waterskis, antique engines, a research library and the hall of fame. Admission. 1251 Holy Cow Rd., Polk City, FL 33686. Phone: (863) 324-3996.
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park - Weeki Wachee. Newton Perry, a former Navy Frogman, built an underwater theater in 1947 at this natural spring to showcase its beauty. His creation was famous for its "mermaid" shows, in which women dressed in mermaid costumes performed and even ate underwater. It has been host to a number of TV shows and movies over the years. In 1966, the park, and its resident employees, incorporated into a city, one of the smallest in the nation (current population 9). The mermaid shows continue to this day, and the park also now has Buccaneer Bay water park and glass bottom boat rides. Admission. 6131 Commercial Way, Weeki Wachee, FL 34606. Phone: (352) 592-5656.
World Erotic Art Museum - Miami Beach. The World Erotic Art Museum showcass an extensive collection or erotic art for "liberated art lovers" including sculpture, tapestries, and artifacts dating to 200 B.C. Parental discretion is advised due to the nature of the material. Admission. 1205 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, FL 33139. Phone: (305) 532-9336 or (866) 969-WEAM.
World's Largest McDonald's - Orlando. Ranked #2 by The Travel Channel as the world's best McDonald's to play in, this is a must see during any visit to Orlando, especially for kids. Mickey D's, as this location is known, offers the worl's largest playplace at 25,000 square feet, 100 arcade games, a 500 gallon aquarium and even fresh cooked gourmet food such as wood-fired pizza and fresh pasta, and it's even open 24 hours a day. It's located just off International Drive in the heart of Orlando's attraction zone. 6875 Sand Lake rd., Orlando, FL 32819. Phone: (407) 351-2185.
World's Smallest Police Station - Carrabelle. Located in the small Panhandle town of Carrabelle, a phone booth served for many years as the official police station for the town's lone deputy until vandalism forced the city to remove it from the street. It is now on display at the city's chamber of commerce and is worth a photo if you're in the area. Free. 105 St. James Avenue, Carrabelle, FL 32322. Phone: (850) 697-2585.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Uniquely Florida Attractions N-S
Reptile World Serpentarium - Saint Cloud
Founded in 1972 as a research facilty on the production and distribution of snake venom. Features over 50 species of snakes including Australian taipan, king cobra, East African mamba and other reptiles. Venom shows featured daily. Admission. 5705 East Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy., Saint Cloud, FL 34771. Phone: (407) 892-6905.
Ron Jon Surf Shop - Cocoa Beach
Calling itself the world's largest suft shop at more than 52,000 square feet, this beach and swim mecca is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. There are even autograph sessions, live music and demonstrations to entertain it's 2 million annual visitors. Free. 4151 North Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach FL, 32931. Phone: (321) 799-8888.
Salvador Dali Museum - St. Petersburg
This museum showcases the world's most comprehensive collection of works by the late Spanish surrealist Salvador Dali. The museum is the recepient of the only 3 star rating by the Michellin Guide on the west Coast of Florida. You can see optical illusions, giant 9 foot paintings, holograms and even melting clocks amongst its exhibits. Admission. 1000 Third Street South Saint Petersburg, FL 33701. Phone: (727) 823-3767.
Seven Mile Bridge - Marathon Key
Connecting Knight's Key to Little Duck Key on the Overseas Highway, this is among the longest bridges in the world at 7 miles in length, hence it's name. The current span was built between 1979-1982, replacing the original built by Henry Flagler as part of the Florida East Coast Railway built between 1909-1912. each April the bridge is closed for a few hours for a 7 mile fun run that attracts thousands of runners.
Solomon's Castle - Ona
The home and galleries of internationally know artist Howard Solomon are located in a huge, whimsical castle. Tours are available, and you can also visit the nature trail, the Boat in the Moat restaraunt, or perhaps even stay overnight in the Blue Moon Room. Admission. 4533 Solomon Rd., Ona, FL 33865. Phone: (863) 494-6077.
Southernmost Point - Key West
Situated at the corner of Whitehead and South streets in Key West is a giant red, black, white and red bouy that marks the southernmost point in the continental United States, only 90 miles north of Cuba. On top of the bouy is painted "the Conch Republic", which the citizens of Key West painted when they fun-lovinly "suceeded" from the United States over 20 years ago. Free. Follow U.S. 1 south until you can't drive anymore.
Spook Hill - Lake Wales
One of the best know "gravity hills" in the country, Spook Hill will amaze you when your car, put in neutral, appears to go uphill, not down. Free. On Lake Wales Drive south of U.S. 27, about 1 hour south of I-4.
St. Augustine Alligator Farm - St. Augustine
Officially called the Alligator Farm Zooligical Park, the farm dates to 1893 and is one of Florida's oldest zoos and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The zoo features 23 species of crocodilians, animal shows and interactive programs, exotic birds and mammalsand even albino alligators. One highlight is Maximo, a salt-water crocodile and the park's largest animal at 15 feet 3 inches and 1,250 pounds. Admission. 999 Anastasia Blvd., St Augustine, FL 32080. Phone: (904) 824-3337.
Founded in 1972 as a research facilty on the production and distribution of snake venom. Features over 50 species of snakes including Australian taipan, king cobra, East African mamba and other reptiles. Venom shows featured daily. Admission. 5705 East Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy., Saint Cloud, FL 34771. Phone: (407) 892-6905.
Ron Jon Surf Shop - Cocoa Beach
Calling itself the world's largest suft shop at more than 52,000 square feet, this beach and swim mecca is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. There are even autograph sessions, live music and demonstrations to entertain it's 2 million annual visitors. Free. 4151 North Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach FL, 32931. Phone: (321) 799-8888.
Salvador Dali Museum - St. Petersburg
This museum showcases the world's most comprehensive collection of works by the late Spanish surrealist Salvador Dali. The museum is the recepient of the only 3 star rating by the Michellin Guide on the west Coast of Florida. You can see optical illusions, giant 9 foot paintings, holograms and even melting clocks amongst its exhibits. Admission. 1000 Third Street South Saint Petersburg, FL 33701. Phone: (727) 823-3767.
Seven Mile Bridge - Marathon Key
Connecting Knight's Key to Little Duck Key on the Overseas Highway, this is among the longest bridges in the world at 7 miles in length, hence it's name. The current span was built between 1979-1982, replacing the original built by Henry Flagler as part of the Florida East Coast Railway built between 1909-1912. each April the bridge is closed for a few hours for a 7 mile fun run that attracts thousands of runners.
Solomon's Castle - Ona
The home and galleries of internationally know artist Howard Solomon are located in a huge, whimsical castle. Tours are available, and you can also visit the nature trail, the Boat in the Moat restaraunt, or perhaps even stay overnight in the Blue Moon Room. Admission. 4533 Solomon Rd., Ona, FL 33865. Phone: (863) 494-6077.
Southernmost Point - Key West
Situated at the corner of Whitehead and South streets in Key West is a giant red, black, white and red bouy that marks the southernmost point in the continental United States, only 90 miles north of Cuba. On top of the bouy is painted "the Conch Republic", which the citizens of Key West painted when they fun-lovinly "suceeded" from the United States over 20 years ago. Free. Follow U.S. 1 south until you can't drive anymore.
Spook Hill - Lake Wales
One of the best know "gravity hills" in the country, Spook Hill will amaze you when your car, put in neutral, appears to go uphill, not down. Free. On Lake Wales Drive south of U.S. 27, about 1 hour south of I-4.
St. Augustine Alligator Farm - St. Augustine
Officially called the Alligator Farm Zooligical Park, the farm dates to 1893 and is one of Florida's oldest zoos and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The zoo features 23 species of crocodilians, animal shows and interactive programs, exotic birds and mammalsand even albino alligators. One highlight is Maximo, a salt-water crocodile and the park's largest animal at 15 feet 3 inches and 1,250 pounds. Admission. 999 Anastasia Blvd., St Augustine, FL 32080. Phone: (904) 824-3337.
Uniquely Florida Attractions M-P
Monkey Jungle - Miami
Billed as "Where the humans are caged and the monkeys run wild", this 30 acre reserve is home to 400 primates from 30 species, including gibbons, guenons, spider monkeys and colobus. It is also home to a free flight aviary featuring the "Wings of Love" which adopts birds that are no longer able to be cared for by their owners. Admission. 14805 Southwest 216th St. Miami, FL 33170. Phone: (305) 235-1611.
Momument of States - Kissimmee
begun in 1942 as a symbol of American unity shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor, local tourism booster Dr. Charles Bressler-Pettis wrote to the governors of every state asking for a block for the tower from their state. Even then president Roosevelt contributed a block to the effort. This 30-ton, multi-colored pyramid has within each block is a rock, fossil or chunk of old building from each state, along with the donor's name and location. One donor even contributed a human skull. Free. 300 East Monument Avenue, Kissimmee, FL 34741. Phone: (407) 847-2821.
Mulberry Phosphate Museum - Mulberry
Mulberry, known as the "Phosphate Capitol of the World", is home to the Mulberry Phosphate Museum, which chronicalizes the city's history in the phospahe industry as well as a larger collection of exhibits and fossils. Free. 101 SE 1st St., Mulberry, FL 33860. Phone: (863) 425-2823.
National Key Deer Refuge - Big Pine Key
located 100 miles south of Miami on the Overseas Highway, the National Key deer Refuge was established in 1957 to protect and preserve Key deer and other wildlife native to the keys. These diminuative deer, only 32" tall and 80 pounds in weight, are only found in the area immediately surrounding the key. the preserve consists of approximately 9,200 acres of a variety of terrains and is home to 17 federally listed species. Free. 28950 Watson Blvd., Big Pine Key, FL 33043. Phone: (305) 872-2239.
National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum - Fort Pierce
This is the only museum in the world dedicated to "elite warriors of Naval Special Warfare." The museum's mission is to preserve the history of Navy SEALs and their predecessors, including Underwater Demolition Teams and Frogmen. Admission. 3300 North A1A, North Hutchinson Island, Fort Pierce, FL 34949. Phone: (772) 595-5845.
Old Jail - St. Augustine
built in 1891 by railroad magnate Henry Flagler, this served as the city's jail until 1953. It was listed on the National register of Historic places in 1987 and includes displays of various guns and weapons, a restored gallows and and old "birdcage" cell that is a pretty neat photo opportunity. Admission. 167 San Marco Ave., St Augustine, FL 32084. Phone: (904) 829-3800.
Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse - St. Augustine
This is the oldest wooden schoolhouse in the state, built over 200 years ago when Florida was still ruled by Spain, and is located by the old city gates. It contains a number of artifacts and old schoolbooksused during the period. One curiosity there is the large chain that wraps around the building that was attached to an anchor in 1937 to keep the structure in place during hurricanes. Admission. 14 St. George St., Saint Augustine, FL 32084. Phone: (904) 824-0192.
Perky's Bat Tower - Sugarloaf Key
The bat tower was built in 1929 by Richter C. Perky originally as part of a planned resort. The resort idea never took off, so he converted it to a bot tower in an effort to control the local mosquito population. The bats flew away, however, and didn't return. The tower is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Free. Located at the end of Bat Tower Rd., one mile south of U.S. 1 on Sugarloaf Key.
Potter's Wax Museum - St. Augustine
potter's bills itself as the first wax museum in the United Sates and includes over 160 life-like figures, including Julius Caesar, Princess Diana, Michael Jordan and soon Tiger Woods, Angelina Jolie and Johnny Depp. It's staff provides design and sculputure services to a number of theme parks and other attractions.
17 King St., St. Augustine, FL 32084. Phone: (800) 584-4781.
Billed as "Where the humans are caged and the monkeys run wild", this 30 acre reserve is home to 400 primates from 30 species, including gibbons, guenons, spider monkeys and colobus. It is also home to a free flight aviary featuring the "Wings of Love" which adopts birds that are no longer able to be cared for by their owners. Admission. 14805 Southwest 216th St. Miami, FL 33170. Phone: (305) 235-1611.
Momument of States - Kissimmee
begun in 1942 as a symbol of American unity shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor, local tourism booster Dr. Charles Bressler-Pettis wrote to the governors of every state asking for a block for the tower from their state. Even then president Roosevelt contributed a block to the effort. This 30-ton, multi-colored pyramid has within each block is a rock, fossil or chunk of old building from each state, along with the donor's name and location. One donor even contributed a human skull. Free. 300 East Monument Avenue, Kissimmee, FL 34741. Phone: (407) 847-2821.
Mulberry Phosphate Museum - Mulberry
Mulberry, known as the "Phosphate Capitol of the World", is home to the Mulberry Phosphate Museum, which chronicalizes the city's history in the phospahe industry as well as a larger collection of exhibits and fossils. Free. 101 SE 1st St., Mulberry, FL 33860. Phone: (863) 425-2823.
National Key Deer Refuge - Big Pine Key
located 100 miles south of Miami on the Overseas Highway, the National Key deer Refuge was established in 1957 to protect and preserve Key deer and other wildlife native to the keys. These diminuative deer, only 32" tall and 80 pounds in weight, are only found in the area immediately surrounding the key. the preserve consists of approximately 9,200 acres of a variety of terrains and is home to 17 federally listed species. Free. 28950 Watson Blvd., Big Pine Key, FL 33043. Phone: (305) 872-2239.
National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum - Fort Pierce
This is the only museum in the world dedicated to "elite warriors of Naval Special Warfare." The museum's mission is to preserve the history of Navy SEALs and their predecessors, including Underwater Demolition Teams and Frogmen. Admission. 3300 North A1A, North Hutchinson Island, Fort Pierce, FL 34949. Phone: (772) 595-5845.
Old Jail - St. Augustine
built in 1891 by railroad magnate Henry Flagler, this served as the city's jail until 1953. It was listed on the National register of Historic places in 1987 and includes displays of various guns and weapons, a restored gallows and and old "birdcage" cell that is a pretty neat photo opportunity. Admission. 167 San Marco Ave., St Augustine, FL 32084. Phone: (904) 829-3800.
Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse - St. Augustine
This is the oldest wooden schoolhouse in the state, built over 200 years ago when Florida was still ruled by Spain, and is located by the old city gates. It contains a number of artifacts and old schoolbooksused during the period. One curiosity there is the large chain that wraps around the building that was attached to an anchor in 1937 to keep the structure in place during hurricanes. Admission. 14 St. George St., Saint Augustine, FL 32084. Phone: (904) 824-0192.
Perky's Bat Tower - Sugarloaf Key
The bat tower was built in 1929 by Richter C. Perky originally as part of a planned resort. The resort idea never took off, so he converted it to a bot tower in an effort to control the local mosquito population. The bats flew away, however, and didn't return. The tower is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Free. Located at the end of Bat Tower Rd., one mile south of U.S. 1 on Sugarloaf Key.
Potter's Wax Museum - St. Augustine
potter's bills itself as the first wax museum in the United Sates and includes over 160 life-like figures, including Julius Caesar, Princess Diana, Michael Jordan and soon Tiger Woods, Angelina Jolie and Johnny Depp. It's staff provides design and sculputure services to a number of theme parks and other attractions.
17 King St., St. Augustine, FL 32084. Phone: (800) 584-4781.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Uniquely Florida Attractions E-K
Flipper's Grave - Grassy Key
At Mile Marker 59 on the Overseas highway, two hours south of Miami, is the Dolphin Research Center. In the courtyard of the center is the grave of Flipper (real name Mitzi), the dolphin that starred in the 1960's TV show, and resided at the facility from 1958 to 1972. The Center features dolphin and sea lion demonstractions and educational interactions, and you could even swim with a dolphin. Admission. 58901 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. Phone: (305) 289-1121.
Gatorland - Orlando
One of Florida's oldest roadside attractions, Gatorland is a unique natural alternative to theme parks. It is billed as the "alligator capital of the world" featuring thousands of alligators, crocodiles and other wildlife. The park features an number of educational shows, as well as the obligatory alligator wrestling, a water splash play area, petting zoo and more. Believe it or not, this is actually a pretty neat place to visit. Admission. 14501 South Orange Blossom Trail , Orlando, FL 32837. Phone: (800) 393-5297.
Holy Land Experience - Orlando
Step back 2,000 years and experience ancient Israel. The Holy Land Experience is a living biblical history theme park run by the TBN Network. One of the highlights is the Living Waters show, where fountains "dance" to music and lights once the sun goes down. Admission. 4655 Vineland Rd., Orlando, FL 32811. Phone: (407) 872-2272 or (800) 447-7235.
Jackie Gleason's Mausoleum - Miami
Located at the Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Cemetery in Miami is the masoleum of Jackie (John Herbert) Gleason, famous for his hole as Ralph Kramer on the tv show "The Honeymooners" in the 1950's. The cemetery, run by the Archdiocese of Miami, is also the final resting place for a numer of notables including jockey Eddie Arcaro. Free. 11411 NW 25th St., Doral, FL 33172-1704. Phone: (305) 592-0521.
Jesus Film Project, The - Orlando
This two-hour plus docu-drama is billed as the most watched film ever, having been viewed by over two billion prople in over 220 countries since its introduction in 1979. Reportedly, the Jesus Film Project has been attributed to have been the inspiration for 3/4 of all church plantings in the last decade. It can be viewed at the headquarters of Campus Crusade for Christ's master studios. Free. 100 Lake Hart Drive, Orlando, FL 32832. Phone: (407) 826-2300.
Jules Undersea Lodge - Key Largo
Ever wonder what is was like to sleep with the fishes? Well, here you can. Jules Undersea Lodges is the first totally underwater hotel in the United States, 21 feet below the surface of the ocean in what was formerly the La Chalupa research laboratory. Diving experience is not needed as classes are offered. Admission. 51 Shoreland Drive, Key Largo, Florida 33037. Telephone: (305) 451-2353.
Jungle Adventures - Christmas
Enter this 20 acre nature park through "Swampy", a 200 foot long alligator building. The park features hundreds of alligators, deep, bears, wolves and even Florida panthers. You can visit a replica Spanish fort and see how the Conquistadors lived in the 1600's or visit a replica Native American village. Admission. 26205 E Colonial Dr., Christmas, FL 32709-9628. Phone: (407) 568-1354.
Key West Cemetery - Key West
Founded in 1847, this 19 acre cemetery on Solares Hill in Key West is the final home to more people than are actually still living on the island. It features the monument to the sailors who dies on the U.S.S. Maine in Havana Harbour in 1898, as well as notable tombstones such as B.P. "Pearl" Roberts' "I Told You I Was Sick" and Gloria M. Russell's "I'm Just Resting My Eyes". Free. 701 Passover Ln., Key West, FL 33041. Phone: (305) 292-8177.
At Mile Marker 59 on the Overseas highway, two hours south of Miami, is the Dolphin Research Center. In the courtyard of the center is the grave of Flipper (real name Mitzi), the dolphin that starred in the 1960's TV show, and resided at the facility from 1958 to 1972. The Center features dolphin and sea lion demonstractions and educational interactions, and you could even swim with a dolphin. Admission. 58901 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. Phone: (305) 289-1121.
Gatorland - Orlando
One of Florida's oldest roadside attractions, Gatorland is a unique natural alternative to theme parks. It is billed as the "alligator capital of the world" featuring thousands of alligators, crocodiles and other wildlife. The park features an number of educational shows, as well as the obligatory alligator wrestling, a water splash play area, petting zoo and more. Believe it or not, this is actually a pretty neat place to visit. Admission. 14501 South Orange Blossom Trail , Orlando, FL 32837. Phone: (800) 393-5297.
Holy Land Experience - Orlando
Step back 2,000 years and experience ancient Israel. The Holy Land Experience is a living biblical history theme park run by the TBN Network. One of the highlights is the Living Waters show, where fountains "dance" to music and lights once the sun goes down. Admission. 4655 Vineland Rd., Orlando, FL 32811. Phone: (407) 872-2272 or (800) 447-7235.
Jackie Gleason's Mausoleum - Miami
Located at the Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Cemetery in Miami is the masoleum of Jackie (John Herbert) Gleason, famous for his hole as Ralph Kramer on the tv show "The Honeymooners" in the 1950's. The cemetery, run by the Archdiocese of Miami, is also the final resting place for a numer of notables including jockey Eddie Arcaro. Free. 11411 NW 25th St., Doral, FL 33172-1704. Phone: (305) 592-0521.
Jesus Film Project, The - Orlando
This two-hour plus docu-drama is billed as the most watched film ever, having been viewed by over two billion prople in over 220 countries since its introduction in 1979. Reportedly, the Jesus Film Project has been attributed to have been the inspiration for 3/4 of all church plantings in the last decade. It can be viewed at the headquarters of Campus Crusade for Christ's master studios. Free. 100 Lake Hart Drive, Orlando, FL 32832. Phone: (407) 826-2300.
Jules Undersea Lodge - Key Largo
Ever wonder what is was like to sleep with the fishes? Well, here you can. Jules Undersea Lodges is the first totally underwater hotel in the United States, 21 feet below the surface of the ocean in what was formerly the La Chalupa research laboratory. Diving experience is not needed as classes are offered. Admission. 51 Shoreland Drive, Key Largo, Florida 33037. Telephone: (305) 451-2353.
Jungle Adventures - Christmas
Enter this 20 acre nature park through "Swampy", a 200 foot long alligator building. The park features hundreds of alligators, deep, bears, wolves and even Florida panthers. You can visit a replica Spanish fort and see how the Conquistadors lived in the 1600's or visit a replica Native American village. Admission. 26205 E Colonial Dr., Christmas, FL 32709-9628. Phone: (407) 568-1354.
Key West Cemetery - Key West
Founded in 1847, this 19 acre cemetery on Solares Hill in Key West is the final home to more people than are actually still living on the island. It features the monument to the sailors who dies on the U.S.S. Maine in Havana Harbour in 1898, as well as notable tombstones such as B.P. "Pearl" Roberts' "I Told You I Was Sick" and Gloria M. Russell's "I'm Just Resting My Eyes". Free. 701 Passover Ln., Key West, FL 33041. Phone: (305) 292-8177.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Uniquely Florida Attractions C-D
Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp - Cassadaga
Founded in 1894, the Cassadaga Spiritualist camp is the oldest religious community in the Southeast. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, 55 residences center on the "New Age Movement" and its way of life. Readings, classes and spiritual healings are offered. 1325 Stevens Street, P.O. Box 319, Cassadaga, FL 32706. Phone: (386) 228-3171.
Citrus Tower - Clermont
One of Florida's original attractions, this tower was built in 1956 as a monument to the state's citrus industry. Raising to a height of 226 feet, there is an glass enclosed observation deck at the top giving views of an 8 county area. Admission. 141 N. Highway 27, Clermont, FL 34711. Phone: (352) 394-4061.
Christ of the Deep - Key Largo
Located in the first underwater state park in the country at John Pennekamp Corral Reef State Park is a 9 foot tall bronze statue titled "Christ of the Deep", which is located 25 feet down on the Gulf floor. The park is home to excellent scuba diving, a 30,000 gallon aquarium, passive water sports and many dry-land outdoor activities. Located at mile marker 102.5 on the Overseas Highway. Admission. P.O. Box 487, Key Largo, Florida 33037. Phone: (305) 451-1202.
Coral Castle Museum - Homestead
Built between 1923 and 1951 by Ed Leedskalnin of 1,100 tons or coral rock, this labor of lost love remians today one of the great construction mysteries of our time. How did a single man, using only hand made tools, manage such a feat? Legend says that Ed rediscovered the Egyptian's secret of pyramid construction. This may sound a bit hokey, but until you see the huge gate pivot open with a simple push of a finger, hold your judgement. Admission. 28655 South Dixie Highway, Miami, FL 33033. Phone: (305) 248-6345.
Creations Pop Culture Museum - Delray Beach
Home to a large collection of Hollywood, movie and TV momorabillia. Admission. 111 Pineapple Grove Way, Delray Beach, FL 33444. Phone: (561) 266-6666.
Devil's Millhopper State Park - Gainesville
Located in North Florida, this 120 foot deep, bowl shaped cavity is home to a minature rain forrest. This is a Natural National Landmark and has been visited since the 1880's. Ancient shark's teeth and animal bones alike have been found in it's depths. Admission. 4732 Millhopper Road, Gainesville, Florida 32653. Phone: (352) 955-2008.
Dinosaur World - Plant City
An outdoor museum with 150 life-sized dinosaur displays, museum, "fossil" dig, playground and picnic areas. Admission. 5145 Harvey Tew Rd., Plant City, FL 33565-6101. Phone: (813) 717-9865.
Dry Tortugas National Park - Key West
Located 70 miles off the coast of Key west lies a cluster of 7 coral islands called the Dry Tortugas. Accessible only by boat or air, the islands are famous for their pirate and military past. Fort Jefferson is located here and housed Dr. Henry Mudd, the man who set the broken leg of President Lincoln's assissin John Wilkes Booth. The islands in 2007 were named a Research Natural area, which prohibits anchorage in 46 square miles to further protect the coral reefs here.
Founded in 1894, the Cassadaga Spiritualist camp is the oldest religious community in the Southeast. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, 55 residences center on the "New Age Movement" and its way of life. Readings, classes and spiritual healings are offered. 1325 Stevens Street, P.O. Box 319, Cassadaga, FL 32706. Phone: (386) 228-3171.
Citrus Tower - Clermont
One of Florida's original attractions, this tower was built in 1956 as a monument to the state's citrus industry. Raising to a height of 226 feet, there is an glass enclosed observation deck at the top giving views of an 8 county area. Admission. 141 N. Highway 27, Clermont, FL 34711. Phone: (352) 394-4061.
Christ of the Deep - Key Largo
Located in the first underwater state park in the country at John Pennekamp Corral Reef State Park is a 9 foot tall bronze statue titled "Christ of the Deep", which is located 25 feet down on the Gulf floor. The park is home to excellent scuba diving, a 30,000 gallon aquarium, passive water sports and many dry-land outdoor activities. Located at mile marker 102.5 on the Overseas Highway. Admission. P.O. Box 487, Key Largo, Florida 33037. Phone: (305) 451-1202.
Coral Castle Museum - Homestead
Built between 1923 and 1951 by Ed Leedskalnin of 1,100 tons or coral rock, this labor of lost love remians today one of the great construction mysteries of our time. How did a single man, using only hand made tools, manage such a feat? Legend says that Ed rediscovered the Egyptian's secret of pyramid construction. This may sound a bit hokey, but until you see the huge gate pivot open with a simple push of a finger, hold your judgement. Admission. 28655 South Dixie Highway, Miami, FL 33033. Phone: (305) 248-6345.
Creations Pop Culture Museum - Delray Beach
Home to a large collection of Hollywood, movie and TV momorabillia. Admission. 111 Pineapple Grove Way, Delray Beach, FL 33444. Phone: (561) 266-6666.
Devil's Millhopper State Park - Gainesville
Located in North Florida, this 120 foot deep, bowl shaped cavity is home to a minature rain forrest. This is a Natural National Landmark and has been visited since the 1880's. Ancient shark's teeth and animal bones alike have been found in it's depths. Admission. 4732 Millhopper Road, Gainesville, Florida 32653. Phone: (352) 955-2008.
Dinosaur World - Plant City
An outdoor museum with 150 life-sized dinosaur displays, museum, "fossil" dig, playground and picnic areas. Admission. 5145 Harvey Tew Rd., Plant City, FL 33565-6101. Phone: (813) 717-9865.
Dry Tortugas National Park - Key West
Located 70 miles off the coast of Key west lies a cluster of 7 coral islands called the Dry Tortugas. Accessible only by boat or air, the islands are famous for their pirate and military past. Fort Jefferson is located here and housed Dr. Henry Mudd, the man who set the broken leg of President Lincoln's assissin John Wilkes Booth. The islands in 2007 were named a Research Natural area, which prohibits anchorage in 46 square miles to further protect the coral reefs here.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Uniquely Florida Attactions A-B
African Queen - Key Largo
Visit the boat used in the 1951 movie starring Humphrey Bogart at the Holiday Inn Marina in Key Largo. Located 55 minutes south of Miami on U.S. 1 at mile marker 100. Phone: (305) 451-4655.
Ancient Spanish Monastery - North Miami Beach
The Monastery of St. Bernard de Clairvaux was built in Sacramenia, in the Province of Segovia, Spain during 1133-1144. It is the oldest European constructed building in the Americas. It was purchased by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, who had the monastery dismanteled stone by stone transported to the United States. It was not reassembled until 1952, one year after his death and took 18 months to complete. Today, it serves as the home of St. Bernard de Clairvaux Episcopal Church. Admission fee. 16711 West Dixie Highway, North Miami Beach, FL 33160. Phone: (305) 945-1461
Big Cat Rescue - Tampa
A non-profit educational sanctuary, devoted to rescuing and providing a permanent home for exotic cats that have been abused, abandoned or retired from show business. Over 100 animals representing 14 of the 35 species including lions, tigers, liger, leopards, bobcats and more. Guided, childrens and feeding tours available. Admission fee. 12802 Easy Street, Tampa, FL 33634. Phone: (813) 920-4130.
Blue Hole - Big Pine Key
The largest body of fresh water in the Florida Keys was formed from a quarry used in the construction of the Florida East Coast Railway. Today it is within the National Key Deer Refuge on Big Pine Key 100 miles south of Miami and is home to a diverse variety of wildlife. 28950 Watson Blvd., Big Pine Key, FL 33043. Phone: (305) 872-2239.
Bok Tower Gardens - Lake Wales
Designed by fames landscape architech Frederick Law Olmsted Jr., this beautiful park is home to the 205 foot tall Bok Tower. Atop the neo-Gothic tower is a 60 bell carillon with concerts at 1 PM and 3 PM daily. 1151 Tower Blvd. Lake Wales, FL 33853. Phone: (863) 676-1408.
Burt Reynolds & Friends Museum - Jupiter
Dedicated to Palm Beach County's most famous son, the theater is filled with items from Reynolds and numerour other Hollywood celebrities. It is home to the Burt reynolds Institute for Film and Theater offering programs in acting and film making, as well as lectures by experts in the film industry. Admission fee. 100 North U.S. Hwy. 1, Jupiter, Florida 33477. Phone: (561) 743-9955.
Butterfly World - Coconut Grove
A leading attraction in South Florida, Butterfly World features the world's largest free-flight butterfly aviary with over 5,000 butterflies from 80 species. It also has a lorikeet encounter and the country's largest free-flight hummingbird avairy. Admission fee. 3600 W. Sample Road, Coconut Creek, FL 33073. Phone: (954) 977-4400.
Visit the boat used in the 1951 movie starring Humphrey Bogart at the Holiday Inn Marina in Key Largo. Located 55 minutes south of Miami on U.S. 1 at mile marker 100. Phone: (305) 451-4655.
Ancient Spanish Monastery - North Miami Beach
The Monastery of St. Bernard de Clairvaux was built in Sacramenia, in the Province of Segovia, Spain during 1133-1144. It is the oldest European constructed building in the Americas. It was purchased by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, who had the monastery dismanteled stone by stone transported to the United States. It was not reassembled until 1952, one year after his death and took 18 months to complete. Today, it serves as the home of St. Bernard de Clairvaux Episcopal Church. Admission fee. 16711 West Dixie Highway, North Miami Beach, FL 33160. Phone: (305) 945-1461
Big Cat Rescue - Tampa
A non-profit educational sanctuary, devoted to rescuing and providing a permanent home for exotic cats that have been abused, abandoned or retired from show business. Over 100 animals representing 14 of the 35 species including lions, tigers, liger, leopards, bobcats and more. Guided, childrens and feeding tours available. Admission fee. 12802 Easy Street, Tampa, FL 33634. Phone: (813) 920-4130.
Blue Hole - Big Pine Key
The largest body of fresh water in the Florida Keys was formed from a quarry used in the construction of the Florida East Coast Railway. Today it is within the National Key Deer Refuge on Big Pine Key 100 miles south of Miami and is home to a diverse variety of wildlife. 28950 Watson Blvd., Big Pine Key, FL 33043. Phone: (305) 872-2239.
Bok Tower Gardens - Lake Wales
Designed by fames landscape architech Frederick Law Olmsted Jr., this beautiful park is home to the 205 foot tall Bok Tower. Atop the neo-Gothic tower is a 60 bell carillon with concerts at 1 PM and 3 PM daily. 1151 Tower Blvd. Lake Wales, FL 33853. Phone: (863) 676-1408.
Burt Reynolds & Friends Museum - Jupiter
Dedicated to Palm Beach County's most famous son, the theater is filled with items from Reynolds and numerour other Hollywood celebrities. It is home to the Burt reynolds Institute for Film and Theater offering programs in acting and film making, as well as lectures by experts in the film industry. Admission fee. 100 North U.S. Hwy. 1, Jupiter, Florida 33477. Phone: (561) 743-9955.
Butterfly World - Coconut Grove
A leading attraction in South Florida, Butterfly World features the world's largest free-flight butterfly aviary with over 5,000 butterflies from 80 species. It also has a lorikeet encounter and the country's largest free-flight hummingbird avairy. Admission fee. 3600 W. Sample Road, Coconut Creek, FL 33073. Phone: (954) 977-4400.
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