When people think of Florida, they often think of the sunshine state and its beaches. But there are many great things about Florida that people may not know about. From its incredible natural beauty to the exciting amenities and attractions, Florida has a lot to offer visitors and residents alike. Florida’s Unknown Wonders
Natural Beauty: Wildlife & Parks
Florida is widely known for its sandy beaches, warm weather, and theme parks. However, what many people may not know is that the state also has an abundance of natural beauty in the form of wildlife and parks. With over 160 state parks and numerous wildlife reserves, Florida offers a diverse range of opportunities to explore nature.
One of the great things about Florida’s natural beauty is its abundance of wildlife. The state boasts over 500 species of animals including alligators, black bears, panthers, manatees, and sea turtles among others. Visitors can experience these animals up close by visiting zoos or taking guided tours through national parks.
Moreover, Florida’s breath taking parks offer endless opportunities to explore the great outdoors. From Everglades National Park to Dry Tortugas National Park – home to some of the best snorkelling spots in North America – each park provides unique experiences for visitors. Some even offer camping facilities for those who want to immerse themselves fully in nature. All in all, Florida’s natural beauty makes for an unforgettable experience that shouldn’t be missed!
Historical Sites: Fort Mose & Ponce De Leon
Fort Mose and Ponce De Leon are two of the most significant historical sites in Florida. Fort Mose is located just north of St. Augustine and was the first free African settlement in the United States. In 1738, Spanish authorities granted freedom to enslaved Africans who escaped from British colonies, and they established a thriving community at Fort Mose.
On the other hand, Ponce De Leon is famous for his search for the Fountain of Youth. He landed on Florida’s east coast in 1513, becoming the first European to set foot on what is now known as Florida. He named it La Florida or Land of Flowers because he arrived during Easter week when flowers were blooming all around him.
Both Fort Mose and Ponce De Leon offer visitors a chance to learn about a crucial part of American history that should not be overlooked. They provide an educational experience for people interested in learning about slavery and colonisation while also showcasing some beautiful scenery that makes them must-visit destinations within Florida.
Cuisine Scene: Seafood Specialties
One of the great things about Florida is its proximity to the ocean, which makes it a seafood lover’s paradise. The cuisine scene in Florida boasts an array of seafood specialties that are unique and flavourful. One such specialty is the Conch Fritters, which are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, made from conch meat mixed with flour, egg, onion, and green pepper.
Another seafood specialty in Florida is the Stone Crab Claws, which are harvested from October to May each year. These claws are served cold or hot with mustard sauce or butter dipping sauce. They have a sweet flavor and firm texture that make them a favourite among locals and tourists alike.
Lastly, Key West Pink Shrimp is another must-try seafood delicacy in Florida. These shrimp have a distinct pink colour due to their diet of blue-green algae found in mangrove forests. They have a sweet taste and tender texture that make them perfect for grilling or sautéing with garlic butter sauce. With so many delicious options to choose from when it comes to seafood specialties in Florida, there’s always something new to try!
Entertainment Options: Music, Festivals & Sports
When it comes to entertainment options, Florida is a top destination for music lovers, festival enthusiasts, and sports fans. For music lovers, Florida boasts a diverse range of music scenes from the Latin-infused rhythms of Miami to the homegrown country twang of Nashville North in Panama City Beach. The state also hosts several renowned music festivals such as Miami’s Ultra Music Festival or Tampa’s Gasparilla Music Festival.
Festival-goers can also enjoy a variety of other events throughout the year, including food and wine festivals like Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival or art fairs like Art Basel Miami Beach. Sports fans can get their fix with professional teams like the Miami Heat or Tampa Bay Buccaneers, while golfers can test their skills on some of the world’s most challenging courses at venues like TPC Sawgrass.
If you’re planning on attending any of these events, it’s important to check your insurance covers North America. Some travel insurance policies may not cover you if you’re traveling outside your home country or region. So before packing your bags and heading to Florida for some fun in the sun, make sure you check with your insurance provider to ensure that you are fully covered for any unexpected events that might occur during your trip.
Conclusion: Sunshine State Surprises
In conclusion, Florida is a great place to visit and explore. It has much more to offer beyond its beaches, theme parks, and cosmopolitan cities. Those looking for adventure can explore its coastline of white sand beaches, the Florida Keys, the Everglades wetlands, and the unique marine life that inhabits the waters. History buffs have their pick of fascinating historical sites from Spanish colonial forts to Civil War battle sites.
