More than Disney: Hemingway, Hog’s Breath and Ziplining through Florida

Bumper to bumper traffic, heat waves and the reliable 4 p.m. thunderstorm. It’s what I know best. And for most of the tourists known as “snow birds”, it’s all they will ever know. They come from far and wide for a mouse. They come every summer for a vacation. They’ll leave in a week.

Beyond the theme park world lies a Florida that the 6^th, 7^th, and 8^th generation Floridian knows best. Hidden far away from parks are mangroves in the everglades, the youthful wells of St. Augustine and the lakes that dot the map.

When you embark to Florida, don’t get trapped in tourist traps. An exciting southern state thrives, and natives have loved her for decades.

Some of my favorite Florida pastimes…

• Florida EcoSafaris: Zip line, horseback or coach your way through the backwoods of Ocala.

• Florida oranges have become an iconic image of Florida. It’s not surprising then that the Sunshine state generates 75% of the U.S. orange crop and supplies 40% of the world’s juices as well. U-Pick farms and groves offer tourists and Floridians alike a chance to pick fruit by the bushel on their own, creating a nostalgic feel of old Florida.

• The Florida Keys- Hemingway & Hog’s Breath: Upon arrival, this seems like the tourist trap to win them all, however this is not the case. The Keys offer an archipelago filled with fish, frenzy and amazing adventure. Islamorada, one of the famed islands of the Keys offers the best fishing and is famed as the fishing capital of the world.

• Little Havana is a treasure located in south Florida in the Miami area. The best food, music and dominoes are offered.

• Everglades National Park: Urban sprawl has taken over the Miami my grandfather used to know, where some people still lived in by nature and used dirt roads. Heading outside chic Miami will lead you to the everglades. A land almost lost in time and a nature enthusiast’s paradise. The “river of grass” is most easily navigated by the Pahayokee boardwalk that extends 0.25 miles into the “sea”.  By car, Alligator Alley (or the Everglades Parkway) extends most of the everglades, and is known for the alligators that swim in the waters next to the road or just run through the road itself.

• If you’re looking for thrills check out Skydive Deland, offering tandem jumps right by the beach!

• Yellow dog eats finds a home in Groveland. The city that dates back to the early 1800’s offers beautiful oaks and not to mention amazing food. Yellow dog (across from the little white church) is housed in an old shop. Amazing sandwiches, BBQ nachos and great atmosphere. Owner Fish Morgan is THE best.

Florida is an obvious tourist destination for a reason, but when heading to the sunshine state don’t be afraid to walk out of step and into the heart of Florida.

Written by Florida native and DIWYY guest writer, Megan Smith.

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