Tag: USA

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National Parks, Monuments, and Seashores United States Washington DC

Don’t Skip the Impressive White House Visitor Center!

White House Visitor Center
Theodore Roosevelt informational panel in the White House Visitor Center

One of the biggest surprises we encountered in DC was the White House Visitor Center. This must-see attraction is often overlooked- in fact, I missed it on my first 4 trips to the capital city! The White House Visitor exhibit area features nearly 100 historical artifacts, archival footage, interactive displays, informational panels, videos, and photos from the most famous house in the United States of America. There is even a large-scale model of the White House and tactile exhibits that kids will love!

Unlike the White House which requires that you book a tour in advance, the White House Visitor Center is open to anyone. The White House Visitor Center is operated by the National Park Service and is free and open to the public. It provides an insight into what life in the White House is like for the First Families through artifacts. These relics include Franklin D. Roosevelt’s desk, Abraham Lincoln’s china, copies of the First Lady’s date books, and photos of visits from royal families around the globe.

The theater space features a film called “The White House: Reflections from Within” which recounts personal stories from Presidents, First Ladies, and First Families. We suggest watching this 14-minute video first, even though the theater is located at the back of the center.

Even if you aren’t able to get a tour of the inside of the White House, we suggest checking out the Visitor Center. If you are lucky enough to snag a White House Tour, be sure to stop by the Visitor Center first to use their facilities as there are no restrooms available for public use at the White House.

Large Scale Model of the White House

Visiting to the White House Visitor Center

The White House Visitor Center is located at:
1450 Pennsylvania Ave. NW

 Admission to the White House Visitor Center is free.

The center is open Tuesday- Saturday from 7:30 am until 4 pm except for Federal Holidays.

 Visitors are required to pass through TSA-style airport security to enter the exhibit space.

Parking near the White House Visitor Center is limited as many of the street parking is limited to federal employees and bus parking.  We suggest taking the Metro to access the Visitor Center.  The nearest metro stations are Metro Center (Blue/Orange/Silver/Red lines) and Federal Triangle (Blue/Orange/Silver lines).  Both are about a 7-minute walk from the station to the White House Visitor Center.

Important Information

The follow is not permitted inside the White House Visitor Center:

  • Pets (except service animals)
  • Weapons of any kid
  • Glass Containers
  • Food
  • Beverages (except for white in clear plastic containers and baby formula)
  • Suitcases, duffel bags or bookbags larger than 18″x16″x8″
  • Any objects that may threaten public safety and security
A copy of First Lady Betty Ford's planner from when she hosted Queen Elizabeth II for a State Dinner

What is There to do Nearby?

China and stemware used during the Lincoln presidency

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Categories
Florida Florida State Parks Jacksonville State Parks United States

Big Talbot Island State Park- Pure, Untouched Beauty

Big Talbot Island State Park is one of Jacksonville’s best-kept secrets.  It is an amazing place to visit for shelling, hiking, biking, paddling, and boating.  It is home to one of Florida’s most stunning (and unique!) shorelines.  The beaches in this park showcase massive sun-bleached driftwood trees and mars-like rock formations both of which are popular with photographers.

Pro-Tip:  Swimming is not recommended at these beaches due to the strong current.  There is also no lifeguard.

Blackrock Beach

History of Big Talbot Island

Fishing has been a popular attraction here for thousands of years.  This island was once home to Florida’s indigenous people, the Timucua.  Evidence of Florida’s most ancient residents can be seen in shell mounds or ancient piles of oyster shell and food refuse.  

General James Oglethorpe (aka the dude that founded  Georgia) named the islands (both Big Talbot and Little Talbot)  in honor of Charles Baron Talbot, Lord High Chancellor of England.  He sounds pretty important, eh?  Big Talbot Island was once home to at least two plantations. The plantations grew oranges, sugar, indigo and cotton. Prominent plantation owners in this region were Spicer Christopher (on the north end of the island), John Houston (on the south end of the island), John McQueen, and Zephaniah Kingsley on present day Fort George Island).

Fun Fact:  A team of University of North Florida’s archaeologists are excavating the island.  It is believed that the island was also home to the Mocama people.

Big Talbot Island Visiting Information

Hours: 8 am until sundown, 365 days a year.  The boat ramp is open 24 hours a day.

Fees:  $2 for the fishing pier, $3 per vehicle entrance

Experiences and Amenities

Bicycling- The park offers several miles of paved an unpaved trails.  A newly completed 4-mile paved trail winds through the maritime forest and overlooks the surrounding wetlands.  The new trail connects preexisting trails to form a greenway connected to the nearby parks.

Boating- There are numerous tidal creeks along the Intracoastal Waterway that are easily accessible via canoes, kayaks, and even power boats.  Simpson’s Creek and Myrtle Creek are popular waterways in the region.  Launch from the north end of the island to access the Nassau Sound and the Atlantic Ocean.

Fishing- The saltwater marsh surrounding the island offers some of the best fishing in the area.  Enjoy snagging a redfish, sea trout, whiting, flounder, black drum, etc.  The bridge at Simpson Creek is a popular fishing spot.

You can also fish from a pier for a fee of $2 per person.

Hiking- The park has an abundance of trails including:

  • Shoreline Trail- provides access to Boneyard Beach and the Nassau Sound.
  • Black Rock Trail– (our favorite!) a trail that winds through the maritime hammock and empties into a one-of-a-kind beach.
  • Old Kings Highway Trail and Jones Cut Trail- unrefined trails that travel through a lush maritime hammock.
  • Timucuan Trail- a paved 3-mile multi-use trail that is perfect for families with bikes or strollers!
Boneyard Beach

Paddling– Conveniently located between Big Talbot Island and Little Talbot Island you’ll find Kayak Amelia, the official outfitter for the parks.  Kayak Amelia offers kayak and canoe rentals and guided tours.  

East Coast Greenway

The Timucuan Trail runs through Big Talbot Island State Park.  This trail is a small portion of a large trail network known as the East Coast Greenway.   The greenway connects the park to Amelia Island State Park and Little Talbot Island State Park.

The Greenway is part of a large network of trails connecting 15 states, 450 cities and towns and running from Maine to Florida.  It runs from the Canadian border down to the Florida Keys!  Holy crap, right?

Our Big Talbot Island Essentials

Beach Wagon– great for navigating in the sand
Coppertone Kids Sunscreen
OFF! Family Care Insect Spray
Cliganic Mosquito Repellent Bracelets
Toddler Striped Hooded Poncho Towels
Women’s 50+ SPF Shirt
Girl’s Roxy Rashguard

What is there to do nearby?

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**Please note that this post contains affiliate links for your shopping convenience. All opinions are my own. Pinkie swear**

Updated: 3/5/2024

Categories
Florida Jacksonville United States

The El Faro Memorial- Honoring Those Lost at Sea

The El Faro Memorial honors a crew or 33 that were lost at sea in October of 2015.  The cargo ship departed Jacksonville, Florida headed for Puerto Rico on the fateful evening of September 29th.  When the ship set sail, a small tropical storm spiraled several hundred miles east.  Two days later, Hurricane Joaquin became a Category 3 (almost a 4) hurricane. El Faro most likely got caught up in the 20 to 40 foot swells and 80 knot winds, tangled up in the treacherous Bermuda Triangle.

 

At 7:30 AM on the morning of October 1, the ship began taking on water and was listing at 15 degrees.  At that time, the captain gave the order to abandon ship.  The following day, the ship was declared missing and an extensive search was launched by the US Coast Guard with assistance from the Air Force, Air National Guard, and Navy.  A damaged lifeboat and debris were recovered.

The ship was declared sunk on October 5th and the search was called off on October 7th.  More than 242,000 square miles was covered in search for the 33 crewman and the El Faro.

On October 31, the US Navy sent an ocean tug, known as Apache, to conduct an underwater search.  The following day the Navy announced that they found the wreckage in tact and in an upright position approximately 15,000 feet underwater.

A deflated life raft and an extremely damaged lifeboat were discovered but no one was on board.  

The El Faro Memorial

Twin memorials were erected in remembrance of the one woman and thirty-two men lost in this tragedy.  One stands proudly in San Juan, Puerto Rico and the other is located in Jacksonville, Florida.  The Jacksonville El Faro Memorial is located under the Dames Pointe Bridge not far from where the cargo ship set sail.  

The Jacksonville El Faro Memorial is a popular fishing spot.  The city is attempting to keep this sacred ground clean however, it can sometimes be a struggle.

Visitors to the El Faro Memorial often leave the crew members painted rocks and candles to pay their respects.  Don’t be surprised to see a bunch of beer bottles and beer cans around the memorial, as well.  Visitors will often leave the crew members a beer to enjoy in the after life.

The El Faro Memorial Park is located at 9101 Dames Point Road directly under the Dames Point Bridge.  It is accessible via the Zoo Parkway exit off of the 295 Beltway.  

Turn left on New Berlin Road and follow the road past the onramp for the beltway.  Shortly after the on-ramp, there is a stop sign.  Take a right at the stop sign and follow the road towards the river.  The park will be on your left hand side.

What is there to do Nearby?

There are plenty of great things to do nearby!  This side of town is dotted with excellent beaches, parks, and historic sites.  Our suggestions include:

The El Faro Memorial is a quick drive from the Jacksonville Cruise Terminal.  If you are cruising out of Jacksonville, be sure to check out our list of things for cruisers to do in Jacksonville!  

If you are looking for somewhere to eat while you’re in the area, we suggest stopping by Palms Fish Camp.  There are also several other restaurants located nearby at the River City Market Place.

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Categories
Caribbean Cruise Travel National Parks, Monuments, and Seashores St. John United States USVI

How to get to Trunk Bay Without a Ship Excursion

Think you have to book an excursion to get to one of the most stunning beaches in the world?  Think again!  In this post we’ll outline how to get to Trunk Bay Without a Ship Excursion!

Trunk Bay is arguably one of the most recognized beaches in the world.  Trunk Bay, and nearby Magens Bay, have consistently ranked as some of the most beautiful beaches on the planet.  The beach is located on the northwestern side of the picturesque island of St. John in the US Virgin Islands.  

Trunk Bay got its name for the leatherback turtle, which locals call trunks.  Formally known as Trunkscildpatt, these massive turtles can be as large as 9 feet and weigh over 2,000 pounds.  The bay is home to a 0.30-mile crescent of powdery sand and a famed snorkeling trail.

If you’re considering visiting St. John from St. Thomas, it is easy to get to Trunk Bay without a ship excursion and is totally worth the trip!

Trunk Bay is sheer paradise!  Picture lush green velvety hillsides bordered by vibrant blue waters and sugary white beaches.  Sound like heaven?  That’s because it is!  Luckily, getting to the beach is relatively easy, even without booking an excursion.  

Trunk Bay- For the History Buffs

Archeologists have found remnants of a settlement that dates back to 700 AD.  These people, known as the Tainos, grew yucca, fished, gathered fruit, and created pottery, tools, and weapons.  It appears the Tainos lived in the area until 900 AD, and left rather quickly- as evidenced by cooking pots still filled with food.

Centuries later, Denmark staked a claim on the island of St. John. Remnants of the Danish sugar cane plantations can be found dotting the island.

   Laurence S. Rockefeller, of the famed Rockefeller family, fell in love with the marvelous picturesque beach, the warm, calm, turquoise waters, and the rolling green hills.  He purchased more than 5,000 acres of land on the island and donated it to create what is now known as the Virgin Islands National Park.  Today, the park covers nearly 2/3 of the island and includes Trunk Bay.

 

How Do I Get to Trunk Bay?

Every single cruise line offers excursions to Trunk Bay. They typically give you about 2 hours at this beach, although some may offer a little bit more time on the sand. If you are booking an excursion, try to book the earliest one possible. The beach can be crowded, especially when there are multiple ships in port.  

How Do I Get to Trunk Bay on My Own?

If you’d rather strike it out on your own, it is easy to get to Trunk Bay on your own.  All major cruise lines dock in either Charlotte Amalie or Crown Bay.  Whether you book an excursion through the cruise line, or decide to get to Trunk Bay on your own, you’ll end up having to take the Red Hook Ferry.  

In order to get to Trunk Bay on your own, you’ll want to try to be one of the first groups off of the ship.  Once you’re off the ship, find the taxi stand and hail a cab to the Red Hook Ferry- easily accessible from cruise terminals.

The ferry departs Red Hook at 6:30am, 7:30am, 8:00am, 9:00am, 10:00am, 11:00am, and 12:00pm.  The return ferry from Cruz Bay to Red Hook departs at 1:00pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm, 5:00pm, and 6:00pm.  Be sure to account for travel time from Red Hook back to the ship when selecting your departure time.  You’ll also want to leave a cushion just in case the line to get back onto the ship is long (spoiler alert: it probably will be).  The ferry takes about 20 minutes to get from Red Hook to Cruz Bay.

Once your on the island of St. John, you’ll be in an area known as Cruz Bay.  Grab a taxi and ask them to take you to Trunk Bay, which is about 3 miles away.  Most drivers will pull over at scenic lookouts so that you can snap some photos of the island.  

The bay is located within Virgin Islands National Park.  Admission to the park itself is free, however if you want to visit Trunk Bay, you’ll need to purchase the Trunk Bay Day Pass which is $5 per adult ($2.50 for senior citizens).   If you have the America the Beautiful National Park Pass, admission is free.

Based on our experience, it’s actually cheaper to get to St. John on your own- we were able to visit for about 1/3 of the cost when we did it on our own vs. when we did it with an excursion.  We also got to spend more time at the beach.

Once You're at Trunk Bay....

The highlight of Trunk Bay is the 225-yard-long  Underwater Trail.   This snorkeling trail is completely underwater and follows along the reef system.  Here, you can try your hand at underwater photography and snorkeling.  There are rental facilities at the beach/park that offer snorkel equipment rentals. 

If snorkeling is not your jam, you can also bask in the tropical sun on the sugary sand beach.  The rental shop has chairs that you can rent for the day.  Other activities include hiking trails, exploring the ruins of historic sugar plantations and St. John’s Danish colonial past.

What we love most is the fact that Trunk Bay is totally kid-friendly!  The calm waters, rental options, and outdoor activities make it a great spot for families to spend the day.  

There are limited concessions on the beach.  There is a snack bar, showers, and restrooms.  The snack bar is open from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.  

You can rent masks, snorkels, and fins from the Beach Bum Snorkel Rental (the same building as the snack shack).  The gear must be retuned by 3:00.

Let Us Help You Plan Your Trip

Check out our Ultimate Guide on How to Plan a Cruise and start planning your dream vacation today!

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Categories
Florida Jacksonville United States

Beyond Van Gogh the Immersive Experience

Earlier this month we were invited to preview Beyond Van Gogh the Immersive Experience.  The traveling exhibit uses modern technology to bring to life the works on Vincent Van Gogh in an impressive larger-than-life way.  The traveling exhibit will be in Jacksonville from September 16th until November 27th.

About Vincent Van Gogh

Vincent Van Gogh was a Dutch Post-Impressionist painter who grew to become one of the most famous and influential artists in the art world.  Unfortunately, he would never live to see his rise to fame.  During his lifetime, it is estimated that he sold only one or two paintings.  Over a span of 10 years, he created 860 oil paintings and about 1,200 other works of art.  Most of these were done during the last two years of his life.

A majority of his works were landscapes, still lifes, portraits and self-portraits.  His early work centered around depictions of peasant laborers and used dark colors.  It wasn’t until later that he began using bright, vibrant colors to accompany his unique, dramatic brush strokes.

Van Gogh struggled with severe depression and suffered from psychotic episodes and delusions.  He struggled financially and was financially supported by his brother.  He channeled many of his frustrations with his financial instability and metal health into his works.  Van Gogh died by a self-inflicted gunshot wound in 1890.  

Beyond Van Gogh The Immersive Experience

Beyond Van Gogh the Immersive Experience uses cutting-edge technology to bring over 300 of Van Gogh’s works to life.  The Beyond Van Gogh the Immersive Experience covers over 30,000 square feet and is the largest immersive experience in the country.  Van Gogh’s masterpieces come alive, appear and disappear, and dance across the walls and floors creating the feeling that the viewer has stepped inside the art work.  The show lasts about 30 minutes and is presented alongside a beautiful soundtrack making it a multi-sensory experience.  

Seating within the space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.  Many viewers choose to simply stand or even find a quiet space on the floor to fully immerse themselves into the experience.

Ticket Information

The following ticket information is for the Beyond Van Gogh the Immersive Experience Jacksonville showing.  Ticket information for other cities may be different.

Tickets for the show must be purchased online in advance.  Tickets will not be available on site.  Visit VanGoghJacksonville.com to purchase your timed-ticket.

OFF PEAK 

  • Basic Timed Entry (Ages 16+): $39.99
  • Child Timed Entry (Ages 5-15): $23.99
  • Premium Flex: $49.99
  • VIP: $73.99
  • Group Timed Entry (8+): $33.99

Plus taxes and applicable fees.

 

PEAK 

  • Basic Timed Entry (Ages 16+): $49.99
  • Child Timed Entry (Ages 5-15): $28.99
  • Premium Flex: $59.99
  • VIP: $83.99
  • Group Timed Entry (8+): $43.99

Plus taxes and applicable fees.

Children 4 years and younger can enter the show for free and do not require a ticket when accompanied by a paying adult.

Premium Flex tickets allow you to enter up to two hours before or after the start time as stated on your ticket, subject to exhibit opening hours.

 

VIP tickets include Premium Flex ticket benefits, priority access to the exhibit and a Beyond Van Gogh Merchandise package.

All tickets are non-refundable.

Beyond Van Gogh the Immersive Experience can be viewed at: 712 N Hogan St, Jacksonville, FL 32202

 

Parking is available in the neighboring garage.  The facility only accepts cards.  Parking costs:

1 hour: $6.00
1.5 hours: $8.00
2 hours: $10.00
Full day: $20.00
* Rates subject to change based on demand.

Due to an overwhelming demand, the exhibit has been extended from November 4th to November 27th.  

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Categories
Florida Gainesville United States

The Incredibly Innovative Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention

If you find yourself in Gainesville, Florida- do yourself a favor and make a pit stop at the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention.  The museum aims to inspire youngsters to learn about science, technology, innovations and creativity through hands-on learning labs.  

The museum was named after Dr. Robert Cade, the inventor of Gatorade.  It is located at the corner of Depot Park, a 32-acre park that features a children’s play area, a springs-inspired splash pad, trails, and preserve.  

Permanent Exhibits

The Sweat Solution

In 1965, an important question was posed, “Why don’t football players every urinate during a game?” Due to excessive sweating, athletes were quickly getting dehydrated and putting their health in jeopardy. Dr. Cade created Gatorade to help prevent this from happening to athletes.  Thanks to him, athletes around the world are able to stay hydrated and remain on the field or in the court.

This exhibit is located on the first floor and features several other inventions, such as cooling pads, that have completely changed the sports world.  Be sure to pose for a photo with the Florida Gator uniforms.  Go Gators!

Fun Fact: Abraham Lincoln is the only US President to hold a patent! On March 10, 1849, Lincoln filed a patent for a device for "buoying vessels over shoals" with the US Patent Office. The patent was approved 2 months later.

Mothers of Invention

The Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention teaches that all inventions stem from necessity, curiosity, iteration, and serendipity.  On the second floor rotunda, see examples of inventors that epitomize this philosophy- including our main man, Abraham Lincoln!

At First Flush

What better place to learn about the history of toilets, soaps, and Thomas Crapper than in the bathroom?  That’s right!  This museum features an exhibit it it’s restroom.  While you’re doing business, you can learn how astronauts use the bathroom, how toilets changed history, and who used the first flushable toilet.  What other place can you sit on a “crapper” and learn at the same time?

While you’re at the museum, be sure to marvel at the 160-year-old Gutenberg Printing Press. This printing press was once a prime example of innovation and technology. Thanks to this brilliant design of moveable-type printing, Gutenberg made it possible for Europeans to manufacture large numbers of books for relatively little cost.  The technology allowed for knowledge, discoveries, and literacy to spread throughout Europe.  It contributed to the Protestant Reformation and the Renaissance period in a massive way.

 Even better, stop by the Creativity Lab for hands-on fun.  If you’re lucky, you may even catch a live demonstration from a real scientist! 

 In the fab lab, you can get your STEM on and create super-awesome inventions of your own!  Don’t worry, if art is more your thing the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention has tons of art supplies for your to create your next masterpiece.

The Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention is geared towards kids and young adults however, grown ups will have fun exploring the 26,000-foot “intellectual oasis”, as well.  There is plenty to do for learners, inventors, creators, and scientists of all ages!

Plan Your Visit to the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention

The Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention is open for General Admission Thursday – Sunday 10am-4pm

What is there to do nearby?

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Categories
Florida Gainesville United States

Florida Museum of Natural History

The Florida Museum of Natural History is one of the most impressive museums in all of North Florida.  The Natural History museum is part of a complex of museums located on the University of Florida campus.  The permanent exhibit focuses on the 4 f’s- flora, fauna, fossils and folks that have inhabited the state.  (C’mon, you know the 4 f’s was clever!)  

The cool thing about the Florida Museum of Natural History is that most of it is free!  They do, however, charge for the Butterfly Rainforest and some traveling exhibits.

Much of the museum is geared towards older visitors, but younger visitors will have plenty to see and do here, as well!  Our kids enjoyed the Discovery Zone, a hands-on learning lab/play space, and the Butterfly Rainforest.  There were several other hands-on components to the permanent exhibit that kept them entertained as we checked out their collection.

Exhibits at the Florida Museum of Natural History

Butterfly Rainforest

The Butterfly Rainforest is a live exhibit of butterflies that inhabit a gorgeous enclosed space attached to the museum.  There are more than 50 different species of butterflies and moths that flutter around the scenic space.

There is a slight upcharge for this super fun exhibit, but it’s totally worth it.  

Our kids were in awe of all of the butterflies that inhabit this space.  Us adults thought it was a nice, relaxing place to unwind for a few minutes.

We strongly suggest taking your time and not rushing through the Butterfly Rainforest.  There are plenty of benches to kick up your feet and relax for a few moments.  You never know who might join you on the bench!

Smiley met a new butterfly friend at the Florida Museum of Natural History!

Due to the narrow paths within the butterfly exhibit, backpacks and strollers are not permitted.  Wheelchairs, however, are permitted in the space.

Bags larger than 15x15x7 must be checked at the desk prior to entering the exhibit.

Florida Fossils: Evolution of Life & Land

Fossils at the Florida Museum of Natural History

This free exhibit showcases the history of Florida through the Eocene, Oligocene, Miocene, Pliocene, and Pleistocene epochs.  More than 90% of the fossils in this exhibits are real, and most were found within 100 miles of Gainesville!  

Our kids actually preferred this fossil exhibit over the paid one that was available.

Discovery Zone

The Discovery Zone is a hands-on learning lab where children can learn about the natural world by touching, playing, crawling, and interacting with the materials. The exhibit encourages children to engage in science-oriented activities.  

It also includes true-to-scale touchable objects, and activity stations. Your kid will LOVE playing in this area!  Be sure to show them the video above to get them excited about the museum!

Visiting Information

The Florida Museum of Natural History is located on the University of Florida campus.

The physical address is:

3215 Hull Rd, Gainesville, FL 32611

The museum is open on Mondays through Saturdays from 10 to 5 and on Sundays from 1 to 5. 

The museum is closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.

 

General admission is free but donations are gladly accepted.

The last tickets are sold 30 minutes prior to closing.  Entrance to the Butterfly Rainforest and special exhibits close at 4:30.

Tickets can be purchased in advance on at the museum’s official website.

What is there to do Nearby?

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Categories
Florida Springs United States

10 Things to Know About Florida Springs- The Sunshine States COOLEST Attractions!

It’s no surprise that visiting Florida’s springs is becoming increasingly popular.  Not only are they incredibly refreshing but their beauty is unmatched, as well.  There are some things to know about Florida Springs before you pack your bags and head inland.  

Glass Bottom Boat Ride at Silver Springs State Park

Things to Know About Florida Springs

Where are the springs located?

A majority of the springs dot the landscape of the Panhandle, northern and central Florida.  There are a handful around Orlando and nestled in the Ocala National Forest.  Many of the springs are clustered around each other making them easy to spring hop- or travel to more than one spring in a day.

What are the best springs for kids?

Many of the springs are very deep making them difficult to visit with kids.  The best springs for kids are often found in Florida State Parks. We have a post where we outline our favorite springs to visit with kids.  It’s important to do your research if you’re traveling with young kids, you definitely don’t want to end up holding them all day long while you’re treading water.

Are there alligators and snakes in the springs?

There are absolutely alligators in the springs.  Snakes too.  You are less likely to see both snakes and alligators in designated swimming areas.  

If you’re paddling or floating down a run, it’s best to keep an eye out for them.  Be aware of your surroundings and give the animals space, if you see them.  Chances are, they are more afraid of you than you are of them.

There are times when the spring will close due to alligator activity.  If you happen to see an alligator in the swimming area, get out of the water and notify someone. 

Manatees at Blue Spring State Park

Where am I most likely to see manatees?

When the water temperature of the rivers surrounding the springs drop, manatees head to the springs to stay warm.  Manatees are very curious and have been known to go near swimmers and paddlers.  They are completely harmless and friendly animals.  

Crystal River, the Chaz, and Blue Spring State Park are all well-known for the manatee population.  Of course, there are plenty of other places to spot these adorable creatures as well.  Check out our article on the 12 Best Places to See Manatees to get the full scoop!

Can you swim with manatees?

In most places, swimming with manatees is not permitted.  However, it is allowed in Citrus County- Homosassa Springs and Crystal River.  If you visit in the summer, your best bet for swimming with manatees is to visit Crystal River.  To swim with the manatees, you’ll need a boat tour.  

It is against the law to touch or harass manatees. If one comes near you, keep your hands out of the water and allow them to pass.  

If you paddle towards a manatee, to not park your vessel directly above the manatees as they need to come up to the surface to breathe.

 

Madison Blue Springs- Voted America's #1 Swimming Hole

What is the water temperature?

The springs have a constant temperature of about 72 degrees year round.  It’ll definitely take your breath away, at first, but on a hot day it’s really refreshing.  Once you get acclimated to the water temperature, you’ll be fine.  

On a cooler day, you may not even notice the chilly water because the outside temperature and water temperature are similar.  

Are the springs pet-friendly?

Our lab loves swimming, so we totally get wanting to bring your pups to the springs.  In fact, every time we’re at the springs one of us says, “Man, LB would love this place!”   That being said, dogs are not allowed at most springs.  Dogs are a tasty treat for alligators, so it’s best to keep them out of the springs.  Bummer, I know.

That being said, you could possibly find a spot along one of the nearby rivers for your pup to swim.

Which springs have camping and cabins?

Many of the Florida Sate Parks with springs have campgrounds.  You’ll also find fantastic campgrounds in the Ocala National Forest (home of 5 springs).  Otter Springs, Fanning Springs, and Blue Spring State Park all have cabins available for rent.  

What should I take to the springs?

Sunscreen, a towel and a bathing suit are always a good start.  We also pack a picnic lunch, snacks, plenty of water, bug spray, and floats.  We also usually bring along a paddleboard.  We actually have a whole list of our Florida Spring Essentials.

Are the springs crowded?

The springs can get absolutely nuts during the summer.  People wait in their cars parks for 2+ hours to get in.  Almost all of the parks will close once they reach capacity.  Some of the parks close for the day whereas others will re-open in the afternoon once people start to leave.  It’s best to ask a park employee what their policy is.

Your best bet for getting into the parks is getting their early or visiting in the afternoon.  Weekdays also tend to be less crowded.  Remember, the water temperature remains the same year-round which essentially means you can swim in the springs year round.

Many of the crowds tend to congregate around shallow areas and the designated swimming area.  If you float, wade, paddle, or swim away from these areas, you’ll notice the crowds start to thin out.

Ginnie Springs is privately owned and does not close when it gets crowded.  If you find that all of the nearby springs are at capacity, you could always get into Ginnie- just know that it’ll be crowded.

Bonus: Our Favorite Springs

We’re often asked which springs are our favorite.  Jeez, this is like asking a parent which kids is their favorite.  We haven’t visited a spring that we didn’t like.  They are all gorgeous and have qualities that make them unique. 

Blue Spring State Park will always hold a special place in my heart as it is the first springs we visited with the kids.  They also have a spring run that you can float down, which is an added bonus. 

Gilchrist Blue Spring is a great spot to paddle. Alexander Springs is an easy one to visit with kids, which is a bonus for us.

DeLeon is unique in the fact that they have a pancake house on site where you make your own pancakes, which is pretty cool.

Silver Springs is one of Florida’s original theme parks so it’s very touristy, but we really enjoyed the boat tour.

I honestly, can’t pick just one.

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Categories
Florida Springs United States

Breathtaking Florida Springs That Are Near Each Other & Perfect for Spring Hopping

Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park

Since visiting the springs often requires a day trip, many visitors look for Florida springs that are near each other so that they can spring hop.  Spring hopping simply means visiting more than one spring in a day.  By knowing which Florida springs are near each other, you can easily fit more than one spring in during your trip!

It is important to know that there are many more springs than those listed below.  As we visit more Florida springs, we’ll add them to our list.  Also, some springs are only accessible via kayak or paddleboard, so we’re leaving those off of this list as well- since they are more difficult to find and access.

Florida Springs That Are Near Each Other

Salt Springs, Ocala National Forest

Ocala National Forest

We’ll start off with the Ocala National Forest since this is the one we’re most familiar with.  There are 5 springs in the Ocala National Forest.  

Madison Blue Springs- Voted America's #1 Swimming Hole

Suwanee River

  • Bob’s River Place
  • Convict Springs
  • Devil’s Den
  • Falmouth Springs
  • Fanning Springs State Park
  • Hart Springs State Park
  • Lafayette Blue Springs State Park
  • Levy/Bronson Blue Springs
  • Little River Springs
  • Manatee Springs State Park
  • Madison Blue Springs State Park
  • Otter Springs
  • Peacock Springs
  • Poe Springs Park
  • Royal Springs State Park
  • Rum Island Springs
  • Silver Springs State Park
  • Troy Springs State Park
Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park

Fort White

Blue Spring State Park

Volusia County

Orlando Area

  • Rock Springs
  • Wekiva Falls
  • Wekiwa Springs State Park
Check out the 12 Best Springs Near Orlando to learn more about springs that are easily accessible from the city.

Tampa Area/Spring Hill

  • Lithia Springs
  • Weeki Wachee Spring State Park

Making the Most of the Florida Springs That Are Near Each Other

Many of these regions are not far from one another, so you you could easily pair a spring in the Ocala National Forest with a spring  in Volusia County or Orlando.  These regions are only about an hour apart.  You could easily visit 5 or more springs in one weekend!

When is the Best time to Visit?

The springs are phenomenal year round! If you want a glimpse of the manatees, come during the winter (January and February seem to be peak times). If you want to kayak, canoe, or paddle board you can do so year round, but you’ll find it less crowded in the cooler months.

If you’re brave, you can swim year round. The water temperature is the same all year. Florida’s weather is really inconsistent in the winter. We can go from being in the 80s one day to the 50s the next. As long as you can handle the outside temperatures when you exit the springs, you can absolutely swim in the springs 365 days a year.

Our Spring Essentials

Floats and Rafts

SportsStuff Noodler 2
River Run Inflatable American Flag 2 Person Tube Float with Cooler
Giant Flamingo Float
Giant Unicorn Float

More Fun Stuff!

Inflatable Kayak
Inflatable Paddleboard (I swear by this one!)
Full-Face Snorkel Mask

Safety

Puddle Jumper Vest
Swim Vest
First Aid Kit

Skin Care & Insect Repellent

Coppertone Kids Sunscreen
OFF! Family Care Insect Spray
Cliganic Mosquito Repellent Bracelets

Towels & Swim Suits

Toddler Striped Hooded Poncho Towels
Women’s Boardshorts
Women’s 50+ SPF Shirt
Girl’s Roxy Rashguard

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Categories
North Carolina United States

10 Best Day Trips from Jellystone in Golden Valley, NC

Blue Ridge Parkway

We were ecstatic when they opened up a Jellystone in Golden Valley, NC.  We have family in the area, so instead of staying at an AirBNB, we’ve been booking cabins at Jellystone.  It costs about the same as an AirBNB, but you get a ton of amenities. 

Since we are so familiar with the area, we have several day trips from Jellystone in Golden Valley, NC that we can commend for you and your family!  Whether you’d like to spend the day at a farm, on an adventurous rope course, touring an iconic house, or driving on one of the most scenic highways in the country- we’ve got you covered in our list of the best day trips from Jellystone in Golden Valley, NC!

About Jellystone in Golden Valley, NC

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone in Golden Valley, North Carolina is a multi-million dollar RV Resort that offers tent camping, RV sites, and several different styles of cabins.

During our visits, we rent cabins.  We have stayed in both the Blue Ridge Bungalow and the Carolina Belle Cabins.  Check out our tours of each of these cabins in the videos below!

They have lots of great amenities like a swimming pool, a water park, a lake with recreational rentals, and zip lining.  They also offer gem mining,  laser tag, putt putt golf, tons of play areas of kids, and planned activities throughout the day.  In 2022, they opened up a super-awesome inflatable obstacle course on the lake.  Check out our video of us trying to tackle this monster!

The Jellystone also has restaurants that serve up a variety of food ranging from breakfast foods to pizza, hamburgers, sandwiches, chicken tenders, and ice cream.

About Golden Valley, NC

Golden Valley, NC has been home to a slew of different people…some think that even Abraham Lincoln was once called this region home.  The area was one home to Indigenous hunters. Evidence of their existence can be found in the form of pottery, arrowheads, and spear points.  

During Colonial times, European settlers arrived in the area.  They sectioned the land into districts and named this area the Morgan District.  The district was further divided into fourteen different companies- each with it’s own “captain” (similar to a mayor), who was in charge of taxes, the local militia and maintaining order.

Following the Battle of Kings Mountain, which was the first major patriot victory during the Revolutionary War in 1780, all was relatively calm.  That is…until the discovery of gold.  In 1828 gold was discovered in a stream in Brindletown.  Within weeks, every creek within a hundred miles was filled with prospectors.  It was then that this area became known as Golden Valley.

There is a school of historians and biographers that claim that Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States, was not born in Kentucky.  Instead, they believe he was born on Puzzle Creek, near the town of Bostic, in Golden Valley. 

Lincoln’s mother, Nancy Hanks, was placed in the care of Abraham Enslow and his family.  The Enslows lived in Rutherford County before moving  near Cherokee, NC.  While in Bostic, she was a member of the Concord Baptist Church.  During this time, she allegedly gave birth to a baby that she named Abraham.  It is believed that she then left the area and married Tom Lincoln in Kentucky.  The minister who performed the ceremony wrote of the young boy’s presence in his account of the nuptials.  The Bostic Lincoln Center is dedicated to this school of thought and is well worth the visit if you are a history fan.

The Best Day Trips from Jellystone in Golden Valley

Bostic Lincoln Center

As stated above, there is a school of historians that claim that Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, was actually born near the town of Bostic, NC- rather than in Kentucky.  The Bostic Lincoln Center provides evidence these historians have collected to support this theory.  While at the center, be sure to ask for directions to the ruins of the cabin these historians believe Lincoln was born.

Distance from the Park:  11 miles

Cherry Mountain Farm

Spend the day at Cherry Mountain Farm hanging out with the most adorable Angora goats!  Learn all about the history of this super cute breed of goats.  You can even purchase some yarn made from their shaggy coats.

Distance from the Park:  12 miles

South Mountains State Park

South Mountains State Park is a great location to spend the day outdoors with your family.  There are 40 miles of trails perfect for hiking or mountain biking.  The park also boasts a 60 foot waterfall, High Shoals Falls.  Even better, the park is just 20 miles away from Jellystone!  This great state park is one of the best day trips from Jellystone in Golden Valley.

Distance from the Park: 20 miles

Beanstalk Zipline

Beanstalk Ziplines offers 5 interconnected zips ending in a 520 foot epic zip!  The park offers $10 off any regularly priced Zip Tour with the mention of Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park or the use of the promo code:  YOGIGOLDEN at check out.

Distance from the Park: 24 miles

Lake Lure

Lake Lure is one of our favorite spots in the region!  Consider booking a boat tour if you’re visiting during the warmer months.  You can also spend the day swimming at the lake, popping in and out of cute shops.  

Distance from the Park:  33 miles

Chimney Rock

Chimney Rock State Park is one of the most popular parks to visit in North Carolina. Each year more than a quarter of a million visitors come to climb 499 steps (or take the super convenient elevator) to the top of the outcropping for absolutely breathtaking views.  From its top, you’ll discover 75-mile panoramic views of Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure.  Trust us, it’s definitely worth the drive out to Chimney Rock State Park.  This is hands down one of the best day trips from Jellystone in Golden Valley!

Distance from the Park:  36 miles

Linville Caverns

The Linville Caverns are the only caverns open to the public in the entire state of North Carolina! Explore inside the Blue Ridge Mountains and learn all about the geology of the stalactites, stalagmites, and other formations on your guided tour.  You’ll also learn the history of these caverns and how they were once used as hideouts by Civil War deserters.  

Distance from the Park 42 miles

Green River Adventures

Want to try something a little bit more action packed than paddling around Jellystone’s lake?  Green River Adventures offers whitewater adventures, kayaking, guided hikes, waterfall treks, ziplining, and rappelling and canyoneering trips for the whole family!  

Distance from the Park:  46 miles

Biltmore Estate

Do yourself a favor and plan on spending a day at the Biltmore Estate in nearby Asheville.  The Biltmore Estate is a Châteauesque-style mansion built by George Washington Vanderbilt II between 1889 and 1895.  It is the largest privately owned house in the United States.  The 178,926 square foot home is stilled owned by his descendants.  

Tour the grand dining room, library, atrium, a handful of bedrooms, the servant’s quarters, the indoor pool, billiards room, and much more!  This cultural experience makes for one of the best day trips from Jellystone in Golden Valley!  Be sure to save time to explore the Biltmore Village.

Distance from the Park:  54 miles

Blue Ridge Parkway

One of my favorite things to do in the mountains is to drive the Blue Ridge Parkway.  The parkway is 252 miles of scenic winding roads.  Be sure to stop at the scenic pull offs for incredible views of the landscape.  Along the parkway you’ll find plenty of spots to hike, bike, swim, or explore the local cultural sites.

Distance from the Park:  56 miles

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