Eyewitness Travel Family Guide Florida Read online

  Official questions…

  You can see Florida’s official state animal and state reptile at the zoo at Tallahassee Museum. What are they?

  If you are lucky, you might spot the official Florida state bird around the museum’s grounds. What is it?

  >> Answers

  * * *

  < The Panhandle

  10. Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park

  A floral wonderland

  An elegantly furnished room in Maclay House, Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park

  Alfred B. Maclay, a New York financier, and his wife Louise planned the gardens in the grounds of their winter home in 1923. This blooming oasis, with over 200 varieties of plants, is a vision in late winter and early spring, when camellias, dogwoods, and azaleas are in flower. The season lasts from January to April, with the beauty at its peak in March. Brick walkways and pine needle paths make for a serene stroll through landscapes that include a walled garden, ponds, fountains, and a lovely lake. Look for the narrow path leading to a secret garden. This secluded spot shelters small plants and has pretty wrought-iron benches that are perfect for a break. Lake Hall provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking, and two nature trails through the woods overlook the lake. Still furnished as it was when the owners were in residence, the Maclay House is open for visits from January through April.

  >>Practical Information

  >>Take Cover

  >>Eat and Drink

  >>Kids' Corner

  Kids’ Corner

  Official question…

  The Alfred B. Maclay Gardens have hundreds of blooms, but you probably won’t see the official state flower unless you visit an orange grove. What is it?

  >> Answer

  * * *

  < The Panhandle

  11. Wakulla Springs State Park

  Gator-gazing, swims, and walks

  Tour boats at the jetty in Wakulla Springs State Park

  A popular location for Tarzan movies in the past, Wakulla is home to one of the world’s deepest natural springs. Spot alligators, turtles, and birds of all shapes and sizes on one of the park’s daily ranger-led riverboat tours. An observation platform offers superb views of the springs, and a safe area has been set aside for swimming; the crystal-clear waters are also great for snorkeling. A 6-mile (10-km) hiking trail weaves through a hardwood forest of magnolia oak, beech, and hickory, as well as a longleaf pine forest. Be sure to decide in advance how far to walk, as this is not a loop trail. Built in Mediterranean style in the 1930s, the park’s handsome Wakulla Springs Lodge is on the National Register of Historic Places.

  >>Practical Information

  >>Take Cover

  >>Eat and Drink

  >>Kids' Corner

  Kids’ Corner

  Do you know…

  A famous movie series was filmed at Wakulla Springs. Who was the main character?

  >> Answer

  * * *

  < The Panhandle

  12. San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park

  Biking, hiking, birds, and a historic fort

  This state park is situated in the tiny historic fishing town of St. Marks on Apalachee Bay. The flags waving over the entrance mark a site fought over by Spanish, English, American, and Confederate forces. Though the first Spanish settlement here was built in 1528, the original fort, now a National Historic Landmark, was built in 1679. The fort was later replaced by a stone fortress. A museum in the park exhibits pottery and tools unearthed near the original fort; and displays and a video reveal the site’s colorful history.

  Although a small town today, St. Marks was once a major port. Built in 1830 to bring cotton from Tallahassee plantations, the railroad is known today as the Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad Trail State Park, a paved 16-mile (26-km) trail for hikers and bikers ending at the St. Marks waterfront.

  >>Practical Information

  >>Letting Off Steam

  >>Eat and Drink

  >>Kids' Corner

  Kids’ Corner

  Do you know…

  1. How many flags have flown over Fort San Marcos de Apalache?

  2. Can you guess how many varieties of birds can be spotted in St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge?

  >> Answers

  Rails to trails

  Modern highways and airplane services have meant that many older railroad tracks are no longer needed. Formed in 1986, the Rails to Trails Conservancy works to change the flat beds where rails used to be into paved paths for bikers and hikers. So far 20,000-plus miles (32,186 km) of rail-trail have been opened across the US. Visit www.railstotrails.org

  * * *

  < The Panhandle

  13. Apalachicola

  Oyster town

  Jetty at Apalachicola Bay, near the town of Apalachicola

  A major seaport when cotton was coming down from northern Florida’s plantations, this quaint little town waned after the Civil War (1861–5). But it has a wonderfully walkable Historic District, with many beautifully restored homes and warehouses. Start with the walking tour map from the Information Center and take a look at the town’s 50-plus pre-Civil War buildings, many of which house gift shops and restaurants. Today, the town relies on the sea for its livelihood, and is famous for its oysters. A variety of boat trips take visitors out into Apalachicola Bay.

  >>Practical Information

  >>Letting Off Steam

  >>Eat and Drink

  >>Kids' Corner

  Kids’ Corner

  All about oysters

  Apalachicola Bay once produced 90 per cent of Florida’s oysters. Fluctuations in water salinity reduced the harvest briefly, but it’s on the rise again. Harvesting isn’t easy since oysters live in beds at the bottom of the sea. They are gathered with a scoop-shaped net of metal mesh attached to the back of a boat.

  * * *

  Where to Stay in the Panhandle

  From beach bungalows and condo resorts to city hotels, the Panhandle offers a wide range of accommodations. The numerous cottages and low-rise condos within walking distance of South Walton’s beaches are especially appealing for families.

  Price Guide

  The following price ranges are based on one night’s accommodation in high season for a family of four, inclusive of service charges and additional taxes.

  $: Under $150; $$: $150–300; $$$: over $300

  Agencies

  Beach Rentals of South Walton

  www.brswvacations.com

  This agency offers lodging options across South Walton, including the villages of Seagrove, Grayton Beach, and Santa Rosa.

  Rosemary Beach Rentals

  www.rosemarybeach.com

  This website has links to agencies with properties ranging in size from two to seven bedrooms.

  < The Panhandle

  Apalachicola

  Hotel

  Water Street Hotel & Marina

  329 Water St, 32320; 850 653 3700; www.waterstreethotel.com

  A modern choice in a vintage town, this is a small all-suite hotel with a prime location by the water. Family suites have rooms with a queen bed, plus a small adjoining room with a bunk or full bed, as well as kitchens, balconies, and washer-dryers.

  $$ • Family rooms • Kitchen facilities • Parking • Swimming pool

  Bed & Breakfast

  Coombs House Inn

  80 Sixth St, 32320; 888 244 8320; www.coombshouseinn.com

  Three elegant Victorian homes make up this charming 23-room inn. Some suites have kitchenettes and private verandas. Guests are treated to daily breakfast and afternoon tea, and wine on weekend evenings. Chairs, towels, and umbrellas are provided for excursions to St. George Island.

  $–$$ • Wi-Fi • Kitchen facilities • Parking • Beach

  Pensacola

  Hotels

  Crowne Plaza-Pensacola Grand Hotel

  200 E Gregory St, 32501; 800 916 4339; www.pensacolagrandhotel.com

  The former 1912 L&N railroad passenger de
pot, furnished with antiques, is this hotel’s old-fashioned lobby and restaurant, but its 15-story glass tower beyond is strictly modern. Many rooms offer views of the Historic Pensacola Village. There is a fitness center on site.

  $–$$ • Wi-Fi • Restaurant • Parking • Swimming pool

  New World Inn

  600 S Palafox St, 32501; 850 432 4111; www.newworldlanding.com

  This 15-room boutique hotel, located in the Historic district, features a grand staircase and lofty rooms with attractive, traditional decor. Free Continental breakfast.

  $$ • Wi-Fi • Restaurant • Parking

  Motel

  Suburban Extended Stay Pensacola

  3984 Barrancas Ave, 32507; 850 453 4140; www.choicehotels.com

  A convenient option if visiting the Naval Aviation Museum, this motel is well equipped and provides free Internet access. Laundry facilities, barbecue grills, and a fitness room are available. Despite the name, extended stays are not required.

  $ • Wi-Fi • Kitchen facilities • Parking • Swimming pool

  Bed & Breakfast

  Lee House Bed & Breakfast

  400 Bayfront Pkwy 32501; 850 912 8770; www.leehousepensacola.com

  With its classic Southern columns and spacious public rooms, Lee House offers modern comforts. Several of the eight suites can accommodate four. Enjoy breakfast with views of Pensacola Bay and Seville Square on the expansive porches.

  $$ • Wi-Fi • Parking

  Pensacola Beach

  Resort

  Portofino Island Resort and Spa

  10 Portofino Dr, 32561; 877 484 3405; www.portofinoisland.com

  This luxurious resort, situated on 8 miles (13 km) of pristine beach within the Gulf Islands National Seashore, offers spacious two- and three-bedroom apartments equipped with washer-dryers. There are whirlpools, a spa, and special programs for kids and teens.

  $$$ • Kitchen facilities • Restaurant • Parking • Swimming pool • Beach

  Motel

  Days Inn Pensacola Beachfront

  Via De Luna Dr, 32561; 800 934 3301; www.daysinn.com

  Located right on the beach, this basic motel offers rooms with microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee-makers. Amenities include laundry facilities, a pool, and free Continental breakfast.

  $–$$ • Wi-Fi • Parking • Swimming pool • Beach

  South Walton

  Resort

  Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort

  9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, 32550; 800 267 8000; www.sandestin.com

  This excellent resort features a 7-mile (11-km) beach, tennis courts, a fitness center, and biking trails. Lodging options range from high rises to cottages in beach, bay, and golf communities. Baytowne Wharf, a pedestrian village within the resort, offers shops, dining, and fun activities including a zip line. The resort has programs for children and teens.

  $–$$$ • Wi-Fi • Restaurant • Kitchen facilities • Parking • Swimming pool

  A well-lit luxurious room in Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, South Walton

  Condo Resorts

  The Inn at Gulf Place

  95 Laura Hamilton Blvd, Santa Rosa Beach, 32548; 888 909 6807; www.gulfplacefl.com

  Across the road from the beach, this small complex offers rooms that sleep four, or one-bedroom condos with full kitchens and balconies. There are tennis courts, a hot tub, and a washer-dryer on site.

  $–$$ • Wi-Fi • Family rooms • Kitchen facilities • Parking • Swimming pool

  The Village of South Walton

  10343 E Scenic Hwy 30A, Seacrest Beach, 32413; 877 808 4323

  This four-story condo resort offers lodgings ranging from studios to three-bedroom units with washer-dryers, TV, and DVD players. The resort has its own shopping center, and a spray fountain for splashing, and offers easy access to the big Seacrest Village pool.

  $–$$$ • Restaurant • Family rooms • Kitchen facilities • Parking • Swimming pool

  WaterSound Resort

  6652 E County Hwy 30A, Watersound, 32413; 800 413 2363; www.watersoundvacationrentals.com

  A beach home community spread over an extensive area that includes the towering dunes along the Gulf of Mexico, this resort offers a beach club with a free-form pool and tennis courts. Lodgings vary from individual homes to condo units.

  $–$$$ • Restaurant • Family rooms • Kitchen facilities • Swimming pool • Beach

  Hotel

  30-A Suites

  6904 Hwy 30A West, Santa Rosa Beach, 32459; 850 499 5058; www.30asuites.com

  Spacious and attractively furnished, this 15-suite boutique hotel offers rooms with walk-in closets, and private balconies. Although the hotel is recommended for families traveling with teens, younger kids are also welcome in its nearby two-bedroom condos.

  $$ • Wi-Fi • Family rooms • Kitchen facilities

  Inn

  Watercolor Inn

  34 Goldenrod Circle, Santa Rosa Beach, 32459; 888 775 2545; www.watercolorresort.com

  This luxurious 60-room inn near the Gulf of Mexico offers large rooms with king-size beds and queen sofa sleepers, a mini-refrigerator, and balconies with fabulous views. Bikes and kayaks are complimentary.

  $$–$$$ • Wi-Fi • Restaurant • Parking • Swimming pool

  The scenic pool at Watercolor Inn, Santa Rosa Beach

  Camping

  Grayton Beach State Park

  Off Scenic Hwy 30A, Grayton Beach, 32459; 800 326 3521 (reservations); www.floridastateparks.org

  Famous for its beautiful beaches, this state park offers full camping facilities plus 30 modern two-bedroom cabins accommodating six. Cabins have central heating and cooling, kitchen, an outdoor grill, as well as an initial set of linen and towels. Minimum two-night stay in cabins on weekends.

  $ • Family rooms • Kitchen facilities • Beach

  Topsail Hill Preserve State Park

  7525 W Scenic Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, 32459; 800 326 3521; www.floridastateparks.org

  This scenic park offers ample choices from a fully equipped campground and tent sites to one-bedroom bungalows and two-bedroom cabins. Cabins have full kitchens. Guests can take a free tram to the beach.

  $ • Family rooms • Kitchen facilities • Swimming pool

  Camped RVs in Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, Santa Rosa Beach

  Tallahassee

  Hotels

  Doubletree Hotel

  101 S Adams St, 32301; 850 224 5000; doubletree3.hilton.com/en/hotels/florida/doubletree-by-hilton-hotel-tallahassee-THLAPDT/index.html

  Located close to Florida State Capitol and the Capitol Museum, this full-service downtown hotel is a good choice for families. Rooms are comfortable, and cribs and high chairs are available. The on-site restaurant has a children’s menu.

  $–$$ • Wi-Fi • Restaurant • Swimming pool • Parking

  Governor’s Inn

  209 South Adams St, 32301; 850 681 6855; www.thegovinn.com

  Originally a livery stable, this boutique 41-room hotel near Florida State Capitol has rooms named for former Florida governors. The rooms are spacious, with two queen beds.

  $$ • Wi-Fi • Restaurant • Family rooms

  Motel

  Cabot Lodge

  1653 Raymond Diehl Rd, 32308; 850 386 7500

  This friendly motel is convenient for the I-10 highway. Executive rooms are equipped with a microwave and mini-refrigerator. Complimentary features include breakfast, daily newspaper, evening cocktails, and computers in the lobby.

  $ • Wi-Fi • Parking • Swimming pool • Kitchen facilities

  >>Hotels Map

  < Exploring Florida

  The Gulf Coast

  Florida’s Gulf Coast feels as if it could have been designed with families in mind. Alongside some of the state’s best beaches, it has a major theme park and a spectacular aquarium, mermaids and manatees, and top museums for kids. Chic towns such as Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota offer world-class attractions and entertainment for adults. A
nd there is still room for an abundance of unspoiled wild Florida.