Best Things to Do in Jupiter & Stuart
On this episode, Chad Gallivanter shows you around the beautiful communities of Jupiter and Stuart. These are two neighboring towns located on the Atlantic Coast of Florida, about a hundred miles north of Miami. They are both known for their rich history, natural beauty, and charming downtown areas. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway, a cultural adventure, or a fun-filled family vacation, you’ll find something to love in Jupiter and Stuart.
10 Best Things to See & Do in Apalachicola, Florida
Situated on the northwest Gulf Coast in Franklin County is one of Florida’s most historic port cities. Taking its name from a tribe of Native Americans who once called this place home, Apalachicola is said to mean “land of friendly people.” It was established in 1831, quickly becoming a bustling port town for shipping cotton. By the end of the century, it was an important center for seafood processing and the oyster industry.
Today, Apalachicola is a popular destination for travelers who come to enjoy the town’s historic architecture, unique culture, and beautiful natural scenery. This is a place I fell in love with my first trip here more than a decade ago. And you will too once you experience it.
On this episode, I show you the 10 best things to see and do in Apalachicola.
Mentioned
Apalachicola Boat Tours
Apalachicola Airboat Adventures
St. Vincent Island Shuttle Services & Fishing Charters
10 Best Roadside Attractions Near Orlando
Orlando is famous for its theme parks and family-friendly attractions. But if you're looking for something a little off the beaten path, consider checking out a few of the area's best roadside attractions.
In the 1920s and 30s as Florida's population grew and more people began to travel by car, a number of new roadside attractions sprung up along the state's highways. These oddball places broke up the long journey and allowed visitors to see something interesting.
Cypress Gardens made its debut in the mid 1930s, becoming famous for its water ski shows. By the end of the decade, Marineland had opened south of St. Augustine. This oceanside marine park was one of the first places in the world where visitors could swim with dolphins.
New quirky attractions continued to spring up around the state throughout the 50s and 60s as Florida’s tourism industry kept growing.
But the rise of the modern theme park in the 70s and 80s marked the beginning of the end for many of the smaller attractions. They just weren’t able to keep up with the times and travelers would pass them by on the way to Disney.
Fortunately for those nostalgic for a simpler time, a surprising number of classic roadside attractions are still open and continue to attract visitors from all over the world.
On this episode, we begin a new series highlighting the best roadside attractions near Orlando. The first installment covers everything from vibrant gardens and deep springs to vintage landmarks and even some newer places you can’t miss.
9 Best Things to Do in Tarpon Springs, the Sponge Capital of the World
Less than an hour drive north of Tampa on Florida’s Gulf Coast is one of the most offbeat, culturally-rich communities in the state of Florida.
Tarpon Springs was first settled in the 1870s, named for the giant tarpon that jumped and splashed in Spring Bayou. It was around the bayou where most of the town’s early development took place as a wintering spot for well-to-do northerners. Victorian-era houses still dot the neighborhood.
Toward the end of the century, boats would leave docks along Dodecanese Boulevard to harvest sponges from Key West to the Panhandle. For a bigger return, the Greek technique of diving for sponges was implemented. An influx of Greek immigrants to the area soon followed and the cultural identity of Tarpon Springs took root.
What was once a remote village became the “sponge capital of the world.” At one point, natural sea sponges retrieved from the Gulf surpassed citrus as Florida’s main export.
Sponges are still big business in Tarpon Springs and Greek heritage remains at the forefront. In fact, this community of just over 25,000 has the highest concentration of people of Greek descent than any other city in the nation.
On this episode, we take you to the sponge docks and beyond to show you the best things to do in Tarpon Springs.
Mentioned
Boat Tours
Island Adventure Dolphin Cruise
Sponges
Food
Downtown
Tarpon Springs Area Historical Society Museum
Breweries
Ice Cream
How to Spend a Saturday in Ormond Beach
In today’s video, we want to share with you some tips on how to spend a Saturday in Ormond Beach. We’ll start the day by dropping in at one of our favorite breakfast spots before heading into a 2-thousand acre state park that abounds with recreational opportunities. Then we’ll show you a great place to take the kids where they can learn about nature and wrap up the day by checking out one of the newest dining options in town.
5 Can’t-Miss Places in Winter Haven, Florida
Between Orlando and Tampa sits the community of Winter Haven. This city of nearly 50-thousand residents is known for dozens of lakes within its borders, including its famous Chain of Lakes. It's a haven for all types of water-based recreational activities and has a quaint downtown that's quickly becoming known across Central Florida for its variety of food options. In this episode, we're running down some of the places you can't miss in Winter Haven.
10 Things You Must Do in St. Augustine, Florida
If you’re a history buff, St. Augustine is the one city you have to put on your Sunshine State bucket list.
Established by the Spanish in 1565, this town less than an hour drive south of Jacksonville is the nation’s first enduring settlement. It predates Jamestown in Virginia by more than 40 years.
Flash forward to the 21st century and it’s estimated some 2-million people from all over the world visit St. Augustine every year. They come here for the history, the diverse shopping, the quality food options and the natural beauty of the bay and the beaches.
There’s so much to experience here, you might need a little help sorting it all out, knowing where to start, especially if its your first time. We’ve put together this list to make it simple for you.
10 Things You Can’t Miss in Clermont, Florida
Take State Road 50 west from Orlando into Lake County and you’ll reach the “gem of the hills.” The city of Clermont was founded in the 1880s, a heritage that’s on full display through a series of original structures on the banks of Lake Minneola.
Dominating one of the largest hills in the area is the 50’s-era Florida Citrus Tower. This 226-foot-tall tribute to the region’s citrus industry provides a bird’s eye view of the landscape which has evolved from orange groves to modern-day housing developments.
While an observation tower might be the city’s biggest claim to fame, the historic downtown area has become a destination for local foodies. With several food halls and vendor markets occupying space on and near Montrose Street plus other brick and mortars locally-owned and operated, historic Clermont has become one of our favorite places to hangout on a Saturday.
Here’s our list of 10 Things You Must Do in Clermont.
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Florida Citrus Tower
141 S Hwy 27
Clermont, FL 34711
Ride to the top of The Citrus Tower and stay as long as you would like:
Adults: $11.00
Children: $7.00
Senior, AAA, First Responder, Nurse, Military: $10.00
Open Every Day
Mon-Sat: 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Sunday: 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Closed Thanksgiving & Christmas -
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490 West Ave
Clermont, FL 34711
Galleria at Soma
821 W Minneola Ave
Clermont, FL 34711
821 W Minneola Ave
Clermont, FL 34711
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793 W Montrose St
Clermont, FL 34711
639 8th St
Clermont, FL 34711
756 W Montrose St #102
Clermont, FL 34711
716 W Montrose St
Clermont, FL 34711
Blushin’ Bubbles (inside Sugar Mama’s Candy Bar)
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Lake Louisa State Park
7305 US-27Clermont, FL 34714
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Tiki Bar & Grill
508 S Main Ave
Minneola, FL 3471
Menu: lakeminneolainn.com
Phone: (352) 394-2232
10 Things You Must Do in Mount Dora, Florida
Just over a half-hour drive northwest of Orlando is a quaint New England-style village that’s a vacation destination all on its own.
Located on a plateau more than 180 feet above sea level, the town of Mount Dora dates back to the middle of the 19th century. That’s when the community became a popular retreat for hunters, boaters and fishermen.
Train service was established in 1887. Primarily used to transport citrus, the rail line also brought visitors to town.
And folks have been coming to this waterfront community ever since. Mount Dora is known for its historic district with locally-owned shops and restaurants, natural areas and a vibrant arts scene with several nationally-acclaimed festivals held here each year.
This video showcases 10 things you must do when you’re in Mount Dora.
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Renninger’s Florida Twin Markets
20651 US-441
Mount Dora, FL 32757
Flea and Farmer’s Market Hours
Saturday and Sunday: 8 AM to 4 PM
Antique Center Hours
Friday: 10 AM to 4 PM
Saturday and Sunday: 9 AM to 5 PM -
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Things You Can’t Miss in Treasure Island, Florida
If you’re looking for a cute, old-fashioned beach town on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Treasure Island fits the bill.
Located south of Clearwater Beach and north of St. Pete Beach, this community of 6,500 residents got its catchy name in the early 1900s. That’s when several property owners attempted to boost sales of the properties being developed on the island in a way that I’m pretty sure would be scandalous and unlawful by today’s standards.
They buried a couple of wooden chests on the beach and then pretended to discover them. After claiming the chests were filled with treasure, news of the discovery quickly spread and people began calling the community Treasure Island.
On this episode, we’re gonna show you around Treasure Island and highlight just a few of the things you can’t miss when you’re here.
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All city-owned parking lots are metered or have pay stations and take credit cards. All parking is $2.75 per hour, unless noted below. You can pay by using a smartphone and the Parkmobile app, or at the meters or pay stations using cards or cash/coin.
SUNSET BEACH PARKING
Heron Lot, Bay Shore Drive & 75th Avenue (15 spaces)
Sunset Inn, West Gulf Boulevard & 80th Avenue (6 spaces)
Tern Lot, West Gulf Boulevard & 77th Avenue (55 spaces)
Ring-Billed Gull Lot, West Gulf Blvd. between 82nd and 81st Avenues (43 spaces)
Black Skimmer Lot, West Gulf Blvd. between 80th Terrace and 80th Avenue (16 spaces)
Brown Pelican Lot, West Gulf Boulevard & 88th Avenue (10 spaces)
MID-ISLAND PARKING
99th Avenue end-street (3 spaces)
Sandpiper Lot, Gulf Boulevard & 100th Avenue (16 spaces)
101st Avenue East & West end-street (8 spaces)
102nd Avenue East end-street (6 spaces)
103rd Avenue West end-street (10 spaces)
DOWNTOWN PARKING
Gulf Front Park Lot, 104th Avenue & Gulf Boulevard (77 spaces)
City Center, 10451 Gulf Blvd. (62 spaces)
106th Avenue street parking (11 spaces)
Community Center Lot, 106th Avenue & Park Place (104 spaces) $2.50 / Hour
City Hall Lot, 108th Avenue (41 spaces, evenings & weekends only)
SUNSHINE BEACH PARKING
Ibis Lot, 121st Avenue & Gulf Boulevard (19 spaces)
124th Avenue street parking (17 spaces)
White Egret Lot, 126th Avenue (12 spaces)
127th Ave end-street (6 spaces)
Kingfish Drive (28 spaces)
Please note that the City of St. Petersburg Municipal Lot at 112th Ave. and Gulf Blvd. is not a City of Treasure Island lot, but is open to the general public. -
The Florida Shell Shop
9901 Gulf Blvd, Treasure Island, FL 33706
Bucky the Pirate at Treasure Island Community Center Park
154 106th Ave, Treasure Island, FL 33706
Suncoast Surf Shop
9841 W Gulf Blvd, Treasure Island, FL 33706
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The Treasure Island Beach Trail is a paved biking and walking trail that parallels the Gulf of Mexico along a one-mile stretch of Treasure Island Beach. The trail runs from Gulf Front Park at 104th Avenue (near Publix) and runs north to 119th Avenue. There is public parking at Gulf Front Park and at 112th Avenue.
What to See & Do in Crystal River, the “Mantee Capital of the World”
Located about a 90 minutes north of Tampa on Florida’s “Nature Coast” is a community situated around Kings Bay and dozens of natural springs.
Crystal River is proud to say it’s the “Manatee Capital of the World.” This small town of nearly 3,400 residents is home to a national refuge. It was created to protect habitats for Florida’s beloved official marine animal.
Hundreds of sea cows are drawn to the warm spring-fed waters of Kings Bay and Three Sisters Springs when temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico get too chilly for them to survive.
Adventure seekers from all over the world flock here during winter months not only to catch a glimpse of these endangered gentle giants, but to swim with them as well.
This is only place in the U.S. where vacationers can do so legally.
If you’re looking to spend time in Florida in a spot where you can really get in touch with nature, Crystal River and the surrounding area might just be what you’re looking for.
While there’s an abundance of recreational activities here, you’ll also find intriguing Native American history, a quaint village with locally-owned businesses and a state park with one very famous resident.
On this episode, we’re going to show you just a few of the things you should see and do when you’re in Crystal River area.
Manatees
Nowhere else will you find more manatees than Crystal River, Homosassa and the waters of Citrus County. Anytime between mid-November through March, up to a thousand manatees can seek refuge in this 72-degree year-round hot tub.
Seeing a manatee up-close is quite an experience. And in the Crystal River area, it’s really easy to do.
From swimming with manatees, to kayaking and stand-up paddle-boarding and boat tours. Being with them in their habitat can be exhilarating.
You can also see manatees from fully-accessible boardwalks at places like Three Sisters Springs and Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park.
When you’re planning, keep in mind springs are less crowded on weekdays and be sure to visit early in the day. Manatees are most active and playful in the mornings.
Crystal River Kayak Co. & Dive Center
Homosassa Manatee Snorkeling Center
Helpful Links
Three Sisters Springs (trolley information)
Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge
Crystal River Archaeological State Park
Crystal River Preserve State Park
Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
Best Things to See & Do in Sanford
Sanford, Florida is a community known for its tree-lined streets, neighborhoods with beautiful homes dating back a century, and a downtown full of mom and pop shops, small eateries, and a huge selection of places where you can grab a beer or some wine.
It’s also a festival city that thrives during special events which occur throughout the year.
Our last visit was the same day as Sanford Porchfest, an annual celebration of live music that recalls the days of porch jam sessions. This community-building event serves as the backdrop for our latest episode featuring the best things to see and do in one of Central Florida’s most popular places to live, Sanford.
5 More Ways to Spend a Saturday in Winter Park
Travel outside the theme park bubble and you’ll find plenty of places where you can unwind.
One of the best, especially during the holiday season, is the city of Winter Park, just north of Orlando.
More than a century ago when the town was meticulously laid out, it was considered a winter resort, a place where snow birds from the north could hibernate during winter months.
This city of parks, lakes, world-class museums and prestigious homes maintains an old world charm that’s personified in the downtown area along Park Avenue, what many have dubbed “Little Europe.”
Along this brick-covered street you’ll find locally-owned shops, boutiques and restaurants along with popular chains you might recognize. There’s even a Pottery Barn inside an old movie house.
A few months ago, we told you about five ways to spend a Saturday in Winter Park. Things like the Morse Museum, the Farmers’ Market and the Scenic Boat Tour were all featured on the list.
Today we’re back on Park Avenue telling you about five more ways to spend a Saturday in Winter Park, from retracing the footsteps of a beloved children’s television pioneer and a hotel that has the vibe of an art museum to a shop where you can find some unique holiday decor and, I’ll let you in on a secret to my favorite burger in greater Orlando and how you too can order it.
Fans of Mr. Rogers look at the new statue of the beloved children’s television host shortly after it was unveiled on the campus of Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida.
Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood Tour
1000 Holt Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
We’ve told you before how Winter Park is home to one of the most beautiful college campuses in America.
Established in 1885, Rollins College is Florida’s oldest post-secondary institution.
With its main entrance across from Park Avenue, the campus covers 70 acres on the banks of Lake Virginia.
Several well-known faces have passed through this campus over the decades.
But without a doubt the name most associated with Rollins is everyone’s favorite neighbor, the man you might have watched on public broadcasting as a kid, the late Mr. Fred Rogers.
Rogers came to Rollins in 1948 as a transfer student, graduating with a degree in music composition three years later.
It was on this campus where Rogers developed his unique worldview and curated his positive attitude.
It’s also where he met his future wife, Joanne Byrd.
The couple would often return to Rollins over the decades, even becoming Winter Park snowbirds in their later years by renting a house on Lake Osceola.
While Mr. Rogers passed away in 2003, his legacy of kindness lives on every day at his Alma mater.
The college now offers a free self-guided walking tour for fans who want to explore the neighborhood that shaped Mr. Rogers.
It’s recommended you start your journey at the Olin Library where inside you’ll find a case with items that belonged to Mr. Rogers, including a sweater knitted by his mother and worn on the show, and a pair of his famous sneakers.
Other stops include a marble “Life is for Service” plaque near Strong Hall that inspired Rogers as a student and a stone on the college’s Walk of Fame positioned in front of his old residence hall.
The newest tribute to Mr. Rogers can be found in the courtyard of the historic Knowles Memorial Chapel.
Officially unveiled in October 2021, is one of the most inspiring sculptures you might ever lay eyes on. It’s called, “A Beautiful Day for a Neighbor.”
The bronze cast piece depicts Rogers surrounded by a diverse group of children with one of his favorite puppets on his hand. Near the base are lyrics from the television show’s theme song and the Neighborhood Trolley.
The back of the sculpture is truly amazing. Poking out from King Friday’s castle are characters like Lady Elaine Fairchilde and my personal favorite, X the Owl.
Designed to be an inspiration to future generations, the sculpture masterfully captures the spirit of this dearly-loved man and the lessons he taught that our society could still learn from today.
One of the many art pieces on display at The Alfond Inn at Rollins in downtown Winter Park, Florida.
Alfond Inn at Rollins
300 E New England Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
A 3-minute walk from Rollins College across Fairbanks Avenue is a one-of-a-kind hotel that is home to an impressive art collection.
The Alfond Inn is owned and operated by Rollins with proceeds going to fund student scholarships.
Walk inside this Triple-A Diamond Rated boutique hotel and it’s like stepping into a mansion filled with beautiful art.
Over 300 paintings, photographs, sculptures and mixed media works by established and emerging artists from around the world are included in the collection.
The works were chosen because they embody the themes relevant to a liberal arts education.
Even if you’re not staying at the Alfond, you’re welcome to come in and explore the public areas where the collection resides.
Pieces are often rotated in and out, so you’re bound to see something new with each visit.
A.B. Newton and Company is one of the many locally-owned brands featured at Adjectives Market on Park Avenue in downtown Winter Park, Florida.
Park Avenue
If you’re like me and not the type to enjoy being dragged to the mall, a stroll down Park Avenue might be more to your liking.
Bordered by a shady park that plays host to concerts and art festivals, this charming street is home to dozens of locally-owned boutiques, sidewalk cafes, fine dining restaurants, art galleries with a few nationally-known brands mixed in.
We have been shoppers at the handful of Adjectives Market locations in Central Florida for years now.
While we love the Altamonte and Winter Garden storefronts, the newer location on Park Avenue has the vibe of a curated boutique you might find in Greenpoint or Williamsburg, Brooklyn.
Abby and I stopped in just as they were putting out their winter inventory and found some unique holiday items on display.
It’s an interesting shop to explore with local touches by A.B. Newton and Company and plenty of things you wouldn’t expect.
We always purchase our glasses and sunglasses from Warby Parker and the growing New York-based company recently opened a brick and mortar shop on Park Avenue at the corner of Lyman.
This sun-filled storefront gives customers a chance to try on new styles in-person rather than depending solely on home try-on, which sometimes can be limited when it comes to selection.
Looking for a bit of nostalgia or a remedy for that sweet tooth? Rocket Fizz never disappoints, especially when it comes to their large selection of unique flavored sodas and taffy.
Inside Rifle Paper Company in Winter Park’s historic Hannibal Square neighborhood.
Hannibal Square
642 W New England Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
A couple of blocks west of Park Avenue is one of the city’s most historically significant neighborhoods, Hannibal Square.
Inside the Hannibal Square Heritage Center,visitors can learn details about how Winter Park came to be thanks to members of the African-American community who resided in this very neighborhood.
It was print shop owner Gus Henderson who in the 1880s rallied black registered voters to cast their vote to make Winter Park an official city.
Two black men from Hannibal Square went on to serve on the city council.
Today, this neighborhood is home to a number of shops, including one of Abby’s favorites - Rifle Paper Company, a lovely park with a molecular dog statue, and several places to eat.
Toasted
1945 Aloma Avenue, Winter Park, Fl 32792
Who doesn’t love a good grilled cheese sandwich? It’s nostalgic food that’s the epitome of classic Americana.
At Toasted in a strip plaza on Aloma Avenue, they elevate the grilled cheese sandwich using locally sourced ingredients prepared in-house. The result - a sophisticated sandwich with flavors that satisfy the grilled cheese purist and those with more adventurous palates.
Abby and I have been eating here for years. She usually goes for a simple grilled cheese, while I always order something that no longer is posted on the in-store menu.
It’s called the Triple B Burger. A thick patty topped with applewood smoked bacon and blue cheese on a locally-sourced bun that never falls apart. While they no longer put blue chips on the sandwich, this is still, hands down, my favorite burger in the greater Orlando area. And this coming from someone who doesn’t eat a lot of blue cheese. It truly does take the burger to a whole new level.
If you’re in the neighborhood, you have to try it. They have two other locations in the UCF area and Windermere.
