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Viva Florida 500: Miami Art Deco Walking Tour

Cami Webb — Wed, 15 May 2013 14:40:17 GMT

Whether you’re an art deco buff or first-time visitor to Miami, the Miami Art Deco Walking Tour should be on your list of to-dos. Tour guides Christine and Robert will show you the ins and outs of Ocean Drive, Miami’s famous street that has a history as colorful as its pastel-hued architecture. The 90-minute tour is laid-back, fun and personal — and sometimes there’s even a pina colada or margarita to accompany it. (When in South Beach right?)

We particularly like being able to ogle at the historic hotel interiors and rooftop views without paying for a room (and the tour groups are so small, you’ll never feel like you’re pegged as a tourist). Plus, you’ll know more info than the locals, and who doesn’t love being an insider when it comes to glam South Beach?

Tours depart from the Art Deco Gift Shop and are $20 per person, or $15 for veterans, seniors and students. Click here for the full walking tour schedule.

This event is part of Visit Florida's Viva Florida 500 commemoration, honoring the anniversary of Ponce de Leon's landing in Florida.

Photo by: Florida Travel + Life Editor

Raleigh Hotel

Whether you’re an art deco buff or first-time visitor to Miami, the Miami Art Deco walking tour should be on your list of to-dos. Tour guides Christine and Robert will show you the ins and outs of Ocean Drive, Miami’s famous street that has a history as colorful as its pastel-hued architecture.

Must-Do Florida Meals

cami.webb — Thu, 09 May 2013 20:58:09 GMT

Photo by iStock

➜ With eight locations across the state, Columbia Restaurant has been serving up its tasty paella and Cuban- Spanish dishes since 1905. Dine where it started, at the original location in Tampa’s historic Ybor City.

➜ What began as a small lunch counter in 1903 is still the place to go in Miami for the freshest seafood and stone crab claws: the aptly named Joe’s Stone Crab. First come first served, i.e., no reservations.

➜ In tony Winter Park, the new “Southern public house” Cask & Larder serves an ever- changing menu showcasing house-cured meats, pickled veggies, remixed Southern classics (think crawfish pot pie) and its own craft beer, with names like Olde Southern Wit, made on site. Even the spacious dining room has a Southern feel. Expect high ceilings, vintage- style chandeliers and decorative plate displays.

Photo by: iStock

Water’s Edge
At Bahia Cabana’s rustic dockside restaurant in Fort Lauderdale on the Intracoastal, arrive by water taxi for combo frozen rum runner and piña colada cocktails, plus fresh peel ’n’ eat shrimp and some of the best chicken wings. Watch the yachts pass by or just hang with longtime locals at the bar.

We love our state's delicious flavors — Florida’s culinary diversity spans from Latin to seafood to comforting farm fare. Take a look at some of the restaurants that serve up some of our favorite dishes.

Viva Florida 500: Romanza Festivale

Cami Webb — Wed, 08 May 2013 14:49:46 GMT

So where can you get a little bit of everything at one event? St. Augustine’s Romanza Festivale, of course.

Combining music, art, theatre, food and culture, this annual event takes over the historic city with shows and exhibits and celebrates the living culture of St. Augustine. So what can you expect? Pub crawls, lectures, reenactments, farmer’s markets and wine tastings are just a few of the activities promised at this multi-day extravaganza. And don’t miss the pirates, soldiers and performers in the Ponce de Leon 500 Parade commemorating the discovery of Florida in 1513 —that’s always something to celebrate.

This event is part of Visit Florida's Viva Florida 500 commemoration, honoring the anniversary of Ponce de Leon's landing in Florida. Find more events around Florida at Florida Travel + Life's events calendar.

Photo by: Florida Travel + Life Editor

Romanza Festivale

So where can you get a taste of music, art, theatre, food and culture — at one event? St. Augustine's Romanza Festival, of course.

Show Mom a Florida Citrus-themed Mother's Day

sspears — Fri, 03 May 2013 21:42:30 GMT

Mother's Day arrives on May 12, so it's time to celebrate her. The Florida Department of Citrus has teamed up with the Kessler Collection, a portfolio of ten artistically inspired boutique hotels and restaurants, to offer some Mother's Day ideas that will be hard to top.

Now through May, guests of any Kessler Collection hotel in Florida can enjoy citrus-themed spa packages, cocktails or special dinners. Travelers to other select Kessler properties can treat themselves to the "Orange You Beautiful" spa package, which includes such luxuries as a refreshing welcome mimosa, orange essential oil massage, citrus sugar foot scrub and classic pedicure featuring Truly Tangerine Orly nail polish.

In honor of Mother's Day, the Bohemian Hotel Celebration is throwing a family-friendly, three-course, citrus-inspired meal featuring artist Elizabeth St. Hilaire Nelson on May 11. Each leading lady will be presented with a print featuring an original orange-themed piece created by the artist.

For more information, please visit www.floridajuice.com/promotion. To book a stay at Kessler Collection properties, please visit www.kesslercollection.com or call 888.472.6312.

- Sponsored blog post

Photo by: Florida Travel + Life Editor

Mother's Day in Florida

Mother's Day arrives on May 12, so it's time to celebrate her. The Florida Department of Citrus has teamed up with the Kessler Collection, a portfolio of ten artistically inspired boutique hotels and restaurants, to offer some Mother's Day ideas that will be hard to top.

Viva Florida 500: Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival in Amelia Island

Cami Webb — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 20:11:20 GMT

Fried, grilled, sautéed, broiled — we love shrimp. And at the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival on May 3-5 in Amelia Island, Florida, you can have your shrimp and eat it too —no matter which way way you like it cooked.

This year, the 50^th annual festival is commemorating “The Year of the Golden Shrimp” with 25 food vendors (all local!) serving up Florida’s favorite crustacean every way imaginable. And when you’re not noshing on shrimp, you can browse fine art and craft vendors, jam out to the free live music concerts, and of course, get rowdy with the best of them in the riverfront pirate invasion on Saturday night— a festival tradition.

The Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival kicks off with the Shrimp Festival Parade, one week before, on Saturday, April 27 at 11:00 a.m.

This event is part of Visit Florida's Viva 500 commemoration, honoring the anniversary of Ponce de Leon's landing in Florida. Find more events around Florida at Florida Travel + Life's events calendar.

Photo by: Florida Travel + Life Editor

Shrimp Festival

Fried, grilled, sautéed, broiled — we love shrimp. And at the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival in Amelia Island Florida, you can have your shrimp and eat it too —no matter which way way you like it cooked.

Viva Florida 500: Humphrey Bogart Film Festival Comes to Key Largo

Cami Webb — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 15:43:02 GMT

Film noir lovers, rejoice. the Humphrey Bogart Film Festival is coming to the Florida Keys May 2-5 — right where one of his famous movies was filmed 65 years ago. “Key Largo,” starring Bogart and wife Lauren Bacall, was partially filmed on the top Florida Keys island, and now, Key Largo fittingly hosts the film fest to celebrate.

Go ahead and bring your popcorn. You can catch a rotating selection of the actor’s classic films like “Casablanca,” “Double Indemnity” and more at different venues throughout the island. Plus you can even take a ride on the fully restored African Queen — the very same one that was used in its namesake film, “African Queen.” And if you have any questions about this legendary actor, don’t miss your opportunity for a little one-on -one time with his son Stephen Bogart. He’ll be there throughout the entire festival.

Photo by: Florida Travel + Life Editor

Humphrey Bogart Film Festival

Film noir lovers, rejoice. the Humphrey Bogart Film Festival is coming to the Florida Keys May 2-5 — right where one of his famous movies was filmed 65 years ago.

Viva Florida 500: Tarpon Season Begins in Boca Grande

Cami Webb — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 18:07:29 GMT

Ever been tarpon fishing? Just one time and you’ll be hooked. And luckily, peak season is happening right now. From mid April to mid May, Boca Grande is home to the world’s largest population of tarpon. One of Florida’s premier game fish, tarpon are truly a fisherman’s challenge. At 220 pounds, these silver giants can put up quite a fight and take even the most experienced fisherman 25 minutes to get one in the boat. It’s not exactly the quiet, still scene of fishing by the riverbank, but that’s what makes it so appealing. The adrenaline rush is unlike any other.

Feel like trying your hand at it or just seeing what it’s all about? Head to the World’s Richest Tarpon Tournament in Boca Grande on May 23-24. Promoting conservation, education and sportsmanship, this tournament highlights the best of this classic Florida pasttime with plenty of family-friendly fun and just a few fish tales.

Photo by: Florida Travel + Life Editor

Tarpon Fishing

What’s New in Key West? The 65-year-old Southernmost Hotel

sspears — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 08:10:04 GMT

There’s just something special about Key West. Witness Tennessee Williams, the famed playwright who frequented the island (and in particular, South Beach) and said, “I work everywhere, but I work best here.” Of course, a stay at the Southernmost Hotel in the USA, just steps from Williams’ favorite beach, is anything but work, thanks to the friendly staff — which might be why the landmark hotel, which turns 65 this year, is a popular spot for so many Key West vacationers.

The Southernmost prides itself on pampering guests, and it delivers — not just in the warm welcome and effortless check-in, but in recent renovations to all 118 guestrooms, where sleek furnishings, sophisticated amenities (think fine linens and flat-screen TVs) and a chic sable, cream and indigo palette envelop you in elegance. And there’s more of the same at the adults-only Tranquility Pool, where a fresh new look and an expanded deck area create an enchanting space for receptions, private parties and other special events. It’s one of two relaxing pools at the hotel, but if that’s not enough, you can always venture next door to Southernmost on the Beach and indulge in the oceanfront pool, private pier and private beach. Bonus: no resort fees, even if you use the resort’s beach chairs, towels or WiFi.

Best of all, the hotel sits at the quiet end of Duval Street, so you’re assured an oasis to retreat to after you’ve had your fill of revelry a few blocks away — call it the best of both worlds — and you can even prep for Key West’s non-stop party at the hotel’s gratis beer and wine school. Throw in a slate of good times led by activities director Boomer and you’ve got plenty of fodder for Instagram and Facebook.

And if all this talk of fun in the sun in the tropics has whetted your appetite for a Keys getaway, there’s more good news: Early (snow)birds can save 10 percent on a four-night stay and — even better — 15 percent on a five-night stay. With additional packages and events planned to commemorate the hotel’s 65th anniversary, you’ll want to imitate Mr. Williams and come to the Key West and the Southernmost Hotel. Except for that part about the work.

Photo by: Florida Travel + Life Editor

Southernmost Hotel

Viva Florida 500: Cedar Key Arts Festival

Cami Webb — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 14:37:12 GMT

Ready to shop till you drop, Cedar Key style? Spend your weekend at the Cedar Key Arts Festival, held at the beachfront City Park on historic 2^nd Street. The 49^th annual art celebration is the prime spot for perusing one-of-a-kind paintings, crafts, jewelry and more. Over 120 artists will compete for $10,000 in prize money (we’d gladly settle for one of Cedar Key’s million dollar sunsets instead), and their creative compositions are up for sale, so you can find the perfect take-home souvenir.

And of course, what festival is complete without a little bit of homemade treats and local fare? Only non-profit vendors are allowed to sell food here, so you know you’re truly getting made-from-scratch deliciousness. For the ultimate Old Florida seafood flavor, don’t miss Thelma McCain’s $2 crabcakes — the unbelievable price and melt in your mouth taste has been a festival staple for over 20 years.

Photo by: Florida Travel + Life Editor

Cedar Key Arts Festival

Ready to shop till you drop, Cedar Key style? Spend your weekend at the Cedar Key Arts Festival, held at the beachfront City Park on historic 2^nd Street.

11 Fun Florida Museums

Patricia Letakis — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 20:08:24 GMT

1. Henry B. Plant Museum

Tampa

The sparkling minarets on the rooftop of the Henry B. Plant Museum in Tampa lure the inquisitive into this Gilded Age hotel-turned-museum. Original French furniture, Venetian mirrors and displays depicting the Florida achievements of the namesake industrialist make history fun. $10.

2. History of Diving Museum
Islamorada

Find an impressive exhibition of humanity’s obsession with the ocean at this spot, where helmets from around the world and early scuba gear have stories to tell. $12.

3. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens
Delray Beach

Meander through six gardens, each with its own Japanese style and historical link to the motherland, at this botanists’ paradise. The bonsai exhibition will inspire the gardener in you. $13.

4. Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum
Sanibel Island

Delight in a pretty display of sailors’ valentines from the early 19th century, plus the history of the seashells that wash ashore daily on nearby beaches, including the coveted Junonia. $9.

5. Cedar Key Museum
Cedar Key

A whisk-broom industry once flourished on this tiny rustic outpost. The equipment and palm fibers used to make the brooms are on display, along with vintage photos that tell the town’s history. $2.

6. National Navy SEAL Museum
Fort Pierce

Learn more about our American heroes. Choppers, boats, gadgets and gear used by these elite warriors are on display, providing a peek into the world of special-ops. $8.

7. Florida Carriage Museum
Ocala

Be fascinated by rare and unusual carriages from the past, like the Tikker and the English Omnibus, at this gem tucked away in the equestrian-friendly Grand Oaks Resort. $11.

8. International Swimming Hall of Fame Museum
Tampa

Florida is the natural home for this collection of aquatic memorabilia (the world’s largest) that also salutes top Olympic swimmers. $8.

9. Museum of Polo and Hall of Fame
Lake Worth

Curious about the sport of kings? The timeline exhibition takes you from polo’s birth 2,600 years ago in Asia to its current international status. Admission is free.

10. Destin History and Fishing Museum
Destin

Fish plucked from the Gulf of Mexico have a designated spot on a 100-foot-long wall in this anglers’ attraction, as do historic fishing rods and reels and a 1935 fishing boat. $5.

11. Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art
Winter Park

The glass art of Louis Comfort Tiffany takes center stage here. The collection of lamps and windows is so vast that the staff rotates pieces throughout the year. $5.

Read this article and more in our Viva Florida 500 issue. Click here to read a FREE digital edition of Florida Travel + Life now!

Photo by: Florida Travel + Life Editor

florida-museums-henry-plant-musuem

Take a look at these 11 lesser-known Florida museums that surprise visitors with unique looks at our collective past. This article is from our special Viva Florida 500 issue, celebrating 500 years of Florida.

Viva Florida 500: Famous Movies Filmed in Tampa Bay

Steve Spears — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 20:12:04 GMT

Is that the Sunshine Skyway Bridge in the trailer for the new James Franco movie Spring Breakers? Sure is. The movie, from writer-director Harmony Korine, was filmed in around St. Petersburg in 2012, often drawing crowds when locals spotted Franco's co-stars (and former teen queens) Selena Gomez and Vanessa Hudgens out on the town.

Among the locales featured in Spring Breakers: the Ringling College of Art and Design, St. Pete Beach's Coral Reef Motel and even the Gulfport Police Department (which played the role of the St. Pete Beach PD in the film.)

But Spring Breakers isn't the first (and hopefully won't be the last) movie to shoot around Tampa Bay. Here are some other notable productions.

DOLPHIN TALE: The 2011 film was inspired by the true story of Winter, a dolphin that loses its tail and gets a prosthetic replacement. Starring Harry Connick, Jr., Ashley Judd, Kris Kristofferson and Morgan Freeman, Dolphin Tale was filmed at and around the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where Winter still lives to this day. Connick reportedly loved the Mexican food at Casa Tina so much, he could be found dining at the Dunedin restaurant often during his stay in Tampa Bay.

MAGIC MIKE: Oh sure, you didn't Channing Tatum's R-rated striptease flick from 2013 -- you merely *heard* about it. The movie, based loosely on Tatum's experiences growing up in Tampa as a teenaged stripper, filmed in Ybor City's Amphitheatre, Sunset Beach's Caddy's on the Beach and Three Rooker Bar, a sandbar off the coast of Pinellas County that's long been popular with boaters.

COCOON: Ron Howard's 1985 movie, about aliens turning a swimming pool into a fountain of youth, really put Tampa Bay on the map of Hollywood filmmakers. Shot in and around St. Petersburg, Howard played up the city's former reputation as "God's waiting room." Hume Cronyn, Jessica Tandy and Don Ameche played senior citizens who discover the pool's powers and the aliens' intentions. Steve Guttenberg, who played a lovesick boat captain, spent his off-camera time visiting beach hotspots such as Silas Dent's and the Hurricane. But the biggest star of the movie might be The Coliseum, St. Petersburg's historic ballroom that hosted the big dance scene for the revitalized senior citizens.

But Florida isn't just famous for movies. Celebrate more of Florida with Visit Florida's Viva 500 commemoration, honoring the anniversary of Ponce de Leon's landing in Florida.

Photo by: Florida Travel + Life Editor

Spring Breakers

Is that the Sunshine Skyway Bridge in the trailer for the new movie Spring Breakers? Sure is. The movie was filmed in around St. Petersburg in 2012, often drawing crowds when locals spotted James Franco's co-stars Selena Gomez and Vanessa Hudgens out on the town. But Spring Breakers isn't the first movie to shoot around Tampa Bay. Check out these other notable productions.

Root Beer Barrel Shot at Green Parrot Key West

Claudia Miller — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 13:56:45 GMT

The Key West weather was unusually moody on the day I discovered the root beer barrel shot at the ultimate dive bar, the Green Parrot. It was a warm, muggy afternoon, and the sky couldn’t decide between a drizzle and a downpour. As I walked in with my buddy, a seasoned tour guide and regular at the Parrot, the bartender, Annie, threw down some coasters in front of us, and said to him, “You’re late.” I wanted something cool and refreshing, but the Parrot is not the kind of place you order a frozen drink. I mean, you could, but everyone would look at you like you were a rookie who took a wrong turn off Duval Street. With mix of locals and visitors-in-the-know settled in for a lazy afternoon at the parachute-draped bar, the building dates back to 1890. Covered in old signs (Key West Pirate and Torture Museum, anyone?) the walls looked like a memorial for all the businesses gone on to the great chamber of commerce in the sky.

The root beer barrel shot has been a Green Parrot tradition for over 20 years, most of them not even listed on a drink menu. I ordered one up, and the blonde-ponytailed Annie efficiently filled a highball glass with Miller Light and then dropped a shot of root beer schnapps inside. As the glass clinked to the bottom she urged, “You have to drink it fast.” I tossed it back, and it tasted like a long cool swig of root beer straight from the tap. I immediately ordered another, and I wasn’t alone. Soon the bar was lined with shots glistening with condensation, as the other patrons said, “I’ll have what she’s having.”

Photo by: Florida Travel + Life Editor

Root Beer Barrel Shot

Photo by Felipe Correa

A Green Parrot Bar tradition for over 20 years in Key West, the refreshing root beer barrel shot is not only addictive but contagious.

Enjoy Florida’s Natural Wonders with Our Free Outdoor Guide

cami.webb — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 14:08:26 GMT

Between its lakes, rivers, streams and coastline, Florida has more than 12,000 miles of waterways tailor-made for fun in the sun — and in the Sunshine State, the water is definitely where the fun is. From Jacksonville’s marinas and the Yachting Capital of the World (aka Fort Lauderdale) to the Caribbean-rivaling Emerald Coast off Pensacola and the shelling havens of Sanibel and Captiva islands, there’s never any shortage of things to do in the state’s sparkling waters. In this handy guide, you’ll discover the best spot to explore the wreckage of an 18^th-century Spanish galleon, land a prize tarpon, or simply cruise the coast to find the best beach towns.

Best of all, it’s absolutely free and you can access it on the device of your choice, from your desktop PC to your laptop to your tablet or smartphone. Just click here to start experiencing 500 years of Florida nature now!

This special digital issue is part of Visit Florida’s Viva 500 commemoration, honoring the anniversary of Ponce de Leon’s arrival. To discover more about Florida’s history, culture and fun in the sun, check out the free Florida Travel + Life commemorative Viva Florida 500 special digital issue now!

Photo by: Florida Travel + Life Editor

Free Special Issue!

Florida Cigars: Where to Buy Them Now

Frank Seltzer — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 18:23:17 GMT

The Past: Starting a Flame

Florida’s cigar industry began in Key West in the mid-1800s, when Cuban cigar makers made the 90-mile trip from Havana to escape the unrest in their country, and brought many of their traditions with them. But Key West was a small island — too small for Vincente Martinez Ybor, who had set up shop there. So in 1886, on a quest to expand his business, he moved north and settled in Tampa, building his cigar factory in the area that later became known as Ybor City. Other producers followed, and by 1929 the city’s cigar production had peaked, with some 500 million cigars rolled by Ybor City residents.

The Present: Where to Go Now

Today, only one major manufacturing facility is still located in Ybor City: J. C. Newman, which relocated to Tampa from Cleveland in the 1950s. But there are plenty of smaller producers, and you can witness the art of cigar rolling firsthand, and pick up some samples, at their facilities. You can also learn about the history of the cigar industry in Ybor City, which is one of only two National Historic Landmark Districts in the state (the other is St. Augustine’s historic quarter). Two museums — Ybor City Museum State Park and Ybor City Visitor Information Center & Museum — embrace the city’s history with neighborhood walking tours and exhibitions such as a replica of a period cigar worker’s home. The city also celebrates the craft with the November Heritage & Cigar Festival, which features cigar-rolling demonstrations, live music, craft-beer stalls and food trucks.

Farther south, Miami remains the home of quite a few cigar companies, most of them centered around Little Havana’s Calle Ocho. Among those open to the public are GR Tabacaleras Unidas (305.644.3470), El Titan de Bronze and El Credito Cigar Factory (305.858.4162) (no longer an actual factory, but a shop and lounge), where you can watch rollers, purchase cigars and enjoy a good smoke.

The Future: Coming Soon

Times have changed, but the cigar’s connection with Florida is still strong, as new shops continue to open. Watch for the 2013 debut of Wynwood Cigars in Miami’s happening Wynwood Arts District. Founder Christian Eiroa, former president of Camacho Cigars, plans small-scale production and has hired rollers who were trained in Honduras. His tagline fits the neighborhood perfectly: celebrating the artistry of cigars.

Read this article and more in our Viva Florida 500 issue. Click here to read a FREE digital edition of Florida Travel + Life now!

Photo by: Florida Travel + Life Editor

cigars

From Little Havana to Ybor City, Florida has a serious history with the cigar industry, and the future is anything but smoky. Check out our favorite stores to buy the best cigars in Miami and Tampa from our special Viva Florida 500 issue, celebrating 500 years of Florida.

Viva Florida 500: Celebrating La Florida with Easter Flowers

Patricia Letakis — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 13:54:29 GMT

In 1513, when Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon laid eyes on the coast of Florida, he named it La Florida. Whether he chose the name because it was the Easter season or because he was overwhelmed with its lush foliage and natural beauty, his choice described it as the land of flowers.

With Easter (March 31) approaching, here are two top spots to find the ultimate flower for the holiday: the orchid.

1. The most amazing place to shop for that special bloom is R.F. Orchids in Homestead, located in Florida’s tropical growing zone. Here owner Robert Fuchs, whose orchids have won top awards in the orchid world, sells his elegant epiphytes in every color under the sun, including his Sunkist Orange Glow orchid. His delicate dendrobiums and exotic vandas will make any orchid enthusiast weep. If you can’t make the trip, order online at: rforchids.com

2. In Sarasota at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, various species hang throughout the grounds that skirt the Sarasota Bay. In the Tropical Conservatory you’ll find rare species that will surprise you with their intricate designs. After your tour, stop in the Garden Shop; a selection of orchids and planting accessories are for sale here.

Celebrate more of La Florida with Visit Florida's Viva 500 commemoration, honoring the anniversary of Ponce de Leon's landing in Florida.

Photo by: Florida Travel + Life Editor

orchid

Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon named the state La Florida, the land of flowers, when he disembarked here during the Easter season in 1513. This spring, brighten your home with Florida-grown orchids.

Final Four: 4 Cool Things in Fort Myers Besides Florida Gulf Coast University

Cami Webb — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 18:35:23 GMT

Florida Gulf Coast University may be getting all the buzz this week with their March Madness wins, but Fort Myers (a.k.a. Dunk City) is more than just home to the talent behind this Sweet Sixteen Cinderella story. Take a break from the basketball bonanza onscreen and check out our Final Four picks of cool things about Fort Myers. (We’re guessing the Florida Gulf Coast Eagles probably won’t be indulging in number three until the season is over.)

1. Really awesome breakfasts. Everybody loves a good cup of joe —preferably with a donut. Bennett's Fresh Roast coffee shop is the best place in town for donuts (we suggest the maple-bacon) and single-bean, single origin coffees such as Ethiopian Yirgacheffe.

2. Fun history lessons. Learn about the curious inventions behind electricity and rubber at Edison and Ford Winter Estates, the former winter homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. Not into science? Outdoor enthusiasts can tour the onsite Edison Ford Gardens that were designed by Edison himself and boast more than 1,700 plants and flowers.

3. Craft beer and over-the-top burgers. Burgers and beer — what’s not to love? Especially at Ford's Garage. Choose from more than 100 craft beers — including 21 on tap — and 16 burgers at this downtown Fort Myers corner spot. The Big Red burger is a legend among itself; it’s the size of a car wheel with 10 pounds of beef and all the toppings. Challengers who finish it in two hours get it free — but we recommend just splitting it with your entire table.

4. Eclectic shopping. A visit to Fort Myers isn’t complete without an afternoon spent at the Franklin Shops, an old art-deco dime store building converted into a shopping gallery. Artists' works, costume jewelry and swimwear fill the first floor, while the second floor surprises with vintage clothing and a tea shop.

Photo by: Florida Travel + Life Editor

Fort Myers

Hyde at the Miami Arena

Patricia Letakis — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 17:43:05 GMT

On a recent trip to Miami I managed to score tickets to a Miami Heat game. Well not exactly just the game, it was more of a complete spectator-sport experience, beginning with cocktails in the new Hyde nightclub. Once past the velvet ropes and into the dimly lit boite, the setting dramatically changed from an industrial arena to a SoBe-style nightclub. The curved back-lit bar and the glow from huge TVs for watching the game provided the only light in this cozy club where fans huddled drinking pre-game cocktails, like the Burning Mandarin, vodka given a kick of heat from a Serrano chili in honor of the Miami Heat. Photographs of the basketball stars added to the décor, and LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh looked sexier than ever photographed in their custom-made designer suits instead of red basketball uniforms — definitely more apropos for the setting. From the door leading to the court level, I saw James and his teammates line up and head onto the court while DJ Irie blasted dance music and the crowd roared. After the game, it was back to Hyde, of course, to toast the win and party till 2 a.m.

Photo by: Florida Travel + Life Editor

Hyde Nightclub at Miami's American Airlines Arena

Need a place to celebrate the Miami Heat’s winning streak? Fans toast the team and more at this new club in the American Airlines Arena.

Our Favorite City Parks in Florida

Patti Roth — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 15:06:30 GMT

Urbanites seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of the concrete jungle are finding creative public spaces that provide a breath of fresh air — part of a statewide plan to create urban spaces for people to gather in. Here's a few of our favorites:

1. At the 10-acre ArtsPark in downtown Hollywood’s historic Young Circle, a sleek water-fountain sculpture houses lighted water jets that shoot upward to create fleeting designs in the air. There’s a rest stop too, with fixed seats and game boards embedded in the tabletops. Top it off with a definitive 21st-century twist — a new amphitheater pavilion hosts outdoor disco dances.

2. On Palm Beach’s Worth Avenue, amid a posh lineup of designer stores, Saks Fifth Avenue’s west wall is home to a garden flipped on-edge — nearly 11,000 plants mingle, interweaving different textures and shades of green in a stunning 24-foot- by-35-foot mural of living art.

3. Naples’ Fifth Avenue South has mini parks. Public art, including a smiling bronze gator, shares space with sidewalk benches. These teeny niches double as performance venues where musicians often set up to serenade passersby.

Photo by: Florida Travel + Life Editor

Urban Parks

Urbanites seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of the concrete jungle are finding creative public spaces that provide a breath of fresh air. Check out some of our favorite picks.

Viva Florida 500: Slave Trade Remembered at African Cemetery in Key West

Claudia Miller — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 15:29:28 GMT

For such a small island, Key West has been a part of many pivotal moments in American history, including the end of the Transatlantic slave trade in 1808. Since the island was so close to Cuba and its sugar plantations, Navy warships were positioned nearby and intercepted three slave ships in 1860. They rescued 1,432 Africans, who were being transported in deplorable conditions, and brought them to Key West. The 3,000 citizens of the island were so appalled at the inhumane treatment of the human cargo, many of whom were children, that they worked together to build housing, donate clothing and provide food and medical attention.

Despite the town’s best efforts, 295 of the Africans died, and a cemetery was established for them on a sand ridge along the southern shore of the island. The location of the cemetery soon became lost to time, only to be rediscovered by a team of archaeologists from the Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Society in 2002. A memorial has now been created marking the African Cemetery on Higgs Beach, and the city plans to redevelop the area to further preserve the graves with a dedicated green space. At 4:00 p.m. on March 24, visit the cemetery for a ceremony to mark the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade.

Photo by: Florida Travel + Life Editor

African Cemetery Memorial

Visit the African Cemetery in Key West on March 24 to remember those who died in the Transatlantic slave trade.

Rock Out at Bay Jam Music Festival in Islamorada, Florida Keys

Claudia Miller — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 13:40:15 GMT

While the rest of the country thaws out from an icy winter, Capital Bank Amphitheater at Founders Park in Islamorada will host Bay Jam, the Florida Keys premier outdoor music festival, from noon to 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 7. Now in its 19^th year, the festival’s roster includes almost a dozen national and local musicians in a wide variety of genres in one of the most stunning music venues in the Keys. Located on the Florida Bay, the amphitheater offers generous seating with gorgeous views of the turquoise water. The expansive grass lawn is perfect for playing children and dancing. If you get a little warm (Yep, temps have been in the 80s in the Keys!), you can wander over to the sandy beach for a quick dip. Best of all, it’s free with a donation of canned goods.

Grab a beer or glass of wine and settle in for bands like Uproot Hootenanny, a five-member band with its own mix of folk, rock, pop, Celtic, bluegrass and country music and 20 WT, a group that combines ska, roots reggae and groove metal. Locals like singer/songwriter Scott Youngberg, who just released his second "Trop-Americana" style album, Idle Speed, and David Feder, who plays his own brand of “Hillbilly Flamenco,” have been known to inspire spontaneous jams among all of the musicians. In the early the evening, the bands will have a dramatic backdrop, as the sun sets next to the stage sending a flash of colors dancing across the sky. No stadium lightshow can top that.

Photo by: Florida Travel + Life Editor

Founders Park Islamorada

Photo by Patrick Foley

Don’t miss Bay Jam, the daylong outdoor music fest in Islamorada at one of the most gorgeous waterfront venues in the Florida Keys.

Savor 500 Years of Florida Flavor in Our Free Food Lover’s Guide

cami.webb — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 14:14:44 GMT

Did you know that Ponce de Leon brought the orange to Florida? That “hearts of palm” is just a fancy way of saying “swamp cabbage”? That bona fide Key lime pie should never, ever be lime green? You do now — and that’s just a taste of what you’ll discover in the Food Lover’s Guide to Florida. This handy guide to Florida’s food scene reveals the fascinating backstory of the Sunshine State’s cuisine, from the diverse cultural influences and exotic flavors that pepper Florida dishes to the freshly harvested foodstuffs from local farms and waters that adorn many a Florida plate. The guide even deconstructs the secrets behind the state’s signature delicacy, Key lime pie.

Photo by: Florida Travel + Life Editor

Florida Food Guide

This handy guide to Florida’s food scene reveals the fascinating backstory of the Sunshine State’s cuisine, from the diverse cultural influences and exotic flavors that pepper Florida dishes to the freshly harvested foodstuffs from local farms and waters.

Viva Florida 500: Picasso’s Art on Display

Paul Love — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 17:59:10 GMT

See the work of a master in St. Augustine as the PICASSO Art & Arena exhibition showcases 39 works by Spanish artist Pablo Picasso — many never before seen in the U.S. — at the city’s Visitor Information Center.

The works, on display through May 11, include lithographs, ceramics and illustrations created between 1929 and 1961, many inspired by one of the Picasso’s biggest influences: bullfighting.

Along with the drama, intrigue and mind-bending perspectives inherent in Picasso’s work, the exhibit is also a tribute to the influence that Spain has had on Florida since Juan Ponce de Leon landed here 500 years ago. Interactive guided tours are sure to please everyone from families to hardcore connoisseurs.

The Casa Monica Hotel is adding to the artistic flavor with their “Art of an Icon” experience through April 30. Starting at $359, the package includes accommodations at the hotel, two tickets to the Picasso exhibit breakfast at 95 Cordova and two signature cocktails.

Photo by: Florida Travel + Life Editor

picasso bull

See the work of a master in St. Augustine as the PICASSO Art & Arena exhibition showcases 39 works by Spanish artist Pablo Picasso.

Return to Bygone Era in Boca Grande

sspears — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 18:56:19 GMT

The Weekend: Relive a Bygone Era in Boca Grande On the tip of Gasparilla Island on Florida’s southwest coast sits Boca Grande, a tiny town with an adorable main street, a gracious historic inn and a vibe that recalls a quieter, slower time.

Start Here: Back in the Gilded Age, the upscale Gasparilla Inn & Club hosted names like Ford and Vanderbilt. Today, the architecturally striking Inn is still the top place to stay in the area. Choose from 63 cushy guest rooms in the main Inn, built in 1913, or opt for one of 17 cottages (10 of which date to 1930) with spacious multi-bedroom set-ups and expansive screened porches — the perfect perch for evening cocktails.

Weekend To Dos:

1. Drive to the island’s southern end to tour the Boca Grande Lighthouse, built in 1890. Not your typical statuesque structure, this one-story lighthouse has a square tower protruding through the center of its hipped roof. Its museum tells the area history; most intriguing is the island’s phosphate operations and the ships that arrived to transport the mineral.

2. Remember the game of croquet? Bring your whites and you too can play on one of the Inn’s three croquet lawns. The Gasparilla Inn Mallet Club has its own clubhouse on the property.

3. For dinner, the Inn’s Main Dining Room, with elegant plantation chairs and monogrammed china, serves New American cuisine, and its wine list is exceptional. As they have been for almost 100 years, men are asked to don jackets for dinner in season (late December through March) — a time-honored touch we love.

Photo by: Florida Travel + Life Editor

gasparilla inn

This tiny town with an adorable main street and a gracious historic inn recalls a quieter, slower time.

Fishing at Pine Island

sspears — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 18:50:21 GMT

The Weekend: Go Fishing at Pine Island  Pine Island may not have a single beach, but you’ll hardly notice while napping on a hammock or fishing along the 17-mile island’s coast.

Start Here: An old-school fishing lodge with upscale trimmings, Tarpon Lodge provides comfort; we love the island house, a building on stilts with views of Pine Island Sound. (You’re so close that the waves will lull you to sleep.) Get fortified with a complimentary continental breakfast at the 1926-built historic lodge building before heading out for the day.

Weekend To-Dos

1. Fishing is number one on your to-do list. Tarpon is the premier catch here, but Native Attitude Fishing Charters will take you to waters where redfish, snook, tripletail, cobia and others (depending on the season) are biting. While you cruise, keep an eye out for the wooden shacks perched on stilts off North Captiva Island; they’re still used by private fishermen for overnight excursions.

2. Every boater knows that being on the water whets your appetite. Instead of packing your own, dock at Cabbage Key for burgers and a Cabbage Creeper: white rum, cream of coconut, coffee liqueur and pineapple juice. This spot is pure Old Florida; decoration comes courtesy of dollar bills pinned to the ceiling and walls with sayings like “Go Noles” written on them. 

3. For dinner, get your seafood on with dinner at the Tarpon Lodge’s four-star restaurant, serving up the best blue-crab-and-roasted-corn chowders around. Afterwards, there's live music in the lounge — the perfect spot to hear plenty of fish tales.

Photo by: Florida Travel + Life Editor

pine island getaway

There's not a single beach here, but you’ll hardly notice while napping on a hammock or fishing along the 17-mile island’s coast.

Explore Architecture in Lakeland

sspears — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 18:09:17 GMT

The Weekend: Discover architecture in Lakeland. Most people wouldn't think of rural Central Florida as an architectural hub, but it's where you'll find the world’s largest single-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, marking this historic town’s claim to fame.

Start Here: The grand dame 88-room Terrace Hotel has been hosting guests since 1924 and boasts exquisite planation-style furnishings. Enjoy views of Lake Mirror from its sweeping terrace or wander along the lake-circling promenade, stopping at Hollis Gardens for showcases of formal neoclassic gardens and sculptures.

Weekend To-Dos:
1. Florida Southern’s campus offers the ultimate Frank Lloyd Wright immersion — the largest concentration of his architecture anywhere. Take a docent-guided tour or explore on your own. The best time to visit is in late afternoon when the setting sun casts the buildings aglow and the eves and trellises scatter graphic shadows across the property.

2. Lakeland’s 10-block downtown offers an array of architectural styles, including Mediterranean Spanish Mission and the Italian façade of the historic Polk Theatre. After exploring, travel just 30 minutes to the dollhouse-like Chalet Suzanne. The pink cottage’s nooks and crannies are filled with eclectic touches from owners Eric and Dee Henshaw’s travels in Europe. Grab lunch here and try the Soup Romaine, nicknamed “Moon Soup” for its flight on an Apollo mission.

3. For dinner, head back to the Terrace Hotel and savor the Terrace Grill’s porcini-dusted sea bass and macadamia-crusted brie for dinner. We also love the daily selections of quiche that lure locals on their lunch break.

Photo by: Florida Travel + Life Editor

Lakeland getaway

Lakeland is where you'll find the world’s largest single-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, marking this historic town’s claim to fame.