Tag: Key West

Exploring Florida Gardens Just in Time for Spring

If you’re looking for a great place to see the freshly-blooming flowers of Spring, then look no further than the Sunshine State, where the beauty of nature blossoms year-round. Florida gardens and their diverse landscape offer a plethora of gardens brimming with vibrant blooms, making it an ideal destination for flower enthusiasts, as per this travel blog article from Southern Living. From tranquil Japanese gardens to sprawling botanical oases, here are six must-visit destinations to witness the stunning spectacle of spring flowers in full bloom.

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens – Delray, Florida

Escape to the serene ambiance of Japan without leaving Florida at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens. Nestled in Delray Beach, this 16-acre haven beautifully blends nature and culture. Explore six meticulously designed Japanese gardens, each representing a different style and era. Wander through the Shinden Garden, characterized by its graceful arched bridge and landscaped islands, or find tranquility beside the tranquil koi pond. Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in Japanese art and heritage at the museum, featuring captivating exhibitions and traditional tea ceremonies.

Harry P. Leu Gardens – Orlando, Florida

Located amidst the bustling city of Orlando, Harry P. Leu Gardens offers a serene escape into nature’s embrace. Spanning 50 acres along the shores of Lake Rowena, this botanical paradise showcases a diverse array of flora. Wander through lush camphor groves, vibrant herb gardens, and fragrant rose beds. Marvel at the towering bamboo forest and citrus grove, where the sweet scent of oranges perfumes the air. Be sure to explore the historic Leu House Museum, a beautifully preserved 19th-century mansion nestled within the gardens.

Florida Botanical Gardens – Largo, Florida

For a leisurely stroll amidst breathtaking landscapes, head to the Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo. Spanning 150 acres, this expansive botanical wonderland boasts formal gardens, native habitats, and scenic vistas. Relax by the tranquil pond in the shade of towering trees, or let your imagination run wild in the Majeed Discovery Garden—a whimsical playground for children and adults alike. With its pet-friendly policy and free admission, this enchanting destination promises a delightful day of exploration for all.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens – Miami, Florida

Indulge in a taste of old-world elegance at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Miami. Nestled along the shores of Biscayne Bay, this opulent estate transports visitors to a bygone era of glamor and grandeur. Explore the meticulously manicured gardens, adorned with ornate sculptures and geometric plantings. Admire the dazzling array of orchids in the David A. Klein Orchidarium, or wander through the lush greenery of the Italian Renaissance-inspired villa. With its rich history and stunning vistas, Vizcaya offers a captivating glimpse into Miami’s storied past.

Bok Tower Gardens – Lake Wales, Florida

Experience the timeless beauty of nature at Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales. Nestled amidst 250 acres of lush landscapes, this historic sanctuary beckons visitors with its serene ambiance and breathtaking vistas. Explore the Olmsted Gardens, alive with the vibrant colors of spring flowers and the melodious songs of over 125 bird species. Be sure to catch a concert by the iconic Singing Tower carillon, whose ethereal melodies fill the air with enchantment.

Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Gardens – Key West, Florida

Embark on a journey of discovery at the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Gardens. Tucked away on Stock Island, this hidden gem offers a glimpse into Florida’s diverse ecosystems. Explore lush wetlands, meandering boardwalks, and vibrant butterfly habitats as you immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. With its unique blend of conservation and education, this botanical oasis is a must-visit destination for nature lovers of all ages.

From the tranquil beauty of Japanese gardens to the vibrant hues of tropical forests, Florida’s gardens offer a feast for the senses. Whether you’re seeking serenity, cultural enrichment, or simply a day immersed in nature, these six stunning destinations promise an unforgettable springtime experience.

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Eight Cities For Winter Travel

Wintertime is often viewed as the least appealing season to go out and take on new adventures, but realistically that’s not true at all! Often, our favorite summer hotspots are transformed into white wonderlands, bringing a whole new perspective and round of fun activities to participate in. So grab your jackets and check out which cities you should check out this winter, told by Travel and Leisure!

Asheville, North Carolina

Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina, this city is filled with adventures. Head to the ski slopes for your winter sport or you can hit the hiking trails that are open year-round. You can learn all about Asheville on the downtown Asheville Urban Trail or explore the Biltmore Estate, which was George Vanderbilt’s 250-room chateau.  If you’d prefer inside activities to escape the harsh winter winds, wintertime is the perfect time to explore the crowd-less galleries and museums downtown.

New York, New York

The best thing about New York City in the winter? No crowds! You can easily peruse museums, comedy clubs, popular restaurants, and even a few Broadway shows without navigating through boatloads of people. Or rent some skates and try your hand at ice skating!

Honolulu, Hawaii

Make sure to pack your swimsuit because Honolulu is the perfectwinter escape for those who prefer warm weather and plenty of sunshine. Try snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, surfing the waves, or even just relaxing on the beach. If you’re looking for a few things to fill up your itinerary, head to the Polynesian Cultural Center, the Bishop Museum, or Iolani Palace to learn about the island culture

Venice, California

Just a few miles north from Los Angeles International Airport, Venice is a popular California city for its street vendors, canals, and infamous Muscle Beach. You can also dine in one of their excellent restaurants, food trucks, or cafes and then head out on a shopping trip in one of their upscale stores or downplay it in a mom and pop souvenir shop.

Burlington, Vermont

Burlington, Vermont’s largest city, is placed on the shore of Lake Champlain in northwestern Vermont, just a few miles from Burlington International Airport. Stowe, Smuggler’s Notch, and Bolton Valley are just a few ski resorts that reside in this city, with slopes designed for beginners and experts. You can rent a room at one of their cozy Bed and Breakfasts and then head downtown to explore their shops, restaurants, live music, and their Church Street Marketplace.

Astoria, Oregon

Founded as a fur trading post in 1811, this city is right where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean. Only two hours from Portland and three hours from Seattle, the 4.1-mile-long Astoria-Megler Bridge connects Astoria to Washington. Visit downtown to visit their small-town features, like the restored 1925 Liberty Theater or the Flavel House.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

The ultimate winter sports lover’s dream, Jackson Hole is filled to the brim with winter activities for its visitors. You can hit the slopes or go ice skating, snowmobiling, back country skiing, and even horse-drawn sleigh rides. Don’t worry, there will be plenty of opportunities to visit Yellowstone National Park in a snowcoach, with access to Old Faithful, bubbling mudpots, and wildlife. Jackson Hole truly is a winter travel spot that should be on everyone’s must do list.

Key West, Florida

Florida’s southernmost point, the drive to Key West takes newcomers across 42 bridges. With winter temps in the 70s, a booming nightlife, plenty of history and culture to explore, and an ample amount of water sports, this city attracts visitors worldwide. During the day, go snorkeling or diving in the coral reefs and then dry off and head to one of Duval Street’s restaurants for a fresh seafood dinner.  Even though its not your typical winter travel spot, consider Key West for a great getaway with a little warmth when you need it most.

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