Orlando, Florida’s Gatorland: 7 Can’t-Miss Things to Do and See During Your Visit
Ready to see some gators? If you’re planning a visit to the theme park Gatorland in Orlando, Florida, you’ve come to the right place. Gatorland has been around since 1949, even before a mouse named Mickey came to the area and started the local Disney empire. The 110-acre theme park and preserve is home to a staggering 2,000-plus alligators as well as many other animals.
A visit to Gatorland can fulfill your need for a smaller, more laidback theme park and help you check off “See an alligator in Florida” from your to-do list.
Here are some basics on how Gatorland works, followed by a few ideas of things to do at the park in addition to marveling at the gators.
First, start your visit by getting a picture at the historic gator mouth entrance, which has large teeth and looks like, well, a gator mouth. Post your pics to social media and make your family in the Midwest jealous. Use the hashtags #gatorland and #WeAreAlligators.
Next, wait in line for your Gatorland tickets. Gatorland is more affordable than other theme parks, averaging $35/ticket for adults and $25 for kids. If you are a Florida resident, Gatorland often has 50% specials, so that price slashes down to about $18/ticket. (Check their website for package deals, like Gatorland Greater Gator.) Parking is free, too. If the lot seems full, follow any signs for overflow parking. We recommend that instead of parking across the street and trying to cross the busy road to reach the park.
There also are affordable annual passes–$54.99 for adults and $34.99 for kids. That’s wayyyy cheaper than an annual pass to Disney’s parks.
Like any theme park, we recommend getting there earlier for a better parking spot and fewer people in the ticket lines. You can go to the head of the line when you buy tickets in advance. Make sure to get a park map, which attendants should offer to you. The park is consistently open from 10 am to 5 pm daily.
Once you’re in the park, you’ll immediately see alligators. Lots of them. And a few crocs (crocs are often bigger, a little less dark, and have a V-shaped head). The park has several set ups toward the front, including smaller alligators that lay on top of one another and sun themselves and a larger area for some big gators. The park has a Juvenile Jumparoo, where you pay a few bucks and get small fish and a fishing pole to try to feed the juvenile gators. They will happily take the bait.
Next, most of the park’s main attractions follow a horizontal line where you can see more gators, snakes, birds, a petting zoo, white gators (two of only 12 leucistic gators known to exist in the world, according to Gatorland) and shows. Behind these main attractions is a Breeding Marsh (read below for details) that’s a peaceful home to more than a hundred gators and many more birds. Even further behind that you can see even more animals, including crocodiles, bobcats, panthers, owls, and raccoons. Use the train (about $3) if you want to check out all the park has to offer without walking too much.
If you have little kids, check out the playground and the Gator Gully Splash Park (don’t worry, mom and dad–no real gators are in the splash park to our knowledge). The part of the park with the kids’ stuff also has enclosures where you can see baby gators, panthers, and giant tortoises.
Gatorland also seems to constantly add new attractions, such as its Stompin Gator Off-Road Adventure, which takes passengers on a massive all-terrain vehicle for a look at Florida wetlands and ultimately toward a huge pond of gators. There’s a separate admission fee for it.
So, you get the idea. There are plenty of animals even beyond just gators to keep you entertained at Gatorland. Now, here’s even more insight on what to see and do at Gatorland. For more details, read older articles about Gatorland here and here from our other blog, Florida Culture. In fact, Gatorland was the subject of our very first blog article in 2011. It all comes full circle!
7 Things to See and Do at Gatorland
- Take some excellent pics at the Breeding Marsh. At the 10-acre Breeding Marsh, there are hundreds of alligators that sun themselves all day and breed in the spring. You get to see these alligators by walking along a boardwalk that goes above the marsh and via an observation tower. If you’re lucky, you’ll hear an alligator bellow–it’s a sound you don’t want to hear at night if you’re alone in a swamp. What’s also cool is the multitude of egrets living at the marsh who also have babies every spring. You can get close enough for some great pics while also staying just far away enough to keep them safe. Fun fact: Parts of the 1984 movie “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom” were filmed at the breeding marsh. You’ll see some of the staff dressed as if they helped out Indiana Jones in the movie with their hats and khaki shirts.
- See a show. These aren’t Broadway style shows, but you’ll see a real production. During “Alligators–Legends of the Swamp,” discover more about these prehistoric creatures and watch employees pry open the mouth of select gators (we watched the gator Mighty Mouse). The whole experience would feel down home at the swamp if you weren’t surrounded by a hundred or so fellow tourists. You’ll also get some practical tips, like how to run away from a gator (you can also watch a gator safety video from Gatorland’s CEO here). Don’t run zig-zag, as you may have heard before! Run straight and run fast. (For the record, alligators are probably more afraid of us than we are of them…but knowing how to escape never hurts.) Gatorland has another show, Up Close Encounters, where you get to see snakes and other exotic animals.
- Interact with animals. Another cool thing about Gatorland is that you can actually interact with the animals. There’s an open display of parrots (don’t reach out to touch them, they bite!), and they’re colorful and loud. Then there’s the bird aviary, filled with hundreds (or thousands?) of parakeets. Buy a stick covered with food and they’ll perch on you, including on your head and shoes. For another photo opp, take a picture with a small snake and a small gator with its mouth taped shut. Then, there’s the petting zoo, with goats and other friendly barnyard animals like capybaras from South America. Finally, take the boardwalk down to Flamingo Island and pay a quarter to throw some gator chow into the water for the gators who also live there and to snap pics of the flamingoes. You may also see egrets hitching a ride on top of a gator’s back.
- Eat. If all this gator hunting has you hungry, you have the usual theme park eats. There’s also Pearl’s Good Eats, which serves gator nuggets (“No, we don’t use our own gators,” it says on its website). There’s also a coffee shop, snack bar, and the Gator Gully General Store. If you want a more substantial meal after your visit, consider Las Palmas, located right across the street and serving yummy Colombian food.
- Get the zipline view. The Screamin’ Gator Zipline is seven stories high and goes over hundreds of gators and crocodiles. We have yet to try it, but AOL Travel rates it as the Best Zipline in the U.S. There’s a separate admission fee for it. In fact, you should make sure to check the park’s website for other special experiences and programs with extra admission fees but that may be worth it for you or your fellow visitors (like Gator Night Shine).
- Walk the swamp walk. You may not see any gators on your strong along the swamp walk, but it can be a peaceful respite from the action around the rest the of park. It’s a flat trail through the woods and it will take you 15 minutes or so to complete it. Find it past Pearl’s Good Eats, toward the far side of the park. After walking there, we did see a wild snake near one of the park’s snack areas–so you really never know what to expect at Gatorland.
- Shop. Gatorland has a terrific, expansive gift shop. Load up on everything from souvenir T-shirts to Florida-themed coffee mugs to pocket knives to candles andd so much more. It’s got a bit of Cracker Barrel gift shop feel to it. There also are smaller venues throughout the park if you need to pick up something quick (gator jerky, anyone?!).
14 Ways to Save Money When You Visit Florida, Including Orlando
Are you looking forward to your next Florida vacation but dreading some of the costs? No fear–we’re here to help.
Here are 14 tips to help you save money when visiting Florida, including Orlando. We realize this isn’t a comprehensive list, so we have a few links at the end to other articles and videos you may find helpful to stretch your dollars.
Let’s go!
14 Budgeting Tips for Your Florida Travels
- Travel off-season. You’re likely to find better hotel rates in off-seaon, but you have to double check when off-season is at your Florida destination. Here’s the deal, friends: Florida is a huge state with variable weather in north Florida (much more like Alabama and Georgia) versus south Florida (with Miami really just an extension of Latin America or the Caribbean). So, off-reason may vary slightly depending on where you will travel. In Orlando, off-season (also called shoulder season) is April to May and September to November. When you think of it, you’ve got a few holidays at the start/end of the year, followed by spring break. Plus, snowbirds, or the retirees who live in Florida part time, are often here in the winter and then “fly” home in the spring. Once all of that that dies down, April and May are considered off-season. Then you’ve got the craziness of the summer with kinds out of school, followed by a September to November lull. Then, the holiday season starts all over again.
- Enjoy our beaches–but bring your own gear if possible! They’re mostly free except for parking. Do your best to bring items like towels, chairs, sunscreen (a big YES on sunscreen because of our strong sun) with you so you don’t have to buy them at pricier souvenir shops. If you’re flying here from Duluth, Minnesota, and don’t want to be the gal or guy on a flight lugging a beach chair down the aisle, we get it. Yet if you’re driving here, let this serve as a money-saving reminder to pack these items. You also can ask your hotel if they have these items ready to use.
- Check Facebook Marketplace for low-cost or free items that you may need. This step takes a little more preparation but could be fruitful, especially if you’re traveling with kiddos. When you get to Florida, check Facebook marketplace in your vacation area for items like strollers or other gear you may need during your trip. If it’s low cost, it may be valuable to use it while you’re here and then sell it, donate it, etc., when your trip is done. There are also Facebook groups like Disney World Pixies Freecycle where users can post items they no longer need (including water, strollers, and food). You can find other groups, too, including Freecycle in other areas. Always meet and exchange items in a public place.
- Visit our state parks. Florida has 175 state parks, trails and historic sites, and they are usually inexpensive. For instance, a typical fee may be $4 a day if you’re in a car solo or $6 for more than one person. There are too many state parks to list them all, but most are quite nice and give you a few of “the real Florida,” as their slogan says. Many also have camping–another way to slash costs. Two of our faves: Myakka River State Park in Sarasota and Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park near Gainesville.
- Decide where you want to go and do some digging online. Whether you’re a major planner or a go-with-the-flow last-minute traveler, this tip can work for you. Once you decide you want to go to a certain park, museum, or other destination, take a few minutes to sleuth around on their website or social media pages. Double check hours, and look for any coupons or hot deals. Many places will save you a buck or two if you buy your ticket online. Or, you may be able to find out about discounted times to visit (see tip below).
- Look for lower-cost times to visit museums or similar places. Certain types of destinations, such as museums, may offer lower-cost admission if you visit in the evening or on a certain day of the week–usually on a day that may be less busy, like a Monday. When you’re sleuthing around on their website, find out if that place has those special hours. One example: The Ringling, the Sarasota-based home for several museums and beautiful grounds, offers Art After 5 admission on Thursdays for $15 versus the usual $30. It may also offer discounted admission another day of the week–you can always check online or call and ask. Walking around the grounds is only $5, and that’s a cool experience even without visiting the museums.
- Make your hotel the vacation destination. This tip won’t apply to everyone, particularly if you’re headed to the Sunshine State for theme parks. However, if you just need a getaway with pool time and sunshine, you may be able to center your trip around your hotel. That means you’re not spending the big bucks on amusement parks or outside entertainment. If you’re staying somewhere with a free breakfast, then A+ for you! If this is a good suggestion for you, it may be worth it to spend slightly more on a hotel since you won’t plan to lavishly spend your dough elsewhere.
- Remember that we have more airports beyond Miami and Orlando–and you may be able to save big by using them. You likely have heard of Tampa International Airport, but did you know that nearby St. Pete also has an airport, with the cute three-letter code of PIE? And just about everyone knows about Orlando International, but did you know there’s also an Orlando Sanford? Did you know that Punta Gorda, about an hour south of Sarasota, has an airport with some affordable flights? We asked AI about the cheapest flights in Florida, and here’s what it said: The cheapest airports in Florida are often St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), with average flight costs around $147. Other budget-friendly options include Punta Gorda Airport (PGD), which serves budget airlines like Allegiant Air, and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL).
- Bring snacks! We’ve all been there–you get hungry or thirsty while you’re on vacation, and your only option is some marked-up water and potato chips. To protect your wallet, try to bring water and snacks from home. Or, buy them when you arrive from a discount supermarket like Aldi, Walmart, or another store of your choice. Those savings will add up.
- Make lunch your main meal. Want to enjoy a fun meal out every day without too much extra cost? Designate lunch as your main meal while vacationing in Florida. Restaurant prices will usually be lower for lunch compared with dinner.
- Check distances in advance. Did you know the distance from Miami to Pensacola is 10 hours driving? If you’re thinking you can arrive in the Sunshine State up in the Panhandle and mosey over to the Keys for a day trip, we’re here to say that might not work. We applaud any interest in seeing more of the state, but simply from a budget perspective, that could be a lot of gas. Make sure to research some of your potential day-trip destinations in advance so you know they are close to where you’re staying.
- Find theme park alternatives. We’ve mentioned the theme parks several times for good reason–the parks in Orlando are often the main reason that visitors come to the Sunshine State. Yet did you know that Orlando has so many other things to do that may cost you a lot less than the Disneys and Universals of the world? Try Gatorland (an Old School Florida attraction with tons of alligators and other animals), Winter Park (super cute town in the Orlando area), Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, Wonderworks, and lots more. Plus, don’t forget Florida’s many farmers markets. Although you will probably end up buying something when you go, we’re pretty sure your cash outlay will be less than at the parks….you may even discover a new food or artisan find.
- Look for coupons in person and online. Are you ever traveling and you see those printed travel guides or coupon books. If you study them enough, they could save you money. Even in today’s digital world, we still like looking through those to learn more about our vacation area and to spot some potential savings for our trip. If you can’t find these guides in person, peruse sites like Southwest Florida Travel Guide, TravelCoupons.com, and EnjoyFloridaOnline.
- Do more research on how to save money! Our tips here are not exhaustive, so check out some of these other videos and articles for ideas on saving $$$ on your next trip to Florida: Disney Saving Hacks, How to Do Universal Studios Cheap, 17 Rules for Doing Disney World on a Tight Budget!, and 12 Budget Tips for Visiting Florida. Happy travels!
10 Things to Do When You Visit Lakeland, Florida
Central Florida’s Lakeland, located off of Interstate 4 between Tampa and Orlando, makes for a great day trip or weekend destination. If you’ve visited Lakeland in the past or lived there years ago as we once did, you’ll be surprised to see how much it’s evolved in recent years.
Before we share some of our top picks to visit during your Lakeland visit, let’s share a few interesting facts:
–Lakeland gets its name because (shocker) it has a lot of lakes.…38 of them within city limits as well as some smaller ones. The biggest lake is Lake Parker.
–Lakeland is home to the corporate offices for Publix, the behemoth supermarket associated with Florida as much as our alligators, a mouse called Mickey, and sunshine. Find out more about Publix history here.
–In 1956, Elvis Presley performed at the Polk Theatre in the downtown.
–Munnville, Redbug (named for the harvest mite insects once found there), and Rome City were all names proposed for Lakeland. We think people got it right by sticking with the current name!
–Lakeland High School has a beast of a football team and prior to the 2023-2024 season, it ranked 56 nationally, according to MaxPreps.
–In 2023, Lakeland was ranked #3 as a boomtown in the U.S. by LendingTree, due to its fast growth. Polk Count, where Lakeland is located, was rated recently as the Number 1 spot for new movers. Metro Lakeland currently has 364,000 residents. Expansion at Publix and a nearby Amazon hub as well as its proximity to other major Florida cities and counties make it attractive to many. Plus, it’s more affordable than many Florida coastal areas.
9 Things to See and Do Around Lakeland
So, whether you’re checking out Lakeland as a potential place to live or you just need a getaway, here are 8 places you should see.
Circle B Bar Reserve
There are places in Florida with alligators, and then there are places with ALLIGATORS. We don’t necessarily mean a difference in gator size but just in quantity and how, well, wild the place feels. Circle B Bar Reserve fits into the ALLIGATOR category. The reserve is is truly the alligators’ home, and we’re just visiting it. Plus, you’ll find tons of birds and other wildlife. Circle B has a mix of trails from which to choose, whether you want an easy stroll with kids or you want to take your time to get nature shots (you’ll find many birders and photographers there). As always, we recommend going early and bringing water, sunscreen, and bug spray. Stay AWAY from any gators, even if they are blocking the trail, which has happened to us twice now. On our most recent visit, we were strolling along and an alligator about 20 feet ahead decided to emerge from the water, mosey up to land, and plop in the middle of the trail. Needless, to say, we stopped walking in that direction. Show them respect and just turn around to go the other way! Find out more about Circle B in our previous story here.
Florida Southern College
Florida Southern College has been named one of the prettiest campuses in the U.S., and we can see why. It’s situated right beside scenic Lake Hollingsworth, and it’s home to the biggest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in the world. In fact, the college even offers architectural tours and has a special visitors’ area where you can find out more about Wright’s buildings there. Home to about 3,000 students, if you still want to see more after your campus stroll, there’s a trail around Lake Hollingsworth, and there are some cute historic homes to see in the adjacent Lake Morton neighborhood.
Southeastern University
If you’re into campus tours (self-guided or with others), then you should also visit Southeastern University, a growing Christian college also located in Lakeland. The campus has expanded a lot in recent years (it now has 8000+ students) and added a football stadium, Victory Field, in 2014. The campus architecture has a more modern feel to it with some peaceful touches like butterfly sculptures. Plus, there’s a Chick-fil-A on campus–need we say more?!
The Swans at Lake Morton
Swan City, baby! Lakeland is home to about 80 swans that live on Lake Morton in the downtown area. Believe it or not, #SwanLife in Lakeland started in 1926, when the city even established a Swan Department to care for the 20 swans living there. Unfortunately, they were dying out due to alligators, chemicals, and other reasons. Then, Queen Elizabeth II gifted two swans to the city in 1957. Here’s a link to an interesting story about how the swans got to Lakeland. Since then their ranks have increased, and you’ll notice that Lake Morton is also now home to a bevy of other birds, including ibises, ducks, and others. The city continues to monitor the swans’ health and rounds them up once a year to check on them. Visiting the swans to feed them or take pictures (at a respectful distance, please) is just part of Lakeland living. You’ll also find swan statues around Lakeland in honor of their historical role.
Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market
If you’re into farmers markets, you’re in for a real treat. We’ve watched Lakeland’s Downtown Farmers Curb Market on Saturdays grow into a big, popular happening. You’ll find ready-made food, produce, artisans, and lots of fun music and people watching. The market is located in the ever-changing downtown area (plan to stick around a bit and check out some nearby shops and restaurants), and it’s open 11 months out of the year. The market closes in August. Find a map of the market’s location here. Find our more comprehensive article about the market, from summer 2025, here. If you want the scoop on some other farm markets that aren’t too far from Lakeland, check out our story here.
Bonnet Springs Park
Bonnet Springs Park sits on 168 acres of a former railroad operation in Lakeland that was long forgotten until plans for Bonnet Springs Park began to form. This private public park opened in October 2022 and is quite impressive with its size and dozens of nooks and crannies to walk and enjoy nature on your own or with family and friends. Bonnet Springs Park also has some hills, which you don’t see every day in Florida. Plus, entrance is free. There’s lots to explore at the park, like the Florida Children’s Museum, a botanical garden, a playground, nature center, canopy walk, and much more. There’s also a Depot Cafe and a garden bar, but we think the park is a great place to have a picnic as well. You could make a half-day of your visit to Bonnet Springs or, if you’re with kids, perhaps a full day if you also visit the kids’ museum.
Looking for something to do around the holidays? Get ready for Light Up BSP, an event with lights all around the massive park. We enjoyed our visit there last year.
Hollis Garden
Hollis Garden offers an oasis of calm in a crazy world. Located in downtown right beside Barnett Family Park, the manicured 1.2 acres of Hollis Garden offers a free, public botanical garden with more than 10,000 flowers, native trees, and ornamental shrubs When we visited, the park was piping in some classical music, and we could take our time wandering the garden paths and looking out at Lake Mirror. We saw one family taking pictures there for a daughter’s quinceañera (15th birthday party celebration), so it’s definitely a place to keep in mind if you want special pictures. Just double check some of its photo rules online. You can also hop onto a path to extend your walk around the lake. If you’re visiting nearby Barnett Family Park for the kids, a quick stop at Hollis Garden could help you regain your composure! Check the schedule online as Hollis is closed on Mondays.
Safari Wilderness Ranch
See nature up close….like real close! Safari Wilderness Ranch brings you face-to-face with some of the most famous safari animals you can think of, like zebras, water buffalo, lemurs, gazelles, and more. Choose from a drive-thru safari experience (if you’ve been to Lion Country Safari in the Palm Beach area, it’s similar), an open-air tour with a group, a camel tour, an ATV and even a kayak tour. The animals live on 260 acres and roam freely, often in herds. Plus, we see that they now offer camping. Double check prices before you book as it’s not cheap, but Safari Wilderness definitely an unforgettable experience. Here’s a link to another time that we wrote about Safari Wilderness Ranch.
Common Ground Playground
If you’re on the go with kids, then you’ll definitely want to make time to visit Common Ground Playground, geared toward children of all ages and abilities. We remember visiting Common Ground not long after it opened and were impressed by the wide range of equipment in this “inclusive play experience,” as its website describes it. It’s a pretty big playground, so have a plan in place to keep your eye on wandering kiddos.
Cob & Pen
Lakeland has several great restaurants, breweries, and places to grab a bite to eat, like The Joinery, Swan City Brewing, and Divicious Deli. Yet one place we’ve returned to regularly is Cob & Pen, located in an English-style Tudor home that’s been around since 1927. Its history writeup says that Elvis Presley spent some time there in after the 1970s after a performance at the Lakeland Civic Center. Come for the food and beer and stay for the friendly, historical atmosphere. (Could it be haunted?!) We’ve enjoyed meals there like shrimp and grits and chicken and waffles.
7 Facts About Florida’s Springs
Have you spent some time enjoying Florida’s natural springs? You’re not alone. Florida’s springs attract nearly 4 million visitors each year, according to the Florida Museum of Natural History.
Yet what do you really know about Florida’s springs? We’ve got some fun facts to share to help you appreciate your next visit to Rainbow Springs, Ginnie Springs, or any other springs right here in the Sunshine State.
And P.S., our article doesn’t detail how the springs form, but you can read this article from the Florida Museum of Natural History for more details. Or, watch this video.
There are more than 1,000 springs in the state of Florida.
However, not all of them are large. The state has an estimated 27 first-magnitude springs, pumping out about 64.6 million gallons of water daily (wow). Yet the state also has more than 70 second-magnitude springs, discharging between 6.5 and 65 gallons of water each day. Both categories represent a heck of a lot of water!
Florida has more springs than any other state and quite possibly one of the highest concentration of springs in the world.
Florida has more than 19 state parks named after its springs.
They include Weeki Wachee Springs State Park in Spring Hill, Silver Springs State Park in Ocala, Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon, and Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park near Crystal River…and more. Keep in mind that some springs are also privately owned. For example, the popular Ginnie Springs in High Springs is actually privately owned and not a state park.
You can do a lot more than float down the river at Florida’s springs.
Many of Florida’s large springs are popular for tubing, or using an inner tube to float peacefully down the river. Yet that’s not the only thing you can do. Naturally, boating, kayaking, scuba diving/snorkeling and paddleboarding are part of the activities mix at our springs. At Silver Springs State Park in Ocala, visitors can pay a little extra to get a tour in a glass-bottom boat. Believe it or not, glass-bottom boats have been part of the park since the 1870s. It’s a very cool way to spot wildlife like fish and manatees.
Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park in Homosassa Springs (near Crystal River) isn’t a place where you would go tubing. It’s actually home to a lot of wildlife that may be injured and can’t return to the wild. Their animal mix includes species like black bears, birds, red wolves, and alligators. Homosassa Springs also was the longtime home for Lu the Hippo, who was 65 when she passed away in June 2025. Visitors also flock to Homosassa Springs in the winter to see manatees.
So, before you set off to a Florida spring envisioning a day of tubing along the river, just make sure you know in advance what activities are there.
Florida springs temperatures remain 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.
That makes the water refreshing for a summer visit, especially compared to Gulf water temps, which can reach as high as 88 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer.
Those consistent temps are a big reason why manatees flock to the springs in the wintertime, as the 70 to 75-degree sweet spot is a lot nicer than the chillier Gulf temps.
One of Florida’s springs features a real-life mermaid show.
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park in Spring Hill debuted a real-life mermaid show in 1947, featuring female performers trained to do aquatic ballets and other feats underwater while breathing through strategically hidden air hoses. The shows eventually drew more visitors to the area, and Weeki Wachee became a popular attraction by the 1950s. There were even movies filmed there. The mermaid shows continue today.
Alligators are rare at Florida’s springs but not unheard of.
Alligators can show up in any body of water in Florida. However, contrary to popular belief, gators are usually scared of people. For this reason, the crowds that the springs attract will typically keep alligators away. Plus, the water in the springs is super clear, so it’ll be easy to spot what’s below. If you’re especially concerned about gators, consider finding out if the spring you want to visit has a smaller enclosed swimming area that may be monitored regularly for wildlife (like at Weeki Wachee State Park).
Keep conservation in mind.
Although Florida’s natural springs have a loooonnngg history in the Sunshine State, they are still threatened by contamination. In addition to human use, the springs are home to tons of wildlife, from plants to fish to manatees and more. You can help keep Florida’s springs pristine by conserving water use at home and planting Florida native plants. When you’re in the springs, stay away from vegetation and potentially vulnerable trees (that’s why environmental experts recommend avoiding activites like rope-swings over the water). And of course, throw all of your trash away in trash bins and avoid getting single-use plastics in the water.
Enjoy your time at Florida’s natural springs. Arrive early, stay safe, and bring water and sunscreen! And here are some of our previous springs articles where you can read more info and plan your trip to some of Florida’s most popular springs:
7 Things to Do in Boca Grande, Florida
Looking for a day trip or weekend getaway in Southwest Florida? There’s a good chance you haven’t thought about visiting Boca Grande. Here’s why you should make the visit there.
For starters, Boca Grande is likely closer than you think. It’s located on Gasparilla Island, situated on the Gulf in Lee County (Fort Myers also is in Lee County). From our home in Bradenton, the drive there was a little under 90 minutes away. That means if you’re in Bradenton, Sarasota, or Fort Myers, Boca Grande is a getaway without feeling too far away. Boca Grande is close to Charlotte Harbor and Punta Gorda, both in Charlotte County.
A trip to Boca Grande could be the quiet, Old Florida destination you need for a break. To get to Boca Grande by car, you have to cross the Boca Grande Swing Bridge in nearby Placida, Florida. Pay your toll of $6 (be ready for it—they accept cash or credit card but no Sunpass), and you’ll cross over the only way by vehicle to reach North, Cole, and Gasparilla islands.
Once you make that crossing, your mindset starts to shift as you take in the calming view of the water. Boca Grande is calm by design, as it’s an affluent, hidden enclave that offers just enough to do for all ages without feeling overwhelming or as flashy as Naples or West Palm Beach. The Bush family has spent a lot of time there over the past few decades. Clemson University football head coach Dabo Sweeny and University of Alabama head coach Nick Saban both have been spotted there, according to Sports Illustrated. Broadcast journalist Tucker Carlson bought a home there as well.
You may have heard of Boca Grande if you’re into fishing—after all, it’s the Tarpon Capital of the World—but otherwise, it seems to keep a low profile.
Before we share a few things to do in Boca Grande, here are a few helpful history factoids:
- The Calusa Indians were the first inhabitants of Gasparilla Island. Researchers have since found 20-foot high shell mounds in the area filled with pottery and arrowheads.
- Sportfishing has always been a big attraction in Boca Grande. There are long-time fishing families still in the area.
- Phosphate, which is used in just about everything, is a big Florida commodity. In the 1880s, phosphate was discovered near Punta Gorda, about 20 miles away from Boca Grande. Factor in Boca Grande Pass as one of the deepest natural inlets in Florida (about 80 feet deep), and that led to the development both of the town of Boca Grande as well as the railway system reaching Gasparilla Island. In turn, that also would lead to the construction of two lighthouses on Gasparilla Island, which we’ll describe below.
- Wealthy people from the North came to visit Boca Grande as a vacation destination. In turn, the now-famous Gasparilla Inn was built in 1912.
Now that you know a little more about Boca Grande’s history, let’s take you on a little trip so you know more things to do during a visit to this Southwest Florida town:
1. Visit the lighthouses. Lighthouses have a quiet charm about them, so we rank this high on the list of things to do in Boca Grande. The two lighthouses are often confused—in fact, they even had the same name at one point due to a clerical error.
First there’s the Boca Grande Entrance Rear Range in Boca Grande, which has a more traditional lighthouse look. It’s the one closest to the actual town of Boca Grande, before you reach Gasparilla Island State Park. The lighthouse originally stood in Lewes, Delaware, but was taken apart and then moved to Boca Grande in the 1920s to help guide ships. The phosphate industry in the Boca Grande area died out in the 1970s. There was talk of demolishing the lighthouse in 2004, but that was met with much resistance. The lighthouse is now maintained by the Barrier Island Parks Society. Check out the society’s online calendar to find out when you can climb to the top of the lighthouse, which is open on select dates.
Just about a mile down, drive to Gasparilla Island State Park and you’ll find Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum, built in 1890 and originally used to guide ships into Charlotte Harbor. It doesn’t have a traditional lighthouse look as you just climb up a flight of stairs to reach it. It’s now home to a museum and gift shop. The Port Boca Grande Lighthouse also is managed with help from the Barrier Island Parks Society. Park admission is $3. Check the lighthouse’s webpage to find out when it’s open.
A recent article we wrote provides more detail on the history of Boca Grande’s two lighthouses.
2. Check out the beaches. Like any Southwest Florida coastal town, this is the obvious idea. The beaches are beautiful, with turquoise water, blue sky, and white, puffy clouds. You can search for shells and shark teeth, throw a fishing line in the water, or just relax in the Gulf.
3. Fish. In the Tarpon Capital of the World, you’ll find your share of anglers from around the globe, all ready for a fresh catch. “From Boca Grande Pass to Bonita Springs, fishing guides and amateurs alike try their hands at catching one of these powerful adversaries,” according to the Boca Grande Beacon’s Visitor’s Guide. In fact, a fully-grown tarpon can weigh a couple hundred pounds, and they’re known to put up a fight. Thousands of tarpon gather in the Boca Grande Pass from April to August. You’ll also find plenty of other fish to keep you busy if you’re not ready for the tarpon challenge, including:
- Snook
- Grouper
- Flounder
- Pompano
- Mackerel
- Mangrove snapper.
Use your own boat, rent a boat, or get in touch with a local Boca Grande fishing guide to properly guide you.
4. Check out The Gasparilla Inn. Wealthy society members from Boston were the first customers of The Gasparilla Inn in the early 1900s. J.P. Morgan and Florida railroad tycoon Henry Plant stayed at the inn as well. Since its opening, the inn has maintained its elegant reputation, and it’s a historic hotel as designated by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. You can golf, head to its beach club, play tennis, go to the spa, or enjoy a meal at several on-site dining locations. Whether you’re able to stay at the inn or not, The Gasparilla Inn is still worth a stroll to check out local history.
5. Go on a golf cart journey. Golf carts rule in Boca Grande—so much so that there are cut-out paths in the downtown area specifically for carts. There’s even a July 4th Gulf Cart Parade. If you spend time near Gasparilla Inn, you’ll see a whole fleet of golf carts waiting to take you around. Can’t snag a golf cart ride? Then biking is the second-best option. Boca Grande is flat and scenic, making it ideal for biking.
6. Take a walk down Banyan Street. Named for the massive and beautiful Banyan trees that line it, Banyan Street is so picturesque, it’s even popularly used for weddings. The picture here of Banyan Street is from photographer Paul Marcellini. Note that the trees received some damage after 2024 hurricanes, so things may look different from that scenic picture. The trees on Banyan Street were first planted in 1915 by the developer of The Gasparilla Inn.
7. Spend time in downtown Boca Grande. It’s a small town, but there’s still plenty to do in the downtown area. Here are a few highlights:
- Grab a bite to eat at some of its popular eateries, including Loose Caboose, Temptation, The Pink Elephant, and The Outlet on the Innlet. This TripAdvisor link will give you the scoop on the restaurants we mention here, as well as a few others. Many restaurants in town have outdoor seating.
- Go shopping. Boca Grande has its share of souvenir shops with Old Florida décor, souvenirs, Boca Grande-themed clothing and signs with witty sayings (one of our faves: Exercise all you want, you can’t burn off crazy). The downtown also has a quaint grocery store called Hudson’s with a pink old-fashioned gasoline pump out front.
- Check out the four-panel aqua-filled mural depicting life in Boca Grande.
What to Know Before You Visit Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park
Want to see where wild horses and buffalo roam? You don’t need to buy a ticket to go out West. Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park near Gainesville boasts a population of more than 50 wild bison as well as wild horses, alligators, and almost 300 species of birds. Here’s the scoop on its history and what to know before you visit Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park.
History of Paynes Prairie Preserve — and How Did the Buffalo Get There?
As far back as 1774, naturalist and artist William Bartram wrote about the land that is now Paynes Prairie Preserve, calling it “the great Alachua Savannah.” Yet even before his writing, Native Americans (including members of the Seminole tribe) called the land that is now Paynes Prairie home, dating back 15,000 years. The land also was valued by Spanish explorers. The landscape that makes up Paynes Prairie has always attracted people because of its unique mix of marsh land, wet prairie, and open water, according to the park website. It 21,000 acres are also home to 430 vertebrate species. The park has 20 unique biological areas.
In 1971, Paynes Prairie became the state’s first official preserve. It celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021.
Although Paynes Prairie is in the Gainesville area, it’s officially in the town of Micanopy (mick-a-no-pee), which has a charming small downtown area and was recently named one of Florida’s most charming small towns by Travel + Leisure. You can easily combine a day or two visit to both Paynes Prairie and Micanopy. Find out more about Micanopy here.
But what about one of the preserve’s most famous inhabitants, the bison? They were actually introduced to Paynes Prairie in the mid-1970s, after the land became a preserve. The wild horses are said to be descendants of the horses brought to the area by Spanish explorers. And the alligators? As you likely know, they are long-time residents in many, many areas of the Sunshine State, but places like Paynes Prairie give you a closer-up view.
The boardwalk at La Chua Trail in Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park.
What to Expect When You Visit Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park
With its massive size, Paynes Prairie has a lot to offer, including:
–Hiking along its 10 trails, offering 30 miles total of hiking/walking
–Camping near Lake Wauburg
–Fishing
–Biking along the 16-mile Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail
–Wildlife viewing
–Horseback riding along the Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail
–Boating
–Spending time at the nature center
–Birding…and more.
The trick is knowing where to go depending on what you want to do. The park’s many trails do not all branch out from the same location, which is why you may want to decide in advance what you want to do. Here is a link to a map of Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park to help you plan ahead.
Alligator Spotting at Paynes Prairie
If your focus is wildlife photography, particularly alligators, the best recommendation is La Chua Trail, located beside a smaller residential community. The trail is 3 miles round trip. La Chua takes you briefly through a small stable (no animals in it; it’s a nod to the area’s cattle and horsing heritage), followed by a long boardwalk that goes over a marsh area. Then, the Alachua Sink is home to alligators sunning themselves. On the trail, you also encounter a platform that overlooks Alachua Lake. In recent times during our visit, part of the trail has been closed due to flooding or other reasons.
On our first two visits to La Chua Trail, both in late August, we actually didn’t see any alligators. Yet on a recent June visit during alligator mating season (from April to June), we saw literally dozens. They were sunning themselves in the water and occasionally jamming each other out of the way while we humans remained on an elevated boardwalk. A whole gaggle of them (perhaps 10 in one area) hanging out while we humans–either photographers or birdwatchers–stayed mesmerized by them. They were close to us but at the same time distant as we were elevated above water level. Yet watching them naturally interact and seeing so many at a time was truly memorable.
Observation Tower and Visitor Center
If you want to really learn more about Paynes Prairie and you want to try to see the wild bison, then go to the park’s main entrance. You’ll pay $4 to $6 ($2 if you’re a biker or pedestrian), and drive a couple miles back to the Visitor Center. The rustic and recently renovated Visitor Center has historical information, exhibits, and “home on the range” type views that look out onto the prairie where the bison are often found. We strongly recommend the Visitor Center because of several cool features, including a gorgeous film that gives background on the park. If you have just arrived at the park, you’ll get your bearings at the center and you can check out the huge map of the park there. If you watch the film after walking around, your watch time there gives you a short respite to cool off. The Visitor Center also has a visitor log so you can see where people are from and a nature log (where people can note the type of animals they have seen). From the Visitor Center’s back patio, you can take in the view and make your way down to Cones Dike trail to go toward the prairie.
Less than a five-minute walk away is the observation tower, where you up your chances of getting a great view of the bison if they are on the prairie.
The park’s main entrance includes the campground, several other trails, and Lake Wauburg. Although we weren’t camping there, it was interesting to look around the camping area and its fishing pier, barbecue area, amphitheater, and other amenities.
As you get to know the park, explore some of the park’s additional trails outside of the main park area. In addition to La Chua, these trails include Bolen Buff Trail, the Ecopassage Observation Boardwalk (really more of a scenic view than a trail but an easy stop off with spectacular views), and the Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail. Of note, the Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail is paved and goes on for 16 miles. It’s a historical railbed between Gainesville and Hawthorne and is popular with bikers. However, the trail also has a grassy area, making it great for multiuse.
We explored Bolen Buff Trail (2.5 miles roundtrip) once to take a chance at seeing wild horses or the bison herd. Alas, no spottings, but we did see recent animal dung from one of these famous inhabitants.
8 Tips for Your Visit to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park
We absolutely recommend a visit to Paynes Prairie to see “wild” Florida or for wildlife photography or birding. Here are a few tips to follow to help you plan your visit.
- Pay your park admission online. Although the main park entrance (the entrance leading to the Nature Center and observation tower) may still have someone there to collect your money, we’ve recently found that other areas just have a sign with a QR code. You scan the code, and it will take you to the payment website, where you’ll pay $4 to $6 online to enter the park–or just $2 if you’re a pedestrian or bicyclist. Make sure to take the time to pay online. Alternately, you can pay online here.
- Know in advance that the major wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. Our big motivation is getting those primo wildlife shots, such as alligators, horses, and bison. We saw the buffalo from far away during our first visit. They were so far, even our telephoto lens on a nice camera couldn’t capture a clear shot. That said, we spotted a deer right away during one visit, and we’ve seen many types of birds. As mentioned before, there was no luck spotting alligators our first two visits and then we hit the gator jackpot the third time and some subsequent times. Sometimes, it’s just dumb luck to see the animals you want to see. Always keep your eyes peeled open and off your phone as someties, wildlife is hidden.
- Know that weather may affect what you can do. If you visit in the summer (aka, Florida’s rainy season), water levels may affect certain trails. That’s what happened twice for us on La Chua Trail. On Cones Dike Trail, in the main park area, the walk lasted just a couple minutes before it started to get muddy (again, from rain).
- Use the park’s map to help show you where to go. Seasoned hikers likely already know this, but here’s a tip for the less experienced among us. You can have a link to park maps on your phone but also take a screenshot of them. That way, if internet signal is not available, you still know where the heck you are going. As mentioned earlier, use the maps to plan your visit as the options at Paynes are diverse.
- Find out which trails allow you to bring your best canine friend and which ones don’t. Understandably, not all trails allow pets because of the wild animals living there. Per the park map we have seen, Cones Dike, Bolen Buff, and La Chua trails do NOT allow animals. The Lake, Chacala, Jackson’s Gap, Ecopassage Boardwalk, and Gatesville-Hawthorne trails allow your favorite Fido or Fluffy.
- If you are fortunate enough to spot alligators, bison, or horses, leave them alone. They are not Disney characters. This is real-deal nature!
- Bring water, sunscreen, bug spray, and maybe snacks. The first three items should be obvious for anytime you’re out in Florida nature. Snacks are useful if you plan to be at Paynes Prairie for a while. That’s also because your food options are limited unless you drive a few minutes into Gainesville in one direction or into downtown Micanopy in the other direction.
- Check out the Observation Boardwalk if you don’t have time for a full park visit. The Ecopassage Observation Boardwalk (area 8 if you’re looking at the map) is just minutes from Interstate 75. In fact, you can see I-75 off in the distance when you stop there. The boardwalk, located off of 441, offers panoramic views of Alachua Lake, where you may spot fish, gators, and birds. It’s a great way to take a scenic break, especially if your visit to the area doesn’t include a longer park visit.
Here’s What to Know About Sea Turtle Nesting Season in Florida
Have you ever seen those areas on the beaches in Florida that protect an area of the sand with colorful sticks and tape? In case you didn’t know, you were likely looking at a place where a sea turtle had laid about 100 eggs.
Sea turtle nesting season runs from March to October. Although other states with coastlines may have sea turtles, Florida sees about 90% of the sea turtle nesting action in the U.S.
Just why are sea turtles and their eggs so protected? Well, sea turtles are endangered. It’s hard for hatchlings to make it to adulthood due to all types of threats, including predators (think raccoons, birds, and crabs), human threats, and damage from natural disasters like hurricanes. In fact, only 1 in 1000 sea turtle hatchlings survive to adulthood, according to the Florida Wildlife Commission (FWC).
When they do survive, these grand creatures can live for 40 to 60 years and can weigh as much as 1,300 lbs for the largest species found in Florida (an 8-foot leatherback, according to the FWC). Loggerhead and leatherback sea turtles weigh an average of 200 to 350 lbs.
Florida has five types of sea turtles:
–Green
–Hawksbill
–Kemp’s ridley
–Leatherback
–Loggerhead
There are seven types of sea turtles around the world and six in the U.S. Six of the seven species are endangered.
How Does Sea Turtle Nesting Work in Florida?
If you’ve visited Florida’s beaches often and you have yet to see a sea turtle, don’t be surprised. Here’s how their egg-laying process works and why they’re so elusive:
—A female sea turtle usually returns to the beach where it was born to lay its eggs. This is a curious ability that comes from something called natal homing. This occurs even if the sea turtle is hundreds of miles from her place of birth. She’ll swim back toward home. Although the amount of time it takes for females to reach maturity and lay eggs can vary by species, it can take as long as 20 to 30 years.
—Sea turtles usually lay their eggs at night to avoid the heat and reduce the risk of encountering predators. If you look at the sand, you often can see a sea turtle’s marks in the sand coming from the sea. They look somewhat like tire tracks. A female sea turtle will dig a hole and lay about 100 eggs at a time, covering up the hole again when she is done.
—In many Florida beach communities, there are volunteer groups that will patrol the beaches early in the morning to look for evidence of sea turtle eggs. This includes the marks in the sand from these large sea turtles, areas of disturbed sand, and sometimes small egg fragments. When they find an area with eggs, volunteers will make sure the eggs are covered and construct a productive barrier around the nest.
—Meanwhile, the mama sea turtle does not return to check on her eggs. Yet nature has its ways, and about two months later, the sea turtle hatchlings are born. They have a temporary “egg tooth” that helps them to penetrate their shell. Hatchlings work together to make their way out of the sand and eventually toward the ocean. The whole process may take a few days. The hatchlings instinctively know to do their work at night to cut down on heat and predator risks.
Believe it or not, Florida’s coastline welcomes about 40,000 to 84,000 sea turtle nests each year. You’ll find different hatch rates online, but the average seems to be 70% to 80%. Of course, as we mentioned before, the bigger challenge is once they’re born and the many threats they encounter on the way to adulthood.
Follow These Guidelines to Be a Good Sea Turtle Partner
It’s amazing to see sea turtles and their hatchlings in person. Seeing them face to face or even just in pictures can inspire you to want to help protect them. Here are a few ways you can make life easier for sea turtles and their hatchlings in Florida.
–-Never disturb sea turtle nests.
–Don’t touch sea turtles, their eggs or the hatchlings. It’s illegal in Florida to touch or harass them.
–-If you see a sea turtle hatchling making its way to the ocean, stay out of their way. However, this helpful article from the Fort Myers News Press says you can stand near them to intimidate birds and keep them away.
—If you’re living or staying right near the coastline, keep the outside lights off at night. These can disorient turtles and lead them to areas that are dangerous to them, like streets or parking lots. Consider motion sensor lighting (so it’s only on when you need it) and turtle-friendly lighting.
–Don’t leave behind fishing line, as the turtles can get entangled in it.
–Try to use less plastic. Plastic can be dangerous for turtles, just like it can for other sealife.
–Consider volunteering with sea turtle conservation groups in your area. We’ve seen volunteers on the beach early in the day, and it looks like an interesting way to help sea turtles.
–-If you see an injured, stranded, or dead sea turtle in Florida, call the 24-hour FWC Alert line at 1-888-404-FWCC. Or, text 847411 and use the keyword “FWC.” Provide your location and any other relevant information. You also can use this hotline if you see someone harassing sea turtles or their eggs.
Where Else Can You Learn About Sea Turtles in Florida?
Although sea turtles face many threats, they have a lot of support in the Sunshine State. If you want to dig a little deeper into sea turtle life and rehabilitation, here are a few places you can visit:
—The Turtle Hospital in Marathon. Located in the Florida Keys, this facility seems to do a great job rescusing, rehabbing, and releasing sea turtles in the Keys. Plus, it offers tours. The hospital is located in a former vintage hotel, and some of the rehab staff live in rooms once suited for hotel guests (we’re not sure if the turtles have left any five-star reviews online!).
—Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach. The Marinelife Center also rescues and rehabs sea turtles. It also has an interesting counter on its website to show how many “patients” it currently has (six as of this writing), how many nests have been found in season so far, and the number of current turtles who are being tracked.
—MOTE Marine Life & Conservation in Sarasota. MOTE has tracked sea turtle habits along 35 miles of coastline in Southwest Florida since the 1980s. If you want to get nitty-gritty with the data, its site tracks and reports nesting habits from different species in the area on a weekly basis. Later this year, MOTE will open at a large new location near Sarasota’s Mall at UTC.
Mangia! What to Know for Your Visit to Mazzaro’s Italian Market in St. Pete, Florida
Buongiorno! Are you looking to get a taste of Italy without a long plane ride? You’re in luck if you’re in the St. Pete, Tampa, or Bradenton area, as Mazzaro’s Italian Market in St. Petersburg is just a short drive away.
Mazzaro’s has been around for more than 30 years. As you make your way through its maze-like store layout, you can see how it has grown over time.
Here’s what we experienced during our recent Mazzaro’s visit, along with a few tips to have the tastiest, most enjoyable visit you can. Mazzaro’s also has a cool 3D virtual tour on its website.
What It’s Like to Visit Mazarro’s Italian Market in St. Pete
We were surprised at how busy Mazarro’s was when we arrived around 11 am on a Saturday.
As eager as we were to step inside, we were distracted by the decorated cars and other adornments on the property, which should definitely be part of your Mazarro’s fun. Plus, there are murals of places like Lake Como and Venice. So, you can take a selfie there until you go to (or return to) the real Italy.
Once inside, we noticed a small produce area on the left and cash registers in the front. There is a butcher’s area to the left, with a huge “shark” coming out of the wall (no doubt because we’re here in Florida and not Florence or Rome). Everywhere you look, there is something to see, from posters to hanging produce to flags and so much more.
Near the front, there’s a huge area with ready-made foods like pizzas and drinks. So, if you want to grab something pre-made quickly, you don’t have to go to the back of the store.
Moving on, turn right and you’ll hit the jackpot with a wine-and-cheese area. During our first visit, that area seemed particularly busy so we avoided it. For our second visit, we absolutely made it there and couldn’t believe the cheese selection. There are cheeses from the U.S. and Europe, but of course, many from Italy. We even took part in a tasting and we heard some people speaking Italian.
Then there is So. Much. Wine. We’re not experts enough to tell you what Chianti versus Montepulciano di Abruzzo versus Prosecco to buy there. However, we can tell you there is a huge range of prices and selection.
Once you emerge from the wine/cheese area, you’ll reach a small, grotto-like area with religious statues. It will make you feel like you’re in an Italian Catholic church–with a side of merchandise.
After that, you can go in several directions. On the right, there’s a coffee bar where you can order your espresso (or Americano–we won’t judge) and sit at the bar to savor it. Perhaps get a cornetto/croissant as well if it’s still breakfast time.
Next up is the bakery, where you could perhaps spend all day purchasing bread, cookies, cannoli…the list goes on and on. Take a ticket and expect a wait. But it’s worth it.
There’s also a pasta area, where can buy your pasta fresca or dry pasta that’s direct from Italy. Check out the many types of pasta available, and realize the world is more than just spaghetti. Try a type of pasta that’s new for you.
The salumeria/Italian deli offers deli-cut cheeses and meats. It’s also where you can order a sandwich. On the menu, you’ll find authentic Italian favorites like Grilled Caprese or Chicken Milanese, but you’ll also see a few nods on the menu to American favorites. Those include the Cuban Panini, a Traditional Philly Cheesesteak, and a Double Smashburger With Bacon.
Expect to wait a bit for your sandwich order. You take a number, make your order, and then wait among a standing crowd. It may get a little hot in there while you wait; our order took 15 to 20 minutes. Yet trust that Mazarro’s staff members know what they’re doing, even if it takes some time to get your order.
And yes, there are a couple of grocery-style aisles at Mazzaro’s with goods like sugo (tomato sauce), olive oils (soooo many), and other products associated with Italian food.
If you can’t get enough of Mazzaro’s, then purchase one of its “Legalize Marinara” or “Life, Liberty, and the Prosciutto of Happiness” shirts while you’re there. And don’t forget about its catering and delivery services.
Shop Mazzaro’s at Casa di Mazzaro
Although it’s onsite at the Mazzaro’s property, one lesser-known offshoot of this famous St. Pete Italian market is Casa di Mazzaro. It’s in a separate building, and it sells items like teas, housewares, and gifts.
Plus, Casa di Mazzaro has cooking classes like “An Evening of Pizza,” “Delicious Dough Class,” Pasta Workshop,” and many more. From what we can see online, they sell out quickly. Book early!
Is Mazarro’s Like Being in Italy?
In terms of the food, Mazarro’s is like being in Italy with American touches. It sells many products that are imported from Italia, along with several gourmet, higher-quality products from Florida or around the U.S. The store’s emphasis on quality also rivals what you’ll find in any good, local mercato in Italy.
Other areas of the store may remind you of your Italy travels, like the fresh pasta area, salumeria, and the coffee/espresso bar. Even the crowds may seems Italian-like, especially if you visited a touristy city there.
As for the Northeast accents, like Philly, New Jersey, and New York accents you’ll hear a lot at Mazzaro’s? Well, those are definitely American.
Tips for Your Visit to Mazarro’s in St. Pete
–Go as early as you can. Mazzaro’s is open from 9 am to 5 pm on Monday to Friday and 9 am to 2:30 pm on Saturdays. It’s closed on Sundays. If you can go before the lunch rush, we highly recommend it. Keep in mind that Mazzaro’s will likely be busier when the snowbirds (aka retirees from up north) are in town.
–Be prepared to find parking. It can be tough! You may have to wait for someone to leave to get a spot. Watch out for any signs regarding where not to park.
–-Have a game plan. This is especially important if the market is busy. When it’s crowded, it can be hard to take a leisurely stroll. Think about the different parts of the market we’ve told you about or that you can find here on the Mazzaro’s website. Pick two or three areas you’re determined to visit, like the bakery or fresh pasta. Devote more time to those areas so you’re not stuck in other areas that are less important to you. If you have the chance, you may even want to make two trips (or more) to take in the full store.
—Eat on site. As busy as the market can be, the good news is that you’ve got several areas to eat al fresco. There’s a covered patio area adjacent to the market where many people will sit fter they buy their sandwiches. In fact, you can order patio food to go and pick it up about 30 minutes after you order it. Then, there are some picnic tables near the “cemetery” area that weren’t too crowded during our visit. In fact, we enjoyed a caprese sandwich with a Sicilian lemon soda there. Molto buono! You’ll also find a few other random benches for seating, if you don’t mind sitting near the outside foot traffic.
—Think beyond Mazzaro’s. If you make a special trip to St. Pete for the market, consider visiting one of the city’s many other attractions, like the beaches, museums, the St. Pete Saturday Market, and the St. Pete Pier.
Where to See Manatees in Florida–and Fun Facts About Manatees
Have you ever seen manatees in person? If you have, count yourself lucky. If you haven’t, your luck is about to change as we’ve got the scoop on where to see manatees in Florida.
First, some basics. Manatees, also called sea cows, are water-based mammals that are gentle and large. In fact, adult manatees average 800 to 1200 pounds (some will grow to as much as 3,500 pounds).
Manatees are in the oceans and rivers of Florida year-round, but they migrate to Florida’s springs in the winter (generally, November through March) where the water maintains a temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit.
Here are some other fun manatee facts:
–An adult manatee eats about 100 pounds of sea grass a day.
–Manatees can stay underwater for up to 20 minutes. After that, you’ll see them stick their snout out of the water and make a funny sound.
–Manatees have no natural predators. Not even alligators! In fact, their biggest threat is humans. They can get hurt by boat propellers and other human actions.
–Sadly, more manatees are dying in the wild due to habitat loss and accidents.
–A manatee pregnancy lasts for a year. Babies nurse with their mom for about two years.
–Manatees live up to 60 years in the wild and can live for more than 65 years in captivity.
–Elephants are the closest living relative to manatees. They aren’t related to walruses or seals!
–The Florida manatee is just one type of manatee. It falls under the West Indian manatee species. Other types of manatees include the Amazonian manatee and the West African manatee.
–The word for manatee in Spanish is manati (with an accent on the “i”). In Italian, it’s lamantino. In German, it’s seekuh.
What It’s Like to See Manatees
Although your manatee experience will differ depending on where you visit and time of year, we share here our 2025 experience visiting Three Sisters Springs in Crystal River, one of the best places to see manatees in the winter.
We arrived not long after Three Sisters opened and paid the $20 admission at the check-in area. The check-in area has parking, restrooms, and attendants who can answer any questions you have. The check-in area also has a board that lists the water temperature and the number of manatees spotted in the springs that morning (on this particular day, more than 200).
You can walk about 10 minutes to the springs, or take a shuttle bus there. We opted to walk as it was sunny and the air was crisp. As we got closer to the springs, we could actually hear some of the snorting from when the manatees came up for air.
Reaching the observation area, it was as if we were working with the paparazzi. All other visitors had their phones or cameras at the ready to take pictures of the underwater stars. There were helpful volunteers who patiently shared manatee facts and answered questions.
The manatees themselves appeared super relaxed. They were in various states of sleeping, swimming, or nursing (for the babies). If there was a true meaning for the word “awesome”, it would be for a sight like this. There were dozens of them congregated in one area of the springs.
Although it was hard to tear ourselves away, we eventually went over to another nearby observation deck where we could see all the action in the Crystal River. In one tributary, we could occasionally see manatees swimming out from the springs to the river. A volunteer told us that the adult manatees swim out to gulf (about 7 miles away) to eat their seagrass daily.
There was a group of people together snorkeling in the water (part of a guided group to swim with the manatees), while others were in kayaks or boats. In the river itself, there were other groups of manatees who appeared to be lazily relaxing. We could also see some homes that are fortunate enough to live right by the Crystal River.
We walked a little more around the springs area and could still see smaller groups of manatees together, giving us a different angle for pictures. Yet the most impressive angle was definitely where the dozens of manatees congregated together.
Once we returned to our car, we headed toward the USFWS Center about 5 or 10 minutes away. While there, we learned more about manatees in the area from a series of kid-friendly exhibits. There was also a small display of manatee-related merchandise.
Here’s Where to See Manatees in Florida
You may be fortunate enough to spot manatees if you’re near the beach, river, or springs in Florida. If not, or if you want to super-size your manatee view, then it makes sense to visit a destination where they like to congregate.
Crystal River, in Florida’s Citrus County, is perhaps the most well-known destination for manatee viewing. Plus, you can make a day trip of your time if you visit a Crystal Rivers manatee destination and then check out the cute town of Crystal River, where we visited several unique small-town shops.
—Three Sisters Springs in Crystal River. This is part of Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge and one of the most popular places for manatee viewing. Your $20 admisison also provides access to a shuttle that will take you from the springs to other nearby areas, including the USFWS Center (where you can learn more about manatees), South Citrus Avenue, and Heritage Village.
—Homosassa Springs State Park in Homosassa, near Crystal River. One cool thing about Homosassa Springs is that you can view other wildlife that resides in the park, including black bears, alligators, and Florida birds–and a long-time resident hippo. Admission is $13 for adults and $5 for kids 6 to 12.
—Manatee Viewing Center at TECO Electric in Apollo Beach. Those manatees are smart, and they know that the warm waters around the electric plant will help keep their bodies warm in the winter. This is a free destination, which is a big plus–but that also means it can get crowded. The area also has a walking trail that’s about a mile long and an education center related to manatees and river life. The Manatee Viewing Center is open from November to April.
—Manatee Park in Fort Myers, Florida. We’ve never visited Manatee Park but this website gives you the scoop and touts a live manatee cam. It says the best time to see manatees there is in December, January, and February.
—Blue Spring State Park in Orange City. This one must get busy as its website says there are sometimes long lines to enter.
—Manatee Center in Fort Pierce.
—Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park in Wakulla Springs.
—Manatee Lagoon in West Palm Beach.
For more manatee destinations, check out this nifty map from the Florida Wildlife Commission. It includes manatees that are in captivity, such as at MOTE Marine Aquarium in Sarasota.
Manatee Video: For more info about manatees, watch our YouTube video at the link here. Our video is geared toward those learning English. However, if you’re a manatee fan, you still may enjoy the pictures and fun facts.
Some Tips to See Manatees
We’ve got a few tips to share If you want to enhance your manatee experience.
–Plan your visit during the colder-weather months (November to March).
–Go earlier in the day if you can for fewer crowds and better viewing.
–Consider if you want to view them from land, go kayaking/boating near them, or take part in a “swim with the manatees” tour (where the guide will instruct you on how to swim with them while keeping a respectful distance).
–If you’re in the water with them, be respectful and keep your distance.
–Never touch a manatee. They’re protected by both federal and state laws, and you could be fined.
–Don’t be surprised if you’re at a Florida beach in the spring or summer and you see a manatee in the water. Give them space and enjoy the chance to watch them in action.
Here Are 7 Things to Do When You Visit Sarasota, Florida
If you’ve got a trip coming up to the Sarasota, Florida, area, then you’ve got no shortage of fun things to do.
From 35 miles of coastline to art exhibits to a thriving restaurant scene, there’s something for everyone in Sarasota County.
Although Hurricanes Helene and Milton hit the Sarasota/Bradenton area hard, locals are working just as hard to recover (as of this writing, November 2024).
Just what is there to do for fun in Sarasota, Florida? We’re glad you asked as we’re locals! Here are our top picks. (A quick note: There’s the city of Sarasota, but there’s also Sarasota County, which includes the city of Sarasota, Venice, North Port, Englewood, and other areas. This article includes destinations within Sarasota County.)
St. Armands Circle
St. Armands Circle is Sarasota’s European-style shopping district, literally shaped like a circle with stores and restaurants extending around and near the circle. Come to St. Armands Circle for seafood, an Italian meal, unique gifts, or just to people-watch. There also are festivals held here throughout the year.
Sadly, St. Armands Circle was badly hit by Hurricanes Helene and Milton in Fall 2024, and a number of businesses are still recovering. Some may choose to close up shop entirely, or at least move away from flood-prone St. Armands Circle. Yet there’s definitely still a lot of life at the Circle, and we highly recommend visiting if you’re from out of town.
Insider’s tip: Columbia Restaurant is the oldest restaurant in Florida and has one of its locations at St. Armands Circle. The original location in Tampa opened in 1905. You’ll find yummy Cuban/Spanish food, but there will likely be a wait as well. Tommy Bahama is another good option; don’t miss Kilwins right next to Tommy Bahama for fudge or ice cream.
If you have your heart set on visiting a specific place in St. Armands Circle, check in advance that it has reopened post-hurricane.
Myakka River State Park
Did someone say alligators? As in, thousands of them? Myakka River State Park is the premier place in the Sarasota area to see lots and lots of alligators. At this massive park, you can hike, bird watch, climb to the top of the canopy walk, take a boat ride, camp, or browse in the gift shop. Don’t be surprised to see alligators just lounging around. On the main road through the park, there’s a bridge where people typically stop and gawk at the alligators in the river below. They may be still and sunning themselves. Or, they may be swimming with the current.
Don’t. Get. Close! We’ve seen people traverse close to the water to try and get pictures. Gators are actually shy and scared of humans unless they feel threatened. You don’t want one to pursue you out of fear.
With that PSA out of the way, we can say that Myakka River State Park is one of our favorite places in Sarasota and we strongly suggest a visit for the nature and photography lovers.
Insider’s tip: It’s always good to check their website or call in advance of your visit as the park is sometimes closed due to weather. Find out more scoop on Myakka River State Park in our stories here (an overview), here (about the canopy walkway), and here (where to take the best pictures at the park).
Farmers Markets
Florida is kind of funny….there’s a lot of agriculture here, but much of it is commercial farming. Because of this, there have been times that the farmers market community has not been as well-established. That’s not true about Sarasota. The Sarasota Farmer’s Market in downtown Sarasota has been around since 1979 and welcomes about 70 vendors each Saturday year-round. The Farmers Market at Lakewood Ranch has more than 100 vendors each Sunday and was voted the top farmers market in Florida in 2023.
If you can’t make it to those, then there are other farmers markets almost every day of the week, including the Englewood Market, Venice Market, the newer market in North Port, and others. Come by Fresh From Florida produce or enjoy prepared foods from one of our local vendors. You’ll find cute jewelry and art, too!
Insider’s tip: We always recommend arriving early for the markets when you can, so you can beat the heat and get a good parking space. Check in advance to find out market hours and days, as some are not open year-round. We give an overview of the Sarasota and Bradenton farmers’ markets here. The article was updated in October 2024.
The Beaches: Siesta Beach, Lido Beach, and Others
The Sarasota/Bradenton area is famous for its beaches, with white, soft sand and clear blue water. All of our beaches are pretty terrific, but you may want to try a few to see which ones you like best. Lido Key is convenient if you’re near St. Armands Circle. Siesta Beach is big and has the crowds to match–yet during a recent visit, we arrived early and had a great time taking in the pristine view and the colorful lifeguard stands. Venice Beach and Caspersen Beach are known for shark-tooth hunting, making them great for children (see below). If you don’t like crowds, go as early as you can. Definitely enjoy a beach sunset while you’re in town!
Insider’s tip: There’s a Drum Circle on Siesta Key on Sunday evenings starting an hour before sunset, if you want to see something different.
Searching for Sharks Teeth in Venice
Venice, Florida, is known as the Shark Tooth Capital of the World, thanks to the millions of shark teeth that have washed up there over time. Vsitors bring various sifting devices to find tiny, sharp specks of black or gray that could be shark teeth. (On Venice Beach Pier, you can rent a “Florida snow shovel” to make shark tooth hunting easier.) On Caspersen Beach just down the road from Venice Beach, you can find dedicated hunters early in the morning, eager to see what’s washed ashore overnight. Shark tooth hunting is a family-friendly and potentially free activity.
Insider’s tip: If you don’t have any luck finding sharks teeth (and you probably will get lucky, so don’t worry), head over to Sea Treasures and Pleasures in downtown Venice for a display of larger sharks teeth found over time.
We’ve written a lot about searching for shark teeth. You can check out these articles: Answers to Shark Tooth Hunting FAQs, 7 Ways to Search for Shark Teeth in Venice, and 9 Things to Do in Venice.
Visit The Ringling and Ca’ d’Zan
The beautiful Ringling property in Sarasota has a few things you’ll want to explore.The property was owned by circus magnate John Ringling and his wife Mable. With the couple’s interest in art, the Ringling estate went on to build a large art collection. Currently, the art museum houses an impressive collection of European art from Medieval times to the 19th century. There’s also a center for Asian art and a gallery for contemporary art. Then, there’s the Ringling Circus Museum, which pays tribute to the Sarasota area’s circus heritage. If you like scenic walks, enjoy walking around the grounds of the Ringling and meandering around Mable’s Rose Garden.
Your can’t-miss is Ca’ d’Zan, which means House of John. It was the 36,000-square-foot opulent and ornate home for John and Mable, and it’s impressive both on the inside and the out. It’s located right on Sarasota Bay, so you can take some spectacular shots of the home and also life on the water.
Insider’s tip: If you’d like to just enjoy walking around the grounds, admission is only $5 (versus $30 for an adult admission to the museums and grounds). You’ll want to choose the option for the Bayfront Gardens. General admission is less for Art After 5 on Thursday evenings.
Find out more about The Ringling here.
Enjoy a Meal in One of the Cute Neighborhoods
Sarasotans appreciate good food, and you’ve got more than your choice of places where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner. Here are a few neighborhoods to check out:
—Downtown Sarasota always has some tasty options, and you’ll get some feel of the nightlife if you visit for dinner. (Sarasota isn’t a big city, but the area has grown a lot in recent years. The same can be said for the nightlife there.)
—The Rosemary District has several locally famous restaurants and makes for a cute walk.
–The area around The Mall at UTC has both chain favorites and a few locally beloved places. This is a good area if you have a car and want more of a suburban feel.
—Lakewood Ranch is one of the fastest growing master-planned communities in the U.S. and has expanding options both in its Main Street shopping area and the newer Waterside Place.
Insider’s tips: You can’t beat the view from the rooftop bar at The Westin Sarasota. Also, we recommend Discover Sarasota trolley tours if you want more history and background on downtown, the area’s circus history, and many other aspects of Sarasota history and culture.
Some Final Thoughts
The Sarasota area has long been popular with “snowbirds,” or retirees who spend half of their time up North and the rest of the year down here. That continues to be true, but the area has attracted a broader mix of ages since the COVID pandemic. The downtown area has grown up a lot as well in the past few years, with more taller buildings.
It’s just something to keep in mind as you plan your visit.
We could suggest even more places to visit in Sarasota, and perhaps we will in a future article.
Let us know if you have any questions about our area!
