Floridiana Magazine

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Hotel Jacaranda | The Gracious Lady of Avon Park

When it comes to “old Florida,” there are plenty of places that can claim to be “the oldest this…” or “the oldest that…”   One of those is the Hotel Jacaranda in Avon Park.  Opening in 1926, it is the oldest operating hotel in Highlands County County and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Hotel Jacaranda – Then

Hotel Jacaranda, or The Jac for short, occupies a city block on Avon Park’s Main Street, in the heart of the Historic District.  Named for a jacaranda tree 14 feet in circumference that once grew on site, the Jac has been at the heart of this town’s history for nearly a century. Over time, it has served as a home away from home for dozens of interesting guests.  Imagine the likes of Babe Ruth, Clark Gable, and Al Capone walking the halls of this “gracious lady.”  Think about the baseball players from the St. Louis Cardinals calling The Jac home base during spring training from 1926 to the late 1930s. Picture hundreds of servicemen using the hotel during their training to be pilots in World War II.

The Jacaranda Hotel | Floridiana Magazine Post Card Collection | Postmarked 1938

Photographs of famous visitors | Photo by  Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Photograph of baseballs | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

From its magnificent architecture and stately brick exterior, to the grand lobby, the Jacaranda remains an impressive hotel. We visited just after Christmas when the hotel lobby was decked out in its holiday finest.  From the moment we walked in the front doors, the grandeur, elegance, and personality of this hotel was evident.  Florida Highwaymen paintings adorn one of the walls, an old piano sits gracefully awaiting its daily concert during the winter season, and a library with an antique desk that seems to beckon visitors to sit and lose themselves in the pages of a book.

The Jacaranda Lobby | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Florida Highwaymen Paintings | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

The Library | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

One of the most unique features to this hotel is the 1920s crank elevator still in use today.  There are no buttons to push on this elevator, only a crank which has to be operated by one of the hotel staff members. Guests can take an old-fashioned ride to their second and third floor rooms.

Crank Elevator | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Crank | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

The Hotel Jacaranda – Now

The hotel was purchased by the South Florida State College Foundation in 1988 to use as a dorm for student athletes. Today, about 70 students occupy rooms in the back of the hotel, or about half of the 30 rooms.  It also houses the college’s culinary department which uses half of the hotel’s kitchen for its students.

The Gracious Lady | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

The Restaurant at the Jac

There has been a restaurant in continuous operation since the Jacaranda opened its doors in 1926.  The southern-style dining experience awaits you, whether you are stopping by during the winter months for the all-you-can-eat buffet (Monday through Friday), for lunch during the summer, or the year-round Grand Buffet on Sundays.

Hallways off the main lobby lead to additional office and retail space.  Currently, a few businesses and an art studio featuring local artists fill the space.

Jacaranda Hallway | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Art Studio \ Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Artist’s Group Sign | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Holidays at the Jacaranda

Holidays at the Jacaranda are as grand as the hotel itself.  Everywhere you look there are Christmas decorations, all put in place by a team of talented individuals and businesses.  A floor-to-ceiling tree fills a corner of the lobby, adorned with red, green and gold ornaments and ribbons.  The fireplace serves as another backdrop for elaborate Christmas decorations.  The lobby’s beauty draws families from around the area during the holidays for family Christmas photos.

The front desk manager on duty the day we visited kindly offered to take our picture – maybe next year’s card?

Holidays at The Jacaranda | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Holidays at The Jacaranda | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Reservations Required

If you plan to stay the night at the Jacaranda, it’s a good idea to call ahead and reserve your room.  If you are curious, like we were, just to visit this gracious lady, stop on by.  The lobby and the small shops are open to the public.  Be aware that the shops are not open on Saturdays, so it’s always a good idea to plan ahead if you want more of the experience.

The Hotel Jacaranda is a must-see for Florida history buffs.  Spend the night or just spend the day, you will be glad you did.

The Jacaranda Hotel | Floridiana Magazine Post Card Collection

The Jacaranda Hotel | Floridiana Magazine Post Card Collection

 Other Things to Do Nearby

Avon Park is located in Highlands County in Central Florida.  Its location along Highway 27 provides easy access to a number of things you can do locally, as well as places a short drive away.

One of our favorite local places to visit just down the road from The Jac is Maxwell Groves, a family-owned business that has been in operation since 1935.  Another place to visit in Avon Park is the Depot Museum, open Wednesday through Friday.  The California Zephyr Silver Palm Dining Car sits adjacent to the museum and is available for group dinners, but reservations are required.

California Zephyr | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

About 15 miles south of Avon Park is Highlands Hammock State Park, a 1,250-acre park of trails, an elevated boardwalk through a cypress swamp, and numerous habitats and wildlife to view. Highlands Hammock is one of Florida’s first state parks, and a must see for those who enjoy the great outdoors.

West of Avon Park, there are several places of interest to visit in Hardee County.  Pioneer Park in Zolfo Springs, home to Pioneer Park Days, and Solomon’s Castle, an interesting castle in the swamp, built by the late Howard Solomon and filled with his artwork, all made from recycled materials.

Another interesting place to visit is Homeland Heritage Park, just outside of Bartow in Polk County. This five-acre park features original buildings from the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Maxwell Groves

What is it about porches with rocking chairs?  Can it be they remind us of a time when the porch was a favorite gathering place, where stories were told, and memories were made?  Can it be they make us yearn for a slower pace for our lives?  For me, the answer to all of those questions is a resounding “yes!” So, when you hear about a business with a slogan of “life is better on the porch,” you know you are in for a treat and a step back in time.

Such is the case with Maxwell Groves in the small Central Florida town of Avon Park.

Life is better on the porch.

Established in 1935 by Thomas Maxwell, Sr. and his wife Leoma, Maxwell Groves ushers in its 85th year in business this year (2020). The business, which is still in the family, began as a 10-acre orange grove and provided fresh citrus to local residents and fruit stands. Since its modest beginnings, Maxwell Groves has evolved into a packing house and country store known throughout the area for its front porch and iconic orange rocking chairs.

The Front Porch

At Maxwell’s, your stop begins and ends on the front porch. Decorated with old tools, signs that honor the history of Maxwell’s House of Fruit, a “menu” of what is available, and of course, the rocking chairs, this porch provides the perfect entry into the store and an old Florida experience.

The orange rocking chairs are a favorite place to sit and relax.                         

Country Store 

Just inside are all the makings of a country store.  Jams and jellies, local honey, Florida wines, and other gifts line the wooden shelves. Old photos of the family and the grove hang on the wall and a scrapbook filled with the history of the business sits on a table with an invitation for visitors to flip through the pages.

Branded sauces.

Sunshine in a bottle.

Step back in time and learn the history of Maxwell Groves.

A wine tasting room offers daily tastings with the purchase of a Maxwell Groves wine glass.  Sample some of the Florida labels sold in the store and try a few wine smoothie mixes.

A favorite spot in the store is the soft-serve ice cream counter. A line quickly forms as visitors come from miles around for this homemade orange ice cream.  The first time I visited Maxwell’s, I missed out on this delicious treat.  On my latest visit, I was determined not to make the same mistake.  Was it worth it?  You bet!

Probably the most thankful job in the store.

Can I say “delicious?”

Citrus!

A walk to the back of the store offers up what Maxwell’s was built on – citrus.  Depending on when you are there, fresh oranges, tangerines and grapefruit fill the bins. Mesh bags hanging nearby make it easy to take some home. Enjoy a free taste of fresh-squeezed orange juice and pick up a gallon or two of frozen juice to drink later. If you stop by on a regular basis, there’s a Juice Lover’s Club frequent buyers’ card.

Don’t forget, they can also ship the fruit to your family and friends back home during citrus season which runs October through May.

Walk through these doors to the heart of Maxwell’s.

Make sure to take advantage of the free juice! You’ll be glad you did.

Ripe for the picking.

Grab a bag and fill it up.

Don’t forge to ship some home.

I have to confess that until a year or so ago I did not know this place existed – and I grew up in a small town about 20 minutes west of Avon Park.  As they say, it’s better late than never, and the several recent trips I’ve made to Maxwell Groves have been delightful, offering a little slice of heaven each time.

Oh, and that orange ice cream cone I ate on my recent visit?  I took it out to the porch and enjoyed it before moving on to the next adventure.

Have a seat and enjoy some down time.

How to Get There

Avon Park is located along U.S. Highway 27 in Highlands County.  From 27, go east on Main Street about a mile and a half, then north on Marshall Avenue and follow the signs.

Maxwell’s is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.

Summer hours are different, so be sure to check ahead of time.

Enjoy a few more photos from our visit.

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Have you been to Maxwell’s or know of another family-owned Florida business?  Leave us a comment and tell us about it.

Manatee Viewing at Blue Spring State Park

When you think of Florida, cold weather isn’t the first thing to come to mind.  But when the mercury starts to drop, some of the best places to visit are the state’s springs.  That’s where you will be able to see manatees in their natural habitats – a sight that never gets old.  So, when we got our first blast of cold air, guess where we headed?

Blue Spring State Park

Blue Spring State Park in Orange City offers some of the best views of manatees (at least in our opinion).  Considered one of the largest gathering sites for these gentle giants during the winter months, Blue Spring is home to nearly 500 manatees, up from about 40 when research began in the 1970s.

The park offers numerous viewing platforms to see the manatees. Watch from the overlooks, a metal dock or follow the boardwalk to the headspring.  About 1/3 of a mile from the St. Johns River, this first magnitude spring (a spring that discharges water at the rate of 100 cubic feet per second) provides a safe haven for these gentle giants.

Manatees in the spring run

Take the boardwalk to the headspring

What You Will See

If it’s cold outside, there’s no doubt you will observe manatees during your visit to Blue Spring State Park.  Watch as the manatees hang out in the spring run or the spring itself.  Get a glimpse of the manatee mothers swimming alongside their calves, or a group of manatees playing games in the water. See them glide slowly through the water, sit on the bottom of the spring run or perform barrel rolls.  There is something very peaceful about observing these mammals in their habitat.

Manatees of all sizes can be observed in Blue Spring State Park. They can grow up to 10-12 feet in length and can weigh as much as 2,000 pounds. Manatees can live 50 – 60 years in the wild, and according to the Save the Manatee website, some of the same manatees have been spotted in Blue Spring since the early 70s.

Mama and her calf

Injuries to Manatees

Sadly, many manatees receive serious injuries from boats, some from propellers cutting into their skin, or from blunt-force from speeding boaters.  Many of the manatees seen in Blue Spring have scars as evidence of their injuries.  Not all injuries come from boats, however. Some come from nets or fishing line or other items tossed into the water ways.

Water Activities

Canoeing, kayaking, swimming and diving are all suspended in the spring run and the headspring at Blue Spring State Park during the winter months.

Tips for Viewing

Besides Blue Spring State Park, manatees can be seen in many springs, rivers and other waterways around the state during the winter months of November through March.  No matter where you see them, here are a few tips for viewing:

  1. On cold mornings at Blue Spring State Park, arrive early. The park closes its gates once the parking lots are full. Check your destination for site specific information.
  2. Look but don’t touch.
  3. Be patient. Manatees typically come up for air every three to five minutes. However, they can stay underwater for up to 15 – 20 minutes.
  4. When the manatees surface, listen closely for their breathing sounds.
  5. Do not feed them or poke them with anything.
  6. Take along a camera or use your smart phone. They don’t move fast and you can get some great photos!
  7. Sunny days are more picturesque than cloudy days, but you can still see them, even with overcast skies.

Hanging out over the spring

Blue Spring State Park is a 50-minute drive from Orlando and is located on French Avenue in Orange City, west of US Highway 17-92.  Park hours are 8:00 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.  There is a $6.00 per car charge to get into the park.

Note: Updates to Wheelie and his rescue can be found on our Facebook page.

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High Springs – Friendliest Small Town in Florida

If you’ve ever watched Hallmark Christmas movies, you have no doubt seen the small towns that serve as the settings for the storylines.  Picturesque downtowns, storied pasts, rural lifestyles, and laidback atmospheres.  It is that type of vibe that is exhibited in many of  small Florida towns – including High Springs.  Voted as the “Friendliest Small Town in Florida,” High Springs is the epitome of small-town life, and a stop on one of our latest excursions.

High Springs – A History Built on the Rails  

To put it simply, High Springs is a town that the railroad industry built.  The first railroad company to arrive in High Springs was the Savannah, Florida and Western Railroad in 1884, but it wasn’t until 1895 and the arrival of the Plant System Railroad Line (later called the Atlantic Coast Line) that High Springs became an important railroad center. The Plant System chose High Springs as its division headquarters and the town boomed. Early lines through High Springs connected Live Oak with Gainesville, and then High Springs to Port Tampa.  Railyards, workshops and a roundhouse were built, along with houses and a hospital for the workers who called High Springs home.

Even though most of the railroad buildings have disappeared, you can still catch a glimpse of rail history in High Springs. The original passenger depot, built in 1910, sits along NE Railroad Avenue and is all that remains of what was once a vast railroad complex. Even it is not in its original location. The building was moved to its current location and renovated in 1994, and now serves as the office to the Community Redevelopment Agency.

Another depot serves as the High Springs Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center and can be found along the old railroad bed at Railroad Avenue, one block south of Main Street.  The office is typically open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and is a good place to stop for information if you are there during the week.

Still another sign of the railroad industry’s influence on the community is an Atlantic Coast Line red caboose on display behind City Hall.

The town’s standing as a rail center began to fade after World War II when diesel engines took the place of steam locomotives.

An historical marker in High Springs provides a look into the early days in High Springs.  Over the years, the town had several names (Santaffey, Santa Fe, Fairmont and Orion) before it changed for good to High Springs in 1884.  It was incorporated just eight years later.

Gateway to the Springs

In addition to its history with the railroad, High Springs is a destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Situated in the heart of North Florida’s famous spring country, it is within driving distance of numerous springs and state parks and lives up to its motto “Enjoy Our Good Nature!”  A mural of nearby springs can be seen on the exterior of the old Adventure Outpost which once had a storefront in town. Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park, Ichetucknee Springs State Park, Poe Springs Park and Ginnie Springs all provide kayaking and canoeing experiences, as well as hiking opportunities.  Other smaller springs also dot the landscape.

One of our favorite locations is O’Leno State Park, about six miles north of High Springs along the banks of the Santa Fe River. O’Leno is one of Florida’s first state parks, developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. You can still walk across the original suspension bridge built by the CCC to explore other parts of the park.  A hike through the park reveals an historic marker of Bellamy Road which was the first federally funded road in Florida.  You can also view levees and native plants along the trails.  An interesting feature of O’Leno is its distinction of the location where the Santa Fe River disappears underground. The river reemerges about three miles away in the River Rise State Preserve.  It is worth the hike back to where the river ends, both for the novelty and the beauty of the river.

Exploring Downtown

One of the highlights of our trips to High Springs has been the leisurely walks along downtown streets. From the intersection of Main Street and U.S. Highway 27, there are a couple of directions you can start your downtown exploration.  Rest assured, all roads lead to antique stores and specialty shops.

Places to Eat and Drink

As with all small towns, there are always a few eateries you need to visit.  Both of our trips have included meals at the Great Outdoors Restaurant in the old Opera House building. We’ve enjoyed the river ambiance inside during the warmer months and the outdoor patio and fireplace during the cooler months.

On our most recent visit to High Springs, the High Springs Brewing Company had just celebrated its grand opening. Located on NW 237th Street, the brewery is housed in an old welding shop and serves up its own craft beers, as well as other Florida brews.  Live entertainment, special events and a variety of food trucks provide a well-rounded experience, no matter when you go.

Murals

As we’ve traveled the state, we’ve noticed more and more murals popping up. High Springs is no exception. From a tribute to the railroad industry to a mural portraying the area’s springs, these paintings provide another glimpse into the town’s character.

Whether you plan to visit for the history, the shopping, or the outdoor adventures, High Springs is a great place to spend a relaxing day or even weekend.  Located about 20 miles northwest of Gainesville and about five miles west of Interstate 75 on Highway 441, it’s just far enough off the beaten path to offer that down-home vibe and prove why it has earned the title as the “Friendliest Small Town in Florida.”

After you view our slideshow below of more of our photos from our trip, be sure to leave us a comment about your favorite place in High Springs or give us a suggestion of another great Florida town to visit.

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A Visitor’s Guide to Devil’s Millhopper

Exploring Florida can take on many twists and turns, ups and downs.  For visitors to Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park in Gainesville, that exploration literally takes you down to a sinkhole that has attracted curious individuals since the late 1800s.

What is Devil’s Millhopper?

Devil’s Millhopper, 120 feet deep and about 500 feet across, formed when the limestone underneath it collapsed.  More than 100 feet of geologic rock layers make it unique as it is one of the few places in Florida where they are exposed.  The further down you go into the sinkhole, the older the rocks.  Established as a state park in 1974, it was also named a National Natural Landmark in 1976.

Devil’s Millhopper | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

How Did Devil’s Millhopper Get its Name?

As is the case with other Florida locations, there are several tales told to explain how Devil’s Millhopper got its name. One says the devil kidnapped a Native American princess and created the sinkhole to trap her rescuers.  The other claims early visitors, who found bones and fossils at the bottom, believed animals and beasts went there to meet the devil.  In reality, it was named because of its shape – a funnel-like shape similar to one you find at the bottom of a grain hopper on a farm.

Visitor’s Center

You can learn more about the Millhopper inside the Visitor’s Center at the entrance to the park.  Make sure to stop, pick up a brochure about the sink, or ask the park ranger on duty any questions you might have.  Interactive exhibits inside provide more information about how it formed and what has been found at the bottom.

Visitor Center at Devil’s Millhopper | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

The Walk Down

Even though I lived in Gainesville about 30 years ago, I never made it to Devil’s Millhopper.  Now I know what I was missing.  A walk to the bottom takes you away from the noise of the city into a peaceful rainforest-like setting that offers picturesque views of ferns and other vegetation, along with small waterfalls and streams. On the day of our visit, those views included bright turquoise water and turtles sitting on old tree branches that had fallen into the water.  The water level in the sink is dependent on the amount of rainfall.

Sinkhole at Devil’s Millhopper | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Turtle on log at Devil’s Millhopper | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

At one time there were 232 stairs you would have to walk down to get to the sinkhole, but Hurricane Irma in 2017 caused extensive damage and the stairs had to be rebuilt.  Now there are 132 steps and they are relatively easy to manage.  Just remember, going back up is still a little tougher than going down.

Boardwalk leading to the sinkhole | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Hiking the Trail

Besides the stairs down to the sinkhole, there’s a hiking trail that takes you along the rim. Before Hurricane Irma, the trail was a complete loop around the top of the sink, taking you over a bridge that crosses a gully flowing into the sink.  Due to safety concerns, the bridge is currently closed, and your hike will have to be modified.  As you walk the trail, make sure to look all around you.  There are some amazing sites to be seen if you take the time.

Along the trail at Devil’s Millhopper | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Visiting Basics

Devil’s Millhopper is part of the Florida State Parks System and is located off County Road 232 in northwest Gainesville.  Before Hurricane Irma, 60,000 people visited the park per year.  Without the steps down to the sink, that number decreased, but park officials are expecting it to go back up now that the new boardwalk is open.

The park is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 Wednesday through Sunday and is closed Monday and Tuesday.  A $4.00 per vehicle fee is collected at a cash box at the entrance to the parking lot.  Of course, if you have an annual pass to the State Parks, you can write in your pass number on the envelope and the hang tag for your car and forego the charge.

Pack a lunch and a bottle or two of water, take your camera, and wear closed-toe shoes.  It’s definitely a trip worth taking.

Interesting Fact:  Construction on the new boardwalk had to be delayed a year because funds were diverted to parks devastated by Hurricane Michael (2018) in the Panhandle.  Those funds were reallocated for Devil’s Millhopper in 2019 with construction beginning in January and finishing in June.

 

Other Things to Do Nearby

If you are looking for other things to do while in Gainesville, here are a few of our favorites:

Dudley Farm Historic State Park –  Located in Newberry, this farm portrays life on a farm in the mid-to-late 1800s.

UF Bat Houses – Join others along Museum Road on the University of Florida campus for the nightly exodus of  400,000 bats.  The show starts about 15 to 20 minutes after sundown.

Sweetwater Wetlands Park – The park is a man-made habitat located on the north end of Paynes Prairie on Williston Road in Gainesville.  There are more than three and a half miles of easy trails on 125 acres, with amazing views of plants, animals, and more than 215 species of birds.  If you are lucky, you may get a chance to see the wild horses or the bison roaming the prairie.

 

Boca Grande – More Than Just Tarpon Capital of the World

For more than 40 years, the Gulf Coast in Charlotte County has been my vacation go-to spot.  Pristine beaches.  Clear water.  Amazing sunsets.  From my favorite beach on Manasota Key, I can easily travel to other towns offering old Florida charm, whether it’s with comparable views or other amenities.  During my recent vacation, I visited Boca Grande, also known as Tarpon Capital of the World – but it is much more than that.

Boca Grande Beginnings – Phosphate and Fishing

Like many Florida towns, the first inhabitants of Boca Grande were the Calusa Indians, a hunting and fishing tribe, who lived on the island from about 900 A.D. to the mid-1700s, when they all but disappeared due to European diseases, slavery and warfare.

Situated on Gasparilla Island, about 100 miles south of Tampa, Boca Grande Pass is one of the deepest natural inlets in Florida.  Its location between Charlotte Harbor and the Gulf of Mexico contributed to its early beginnings in  phosphate and, to this day, fishing.  Tarpon congregate at the Pass because of the depth, with estimates of as many as 10,000 of the fish in the Pass at a time, weighing anywhere from 50 to 200 pounds.

Besides fishing, the discovery of phosphate turned Boca Grande into a deep-water port.  In the late 1800s, phosphate was found along the banks of the Peace River, which enters Charlotte Harbor about 20 miles away. The mineral was placed on barges and taken to Port Boca Grande, where it was placed on ships for worldwide distribution. A wooden cleat the ships once tied to on the docks is on display at the lighthouse museum.  Remnants of the docks can still be seen offshore.

In an effort to provide a more efficient way of getting the phosphate from the river to the ships, a railroad was built and carried phosphate and supplies from 1907 to 1979. In fact, in 1969, Port Boca Grande ranked as the fourth busiest port in Florida.

The railroad also opened the area for wealthy individuals from the north to visit the island. Over the years, visitors to this piece of paradise have included names like Vanderbilt and DuPont.

The end of the railroad came in 1979 after years of dwindling port traffic.  Phosphate companies had switched to ports in Tampa and Manatee County and the industry in Boca Grande came to an end. Today, along what used to be the original railroad right-of-way is a seven-mile bike path.

Gasparilla Island State Park

At the southern tip of Gasparilla Island is the Gasparilla Island State Park. Getting into the park will cost you $3.00 per car, but it’s a small price to pay for the beauty and peace of the beach.  Pristine waters, a wide swath of white sand, and views of pelicans, manatees and fish jumping provide a true Florida experience.

Sea Oats, protected by law, aid in the prevention of beach erosion

Pelicans at rest

Manatee swimming offshore

Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum

The Port Boca Grande Lighthouse, the centerpiece of the park, is the oldest structure on the island, guiding mariners since 1890. The lighthouse is a one-story structure with a tower protruding from the top of the roof.  A second, nearly identical building sits next to the lighthouse and once served as the living quarters for the assistant keeper. The lighthouse was donated by the Federal Government to Lee County in 1972, then placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. The lighthouse, fully restored in 1985-86, is visible up to 12 miles away when lit.  A museum and gift shop make up the interior of the lighthouse, but make sure to check out the hours before you go as they vary with the seasons.

Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Assistant Keeper’s Living Quarters

Gasparilla Island Lighthouse

Besides the lighthouse at the Park, there is a second lighthouse on the island, the Gasparilla Island Lighthouse. This lighthouse was built in Lewes, Delaware in 1888 and was moved and reconstructed in its present location in 1927.  It was first lit in 1932 and flashed every six seconds during evening hours. Like the Boca Grande Lighthouse, it played a critical role in guiding phosphate ships into port.  After decades of decline, the lighthouse was restored in 2018 and opened for climbs.  The structure is 105 feet tall, with 134 steps up a black metal spiral staircase.  It’s said to offer the best view in town, and when climbs start again in October, you can bet we will be there to make the climb and see for ourselves.

Taken during a visit to the island in 2015, prior to restoration

Post restoration

Other Things to See in Boca Grande

While a visit to the park, the beach and the lighthouses is enough to fill a day, there are other things to see and do while in Boca Grande.  The Gasparilla Inn is a cornerstone of the community. Built in 1912, it provided lodging for wealthy northerners coming to Florida during the time when the state became a travel and vacation destination.  Over the years, guests have included Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, and President George H.W. Bush. The Inn was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places on March 18, 2008. Even if you don’t stay there, you can visit and view the grand splendor of the hotel and its property.

A leisurely drive through town reveals a quaint shopping district.  In what was at one time the railroad depot, there are now a number of shops, offices and The Loose Caboose Restaurant.  Other historic buildings, including churches, also add to the charm of this island.

St. Andrews Episcopal Church

First Baptist Church of Boca Grande

Getting to Boca Grande

There are numerous ways to get to the island, depending on where you begin.  Once you actually get to the entrance to the island, there is a $6.00 charge per car to get onto the island.

While Boca Grande shares some of the same characteristics of other Florida coastal towns, it is quieter, more laid back, and less crowded.  Spend a day or spend a week, Boca Grande is one of those locations that offers a true Florida experience.  Sun, sand, surf, or shops – there’s something for about everyone.

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Mount Dora: Someplace Special

Mount Dora. It’s one of those charming towns in Florida you can’t help but visit time and again.  With an historic downtown, plenty of activities on the lake, and numerous festivals throughout the year, there is something for just about anyone.  Visitors see it as a destination, a place on the map to experience, but for those who live here or even in neighboring communities, Mount Dora is, as the sign says, someplace special.

History of Mount Dora

As is the case for many Florida towns, Mount Dora didn’t start off as Mount Dora.  In fact, its first official name came in 1880, Royellou, after the three children of the postmaster at the time, R.C. Tremain. (His children were Roy, Ella and Louis.)  That name didn’t last long, as three years later the town was renamed Mount Dora, for Dora Ann Drawdy, who along with her husband, were some of the early homesteaders.

Getting to Mount Dora was difficult early on, with travel limited to steamboats or rowboats via the St. Johns River to Mellonville on Lake Monroe, and to complete the trip, travelers had to take a wagon train. After the railroad service began in 1887, travel was easier, and the population grew.

Incorporated in 1921, Mount Dora elected its first mayor, John P. Donnelly, who came to the area in 1879.  He and his wife would eventually own most of what is now downtown Mount Dora as well as most of the waterfront.  However, they also donated land to churches, the fire department and for other community improvements.  Donnelly was also considered the “Father of the Tangerine” for his work developing the local citrus industry.

Mount Dora Today

You won’t be able to see all of Mount Dora without traveling down Donnelly Street, the main road through town.  From the historic buildings, to the quaint little shops, there is plenty to see in whatever direction you choose to take.

Firehouse and Old City Jail – The firehouse was built 1923 on land deeded by J.P. Donnelly and housed the town’s firefighting apparatus. A fire siren on the roof not only sounded when there was a fire, but also every day at noon. An addition was made to the back of the firehouse of five jail cells and a bathroom to accommodate the locals who found themselves in need of “care” during these days of Prohibition.  More cells were added to the front once the new firehouse was built in 1941 and it continued as the jail until 1969.  The building now houses the Mount Dora History Museum and is open from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.

The Train Depot was built in 1915 and initially operated two trains a day, in each direction.  That increased to four trains a day in 1922, including mail, freight and passenger trains.  Service to Mount Dora was discontinued in 1950. The depot is now home to the Chamber of Commerce and offers banquet and special event space.

Donnelly House – Located at 535 N. Donnelly Street, this Victorian charmer was built in 1893 by John P. Donnelly as a gift for his wife Annie. The yellow and white house was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975 for its architectural and historical significance.  It now serves as the Masonic Temple.

Lakeside Inn is one of the most historically significant buildings in Mount Dora as it is one of only five Florida lodges named “A Historic Hotel of America” by the Trust for Historic Preservation and is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  Built between 1882 and 1883 as the Alexander House, Lakeside Inn was only open in the winter and was comprised of two stories with ten rooms.  In the 1920s and 30s, the Inn was the site of most of the social functions of the town, including a visit by President Calvin Coolidge in 1930.  After numerous ownership and name changes, and a multi-million-dollar restoration, Lakeside Inn now houses 87 rooms and is considered a full-service luxury hotel, with great views of Lake Dora.

Mount Dora Lighthouse – A trip to Mount Dora isn’t complete without a visit to the lighthouse on Grantham Point.  Don’t go expecting to climb another Florida lighthouse though.  The red and white striped Mount Dora Lighthouse is only 35-foot tall and is the only inland freshwater lighthouse in the state. It uses a 750-watt photocell to power a blue pulsator to guide boaters into the Port of Mount Dora after dusk.

Shops and Restaurants – Specialty shops and boutiques line the streets of downtown Mount Dora, each one unique.  A bookstore with spines of classic books painted on the awning, a quaint courtyard with little shops lining the walkway, and the list goes on.  You can spend a day just walking in and out of the shops!

According to the Chamber of Commerce, there are 25 restaurants and cafes in Mount Dora, from those requiring reservations to those offering quick respites from the sightseeing.  Our favorite was (and still is) the Frog and Monkey Pub, located in the Renaissance Building. Billed as the only underground pub in Lake County, the bar tender tells us stories about a ghost seen in the kitchen and caught on camera.  A great story, considering names on some of the doors in the pub include “Morgue” and “Autopsy Room.”  Ghosts aside, the other spirits and food were divine.  My favorite, by the way, is the Blue Lemosa.

Events

Mount Dora is often referred to as the Festival City, offering events year-round, including annual events like Freedom on the Waterfront  or the Open-Air Farmer’s Market every Sunday, which was in full-swing during our visits.  Of course, you don’t have to go at a time when there’s a festival to have fun.

See our post of the Mount Dora Arts Festival here.

Getting Around Town

Walking is the best way to get around town and is made easier with an ample amount of free parking available.  For the more adventurous, Segway tours are available.  These one-hour tours take you along the waterfront, around to the lighthouse, through Palm Island Park and then through some of the area’s historic neighborhoods.

Mount Dora is located 45 minutes northwest of downtown Orlando, and is easily accessible from U.S.  441. Whether you are browsing for antiques, shopping in the quaint little stores or taking in some of the historic locations, take your time, take it all in, and plan your next visit, because Mount Dora is truly someplace special.

To see more of our photos from our recent visits to Mount Dora, please watch our slideshow below.

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Britton Hill, Florida’s Highest Point

When you think of a highest point in the United States, what comes to mind? Mt. McKinley in Alaska?  Mt. Mitchell in North Carolina?  What about Britton Hill?  If you’ve never heard of Britton Hill, make sure you put it on your list of places to visit in Florida.  Why?  It just so happens to be the highest point in the Sunshine State.

Britton Hill is located at Lakewood Park just inside the state line that divides Walton County in Florida from Alabama.  It got its name from a former lumber mill baron, William Henry Britton who developed the area in the early 1900s.  The highest point is actually more of a plateau, about 900 feet by 400 feet.  At a staggering 345 feet, this peak offers a beautiful view of the surrounding countryside and also carries the honor of being the lowest high point in the U.S.

A monument marking this dubious distinction sits steps from the parking lot.  To get a glimpse of the monument or take a selfie next to it, you won’t even have to break a sweat.  However, if you do find yourself short-winded, there is a bench by the monument so you can rest a little.

A few Florida comparisons

Just how high is 345 feet?  If you are familiar with Florida “landmarks,” here are a few comparisons to consider:

  • The Majesty Building (aka the I-4 Eye Sore) is 307 feet tall.
  • The Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) at Kennedy Space Center is 525 feet.
  • Chinsegut Hill in Hernando County, just north of Brooksville, is 269 feet.

A few U.S. comparisons

Mt. McKinley in Denali, Alaska is the highest point in the United States at 20,237 feet.  Other “low” high points include:

  • Delaware – Ebright Azimuth at 448 feet
  • Louisiana – Driskell Mountain at 535 feet
  • Mississippi – Woodall Mountain at 806 feet
  • Rhode Island – Jerimoth Hill at 812 feet

While Britton Hill may not seem like a hiker’s dream, it is actually an internationally-known must-do peak.  A group of mountain climbers known as the Highpointers Club, attempt to climb the highest point in each of the lower 48 states.  So far, about 500 of them have achieved that feat – which includes “climbing” Britton Hill.

Other things to do

If the climb to the top doesn’t wear you out, there are hiking trails at the park which offer an easy walk through the small hardwood forest and are all less than a mile in length. Lakewood Park also offers a picnic area and a restroom.

How to get there

Britton Hill is located in the Florida panhandle.  If you’re out driving, take Interstate 10 to Exit 85 – US 331/SR 83 toward DeFuniak Springs.  Follow 331 to County Road 285.  Turn north onto CR 285 and go about three miles.  Britton Hill will be on the left.

Make sure to take your camera and document your climb!

Manatee Viewing Center at Tampa Electric’s Big Bend Power Station

When I think of seasons in Florida, I think of only two:  summer and winter – or beach season and manatee season.  While beach season may extend through more than just the summer, manatee season runs from November to March.  If you’re adventurous enough to brave the colder temperatures, you can experience some amazing sights of these gentle giants.

Big Bend Power Station

In the shadows of the TECO Power Plant in Apollo Beach, manatees can be seen swimming lazily in the discharge canal, a state-designated manatee sanctuary.  When the water in the bay drops to below 68 degrees Fahrenheit, manatees find their way into these warmer waters.  On a recent visit on a cold January day, hundreds of manatees could be seen from the observation deck.  Since the water was very low, their backs could be seen above the surface and looked like stepping stones across the canal.  Occasionally, they would roll or flip their tails or come up for air, but don’t expect a lot of activity from the manatees.  They rest anywhere from two to 12 hours a day.  During that time, they will rise to the surface every seven to 20 minutes to breathe.  When they are awake, those breaths are taken every three to five minutes.

It is estimated that there are more than 6,000 manatees currently in Florida waters, up dramatically from the hundreds recorded when they were considered endangered in 1973. These mammals weigh about 1,200 pounds and average about 10 feet long as adults. As plant-eaters, they consume about 15 percent of their body weight in aquatic vegetation every day.

Signs along the boardwalk provide illustrations of fish and birds you might also see.  While we were there, we were treated to views of tarpon swimming just below the surface of the water, a shark jumping, and an osprey carrying seaweed to its nest nearby.

Rays Touch Tank

In addition to the manatees, visitors also get a close up view of cownose rays and southern Atlantic stingrays. Reach in and touch them or just watch as they glide past, thanks to a partnership with the Florida Aquarium.  A fun fact about these rays is they are actually the mascots for the Tampa Bay Rays baseball team and are here during the team’s off-season.

Other Things to Do

While at the Viewing Center, make sure to stop in the education building for additional information about the manatee and its habitat or stop in at the butterfly gardens. There is also a self-guided nature trail where you can see native plants and coastal water birds.  If you plan to walk the trails, make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes.

Hours of Operation

The Manatee Viewing Center is open every day from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. from November 1 through April 15.  It is closed Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas, and closes early on Christmas Eve. There is no admission fee.

How to Get There

If you are on Interstate 75, take exit 246 west on Big Bend Road and travel about two and a half miles.  When the road makes a sharp curve to the left, the Viewing Center will immediately be on your right.  There is a parking lot next to the center, but if it is full you will be directed to an overflow lot about a mile away.  From there you can walk along a trail or catch a shuttle bus back to the center.

 

 

 

Harry P. Leu Gardens, Orlando

No matter where you live in the state, chances are there are a few places nearby where you can disappear for a few hours and experience natural Florida.  Even in cities like Orlando, parks and gardens provide respite from the hectic pace.  You’ll find one of those locations just a short drive from downtown – Harry P. Leu Gardens.

I’ve driven by the entrance off Virginia Drive and Corrine many times in my 25-plus years in Orlando.  It wasn’t until I stopped for the first time years ago that I discovered this serene sanctuary in the city.

Who Was Harry P. Leu?

Harry P. Leu was born in Orlando in 1884 and went on to build one of the largest supply businesses in Florida.  He purchased the property on Lake Rowena in 1936 and filled it with plants he gathered in his travels around the world, with the camelia being one of his specialties.

The centerpiece of the Gardens is Harry and Mary Jane Leu’s house.  The house was restored to its grandeur and provided a look at turn-of-the-century Florida living.  It was added to the National Register of Historic Places December 29, 1994.  At the time of this post, the Leu House Museum is closed due to damage from Hurricane Irma in 2017.

In 1961, Leu deeded the property to the City of Orlando and the gardens were opened to the public.

Gardens and Exhibits

The Garden House serves as the welcome center to the gardens and is home to the gift shop, exhibit halls and classrooms, and a botanical library.  Once you walk out the doors, you are surrounded by the beauty of individual gardens.  Take a leisurely stroll around the pond in the Tropical Stream Garden or get ideas for your own yard in the Idea Garden. Winding walkways provide an easy trek through 50 acres of camellias, magnolias, ferns, and other botanical beauties.  Stop and smell the roses.  Or take a walk among the towering camphor trees.

Floral Clock

Another feature of the Gardens is the Floral Clock which sits behind the rose garden.  The 50-foot clock was imported from Scotland in 1966 and was donated by the Kiwanis Club of Orlando.

In addition to the gardens, fun exhibits provide guests with interactive experiences.  During our visit, The Ribbit Exhibit II (November 1, 2018 – January 31, 2019) sent us on a hunt for 26 whimsical frogs.  Sculpted out of copper, these frogs could be found meditating in a pond, watering plants, trimming hedges, riding bikes and jamming out on a washboard with the Ribbitsville Band.

Other exhibits have included dinosaurs, fairy doors and Lego sculptures.  Keep an eye on the website for future exhibits.  You don’t want to miss them.

Classes and Workshops

If you want more ideas for your own gardens, try one of the classes or workshops that are offered for folks of all ages.  Whether you want to learn the basics of growing orchids, or how to use lemons in your cooking, there is something for everyone.  Make sure to check out the calendar of events to find the right class for you.

Admission and Location

To get a complete picture of what Leu Gardens has to offer, make plans to see for yourself.  The Gardens are open every day (except Christmas Day) from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The price of admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children 4 – 17, and Leu Gardens members and children three and under get in free.  To get there from downtown Orlando, take I-4 east to Princeton Street and follow the signs to Leu Gardens located at 1920 North Forest Avenue, Orlando.

Enjoy more of our photographs from the Gardens, but be sure to visit and see the beauty for yourself.

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