Floridiana Magazine

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Havana: Florida’s Friendliest Small Town

From its heyday as a major shade tobacco producer to its popularity for antiques and vintage collectable shops, Havana is one of those small Florida towns that exudes southern charm. A walk through the museum, the shops, or a stop in one of the local restaurants provide visitors with personal experiences of why Havana is considered Florida’s Friendliest Small Town.

History of Havana

Like many small Florida towns, railroad expansion provided the catalyst for Havana’s formation. A track was completed for the Georgia, Florida and Alabama Railroad in 1902 from Cuthbert, Georgia to Tallahassee, Florida, and in 1904 the small town of Havana began to take shape. Within two years, families had moved in and businesses were opened, and in 1906, Havana was founded.  The name “Havana,” proposed by local schoolteacher James Mathewson, pays homage to the Cuban tobacco cultivated in the area. It was a crop that would carry this town until the late 1960s.

While Havana was prospering in the tobacco fields, a fire in 1916 destroyed 24 stores and residences in or near the business district. According to an article that appeared in The News Leader, Richmond, VA on Saturday, March 18, 1916, only three buildings were left standing. The town would have to rebuild.

The News Leader, Richmond, VA, March 18, 1916

Shade Tobacco History

Even though Havana was not incorporated until 1906, the history of shade tobacco farming goes back to the 1800s. Early growers discovered that if tobacco plants grew in the shade of a tree, they produced thinner outer leaves and resulted in a more delicate taste. Growers adapted to this discovery and the “shaded” fields evolved from wooden slatting to plastic mesh.

Miles Henry Womack in a field of tobacco being grown under slats – Havana, Florida. 1910 (circa). State Archives of Florida, Florida Memory. Accessed 20 Mar. 2023.<https://www.floridamemory.com/items/show/28703>

Magnus Delacy Peavy and his farm hands in front of a tobacco barn – Havana, Florida. 1910 (circa). State Archives of Florida, Florida Memory. Accessed 20 Mar. 2023.<https://www.floridamemory.com/items/show/30349>

At the peak of its tobacco farming, Havana and the surrounding areas were home to more than 2,000 tobacco barns that housed the tobacco used as the outer wrappers of cigars. Over the years, those barns have fallen prey to neglect and weather, and their numbers are nearly non-existent. If you drive around Gadsden County today, you can see some of them. There’s evidence that the property owners are trying to restore some of them.

Tobacco Barn in Gadsden County | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Tobacco Barn in Gadsden County | Photo taken by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Tobacco Barn in Gadsden County under renovation | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

At one time there were 2,000 to 3,000 people working in the industry in Havana, and the value of the crops grew to $22 million. But unfortunately, that all ended in the late 1960s. One of the main reasons was that growers in South and Central America were able to produce the wrappers at a cheaper cost. New technology also allowed the outer coverings to be produced thinner and at scale.

What to Do in Havana

Shade Tobacco Museum

First and foremost, a stop in the museum is a must. A self-guided tour provides an in-depth glimpse of a once profitable industry and the work that went into successful crops. Read about the process from cultivation to cigar making.  Get a close look at some of the farming implements used, the way tobacco leaves were strung, and the molds used for the cigar making process.

Entrance to Shade Tobacco Museum| Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Boxes used to size tobacco leaves | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Tobacco Wrapper Exhibit, Shade Tobacco Museum | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Tobacco leaves | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

While the museum’s main exhibit centers around tobacco, visitors can learn more about schools, churches, and businesses in the area.

Cigars can be purchased in the Shade Tobacco Museum | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

The museum is open Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Sundays from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Shops and Restaurants

When the tobacco industry folded, Havana went through a rebirth of sorts.  Downtown is now lined with antique shops, furniture, boutiques, arts, and restaurants, and holds numerous events throughout the year to draw patrons into Havana.

The Planter’s Exchange, a hub of activity in Havana | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Shops and restaurants line the streets | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Clock and fountain | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

What to See

Murals

Like other small Florida towns, murals now grace the sides of downtown businesses, portraying the past and offering a look into the future.  Besides building murals, there are also quilt murals – all painted by Florida artists.

Havana Motor Co. Mural | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Train Mural, paying homage to the railroad industry in Gadsden County | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Havana Mural | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Havana State Bank

Work was completed in July 2024 on the old Havana State Bank building (now known as the Slappey Building) to restore it to the way it was in the 1950s.  A state historical grant is assisting with the funding for the renovation efforts. Although some work has already been done, the rebuilding will begin May 2023.   Stop by for a look now, and then make plans to go once it has been restored to its original beauty.

Historic Havana State Bank | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Havana State Bank | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

How to Get To Havana, FL

If you are traveling Interstate 10, you will want to exit onto Highway 27 at mile marker 199. Travel about 12 miles north into the heart of the town.  (It’s also located six miles south of the Georgia state line.) The drive to Havana provides some scenic views of the old Florida countryside. Whether you are visiting the Shade Tobacco Museum, shopping, or dining in one of the quaint little restaurants, you will soon find out why Havana is considered the Friendliest Small Town in Florida.

Please take a look at the slide show for more photos of our trip to Havana.

 

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The Harvey Trucks | May They Rust in Peace

Driving through smaller towns can reap big benefits – whether it’s a quaint Mom and Pop restaurant, a once-majestic old home left to the elements, or a roadside honey stand still operating on the honor system. And then there are those finds that, at first glance, only seem suited as photo opportunities, yet in the end have their own stories to tell.

One such site is known to the locals of Wakulla County as the Harvey Trucks, owned by long-time resident Pat Harvey and his family.  Located on Crawfordville Highway about two miles north of the intersection of 319 and 98, these old relics once served the Harvey family farm well, first as working vehicles, then later as parts for newer ones. When their use was exhausted, Harvey originally planned on hauling them off for scrap metal.  But once he moved the trucks to the side of the road around 1997 and lined them up, he decided he liked the way they looked in that spot. Little did he know at the time that these two dozen cars and trucks would become the roadside attraction they are today.

The vehicles sit in a semi-circle in chronological order, some as old as the early 1900s and others as “new” as the mid 1970s. Mostly Fords and Dodges, a car buff might also see an old REO Speedwagon front and center.

For folks just passing with no knowledge of the history behind these trucks, they may look like part of a junk yard. For Harvey however, they conjure up pleasant memories. In an interview with WFSU, Harvey recounted some of his most vivid ones.

Among them, the first truck he ever rode in – a rusted 1941 Ford pickup. Then there’s a ’59 Ford he took his driver’s test in, as well as a dark green station wagon which was his family’s first car and the one he used for dates. Although the station wagon is rusted out, a tinge of green paint is evident in several places on the exterior, while the interior still sports faded green and tan seats.

There’s also a cattle truck that did more than just transport cattle. It was used for leisure activities. Harvey remembers sitting on a board put up across the back of the truck and riding down the highway, bugs splatting like a motorcycle without a windshield.

Each vehicle has its own story to tell and as the story of their existence has grown, so, too has their popularity. Over the years, the trucks have become a landmark of sorts. They are used as the backdrop for prom and homecoming pictures, not to mention the subject for photographers and artists alike, whether it’s for their rust and neglect, or just their novelty.

Unfortunately, the years have taken their toll on these old relics. Trees have sprouted through the rusted floorboards; vines have grown around and inside them; and vandals have taken care of what Mother Nature could not. Most are missing all of their emblems or pieces of chrome. Windows have been broken. The interiors stripped of gear shifts and odometers. Still, others got their own “paint job.”  Years ago, there was a sign that sat in the front row of the trucks that read “May They Rust in Peace.”  Sadly, even that sign is gone.

At one time, the Harveys thought they would have to clear away the trucks because of a city ordinance passed to keep folks from letting junk cars sit in their yard in public view.  Fortunately, the Harvey Trucks were grandfathered in and can remain indefinitely.

Visiting the Trucks

Heading south on 319 past Crawfordville and before Medart, the trucks can be seen on the right side of the road. There is no sign that says you have arrived, so it’s easy to drive past the first time. A circular drive makes it easy to park and get out, but it’s advisable to wear closed-toe shoes because of broken glass, overgrown trees and shrubs, and who knows what else. Take your camera along and capture your own photos of these old trucks. I’ve been a couple of times and have taken a picture of something new each time.

Enjoy some of my photos in the slideshow below and stay tuned for another post of just my photos.

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“Old Pisgah” | Pisgah United Methodist Church

Next to the home, the church played an integral role in old Florida history, serving as the foundation for faith and fellowship. Getting to church often took several hours, as members had to travel on foot or by horse. For that reason, Sundays at the church were more than just services. They were all day events, complete with lunch on the grounds and time to socialize with others they hadn’t seen in a month.

Many of these old churches still dot the rural landscape. Some of them are abandoned, while others still open their doors every Sunday.

One such church is Pisgah United Methodist Church in northeast Tallahassee, one of the oldest Methodist churches in the area. A winding canopy road that bears the name of the church leads to the church and its cemetery – two pieces of Florida history that have withstood the test of time.

Church sign at the corner of Centerville Road and Pisgah Church Road | photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

Winding road that ends at Pisgah United Methodist Church | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

Pisgah United Methodist Church | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

Fortunately for me, my trip to Old Pisgah included a personal tour of both the church and the cemetery, and provided me with a deeper and more meaningful snapshot of the history. My guides, Robert and Cindy Smith, have been members for 20 years and have a deep affection for the church and the early pioneers who came before them.

Robert and Cindy Smith, Church members and guides | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

The Church and the Centerville Community

In 1825, land, in what would later become the Centerville community, was selling for $1.25 an acre and resulted in an on-rush of planters from the Carolinas and Virginias. Large plantations began to emerge with cotton as the major crop. Along with these settlers came the need for spiritual growth. They named the site they selected for that growth Pisgah, after the Biblical mountain in Jordan.

The exact date of the beginning of Pisgah United Method Church is not known. However, according to the National Register of Historic Places Nomination Form, there is evidence that indicates the congregation first formed in the 1820s, when provisions were made at the South Carolina Conference of the Methodist Church (January 20, 1825) for a circuit preacher to serve in the vicinity of Tallahassee. The Centerville community was included in the district.

One of the most important dates in the church’s history is May 3, 1830, when 34 charter members officially organized as a Methodist Episcopal Church.

The Structures

The existing church is believed to be the third in this location. The first was a brush arbor – an outdoor “structure” built by early settlers using trees and branches to protect themselves from the wind and sun. The second structure was made of logs and was a great improvement to the brush arbor.  It is said to have had a sawed out opening for a door, pews to sit on, floors, windows with shutters, and a roof.

The third church, still in use today, was constructed during the summer and fall of 1858 on seven acres of land deeded to the church for $125. With a construction cost of $5,200, the church was officially dedicated in May 1859.

Pisgah United Methodist Church | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

The church is regal, yet simple. From the moment you walk through the main door, you can’t help but be impressed by the architecture of the time. Every board used was cut on the property. Large pine trees were stripped and placed under the church as part of its foundation.

Four elongated celestial windows adorn the east and west sides of the church and – prior to air conditioning – allowed air to flow in a circular motion, providing worshippers with relief from the heat. The windows also allowed light into the sanctuary. A plain wooden cross hangs behind the raised pulpit.

Additional evidence of the craftsmanship can be seen in the storage spaces in the church’s entry way.

View from the balcony | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

Wooden Cross | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

Original craftsmanship | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

Sitting among the hand-hewn original pews, you can almost hear the voices of the early worshippers singing the hymns of old, with the lights from oil lanterns casting a glow over the sanctuary. The lanterns remain in the church but were upgraded to electric in the 1990s by order of the fire marshal. Overhead hanging lights were added in 1880 and later converted from gas to electricity following World War II.

One of the original lanterns in the church | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

Overhead hanging lights | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

The pews themselves speak of the customs of the time. There is no center aisle to the church. Instead, the center pews are flanked by aisles and additional pews on both sides. By design, a wooden centerpiece runs through the middle of the pews and was used to separate men and women. This practice held until the 1920s when, as stories go, a young lady in the church chose to sit with her boyfriend. The balcony (once used by slaves) is no longer open for worshippers because of safety codes.

The wooden center piece kept men and women from sitting together. | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

Hand-hewn pews are more than 160 years old. | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

The center piece remains, although the practice of separating men and women ended in the 1920s. | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

The balcony is no longer in use due to safety codes. Pews are not original to the church. | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

The Pisgah Cemetery

The sign marking the entrance to the Pisgah Cemetery. | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

A visit to Pisgah United Methodist Church is not complete without a walk through the cemetery. As someone who works on my own family history and has visited many old cemeteries, I often wonder about the stories behind the names. My tour of the Pisgah Cemetery came with that information and more. The Smiths, who were caretakers of the cemetery up until a few years ago, were curious about those who buried here and researched the names. Just like they have done for groups and individuals before me, the Smiths provided a narrative of the cemetery unlike any I have heard.

Cindy Smith points out one of eight Confederate soldiers buried in the cemetery. | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

Under the hot Florida sun, with rain clouds building and birds chirping, Robert and Cindy took turns talking about the graves. As we walked through the cemetery, the Smiths shared stories of some of the individuals. Calling the deceased by their first names, Robert and Cindy explained the relationships among those in the cemetery, shared diary entries of one of the eight Confederate soldiers buried here and pointed out the inscriptions on the tombstones:

Grave marker with inscription | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

Grave marker with inscription | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

The Smith’s untiring work in the cemetery included cleaning the headstones, repairing some when possible, and replacing other stones when only pieces to the originals were found. Their labor of love has meant the stories of those buried here will continue to be told.

Yellow Fever

One interesting feature of the cemetery is it is the final resting place for some of the victims of yellow fever. Pisgah Church had the only cemetery in the area during the epidemic of 1841. When the disease raged across Leon County, it caused hundreds of deaths and the cemetery became the common burial site for about thirty residents of the Centerville community. A small plaque identifies the open field where these individuals are buried.  Ground penetrating radar identified four straight rows with what appear to be graves 39 inches apart. Who they are may never be known, but they will not be forgotten. The graves are now marked with rebar driven into the ground and a silver cap on the end with an inscription that reads:

“Pisgah United Methodist Church. Unknown soul. Sleep with the angels.”

Common burial site of yellow fever victims. The individuals’ names are not known. | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

The plaque that identifies the field where victims of yellow fever are buried. | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

One of more than 70 markers placed throughout the cemetery for individuals who have not been identified. About 30 are in the yellow fever field. | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

There is much more to the history of Pisgah United Methodist Church. Today, the church and its members continue to serve the community through outreach, fall festivals, Easter egg hunts and fish fries. Sunday dinners, once held inside with plywood laid across the pews, have been moved outside and are common events. At various times throughout the year, church members place wreaths and flags on the graves of veterans.

Additional Facts

  • Old Pisgah was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1974.  It is also on the National Register of Methodist Structures and Florida Historical Markers.
  • Families who have been instrumental to the church since its inception include Roberts, Bradford, Gramling, Bradley, Felkel, Switzer, and Baum to name a few.
  • A “hitching post” used by early members who rode up on horses still stands in the brush to the side of the church.
  • The oldest grave in the cemetery is for J.D. Hodges who died in March 1817.
  • A culvert that runs between the cemetery and the Moore Memorial Garden once served as Centerville Road.
  • The church has a seating capacity of 400.
  • One of the former pastors of Pisgah was William C. Collins, grandfather of LeRoy Collins, the 33rd governor of Florida.  Governor Collins’ father, Marvin, was born in the parsonage on Pisgah property in 1877.

From its humble beginnings to present day, one thing has remained constant at Old Pisgah: family.  And for that family, Pisgah is home.

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Falling Waters State Park | Home of Florida’s Tallest Waterfall

A visit to any of Florida’s 175 state parks is a good day in and of itself. Whether it’s Blue Spring State Park in Orange City to view the manatees, or the Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park in Cross Creek to see where the famed author spent her time writing, our state parks offer a variety of experiences.

Did you know there is a Florida State Park that boasts the state’s tallest waterfall? Falling Waters State Park can make that claim and is definitely one park to put on your to-do list.

Falling Waters State Park

THE PARK

Falling Waters State Park is located just south of Chipley in the Florida Panhandle and is comprised of 173 acres and offers a glimpse of what Florida looked like when Spanish explorers first arrived about 500 years ago. Park literature says the land shows evidence of habitation as early as 5,000 years ago and that Native Americans were still living in the area during the British occupation of Florida in 1778. Fast forward more than 240 years and even more is known about the area. In some places, the trail system actually crosses over an “underlying cave system where trained divers using specialized equipment have mapped more than 400 feet of passage beneath the park. These caves and sinkholes play a crucial role in recharging underground supplies of Florida’s drinking water.”

THE WATERFALL

Let’s be honest, when you think of waterfalls, you probably think of the mountains in North Carolina or Georgia, but Florida has its fair share of them as well. They just aren’t as tall and although the highest in Florida is just under 75 feet, it is impressive.

A wooden stairway leads down into the mouth of a 100-foot-deep sinkhole. It’s the closest point to observe the waterfall as the water cascades from a creek into the bottom of the sink then disappears into a cave. On the day of our visit, the sign at the park entrance said the waterfall flow was moderate. Standing close to it, it felt more powerful than that. You could hear the roar and feel the strength of the water as it crashed over the edge.

Fortunately, recent rains had created a stronger flow, which in turn provided a better viewing experience. Summer thunderstorms could result in a raging torrent, or a drought could slow the water to a trickle. Two other observation decks provide picturesque views of the waterfall – with the upper overlook offering the best look at the entire waterfall system. Photos aren’t bad from this location either.

Getting to the waterfall was not as difficult as I expected. A concrete walkway and wooden boardwalks made the hike easier. Steps leading down to them could be tricky if they were wet, but handrails make the descent safer.

OTHER THINGS TO SEE AND DO

Although the waterfall is the centerpiece of the park, there is more to see and do. From the lake to the trails to the camping areas, there is something for everyone.

Turtle Lake

Turtle Lake was created to provide a consistent water supply to the waterfall. The overflow from the two-acre lake actually leads to one of the original creeks that feed the waterfall.

Swimming is also a favorite pastime at the lake. Whether you want to sunbathe on the white sandy beach or take a dip in the water to cool off on a hot Florida day, the lake is one of the draws to the park. And there are good fishing spots, too. You just need to have a state freshwater fishing license.

Hiking Trails and History

Three hiking trails provide ample opportunities to see the lush landscape and or any of the twelve sinkholes within the park. Whether it’s the upland pine forest, a hardwood hammock, or the ferns growing along the trail, there is plenty of natural beauty to behold.

The trails also provide a walking history of the park. During the Civil War, the waterfall powered a grist mill for making corn within the park’s boundaries. A legal whiskey distillery was also operated near the falls in the late 1800s and the spirits were sold at a site that would later become Chipley. Farther along the trail, the remnants of an oil well can be seen. The first oil well was drilled in 1919 but was capped off two years later when it failed to produce commercial quantities of oil.

ADDITIONAL SITES TO SEE

If visiting the waterfall, hiking or swimming isn’t enough, you can also get a glimpse of butterflies in the butterfly garden, let your children play on the playground, or spend a weekend camping at one of the sites. Besides boasting the tallest waterfall, Falling Waters State Park can also claim the highest elevated campground in Florida. Pine Ridge Campground has 24 campsites equipped with water, electricity, picnic tables and ground grills.

How to Get There

If you are on Interstate 10 in the panhandle, exit south on State Road 77 (exit 120). Follow SR 77 about a mile to State Park Road, then go east and follow the signs to the park entrance.

The park is open 8:00 a.m. until sunset 365 days a year, unless there are extenuating circumstances. An entrance fee is also required. At the time of this post, that fee was $5.00 per car.

Watch the slideshow below for more photographs of Falling Waters State Park.

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Eight Ways to Experience Florida from the Comfort of Your Home

Let’s face it.  We are living in an unprecedented time.  The state of Florida is under a stay at home order, parks are closed, museums are closed, and attractions are closed.  While we can’t get out and enjoy them in person, we can still visit – virtually.

Grab your computer, your phone or your tablet, and experience Florida from the comfort of your home.

Archbold Biological Station

Located in Venus (yes, that’s in Florida), Archbold Biological Station is a research institute that focuses on the environment of the Lake Wales Ridge and parts of Central Florida. Formed in 1941, it encompasses a large area of Florida scrubland.  Normally, the Station is open for visitors, providing a glimpse into its work, from conservation to science to nature and living green, through displays and hiking trails. Guided tours are also available, but at a cost.

For now, those opportunities are not available, so Archbold has created a Discovery Classroom Virtual Field Trip.  This is a free weekly 25-minute virtual field trip and will focus on the following topics:

  • April 7: Lake Wales Ridge
  • April 14: Hicoria: A Brief History of a Florida Ghost Town
  • April 21: Fire
  • April 28: Wildflowers

How to participate, register for the classes through Archbold’s website.

Bok Tower

Also located in Central Florida, Bok Tower sits atop Iron Mountain in Lake Wales. Founded by Edward W. Bok, the gardens opened to the public in 1929 and now feature nearly 50 acres of palms, ferns, oaks and other trees. The centerpiece of the gardens is the 205-foot Bok Tower.  Known as the Singing Tower, it houses one of the finest carillons anywhere in the world.  With 60 bells, the tower would normally ring out with concerts every day.

Bok Tower | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Even though the gardens are closed, Bok Tower is offering regular live concerts from the Tower, as well as virtual walks along the pathways and fun activities like “Name that Tune.”

How to join: Follow Bok Tower Gardens on Facebook and take advantage of all of their activities.

Castillo de San Marcos

One of the state’s top tourist destinations, Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States.  Made of coquina, the fort was built more than 315 years ago to protect and defend Spain’s claims in the New World.  While walking through the fort is an unforgettable experience, you can still take a tour from home.

How to join:  Click here for the Castillo de San Marcos Virtual Tour, presented by University of South Florida Libraries and the National Park Service.

Central Florida Zoo

The zoo may be closed, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get up close and personal with the animals who live there. The Zoo to You is a daily live event featuring a different animal and fun activities for kids. Some of the featured animals so far include porcupines Pancake and Pluto, and giraffes Gage and Rafiki.    Follow along on Facebook every day at 2:00 p.m.  Tune in for Double Feature Friday which presents two live events at noon and 2:00 p.m. If you miss any of the episodes, just scroll through their timeline and watch them all.  You may just make a few new friends!

How to join:  Follow Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens on Facebook.

Central Florida Zoo | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Gatorland

Gatorland is one of those original Florida theme parks, opening more than 70 years ago.  Its iconic gator mouth welcomes visitors into its 110 acres of alligators, crocodiles, petting zoo, aviary and observation tower.   The park may be closed, but the gators and other wildlife have to be fed.  So, while a limited crew is on site, they are providing daily activities through School of Croc every day at 10:00 a.m. (live on Facebook) and at 5:00 p.m. on their YouTube Channel.  Gatorland plans to provide these live feeds until the park is able to reopen.

How to join:  Follow Gatorland Orlando on Facebook or watch Live at Five on Gatorland’s YouTube channel.

Kennedy Space Center

Situated on Florida’s east coast and just a short drive from Orlando, the Kennedy Space Center offers a glimpse into the past, all while creating a sense of excitement over the future of the space program.  During regular times, visitors can walk among the Rocket Garden, visit the Astronaut Hall of Fame, take a bus tour of NASA property, and stand in awe of the Space Shuttle Atlantis.

Although the Visitor Complex is temporarily closed, KSC is providing daily educational presentations on topics like moon rocks, living and working in space, and building a rocket out of a paper towel roll. In addition to the videos provided on Facebook, there are also virtual learning resources available.

KSC goes live at 9:30 a.m. for younger children and 1:00 p.m. for others.  If you miss any live streams, scroll through their Facebook feed and watch them.  You can also click on the videos tab on their Facebook page to watch additional videos.

How to join:  Follow Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex on Facebook.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Mount Dora

Mount Dora is 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.  Mount Dora is, as the sign says, someplace special.

While a lot of the activities have been canceled or postponed in Mount Dora, you can still get your daily dose of this quaint little town through a live feed of downtown.  The Lakeside Inn has also been hosting live concerts through their Facebook page.

How to join:  Click on this link to the live feed and Lakeside Inn, Mount Dora on Facebook.

Mount Dora | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Ponce Inlet Lighthouse

Majestically reaching 175 feet into the sky, the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse is the tallest lighthouse in the state, and second tallest masonry lighthouse in the United States, behind the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse in the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

Unfortunately, you can’t climb the 203 steps to the top right now, but you can participate in the Ponce Inlet Virtual Tour.

Ponce Inlet Lighthouse | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

These are just a few of the Florida places we have found offering virtual tours or live daily updates on social media.  If you are looking for something specific, try looking them up on Facebook to see if they are offering any virtual tours.  We have discovered more of our favorites are adding live events to keep in touch.  If you see something, please leave a comment along with a link and we will make sure to highlight it on our Facebook page.

Don’t forget we have a checklist of Florida places to visit.  Print it out and start making plans on where you want to go once this passes.  We even left some blanks for you to fill in your own.

Florida Travels_Checklist

Stay safe.  Stay at home.