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24 Florida Ways to Celebrate Mother’s Day

On Sunday, May 14, moms around the country will be treated to flowers, candy, and other gifts for Mother’s Day.  While those are splendid choices and are greatly appreciated, we have put together a list of some of our favorite places to celebrate a memorable day.  Whether it’s a park, a botanical garden, an “old Florida” attraction, a bite to eat, or a refreshing beverage, any one of these Florida-style treats will surely put a smile on your mom’s face.

***Click on each of the locations to learn more.

Florida Parks for Mother’s Day

Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park – Located about 19 miles southeast of Gainesville, this park celebrates the Pulitzer prize-winning author of The Yearling. Take your mom on a tour of Rawlings’ homestead and learn about her life in Cross Creek.

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Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Home in Cross Creek | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Dudley Farm Historic State Park, Newberry – Dudley Farm is a living history farm from the late 1800s that comes alive with activity on certain days of the year.  There are no special events scheduled for Mother’s Day, but you can still take your mom on a self-guided tour.

Dudley Farm | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Ft. Christmas Historical Park, Christmas – This historical park in east Orange County features a full-size replica of Fort Christmas as well as a living history settlement. Fort Christmas provides a look back at the role the community played during the Second Seminole War.

Homeland Heritage Park, Polk County – Located just outside of Bartow, this is the only historical park in Polk County. The five-acre park is home to original buildings from the late 1800s and early 1900s, all donated and moved to this location. Walk around the grounds, take a look at the Homeland School, the Homeland Methodist Church, or the old pole barn.  This is perfect for a leisurely afternoon with mom.

Blue Spring State Park, Orange City – Although one of the best times to visit Blue Spring State Park is during manatee season, this park is the largest spring on the St. John’s River and encompasses more than 2,600 acres. Walk along the river, take a boat tour, or visit the Thursby House. This is a great place for those nature-loving moms.

De Leon Springs State Park, Volusia County – Does your mom like canoeing?  Hiking?  Swimming in the springs?  How about pancakes?  That’s right.  You can find all of the above at DeLeon Springs State Park. The Sugar Mill Restaurant at the park is a favorite among guests and will probably be a big hit on Mother’s Day.  Each table has a griddle and you pour and flip your own pancakes from pitchers of pancake batter delivered the table.  If you plan on eating at the restaurant, expect a wait. Not to worry, there are plenty of other things to do until your table is ready.

Silver Springs State Park, Ocala – Although it is considered to be Florida’s first attraction, Silver Springs has evolved with time. However, one thing that has stayed the same is the glass-bottom boat ride.  This 30-minute excursion will be a relaxing way for mom to spend some time. After the boat ride, a boardwalk and other trails provide opportunities to walk through the park.

Fort Desoto Park, Pinellas County – Whether you visit the fort or the beach, this is a popular spot for moms (and the whole family)! Get a close up look at the mortars, learn about the historical significance during the Civil War, or take along a blanket and umbrella and lounge at the beach.

The beach at Fort Desoto Park | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Wakulla Springs State Park – Wakulla Springs State Park incorporates 6,000 acres includes a lodge, one of the largest springs in the world, a nature trail, and a river tour that offers an up-close look at the wildlife along the Wakulla River. A restaurant in the lodge offers a great setting for a Mother’s Day lunch.

Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens, Port Orange – Dunlawton is a 12-acre mix of gardens and Florida history.  Take mom through the gardens to see the old sugar mill or sculptures from Bongoland, a tourist attraction from the 1940s and 50s that featured animals, an Indian village, and a series of dinosaurs created out of chicken wire and concrete.

Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Harry P. Leu Gardens, Orlando – Although this is a great place to visit any time, Leu Gardens is offering free admission for moms on Mother’s Day.  Take a leisurely stroll along the winding walkways through 50 acres of camellias, magnolias, ferns, and other botanical beauties. Picnics and blankets are not allowed in the park, and be sure to leave your pets at home.

Leu Gardens | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Old Florida Attractions for Mother’s Day

The Citrus Tower, Clermont – Built in 1956 on one of the highest hills along the ridge, the Florida Citrus Tower has recently had some upgrades and added a new coffee shop to the lobby.  Ride the elevator to the top and treat mom to the greatest view in the area.

Florida Citrus Tower | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Presidents Hall of Fame, Clermont – In the shadows of the Citrus Tower, this oldie but goodie gives a comprehensive look at all of the U.S. presidents, from George Washington to Donald Trump.  In addition to the wax figures, there’s an impressive replica of the White House, as well as other artifacts and presidential memorabilia.  Test mom’s presidential knowledge!

Solomon’s Castle, Ona – Because all moms should visit a castle on Mother’s Day!  Solomon’s Castle is a shining three-story structure in the middle of a swamp. The late Howard Solomon was the creative genius behind this castle who used aluminum printing plates from the local newspaper for the exterior of the castle and filled the inside with his artwork, all made from recycled materials.

Solomon’s Castle | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Boyett’s Grove and Citrus Attraction, Brooksville – Boyett’s Grove and Citrus Attraction not only offers delicious citrus fruit, but also a nostalgic look at Florida oddities, along with a walk on the wild side. This Mother’s Day adventure is sure to fill mom’s day with an experience she won’t soon forget!

Trapper Nelson’s Zoo and Jungle Gardens, Jonathan Dickinson State Park, Hobe Sound – Did you know Florida had its own Tarzan?  Learn about Trapper Nelson and his zoo on this island accessible only by boat.  Treat your mom to a relaxing tour boat ride to the site where you will see remnants of Trapper Nelson’s eccentric lifestyle.

Audubon Center for Birds of Prey, Maitland – The Audubon Center for Birds of Prey has been treating, rehabilitating, and releasing raptors since 1979. However, the Center also provides an educational, yet closeup view and stories of birds that are now permanent residents.

Restaurants, Wineries and Distilleries to Take Your Mom for Mother’s Day

Cherry Pocket, Lake Wales – Situated on the banks of Lake Pierce, Cherry Pocket is laid back and unpretentious. The restaurant bills itself as a “steak, seafood shak and oyster bar.”  From the appetizers to the entrees, the food is made from fresh ingredients and is cooked to order. The desserts are all homemade.

Kappy’s Subs, Maitland – Living in Central Florida, this is one of our favorite casual places to eat.  Place your order at the walk-up window, then sit in your car in the limited covered parking outside or have a seat at one of the picnic tables for that true outdoor Florida feel.  If your mom would rather sit inside out of the heat, there is a counter inside with limited seating.

Angel’s Dining Car, Palatka – Billed as the state’s oldest diner, Angel’s Dining Car is actually an old train dining car converted into a restaurant. Like other restaurants, Angel’s has its specialties.  Their onion rings are a must-have.  Treat mom to a Black Bottom – scrambled eggs, bacon and ground beef on a bun or a Pusalow – a chocolate frosty drink that tastes a lot like a Yoo-hoo.

Angel’s Diner | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Andy’s Drive-In, Winter Haven – Andy’s has been serving up meals for nearly 70 years and is a favorite gathering place for locals. From the iconic sign in the parking lot to the retro interior, Andy’s serves up a comfortable, home-like atmosphere. On the menu: burgers, seafood, steaks and ice cream.  Of course, don’t forget to top off your meal with one of their delicious award-winning milkshakes.

Goodrich Seafood and Oyster House, Oak Hill – Treat mom to some great seafood and relaxing views at Goodrich Seafood and Oyster House on the Mosquito Lagoon.  Whether it’s a smoked fish dip, cup of chowder or golden fried oysters on a toasted hoagie roll, the food is delicious and the service is outstanding.

Lakeridge Winery, Clermont – If mom likes jazz, Lakeridge Winery is the place to be on Mother’s Day.  Lakeridge offers its Weekends at the Winery, so get mom a glass of wine and let her sit and sip and enjoy the music on the outdoor stage.

Lakeridge Winery, make it a Mother’s Day tradition | Photo by Doris Keeler

Richloam General Store – We can’t forget one of our favorite places to visit off the beaten path near Webster. This little store has been restored to the way it was more than 80 years ago and sells items from the time period. Do you still want to get mom a gift?  She is sure to find something in here she likes.

Richloam General Store | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Florida is home to a lot of great places to take your mom, whether it’s on Mother’s Day or any day of the year. Whatever you choose to do, make it memorable.  Happy Mother’s Day!

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.

Solomon’s Castle

If you could imagine a castle anywhere in Florida, where would it be?  Palm Beach County?  Miami Beach?  How about Ona?

Yes, ONA!  A small community between Arcadia and Wauchula.  Still not sure where that is?  This is one place you may have to find using an atlas or the map app on your smart phone.

Solomon’s Castle is a shining three-story structure in the middle of a swamp.  Even though I grew up in Hardee County, I did not actually tour the castle for the first time until a couple of years ago.  At that time, Howard Solomon – the creative genius behind this castle – could be seen around the property – offering up commentary and stories to his guests.

I knew when I planned my most recent visit there had been a big change.  The king of the castle had recently passed away.

Solomon bought the property for the castle in 1972 and began building.  One of the first things to notice is the exterior – covered with aluminum printing plates from the local newspaper.  There are also 90 stained glass windows, including some dedicated to the arts, fairy tales, and even planets.

Inside the castle there’s a gallery of his artwork, made from recycled materials.  From gears and chains, to lawn mower parts and wire hangers, Solomon had a knack for taking mundane objects and turning them into masterpieces.  And he did it all without drawing any of it out on paper.

Carousel made with old turntables

Solomon’s art is also a testament to his sense of humor.  The tour guides readily say the castle is the “Pun Palace.”  Nearly all of the sculptures come with their own play on words.

The Lion’s Club – a lion sculpture with a baseball bat. (By the way, the lion weighs 190 pounds and took 45 days to make.)

The Florida Cadillac – an orange hauler which represents all the Cadillacs bought with oranges.

And Busting Out – the equal rights lady.

Like the Lion, many of his pieces were made out of oil drums.  The story is when Solomon said he was going to create an oil drum sculpture, people just showed up with the drums.

Today’s visit also included a tour of Solomon’s personal car collection, which he started in 2007.  Two large showrooms house the cars, along with other pieces of his art.  Snoopy gets to fly in the Red Baron’s plane, a hot-air balloon hovers overhead, and the wooden frame of a zeppelin hangs from the ceiling.  Also on display, Solomon’s last completed project – which you will have to go see for yourself, although here is a hint as to what it is.

Part of Solomon’s personal car collection

Snoopy

Hot air balloon

Zeppelin

A sneak peek at Howard Solomon’s last completed project

No visit to Solomon’s Castle would be complete without stopping at the Boat in the Moat for a bite to eat or a cool beverage.

 

Solomon’s Castle is definitely on the list of places to see in Florida.  It is what you would expect it to be:  fun, quirky and yes, a little corny.  But as even the youngest of visitors said during the tour, “Oh, I get it!”

And so will you!

NOTE:  A special thanks Howard Solomon’s daughter, Alane, for the hospitality.