{"id":316,"date":"2012-06-30T18:06:15","date_gmt":"2012-06-30T18:06:15","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.websitefix.net\/clients\/Generic\/?page_id=316"},"modified":"2022-04-22T15:55:46","modified_gmt":"2022-04-22T15:55:46","slug":"parks-nature","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/SouthFlorida3\/KeyesScripps\/?page_id=316","title":{"rendered":"Parks & Nature"},"content":{"rendered":"

SPORTS & RECREATION \/ PARKS AND NATURE<\/strong><\/p>\n

Some of the finest and most pristine of the Florida State Parks as well as national parks and preserves are located in South Florida. Miles of beaches, sparkling lakes, rolling rivers, magnificent forests, and vast wetlands are protected and meticulously maintained by parks and recreation organizations on every level. Many of these habitats are home to rare and endangered species, adding to their importance as environmentally significant natural areas. Throughout South Florida, individual communities have developed a wide variety of recreational facilities and programs that meet the need for outdoor relaxation and adventure just beyond the front door.<\/p>\n

National Parkland<\/p>\n

Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge<\/strong>
\nBoynton Beach 561-734-8303
\nwww.fws.gov\/loxahatchee<\/a><\/p>\n

Big Cypress National Preserve<\/strong>
\nOasis Visitor Center
\nOchopee 239-695-1201
\nwww.nps.gov\/bicy<\/a><\/p>\n

Biscayne National Underwater Park<\/strong>
\nHomestead 305-230-1144
\nwww.nps.gov\/bisc<\/a><\/p>\n

Caloosahatchee National Wildlife Refuge<\/strong>
\nSanibel Office 239-472-1100
\nwww.fws.gov\/dingdarling\/caloosahatchee<\/a><\/p>\n

Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge<\/strong>
\nKey Largo 305-872-2239
\nwww.fws.gov\/refuge\/Crocodile_Lake<\/a><\/p>\n

Dry Tortugas National Park<\/strong>
\nKey West 305-242-7700
\nwww.nps.gov\/drto<\/a><\/p>\n

Everglades National Park<\/strong>
\nHomestead 305-242-7700
\nwww.nps.gov\/ever<\/a><\/p>\n

Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge<\/strong>
\nNaples 239-353-8001
\nwww.fws.gov\/floridapanther<\/a><\/p>\n

Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge<\/strong>
\nBig Pine Key 305-872-0774
\nwww.fws.gov\/refuge\/great_white_heron<\/a><\/p>\n

Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge & Nature Center<\/strong>
\nJupiter Island 772-546-6141
\nwww.fws.gov\/hobesound<\/a><\/p>\n

Island Bay National Wildlife Refuge<\/strong>
\nCape Haze
\nCharlotte Harbor 239-472-1100
\nwww.fws.gov\/dingdarling\/islandbay<\/a><\/p>\n

J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge<\/strong>
\nSanibel Island 239-472 1100
\nwww.fws.gov\/dingdarling<\/a><\/p>\n

Key West National Wildlife Refuge<\/strong>
\nBig Pine Key 305-872-0774
\nwww.fws.gov\/refuge\/key_west<\/a><\/p>\n

Matlacha Pass National Wildlife Refuge<\/strong>
\nMatlacha Pass Estuary
\nFort Myers 239-472-1100
\nwww.fws.gov\/dingdarling\/matlachapass<\/a><\/p>\n

National Key Deer Refuge<\/strong>
\nBig Pine Key 305-872-2239
\nwww.fws.gov\/nationalkeydeer<\/a><\/p>\n

Pine Island National Wildlife Refuge<\/strong>
\nPine Island Sound
\nSanibel 941-472-1100
\nwww.fws.gov\/dingdarling\/pineisland<\/a><\/p>\n

Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge<\/strong>
\nNaples 239-657-8001
\nwww.fws.gov\/refuge\/ten_thousand_islands<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Florida State Parkland<\/p>\n

Florida State Parks<\/strong>
\nInformation Center 850-245-2157
\nwww.floridastateparks.org<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Southeast Florida Parks<\/p>\n

Atlantic Ridge State Park<\/strong>
\nStuart 772-546-2771
\nwww.sfwmd.gov\/recreation-site\/halpatiokee-regional-park-and-atlantic-ridge-preserve-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Avalon State Park<\/strong>
\nFt. Pierce Inlet State Park
\nFt. Pierce 772-468-4007
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/avalon-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Bahia Honda State Park<\/strong>
\nBig Pine Key 305-872-2353
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/bahia-honda-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

The Barnacle Historic State Park<\/strong>
\nCoconut Grove 305-442-6866
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/barnacle-historic-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park<\/strong>
\nKey Biscayne 305-361-5811
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/bill-baggs-cape-florida-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Curry Hammock State Park<\/strong>
\nMarathon 305-289-2690
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/curry-hammock-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park<\/strong>
\nKey Largo 305-451-1202
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/dagny-johnson-key-largo-hammock-botanical-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park<\/strong>
\nDania 954-923-2833
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/dr-von-d-mizell-eula-johnson-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Fort Pierce Inlet State Park<\/strong>
\nFort Pierce 772-468-3985
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/fort-pierce-inlet-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park<\/strong>
\nKey West 305-292-6713
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/fort-zachary-taylor-historic-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park<\/strong>
\nFort Lauderdale 954-564-4521
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/hugh-taylor-birch-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Indian Key Historic State Park<\/strong>
\nIslamorada 305-664-2540
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/indian-key-historic-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

John D. MacArthur Beach State Park<\/strong>
\nNorth Palm Beach 561-624-6950
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/john-d-macarthur-beach-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park<\/strong>
\nKey Largo 305-451-1202
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/john-pennekamp-coral-reef-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Jonathan Dickinson State Park<\/strong>
\nHobe Sound 772-546-2771
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/jonathan-dickinson-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park<\/strong>
\nIslamorada 305-664-2540
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/lignumvitae-key-botanical-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Long Key State Park<\/strong>
\nLong Key 305-664-4815
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/long-key-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Oleta River State Park<\/strong>
\nNorth Miami 305-919-1844
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/oleta-river-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve State Park<\/strong>
\nIslamorada 305-664-2540
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/san-pedro-underwater-archaeological-preserve-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Savannas Preserve State Park<\/strong>
\nJensen Beach 772-398-2779
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/savannas-preserve-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park<\/strong>
\nStuart 772-219-1880
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/st-lucie-inlet-preserve-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park<\/strong>
\nIslamorada 305-664-2540
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/windley-key-fossil-reef-geological-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Southwest Florida Parks<\/p>\n

Cayo Costa State Park<\/strong>
\nBoca Grande 941-964-0375
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/cayo-costa-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park<\/strong>
\nPunta Gorda 941-575-5816
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/charlotte-harbor-preserve-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Collier-Seminole State Park<\/strong>
\nNaples 239-394-3397
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/collier-seminole-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park<\/strong>
\nNaples 239-597-6196
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/delnor-wiggins-pass-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Don Pedro Island State Park<\/strong>
\nBoca Grande 941-964-0375
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/don-pedro-island-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Estero Bay Preserve State Park<\/strong>
\nEstero 239-992-0311
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/index.php\/parks-and-trails\/estero-bay-preserve-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park<\/strong>
\nCopeland 239-695-4593
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/fakahatchee-strand-preserve-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Gasparilla Island State Park<\/strong>
\nBoca Grande 941-964-0375
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/gasparilla-island-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Koreshan State Historic Site<\/strong>
\nEstero 239-992-0311
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/koreshan-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Lake Manatee State Park<\/strong>
\nBradenton 941-741-3028
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/lake-manatee-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Lovers Key State Park<\/strong>
\nFt. Myers Beach 239-463-4588
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/lovers-key-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Mound Key Archaeological State Park<\/strong>
\nEstero 239-992-0311
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/mound-key-archaeological-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Oscar Scherer State Park<\/strong>
\nOsprey 941-483-5956
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/oscar-scherer-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

Stump Pass Beach State Park<\/strong>
\nBoca Grande 941-964-0375
\nwww.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/stump-pass-beach-state-park<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Regional Highlights<\/p>\n

Caloosahatchee Regional Park<\/strong>
\n19130 North River Road
\nAlva 239-694-0398
\nwww.leegov.com\/parks\/parks\/facility?fid=0253<\/a><\/p>\n

C.B. Smith Park<\/strong>
\n900 North Flamingo Road
\nPembroke Pines 954-357-5170
\nhttps:\/\/www.broward.org\/Parks\/Pages\/park.aspx?park=5<\/a><\/p>\n

Bill Sadowski Park & Nature Center <\/strong>
\n17555 SW 79th Avenue
\nMiami 305-255-4767
\nhttps:\/\/www.miamidade.gov\/global\/recreation\/home.page<\/a><\/p>\n

Crandon Park Beach, Marina & Nature Center<\/strong>
\n6767 Crandon Boulevard
\nKey Biscayne 305-361-6767
\nwww.miamidade.gov\/parks\/crandon-beach.asp<\/a><\/p>\n

Deerfield Island Park<\/strong>
\n701 Northeast 41st Street
\nDeerfield Beach 954-357-8109
\nwww.broward.org\/parks<\/a><\/p>\n

Deering Estate & Environmental Education Center<\/strong>
\n16701 Southwest 72nd Avenue
\nMiami 305-235-1668
\nwww.deeringestate.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Fruit & Spice Park<\/strong>
\n24801 Southwest 187th Avenue
\nHomestead 305-247-5727
\nhttp:\/\/redlandfruitandspice.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Greynolds Park<\/strong>
\n17530 West Dixie Highway
\nNorth Miami Beach 305-945-3425
\nwww.miamidade.gov\/parks\/greynolds.asp<\/a><\/p>\n

Hickey’s Creek Mitigation Park<\/strong>
\n17980 Palm Beach Boulevard
\nAlva 239-694-0398
\nhttps:\/\/www.leegov.com\/parks<\/a><\/p>\n

Lakes Regional Park<\/strong>
\n7330 Gladiolus Drive
\nFort Meyers 239-533-7578
\nhttps:\/\/www.leegov.com\/parks<\/a><\/p>\n

Larry & Penny Thompson Park<\/strong>
\n12451 Southwest 184 Street
\nMiami 305-232-1049
\nwww.miamidade.gov\/parks\/larry-penny.asp<\/a><\/p>\n

Manatee Park<\/strong>
\n10901 State Road 80
\nFort Myers 239-690-5030
\nhttps:\/\/www.leegov.com\/parks<\/a><\/p>\n

Markham Park<\/strong>
\n16001 West State Road 84
\nSunrise 954-357-8868
\nwww.broward.org\/parks<\/a><\/p>\n

Matanzas Pass Preserve<\/strong>
\n119 Bay Road
\nFort Myers Beach 239-229-1610
\nhttps:\/\/www.leegov.com\/parks<\/a><\/p>\n

North Collier Regional Park<\/strong>
\n15000 Livingston Road
\nNaples 239-254-4000
\nwww.colliergov.net\/parks<\/a><\/p>\n

Red Reef Park<\/strong>
\n1400 North Ocean Boulevard
\nBoca Raton 561-393-7974<\/p>\n

Sugar Sand Park<\/strong>
\n300 South Military Trail
\nBoca Raton 561-347-3900
\nwww.sugarsandpark.org<\/a><\/p>\n

Sugden Regional Park<\/strong>
\n4284 Avalon Drive
\nNaples 239-252-4000
\nwww.colliergov.net\/parks<\/a><\/p>\n

Tropical Park<\/strong>
\n7900 Southwest 40th Street
\nMiami 305-553-3161
\nwww.miamidade.gov\/parks\/tropical.asp<\/a><\/p>\n

T.Y. (Topeekeegee Yugnee) Park<\/strong>
\n3300 North Park Road
\nHollywood 954-357-8811
\nwww.broward.org\/parks<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Gardens & Nature Centers<\/p>\n

American Orchid Society International Center<\/strong>
\n10901 Old Cutler Road
\nDelray Beach 305-740-2010
\nwww.aos.org<\/a><\/p>\n

Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens<\/strong>
\n253 Barcelona Road
\nWest Palm Beach 561-832-5328
\nwww.ansg.org<\/a><\/p>\n

Anne Kolb Nature Center<\/strong>
\nWest Lake Park
\n751 Sheridan Street
\nHollywood 954-357-5161
\nwww.broward.org\/parks<\/a><\/p>\n

Biscayne Nature Center<\/strong>
\n6767 Crandon Boulevard
\nKey Biscayne 305-361-6767
\nwww.biscaynenaturecenter.org<\/a><\/p>\n

Bonnet House Gardens<\/strong>
\n900 North Birch Road
\nFort Lauderdale 954-563-5393
\nwww.bonnethouse.org<\/a><\/p>\n

Buehler Planetarium & Observatory<\/strong>
\nBroward Community College
\n3501 SW Davie Road
\nDavie 954-201-6681
\nwww.broward.edu\/studentlife\/planetarium\/Pages\/default.aspx<\/a><\/p>\n

Butterfly World<\/strong>
\nTradewinds Park
\n3600 West Sample Road
\nCoconut Creek 954-977-4434
\nwww.butterflyworld.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center<\/strong>
\n10941 Burnt Store Road
\nPunta Gorda 941-575-5435
\nwww.checflorida.org<\/a><\/p>\n

Conservancy Naples Nature Center<\/strong>
\n1495 Smith Preserve Way
\nNaples 239-262-0304
\nwww.conservancy.org<\/a><\/p>\n

The Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary<\/strong>
\n375 Sanctuary Road West
\nNaples 239-348-9151
\nhttp:\/\/corkscrew.audubon.org<\/a><\/p>\n

Everglades Alligator Farm<\/strong>
\n40351 SW 192nd Avenue
\nHomestead 305-247-2628
\nwww.everglades.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Gardens<\/strong>
\n10901 Old Cutler Road
\nCoral Gables 305-667-1651
\nwww.fairchildgarden.org<\/a><\/p>\n

Fern Forest Nature Center<\/strong>
\n201 Lyons Road South
\nCoconut Creek 954-357-5198
\nwww.broward.org\/parks<\/a><\/p>\n

Flamingo Gardens & Wildlife Park<\/strong>
\n3750 South Flamingo Road
\nDavie 954-473-2955
\nwww.flamingogardens.org<\/a><\/p>\n

Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center<\/strong>
\n890 Northeast Ocean Boulevard
\nStuart 772-225-0505
\nwww.floridaocean.org<\/a><\/p>\n

Jungle Island<\/strong>
\n1111 Parrot Jungle Trail
\nMiami 305-400-7000
\nhttps:\/\/www.jungleisland.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Key West Aquarium<\/strong>
\n1 Whitehead Street
\nKey West 888-544-5927
\nwww.keywestaquarium.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Lion Country Safari<\/strong>
\n2003 Lion Country Safari Road
\nLoxahatchee 561-793-1084
\nwww.lioncountrysafari.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Loggerhead Marinelife Center of Juno Beach<\/strong>
\nLoggerhead Park
\n14200 U.S. Highway 1
\nJuno Beach 561-627-8280
\nwww.marinelife.org<\/a><\/p>\n

Miami Metro Zoo<\/strong>
\n12400 Southwest 152nd Street
\nMiami 305-255-5551
\nhttps:\/\/www.zoomiami.org<\/a><\/p>\n

Miami Seaquarium<\/strong>
\n4400 Rickenbacker Causeway
\nKey Biscayne 305-361-5705
\nwww.miamiseaquarium.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Monkey Jungle<\/strong>
\n14805 Southwest 216th Street
\nMiami 305-235-1611
\nwww.monkeyjungle.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Morikami Japanese Gardens<\/strong>
\n4000 Morikami Park Road
\nDelray Beach 561-495-0233
\nwww.morikami.org<\/a><\/p>\n

Mounts Botanical Garden<\/strong>
\n531 North Military Trail
\nWest Palm Beach 561-233-1757
\nwww.mounts.org<\/a><\/p>\n

Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens<\/strong>
\n1590 Goodlette-Frank Road
\nNaples 239-262-5409
\nhttps:\/\/www.napleszoo.org<\/a><\/p>\n

Ostego Bay Marine Science Center<\/strong>
\n718 Fisherman’s Wharf
\nSan Carlos Island 239-765-8101
\nwww.ostegobay.org<\/a><\/p>\n

Palm Beach Zoo at Dreher Park<\/strong>
\n1301 Summit Boulevard
\nWest Palm Beach 561-547-9453
\nwww.palmbeachzoo.org<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Peace River Wildlife Center<\/strong>
\n3400 Ponce de Leon Park
\nPunta Gorda 941-637-3830
\nhttps:\/\/prwildlife.org<\/a><\/p>\n

Sandoway House Nature Center<\/strong>
\n142 South Ocean Boulevard
\nDelray Beach 561-274-7263
\nhttps:\/\/sandoway.org<\/a><\/p>\n

Sawgrass Recreation Park<\/strong>
\n1006 US 27
\nWeston 888-424-7262
\nwww.evergladestours.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Secret Woods Nature Center<\/strong>
\n2701 West State Road 84
\nDania Beach 954-357-8884
\nwww.broward.org\/parks<\/a><\/p>\n

Sense of Wonder Nature Center & Trail<\/strong>
\nA.D. Barnes Park
\n3401 SW 72 Avenue
\nMiami 305-666-5883
\nwww.miamidade.gov\/parks<\/a><\/p>\n

Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve<\/strong>
\n7751 Penzance Boulevard
\nFort Myers 239-533-7556
\nhttps:\/\/www.leegov.com\/parks<\/a><\/p>\n

Society of the Four Arts Gardens<\/strong>
\n100 Four Arts Plaza
\nPalm Beach 561-655-7226
\nwww.fourarts.org<\/a><\/p>\n

Tall Cypress Natural Area<\/strong>
\n3700 Turtle Run
\nCoral Springs 954-698-1200
\nwww.broward.org\/parks<\/a><\/p>\n

Vizcaya Gardens<\/strong>
\n3251 South Miami Avenue
\nCoconut Grove 305-250-9133
\nhttps:\/\/vizcaya.org<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Parks & Recreation Contacts
\nCity and county parks and recreation departments throughout South Florida maintain hundreds of parks and sports facilities. Amenities include golf courses, marinas, performing arts facilities, and miles of pristine beaches. Most facilities are free to the public and activities are available at a nominal fee, from summer camps and swimming lessons to hobby classes.<\/p>\n

City of Cape Coral<\/strong>
\n239-573-3128
\nwww.capecoral.net<\/a><\/p>\n

City of Fort Lauderdale<\/strong>
\n954-828-7275
\nwww.fortlauderdale.gov<\/a><\/p>\n

City of Fort Myers<\/strong>
\n239-321-7530
\nwww.cityftmyers.com<\/a><\/p>\n

City of Miami<\/strong>
\nMiami\/Dade County
\n305-755-7800
\nwww.miamidade.gov\/parks<\/a><\/p>\n

City of West Palm Beach<\/strong>
\n561-804-4900
\nhttps:\/\/www.wpb.org\/government\/parks-and-recreation<\/a><\/p>\n

Greater Boca Raton<\/strong>
\n561-997-0791
\nwww.mybocaparks.org<\/a><\/p>\n

Broward County<\/strong>
\n954-357-8100
\nhttps:\/\/www.broward.org\/parks\/Pages\/default.aspx<\/a><\/p>\n

Charlotte County<\/strong>
\n941-613-3200
\nhttps:\/\/www.charlottecountyfl.gov\/departments\/community-services\/parks<\/a><\/p>\n

Collier County<\/strong>
\n239-252-4000
\nhttps:\/\/www.collierparks.com\/collier_park_category\/regional-parks<\/a><\/p>\n

Hendry County<\/strong>
\n863-675-5347
\nwww.hendryfla.net<\/a><\/p>\n

Indian River County<\/strong>
\n772-226-1732
\nwww.ircrec.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Lee County<\/strong>
\n239-533-7275
\nwww.leeparks.org<\/a><\/p>\n

Martin County<\/strong>
\n772-221-1418
\nwww.martin.fl.us<\/a><\/p>\n

Miami\/Dade County<\/strong>
\n305-755-7800
\nwww.miamidade.gov\/parks<\/a><\/p>\n

Okeechobee County<\/strong>
\n863-763-6950
\nwww.co.okeechobee.fl.us<\/a><\/p>\n

Palm Beach County<\/strong>
\n561-966-6600
\nhttps:\/\/discover.pbcgov.org\/parks\/Pages\/default.aspx<\/a><\/p>\n

St. Lucie County<\/strong>
\n772-462-1517
\nwww.stlucieco.gov<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/em><\/p>\n

DAY TRIPS AND GETAWAYS
\nFlorida claims some of the nation’s most popular vacation destinations, including one of the strongest tourist magnets in the world\u2014Orlando. Residents of the South Florida are able to plan weekend getaways or longer vacations to a wide array of sites and attractions. Without ever leaving South Florida, residents can choose from the Florida Keys, the pulsating nightlife of Miami, Florida’s enigmatic Everglades, and the serene Gulf Shore islands. Professional sports teams, the excitement of collegiate competitions, shoreline or river cruises, and world-class fishing are just a few of the reasons to plan a pleasurable and relaxing road trip.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Florida Keys<\/strong>
\nFor world-class scuba diving in crystal aquamarine waters and a true Caribbean atmosphere, explore the island paradise of the Florida Keys. From the moment you venture into this tropical oasis, the atmosphere invites you to kick off your shoes and plunge headfirst into deep relaxation. Some of the nation’s most dazzling sub-sea adventures are waiting, along with whatever dive, snorkel, and water-sport guides you might need. Renowned as the “diving capital of the world,” Key Largo offers such premier marine retreats as the underwater John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, the crystal waters at Molasses Reef, and the caves of French Reef.<\/p>\n

Amusement centers like Dolphin Cove or the Dolphin Research Center offer an unforgettable one-to-one encounter or even a playful swim with these friendly and intelligent marine mammals. Eco-tours through the waters of Florida Bay combine with “Hollywood” lore like the genuine African Queen steamship or the location of the movies Key Largo and PT 109. Key Largo is the first of the islands in the 110-mile chain of scenic ocean vistas and quaint beach communities that proudly display their history and natural wonders. The Islamorada area is acclaimed as the world’s sportfishing capital, teeming with charter fishing boats. Golf courses, art galleries, museums, exclusive resorts, and unspoiled nature are just a few of the magnets to this island paradise. For more information on the nation’s most southern geographic point, contact:<\/p>\n

Florida Keys Information<\/strong>
\n800-FLA-KEYS
\nwww.fla-keys.com<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/strong><\/p>\n

Greater Orlando<\/strong>
\nWalt Disney forever changed the face of Orlando, transforming Orange County from a sleep community dotted with orange groves into the world’s hottest tourism destination. Millions of annual visitors from across the nation and around the world pour into Orlando each year to enjoy a kaleidoscope of world-class attractions. Among them are Disney World and Epcot, SeaWorld of Florida, Discovery Cove, Universal Studios, spectacular water parks, lush parks, dazzling celebrations and festivals, posh resorts, restaurants, nightclubs, entertainment centers, and fine shopping centers. Orlando has it all.<\/p>\n

Regardless of your age or interest, this bustling metropolitan region can keep you moving from attraction to attraction from sunrise to sunset and long into the midnight hour. Even Disney World offers Paradise Island, a mecca of nightspots that pulsate with the sound of live music. Throughout the city, you’ll find dazzling venues for the performing and visual arts, fine museums and science centers, and professional sports events. For details on the wealth of vacation opportunities in and near Orlando, contact:<\/p>\n

Orlando\/Orange County Convention & Visitors Bureau<\/strong>
\nOrlando 407-383-5872
\nhttps:\/\/www.visitorlando.com<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/strong><\/p>\n

Greater Tampa Bay<\/strong>
\nWest of Greater Orlando in Central Florida lies Tampa Bay, a popular waterfront area that harmonizes urban sophistication and picturesque natural surroundings. Visitors can ride white-knuckle roller coasters or take a leisurely canoe ride down the scenic Hillsborough River, watch a thrilling ballgame, or soak in the sun on a tranquil beach. Greet graceful manatees below the water’s surface or explore the sights in galleries, museums, theme parks, and entertainment districts.<\/p>\n

The term “Tampa Bay” originally referred to the body of water on the West “Gulf” Coast of Florida. Over time, the words came to describe an entire region of distinctive communities anchored by the City of Tampa. Laced by bridges and freeways, the area has grown into Florida’s most populous and affluent metropolitan statistical area. From the colorful and vibrant Latin roots of Tampa’s historic Ybor City to the Greek heritage of Tarpon Springs or St. Petersburg’s museums, visitors can discover a richness of diversity and culture. For details on all that the Tampa Bay region has to offer visitors, contact:<\/p>\n

Tampa Bay Visitor’s Bureau<\/strong>
\nTampa 813-223-2752
\nwww.visittampabay.com<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Historic St. Augustine<\/strong>
\nFounded in 1565, St. Augustine claims the distinction of being America’s oldest permanently settled European city. A combination of old-world charm, national monuments, and unique attractions attract throngs of visitors. Architectural wonders of Spanish Renaissance and Colonial Revival harmonize with modern conveniences and impressive growth. Designed to entertain the entire family, the community offers fascinating museums and historic sites as well as outstanding sports and recreational opportunities. From fishing on a picturesque pier to parasailing above the ocean or relaxing on a pristine beach, the area has the ideal environment for every activity. <\/strong>Just north of St. Augustine lies Ponte Vedra Beach, known for classic resorts, spas, world-famous fairways, and tennis. Within St. Augustine are exceptional galleries, wonderful shops, and boutiques filled with antiques, handcrafted gifts, one-of-a-kind international merchandise, and high fashion. For more information on the Oldest City, contact:<\/p>\n

St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & the Beaches<\/strong>
\nAugustine 800-653-2489<\/p>\n

 <\/strong><\/p>\n

Kennedy Space Center & Merritt Island<\/strong>
\nTake an unforgettable journey through space and time at the Kennedy Space Center, which has attracted millions of visitors from around the world for more than 30 years. The center tells the story of the U.S. space program, including the moon launch to the moon, satellites that improve our lives, and probes into the depths of space. Occupying over 140,000 acres, KSC is about one-fifth the size of Rhode Island! Only 6,000 acres are devoted to space center operations, with the remaining land serving as the Merritt Island National Wildlife Reserve. This pristine sanctuary consists of brackish estuaries and marshes, coastal dunes, scrub oaks, pine forests and flatwoods, and palm and oak hammocks.<\/p>\n

Several space-related attractions are also located nearby, including Space Camp, the Astronaut Hall of Fame, the Air Force Museum, and the Astronaut Memorial Planetarium and Observatory at Brevard Community College. Steeped in modern history, the KSC story continues to unfold with each space shuttle and international space station mission. Visitors can watch these events unfold on giant screens that soar over five stories high. They can walk through a full-scale replica of a space shuttle, see genuine moon rocks, and glimpse the rockets that once launched men and machine into space. For complete visitor’s information, contact:<\/p>\n

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex <\/strong>
\nTitusville 855-433-4210
\nwww.kennedyspacecenter.com<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

SPORTS & RECREATION \/ PARKS AND NATURE Some of the finest and most pristine of the Florida State Parks as well as national parks and preserves are located in South Florida. Miles of beaches, sparkling lakes, rolling rivers, magnificent forests, and vast wetlands are protected and meticulously maintained by parks and recreation organizations on every […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","template":"","meta":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/SouthFlorida3\/KeyesScripps\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/316"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/SouthFlorida3\/KeyesScripps\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/SouthFlorida3\/KeyesScripps\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/SouthFlorida3\/KeyesScripps\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/SouthFlorida3\/KeyesScripps\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=316"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/SouthFlorida3\/KeyesScripps\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/316\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":775,"href":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/SouthFlorida3\/KeyesScripps\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/316\/revisions\/775"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/SouthFlorida3\/KeyesScripps\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=316"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}