Nestled in historic downtown Fernandina Beach, the Palace Saloon is considered Florida’s oldest bar (1903). Stop in for a cold brew, great live music, amazing decor and super friendly bartenders. Try the Pirates Punch!
Florida’s Oldest Bar
Florida History
Amelia Island Museum of History
Learn all about the fascinating history of the “Isle of Eight Flags” at the Amelia Island Museum of History in Fernandina Beach!
Fort Christmas
On my way back from Orlando Wetlands Park yesterday, I enjoyed the opportunity of exploring Fort Christmas Historical Park. The highlight of the park is a replica of a fort built in 1837 during the Second Seminole Indian War. It’s full of some great informative exhibits. The premises also include a traditional Florida “cracker” house and some other historic structures that I didn’t have time to check out during this visit. Don’t miss it!
What I’m Reading …
“Beginning in the summer of 1935, Arthur Rothstein, a twenty year old photojournalist, was sent on dozens of photography assignments by the federal government’s Resettlement Administration … The appointment allowed him to travel to the Florida Keys in 1938 to document the effects of the Depression. Rothstein’s remarkable and humbling photographs of spongers, cigar makers, barbers, fishermen, residents and architecture demonstrated the frailty and the resilience of communities along the island chain.”
Key West Cemetery Revisited
We took a bike ride through the Key West Cemetery looking for unique gravestones and iguanas. As you can see, we weren’t disappointed!
Fort Zachary Taylor
We rode bikes to one of our favorite Key West spots, Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. Normally we just relax on the beach, snorkel and swim to the rocks. However, this time I decided to take a self-guided tour of the actual fort itself. Very rewarding!
Spring to Spring
1st Stop: Green Springs Park, Deltona
2nd Stop: 1871 DeBary Hall, DeBary
3rd Stop: Gemini Springs Park, DeBary
4th Stop: Swamp House River Front Grill, DeBary
What I’m Reading …
“From the deepest swamps to the most civilized sidewalks, [50 Great Walks in Florida] … features the best short outdoor jaunts in the Sunshine State. These manageable walks will appeal to tourists in search of the real Florida as well as to residents who want to become better acquainted with their state but still be done in time for lunch. Though shoes may be required, backpacks are not.”
What I’m Reading …
“Whether you’re a hot-spot-seeking tourist or a native getting a little more familiar with your beachside backyard, Highway A1A: Florida at the Edge will put you in touch with what makes the state’s eastern coast special. From the tiny town of Callahan to world-famous Key West, visionary travel writer and tourism expert Herbert Hiller covers thirteen Atlantic counties, providing maps, historical and present-day photographs, and recommendations for places to visit, lodge, eat, and shop that are truly local in character.”
Wandering Florida 