Heritage Highlights

Sanford was a steamboat port on the St. Johns River and the "celery capital of the world." The Museum of Seminole County History, 300 Bush Blvd., offers a broad historical view of the area. This museum features period rooms and exhibits devoted to county history, including the Seminole Wars, transportation, forestry and agriculture. Call (407) 321-2489.

Champion skydivers train here for competition, but thrill-seekers, including Tom Cruise and former President George Bush, also show up to take the plunge.

Nature Trek

Start your day in DeLand with a nature trip like no other - a dive into the wild blue yonder by freefalling from 13,500 feet in the air. Because geography, air quality and climate make Florida a world-class drop zone for skydiving, Skydive DeLand, 1600 Flightline Blvd., has become the training capital of the world. Champion skydivers train here for competition, but thrill-seekers, including Tom Cruise and former President George Bush, also show up to take the plunge. Newbies are strapped to an experienced diver for tandem jumps, but if you prefer to go solo, sign up for the extensive three- to five-day Accelerated Freefall training program. Call (386) 738-3539.

Spend your day on the water, enjoying the unspoiled and untamed wetlands and forests of this area, with Captain Dana's Fishing & Scenic Tours, 2360 Clay Ct. in Longwood. The tour offers unforgettable fishing or boating adventures through the unspoiled, pristine rivers of central Florida. Call (407) 645-5462.


Culture Quest

Those who find sustenance in the arts will revel in the abundance of quality art museums in central Florida. One to visit in Winter Park is the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, 445 Park Ave., which features the most complete collection of stained-glass works by Tiffany to be found anywhere in the world. Hours: 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m., Tues. - Sat.; 1 - 4 p.m., Sun., closed Mon. Additional Friday hours, Sept. - May, 4 - 8 p.m. Call (407) 645-5311.