| History-Themed Day Trips Originating in Central Florida |
|
|
| October 13, 2009 |
|
History is abundant throughout Central Florida, so I like combining trips to Orlando’s theme parks with unique places like Arcadia, close to the Gulf coast.
In spite of turbulent wars, disastrous fires and boomtown expansion, this lovely town preserves its 19th century architecture and Old Florida charm. Strolling down its tree-lined streets, you can see why Arcadia is considered one of Central West Florida's gems.
In fact, many buildings are on the Registry of Historic Places and Arcadia became a Main Street city in 1985. Visitors can peek into Florida’s agricultural and frontier roots at the Arcadia All-Florida Championship Rodeo.
On the east coast, the Apollo space program is celebrating its 40th anniversary, so Cape Canaveral beckons visitors with major commemorative programs. At the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, the Shuttle Launch Experience simulates the sights, sounds and feel of launching into space. Watch this brief, but interesting video here as a preview to your visit.
Awe-inspiring tours venture into NASA’s spaceport facilities. Make sure to catch one of the daily Astronaut Encounters, view the towering rockets and the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame®, which features astronaut memorabilia, simulators and displays.
St. Augustine is the nation’s oldest continuously occupied city. At Castillo de San Marcos, the largest Spanish fort in America, interesting displays relate to the period in which it was an active military installation. Looking out over Matanzas Bay from the roof, the verdant region and the water view makes for wonderful photos. Try to plan your visit so you can observe the ceremonial firing of the cannons in the early afternoon.
Hop on the Old Town Trolley Tours to visit more than 100 local spots including the Oldest Wooden School House in the USA, the Fountain of Youth, and an alligator farm.
For a fabulous resource on Spanish Colonial historical sites dating back to 1513, check out Viva Florida. Many of the historic sites detailed in this website are in state or national parks, so they're also inexpensive to visit.
You'll find that history comes alive with the knowledgeable folks in these places. And like all of Florida they've got plenty of natural beauty and sunshine, too!
|
|
|
|
|
 Forward to a Friend |
|
|
|
| Men in soldier uniforms prepare for a re-enactment atop the Castillo San Marcos in St. Augustine. |
| Credit: St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra, & The Beaches Visitors and Convention Bureau |
|
|
|
|
Post a Comment