Outdoors & Nature Insider

Robert Is Here Fruit Stand Credit: Kevin Mims

On road trips, I hardly ever travel on the interstate. What's to see, really? I guess I should take the interstate if I wanted to return home at around the time I had initially planned, but hey, it's just not me. 

Such was the case on my way home from Key Largo this week, when I putt-putted along at a top speed of 50 miles per hour with a huge line of traffic behind me. Yes, I know that's weird, and especially for a 34-year-old guy. I should be rocketing down the highway in a mid-nineties Camaro listening to Pearl Jam, I suppose.

I had built up a nice column of vehicles behind me by the time I reached the Robert Is Here Fruit Stand, my first stop on the Historic Redland Tropical Trail. I was somewhat saddened that I had to leave behind my duties as "traffic speed regulator", but an ice-cold slice of watermelon was calling my name.

The Robert Is Here Fruit Stand has been in operation since 1960, and offers up tasty fresh fruit milkshakes, locally-grown produce, sauces, marinades and exotic fruits. In the winter months, there's live music on the weekends as well. 

After I had eaten my share of watermelon, I headed over to R.F. Orchids, partly to do a little research for an upcoming video, and partly because it's just one of those places that draws people in with its astonishing amount of world-class orchids and beautiful landscaping. The private gardens of R.F. Orchids are breathtaking, with park-like tropical landscaping featuring waterfalls, bromeliads and massive orchids that were passed down to Bob Fuchs from his grandfather 40 years ago. If you haven't stopped by R.F. Orchids, plan some time to take a tour of the private gardens that are offered on the weekends. Oh, and you won't be able to leave without taking home a few orchids!

Needless to say, after stopping at The Robert Is Here Fruit Stand, and afterward admiring the gardens at R.F. Orchids, I got home much later than anticipated. But, the stops were well worth it, and I encourage everyone to take some time to explore the Historic Redland Tropical Trail!

Also, the Historic Redland Tropical Trail is part of the "Been There, Haven't Done That!" list, make sure you read it over and find some other cool places to visit on your travels through Florida!