This park features all sorts of native Florida animals! This is the place to go if you're looking to find manatees and gators. The park has trails through animal exhibits and some beautiful flower gardens. This is a great place to take a family!

This is your place to cool off in the Florida heat! This was the place to go before Disney was around. The crystal clear springs release millions of gallons of water daily, all at a consistent temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Beautiful trails also feature waterfalls, plants, butterfly gardens, and an old zoo. You can also kayak or tube from here if you would like!

This local beach provides wonderful sunsets and fishing and crabbing opportunities! Dolphins, sting rays, and turtles are also usually close by. A great place to take the family to swim and catch the sunset!

This state park has much to offer, including beautiful walks, a waterpark, and even mermaids! It's the perfect place to go on a summer day. If you're there, make sure you catch the "live-action" Little Mermaid showing!

Try some local brews, wine, and food! There is indoor and outdoor seating, and you can sometimes catch live music. Make sure to check out their bar made of pennies!

Try some local blueberry wine! The blueberries are grown locally. This place has a unique atmosphere and delicious wine.

More local brews are found here! It is also located in downtown Inverness, so there are some nice areas to walk around before or after getting a drink.

This unique restaurant offers waterside seating and fresh seafood! They have the best shrimp around. They also offer some local beers. Check it out for great food and a great atmosphere!

You can try locally caught gator bites here! Located right along the water, this place will give you the authentic Florida vibe you are looking for.

This is another waterfront restaurant that offers a variety in types of seating. There is a beach area and a place you can pull up a boat. This is another great place to catch the Florida vibe!

This is another place to try locally caught gator bites! It is also located along the water, where you can usually see boaters, tubers, kayakers, and paddle boarders. They also offer some local seasonal beers.

This is a bit of a drive, but if you're in Orlando and looking for a cheap alternative to the Disney World parks, this is a great option. There are all of the iconic Disney shops and restaurants, and the best part is that it is free! It gives off similar vibes to the parks, just without the rides. It's a great place to take the family!

July is the scalloping season! This is one of my favorite activities as you dive into the gulf's warm, shallow waters. The scallops are so fun to search for. This is a great activity to do with a large group of people. I recommend hitting up one of the breweries or restaurants afterward!

Go tubing down a crystal-clear river! This river is beautiful, and it also offers opportunities to spot local wildlife along the way.

Airboating is one of the best ways to experience real Florida! You see live gators, turtles, birds, and other critters. At this place, you even have the opportunity to hold a young gator! If you are looking for unique places to stay, this place also has little cottages up for renting.