Archive For The “Florida Attractions” Category
Manatee Lagoon Discovery Center in Riviera Beach Florida
The Connection Between Manatees and Electric Energy
If, during your Florida travels, you find yourself immersed in the beauty of the Palm Beaches along Florida’s Treasure Coast, you will want to add Manatee Lagoon to your itinerary. Since manatees and the Sunshine State seem to be synonymous, it makes sense someone would create a discovery center dedicated to these gentle giants. Alas, Manatee Lagoon in Riviera Beach, Florida was born.
Opening in 2016 at a place where the peaceful creatures naturally congregate, this educational center allows you to escape into the wonderful world of manatees. Here, you will explore the connection between the Florida manatee and the power of electric energy. The 16,000-square-foot Manatee Lagoon Discovery Center was created by Florida Power & Light Company (FPL), Riviera Beach. It was built shortly after FPL modernized their natural gas plant. It appears this once-endangered species is highly attracted to the warm-water discharges of FPL’s energy center. In fact, large pods of the marine mammals can be viewed here, especially during Florida’s cooler weather months. The best opportunity to spot sea cows (manatees) is from November 15 through March 31.
No worries, though, if you happen to visit Manatee Lagoon outside this window of opportunity as I did. The guided tour alone is worth your time. Additionally, there are other fun family options offered at the facility throughout the year. Check out the extensive calendar of events for free activities here. Outstanding offerings include art classes focusing on species found in the Lake Worth Lagoon, yoga on waterfront observation decks, educational aqua labs for kids, and story and craft time for toddlers.
Florida Power & Light constructed Manatee Lagoon as part of its environmental mission to educate the public about the relationship it has with manatees, but also to “inspire communities to preserve and protect Florida’s environment and wildlife for future generations.”
Note: All manatees that frequent Manatee Lagoon’s premises are wild. There are no captive manatees onsite. Manatees are a federally protected species and can only be held in captivity at facilities that meet all mandated requirements.
Florida Power & Light Facility in Riviera Beach
Manatee Lagoon — A Family Friendly Florida Attraction
As one of Palm Beach County’s newer attractions, Manatee Lagoon is perfect for visitors of all ages. The family friendly attraction consists of interactive, hands-on exhibits about the environment of Lake Worth Lagoon ecosystem and why manatees are so attracted to this inland waterway. Since hubby and I attended the discovery center while most public schools were still in session there were mostly adults in our guided group tour. But our ‘manatee master’ conducted the tour in a fun and engaging manner that appealed to even the youngest children who were present.
The information was extremely educational. I mean, we’re talking a whole boat-load of manatee facts and details, that even as a Floridian I didn’t know much about. Oh, and did I mention that Manatee Lagoon Eco-Discovery Center admission is FREE? Not too many Florida attractions have that designation. Just one more reason to bring the whole family, even if you have a quiverfull of kids! The fun-filled learning experience is ideal for school field trips, home-schooling groups, summer camp excursions, or any other children’s outing. Additional information regarding field trips can be found here, including scheduling details and reservation request forms.
Snacks and beverages are available for purchase, or pack a lunch and enjoy the outdoor picnic and pavilion area. The gift shop sells a wide variety of manatee and marine-themed items, ranging from temporary tattoos and stickers to t-shirts and artwork. The prices are not outrageous, as is the case with many Florida attractions. If nothing more, treat the kids to a snow cone or ice cream, and the penny press can serve as an inexpensive souvenir.
Hands-on Exhibits at Manatee Lagoon Discovery Center
Manatee Lagoon Classroom
Manatee Lagoon Gift Shop
Manatee Lagoon Guided Tour
The guided walking tour of the visitor center was excellent. We were told it would last between 30 and 60 minutes, and our tour lasted about 45 minutes. The tour Guides are called ‘Manatee Masters,’ and the young man we had certainly mastered the art of communicating to us everything he had learned about these incredible sea creatures.
He was doing an internship at Manatee Lagoon while studying to become a marine biologist. He revealed facts concerning the manatee anatomy, physiology, and the importance of GPS tracking devices. He also explained the relationship of manatees and the Lake Worth Lagoon ecosystem. His insight into “all things manatee” was comprehensive, touching on all aspects of the manatee’s life cycle and habits. Although the scope of information was wide-ranging, he allowed ample time for questions (in case he forgot to mention something of interest), and even included a bit of fun trivia. The educational value was so complete, hubby and I would have gladly paid for the tour.
Apparently we’re not alone in our conclusion, as Manatee Lagoon has received TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence Award and is rated #6 of 101 things to do in West Palm Beach.
NOTE: The visitor center has a museum-like layout, allowing you to get the same information in a self-guided format if you choose not to participate in the group tour. Guided tours are offered five days a week, Tuesday through Saturday, at 2:00 PM. (No tours on Sundays, and the facility is closed on Mondays.)
Manatee Lagoon Discovery Center Guided Tour
Our Manatee Master: Explaining the manatee tracking device and dangers of fishing line
Florida Manatee Facts
I’ve included a few of the interesting facts I learned about Florida manatees during my guided tour:
- Florida manatees are large, aquatic mammals that are native to Florida
- Manatees are distant relatives to elephants (remnant of a time when manatees lived on land)
- Size range from 9 – 13 feet
- Weigh 1000 – 3500 pounds
- Manatees are aquatic herbivores (plant-eaters)
- Also known as ‘sea cows’
- Females are called cows, males are bulls, a baby manatee is a calf
- Manatees can live over 65 years (in captivity)
- Of the wild manatees that reach adulthood, only about half survive into their early 20s
- Florida manatee status has improved from ‘endangered’ to ‘threatened’
- Manatees have only six neck vertebrae — they cannot turn their heads sideways, and must turn their whole body around to look behind them
- The bones in a manatee’s flipper are similar to a human hand
- A manatee’s teeth (all molars) are constantly being replaced every month
- Manatees never go on land
- Manatees breathe air but can stay under the water for 20 minutes without taking a breath (while resting)
- Manatees are quite agile in the water — they can swim upside down, roll, do somersaults or move vertically in the water
Manatee Skeletons at Manatee Lagoon Discovery Center
In Conclusion
I totally enjoyed my experience at Manatee Lagoon Eco-Discovery Center in Riviera Beach, Florida. It’s not an attraction I would drive several hours to visit, but by all means, if you’re in South Florida near the Palm Beaches it’s worth checking out.
The contemporary, two-story visitor center is surrounded by wraparound decks, the perfect spot for manatee viewing. And although peak manatee season is from fall to spring, the educational value is worth a visit any time of year. The informative and interactive displays tell the captivating story of this once-endangered species.
Before rushing off, take a leisurely stroll along the seawall leading to the picnic pavilions. From here, you can watch the action at nearby Peanut Island and the Port of Palm Beach. Then, as you’re heading to the parking lot, a selfie or group photo by the manatee sculpture is a must.
I highly recommend Manatee Lagoon. The staff were all very pleasant and helpful. And, of course, with free parking, free admission, and free tours it gets my vote for one of those rare Florida freebies!
Manatee Lagoon Discovery Center, Riviera Beach Florida
Manatee Lagoon Riviera Beach – Viewing Spots
Where Can I See Manatees in Florida?
If you’re like most visitors to the Sunshine State, you’re probably wondering, ‘Where can I find manatees in Florida?’ Most tourists (and a great many local Floridians) have never seen a manatee up close. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has created a fantastic resource for anyone desiring to view these gentle giants. The listing includes 7 rehabilitation/educational facilities to see manatees, and 12 additional locations to view manatees in the wild. The manatee locations map is available for download here. Each location has a helpful clickable link to obtain all pertinent information — directions, admission price, brochures, etc.
Additional Resources:
- More manatee facts and information is available from Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
- You can support Florida’s Manatee Program by purchasing specialty “Save the Manatee” license plates.
- Manatees: Florida’s Gentle Giants Activity Workbook (downloadable).
- What should you do when you see a manatee? Viewing guidelines.
- View manatees in Manatee Lagoon via a live Manatee Cam.
- Blue Spring State Park Manatee Webcam.
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival 25th Anniversary
Epcot Flower & Garden Festival Celebrates 25 Years of Brilliant Blooms
Wow… one of my favorite Walt Disney World events is celebrating 25 years of incredible horticultural genius. The 2018 annual Epcot Flower and Garden Festival runs daily from February 28 through May 28. That’s three whole months of amazing botanical color and creativity, Disney style.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a gardening expert, novice, or wannabe-green-thumb, you’ll appreciate the brightly colored blossoming beauties. For me, there’s no better way to welcome spring than treating myself to the brilliant displays and outdoor experiences found at the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. For the past 25 years I’ve attended nearly every one of the Festivals, and honestly, they never grow old with me.
With so many fun-filled things to do at the Flower and Garden Festival, Epcot at this time of year is the perfect Disney destination for every member of the family. Whether you’re snapping a selfie with a Disney Character Topiary (remember, no selfie sticks allowed in the Disney theme parks!), sampling savory small plates from one of 15 Outdoor Kitchens, having a blast from the past at a concert during the Garden Rocks Concert Series (Fridays – Mondays), or trying to get the kids to leave the interactive Play Gardens, you’ll have a blockbuster time exploring all that this popular springtime Festival has to offer.
Disney Flower & Garden Festival 25th Anniversary
What’s New at the 2018 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival
When something lasts a quarter-of-a-century, you know they’re doing it up right! The Epcot Flower & Garden Festival is 25 years old because it’s pretty spectacular. Disney doesn’t waste its time with duds! As a long-time attendee, I do wish Disney would make a few improvements, but that’s just my opinion. I realize not everyone is a return guest, year after year. In fact, every year I meet tourists and locals who are attending the Flower & Garden Festival for the first time. But whether this is your first dance with Disney or your 25th go-around, highlighting what’s new may help you schedule your day at Epcot a little better. Here are the additions to the 2018 Flower and Garden Festival…
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- The How-to Garden: an area which gives ideas on fun ways to create a backyard garden at home. You’ll learn how to create your own butterfly house and other garden crafts by re-purposing old materials you already have around the house. Recycling never looked so good! You’ll leave this garden inspired and ready to create your own botanical masterpiece.
NOTE:
Walt Disney World is a supporter of the Million Pollinator Garden Challenge. It’s a new campaign to register a million public and private gardens and landscapes that support pollinators. Pollinators are declining and they need our help to survive. If you’re interested in creating pollinator-friendly gardens that will help revive the health of bees, birds, butterflies, and other pollinators, you can check out the Disney-supported challenge here, as well as register your own garden to be counted.
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- Imagination Play Garden: a lively playground where curious minds can play and roam. It’s for children of all ages, with a separate area for kids ages 5-12. With unique things to climb, tubes to crawl through, and musical instruments to play, it’s a great place for kids to rid themselves of excess energy — and for mom and dad to rest! (This area closes at dusk.)
- The Honey Bee-stro: this new area is hosted by the National Honey Board. It’s part outdoor kitchen and part educational crash-course on honey. For example, you’ll learn the difference between clover, orange blossom, and buckwheat honey, and how the honey is harvested. You can follow the honey bee on a journey to discover what it takes to create one of nature’s sweetest creations — from their hives to your table.
FYI:
Did you know almost 1/3 of everything we eat is created with the help of pollinators like bees?
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- Spike’s Pollen Nation Exploration: a scavenger hunt where kids (big-kids too!) follow Spike the Bee on his pollination trail around World Showcase, where he’ll be busy collecting nectar and pollinating gardens at Epcot, then receive a prize. There is an extra cost of $5.99+tax for this. You must purchase your map and stickers at Port of Entry.
The Honey Bee-stro at Epcot Flower & Garden Festival
Fun is Always Blooming at Epcot Flower and Garden Festival!
In addition to the new features at the 2018 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival, there’s plenty of returning favorites. In fact, there’s so many things to see and do, you’ll likely need multiple visits to experience it all. Here are a few of the especially popular ones…
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- The Goodness Garden Butterfly House: this up-close garden features a beautiful enclosed area with a nursery where cocoons are turning into butterflies, right before your eyes! You’ll discover the benefits of butterflies as you’re surrounded by 1000 native butterflies that represent up to 10 butterfly species. Hold out your hand, have your camera ready… one is almost certain to land! Plan to spend at least 10-15 minutes in here watching the butterflies and taking photos. (The butterfly house closes at dusk.)
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- Garden Rocks Concert Series: soak up the sounds of chart-topping musical acts at Epcot’s outdoor waterfront venue. Popular artists play at the America Gardens Theatre, Fridays – Mondays, at 5:30PM, 6:45PM, and 8:00PM. If you love the classics from the 50s – 90s like I do, you’ll find yourself tapping your feet to some of the hottest throwback beats of yesteryear — artists like Starship, Little River Band, Rick Springfield, Village People, The Guess Who, Herman’s Hermits, and The Spinners, to name a few. Check out the 2018 Concert Performance Schedule here. The concerts are included with your Epcot admission, but if your wallet allows, add a Garden Rocks Concert Series Dining Package and get guaranteed preferred seating for the concerts. Call 407-WDW-DINE for details and availability.
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- Outdoor Kitchens: there are 15 different outdoor kitchens at the Flower and Garden Festival this year. As previously mentioned, one is new — The Honey Bee-stro. The appetizer-sized small-plates are a great way to sample a wide variety of delicious main dishes, delectable desserts, and specialty sips. The food kiosks are strategically placed throughout World Showcase and offer these farm-to-table favorites for about $4 – $8 each. They’re not cheap, but I love eating this way — small portions spread out over a timespan of several hours while meandering around World Showcase Lagoon. Hubby and I had 10 food items combined and one bottled water to share (no alcoholic drinks) for $59.31. There are vegetarian, gluten-free, and kid-approved choices available. (I’ve included the food photos below.)
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- Topiaries: discover living topiaries inspired by beloved classic Disney characters, princesses, and other popular characters. There are 23 different vignettes at the 2018 Flower & Garden Festival, each featuring a different group of one-of-a-kind living sculptures shaped like your child’s favorite Disney characters. Here’s a full list of this year’s topiaries. The topiaries are a favorite of mine, although Disney has been using the same ones year after year. Sometimes they get moved to a different location, but they’re the same Disney characters. There were no new ones in 2018, not even to commemorate the 25th anniversary (other than the welcome display at the main entrance which gets a makeover every year). With all Disney’s resources and talented crew of horticulturists, is it asking too much for a new topiary to be introduced each year? I didn’t even photograph the topiaries this year, they’re the same as my photos from decades ago. (One of the few complaints I have regarding the Flower and Garden Festival.) Click here for a photo tour of the Disney topiaries from a previous FloridaFunAndFork article.
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- Tours: there are several tours to choose from, including Gardens of the World, English Tea Garden, Royal Tea Garden and Behind the Seeds, all for an additional fee. There is also a free Self-guided Tea Tour. Tour pricing and reservations can be found here.
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- Egg-stravaganza: the popular scavenger Easter Egg Hunt returns on March 16, for a limited time. Once you find all the Disney-themed character eggs, return your completed map to Disney Traders for a special surprise. There is a $5.99 fee for this. Purchase your map and stickers at Port of Entry.
Outstanding Colorful Blooms at Epcot Flower & Garden Festival
Epcot – A Collage of Color During Flower and Garden Festival
Vibrant Color Everywhere at Epcot Flower & Garden Festival
Most activities at the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival are included with admission to Epcot (except as noted above), leaving you a few extra bucks for Festival merchandise. There are at least six special shops set up to sell official Flower & Garden merchandise. Certainly, you’ll want to commemorate your visit to the 25th Annual Flower and Garden Festival with a souvenir or collector’s item.
As always, Disney Annual Passholders will find items created just for them, and don’t forget to use your Passholder discount! If you’re a local and have not yet purchased your annual pass, this article from FloridaFunAndFork is a must read. It’s a comprehensive review of a special type of pass for Florida residents, called the Disney Weekday Select Annual Pass. It’s the type of pass I use, and one of the absolute best values you will find at Walt Disney World!
Additional information on Epcot Flower and Garden Festival such as hours, ticket prices, and maps, can be accessed here. And don’t forget to pick up a 2018 Garden Passport at any of the outdoor kitchens around World Showcase. Or, get a head start and download your free copy here. It contains valuable information about the Festival, including a full menu listing every food and beverage item available.
In Conclusion…
Who says Florida doesn’t have a real “spring” season? For me, (and millions of other Disney fans) it officially starts on the first day of Epcot’s Flower and Garden Festival, not the first day of spring on the calendar. I look forward to the vibrant colors and sweet smells of the 30+ million blossoming blooms the Disney horticulturists put on display each year. I was expecting the Festival to be outstanding and really special in 2018, as the Flower and Garden Festival celebrates its 25th anniversary. In that regard, Disney didn’t deliver! I anticipated Disney would go above-and-beyond, given the milestone 25th anniversary.
I was disappointed to find no new topiaries (most were even in the same location as last year), and I could barely find any signage indicating the landmark 25th anniversary. If you’re not looking hard, you may even miss the small anniversary sign in the main entrance topiary display. Also, there was no Festival Center this year, as many Disney guests look forward to the flower and garden seminars and activity demonstrations. In the past, Disney would bring in garden experts from HGTV and other celebrity gardeners.
Obviously, if you’re a first-time Epcot Flower and Garden Festival attendee, you won’t miss what you’ve never had. It’s definitely worth a visit for you. But for Disney Passholders and frequent visitors, the lack of anything new could be disappointing. If you don’t set your expectations too high, you will enjoy the themed gardens, Disney character topiaries, rock concerts, engaging tours, and savory seasonal outdoor kitchens just like you have any other year. After all, Epcot’s Flower and Garden Festival is one of Walt Disney World’s longest and oldest celebrations for a good reason!
NOTE: Epcot Flower and Garden Festival dates are February 28-May 28, 2018. But whether you chose to visit in the beginning, middle, or end of the Festival, you don’t have to worry about seeing a bunch of wilted flowers. Midway through the Festival, Disney gardeners remove the early spring blossoms and plant a whole new crop of flowers that flourish in Florida’s late-spring’s warmer temperatures.
EPCOT FLOWER AND GARDEN FESTIVAL STATISTICS…
30 million blooms
200+ floating flower planters
40 flower towers
500+ container gardens in pots, barrels, and urns
nearly 100 Disney character topiaries
1,000 beautiful butterflies and 10 species
It takes more than one year and 400 Walt Disney World horticulturists to prepare for the 90-day Flower and Garden Festival!
QUESTION: Have you visited the 25th Annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival? Please share your thoughts in the comment box below — our readers would love to know! Or, perhaps you have a question about the event. I’ll try my best to answer it!
Wealthy Winter Park on a Budget
Winter Park Florida: A Wealthy History
Winter Park is one of my favorite Central Florida towns. Even before I became a Florida resident 17 years ago, I was attracted to its upscale ambiance and old-world beauty. Geographically, it’s a mere 5 miles north of Orlando (the tourist capital of the world) but it feels a million miles apart.
Winter Park was founded as a resort community by wealthy northern business magnates in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The affluent “snow birds,” along with their household employees (yeah, they were filthy rich!), would spend the winters in the wonderful warm town they discovered. Today, in 2017, Winter Park remains the address of some of Florida’s wealthiest individuals. According to the Orlando Business Journal, some of our top earners reside in Winter Park zip codes. The old adage “money begets money” seems to hold true here. I guess money-makers like clustering together. Birds of a feather, I suppose. We all reap the benefits, though. Their multiplied millions have built some pretty spectacular things; art galleries, specialty boutiques, museums, civic buildings, gorgeous parks, a train station, a golf course country club, historic cemetery, and a beach and boat launch. Wealthy Winter Park is also home to Rollins College, the oldest college in Florida and the nation’s premiere liberal arts college.
No matter how you choose to spend your time in Winter Park, the residue of its rich roots seems to be everywhere. But, here’s some fantastic news: You don’t have to be wealthy to enjoy them! There are ample things to do in wealthy Winter Park, even if you’re on a budget.
6 Things To Do in Winter Park on a Budget
Whether you’re a local looking for a Floridian staycation or a visitor seeking shelter from the craziness of crowded theme parks, Winter Park is a great choice. I’ve recommended 6 of my favorite inexpensive (or free) things-to-do. Regardless if you have a few hours or a few days, there’s something here for every time schedule… and budget!
- Park Avenue
- Central Park
- Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art
- Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens
- Robert Bruce Barbour House (Casa Feliz)
- Kraft Azalea Park
Park Avenue
You can’t visit Winter Park without a leisurely stroll down posh Park Avenue. With more than 140 boutiques, sidewalk cafes and museums, it’s the signature shopping street. No doubt, you’ll encounter wealthy Winter Park residents swanking about. But even though Park Avenue is a Central Florida premier destination for chic shopping and dining, you don’t have to spend a dime to enjoy the awesome aura of this special setting. You’ll experience the same vibrant atmosphere and scenery whether you dish out thousands of dollars or simply engage in some savvy ‘window shopping.’
Winter Park’s Famed Park Avenue Shopping & Dining District
Park Avenue’s “Secret” Hidden Alcoves
Impressive Hidden Gems to Discover on Park Avenue
Central Park
Prosperous Park Avenue is bordered by oak-canopied Central Park. The park was deeded to the city by one of Winter Park’s most wealthy and influential early citizens — Charles Hosmer Morse. Of the plethora of parks throughout Winter Park, this is the crown jewel. The 11-acre park is beautiful year-round but also plays host to seasonal events like concerts, art shows, exotic car shows, fashion exhibits, festivals, and even [free] movies in the park. Whether you’re rolling in the dough, or living with your adult children just to make ends meet, admission to Central Park is free!
It’s extremely clean (no dogs allowed in Central Park), and despite its downtown location, I find it quite relaxing. If you’re a fitness buff on a good run through the park or simply satisfying your people-watching passion with a birds-eye-view from a strategically placed bench, you’ll appreciate the beauty here.
On a recent visit I enjoyed the outstanding ‘sidewalk art’ presented by some very creative middle-school children. Then, as I approached my favorite area of Central Park, I witnessed a professional photo-shoot for a young couple’s upcoming wedding. How gorgeous; I couldn’t think of a better backdrop than charming Central Park. This area, the far south end of the park, is quite popular with photographers as it includes the peacock fountain and rose garden. There’s a hexagonal planter with a variety of roses and rows of benches nearby. I noticed the peacefulness of this place, even before I knew the backstory. And what a tear-jerking inspirational story it is! You can read the history of the peacock fountain here on FloridaFunAndFork.
***TIP: Don’t miss the prestigious Sidewalk Art Festival which draws over 350,000 visitors each year to Central Park to enjoy some of the best art and music in the United States.
2018 Sidewalk Art Festival Dates
Friday & Saturday March 16 – 17, 9 AM to 6 PM
Sunday, March 18th, 9 AM to 5 PM
Memorial Peacock Fountain and Rose Garden in Central Park
Sidewalk Art in Central Park
Train Topiary in Central Park
Central Park in Winter Park Florida
Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art
Even on a shoestring budget, this museum is affordable. The Morse Museum (created in honor of Charles Hosmer Morse, the man who donated Central Park) houses the world’s most comprehensive collection of works by American artist, Louis Comfort Tiffany. Although there are other notable works in the museum, the displays of Tiffany glass outshines them all. Admittedly, I was not a big fan of Tiffany glass… until I visited the Morse Museum. Wow! The exhibition includes Tiffany-designed stained glass windows, lamps, glass mosaics, blown glass, ceramics, and jewelry (remember Tiffany’s in New York?). The extensive collection took me by surprise. The huge stained glass windows were out-of-this-world gorgeous, and the Tiffany Chapel was absolutely amazing and one of the highlights for me.
Hubby and I spent nearly 2 hours exploring the Morse Museum. By museum standards, it’s not large, but it has a host of interesting and rare items, and a wealth of historical information to go along with them. I cannot say enough about the friendliness of the staff and the knowledgeable docents strategically positioned throughout the museum to answer any questions. It made for a warm and welcoming environment. This is an impressive museum for the price, $6 for adults, only $1 for students! Sometimes, during special events, admission is free. (Check the Morse Museum website for Calendar of Events.)
The Morse Museum is a real gem for Central Florida, and an inexpensive attraction in the heart of Winter Park. And, it’s conveniently located not far from the SunRail train station. You can access an in-depth review of The Morse Museum right here on FloridaFunAndFork.
Entrance to the Morse Museum in Winter Park
SunRail Train Station in Winter Park
Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens
This is a story of a wealthy artist and his lavish Winter Park home. The Albin Polasek Museum is in the historic former home and art studio of Mr. Polasek. The house showcases his artwork, but what really impressed me was the outdoor Sculpture Garden in the rear of the property, with stunning views of Lake Osceola. As you tour the historic home which includes Mr. Polasek’s personal chapel, you’ll take a step back in time and learn about the life of this incredibly talented (and affluent) man.
The Exhibition Gallery also features national and international artists and changes throughout the year. The Albin Polasek Museum has been the recipient of numerous awards and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s worth the low-cost entry fee — adults $5, seniors (60+) $4, and students w/ID $3. A visit to this 5-acre historical site is another inexpensive way to see what wealthy Winter Park was like back-in-the-day.
I spent about 90 minutes here during my April birthday weekend in Winter Park, and my review and photo tour can be accessed here on FloridaFunAndFork. (Wait until you see those sculptures!)
Entrance to Albin Polasek Museum
Albin Polasek Sculpture: “Man Carving His Own Destiny”
Robert Bruce Barbour House (Casa Feliz)
Speaking of wealthy residents, this home is a blatant reminder of Winter Park’s opulent past. Casa Feliz means “Happy House” in Spanish. This Andalusian-style masonry farmhouse is the signature residential work of famed architect James Gamble Rogers II. It was initially known as the Barbour Estate, and became the catalyst for historic preservation in Winter Park. The restored Spanish farmhouse overlooks the golf course in the heart of Winter Park. Casa Feliz is a historic home museum and popular rental location for private parties, weddings, and business events. The downside to Casa Feliz is its very limited hours. Public open house is every Sunday between 12 noon and 3 pm, and Tuesday and Thursday mornings between 10 am and 12 noon. You’ll learn the Casa Feliz story during the open house via trained docents.
If possible, go on a Sunday, to experience “Music at the Casa.” A different musical group performs each week in Casa’s main parlor representing a broad range of musical genres including jazz, classical, pops, Latin, bluegrass, and folk. You can afford this museum. Admission is free, however, there’s a suggested donation of $5 to help support the mission of Casa Feliz. Light refreshments are served and no reservations are needed. Dress code is casual, as with most Central Florida attractions. Don’t forget your camera. You’ll want a few memories from this skillfully refurbished Spanish farmhouse that evokes 19th Century Spain!
Casa Feliz Historic Home & Venue
Casa Feliz Restored Spanish Farmhouse
The Rear of Casa Feliz
Kraft Azalea Park
If you’re doing wealthy Winter Park on a budget, this is another great stop for your itinerary. Kraft Azalea Park is a scenic public park located in the city of Winter Park. The 13+ acre property is located on the shore of Lake Maitland. Kraft Azalea is known as Winter Park’s ‘secret garden’ because of its secluded and unique location. You’ll drive through a residential neighborhood lined with spectacular homes to get there. The tree canopy is amazing. Even on the hottest of days, enormous cypress trees provide shade throughout this beautiful park. There’s really a sense of ‘Old Florida’ charm here. It’s easy to imagine Winter Park’s well-to-do money moguls of yesteryear enjoying Florida’s sub-tropical climate as they wintered here.
Kraft Azalea can be reserved for private weddings for up to 20 guests. The Exedra Monument is stunning. With Lake Maitland in the background, it’s ideal for sunset wedding ceremonies and picture-perfect photography. Pretty much, there are perpetual photo shoots happening here any time of day — from professional engagement pictures to amateur baby pics. There are no picnic tables, but don’t let that deter you from having a picnic lunch here (there are benches). Ideally, for the hopeless romantics, the best time to be here is sunset. Take a stroll, hand-in-hand with your honey, and enjoy the solitude that Kraft Azalea offers. This is a true Central Florida treasure that inspires creativity, happiness, and peaceful thoughts. Definitely a Winter Park favorite of mine that is free fun for all ages!
Entrance to Kraft Azalea Park in Winter Park
Kraft Azalea Park Tree Canopy
Exedra Monument at Kraft Azalea Park
In Conclusion…
Even though Winter Park was originally developed as a winter resort for wealthy upper-class Northerners, it’s overflowing with inexpensive ways to see this Central Florida City with such rich roots. I wasn’t born with a silver spoon in my mouth nor do I have money to burn, but I truly enjoy Orlando’s wealthy neighbor. It’s nice to know that you can visit the land of plenty without a bountiful bank account. I highly recommend a visit to Winter Park, Florida. It can be affordable, even on a limited budget!
What’s your favorite thing to do in Winter Park on a budget? Our readers would love to know. Please share in the “reply” box below!
Disney Weekday Select Pass Becomes the Disney Pixie Dust Pass!
COVID-19 has changed everything! It has not only affected individual lives and families, but businesses as well. As a result, Disney has just released news and information regarding their brand new annual Passholder program starting on September 8, 2021… just in time for Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary Celebration! The existing annual pass names – Silver, Gold, Platinum and Platinum Plus – will soon be changed to Disney Pixie Dust Pass, Disney Pirate Pass, Disney Sorcerer Pass, and Disney Incredi-Pass.
***NOTE: This article has been updated to reflect the upcoming changes.
Disney Offers Florida Residents Annual Pass Options
One of the benefits of living in Florida is the ability to purchase an annual pass to the various world-famous theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Sea World, and Busch Gardens. Offering unlimited visits, they can be a huge money-saver. As a 21-year resident of the Sunshine State, the first thing I did (right after getting my Florida driver’s license) was head on over to a Disney ticket booth to purchase my annual pass.
Even before moving to Florida I was a big fan of “the Mouse!” Every year we would spend our family vacations at Walt Disney World, probably about 20 memorable visits, more or less. Therefore, it was only fitting to celebrate the 1200-mile-move with our very first Disney annual pass! Way back then, Disney only offered 2 or 3 types of passes for Florida residents. For the first 10+ years we splurged and bought the highest priced ticket. But with hubby and I both working full-time, we found ourselves visiting the parks less and less. Not that we didn’t have a desire for the Disney magic, our schedules just didn’t allow for it. In fact, one year we only used the pass once or twice. Our “bargain-priced” Disney annual pass ended up costing us a lot of money.
After that, we discussed not renewing our passes. But then… the masterminds at Walt Disney World did something supercalifragilisticexpialidocious! Something so extraordinarily good happened that I’m certain Mary Poppins herself would have been tickled pink. Disney introduced some brand new annual Passholder options. And, behold, the Weekday Select Annual Pass was born! (Newly named the Disney Pixie Dust Pass beginning September 8, 2021.)
What is the Disney Weekday Annual Pass?
The Disney Weekday Select annual pass (now called the Disney Pixie Dust Pass) is a fantastic option for Florida residents, and is exactly what the name implies… usage on weekdays only! Hubby and I have had ours ever since its inception, and this type of pass has served us extremely well. We are both retired now, so our time is quite flexible. And flexibility is key with this type of annual pass.
Disney Pixie Dust (formerly Disney Weekday Select) Passholders can only attend the Disney theme parks Monday through Friday, and certain “blackout” dates are also imposed. The blackout dates are always around major holidays and some other peak times. (Here’s the link to the Disney Pixie Dust blackout dates calendar for 2021-2022.) The blockout dates typically include timeframes around Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years, Easter and spring break, and a few other national holidays (Columbus Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Valentine’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day).
But, that’s perfect for us! Since we are locals with the ability to visit the parks anytime we want, why would we want to be there during those crazy busy times anyhow? We never enjoy having our toes stomped on by hoards of overly excited tourists, nor waiting in line for hours for the most popular rides and shows. Oftentimes, during Disney’s off-season, we can get into those same attractions with little or no wait time. And once, we made the mega-mistake of going to Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park over the 4th of July holiday weekend, with 100-degree heat, and vowed NEVER to do that again! Between the record-breaking crowds and a downright dangerous heat index, clearly that foolish decision made for a most miserable day.
With the exception of a few blackout periods and no admission on Saturdays and Sundays, the Florida-resident Pixie Dust Pass works just like any other [higher priced] Disney park-hopper ticket. We are entitled to unlimited visits to all 4 Walt Disney World theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. It also includes park-hopper privileges, meaning we can go to multiple parks on the same day, if we choose. (Some of the high priced single-day admission tickets do not even allow for park-hopping!)
With my Florida resident Pixie Dust Pass I’m able to attend all my favorite Disney events, like the colorful Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, the yummy Epcot Food and Wine Festival, and the creative Epcot International Festival of the Arts. Additionally, I was among the first Disney guests to see the new Frozen Attraction, the Rivers of Light nighttime show, Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular, and Pandora: The World of Avatar.
Disney Pixie Dust (Formerly Weekday Select Pass) Perks & Discounts
In addition to unlimited park entry throughout the year (excluding the block out dates), there are many other special benefits included with the Florida resident Weekday pass. Here are a few of my favorites…
- FREE Parking! The Weekday annual pass hasn’t always included this benefit. Free [standard] parking has only been added within the last few years. For us, this was an impressive improvement to the value of the pass. Considering that Disney standard parking is now $25/day, that can add up quickly over the course of a year! Hubby and I try to use our annual pass at least 12 times a year, so that’s a savings of $300.
- Disney Dining Discounts! As a Weekday Passholder we receive a discount at select Disney restaurants inside the four theme parks, at Disney Resorts, at Disney’s Boardwalk, and at the Disney Springs complex (formerly known as Downtown Disney). The discount is typically 10-20% off the total bill, but can be greater during special promotions.
- Merchandise Discounts! A discount (up to 20%) is given at all Disney-owned retail shops, including some of the kiosks found throughout the theme parks. Another fantastic perk for us, as oftentimes we take our 7-year-old Grandson, who expects a souvenir every time he’s there!
- Lodging Discounts! As a Weekday Passholder we can make reservations at select Walt Disney World Resorts with savings up to 35%. Obviously, the best deals are usually during off-season, but again, that’s when we prefer to be on Disney property anyway. Passholders should bookmark this page when searching for discounted accommodations at Walt Disney World Resorts, as they change frequently.
- Tour & Special Events Discounts! There’s been a surge in recent years in the number of behind-the-scenes tours and special events added by Disney. Our Passholder discount varies with each individual tour.
- Movie Ticket Discount! The Weekday Pass includes a $2 savings per ticket for movies at the Disney Springs movie theatre.
- Others! Although I’ve never used it, there are discounts available for rental cars, salon treatments, childcare at select Walt Disney World Resorts, and a 20% discount on all purchases made with the Shop Disney Parks app. Also, live entertainment discounts like 20% off Disney on Ice and Disney Live shows, and recently a $50 discount off certain performances of The Lion King touring production.
NOTE: In order to receive the special discounts mentioned above, the Passholder must present their physical annual pass (the plastic card, not just the MagicBand) along with a valid photo ID. Trust me, the savings are more than worth it!
TIP: A good place to find up-to-date information on deals and discounts is on the Disney Passholder Facebook page. Disney doesn’t always publicize special discounts on their website.
How Much Does a Disney Weekday Pixie Dust Annual Pass Cost?
The Disney Weekday annual pass is only available to Florida residents with proof of Florida residency, such as a Florida driver’s license or State issued identification card. The cost, (I’m not going to sugar-coat anything) has gone up substantially with the rollout of Disney’s brand new Annual Pass options available on September 8, 2021.
For example: The previous Weekday Select Pass for ages 3 and older was $286.49 which included tax. (My cost was even less, as I received a renewal discount every year.) When hubby and I attained our goal of 12 yearly visits, the cost was less than $24 a visit for each of us! You can’t get a better Disney deal than that (apart from being a Disney Cast Member with free tickets!).
However, the pricing for the newly named Disney Pixie Dust Pass has increased to $399 + tax! That’s an increase of $113 + tax on every Weekday Pass sold. Many Florida-residents are upset to hear of the huge price increase. Most of us assumed there would be a 10-15% increase based on the massive losses Disney experienced as a result of the long-term park closures because of COVID. But a nearly 40% rate hike was totally unexpected and frustrating, to say the least. Disney is, however, still offering the very popular monthly payment program with the new Annual Passes.
Disney Monthly Payment Program
In an effort to make Disney annual passes affordable to more Florida residents, Disney has implemented a monthly payment program. It allows the Passholder to spread the cost of the annual pass over 12 monthly payments. If you choose this option, when you purchase the Disney Pixie Dust Pass, you will be required to make a down payment of $205. The balance will be split into 12 monthly payments of $19/month that will be automatically billed to the credit card of your choice. (The first monthly payment is charged the day you sign up.)
A Year of Disney Magic for a Lot Less
Regardless of the price increase, I’m feeling oddly good about the value here. You won’t hear me say that about too many Disney price tags. But, as the price for a one-day Walt Disney World ticket keeps escalating, (anywhere from $105-$172/day) an annual pass is still a valuable option for Florida residents. And I highly recommend the Weekday Pixie Dust Pass if you are able to attend on weekdays. I haven’t missed out on anything by switching to this cost-efficient pass. In fact, I still have all the fun experiences and awe-inspiring moments that I’ve come to expect at “The Happiest Place On Earth,” only for a fraction of what I used to pay!
NOTE: There’s really nothing to lose by trying the Disney Weekday annual pass. If you find that it’s not meeting your needs and you prefer to have one of the higher priced pass options, Disney allows you to “upgrade” by simply paying the difference between the two.
Recommended reading: 10 Tips for First-time Disney Guests
Important Links For Additional Disney Passholder Information:
- Click here to easily compare all four pass options available beginning September 8, 2021.
- Click here to upgrade an eligible Disney Ticket to an Annual Pass. Beginning September 8, 2021, you may be able to apply the entire price paid into a select Annual Pass.
- Click here to give the gift of an Annual Pass. Beginning September 8, 2021, you can purchase and gift Annual Passes online.
- Click here for information on Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary Celebration beginning October 1, 2021!
QUESTION: How has the Weekday Annual Pass worked for you? Please share your Passholder experience with our readers in the “comment” box below!
Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden
Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden: Education and Exploration for Kids
The new Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden is an outstanding addition to the already beautiful landscape of Bok Tower Gardens. It’s a fantastic place for kids to explore nature. Recently, I took my toddler Grandson to Hammock Hollow, and what an awesome time he we had! The environment was not only fun but extremely educational. We spent several hours there and his curious mind never stopped exploring the unfamiliar territory. It was the perfect place for my inquisitive little guy. It seemed as if there were interesting surprises around every corner. My 3-year-old is eager to learn about the natural world, and there was no better place than the hands-on classroom of Hammock Hollow to educate him.
Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden Site Map
Site Map of Hammock Hollow: 17 Unique Areas
Upon arriving at Hammock Hollow, it’s beneficial to take a look at the site map for the Children’s Garden. You’ll notice that it’s divided into 17 different areas. According to your child’s age and interests, some sections may be better than others. I’ll list a few of the ones that my Grandson, Apollo, liked.
TIP: It’s a good idea to print a copy of the site map and have it available when you arrive. You can download a copy of Hammock Hollow Site Map here, directly from the Bok Tower Gardens website.
The Gateway
We began our garden adventure by entering through the keystone gate. The kid-size entrance is just the right size for little ones. Grandma’s can go through here too, just don’t forget to duck! This area was a gift from the Bok Family.
The Keystone Gateway Entrance to Hammock Hollow
Stone Mosaics
The pebble mosaics were really cool. There were both large and small ones, including a woodpecker, gopher turtle, and firefly. Apollo has a fetish for any kind of rocks. On any given day his pockets are filled with them. So it goes without saying that he was fascinated by the artwork made with these colorful little stones. Sculptor Kevin Carman created the masterpieces that perfectly complimented the entrance. This area was a gift from Alexis and Jim Pugh.
Pebble Mosaics at The Gateway
Indigo Pass
I’m not usually a fan of snakes, not even the caged kind. But this humongous pebble mosaic snake sculpture seemed like a friendly fellow. This lifeless reptile encircled a tot-sized sand area complete with sand pails and shovels. What a fun way to help young children develop motor skills. The area has a sunscreen overhead to allow the kids to linger a little longer. I really love exotic bamboo trees, so I was happy to see them planted as a backdrop to the sand play area. I’m looking forward to seeing their growth in a few years as they tower over this twisty serpent. Indigo Pass was a gift from Frank and Carol Drake.
Indigo Pass Sand Play Area
River Walk
As a Florida resident for the past 17 years, one thing I learned very quickly was that the Sunshine State has 3 seasons: hot, hotter, and hottest! Obviously the designers of Hammock Hollow learned that lesson too. I’m sure that’s why they created the sparkling springs of River Walk. It’s the perfect place for the children to cool off. There are misters, spray jets, foggers, and fountains. This area is paradise for any rock-climbing tyke. River Walk was a gift from Publix Super Markets Charities.
This is a good time to remind you to pack a change of clothes for your child (or maybe 2 or 3!). And don’t forget the sunscreen — remember that Florida heat I told you about? Even in the winter months the sun’s rays can have dangerous UV levels.
The Sparkling Springs at River Walk
Ledge Walk
Along the Ledge Walk kids will have a blast exploring all the little nooks and crannies in these huge rock formations. The fern-covered rocks represent Florida’s remarkable karst limestone history. The Florida Peninsula is a porous plateau of limestone that was formed many millions of years ago. Another great opportunity for a brief history lesson for your child. As parents, you may want to read up on the Geology of Florida before you go. (Your kids will think you are so smart!)
The Ledge Walk Representing Florida’s Limestone History
Edward Bok Word Garden
Edward Bok was a Pulitzer-Prize winning author and also the publisher of one of the finest magazines of yesteryear, the Ladies Home Journal. You can imagine the importance of “words” to a man with such creative writing talents. The Edward Bok Word Garden is an area dedicated to his memory. Unlike the other sections of the Children’s Garden that serve as outlets for physical play, this one is more reflective. Here, the beautiful stones each have an inspirational word etched in them — words that teach our children about qualities that make the world a better place. Pick up a few of the rocks at random and take the opportunity to teach your child about the importance of peace, joy, beauty, caring, and success. It’s also fun moving the stones around to create sentences or phrases. After some exhilarating physical exercise, take a moment to rest in the Word Garden. It will rejuvenate the body and soul.
Inspirational Stones at Edward Bok Word Garden
Apollo Resting in the Word Garden
Fence Swift Stumpery and Fox Den
Without question, the Fence Swift Stumpery and Fox Den was one of Apollo’s favorite areas at Hammock Hollow. My little dude loves to run, jump, and climb on things. At the Fox Den there was a log climb that challenged Apollo to take it slow and focus on balance. The Fence Swift Stumpery garden proves that even tree stumps can be beautiful and useful. It was inspired by the acrobatic lizards that are native to Florida. Although we have many species here, I like watching Geckos. It’s pretty interesting to see how they use their tails while leaping from place to place. This sprawling area under a shady oak hammock was the perfect spot for Apollo to put his best Gecko imitation to the test.
Fox Den Log Climb
Apollo Creates a Masterpiece from Tiny Logs
Doodle Bug Art Place
The Doodle Bug Art Place is an area to encourage young artists to display their artistic ability. The paper, crayons, markers, and colored pencils are provided. The tables are made from wood and the seats from tree logs. When finished, the child can proudly showcase their drawings with the other Hammock Hollow guests by hanging the artwork on a clothes-line type apparatus secured with a clothes pin. Who knows… the next Van Gogh might just be discovered here at Hammock Hollow! The Doodle Bug Art Place was a gift from The Herndon Family Foundation.
Doodle Bug Art Place at Hammock Hollow
Supplies Are Provided at Doodle Bug Art Place
Songbird Music Tree
The Songbird Music Tree is the perfect spot for your budding musician. Here, you’ll find several tuned acoustic instruments that encourage hands-on activity. Depending on your child’s age, this would be a great opportunity to introduce them to the rich musical heritage of Bok Tower Gardens. The nearby rope hammocks are another great place for parents and kids to rest. The Songbird Music Tree area was a gift from The Ruth V. Marchione Foundation.
Songbird Music Tree Acoustic Instruments
Acoustic Instruments at Songbird Music Tree
Rope Hammocks Provide Rest at Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden
Spider Climb
Another of Apollo’s favorite activities at Hammock Hollow was the Spider Climb. It’s a gigantic spider-web-inspired structure that allows children to weave their way through this enormous faux web. But be careful, keeping your balance while others are maneuvering the web can be quite challenging.
Spider Climb at Hammock Hollow
Cypress Boardwalk
Hammock Hollow has a beautiful winding boardwalk that twists and turns along a Cypress grove. They’ve strategically placed bird feeding stations in the Bird Hollow section and added special plants that attract wildlife, birds, and butterflies. Few children have actually caught a butterfly, but most of them enjoy the difficult task of trying. Apollo does, for sure!
Cypress Boardwalk at Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden
Pine Place Representing the Pine Forests of Florida
In Conclusion…
The fundraising efforts certainly paid off for this amazing project — raising over $16 million dollars in donations, far exceeding their initial goals. I found Hammock Hollow, the new interactive children’s garden at Bok Tower Gardens, to be fun for the entire family. The interactive areas encompass 3+ acres, and do an outstanding job of representing Florida’s varied ecosystems.
It did my heart good to see so many children engaging in outdoor activity. Some of my fondest childhood memories include playing outside after school, on weekends, or any chance I had. Decades later, I still remember those mud pies! But it’s a different world now. With the age of rapid technological advances, oftentimes we depend on our [very young] children to educate us regarding computers, cell phones, and most other wired devices. We must keep up with this “wired” world, or get left behind. Not minimizing that, my concern is that children are missing out on healthy physical exercise, not to mention the overall learning experiences that are only found in the classroom of nature. And, Apollo felt like a million dollars after his outdoor adventure!
Apollo Felt Like a Million Dollars at Hammock Hollow!
Leave No Child Inside — Nature Play is Healthy
There is growing research about the positive impact of nature play for children. This type of unstructured play in the outdoors has proven beneficial for a child’s social, emotional, intellectual, and physical well-being. I highly recommend a best-selling book by Richard Louv entitled “Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature Deficit Disorder.” It talks about the great divide between children and the outdoors, with possible links to childhood obesity, attention disorders, and depression. The book’s success has spurred a national movement called “Leave No Child Inside.” I’m so grateful Bok Tower Gardens is doing their part to reunite our children with nature. Don’t miss this Central Florida attraction!
NOTE: Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden is just an hour’s drive from Disney and the Orlando area.
TIP: Florida residents may want to consider an Annual Membership to Bok Tower Gardens for year-round unlimited admission. With many membership levels, there’s one just right for your adventurous family. A membership also includes the American Horticultural Society Reciprocal Admissions Program, with free or discounted entry to attractions, museums, and gardens throughout Florida and the United States.
What is your family’s favorite outdoor activity? Can you recommend a special place to enjoy an outdoor adventure? Please reply in the comment box below!
Sailing Lessons: The Perfect Florida-themed Gift!
Help! I Need a Unique Milestone Birthday Gift Idea
Time was running out. There was only two weeks left to come up with something magnificent and memorable for my hubby’s birthday. And this wasn’t just any birthday, but a milestone one that required something more than the traditional dinner and flowers. To make matters worse, he had the audacity to be born right between Valentine’s Day and President’s Day, so typically we find restaurants and hotels in Florida to be overbooked, overpriced, and way under our expectations. So wine and dine was no option.
Sure, I could have done the [pretend-you’re-surprised] surprise birthday party, but that was too obvious. Isn’t that what everyone does when they’re celebrating three-quarters-of-a-century? The pressure was mounting and I felt like hubby thought I had it all under control, but in reality I had nothing planned and the onslaught of negative thoughts were having a party in my perplexed little head. I had no peace and was flat-out persuaded this special birthday was not going to be special at all.
Unusual Gift Ideas for a 75th Birthday
You’re probably thinking why didn’t I just go to the big “G” to get some recommendations for unusual birthday gifts. Truth be told, I spent hours doing Google searches that yielded very little results for something truly unique for a “seasoned citizen” living in Florida. Consequently, the word ‘senior‘ created a barrage of results giving me the top birthday ideas for men wasting away in state run nursing homes.
Really? Do they assume at 75 you’re senile and immobile? My hubby gives new meaning to the term “active adult!” He walks in divine health and has more energy and stamina than I do. The recorded miles on his Fitbit don’t lie! No, I had no interest in a gold plated custom-engraved magnifying glass or imported European walking stick. The top sure-to-please gifts for a 75th birthday (according to the search engines) were not going to impress my golden guy. I needed a special gift to reflect his youthfulness, not what the candles on the cake were indicating.
Sailboat Charters: The Perfect Special-Occasion Gift!
I was disappointed, to say the least, with my search engine results. The popular opinion seemed to be that many of us will either be dead by 75 or incontinent. But longevity is an inheritable trait, so I expect my handsome husband to be around for many more milestone birthdays!
So even after searching the internet, I was back to square one. My hubby doesn’t need Metamucil, has been on hot air balloon rides, climbed the ancient Mayan Pyramids in Tikal, Guatemala, and encountered screaming [Howler] monkeys in the jungle, among other notable experiences. Surely the Sunshine State has something outside the [boring] birthday box to offer his adventurous spirit, right?
In an effort not to be totally humiliated on that special day, I reluctantly booked four nights at a Luxury Bed & Breakfast Inn near Daytona Beach, only 10 minutes away from one of the top-rated restaurants in the country. It was exactly what I did not want to give… dinner and flowers! But I was persistent. In the wee hours of the morning, while hubby was sound asleep, I finally received my breakthrough. While searching TripAdvisor for “Things to Do in the Daytona Beach/Holly Hills area,” I came across a fantastic option — charter a sailboat with your own private captain! But even that was not so unusual for us. We have fond memories of sipping champagne as the sun was setting on a spectacular sailboat in the Florida Keys. But this one had a unique twist…
Our 36′ Morgan Nelson/Marek Designed Sloop EAGLE
A Private Sailboat Charter Was the Perfect Unique Gift!
Private Sailing Lessons — I Hit the Mark with Eagle Yachts!
No, this was not your typical sit back and sip champagne kind of sailing. In fact, alcohol is strictly prohibited on this sailboat. I was booking a participatory adventure. In short, that means we were going to be sailing the boat! During our two-hour cruise down Florida’s Halifax River we would receive private sailing lessons.
I had contacted Captain Eric West with Eagle Yachts who helped me understand how it all worked. I was so impressed with Captain West. I told him the sailing lessons were a birthday surprise for my husband, so he privately texted the directions to the marina and secretly answered my many questions. He helped me keep it a secret, and my husband never knew where we were going when we left our accommodations at The River Lily Inn… until we pulled into the marina! And even then, when he fixed his eyes on his birthday surprise, he assumed it was going to be your average sit-back-and-relax chartered sailboat ride. Not so! I was convinced I hit the mark with Eagle Yachts.
Adventure Yacht Harbor in Daytona Beach/Port Orange, Florida
The Dock at the Marina – My Husband’s First Clue to His Birthday Surprise!
Location of Adventure Yacht Harbor on Florida’s Atlantic Coast
The Adventure Yacht Harbor is located just south of Daytona Beach and near Ponce Inlet, Florida.
Sailing Lessons in Central Florida — The Perfect Gift for ANY Age!
I was amazed to learn that no prior sailing experience was necessary, nor any maximum age restrictions imposed. In fact, Captain West told me he had just finished a lesson with a 90-year-old man who did fantastic! And, that senior citizen chose the more adventurous “ocean route” verses the calm Intracoastal Waterway I had elected. Captain West wasn’t even concerned that I couldn’t swim. He said he had given sailing lessons as young as three years old!
Prior to leaving the dock we were given detailed instructions and taught proper sailing terminology to be used throughout our trip. Captain West would not allow any negative talk, and making fun of each other’s efforts was a major no-no. We were also educated on sailboat safety and emergency procedures. Knowing that the life jackets were within easy reach helped to calm my nerves, although wearing them was optional. By the time we set sail I felt perfectly safe and one-hundred-percent confident in Captain West’s vast experience and nautical knowledge. And, besides being an excellent teacher, Captain West is an interesting story teller as well. This sailor has had some incredible high-seas sailing adventures! For private sailing lessons in Central Florida… Captain West is certainly the best!
Private Sailing Lessons on the 36-Foot ‘EAGLE’ Sailboat
Captain West – Our Professional Sailing Instructor
Sailing 101 — Welcome to the Classroom
It was an extremely windy day with wind gusts to 28 knots, which made our sailing adventure even more dramatic. During our two-hour sail on the Intracoastal we did a lot of winching and had to tack a lot. (Those were a few sailing terms I learned… and remembered!) Hubby and I both had the opportunity to take the helm for about thirty minutes each. We found the sailboat to be responsive, easy to control, and we were not intimidated in the learning process.
What an incredible classroom! As sailors we learned all the basics: points of sail, rules of the road, overboard procedures (I tried not to focus on that one too long), heaving to, reefing, required safety equipment, maneuvering under sail and power, anchoring, and so much more.
The 36-foot ‘EAGLE’ Yacht: Our Hands-on Classroom!
Hubby at the Helm of the Sailboat
That’s Me at the Helm of the Sailboat
I’m Working Hard – Because of the high winds, we had very little time to rest!
Captain West Working the Sails
Hubby Anchoring the Sailboat with Captain West’s Approval
Dolphins & Various Marine Life — The Icing on the Cake!
For an added bonus during our sailing lessons, we witnessed playful dolphins and various other marine and bird life. Occasionally, according to Captain West, manatees, ospreys, frigate birds, manta rays and eagles are sighted. He told us this area is also a Right Whale sanctuary and calving ground, therefore, they can sometimes be spotted between November and April. (I would have loved to see them! They are among the most endangered of the world’s large whales, with an estimated population of only 500!) My only regret was that I couldn’t take more pictures of the marine life… we were too busy working!
Marine Life as Seen from Our Sailboat
Shore Birds Sitting on a Pier – Halifax River
The ‘EAGLE’ Yacht is Not Just for Sailing Lessons…
Even though Captain West specializes in private sailing lessons, there are additional events he’s available for…
- Lessons on your own boat
- Burial ashes scattered offshore
- Wedding proposals
- Wedding ceremonies
- Meteor shower watching trips at night
- Any special requests
Call Captain West with Your Special Sailing Request
Sailing Lessons – For the Young and Young at Heart!
We would highly recommend this sailing experience to anyone… young, or young at heart! The sailing lessons were not only educational, but entertaining. The next time you’re searching for a special occasion or unique Florida-themed gift, think outside the box. Our sailing lessons were unforgettable! Chartered sailboat lessons make great gifts for birthdays, retirement, graduation, promotions, Mother’s Day, or Father’s Day. Or, here’s a fantastic idea: Purchase a 2-hour Private Sailing Lesson Gift Certificate and donate it to a charity fundraiser.
Sailing Lessons are not only the perfect unique gift for Florida residents, but also the millions of tourists who visit every year. It’s a beautiful reprieve from the hectic Central Florida theme parks, yet only an hour or so away from them. We’re already planning sailing lessons for our best friends who visit from Pennsylvania every year. And, because of Florida’s mild semi-tropical climate, it’s something you can do 12 months out of the year! We went in the middle of February. By Florida standards, it was quite chilly (low 60’s) but a sweat suit kept us comfortable and warm.
NOTE: The cost for the sailing lessons was far less than I had imagined. For a very reasonable rate of $85/hour, (minimum 2 hours), I spent $200 which included a $30 tip. Although it was just hubby and me, Captain West allows up to 6 people on the sailboat, which makes the lessons a very good value for families or small groups.
Finished Our Lesson – Officially Sailed a Boat!
Completed Our Very First Sailing Lesson!
A Gift to Remember Our Sailing Experience
Each time we travel some place new or have a first-time life experience, I try to bring home a unique gift or souvenir to remember the occasion. Imagine our surprise then, when Captain West photographed us sailing the boat, then hand-delivered the keepsake photos to us at The River Lily Inn the following day. What an unexpected personal touch! And a sweet souvenir from our sailing adventure that we didn’t have to purchase.
Sailing Lessons: The BEST Birthday Gift… Ever!
Needless to say, hubby absolutely loved his gift. In fact, he has reminded me many times that it was the best birthday gift he ever received. Perhaps it was the ‘secret’ element; he’s so hard to keep a secret from! Here’s my challenge though… his birthday is coming up again in a few weeks. How do I top the sailing lessons?
Happy Birthday Hubby! He Was a Happy Man!
Hubby LOVED His Sailing Lessons!
Would you consider Sailing Lessons for a unique special occasion gift? Or perhaps you have another unusual gift idea. Please share with our readers in the “comment” box below!
Entrance to Chef Mickey’s Character Dining
Chef Mickey’s Character Dining at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
My Grandson, Apollo, was turning 3 years old and I wanted something spectacular and memorable to mark this special occasion. As Florida residents and Disney Annual Passholders, we frequently take him with us to the Disney theme parks. We have been ever since he was 9 months old. So simply attending Magic Kingdom (his favorite) or Animal Kingdom wasn’t unique enough. It had to be a little more unusual — something as remarkable as the Disney Parks but distinctively different. We wanted him to know this day was not the same as our usual visits to Disney. After all, it’s not every day a toddler turns three, is it?
We opted for a Disney Character Brunch at Chef Mickey’s inside the Contemporary Resort Hotel. Hubby and I love the California Grill on the 15th floor of this hotel; in fact, it’s one of our favorite fine-dining restaurants on Disney property. But, certainly Chef Mickey’s would be very different then the award-winning exquisite cuisine experienced in their signature dining spot high atop Seven Seas Lagoon. We knew there would be no comparison, but hoped, and even expected, Chef Mickey’s to be just as noteworthy. The following Review reveals whether this popular Disney restaurant met our expectations.
Chef Mickey’s Check-in Procedure
Upon arriving at Chef Mickey’s we checked in with the hostess. Our brunch reservation was for 12:55 and we arrived at least 15 minutes early, just as Disney recommends. We were given one of those restaurant “pagers” — the kind that light up and vibrate when your table is ready. This one was pure Disney though, as it included trivia questions about Walt Disney World, each with multiple choice answers. The birthday boy latched onto ours, so we didn’t get to play. A small price to keep an active toddler somewhat occupied!
After receiving the “pager” we were told to get in line for a family photograph, taken by Disney photographers. (Perhaps the reason they request that you show up early.) Of course, there’s no obligation to purchase the photos. But you know how that goes. Once you see those adorable shots, you just have to have one. The photo process is the same as in the Disney theme parks. After shooting several poses the Disney photographer scans your Magic Band or PhotoPass Card and they are conveniently linked to your online Disney account where you can preview and purchase them. I must admit, ours came out much better than expected. And yes, I did purchase one!
Shortly after our photo shoot, the “pager” went off. Coincidence or strategic? I’m not sure, but the anticipation was growing for Apollo who was more than ready to see his favorite Disney Characters.
Family Photo at Chef Mickey’s Taken by Disney Photographers
The Pager at Chef Mickey’s Complete with Disney Trivia
Birthday’s Are Special at Chef Mickey’s
Here’s the first thing that impressed me: A Birthday Card signed by all 5 of the Disney Characters that were present that day was already on our table. Apollo discovered the card immediately and was elated to see who it was from. However, the real surprise here was for me. In my quest to keep an active and adventurous 3-year-old under control, I had forgotten to request anything special for Apollo’s birthday upon check-in. I booked my reservation online through the official Disney dining website, but unlike some other restaurant reservation forms, there was no spot to place a special request. Typically, you are to mention any special occasions to the hostess, who in turn alerts the restaurant staff. But a conscientious hostess saved the day! Apparently, she had noticed that Apollo was wearing his Disney Birthday Button and acted on it, without me having to ask. Kudos to this young lady for her attentiveness. I could tell that birthday’s are special here at Chef Mickey’s, and the hostess and servers go above-and-beyond to make sure your child is recognized.
Apollo Was So Excited to Receive a Birthday Card at Chef Mickey’s
Apollo Received a Surprise Disney Birthday Card Signed By the Characters
Apollo’s Disney Birthday Button and First Annual Pass Button
As you can see, we were also celebrating Apollo’s very first Disney Annual Pass. Children under 3 have free theme park entry, but ages 3 – 9 require a child’s ticket. A milestone for Apollo who was becoming increasingly upset that he didn’t have his own Magic Band like Mimi and Pappy. We chose a fire-engine-red color for him! After our brunch at Chef Mickey’s he was able to use it for the first time at Magic Kingdom. He was prouder than a peacock on Pine Island! In the mind of a 3-year-old, he’s all grown up now.
Chef Mickey’s: Buffet-Style Quick Service Disney Dining
Chef Mickey’s is a casual buffet-style restaurant serving American cuisine in a large open area that is brightly colored with a lively loud atmosphere. Since it’s a buffet, you can feed hungry kids (and Grandma’s) quickly. There’s no waiting to order, other than the included non-alcoholic beverage of your choice. Our server greeted us almost immediately after we were seated, and took our beverage selections. Service was fantastic the entire time, but that’s to be expected with a buffet. Our server was an older woman (a bit surprising to me in a place with a gazillion hyper kids running loose) and was excellent at offering drink refills and clearing the dirty dishes from our table in order to make room for the next trip to the buffet. We never had to flag her down for anything.
Chef Mickey’s Buffet-Style Dining
Chef Mickey’s Food Choices for Brunch
For me, this was the weak link in my Chef Mickey’s experience. Don’t get me wrong, there was certainly no shortage of food. And with unlimited trips to the buffet, you could eat till your heart’s content. It was the food quality that was disappointing. For Apollo’s very first birthday we took him to lunch at Tusker House in Animal Kingdom, which is also a Disney Character buffet. I really enjoyed the food there, and thought the quality was excellent. I was expecting the same at Chef Mickey’s, but the food quality was a let down. I concluded that the food is much better at Tusker House but the Disney Character interaction is superior at Chef Mickey’s. Therefore, it boils down to what’s most important to your family… food quality or the Character experience.
Because we booked a brunch reservation we had both breakfast items and lunch selections on the buffet. I really appreciated the separate buffet bar with food choices made especially for children. It included all of Apollo’s favorites — things like chicken nuggets, mac ‘n cheese, potato nuggets, and Mickey-shaped waffles. I particularly liked the baked salmon, fresh carved baked ham (with choice of sauce), and seasonal kale salad. Pretty much everything else I tried, I didn’t like — the spare ribs were overcooked and tough, the kielbasa was also tough, the smoked salmon way too salty for my taste buds (couldn’t eat more than two bites), lobster bisque was a big disappointment (ate a few spoonfuls just because I felt guilty leaving so much in my cup), and I should have passed on the chocolate chip pancakes I forced myself to eat. Hubby liked the cheesy potato casserole and said the peel-n-eat shrimp were okay. But in the end, I would have to agree with Apollo… dessert was the best part of the meal (don’t tell his Mother, but he had two portions!).
As previously mentioned, return visits to the buffet are unlimited, so I suggest sampling a variety of foods in small portions then returning for the ones you liked best. I also noticed there were some vegetarian-friendly foods as well as Gluten-free options. Here’s the link to Chef Mickey’s brunch menu.
TIP: For tourists visiting Walt Disney World or Florida residents staying on Disney property I would recommend Chef Mickey’s for breakfast. The breakfast foods on the buffet seemed to be better, and it is less expensive than brunch. Also, it’s probably better time management to eat breakfast and then spend the day at the Disney parks, rather than have to leave the parks in the middle of the day for brunch.
Multiple Buffet Stations Are Nicely Spaced for Better Traffic Control
Apollo’s Brunch Items from the Kids Buffet Station
My Brunch at Chef Mickey’s
Dessert at Chef Mickey’s – The Best Part of the Meal!
The Disney Characters: The Main Attraction
As with all things Disney, the Characters are usually the main attraction. And so it was at Chef Mickey’s! There were 5 different Characters the day we were there — Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Pluto, and Goofy (Apollo’s favorite). I was amazed at the effort put forth by the Characters to stop at every single table. In addition, they allowed ample time for each family to take photos or short video clips. You never have to be concerned about your child missing a visit from them. Even if you’re at the buffet and think they’ve bypassed your table, don’t worry, they’ll come back around. The Characters seemed to meander the restaurant in a strategic fashion and were excellent at making sure no child was missed. After all, isn’t that what we really paid for?
Whenever the Disney Characters were making the rounds, it was quite a lively scene, to say the least. At Chef Mickey’s you don’t have to put a muzzle on your child’s mouth. They can make as much noise as they want and it won’t be a distraction to other diners, because their kids are roaring with laughter and ear-splitting noisy as well. One thing to keep in mind is that the Characters DO NOT talk. Therefore, any “Happy Birthday” song requests must be made with the staff who will do the singing, and the Characters will break out with napkin swinging and dancing. This seemed to happen about every 15-20 minutes. Some songs were not birthday related, but appeared rather impromptu. These short bouts of sporadic interactive song-and-dance with the kids were awesome and certainly kept them occupied. Of course, if you just want your little mouseketeers to eat, the dancing could become a distraction, for sure!
TIP: Bring your own camera or cell phone for photos in the restaurant. The only Disney photographer available is the one for the family photo while you’re waiting to be seated. There were NO photographers inside Chef Mickey’s.
TIP: Very small children may be terrified of the Disney Characters (as Apollo was during his 1st birthday at Tusker House). For little kids they’re so much bigger in real life than watching them on TV. It may help to have them watch YouTube before going to the restaurant. There are a multitude of video clips from Chef Mickey’s to choose from.
Disney Characters Visiting Tables at Chef Mickey’s
The Icing on the Cake Cupcake!
For some people “the icing on the cake” is simply a metaphoric expression. But at Chef Mickey’s it was so much more than that. To our surprise, a yummy-looking “Birthday Cupcake” was delivered to Apollo by our server, Ms. Teresa. (Remember, we had forgotten to request these additional birthday items!) For the second time during our visit to Chef Mickey’s I was “wowed” by their keen sense of awareness of any special occasions being celebrated, like our Grandson’s birthday. Even though Mimi messed up, the ‘Mouse’ seemed to work his Disney magic, and we all lived happily ever after. Well, you get the idea, right? The only way Chef Mickey’s could go from good to great, was by making a BIG deal over Apollo’s 3rd birthday… and they surpassed our expectations in that regard.
Ms. Teresa brought the cupcake to Apollo, then proceeded to light the candle. It didn’t matter that he didn’t like it (the icing was lemon flavored, somewhat tart for a toddler, I suppose). Pappy enjoyed eating the cupcake along with the decorative chocolate Mickey-ears, while Apollo had a blast playing with the “candy confetti!”
Apollo’s Surprise Birthday Cupcake at Chef Mickey’s
Apollo’s Birthday Cupcake at Chef Mickey’s with Candy Confetti
In Conclusion…
While the food is not fantastic and the prices are pure Disney (fantastically high), to see the non-stop smile on Apollo’s face and hear his contagious giggling with frequent outbursts of laughter, was priceless! That said, it was worth every penny AND a return visit!
“Hats Off” to Chef Mickey & Team for a Memorable 3rd Birthday for Apollo!
A Few More Tips…
TIP: Because of the popularity of this Disney Character Dining experience, it books up quickly. But even if the reservation system indicates it is totally booked, don’t give up. I recommend checking several times a day (both online and by calling). With Disney Dining there are always cancellations. I made our reservations only a few days before we went!
TIP: If you’re driving to the Contemporary Resort to have brunch at Chef Mickey’s, please note that free valet parking is NOT included (as it is with some Disney restaurants). We paid $25 to valet park and an additional $5 tip. A bit pricey, and I wouldn’t do it again. You have the option to self-park (a mile away), or here’s an idea… The Magic Kingdom is only a short (10 minute) walk to the Contemporary Resort if you’re coming from there. Or, take the “Resort” Monorail from the Magic Kingdom which stops directly at the Contemporary!
TIP: Attention Annual Passholders… Don’t forget to ask for your 10% dining discount. Our total bill for brunch for 2 adults and 1 child was $104 + tax and tip. The $10 discount paid for half of the gratuity!
Have you been to Chef Mickey’s? Please share your experience or helpful tips with our readers. Or, perhaps you have a question about this Disney restaurant. Simply reply in the comment box below!
Explore 5 Florida Botanical Gardens with Filthy Rich Roots!
Florida is synonymous with sunshine. And one of the many benefits of living in the Sunshine State is the spectacular year-round beauty that our semi-tropical climate produces. Something outstanding is blooming every month of the year. It’s no surprise, then, that Florida is home to some of the most breathtaking botanical gardens in the United States. Some are elegant and formal, others whimsical and amusing, still others aesthetically appealing with the addition of artistic elements and magnificent architectural components. Each one has a uniqueness all its own.
But have you ever thought about who planted those botanical beauties? Before they were drop-dead gorgeous gardens that delight you and I, they existed only in someone’s imagination. It’s interesting, to me, that the visionaries behind all that awesomeness were filthy rich businessmen. Yes, Florida’s most exquisite gardens have very, very rich roots! Buried deep within our sandy soil lies DNA from some of the wealthiest families in American history. I’ve chosen these 5 Florida Gardens with Rich Roots for you to add to your botanical bucket list.
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens on Biscayne Bay in Miami Florida
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens — Miami Florida
When I say Miami, “Gardens” is not usually the first thing to pop into someone’s head. Or the second, or third for that matter. Miami is best known for points of interest like South Beach, Ocean Drive, Art Decor Tours, Little Havana, Lincoln Road Mall and Bayside. But if you’ve been to this Southern Florida City and haven’t visited Vizcaya Museum and Gardens somewhere between your Cafe con Leche and Tostada Cubana, you’ve missed a botanical masterpiece!
Vizcaya’s Rich Roots
Vizcaya is a stunningly beautiful American Villa inspired by the palaces of Europe — a subtropical interpretation of an 18th-century Italian countryside villa. It was built in the early 1900s as the winter home for northerner James Deering, a retired millionaire businessman, and one of America’s wealthiest families. Mr. Deering was diagnosed with pernicious anemia, so his doctor recommended sunshine and a warm climate to lessen the effects of his affliction. (Turns out his pain was our gain!) As an avid sailor who owned three yachts, he also had quite a passion for landscaping and plant conservation. All of these things combined to play a huge role in the location of his 180-acre winter estate.
Vizcaya’s old-world European-inspired gardens are among the most elaborate of any in the United States. The formal gardens of Florence, Venice, and Rome served as the inspiration for James Deering. I absolutely love the use of sculptures, elaborate fountains, and other architectural structures strategically placed throughout the garden landscape. There are statues, urns, busts, and vases reminiscent of the Renaissance, which I find remarkably romantic. Apparently I’m not the only one that gets romantic vibes here, as Vizcaya Gardens is a popular wedding destination for multitudes of brides looking to create an enchanting fairy-tale backdrop for their special day. There are tons of charming, picturesque spots to choose from.
The horticultural collections in Vizcaya’s Gardens are so extensive and diverse (it took almost eight years to create the Garden), they have to be catalogued in a plant database. The Gardens include a subtropical forest, a mangrove forest, an exotic 2,000-specimen orchid collection, massive live oaks, Royal Palms imported from Cuba by boat, unusual plants such as Peach Palm and Giant Elephant Ear, and many endangered plants. Some are so rare they only exist here and in one or two other places in the world!
Vizcaya still remains an outstanding garden oasis for the rich and famous. It’s not unusual for Hollywood to come here for film shoots. They’ve recognized what we Floridians have known all along: Vizcaya showcases the history of the Mediterranean, the glamour of the Jazz Age, and the heat of the tropics! For hours, admission, calendar of events, and frequently asked questions, visit the Vizcaya website.
One of the Incredible “Secret” Alcoves at Vizcaya Gardens in Miami
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens on Biscayne Bay, Miami Florida
Bok Tower Gardens and Pinewood Estate — Lake Wales Florida
Tranquil and serene. Bok Tower Gardens gets my vote for the most peaceful place in Central Florida. It’s the ultimate great escape from Orlando’s thrilling [and sometimes over-crowded] tourist attractions. Since it’s one of my favorite places, Hubby and I have an annual membership to the Gardens. One of the great perk’s of membership is that we receive reciprocal benefits (including free admission) to many other spectacular gardens in Florida and around the country — places like Harry P. Leu Gardens and Museum in Orlando. Bok Tower Gardens is a mere 30-minutes from my home, so we visit frequently. There’s always something new blooming!
And with the recent addition of Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden, an educational and fun children’s learning area, I can introduce my toddler grandson to the beauty of “natural” Florida. Part of the expansion project also included an Edible Garden & Outdoor Kitchen. The Bok Tower Gardens special event calendar now includes various chef demonstrations and other culinary activities. This area also hosts after-dark soirées perfect for intimate gatherings. A favorite of visitors to Bok Tower Gardens is the infamous 205-foot-tall Singing Tower which houses one of the world’s finest carillons. Concerts occur twice daily, with additional live performances during peak periods.
Pinewood Estate’s Rich Roots
Pinewood Estate is a 20-room Mediterranean-style mansion from the 1930s. The Estate is open for self-guided tours throughout the year, with docents on hand to answer questions. The holidays are my favorite time to tour the mansion which features one of the best Christmas Home Tours in all of Florida. Each year, the local Garden Club creates a holiday “theme” and decorates each room of the mansion accordingly — truly spectacular! Charles Austin Buck, a Bethlehem Steel vice president was the original owner of this elaborate residence. And, like so many other historical homes in Florida, this was only a winter retreat. Can you imagine having a 20-room mansion that you occupied a mere 6-weeks out of the year? Mr. Buck was so wealthy that he brought 7 – 9 servants from his home in Pennsylvania with him each winter. He hired a manager to live in the house and take care of it the rest of the time.
For a glimpse of Pinewood Estates at Christmastime, read my article about Bok Tower Gardens during December.
TIP: Wear comfortable shoes… it’s easy to spend an entire day at this National Historic Landmark!
Beautiful Winter Blooms at Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales Florida
Bok Tower Gardens – National Register of Historic Places
Pinewood Estate – Former Winter Home of Charles Austin Buck
Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens — Winter Park Florida
The Albin Polasek Sculpture Garden is located just a short drive from Orlando, the theme park capital of the world, in beautiful Winter Park, Florida. I’ve always loved everything about Winter Park — the architecture, casually elegant restaurants, shopping on Park Avenue, the yummy Winter Park food tours, museums, art festivals, and relaxing Central Park with its inspirational Peacock Fountain. But of all my visits to this wonderful place, only recently did I discover the Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens. Hubby and I spent several hours here, and had we packed a lunch we could have lingered longer.
Mr. Polasek was a world-renowned Czech sculptor. In 1950 he retired to Winter Park, at the age of 70. Prior to that, he headed the Department of Sculpture at the Art Institute of Chicago for nearly three decades. The Polasek Museum is the actual home and art studio where Albin Polasek lived and worked. Many original paintings, drawings and small clay sculptures are on display here. While touring the Museum, I learned about the history of this incredibly talented man. But no amount of reading could have prepared me for what I was about to see in the Polasek Sculpture Gardens located on the property behind the Museum, right along the edge of scenic and serene Lake Osceola.
My goodness, these sculptures are absolutely amazing! When intermingled with many native Florida and subtropical garden species, it becomes a botanical utopia; simply perfect! I was blown away by both the created and natural beauty represented in this three-acre Garden. Not withholding the fact that some of Albin Polasek’s greatest artistic achievements came as a severely disabled person. Wow… if only these sculptures could speak! (You may be interested in a more comprehensive article on the life and legacy of Albin Polasek here.) This is truly a “not to miss” attraction if you appreciate outstanding outdoor gardens and are ever in the Central Florida area.
Winter Park’s Rich Roots
The entire town of Winter Park was founded by wealthy Northern industrialists as a winter getaway. This classy place might be geographically close to Disney and other Central Florida tourist attractions, but it’s a world apart in almost every sense. Its got style and substance! Winter Park has never lost its late-19th-century charm — brick-paved streets, stately turn-of-the-last century historic homes, 200-year-old live oaks with Spanish moss, and meandering canals once used for logging. And because money begets money, Winter Park still attracts multimillionaires today. Don’t be surprised if you rub elbows with a member of the Orlando Magic or see a movie star at a Park Avenue sidewalk cafe…
Albin Polasek Sculpture Gardens in Winter Park Florida
Pilgrim at the Eternal Gate Sculpture by Albin Polasek
Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens
Edison & Ford Winter Estates and Botanical Garden — Fort Myers Florida
Did you know Thomas Edison (the innovative inventor) and Henry Ford (the Ford Motors car mogul) were very good friends? Yes, indeed. Such great friends that they purchased adjoining properties in southwest Florida in the early 1900s as their winter estates. The 21-acre estate features the former homes of the two men, a research laboratory, museum, and botanical gardens.
It’s a lovely waterfront location right alongside the Caloosahatchee River in Ft. Myers. Here, you’ll get a taste of what tropical, “old-Florida” used to be like. Whether you choose the guided or self-guided tour, you’ll receive so much historical information you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time. In the Gardens, it’s hard to believe that a few of the original trees planted during Edison’s time are still standing. Hint: check out that famous banyan tree! Good golly miss molly, wait till you see the size of that thing. I won’t give away all the fascinating facts, but you practically need a wide-angle lens to capture the whole thing. Additionally, there are 1700 plants representing 400 species from six continents on display. Hard to find a more diverse horticultural collection anywhere! To get a heads-up of what’s blooming in any given month, check out the Edison Ford Gardens “what’s blooming” page on their website.
Edison & Ford Winter Estates’ Rich Roots
Of course we’re talking about Henry Ford and Thomas Edison here. This popular Florida attraction represents some serious wealth. The net worth of these two men individually is massive, with a capital “M!” When combined, it’s mind-boggling. By the mid-1920s, Henry Ford’s net worth was estimated around $1.2 billion. That’s billion, with a “b!” At age 57 he was worth $188 billion, making him one of the 10 richest people of all time! When Thomas Edison was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 1928 Congress valued his work at nearly $15.6 billion. Imagine the good times they had together on that property in Fort Myers that you and I get to visit…
Largest Banyan Tree in the Continental U. S. at Edison & Ford Winter Estate
Gorgeous Bamboo at the Edison Ford Winter Estate in Ft Myers Florida
Botanical Beauty at Edison Ford Winter Estate
Harry P. Leu Gardens and Museum — Orlando Florida
Leu Gardens is vintage Florida at its best! It’s easy to imagine Florida the way it used to be while strolling this massive Garden comprising nearly 50 acres. It’s nicely divided into 14 distinctly different areas (you’ll need a map). A few of them are formal, like the Rose Garden, but most sections appear more “natural.” While meandering through the landscape that contained the Palms, Cycads & Bamboo, I envisioned old-Florida — the way the Sunshine State looked pre-Disney. I was waiting for a gator to emerge at any moment from the dense subtropical terrain. Stand still long enough on Lake Rowena Overlook and in your minds-eye you’ll see the logging of humongous cypress trees that were transported via steamboat through Florida’s chain of lakes and canals.
Yes, old-Florida is becoming extinct. Vanishing. Endangered as our beloved manatees. But there are remnants, if you know where to look. Thank goodness Harry P. Leu Gardens is doing their part to preserve Florida’s cultural identity, for many generations to come, I hope. You’ll notice Leu Gardens has a personality all her own; it’s old Florida today!
Make sure you save time to tour the Leu House Museum; it’s included in the entry fee. A restored 19th century Victorian-style home, it’s one of the oldest buildings in Central Florida. Some of the architectural details include a tin roof and pine floors. Before it opened to the public in 1961, four different families resided there. The stories told by our docent about these wealthy owners were captivating. If you want a sense of what turn-of-the-century Florida living was like for affluent landowners, take this guided tour!
Harry P. Leu House’s Rich Roots
From a cotton farmer (1st owner) to an actress (2nd owner) to a steel manufacturer (third owner) to the Leu Family (4th and final owner), this house-turned-Museum has had quite a rich history. The most intriguing of the occupants was Duncan Pell, a prominent New York businessman who divorced his first wife in order to marry actress Helen Gardner. Ms. Gardner went on to create her own film company (a first for a woman) and became very well known throughout Orlando. Joseph and Martha Woodward were the 3rd owners; wealthy industrialists who only used the home as a winter residence. Mr. Leu, the last resident, owned a very successful industrial supply company. He and his wife traveled the world and brought back seeds and plants for their gorgeous gardens.
Lake Rowena Overlook at Harry P. Leu Gardens
The Formal Rose Garden at Harry P. Leu Gardens
Tropical Plants at Harry P. Leu Gardens
Harry P. Leu Gardens – National Register of Historic Places
Have you been to any of the 5 Florida Gardens with Rich Roots? Or perhaps you know of another garden here in the Sunshine State with roots back to the rich and famous. Please share with our readers via the comment box below!
Sensational Sanibel Island Beach
Sensational Sanibel Island
Sanibel Island is a premier destination in Southwest Florida. Only 14 miles from Ft. Myers, it sits off the coast in the blue/green waters of the Gulf of Mexico. This tiny little island oasis has gained quite a reputation for itself. Experts in the travel industry have been bragging on sensational Sanibel Island for decades! Authorities within the travel industry say Sanibel is an extraordinary travel experience. But what makes Sanibel so special, and so different from any other island in the Sunshine State?
Well, Travel & Leisure says it’s one of the 10 Best Shelling Beaches in the United States! And USAToday ranked the seashells of Sanibel in the Top 10 Attractions in Florida! So then… seashells and Sanibel seem to be synonymous! But what if beach-combing isn’t your thing? If shell collecting isn’t on your tropical vacation to-do list, is Sanibel still worth a trip? The answer is unequivocally, yes! I’ve put together a list of my favorite things to do every time I visit (in no particular order). You’re welcome to add your favorites as well. Simply reply in the comment box at the end of the article.
Sea Oats on Sanibel as Seen from Our Villa
- BOOK A WATERFRONT PROPERTY: The beaches of Sanibel are so relaxing. Even in the busy season they’re not crowded. Do yourself a favor and book waterfront accommodations. The few extra dollars a night will more than pay for itself with a million-dollar view. Don’t be surprised if you decide to do nothing at all during your stay, except to immerse your senses in the simplistic serenity of nature. Put your cell phone on mute, kick up your bare feet on that lanai lounger, grab a spoon and enjoy a pint of Queenie’s Ice Cream (no sharing allowed) — it’s homemade, right across the Pine Island Sound in Ft. Myers, Florida. (Cinnamon is the bomb!) We like to stay at Tortuga Beach Club, a Vacation Ownership property managed by Hilton. Even if you’re not a timeshare owner, rentals are available. At Tortuga, it’s only a few steps to the sandy beach via a small boardwalk. It truly felt as if we were vacationing in the Caribbean. Here’s the view from our balcony…
Beach View from Our Villa at Tortuga Beach Club
Breakfast on the Balcony at Tortuga Beach Club – Fruit, Danish & Fresh Flowers!
Queenie’s Cinnamon Ice Cream – An Afternoon Delight!
Tortuga Beach Club Villas
- VISIT JERRY’S FOODS: We started a tradition while on Sanibel. The first thing we do right after check-in and unpacking is make our customary run to Jerry’s Foods. It’s a combination grocery store/restaurant right on the island, at 1700 Periwinkle Way. It has the coolest entrance to a grocery store that I’ve ever seen. It feels like you’re walking through the jungle to get there. Strategically placed throughout the dense tropical palms and foliage are colorful parrots and birds. As you stroll the peaceful pathways, stop and say hello… they do talk… but only when my video is turned off! How do they know that? These gorgeous guys and gals will have you in a relaxed state of mind in no time. When Jimmy Buffett’s “Margaritaville” starts running through your head, “island time” has officially found you! Jerry’s isn’t cheap, so we don’t do a large grocery order here, but their pastries and breads are excellent for breakfast on the balcony, and this is where I get my Queenie’s! Also, for a casual lunch or dinner, you’ll never go wrong with Jerry’s Cafe. The daily specials are always a good value. We’ve had fish tacos, grouper fingers, oriental chicken salad, prime rib, and that made-from-scratch coconut pie… oh my! Everything we’ve tried at Jerry’s Cafe has been excellent!
Tropical Birds at Jerry’s Foods on Sanibel Island
Peaceful Pathway through Tropical Foliage at Jerry’s Foods
Lunch at Jerry’s Foods Restaurant on Sanibel Island
Yummy Pastries at Jerry’s Foods!
- TOUR BAILEY MATTHEWS NATIONAL SHELL MUSEUM: You don’t have to be a shell-lover or collector to appreciate this place. There’s no other museum like it in the United States. It’s the only museum devoted entirely to shells and the mollusks that create them. There’s over 30 permanent displays and some temporary ones that often change. The Museum is home to at least 4 different world-record-sized shells. (Wait till you see the size of those things!) But, Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum is far more than just colorful shells, it’s incredibly educational. The Marine Biologists that research and study here are internationally known as the foremost authorities in their field. Take advantage of the interesting and interactive “Tank Talk” lectures; and in the Arts & Crafts Room you can make a shell souvenir to take home (far more memorable than anything you could purchase in a tacky shell-shop!). Both things are free with a paid admission. FloridaFunAndFork did a full-length article and photo tour of Bailey Matthews Shell Museum. Check it out!
Exotic & Rare Shells at Bailey Matthews Shell Museum
EL, the Seashell Elephant Made at Bailey Matthews Shell Museum
- HISTORICAL SANIBEL LIGHTHOUSE: The Sanibel Lighthouse (originally called Point Ybel Light) is worth a visit for anyone who loves historical points of interest. It’s located on the eastern end of the 12-mile long island and was one of the first lighthouses on Florida’s Gulf Coast; first lit in August 1884. The Sanibel Lighthouse is currently maintained by the Florida Coast Guard. Although the lighthouse is not open to visitors, you can walk the surrounding property that includes the keeper’s quarters. There’s also a fishing pier and public beach access. Have your camera or cell phone nearby, it’s a great area for photography!
Historical Sanibel Island Lighthouse
Public Beach Access on Sanibel’s East End Near the Lighthouse
Lighthouse Beach on Sanibel Island’s East End
- J. N. “DING” DARLING NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE: With an address like “One Wildlife Drive” you know you’ve gone somewhat off-the-beaten-path. The Wildlife Refuge is named for the Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist, Jay Norwood Darling. Many are familiar with his cartooning in the New York Herald Tribune, but few people realize Mr. Darling was a passionate environmentalist. In fact, he was a pioneer in the conservation movement, and an advocate for wildlife management. At The Education Center you’ll learn his story and the connection he had with President Franklin Roosevelt and ultimately Sanibel Island. The J. N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is quite large; 6,300 acres. It’s accessible via car, interpretative tram tours, biking, walking trails, or by canoe. We chose the 4-mile scenic drive but also walked a few of the shorter trails. I’ve seen stunning photography of various birds, reptiles, and mammals spotted at the Wildlife Refuge, but unfortunately we didn’t see too many. Know before you go: Timing is everything! Birds typically feed during low tide, so that’s the ideal time to be there. We visited in the afternoon, in the heat of the day, when animal movement is minimal. Next time, I’ll tour the sanctuary according to the tide tables.
J. N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge Entrance
Observation Tower at J. N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge
J. N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island
- CHAPEL BY THE SEA: Just north of Sanibel, via a small bridge, is a tiny sliver of land called Captiva Island. I love the scenic drive to Sanibel’s sister island. As you’re driving perfectly parallel to the sea and sand you’ll be amazed at the colorful bougainvilleas, giant cactus, and other tropical flora. Chapel by the Sea was originally built as a schoolhouse in 1901. On Sundays it would double as a church. Nowadays, it’s an interdenominational church that holds services seasonally, November through April. When you see the setting of this seaside sanctuary you’ll know why it’s also a popular wedding spot. Take a walk through the very old cemetery right next door to the church, many of Captiva’s original 19th century settlers are buried there. TIP: Time your visit to Captiva so you can have dinner while watching the setting sun! TIP: While on Captiva, you MUST drive by The Bubble Room restaurant! If you choose not to dine there, at least stop by and check out this kitsch eatery for a few photo ops!
Chapel by the Sea on Captiva Island
Chapel by the Sea & Historic Cemetery on Captiva Island
The Bubble Room on Captiva Island – A Kitsch Eatery
- PLAN A DAY TRIP TO MATLACHA: OMG… I smile just thinking about this place. We discovered Matlacha (pronounced MAT-la-shay) on our way to a romantic anniversary lunch at the historical Tarpon Lodge Restaurant, a 4-Star waterfront restaurant on Pine Island. Matlacha is a teeny-tiny little town the size of my walk-in closet (well, at 99 acres, that’s almost true!) that you have to drive through to get to Bokeelia, our restaurant destination. Turns out, this pee-wee sized place with a population around 735 is a bright, funky artist enclave — it’s so colorful you’ll be tempted to wear your Ray Ban’s at night! The color is what captured my attention, but the incredible talent is what really impressed me. Matlacha is home to a multitude of authors, musicians, and artists. (You know… birds of a feather…) You’ll definitely want to check out the boutique shops, and Matlacha’s art galleries are amongst the most eclectic I have seen! Check out my review of Matlacha here!
Lunch at Tarpon Lodge, Bokeelia, Pine Island Florida
Bicycle on the Beach – Pine Island, Florida
Matlacha Florida – Leoma Lovegrove Art Gallery
Matlacha Florida – A Tiny Artist Enclave
- MURDER MYSTERY DINNER TRAIN, FT. MYERS: Another outstanding day trip is to one of the best attractions in all of Florida, in my opinion. A short 40-minute drive from Sanibel Island will have you in Ft. Myers — a popular Southwest Florida destination. Here’s a good itinerary idea for Fort Myers: Tour the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, Have Lunch at The Veranda (one of my favorite upscale restaurants in Florida!), Stroll the Fort Myers Newly Expanded River District, then experience Dinner and A Show on the Murder Mystery Dinner Train. (Perhaps you’ll be like my sleuth friend, Ron, who received an award for correctly solving the “who done it” mystery!) It’s a full schedule, but you can chill at your beach-front Sanibel Island villa the next day! Fort Myers is a day trip you’ll be talking about for a long time after you return home, I promise!
Anniversary Dinner at The Veranda – Ft Myers, Florida
Murder Mystery Dinner Train in Ft Myers, Florida
Historic Edison & Ford Winter Estate in Ft Myers Florida
Largest Banyan Tree in the Continental U. S. at Edison & Ford Winter Estate
- BIRD WATCHING ON THE BEACH: If you’re not into shelling while on Sanibel, no problem. There’s another popular pastime on the beaches of Sanibel. Here’s how it works: Perfectly position your beach chair at one of the birding hotspots and spend a lazy afternoon doing a little bird watching. Simple as that! Simple, but oh so satisfying to the soul!
Beach Chairs for Bird Watching on Sanibel Island
Bird Watching on the Gulf of Mexico Shoreline on Sanibel Island
- THE SANIBEL STOOP: Okay… I must confess. After a few days of watching everyone else doing it, I decided to try it myself. The Sanibel Stoop, that is. It’s difficult watching the sense of satisfaction and jubilation people get when finding one of those “prized” shells, and not being a participant. After all, it’s kinda like the “official” pastime of Sanibel. And, you know what they say… when in Sanibel, do as the Islanders do! But I have to warn you, the Sanibel Stoop can become seriously addicting, with spontaneous bouts of stooping over with little or no warning. Don’t fight it. There’s some spectacular spoils waiting to be discovered on the sparkling shores of sensational Sanibel!
The Sanibel Stoop
FUN FACT…
The Sanibel Stoop Sets A Guinness World Record!
In March 2012, over 800 hovering hineys of Sanibel broke the world record for “largest treasure hunt game!”
Lonely Planet — FREE E-Book
Discover the Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel | 2018
Discover restaurants, entertainment, shopping, pristine beaches, outdoor adventure, and a relaxed island paradise on The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel with this new guidebook from Lonely Planet.
Download the free Lonely Planet Guidebook here!
Have you been to Sanibel Island? Would love for you to add some interesting “Things To Do” to our list! Simply reply in the comment box below!
Bailey Matthews Shell Museum on Sanibel Island
Bailey Matthews National Shell Museum on Sanibel Island
There’s no other museum in the entire United States quite like the Bailey Matthews National Shell Museum. It’s the only museum stateside that is entirely devoted to shells and the mollusks that create them; that’s what makes it so unique. It’s located on Sanibel Island, a small island off the Southwest coast of Florida (14 miles west of Ft. Myers) in the Gulf of Mexico.
Sanibel Island’s claim to fame is its beaches. USAToday ranks the Seashells of Sanibel as the 7th of Florida’s Best Attractions overall (right on the heels of Disney’s Magic Kingdom, so you know Sanibel is pretty spectacular!). It consistently ranks at the top of Travel & Leisure’s 10 Best U.S. Shelling Beaches. And, internationally, it’s known as one of the best shelling beaches anywhere. So what better place to have a shell museum than right in the middle of the shelling capital of the world!
The Bailey Matthews Shell Museum was conceived in 1984 and opened its doors to the public in 1995 — a dream-come-true for many Sanibel shell enthusiasts. Since its inception it has operated as a reference center for students and scientists, both nationally and abroad. During my last visit some researchers from out of the country were working upstairs (not accessible to patrons) to assist with curating and organizing part of the Shell Museum’s vast mollusk collection. It’s been an ongoing effort for many years.
Bailey Matthews Shell Museum has become the premier destination for anyone interested in terrestrial, marine, or land mollusks of the Gulf of Mexico and Florida. Lecture Series are commonplace and given by leading specialists in malacology (the branch of zoology that deals with mollusks) and natural history. Seashell aficionados young and old have benefited from the Museum’s findings — shell clubs, community groups, public schools, home-schooled children, churches, and retirement homes. In fact, an official collaboration with Lee County schools was started in 1997.
The Bailey Matthews Shell Museum was named in honor of the family who donated the 8 acres of land where it was erected, and operates as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Marine biologist José H. Leal, Ph.D., serves as Curator and Scientific Director of Education.
Bailey Matthews National Shell Museum Exterior
Sanibel Island is World Renowned for its Shelling Beaches
Many of the sea shells that end up in Bailey Matthews National Shell Museum are found on Sanibel Island, Captiva Island right next door, or neighboring barrier islands in the Gulf of Mexico. If you look closely at the photo below, you’ll notice that the sand on this Sanibel Island beach is covered with seashells! I have never seen such a high concentration of shells as what I experienced on the beaches of Sanibel. As a Florida resident I’m accustomed to walking barefoot on our beautiful sandy shores. But… not here! It’s a dangerous thing because of the multitude of shells. I overheard a lady in a Sanibel Island gift shop tell her friend that she cut her foot very badly on some shells, even with sandals on. For her, it required an emergency trip to the hospital; not the way to spend a vacation in paradise!
TIP: Always wear protective beach shoes while on Sanibel Island’s shell-strewn beaches. Although the pastel-colored shells are stunning to look at and exciting to collect, they’re likely to cause injury if proper footwear is not worn.
Sanibel Island is World Renowned for its Shelling Beaches!
Sanibel Island Florida – Shelling Capital of the World!
Southwest Florida Shell Guide: A Work in Progress!
I had a blast searching for and collecting shells on Sanibel Island. The locals are awesome, always eager to help a bona fide novice like me learn the secrets to successful shelling.
- Rule #1: Learn the “Sanibel Stoop!” Scouring the beach with a bent-over posture will yield better results.
- Rule #2: Buy a shovel! The plastic kiddie-kind will do just fine. Prized shells are like most other valuable treasures — found just below the earth’s surface with a little digging.
There were so many unusual shells, very different from what I find on beaches elsewhere in Florida. Since I’m not a serious shell collector, and I’m far from being an expert at seashell identification, I needed a lot of help distinguishing one from another. The Bailey Matthews Shell Museum was the perfect place to assist.
José H. Leal created the Southwest Florida Shell Guide. It depicts hundreds of shells, but has an emphasis on those collected on Sanibel and Captiva Islands. The Shell Guide currently has 349 species listed but is continually being expanded and updated. Various information is given for each type, along with a photo for easier identification. But here’s the best news of all… you don’t have to travel to Sanibel Island or the Bailey Matthews Shell Museum to gain access to this information. It’s available to anyone via the Shell Museum’s website. Simply click this link to open the Southwest Florida Shell Guide.
The Sanibel Island Stoop
The Sanibel Stoop with Shovel – Demonstrated By My Good Friends!
Bailey Matthews National Shell Museum: Hours and Daily Programs
Unlike many Sanibel Island businesses, the Shell Museum doesn’t keep seasonal hours. That means no matter what day, week, or month you visit it will be open. (Our last trip to the Island was in September, and we were disappointed to find out many of the local businesses close during that month!) But this Florida Museum is closed only one day each year; Thanksgiving. Otherwise, you can visit daily from 10 – 5 (with abbreviated hours on major holidays). Adult admission is $15, with reduced prices for children and youth. Children under 5 and active military are FREE. Parking is included, and daily programs are FREE with paid admission.
How long should you plan on being at the Shell Museum? Well, I’ve been to Bailey Matthews Shell Museum twice, both times spending several hours looking at awesome displays, watching informational videos, and participating in the daily programs. But even if you bypass the extra programs, I’d recommend a minimum of 1 1/2 hours. The events are ever-changing, so it’s best to check the daily schedule on the arrival board in the main lobby.
We attended a Live Tank Talk that was presented by a marine biologist. What a great way to gain insights into the fascinating world of mollusks! It was both fun and informative. Our speaker allowed ample time to answer all questions and we got to handle some of the subject matter. For me, there’s no better way to learn than “hands-on!” There was also an hour-long Arts & Crafts session that my “crafty” friends took advantage of. Hubby and I were sorry we didn’t join them after seeing their seashell masterpieces. My friend Ron made a cat, and his wife, Donna, made the most adorable seashell elephant. Her miniature version of this otherwise large pachyderm was amazingly adorable. I affectionately call him “EL, the seashell elephant!”
Live Tank Talk at Bailey Matthews Shell Museum
Arts & Crafts Room at Bailey Matthews Shell Museum
Seashell Cat Made at Bailey Matthews Shell Museum
EL, the Seashell Elephant Made at Bailey Matthews Shell Museum
Permanent and Temporary Exhibits at the Florida Shell Museum
The Bailey Matthews National Shell Museum on Sanibel Island offers more than 30 permanent exhibits, along with some that are on display for a limited amount of time. I remember prior to my first visit having this thought, “How can you build an entire museum out of a few sea shells?” Oh my goodness, I was so narrow-minded! I had the opportunity to see and learn about shells that I never even knew existed. Gorgeous shells, scary-looking shells, humongous shells, itty-bitty shells… and every kind in between. Not to mention that Bailey-Matthews houses some of the largest record-holding shells in the world. In fact, they have the largest known Goliath conch, Atlantic trumpet triton, horse conch, and lightning whelk. These things were massive! Take a look at some of my favorites…
Colorful Shells on Display at Bailey Matthews
An Angel Wing Clam Shell Found on Sanibel Island (Cyrtopleura Costata)
Rare & Unique Shells at Bailey Matthews Shell Museum
Beautiful Pastel-colored Shells at the Museum
World-Record Sized Shells at Bailey-Matthews!
Scorpio Conch at Bailey-Matthews
Pacific Thorny Oyster at Bailey-Matthews
Large White Shell Displayed at Bailey-Matthews
Noble Scallop Shell – Nature’s Beautiful Colors
The Role of Sea Shells in History
Shells are not just beautiful and interesting to look at, but for centuries they’ve played an important role in culture, art, design, and medicine. For example… do you know what the oldest currency in the world is? Prior to visiting the Bailey Matthews Shell Museum, I didn’t know either. It’s shells! Apparently, even before coins were made of silver and gold and precious gemstones, the ancient monetary system was shells. In one of the exhibits at the Museum you’ll learn why shells were used as money.
“The money cowrie (Erosaria moneta) is the most widely circulated and longest enduring currency in history!”
~ The Bailey Matthews National Shell Museum Quote
Shells – The Oldest Money in the World!
On a more romantic note, seashells were also used as Valentines! Back in the early 19th century, shells were used as a popular art form developed by women in the Caribbean Islands. Oftentimes, sailors would create extravagant shell artwork and bring them home to their loved ones as the ultimate Valentine.
A Valentine Made Entirely from Shells
Additionally, shells were used to make some very practical things like buttons and bows. And fashion diva’s “back in the day” didn’t have Gucci, Coach, or any other designer-named purse so guess what they used? Yep, shells! And check out the intricacy (photo below) of the “flower” arrangement. It’s made entirely of sea shells, all with their natural color — every petal delicately and strategically placed. Among other things, there are 7 stems of lilac flowers made from 3,500 purple coquinas, all hand-collected on Sanibel Island. It took the artist and his wife 200 hours to complete this stunning piece.
Mussel Shells Used for Making Buttons
A Purse Made from Shells
Flower Arrangement Made Entirely from Shells
Calusa Indians: Florida’s Original Shell People
The exhibit depicting the Calusa Indians was fascinating. The Museum uses life-size models that look amazingly real. The Calusa were the original inhabitants of Southwest Florida (long before the first Spanish explorers) and made many of life’s necessities from shells; hence, the nickname “Florida’s original shell people.” Through the artifacts on display we know they used seashells for things like tools, weapons, utensils, jewelry, and shell spears were made for fishing and hunting. More information on this “people group” can be found on Wikipedia’s Calusa Indian page.
Calusa Indian Display at Bailey Matthews Shell Museum
Exotic Shells from Around the World
Upon entering the Bailey Matthews Shell Museum the focal point of the Great Hall is a display featuring exotic shells from around the world. You can’t miss it! It includes shell species from the Japanese Province, Indo-West Pacific and other distant locales typically only accessible with a passport. It’s an inexpensive way to do some island hopping, and, if you get tired the room has a few comfy benches.
The Great Hall Inside Bailey Matthews Shell Museum
The Prized Junonia
I’ve saved the best for last! The Scaphella junonia is the grand prize for shell collectors on Sanibel and its surrounding islands. It truly is the pride of Sanibel Island. The treasured junonia is such a special find because it rarely washes ashore. It’s a deep-water marine mollusk that lives off the coast, in the Gulf of Mexico. Here’s how the official Chamber of Commerce website for Sanibel and Captiva Islands describes it:
“The islands’ most coveted seashell, it belongs to the volute family. Its milky chamber is covered with brown spots on the outside, and the animal that occupies the shell is likewise marked. Shellers who find a junonia on Sanibel or Captiva get their pictures in the local newspaper!”
Yes… a junonia find is so rare that you practically become a celebrity by the locals if you scoop one up — right down to getting photographed for the local newspaper! HINT: the best time to find a junonia is right after a major storm, when all kinds of marine life comes ashore.
A Rare Find – The Scaphella Junonia!
In Conclusion…
The Bailey Matthews National Shell Museum is a great experience for the whole family. They have incredibly useful information for shellers of all types, from amateur to professional. In addition to viewing shells you won’t see anywhere else, their resources are second to none. And, even if you’re not an avid sheller, you’ll leave with a new appreciation for shells and the little creatures that inhabit them. It’s no wonder people come from all over the world to visit Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum! I highly recommend this experience.
DID YOU KNOW…
Yearly Memberships for Bailey Matthews National Shell Museum are available for as little as $50 for 2 people?
Purchase online before you go!
SPECIAL EVENT…
NAME: Beach Walk — LOCATION: Island Inn Beach
TIME: 9:00 AM Daily — DURATION: 60 Minutes — COST: $10 (Adult)
MEETING ADDRESS: 3111 West Gulf Drive, Sanibel — Purchase tickets online
Led by a Marine Biologist, you’ll learn about the shells, mollusks, and other marine life that has washed ashore!