Excerpt from the above site, quote . . . �largest spring on the St. Johns River, Blue Spring is a designated Manatee Refuge and the winter home (mid-November through March) to a growing population of West Indian Manatees. For centuries, the spring area was home for Native Americans. In 1766 it was visited by British botanist John Bartram, but it wasn�t until 1856 that it was settled by Louis Thursby and his family. The Thursby house, built in 1872, remains standing. The spring�s crystal clear, 73 degree water can be enjoyed by swimmers, snorkelers, and certified scuba divers with a partner. . . �unquote.

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Excerpt from the above site, quote . . . �seven distinct habitat types, and position between the subtropic and temperate climatic zones, contribute to the refuge's importance as a major wintering area for migratory birds. Over 500 species of wildlife inhabit the refuge with 15 being listed as federally threatened or endangered. Several wading bird rookeries, 10 active bald eagle nests, numerous osprey nests, up to 400 manatees during spring months. . . � unquote.

DeLeon Springs State Park

Excerpt from the above site, quote . . . �the springs had become a winter resort, and tourists were promised "a fountain of youth impregnated with a deliciously healthy combination of soda and sulphur." The swimming area is adjacent to a beautiful, shady picnic ground. Canoe, kayak and paddleboat rentals are available for a paddling tour of the spring and spring run. De Leon Springs flows into the Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge where canoeists and kayakers can explore 18,000 acres of lakes, creeks, and marshes. At The Old Spanish Sugar Mill Restaurant, guests can make their own pancakes at the table. . . � unquote.

Hontoon Island State Park

Excerpt from the above site, quote . . . �45 miles from hustle and bustle of Orlando and the Attractions, Hontoon Island draws a year-round mix of families, fishermen, hikers, nature lovers, kayakers, picnickers, and romantics. A single day can include a scenic hike around an island once home to an extensive village of pre-Columbian Native Americans, a kayak or canoe paddle, a picnic under the spreading Live Oaks, or some quiet time fishing from the banks of the historic St. Johns River.

Canaveral National Seashore

Excerpt from the above site, quote . . . �swimming, surfing, sunbathing, backcountry hiking, or some of the best surf fishing in Central Florida, you'll find it along Canaveral National Seashore's 24 miles of undisturbed beach. Soak up the sun with other park visitors, or relax in quiet solitude amid tranquil surroundings, where only the sound of gentle ocean waves is heard. Spend the day, and join a million annual visitors who have discovered the natural beauty of this undeveloped recreational paradise. . . � unquote.

Audubon Center for Birds of Prey

Harry P. Leu Gardens

Kennedy Space Center

Orlando Science Center

Ripley�s Believe It or Not! Orlando Odditorium

Skull Kingdom

Holy Land Experience

John & Rita Lowndes Shakespeare Center

WonderWorks

Fantasy of Flight

A World of Orchids