There’s more to the Sunshine State than just beaches and alligators (but they’re both pretty great too!)
In an increasingly divided world, we can all agree on one thing: Florida is amazing.
Why?
For starters: in the uncerain Cincinnati weather in March, anyone can hop on a flight from CVG and be transported to a completely different climate in less than three hours!
Here are four unique spots that’ll make you want to grab your sunglasses and go right now!
#1 Is it mandatory to see manatees on your next trip? Try this unique spotYour next trip to Tampa should include a stop at a power plant. Seriously. The Big Bend Power Station discharges clean, warm water into Tampa Bay and manatees come from near and far to enjoy it.
It’s about a mile hike to the 50-foot tower that lets you see the manatees along with other wildlife. (Bring bugspray!) Bonus points: admission and parking are free! There’s an educational building with exhibits to learn about manatees and award-winning butterfly gardens.
Check out this video before you go!
#2 Hiking… in Florida? Consider alternate attractions for your itinerary
Beaches rule. Oceans are awesome. But have you considered a hike in a Florida State Park? Or kayaking through mangroves?
VisitFlorida.com has a cool tool that allows you to choose your travel style and enjoy a variety of outdoor offerings.
Do you want a popular spot or something off the beaten path? Would you rather bring your snorkel or sneakers? Try it out for yourself and find a new destination. If you’re in Sanibel Island, I recommend a trip over to the Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge. They offer a tram tour for those unable to complete long hikes.
#3 Up for a dive in an underwater cemetery?
I know what you’re thinking. “Jay, hold up, why would you visit a cemetery on your vacation?”
I get it… hear me out.
About three miles off-shore from Miami lies one of the most unique final resting places anywhere. The Neptune Memorial Reef is actually a cemetery at the bottom of the sea. Complete with sculptures and gates, this one of a kind place is like no place on Earth!
Wanna go? Make sure you’re SCUBA certified and book a trip through a local dive shop.
#4 Rain happens. But there’s an impressive museum to check out while the storm passes in St. Pete!
There’s always a chance it’ll rain on any trip. So, what do you do when you can’t go to the beach?
Just off the coast of St. Petersburg is the second largest collection of artwork from Salvador Dali in the world. (You know, the melting clock guy.) Give a high five to a couple of people originally from Cleveland who brought their collection down to Florida in the 80s. This surreal stop features over 2,400 pieces by the artist including 300 paintings!
TIP: Check their website for special offers including discounted admission on Thursdays from 5-8pm.
There are INCREDIBLE deals to Florida all year. We’re talking flights UNDER $100! CVG has been adding new destinations every year and there are now more than 20 non-stop flights per day… and over 150 every week! It just doesn’t make sense to spend a whole day or two driving each way anymore! Less time traveling = more time seeing and doing!
If you’re planning to spend a week on the beach, Southwest has some great weekend flight options including Orlando, Tampa and Fort Lauderdale every Saturday and a bonus flight to Orlando on Sundays.
Allegiant, American, Delta, and Frontier, all have lots of non-stop flights from CVG. Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter to stay up to date on the latest deals.
TIP: Consider using one airline to fly out and a different to return. Not only does it give you more flexible travel options, but it can sometimes be cheaper to purchase two one-way tickets on two different airlines!
I’ll see you on the beach!
-Jay
