When most people think of fall weather, their minds don’t automatically go to Florida. Fall in Florida pretty much means the temperature drops from 90 degrees to 80. But, North Florida is special. Up here, we do get fall leaves, cool breezes and sweater weather. There are plenty of fall events to get you in the mood up here in North Florida, from fairs to festivals. Here are just a few fall events I’m looking forward to this season.
I’ve spent my entire life living in Florida and had never ventured down to Key West. After my day-trip to the United States’ southernmost city, I kept asking myself why I waited so long to visit.
If you’re looking to visit a place with small-town charm, High Springs is the perfect place to start. Located halfway between Lake City and Gainesville, High Springs is known for its beautiful, natural springs. However, they also have a downtown area that is full of places to explore.
Is there any better way to kick off a weekend than with a good glass of wine? I don’t think so! On Saturday I made my way out to the Island Grove Wine Company Tasting House in Hawthorne, about 20 minutes south of Gainesville to try some of their delicious wines.
The Island Grove Wine Company is Florida-based and prides itself on using its fresh fruit to create exceptional wine. I first tried their wine at the Gateway City Craft Beer & Wine Festival in Lake City and immediately fell in love. So when I realized the tasting house was less than an hour away from where I live, I knew I had to check it out.
This weekend I came to an epiphany about Gainesville, a city I’ve come to know well over the past few years: there’s no shortage of places to explore.
I’ve been working in Gainesville for a little over six months, and before then I spent nearly every weekend for the past two-and-a-half years making the drive there from Lake City to go the movies or to Target (Lake City doesn’t have one, I’m still appalled.)
On Saturday I decided to drive down and visit the Haile Village Center, a small community located near the larger Haile Plantation. Haile Village Center is known for its weekly farmers market and local restaurants, and I knew I had to check it out for myself.
Continue reading “A Perfect Day at the Haile Village Center”
Chances are if you’ve driven over the Florida border, you’ve passed through Lake City, Florida. However, when I tell people that’s where I live, I usually get confused looks in return.
When I first moved here two and a half years ago (wow, I can’t believe it’s been that long!), I didn’t know much about my new home either. With a little exploring I discovered that Lake City is more than just a place you pass through; it’s a destination.
This weekend I spent a few days in beautiful St. Augustine Beach with my boyfriend and his family. We stayed in a condo at the Colony Reef Club that was just steps away from the ocean. The trip was full of sunshine, stunning views, delicious food and tons of memories. Here are some of the highlights:
Did you know that North-Central Florida is the natural freshwater springs capital of the world? Well I had no idea until I moved to Lake City, right smack dab in the middle of North Florida two years ago.
Growing up I was a beach gal all the way. I had never even been to a freshwater spring until my boyfriend brought me to Lake City for the first time four years ago. Now, I can’t get enough! During the warm months we try to go to as many springs as we can. Each one has something different to offer.
Continue reading “The Ultimate Guide to North Florida’s Springs”
I’ve been going to Disney World for as long as I can remember, and I had never been to the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa up until two weeks ago.
I’ve always wanted to go, and I couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate my little sister’s birthday than with a delicious brunch at the Grand Floridian Café!
Plus, the Happy Floridian at the Grand Floridian; sounds like a perfect match to me!
The Happy Floridian 