Family Fun

he Sunshine State serves up the best theme parks in the world in addition to T only-in-Florida thrills: Imagine watching live mermaids perform at Weeki Wachee, swimming with wild manatees in Crystal River, and taking an airboat tour of the Central Florida Everglades in Kissimmee. / Kissimmee

PHOTO CREDITEMERGENT MEDIA

Paddle or tube quiet waterways, tackle a zipline, and camp – all near a historic downtown. / Milton

CALLIOPE FILMS

Lined with resort hotels and inns, the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk offers easy ocean access and outstanding people-watching. / Hollywood

FLORIDA’S GREATEST HITS

WET, WILD, & WONDERFUL

10 INSPIRING DISCOVERIES & UNEXPECTED ADVENTURES IN GAINESVILLE & ALACHUA COUNTY

Performer photo courtesy of Heartwood Soundstage

Butterfly Rainforest, photo courtesy of Florida Museum of Natural History

MORE WAYS TO FIND YOUR CHILL AT: www.visitgainesville.com

1 Float, splash, snorkel, paddle or dive in crystal-blue freshwater springs. Explore 8 springs in 8 miles along the Santa Fe River.

2 Hike or bike 100s of miles of trails, including the 16-mile paved Gainesville-Hawthorne trail and the off-road San Felasco Hammock trails.

3 Hang out with Henry, the oldest living rhino in captivity, at Carson Springs Wildlife Sanctuary.

4 Discover the world’s largest collection of Florida-themed art at the Harn Museum of Art, spark wonder at the Cade Museum of Creativity & Invention and more with the area’s world-class museums.

5 Stroll through Kanapaha Botanical Gardens.

6 Find your groove with live music on dozens of stages.

7 Glimpse the Paynes Prairie Bison herd, or learn about native flora, fauna and history at 8 distinct state parks.

8 Sip award-winning craft beer along the Sippin’ Seven Alachua County Ale Trail.

9 Delight your senses with delectable dining and farm-to-table experiences.

10 View thousands of free-flying butterflies at the Florida Museum of Natural History and nightly bat shows at the world’s largest occupied bat houses.