Allegiant Sunseeker East Coast February - April 2016 by nonstoplife

HUNDREDS OF SHOPS, THOUSANDS OF BRANDS, MILLIONS OF MUST-HAVES

DESTINATION: WESTFIELD

Clearwater, FL 33761 • westfield.com

Pick up your Westfield Traveler Privileges Card at the Mall Management Office, Monday – Friday, 9:00am – 5:30pm.

A PICTUREPERFECT ESCAPE

Beautiful beaches, wondrous wildlife and exciting events, the Bradenton area along Florida’s pristine west coast has something for every Allegiant passenger to enjoy during their vacation. Guests can visit the world’s oldest known manatee in captivity, SnootyTM, at the South Florida Museum. Go shopping on “The Greenest Little Main Street in America,” Pine Avenue. Or watch the Pittsburgh Pirates play a game of baseball at the oldest Spring Training stadium in the league, McKechnie Field, which recently underwent $10.5 million in upgrades. Of course, no visit to the area is complete without going horse surfing along the shoreline of pretty Palma Sola Bay—after all, Bradenton is the birthplace of horse surfing! For more on everything this delightful destination has to offer, visit bradentongulfislands.com.

FEATURES

Cover photo and lead table of contents photo courtesy of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau

CATCH THE BOYS OF SUMMER

FABULOUS FESTIVALS

MARVELOUS MEMORIES

BLUE MAN GROUP

CALENDAR OF EVENTS A Sampling of What’s Happening in Fab Florida

28 TAMPA'S SENSATIONAL SPORTS BARS Pack Your Game Day Jersey

51 FEEL AT HOME IN DOWNTOWN OCALA Historic, Eclectic & Exciting

BLISS ON THE BEACH Clearwater Beach’s Award-Winning Hotels

31 TARPON SPRINGS Florida’s Mediterranean Village

52 A PLACE TO LEARN, A PLACE TO REMEMBER The Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Seminole Indian Museum

10 NIGHT BEATS After-Hours Fun on Clearwater Beach

33 TAKING TO THE TREES Glide Through the Treetops with Treeumph!

13 HOP ABOARD Clearwater Beach’s Beloved Theme Boats

37 A TROPICAL URBAN OASIS Sarasota’s Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

16 BEST BURGERS Great Eats on Clearwater Beach

39 THE SECRET IS OUT! Hidden Gems in Charlotte Harbor & the Gulf Islands

21 TO MARKET, TO MARKET St. Pete/Clearwater Outdoor Markets 22 ON THE WATER At John’s Pass, Fla. 25 POSTCARD PERFECT Find Paradise in St. Pete Beach 26 A MUSEUM WORTHY OF A LEGEND The Ted Williams Hitters Hall of Fame

41 ESCAPE TO PERFECTLY PRISTINE Palm Island Resort

56 JOYFUL JAVA Cozy Sanford Cafes 58 BEER QUEST The Daytona Beach Ale Trail 60 AWESOME ASHEVILLE ADVENTURES The Smoky Mountain Adventure Center 62 CHEERS IN MYRTLE BEACH! Libations: Southern Style

44 FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN At the Shell Factory and Nature Park

65 BUY ONBOARD

46 FLAIR IN FORT MYERS Five Destination Restaurants

68 MAKE-A-WISH

49 SCENIC LAKE COUNTY Charms Central Florida Travelers

67 BOOK ON ALLEGIANT.COM And Save Big on Car Rentals 72 ALLEGIANT TEAM MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

FOR OUR PASSENGERS

70-71 ROUTE MAP

74 SNACKS

75 BEVERAGES SUNSEEKER

www.fly2pie.com

WELCOME ABOARD PUBLISHER

Welcome aboard and thank you for choosing Allegiant!

CEO/CHAIRMAN

Whether you’re headed to Orlando, Tampa/St. Pete or the beaches of Southwest Florida, we always work hard to get you the best travel deals. With our industry-low fares and exclusive rates on hotels and rental cars, fun in the sun has never been more affordable.

Allegiant Travel Company Maurice J. Gallagher

PUBLICATION MANAGER Robyn Davies

EDITOR

Gabriele Walkow

WRITERS

Heather Turk, Nancy Foster, Matt Seli, H. Wadowski, Joel Poiley, Gabriele Walkow, Sandra Chambers, Sandi McKenna, Misty Wells, Lynn Seldon and Judy Staley

PRODUCTION/DESIGN 702West.com

PHOTO CREDITS

Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, Jeremiah Khokhur, Walt Disney World, Visit Sarasota County, Circus Acts Conservatory, Dave Sussman, Discover The Palm Beaches, Florida Sports Foundation, Sheraton Sand Key Resort, Sand Pearl Resort Clearwater Beach, Shephard’s Beach Resort, Palm Pavilion, Windjammers, Nancy Foster, City of Clearwater Government, Bellair Images, Jimmy’s Fish House and Iguana Bar, Crabby Bill’s Clearwater Beach, Sandi McKenna, Phil Nguyen, Mark Johnson, Kevin Starkey, Hubbard’s Marina, Captain Kellen, Captain Nicholas Sculky, visitstpeteclearwater.com, Alden Suites, Loews Don CeSar, Eric Ruiz/Tampa Bay Rays, Ducky’s, Ferg’s Live, Press Box Sports Bar, Sue Thomas, TreeUmph Adventure Course, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Jennifer Huber, charlotteharbortravel.com, Ken Koch, Palm Island Resort, Stephanie Rutan/Hooked on SUP, Florida Tracks & Trails, Thomas Hecker, Shell Factory and Nature Park, Mark Riehle/Harborside Photography, Ford’s Garage, Lake County Tourism, Ocala/ Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau, Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum, Lindsey Best/Blue Man Group, Universal Orlando Resort & Blue Man, Felix Tong, Tim McNutt, Taste of Thyme Café, Merlita Fawcett, Tate McKenney, Jen Hawkins, Kristen Bravar, Boom Boom Wine Room, Duplin Winery, Sandra Chambers

FOR ADVERTISING SALES INFORMATION: Shaun McIlveen shaun@smmediasales.com 702.898.9239 or 702.897.9287 Allegiant Travel Company 1201 N. Town Center Drive Las Vegas, NV 89144 702.505.8888

The Sunseeker guide is owned and published by Allegiant Travel Company. Statements, opinions and points of view expressed by the writers and advertisers are their own and do not necessarily represent those of Allegiant. Allegiant is not responsible for incorrect pricing or information.

We’re very excited about the coming year as 2016 is projected to be our busiest ever. As we continue growing our fleet with more Airbus aircraft, keep an eye out for some exciting new route announcements this winter, expanding low-cost travel options nationwide. Our Sunseeker travel experts explore our most popular destinations for the top activity, dining and entertainment options. Check out Clearwater Beach’s Best Burgers on page 16; find hidden gems in Charlotte Harbor & the Gulf Islands in The Secret is Out on page 39; and discover Sanford’s cozy cafes in Joyful Java on page 56. This issue is filled with dynamic and informative articles! We hope you continue taking advantage of our low fares and nonstop flights for your travel needs. Thanks again for choosing Allegiant and have a great trip!

Maurice J. Gallagher CEO/Chairman Allegiant Travel Company

CALENDAR OF EVENTS FEBRUARY - APRIL

ORLANDO | SANFORD Prepare for plentiful action, activities and entertainment on your Allegiant vacation in the Orlando/Sanford area. From Orlando’s beloved theme parks to the allure of historic downtown Sanford, there is something for everyone.

Major League Baseball's 'Boys of Spring’ also head to this area during March. Watch the Atlanta Braves at Orlando’s Champion® Stadium at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. The Houston Astros make Kissimmee’s Osceola County Stadium their home.

UPCOMING EVENTS Catch Florida’s biggest party, Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras, on select dates from Feb. 6-April 16. Setting the springtime stage in Walt Disney World Resort, the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival has been extended to 90 days this year—now bursting into bloom from Mar. 2- May 30! Experience Sanford’s culinary fare, music and beautiful waterfront scenery at the Taste of Sanford, Apr. 2. St. Johns River Festival of the Arts, Apr. 30-May 1, is Sanford’s premier art festival with great art, food and music.

TAMPA | ST. PETE | CLEARWATER This sun-kissed area along the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay is a perfect vacation destination for Allegiant travelers. Home to bountiful beaches, abundant amenities and exciting events—including Grapefruit League baseball action—spring is a prime time to explore this sugar sand paradise and discover pure bliss.

The St. Pete/Clearwater area has a 90year history of hosting baseball Spring Training during March. The area features the Philadelphia Phillies in Clearwater, the Toronto Blue Jays in Dunedin and the New York Yankees in Tampa.

UPCOMING EVENTS Clearwater Beach Uncorked, Feb. 6-7, is touted as the hippest beachfront gastronomic event on Florida’s West Coast! Kick back to live music at the Clearwater Sea Blues Festival, Feb. 20-21. The Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg roars into town Mar. 11-13. The biggest names in blues music take the stage at the Tampa Bay Blues Festival, Apr. 8-10, St. Petersburg. The Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival hits Clearwater Beach, Apr.15-24.

CLEARWATER BEACH Clearwater Beach Uncorked 4

FLORIDA

VENICE Shark’s Tooth Festival

Photo Clearwater Beach Uncorked by Jeremiah Khokhur; Epcot's International Flower & Garden Festival courtesy of Walt Disney World; Shark’s Tooth Festival courtesy of Visit Sarasota County

ORLANDO Epcot's International Flower & Garden Festival

SARASOTA Circus Arts Conservatory

PUNTA GORDA Wine & Jazz Festival

WEST PALM BEACH SunFest

SARASOTA | BRADENTON Beautiful Bradenton and neighboring seaside Sarasota are home to white sand beaches, amazing eateries and vibrant entertainment. Allegiant vacationers can look forward to a vast array of events from jazz and film festivals to historic walking tours and half marathons to Grapefruit League baseball excitement.

Baseball Spring Training finds its home here for the entire month of March. Sarasota hosts the Baltimore Orioles and the Pittsburgh Pirates have been invading the Bradenton area for more than 40 years.

UPCOMING EVENTS Sarasota’s Circus Arts Conservatory launches its winter performance featuring acrobatic feats and trapeze thrills, Feb. 12-28. Bradenton’s Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, Feb. 13-14, includes live music, children’s activities and delicious seafood. ArtSlam, Mar. 5, is a free, family-friendly Bradenton event. The Sarasota County Agricultural Fair features rides, entertainment, horticulture and livestock, Mar. 18-27. Celebrate the “Shark’s Tooth Capital of the World”, Apr. 8-10, during the Venice Shark’s Tooth Festival.

FORT MYERS | PUNTA GORDA Visiting the vibrant Southwest Florida cities of Fort Myers and Punta Gorda this Allegiant trip? Celebrate the birthday of the most illustrious historical Fort Myers resident, Thomas A. Edison, during the month of February. In the Charlotte Harbor area, root for your alma mater at the annual Snowbird Classic featuring Div. I and III college

baseball teams from across the country, from mid-February to the end of March. Also, be sure to get in on Grapefruit League baseball action in March. The Boston Red Sox and the Minnesota Twins hold Spring Training in Fort Myers while the Tampa Bay Rays are in Port Charlotte.

Photo of Circus Arts Conservatory courtesy of Circus Arts Conservatory; Wine & Jazz Festival by Dave Sussman; SunFest courtesy of Discover The Palm Beaches

UPCOMING EVENTS The Punta Gorda Banjo Bash, Feb. 12-13, features the banjo’s brightest stars. Celebrate an afternoon of jazz, wine and food on Punta Gorda’s waterfront during the annual Wine and Jazz Festival, Feb. 20. The Sanibel Shell Fair & Show on Sanibel Island, Mar. 3-5, hosts shelling enthusiasts from around the globe! Don’t miss the colorful Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival and Parade, Mar. 12-13. Stroll through the booths of over 100 artists during Englewood’s Annual Spring Fine Arts Festival, March 19-20.

FORT LAUDERDALE | PALM BEACH These two sophisticated, sun-kissed and sizzling jewels in South Florida’s crown are home to endless beaches and an abundance of amenities, activities and action. Roger Dean Stadium, the only venue to host two Major League Baseball teams,

is home to both the St. Louis Cardinals and Miami Marlins during March. The sport of kings makes its annual visit to the International Polo Club Palm Beach, bringing a season of exciting competition every Sunday until April 24.

UPCOMING EVENTS The Palm Beach Jewelry, Art & Antique Show, Feb. 10-16, welcomes the best of the art world to this largest-show-of-its-kind. The Miami International Boat Show cruises into its new location at the Miami Marine Stadium Park & Basin, Feb. 11-15. Festival of the Arts BOCA is an extraordinary, multi-day cultural arts event, Mar. 4-16. West Palm Beach’s SunFest is Florida’s largest music, art and waterfront festival, Apr. 27-May 1.

FLORIDA

Clearwater’s Bright House Field has been home to the Philadelphia Phillies since 1946

CATCH THE BOYS OF SUMMER AT A FLORIDA’S GRAPEFRUIT LEAGUE SPRING TRAINING GAME By Matt Seli

ach year, Major League Baseball’s preseason takes place in Florida and Arizona, getting the teams and those who love watching them out of the cold. At a Spring Training game, fans can see both current and future stars battle for positions on opening day rosters at a fraction of the cost of a regular season game. Visitors not only watch their favorite players at bargain ticket prices but also in much more intimate stadiums—holding anywhere from 5,299 to 11,075 people. During your Florida vacation, be sure to catch some Grapefruit League Spring Training action at one of 14 stadiums in the state. Here is a rundown on the teams and their pre-season homes.

Joker Marchant Stadium home while the winter storms are in full swing up north. Fans really enjoy this cozy 8,500-seat capacity stadium, which was renovated in 2003. Calling McKechnie Field in Bradenton home since 1969, the Pittsburgh Pirates have no plans to move. They have an agreement with the city to stay until at least 2038! The area boasts museums, theaters and the Village of the Arts, so its easy to make a day out of watching the “Buccos” in Bradenton.

Located in Dunedin, Florida Auto Exchange Stadium has been the Spring Training home of the Toronto Blue Jays since the team’s inaugural expansion season in 1977. The park itself has seen some renovation in recent years while the team hopes to continue the success that saw them in last season’s American League Championship Series. The Houston Astros at Osceola County Stadium

The Philadelphia Phillies are looking to get back to their winning ways in 2016 and it all starts at Bright House Field in Clearwater. The snow back home seems far away when fans walk through the park’s west entry, which boasts dozens of 30-to-45-foot palm trees lining the path. One of the biggest names in all of sports, the New York Yankees, also call Florida home during Spring Training and play ball at the Grapefruit League’s largest seating capacity ball park at George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa. Just like at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, fans can sing along to Sinatra’s “New York, New York” after each win (and loss) in Florida. Celebrating their 80th year in central Florida for spring ball, the Detroit Tigers call Lakeland’s 6

FLORIDA

Charlotte Sports Park, home of the Tampa Bay Rays, features an outfield tiki bar

Further south down the Gulf Coast of Florida, Baltimore Orioles fans find their way to Sarasota and Ed Smith Stadium. With a $31.2 million renovation between the 2010 and 2011 Spring Training seasons, fans enjoy the entrance behind home plate for a top-notch glimpse of the whole field even before finding their seats. For fans of the hometown Tampa Bay Rays, only a 75-mile drive separates the team from their regular season home in St. Petersburg and their Grapefruit League home at Charlotte Sports Park in Port Charlotte. Enjoy great views of the game from one of the stadium’s party areas, tiki bar included! Are you going to be in Fort Myers during your Florida vacation? If so, you have your choice of two ballparks. Here, the Boston Red Socks call JetBlue Park home, and Hammond Stadium is the Spring Training destination of the Minnesota Twins. Another town boasting two Major League teams during Spring Training is Jupiter. Roger Dean Stadium is the only Grapefruit League stadium that houses more than one club. Both the St. Louis Cardinals and Florida’s own Miami Marlins rotate home games throughout the spring.

Photos courtesy of the Florida Sports Foundation

Just over 30 miles north of Jupiter, Port St. Lucie is the springtime home to the New York Mets.

The Mets are coming off one of their best years in recent memory, winning the National League pennant and coming just short of a World Series title. See them take another crack at it beginning this spring at Tradition Field. Perhaps the most unique baseball stadium you will ever visit is the Spring Training site of the Washington Nationals in Viera’s Space Coast Stadium. The space themed venue pays homage to nearby Kennedy Space Center while also hosting the team of the nation’s capital. Priding itself on player accessibility, Osceola County Stadium in Kissimmee is the league’s smallest venue by seating capacity and home to the Houston Astros. With neither home or visitor clubhouses connected to dugouts, fans get up close with players for photos and autographs as they head in and out of their locker rooms. The Grapefruit League tour stops in Lake Buena Vista, home of the Atlanta Braves and Champion Stadium at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. The stadium is designed after a Florida Spanish Mission with art deco touches—the perfect setting to enjoy a day out in the sun watching baseball.

Lakeland’s Joker Marchant Stadium is the Spring Training home of the Detroit Tigers FLORIDA

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Picturesque and pretty, the Sheraton Sand Key’s pool

BLISS ON THE BEACH CLEARWATER BEACH’S AWARD-WINNING HOTELS

Photo of Sheraton Sand Key's pool courtesy of Sheraton Sand Key Resort; Sandpearl lobby courtesy of Sandpearl Resort Clearwater Beach

By Gabriele Walkow

his prime Florida Gulf Coast destination has been crowned the Best Beach Town in Florida by USA TODAY readers. Not surprisingly, this picture-perfect barrier island community is home to award-winning resort hotels that seamlessly blend swanky luxury with beachside casual for a perfect combination of vacation bliss.

suites and a special resort experience overlooking beautiful Clearwater Bay. Onsite amenities include salon and day spa, aquatic playground showcasing a cascading waterfall, poolside cabanas, Lisa’s Klubhouse, several dining options, 20 shops and a fitness center. marriott.com/hotels/travel/tpams-clearwaterbeach-marriott-suites-on-sand-key.

SANDPEARL RESORT CLEARWATER BEACH

HYATT REGENCY CLEARWATER BEACH RESORT AND SPA

CLEARWATER BEACH MARRIOTT RESORT SUITES ON SAND KEY

SHERATON SAND KEY RESORT

A recipient of Travel+Leisure’s World’s Best Awards 2015, this four diamond upscale beachfront resort reflects casual elegance and trendy sophistication. From the plush, citrus colored suites offering spectacular views to the climate-controlled zero-entry pool to the beachfront fire pits that light up the night, pure paradise awaits guests. Sandpearl is also home to the city’s only four diamond restaurant, Caretta on the Gulf. sandpearl.com.

This expansive beachfront property is Florida’s only all-suite Marriott hotel—offering luxury

Set between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Gulf of Mexico, this grand resort is perched on the edge of Clearwater Beach. Enjoy luxurious, spacious rooms and suites and a variety of creative dining options plus a poolside bar and grill. Indulge in a private, luxe poolside cabana with wet bar, flat screen television and air conditioning or head to Sandava Spa for some well-deserved pampering! clearwaterbeach.hyatt.com

The Sheraton Sand Key’s hospitality is legendary. Miles of white sand beach and warm Gulf waters are complemented by superior service and amazing amenities. Delicious award-winning dining options, resort shopping, cabana cocktails, a relaxing massage, Life Fitness workouts and beach tennis and volleyball are just a few of the tempting amenities. All guest rooms and suites feature a private balcony or patio boasting stunning views. sheratonsandkey.com

OPAL SANDS RESORT

Sandpearl’s elegant lobby

Just opened, Opal Sands offers a blend of casual beachfront luxury with the lively ambience of Clearwater Beach. All beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites boast large, private balconies with magnificent views of the Gulf. A spectacular zero-entry pool and sundeck, fitness center, full service spa, waterfront dining, beach bar and fire pits at this chic OPAL Collection destination leave guests in awe. opalsands.com FLORIDA

Up-tempo bands at Shephard’s Beach Resort

NIGHT BEATS AFTER-HOURS FUN ON CLEARWATER BEACH By Nancy Foster

n the afterglow of a perfect day on Clearwater Beach basking in the sun, sand and sea, you’re not ready for the fun to be over. You’re in search of good times, great food and drink, and some up-tempo music. It’s time to kick it up a notch and extend your day, but where should you go? No problem on Clearwater Beach! Many area resorts, restaurants and bars feature good eats, thirst-quenching beverages and a variety of musical offerings.

SHEPHARD’S BEACH RESORT

Arguably the go-to place for most visitors, Shephard’s Beach Resort is located on the

southern side of Clearwater Beach. Visitors and locals have crowned this party central for top music, convivial schmoozing and latenight atmosphere. In the two-level WAVE Nightclub, a mesmerizing light show sets the mood for dancing to the area’s top DJ’s. Soak up the stylish decor of Salt Tequila Bar and Tap Room (choose–if you can—between 100 varieties of tequila and 24 craft beers) and kick back with live music every afternoon and evening at the 11,000-square-foot Tiki Beach Bar overlooking the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. Weekend bar-goers jive to the beat of highenergy, electrifying bands with Top 40, rock and pop music on Friday and Saturday nights. shephards.com

Matt Winter performs on the Palm Pavilion beachside deck

Locals and tourists commingle at perennial favorite Palm Pavilion Beachside Grill & Bar on the north side of Clearwater Beach—where sunset viewing is positively legendary. The Palm is known for dishing out great eats (try the grouper cheeks) and irresistible drinks (go for the Mango Margarita) in a welcoming laidback atmosphere. Local and regional bands entertain afternoons and evenings on the back deck, playing a variety of styles including classic or country rock, Top 40s and beach music. palmpavillion.com

WINDJAMMERS RESTAURANT

At the stylishly appointed Windjammers (formerly known as Lobster Pot Bistro), expect dining with flair and culinary offerings worthy of the most demanding gastronomes. Head there at sundown when on-the-rise bands beat out toe-tapping jazz and the best of contemporary live music. Perhaps you’ll chance upon Open Mic Night or Jam Night for even more fun! A decadent chocolate martini (or two) often lures guests into staying until last call. windjammers.com

Jazz night at Windjammers 10

FLORIDA

For vacation packages to Clearwater, visit allegiantair.com.

Photo of band courtesy of Shephard’s Beach Resort; Matt Winter courtesy of Palm Pavilion; jazz night courtesy of Windjammers

PALM PAVILLION BEACHSIDE GRILL & BAR

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www.hiharbourside.com www.hiharbourside.com 1-800-726-0865 1-800-726-0865 401 Second Street

Second Street Indian401 Rocks Beach, FL 33785 Indian Rocks Beach, FL 33785 HOTEL GUESTS RECEIVE A SPECIAL RATE AT SPLASH HARBOUR WATER PARK HOTEL GUESTS RECEIVE A SPECIAL RATE AT SPLASH HARBOUR WATER PARK

Waterslides ~ Lazy River Waterslides ~ Lazy River Splash Pad ~ Zero Entry Pool Splash Pad ~ Zero Entry Pool Snack Shack ~ Tiki Bar Snack Shack More ~ TikiFun! Bar & So Much & So Much More Fun!

SEASON OPENS OCT. 15TH

HIGH QUALITY • BEST PRICES

Since 1955, Ward’s Seafood Market has been providing locals and visitors with the freshest fish in town. We specialize in fresh seafood. Our Florida seafood is caught and delivered daily by local fishermen we’ve known for years! h wee Ward’s hometown Market offers one stop shopping seven days a week. WARD’S SEAFOOD EXPERIENCE At Ward’s Seafood market you’ll get more than fresh seafood. Our experienced fish handlers can explain how to cut, cook and care for fresh seafood. They are always happy to share favorite seafood recipes, offer advice on cooking & grilling and educate you on storage and nutritional facts. Shrimp, lobster and crabs can be cleaned and steaming is always complimentary. Any type of whole fish can be cleaned and dressed to your h specifications. We have fine wines, grocery items and fresh e produce to complete your seafood experience!

COOKED SEAFOOD • Take-out Eatery • You Pick It, We Cook It • Heat & Serve • Specialty Salads • Gourmet Hot Soups • Custom Catering

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Captain Memo’s Original Pirate Cruise at Clearwater Beach Marina

HOP ABOARD! CLEARWATER BEACH’S BELOVED THEME BOATS

Photos of Captain Memo's Pirate Cruise and Sea Life Safari by Nancy Foster; Little Toot courtesy of the City of Clearwater Government

By Nancy Foster

nyone who vacations on Clearwater Beach will no doubt spend part of their stay out on Gulf of Mexico waters, perhaps on a deep sea fishing charter, dolphin watching cruise or relaxing dinner cruise. For a novel experience consider a themed adventure boat—one that engages as well as entertains. Let’s weigh in on three popular vessel choices for affordable, fun-for-all excursions.

with steel drum music, water gun games, face painting and an adults-only deck. Expect two hours of frolicsome fun as you heed the orders of Captains Gangplank Gary, Blackjack Jerry or Jolly James and eyeball the antics of wicked pirates and charming wenches. Daytime and champagne sunset cruises are also available. captainmemo.com

CAPTAIN MEMO’S ORIGINAL PIRATE CRUISE

With a name like Little Toot, it’s bound to be fun … and it is! This authentic 40-foot tugboat, a U.S. Coast Guard certified vessel, has been navigating the shallow waters of Clearwater Bay for years and remains a perennial visitor favorite. The captains of the 60-to 90-minute cruises leave behind a wide wake that attracts playful pods of dolphins. Keep your camera close for photo op moments. In fact, this family owned and operated business packs a solid claim to fame. “Dolphin sightings guaranteed or your next trip is free.” Can’t beat that! littletoot.us

Few can resist the lure of pirates and hidden treasure so it’s no surprise that Captain Memo’s colorful vessel is irresistible. Docked at Clearwater Beach Marina and built in 1993 to U.S. Coast Guard requirements, this theme boat sails the Gulf waterways and entertains

LITTLE TOOT

SEA LIFE SAFARI BOAT TOUR

Little Toot is an authentic 40-foot tugboat

Get in touch with nature on a Sea Life Safari Boat Tour

Board the 40-foot Coast Guard approved catamaran at the dock behind Clearwater Marine Aquarium (where Winter, star of Dolphin Tale, lives), for an enlightening 90-minute tour. Relax while the onboard marine life specialist navigates the intracoastal waters pointing out seabirds such as double-crested cormorants, roseate spoonbills and eastern brown pelicans. Following a brief stop at Compass Key to collect shells, watch as the crew lowers a large fishing net, raises the haul and empties it into an on-deck vat of seawater. Passengers can see (and touch) sea creatures such as black drum, pig fish and butterfly rays before data collection is complete and the catch is released. sealifesafaricruise.com For vacation packages to Clearwater, visit allegiant.com. FLORIDA

THE ORIGINAL

PIRATE CRUISE GREAT FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

• Music • Games • • Dolphin Watching • • Friendly Pirates • 10:00 a.m. + 2:00 p.m. 4:30 p.m. + 7:00 p.m. (call for seasonal schedule)

Save $2.00 when you reserve your cruise online!

celebrating 20 years of sunsets crafters. buskers. live entertainment. best place to watch the sunset.

clearwater beach, florida

www.sunsetsatpier60.com

& Tues All-You-Can-Eat Snow Crab!! Mon

Th e l a O r ig in ★ All-You-Can-Eat Fish & Chips – Wednesdays

★ Super Grouper Thursdays ★ Sizzling Steaks & Fresh Catch Specials – Fri, Sat & Sun

Adjoining Sports Bar with all the games!

WWW.JIMMYSFISHHOUSE.NET

Stay healthy with us in 2016!

Organic Produce, Artisan Cheeses, Fine Wines, Fresh Salad Bar, Hot Bar, Grass Fed Meats, Wellness Department, Large Bulk Selection, Fair Trade Coffee, Gluten Free Items & more!

fresh • local • organic

The Simple Things in Life...Are Often the Best Stay at the newly renovated Palm Pavilion Inn just 25 steps from the white sands of award-winning Clearwater Beach. • 100% non-smoking property • Free Wi-Fi • Great rates • Swimming pool • Beach umbrella/chair rentals • Superior Small Lodging® approved for quality and service • Palm Pavilion Beachside Grill & Bar with live music on the deck

Palm Pavilion Inn

18 Bay Esplanade • Clearwater Beach, FL 800-433-7256 • www.PalmPavilionInn.com TripAdvisor - Certificate of Excellence

Sky’s the Limit Burger at Clear Sky Beachside Cafe

BEST BURGERS GREAT EATS ON CLEARWATER BEACH By Nancy Foster

hile Clearwater Beach has no shortage of fabulous seafood dining spots, carnivore hunger pangs can be satisfied at numerous eateries in and around the beach. Expect to easily find your fill of tender steaks, ribs, chops and barbeque but for purists in search of flavorful, two-fisted hamburgers, these three casual hot spots are definitely calling your name.

JIMMY’S FISH HOUSE & IGUANA BAR

Find vacation packages to the Clearwater area at allegiantair.com.

CRABBY BILL'S

The two Crabby Bill’s locations on Clearwater Beach receive raves from the seafood patrons but these tourist-centric eateries cater to everyone’s taste. Mingle with the cut-offs and flip-flops crowd as you soak up the beauty of Clearwater Beach and unwind with a Naked Turtle Rum Runner. Order up the Crabby’s Sirloin Burger with cheese and bacon. It just may be the juiciest, most flavorful sandwich ever and is available at both beach restaurants. Although only at the Crabby’s Bar & Grill location can you feast on the Surf & Turf Burger, true manna from heaven topped with a decadent crab meat and cream cheese spread. crabbybills.com

Big Mamu Burger at Jimmy’s Fish House

CLEAR SKY BEACHSIDE CAFE

Good eats, decent prices and friendly staff pretty much says it all for Clear Sky Beachside 16

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Crabby’s Sirloin Burger with cheese and bacon

Photo of Skys the Liimit Burger by Bellair Images; Big Mamu Burger at Jimmy's Fish House courtesy of of Jimmy’s Fish House and Iguana Bar; Crabby’s Sirloin Burger with cheese and bacon courtesy of Crabby Bill’s Clearwater Beach

At Jimmy’s Fish House & Iguana Bar, located to the rear of the Holiday Inn Resort & Suites, get up close and personal with the Gulf of Mexico while dining under a colorful umbrella-covered table. Order up a cold brew and the colossal one-pound Big Mamu Burger. This lip-smacking creation of two ground beef patties with bold flavor toppings of barbeque sauce, cheddar cheese, smoked applewood bacon and fried onion straws should definitely be followed up with an afternoon snooze on the beach. jimmysfishhouse.net

Cafe on Clearwater Beach. This popular laid-back restaurant, just a block from the beach, beckons you to come hungry and tantalizes with traditional and specialty menu items. A dozen tempting burger choices make the decision tough but hearty eaters should zone in on the Sky’s the Limit Burger. Sizzling applewood smoked bacon strips, aged cheddar and smoky mesquite barbeque sauce atop a juicy half-pound burger are served on a soft brioche bun with potato wedges. You’ll need a run on the beach to work it off! clearskycafe.com

VISIT WINTER THE DOLPHIN, STAR OF DOLPHIN TALE MOVIES BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURS

MARINE LIFE MOVIES INTERACTIVE BOAT TOURS

249 WINDWARD PASSAGE | CLEARWATER, FL 33767 | 727.441.1790 BUY TICKETS AT SEEWINTER.COM

Cheers at Clearwater Beach Uncorked

FABULOUS FESTIVALS ON FLORIDA'S GULF COAST

oes in the sand, warm sun on your face, irresistible coastal cuisine and a wide variety of entertainment are the perfect combination for a fun-filled day at one of the Tampa Bay area’s many festivals. From the beaches of Pinellas County to Clearwater, St. Petersburg and everywhere in between, fab festivals are waiting to entertain Allegiant travelers. Pack your flip-flops, sunscreen and appetite for a good time on the Gulf Coast!

Photo of Clearwater Beach Uncorked by Jeremiah Khokhur; sand fairy by Sandi McKenna; local artist creations by Phi Nguyen

CLEARWATER BEACH UNCORKED

What could be finer than a gastronomic extravaganza with fantastic food, wine and beer samplings on Clearwater’s white sandy beach? At Clearwater Beach Uncorked, February 6-7, sip over 100 wines from around the globe and nosh on bite-size tastes of sweet and savory dishes to tempt your taste buds. clearwaterbeachuncorked.com

By Sandi McKenna

centerpiece of the festival is a 21,000 squarefoot tent featuring the Sugar Sand Walk Exhibit, a breathtaking display of sand sculpted art, designed and crafted by world-class sculptors. Marvel at a thousand tons of sand transformed into intricate sculptures! sugarsandfestival.com

MAINSAIL ART FESTIVAL

Visit waterfront Vinoy Park in downtown St. Petersburg for the Mainsail Art Festival happening April 16-17. With over 250 juried and fine art craft exhibitors, live music, a culinary food court and sparkling Tampa Bay as a backdrop, this festival is a beautiful way to spend an arty afternoon. And, if all that’s not enough to entice you, admission is free. mainsailart.org

THE ORIGINAL TAMPA BAY BLUES FESTIVAL

Plush grass and gently swaying palm trees in waterfront Vinoy Park, downtown St. Petersburg, make for a tropical paradise and the ideal setting for listening to some of the biggest names in blues, April 8-10. tampabaybluesfest.com

FUN ‘N SUN

Clearwater’s Fun ‘N Sun, April 22-May 1, is one of the area’s most eclectic events with a wide range of activities throughout the 10-day festival showcasing Clearwater and all it has to offer. From Clearwater Beach to downtown venues, Fun ‘N Sun features live music, outdoor and cultural events, sports tournaments and more. funnsunclearwater.com

A Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival fairy!

PIER 60 SUGAR SAND FESTIVAL

Paying tribute to Clearwater Beach’s internationally famous sugar sand and the spectacular Gulf of Mexico sunsets, the Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival is a 10-day event, April 1524, sure to delight everyone in the family. The

Local artist Susan Gott’s creations at Mainsail Art Festival FLORIDA

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770 GULF BLVD SOUTH CLEARWATER BEACH, OPENING SOON!

St. Pete’s colorful Saturday Morning Market

TO MARKET, TO MARKET EXPLORE THESE ST. PETE/CLEARWATER OUTDOOR MARKETS By Nancy Foster

he St. Pete/Clearwater area is home to fabulous farmers’ and outdoor markets. A feast for the senses, these markets run weekly on a seasonal basis from October to May and are open from early morning to early afternoon.

SATURDAY MORNING MARKET

The Saturday Morning Market in downtown St. Petersburg is touted as one of the largest markets in the Southeast U.S. Drawing 10,000 people each Saturday, this is a shopper’s delight of 130 attractive vendor booths with an eclectic array of wares. Market managers describe it as “a multi-cultural experience”. Buskers entertain while live musical performers play everything from rock ‘n’ roll to Celtic to Zydeco. Stalls laden with imported truffles, jerky, hydroponic veggies and artisanal cheeses will tempt you, but eating your way through the tasty cuisine of 15 different nationalities just may be the most fun of all. saturdaymorningmarket.com

Photo of St. Pete’s market by Mark Johnson; Pierce Street Market by Kevin Starkey

COREY AVENUE SUNDAY MARKET

PIERCE STREET MARKET

On Clearwater Beach, the new kid on the block is Pierce Street Market, located under the Memorial Causeway Bridge. Shop for locally made specialty products including clothes, baby accessories, leather goods and organic bath and body products. Indulge in a cup of deep roasted coffee or nourishing smoothie before doubling down on good eats from area food trucks. Opt to take the beach ferry for even more fun! piercestreetmarket.com

DUNEDIN DOWNTOWN MARKET

On Fridays and Saturdays from November through June, visit the Dunedin Downtown Market, a veritable wonderland for freshly baked breadstuffs, take-home foods, specialty handicrafts, locally sourced produce and toe-tapping live entertainment. tampabaymarkets.com For area information go to visitstpeteclearwater.com.

On St. Pete Beach, visitors flock to the Corey Avenue Sunday Market to pore over 50 booths stocked with seasonal produce, local wines, prepared foods, jewelry and tropical shell craft. Sit under an umbrella-covered table and enjoy live music from local groups. tampabaymarkets.com

MADEIRA BEACH OPEN AIR MARKET AND INDIAN SHORES SUNDAY MORNING MARKET

Laura Garrison is savvy, enthusiastic and most definitely a people-person, talents that have served her well during a 25-year career in the open-air market industry. Currently she and her husband manage two beach markets in the St. Pete/Clearwater area—the Madeira Beach Open Air Market (open Wednesdays) and the Indian Shores Sunday Morning Market. Expect to find beautiful handcrafted goods, gourmet food items, custom jewelry and locally sourced produce. thebeachmarkets.com

Clearwater Beach’s Pierce Street Market FLORIDA

Hubbard's Marina kayak rentals are fun for the whole family

ON THE WATER AT JOHN’S PASS, FLA. By Gabriele Walkow

here’s no better time of year to get out on the water! Conveniently located on the waterfront between Florida’s Gulf Coast gems Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach, historic John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk is home to over 100 merchants. With unique retail shopping, a variety of restaurants, dolphin watching and shelling tours, boat rentals, parasailing, jet skiing and more, prepare for fun in the sun, surf and sea!

MAD BEACH WATERS SPORTS

Home to Lady Godiva Fishing Charters, John’s Pass Waverunners and Eagle Parasail, Mad Beach Water Sports is a one-stop water sports

Enjoy swashbuckling adventure on the Pirate Ship Royal Conquest 22

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HUBBARD’S MARINA

Family owned and operated since 1928, Hubbard’s Marina offers so many ways to see the sea. Explore Florida’s wildlife up close in its most natural habitat during the Dolphin Watch Nature Cruise. Go shelling on a beautiful uninhabited barrier island. Experience a fabulous Florida sunset during the Sunset Cruise (with free beer and wine). Catch the big one on a range of fishing charters including a five-hour shark adventure and a 39-hour overnight trip. Hubbard’s Marina also offers kayak and paddleboard rentals and eco tours for those who want to reconnect with nature. hubbardsmarina.com

PIRATE SHIP ROYAL CONQUEST

Ahoy Maties! Enjoy swashbuckling adventure on the high seas aboard the Pirate Ship Royal Conquest. This two level, 56-foot U.S. Coast Guard inspected and certified pirate ship has a shaded area, bathroom and a bar with free soft drinks, beer and wine. The two-hour cruise sets sail three times daily and includes a dance party, face painting, treasure hunt, water gun battles, pirate stories, dolphin watching and more. From Salty Dogs to Scallywags and Cabin Kids to Lil Swabies, everyone is entertained by the fun loving pirate crew. boattoursjohnspass. com/pirate-ship-cruise

Photo of kayak rentals courtesy of Hubbard’s Marina; grouper by Captain Kellen; pirate ship Captain Nicholas Sculky

Red Grouper from an offshore trip with Mad Beach Water Sports

center. Lady Godiva offers fishing charters in shore, near shore, off shore and deep sea. With Madeira Beach’s reputation as the Grouper Capital of the World, Lady Godiva’s Captain Kellen guarantees fish or your trip is free! John’s Pass Waverunners invites visitors to watch the dolphins and manatee play during the short taxi to the Gulf of Mexico, where you can open that throttle and travel miles of pristine Florida waters. Experience the Gulf of Mexico in a whole new way during solo, double and triple parasail adventures with Eagle Parasail and their certified and experienced team. madbeachwatersports.com

ier Gulf Coast Prem ort es R t en Entertainm Please visit our Clear Sky Draught Haus at 680 Main Street in Dunedin clearskydraughthaus.com • (727) 286-6266

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On Florida’s Gulf Coast, just 90 minutes from Orlando, St. Pete/Clearwater boasts 4 of the top 10 beaches in USA TODAY’s “Best Florida Beach” poll. Seek sun and supercharged fun on America’s Best Beaches. LiveAmplified.com

Strolling St. Pete Beach at sunset

POSTCARD PERFECT FIND PARADISE IN ST. PETE BEACH

t's a gorgeous beach, perfect for walking, swimming and lazing. It’s a pretty beach, wide and inviting, with miles of sun-bleached sand leading to warm Gulf waters. And, it’s a beach that has drawn visitors from around the globe for years. St. Pete Beach is all this and more—an award-winning haven for sun- worshippers on Florida’s West Coast.

Photos of St. Pete Beach courtesy of visitstpeteclearwater.com; Alden Suites courtesy of Alden Suites; Loews Don CeSar courtesy of Loews Don CeSar

A temperate climate, with a multitude of activities, makes this destination perfect for yearround visits. Stretching nearly six miles between tiny Pass-a-Grille Beach to the south and Treasure Island to the north, find everything within easy reach of Gulf Boulevard. This main thoroughfare leads past a myriad of lodgings, restaurants, beach shops and public beach access spots. Your perfect day should begin with a leisurely stroll along the beach searching for shells, catching the fresh morning air and inhaling the salty sea breezes. Soon the heat of the rising sun will coax you into hours of blissful tranquility by a sparkling pool or on powder soft sands. By day’s end, spectacular sunsets launch the night. Paradise? Most people think so. What’s to do beyond the beach? Chase up water adventures at nearby Dolphin Landings Charter Boat Center and enjoy dolphin watching cruises, deep sea fishing, snorkeling and island adventures. Browse unique shops and galleries at historic Corey Avenue or head for more traditional retail outlets at Dolphin Village Shopping Center. Infinite choices await for dining and nightlife, from outdoor and indoor beach-themed cafés and casual pubs to upscale restaurants catering to the most discriminating palate. Of course, fresh seafood is a staple! Choose a beachfront property where acres of white sandy beach are your personal backyard playground. Lodging choices of varying price points, accommodation types and amenities are plentiful. The icon of the community is the stately Loews Don CeSar Hotel, an upscale historical

By Nancy Foster

landmark boasting tasteful furnishings, sumptuous dining and exquisite stretches of beachfront. Other choices include the recently renovated Alden Suites, the activity-packed Trade Winds Island Grand Resort and trendy Guy Harvey Outpost, retro chic Postcard Inn and favorites Dolphin Beach Resort and Sirata Beach Resort. For vacation packages to St. Pete Beach, visit allegiant.com. Find area info at visitstpeteclearwater.com

Alden Suites is a tropical escape

Glorious St. Pete Beach

The iconic Loews Don CeSar Hotel FLORIDA

Ted Williams statue in the Ted Williams Museum and Hitters Hall of Fame

A MUSEUM WORTHY OF A LEGEND VISIT THE TED WILLIAMS HITTERS HALL OF FAME By Joel Poiley

an’t make it to the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y.? Drop by Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Fla., to find a treasure trove of baseball memories. The Ted Williams Museum and Hitters Hall of Fame wasn't Williams' idea. Williams, often referred to as the greatest hitter who ever lived, loved talking about hitting but loathed talking about himself. However, when friends convinced him this baseball mecca would help promote youth baseball and share the rich history of the game, Williams came around.

“It’s not just about Ted and his great baseball, military and fishing accomplishments, but really to get the young people interested,” McCarthy said. “That’s why we have current players in there as well. What people like a lot about the museum is that in addition to the artifacts like old bats, we put memorabilia and pictures of Ted with it so it brings those exhibits to life to a lot of fans, especially kids.” Admission to the museum is free to all fans attending a Rays’ home game. It’s open two hours before every game through to the sixth inning. For more information on the Ted Williams Museum and Hitters Hall of fame, visit tedwilliamsmuseum.com.

“It was in a remote rural area and we needed more people to see it,” explained McCarthy. “When the new owners of the [Tampa Bay] Rays took over they were very interested in bringing the museum to the stadium to showcase baseball history.” The move to Tropicana Field in 2006 has proven a great marriage for the museum and the Rays, with more than 200,000 people stopping by each year, according to McCarthy. Visitors to Tropicana Field might be surprised to see the museum across from the concession stands. After all, why would a legendary Boston Red Sox star be celebrated in the home of the Tampa Bay Rays? As McCarthy noted, the 10,000-square-foot museum is not solely about Williams. There are more than 100 former and current players inducted and displays about the Negro leagues, women in baseball, Japanese 26

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Tampa Bay Rays exhibit

Photos of Ted Williams statue and Tampa Bay Rays exhibit courtesy of Erik Ruiz/Tampa Bay Rays

The museum opened in 1994—a line drive from Williams’ house in Citrus County, Fla.—approximately two hours north of its present location. When David McCarthy became executive director after Williams died in 2002, he sought an alternate location to increase attendance.

baseball, Triple Crown winners, Cy Young Award winners and more—including a display about the hometown Rays.

Mini bowling at Ducky’s Sports Lounge

TAMPA’S SENSATIONAL SPORTS BARS PACK YOUR GAME DAY JERSEY By Misty Wells

ampa is home to some of the best sports bars in Florida. Be sure to pack your game day jersey and cheer on your favorite teams at one of these great local sports bars. They boast the best sports packages on game days, so you won’t want to miss a play!

FERG’S LIVE

Ferg’s Live is a modern, cavernous game day spot with pub grub, draft beer, cocktails and a great live music line up. The outside courtyard is constructed of recycled shipping containers that form a perimeter containing two bars and a second-level balcony and band shell. If you find yourself in downtown St. Pete, visit the original Ferg’s across the street from Tropicana field. You will see why Ferg’s Live sports bars are so wildly popular. fergslive.com

WALTERS PRESS BOX

Another hometown classic is Walters Press Box. Boasting the title of Tampa’s original sports emporium and eatery, they have been serving Tampa locals for over 25 years. Whether you’re coming for the big game or bringing the whole family, this is a hot spot with something for everyone. Weekly specials like Burgermania Monday and 50 cent wings on Tuesday are very popular and on Thursday kids eat for free. Plenty of drink specials, flat screen T.V.’s and pool tables grace this Tampa classic. pressboxsports.com

DUCKY’S SPORTS LOUNGE

Ferg’s Live and the downtown Tampa skyline

Fans celebrate their team at Walters Press Boxeach

HATTRICKS TAVERN

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Photo mini bowling courtesy of Ducky’s; Ferg's Live courtesy of Ferg’s Live; fans courtesy of Press Box Sports Bar

Hattricks Tavern, established in 1997, is a nostalgic neighborhood bar best known for the friendliest wait and bar staff in Tampa. “The high quality of their food and drinks coupled with their sports themed atmosphere make it the best place to watch any of your favorite sports teams,” said Partner David Mangione. sportsbartampa.com

Looking for something a little more upscale? Ducky’s Sports Lounge offers innovative bar foods, creative cocktails, state of the art audio/ visual and mini bowling. This boutique sports lounge is the only restaurant in South Tampa to feature four lanes of mini bowling—a smaller, simpler form of the sport. You might get a surprise while hanging out at Ducky’s. Evan Longoria, a major league baseball player for the Tampa Bay Rays, is an owner. “Longo” is known to frequently pop into Ducky’s and challenge guests to a game of mini bowling while enjoying a cold beverage. duckystampa.com

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Welcome to Tarpon Springs!

TARPON SPRINGS FLORIDA'S MEDITERRANEAN VILLAGE By Judy Staley

arpon Springs, a beautiful waterfront town with a working seaport and vibrant shopping district, has the unmistakable feel of a Grecian fishing village. Rich sponge beds discovered in the1880s spawned a flourishing seaport in the city, attracting young Greek sponge divers from the Dodecanese Islands. The sponge industry thrived, as did the Greek community and its lively Greek traditions. Today eclectic shops are found throughout the district. Traditional bakeries and restaurants prepare authentic Greek cuisine.

Enjoy enticing beaches

Sponge diving exhibitions, deep sea fishing and cruise excursions depart regularly. A short walk away is the town’s Victorian downtown where wealthy northerners built luxurious estates along the beautiful bayous that wind through the city. Tarpon Springs gained fame as one of the great winter resorts of the late 1800s. Many Victorian era buildings still line the main street of the city’s downtown area. Vintage buildings now house boutiques, art galleries, studios, cafes, craft breweries, restaurants and a delightful assortment of specialty shops and antiques. St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral features Byzantine architecture and is home to one of the largest epiphany celebrations in the western hemisphere. Just steps from the historic downtown are scenic Spring Bayou and Craig Park. During the winter months, manatees can be found seeking the warm water of the bayou. Watching manatees, Florida’s state marine mammal, is a favorite pastime for many winter visitors. In addition to its charming waterfront, enticing beaches and natural beauty, Tarpon Springs is home to many events and festivals throughout the year. A Fine Arts Festival, Seafood Festival, Hippie Fest, October Fest, Christmas events and Antique Car Show are just a few of the exciting, annual celebrations attracting thousands of visitors to this eclectic seaside community.

Photos by Sue Thomas

Inviting shops await visitors

Explore the historic Sponge Docks

Watch for these fun upcoming events: First Fridays, February 5, March 4, April 1 and May 6, Historic Downtown Tarpon Avenue; Autos for Autism Car Show, March 12, Historic Downtown Tarpon Avenue; Tarpon Springs Fine Arts Festival, April 9 and 10, Craig Park; Sponge Docks Arts and Crafts Show, April 16 and 17, Dodecanese Boulevard. For more information and an event calendar go to visitgreeceinflorida.com. FLORIDA

Airborne surfboard obstacle

TAKING TO THE TREES GLIDE THROUGH THE TREETOPS WITH TREEUMPH! DURING YOUR NEXT SOUTHWEST FLORIDA VACATION By Matt Seli

re you one of those people who enjoy a little adventure during your time away from home and miss the overhead view of the world once your flight lands?

ticket prices and how to purchase tickets–visit treeumph.com. Group rates and special offers are also available. See you in the trees!

If so, TreeUmph! Adventure Course in Bradenton may have just what you are looking for. Located approximately an hour from both St. PetersburgClearwater International Airport and from Punta Gorda Airport, TreeUmph! invites everyone in your group to take to the trees for an adrenaline pumping day above the ground.

Photos courtesy of TreeUmph! Adventure Course

Upon arriving at TreeUmph!, guests start out at one of the two Harness Courses where they learn the rules of the park and how to be safe while enjoying all it has to offer. After demonstrating both knowledge of the rules and that they can complete basic obstacles while observing safety measures, guests are turned loose to explore all other obstacles at the park. With everything from footbridges and traverse suspended climbing walls to swinging ropes and an airborne surfboard, the obstacle choices are seemingly endless. Once you get to the end of the course, experiencing all the obstacles you choose along the way, give yourself the ultimate thrill by taking TreeUmph!’s 650-foot zip line to the finish. Here, you will meet up with everyone from your group to re-visit all of the exciting adventures and highlights from your day.

Test your aerial skills at TreeUmph!

Finish your experience with the 650-foot zip line

With a number of adventures to choose from, ranging in both difficulty and what your nerves will allow, everyone in your group can enjoy a fun-filled day experiencing their choice of 76 treetop adventure games. In addition, there is a kids-only course for the little ones. You may surprise yourself with how high you go or what obstacles you are able to accomplish! For more information–including height restrictions, what to wear, what to bring,

Cargo net obstacle FLORIDA

Bradenton is the birthplace of horse surfing

A PICTURE-PERFECT ESCAPE DISCOVER THE BEAUTY AND CHARM OF THE BRADENTON AREA By Heather Turk

hether your idea of the perfect vacation is relaxing on the beach or attending an exciting event, the beautiful Bradenton area along Florida’s West Coast offers something for every Allegiant passenger. With 150 miles of coastline, this captivating destination—comprised of Bradenton, Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key—is the very definition of a picture-perfect escape. Guests can stroll along the powder soft sand of Anna Maria Beach and watch a breathtaking sunset or dive into deeper waters to try their hand at horse surfing along the calm shoreline of Palma Sola Bay. If shopping is more to your liking, “The Greenest Little Main Street in America,” Pine Avenue on Anna Maria Island offers stylish boutiques and specialty shops, many selling recycled, refashioned or vintage goods as well as items produced by local artists. The city of Bradenton also boasts the largest natural and cultural museum on Florida’s Gulf Coast, the South Florida Museum. In addition to housing displays from the Pleistocene period to

McKechnie Field is the Spring Training home of the Pittsburgh Pirates 34

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the present, the museum is home to the world’s oldest known manatee in captivity, SnootyTM. Visitors will find SnootyTM in the Parker Manatee Aquarium, which he shares with young orphaned or injured wild manatees that are being cared for by the museum’s staff as part of the Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation partnership. Aside from SnootyTM, nature lovers will discover a wealth of wildlife in the Bradenton area. Local beaches, such as Coquina Beach on the south end of Anna Maria Island—which is ideal for spotting birds and a variety of subtropical fish swimming just off the shore—showcase several species of Florida fauna. Robinson Preserve is another popular destination for wildlife photography and birdwatching. Featuring 487 acres of coastal saltern, marsh and mangrove habitat, visitors often see roseate spoonbills, wood storks, white pelicans, bald eagles and least terns residing in their natural environment. Given that Tropicana’s juice production facilities are located in Bradenton, it’s no surprise that some of Florida’s finest citrus can be found in the

The Bradenton Area River Regatta

area. At Mixon Fruit Farms, guests can actually pick their own oranges, grapefruits and lemons and take a tour of its grove and wildlife refuge onboard the Orange Blossom Express. As the tram travels past the orange trees, notice the cages housing injured birds, animals and reptiles that are being treated for release back into the wild. Following the tour, be sure to stop by Mixon’s Groveside Café to sample its delicious Orange Swirl ice cream!

Photos courtesy of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau

Baseball fans visiting Bradenton in late February will be happy to know that Spring Training is in full swing, as McKechnie Field has been the winter home of the Pittsburgh Pirates for more than 40 years. The oldest Spring Training baseball stadium in the league, the historic Bradenton ballpark is now considered one of America’s finest following the recent completion of $10.5 million in upgrades. Fans can take in a game (or two) during their vacation, with the Pittsburgh Pirates playing such notable MLB teams as the Boston Red Sox on March 9 and the New York Yankees on March 17. For the first time ever this March and April, visitors can also go on a two- to three-hour walking tour of downtown Bradenton with Walking Historical and Food Tours. Guests can choose from two different tours—one focusing on the river town’s traditional history and the other exploring the Village of the Arts, a mix of art galleries and shops housed in colorfully restored 1920s and 1930s cottages. Each 1.5-mile guided tour includes samplings from some of the area’s most unique and popular restaurants, giving guests a taste of Bradenton both literally and figuratively. Late winter/early spring welcomes several can’tmiss events such as the second annual Bradenton Area River Regatta on February 6. The largest spectator event in Manatee County, this free event features Powerboat Superleague and Hydro-Xross Racing, live music, fireworks, a kids’ zone, trick dog antics by SkyBound Canines and more. Then on February 13 and 14, the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival returns to the oldest working fishing village in Florida, Bradenton Area’s Cortez Historic Fishing Village. Attracting

Shopping on Pine Avenue

Beautiful Coquina Beach

approximately 18,000 attendees over two days, this annual celebration of Florida’s commercial seafood industry features live music, nautical arts and crafts, environmental exhibits and children’s activities. The fifth annual ArtSlam celebration of the arts is also very popular. This free event turns the spotlight on local artists who take to the streets of downtown Bradenton and its 1.5-mile-long RiverWalk to create temporary, one-day works of public art and performances. This year’s festival highlights the creative youth of Manatee County and will take place on March 5 in conjunction with the Bradenton Farmers’ Market on Old Main Street. For more information on this charming Florida destination, visit bradentongulfislands.com. FLORIDA

This is a place where vacation memories are made every day. Where fascinating museums capture young imaginations and encourage their exploration. And where wildlife can be experienced live, up close, and in person. It’s Florida the way it used to be. The way it should be. The way you need it now.

BradentonGulfIslands.com

Only 45 minutes from St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport and Punta Gorda Airport.

Bungalow Beach Resort

Directly on white sandy beach & award winning “Top Romance in the US” (by Tripadvisor.com)! Escape to these charm filled 1930’s classic restored island style bungalows. 800-779-3601 • 941-778-3600 BungalowBeach.com

Anna Maria Vacations

We are a unique rental company specializing in only the finest Anna Maria Island vacation rentals. 800-737-9855 AnnaMaria.com

The Bromeliad Garden showcases layers of color, shapes and textures

A TROPICAL URBAN OASIS VISIT SARASOTA’S MARIE SELBY BOTANICAL GARDENS By Gabriele Walkow

estled on the shores of beautiful Sarasota Bay, discover botanical bliss and a lush tropical oasis offering something for everyone at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Originally the home of William and Marie Selby, Selby Gardens showcases a living collection of rare and breathtaking tropical plants—making it an exquisite landmark for this seaside city on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Consisting of nearly 15 acres, 12 buildings are housed here including nine greenhouses. The collection numbers more than 20,000 greenhouse plants plus thousands more in the outdoor gardens. As well as delighting over 140,000 visitors annually, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is a world-class center for education, research and conservation. It is the world’s only botanical garden specializing in epiphytes (air plants such as orchids, bromeliads and gesneriads that grow upon other plants).

Photos courtesy of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

Several botanical gardens are the most popular with guests and visiting scientists alike. At the Ann Goldstein Children’s Rainforest Garden experience one of the only outdoor elevated rainforest displays in the world. The Tropical Conservatory, which looks and feels like a tropical rain forest, features a spectacular collage of color that changes frequently as different plants come into bloom. Follow the Mangrove Walkway along the wooden

Discover a lifelong appreciation for rainforest plants at the Ann Goldstein Children's Rainforest Garden

boardwalk to learn about three mangrove species native to South Florida. For one of the most peaceful experiences at Selby Gardens pause in the Fern Garden along the circular walking trail. The enchanting Butterfly Garden, set in front of historic Payne Mansion, is particularly popular with children and photographers. And the majestic Banyan Groves, planted by the Selby’s nearly a century ago, provide a shaded meeting place for conversation and relaxation. Benches throughout the property invite visitors to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the gardens. Comfortable shoes and attire are suggested. Cameras are welcomed and painting, sketching and other creative activities are encouraged. What better classroom than a garden? Engaging activities are planned for children of all ages and classes in horticulture, art, photography and wellness are offered for adults. The Botanical Briefings lecture series, featuring the work of the Gardens’ staff scientists, is held monthly from October to May. Also home to exciting exhibits, be sure to experience the elegance of the orchid during the stunning Orchid Show, Celebrating 40 Years at Selby Gardens, February 14 to March 27. For more information, including tours and weddings, visit selby.org.

Guests are welcome to paint, draw, photograph and reflect FLORIDA

your

ISLAND

GETAWAY

WATERFRONT RESTAURANTS, BOUTIQUES, RESOR T & MARINA

FISHERMEN’S VILLAGE WATERFRONT RESTAURANTS, BOUTIQUES, RESOR T & MARINA

fishville.com |1800.639.0020 | 1200 W Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda

Inside Rick Treworgy’s Muscle Car City

THE SECRET IS OUT! DISCOVER HIDDEN GEMS IN CHARLOTTE HARBOR & THE GULF ISLANDS, FLA. By H. Wadowski

B Photo of Muscle Car City by Jennifer Huber/charlotteharbortravel.com; Catania’s Winery by Jennifer Huber; Heritage Military Museum by Ken Koch

est known for its beautiful beaches, Charlotte Harbor & the Gulf Islands is also home to a treasure-trove of attractions sure to pique the interest of visitors. From enriching the mind to simply sipping some vino, Charlotte Harbor & the Gulf Islands has a hidden gem for every traveler to enjoy.

CATANIA’S WINERY

Recognized as a Top Winery in Southwest Florida by TripAdvisor’s FlipKey.com, this Englewood winery is known for its full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc wines. Open Wednesday to Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. as well as by appointment, visitors can sample some vino with cheese and crackers for $8 or learn about the art of winemaking at one of its winemaking classes (nominal fee applies unless a winemaking kit is purchased). Commercial and home winemaking equipment is available for purchase as well as an assortment of gifts. cataniaswinery.com

MILITARY HERITAGE MUSEUM

Located inside Fishermen’s Village, this free Punta Gorda attraction offers guests a truly priceless experience. Spread out over 2,500 square feet, it houses artifacts and memorabilia from all branches of the service and from the Civil War forward. Visitors will see old rifles on display along with uniforms, newspaper clippings and more. Be sure to check out the

Catania’s Winery produces award-winning handcrafted wines and olive oils

museum’s Wall of Warriors, honoring brave individuals who went above and beyond the call of duty. freedomisntfree.org

OCTAGON WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

This safe haven for abused and abandoned exotic animals is the wildest retirement/nursing home in Punta Gorda! Open to the public Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., visitors can spend the day with a variety of former zoo and circus animals including lions, tigers and bears. Some guests might even recognize the sanctuary’s female hyena, Jake, from Animal Planet’s “Fatal Attractions” episode “Pet Hyena.” octagonwildlife.org

RICK TREWORGY’S MUSCLE CAR CITY

Featuring row upon row of restored classic cars, this Punta Gorda attraction is home to more than 200 automobiles. Though some date back to the 1920s, the museum’s main focus is on the muscle cars of the mid-1960s and early 1970s. Amid the impressive collection, visitors will find 12 Pontiac GTOs and 64 Chevrolet Corvettes—one from every series from 1954 to 1975 as well as some newer models. There’s also a selection of automotive memorabilia on exhibit and a 1960s-style diner serving drive-in favorites like burgers and milkshakes. musclecarcity.net

Inside the Military Heritage Museum

FLORIDA

Peace River Wildlife Center

in beautiful Punta Gorda, Florida

Open Every Day for Tours 11 A.M. to 4 P.M. No Admission Fee

Donations Appreciated Ponce de Leon Park 3400 W. Marion Ave. Punta Gorda, FL 33950 941-637-3830

www.PeaceRiverWildlifeCenter.org

Come see our idea gardens of majestic bamboo and a color palette of pottery from all over the world

.com Pottery Express & Bamboo Farm

25370 Zemel Road•Punta Gorda, FL 33955 • (941) 505-8400 One of the largest GM muscle car collections in the nation.

More than 60 Corvettes, plus dozens of Camaros, Chevelles, Impalas, GTOs, 442s and a huge assortment of Hot Rods and Antique Chevy Cars & Trucks.

Open Tues-Sun 9am-5pm

200 classic cars spanning 80 years in a 99,000 square foot showroom • 60s Diner- Open for Breakfast and Lunch • Giant Memorabilia & Apparel Store • Awesome On-Site Speed Shop • “For Sale” Car Corral

3811 Tamiami Trail • Punta Gorda, FL • www.MuscleCarCity.net • 941-575-5959

Get Back to Nature!

Babcock Wilderness Adventures 8000 State Rd 31 • Punta Gorda, Florida 33982 1-800-500-5583 • www.babcockwilderness.com (GPS: use Lat 26° 54’ 4.9464” Long -81° 45’ 34.1526”)

A perfect Palm Island sunset

ESCAPE TO PERFECTLY PRISTINE PALM ISLAND RESORT, FLA. By Gabriele Walkow

n island paradise awaits in sun-drenched Placida on Southwest Florida’s Gulf Coast, only 45 minutes from Punta Gorda. Palm Island Resort invites you to escape the ordinary and travel back to a time of old Florida. A short six-minute car ferry ride across the Intracoastal Waterway transports guests to a world of relaxation and rejuvenation. Natural sounds are vibrant at the resort as no motorized vehicles are allowed. Guests get around by bike, golf cart or on foot.

Photos courtesy of Palm Island Resort

Palm Island Resort is home to over 100 beautifully furnished villas/condominiums, spacious island cottages and unique private homes—all located on a two-mile stretch of private beach. The Island Beach Villas overlook the inviting white sand beach, the Island Bay Villas are located next to the docks and the Island Cottages are perfect for families. Guests may also choose the Mainland Marina Villas overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway. Five heated pools and spas are located on the property. For guests seeking total relaxation, a full service concierge will arrange a massage. Volleyball, basketball and tennis beckon to those looking for some action. Forgot your racquet? No problem! Tennis equipment is available for rent and a tennis pro can help with tips and tactics on one of the 11 courts. Guests can also rent bikes, boogie boards, rafts, kayaks, umbrellas and golf carts. Boats and fishing charters can be arranged and Palm Island is located within 30 minutes of no less than 12 golf courses! Children aged six to 12 can participate in craft programs with popular Red Beard the Pirate. Enjoy a sunset over the Gulf while collecting beautiful shells and searching for shark teeth. Looking to re-energize? Start your day with a coffee and pastry from colorful Coconuts Café.

Get in touch with nature

Paradise is a short six-minute car ferry ride away

Tropical-themed Rum Bay Restaurant, open for lunch and dinner, offers gourmet hamburgers, fresh local fish and baby back ribs smothered in their signature Swamp Sauce. Leverock’s Restaurant, a short complimentary water taxi ride away, has been a Gulf Coast dining delight since 1948. Open for lunch and dinner, Leverock’s offers freshly caught seafood fare served in a casual atmosphere overlooking the marina and Intracoastal Waterway. Remember to take home a souvenir from the Rum Bay Gift Shop! Easily accessible from both Punta Gorda Airport and St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport, visit palmisland.com for more information. FLORIDA

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MICROTEL

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FREE WIRELESS FULL HIGH-SPEED INTERNET   COMPLIMENTARY HOT BREAKFAST HEATED OUTDOOR POOLHOT BREAKFAST hot breakfast COMPLIMENTARY FULL · Complimentary FULL HOT BREAKFAST  COMPLIMENTARY FREE WIRELESS HIGH-SPEED INTERNET  HEATED OUTDOOR POOL INTERNET FREE WIRELESS HIGH-SPEED Wi-Fi *CENTER Business Center INTERNET FITNESS FREE WIRELESS HIGH-SPEED · Free WIRELESS HIGH-SPEED HEATED OUTDOOR POOL INTERNET  FREE FITNESS CENTER HEATED OUTDOOR · Heated Outdoor Pool POOL * Fitness Room  PET FRIENDLY HEATED OUTDOOR POOL · Interior HEATED OUTDOOR POOL FITNESS CENTER  FITNESS PET FRIENDLY CENTER Corridors * Elevator Access 100% NON-SMOKING FITNESS CENTER · ADA CENTER  FITNESS PET FRIENDLY Rooms available  100% NON-SMOKING PET FRIENDLY BUSINESS CENTER , · Micro/Fridge PET FRIENDLY PET100% FRIENDLY NON-SMOKING inCENTER select rooms BUSINESS ,   100% NON-SMOKING MEETING SPACE AVAILABLE Non-Smoking * Pet · 100% 100% NON-SMOKING 100% NON-SMOKING  BUSINESS CENTER , Friendly  BUSINESS MEETING SPACE,AVAILABLE · Meeting CENTER Space available 4056 Tamiami Trail BUSINESS CENTER MEETING SPACE,,AVAILABLE   BUSINESS CENTER MEETING SPACE AVAILABLE 4056 Tamiami Trail Port Charlotte, Fl 33952 4056 Tamiami TrailTrail MEETING SPACE SPACE AVAILABLE AVAILABLE  MEETING 4056 Tamiami Port Charlotte, Fl For reservations call33952

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LA QUINTA INN AND LA QUINTA SUITES INN AND SUITES LA QUINTA INN AND LA QUINTA INN LA QUINTA INN AND PORT CHARLOTTE LA QUINTA INN AND AND LA QUINTA INN PORT CHARLOTTE SUITES SUITES SUITES SUITES SUITES PORTCHARLOTTE CHARLOTTE PORT CHARLOTTE PORT Our cozy hotel is conveniently located off of PORT CHARLOTTE CHARLOTTE PORT Our cozy hotel is conveniently located off of

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812 Kings Highway Port 812 Kings Highway Port Charlotte, Fl For reservations call33980 812 Kings Highway Charlotte, Fl 33980 For Port4056 Charlotte, Fl 33952 Tamiami Trail Port Charlotte, Fl 33980 For reservations call 941-979-4200 Port Charlotte, Fl 33952 For reservations call 941-624-6339 812 Kings Highway Highway Port Charlotte, Fl 33980 812 Kings 4056 Tamiami Trail 4056 Tamiami Trail reservations call For reservations www.laquintaportcharlotte.com Port Charlotte, Flcall 33952 For reservations call 941-979-4200 www.microtelinn.com/portcharlotte For reservations call 941-624-6339 Port Charlotte, Fl 33980 For reservations call Port Charlotte, Fl 33980 Port Charlotte, Fl 33952 Port Charlotte, Fl 33952 www.laquintaportcharlotte.com 941-979-4200 941-624-6339 For reservations call 941-979-4200 www.microtelinn.com/portcharlotte 941-624-6339 For reservations call call 941-979-4200 For reservations www.laquintaportcharlotte.com www.laquintaportcharlotte.com www.microtelinn.com/portcharlotte For reservations For941-624-6339 reservations call call www.microtelinn.com/portcharlotte www.laquintaportcharlotte.com 941-979-4200 941-979-4200 www.microtelinn.com/portcharlotte 941-624-6339 941-624-6339 Complimentary Shuttle Service to and from the Punta www.laquintaportcharlotte.com www.laquintaportcharlotte.com

Gorda Airport www.microtelinn.com/portcharlotte www.microtelinn.com/portcharlotte www.microtelinn.com/portcharlotte Complimentary Shuttle Service towww.laquintaportcharlotte.com and theGorda PuntaAirport Gorda Airport Complimentary Shuttle Service to and from from the Punta Visit our website at www.charlotteharborhotels.com Complimentary Shuttle Service to and from the Punta Gorda Airport Visitour our website at at www.charlotteharborhotels.com Visit website www.charlotteharborhotels.com Complimentary Shuttle Service to and from the Punta Gorda Airport Visit our website at www.charlotteharborhotels.com Complimentary Shuttle Service to and and from from the the Punta Punta Gorda Gorda Airport Airport Complimentary Service to Visit ourShuttle website at www.charlotteharborhotels.com

A stand-up paddleboard and snorkel tour with Hooked On SUP

MARVELOUS MEMORIES UNFORGETTABLE HANDS-ON EXPERIENCES IN CHARLOTTE HARBOR & THE GULF ISLANDS By Heather Turk

amilies looking to make lasting memories during their Florida vacation find a variety of hands-on experiences while visiting Charlotte Harbor & the Gulf Islands.

FLORIDA TRACKS & TRAILS

Photo of stand-up paddle board tour by Stephanie Rutan/Hooked on SUP; paintball courtesy of Florida Tracks & Trails; seagrass wading adventure by Thomas Hecker

At Florida Tracks & Trails families can compete in a game of paintball, rent an ATV/UTV or bring their own ATV/UTV or dirt bike and go for a ride on one of its five tracks. The 1,000-acre outdoor adventure and live entertainment park also boasts approximately 23 miles of trails, a drag strip, mud zone and 12-acre beach. Admission is $45 for adults and $30 for children ages 6 to 12 with discounts available for Florida residents and military visitors; children ages 5 and younger are free. floridatracksandtrails.com

group and free grant-funded wading trips are available on select dates. checflorida.org

HOOKED ON SUP

If you’re looking for a more active ecoexperience, Hooked On SUP Paddle Sports recently began offering stand-up paddleboard and snorkel tours that take guests out into the waters of Stump Pass Beach State Park. Following a quick lesson, guests paddleboard to the snorkeling site where a certified Florida Master Naturalist helps them find and identify a variety of sea creatures. Tours take three hours and cost $85 per person. Although it’s recommended snorkelers be 13 years of age or older, younger guests are allowed if they have previous experience. hookedonsup.com

CHARLOTTE HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER

PARKS THAT TEACH

A fun game of paintball at Florida Tracks & Trails

A Seagrass Wading Adventure with Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center

For a truly wet and wild adventure, Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center offers Seagrass Wading Adventures at Cedar Point Environmental Center in Englewood and Ponce De Leon Park in Punta Gorda. Open to adults and children, guests are given a dip net and led out into the water to collect marine samples living in the estuary. A guide helps with critter identification before returning them safely to the wild. Trips are available on a pre-scheduled basis for $200 per

For a more leisurely eco-adventure, Parks That Teach offers free, guided tours with University of Florida's Master Gardeners. Held on the first Saturday and third Wednesday of every month (except June through August), tours depart from Fishermen’s Village parking lot at 9:30 a.m., no RSVP required. During the approximately 90-minute tour, guests learn about the different habitats that support Florida wildlife, view the unique Florida mangrove ecosystem and more. charlotte.ifas.ufl.edu

FLORIDA

Cool off at the Shell Factory and Nature Park

FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN SPEND THE DAY AT THE SHELL FACTORY AND NATURE PARK IN FORT MYERS By Gabriele Walkow

onveniently located in North Fort Myers, Fla., the Shell Factory and Nature Park is home to a full day of family fun, including Fido! Four-legged family members are warmly welcomed and can enjoy Doggie Heaven, the new canine sports park, open from dawn to dusk. Celebrating 78 years as one of the most popular family entertainment destinations in Southwest Florida, the Shell Factory and Nature Park offers 18-acres of exploration including a premier retail shop, nature park and botanical gardens, fun park, excellent eateries and the Soaring Eagle Zip Line. “Continuous change has been our goal from the outset,” explained owner Tom Cronin.

Welcome to the Shell Factory and Nature Park

FLORIDA

The retail store presents the world's largest collection of seashells and shell specimens, the finest fossils and sea life, and top-of-the-line coral. The magic of Christmas is found here throughout the year in the Holiday House. The retail shop is also home to four free, educational museums–Natural History, Shell, Fossil and Military. A must while touring the retail store is Pirates Cove, where the whole family can plunder Pirate Treasure and actually hear Pirates planning their next adventure! Thousands of plants and almost 400 animals, reptiles, birds and fish call the two-and-a-halfacre Nature Park and Botanical Gardens home. Everything from alligators to zebra can be seen. Wander through the botanical trails and encounter habitats from armadillos to zebras, the Ecological Lab with native and exotic species, the get-up-close-and-personal Touch Center, the Petting Farm, the alligator slough and the aviaries. Still have energy to burn? Try the two new trampolines at the Fun Park, get wild and wet on the bumper boats and at Water Wars, take out a paddleboat, play a round of minigolf, visit the Groovy Stop Video Arcade and participate in the mining operation. Satisfy your hunger at the renowned Capt'n Fishbones Seafood Grill, the new Swamp Bar Patio and the outdoor Dog Bones Café. Top off the day flying high above North Fort Myers on the Soaring Eagle Zip Line ($8.50 per person, including tax). Admission to the Shell Factory and Nature Park is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, $8 for children ages 4 to 12, and children 3 and under are free. For more information, visit shellfactory.com.

Photos courtesy of the Shell Factory and Nature Park

A colorful character!

“What makes us really different? Well that would be the eclectic nature of our free exhibits and interesting displays.”

Look for Al Capone's possible secret cellar at Capone's Coal Fired Pizza

FLAIR IN FORT MYERS DISCOVER THESE FIVE DESTINATION RESTAURANTS By Gabriele Walkow

nly 35 minutes from the Punta Gorda Airport, these five restaurants in the historic downtown Fort Myers River District go beyond fabulous food to creating a rich dining experience with their imaginative décors.

FORD’S GARAGE

This gourmet burger and craft beer joint pays tribute to American legend Henry Ford, who spent his winters in Fort Myers. With its old style brick, dark colors, rich wood and hand-hammered copper bar top, the interior gives the vibe of being in a 1920s service station/Prohibition bar. Enjoy casual American fare and select from over 180 craft beers. fordsgarageusa.com

CAPONE’S COAL FIRED PIZZA

LOS CABOS CANTINA

THE LODGE

Winter has come to Southwest Florida! This rustic restaurant and bar, which opened May 2015, transports diners to a wintry mountain lodge complete with a working ski lift cranking over diners and an ever-changing panoramic view of mountain scenes projected on the dining room wall. Enjoy brews and barbecue in front of Southwest Florida’s largest LED TV or by the 15-foot tall fireplace. Don’t forget that selfie with Bart, the life-size grizzly bear at the entrance! thelodgefl.com

Ford’s Garage is a unique gourmet burger and beer joint

Hola! Walk through the doors of Los Cabos Cantina and feel like you have been transported back in time to a 100-year-old cantina. Savor a tasty Tex-Mex meal featuring fresh tacos, burritos, enchiladas, guacamole and signature dishes. The famous margaritas are fresh and thirst quenching. loscaboscantinafl.com

THE FIRESTONE

This four-story Bay Street complex features four levels of fun and food—the Firestone Grille and the Loft offering prime dining options; the Martini Bar with dance floor and live 46

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Welcome to The Lodge!

Photos of Capone's and The Lodge by Mark Riehle/Harborside Photography; Ford car courtesy of Ford’s Garage

Billed as offering “authentic coal fired pizza so good it should be illegal”, Capone’s is considered a legit joint where you can “hang with the gang”! Inspired by notorious Chicago gangster Al Capone, the restaurant has a distinct 1920s Prohibition era ambience. View the underground vault, encased in glass, located in the center of the dining room to catch a glimpse of Capone’s possible secret cellar. The menu features authentic coal fired pizza and house-made pasta. caponescoalfiredpizza.com

entertainment; and the Sky Bar, the only rooftop bar in downtown Fort Myers, invites you to party in the clouds. Honoring Harvey Firestone of famed Firestone Tires, behemoth tractor tires serve as chandeliers, while smaller tires dangle from a conveyor belt that winds around the brick-lined dining rooms. firestonefl.com

Art Galleries • Restaurants • Hotels • Theatres • Unique Shops

DOWNTOWN FORT MYERS RIVER DISTRICT

FIRST FRIDAYS • 6-10PM EVERY MONTH

ART GALLERIES & ART SPACES Art League of Fort Myers Arts for ACT Gallery •Enjewel Bootleggers Alley • Mother Earth Grand Illusion • The Franklin Shops Open Door Shoppes • Miville Gallery Reverie & Rock Art Gallery Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center The Nest • Timeless • The Studio Two Newts Gallery • UNIT A

OTHER MONTHLY EVENTS IN THE RIVER DISTRICT Mystery Walk - Second Fridays Music Walk - Third Fridays Car Cruise-in - Fourth Saturdays

www.FortMyersRiverDistrictAlliance.com

Take a Vacation from Your Vacation Experience â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Real Florida. Real Close.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;

www. R eal F lorida R eal C lose.com/sunseeker Visit Lake County, Florida as the new year offers an abundant harvest of strawberries, blueberries and citrus across acres of U-pick farms. Or take a day-trip to the vineyards, where wine is in season year-round. Get to know the real Florida, just outside Orlando.

Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards is Florida’s largest premium winery

SCENIC LAKE COUNTY CHARMS CENTRAL FLORIDA TRAVELERS By Heather Turk

hile most people may picture theme parks when they think about Central Florida, just a 35-minute drive from Orlando visitors will discover a scenic destination unlike any other—beautiful Lake County. Bordered by Ocala National Forest to the north and the hills of Clermont to the south, Lake County lives up to its name with more than 1,000 pristine lakes and rivers. Easily accessible via I-75 to the west and I-4 to the east, rolling hills, stunning vistas, acres of family-owned farmland and lush citrus groves greet visitors. This time of year, a bountiful harvest of delicious fresh fruits are ripe for the picking at Lake County’s many agritourism attractions. The Showcase of Citrus (5010 U.S. Highway 27, Clermont), a family-owned and operated estate cultivating more than 70 varieties of citrus, is located just minutes from Orlando’s tourist corridor. Known for its natural orange juice slushy and ice cream treat, the freshest varieties of oranges, red and white grapefruit and Meyer lemons are found here.

Photos courtesy of Lake County Tourism

Tucked away in the central-eastern part of the county, Oak Haven Farms & Winery (32418 Avington Road, Sorrento) grows juicy strawberries on the vine. Their country kitchen is home to old-fashioned strawberry shortcakes, homemade milkshakes and ice cream sundaes, plus strawberry wine made on-site for adults.

Monte Vista Road, Clermont), offering a variety of habitats. Nature enthusiasts can also go birding at the Green Mountain Scenic Overlook and Trailhead (20700 County Road 455, Ferndale), boasting unparalleled views of Lake Apopka from a 130-foot elevated boardwalk. The 314-acre Palatlakaha Environmental and Agricultural Reserve (4800 University Ave., Leesburg), known as PEAR Park, has some of the best birding in Lake County and several miles of hiking trails. For a unique perspective of the area’s wildlife, canoeists and kayakers can glide down nine different blueway trails as part of the Lake County Community Blueways Project (paddlelake.com). For more on this picturesque destination, check out visitlakefl.com.

Oak Haven Farms & Winery is home to juicy strawberries

Family-friendly festivals are a regular occasion at Florida’s largest premium winery, Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards (19239 U.S. Highway 27, Clermont). Visitors can spend the day sampling wine made from locally grown muscadine grapes while browsing arts and crafts vendors and listening to local musicians. Nearby in South Lake, nature buffs can spot protected species such as the Florida scrub-jay and gopher tortoises living on the unspoiled lands of the Florida Scrub-Jay Trail (11490

Showcase of Citrus cultivates over 70 varieties of citrus FLORIDA

The Ocala Farm Market, downtown Ocala

FEEL AT HOME IN DOWNTOWN OCALA, FLA. HISTORIC, ECLECTIC & EXCITING By Misty Wells

Photos courtesy of Ocala/Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau

owntown Ocala is known for its fine dining, fine wines and fine entertainment, but you can also experience rich culture and get lost in history here—that’s what makes downtown Ocala a Florida favorite. Picture yourself sitting on the Old Town Square attending one of the many annual events or enjoying an enchanted evening at Ocala Wine Experience. Go back in time and visit the Marion Theatre, which has been an Ocala cultural icon for over

Shopping in downtown Ocala

70 years, or walk to one of the many exquisite downtown restaurants. The Ocala Farm Market, held every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. across from the historic downtown square, has over 60 vendors supplying everything from fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables to seafood. Unique handcrafted gifts and homemade baked goods, preserves and puppy treats are a few of the treasures you will find there. The First Friday Art Walk is held on the first Friday of each month from 6 to 9 p.m., September to May. The Art Walk spans over 15 blocks and is located in Ocala’s historic downtown core. Dine al fresco or indoors, enjoy performing street artists and live music, and discover vendors and boutique shops with an eclectic flair during the free Art Walk. Harry’s Seafood, Bar & Grille, located in the heart of downtown Ocala, is a favorite with locals and visitors alike. Complement authentic Louisiana favorites such as Crawfish Etouffee, Jambalaya and Blackened Red Fish with a cold beverage at their legendary happy hour. Visit The Lunch Box and you will become a regular every time you're in Ocala. A few of the most unique items on the menu include the Bacon Cheeseburger served between a grilled Tas-TO’s Donut, the Bull Rider burger and The Elvis, listed under Breakfast for Lunch. Live music is a staple in downtown Ocala, where you can enjoy a live concert at the familyfriendly outdoor venue, Citizen’s Circle. Citizen’s Circle is located one block off the historic downtown square, so grab your comfy blanket and beach chairs and kick off your shoes to enjoy the live music, rich history and bright future of downtown Ocala.

Outdoor concert in Citizen’s Circle

For more information, visit ocalamarion.com and feeldowntownocala.com. FLORIDA

A cooking chickee in the Living Village

A PLACE TO LEARN, A PLACE TO REMEMBER THE AH-TAH-THI-KI SEMINOLE INDIAN MUSEUM IS A WORLD OF LIVING HISTORY By Gabriele Walkow

n the Seminole language, Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki means a place to learn, a place to remember. And when you visit the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum in the rich swamplands of the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation, you will do just that—by entering an educational and entertaining world of living history and culture. The dramatic five-screen presentation, We Seminoles!, is a dynamic orientation film providing the historical and cultural backdrop for the five different exhibit galleries visitors can explore. Showcasing rare artifacts and more than 40 life-size figures engaged in a variety of activities including hunting, traveling and dancing guests gain an overview of Seminole life in the 1890s. Three changing exhibit galleries provide a closer look at a variety of aspects of Seminole life. Continue the museum experience outside by following the mile-long elevated boardwalk through a natural cypress dome, all wheel chair accessible, leading to a recreated Living Village. Here Seminole artisans demonstrate and create the beadwork, basketry, woodcarvings and distinctive Seminole patchwork. Learn about indigenous plants and their traditional uses by the Seminole as you read the placards along the boardwalk.

commemorate the 40th anniversary of federal recognition of the Seminole Tribe of Florida. It is a designated Smithsonian Institution Affiliate and was the first Native American museum to be accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. Open seven days a week from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. in the heart of the Everglades, the museum is located approximately 17 miles north of I-75 at exit 49—less than two hours from Fort Myers, West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale. For ticket prices, group rates and other information, visit ahtahthiki.com.

Rey Becerra, Museum Outreach Specialist, with a resident Red-Shouldered Hawk

The Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum opened its doors to the public on August 21, 1997 helping to 52

FLORIDA

The boardwalk passes through a cypress dome

Photos courtesy of Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum

“We invite everyone to come and check out our exciting new programming in our renovated outdoor amphitheater and catch a glimpse of a traditional Seminole garden in-the-making along the boardwalk,” said Carrie Dilley, Visitor Services and Development Manager at the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki.

Purchase discount tickets online at www.allegiant.com

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Paint splattering drumming

BLUE MAN GROUP A PARTY FOR THE SENSES By Sandra Chambers

hat began more than 25 years ago as an impromptu street performance by three close friends in Manhattan's Lower East Side has evolved into an awardwinning global entertainment company. Their one-of-a-kind theatrical performances reverberate with heart-pumping percussion music, dazzling backdrops and paint splattering antics.

The original Blue Man Group, comprised of Chris Wink, Matt Goldman and Phil Stanton, took the show from the streets to local clubs and then opened their first full-fledged performance at the Astor Place Theater in New York City in 1991. Over the next 25 years other resident shows were established in Las Vegas, Boston, Chicago, Berlin and Orlando. In addition to these permanent venues, the group has performed in 15 countries and has been seen by more than 35 million people worldwide since 1991.

Blue Man Group has performed at Universal Orlando Resort since 2007

PVC pipe drumming 54

FLORIDA

The show underwent a major re-imagination in 2013 with approximately 50 percent new content created. A huge LED board now displays constant jokes to get the audience laughing even before the show begins. With giant backdrops of nine-foottall smartphones, the Blue Man Group pokes fun at our obsession with personal tech devices. The finale has evolved into a gigantic dance party with lighted helium balls dropping from the ceiling. Audience participation is a key feature of the show. The popular "poncho zoneâ&#x20AC;? seating is for those fans wanting to vicariously interact with the performers by being splattered with paint or other materials from the stage. Other lucky members of the audience are invited on stage to participate in the fun. For those who don't make the cut to be on stage, photo ops with the cast are available after the show in a special Blue Man-themed lobby area. For more information, visit blueman.com.

Photo of paint splattering drumming by Lindsey Best/courtesy of Blue Man Group; Universal Orlando City Walk and PVC pipe drumming courtesy of Universal Orlando Resort & Blue Man Group

The Blue Man Group has been entertaining audiences with its immersive performances at Orlando's Universal City Walk since June 2007. The one-hour, 45-minute family-friendly show incorporates ideas from several sources including Jackson Pollock's use of paint to express emotions and the variety shows of the early 20th century vaudeville theatre genre. The drumming of everything from paint cans to PVC pipe instruments has been a core ingredient in the show from the beginning, but modern technology has also inspired the addition of some new material.

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Mocha art at Caffe D’Riverwalk!

JOYFUL JAVA SIP AND SAVOR AT THESE COZY SANFORD CAFÉS By Gabriele Walkow

raving a carefully crafted cappuccino or an exquisite espresso? How about a marvelous mocha or a lovely latte? Head to picturesque Sanford, only 15 minutes from the Orlando Sanford International Airport, and order up a cup of joyful java complemented by a perfect pastry or savory sandwich. Then sit back, relax and watch the world go by.

CAFFE D’RIVERWALK

This bright, cheerful and quiet coffee shop is located on Sanford’s popular RiverWalk (225 W

Seminole Blvd, #160). While beautiful views of the Lake Monroe landscape pass by, leisurely savor your artfully crafted coffee—served in a large pottery mug—and fresh homemade pastry on the outdoor patio. Choose from a large selection of coffees freshly brewed to order, teas, smoothies and delicious café eats including vegetarian fare. The breakfast sandwiches, burritos and eggy bagels are particularly popular and lunch includes a unique line up of sandwiches, salads and wraps. Bon appétit! facebook.com/CafeDiRiverwalk

THE CORNER CAFÉ

TASTE OF THYME CAFE

Taste of Thyme’s delectable panini sandwich 56

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Conveniently located in Magnolia Square (108 South Magnolia Avenue), head to this cute coffee shop for a wide variety of hot and cold coffee beverages including lattes, cappuccinos, espressos, iced coffee, iced lattes and blended iced coffees. Mighty Leaf teas, 100 percent fruit smoothies, hot chocolate, fresh baked pastries and cookies and a large selection of Hershey’s ice cream are also tempting! Gourmet café food such as omelets, French toast, pancakes, paninis (including a breakfast panini), sandwiches, flatbreads and fresh salads round out a delectable menu. Outdoor seating is also available. tasteofthymecafe.com

Photo of mocha art by Felix Tong; Cuban sandwich by Tim McNutt; panini courtesy of Taste of Thyme Cafe

The Corner Café’s Cuban/French Onion combo

This TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence recipient is located in the heart of Sanford’s historic downtown district (101 W 1st St). Home to delightful cappuccinos, espressos and lattes, this charming café also offers handprepared items that include delicious soups (the French Onion Soup is a must-try), panini-style sandwiches (including a killer Cuban), crisp freshly-made salads and luscious smoothies as well as a variety of beer and wine. Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening, the Corner Café becomes an elegant bistro offering a selection of three-course meals. Dine in or al fresco with a lovely view of the downtown district. thecornercafesanford.com

ADVENTURE IS EASY TO SPOT IN SANFORD.

D O

N O R T H

Sanford is your ticket to exploring the wild side of Florida, just minutes from the Orlando Sanford International Airport and the best Atlantic Coast beaches. Experience ferocious Florida fun by visiting the Central Florida Zoo and beautiful nature parks, or enjoy charming civilization in Sanfordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic downtown restaurants and shops. Visit Sanford today. DoOrlandoNorth.com

SanfordFL.gov

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Cheers at Daytona Beach Brewing Company

BEER QUEST THE DAYTONA BEACH ALE TRAIL HAS SOMETHING ON TAP FOR EVERYONE By H. Wadowski

Brewery in Ormond Beach. Its taproom serves sours brewed on-site as well as more traditional ales and lagers from its sister pub in Port Orange, Tomoka Brewing Company. Beers cost $6 with discounts available for ladies on Wednesdays. On Mondays, guests who buy a beer with a pizza get another beer free—try Tomoka’s famous beer crust pizza!

At The Half Wall Beer House in New Smyrna Beach, beer lovers will find 76 craft beers on tap and more than 100 types of bottled beer from a wide range of breweries including Cigar City and SweetWater. Selections are rotated frequently, so repeat guests always have something new to enjoy. Draft beers cost around $6 with bottled beers priced around $4.50.

Another local favorite is Daytona Beach Brewing Company, which specializes in small batch artisanal ales like the Daytona Blonde and Halifax Hefeweizen. Guests can drink their selection in the brewing facility’s 50-seat tasting room with prices ranging from $5.25 for a 16-ounce pint to $6 for a high gravity 13-ounce pour. Tours of the brewery are also available for those who want a closer look at the production process.

New Smyrna Beach Brewing Company specializes in its own frothy creations offering a variety of fresh-brewed beers like its popular Shark Attack IPA and Disappearing Island Apricot. Several seasonal brews are on tap, too, such as the can’t-miss Chocolate Peanut Butter Porter. Pints range from $5 to $6 with flights costing $7. Sour beer is the favorite style of brewers Pete Szunyogh and Jen Hawkins at Tomoka

Inside The Half Wall Beer House’s New Smyrna Beach location 58

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With nearly a dozen locations on the trail, you’ll want to plot your course to visit as many as possible. Luckily, there’s a mapping function online to help you figure out which breweries and taprooms are close by. Now all you have to do is find a designated driver to take you everywhere! For more on the Daytona Beach Ale Trail, visit daytonabeach. com/things-to-do/ale-trail.

Tomoka Brewery in Ormond Beach

Photo of Cheers at Daytona Beach Brewing Company by Merlita Fawcett ; The Half Wall Beer House by Tate McKenney; Tomoka beer by Jen Hawkins

he Daytona Beach area is home to several unique locations that always have something tasty on tap. In fact, the Daytona Beach Area Convention & Visitors Bureau recently launched the Daytona Beach Ale Trail to spotlight several taprooms and breweries throughout the county of Volusia, each one passionate about the types of beer they serve.

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HigH Hampton inn ~ An Inn To Remember

Captivating mountain ResoRt on 1400 sCeniC aCRes in tHe Blue Ridge

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Head to Asheville's Smoky Mountain Adventure Center for mild to wild activities

AWESOME ASHEVILLE ADVENTURES THE MILD TO WILD SMOKY MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE CENTER By Lynn & Cele Seldon

here’s now a one-stop shop for adventurers heading to Asheville, N.C. Conveniently located on the French Broad River, Asheville’s new Smoky Mountain Adventure Center (SMAC) is the place to head when it comes to a wide range of mild to wild activities. Part of the hip River Arts District near the Wilma Dykeman Greenway (the area’s longest adjoining bike and pedestrian trail) and found between French Broad River Park and Carrier Park, SMAC is a two-story, 6,000 square-foot outdoor adventure and fitness complex. A 42foot outdoor climbing wall and several indoor walls up to 34 feet, bouldering (un-roped climbing below a certain height) and a yoga room and workout area, await visitors. When spring has sprung, SMAC will also provide tube, raft, kayak, bike and stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rentals on the property and at remote locations. For a relaxing day by the river, SMAC is also a one-stop destination for anglers.

beer. Using the Wilma Dykeman Greenway, it’s easy to reach other cafes and eateries including tasty White Duck Taco, All Souls Pizza, Smoky Park Supper Club and more. In developing SMAC, Cowles worked hard to maintain existing trees on the property, preserve slopes and reduce storm-water run off. Located in a flood-fringe area, this uniquely designed building is even flood-proof with specially designed gates that can withstand rushing waters. Cowles also proudly notes that all of the wood used for the upstairs bar, tables and balcony were reclaimed from the property. More information is smack-dab online at smacasheville.com.

Pre- and post-activity thirst quenching options at The Hangout include smoothies, fresh-brewed locally roasted coffees and several local beers on tap, as well as hard cider, wine and root 60

NORTH CAROLINA

Climber on the indoor climbing wall

Photos by Kristen Bravar

Founder and owner Stuart Cowles, who also developed downtown’s popular climbing gym, Climbmax Climbing Center, said the new multi-use recreation facility has a wide range of offerings for all levels of participants. Along with other vendors such as Earthsports Design (a local backpack manufacturer), Kolo Bike Park (bike rentals) and Asheville Adventure Rentals (tube, SUP and boat rentals), SMAC serves as a second home to Climbmax Climbing. As with the first location, climbing instruction, with trained staff and nationally certified climbing guides, has proven to be very popular at this second climbing hotspot.

Boom Boom Wine Room's wine-on-tap tasting room

CHEERS IN MYRTLE BEACH! LIBATIONS: SOUTHERN STYLE By Sandra Chambers

casual wine tasting venue where even flip flops are welcomed, a unique wineon-tap room and a microbrewery with flights of beer and special southern appetizers all beckon to Allegiant travelers visiting Myrtle Beach, S.C.

DUPLIN WINERY

A new 15,000-square-foot-venue in North Myrtle Beach offers wine tastings, tours, live entertainment, corking and bottling demonstrations and a retail store. This threegeneration, family-owned business is the largest winery in the South and specializes in wines made from the muscadine grape. For $5 per person, guests can sample 12 wines while listening to fun and educational factsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and take home a souvenir glass. After your tasting, relax on their all weather, wrap around porch with marsh views and enjoy live music on weekends. Be sure to sample their patented Sweetzer frozen drinks that can be made in nonalcoholic versions for kids. duplinwinery.com

storage tanks inside. On the wall, a huge blackboard announces the eight brews available on tap for the day including lagers, ales, I.P.A.'s, wheat beers and seasonal specials. If you happen to visit when brewing is taking place, request a behind-the-scenes tour to learn about the brewing process. Souvenir growlers with special refill prices are available for purchase from 4-6 p.m. Enjoy tantalizing southern appetizers such as fried pickles, soft pretzels and a pint of bacon or order from their dinner menu, which includes their signature steaks and famous prime rib. Finish with their to-die-for salted caramel cheesecake. libertysteakhouseandbrewery.com

Described as "an arcade for adults", this venue is Myrtle Beach's only wine-on-tap tasting room. Offering a selection of 24 climatecontrolled wines on tap, guests can select from 16 reds and eight whites in one-, threeor five-ounce servings. Patrons purchase a wine card that is inserted into the top of the wine dispenser for each new sample. "We want wine to be fun," said owner and chef Jennifer Stradtman. "We give our guests the opportunity to sample wines in all price ranges from all over the world." Pair the wines with a variety of delightful small plate offerings such as Candied Bacon Deviled Eggs, Roasted Pepper Bruschetta or the popular Cheese & Charcuterie Board. boomboomwineroom.com

Warm and welcoming Duplin Winery

LIBERTY BREWERY & GRILL

Malted barley bags line the floor in front of floor-to-ceiling glass windows that allow patrons to view the copper brew kettles and 62

SOUTH CAROLINA

Liberty Brewery & Grill celebrates handcrafted brewing

Photo of Boom Boom Wine Room's wine-on-tap courtesy of Boom Boom Wine Room; Duplin Winery courtesy of Duplin Winery; Liberty Brewery by Sandra Chambers

BOOM BOOM WINE ROOM

Look closely into the mountains of North Carolina and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll discover a place unlike any other. Hendersonville calls out to all to seek out and explore new experiences yearround. Stroll through our downtown Main Street filled with boutiques and eateries or find a trail that will take you to new heights in DuPont State Recreational Forest. Belly up to a cold brew at Sierra Nevada Brewery or indulge in regional wine tastings, its all up to you! Be moved. Because thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what happens in Hendersonville.

1.800.828.4244 visithendersonvillenc.org

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Photos of Alamo, Enterprise and National courtesy of Enterprise Holdings

OOK NO FURTHER. ALLEGIANT IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH ALAMO, NATIONAL AND ENTERPRISE FOR CAR RENTALS AND YOU GET TO ENJOY THE SAVINGS! Planning a vacation can be stressful, especially when you have to shop around for each piece of the puzzle. Constantly looking at airfares, hotel rates and car rentals may start out as fun because they are all important parts of your trip, but after time you may tire and start to wonder if the hassle is even worth it. That is where Allegiant comes in. Allegiant not only offers the lowest fares between America’s favorite small-to-midsized cities and the most popular tourist destinations, but it also partners with travel related vendors to ensure you don’t have to go through the stressful part of your trip—the planning phase. As you noticed when booking your air travel at allegiant.com, you are soon after presented with offers for hotels exclusively found within the exciting vacation destination to which you are heading. Once you have selected your hotel, you may just be two-thirds of the way through booking your dream vacation. That was easy, now on to the car rental!

Allegiant is proud to partner with Alamo Rent A Car, National Car Rental and Enterprise Rent-ACar. Not only do you have the option to choose from three of the biggest names in the business, but Allegiant’s partnership gets you speciallynegotiated rates, upgrades and promotions found only through the company’s website. Whether you are looking for an economy car or an SUV that fits the whole family and all the luggage for some sightseeing and day trips, just point, click and reserve the vehicle of your choice at a rate you’ll love. Curious about the exclusive deals when planning your next trip or just want to see what Allegiant’s partnership has to offer you? Head to allegiant. com/car-specials to see what exciting deal is going on now! Why stress about your trip when it can all be booked in just a few minutes? Now it’s time to worry about which shorts and flip-flops will make it into the suitcase before heading to the airport!

SUNSEEKER

Wish kid Colton Darr and his family before their flight to Orlando, Florida

ALLEGIANT CELEBRATES 2015 PARTNERSHIP WITH MAKE-A-WISH® THREE YEARS, OVER 400 WISHES FLOWN AND ALMOST $500,000 DONATED

n Aug. 25, 2012, Allegiant provided travel for its first Make-A-Wish® wish kid. Since then, Allegiant has flown over 400 wish kids to their destinations, donated almost $300,000, and over $150,000 has been donated by passengers through purchases of the Wingz Kids Snack Pack. In 2015 alone, almost 200 wish kids were flown by Allegiant to their destinations including Serena, age 17, who on July 6, 2015, was Allegiant’s 300th wish kid. Serena flew to Hawaii for her wish to learn how to surf.

family. Headquartered in Phoenix, Make-AWish is one of the world’s leading children’s charities, serving children in every community in the United States and its territories. With the help of generous donors and more than 27,000 volunteers, Make-A-Wish grants a wish somewhere in the country every 37 minutes. It has granted more than 254,000 wishes since its inception in 1980; more than 14,200 wishes in 2014 alone. Visit Make-A-Wish at wish.org to learn more. To learn how you can help make travel wishes come true, visit allegiant.com/maw.

Allegiant also had the pleasure of flying wish kid Colton, age 8, from Indiana to Florida. Colton’s wish came true when he and his family traveled to Orlando to visit the Florida theme parks. However, with the help of Allegiant, Colton’s wish started before he stepped foot on the plane. When Colton and his family arrived at the South Bend International Airport in South Bend, Ind. for their departure, Allegiant and airport employees greeted them for a celebratory send-off party, making the day even more special for Colton. Allegiant also sponsored five Make-A-Wish fundraising events around the country including the annual Southern Nevada Walk for Wishes event held in Allegiant’s hometown of Las Vegas. Make-A-Wish grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. According to a 2011 U.S. study of wish impact, most health professionals surveyed believe a wish come true has positive impacts on the health of the children. Kids say wishes give them renewed strength to fight their illness, and their parents say these experiences help strengthen the entire

Wish kid Serena, 17, gets ready to learn how to surf in Hawaii

Las Vegas-based Allegiant employees at the Make-A-Wish® of Southern Nevada Walk for Wishes SUNSEEKER

Bellingham Kalispell

Pasco

Great Falls

Missoula

Eugene

Bozeman

Medford

Billings

Boise Idaho Falls Casper Stockton

Reno

Ogden

San Francisco / Oakland Monterey

Provo

Fresno

Las Vegas Santa Maria

Los Angeles Palm Springs San Diego Honolulu

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Grand Junction Montrose

Phoenix / Mesa

El Paso

Colorado

Bangor Minot

Grand Forks

Burlington

Fargo

Bismarck

Plattsburgh

Portsmouth Syracuse Rochester St. Cloud Niagara Falls Stewart Appleton Elmira Grand Rapids Scranton Sioux Falls Allentown Flint Youngstown Harrisburg Rockford Toledo Pittsburgh Cedar Rapids Akron/Canton South Bend Moline Hagerstown Des Moines Fort Wayne Clarksburg Peoria Omaha Indianapolis Columbus Bloomington Dayton Richmond Springfield Cincinnati Roanoke Huntington Kansas City Lexington Belleville Raleigh-Durham Tri-Cities Owensboro Wichita Greensboro Knoxville Springfield Concord Asheville Chattanooga Tulsa Northwest Arkansas Oklahoma City GreenvilleMemphis Spartanburg Little Rock

Rapid City

Washington, DC/Baltimore

Grand Island

o Springs

Myrtle Beach

Savannah/Hilton Head Shreveport

Austin

San Antonio

Laredo McAllen

Destin / Ft. Walton Beach

Jacksonville Orlando / Sanford

New Orleans Tampa / St. Pete Fort Myers / Punta Gorda

Palm Beach Fort Lauderdale

Ethel Cameron, Flight Attendant, Las Vegas, Nevada

ALLEGIANT TEAM MEMBER SPOTLIGHT ETHEL CAMERON

light attendants are some of the best multitaskers in the airline industry, working to ensure both passenger safety and comfort all while being one of the most visible faces of the company. While the work can be hard, one of the many rewarding aspects of the job is all the travel opportunities available. Las Vegas-based flight attendant Ethel Cameron has been working for Allegiant since 2013 and recently accomplished one of her life’s goals of visiting all 50 states. Sunseeker was able to catch up with Ethel to talk about her recent feat: Sunseeker: What inspired you to set a personal goal to visit all 50 states in the U.S.? Ethel: My passion for travel inspired me to seek adventures by visiting all 50 states. Becoming a flight attendant has been a dream of mine, and the benefits that come along with being a flight attendant have allowed me the opportunity to

experience the diverse culture across the United States. Every state had its own persona made up of the favorite local spots, the cuisine and all the sights to see. Sunseeker: How has your job allowed you to hit all 50 states? Ethel: I had the opportunity to visit all 50 states by choosing consecutive days off in a row. I also traded shifts with other flight attendants in order to extend the period of my days off. I still can’t believe that I’m able to say that I have accomplished this goal of mine! Sunseeker: Do you have a favorite state that you enjoyed the most? Ethel: Many states have so much to offer and each state is unique in its own way. The state that I enjoyed the most is Louisiana! I enjoy going to Louisiana because of the crawfish and other Cajun style foods. The ambiance is electric and the people are vivacious. Sunseeker: When you visit each state, is there any special memorabilia you collect? Ethel: Whenever I visited a state for the first time, I was always sure to collect a magnet from each one. Now I have a part of every state on my fridge! I’m always sure to take lots of photos and pick up souvenirs for my family too. Sunseeker: Between all the states you visited, do you have any special memories you would like to share? Ethel: I had many special memories in the states I visited. What I enjoyed the most while visiting all the states was traveling with my family and friends. This past June, I graduated with my Master’s in Public Health in Maryland. My family and two of my Allegiant friends, Bellinghambased Alysa Kayo and Las Vegas-based Amberlina Machado, attended my graduation. This was one of my biggest accomplishments and I’m grateful they were all able to attend this special event.

SUNSEEKER

FOR MORE DELICIOUS SNACKS AND BEVERAGES, TAKE A LOOK AT OUR FULL MENU ON PAGES 62-63 74-75

SUNSEEKER

AIRCRAFT BOEING 757 Number of Aircraft: 5 Cruising Speed: 565 mph Range: 4,000 miles Maximum Take-Off Weight: 255,000 pounds Maximum Passengers: 215 Total Length: 155 feet Wingspan: 124 feet Pilots: 2 Flight Attendants: 5

AIRBUS A319/320

MCDONNELL DOUGLAS MD-80

Number of Aircraft: 25 Cruising Speed: 511 mph Range: 3,682 miles Maximum Take-Off Weight: 162,000 pounds Maximum Passengers: 177 Total Length: 123 feet Wingspan: 111 feet Pilots: 2 Flight Attendants: 4

Number of Aircraft: 51 Cruising Speed: 540 mph Range: 3,200 miles Maximum Take-Off Weight: 160,000 pounds Maximum Passengers: 166 Total Length: 147 feet Wingspan: 107 feet Pilots: 2 Flight Attendants: 4

TRAVELER INFORMATION SAFETY FIRST Customer safety is Allegiant ®’s first concern. Please be advised that interference with the duties of crew members, including flight attendants, is a violation of federal laws. Our crews are thoroughly trained in all safety procedures. To ensure your own safety, we hope you take a moment to review the safety information card located in the seat pocket in front of you. Be aware of the following: • Location of the nearest emergency exit • Location of your emergency oxygen mask, if needed • Correct procedure for exiting the cabin in an emergency SEAT BELTS Seat belts must be fastened ANY TIME the seat belt sign is on, during taxi, takeoff and landing. Once the seat belt sign is turned off, you may walk around the cabin. Due to unexpected turbulence, it is strongly recommended that you keep your seat belt fastened any time while in your seat. Allegiant’s exit seating policy does not allow the use of seat belt extensions in the exit seats due to tripping hazards. CHILD RESTRAINT SEATS Federal Aviation Administration requires that all child restraint seats used on planes meet federal safety standards. Acceptable seats bear proper labeling “THIS RESTRAINT IS CERTIFIED FOR USE IN MOTOR

VEHICLES AND AIRCRAFT” from the manufacturer. Unlabeled seats or seats manufactured before Jan. 1, 1981, are not acceptable. Child restraint seats are to be placed into a window seat and secured with an aircraft seat belt. PHOTOS & VIDEOS ONBOARD The use of small cameras or mobile devices for photography and video is permitted onboard provided you keep the purpose of your photography and video to capturing personal events. Photographing or recording other customers or airline personnel without their express consent is prohibited. Airline personnel reserve the right to prohibit photos and videos onboard the aircraft if it becomes a disturbance to them or other passengers. ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES Allegiant is forbidden to serve alcoholic beverages to anyone who appears to be intoxicated or who has not yet reached the age of 21. It is a violation of federal regulations to drink alcoholic beverages during a flight unless they have been served by Allegiant personnel. SMOKING Smoking, the use of other tobacco products, e-cigarettes and other similar smoking devices are not permitted on any Allegiant flight. Federal law imposes fines of $1,000 for smoking and up to $2,000 for any attempt to disable an aircraft smoke detector.

PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES ALWAYS PERMITTED*

Pacemaker

Hearing Aid

Camera (digital/film/video)

Tablet

Handheld Game

E-reader

Wireless Mouse, Keyboard or Other Accessory

Smartphone

CD Player

(in Airplane Mode)

Media Player

Noise-Cancelling Headphones

*Restrictions may apply when operating outside of U.S. Airspace. NOTE: Portable electronic device use on the ground, during takeoff and during landing should be limited to small, lightweight devices less than 2 lbs. These devices should be able to be easily secured in a seat back and not impede emergency access to the aisle.

PERMITTED AT GATE & IN FLIGHT

Laptop/Tablet

DVD Player

NEVER PERMITTED

Personal Air Purifiers

Remote Control Toys

Two-Way Radios or Transmitters

Using cellular network services (voice or data) to make or receive calls during the flight is not permitted by U.S. and International regulatory authorities. If you have other questions about the use of other portable electronic devices not shown here, ask your flight attendant.

SUNSEEKER

ALWAYS EXPLORING SEE WHERE THE JOURNEY BEGAN. SEE WHERE IT LEADS.

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