On Friday night, we went to The Tampa Riverwalk. We got there around 8:30pm and weren't sure where to park since we've never been, let alone on a weekend night. We knew we were starting at Curtis Hixon Park and chose a parking garage right by it (probably paid too much, but that's ok).
The Riverwalk is a work in progress that will hopefully be 2.4 miles in length and contain benches, plants, parks, historical markers, and hotels/restaurants lining the edge. Although there's still some construction equipment, the work that's been done so far is great! Part of the walk leads over the water with canopies that have changing lights. You can see the drawbridges with matching lights and boats on the Hillsborough River.
It was not crowded at all and fairly quiet. There were walkers, joggers, couples, families, dog walkers, and cyclists. It was free (aside from parking) and felt safe. I think it's a great addition and use of the river for the city.
Filmed with DJI Phantom 3 Professional
"Riding" by Silent Partner - Youtube Audio Library
We decided to go to Ormond Beach near Daytona. It's been forever since we've been to any beach and have never been to the Atlantic side. So we woke up at 4AM, got gas, coffee and bagels, and drove the nearly two hours in the dark (no traffic though!).
We waited for the sun at Andy Romano Beachfront Park. It's in a great location with direct beach access, restrooms, outdoor showers, and seating. Plus, the people we spoke to here were all friendly.
The whole street is lined with smaller hotels so it didn't feel too crowded or overbearing either.
August 16, 2015
Ormond Beach, Florida
After we left the beach, we headed to Rockefeller Gardens Park. It's a beautifully landscaped riverfront park/trail located in The Casements. Rockefeller purchased The Casements in 1918 as a winter house and now it's open to visitors Monday-Saturday. The park also hosts "Movies on the Halifax" and a farmers' markets, among other events. To read about the history here, see tour times, or check upcoming events, visit The Casements website. We walked part of the trail that leads under the bridge to Fortunato Park on the other side. The picture below shows the view facing The Casements on the right and Fortunato Park on the left.
Although there are now newer houses and boat slips surrounding here, there was still an old charm that I liked. It would be interesting to go back and take the tour of the home.
Bridge over Halifax River leading to Ormond Beach
We drove part of the way back on the Scenic Loop Trail. It's a 30 mile double loop that passes three state parks, two rivers, beachfront, as well as city parks.
Coming from The Casements, we pulled off into Seabridge Park on John Anderson Drive. It's a short trail with a boardwalk over the Halifax where you can fish.
That's where we saw:
This guy and this other larger (and grumpier) guy. And tons of their friends. The crabs would run back into their holes on the side of the trail as we walked by.
This road curves through some canopy trees with a lot of cyclists and fishermen on the sides, so be careful driving it. It was a good reason to drive slowly and take in the view anyway.
Next we stopped at the North Peninsula State Park entrance on High Bridge Road, leading inland. The park is free and we started to walk into it, but the mosquitoes were quite bad along the river trail. We hadn't planned on hiking today so we didn't prepare for it. The website says there's two miles of untouched beach at the end of the trail. So next time, we'll bring bug spray and watch out for the gators! (Or drive to the main entrance off of Ocean Shore).
Knox Memorial Bridge
There's a drawbridge here, but we didn't get to see it raise. Across the road is a bait and tackle store and there were several small fishing boats in the water.
Our last stop was supposed to be Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park. However, when we arrived at the gate, we didn't have the $4 entrance fee in cash (honor system). We talked to the ranger and she informed us they only take cash or check. So, that concluded our day and we came home!
Based on our morning trip, Ormond Beach seems like a laid-back beach town. I liked that is was low key, had some charm, nice walking areas, and the people seemed friendly. It turned out to be a very pleasant Sunday morning.
Filmed with DJI Phantom 3 Professional "Octagon" by Silent Partner - Youtube Audio Library
Lake Eola Park is a nice break among the buildings of downtown Orlando. There are several art pieces around the lake, benches, an amphitheater, and foliage.
August 8, 2015
Orlando, Florida
It was a clear Saturday morning with joggers, dog walkers, and those just watching the fountain. It was still quiet though.
There's roadside parking with meters ($0.25/15 minutes), but pretty much all were open that morning. I would imagine nighttime is a whole different story.
The fountain has a nightly show of music/light coordination. There are also paddle boats available for rent, park rentals, the Eola House, a Sunday market, and other events. Visit the City of Orlando for information on prices, times, etc.
*I couldn't help but notice the homeless population there. It's summer in Florida and close to 100 degrees daily and many storms lately. If you'd like information or to help (or need help yourself), check out the Shelter Directory.*
Filmed with DJI Phantom 3 Professional "Pedro Versus the World" by Jingle Punks - Youtube Audio Library
It was dark out Sunday morning, but we decided to head out to Colt Creek anyway. It was quite a drive on a remote road through the Green Swamp (partially because we weren't sure where exactly we were going). When we got there, the ranger wasn't in the station and the entrance fee was paid by envelope. We dug out various change, but managed to make it (sorry for the coins!). There was a phone to call the ranger, but we didn't want to hassle him/her to use a card.
August 2, 2015
Lakeland, Florida
The pavilion area around Mac Lake has a pier for fishing, restrooms (which were clean!), and kayaks available.
We walked the short trail by the lake. With all the rain, it was very swampy. There were signs along the way describing plants, animal tracks, etc. Bring bug spray for this one!
We went to the equestrian trailhead after (off to the right when you first enter the park). There's a small lake, pavilion, and picnic tables. I wouldn't recommend choosing the table in the right picture- there was definitely an alligator somewhere around there.
Parking is by the rocks and the trail begins straight past the lake from there. It leads to another lakeview. This is where we stopped. There was marsh all around that area (and a gator we could hear, but not see).
On the way out, we saw two deer.
Overall, the park is mostly made up of trails and camping, which we couldn't/wouldn't do because of the weather. I think on a clear day it would be a good hike. There were several people fishing so it must be a good spot for that also.
Filmed with DJI Phantom 3 Pro
"Ever Felt pt. 2" by Otis McDonald - Youtube Audio Library
