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Gulf of
Mexico & Gulf Coast Attractions
Beaches
ALABAMA
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge Beach Perdue Property -- Fort Morgan,
AL
Entrance to this beach is located on Highway 180, nine miles west of Highway 59. The Refuge office is located at this site and is staffed daily except weekends and holidays.
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge Beach -- Fort Morgan, AL
Located 20 miles west of Highway 59 on Highway 180. Consists primarily of gulf beaches and sand dunes. The beach area is located inside a 300-acre tract of Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. It is considered a natural habitat for the Alabama Beach mouse. Access to the beach is by foot from a small paved parking lot.
Cotton Bayou Public Beach -- Orange Beach, AL
This small beach area is located on Highway 182 at the intersection of Highway 161. Paved parking is available.
Gulf Shores 5th Street Public Access -- Gulf Shores, AL
Located on Highway 182 five blocks west of Highway 59, this area offers parking and walking access via a 200-foot boardwalk to the beach. An outdoor shower and benches are available at this site.
Gulf Shores 6th Street Public Access -- Gulf Shores, AL
Located on Highway 182 six blocks west of Highway 59, this site features parking and foot access to the beach along a 100-foot boardwalk. An outdoor shower and benches are available.
Gulf Shores 13th Street Public Access -- Gulf Shores, AL
This site has an outdoor shower, restroom, benches, and a boardwalk to the beach. Parking is across the street.
Gulf Shores Public Beach -- Gulf Shores, AL
Located at the intersection of Highway 59 and Highway 182 in Gulf Shores, this site includes over 1,700 feet of Gulf beachfront and boardwalk. Beach attendants, dressing and shower facilities, three open-air pavilions, a picnic area and paved parking are available at the site. A small fee is charged during the summer season.
Gulf State Park Beach Pavilion -- Gulf Shores, AL
This site is located on Highway 182, six miles east of Highway 59, and contains over 10,000 feet of gulf beach. The large pavilion and beach area offers picnic tables, showers, and a refreshment center. Lifeguards are on duty May through Labor Day. A small parking fee is charged.
Gulf State Park Picnic Area -- Gulf Shores, AL
Located just off Highway 182, this 25-acre park features over 100 picnic tables, mature trees, swimming, water skiing, boating, boat rental, playgrounds, snack bar and bathhouse. Fishing license are sold at this site. A small admission fee is charged.
Gulf State Park Romar Beach -- Gulf Shores, AL
Located on Highway 182, five miles east of Highway 59, this four-acre site offers paved parking and sandy white beaches.
Lagoon Park Gulf Shores -- Gulf Shores, AL
Located at Lee Callaway Bridge on Highway 182, two miles west of Highway 59. Lagoon Pass is a shallow passageway connecting Little Lagoon and the Gulf of Mexico. A handicap accessible restroom, water fountain and outdoor shower are located at the site. Parking is available on the north side of the bridge.
Perdido Point Public Beach -- Orange Beach, AL
This large public beach area
is located on Highway 182, .3 miles east of Perdido Pass Bridge. The area
offers more than 6,000 feet of white sandy beaches, large sand dunes,
paved parking, and a 225-foot boardwalk.
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FLORIDA
Destin-Ft. Walton Beach-Okaloosa Island -- FL
Summer
on the Emerald Coast is a special time, and guests of all ages are sure to enjoy
their time here. Perhaps that's why Southern Living readers have voted this area
the "#1 Family Destination and the Best Beach in the South" three years
running.
Directions: Take I-85 South to 98 East.
Features: Covered Pavilion,
Restrooms, Boat Ramp, Gear Rentals, Grills and Picnic Tables.
Henderson Beach State Recreation Area -- FL
Recreational
activities at Henderson Beach State Recreation Area offer something for the entire
family. Swimming, surf fishing and picnicking are popular pastimes. Visitors wishing
to try their luck in the surf may catch popular species such as pompano and whiting.
Directions:
98 East to 17000 Emerald Coast Parkway, Destin.
Features: Lifeguards, Picnicking,
Surf Fishing, Sandwich Pavilion, Bathhouses with showers.
Navarre Beach -- FL
Nestled between
tall shady oaks and the Santa Rosa Sound, Navarre Beach is your family's perfect
beach destination! Snow white sands and emerald green surf define the setting
and accentuate all local amenities. Play by day at over one-mile waterfront boardwalks,
the Panhandle Butterfly House or children's playground.
Directions: From I-10
take Exit 4 to Highway 98 East or Exit 10 to Route 87 South to Navarre Beach.
Features:
Covered Pavilion, Concessions, Restrooms, Showers, Lifeguards, Volleyball, Boat
Ramp, Gear Rentals, Grills and Picnic Tables.
MISSISSIPPI
Beaches along Mississippi's Gulf Coast
A full 26-miles of beaches
are viewable from Beach Boulevard (U.S. Highway 90), conveniently accessed
by easy turn-offs. These provide beach access, including a place to take
photos for your souvenir books. Several long piers jut out into the water
and are perfect for taking long walks and getting a bird's-eye view of
the ocean. For the more adventurous members of your crew, take advantage
of vendors along the beach who rent jet skis, sailboats and aqua-cycles.
Beach chairs are available free of charge. For your convenience, public
restrooms are provided along the beach.
click here
for Travel Directory
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Resource
Directory
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Fishing Charters the Gulf of Mexico
• Biloxi
• Dauphin Island
• Destin
• Fort Walton Beach
• Gulfport
• Mobile
• Panama City
• Pensacola
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FISHING
CHARTERS |
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Florida
Deep Sea Fishing Charters
Deep-sea fishing for red snapper, kingfish, ling, wahoo, dorado, shark, amberjack, barracuda, bonito and more! click here 
Gulf Coast Fishing Charter.com Enjoy the fishing trip of a lifetime in the Gulf of Mexico.! click here Gulf Coast Fishing.org click here 
Florida Tarpon Fishing Guides.com click here  Gulf of Mexico Deep Sea Fishing.com click here Gulf of Mexico Cruises.com click here  Sport Fishing Guides.com click here Florida Vacation Rentals click here  Florida Gulf Coast Hotels.com click here Florida Tarpon Fishing Guide.com click here 
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Boat
Excursion & Sightseeing Trips in the Gulf of Mexico
•
Biloxi
• Dauphin Island
• Destin
• Fort Walton Beach
• Gulfport
• Mobile
• Panama City
• Pensacola
Marinas
•
Biloxi
• Dauphin Island
• Destin
• Fort Walton Beach
• Gulfport
• Mobile
• Panama City
• Pensacola
click here for Travel Directory
Gulf of Mexico Attractions
ALABAMA
Alabama
Gulf Coast Zoo
Location: 1204
Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Phone: (251) 968-5731
Email:
pattihall@alabamagulfcoastzoo.com
Web site: www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.com
Explore
the natural habitats of more than 250 animals. Elevated viewing decks offer close-up
viewing of everything from alligators to giraffes, plus Reptile House, Aviary,
Petting Zoo, Gift Shop, Concessions, shaded picnic area. (Source: Alabama Gulf
Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau)
Biophilia Nature Center, Native Nursery & Bookstore
Location:
12695 County Road 95, Elberta, AL 36530
Phone: (251) 987-1200
Email: biophilia@gulftel.com
Web
site: www.biophilia.net
Come see carnivorous plants, wildflowers, plant and
butterfly nurseries, turtles, forests, and nature library/bookstore with the resident
biologist of this private 20-acre ecological restoration project. (Source: Alabama
Gulf Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau)
Bon Secour Nat'l Wildlife Refuge
Location:
12295 State Hwy. 180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Phone: (251) 540-7720
Web site:
bonsecour.fws.gov
Refuge has 4-5 miles of hiking trails and beach access. Open
from sunrise to sunset. Office hours: 7:30am-4:00pm Monday-Friday. (Source: Alabama
Gulf Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau)
Claude Peteet Mariculture Center/Marine Resources Division
Location:
Post Office Drawer 458, 21055 Mildred Casey Drive, Gulf Shores, AL 36547
Phone:
(251) 968-7576
Email: amrdgs@gulftel.com
Web site: www.dcnr.state.al.us/mr
BY
APPOINTMENT ONLY. The center conducts studies that enhance our understanding of
the life history of red snapper and clutchless oysters. (Source: Alabama Gulf
Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau)
The Estuarium at The Dauphin Island Sea Lab
Location:
101 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island, AL 36528
Phone: (251) 861-7500
Web
site: estuarium.disl.org
More: Open daily. Admission charged and group rates
available. Handicapped accessible. Visual displays and interactive exhibits highlight
Mobile's estuary system. All ages welcome! (Source: Alabama Gulf Coast Convention
& Visitors Bureau)
Fort Gaines Historic Site
Location:
51 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island, AL 36528
Phone: (251) 861-6992
Email:
fortgaines@dauphinisland.org
Web site: www.dauphinisland.org
Where history
spans three centuries. Open seven days a week, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Adult,
$5.00, Children 5-12 $2.50. (Source: Alabama Gulf Coast Convention & Visitors
Bureau)
Fort Morgan
Location:
51 State Highway 180 West, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Phone: (251) 540-7125
Email:
bricfort@gulftel.com
"Damn the torpedoes. Full speed ahead!" You
can almost hear the command of Admiral David Farragut as he led his troops into
the battle of Mobile Bay. Today Fort Morgan is a testament to the evolution of
American coast defense fortifications from 1834 to World War II. It's a history
lesson waiting to be explored. (Source: Alabama Gulf Coast Convention & Visitors
Bureau)
Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center
Location:
Post Office Box 1968, 65 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36602
Phone: (251) 208-6883,
toll free: (877) 625-4FUN
Email: slipscomb@exploreum.net
Web site: www.exploreum.net
Hands-on,
interactive science adventure for all ages! With permanent exhibits, traveling
exhibits from major science centers and the IMAX Dome experience, it's a playground
for the mind! (Source: Alabama Gulf Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau)
Gulf Shores Museum
Location:
Post Office Box 299, 244 West 19th Avenue, Gulf Shores, AL 36547
Phone: (251)
967-4733
Email: museum@ci.gulf-shores.al.us
Journey into the eye of a hurricane:
"fly" with the Hurricane Hunters in an exciting video. Visit Fishing
the Lagoon: A Way of Life. See gear used to fish and shrimp on the Gulf Coast
and in Little Lagoon. Select a weather video from our collection to view. Special
exhibits, films and other events offered throughout the year. Free admission.
(Source: Alabama Gulf Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau)
Historic Blakeley State Park
Location:
Post Office Box 7279, 33707 State Hwy. 225, Spanish Fort, AL 36577-7279
Phone:
(251) 626-0798
\ Email: blakeleypark@aol.com
Web site: www.blakeleypark.org
Visit
the site of the last major battle of the Civil War. Enjoy 10 1/2 miles of hiking
and bike trails, camping and a serene boardwalk next to the Tensaw River. (Source:
Alabama Gulf Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau)
Meaher State Park
Location: Post
Office Box 7826, 5200 Battleship Parkway US 98, Spanish Fort, AL 36577
Phone:
(251) 626-5529
Situated in the wetlands of Mobile Bay, this 1,327-acre park
features two self-guided nature trails that highlight the flora & fauna of
this unique area. (Source: Alabama Gulf Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau)
Minamac Wildflower Bog & Country Gardens
Location:
13199 Mac Cartee Lane, Silverhill, AL 36576
Phone: (251) 945-6157
Email:
silverfox@gulftel.com
Web site: www.auburn.edu/awac/places/minimac.htm
More:
From early April through September, more than 300 varieties of native Southern
wildflowers bloom in this five-acre preserve. (Source: Alabama Gulf Coast Convention
& Visitors Bureau)
Orange Beach Indian & Sea Museum
Location:
25850 John Snook Avenue, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Phone: (251) 981-8545
The
museum, located in the original Orange Beach schoolhouse, was established to preserve
local history, Native American culture, and regional fishing and marine history.
The story of Orange Beach is told through photos, memorabilia and artifacts. Free
admission. (Source: Alabama Gulf Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau)
USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park
Location:
Post Office Box 65, 2703 Battleship Parkway, Mobile, AL 36601-0065
Phone: (251)
433-2703 or toll free: (800) GANGWAY
Web site: www.ussalabama.com
Email:
ussalbb60@aol.com
Features the Battleship U.S.S. ALABAMA, the Submarine U.S.S.
DRUM, military aircraft and equipment, an audiovisual theater, concessions and
a gift shop. (Source: Alabama Gulf Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau)
Weeks Bay Nat'l Estuarine Research Reserve
Location: 11300 Hwy 98, Fairhope,
AL 36532
Phone: (251) 928-9792
Estuarine research and education center. Protects 6,000 acres of coastal
habitats and wetlands, including an estuary. Interpretive Center houses
indoor exhibits and a live animal room. (Source: Alabama Gulf Coast Convention
& Visitors Bureau)
click here
for Travel Directory
FLORIDA
Big Lagoon State Park
Directions:
From Destin, cross the bridge to Okaloosa Island on U.S. Highway 90. Parking is
on the south side of the road.
Phone: (850) 882-4164
Hours: Florida state
parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.
Web site: www.floridastateparks.org/biglagoon/default.asp
Big
Lagoon State Park derives its name from a bordering body of water called Big Lagoon.
This coastal park which consists of 712 upland acres, was opened in 1978 and beckons
visitors with all the recreational opportunities expected at a Florida state park.
The Civil War Soldiers Museum
Location:
108 South Palafox Place, Pensacola, FL 32501
Phone: 850-469-1900
Hours:
Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. till 4:30 p.m.
Web site: www.cwmuseum.org/main.asp
The
Civil War Soldiers Museum was founded in 1991, and exhibits the private collection
of Dr. Norman W. Haines, Jr., a local physician, who began collecting as a boy
near the Antietam Battlefield. Experience what it was like to serve during the
Civil War. The Museum's diverse collection offers wonderful insights into our
nation's rich history. The Pensacola Room highlights the contributions of Stephen
R. Mallory, the renowned Confederate Secretary of Navy, and the handmade First
National Confederate flag captured by Wilson's New York Zouaves during the Battle
of Santa Rosa Island, October 9, 1861.
Eglin Air Force Base: Destin Bridge
Directions:
From Destin, cross the bridge to Okaloosa Island on U.S. Highway 90. Parking is
on the south side of the road.
Phone: (850) 882-4164
Web site: www.floridaconservation.org/viewing/sites/site-nw4.html
Eglin
Air Force Base features hundreds of thousand of acres of relatively undisturbed
wildlife habitat. The Destin Bridge site features beaches and sandy flats along
a busy inlet between Okaloosa Island and the town of Destin. Birds are the main
attraction and include terns, gulls, black skimmers, brown pelicans, several species
of shorebirds, great blue and little blue herons, snowy egrets, reddish egrets
(in the fall), and occasionally black-necked stilts. Loons, northern gannets,
and various sea ducks paddle offshore and are clearly visible with a good spotting
scope. From May through August, threatened least terns and snowy plovers nest
in the sand.
Gulf Islands National Seashore
Directions:
From Pensacola Beach, travel west to Fort Pickens park entrance. Naval Live Oaks
is just east of Gulf Breeze on U.S. Highway 98.
Phone: (850) 934-2600
Web
site: www.floridaconservation.org/viewing/sites/site-nw1.html
The Fort Pickens
and Naval Live Oaks areas are the two best sites to view wildlife in Florida's
portion of this national seashore. The Fort Pickens area is located on the western
end of Santa Rosa Island amidst the ruins of Fort Pickens. The Naval Live Oaks
area is located near the town of Gulf Breeze on the mainland. Both sites offer
interpretive centers, trails, ranger-led walks, and excellent birding during spring
migration. Fort Pickens includes beach, dune, salt marsh, and scrub upland habitats,
while Naval Live Oaks is covered mostly by hammocks of live oak, magnolia, hickory,
and red cedar. An observation platform at the west end of the trail from the interpretive
center at Naval Live Oaks provides a scenic view of Santa Rosa Sound.
Hawkshaw Lagoon
Phone: (850) 438-1178
Email:
info@hawkshawmemorial.org
Web site: floridastateparks.org/standrews/default.asp
Features
the only national memorial to missing children in the country and serves as an
open classroom for students to study the lagoon's ecosystem, providing an excellent
vantage point for birdwatching.
The Junior Museum
Location:
1731 Jenks Avenue, Panama City, Florida 32405
Phone: (850) 769-6128
Email:
jrmuseum@knology.net
Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:00 am - 4:30 pm; Saturday, 10:00
am - 4:00 pm; Sunday and Major Holidays, closed
Web site: www.jrmuseum.org
The
Junior Museum is a hands-on children’s museum designed to inspire and educate
children through interactive exhibits and programs focusing on science, history,
cultural studies, and the environment. Inside the 8,500-square foot building we
have dozens of fun activities for young and old alike. Pretend to drive a real
boat and catch fish in the Gulf of Mexico in the Imagine Me exhibit. Go on a wildlife
safari in the Nature Corner. Launch a hot air balloon or freeze your shadow in
the Hands-On Science room. Watch Mr. Bones, our life-size skeleton, ride a bike
and learn about healthy living in Body Works. Little visitors love Discovery Depot
with lots of “just my size” activities.
National Museum of Naval Aviation
Location:
1750 Bradford Blvd Ste B, NAS Pensacola, FL 32508
Phone: (850) 452-3604 or
toll free: (800) 327-5002
Web site: www.naval-air.org
Naval Aviation transcends
both time and space, from wood and fabric biplanes, to the frontiers of space.
The Museum captures Naval Aviation's heritage and brings its story of challenge,
ingenuity, and courage to you! (Source: Alabama Gulf Coast Convention & Visitors
Bureau)
St. Andrews State Park
Location: 4620 State
Park Lane, Panama City Beach FL 32408
Phone: 850-233-5110
Hours: Florida
state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.
Web site: floridastateparks.org/standrews/default.asp
St.
Andrews State Park is one of the most popular outdoor recreation spots in Florida.
Named by Travel Magazine as "The World's Best Beach," in 1995, St. Andrews
is well known for its sugar white sands and crystal-clear emerald green water.
The ZOO
Location: 5701 Gulf Breeze
Parkway, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563
Phone: (850) 932-2229
Hours:Open daily, weather permitting, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving,
Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year's Eve
Email: information@the-zoo.com
Web site: www.the-zoo.com
A wildlife experience awaits you at The ZOO, with over 700 animals surrounded
by botanical gardens. Spend the day - get a close look at bears, tigers,
rhinos and zebras. Photograph the colorful birds. Watch playful primates.
See sleek otters slip through water. Take a ride on a camel - or on the
Safari Line Limited - a train ride through over 30 acres of free-roaming
wildlife (each $3, plus tax)! There's plenty to see and do at The ZOO!
click here
for Travel Directory
MISSISSIPPI
Beauvoir, Jefferson Davis Home & Presidential Library
Location:
2244 Beach Blvd, Biloxi MS 39531
Phone: 228-388-9074 or toll free 800-570-3818
Hours:
Open daily Mar-Oct, 9:00am to 5:00pm; Nov-Feb, 9:00am.
Web site: www.beauvoir.org/
Retirement
home of Confederate President Jefferson Davis. Includes Beauvoir House, Presidential
Library, Confederate Museum, historic cemetery, Tomb of the Unknown Confederate
Soldier and gift shop.
Biloxi Mardi Gras Museum
Location:
119 Rue Magnolia, Biloxi MS 39530
Phone: 228-435-6245 or toll free 800-245-6943
E-mail:
smunter@biloxi.ms.us
Hours: Open Mon-Sat 11:00am to 4:00pm.
Web site: biloxi.ms.us/museums/mardigras/
Located
in the historic Magnolia Hotel, Biloxi's Mardi Gras Museum traces the three hundred
year history of the celebration of Mardi Gras on the Gulf Coast. On display are
costumes, photographs and memorabilia of carnival celebrations along the coast.
CEC and Seabee Memorial Museum
Location:
5200 CBC 2nd St., Bldg. 59, Marvin Shields Blvd., Gulfport MS 39501
Phone:
228-871-3164
Hours: Open for visitors Mon-Sat 9:00am to 5:00pm, closed Sun.
The
Museum depicts the history of the U.S. Navy's Civil Civil Engineer Corps and the
Seabees from their beginnings, WWII, and the present. No admission charged. Open
only to active duty and retired military. Open for tours to the general public
by special appointment only.
Crosby Arboretum
Directions: MS
State University Extension Service, 370 Ridge Rd., Picayune MS 39466
Phone:
601-799-2311
Hours: Open 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Wed-Sun
Email: crosbyar@datastar.net
Web
site: msstate.edu/dept/crec/camain.html
104-acre native plant conservatory
with walking trails, pond, award winning pavilion by noted architect Fay Jones,
and pitcher plant bog exhibits. Adults $4, children $2.
The Lynn Meadows Discovery Center
Location:
246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport MS 39507
Phone: 228-897-6039
Email: lmdc@lmdc.org
Hours:
Tue-Sat 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Sun 12:00 noon to 5:00 pm. Groups welcome. Admission
charged.
Web site: www.lmdc.org/
Selected as one of the USA's top 50 children's
museums. Children communicate with robots, snoop through a cluttered attic, shop
in a local market, produce a news show, operate a crane, and explore the treehouses.
Special event rentals available.
MS Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge
Location:
7200 Crane Ln., Gautier MS 39553
Phone: 228-497-6322
Email: r4rw_ms.mis@fws.gov
Hours:
Mon-Fri 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Email: schooner@maritimemuseum.org
Web site:
www.maritimemuseum.org/
Home of the endangered Mississippi Sandhill Crane and
its rare and unique wet pine savanna habitat. Located a half-mile north of I-10,
Exit 61, Gautier.
Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum
Location:
P O Box 1907, 115 First St., Biloxi MS 39533
Phone: 228-435-6320
Hours:
Open year-round Mon-Sat 9:00am to 4:30pm; open Sun 12:00 to 4:00pm Memorial Day
to Labor Day.
Email: schooner@maritimemuseum.org
Web site: www.maritimemuseum.org/
Tour
an extraordinary collection of priceless photographs and artifacts that tell a
story from the time of the first Indian residents to the growth as a world-renowned
seafood processing center. With a $2 million expansion/renovation we have over
10,000 sq ft of exhibit area, state of the art amphitheatre, hurricane museum
within a museum and a research library and gift shop. Admission charged, groups
rates available with reservations. Handicapped accessible.
Moran's Art Studio
Location: 110
Porter Ave, Biloxi MS 39530
Phone: 228-435-9615
Hours: Open Mon-Fri 10:00am
to 5:00pm; Sat 10:00am to 1:00pm; closed on Sun.
Email: moranart@aol.com
Web
site: www.fortunecity.com/victorian/hornton/260/
Original works of Joe Moran,
pottery of George E. Ohr, artist originals of Mary Moran and Tommy Moran. Gifts,
prints, and coastal scenes. Home of ancient burial. No admission charged.
The Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art
Location:
136 G. E. Ohr St., Biloxi MS 39530
Phone: 228-374-5547
Hours: Mon-Sat 9:00am
to 6:00pm.
Email: bross@georgeohr.org
Web site: www.georgeohr.org/
George
E. Ohr, "Mad Potter of Biloxi," noted throughout the art world for his
unique pottery that boasts paper-thin walls and brilliant glazes. Visit "Pleasant
Reed House" restored turn of the century house built by a former slave. Group
rates available. Admission charged.
Scranton Museum
Location: P O Drawer
908, Pascagoula MS 39568
Phone: 228-938-6612
Hours: Tue-Fri 10:00am to 3:00pm.
Closed
until further notice. Enter the world of coastal Mississippi "Where land
meets the sea." Explore the secrets of the sea on a 70' floating shrimp boat.
Enter the galley, go up to the wheelhouse, investigate the rooms below. Art exhibits,
wetlands diorama, three 180 gallon aquariums and more.
13th Street Gallery
Location:
2608 13th St., Gulfport, MS 39501
Phone: 228-822-0040
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 11
am - 4 pm or by appointment
Email: lmdc@lmdc.org
Web site: www.geocities.com/thirteenthstgallery/
The
13th Street Gallery in Gulfport is owned and operated by four painters, two potters,
and one sculptor from the Gulf Coast. They offer rotating exhibits of different
Gulf Coast artists and a featured artist once a month. One artist does painting
demonstrations daily in the gallery and teaches art lessons.
Walter Anderson Museum of Art (WAMA)
Location:
510 Washington Ave., Ocean Springs MS 39564
Phone: 228-872-3164
Email: WAMA@WalterAndersonMuseum.org
Hours:
Open May-Sep Mon-Sat 9:30 am to 5:00 pm, Sun 12:30 to 5:00 pm, Oct-Apr Mon-Sat
9:30 am to 4:30 pm, Sun 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm. Closed major holidays.
Web site:
www.walterandersonmuseum.org/
WAMA features the art of Mississippi artist,
writer and naturalist Walter Anderson and his brothers Peter & Mac and exhibitions
of other significant artists. Admission charged, group rates available.
click
here for Travel Directory
Gulf of Mexico Public Golf
Courses
• Biloxi
• Dauphin Island
• Destin
• Fort Walton Beach
• Gulfport
• Mobile
• Panama City
• Pensacola
Gulf
of Mexico Golf Driving & Practice Ranges
• Biloxi
• Dauphin Island
• Destin
• Fort Walton Beach
• Gulfport
• Mobile
• Panama City
• Pensacola
Gulf of Mexico Historical Landmarks & Attractions
ALABAMA
Battleship
Memorial Park
Dates open:
Daily except Christmas
Location: 2703 Battleship Parkway, Mobile, AL
Hours:
8:00am (daily except Christmas) until 4:00pm October-March, 6:00pm April-September
Price:
Qualified public or private school groups of ten or more will receive a $ 3.00
per person rate to visit the Park. Special meal packages are also available. Advance
reservations and arrangements must be made.
Phone: 251-433-2703
Web site:
http://www.ussalabama.com/
Mobile Bay’s Battleship Memorial Park has been
home to the USS Alabama since 1965, hosting visitors who learn of its medal-winning
service in WWII. The park is also home to the submarine USS Drum. The nearby museum
showcases a selection of military aircraft and a realistic flight simulator. (Source:
USS Alabama web site)
Bellingrath Gardens and Home
Dates
open: New Year's Day through Thanksgiving. (Note: Beginning the day after Thanksgiving
through December 31st, the Gardens will remain open and tickets will be available
until 9 p.m. for Magic Christmas in Lights. The last Home tour will begin at 8:00
p.m. each night).
Hours: Open daily at 8:00 a.m. Tickets are available until
5:00 p.m. daily. Bellingrath Home tours begin at 9:00 AM daily.
Location: 12401
Bellingrath Road, Theodore, AL
Price: Value Package: Gardens tour - 65 acres;
guided tour of the museum home; Southern Belle 45-minute river cruise — Adults:
$25.00, Children: (Ages 5 - 11) $15.75
Phone: 251-973-2217
Web site: http://www.bellingrath.org/
Year-round
flora bespeckles the 65-acre gardens created by Walter Bellingrath for his wife,
Bessie. Bellingrath Home has been featured on A&E’s America’s Castles
series, and the surrounding gardens offer a serenity and beauty unparalleled.
Climb aboard the Southern Belle River Cruiser for a relaxing sight-seeing venture.
(Source: Bellingrath web site)
Fort Gaines
Dates open: Open
9-5 (9-6 during Daylight Savings Time). Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Hours:
Open 9-5 (9-6 during Daylight Savings Time). Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Location:
51 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island, AL
Price: $3 adults, $1 children 5-12,
free to younger children
Phone: 251-861-6992
Web site: http://www.dauphinisland.org/fort.htm
Dauphin
Island and Mobile Bay were mapped as early as 1519 by Alonzo Pineda. In 1699,
the French explorer, Pierre Le Moyne de'Iberville named it "Massacre"
because of a large pile of human skeletons he discovered. Despite the burial ground,
Iberville decided to locate a colony here because of the abundant timber, reliable
supply of fresh water, and a great harbor. "Massacre Island" soon became
the headquarters for French colonization along the Gulf Coast. The thriving settlement
consisted of a fort, a chapel, government owned warehouses, and many private homes.
But the name "Massacre" seemed to ominous. In 1707, the French renamed
the island in honor of the heir to the French throne: "Dauphin."
Fort
Morgan
Dates open: Grounds
and fort open 8-7 June through September; 8-5 October through February and 8-6
March through May. The museum is open weekdays 8-5, and Saturday and Sunday 9-5.
Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
Thursdays 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays
Location: 22 miles west of
Gulf Shores, AL on State Highway 180 West
Price: $3 adults, $1 children 6-12,
free to younger children
Phone: 251-540-7125
Living history program is conducted
daily during the summer. Candlelight fort tours are Tuesday evenings in the summer.
Civil War reenactments are staged every five years during the first weekend in
August.
Gulf Shores Museum
Dates
open: Open Tuesday - Friday 11-4:30 p.m. and 10-2 on Saturdays
Location: 244
West 19th Avenue, Gulf Shores, AL
Price: Free
Phone: 251-967-4733
Web
site: http://www.ci.gulf-shores.al.us/Museum/introduction.htm
This former church
and school is now the home for numerous historic seagoing and Indian artifacts.
Take pleasure as you learn from the visual portrait it paints of our coastal heritage.
Mobile Bay Ferry
Schedule:
Ferry typically departs every 90 minutes, but schedules vary. It’s best to
call first. Dauphin Island’s first run is at 8:00 a.m. and runs until 6:30
p.m.; The ferry from Ft. Morgan runs 8:45 a.m. to 7:15 p.m.
Price: walk-on,
one-way: $2 per person; walk-on round-trip: $3 per person; car, one-way: $15;
car, round-trip: $23; motor home, one-way: $25
Phone: 251-540-7787
FLORIDA
Civil War Soldiers Museum
Dates
open: Tuesday through Saturday
Hours: 10:00am till 4:30pm
Location: 108
South Palafox Place, Pensacola, FL
Price: $5.00 adults, $4.00 military, $2.50
children 6-12; under 6 free
Phone: 850-469-1900
Web site: http://www.cwmuseum.org/
The
Civil War Soldiers Museum was founded in 1991, and exhibits the private collection
of Dr. Norman W. Haines, Jr., a local physician, who began collecting as a boy
near the Antietam Battlefield. Experience what it was like to serve during the
Civil War. The Museum's diverse collection offers wonderful insights into our
nation's rich history. (Source: Civil War Museum web site)
Historic Pensacola Village
Dates
open: Monday through Friday, closed all state holidays
Location: P. O. Box
12866, Pensacola, FL
Hours: 10:00 am until 4:00 pm
Price: $6.00 for adults,
$2.50 for children 4-16, (children 3 and under free), $5.00 for Seniors &
Active Military
Phone: 850-595-5985 x.100
Web site: http://www.historicpensacola.org/
The
Village consists of twenty properties in the Pensacola National Register Historic
District. Ten of these properties are interpreted facilities that are open to
the public
Gulf
of Mexico Amusements:
ALABAMA
Adventure Island
Location:
24559 Perdido Beach Blvd., Orange Beach, AL 36561
Phone: 251-974-1500
Hours:
Summer: 9:30 am through 12 a.m. seven days a week; Winter: open daily - call for
hours.
Welcome to the land of pirates, alligators, volcanoes and prehistoric wetlands. A place where every day is an adventure. Welcome to: Adventure Island. Conveniently located directly on Perdido Beach Boulevard (Hwy 182) in Orange Beach, Alabama. Adventure Island is home to the Gulf Coast's only Active Volcano. This five-story mountain of fire comes alive with an amazing show of power and beauty. Feel the vibrations, hear the boiling water, see the steam, and watch a musical eruption that will amaze the entire family.
Pirate's
Island Adventure Golf
Location:
Gulf Shores, AL, Hwy 59 next to the Alabama Gulf Coast Convention and Visitor's
Center
Phone: 251-968-GOLF (4653)
Web site: www.piratesislandgolf.com/gulfshores.html
Welcome
to the land of pirates, alligators, volcanoes and prehistoric wetlands. A place
where every day is an adventure. Welcome to: Adventure Island. Conveniently located
directly on Perdido Beach Boulevard (Hwy 182) in Orange Beach, Alabama. Adventure
Island is home to the Gulf Coast's only Active Volcano. This five-story mountain
of fire comes alive with an amazing show of power and beauty. Feel the vibrations,
hear the boiling water, see the steam, and watch a musical eruption that will
amaze the entire family.
The Track Family Recreation Center
Location:
3200 Gulf Shores Pkwy., Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Phone: (251) 968-8111
Hours:
Summer Hours: Open 9:00 A.M. Daily, Closing Time Varies; Winter Hours: Open 12
Noon till 5 pm, 7 Days a Week
For family fun and adventure, make The Track
Family Recreation Center your first pit stop on your next visit to Pleasure Island.
We offer a variety of fun and exciting rides and games for all ages. Our park
features five Go-Kart tracks for drivers of every level. Race along with the whole
family on The Track, our largest and most popular ride. Its just right for mom,
dad, and the kids. The Rookie Track is for drivers in training, same size and
style karts as the Track, just not quite as fast. The Super Track takes it to
the edge with high speed racing on the hottest track in town! For "kids"
sixteen years or older.
Waterville
U.S.A.
Location: 906 Gulf
Shores Parkway, P.O. Box 1017, Gulf Shores, AL 36547
Phone: (251) 948-2106
Hours:
Our Waterpark is open 10am - 6pm. Open daily starting May 24 through Labor Day
weekend. The Amusement park is open daily starting March 1, 2003 through the end
of September.
Gulf Shores' Waterville U.S.A. has grown in recent years to become
one of the gulf coast's largest combination amusement/water park.
Zooland Animal Park & Miniature Park
Location:
1204 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores AL
Phone: 334-968-5732
Located on 16
acres, this park features over 250 exotic animals in natural looking habitats.
The park has a paved path that takes visitors through the exhibits and onto an
elevated observation deck. Visitors can see tropical birds, lions, tigers, bears
and reptiles among other animals.
FLORIDA
Gulf Breeze
Zoo
Location: 5701 Gulf
Breeze Parkway, Pensacola, FL
Phone: (850) 932-2229
Email: information@the-zoo.com
Web
site: www.the-zoo.com/
Spend
a Day in the Wild! Over 700 animals, 50 acres of botanical gardens, petting zoo,
aviary, train ride and shows. Stroll through a serene and tranquil Japanese garden,
and catch a ride on the Safari Line train through 30 acres of free-roaming animals
in their natual habitat.
Gulf
Coast Exploreum Science Center
Location:
Post Office Box 1968, 65 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36633
Phone: (251) 208-6883,
toll free: (877) 625-4FUNt
Web site: www.exploreum.net
Hands-on,
interactive science adventure for all ages! With permanent exhibits, traveling
exhibits from major science centers and the IMAX Dome experience, it's a playground
for the mind!
Gulf
World Marine Park
Location:
15412 Front Beach Rd., Panama City Beach, Florida
Phone: (850) 234-5271
Web
site: www.gulfworldmarinepark.com/
Gulf
World Marine Park, a popular Panama City Beach attraction, has enjoyed tremendous
growth since its inception in 1969. Gulf World is a Marine Mammal public display
facility, which is licensed by the Federal Government under the provisions of
the Marine Mammal Protection Act. We promote marine mammal education through the
display of live animals.
Miracle
Strip Amusement Park
Location:
12000 Front Beach Rd., Panama City Beach, Florida
Phone: 850-234-5810
Miracle
Strip has over 30 rides and attractions and is the BEST entertainment value on
Panama City Beach for thrill seekers, families and kids!
Shipwreck
Island Water Park
Location:
12000 Front Beach Road, Panama City Beach, Florida
Phone: 850-234-0368
Web
site: www.shipwreckisland.com/
The Gulf Coast's #1 water park Panama City Beach,
Florida's Shipwreck Island Water Park is just what you need to get you and your
family away from the beach, but still splash in the sun!
MISSISSIPPI
Buccaneer State Park
Location:
1150 South Beach Blvd, Waveland MS 39576
Phone: 228-467-3822
Email: buccaneer@intu.net
Hours:
Open Memorial Day to Labor Day 11:00 am to 6:45 pm.
A five-acre facility with
wave pool, double waterslide, kiddie pool for non-swimmers, The Sea Dog Grill;
large sun deck, locker rental, tubes and lots of shade. Sand play area. New minature
golf course. (Source: Harrison County Tourism Commission)
Orlando Attractions
WALT DISNEY WORLD - MAGIC KINGDOM
Guests can experience seven wondrous and enchanting lands of fun and make-believe where timeless, never forgotten stories come to life. 40 famous Disney attractions, parades and shows await you in this kingdom where the enchantment never ends.WALT DISNEY WORLD - MGM STUDIOS
Guests can experience thrilling attractions, spectacular live entertainment, back stage action, and special events that capture the spirit of Hollywood. Visitors can experience the hair-raising Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, see the new GOOSE BUMPS Horror land and Fright Show, and catch Disney's Hercules "Zero to Hero" Victory Parade on Hollywood Boulevard.ANIMAL KINGDOM
Whether real, imaginary or extinct, the animals who rule this domain bring to life a day of adventure into the mystery, marvels and thrills of Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park.
EPCOT
Guests can explore all that's new in science, technology, energy and health, or visit eleven different countries and experience the food, music, shopping and culture. Illuminations becomes a worldwide celebration featuring new music, special effects and thunderous fireworks.UNIVERSAL STUDIOS
Thrill to over 40 rides, shows, and attractions, including "Terminator 2: 3-D Battle Across Time", "Jaws®", "Back To The Future®", "Kongfrontation®", "E.T. Adventure®", "A Day in the Park with Barney", and the all new "Twister"®.
SEA WORLD
Interactive marine adventure park featuring colorful Key West attraction, which stretches across five acres, with exhibits of sea turtles, sting rays and dolphins; the polar adventure, Wild Arctic, where guests encounter live polar bears; the Shamu killer whale show; the high-speed, split-second water heroics of Baywatch at Seaworld. New to the water coaster thrill ride, Journey to Atlantis.SPLENDID CHINA
This unique 76 acre outdoor attraction allows visitors to explore China's sites and landmarks -- Forbidden City, Great Wall, Leshan Grand Buddha, Stone Forest, Terra Cotta Warriors and more. Discover fascinating shows, taste delicious Chinese cuisine and let dancers, actors and acrobats entertain you all day.
ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEXESDowntown Disney Pleasure Island
Experience nighttime entertainment at its best with seven night clubs, incredible stage shows, outstanding live outdoor concerts and a nightly New Year's Eve party.Downtown Disney West side
Entertainment is first rate on the "West Side" including AMC 24 Theaters, House of Blues, Wolfgang Puck Cafe, Bongos, and the amazing Virgin Megastore.Hard Rock Live
The future of rock history-the all new Hard Rock Live features a 2000-seat concert venue, state-of-the-art sound, lighting and broadcast systems, worth of the legendary acts that will grace our stage.UNIVERSAL CITY WALK
Near Orlando:
BUSCH GARDENS - TAMPA
Family entertainment park featuring thrill rides, live entertainment, animal exhibits, shops, restaurants and one of the top zoos in the country. Land of the Dragons, a fantastic new children's play area, is now open. This dragon-themed adventure land features a variety of interactive attractions, children's rides, a theater and a three story tree- house with a stairway, slide and bridges. Also enjoy Kumba, the largest, fastest, longest roller coaster in the southeast and Montu, the longest and tallest inverted roller coaster in the world.SILVER SPRINGS
New Silver Springs features the world famous Glass Bottom Boats, the World of Bears, Kids Ahoy! Play land, headline concerts, the Jungle Cruise, Jeep Safari, the new "Wild Waters" water park and its "Cool Kids Cove" children's play area, and much more.
WATER PARKS
ADVENTURE ISLAND TAMPA
Adventure Island is whipping up waves of excitement for the whole family! It's full of thrills as you discover a combination of exhilarating slides, tropical beaches, pools and floats.DISNEY'S BLIZZARD BEACH
Enjoy the newest water park at the WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resort and plunge 60 miles an hour on the largest, fastest free fall speed slide, Summit Plummet. Heated water. Pre-teen and children's area.RESORT RIVER COUNTRY
Experience a relaxing atmosphere of water rides, sandy beaches, sparkling pool and nature trails at the ol' swimmin' hole. Children's area and heated water.DISNEY'S TYPHOON LAGOON
Enjoy America's largest inland surf pool, a shark reef with tropical fish and other water adventures. Children's area and heated water.WATER MANIA
Enjoy 36 acres of stimulating slides, twisting flumes, and adventurous pools. Take the family twisting and turning 400 ft. down the Anaconda, or float swiftly along an 850 ft. tropical river. Grab a body board and ride the only surfing simulator in the Eastern U.S. Families can enjoy a wet day of fun and retreat to three acres of beautifully landscaped picnic area. There's something for every family member at Water Mania!WET 'N WILD.......................................
Enjoy a full day of fun at Orlando's best selection of world renown water rides, including an elaborate children's playground featuring mini versions of our most popular rides. The new Fuji Flyer is a thrilling four passenger toboggan ride through 450 feet of exciting banked curves. Offering the most variety of multi-person rides so families and friends can experience their exciting water adventures together!WILD WATERS
Exciting family water park featuring 450,000 gallon wave pool, seven speed flumes and water slides. "Cool Kids Cove" is a one acre attraction featuring a shallow lagoon with a wooden dock complete with water slides, net bridge, water cannons, swings, waterfalls and tunnels. Park also features miniature golf, volleyball, and picnic facilities.
Canaveral
National Seashore
is on a barrier island which includes ocean, beach,
dune, hammock, lagoon, salt marsh, and pine flatland habitats. The barrier island
and adjacent waterways offer a blend of plant and animal life. Records show that
1,045 species of plants and 310 species of birds can be found in the park. Visitors
may enjoy walking the nature and historical trails during the cool winter months.
Throughout the year opportunity for recreational activities include; lagoon and
surf fishing, boating, canoeing, surfing, sunbathing, swimming, hiking, horseback
riding and backcountry camping.
Orlando
Famous Landmarks & Historic Places:
Apopka
Seaboard Air Line Railway Depot
Carroll Building (Apopka)
Old Orlando
Railroad Depot
Annie Russell Theatre
Tinker Building
Twin Mounds Archeological
District
Callaham Neighborhood
J.A. Colyer Building
Orlando Coolidge
House
Astronaut Hall of Fame (Titusville)
Kennedy Space Center
Florida
Citrus Bowl Stadium
The
Top 10 Attractions in Florida
Walt
Disney World
Epcot
Center
Disney
- MGM Studios
Disney's
Blizzard Beach
Universal Studios
Sea World
Busch Gardens
Wet 'n Wild
Kennedy
Space Center
Daytona International Speedway
FLORIDA
ATTRACTIONS
Orlando Attractions
WALT DISNEY WORLD - MAGIC KINGDOM
Guests can experience seven wondrous and enchanting lands of fun and make-believe where timeless, never forgotten stories come to life. 40 famous Disney attractions, parades and shows await you in this kingdom where the enchantment never ends.WALT DISNEY WORLD - MGM STUDIOS
Guests can experience thrilling attractions, spectacular live entertainment, back stage action, and special events that capture the spirit of Hollywood. Visitors can experience the hair-raising Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, see the new GOOSE BUMPS Horror land and Fright Show, and catch Disney's Hercules "Zero to Hero" Victory Parade on Hollywood Boulevard.ANIMAL KINGDOM
Whether real, imaginary or extinct, the animals who rule this domain bring to life a day of adventure into the mystery, marvels and thrills of Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park.
Downtown Disney Pleasure Island
Experience nighttime entertainment at its best with seven night clubs, incredible stage shows, outstanding live outdoor concerts and a nightly New Year's Eve party.Downtown Disney West side
Entertainment is first rate on the "West Side" including AMC 24 Theaters, House of Blues, Wolfgang Puck Cafe, Bongos, and the amazing Virgin Megastore.Hard Rock Live
The future of rock history-the all new Hard Rock Live features a 2000-seat concert venue, state-of-the-art sound, lighting and broadcast systems, worth of the legendary acts that will grace our stage.UNIVERSAL CITY WALK
Near Orlando:
BUSCH GARDENS - TAMPA
Family entertainment park featuring thrill rides, live entertainment, animal exhibits, shops, restaurants and one of the top zoos in the country. Land of the Dragons, a fantastic new children's play area, is now open. This dragon-themed adventure land features a variety of interactive attractions, children's rides, a theater and a three story tree- house with a stairway, slide and bridges. Also enjoy Kumba, the largest, fastest, longest roller coaster in the southeast and Montu, the longest and tallest inverted roller coaster in the world.SILVER SPRINGS
New Silver Springs features the world famous Glass Bottom Boats, the World of Bears, Kids Ahoy! Play land, headline concerts, the Jungle Cruise, Jeep Safari, the new "Wild Waters" water park and its "Cool Kids Cove" children's play area, and much more.
WATER PARKS
ADVENTURE ISLAND TAMPA
Adventure Island is whipping up waves of excitement for the whole family! It's full of thrills as you discover a combination of exhilarating slides, tropical beaches, pools and floats.DISNEY'S BLIZZARD BEACH
Enjoy the newest water park at the WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resort and plunge 60 miles an hour on the largest, fastest free fall speed slide, Summit Plummet. Heated water. Pre-teen and children's area.RESORT RIVER COUNTRY
Experience a relaxing atmosphere of water rides, sandy beaches, sparkling pool and nature trails at the ol' swimmin' hole. Children's area and heated water.DISNEY'S TYPHOON LAGOON
Enjoy America's largest inland surf pool, a shark reef with tropical fish and other water adventures. Children's area and heated water.WATER MANIA
Enjoy 36 acres of stimulating slides, twisting flumes, and adventurous pools. Take the family twisting and turning 400 ft. down the Anaconda, or float swiftly along an 850 ft. tropical river. Grab a body board and ride the only surfing simulator in the Eastern U.S. Families can enjoy a wet day of fun and retreat to three acres of beautifully landscaped picnic area. There's something for every family member at Water Mania!WET 'N WILD.......................................
Enjoy a full day of fun at Orlando's best selection of world renown water rides, including an elaborate children's playground featuring mini versions of our most popular rides. The new Fuji Flyer is a thrilling four passenger toboggan ride through 450 feet of exciting banked curves. Offering the most variety of multi-person rides so families and friends can experience their exciting water adventures together!WILD WATERS
Exciting family water park featuring 450,000 gallon wave pool, seven speed flumes and water slides. "Cool Kids Cove" is a one acre attraction featuring a shallow lagoon with a wooden dock complete with water slides, net bridge, water cannons, swings, waterfalls and tunnels. Park also features miniature golf, volleyball, and picnic facilities.
Canaveral
National Seashore
is on a barrier island which includes ocean, beach,
dune, hammock, lagoon, salt marsh, and pine flatland habitats. The barrier island
and adjacent waterways offer a blend of plant and animal life. Records show that
1,045 species of plants and 310 species of birds can be found in the park. Visitors
may enjoy walking the nature and historical trails during the cool winter months.
Throughout the year opportunity for recreational activities include; lagoon and
surf fishing, boating, canoeing, surfing, sunbathing, swimming, hiking, horseback
riding and backcountry camping.
Orlando
Famous Landmarks & Historic Places:
Apopka
Seaboard Air Line Railway Depot
Carroll Building (Apopka)
Old Orlando
Railroad Depot
Annie Russell Theatre
Tinker Building
Twin Mounds Archeological
District
Callaham Neighborhood
J.A. Colyer Building
Orlando Coolidge
House
Astronaut Hall of Fame (Titusville)
Kennedy Space Center
Florida
Citrus Bowl Stadium
The
Top 10 Attractions in Florida
Walt
Disney World
Epcot
Center
Disney
- MGM Studios
Disney's
Blizzard Beach
Universal Studios
Sea World
Busch Gardens
Wet 'n Wild
Kennedy
Space Center
Daytona International Speedway
Florida Gulf of Mexico Attractions
Beaches
FLORIDA
Destin-Ft. Walton Beach-Okaloosa Island -- FL
Summer
on the Emerald Coast is a special time, and guests of all ages are sure to enjoy
their time here. Perhaps that's why Southern Living readers have voted this area
the "#1 Family Destination and the Best Beach in the South" three years
running.
Directions: Take I-85 South to 98 East.
Features: Covered Pavilion,
Restrooms, Boat Ramp, Gear Rentals, Grills and Picnic Tables.
Henderson Beach State Recreation Area -- FL
Recreational
activities at Henderson Beach State Recreation Area offer something for the entire
family. Swimming, surf fishing and picnicking are popular pastimes. Visitors wishing
to try their luck in the surf may catch popular species such as pompano and whiting.
Directions:
98 East to 17000 Emerald Coast Parkway, Destin.
Features: Lifeguards, Picnicking,
Surf Fishing, Sandwich Pavilion, Bathhouses with showers.
Navarre Beach -- FL
Nestled between
tall shady oaks and the Santa Rosa Sound, Navarre Beach is your family's perfect
beach destination! Snow white sands and emerald green surf define the setting
and accentuate all local amenities. Play by day at over one-mile waterfront boardwalks,
the Panhandle Butterfly House or children's playground.
Directions: From I-10
take Exit 4 to Highway 98 East or Exit 10 to Route 87 South to Navarre Beach.
Features:
Covered Pavilion, Concessions, Restrooms, Showers, Lifeguards, Volleyball, Boat
Ramp, Gear Rentals, Grills and Picnic Tables.
Gulf of Mexico Attractions
FLORIDA
Big Lagoon State Park
Directions:
From Destin, cross the bridge to Okaloosa Island on U.S. Highway 90. Parking is
on the south side of the road.
Phone: (850) 882-4164
Hours: Florida state
parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.
Web site: www.floridastateparks.org/biglagoon/default.asp
Big
Lagoon State Park derives its name from a bordering body of water called Big Lagoon.
This coastal park which consists of 712 upland acres, was opened in 1978 and beckons
visitors with all the recreational opportunities expected at a Florida state park.
The Civil War Soldiers Museum
Location:
108 South Palafox Place, Pensacola, FL 32501
Phone: 850-469-1900
Hours:
Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. till 4:30 p.m.
Web site: www.cwmuseum.org/main.asp
The
Civil War Soldiers Museum was founded in 1991, and exhibits the private collection
of Dr. Norman W. Haines, Jr., a local physician, who began collecting as a boy
near the Antietam Battlefield. Experience what it was like to serve during the
Civil War. The Museum's diverse collection offers wonderful insights into our
nation's rich history. The Pensacola Room highlights the contributions of Stephen
R. Mallory, the renowned Confederate Secretary of Navy, and the handmade First
National Confederate flag captured by Wilson's New York Zouaves during the Battle
of Santa Rosa Island, October 9, 1861.
Eglin Air Force Base: Destin Bridge
Directions:
From Destin, cross the bridge to Okaloosa Island on U.S. Highway 90. Parking is
on the south side of the road.
Phone: (850) 882-4164
Web site: www.floridaconservation.org/viewing/sites/site-nw4.html
Eglin
Air Force Base features hundreds of thousand of acres of relatively undisturbed
wildlife habitat. The Destin Bridge site features beaches and sandy flats along
a busy inlet between Okaloosa Island and the town of Destin. Birds are the main
attraction and include terns, gulls, black skimmers, brown pelicans, several species
of shorebirds, great blue and little blue herons, snowy egrets, reddish egrets
(in the fall), and occasionally black-necked stilts. Loons, northern gannets,
and various sea ducks paddle offshore and are clearly visible with a good spotting
scope. From May through August, threatened least terns and snowy plovers nest
in the sand.
Gulf Islands National Seashore
Directions:
From Pensacola Beach, travel west to Fort Pickens park entrance. Naval Live Oaks
is just east of Gulf Breeze on U.S. Highway 98.
Phone: (850) 934-2600
Web
site: www.floridaconservation.org/viewing/sites/site-nw1.html
The Fort Pickens
and Naval Live Oaks areas are the two best sites to view wildlife in Florida's
portion of this national seashore. The Fort Pickens area is located on the western
end of Santa Rosa Island amidst the ruins of Fort Pickens. The Naval Live Oaks
area is located near the town of Gulf Breeze on the mainland. Both sites offer
interpretive centers, trails, ranger-led walks, and excellent birding during spring
migration. Fort Pickens includes beach, dune, salt marsh, and scrub upland habitats,
while Naval Live Oaks is covered mostly by hammocks of live oak, magnolia, hickory,
and red cedar. An observation platform at the west end of the trail from the interpretive
center at Naval Live Oaks provides a scenic view of Santa Rosa Sound.
Hawkshaw Lagoon
Phone: (850) 438-1178
Email:
info@hawkshawmemorial.org
Web site: floridastateparks.org/standrews/default.asp
Features
the only national memorial to missing children in the country and serves as an
open classroom for students to study the lagoon's ecosystem, providing an excellent
vantage point for birdwatching.
The Junior Museum
Location:
1731 Jenks Avenue, Panama City, Florida 32405
Phone: (850) 769-6128
Email:
jrmuseum@knology.net
Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:00 am - 4:30 pm; Saturday, 10:00
am - 4:00 pm; Sunday and Major Holidays, closed
Web site: www.jrmuseum.org
The
Junior Museum is a hands-on children’s museum designed to inspire and educate
children through interactive exhibits and programs focusing on science, history,
cultural studies, and the environment. Inside the 8,500-square foot building we
have dozens of fun activities for young and old alike. Pretend to drive a real
boat and catch fish in the Gulf of Mexico in the Imagine Me exhibit. Go on a wildlife
safari in the Nature Corner. Launch a hot air balloon or freeze your shadow in
the Hands-On Science room. Watch Mr. Bones, our life-size skeleton, ride a bike
and learn about healthy living in Body Works. Little visitors love Discovery Depot
with lots of “just my size” activities.
National Museum of Naval Aviation
Location:
1750 Bradford Blvd Ste B, NAS Pensacola, FL 32508
Phone: (850) 452-3604 or
toll free: (800) 327-5002
Web site: www.naval-air.org
Naval Aviation transcends
both time and space, from wood and fabric biplanes, to the frontiers of space.
The Museum captures Naval Aviation's heritage and brings its story of challenge,
ingenuity, and courage to you! (Source: Alabama Gulf Coast Convention & Visitors
Bureau)
St. Andrews State Park
Location: 4620 State
Park Lane, Panama City Beach FL 32408
Phone: 850-233-5110
Hours: Florida
state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.
Web site: floridastateparks.org/standrews/default.asp
St.
Andrews State Park is one of the most popular outdoor recreation spots in Florida.
Named by Travel Magazine as "The World's Best Beach," in 1995, St. Andrews
is well known for its sugar white sands and crystal-clear emerald green water.
The ZOO
Location: 5701 Gulf
Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563
Phone: (850) 932-2229
Hours:Open daily,
weather permitting, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas
Day and New Year's Eve
Email: information@the-zoo.com
Web site: www.the-zoo.com
A
wildlife experience awaits you at The ZOO, with over 700 animals surrounded by
botanical gardens. Spend the day - get a close look at bears, tigers, rhinos and
zebras. Photograph the colorful birds. Watch playful primates. See sleek otters
slip through water. Take a ride on a camel - or on the Safari Line Limited - a
train ride through over 30 acres of free-roaming wildlife (each $3, plus tax)!
There's plenty to see and do at The ZOO!
Gulf of Mexico Historical Landmarks & Attraction
FLORIDA
Civil War Soldiers Museum
Dates
open: Tuesday through Saturday
Hours: 10:00am till 4:30pm
Location: 108
South Palafox Place, Pensacola, FL
Price: $5.00 adults, $4.00 military, $2.50
children 6-12; under 6 free
Phone: 850-469-1900
Web site: http://www.cwmuseum.org/
The
Civil War Soldiers Museum was founded in 1991, and exhibits the private collection
of Dr. Norman W. Haines, Jr., a local physician, who began collecting as a boy
near the Antietam Battlefield. Experience what it was like to serve during the
Civil War. The Museum's diverse collection offers wonderful insights into our
nation's rich history. (Source: Civil War Museum web site)
Historic Pensacola Village
Dates
open: Monday through Friday, closed all state holidays
Location: P. O. Box
12866, Pensacola, FL
Hours: 10:00 am until 4:00 pm
Price: $6.00 for adults,
$2.50 for children 4-16, (children 3 and under free), $5.00 for Seniors &
Active Military
Phone: 850-595-5985 x.100
Web site: http://www.historicpensacola.org/
The
Village consists of twenty properties in the Pensacola National Register Historic
District. Ten of these properties are interpreted facilities that are open to
the public
Gulf
of Mexico Amusements:
FLORIDA
Gulf Breeze
Zoo
Location: 5701 Gulf
Breeze Parkway, Pensacola, FL
Phone: (850) 932-2229
Email: information@the-zoo.com
Web
site: www.the-zoo.com/
Spend
a Day in the Wild! Over 700 animals, 50 acres of botanical gardens, petting zoo,
aviary, train ride and shows. Stroll through a serene and tranquil Japanese garden,
and catch a ride on the Safari Line train through 30 acres of free-roaming animals
in their natual habitat.
Gulf
Coast Exploreum Science Center
Location:
Post Office Box 1968, 65 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36633
Phone: (251) 208-6883,
toll free: (877) 625-4FUNt
Web site: www.exploreum.net
Hands-on,
interactive science adventure for all ages! With permanent exhibits, traveling
exhibits from major science centers and the IMAX Dome experience, it's a playground
for the mind!
Gulf
World Marine Park
Location:
15412 Front Beach Rd., Panama City Beach, Florida
Phone: (850) 234-5271
Web
site: www.gulfworldmarinepark.com/
Gulf
World Marine Park, a popular Panama City Beach attraction, has enjoyed tremendous
growth since its inception in 1969. Gulf World is a Marine Mammal public display
facility, which is licensed by the Federal Government under the provisions of
the Marine Mammal Protection Act. We promote marine mammal education through the
display of live animals.
Miracle
Strip Amusement Park
Location:
12000 Front Beach Rd., Panama City Beach, Florida
Phone: 850-234-5810
Miracle
Strip has over 30 rides and attractions and is the BEST entertainment value on
Panama City Beach for thrill seekers, families and kids!
Shipwreck
Island Water Park
Location:
12000 Front Beach Road, Panama City Beach, Florida
Phone: 850-234-0368
Web
site: www.shipwreckisland.com/
The Gulf Coast's #1 water park Panama City Beach,
Florida's Shipwreck Island Water Park is just what you need to get you and your
family away from the beach, but still splash in the sun!
| Florida Museums, Culture & History |
- Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Garden, Winter Park, FL. This museum is dedicated to the life works of noted Czech-American sculptor Albin Polasek (1879-1965).
- Appleton Museum of Art, Ocala, FL. Collection of 19th C. European art, etc.
- Boca Raton Museum of Art, Boca Raton, FL. Fully accredited museum, with a fine Permanent Collection of over 3000 pieces.
- Bonnet House, Fort Lauderdale, FL. Bonnet House is a whimsical 35 acre subtropical beach front estate. It was donated to the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation in 1983 by Evelyn Bartlett.
- Civil War Soldiers Museum, Pensacola, Fl. Explore 19th century America and the lives of Civil War soldiers who served in the great Confederate and Union armies and navies. Our 4,200 sq. feet of exhibit space currently houses a diverse collection and currently one of the largest Civil War medical collections in the world.
-
Florida Association of Museums, a listing.
A website that includes a searchable directory of all museums in Florida, plus
a listing of exhibits that can be searched by month. - Florida International Museum, St. Petersburg, FL. International blockbuster exhibitions such as Treasures of the Czars, Titanic: The Exhibition and Empires of Mystery. (800) 777-9882 for current exhibition.
- Florida Museum of Hispanic and Latin American Art, Miami, FL. Dedicated to contemporary art from Spain and Latin America with 11 exhibitions a year.Founded in September 1991.
- Florida Museum of Natural History, University of Florida, Gainesville. See on-line searchable collection databases. Be sure to check out the new virtual exhibit "Fossil Horses in Cyberspace", a new component of the museum website
- Great Explorations, The Hands On Museum, St. Petersburg, FL. Interactive museum offering hands on exhibits and family fun that teaches artistic and scientific concepts. Outreach programs and museum rentals available. Traveling exhibits available: Insect Zoo, Creatures of the Dark, Mirror Magic and Maze Mania.
- Henry B. Plant Museum, Tampa, FL. Located in the heart of downtown Tampa, The Henry B. Plant Museum interprets the turn-of-the century 1891 Tampa Bay Hotel and the lifestyles of America's Guilded Age. The National Historic Landmark building houses opulent furnishings original to the hotel.
- Historical Museum of Southern Florida, Miami.
-
Indian Temple Mound Museum, Fort Walton Beach,
FL. Located in the heart of downtown Fort Walton Beach, The Indian Temple Mound
Museum has a collection of artifacts from the local area. Covers prehistoric,
contact, Civil War and settler time periods. - International Museum of Cartoon Art, Boca Raton, FL. World's largest collection of original cartoon and comic strip art (over 165,000 pieces of art). Founded by Mort Walker (of Beetle Bailey and Hi & Lois). PEANUTS (Snoopy & Gang), GARFIELD and many more "mainstream" cartoon and comic strips are represented at the Museum. First and only place where Disney and Looney Tunes characters have been "blended" in displays under one roof.
- International Sport Aviation Museum (ISAM), Lakeland, FL. The international Sport Aviation Museum plays a vital roll in the advancement of aviation technology and research. ISAM serves as a tribute to thosewho have shaped our aviation history and stands as a challange to all who follow.
- Junior Museum of Bay County , Panama City, Florida. The mission of the Junior Museum of Bay County is to inspire and educate children through interactive exhibits and programs focusing on science, history, cultural studies, and the environment.
- Liberty Bell Memorial Museum, Melbourne, FL. Centerpiece of the museum is a full-sized replica of the Liberty Bell. Also contains many copies of historical documents, military uniforms and war memorabilia. Building is a coverted water tank from the 1920s. There are also collections of model war planes, war ships, and of course American flags of every era of American history. Paintings and photos of presidents and historic events and sites line the walls
- Lightner Museum, St. Augustine, FL. Splendors from the Gilded Age cut glass, Victorian art glass, furnishings, costumes, mechanical musical instruments.
- Miami Art Museum, Miami, FL. Miami Art Museum exhibits, collects, preserves and interprets international art of the western hemisphere. The focus is on works from the 1940s to the present, complemented by art from other eras for historical perspective.
- Miami Museum of Science, Florida.
- Morikami, Delray Beach, FL. An exhibition of quality depicting the Japanese settlement of South Florida in the early 1900's. Culture, art, horticulture, and history.
- Morse Museum, Winter Park, FL. Tiffany Collection.
- Museum of Advertising Icons, South Florida.
- Museum of Arts and Sciences, Daytona Beach, FL. Located in the heart of Florida's last remaining coastal hammock preserve, the 50,000 square foot facility is one of the leading major cultural institutions dedicated to interpreting the areas of art, science and Florida history for Central and North Florida audiences through a host of nationally and internationally important permanent and changing exhibitions and programs.
-
Museum of Contemporary Art/North Miami,
North Miami, Fl. The Museum of Contemporary Art in North Miami offers residents
and visitors to South Florida, 8-10 cutting-edge art exhibitions annually, along
with a wide variety of public and education programs.
- Norton Gallery of Art, West Palm Beach, Florida. Strong in the French and American Impressionist and Post Impressionist periods, Chinese artifacts, ceramics and statuary.
- Orlando Museum of Art, Orlando, FL. The Orlando Museum of Art is committed to collecting, preserving and interpreting notalbe works or art, and presenting exhibitions of local, regional, national and international significane. The OMA is proud to have important permanent collections of American Art, Art of the Ancient Americas and African Art.
- Ringling Museum of Art, Sarasota, FL. (The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art)
- Salvador Dali Museum, St Petersburg, FL. Contains images of 159 of Dali's works (800*600 video resolution or better recommended.)
- St. Petersburg Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg, FL. Noted for it collection of late 19th and early 20th century European and American collection, it is also the home of the finest collection of photographs in the SE US. There is also an active music program and continuing educational activities for all ages.
- St. Petersburg Museum of History, St. Petersburg, FL. The St. Petersburg Museum of History showcases St. Petersburg History from pre-history to the present. Museum has four galleries and features two to four annual exhibits.
- Tampa Museum of Art, Tampa, FL. A cultural mecca located downtown along the scenic Hillsborough River, the Tampa Museum of Art provides a broad range of art-related experiences for visitors of all ages. One of the Southeast’s finest museums, there are changing exhibitions that range from contemporary to classic, and a renowned permanent collection of Greek and Roman antiquities. Complementing these exhibitions are a wide range of classes, lectures, lunchtime seminars and walking tours. The Guilders Museum Store offers unique gifts, books, jewelry & children’s items. Tampa Museum of Art truly offers something for everyone. Sender: Lani Czyzewski, Public Information Coordinator Sender email: TM22@ci.tampa.fl.us Comment: Thanks for including us in your site!
- The Pensacola Museum of Art , Pensacola, FL. Current exhibitions, classes, lectures, educational programs.
- Turn Of The Century Electrotherapy Museum , Loxahatchee, FL. Quack Medical Devices, "Violet Ray" Devices, Antique Tesla Coils, Faradic Medical Batteries, Diathermy Machines, Arc Lamps, Magneto-Electric Machines, and more "shocking" and sometimes hilarious devices thought to cure disease. This is a virtual museum.
- Vizcaya, Miami, FL. Vizcaya is a museum for the European decorative arts with period rooms in the Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, and Neo-classic style. It is located in an Italian Renaissance style villa that was built between 1914 and 1916 as the winter residence of the industrialist James Deering. The villa is surrounded by formal gardens.
- Wolfsonian, Miami Beach, FL. The Wolfsonian holds more than 70,000 objects predominantly from North America and Europe, providing rich evidence of the cultural, political, and technological changes that swept the world in the century preceding the end of World War II. The collection features furniture, decorative arts, industrial design, paintings, sculpture, architectural models, works on paper, books, and ephemera.