18 Adventures For Your 2018 Authentic Florida Bucket List

Each new year inspires feelings of renewal and fresh starts and there’s no better time to begin than now with these 18 Authentic Florida Bucket List adventures.

Plunge into the Blue

This “Shangri-la” just west of High Springs was recently purchased by the Florida State Park system. Gilchrist Blue Springs releases 55 million gallons of fresh water daily, flowing into the Santa Fe River. Swimmers jump from a huge wooden platform into crystal clear water; families picnic under sprawling oaks; paddlers launch kayaks or paddle boards along the spring run. And visitors enjoy a short walk on the rustic wooden boardwalk to the scenic Santa Fe River.

Shelling in the Ten Thousand Islands

This “Shangri-la” just west of High Springs was recently purchased by the Florida State Park system. Gilchrist Blue Springs releases 55 million gallons of fresh water daily, flowing into the Santa Fe River. Swimmers jump from a huge wooden platform into crystal clear water; families picnic under sprawling oaks; paddlers launch kayaks or paddle boards along the spring run. And visitors enjoy a short walk on the rustic wooden boardwalk to the scenic Santa Fe River.

Shelling in the Ten Thousand Islands

Everyone from children to grandparents enjoy a perfect “old Florida” family dining experience at The Old Spanish Sugar Mill Grill & Griddle House at De Leon Springs State Park just north of Orlando. Breakfast is the main attraction, as guests make their own pancakes on a sizzling hot griddle in the center of the table. Constructed of old pine and cypress this restaurant resembles a wooden barn and overlooks the sparkling De Leon spring and swimming area.

Horse Around

Ocala is the epicenter of Florida’s equestrian industry. Located in Central Florida’s Marion County, it is home to more than 70,000 acres of horse farms set amidst sprawling oak trees and rolling green pastureland. For a unique “behind the gates” experience, try Farm Tours of Ocala. Owner Karen Grimes is a local expert and industry insider, who personally shuttles guests in her comfortable van to visit thoroughbred racehorse farms, sophisticated equine breeding farms and event facilities that focus on sport horses.