The Gilded Age was a lavish time in American history when the nation's wealthiest families built over-the-top mansions to showcase their status. But their power wasn't limited to places like New York, Chicago, and Newport. These people also made summer homes and hotels in the South, many of which still exist today. This story is based on one I wrote for Fodor's. You can … [Read more...] about The Gilded Age Landmarks of the South
St. Augustine
Visiting the Fountain of Youth
While visiting St. Augustine, Florida, a stop at the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park is necessary. It's based on the site where Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon claimed to have found a spring with waters that made the drinker younger. Whether this proved to be true remains to be seen, but it is still one of Florida's more popular attractions. Upon entering the park, … [Read more...] about Visiting the Fountain of Youth
Weekend Guide to St. Augustine
Lightner Museum St. Augustine, Florida is the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in the United States, founded by the Spanish in 1565. It served as the capital of Spanish Florida for 200 years, so European influence is everywhere from the cuisine to the architecture. It became a getaway for the rich and famous when Henry Flagler developed the … [Read more...] about Weekend Guide to St. Augustine
Florida’s Best Animal Encounters
While Florida is full of well-known animal theme parks, including Sea World and Disney's Animal Kingdom, there are so many animal encounters that receive little to no notoriety. During my Ultimate Florida Road Trip, I experienced the state's wildlife up close. Manatees, Space Coast Photo: East Coast Paddle The greater Orlando area is the best region to spot manatees in … [Read more...] about Florida’s Best Animal Encounters
