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The Fashionable Housewife

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9 Must-Visit Florida Destinations for Nature Lovers

Modified on September 30, 2022 at 9:20 PM

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Florida is known across the world as the home of Disney. Many people might not realize that this unique state offers more than fun theme parks. If you look beyond the likes of Walt Disney World in Orlando, you will discover obvious beauty from the top of Jacksonville to Miami.

Escape the bustle of everyday life and get closer to the natural world on your next vacation. Here are nine must-visit Florida destinations for nature lovers.

Source: Instagram, posted on September 3rd, 2022, Westgate Ranch’s official profile.

  1. Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo

Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo provides a rural landscape and exciting pursuits, which will make you fall in love with the great outdoors.

Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo is in one of the last untouched wilderness areas in Florida. The authentic dude ranch is surrounded by natural beauty, offering a rural landscape and overlooking the hypnotizing Kissimmee River.

The rustic yet luxurious glamping tents, teepees, lodge rooms, and cabins work in harmony with Old West activities like horseback riding, fishing, and guided hunting. Also, you can enjoy more modern pursuits to experience the beauty of Florida, as you can go on an airboat ride, hit the air rifle range, or play a round of mini golf.

Source: Instagram, posted on September 24th, 2022, Everglades National Park’s official profile.

  1. Everglades National Park

Experience Everglades National Park for yourself to see why it is often described as Florida’s biggest natural wonder.

Everglades National Park is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States and is home to rare and endangered species, such as the American crocodile, manatee, and Florida panther. A guided boat tour in the Gulf Coast area is a must-do, as you will learn about life in the Everglades and may be fortunate enough to spot dolphins or manatees in the water.

A World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve, the Everglades is one of the most unique natural attractions in the US. After all, it is the only destination on the planet where crocodiles and alligators coexist. If you would like to spot the large reptiles in their natural habitat, don’t overlook Anhinga Trail to get up close along your walk, and you must be extra careful during a hike.

Source: Instagram, posted on September 22nd, 2022, Dry Tortugas’ official profile.

  1. Florida’s Coral Reef

Florida’s Coral Reef system is one-of-a-kind, and you can experience it from different locations across the Sunshine State, including Biscayne Bay, Dry Tortugas, and the Florida Keys.

Florida’s Coral Reef is the only system of its kind in the continental United States, which is spread across 350 miles from Dry Tortugas to St. Lucie Inlet. It is home to more than 40 reef-building corals that provide millions of animals and plant life with food, shelter, and breeding sites.

There are many destinations to see Florida’s Coral Reef for yourself, such as Biscayne Bay and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. One destination you should visit is the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary to explore the underwater world, wearing a snorkel, mask, flippers, and a wetsuit. It is a natural experience you will remember forever.

Instagram, posted on September 14th, 2022, Naples Botanical Garden’s official profile.

  1. Naples Botanical Garden

Naples Botanical Garden is an educational, relaxing destination for every age, featuring beautiful, rare, and endangered plant species that create this vibrant tropical paradise.

Naples Botanical Garden is one of the most visually stunning spots in all of Florida. The 170-acre subtropical museum and preserve feature beautiful plants and cultures of the tropics, which will make you feel at one with nature.

It is a gorgeous location for connecting with nature, making memories with loved ones, and learning about plant species in danger of extinction, such as seed-bearing plants. Also, it provides a host of educational programs, activities, and events to help children develop an appreciation for the natural world.

Source: Instagram, posted on December 24th, 2019, FL State Parks’ official profile.

  1. Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park

Spot rare, threatened, and endangered species in their natural habitat at Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park or gaze up at the stars that shine much brighter at nightfall.

It is impossible not to fall in love with Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park, which offers almost endless grassland, endangered species, and extensive walking trails. Avid birdwatchers, photographers, and nature lovers are sure to fall in love with the wide-open landscape, which serves as a home for rare and threatened wildlife, such as the Florida grasshopper sparrow and burrowing owl.

Visitors have a choice of activities that will make them feel closer to nature, such as camping, bicycling, boating, fishing, kayaking, and more. Also, Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park is internationally renowned for its lack of light pollution, meaning visitors can spot the Milky Way without using binoculars or a telescope.

Source: Instagram, posted on September 9th, 2022, Biscayne National Park Institute’s official profile.

  1. Biscayne National Park

Biscayne National Park not only houses various ecosystems but takes the time and effort to protect them, creating a flourishing environment for its wildlife.

Biscayne National Park is the embodiment of 10,000 years of human history, as it tells the story of pre-historic tribes, pineapple farmers, and US maritime history. Visitors have the option to embark on its Maritime Heritage Trail, which is an opportunity to explore six shipwrecks that have remained in the water for almost a century.

What’s more, Biscayne National Park protects an incredible four ecosystems that blend into each other to support various wildlife, such as sea turtles, manatees, many fish and bird species, and insects and plants indigenous to the United States.

Boca Chita Key is the most visited island inside the park, as it features a historic lighthouse dating back to the late 1930s. However, visitors shouldn’t overlook Elliott Key. Once a pineapple farming community, it is now a scenic spot for picnicking, swimming, camping, hiking, and wildlife watching.

Source: Instagram, posted on September 28th, 2020, Big Cypress NPS’ official profile.

  1. Big Cypress National Preserve

The vast and beautiful Big Cypress National Preserve in south Florida is the US’s first national preserve. It offers a rugged landscape, outdoor adventures, and a peaceful environment to help you connect with nature.

Nature lovers will feel right at home at Big Cypress National Preserve, as there is so much to see and do during a visit. If you can pull your eyes away from the striking backdrop, you can enjoy many fun outdoor activities at your leisure, such as paddling, boating, canoeing, birdwatching, and hiking.

Despite its undeniable natural beauty, it isn’t overrun with crowds, and you may even feel like you have the preserve to yourself, depending on when you visit. Yet, you can guarantee plenty of people will be exploring the stunning swamp, as it spans 729,000 acres and welcomes more than a million visitors annually.

Source: Instagram, posted on March 12th, 2022, Visit Florida’s official profile.

  1. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Visit Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge to enjoy scenic walking and hiking trails, which are an ideal place to spot beautiful and endangered birds and wildlife in a natural, protected habitat.

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is 60 miles east of Orlando along the beautiful coast and is now one of the most productive estuaries in the United States. A little off the beaten path, it is one of the quietest natural spots on this list, but this isn’t a reflection of the beauty and wildlife that it offers in droves.

Birdwatchers will relish an opportunity to visit this natural attraction, as it strives to conserve and protect migratory birds, as well as other endangered and threatened wildlife species, to provide a safe wildlife habitat and ensure their survival and growth.

Source: Instagram, posted on April 16th, 2022, St George Island FL’s official profile.

  1. St. George Island

St George Island is a 22-mile barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico, featuring stunning beaches and a chance to enjoy fun activities in the glorious Florida sunshine.

Natural attractions come in different forms in the Sunshine State, from lush preserves to expansive state parks. While Florida isn’t overrun with beaches, some spots provide a beautiful slice of paradise in the glorious sunshine.

If your idea of absorbing nature is lounging on a visually beautiful beach, there is no reason to look beyond St George Island. It is home to many unspoiled, serene beaches without annoying crowds. Visitors can enjoy many fun activities in the outdoors, providing a much-needed escape from modern technology. For instance, it is a gorgeous spot for swimming, paddling, fishing, kayaking, cycling, boating, and, of course, castle-building. Alternatively, you can relax on the sandy beach to soak up the sun.

Explore the best of the Sunshine State by visiting the above destinations on your travels. Rest assured, you will fall in love with Florida’s diverse, historic landscape that continues to provide fun, family-friendly activities for many personalities and interests. You might love it so much that you’ll decide to move to Florida!

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Posted By The Fashionable Housewife
on September 30, 2022 at 9:11 AM
Filed Under: Travel
Tagged With: Florida, nature, travel, Travel Advice, travel destinations, travel tips, traveling, traveling tips

About The Fashionable Housewife

Sarah-Jean Ballard is the Editor in Chief of The Fashionable Housewife blog and Founder of Fashionable Media. Married to a sexy Molecular Biologist, housewife, mom to 5, homeschooler, Certified Personal Nutritionist and entrepreneur who's mission is to help moms just like you look and feel GREAT! Other interests include dancing, yoga, positive intactivism, natural birth and breastfeeding support, babywearing, paleo & gluten-free cooking, and promoting an overall healthy lifestyle to all.

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The Fashionable Housewife is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for blogs and websites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. We also participate in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes get a commission on purchases made through our links. There is no extra cost to you! For more info, please see our Disclosure & Privacy Policy.

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Sarah-Jean Ballard

Hi! I’m Sarah-Jean. I’m a Christian, the wife of a handsome Molecular Biologist, and the homeschooling mother of 5 beautiful kids!

I enjoy homesteading, reading, writing, cooking, baking, crafting, home decorating, Xtend Barre, and of course, fashion!

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You do not find a happy life. You make it. 

That’s the biggest lesson that grief has taught me. If I just wait around to be happy again, I’ll die sad. 

You don’t get through grief and come out the other side. That’s not how it works. You learn how to grow around it like a tree grows around a rock that’s in the way. You don’t wait for the rock to move. Cause it’s not gonna. 

Choose happy. And then make it happen. 

#choosehappy #joyinthejourney #griefjourney #healingfromtrauma
8 billion smiles in the world, but his is my favor 8 billion smiles in the world, but his is my favorite. 

Happy Valentine’s Day, @daeinexplains 🥰

The last 20 years with you have been my favorite years on this earth. ❤️ 

If I did anything right in my life, it was when I decided to give my heart to you.  You are my best friend, my soul mate, my better half, my rock, my everything. 

I love you.

#couplegoals #marriedlife #motherhoodthroughinstagram #weddingday #marriagegoals #yourestilltheone
Kids love helping if you just let them!💁🏼‍ Kids love helping if you just let them!💁🏼‍♀️

This little guy always asks to help when he sees me cleaning the house, washing the floors, doing laundry, or emptying the dishwasher. That’s what I love about Montessori parenting - it allows kids to do  big jobs and in turn makes them eager to help! 

He was over the moon when we gave him the @lovevery floor mop that actually works! He uses it daily now. The mopping pad is machine washable and you can refill the fluid container on it. I usually just do water and a drop of essential oils because he loves it when everything smells clean! 😜 

Definitely recommend! If you want to grab this mop for your little helper, it’s in the Storyteller Play Kit from Lovevery for 3 year olds. 

LlNK is in my bio to get FREE shipping! 💃🏼

#lovevery #loveverytoddler #loveverypartner #montessoriathome #montessoriplayroom #montessoritoddler
Stop trying to fit your square self in a round hol Stop trying to fit your square self in a round hole. 

Sometimes we outgrown relationships. Sometimes we realize someone else isn’t a good influence on our lives. Sometimes we realize we aren’t a good influence for someone else. Sometimes we need to let things go that aren’t good for us in order to grow. And that’s ok. 

Stop trying to sit at a table you are no longer welcome at. Just be yourself, focus on God, love your family and friends, and the right people will gravitate to you. ✌🏻 

#raisingsaints #momlife #motherhoodunplugged #selflovejourney #growingpains #selfcaresunday
When your toaster breaks from a power surge you ta When your toaster breaks from a power surge you take that as a sign that it’s time to upgrade! 🤪

It wasn’t hard to pick a new 4 slice toaster. As soon as I saw this one from @haden_usa I added it to my cart. I bought it from @lordandtaylor because it had the fastest shipping and I didn’t want to wait! 

No fancy electronics, screens, or extra features we don’t need. Just simple, straight forward functions and perfect results everytime. Plus it matches all my @cafeappliances too! 😂👍🏻

What do you think of this 4 slice toaster?! 

#toasters #kitchenappliances #kitchendesign #kitchendecor #whitekitchen #farmhousekitchen #farmhousestyle #whiteappliances
I’m obsessed with these leather booties from @en I’m obsessed with these leather booties from @enjoiya! 💃🏼 

The “Steffi” in green are the perfect boots for ushering in spring weather with their delicious vintage leather and worn-in look right out of the box. I love the chunky lug soles and inside zippers to get them on and off easily. 

These are the boots you’ll want to wear again and again. And again. 

Use my coupon code BALLARD20 to get 20% off your order! Find them on www.enjoiya.com

#leatherbooties #enjoiya #italianshoes #realmomstyle #momstyle #momstyletips
All the poop shoveling doesn’t seem so bad with All the poop shoveling doesn’t seem so bad with the prices of eggs right now! 🤪 🐔 🥚 

Guess it’s ok to be a crazy chicken lady and have a homestead now! 🤣

#momlife #crazychickenlady #homesteadlife
I’m addicted and I just can’t get enough 😂🫣

I’m loving my no -toxic, non-stick cookware from @caraway_home  It’s as beautiful as it is easy to cook with. And it makes my kitchen look prettier too! 💁🏼‍♀️

Want to learn more about why I’m obsessed with these pots and pans? Visit my blog and search CARAWAY! Or scroll through my feed! 🥳

#homemaker #housewifelife #homestyler #momlife
Today was my due date for Dylan. Considering he w Today was my due date for Dylan.

Considering he was my 6th child, it's possible he would have been here by now. It’s been extra hard for me this week. 

Despite my best efforts to be strong and stay positive, I am completely brokenhearted. I’m just being honest. I could pretend I’m fine, but that doesn't do me or anyone else any good to be dishonest about the pain of miscarriage or the grief that comes with losing a child. 

My heart is completely shattered from having an empty womb and an empty nursery. An empty bassinet in the corner and unused tiny newborn outfits, all washed, folded, and ready… for nothing. 

It makes me physically sick to my stomach when I think about it all and I can't even fathom how I got here. How did I get here? 

This isn't how it's supposed to be! I should be holding a newborn right now! It’s so unfair. 

In an instant, my baby was gone and there was nothing I could do to change that. 

It doesn't matter how much time passes or what else happens in life, I will always miss him. My heart with always long for my baby. 

Those who haven't experienced loss tell you that "Don’t worry! Things will get better, just focus on the positive!" but people who actually know this grief and what it actually feels like to lose a baby, won’t tell you that. They know this hard road. They understand that unfortunately you don't just “get over it.” 

The grief doesn't just go away, even if you try to ignore it, it's still there. Like the sun. You don’t have to look at it to know it’s there. You can turn your back on it but it will still warm your skin. 

The grief from losing a child is unbearable. 
It is unpredictable.
It is unforgiving.
It is relentless.
It is all-consuming.
And it completely shatters you when you don’t expect it. 

You don’t get over it. You don’t forget. You simply learn to live with it. And I’m learning to live with it every day. 

It’s been 137 days I’ve had to live without my baby. 

Lord Jesus, please… hold me extra tight tonight. 

#babyloss #babylossawareness #babylosssupport #babylosscommunity #babylosssurvivor #stillbornstillloved #stillbornawareness #stillbirth #miscarriagesupport #miscarriageawareness

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You do not find a happy life. You make it. 

That’s the biggest lesson that grief has taught me. If I just wait around to be happy again, I’ll die sad. 

You don’t get through grief and come out the other side. That’s not how it works. You learn how to grow around it like a tree grows around a rock that’s in the way. You don’t wait for the rock to move. Cause it’s not gonna. 

Choose happy. And then make it happen. 

#choosehappy #joyinthejourney #griefjourney #healingfromtrauma
8 billion smiles in the world, but his is my favor 8 billion smiles in the world, but his is my favorite. 

Happy Valentine’s Day, @daeinexplains 🥰

The last 20 years with you have been my favorite years on this earth. ❤️ 

If I did anything right in my life, it was when I decided to give my heart to you.  You are my best friend, my soul mate, my better half, my rock, my everything. 

I love you.

#couplegoals #marriedlife #motherhoodthroughinstagram #weddingday #marriagegoals #yourestilltheone
Kids love helping if you just let them!💁🏼‍ Kids love helping if you just let them!💁🏼‍♀️

This little guy always asks to help when he sees me cleaning the house, washing the floors, doing laundry, or emptying the dishwasher. That’s what I love about Montessori parenting - it allows kids to do  big jobs and in turn makes them eager to help! 

He was over the moon when we gave him the @lovevery floor mop that actually works! He uses it daily now. The mopping pad is machine washable and you can refill the fluid container on it. I usually just do water and a drop of essential oils because he loves it when everything smells clean! 😜 

Definitely recommend! If you want to grab this mop for your little helper, it’s in the Storyteller Play Kit from Lovevery for 3 year olds. 

LlNK is in my bio to get FREE shipping! 💃🏼

#lovevery #loveverytoddler #loveverypartner #montessoriathome #montessoriplayroom #montessoritoddler
Stop trying to fit your square self in a round hol Stop trying to fit your square self in a round hole. 

Sometimes we outgrown relationships. Sometimes we realize someone else isn’t a good influence on our lives. Sometimes we realize we aren’t a good influence for someone else. Sometimes we need to let things go that aren’t good for us in order to grow. And that’s ok. 

Stop trying to sit at a table you are no longer welcome at. Just be yourself, focus on God, love your family and friends, and the right people will gravitate to you. ✌🏻 

#raisingsaints #momlife #motherhoodunplugged #selflovejourney #growingpains #selfcaresunday
When your toaster breaks from a power surge you ta When your toaster breaks from a power surge you take that as a sign that it’s time to upgrade! 🤪

It wasn’t hard to pick a new 4 slice toaster. As soon as I saw this one from @haden_usa I added it to my cart. I bought it from @lordandtaylor because it had the fastest shipping and I didn’t want to wait! 

No fancy electronics, screens, or extra features we don’t need. Just simple, straight forward functions and perfect results everytime. Plus it matches all my @cafeappliances too! 😂👍🏻

What do you think of this 4 slice toaster?! 

#toasters #kitchenappliances #kitchendesign #kitchendecor #whitekitchen #farmhousekitchen #farmhousestyle #whiteappliances
I’m obsessed with these leather booties from @en I’m obsessed with these leather booties from @enjoiya! 💃🏼 

The “Steffi” in green are the perfect boots for ushering in spring weather with their delicious vintage leather and worn-in look right out of the box. I love the chunky lug soles and inside zippers to get them on and off easily. 

These are the boots you’ll want to wear again and again. And again. 

Use my coupon code BALLARD20 to get 20% off your order! Find them on www.enjoiya.com

#leatherbooties #enjoiya #italianshoes #realmomstyle #momstyle #momstyletips
All the poop shoveling doesn’t seem so bad with All the poop shoveling doesn’t seem so bad with the prices of eggs right now! 🤪 🐔 🥚 

Guess it’s ok to be a crazy chicken lady and have a homestead now! 🤣

#momlife #crazychickenlady #homesteadlife
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