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Local Secrets, Big Finds - Florida

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Tell us about an insider spot in your hometown.
For more travel tips visit Amy Ziff's monthly column, Travel Trends & Advice from A to Z, or visit IgoUgo to get recommendations from other travelers.
Amy Ziff
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The Egans Creek Greenway
Fernandina Beach

904.277.7350
This 300-acre park teems with an abundance of wildlife, and is a serene place for anyone who wants to hike, bike, or simply stroll from sunrise to sunset. The barrier island’s trails take you through a saltwater estuary that is home to river otters, alligators, deer, fox, bobcats, and other native species. Birders with keen eyes will also spy great blue herons and eagles. Since the land is fragile, please observe all trail rules and pack out what you bring in. Read more.
Local Secrets, Big Finds - Florida

Cabbage Key Inn
Pineland

239.283.2278
On this little island, there are no cars or roads, and you can only get there by boat across waters renowned for sportfishing. Once you arrive, you’ll find a "quirky little restaurant and inn." The resort building dates to the 30s and sits atop an Indian shell mound, and on the walls of the bar are thousands of dollar bills (over 50,000, at last count) that visitors over the years have signed and contributed. Local legend has it that Jimmy Buffet wrote the song "Cheeseburger in Paradise" here while taking in the Cabbage Key views. Read more.

Mr. Bones BBQ
Holmes Beach

941.778.6614
Got a hankering for beer and "amazing" ribs in a funky atmosphere? Head to the ever-quirky Mr. Bones, with its voodoo dolls, tiki heads, and a coffin as a beer cooler?oh, and then there’s the BBQ, which is authentic and completely homemade. The chefs are from New Orleans and clearly know their way around the grill. Set in Holmes Beach, it’s not too far from Sarasota to reach this "small, but family-oriented" restaurant that’s sure to be "one of the most off-the-wall barbecue places" you’ll ever visit.
Local Secrets, Big Finds - Florida

The Underwater Music Festival
Big Pine Key

305.872.2411
You don’t have to have gills to get in on this "wacky Florida Keys event." All you need is a snorkel or dive mask, and a sense of adventure. In addition to the underwater art gallery and reef conservation messaging and information, this underwater radio station features an unusual, "submerged symphony." Located approximately six miles south of Big Pine Key, this "tradition" is a unique chance to check out the scuba-diving Elvis impersonator, who might have you thinking the King is "alive and playing underwater guitar." Read more.

U-Pick Blueberry Festival
Gainesville

352.336.1112
Like Violet Beauregarde in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, you might feel like turning into a big blueberry after a day immersed in the fresh fruit. The annual pick-your-own blueberry festival is a great place for "meeting local people" and for "listening to good music." But perhaps best of all, those who go "are supporting organic farming in a small town." The fruit produced at this 106-acre farm is certified organic and packed with antioxidants, plus it’s absolutely delicious to boot.
Local Secrets, Big Finds - Florida