40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (2024)

The top stops along the way from St. Augustine to Natchez (with short detours) are National Naval Aviation Museum, Panama City Beach, and USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park. Other popular stops include Fort Clinch State Park, Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, and Pensacola Beach.

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Fort Clinch State Park

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State park

Nature & Parks

Fort Clinch State Park is a large Florida state park that includes the Fort Clinch, built in 1847 after the end of the Second Seminole War. The park features 1,400 acres of natural Florida wildlife and coastal land with trails to explore below the canopy.

This park and the Fort are very nice. This was my first time visiting Amelia island and Fernandina beach. It cost $6 to get in the park and another $3 to enter the fort.You do a self guided tour of the fort. There are cannons there on the top of the fort walls. The buildings have been restored so you can see how this fort was lived in and used to defend the island.If you are in the area visit this fort. I did not get to see the park, but it sure looked pretty.

V Bennett — Google review

I Absolutely Love This State Park! Well Maintained and Clean. The Staff are Amazing... Friendly and Happy to Talk about the History of the Fort. The Fort is a Must See and the Beach is So Beautiful. Can't wait to come back when i have more time and walk the long trail. Definitely a must see if you are in the area!

Anita Waters — Google review

Went to this park for the first time recently and it is a great park. There are some amazing beaches with nice easy access as well as the first itself. There are also many campsites for both campers and tents however I didn’t camp overnight so couldn’t speak to the overnight accommodations. As for the fort, it’s definitely worth checking out. I’ve been to several historic forts in Florida and this was definitely my favorite. It’s very in tact compared to what I expected after seeing others.

Matt Rodeghero — Google review

Absolutely love camping here when we can get a spot. It doesn’t matter if you are in the river campground or the beach campground, they are both very close to the beach. Only electric and water at each campsite but the dump station is easily accessible and is not next to any RV sites.Very clean restrooms that are cleaned daily with bleach. Good ventilation so the floors dry. Campground hosts available for any issues.

Susan Baker — Google review

I love this place so much. The wooded, moss-covered drive to the fort is breathtaking, and the fort itself is absolutely gorgeous and so well-kept! The history is fascinating, and the views are amazing. Kids and adults alike will enjoy Fort Clinch!

Jenny Lundy — Google review

If you were a fan of history this is a must visit. Usually the line of cars waiting to get in are heading to the beach and not to the fort. So you can have a great day out with the family at an attraction like this without the crowds. And then when you’re done it’s a short walk over to the beach. Facilities are limited bring your own picnic lunch and water

Peter Templeton — Google review

This state park is gorgeous. The beach is gorgeous, pristine, and has TONS of shells. The fort is amazing to explore and walk through, and their prices are extremely reasonable. We spent hours here and enjoyed all of it. The fort can take hours to explore, and we spent hours walking the beach and collecting shells. I would visit again in a heartbeat and hope to the next time we make a trip down this way. The restrooms were nice and clean, and the gift shop had great prices. I absolutely loved the fort and being able to walk around in it freely. There are some areas not allowed to be explored, but most of it is, and it's so worth the stop. We stopped as it was the first beach in Florida on our way down, and our daughter wanted to see the ocean for the first time. I'm so glad we made the choice to stop here.

Rachel Baumgartner — Google review

We absolutely loved our experience here. We really enjoyed getting to explore the Fort inside and out. The Fort had some really neat brickwork and architecture. There were SO many great photo opportunities! We hunted for shark teeth on the beach by the fort but we didnt find any. We took the smaller nature trail (Willow Trail) and it was very nice and and easy walk. The Egan's look out was nice as well. It's a beautiful 3 mile drive from the gate to the fort. We highly recommend the Fort and park in general for an inexpensive nice day of exploring! It costs $6 to enter the park and $2.50 per person for the Fort. Well worth it!!!

Rachael Sandefur — Google review

The drive in is absolutely gorgeous, canopied oaks with deer peeking out. The fort itself is a very cool piece of history. Standing beside some of those gun batteries does not make you envious of an assaulting force. Multiple jetties to fish and a ton of coastline battered with shells by the raging Atlantic. The hiking and biking trails are well cut and easy to share, I was on foot this trip. Not far from here you can drive on the beach, in a much more relaxed environment than Daytona ever is. Really. Great facilities, as most of Florida’s State Parks do. Will definitely be a return trip someday!

Walt Wunderly — Google review

One awesome experience. Probably my favorite of the 3 forts we have here in NE Florida. It's not only larger then both Castillo in St Augustine and Matanzas, but also located at a beach which you have access to. The barracks are in great conditions and the staff are dressed for the period, and are very knowledgeable. Great views from the Fort and cannons. You can see the FL/GA line too as GA is on the other side of the water. Its really affordable too, at around 2.50 entry per person plus the park charges $5 per vehicle to enter the park. Check the hours as the park stays open later than Fort.

Igor Vieira — Google review

This state park is a wonderful and vast state park that everyone should be sure to visit. It is a long beautiful drive in with smaller access roads breaking from man road leading to campsites and trail heads. At the end of the road there is Fort Clinch. The fort is well maintained with nice bathrooms in the front, a small gift shop where souvenirs or camping needs can be purchased. The fort is an additional charge to visit.

CMB Caspanello — Google review

Very easy access and an informative self guided tour. The grounds are immaculately taken care of. The gift shop has a well stocked selection of very affordable items. This is a must visit location when visiting Amelia Island.

Terri Austin — Google review

This fort was built strong and proud. Those who served here had amenities and thoughtful fort design to live a pretty nice life. Absolutely worth visiting. The drive into the fort was beautiful. Great lighthouse nearby.

Tamara Zelaya — Google review

I love this park! So much to do! Nature trails, the fort, the beach etc The scenery is so beautiful and we even saw some deer the other evening while headed to the East access beach! Great for finding seashells! One of the best spots for shells I've found yet! Found 2 sand dollars and a bunch of conchs!!

Vanessa May — Google review

One of the best fort museums I have been to. It's 6 bucks to get a car into the park and another $2.50 per person for the fort. The museum is small but informative. What makes this fort so great is pretty much everything is open to the public. Some rooms were blocked off but you could climb the bastions or walk the walls. Barracks spaces and office spaces were open, too. The view is also spectacular. And once you are done, you are just minutes from a beach to hang out on.

Shaun K. — Google review

We stayed beachside in spot #9. This park is absolutely beautiful. Deer, tortoises, birds, and amazing sunsets. Park was very well kept with clean facilities throughout. Super impressed!

Jennifer Clark-Jeffers — Google review

I am a giant history buff and I usually love places like this but it's a big NO for me. DEFINITELY HAUNTED. 💯 my husband and I were so uncomfortable by the paranormal feelings we were experiencing we had to leave. As we were leaving I did some research and apparently it's one of the most well known haunted places in the area (not advertised that way!!) We had our boys with us ages 2 and 6 and it was absolutely NOT SAFE for them.

Serenity Scofield — Google review

My family absolutely loves Fort Clinch.I wouldn’t recommend going in the summer because it’s insanely hot but if you can go in the fall it’s an amazing day trip! You can walk around the beach, there’s a small kids park and there are so many different nooks and crannies to discover in the fort. And if you’re there on a reenactment day it’s so exciting. We also started the junior ranger program for our kids on this trip and they were able to obtain Fort Clinch patches.

Ashley Minor — Google review

Great state park to go camp at. Though if you go during the summer, I recommend camping in the River loop because there is hardly any shade on the beach loop, though being a telescope if you are by the beach, some good night star viewing. The fort itself is also very worth the visit to learn about weapons and history of fort life, they also do a number of reenactments every month so check the calender, they'll demonstrate firing of the weapons including a cannon. Also take some time to bike or walk the nature trails and beaches, as they provide a chance for some solitude and reflection

Victor Alvarez — Google review

This park is gorgeous! From towering dunes to ancient oak trees to a historical fort, it is an incredibly diverse location with rich natural resources and broad appeal. As a birder, I was excited to have a variety of preserved habitats. The marshy overlook had great shorebirds and the extensive hardwood canopy was a sure bet for warblers and other passerines. The shoreline was great for seabirds, shorebirds and sharks’ teeth. There is a narrow multi-use path for bicyclists and pedestrians that runs through the park. During our visit, we only used small stretches of the path to access some of the views, but it looked amazing. The only negative is that this place gets packed, and during peak times, closes to new visitors to limit capacity. There seems to be a lot of zippy traffic on the road and I could never figure out why people are in such a hurry when there is so much beauty even on the main road. If you’re in the area and are a nature lover, this should definitely be on your list!

Stephanie Parker — Google review

This was our first time to visit this place. The entrance was very cheap to go in and the site was very interesting. Most areas of the fort can be accessed by the public. They keep on restoring the original site and I can't wait to go back and see you when it's fully done. I think 42 adults and 2 children it costs us about 20 to $25. I recommend checking this place out because it's a good part of American history. There are restrooms at the visitors center only.

Erastos Evdoxiadis — Google review

Sublime and relaxing. Canopy of trees with Spanish Moss and Palmetto everywhere. Facilities include bright and clean bathrooms with shower stalls, washers and dryers ($2 per load) The fort is a major draw and the river has sandy beach along its shoreline. Plenty of hiking trails. A bike is a good have as the place is huge.

Liston Bevard — Google review

It's a very nice park with several RV camping area and ALOT of shoreline to walk through. There's also Ft Clinch, which is still standing and in fairly good shape. The beach areas were very nice. There's a small gift shop that is surprisingly well stocked. My wife and I enjoyed our visit there!

peter pinkham — Google review

Wonderful time visiting this fort with our family. Highly recommend this historical site for a visit as the views overlooking the ocean is amazing. Lots of artifacts and history to see and learn.

Blue & Green Traveling Team — Google review

My husband and I, always eager for a daytime adventure, found ourselves drawn to Fort Clinch State Park during our stay in Amelia Island. We had driven past it a few times and curiosity got the better of us - a decision we’re now incredibly grateful for. The park not only offered excellent campgrounds but also revealed itself to be a historic gem.Upon entering, we were immediately struck by how well-preserved the fort is. It’s like stepping into a different era. The museum-like demonstrations are exceptionally well done. We explored the sleeping quarters, kitchens, latrines, jailhouse, storage areas, and even a store and steelworks. Also several real life artillery and cannons were on display. Each section was an insightful glimpse into the past, making it easy to imagine life during those times. The attention to detail in these demonstrations was remarkable, offering a vivid and educational experience.The most captivating aspect of Fort Clinch is how it immerses you in history. It’s not just about seeing; it’s about feeling the past around you. We spent hours wandering through the grounds, absorbing every detail, and left with a newfound appreciation for the history of the area.Our visit to Fort Clinch has inspired us to plan a camping trip there on our next visit to Amelia Island. The thought of spending a night under the stars, surrounded by such rich history, is thrilling. We highly recommend Fort Clinch to anyone visiting Amelia Island, whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a unique way to spend your day. It’s a must-visit destination that offers a perfect blend of education, nature, and adventure.

Ladybug Mobile Notary — Google review

The park was great to ride our bicycles around. We also went to thevactual Fort at this state park. They had bicycle racks there too. My husband said this was the best fort that made him feel like you could be right there with the soldiers. Very well maintained! Canons overlooking the water. Bunk house with gun rack at the end of the beds for soldiers to put their weapons. Kitchen was set up with huge pots, cooking utensils of the day. Well worth the price of admission!

C. E. — Google review

Must see while visiting Fernandina Beach. Spectacular and amazing site to see. Very well kept and clean! The park entrance fee is $6 per car and the Fort Clinch entrance fee is $2.50 per person. Very much worth the cost. You are able to access most of the buildings on the fort. I was surprised how open and accessible it was.

Sandi — Google review

This was a nice sized fort. It had a lot of cool buildings with what felt like secret passageways. Lots to explore here. If you are on Amelia Island, it's a great place to check out.

Laura H — Google review

4.8

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4.5

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2601 Atlantic Ave, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA

(904) 277-7274

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The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary

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Wildlife refuge

Nature & Parks

Nature & Wildlife Areas

The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary is a place where rescued exotic cats, such as tigers, lions, and pumas live in a beautiful and sustainable environment. The ranch can be visited with guided tours day or night, during which visitors learn about the animals and their natural habitats.

What a really cool place to see big cats and other wildlife. To be fair there's not a lot to do other than looking, but it's a good cause that we like so it was fun for us just to look at the tigers and other cats. On Sundays they do enrichment activities which would add a lot more entertainment value. The cost for entry is very inexpensive and supports the cats, if you like cats or your kids do, I highly recommend.

mike johnson — Google review

After seeing many zoos and rescues while visiting Florida, I will have to say Catty Shack was one of the most refreshing and caring. Staff was funny and the big cats seemed to just love them! The big cats seemed to love and want the attention of staff, and the new enclosures they’re adding speak to their love for the cats at their facility. I went to the midday enrichment tour and loved it!

Marie Larson — Google review

We loved this place. The only reason that I'm giving it four stars is because the hours that they are open are the absolute hottest times of the day. So it felt like we were unable to see most of the animals as they were all hiding underneath their enclosures to stay cool. That was extremely disappointing. The staff was kind though. If you have any opportunity, I would go during the winter months so that way you have the opportunity to see the animals out and about.

Afton Lorenz — Google review

Okay so the first thing you should know is that the park is smack dab in the middle of a low-key cute residential area which totally threw us off. When we pulled up we were expecting a backyard zoo because of the location, but man were we were wrong. They said they have 200 acres or developing, right now I'd say it's probably more like 8 acres that they actually have built up. You can tell that they are trying their best to give the tigers a nice life with waterfalls, swimming pools, toys, cabins. There's a lot more than just tigers here, they've got a very cute black bear, a black leopard, and some other small cats. Including their resident kitty cat that roams fearlessly. We went for the feeding experience and it was absolutely worth it. We got so many amazing pictures, and got to see so many beautiful big cats. This is an absolutely excellent place to come with the whole family regardless of age. Don't forget to buy some T-shirts at the gift shop, or a stuffed animal for the kids because that small places like this, every dollar counts towards keeping it running. We're excited to come back in a couple of years and see all of the progress that they have made. (We live very far away)

E'ala Burgess — Google review

Such a fun place to visit! Highly recommend coming for the night feedings. Not only were the animals more active but you also get to speak with volunteers/employees and learn so much more than usual. The shack also has 3 cute house kitties running around that are so sweet too - definitely pet if you see them! Very cool preserve and will be coming back to support in the future.

Kendell — Google review

What a great place! The wonderful staff & volunteers are very knowledgeable, and take lots of time to talk to you. The big cats are very well taken care of and their habitats are clean.Thank you guys for all you for the critters, looking forward to my return visit. I wish I lived closer so I could volunteer and help you guys!

Denise Byrne — Google review

Such a great local hidden gem! If you're looking for a great way to support animals this place is a must see! Beautiful rescued tigers and other big cats. They're a volunteer based organization and working hard to provide these gorgeous creatures with new comfortable habitats to enjoy! A must see !

Renee K. — Google review

We took our family here as a birthday present to one of our girls. It is worth visiting at least once. Free mosquito spray available. If it has been raining bring footwear for mud and water. I am not sure the night feeding is worth the extra money to all but we were entertained. Think of it as a donation for a good cause. It took us about an hour to walk around and see everything before feeding time.

Cory B. — Google review

Catty shack was BEYOND AMAZING!!!! Not as huge as a zoo but well thought out and a lot of information that definitely makes it worth while! Very clean and well kept! Staff are very knowledgeable, and definitely love their job!!!! Best time to go is when it’s feeding time because let me tell ya hearing a lion eat is amazing! So majestic wouldn’t want to be the food but just amazing to see them! Highly recommend you stopping by and checking them out! Huge thank you to the staff that made me kids day!!!!

Brandon E — Google review

This was an awesome experience! It's better than a zoo. They have beautiful cats,a bear,foxes.,many more..a must visit! Well taken care of animals and beautiful property. The show,feeding the animals was amazing to watch..The caretakers,and owners were nice,friendly and very hands on. If you get a chance,visit...great place..and donate to them..they take very good care of the animals, some were abandoned, displaced..

Cathie — Google review

This place was amazing. I was a little hesitant when we pulled up, it doesn't look like it would be very much from the outside. But they have a lot of big cats it nice enclosures. Things are easy to see (if the cats aren't inside napping) and the people are amazing. The volunteers take time to talk to you about the animals and how they came there. You can tell everyone really loves what they do. Definitely a place to go.

Ryan E Voris — Google review

Went for their 7 PM feeding tonight. All the staff were great and the guy performing the feeding (I'm assuming he was the owner) was very informative and you could tell he loves what he does.The cats were awesome and it was great seeing them get all excited when it was feeding time.Overall I'd recommend checking them out. Great place to take the kids.

Nick Carson — Google review

We went to the evening feeding of the animals and it was extremely cool! We loved learning about all the residents and all the love and care they get while living in their new home. You can definitely tell that they are well cared for and loved! I enjoy taking my toddler to help not only learn about nature but gives her a chance to run around outside as well!

Jess Fix — Google review

I brought my family from out of state and we all had the best time. The volunteers are so knowledgeable and friendly and love to help and answer questions. The cats are so well cared for, that you can see for yourself they are happy and content. They don't just hide and sleep like at the zoos. We will come back for sure.

bruce bratcher — Google review

I have lived in Nassau County and Duval County my entire life and have failed to make it here until yesterday. It was a wonderful experience and I will certainly be back. We did the enrichment tour which was really fun as the cats got really excited about the boxes of chicken and were super active. The volunteers were really amazing and told us all about the cats and their personalities/ why the cats are at catty shack. It was a great time.

Sam B — Google review

Amazing place!! Get to be very up close to all the animals and see the workers interact with them. I've only been once but I got to see one of the workers pet the tigers and lions. The tigers were very active and got to hear them roar! They also have accommodation sunscreen and bug spray. Not a lot of walking, when I went it was very muddy but it has recently rained so I'm not too sure how it would be for wheelchairs.

Elijah — Google review

I really don't know why some people have given this sanctuary such low stars, this is a sanctuary not a zoo it isnt for entertainment! And do you think the places they got these animals from where better ...well that's a NO and we should be helpful that these animals have found a forever home :)The habitats are clean and well kept they are even adding waterfalls/pools to them !The staff/volunteers were so friendly and so informative !Please check out their Amazon wish list to help with items they need. They are a 501c and dont reveive government help !

Leslie ZP — Google review

Go on a cooler day and more animals will be out.We had a great time seeing some exotic animals and walking around the grounds.The people working are knowledgeable and willing to answer any questions.Complimentary bug spray and sunscreen at the front.Info on adopting or sponsoring an animal also at the front.

Sarh Max — Google review

First time here and loved it! The staff and volunteers were friendly and knowledgeable. They have ongoing construction as they are expanding. Also plan to build sticks and bricks to replace some structures that are trailers. Lots of kids. Reasonable price and worth the experience!

Denise F — Google review

This is hands down the coolest place to go. The knowledge that the staff has and the care that you can see that they have for the animals is unreal. I got to see an afternoon snack for the lions which was so cool. I also got to hear the lions roar which was seriously the most amazing things to hear ever. 20/10 recommend this place to go.

Paige Peery — Google review

These cats were well taken care of and they had a relationship with the volunteers they were interacting with. You could hear them chuffing & vocalizing with staff & they got excited when they saw them coming. It was educational and they were building even larger enclosures when we visited. The kids loved it! (Except when the lynx tried to back that thang up to spray my teenaged son for taking pictures too close...which made him drop his phone over the restricted fence line 🤣🤣🤣)

Vanessa Bettinger — Google review

We love this place. First time here. We enjoyed the animals. They are well taken care of. Can't wait to come back next year and see the new homes for them. Very nice place to visit. There is a gentleman there,don't know his name, but he was really nice and informative.

Lora Stew55 — Google review

It's a really cool place! A non profit big cat sanctuary that is a must go if you're in the Jacksonville area. They do great work for these endangered animals and the kids will love it too!

Ben Kickass — Google review

4.8

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5.0

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1860 Starratt Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32226, USA

(904) 757-3603

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Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

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Zoo

Zoos & Aquariums

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is a popular tourist attraction that showcases a variety of wildlife from around the world. The zoo features an impressive walking safari where visitors can view over 2,000 animals from across Africa and the Americas. There are also several gardens to explore, including a beautiful savanna blooms garden which celebrates the vibrant flowers found in Africa. The zoo is located on the banks of Trout River, just outside of Jacksonville, Florida.

I had solo blasting afternoon at the zoo to kill my time. I entered at 1.30 pm and I finished the trip at 5 pm on weekday and I covered most of it.Things to consider :—————————-- Book your tickets online in advance. They only accept cards every where no cash.- Get total experience ticket it’s worth every penny if you are visiting for the first time. It includes1) feeding of - string rays , birds , Giraffe.2) unlimited train rides.3) 4D theatre experience.Along with Zoo entrance.- You are allowed get your own food ( better option I feel )- Never miss 4D shows. Kids will love it . Go in advance if they say play is at 3 pm be there before 5 mins.——————————I love the fact that gardens are really maintained well and with this crazy hot around I enjoyed walking in the afternoon too.I love the fact that volunteers are really very friendly. It’s above 5 star for their attitude and kind gesture.Overall it’s bit pricey but you will enjoy the trip with your total experience package.

Asha Thakur — Google review

Tickets were $30 a person for general admission, and we bought ours in advance the night before. Had an absolutely amazing time and spent roughly 5 hours exploring. Got rained out once and it only added to the adventure. Everything here is so well organized and beautifully designed.

Bianca Moten — Google review

Exceptional zoo to visit, where from Michigan and me and my daughter went in 2022 in April and you definitely get the full activity out of the animals then, Took the wife and kids this year in July and the heat sure takes a toll, animals hide the heat wave but one of the best Zoo's I've been too. Prepare to spend around 5 hrs there to enjoy it all.

Nathan Jacobs — Google review

1000/10! The tickets that you purchase automatically include animal feedings which is incredible. Every single staff member we came into contact with was kind and genuinely seemed to enjoy their job. I absolutely love how when they designed this zoo they did so around the natural wildlife/world not the other way around. The animals were very well taken care of and also seemed to enjoy their habitats. They also did a great job of communicating if there was an animal not currently out for viewing why that was and when to expect them back. Great zoo!

Jordan G — Google review

I have to say this was a nice surprise. We decided to try to get in as soon as the park opened, this was a good thing since it was nice and cool out we got to see the cats during their feeding time so they were out and about. I definitely recommend going early. Such a beautiful layout and they’ve done a really nice job with this Zoo!!

Rachelle Marie — Google review

Jacksonville Zoo Color of the Wild was amazing!!! A must see for all ages. As you walk the zoo grounds, you will encounter the most incredible lantern displays. From veggies, to butterfly, to safari animal to under the sea, to enchanting Japanese dragons. INCREDIBLE!!!! Probably took about an hour forty five to walk. Wheel chair stroller accessible. Children area to explore and food and shopping. Starbucks at entry. Clean bathrooms throughout. Plenty of parking and attendants kept great flow bringing guest in and out. You can purchase ticket in advance on line. Check weather and dress accordingly.

Shari Mohrman — Google review

Pleasantly surprised! Friendly staff, well maintained.Was surprised to find out they don't take cash, you have to order you tickets in advance,even the gift shop only takes plastic, 😏The animals were all out, adequate romping room for all animals The staff were out on the grounds. Ready to answer any questions you have. Wear you're walking shoes place is huge. Expect to spend at least 3 plus hours. Pack your lunch, enjoy your day, bring your bugs spray. You may need it in certain areas. The time we went December wasn't cold, wasn't hot. It was just right. Was not overly crowded either. We had a very enjoyable day

Dee Riegel — Google review

This zoo is PERFECT! Just the right size for a day trip. It’s easy to get from one part to the next. I recommend taking the train as soon as you enter so you can start at the furthest part then work your way in. Everything is priced extremely well. The splash pad is so perfect to just get your feet wet or let the kiddos get full out soaked. The staff was very accommodating and the full experience was well worth it. The animals are well cared for and had great exhibits.

Alisa MacQuinn — Google review

This is a very nice zoo with a good layout. Nice easy walks along paved paths and boardwalks. Very clean. A wonderful assortment of animals, birds, reptiles, etc. most free to roam in large open areas. Restrooms are available in several areas. There were a few different places to grab either specific things like ice cream and sweets, or an order and take your meal to outside tables. Tickets seem a bit pricey and MUST BE ORDERED ONLINE so it’s best, and cheaper, to order in advance. If you buy on the day you go, they add on $5 per ticket. Also an additional $10 per ticket if you purchase the ‘total experience’ as opposed to ‘general admission’. Check out the benefits of that on the website. I purchased a senior total experience ticket the day I was going and it was 42.95. It is a great place that wasn’t too crowded and was wonderful to stroll the grounds and ride the train to the other end of the park and back at my leisure!!

Beryl Lima — Google review

Great day all around. Although the rain was messy, the showers were scattered so it left a fall like temperature and breeze behind. Not too hot. Plus, the animals had been inside mostly due to rain so they were all out moving and stretching their legs for us to enjoy.... quite nice ..... next time.... give a rainy day a try

Michael Roberts — Google review

If you haven't been to the zoo lately, you should go! The newer habitats are amazing! The food at the Trout River Grill has had a makeover and my burger and fries were delicious! The bathroom facilities could use a little TLC and some of the older habitats could use some attention. Overall it was a great visit!

Keira Packard — Google review

We drive from middle GA to visit this zoo often. Definitely one of our faves! We love the 4D theatre and train ride. The various events definitely enhance the attractions. I’ve done date nights, family outings and girls nights out here and all have been great!

Monet Chapman — Google review

Colors of the wild was amazing. Way better than the normal zoo lights. Great for any age. The zoo signed a 3 year contract so its coming back the next 2 years. Its a separate ticket from the regular zoo ticket but worth it.

Dustin M — Google review

This Zoo is huge. The train ride was beautiful and so much fun! Also very informative. There are 2 places to get on and off. Me and my family spent almost 6 hours here, that was getting to see everything and eat. So it will make a day full. You can get closer to the animals than any zoo I have been too. It was really neat. I would say order your tickets online! I'm so glad we did. Also get the Total Experience! It is so worth it!

Brooke Pearson — Google review

It's always nice to spend the day with my grandkids. Nice friendly staff and lots of animals to see. Tickets are purchased online only. I purchased the adult total experience for 32.95. Includes 4D Theater, Unlimited Train, Unlimited Carousel Rides, and Animal Feedings (limited). Zoo hours are 9am-5pm

lorenda S Ashley — Google review

Nice well kept zoo. We visited right before their holiday lights events so got to see some of them in the daylight. Staff was kind. The park was calm and relaxing. Music was delightful. I wish there was a two day ticket option at a discount.

Samantha Henninger — Google review

Beautiful zoo. We enjoyed the train ride. The kids splash area was a wonderful perk. My kids enjoyed petting the sting rays, and feeding the giraffes. Wasn't overly crowded. Zoo keepers were all very friendly and pleasant.

ashley Castillo — Google review

You have to buy your tickets online. I don't know if that was just that day or that it is like that all the time. It was easy to pay online if you have a phone and enternet. Feeding the giraffe was the best part of the whole experience. The whole experience package is so worth the extra $10 bucks. You get the train, feedings, and so much more. Water was $5, but that's at any event really these days.

Jessica Shelton — Google review

Great place to take kids! This is the first time I went to a reptile exhibit that did not smell. Animals looked healthy and well taken care of. The staff was friendly and super nice. They have a new baby jaguar that is so adorable.

Renee Pascua — Google review

Beautiful zoo! Great spaces for all the amazing animals! We did the total experience. It was a little pricey, but it got us access to participate in all the animal feedings, the 4D 20-minute movie experience, and unlimited rides on the carousel and train that goes around the entire park. Would definitely recommend if traveling in the area! My wife and I loved it!

Rory Mathes — Google review

One of the best zoos I have been too. the staff first of all is Amazing 🤩🤩🤩 EVERYONE was very friendly, and helpful. The animals were all amazing to look at. Very clean and well fed animals. It's perfect to take your entire family for a fun filled amazing outing. My husband,Son and I had an amazing visit... Great for all ages and great prices worth every penny!!!

shannon prosper — Google review

Beautiful place to go in the evening and see lights display.They really did a great job turning a Zoo into magic place.It's awesome for children any age,as well as adults,very pleasant walk throughout the place with all the light displays of animals, plants,trees along with background music.Price of the tickets are worth going.Plenty of parking available.

Azra Slavic — Google review

I absolutely loved the Jacksonville zoo! The animals were out and about and even the big hollow outs were very pretty to look at! The scenery was so beautiful in some areas I totally forgot I was at the zoo! The only thing I'm salty about is the fact that adults can't ride the animals on the Merry go round🙄other than that I'd definitely recommend going if you are around there!!

Cassion Amaru-Shakur — Google review

We loved the Zoo. Definitely recommend getting the total experience ticket for the train ride and to feed the animals. Only thing I didn't like was the food selection / quality and the restrooms. While they were clean, not a baby changing station to be found.

Jamie R. McCammon — Google review

There’s so many great things to say about Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. This is a wonderful place that the entire family will love, it’s also great for dates or some alone time. All of the exhibits are easily accessible for all. With restaurants and refreshment stands throughout the park, you could easily spend the entire day enjoying the zoo. The staff are all very friendly and helpful. It’s best to purchase your tickets in advance, and you have 60 days to use the tickets after your purchase day.

Britney Houston — Google review

We love coming here from time to time. You can easily spend the whole day here. On average, we spend around 4.5 hours, including a lunch break. All the animals were out this trip. We personally do not get the full experience pass, and we do not feel like we are missing out. General admissions tickets are okay for us. We highly recommend visiting!

Andy — Google review

Beautiful zoo, friendly employees! We didn't eat here as we came pretty late, we came about 2 hours before they closed so we didn't really get to see everything but I will say it took about 30 minutes past 5 for the bike security to come and get us out and they were very nice.

Kate McFadden — Google review

Nice zoo. Visited it on my way to Miami mostly because of the great giraffe overlook they have and wasn't disappointed. The "Colors of the Wild" exhibit is great, plants and animal figures are installed all over the Zoo and they look amazing! Unfortunately, I didn't have time to enjoy them in the dark, it must be spectacular.

Eugene Papkov — Google review

My wife and I were looking for something to do this weekend and decided to give this a chance, and we were so glad we did . It was so beautiful the lights and all the different types of animals and bugs was just amazing they had a kids interactive area they had several concession stands and 102 restaurants open for food and snacks . The cost to get in was 25 dollars pre person and it was open from 5:30 to 9:30 pm but you can buy a early entry pass for additional fee and enter at 3:30 there is plenty of parking. And it was very crowded. But if you are looking for something to do this weekend or next give it a try you will be glad you did .

EDWARD QUINN — Google review

We are still here everyone is having a good time there is children, the senior citizens there are plenty of families there are plenty of chairs to sit and eat plus there are booster seats for toddlers I didn't see any high chairs but that doesn't mean they don't have any I just don't see them you can rent a scooter for 27.00 all day and you can rent a stroller for your baby for 9.00 all day. The hamburger was thick and and delicious and the french fries were thick also and delicious.

Maria Frazier — Google review

We had never been here before, came here on vacation. It was amazing. The exhibits were impressive, there was lots of spaces for kids to get energy out and the animal feedings were so cool! The 4d show was okay, but that is the only thing we considered kind of take it or leave it about. The staff was helpful, knowledgeable and kind and we spent a full day here without feeling bored.

Emily Sanders — Google review

4.6

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4.5

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370 Zoo Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32218, USA

(904) 757-4463

4

Silver Springs State Park

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State park

Nature & Parks

Silver Springs State Park is a beautiful place to visit, with crystal clear water and interesting wildlife. There are trails and a museum, as well as rental cabins and canoes for those who want to explore the park on their own.

Beautiful and only $2 entry fee. Wish CA would provide it's residents such value.Open and not crowded. Great to paddle around or take a hike. Clean restrooms and great staff. Didn't see a manatee but we were a little late.

Brandon Ness — Google review

Silver springs is absolutely beautiful. Went there for the first time for our 6 year anniversary. The glass bottom tour was amazing. It was so cool seeing all the different springs like that. The river is so crystal clear it's amazing. Definitely recommend to any first timers. It was very worth it and a truly unique experience. Definitely plan on going back when it's cooler to kayak!

Sarah Bare — Google review

What a fantastic place to just forget about your troubles. We rented kayaks for two hours and started at 9am. I recommend this time or earlier if you don't like crowds or are new to kayaking. We also did the boat tour, which was awesome, and our captain was very friendly. Don't forget to tip them. 😉 They are going through some renovations which are expected to be completed in the fall so no gift shops or Cafe. You will not be disappointed going here.

Kelly Jackson — Google review

Our kayak trip was amazing! We did the 2 hour float. The water is crystal clear, and pictures do not do it justice. The staff was super friendly and well organized. We showed up a little early for our reservations, and they let us go a little early. The clear kayaks we reserved were out for repairs unfortunately. They refunded us the difference and apologized for them not being available. We still had a ton of fun! Would highly recommend this trip!

JakeTheSnake — Google review

Definitely the glass bottom tour was worth it. We went during December Christmas break and there were plenty pf manatees . We could spot a number of them when they sneak peek above the water. As they were swimming and having their breakfast under water , the visibility was low around them so it was hard to spot them through glass bottom but our captain of the boat was so sweet that he tried to get us a glimpse of it under water and we did, a big one swam just under the glass bottom. It was a great sight. We did see a alligator basking in the florida sunshine ☀️ and number of beautiful fishes. It was so crystal clear and there were several springs which we toured above. It was overall a great experience. Definitely a must do on a clear sunny day. One can also take a glass kayak/canoe and spend their own sweet time in these waters.

Nandita Warrier — Google review

The springs are beautiful. We’ve gone paddle boarding here many times, renting and bringing our own. The loop is easy and can be made in less than an hour, if you’re in a hurry. The long trip down the river is so fun and the gators, monkeys and all the fish and birds make the paddle so fun. This is definitely something worth doing a few times.

Kerry Knopp — Google review

Did this trip last year with 2 others and had a blast. Decided to come again with 5 others. Had an absolutely wonderful experience both times.There was a short wait to check in and pay and then put the kayaks in the water, but it wasn't too bad. The River Patrol was very helpful with information and directions.Highly recommend anybody to come and experience this. If you don't have your own kayak, you can rent them.Looking forward to next year!

Shannon M — Google review

Found this beauty while exploring the area on a business trip to Ocala. The most beautiful blueish green water. They have clearly defined trails and a beautiful boardwalk area that loops you through the forest. Didn’t get to take the boat tour but it looked awesome with the clear see through bottoms! Lots of parking, well maintained restrooms, and reasonably priced to enter! A must see if you are in the area!

Aimee — Google review

Really nice outdoor activity to do with family! We were hoping to see a manatee but we didn't, unfortunately! Maybe next time. We brought our dogs, and they loved sniffing around. Lots of new wildlife to see and hear. Wish we had more time to kayak. Such beautiful water here! The boats looked fun, but we didn't go on a tour. The front lady was so nice and spoiled our dogs with loves and dog bones!

Lexi Shepherd — Google review

An extensive and beautiful natural park with a couple of shops/restaurants and one can also explore it by boat/kayak/canoe. The boardwalk encompassing a rich forest area has several shaded spots. For me the highlight was watching the wildlife in crystal clear water and seeing a pretty good sized gator from a safe but close distance. Parking is not a problem, lots of free spaces. Well worth returning to.

Thomas T?rling — Google review

We live pretty close to Silver Springs and we try to go every morning for our walk. The staff are great every question you have they have an answer. The grounds are well maintained and very clean. If you come at the right time you will see the monkeys, once you spot the first one it's easy to find the others. You will also see all kinds of wildlife alligators, big fish etc... I could go on and on. We see something different every time we go and that's 4 or 5 times a week. It's a great place to come just to have coffee and enjoy the nature.

Karen Williams — Google review

There is lots to see why paddling around on the water. You can do a short trip or spend a day there. They have third-party kayak rentals, or you pay the park fee and can launch your own.

Colby — Google review

It's about 2 hours north of us but we've been several times this year for paddling. The shuttle service is great and worth the price. So much gorgeous scenery and wildlife and it is a very relaxing ride down. Would recommend to everyone to go at least once.

Aaron Schweitzer — Google review

Beautiful place to kayak if you have the chance. It can get pretty busy on the river, so it's best on a weekday first thing in the morning. Highly recommend! We came across a wide variety of wildlife during our time down the river. Manitees, alligators, turtles, monkeys, various birds, even jumping fish!Piece of advice, if you kayak/canoe make sure you utilize a waterproof cell phone bag that FLOATS! Almost lost my phone for good if it weren't for someone with a net coming by just by chance.

Josh Sabourin — Google review

Beautiful place a lot of trails a garden out of mates. We did the kayak we bring our kayak you can rent in the place you have a beautiful trail with the kayak. You can see all the kind of animal birds, monkeys mates and if you already pay for the campground, you don’t need to pay for the park And also if you don’t want to go today park you can just bring your own kayak and put in the water and start the trail. It’s very beautiful place quiet and it was not out of people. The water temperature is 72 but you cannot go inside the water in this place, very recommend! Enjoy your trip

Ofek Shemer — Google review

We love Silver Springs. It is amazing to kayak. You see birds, manatees, alligators, turtle, fish, sunken ships and several springs not just Silver Springs. We have not been on the glass bottom boats but have overheard the boat captains and the seem quite knowledgeable. It is $5/kayak to launch your own kayak but parking is free. We have been here in December and saw several manatees and in April and saw the birds in their estuary, amazing both time frames though I think I'm my opinion the Spring was a little better because of all the birds. However, I don't think you can go wrong any time of year.

I Allen — Google review

A beautiful nature gem in Silver Springs Florida.As soon as you enter the park, you can start seeing the fauna and flora within the park. The parking is ample and free.The entrance to the park is only $2 and kids under 6 are free. Senior discount is also available. You can have glass boat excursions for an additional $12.The persons attending the booth are superb. They make you feel welcome.The park has many walking trails for you to enjoy. The fauna and flora are all well kept and beautiful.We took the glass boat excursions and saw a lot of enchantment that Silver Springs has to offer.If you are lucky, you may see turtles and alligators during the trip. The captain was a blast. We were laughing from start to finish.Highly recommended.

Ralph Conklin — Google review

We have been to Silver Spring State Park twice so far. It's so enjoyable. We have done the glass tour which is a great experience and also you get a lot of information from the captain of the boat while on it.The canoes / kayak are a must, you will get the opportunity to enjoy at first sight the marvelous ecosystem of this spring, the clear water, the music of the sound of the birds and if you are lucky enough you will see manatees, alligators and turtles. There are also trails and camp grounds.The have some spots to buy food and also have clean restrooms.We are very looking forward to come back soon.Please respect the environment and keep the place clean.

Valentina Mastropasqua — Google review

Amazing experience!! Didn't get to explore the hike as we arrived late. But glass boat tour was awesome and kayaking in rain was wonderful. Clear waters were so freaking clear

Ali baig — Google review

Beautiful & wild. Pristine river as nature intended to be. Amazing clear spring water. Well worth visiting. The glass bottom boats will provide you with a unique and mesmerizing experience .

Tony “NARCDIVER” Scognamiglio — Google review

Such a beautiful place to kayak at! We paid the entrance fee and launch fee and brought our own kayaks and paid 12$ for two people, we chose to paddle back and not get out at the Ray Wayside Park which was a little bit of a challenge but definitely do able! We seen fish, turtles, so many birds, a decent amount of alligators and some manatee! Would highly recommend for a nice relaxing float down the river while searching for wildlife!

Robbi Roof — Google review

We canoed the river and springs in our own boat. What a beautiful place with white sand on the bottom, the sink adding makes the water look aquamarine. We saw dozens of turtles, almost as many Anhinga and Cormorants, Ibis and Blue Herons. Also we spotted a couple of alligators and maybe a dozen Manatee in several small pods, plus a couple alone. Just wonderful. We did the small loop which only took about 70 minutes.

Bryn Dews — Google review

We love kayaking here at Silver Springs State Park! Not only is the water beautiful, but you can see Manatee, alligators, turtles, and some beautiful birds. After kayaking we enjoy a nice walk along the trails. My husband was excited to see an original suit from his favorite movie Creature From the Black Lagoon on display.

F Scott — Google review

Staff was argumentative and cranky. Lots of crowds! Would not recommend if you have your own kayaks unless you are patient and can maneuver through all the renters and the glass bottom motor tours to find the nature and peace/quiet-beautiful once you do. (Also did not see any monkeys)

Mary Williams — Google review

Very beautiful place to visit.. it's about 1.3 hours from Orlando but it's definitely worth it if you need some nature time! The water is beautiful.. you can rent kayaks or go on a boat tour.. it's very clean and well kept. There are several monkeys close to you when hiking around, definitely will be able to see them and get a good picture of them.. They do not like dogs so be mindful of that..

Gimpy newman — Google review

Kayak rentals where a bit pricey ~($45/$60) and line was long to get shuttle tickets but it is definitely worth it to kayak this river it was gorgeous and see-through the whole 5 mi downstream trip the shuttle cost 15 additional dollars to get back to your original parking spot. We saw tons of monkeys, river otters, alligators, birds and other wildlife. It was beautiful and shaded/had tree cover approximately half the trip so I did not get sunburn even though I forgot my sunscreen. Took about 3 hours to go down all the way down stream.

Moonlight Artistry — Google review

Beautiful but very crowded at the start, partly because the Fort King trail was closed. Really caused a snafu at the put-in. But otherwise lovely! Be warned, if you are an average paddler, definitely turn around at the big orange arrow! It's easy to go farther than you intend and end up paddling against the current on your way back. We were dog-tired when we finished!!

Chris Clippinger — Google review

Our group took the 90 minute boat ride down the river & it was a great day. We had a lot of folks who had never been there before I& we were able to see all kinds of wildlife. The river is so beautiful and unspoiled and clean. Well worth the price. It is dog-friendly, with a lovely gift shop, cafe, and welcome center. We saw monkeys, gators, manatees, all kinds of birds and fish. We had a great boat captain

Shirley — Google review

We visited on a Saturday in mid March and it was packed! Almost no parking when we arrived close to 1 pm. We hadn’t made a reservation for the kayaks but we were able to get one for 2 people without problem. We did a 5 mile trajectory on the river and took us about 2h. The shuttle took us back to the entrance. We saw manatees and monkeys!! Then we hiked for the blue trail and yellow trails. It took us about 1:15h but wasn’t very scenic. There’s not a lot of shade so keep it in mind. We would definitely go back! Beautiful.

Celeste Wagner — Google review

We went here for a stop going back to Michigan. It was well worth it.I believe it’s $2 to walk around d$15 each for boat ride.We went in March and we were told the Manitees were all gone.We saw a mother and baby!Several alligators.All 4 springs. He gives all the history on.

Brent Little — Google review

4.7

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4.0

(2106)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (31)

5656 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs, FL 34488, USA

(352) 261-5840

5

Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum of Natural History

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Museum

Nature & Parks

The Butterfly Rainforest Museum of Natural History at the University of Florida is a popular attraction that features an interactive exhibit with thousands of butterflies and moths.

We saw a billboard on I75 and decided to stop by. We had the best butterfly encounter. They also had a dino exhibition that we enjoyed as well.. the butterflies though stole the show. We saw 2 butterflies hatch and it was amazing!!! Then we visited the exhibit and it was beyond amazing... They were everywhere. Staff was friendly and I have to say their restrooms were super clean!!!!!

Jenny P — Google review

This place is awesome! The butterfly garden is the best part. They have a discovery room for young children as well that has all sorts of neat things. The best part is the main museum is free. If you want to see the butterfly garden or the current extra exhibit there is a charge but it's totally worth it. 😀 Check their website, they have discounts on tickets for certain things.

Mandi Vovakes — Google review

Butterfly Rainforest had a nice large enclosed patio area full of beautiful butterflies and Luscious Landscaping. It was also a little bigger then I thought it would be. I didn't realize it had a full Museum inside until we arrived and I saw the sign for the museum. The museum was great it had a lot of different displays and was very informative. This is a great place for young & older children alike. Heck, I'm middle-aged and love it!!..

Ocean Rain — Google review

The environment was clean and well cared for with a great variety of plants and butterflies! Visitors are not allowed to touch or feed the little birds and butterflies that roam the environment. Photographs are welcome as well as sitting on the benches throughout to enjoy your day.

James Pollock — Google review

Amazing place! We took my 14 month old there and he loved it! It’s very children friendly; there’s a discovery area where you can sit and watch your children play and explore around, plus breastfeeding room and family restroom.The butterfly rainforest was amazing! You can see the butterflies up close. It was beautiful and relaxing. Definitely recommend for a family trip.We paid $22 for 2 adults.Parking was $4

Tammy T Martin — Google review

If heaven was a place, this would be it. They have an incredible variety of butterfly species in here. It's absolutely fantastic to be able to see them all fluttering around. They provide them a large variety of pollinator plants so no matter the species, they are happy. They clearly care about the health and safety of all their butterflies and it's just magical to be able to witness it. I had to walk through twice just to be able to experience it again. 10/10 would recommend 💛

Nainsi McK — Google review

Beautiful butterflies, birds, and flora. They were not difficult to see, as they were very numerous, fluttering everywhere and not shy at all. We even watched a couple emerging from their cocoons. It was well worth the visit. It was a bit hot the day we went, but it's just that time of year.

Paul Austin — Google review

Amazing exhibit! I could have stayed there all day. You go at your own pace along a path and you're surrounded by beautiful butterflies, flowers, and plants. There's even a small waterfall and a bench to rest or take photos. The butterflies sometimes land on you (one landed on my kid's face!). And when we went, there were also a few birds. The place is one big photo op for some awesome and memorable photos. A++

Rato Rattatouille — Google review

We had an amazing experience here at the butterfly garden! Seriously can't say enough good. We got a couple dollar discount on admission because of being FL residents.The indoor portion was very informative and educational. Also very well laid out and organized.The outdoor area, actual rainforest garden, was beautiful! Water fountains, birds, butterflies and beautiful plants. We enjoyed walking and taking it all in. Can easily spend a couple hours here. We enjoyed being able to observe all the nature up close in a safe weather proof environment.The Florida museum is right next door. We did not visit that today, but it was quite large and looked to be a full day.Parking was $4 and in a lot right next to museum. Restrooms available and a nice fair prices gift shop and penny machine at entrance.

Emily's world — Google review

This is probably my FAVORITE place in all of Gainesville. The Butterfly Rainforest does not disappoint. They are so active and you get to sometimes see them follow you through the garden. Love the flowers throughout the paths. Lots of parking available on campus.

Ana Huynh — Google review

Do not miss the butterfly garden if you are in Gainesville! It is inside the Florida natural history museum and is beautifully maintained by the staff. The garden is an enclosed space with hundreds of different butterfly species and is hardly a 5minutes walk inside. But you will surely take your time to observe these butterflies with their beautiful patterns and texture!

Shreeja Sreekumar — Google review

First time for me. It was very hot 🔥. Approx. 100 heat index. It was absolutely beautiful. Full of information. Did I say beautiful 😍. All the plants and butterflies. The girls had a good time. The blue ones are huge. There is a po d with fish and a turtle. We saw quail skittering under the bush. We went on a Saturday. Lots and lots of people. The Spider exhibit can be purchased in combo. We just did butterflies. Then after you can tour the free exhibits. There is a children's area with lots of seating for us older kids. 😀 worth every cent.

Mr Cowart's Daughter — Google review

Butterfly Rainforest is like stepping into a page of a fairy tale book. Though compact in size, it bursts at the seams with vibrant life and natural beauty. A favorite among children, the venue is a testament to the idea that sometimes the most magical places come in small packages.From the moment you enter, you're greeted by a myriad of fluttering wings, as countless butterflies dance around, making it a delightful spectacle. The vivid hues of these delicate creatures contrasted against the backdrop of lush greenery and radiant flowers is genuinely a sight to behold.Speaking of flowers, the Rainforest is a paradise for botany enthusiasts. The curated collection of flora not only serves as nourishment for the butterflies but also provides visitors with a sensory treat of colors and scents. Each petal and leaf has been meticulously cared for, showcasing the delicate balance and harmony within this micro-ecosystem.The addition of the serene water body dotted with colorful koi fish adds another layer of charm to the place. Watching these graceful fish move through the water, almost in a rhythmic dance, is both calming and captivating.Though it might not take a whole day to explore, the Butterfly Rainforest leaves a lasting impression. It's a testament to nature's beauty and a gentle reminder that sometimes, the most beautiful things are found in the smallest of spaces.In conclusion, if you're looking for a quick escape into a world of vibrant colors, mesmerizing creatures, and tranquility, the Butterfly Rainforest should be on your radar. It's not just an attraction; it's an experience - one that both kids and adults will cherish.

J Z — Google review

Very enjoyable, a helpful, friendly staff, and wow the butterflies!! I visit each year, and the display changes each time, and many species are always present, and each time I visit there are new ones to see for the first time. I recommend going on weekdays when plentiful parking is available, and the crowds are less likely, and pick a sunny day when the butterflies are active for the best display :-)

Joe Myers — Google review

We had a great time exploring the museum and the butterfly gardens. I did think the price was a little high for what was offered, but hey, the museum is free. The quil that run around are super cute!

Wiaczeslaw Kubarev — Google review

Lots of butterflies! It was a bit crowded, but still manageable to get around inside with others. There are many different types of pretty butterflies and little birds that roam free or fly. This was a fun experience and they will land on you if you stand still or wear bright colors.

俞静纹 — Google review

Very neat experience the butterflies, quail and finches were all very fun to see. Large showing Koi in the creek and beautiful fauna! The museum was equally impressive!

Paul K — Google review

The Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum is remarkable. They have an unbelievable collection of butterflies and small birds in a beautiful ecosystem. It’s possible to get within inches of these guys for photos. The environment is also lovely, so peaceful that we could spend hours.

Louis and Elaine — Google review

Absolutely a wonderful place for someone who loves butterflies. Although it was not a sunny day, we managed to see many beauties.We bought the package that also included the dinosaur museum and it is a wonderful experience.

Luna Sol — Google review

By far the coolest attraction I visited while in Central Florida. So many butterflies, birds and even fish. Helpful and knowledgeable Staff. It was pretty busy but not overcrowded. Really enjoyed our stroll.

Wendy — Google review

Lovely educational experience with kind staff. What a dream. We liked going to callaway gardens in South Georgia for their butterfly experience, this is awesome as well! Quail, koi & finches roamed & butterflies 🦋 soared & perched to rest. Waterfall & a hatchery. Neat museum and great visit and affordable

Melanie Cain — Google review

Amazing place. I was floored. So many butterflies, about 150 species. The exiting docent was awesome and informative. The ticketing people were cool for advising me of a good time to visit. I bought some fun socks on the way out at the gift shop.

Robert Sfarzo — Google review

Had a wonderful experience today at the Butterfly exhibit. So many colors, sizes and shapes. Love the birds in the exhibit as well. Price was very reasonable. Could have spent 2 more hours there, we loved it so much.

Phil Foell — Google review

4.8

(2095)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (36)

5.0

(1255)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (37)

3215 Hull Rd, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA

(352) 846-2000

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6

Ichetucknee Springs State Park

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State park

Nature & Parks

Park

Park featuring a 6-mi. river with summer tubing through wetlands, wildlife sightings & snorkeling.

We visited during the winter off season and it was absolutely amazing! There were barely any others visiting, so the river was quiet and pristine. We saw lots of wildlife, including birds, turtles, and even some manatees (they frequent the area upriver of Midpoint).Note that they don’t allow you to bring any disposable items (snacks, bottled water) so make sure to bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.Definitely recommend for all ages and levels of experience. We were in a party of 8 with both adults and pre-teen/teenage children, with little experience kayaking, and it was awesome.

Athena Chen — Google review

Top notch springs. Clean, clear, comfortable temperature water. There's an abundance of various fish in the springs - nothing scary. The underwater views are stunning. There's more to the park than just the springs and river. The trails are nice and so is the picnic/BBQ area.

thyblacksmith — Google review

I recently kayaked here and walked around on the trails. The rental kayak pricing was reasonable. I paddled upstream and then turned around and floated back. The current is quick in a couple spots. Saw a bunch of wildlife along the way, including a manatee. The tubing looked fun too. I'd recommend a visit if you are considering and are in North Central Florida.

Brian Jones — Google review

May 13, 2022 a Friday. It was a perfect day with little people traffic. We floated down twice. So peaceful...you heard the birds and just a little talk ftom the people ahead. Water temp was nice-- not too cold like we expected. Highly recommend! Just be sure to spray down with sunscreen and bring water in an aluminum or reusable container. NOT allowed to have disposable containers NOR food on the water!!!! There is a small restaurant that serves burgers dogs, chicken sandwich, fries, sodas at a fair price. Enjoy🙂

Karen Padgett — Google review

I have no words!!! Amazing!! We paddled the river and absolutely enjoyed it until we got to the area where we shared the river with people tubing. Then it was crowded and loud. But it's gorgeous and straight out of a fairy tale! We will be back! And we saw Manatees! Made my daughters birthday extra special.

Nicole Hulsman — Google review

Tubing is a blast! The way to go is to buy the tram ticket and get your own tubes. Renting a kayak is fun too although as someone experienced in kayaking, it's not easy to paddle upstream. Tons of wildlife to see even though it is crowded. If you aren't swimming at all to get on and off the tram and float takes about 2 hours in total. There are alligators but if you don't bother them, they won't bother you. Most saw were upstream where tubers aren't allowed. Bathrooms are clean and the staff is friendly.

Laura Horowitz — Google review

Loved it. Much less crowded and quieter than nearby Ginnie Springs. River is an easy and beautiful paddle. The trail to get to Blue Hole Spring (also known as Jug Spring by cave divers) is very easy. Water clarity there is outstanding. Bring a noodle, mask, snorkel, and underwater camera/GoPro. There is a wooden dock with stairs leading directly into the water. Cost is only $6 per vehicle to enter.

Brian W. — Google review

Nice springs, crystal clear water. We went there on a Sunday afternoon. It was packed. The bottom of the spring (the one for people to swim) is full of rocks and it is very slippery. Be careful if you bring little ones. Our 3 year old son loved playing on the stairs, didn’t get into the water much.

Tiantian Chen — Google review

Very beautiful. 3 mile kayak adventure into the springs. Saw 2 gators just floating along and several manatees. Beautiful day. Loved that at the end, there was a shuttle to pick you up and take you back to the main entrance

Nicole Van Purrington — Google review

What a beautiful place to go see and walk just to relax and see and learn about the blue hole and head spring where you can swim. The water here is also 72 all year round. The blue hole is only open to experienced divers. No free diving or swimming.

Amanda Mast — Google review

What an amazing place. Water is so blue and perfect. Everyone had the best time. We decided to walk to the drop off place instead of paying 7.50 a piece for the shuttle and it really wasn't that bad. A 25 minute walk both ways but if you need the shuttle it is pretty nice to have I bet. But our teenagers can truck it. We will be back. It was a wonderful experience for sure.

Amanda Bridges — Google review

Relaxing day floating down the river. Came on a Wednesday in July. Not crowded. Allow time for the shuttle. Two trips down completes the day. Bring a bungee for couples. Borrow a paddle.

Alan H — Google review

Been coming here since I was a little kid growing up in Gainesville. It's always a pleasure to come back with visiting family or friends to experience it. Especially for the first time.We did the Kayak rental with the shuttle to the North drop-off. The current was strong but we got to see an incredible amount of wildlife.The staff was friendly and helpful. Can't wait to come back again soon! Also impressive to note how much the park has changed in the 20 years I've been going there.Everything is well maintained and the appropriate upgrades are being made. Keep it up!

Alex Britto — Google review

This place is beautiful. It’s a fun 2 hour float at the south entrance that you can see through the crystal clear water. It’s $5 to get through the gate or $2 military. The tube prices vary from $7-20 and then you can ride the tram for $7 or walk the scenic trail for free. The receipt will get you into the north entrance about 10 minutes away for free where you can go to the swimming hole or snorkel over the underwater cave. It’s so fun.The tube in my picture was $10 and it had a bottom and a head rest. Because the water was cold and I’m a sissy. Lol

Chrystianna Hanco*ck — Google review

Our family gets together for big group floats at least once or twice a year. And it's always a great float, nice, clean water. You always meet people that you can enjoy hanging out with. And wildlife, foliage and aquatic life are always something to enjoy.

Scott Batykefer — Google review

My happy place but it's actually real and not just in my head. there really isn't words to describe the absolute beauty in this natural cold spring. Once the sun is at 11am you can witness a color that is rarely seen in person anywhere. The hole for the cavern is more covered than years ago but seems to have stronger flow. Didn't see the managers this year. Math next time

Shannon Mulcahy (Dabitha Catnap) — Google review

This was yet another amazing experience. The north side of the park is pretty cool. It has some decent hiking trail. The entire walk is shaded and you have different areas throughout the hike where you can sit and rest. There is a nice little restaurant on site where you can get food and an adult beverage and they offer kayaks and floating tubes for rent onsite at a decent price. We took our own kayak and there is a spot close by the launch site where you can park and unload your kayaks or canoes. The water is beautiful and somewhat COLD. The kayaking was great. Most of the area is pretty shaded but you have a long stretch where there is no shade. Watching the turtles in the water as you go down the river is pretty cool. There is a pretty strong current going downstream so coming back up was absolutely terrible but it was worth it.

DERICK HARRIS — Google review

What a great state park! We headed in the offseason. I'm glad we did. We had seen some videos on YouTube where it is an absolute Zoo during the summer. If you want some exercise start at the bottom at the Darien drop in. Paddle up stream from there about one and a half miles. And you can have a nice leisurely drift back down. The water is so clear so manatees otters and alligator gar.

Bobby Shafer — Google review

Love this place! I walked the Midpoint trail and it's 1.5 miles to the ramp for tubing! If you are tubing you might want to consider the tram! On a hot day that is a long hike with your tube JS! Tubing is so much fun here so you must come and enjoy it! All ages! Very safe and lots of fun and relaxation!

Kym Zaja — Google review

Last stop on our 18 day vacation camping trip, we visited Ichetucknee for the very first time. I booked a tandem kayak for the river, and I was TOTALLY impressed with the service. You can call the state park store or visit there to book your river trip. They will offer you different distances (we took the 1-2.5 hr trip) and they drive you to the launch point, provide you with the kayak, life jackets, and oars. They even launch you (I opted to have the "slide" launch into the water). You float downstream, so no need to paddle, just course corrections. You can take as little or as long as you want, as long as you are off the river by 6:00P. When we got to the end, the driver was already there to pick us up. You don't have to haul the kayak anywhere, and they take you back to the parking lot where you started on an open-air tram like Disney World used to have from their parking lots. They even give you a necklace with their number in case the driver isn't there, and you just call them and they come and get you. The trams run pretty regularly though, and like I said we were picked up as soon as we finished. All that for $65 (I got a 10% Veterans discount so I paid $59)- thats for two people since it was a tandem kayak. The river, is absolutely gorgeous, and this is considered one of the premiere tubing locations in the United States. Now, we visited in late October, but I hear in the summer they actually have to close off the gates in the morning because it gets to capacity so fast. We were very happy with the kayaking, and I would recommend going in the fall / winter...

Raymond Ingham — Google review

The springs are great but as far as handicap accessible....it is not. There are nice ramps that anyone with a drivers license could back down to but instead there are carts with flat tires and no help from the people you pay to drop you off they sell drinks and food at the country store but you cant take them on the river. And Im not sure what kind of "wildlife you can take home in your cooler" and that's why they arnt allowed but that's ridiculous. I could deal withall that but the lack of close facilities and an easy way for disabled people to get themselves and their kayak to the water make this a no gofor me in the future. Great spings.....horrible layout by the state. Im a FL resident and expected more from my state and my taxes.

Nate Thomas — Google review

There is playgrounds and rest areas along with picnic areas and grills. There's also a meals on Wheels vehicle out there if you brought a little extra cash and don't feel like cooking food.

Isreal Longnhrd — Google review

We decided to check the water springs and I have to say it’s beautiful, we love it . Now every time we go visit Florida we will stop on one day and look for some . Definitely recommend it so peaceful.

Kathy Trebunia — Google review

4.8

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4.5

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12087 Southwest, US-27, Fort White, FL 32038, USA

(386) 497-4690

7

All-Star Amphitheater

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Concert hall

Water & Amusem*nt Parks

Event venue

Theme Parks

Perfect weather for a perfect day. The rides were nice and the lines weren't long. The holiday show the elves performed were fantastic!

Towanda Riley — Google review

We really had a great time all the rides was not open but I would tell you The boomerang does not have to ever worry about seeing me again

Chris n Marie Carter — Google review

Love the concerts. Water park is awesome

Vickie Thorn — Google review

The water park is amazing! It's very safe right now. Not many people. Robert in the Mayfield ice cream shop was very helpful! I love the suggestion he gave me! Will be back!

Christine Wyatt — Google review

Nice place to warch concerts. Make sure to check the schedule before you head for a concert. Winter schedule is way dofferent than Summer and Spring. Great place to hang out with your family.

KENFL74 — Google review

Amazing concerts here every year. I always look forward to seeing Skillet. Request reserved seats wayyyyyy in advance for the best concerts or you will be miles away in the back.

Tmckin — Google review

Love this place . dont go to all concerts but the ones I do are always great. The sound the stage . everything is set up great.

Edd Kirkland — Google review

When we are in our concert season, this is where it's all held. Me video in the concerts I'll tell you it's a site to see and experience. So come out to Wild Adventures and make it a memory worth remembering

Michael Jr. — Google review

4.7

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4.0

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3766 Old Clyattville Rd, Valdosta, GA 31601, USA

(229) 219-7080

8

St. Marks Nat'l Wildlife Refuge

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Nature & Parks

Nature & Wildlife Areas

4.5

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Florida, USA

9

Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park

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State park

Nature & Parks

Park

Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park is a popular destination known for its riverboat tours, swimming, and snorkeling opportunities. The park boasts of a natural spring that is surrounded by Spanish moss and has an otherworldly aqua glow. It has been used as a filming location for movies such as Tarzan's Secret Treasure and The Creature from the Black Lagoon. With 1.

We love this place, the water is nice, the park is always clean including the bathrooms and grills. The hotel and gift shop is beautiful andbstaff is friendly. The only negative is if you get the covered tables by the woods you need to watch for ticks.

Amber Shiver — Google review

Beautiful fresh water lagoon! The water is cool, since it comes from under ground, and is super refreshing on hot days. There is a boat ride you can take and see lots of swamp wild life: manatees, alligators, fish, snakes, birds, turtles, etc. There is a public swimming area with swimming for little kids and adults. For those adventurous enough, the swimming area has a 20ft platform people can safely jump off of. We took our 3yr old on a boat ride, swimming area, and ice cream. Many others picnicked and grilled.

Aaron Kerwin — Google review

Phenomenal highly recommended a trip here and you need to go on the boat ride! We saw manatees, alligators and other wildlife on the boat! The water is so clear. The boat ride is cheap and very informative. The guide was awesome and knowledgeable! Do not miss going here when you are in the area! “The Hood” oh and the lodge is old so it’s got history and that’s cool. Black lagoon!

The Hood — Google review

You will see wildlife on the boat tour. Our tour guide was awesome. I really enjoyed the nature experience. Saw multiple manatees, alligators, various birds and turtles! The shop has hot food and cold beverages to chose from as well. Great little store and park to visit.

Bianca Diaz — Google review

I stayed at the Lodge and it was lovely! The beds were very comfortable! And breakfast was fantastic. The boat tour was very enjoyable, relaxing and informative. We saw many different birds, turtles, alligators and manatees. Due to the rain we did not get to walk the trails, but hopefully next time.

Lee McKnight — Google review

Nice park. You can see Manatees if you time it right. People were swimming and jumping off the deck. The water temperature stays consistent. Very nice gift shop. The food in the Restaurant was good. The only negative is they can't seem to keep their tour boats running. Not sure if that is a state issue or a local park issue.

Trish — Google review

Lovely grounds, swimming and picnic area. Absolutely no service inside. In dining room or snack shop. Multiple workers but none that seemed interested in any form of customer service.

Faye R — Google review

Discovered this gem today. If you've never been, there is a huge lodge that you can stay overnight. A spring fed swimming area. And a boat ride through the spring run. The boat ride is additional cost from the park admission. On the boat ride, you will see lots of alligators, sea cows, birds and turtles. The guide will give you a lot of info about the park and how it was founded. There is also an ice cream shop in the lodge. The old 1950's movie, Creature From the Black Lagoon was filmed here.

Kevin Craven — Google review

It was very enjoyable. We had lunch at the picnic tables and even saw a tiny alligator at the sink holes! We were going to go on the boat tour but it was already booked for the day (due to FSU Homecoming traffic)The chairs were super comfy in the lodge and the person behind the counter was super helpful!The water felt great and there weren't very many people swimming!Highly recommend

Jac Davis — Google review

We loved visiting Wakulla Springs! It's a perfect, quiet place to spend a beautiful day. If we didn't live 300 miles away we'd go on a super regular basis. Sweet little spot.

Cassandra B — Google review

This is a must-do attraction if you’re anywhere near. Buy the river boat tickets ahead of time (make reservations a week in advance). This was the highlight of our trip to Tallahassee. We saw probably 30 alligators, hundreds of fish and birds, 4 manatees, and so many pretty views. There is a swimming area (which just happened to have a gator in it) with jumping platforms. The spring is pristine and such a treat to be able to experience. The lodge is beautiful, too.

Jeremy Glover — Google review

The boat tour is a great place to see wildlife. We had a great tour guide (tall, young gentleman). A nice fresh water spring with a high dive to swim in. There are also some nature trails you can walk.

Reid Bland — Google review

Oh yes. Except for the occasional loud person, who spouts profanity before jumping off the diving platform, this place is family fun. Cool water that's clear and clean. Two platforms for jumping into the spring waters. Trails to explore. The boat ride is a must, at least once.

Paul Bass (Yay Verily) — Google review

We took the boat ride and it was great. We saw a lot of native Wildlife including alligators and manatees. If I can make one suggestion it would be that our guide spoke louder because he was really funny and informative at the same time.

Wanda Brann — Google review

We were there this year to enjoy the grounds and do some hiking. In the past, we have eaten at their magnificent Thanksgiving Day buffet. I love the architecture and nostagic feel of the inn. We spotted several manatees and a nursing calf this time. So special!

Karen Savage — Google review

This is so much fun for any age. I'm on the rivers alot, but don't get to see the wildlife like you can here because they are gone before you get near. Plus Manatees are always a special treat!

Suzy Hall — Google review

I lived in Tallahassee in the 80s and Wakulla springs was , is, and hopefully will be for years to come the place to beat the heat🥰Moving back to the area, the Springs not as clear. However the park recently went to Electric Tour boats! Bravo WSP!The foods fantastic and if you get a chance to stay at the lodge, do.The staff at the Lodge are cheerful and very helpful. Checking in and out no snags and the rooms are clean. No tv. Thank you

Kiva Tinsley — Google review

Nice state park, some hiking trails, a hotel with restaurant and gift shop. Info booth and a boat tour that is pretty fun. Not pet friendly. We saw manatees, turtles, great blue herons, many other water fowl, lots of fish in the super clear water, and a dozen or so sleeping alligators along the shore. We even saw a deer bedded down in an alligator nest. $8 for the boat tour of appx 45 mins. Lunch at the lodges was very good, and a bit on the pricey side, but they are super slow. So don't plan to make it a quick bite

Janet Bates — Google review

We didn't get to take the boat tour due to our schedule. Will definitely be back. Beautiful park and the LODGE looked wonderful.

Jan Zeiger — Google review

I have been visiting wakulla springs my entire life. As a child in the 50s and '60s living in Florida with no air conditioning, my mother would bring us here several times a week to enjoy the cool year-rounds 71° water. We would often bring a picnic. At the time there was a snack/ burger/ hot dog bar where the showers are. There was a sunken"tub" with windows, you could look out into the river and watch huge large mouth bass swim by. Glass bottom boats perusing crystal clear waters and watch a" trained" fish jump over a log. The rooms at that time were furnished with original antique beds with little ladders. You climbed up to get into the bed 🙂 it is still an amazing place to go, the jungle cruises still operate and it's never tiring to hear the story of the filming of THE CREATURE FROM THE BLACK LAGOON. Do a little research and find out about the history of Ed Ball and his connections to politics in Florida and one of the most powerful families to ever exist in the United States. Nothing is perfect. :-), but holiday buffets are wonderful at wakulla springs and provide an amazing unique venue to enjoy. Book early!

Kenneth Johnson — Google review

4.8

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4.5

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465 Wakulla Park Dr, Wakulla Springs, FL 32327, USA

(850) 561-7276

10

Florida State University

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Public university

Sights & Landmarks

Florida State University is a public university located in Tallahassee, Florida. The school offers a variety of courses and programs in a beautiful campus. The sports program is very successful, and the student body is highly engaged in extracurricular activities.

Wonderful institution with highly renowned and quality professors. Most beautiful campus in the state scattered with aged live-oaks, historic buildings, and an incredible landscape design. Unmatched access to the Florida State Capitol. Tours available through the FSU Visitors Center at the stadium.

James Garcia — Google review

As a little kid and following in my dad's footsteps and learning about football in general and then beginning to know about Florida State football and the university as a whole, when I got to my teens I knew there was nothing else to follow and fall in love with except FSU and Florida State football. Now that I'm in my 40's, I've learned alot more about Florida State University, the history...the love and passion and what it means to be an FSU fan.....it's a lifestyle! It's what I share proudly with family and friends. It's the life long dedication I see with older people that go to the football games at Doak Campbell Stadium...it's the Holy Grail of my college football world and nothing will change that because we are Florida...State.... University! Go Noles!! Fear the Spear-----;;> Unconquered....

Adam from Florida — Google review

This was a great campus to go to. I went here on a field trip and it was the most beautiful campus. The scenery was nice and the buildings were clean and spacious. I highly recommend taking time to go see this university.

Zack Florendo — Google review

GET READY TO 🥳 @ FLORIDA’S #1 PARTY SCHOOL! Visited many friends spread out over all of Florida & FSU easily wins best partayyy. University students reside in like the top 10 highest STD rated cities for a reason 👀 after a few weekends here you can plainly see why! Wouldn’t want to send my daughter here 🤷 just sayinnnnnn’😜

MR DADDY — Google review

Here's a cndtn ..frm now onwrds ..no more rogue reactions or anger against anyone or aamne saamne Lorai......u ARRNG a CHOPPER fr me.....then only I ll go fr action against th people in ths city...bcs i hv tkn a ignoring technique to everyone on th Rd..if only u cn bring a chopper(may b on rent)....AND THS CHOPPER WILL ACCMPNY ME ANYWHERE I LL GO....BF PARK E CHOPPER LANDING PAD KORBO...

Dibyendu Ghosal — Google review

They campus is absolutely gorgeous and we had a great tour here. The area is really nice as well. I can't complain about the weather either since I was born and raised in Florida and it beats the freezing cold. They have good academics and are well recognized, at least in my perspective and I can't see a valid reason I personally wouldn't want to go here - meaning I think it would be a great school to attend. It's also in the states capital, which for my major is a huge perk.

Olivia Y. — Google review

Beautiful campus! Came up for a College Tour. Organized; they seem to do so much for the students to ensure they excel/succeed.

Quinella B — Google review

Watch their sponsors and you know what you will learn. Doesn't have anything to do with real science. It's 99% exactly the stuff which their sponsors are selling which is taught here. Also they ask for endless immunizations to join - even for remote/online learning when never on campus. Tells everything about the corruption here. Money goes in circles ...

Armin Heinzmann — Google review

Wonderful institution with highly renowned and quality professors. Most beautiful campus in the state scattered with aged live-oaks, historic buildings, and an incredible landscape design. Unmatched access to the Florida State Capitol. Tours available through the FSU Visitors Center at the stadium.

Nick M — Google review

U have been in Florida for 25 years now and can tell it's really a nice place to be with family and friends please check us out

Veronica Simian — Google review

My nephews had a soccer tournament at the sport plex. Beautiful fields.

ginny Jacobs — Google review

Went to the Ruby Diamond to see the Nutcracker. What a wonderful production. The kids did a phenomenal performance tonight. 👏

Steve D — Google review

Love this happy University. Kids learn and enjoy the great times.

The Crystal Flower — Google review

It was an amazing experience as always. The FSU team is on FIRE the vs Duke game was on the bucket list. The stadium was rocking.

Mary Spencer — Google review

4.6

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4.5

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222 S Copeland St, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA

(850) 644-2525

I'll never travel to Natchez without this trip planner again

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11

Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park

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State park

Nature & Parks

Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park is a picturesque waterfront location that offers various recreational activities, such as birdwatching and camping. The park boasts nine miles of stunning beaches and sand dunes, providing visitors with the opportunity to experience Old Florida at its finest. There are boardwalks throughout the park leading to shell-covered beaches with shallow waters suitable for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing for flounder and whiting. A 2.

Absolutely lovely stay in the camp ground at St George State Park. The sites have privacy and close to the beach. Nature trails and no frills unspoiled land is relaxing and beautiful. The cell service was at one bar for ATT. Mid-April, no see-ums (little biting bugs) were prevalent. It was a bit windy and chilly outside as well. A gorgeous trip overall!

Annie Rocks — Google review

We are staying in Port St Joe, which is lovely and natural. But, being on the bay, the water is murkier and has quite a bit of seaweed. So, we were in search of more beautiful, Gulflike water. This place is paradise and totally worth the hour drive! The state park has a few beach areas. This one is two miles from the entrance and gave us access to these gorgeous, clear, emerald and teal waters, soft sand, and amazing views! (No filters so you can see the actual colors) We could see dolphins in the distance! Seagulls do abound, but as long as you don’t feed them, they will scatter away. we were there 3 to 4 hours and the highest number of people at the beach at any point was 28 looking both directions as far as my eyes could see. There were a couple outdoor showers and large restroom facilities right on the beach. The state park is completely natural, so no buildings except for park facilities. The natural drive through the park is surrounded by sand dunes. Six bucks a carload is nothing for this beautiful haven!

sapphireprincess78 — Google review

One of my favorite beaches in the panhandle! We paid to go to the more private side of the island because the public area by the lighthouse was insanely busy. There were so many seashells and birds. Although it was super windy we couldn’t swim or put our beach towels down, it was still very fun to walk and enjoy the beach. Can’t wait to come again, and hopefully camp!

Regan Benites — Google review

Clean but ran out of toilet paper late dayWell preserved, beautiful land!We had a polite heron patiently awaiting a treat while we fished.. unfortunately we went catching much so he was the only one who got to eat fresh fish that day

Davina Taylor — Google review

This was outstanding experience!!! Very cool that you pay to get in ($6 for 2-8 people in vehicle) but that is good for entire day - you can leave, then come back with your ticket/receipt till closing time. Excellent bathroom and outdoor showers, and very nice picnic pavilion areas. Then the access points that are away from those areas are perfect also. Very uncrowded when we were there.The only thing I would say that could be improved is the information about the accessibility options. Wonderful that there are some beach accesses with mobi-mats to at least the first dune break... That is great! But a little harder to find info on the beach wheelchairs, floating wheelchairs etc, that are available...Camping sites were beautiful (did not visit the'primitive' sites). It was all so clean and well used but so uncrowded.A fabulous experience!

Tere King — Google review

I never knew before photography how wonderful it is to take shots of nature and enjoy the birds. To test out my new telephoto lens, I took it with us to our Thanksgiving beach trip. We sat in the chairs and I took pictures of all the wonderful birds that came to visit us! It was great fun!

Azhar Khan (Azhar Khan Photography) — Google review

Second time staying at this park and another relaxing camping trip. Sites are nice with some privacy to them.Lots of fishermen, but we enjoy the trail and chilling out. A little to windy this time to set out on the beach but we enjoyed riding out bikes around and enjoying the nature.Highlight was that twice a Great Horned Owl perched in a tall pine just at the edge of our campsite. First we had seen in the wild and it was a treat.

Gary Thompson — Google review

A small fee to enter the park which has several areas to park, hiking trails, and Restrooms. We were able to find some beach areas to enjoy solitude. Dogs are not allowed beaches, so please be mindful of this. While staying on SGI, we spent several days in the park hiking and beaching.

Donna Childers — Google review

Definitely a place I wish I could've spent more time exploring. I only had a few hours, so mostly just walked some of the beaches - which I had to myself since it was a day that was threatening rain.The ocean was wild and woolly, the shells were beautiful, and wish I could've stayed longer.There's a hike at the end of the road to the tip of the island - I'll save that for next time. I did check out the campground for when I come back. The spaces are neither large nor private, for the most part, but it would be so worth it to me to be able to walk down to a beach or drive the short way to just sit in the sand all day and listen to the ocean.Lots of facilities: picnic areas, flush restrooms, showers for the beach goers. Campground had the same. It was just a great place.

Leslie Smith — Google review

This is a clean, alcohol free, family friendly state park with beautiful beaches. Drive in a ways and you'll find nice restrooms and "foot-sand" showers. There is a camping area as well.

Clinton Alexander — Google review

We spent a week there in the middle of January at the campground. So beautiful! The whole island is awesome and we hiked most of the trails. We found the showers and restrooms to be clean and private. Why campgrounds don't provide more hooks for towels and clothing is a mystery, but it's not only state parks that are lacking in this area. We will definitely go back here again.

JTwny (John&Terry) — Google review

I’m hesitant to share because I don’t want to share lol but great place to visit. Spend several weekends here and spent an entire week as a local “tourist”. Great place to visit, beware the biting flies on the trails though

Nicole Lowery — Google review

I had the pleasure of spending a few nights here at the CG. Wonderful park with amazing beaches and great pavilions to stay out of the sun. We strung up a hammock in the pavilion and put a chair on the picnic table. With the sea breeze and shade it was awesome.While on the surface the CG appears solidly booked they seem to have some spots which isn't on the reservation site and you might be able to grab a first come first served spot. Call before you head over the bridge. Ask if the ada sites are available.While the walk from the CG isn't far having a bike makes it a lot nicer.

Google Account — Google review

This island is on the Florida panhandle, it's quite secluded and sparsely populated which makes it even more better destination if you are trying to get away from crowded beaches. Beach here is as good as it gets in the panhandle.

purnesh sen — Google review

Amazing long beach with great amenities, huge parking lots, and only a few families.Beautiful landscape and trails.

Sveta Thompson (Лана Томпсон) — Google review

Wonder historic turpentine slash pines at camo ground trail. Signs tell and shows photos. Blooming yellow woody goldenrod, groudsel...Florida snow, tiny Darrows blueberry, yellow camphirweed looking like dandelion, light blue false rosemary. Pine like stems of Florida rosemary..not edible. Red chokeberries. ..AND fun beech walk. Horseshoe crabs. Starfish. Shells. Blue heron.

Joseph Barnett — Google review

Beautiful beach. Well maintained park. There are several spots to pullover and park for three to five cars if you want less human traffic. There are also a couple of pavilions with restrooms and lots of parking for those who don’t mind the crowds. You can take your pick but the park can fill up quick.

The Shelton — Google review

A beautiful island state park. Untouched. Like walking back in time. We did the nature walk. It was an easy 4 mile hike out & back to the parking lot. It ended at the campground and we walked that loop too. Lots of birds to see and natural island dunes and wetlands. The trail was well marked with cool storyboards. It’s dog friendly too.

RV Traveler — Google review

Miles of beaches to walk and fish. Not very crowded when I was there, has you can tell by picture. Nice Campground. Mikey Likey.

mike c — Google review

Incredible opportunity to be in the water and stroll the beach. Very nice facilities that are well equipped and maintained. Park employees were friendly and helpful to us and everyone we saw them interact with. Beautiful and very nice. We will definitely be back!

James Bramell — Google review

Lucky to get a spur of the moment campsite in February. Site 9 is pretty nice. Large area that we are tenting on. Only drawback is restroom lights across the road.

Barbara Scott — Google review

I shouldn't say this and keep it to myself but this place is pretty great. Nice camping and RV spots. Hookups but only on central dump station. $40 per site per night.

Spencer Manners — Google review

Beautiful state park. Hiking trails take you off the beaten path, very scenic. Highly recommend visiting

Lucretia Padgett — Google review

4.8

(2315)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (85)

4.5

(792)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (86)

1900 E Gulf Beach Dr, St George Island, FL 32328, USA

(850) 927-2111

12

T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park

40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (87)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (88)

40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (89)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (90)

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State park

Outdoor Activities

This secluded state park attracts visitors with its opportunities for bird-watching, swimming and camping amidst sand dunes. The park offers a unique blend of beach and pine forest, salt marshes and brackish bays that form a rare Gulf Coast wilderness. Guests can explore the 2516-acre stretch of sugar-sand beaches, undulating dunes and wilderness trails.

This was my favorite place for beach camping. There was so much to do besides the beach. There were nature hikes in the woods and exploring the bay side when the sun was too hot on the beach. There are deer and other wildlife. The city of Port St. Joe is a short drive away for supplies. The campsites and roads were clean and well-maintained. We were so sad to see the damage from Hurricane Michael and are very excited for the reopening if campsites in 2023!

Barbara Clark — Google review

The main parking area is nestled between 2 beaches that are contrasting experiences. One is on the gulf and can be wild or calm depending on weather. The other side is on the bay is usually tranquil and serene. Both have the powdered white granite sands that are absolutely beautiful. The small store offers light snacks, clothing and boat rentals from canoes to pontoon boats. The rest of the park including campgrounds are still being renovated.

Scott Adams — Google review

Clean, friendly & the best of best. Staff roared cleaning the bathrooms. They were immaculate & the people staying on the grounds did great to clean up after themselves. The November trip was the best Nov we stayed with mild temps - sunny & calm bay, peninsula and gulf. Affordable to enter & plenty of staff around for assistance. We kayaked the low & high tide. Saw dolphins playing and went under my husbands kayak & saw wildlife swarm below and above. Hurricane Michael in 2018 did damage but it’s rebounding like it w always does. We waded out super far from sandy shore- then it drops way out to about 35 ft . The beach side had yellow flags and lady fish were everywhere and little seagulls swooped in. Husband fished right off water and caught/released several . Been going 20 years, still our fav but this was one of our favorites. Keep it clean and enjoy!!

Melanie Cain — Google review

To enjoy the picturesque view, enter into the park with $6 per vehicle entry fee. Park at the designated park' parking.We found ourselves standing in the middle of 2 waterareas - ocean at left and Bay water in the right. Matching the google map. Unique experience.The beach has sand dunes and shells.Not crowded at all and enjoyed the white sand.Restroom are available adjacent to parking.1.5 hrs drive from Panamacity Beach.Well known food chains ( McDonald's Subway etc) are available before taking Route 30A for Cape San. So pick itup before entering this island area.

AMIT K .SEN — Google review

Exceptional spot to get to a white sand beach that was pretty empty. Worth it to get the permit to hike on the primitive trail and suggest you make a beach walk to the first entry from the beach. Around primitive site 6. Great to walk in from the beach. It’s about 6 miles RT.Otherwise sites are pretty open to each other but not close generally and quite large and level. Great staff warm water and clean bathrooms.

Laura Maroon — Google review

An arf'cellent choice for any lover of the wonderful wet ecology that is unique to this sprawling fishing and beach enthusiast wilderness.You can chase the local inhabitants like ghost crabs, birds, or butterfly's to your heart's content.Got a boat? Launch it here, take me with you, the fishing looks amazing and lots of people were hauling in their catches.Don't miss sunrise or sunset at T.H. they are worth the price of admission and will make for lasting memories.They have changing facilities and bathrooms that are super clean and nice.The star of the show here is the 7 miles or so of beautiful beach where if you walk far enough you will find nature and isolation. Go for walkies to your heart's content or swim in the water .

Pup & Pup — Google review

One of the top 10 state parks in the US. Great sandy beaches, bathrooms, small boat dock, little general store for kayak rentals and snorkel gear. On clear days visibility is easy 50 feet. Go to the tip if you are strong and up for it. If not, rent a boat. You can see bull sharks right at the tip. Drops from the beach to 50ft+ within 20ft of shore. I had a bull shark "chase" me in the shallows for about 60 feet until I stood up!

Yung Ngo — Google review

We love the park. They were doing a lot of building of boardwalks, restrooms, etc. The improvements will be wonderful when finished. It was noisy and distracting during this visit. I hope it is finished when we go back next year.

V believes — Google review

Five years after hurricane damage. Everything is brand new. 40 mixed sites. Two have screened porches. About half full hook-up. Rock pad camping. Two new bathhouses. Two sets of washer dryers ($1.50/$1.00 deal). You have intimate location with gulf beach which is starkly beautiful, due to prior weather damage. Saw two bald eagles and two white tail deer. 6 to 8 cabins just north of campground, are essential air conditioned 3 story homes, with opposite bay views. They seem very high end from outside. Only major downside of the park is its remote location, 30 min from Pt. St. Joe, 90 minutes from Panama City. I can see the nickname, forgotten coast. Will definitely revisit, expect reservations will quickly become scarce.

Scott Jay — Google review

This place is wonderful. SSe stayed at the cabins and they were awesome! Clean and very well equipped. The only thing I think needs some help is the fire pit and small private beach area. There’s no path cleared out to the fire pit or beach. So it was hard to enjoy these areas at night. But that’s a small thing when compared to all the great things there are to love here. Beautiful, clear water, white sandy beaches! What else can you ask for?

Orlando — Google review

Beautiful park out on the cape. Accessible, easy trails to explore the natural vegetation. Highly recommend. I’ve been in the summer and winter and both are just as great!

Elizabeth Conner — Google review

The great thing is you've never seen a more beautiful ocean waterNo algies just wild life and shellsNo pets on the beach though, that's a drag I have a 4 pound dog 😟No heat in the bathrooms so it's cold when taking a shower 🥶Other than that, I love it thereClean and all new facilities1/2 price Senior discount if you areA Florida resident

Tanya Carmen — Google review

Amazing place! A hidden gem! Super nice campground and trails for hiking. White sand beach with beautiful views!

Diego Camargo — Google review

We only ended up here because St. Andrews was at max capacity...and I'm so glad it was. This park was much more peaceful and less trafficked, it felt like we had the entire beach to ourselves. The park is clean and well maintained, including the restrooms. They're working on expanding, so expect some construction. Will definitely have to check it out again once it's all done. Quiet and serene, and lots of birds if you're a birder. Entrance fee is $6 per vehicle. Definitely worth a visit.

michelle khan (Nature's Confetti) — Google review

4.8

(1506)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (91)

4.5

(763)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (92)

8899 Cape San Blas Rd, Port St Joe, FL 32456, USA

(850) 227-1327

13

Florida Caverns State Park

40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (93)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (94)

40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (95)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (96)

State park

Nature & Parks

Underground caves offering guided tours, plus trails & freshwater springs.

My family and I visited here last weekend on May 23rd 2022. We had never been here, as well as never even knew Florida Caverns State Park existed but had the best time doing the cave tour with our Tour Guide Tim. Also the Owls and the museum were really neat to see. I definitely recommend this place as it was a family fun place. We'll definitely be coming back to do the Cave Night Tour as well as some of the nature trails and get to experience what we couldn't on our short day trip!! 5 stars all the way. Highly recommend. Kid friendly.

Brandi Clayton — Google review

Breathtaking scenery! Took the family out to explore Florida Caverns and drove few hours to come here. It was well worth it! It really is an amazing experience. Everyone in our family (2 adults 3 children) was super impressed with this visit. We purchased our tickets online. For five people we paid $36-$37 and there’s $5 state park access fee per vehicle. Our tour guide Mia was very helpful, knowledgeable and fun. She walked us through the entire cave and took the time to explain how it was discovered, what it represents and shared many more insightful information. Humidity level is very high inside the cave thus, I recommend wearing something active and comfortable. Also there are many low clearance paths along with stairs and puddles filled with water so it’s also recommended to wear appropriate shoes that are comfortable and yet provide good protection and grip. There are some low clearance points inside the cave where if you’re a tall person you need to really duck down to avoid hitting your head. If you have knee or back problems you may find this activity to be a bit challenging though. You can bring your own cameras and take as many pictures as you want even with camera flash. Overall it’s a great experience. I highly recommend visiting this hidden natural treasure to everyone.

SOBI's Hobbies — Google review

Our family really enjoyed the tour with our guide Tim! Kids from 5-7 enjoyed it. It was hot outside but cool in the cavern! A 1 hour tour. The gift shop was reasonably priced. Will go again. There was a beautiful swimming hole towards the back of the park. Wonderful experience.

A Texas Touch Farm — Google review

I had a very fun time here; not only are there the cavern tours, but there is also a campground, small museum, and walking trail in the park too. I had fun on the cavern tours and they were definitely worth it. I saw a deer on the walking trails, and it was really cool; however, I also saw a Northwest Florida rattlesnake on the walking trail and almost stepped on it. The walking trail is also very rocky and somewhat difficult. Not ideal for children or disabled folks. That combined with the rattlesnake leaves it with a 4 star review instead of 5.

Summer Bridges — Google review

Very pretty and the tour guide was very educational and friendly and funny. Only down side for the day tour is that it's rather short/small cave. Other then that it's fun. The tour isn't free of course so expect to pay.

KELLY HOLDER — Google review

Steele is a good tour guide. My grade-4 class loved our caverns tour, the souvenir shop, and the museum. We were fortunate to have perfect weather.

Brian McKay — Google review

A very nice visit to the Caverns. It might be challenging for tall people as there are several places the height is four feet, and a few places the width is two feet. The staff were all kind and helpful.There are a few places that feel a little tight, but it still feels pretty open. Being wet and dark, it's can be slippery, but your guide will remind you where those spots are.

Carol CC Miller — Google review

Visiting Florida Caverns State Park was an unforgettable experience! From the moment we stepped into the caverns, we were amazed by the stunning geological formations and the rich history they hold. The guided tour was informative and engaging, providing insights into the formation of these natural wonders. The park’s above-ground attractions, like hiking trails and picnic areas, were equally impressive, offering beautiful scenery and opportunities for outdoor recreation. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, enhancing our overall enjoyment of the park. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a memorable adventure, Florida Caverns State Park is a must-visit destination. Can’t wait to return and explore even more!

The Queen Made to clean — Google review

We added this stop on our road trip and so glad we did. It was a reasonably priced great stop for our family. We went on an hour tour with Lou through the caves , it was beautiful and the tour was unique and informative! The pictures don’t really do it justice, and the gift shop was well stocked and offered ice cream and snacks . We were towing a trailer and had room for us to be able to park. This isn’t far off the interstate so be sure to add it to your Florida trip!

Rebecca Braun — Google review

Very fun!! I took my boyfriend here because he has never been in a cave and we had a nice time! It was cool inside the cave so it’s a fun way to explore nature while staying out of the sun. Our tour guide was extremely lively and made lots of jokes. At one point they turn off the lights for a few seconds. They also let the kids play with the buttons which seems fun for small children. Overall a good time!

Natalie Cross — Google review

What a cool experience! Our tour guide, Honeybee, was so knowledgeable and funny. The caverns were huge and like nothing I’ve ever seen before. We also hiked Bluff Trail to Tunnel Cave, which was another great experience. We ended the day with a dip in Blue Hole Spring, which was so refreshing.

Abby Hastings — Google review

This place was beyond words to describe. Something that I would not expect ever to be in Florida. Spent the entire day and a half at this park alone. There's more places nearby just as beautiful to visit. Looking forward to another trip up there. Highly recommended to visit.

Matsons pets — Google review

The Park staff was very well organized and the park tour guide was very friendly and interesting. It's a great place to bring kids to awaken their exploratory spirit and it's overall a beautiful cave system that's is definitely worth of visiting. I suggest 3-4 h stay time including the 1 h + tour as this park has a lot to offer.

Nebojša Bogdanović — Google review

Fabulous park! Caverns are awesome, tour guides are informative. Would be nice if they offered a senior discount. Brand new roads. Signage is adequate. Rebuilding after hurricane. Never here, b4, so I can't compare. Kayak launch, horse camp, primitive camp, group camp, rv camp, with all connections, Inc. sewer spring fed " blue hole" year around 62 degrees. Well planned park.

robert altshuler — Google review

Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and very patient with everyone in the group. Everyone working in the park was friendly and helpful! I highly recommend visiting this state park. I did not hike the trails but did the cave tour and visited the gift shop. There is also a museum.

Melody Tingley — Google review

Had an Amazing Time! Lou our tour guide was very informative! He did an excellent job. We look forward to coming back for the VIP Tour just off his recommendations and thorough tour skills! Lots of other families small children were with us on our specific tour but Lou still made it enjoyable for all! Ask Lou to show you the Titanic!

Tiffany Ramsey — Google review

The Caverns were awesome! Our guide was very knowledgeable and very friendly. He was very engaging throughout the entire tour and really made our experience much better. There were a few tight spaces, but the cavern is really easy to go through. I'm 6'2, and on the large side, and I was able to get through it easily.The staff is very friendly and accommodating. The young lady in the gift store is a blessing to everyone she meets.We stayed at the campground, which is very well kept. Sites are spacious with a hard gravel surface, full hookup, fire pit, large picnic table, and a place to hang your hammock. The bathhouse is kept clean with a laundry right there.

David Farr — Google review

Amazing place. Worth the drive if your on east coast of Florida or middle. At end of parking lot first go to a trail near a dirt road. Walk down about 300 yards and there is a very cool tight cave to go through. Noone seems to know about it unless you hike a small loop trail. Enjoyed the learning about the place.

Brandon Hill — Google review

Tucked away off the beaten path, just Northwest of the state capital Tallahassee. This state park, like most all Florida State Parks is very well groomed and maintained. It was mandatory to purchase the " guided " tour in order to access the caverns. Which we thought was a bit pricey. 53$ for four. Inside the caverns is a magical place that takes you back in time. The stalagtites and stalagmites were amazing to see knowing they have been formed over the course of earths history. The Florida Caverns are a great example of the complexity and beauty of our planet.

Matthew Weaver — Google review

What an awesome park, the history behind it, and the Cave tour wow! We were here for 4 days camping and loved it. The facilities at our campsite were great. Bonus points for the washer and dryer!The cave tour was way more fun than I expected. We did the 2 hour night tour with our 3 kids aged 6,8, and 4 they loved it. Honey bee / Joni was incredible she was so knowledgeable and made the tour so much fun. I just loved her spirit, passion. She truly loves what she does, and made this experience for our family unforgettable. The caves themselves were very big, and impressive with their beautiful formations and the history behind how it was all made to be accessible to the public well that was a story of its own. Would recommend as a great family spot to check out. We will definitely return and be recommending to our family and friends.

Stephanie Murillo — Google review

We love Florida State Parks. This is one that we have not visited before. We only had a few hours to burn and we visited the caves. So worth visiting if you are short on time or have the whole day to spend. There is camping available at this park.

Phil Bell — Google review

Nice park for hiking and a visit to the carverns is a must if you are here. They do charge $15 per person for 45 minute guided tour. I do not think you can go into the cave unless you are on the tour. The caverns are great. Plenty of lighting. Some uneven floor and some steps. Also there are several very low ceilings, so if you are taller then that is a little more of an issue. Just need to duck or crouch down. No place do you need to crawl. The cavern formations are spectacular and still actively growing. Outside the caverns, there are some nice hiking trails. The trails are not very difficult, so great for kids. Dogs can use the hiking trails on leash. No dogs inside the caverns.

Bob Evans — Google review

Amazing , go, no regrets, worth it, fun, safe, nature, unique experience for all ages. Gift shop, restrooms, family, couple, singles friendly. A place everyone can come and enjoy, plenty of trails as well. Call them ahead and book advance on line for tours, it can be slow in the morning and empty and fill up packed in the afternoon

henry concepcion — Google review

There are caverns in Florida! What a fun experience, for the whole family. Beautiful place well appointed. Tours run every 30 minutes. Our guide was Sarah, cool guide! Very knowledgeable and funny. Very unique experience ! Not wheelchair accessible. Good trails to hike. Priced fairly. Good experience overall.

Para Un Tiempo Como Este Rosaly Guzman — Google review

Beautiful park! Things are easily found and staff is very friendly and helpful. Roads are newly paved and marked. Trails were easy to navigate and scenic. VIPs and Host were very friendly. If you’re camping in a long rig just know that in the campground the turns are sharp. Horse camp is so nice with day use.

Dennis Brown — Google review

This was just such wonderful, wonderful experience. Unfortunately we didn’t get to see the whole OK because it was flooded so we only had half a tour but what we saw was so interesting and beautiful. we went on a hike around there and it was kind of rough walking it. Lots of rocks and stumps and it was challenging for me, but I made it but if you’re handicap I would not recommend it. They have a small museum and a gift shop. Was a great fun day

Linda Maloney — Google review

I wish i was able to explore on my own, but I understand that the limited self-control of the populus prohibits me from experiencing such wonders freely and without supervision.It's a neat cave. It's not super big, and it costs about $16 for a tour. I probably won't go back . They do have other trails that i did not check out that don't cost money, but you have to pay an entry fee to enter the park.

Alyssa Russo — Google review

What a beautiful cave enjoy this experience with my children.. some lovely pictures felt like I needed to share.. Yes it may be a long drive if you're from south Florida going to North Florida but is well worth it and you'll have a lovely time at it . Make sure you get there early on your journeys so you have time to get home.. and the GPS worked fabulous this time so no problems coming and going.. can't remember the name of my tour guide but he was fabulous explain so much and had so much knowledge.. Titanic was going down with the music that was special Loved it.. we all enjoyed his knowledge of the cave.. wonderful group to walk with couldn't ask for anything better that day.. many blessings on your journeys in the state of Florida we have such beautiful parks and beautiful places to explore many many blessings and safe drive..

Mama Bear — Google review

4.8

(4143)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (97)

4.5

(999)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (98)

3345 Caverns Rd, Marianna, FL 32446, USA

(850) 482-1228

14

Panama City Beach

40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (99)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (100)

40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (101)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (102)

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Outdoor Activities

Beach & Pool Clubs

Beaches

Located in the northwestern region of Florida, Panama City Beach is a popular vacation spot and waterfront town. Its notable features include extensive stretches of white-sand beaches that are adjacent to the tranquil and transparent Gulf of Mexico waters. Additionally, the locale encompasses two safeguarded nature preserves with St. Andrews State Park being one of them; which offers fishing piers as well as hiking trails for visitors to engage in outdoor activities.

11% as popular as New Orleans

56 minutes off the main route, 42% of way to Natchez

15

Gulf World Marine Park

40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (103)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (104)

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Aquarium

Nature & Parks

Gulf World is an aquarium that houses a variety of animals, including dolphins, sea lions, penguins, and tropical birds. The aquarium also features animal shows and exhibits, as well as a night show in the Tropical Garden Theatre.

This place is a MUST GO vacation attraction. From the moment you walk inside you are greeted with nature. The birds are out free and not behind glass, they must be trained very well to know not to fly or wander off, or attack customers. It was great to see them up close! They also have the sea lions that will come out every now and then and you’re able to view them from a close range. It was cool to see all of the turtles, fish, alligators, and sting rays too. They even had an employee who held an iguana and allowed for us to touch it! It was a very cool experience. There are open spaces for a picnic, or break from walking. There’s even a kids area where all of the children can go and play. Plenty of signs and back drops for pictures too. They do have a concessions stand inside for food and drinks, it is a bit pricey so I would suggest bringing your own. I did not see a water fountain and it was extremely hot out today so dehydration is a concern when visiting. Please bring a water bottle if you can’t buy anything or don’t want to stand in the long line. The establishment was fairly clean and does have a bathroom and an air conditioned space within the facility. My favorite part about visiting today was the dolphins! The mermaids/trainers are amazing at guiding the dolphins. It was so lovely to see. The program was also very informative while also being entertaining. I would definitely recommend coming here if you haven’t already.

Queen Lovely — Google review

We have never been to Gulf World and thought this time we should check it out while in Panama. I would not ever want to be there during a crowded season. It's a very small place compared to any zoo or aquarium we have visited. Being an off season now when we went it was fine. It was more expensive than for what we could normally get from other experiences at zoos or aquariums but it is still very enjoyable. I liked how you can pay for extra interactions and photos with the animals. We only needed two hours there so it is also good for a stop without it taking up an entire day of your vacation. It was pretty clean also. The dolphin show was fantastic and that's where I consider I mostly got my monies worth so if you don't see it you might as well just wait until you are sure you don't miss that.

Kristiana Miller — Google review

I love that this place takes in animals that can not return to the wild! A rehab for the animals but I can’t help to think some of these animals needed to be separated.I was able to do an encounter with this lovely sea lion Cooper! He did some tricks he hasn’t performed before. I would not recommend some of the tricks for younger kids because he is heavy. However he is a smart sea lion. He was free to go if he didn’t want to do tricks or interact with us. And that’s one reason I really loved this! I also had tons of questions about him and his species and the trainer was very kind and educational! We were only in the pool for about 20 minutes. I wish we could have done more. But I’m glad the staff had some boundaries on what could and could not be done.The turtles were moved inside the building and they were attacking each other. The sharks in the tank outside were attacking each other as well. I tried saying something but I don’t think there was anything they could do. The shark was trying to tare off the other nurse sharks tail. And they were at it for hours.There is a touch area for the sting rays where you can pet the top of them. You can also feed them. However there was a customer picking them up out of water many times and laughing at it. Telling his kids to come pet them. The staff members near by didn’t seem to care. Kids were leaning over the wall and one almost fell in. Again nobody seemed to care. I almost ran over to the kid because I thought he was going to fall in and his parents were not paying attention.The dolphin swim adventure was really cool. You can take pictures with the dolphin and he takes you for a short ride on his belly. The dolphin was treat motivated. I don’t think the dolphin would have participated if he wasn’t getting treats the whole time.Overall this was a great experience. But a friendly reminder these animals have their own minds and should be respected. Don’t do anything that could provoke them. Listen to the trainers. And please watch your kids.

Davis Destiny — Google review

We had the best time at Gulf World on Labor Day. It was too hot to be on the beach so we took the kids to explore and have fun. My 3 year old was mesmerized by the dolphin show. It was her first time seeing marine life up close. She was so excited to be able to touch a dolphin with the photo opportunity after the show. The reusable souvenir cups were amazing and I love they had 1 dollars refills for the icees. All the staff walking around were kind and helpful. We only ran into one lady at the outdoor food window that acted annoyed and wasn’t the friendliest. Overall, it was a great experience and very educational. I love they talk about reducing waste and recycling to help the marine life. We’ll be back again.

Holly Gray — Google review

We had a nice time in spite of the heat. There were not as many marine animals as we were expecting. The facility is showing it's age, but is well maintained for the most part. The staff was friendly, helpful, and informative with the one exception of the obnoxious guy at the photo counter. We booked the morning time from 09:30-1:00 and the first chance to see dolphins was not until 12:30 so we missed it because it was too hot. Overall a nice experience, but not up to par with similar facilities on the gulf coast that charge less for admission.

Larry Clark — Google review

Love this place so nice great experience over all but the prices are wayyy to high and it’s hard to be able to get a full experience of the place without spending a ton! The place is clean the staff is nice and the animals were incredible. I will be back here for sure and hopefully pricing changes to make it more affordable for families to really experience the animals in a more up close way .. my kids had a great time and loved it here as well.

J Tay — Google review

This place is great if you want to book an animal encounter otherwise not worth the price for just general admission. The website wasn't clear that general admission was INCLUDED in the dolphin encounter so l ended up buying general admission also, that was non refundable. They need to make a change to the wording online. Also the email I received stated that there would be photos "for purchase" after the dolphin encounter yet they were actually included. The dolphin encounter was amazing and such a once in a lifetime experience. The photos didn't turn out that great though. A lot of the photos I received were very over exposed the camera settings need to be changed to correct this issue. There weren’t any areas to change after the dolphin encounter, so I had to change my clothes in a dirty bathroom stall. The rest of gulf world outside of the dolphins was pretty small. The enclosures were also super small for the animals.

Gabrielle Bollerer — Google review

Really great shows! The dolphin show was my 5 year old's favorite. Well done and the animals seem to well cared for. It's a great place to hit up in PCB if you have small ones or are an animal lover.

Jules Hoehn — Google review

Had a pretty good time viewing the animals located at the park. I will say that once you are in the park, everything seems like a money grab. The pictures offered with the animals run $10 a piece and can really add up. We looked at the swimming with the dolphins options, and came close to purchasing the packages. The cost isn’t cheap, but not necessarily super expensive given the opportunity. The only problem I had with the encounter was the banning of any kind of cameras, of course they offer to take pictures for you if you purchase a picture package along with the already pricey activity. The package does not specify how many pictures you get, if more than the singular pics that were offered at the end of each animal program. I just think if I’m paying all that money to swim with dolphins I should at least have to option to bring a water proof camera, ie go pro, to capture this amazing opportunity. Even as an observer to capture my children enjoying the moment. At least admission to the park is included with the cost of the activity. Unless we took part in one of the animal encounters I think the one visit would suffice and would not see a reason to return. Then again the kids and wife enjoyed it so you never know.

Christopher Bennett — Google review

My daughter and I enjoyed a girl's day on our vacation here. We could not have asked for better! The shows were amazing and the staff was wonderful! My daughter asked to come back again! It is a very small place but, if you time it right and hit all the shows, you will have the absolute best experience!

Laura Gooch — Google review

Dolphin show, sting rays and sea lion talk were highlights. Much of the time we spent there was self guided and we spent about 3 hours there. Good for a partial day activity but wouldn’t plan on spending more than a few hours. Many options to pay extra for are presented throughout your time there including photo ops, interactions with animals, etc.Our 4 and 7 year olds loved the sting rays and the dolphin show. I had a hard time hearing the person talking during the dolphin show, which took away from the experience a little. You can tell the trainers and animal care teams truly care about these animals.

Shelly Eberlein — Google review

My family and I had a nice time!! We wished we would have gotten there when they opened as we didn't get to see the encounter with the sea lion. But we did get to see a lot of neat animals. We also got to pet and feed stingrays and see a really neat dolphin show. So overall we had a good time and the kids really enjoyed it

Brittany Barnes — Google review

For an aquarium, I expected to see more fish, especially ones that are local to the area. We did see dolphins, parrots, sting rays and sea lions. There were also penguins and other random enclosures. I would not say this was your typical aquarium. The highlight of our day was definitely the dolphins. It was worth it to see the dolphin show alone.

Alicia Hauna — Google review

What an amazing experience! We did the dolphin royal swim. Everyone I have talked to that has swam with dolphins anywhere else says they just get to touch them and that’s about it… Here we got to swim out in their tank 2 different times and they gave us rides. We also got to enjoy sea lion shows and a dolphin show with our tickets. Highly recommend. This was the best day ever.I am always hesitant about places like this but ALL of the animals here are very well taken care of and everyone we met were there for the right reasons and their main focus was keeping all of the animals healthy!

Krista Roten — Google review

I’ve been here twice in the last four years and I love it. The park is small but the shows will keep you busy for3-4 hours. I like how they coordinate the shows so that you get a chance to see them all. I only wish the animal encounters were a little cheaper.

Melinda M — Google review

The entire family, with 10 people voting (5 children under 10), were unanimous that this was not worth the time or money. The dolphin show is the best part of the park and provides good entertainment while also educating attendees on topics of biology and ecology. We expected to see more of this level of care in the other attractions, but that standard was too high. The rest of the attractions are very poorly designed and maintained. Although the staff was friendly, they are stewards of a park where the leadership appears to have stopped caring. The Tropical Garden Theater attraction attempts to entertain the audience with feathered and furry animals performing cute tricks, but the script is slow and the animals at our showing were uncooperative. There was almost no attempt to educate the audience on the animals, their biology, their native habitat, or conservation efforts. Our family has all agreed that we will never go back.

Chris W. — Google review

A must do if you are visiting the panhandle. Worth the drive! You could easily spend 4-6 hours here if you wanted to see all the shows and take in all the exhibits. Super impressed by the quality of the exhibits and the entertaining amd educational shows. The Little ones were enthralled by the variety of sea life and exhibits.

Eric The traveling scuba diving bugman — Google review

The place could use some updating. I am sure they took a hit from the pandemic. Staff very cordial. Biggest ever Veteran's discount. Great variety of creatures and touchable stingrays. Displays are mainly indoors. Easy to find with free parking. Many concessions and the obligatory gift shop. Would be good for a "washout" beach day.

Timothy Robieson — Google review

I was not expecting it to be as good as it was! The dolphin show alone was worth the price of admission. I loved the sting rays, the sea turtle, the sea lions. Everything was so interactive and entertaining. Fantastic experience all around!

Brandy Stephens — Google review

A lot of cool animals, with quite a few you can get up close to. We had a good time here and would go back again. They didn't have their normal schedule going on the day we went, so can't speak the whole experience. Definitely a good place to take the family. Does look like they need to do some renovations there, but that didn't hinder our time there. We would visit again.

Matt Richards — Google review

We did the dolphin adventure with my 2 girls one 7 one 3 and it was a pricey but worth it experience. Girls had a blast and the pictures were great and included. As a spectator the seating area is in the sun and the experience area is a shaded area. We are on the beach 30 minutes in the sun won't kill anybody and I have no complaints. Would definitely do it again. Staff was very friendly and answered any questions we had. My only complaint if you want to call it that was we bought tickets for event beforehand and internet says to arrive at 9:15. We did and weren't let in until 9:40 or so. Again little time in the sun won't hurt anybody.

Matthew Booker — Google review

Positives:The animals are undeniably beautiful, despite the less-than-ideal conditions of their habitats.Negatives:Unfortunately, the habitats are too cramped for the animals they house, and some of the animals appeared unhealthy.Even TripAdvisor doesn't recommend this place due to animal welfare concerns.Food Court:I tried the chicken nachos, which were standard park fare. Nothing exceptional, but they did the job.The hygiene in the food court was subpar. A flickering menu on a TV with an exposed cord didn’t inspire confidence. And those paper fans for sale? Well, one had a squished fly underneath. Not exactly appetizing, especially considering it was inside the kitchen.Bathrooms:The bathrooms were downright scary. No stalls—just a large room with a toilet. Trash bins propped open the doors, and there were dangling electrical wires. Not the best experience.Shows:On the bright side, admission includes a few shows. The bird show stood out—well-trained birds that younger kids will enjoy.Odd Room:There’s this peculiar room with nothing but a small disco ball awkwardly tucked into a corner. Oh, and a projector sharing outdated info about a missing lizard. Odd, indeed.Overall Verdict:Regrettably, I cannot recommend this place. The treatment of the animals alone is concerning, and when you factor in safety, hygiene, and overall care, it’s best to steer clear.

Anon — Google review

Fun little park!! Perfect size for young kids and pretty reasonable priced.Has small exhibits of penguins, alliagtors, and birds. Also has a large pool with a few animals like a nurse shark and large sea turtle.There was only one sea lion but it was a fun little show with it hopping in and out of its pool and staff sharing other information about sea lions.We loved the sting ray exhibit, that was the best part!! That was the coolest thing to feed and touch them!Also enjoyed the dolphin show!! I was impressed with the training as I used to visit sea world when I was young and the dolphin exhibit was comparable to that.Overall we enjoyed it. Only thing I could add was maybe to update the little playground area.

Lisa Roelofs — Google review

Do NOT recommend. We were completely floored by the conditions of these poor animals habitats. The sharks’ and huge turtle’s “habitat” was literally just a swimming pool with nothing added to make it look more like their natural environment. I’ve been in backyard pools that were bigger than their home. The sea lions’ habitat was honestly nauseating because it was so small. Again, nothing in their habitat to make it feel an ounce like the ocean or whatnot. The one sea lion looked so depressed. The alligators were just chillin on concrete. Don’t waste your money or time.

Hannah Beck — Google review

A lot better than we thought it would be! Get there early - best shows start around 10-11. Food is decently priced . We loved the dolphin show

Jessica Gotsch — Google review

This place is a hidden gem. We thought we were only gonna spend an hour or 2 ther and my girls had so much fun we were there for 4.5 hours. They had fun little shows with the animals and awesome dolphin show and my kiddos loved feeding the stingrays. I would recommend!!

Danielle Perkins — Google review

Overall a decent experience. Myself and youngest daughter purchased the dolphin encounter. I called before purchasing the tickets and was told as long as she’s 40+ inches tall she’d be able to participate. I had to hold her the entire time, which was fine for me but unpleasant for her. The water was definitely not clear and seemed dirty. I had anticipated the water to be clear/cleaned beforehand because of the photos they’ve posted on their website are clear water. The photos we received were decent. The times to the establishment weren’t clearly stated. Online it stated one time and on their phone line it stated a different time. It’s a decent place to take your children.

Courtney Saaristo — Google review

We visited on vacation with our kids. Mixed reviews on this one. The dolphin show was incredible. The remaining part of the facility didn’t seem the best from the animals perspective.

Kimberly Blevins — Google review

4.1

(5136)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (108)

4.5

(2580)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (109)

15412 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413, USA

(850) 234-5271

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16

Pier Park

40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (117)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (118)

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Shopping mall

Shopping

Pier Park is a large, busy shopping mall with a wide range of shops and restaurants. The mall is great for people who want to spend the day shopping, eating, and checking out attractions. There are over 120 stores in the mall, including a Grand IMAX movie theater and laser tag.

Amazing visit in PCB! There are so many restaurants, shops, and fun things to do and try! Great for all ages, and right next to the beach! It's a perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of swimming, and I must say, the view at night is absolutely divine! You can get a wristband to walk out on the pier at night, and to look back at the lights and listen to the ocean takes you away and makes you feel free. The scenery is amazing, and during the day, the atmosphere is fun and inviting! You'll want to spend a whole day exploring and enjoying everything Pier Park has to offer and you're sure to find plenty of souvenirs to take home!

Anna Hughes — Google review

Really nice area on Panama City with a lot of activity for children or adults restaurants everywhere many stores and shopping with a lot of seating if you just want to seat down and enjoy the view.Highly recommend especially on night time the atmosphere is really cool.If you are in Panama City you have to check it out!

Otniel Aguilo — Google review

The 'Sky Wheel' is not your typical 'ferris wheel.' It is worth riding for the views alone. Pay attention at purchase. '3 attractions' is the cheaper option for 3 riders of the wheel. You must check out the free face painting booth! Amanda is amazing & did an awesome job on all 3 faces! She made the girls so happy!! The Aladdin man juggling was pretty neat, too.. & even took the time to let the children learn along beside him.

Brittany Dugan — Google review

On a day that seemed to flirt with gloom yet graciously withheld its full embrace, Pier Park in Panama City Beach revealed itself under the nuanced light of spring break 2024. The mercury touched a comfortable 71°, crafting an ambiance that was neither too warm nor too brisk, but rather an impeccable middle ground for leisure and contemplation.The imposition of a four-dollar entrance fee was an unexpected twist in the narrative of the day. Yet, in the grand scheme of experiences and the memories they bequeath, this modest levy scarcely registered as a grievance. It was, at most, a mere footnote in a chapter filled with the serene beauty of the park and the gentle murmur of the sea.The park's cleanliness was a silent testament to the conscientious efforts of those who steward its grounds. In a world where the natural and the man-made often clash, here they coexisted in harmonious respect. The absence of litter was not merely a detail but a significant character in the story of the day, reflecting a shared commitment to preserving the beauty and dignity of this communal space.Awarding Pier Park a four-star accolade is an acknowledgment of its subtle charm and the understated way it provided a backdrop to a day that could have easily tipped into dreariness but instead held a certain luminous quality. The park, with its clean environs and the soft, forgiving light of a clear but overcast sky, served as a reminder of the simple joys that are often overshadowed by grander expectations. In its quiet dignity, Pier Park offered a space not just for recreation, but for reflection, making it a cherished waypoint in the journey of life.

Danny Veiga — Google review

This place was a great visit for me and my family. There is pretty much everything in here from clothing to surf/skate boards and to food and deserts.Also easy access to the pier on the water. Could not find a “public. Bathroom” without going into a store to use. Great visit along with a movie theater also!

Mitchell Lowe — Google review

It's a great tourist stop. But we are locals now, and despite being local, we really enjoy coming here. There is a lot of stuff to do for the kids, as a couple, and as a family. The escape rooms are awesome, and Dave and Busters can get crowded, but that's to be expected. There are lots of places to stop and eat, plus the ferris wheel is amazing. When family comes to visit us, this is a great place to take them.

Victoria Black — Google review

Pier Park is okay. There is plenty to do for all ages. My teenage son and I especially enjoyed the view from the SkyWheel (Ferris wheel), except it is completely overpriced. For example, I paid about $50 total for both of us to ride the SkyWheel for a matter of minutes. For double that price, we could have spent an entire day at an amusem*nt park full of rides, which would have been money better spent.

Mendy Sturgill — Google review

Awesome fun! My granddaughter and I have dubbed it, The Greatest Playground in PC. If there had been a place to pitch a tent, we would still be there.

April Richardson — Google review

It’s an awesome place for families with kids. Lots of things to do. The beach was also lovely and clean to sit and relax. Recommend, I would say this is probably the only good place to hang out during the summer in this town

Christopher Ogochukwu — Google review

It's a nice place to visit as a tourist. So many stores, attractions and restaurants. You can see everything from the top of the SkyWheel. There's a pier u can walk on across the street for a $4 fee. I've been here a few times and enjoyed myself every time.

Towanda ?Princess? — Google review

Had a great experience here, there are tons of shops, stores, restaurants, activities, sights, and more! Great place, went here with my group and we all had a great time. You could definitely spend quite a bit of time here exploring, and going through shops.

Jacob Edson — Google review

So much to see and do! It was $4 a person to enter the pier but so worth it. We even saw a dolphin showing off in the water at the end of the pier. There were so many cool shops and wonderful restaurants to choose from. There is something for everyone!

Tharesa Martin — Google review

A lot of fun to walk around. A good variety of food choices. The shops are a mix between the expected beach shops and some nicer stores you’d see in your hometown. We rode the Ferris wheel and did the bungee jump. Loved both. I gave it four stars because on Saturday night there were a lot of big trucks coming through revving engines with teens hanging out windows. The vibe changed a little toward a more rowdy feel. Not a huge deal but enough for us to call it quits and head back to the hotel. Aside from that, it was really family friendly.

Rachel Gunn — Google review

Great tourist spot. My second place of visit in the Florida State. Many shops, eateries are available. Ferry wheel is major attraction. Vehicles are not allowed to move in the street. Walkers can walk freely. A huge parking space is available.Parking is free.

Sarma Vedula — Google review

Definitely a must stop by and walk around place! So many things to do…shopping, amusem*nt park, boardwalk, great food..etcGolden hour is best time to go!

Y Lep — Google review

Something for everyone. Good assortment of stores, restaurants, gift shops, specialty stores, sweet treats and entertainment. Parking very close by. Close to the ball parks, beach and pier. Does get a little crowded during the tourist season sometimes but you can always get around if you don’t mind walking a little.

William Bruckert — Google review

It was just okay. We enjoyed the sky wheel and mini golf, but bring lots of patience and money. Way too busy, but it is spring break.

Samantha Grayson — Google review

Decent shopping center/strip mall adjacent to the beach and pier. More of a tourist attraction. Very busy and lots of traffic (spring break time); summer may be busier and some times may be quieter. Okay to experience, but too busy if trying to get to the beach.

God's Blessed — Google review

Cool place for family! Pier was awesome and alive and also had dog beach! Did wish there was some more food options though.

Abby S — Google review

My wife and I celebrated New Years, 2024. The parking wasn't fun, there was a few thousand people. Overall experience was great. Angry Tuna had good and strong drinks.

Edward Rabil — Google review

Beautiful animations of cartoons make it an eye-treat. Shops are incredibly artistic, and the tiny adventurous park is a must-try.

shruti kotha — Google review

Great experience alittle pricey when you have a family but worth it beautiful view

Jennifer McCormack — Google review

4.6

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4.5

(2893)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (123)

600 Pier Park Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32413, USA

(850) 236-9962

17

Santa Rosa Beach

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Outdoor Activities

Beaches

Located in Walton County, Florida, Santa Rosa Beach is an unincorporated community that forms a part of the wider Fort Walton Beach-Crestview-Destin, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area. It is a popular destination for tourists seeking to enjoy the sunshine and explore the natural beauty of Florida's Gulf Coast. The area offers pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and a range of recreational activities such as fishing, boating and water sports.

5.0

(906)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (128)

Florida 32459, USA

18

Henderson Beach State Park

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State park

Outdoor Activities

Beaches

Henderson Beach State Park is a great place to spend a day or two, with its beautiful beach, nature trail, and playground. The park is located on Emerald Coast Parkway, close to many restaurants.

I live across the street from Henderson Park and as such I go there just about every morning and walk the beachI get Early Access so I get to see the Moon Over the beach and I get to see some really great sun rises and some sunsets.This is a wonderfully managed State Park I particularly like Alex who always has a smile on his face. If you can get an RV campsite here you will not be disappointed. However, the campground beach access boardwalk will be closed for repairs from September 2021 through March 2022.Still, it's spectacular and the next state park that you'd should try if you like being on the beach would be Topsail which is about 12 miles down the road but Henderson is easier and a much better day use Park.Topsail which is further down you have to take a tram to get to the beach and I prefer being able to park and walk right over at Henderson

Joe Romeo — Google review

Absolutely the best RV site we have ever stayed in. Very private. The beach is amazing. Gorgeous and scenic. We longed to have been able to stay longer, but we could only get these 2 days for reservations. It's just too hard to get into.We can't wait to come back.

John Neighbors — Google review

Park seems to be very clean. Well kept fairly organized. Multiple nice pavilions to use beaches are clean and white with beautiful blue green waves. Staff was welcoming. Going to help. One of the bad things about all the Florida State parks. Dogs are not allowed on the beach. The trail for the dog is nice. Wasn’t allowed to go into the campground to check it out because we are not camping here currently.

Dennis Brown — Google review

We couldn’t believe we’ve just driven past this beautiful place dozens of times. We got there before 11am on a Saturday and it was very quiet. The beach was beautiful and we felt like we had it to ourselves for a while. The restroom and picnic facilities were very well kept. Definitely worth the six dollars for parking. We will be back.

Brett Anderson — Google review

We’ve been lucky enough to camp at Henderson twice. It’s a beautiful campground. We love the privacy of the sites. You’re not on top of one another like other campgrounds. The walk to the beach is a bit long, but so pretty! The best part is that the beach is for campers, and isn’t crowded at all. Bathhouses are kept very clean. The campground hosts were very nice! We can’t wait to return!

Kerry Howe — Google review

I finally made it to Henderson State Park. I have watch so many videos and heard how beautiful this beach is. It was hard for me to believe as some of the gulf beaches are marshy in the central area. It is a beautiful as they say and Henderson Beach State Park is one of the best State Parks I have stayed at so far. I will be back for sure.https://youtu.be/u6nSQhRYZBc

Following Chrissy — Google review

Absolutely loved the beach! The sand was so white and soft. There is a fee to enter as it is a state park. There was a little wait to enter but it was well worth it. The water was so pretty and the beach was extremely clean. I will be returning.

Kammyia Barnes — Google review

Sun was high, sand is soft, water is fresh. Very awesome beach! Parking is well managed. Jas shower. Peaceful park, not overcrowded. Must come back for sure!

Gary Hong — Google review

We loved camping here, the walk to the beach was gorgeous. This might have been the nicest beach I have ever visited. The waves were a bit rough the first day (not terrible though), but then lovely and calm the next. I really enjoyed snorkeling. The water was so clear, it was perfect. The camp site was secluded, bathrooms were clean and it was a plus to have laundry machines on site. Now, to only do something about those pesky thunderstorms... we will be back!

Susan Cabral — Google review

This beach is one of the top five beaches in Destin, FL so we decided to check it out! Posted sign say $6 to park per car with 2-8 people but we were only charged $5 (maybe we got a discount because it was July 3, 2023). There was plenty of parking. As we walked down the stairway to the white sand beach all I could see was this beautiful, clear turquoise water and and the amazing blue skyline. It was a sight to see! This is such a beautiful beach with the soft white sand and clear water. It was a trip worth taking! Check it out and you’ll be implode I was! 🏖️☀️🏝️

Patricia — Google review

Great Campground with easy access to the beach. We enjoyed our campsite #35. Very quiet Campground. Resrooms and showers were alwregistered. Very friendly and helpful camp hosts. This Campground was only marked down to 4 stars because of the entrance. If you leave the Campground as a registered camper you have to wait in the long line of cars to get back in. We had to run a quick errand one day and sat in the line for over 20 minutes to get back in. All other state park campgrounds have a lane for vehicles that are already regitered. It was very nice that they have extra camper parking reserved in the parking area. This was a big help because we arrived around 1:30 due to the check out time at the previous campground. We could not get checked in until 2:30 at Henderson.

Sara Ramsey — Google review

The park charges $6 per vehicle per day. You can enter and leave the park with the same day receipt. The park is exceptionally clean, has ample parking, and includes all the amenities needed to make it a perfect beach day. There were covered picnic areas, restrooms, showers, and changing areas.

Bonnie Robinson — Google review

"Private" beach with super soft white sand. Cost $6 a car load(2-8). Although it was packed with people it was super peaceful. Bathrooms on site are an extreme convenience. Well worth the trip from PCB to come hang out with friends staying in destin.

Mark — Google review

State Park is one of cleanest I've ever visited. The trail and parking lot area are dog friendly but not the beach. Accessible but doesn't provide beach style wheel chairs. Beach patrol happens often enough to keep everyone safe. Great spot to take photos in the Destin area.

D Knight — Google review

Beautiful campground. Will be 5 stars when they get full hook ups later this year. Tourist helicopter is going over the park pretty regularly. Some road noise from 98 depending on your lot. Many really nice pull thru sites. Good amount of privacy on most lots.

Dan Ross — Google review

Beautiful beach. Has showers, bathroom, pavilions, handicapped accessibility. Not too far to the beach. Cost 6 dollars to get in but worth it. Open dusk to dawn. No pets allowed

Stephen Dennis — Google review

4.8

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4.5

(2408)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (135)

17000 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL 32541, USA

(850) 837-7550

19

Destin Harbor Boardwalk

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Sights & Landmarks

Marina

Points of Interest & Landmarks

The Destin Harbor Boardwalk is a bustling destination for bars, restaurants, souvenir shops, and tourist attractions. It's filled with shops and restaurants and has a great view of the Florida sunset.

Really great place to have fun and relax. There's so much for couples and even more for families! Food is all around you and with zip lining, rock walls, mini golf, escape rooms, and axe throwing, there's never a dull moment. It isn't the least expensive place but you should know that walking in. Lastly, hit those charters and get some rod bending action while you are out here!

Mister Review — Google review

This place is pretty good! There's a lot of restaurants nearby and you can go on a boat. For the boat they can take you to scuba dive or dolphin watch and many more! This is a good place to visit in general. You can go for a boat ride or eat at 1 of the many restaurants or buy some items like toys for your kids. It is a pretty fun place for people.

Jaeden Silva — Google review

Visiting Destin Harbor Boardwalk was an unforgettable experience! The vibrant atmosphere, stunning waterfront views, diverse entertainment, and delicious dining options made it one of the best destinations I've ever been to. If you haven't been there yet, it's definitely a must-visit!

Chris Ositu — Google review

This place has really grown into a tourist attraction. Lots of shops and restaurants. Ice cream, coffee, Alcohol. Cool place to stroll around with a drink in your hand. Zip line, jet ski rentals, dolphin cruises,deep sea fishing. Tons of foot and water traffic. Pretty cool spot. I paid 20 bucks to park with same day re entry.

Jeremy Brown — Google review

What a wonderful place to have fun with the family. There are small train ride for little kids, jumping zone, zipline, free fall etc. you can take dolphin boat tours or charters. Fast food options like french fries, grilled cheese, funnel cake are there. Great fish restaurants. Definitely you should go. It is best in the evening time!

Betul Erkan — Google review

Very busy, lots of fun. Nice stores. It was one of the best harbor walks we have been. Many stores for browsing and many cool eats.Very full after 3pm usually. Plan to spend at least a few hours there. They have a cool zip line that has a beautiful view of the harbor.

Chris Skaliks — Google review

We enjoyed our time at the boardwalk, it was $20 daily parking. You can leave and come back just have to keep your ticket on the way out. There was a free concert at night featuring Flash Flood when we visited. We really enjoyed them! We saw lots of fish walking along the boardwalk, and listened to lots of great music. There are plenty of places to shop and eat!

Breanna Cozart — Google review

Great place for families to spend the day. Plenty of places to shop, catch a cruise, or have a meal. There are lots of activities like rock climbing, mini golf, 7D experience, food trucks. We enjoyed sitting on the dock and watching boats come and go. We were there on a Thursday night and they had a vintage air show, live music and we had a late dinner and view of the fantastic fireworks.

Jamie Blair — Google review

Fun and lively. Lots of boats cruising and music everywhere. Wonderful during the "off season" because it's not overly crowded. A new favorite vacation local spot for my early spring getaway.

Robin Hendricks — Google review

Great little outdoor boardwalk with plenty of entertainment for the kids. Some good food places and definitely fresh, delicious adult beverages. You even get to see the fishermen with their daily fish hauls

Caitlin Masse — Google review

It was fun. Yeah, it was a bit touristy, and prices were maybe a little high. But it is worth it. Just a nice stroll and street performers every now and again, not there begging for money. Safe family things. And free parkimg is available.

Brian Nielsen — Google review

Excellent spot to do some shopping, enjoy some entertainment, or grab a bite to eat. Lots to do from boat rentals to fishing and sightseeing excursions to food and activities all right there. There is a 20 dollar parking fee, but it's good for the entire day. It's definitely worth the visit!

Romeo — Google review

Pretty neat place to spend time in Destin. Alot of boat tours, dolphin cruises etc one could ride on. Some restaurants as well along the boardwalk to grab a bite. Would recommend staying at Wyndham hotel on the harbor to make it easy to be in that area.

Raheel Rao — Google review

Very cool place! Lots of shops, restaurants and food trucks. They have some games for the kiddos like the giant hamster balls they get in the water in. There was even a guy walking around on stilts making balloon animals :-) You can also walk the marina and check out all the cool boats. Great view of the bridge and islands too! $20 parking seems a little steep; but we enjoyed it.

SweetSouthernLiving — Google review

Fun with lots to do, and good food! The harbor boat rides are a must. We didn’t regret it. Weren’t expecting it to be so much fun

Milana K — Google review

Fun to roam around and take in the sights, eat a snack, relax to live music. We were in the Emerald Green for a Wyndham Presentation, which is another story in itself. Prices were higher that some of the other shops around town.

C J — Google review

Beautiful. Plenty of great restaurants, bars and shops. Beautiful area. In season is march - october, we've visited before outside of season. Many places were closed or had reduced hours. Check hours before visiting if you have your heart set on a specific location.

donna nehrenz — Google review

The boat ride was amazing. I wish I could live here. Staff was super helpful

shanique Adams — Google review

A must do when in Destin. Shopping, food trucks, AJs restaurant, fishing boats pulling up...last weekend in October is big fishing competition, there is seating/bleachers, u can get a cold beer and just people watch, take a dolphin cruise. Loved all of it.

trudy tuttle — Google review

A great shopping experience. Wife selection of different stores. The boardwalk offers some great views of the ocean.

Rob Robinson — Google review

We went to get our yearly Christmas ornaments. We were gifted with a festive atmosphere and one of the most beautiful sunsets. During the season, the harbor is so lively and energetic. But, I have to say, December is my favorite time. Quiet, peaceful, and fun.

Emily Stelle — Google review

Booked 3 fishing charters (Feb21st, April 1st&5th 2024) with Swoop|| had a alright time all 3times but one of the deck mates insinuated that my party didn’t tip enough like one couple did. 1st time we tipped about 20% 2nd time 23% of the charter booking cost. I personally don’t know what’s customary or average but the deck mate Oz made it clear me and my party weren’t appreciated. In away it wasn’t just Oz that made us feel unwelcome. After all that, 2 different parties spoke with us and said they will never book with them again and neither will we. Plenty of other party & private fishing charters out of the Destin Harbor. I feel we over tipped on our way out the 3rd time after that not so pleasant experience. This was my short story 🤷🏼‍♂️

Lonny Stundahl — Google review

Fun place to hang out. There are alot of shops. You can rent charter boats too.

Julia Tuck — Google review

4.6

(9963)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (141)

4.5

(2138)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (142)

102 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541, USA

(850) 683-3009

20

Navarre Beach

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Outdoor Activities

Beaches

5.0

(1762)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (147)

Pensacola Beach, FL 32566, USA

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21

Pensacola Beach

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Outdoor Activities

Beaches

Pensacola Beach is a tourist destination located on Santa Rosa, a Gulf Coast barrier island in Florida. The beach boasts of sparkling white sands featuring the famous Opal Beach, which is part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Travelers can also explore Pensacola Beach Boardwalk where they can find various shops and restaurants. A must-see attraction nearby is the Pensacola Beach Pier that extends into the beautiful Gulf of Mexico.

4.5

(3255)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (159)

Florida, USA

22

National Naval Aviation Museum

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Museum

National museum

The National Naval Aviation Museum, located in the Naval Air Station Pensacola and one of the most popular museums in Florida, showcases over 150 restored military aircraft including helicopters and dive bombers that proved significant in American history. The museum is dedicated to preserving and exhibiting aspects of the development and heritage of the United States Naval Aviation history for all branches including Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Visitors can also enjoy a flight simulator experience and watch an IMAX theater show.

I'm a huge fan of naval aviation so 2 days in the car to visit this museum was perfectly fine with me. Unlike a number of aviation museums, this one allows you to get right up to the aircraft. As an avid model builder, the opportunity to crawl under some of these aircraft or stick your head up inside the wheel wells was amazing. There are many unique and historically significant pieces here as well as incredible models and artifact displays. While multiple Tomcats were awesome to see, the highlight for me was the opportunity to place my hand on the only surviving aircraft from Midway. It was a very moving experience for this naval aviation fan.

Mike ?Harristotle? H — Google review

Just so beautiful and inspirational. Amazingly detailed both up and downstairs. Incredibly knowledgeable staff of prior and current service. It’s like walking through 3D, live-motion Naval history research. So unbelievably modernized for a museum. No wait whatsoever. Not crowded. Free. Sharp images on screens, clean both in and outside (including restrooms), and just overall an amazing experience.

Derek Nicdao — Google review

Fantastic place to visit. The museum is awesome. Be prepared to spend several hours here. So much to see. We just so happened to be at the museum at the right time. The Blue Angels had practice while we were there. It was awesome seeing them fly. Loved the whole experience.

Julie Christenson — Google review

Pretty nice. It was a fun place for my friends & I. Lots of naval planes to see. Very clean & Very organized. We went to the Café and got food and it was pretty good. Also no wait at all!Just be mindful that the prices in the gift shop are a little high. But, admission is free anyways so it’s not that bad. Overall it’s ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️, I really enjoyed it and I hope you do too.

Corbin Pryor — Google review

This was a wonderful museum to attend. You do have to go through the initial base gates but it is my understanding this is allowed for everyone (I went with some one with a retired military ID so did not test this). We spent over 2 hours at this museum and did not cover everything. There is a lot of history to see and read, not just the air craft. They also have a historical movie to see. There are people on hand if you gave questions and of course a gift shop. Keep in mind if you go there are 2 buildings at the time of this review. Hanger 1 is found exiting the back part of the initial museum.

Joshua Dickinson — Google review

This place is fantastic. We love the old planes and we watched the blue angels earlier here. Your kids would love coming here. They have all kinds of interesting information and they have old reels that you can watch. You have to go to this museum. Free to get in also

Lora Stew55 — Google review

I’ve gone here twice since moving here and still haven’t seen all there is to see. We bring family here every time they come to visit! There’s a diner inside, as well as some flight simulations. The front desk and guides are all very helpful and knowledgeable. My kids love coming here!

Shirl Katherine — Google review

Yes a definite WOW!We are a military family and looked forward to our visit and it went way above and beyond our expectations.Be prepared to spend the day!The kids loved loved loved it!The cafe is available, the movie theater, and also the gift store. The store had a great variety of items - shirts, hats, toys, gift items, and novelty items.The displays were amazing. Do note some features have a cost but the entry was free with a donation option at the Blue Angels.We watched the “Blue Angels” and then then the pilots came for an Autograph session at the Museum. It was a fabulous day. We will definitely be back.

Rita Clark — Google review

Amazing! I had no idea what to expect but this is a must see. It's free to get in and there a ton of planes to see with hands on stuff for the kids and great historical information all over. I could easily spend all day here reading information and seeing the planes. There is a simulator that my kids did. That cost money but great experience. 5 stars! Thanks for the experience.

Sandra Lapp — Google review

My son had the Best Birthday Party ever! He loves the Blue Angels and His favorite movie Top Gun. So we decided to get a Blue Angel Uniform and some extra supplies. Our orders arrived after a few days and it was just perfect! We also received an extra item. Thank you so much guys. We will be taking our kid to the Museum next year ❤️

El Lauren — Google review

What a great experience. The museum was very informative and interesting. The displays were awesome and maintained very well. It took a couple of hours at least to really get through most of the displays and watch videos. As an adult I really enjoyed myself.

THERESSA THERESSA — Google review

My husband and I have been here on vacation for the past week now and let me tell you, this place was our favorite thing of the whole trip!! We absolutely loved the Naval Aviation Museum!! It was so neat seeing all the different planes from WW1 to present. Our tour guide, David I believe was his name, did a fabulous job! He absolutely new his stuff and I just enjoyed hearing him speak about everything in the museum! Also getting to see the blue angels fly was absolutely spectacular!! Everything about this place made me appreciate those who serve our country that much more!

Stephanie Neal — Google review

This place is great I’ve been going here for years and will visit again in the future. Covid making it harder to get it, but if you get to know a few locals this normally isn’t an issue. The museum is great and how many times over the years I’ve ran into someone volunteering and it turning into a 15 minute conversation about one of the displays telling a story from their life. I’ve meet nothing, but the best here. The shows always bring a crowd and it’s worth it, but also it’s definitely worth stopping on an off day to get the true experience of this wonderful place.

Maksim Blair — Google review

Wow!!! We came on the day it was open to the public this past weekend and WOW! What a gem! We spent the entire day there (with 3 young kids) and could have stayed longer. The leveled scavenger hunts for the kids were a super nice touch and impressed this teacher! Please consider opening back up to the public more often. We loved it!!

Aliceson Lueckemeyer — Google review

You gotta make 4 days available to see everything. Super interactive displays, friendly helpful staff and more to see and do for beyond the eyes can see. Full size airplanes on display. Many huge models of Navel ships. Wow, gotta put this place on your bucket list. Also, part of the home to the Blue Angles. Meet and greet on the tarmac behind the museum on live practice days. Most Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Check their schedule for training days to be sure. Oh best part. Parking and admission to the museum is FREE. You will have to enter NAS Pensacola so be sure to have your ID. Check the website.

David Kastner — Google review

I visited this place as a child over 30 years ago and wow, has come a long way. I expected my children to be bored, but they have done quite well with making sure there are plenty of interactive attractions to go along with the viewing of life sized peices historical Naval aviation.Admission is free, though there are "tip containers" scattered across the museum. They have a couple different simulators and they also have movies that all cost money. I feel they are reasonably priced since admission is free. There is restaurant and a snack bar. A little high priced for the quality in my opinion but it serves the purpose of giving you food for as much time as you could potentially spend here.We spent about 3 hours here and we didn't watch any of the movies that you can buy tickets to. If you are someone who is really passionate about this kind of thing and want to experience all of it, get here when the doors open and plan to spend 4-5 hours. And that is on a less busy day.The exhibits are top notch. They have full sized jets and planes plus very detailed replicas of different aircraft carriers. The WWII exhibit has it's own section and is an absolute must see if you love this part of US history. Worth a trip to Pensacola just for this, in my opinion.Overall, great museum and recommend every one check it out if in the area.

Tucker Lapp — Google review

This is an amazing museum! There are many wonderful displays ranging from WW1 to the present day. Parking and entrance are both free. It is a must see while in Pensacola!

Casandra Eagleman — Google review

We had a great time visiting this place!! It has grown over the years to include way more exhibits of planes, carriers, NASA, etc. It's so interesting to see the history of the military. There are flying simulators you can pay to do as well, a movie you can watch, etc. There is a little Cafe to get drinks and snacks and a nice gift shop! It's a terrific place to take kids!!

Rachelle Gilliam — Google review

My kids are 7, 8, 9 & 3. They had an absolute BLAST getting hands on with so many planes! Taking them to this museum was one of the best Saturdays we've had in a really long time! I'm so glad it's Open to the Public Now!!! I hadn't been since I was a kid and I forgot how much fun it was!

Amanda Allen — Google review

This is one of the most interesting museums I have been to. We only had half a day so need to go back. It is so well done with all the planes and the aircraft carriers and the displays. Not to be missed if you are in the area.

Craig N — Google review

This is a great museum. Get there early to see everything. Well maintained aircrafts and able to get up close. They have excellent tour guides too. This place is a win/win.

Bob T. — Google review

This is by far the best military aviation museum I've visited over the years! The displays are very well laid out, and the aircraft are real ones that have been in action in the fleet. It has very impressive galleries as well that provides the historical context of the various stages of development of naval aviation from the beginning of flight until the present day. Best of all, it's free.

Kim DeVilla — Google review

What an amazing museum. So many aircraft to look at. Wonderful stories to learn. Really enjoyed the life size dioramas that truly set the tone and make you feel like you have stepped back in time. A must see! The Blue Angels have weekly training sessions that something you shouldn’t miss.

Joel Taylor — Google review

Steve Judd gave our tour. He did an amazing job. It lasted about two hours. He was super interactive with the crowd. He asked about retired military in the crowd and any current pilots. I loved all the information he gave. I really enjoyed that he wore a microphone and little speaker. It made it so much easier to hear him. Anyone interested in the Navy, Blue Angels, and USA history would really enjoy this museum. I think we could spend two days reading everything, watching every movie, doing every interactive simulator. We will definitely be back again. Admission is free. Some things like the movie and simulators cost. They have a neat little cafe too.

Dawn Grizzell (MamaGrizX4) — Google review

Great experience. You should plan for an entire day to get the best out of your trip. There are so many different things to see that are worth your time. Most of the exhibits are exposed for you to touch and take pictures. They also have a restaurant that is good for the family to get a bite and continue your tour. Admission is FREE. Parking is FREE. Enjoy!

Charles Littleton — Google review

Wow! What a hidden gem - and it is FREE (although the movie and simulators are at a cost). So much fun and so much packed into a small foot print! Coming from a Navy family, where my dad worked in the planes, in a blimp and more, it was especially touching for me. My husband and I both loved it, and so did our 4 year old grandson - so definitely fun for all ages.

Kathi Hockenberry — Google review

Wow! This was a spur of the moment visit while in the area, but there a ton to see! The guide said it takes 2 days to see it all, I only got to see a bit of what there is to offer in an afternoon. Very expansive and cool exhibits with friendly staff.On a side note if there’s a Blue Angles practice going on, get there absolutely as early as possible. They were at capacity in the morning, so couldn’t get in and traffic gets beyond ridiculous!

Thomas Cremer — Google review

What a jewel to find. It's right across the Pensacola lighthouse. We got there about 30 minutes to closing.. lol.. so we did a very quick tour. We met one of the guys who works there, and he gave us a quick overview of the place. My dad, who's a WWII veteran, would have definitely marveled at this place. I definitely recommend getting there in time to enjoy the whole experience.

Maria Nelson — Google review

We visit as many military museums as possible when we travel. The National Naval Aviation Museum exceeded our expectations! Free admission. Expect to spend at least 2 hours! There are stairs, but also an elevator for those who need the extra help. Hands-on activities for children and short videos to help experience and understand the history of the time period. For those in Pensacola this is a MUST SEE!

Brandi S. — Google review

Enjoyed the visit with my girls (2 daughters and niece). Happened to get lucky and witness a flight school graduation, which was pretty awesome and unexpected. These officers were representing true American spirit, and from what I can remember, not a single one was from the same hometown, a true melting pot of America in this group. The museum itself has a unique bond between future and history this way by having Graduation ceremony surrounded by all the history while presenting the future of Naval aviation. I sincerely hope the families understand the importance of everything surrounding them and that they were able to take the time and enjoy the time, take some memories home of not only the present but of immersing themselves into the past.

Eleanor — Google review

Really enjoyable family oriented. So much history of the navy and our country. Lots of planes helicopters bombs. Old stores the pilots would go and the prices of the food and candy. Old houses they lived in. I highly recommend going here if you’re in the pensacola area. Big museum. Several activities.

Raymond Reynolds — Google review

4.8

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5.0

(6545)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (165)

1750 Radford Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32508, USA

(850) 452-8450

23

The Wharf

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Water & Amusem*nt Parks

Amphitheater

The Wharf is a touristy spot with amenities such as a convenience store, meeting space, pool, fitness center, golf course and breakfast. It is located in the heart of Gulf Shores and easy to access by car or bus.

I visited here the day after Christmas. The place had two laser shows at 6 and 7pm which were fun and beautiful. There were not many people and only a few shops were open around that time. There are plenty of parking spaces at no cost. It’s very easy to access.

Mariko Kajikawa — Google review

Really fun place. My boyfriend and I went last night. They had an awesome light show around 8:30 p.m. They have a bunch of shops, places to eat, and an arcade. Cool Ferris Wheel. Fun for the whole family. Recommend!

Amanda Harris — Google review

Had a great time at the Wharf for New Years. Shops were very welcoming and the crowd was having a great time. Live music, open shops more than willing to welcome customers in, ferris wheel staffing busy and just an overall great experience.

Jennifer F (Jenn) — Google review

We have returned to the Wharf many times since first discovering it. Lots of great shops and restaurants. Really pretty view of fancy boats. The Ferris wheel is a must. A little pricey but offers great view of the area. The light show at night is lots of fun.

Student Connection — Google review

This place is so nice they have a lot of cute stores you can either browse through or shop. I loved it. It's so beautiful they also have a lot of options for food. A movie theater,Ferris Wheel, and today, they had like a side with different food vendors tents.

Myra Fernandez — Google review

We explored the Wharf both during the day and at night. There is plenty to do between exploring all the shops, riding the ferris wheel, dolphin boat tours, amphitheater, bars and restaurants, and so much more. There is plenty of free parking outside the stores and a large parking ramp if those parking slots fill up. Overall this is a fun place to explore. 🛍🎡🐬

Breanna Hopkins — Google review

We went to an old car show there. It was perfect for the car lovers and gave the people that wasn't car crazy a place to shop. You could also walk a long where the yachts were docked. There were a lot of people but it wasn't so crowded you couldn't get around. Great atmosphere and a very good Pina Colada at the Daiquiri Bar. Only a hand full of people had on mask.

Kat W — Google review

An interesting but expensive place to shop. Tried The House of Jerkys, shark jerky is so so, especially considering how expensive it is.The Spice & Tea Exchange has a great setting in displaying spices and teas. But the price is outrageous. A small bag of tea for $7 and spice for $6. I guess for novelty tryout, it will be ok.

Maria Zeee — Google review

This place is the coolest. So many memories here over the years. Love that they do fun things for the kids too.

Meredith Smith — Google review

We visited the Wharf on a weekday in June, 2023. It was fairly quiet when we were there. There were stores and restaurants and such. We didn't find anything that we felt we needed to buy. So we went on our way after a nice walk around the complex.

Sponge Bob — Google review

Absolutely loved this place and went back a few times to just walk around and check out stores. We also road the ferris wheel a couple of times and had a lot of fun. Only reason it's getting 3 stars is because 3 of the restaurants we visited here tried to overcharge us on various items. Definitely recommend looking over receipts in this area.

Kevin LaShure — Google review

I went on the dolphin experience cruise. I love that you are able to bring your own snacks and drinks. You can also bring alcoholic beverages. Just no glass. They also sell chips and drinks for $1 on the boat. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable as well. Although we didn’t get a chance to get any dolphins to surf around us they did swim around us and that was cool. It was also nice to just relax and enjoy our time out on the water.

Ayanna Rice — Google review

Considering why I was there in the first place, I would share that it has a lot to offer for everyone. Plenty of eats, shops and entertainment along with an Arcade.Outside of the AMC movie theater where I visited to watch a new low key IRA movie with Liam Nielsen, called There will be Saint and Sinners, there is a Ferris Wheel...

Charles Kearse — Google review

Wonderful family or solo experience!Must stop while in the area.Free parking and there was plenty.Free laser show was great for the kids. Ferris wheel rides were reasonably priced ($8) and had a seasonal ice skating bundle option available as well. Quite a few stores but come before 6 as most close by then (Saturday) Will absolutely return.

Ash B — Google review

We were here for New Years Eve. It was a fun time. It does get busy at night but isn't very busy during the day. New years eve fireworks was a good show.

Allen W — Google review

The Wharf at Orange 🍊 Beach is a fun Live-Work-Play community that is well worth a visit. Especially for the days you need a change of scenery, a break from the sun or rainy day blues.At this time, you'll find a huge ferris wheel, an AMC Movie theater, shops, restaurants, a church, a marina, a video game shop. Really, something for everyone. Our favorite spots are Shades 😎 , this beautiful coffee shop that serves an amazing breakfast, & Ginny Lane. I'm sure there's others - like the beef jerky store or the whisky distillery - I'll just have to return to update this post.There is no need to worry about parking. They have plenty. Public bathrooms can be tricky for impared individuals.

Alicia Garrett — Google review

Such a great experience! Love this place. Everything is conveniently located. People/events are fun!!!

Beth P — Google review

Attended the family friendly New Year’s Eve event at The Wharf this year, and enjoyed our visit. Great space/time for children and adults alike.

Alaina Brazeau — Google review

4.5

(8273)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (170)

4.0

(1555)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (171)

23101 Canal Rd, Orange Beach, AL 36561, USA

(251) 224-1000

24

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

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Zoo

Zoos & Aquariums

The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is a 375 acre zoo that features many animals, including kangaroos and lemurs. The zoo also has a petting zoo, an aviary, and a picnic area. It is located only 6 miles from the beach.

Such a nice zoo. The staff is always so friendly and helpful. We enjoyed the on-site dining and activities such as merry-go-round, sluicing, and animal encounters. The walkways are wide and easy to use. Bathrooms are clean and accessible. The kids enjoyed the play areas. Overall a great zoo!

Breena Bruni — Google review

This is a small zoo. It has been in this are for 3 years. The animals seem to be well taken care of. The rides, zipline ride or zoo train were not running and cost extra. For the $25 ticket price it is disappointing. We past several keepers none of which spoke to us. The only keepers that were friendly was at the petting barn. They were awesome! This is a once and done. We visit zoos around the world.

Laura Williams — Google review

We had a great time here, we went for my husband's birthday and we did the lemur experience which was too cool! There was also an area where we could feed different types of animals. It is a smaller zoo but well worth the price!!!! We will be back!

kathy Scheeler — Google review

We loved our visit! Such an affordable option for a zoo. Plenty of animals to see. Loved how close you get to all of them. Very clean and tidy. Disappointed the tigers weren't out though. But overall a fantastic experience! Our kids loved it.

bethany Barlow — Google review

What a lovely zoo! We went right when it opened and it was very peaceful. It’s very clean and well kept, all of the animals seemed to be very relaxed and happy. We ended up walking around the loop twice and that gave us an opportunity to see some of the animals that were still sleeping when we first showed up. We will come back if we are in the area again!

Madison Minter — Google review

The zoo was a fun small day trip! My partner and I were able to walk the whole zoo in less than an hour but was very humid and hot so most of the animals were just laying down or hiding. The gift shop had a few fun things but not a large selection. For the price of $22.95 was a bit much for the time we spent. It came out to $50.40? Something like that for less about an hour. We decided to do the lemur encounter and we had a lot of fun! It was 24.95/pp but was fun! We wanted to do the kangaroo interaction but was informed that was more for educational purposes and if we wanted more interaction to do the lemurs. So glad we did. At first they were shy but then they got active and climbed all over us and licked us. We got to pet them and take plenty of pictures that was well worth the money.

Emma Rogers — Google review

We stopped by here on a road trip and it was wonderful. Staff was pleasant and everything from the path, to the gift shop, to the restroom was very clean. We arrived around 1130 and left around 230-3. We saw a lot of animals and even had a few chats with the keepers as they tended a few of the enclosures who were very knowledgeable and willing to spend some time with us. There is a garden section which was a pleasant surprise as I haven't seen that at a zoo before and you are able to take a walk and sit on benches provided. It was a beautiful landscape area that has a cute little chicken coop. There is a stage for performance although there was not one scheduled during our visit. There is also an area to watch alligators being fed that happens on Tues & Thurs. The gift shop was also awesome with items ranging from very inexpensive at 1$ to things created by artisans that are 50+. It worked out great for us as we had two little boys who were able to get something without it breaking the bank while I was able to get a cute shirt to remember our stop and warm up as the temp dropped unexpectedly on us!

Bettie — Google review

The zoo is nice in that a family with small children can get through it with one trip. It has a normal small shop at the beginning for souvenirs. The first thing out is the giraffe feeding area but be careful if you want to take pictures of the yougins as the staff person stands on the wrong side for parents to get snap shots. Most of the exhibits have something in them and the kids are close to them for the most part. Lion can be pretty far off to see along with the alligators. Non of the vendors were open but a couple and I’m sure that is because we were here at the end of February. They had a nice play area for the kids about halfway.

Dennis Brown — Google review

Such a beautiful zoo! Very clean with ample restrooms and benches. There were so many animals to see which was very unexpected. We saw tigers, lyons, monkeys, giraffes, lemurs, many types of local birds, etc. For an extra fee, you can feed the giraffes and have an opportunity to get up close and personal with several different zoo animals.There is a great little enclosed bird area with turtles where you can sit and watch the birds. They also have a great gift shop with wonderful gift items.Overall, it was a wonderful experience. We had a great time watching the animals and will definitely be back!

Julia Anne — Google review

Awesome Zoo great price and plenty to do and keeps interest for kids and adults! The butterfly exhibit was a nice addition and probably one of our favorite things. We went around noon and unfortunately most of the cats were asleep and we never did see a male lion. But we will definitely be back!

Tyler Mantooth — Google review

It's ok. If you bought this as part of the ticket packages like an Alabama Fun Pass , it may be worth the visit. They need to add more shade to their playground and rest area. The extra experiences aren't worth the price. It does have a nice collection of animals and the park is clean and well maintained and has great bathrooms.

George Spaeth — Google review

Feeding the giraffe was absolutely worth the money. All exhibits are close up so you get a good view and there are so many chances to interact with the animals. There are chances to feed the lemurs, cuddle the sloths, sing with the parrots. It's was week worth the money. Everything is handicap accessible and there are electric scooters available for rent.

Bre McCoy — Google review

The zoo is very small, we walked the whole place in 1 hour, most of the animals were inside of their habits because it was too hot.The total for 4 people was $92, including taxes.The kids loved the ride around the cows it cost $5.99 per personWe liked the zoo. My recommendation is to go early in the morning when it isn't too hot, you will probably get to see more animals.

Tania Nova — Google review

Ok I love visiting zoo's and seeing animal but I was so disappointed in this one it looks great when you pull up. But they really need to put some money into this place and start by cleaning it up take the time to trim Grass and shrubs in the cages the poor animal looked bad as well for over 65 dollars for 2 adults and a child it definitely wasn't worth it. O and a lot of empty cages a lot

jeep_jku _kong — Google review

Fun small zoo. The experiences are affordable and worth it. We LOVED feeding the giraffes. The littles loved the merry go round. Easily can be done in 1-2 hrs

Elissa Garr — Google review

A small zoo, but nice big enclosures with lots of grass. I have never seen such relaxed cats in a zoo environment. All of the animals were relaxed and happy. Many would come to the front of the pens to look at the visitors.

Madeline Stillwater — Google review

I had the most incredible experience at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. 🐾 From the moment I stepped through the gates, I was immersed in a world of wonder and discovery.The zoo's commitment to conservation and education was evident at every turn. 🌿 As I wandered through the exhibits, I found myself captivated by the diverse array of animals and the informative signage that accompanied each one. 🦁🦦 Every species had a story to tell, and I felt privileged to learn from them.One of the highlights of my visit was the gift shop, which offered a delightful selection of souvenirs and memorabilia. 🎁 I couldn't resist picking up a few items to remember my time at the zoo, and each one served as a cherished reminder of the memories I had made.But perhaps the most unforgettable part of my visit was the private tour with a zookeeper. 🤝 Having the opportunity to engage in one-on-one conversation with someone so passionate about animal care and conservation was truly inspiring. 🌟 I learned so much about the inner workings of the zoo and the incredible efforts that go into caring for its residents.Overall, my experience at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo was nothing short of magical. ✨ From the educational exhibits to the unique opportunity of the private tour, every moment was filled with awe and appreciation for the natural world. 🌍 I can't wait to return and continue exploring all that this extraordinary zoo has to offer. 🐯🦒

butterfliesinmay — Google review

Very nice small zoo. They offered feeding a giraffe for $5 during a certain time window...very worth it! It is a beautiful zoo, a nice layout also with a petting zoo of farm animals for small kids. They have a merry-go-round. You can take a small motorized car ride to see a few animals. Enjoyed the day at the zoo. Employees work hard and are very knowledgeable.

Dolce Vita! — Google review

What a great zoo! We were very pleased with everything about it. It's clean, there's plenty of restrooms, they let you bring in your lunch or you can stop and pick up something from a pretty good variety of snacks and sandwiches from machines or go to a cafe. My daughter liked the carousel as well! Note that the carousel and the experiences are extra costs so read up on those before you visit. 👍

Sarah Boggan — Google review

Very nice zoo. Friendly staff. Wouldn't recommend the safari ride. It is$6 and lasts about a minute. You can walk the same area, so it's not worth it. The only reason for 4 stars is the restaurant. We decided to grab a bite for lunch. It was Sunday so it was a little busy. Little boy ordered a waffle that came out underdone. Our food came out 45 minutes after our drinks. My chicken frittata was warm but the chicken has the texture of jerky. Very dry. My wife's burger was cooked properly. It was the only meal of the 4 that was done properly.Realize this zoo is fairly small so it only takes a few hours to get through so take your time and enjoy the animals. We paid the $5/person to feed the giraffes. It's a fun experience. They have other experiences but due to the cooler temps they were unable to bring some animals out. All in all I'd go back in warmer temps so we can experience more. Hope this helps.

Donny Allen — Google review

We went on a windy, non-beach day and LOVED it! It is clean, new and very well laid out for ease of navigating. The exhibits were nice and close to each other, so it’s not a sprawling zoo like many we have visited…helpful when you’re with young kids! Good gift shop too!

Margaret Rubin — Google review

I loved taking my 1 year old niece . It is very nice and kept up. Only thing is you have to pay extra for everything just about . Wish there were more things that were included in the $25 admission fee. But other than that it’s wonderful, very family friendly.

Amanda Dominguez — Google review

4.2

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4.0

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20499 Oak Rd E, Gulf Shores, AL 36542, USA

(251) 256-7008

25

Fort Morgan State Historic Site

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Historical landmark

Sights & Landmarks

19th century military fort offering tours & displays related to Civil War history & beyond.

The entire family (2 adults, 4 kids 10,13,14,16) enjoyed learning and viewing this historic base. What a day we had exploring and learning together. I pray they are able to continue to maintain it and bring more experiences for families like us. Thank you to the group that manages it. Your work is not unnoticed. God Bless America!

Stacey P — Google review

We had a great time. My three kiddos enjoyed it. There was some standing water but that's to be expected. The steps are steep. None of this stopped us our journey. Take the small dirt roads for more history and exploring! We had fun guessing what the rooms were. We spent a little over an hour.

Crissy Sapp — Google review

What an intricate structure. It’s eerie to imagine the number of soldiers who died an honorable death in battle on these grounds. I’m not a huge history buff but this was an awesome and interesting place to visit especially if you take the time to consider the people that walked this ground so long ago. There some very steep stairs in certain areas and lots of just normal stairs too. Totally worth the $8. Plan to spend about 1-2 hours there depending on how long you wander. Take an umbrella for the spots that are not shaded.

N Longoria — Google review

Such a great place to visit. Especially if you are remotely interested in military/war history. Even our teenagers were impressed with this place, and never asked to hurry up and leave. It is just beautiful and so interesting. The gift shop has some cool stuff too.

R R — Google review

Such a great historic sight that spans several timelines. The sight is incredibly restored and cared for which allows the guests to not just see where history happened but to visualize it. There was a guest instructor the day we visited which added to the value. The steps are steep but getting a feel for the whole fort is worth the effort if you're able. Lots of great photo opportunities. It's a drive but well worth it, it's probably the biggest fun surprise we had during our week exploring.

Jeremy Kerstetter — Google review

I would definitely visit again. This place is so cool to see! The entrance fee is def worth paying. The sun is intense and there is no shade. Wear sunscreen. The dog friendly beach is great! We saw two dolphins swimming offshore. We found some fantastic, large shells.

Katie J Riedinger — Google review

The fort was an interesting place to explore with tons of history and amazing views. The museum on the premises was very informative with lots of displays and artifacts.If you are a photographer this place has amazing structures and in my opinion an amazing site for photo sessions. You would have to research the rules on this yourself. I had fun taking photos of our kids in many of the amazing architectural spaces at the fort.

Marisa Prevatt — Google review

Fort Morgan is a historical site in Alabama. It is right on the beach and it's about a 30 minute drive from the hotel zone/strip in the Gulf Shores. It has a nice little museum and the fort itself is very well maintained. Great spot to take kids too if you're on a family vacation. Not too expensive either. If you're ever in the Gulf Shores or vicinity, you should definitely check it out.

Paul D — Google review

Very cool place for any history buffs. Lots of history here starting with the French. Not far from Gulf Shores and you can take the ferry over to Daphne.

Josh Wise — Google review

Really enjoyed learning about the history of Fort Morgan and walking these grounds. I found myself imagining the life of the soldiers and sailors that served and what it was like when the fort was operational. The museum also provided a great historic timeline of information about its construction through to its deactivation. As military retiree I received a discounted entry.

Lee Roberts — Google review

Fort Morgan State History Site. Very nice museum. Clean and well stocked restrooms. Friendly staff. Love the self guided tour. Lots and lots of history here. Very interesting architecture and progression of building throughout the years. Fun to explore all the rooms and climb up and down looking into all the nooks and crannies. Great for kids and history buffs alike.

Andrew West — Google review

I came out to Fort Morgan with my son during our visit to Orange Beach. The drive was about 30 minutes from our place. This is a really fun place to visit and learn about if you like history. Also has a great view of the coast and Mobile Bay. My son is 3 so we used the stairs created in later additions to reach the upper areas of the fort. The stairs from the initial construction are very steep and do not have an outside railing. Also the upper area has nice views of the fort but would not be a place for kids to run. The ground is uneven and the railings are not high. Overall, loved coming here as did my son and would definitely recommend, just be aware of hazards.

Paul Wetherington — Google review

It was a nice place to see. We wish there had been a guide to tell you about things as you toured the fort as they have at other forts. There are some cool places to take pictures there. We even saw the Blue Angels practicing. The price was $8 for adults or $20 for a family of 4.

klesyd — Google review

If you enjoy history this is an interesting place to stop. Admission is $8/adult and less if you're a child/senior. The fort is very intact and preserved and very cool to explore. You can explore the fort and on your own and learn more of the intricacies at the museum which is small but packed with information. Definitely worth a stop. If stairs are a struggle, it will be difficult to explore the whole fort but you can still see quite a bit without having to do stairs. We even saw dolphins in the bay while we were exploring.

Tony Gabrielse — Google review

This fort is worth checking out if you’re in the area! The grounds appear to be kept up pretty well and almost every part of the fort is accessible. The only downfall is I wish they’d do some sort of audio tour or guided tour. It would’ve been nice to get a more in depth education on the facility and the various rooms.

Nathan Pierce — Google review

Very clean historical site. A lot of information is given. I particularly enjoyed reading the old handwritten letters by soldiers. I visited on December 11th while taking a break from hospital runs to see extended family/friends.

Abdulhakeem Keown (Hakeem) — Google review

One of my favorite forts so far. It’s really large and Cooper had a wonderful time climbing and sniffing. I love that he was allowed here. We only choose dog friendly activities when Cooper travels with us.We spent about 3 hours here.Full entry $8.00discount for David retired military $4.00Children,College Students and Seniors $5.00Dogs Free🐕😂

Chris Powers — Google review

We really enjoyed our visit to Fort Morgan. We enjoyed being able to walk around the fort and explore on our own. The location of the fort and the surrounding area make it an awesome experience.

Robert Derek Holden — Google review

On the way to the Mobile Bay Ferry, had enough time to visit Fort Morgan, and we were not disappointed. Historic fort originally built in the 1800s had served the United States for many years before decommissioned and turned into Park museum. Was a wonderful place to explore even as an adult.

Marc F Alter — Google review

Was a lot of fun for the kids and adults to explore and to learn. Beautiful settingBe aware Lots of stairs not very Handicap friendly. Very few resting areas. That is why I only gave 4 stars.

Dianna Dutton — Google review

From the marina to the historical site, this is a great experience for a family day. There was so much to see and walk through. Everyone should come here.

Peggy Dotson — Google review

Cool piece of history. The architecture is amazing. Holds up to time.Visit the small museum for additional information on the people who lived (or died) there.Beach Access

J Stone — Google review

4.7

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4.5

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110 AL-180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542, USA

(251) 540-7127

I'll never travel to Natchez without this trip planner again

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26

USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park

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Museum

Sights & Landmarks

USS Alabama Battleship is a museum in Mobile, Alabama that commemorates the battles fought by American sailors during World War II. The museum includes exhibits about the ship and its history as well as guided tours for visitors.

$5.00 to get into the park and $15.00 to take the tour. I was here for a ceremony and took a tour of the grounds. Other than the USS Alabama, there are airplanes and tanks, as well as a small museum.There is a veterans memorial right after you enter the park. Definitely worth the trip, a lot to see and take in.

Denise — Google review

This experience was amazing we spent 6 hours touring this site. Everyone should visit to better understand history. This museum provides a deeper appreciation of the sacrifices that were made defending our freedom. Donations are appreciated to help preserve this priceless piece of history! The retired volunteer service personnel were a wealth of knowledge. This would make a great class or group trip.

Heather — Google review

The folks who handle this park have truly done a wonderful thing. With the limited support they get, things keep improving and more and more history is restored! The USS Drum and USS Alabama are great places to bring your family! They have a great system for you to view the ship and have done a wonderful job at preserving these two great monuments! They also host several events throughout the year! If you are any where near or just love history this place is for you!!!!! If you go make sure to plan a full day! They have so much to view and read. They also have a gift shop and food cart!

Kelvin Hall — Google review

What a wonderful place. It is loaded with so much memorabilia from keeps, planes, submarine and of the USS Alabama battleship.Self guided tour of everything but very informative plaques and papers and the battleship is well marked with colors and numbers.You can go into both the submarine and the Alabama.So much history and so much you don't know.The only problem is it can be cold and slippery. Make sure you dress for it. Plan to spend 4 hours easily.

Darla Medile — Google review

This battleship was SO awesome. You can go in and out of most of the ship but just be mindful of small children and older adults. The stairs to go up the different levels of the ship are steep and there are lips at the beginning of most of them. There are bathrooms on the ship if needed. The staff is wonderful and very friendly and I’d recommend for kids ages 7 and older. There is also a submarine but there was so much to do we will have to come back!

Danielle Haggard — Google review

Wear comfortable shoes because you don’t want to miss a thing on this ship or the submarine with your grandchild! Fascinating stories, delightful perspectives from every member of the ship’s crew, and info on ALL aspects of naval life including a glimpse into the Captain’s Quarters. Sit behind the gunnery & armaments to feel their power while goosebumps shiver up your spine or just try to imagine life in those confined spaces on board. Quite an adventure.

Brenda Owens — Google review

Amazing museum! Very glad I got to go! I only went on the "yellow" your (magazine, guns, and superstructure) but there were many other self-guided tours that I would have liked to go on. Regardless, it was an amazing museum! USS Drum was also very nice as well! Would definitely recommend visiting if you are in the area!

Jason Christie — Google review

We spent hours here exploring the ship and submarine.So many places to explore, up and down stairs (wear comfortable shoes). The ship is well-maintained and you will learn a lot about the sailors life at sea.The tour is self guided, so make sure you grab a brochure. It's super big and you're able to go into most of it.Take your time and really appreciate all the work they've put into maintaining this amazing ship.

Karen Flahive — Google review

This place was awesome. Enjoyed the rich history. Enjoyed the submarine experience. Above all my favorite thing was the engine room of the shop. Hands down some of the coolest things. Our scout troop stayed the night and I would have enjoyed spending more time on board had I of known they allowed people to explore so much of the ship. This was fantastic for the boys to explore around just as much as it was for the adults. I absolutely recommend visiting and staying the night if you can. Be aware the racks you'll sleep in are very rigid so expect to basically feel as though you slept on the floor. Hope this is helpful.

Zach — Google review

Amazing experience: We got to learn about the ship and the submarine.I took us like a good 2 1/2 hours to walk the ship and submarine, we enjoyed it, but some parts are very hot, bring water with you.

Tania Nova — Google review

Lots of fun here! It's great that you have a self tour. You can view the vast size of the historic battle ship, submarine, and aircraft inside the building. It takes several hours if you want to view everything in detail. Rich history to learn indeed.

Brandon Moring — Google review

There is so much to see and everything is well cared for. It is too bad that the self guided tours lacks any information aside from notating stops. And the ship itself doesn’t have much in the way of placards.The submarine is much better in terms of descriptions.This would be an excellent museum if everything was well labelled with a good dose of storytelling prose.Expect to spend at least 3 hrs

Leslie B — Google review

Amazing experience! We visited USS ALABAMA and USS DRUM with family (two adults and three small children) and had a great time. Nevertheless there are some downsides about this place.It’s a self-guided tour so if you’re familiar with military history/service then lot of the things are pretty much self explanatory. However, for those who’re not familiar with military equipment and history this experience may not be so much fun.Also, be prepared to go through very tight entrance/exit and steep stairs. If you have knee problems you may not be able to fully enjoy this visit unfortunately.Moreover, admission rates are rather high in my opinion ($18 per person regular admission for adults and $15 w/Veteran discount + $5 parking fee no exceptions) for it being a public memorial park. It would’ve been nice if the rates were somewhat lower. Even with a veteran discount the rates are still high. Fees really add up especially if you’re visiting with a larger group.Lastly if you have a wheelchair or a baby stroller/wagon you’re going to have a problem accessing 85% of the park site.All in all there’s plenty of interesting and fun things to explore. You can take lots of interesting and unique pictures in and around the battleships. Our family had a fun and enjoyable visit. If any of the above mentioned “issues” don’t bother you then this a great place to visit for sure.

SOBI's Hobbies — Google review

The hubs is a history buff, so we knew we had to stop at the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park on our way back to Texas. We should have planned for more time!Parking is $5, so you can enjoy all the outdoor exhibits. To visit the USS Alabama is an additional fee, but there are discounts for the military and AAA members.Here's my first tip: plan for a 3 to 4 hour trip. We spent a good amount of time on the first of three self tours. The battleship is astounding! I cannot say that enough. Everything looks so small from afar and then you're standing beside the biggest guns you may have ever seen. That changes the conversation.Keep in mind there are other exhibits on the ground, so wear your walking shoes. That's tip number 2. We parked the car and walked all the way to the dock to get a great view of the battleship.Here's the last tip: bring your camera and have a good time. And do watch the film. It's about 25 minutes and it's a great history lesson.

Gwendolyn R Houston-Jack — Google review

This was fantastic! The tour is self guided so you can really absorb the details of what you're seeing & not feel rushed. There are great displays throughout the ship that depict life aboard the ship. The entire experience makes you really appreciate the sacrifice these men made. The tour took us about 3 hours, but you can also tour a submarine and a static display of planes inside the hanger. I wouldn't suggest the tour with small children but it would be great if the children are "Scout" age or older.

Valerie Smith — Google review

We loved the 3 different self guided tours with the arrows and the numbers to follow, it was excellent and super easy! Fascinating piece of history with little factoids all along the tour routes. The inside was nice with the a/c but topside was awful with the heat, we really wanted to go all the way to the top but the metal rails were burning our hands. The hanger with all the planes was awesome as was the sub, the USS Drum. There really needs to be a light at the entrance/exit to the park because getting in and out was a nightmare. All in all a great experience though and lots of fun.

Anastasia Elizondo — Google review

The USS Alabama is such an impressive ship to see. The entire place has so many interesting planes and vehicles to see, including an actual WWII submarine. The food in the cafeteria was very good, with excellent service from the hard working gentleman who worked there.

Frank Ivancic (IDM) — Google review

This is an amazing memorial museum. There is a ton to do and even more to see. We did self guided tours on the Alabama Battleship, and on the submarine. We enjoyed spending time exploring and comparing the ships. We have been to other Navy boats and this was great. This was the first battleship we explored so it put all the guided missile cruisers and smaller boats into prospective. This thing is huge. Bring your walking shoes. Check out those 16 inch guns and the rounds for it. Worth every minute !Plan to bring the family !

James Brown — Google review

Extremely fun place to take the whole family. I would plan on 2.5 hours for USS Alabama and another hour for USS Drum. Gift shop has some fun memorabilia so plan on spending a little bit of time there. The inside of the ship can get very warm in sections with less air conditioning. Definitely bring plenty of water and good walking boots! Very educational and informative.The self guide tour paths are clearly marked out so you will not get lost. Highly recommend doing the outside (yellow) tour early in the morning while the temperature is still low.There are plenty of good restaurants nearby. The cafeteria at the memorial did not have any staff so I was not able to eat there.Will definitely be back with more family member in the near future!

Micah Fierro — Google review

Spent the day at this fun and informative site. Had a great time looking at the wide variety of planes, tanks, and the ships themselves. Highly recommend at least a half day visit to truly explore the battleship and other exhibitions.

DJ OG Chill — Google review

What an amazing place to spend time, learning about history, and experiencing some of it firsthand. While we arrived late in the afternoon and decided to wait to take a tour of the ship, my son and I were able to spend a couple of hours looking at all kinds of military aircraft and other hardware. Even got a chance to talk to some of the airmen who were restoring some of the old aircraft. An amazing experience, and one that we will definitely return to again and again.

Jonathan Mast — Google review

The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park is a must-see historical location in Mobile, Alabama. Within the park, you can tour the grounds and the pavilion with aircraft, tanks, artillery, boats, and memorials to explore during your visit. The USS Drum submarine and the USS Alabama Battleship are both WWII vessels you may board and tour. Discover how the USS Alabama was saved from the scrapyard in Puget Sound and brought to the Memorial Park. She is a well-kept historical landmark that had a extraordinary career.

Theresa E — Google review

The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park is so much more than just the ship. Touring the ship is great and should not be missed, but there is so much more. Aircraft and tanks of every type and separate memorials to Korea and Vietnam veterans as well. On the day we visited there were young people in period uniforms that greatly enhanced the experience. A truly great place to stop.

Louis and Elaine — Google review

Words can’t describe how great our visit was. This is a must see for kids and adults. The battleship is massive, wear comfortable clothing and shoes, there’s lots of climbing for those interested in seeing all it has to offer. They’ve done a wonderful job making it interesting and educational all while making it feel as if you’re allowed to explore wherever you want. Obviously that isn’t the case but it’s not all roped off like it could have been. Big takeaways…to see everything takes at minimum 4-5 hours, please see everything, it’s worth it. Bring a lunch, there’s plenty of picnic tables and even some grills. Lots of climbing but moving around the main deck is fairly easy. This place is so impressive and became the highlight of our trip!

Chris Simmons — Google review

4.8

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4.5

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2703 Battleship Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36602, USA

(251) 433-2703

27

Bellingrath Gardens & Home

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Garden

Sights & Landmarks

Historic Walking Areas

Serene setting for acres of flowers, waterfalls & a 1930s home housing a porcelain collection.

Really interesting place. The story behind the home and gardens is story book. I thought the architecture was more impressive then the garden but the whole thing is worth the trip to this tucked away oasis. I noticed some folks looking to see certain types of flowers and they have a guide to when certain plants are in bloom.It was raining the day we were there but there were plenty of spots to hide until the rain past. Expect to spend a couple of hours wandering the grounds. They have audio tour you can access from your phone which tells a pretty good story. It’s an easy walk but they’re are some stairs in the house and steps in the garden some folks might be mindful of.

John Ortiz — Google review

The Christmas lights are amazing. However it was so all busy and crowded and I don't feel comfortable with covid exposures here. No one wore masks or socially distanced. It was also hard to get around with everyone trying to get pictures. Aside from that, it was pretty amazing. The lights were gorgeous and they're was Christmas music. Half the drink stands were closed, so the only area open did have a really long line for snacks and hot chocolate, and it was at the halfway point.

Dani Buntin — Google review

I came on Presidents Day 2024 for a tour of the house and gardens. The price for both was very reasonable. The only bad part was the portion to include a gratuity. This was at the desk when you first walk in, and it's not like I was getting a guided tour for the gardens, only the house, and it is easy to slip the tour guide of the house a few dollars for a tip. That aside, this was a lovely time. I am glad I came when the temperatures were cool. There is a lot of grounds to cover. If this were the summer time, I would not have done it with the high temperatures of the gulf coast. The seasonal flowers were blooming and beautiful. There were a few gardeners around refreshing the grounds. Everyone was friendly. The house was beautiful. The chapel was quaint, and the pottery was exquisite. I would recommend this for anyone in the area. It is beautifully maintained.

Andrea F — Google review

Pictures don't do ANY justice to how absolutely gorgeous this place is!!! My family and I visit this beautiful place every Christmas and we just love the atmosphere of it all! What a way to get in the holiday spirit! Highly recommend that you make at least one visit just see for yourself! You will not be disappointed!

Wanda Kelley — Google review

Beautiful landscaping and views, winding pathways, ponds, gorgeous and creative displays of lights are everywhere. There’s hot cocoa, fire pit to warm you up on cold nights, and other snacks and drinks, benches to rest, and a tour of the home for an extra fee if you are interested. We travel from far away each year to see this light display because it is the best!

Aimee T — Google review

The gardens were beautiful and surprisingly quiet on a Memorial Day weekend. This was my Mother's favorite place in the world, and a fitting place for a memorial. I shall return.

Steve Gorz — Google review

A refreshing experience.We loved the walk as a family, and we talked a lot while enjoying the nature flowers 💐 🌹Beautiful place, very peaceful and quiet, you can enjoy the walk and see the beauty in the nature.

Tania Nova — Google review

Whether you are local or a visitor, you will want to enjoy the beautiful nature scenes, the food choices and the gift shop.This is a great place to walk, especially at 8 am when few people are there and the weather is cooler. There are many options for a shorter or longer walk.This time of year you can see (and smell) the last of the summer flowers and enjoy some of the fall cors and cool breeze. There are clever scarecrows in the garden and the start of the holiday lights.The Japanese garden is a lovely place to visit and to see the coi.To tour the house is to step back in time and enjoy beautiful and interesting items.

Hey Jude — Google review

Toured the house and gardens and everything was wonderful. The house and grounds are beautiful. The docents were knowledgeable and did a great job with the house tour. The gift shop is wonderful. We ate in the cafe and the food was very good. Throughout our visit staff were friendly and attentive.

Marla Salyer — Google review

No better way to spend a beautiful day than to walk around among gorgeous Flowers.We enjoy taking our time and having a snack on one of the many swings located throughout the gardens.Another place to stop and take a break is on the dock that is overlooking Fowl River. There is nothing more relaxing than listening to the water crash against the bank.

Kristi Tanner — Google review

Very nice grounds, peaceful and quiet. Lots of flowers, rises, etc to see read about and explore.Off the beaten path but worth the drive out.The small cafeteria is also reasonable - the BLT was good.Recommend

James Owens — Google review

What a delight! Gardeners, garden architects, home historians, admirers of antiques, those that appreciate beauty and nature will take great joy in touring all aspects of this property.The docent that guided us through the home was knowledgeable and interesting and shared many interesting stories of the residents.It’s only a 4 star review because I feel that there are parts of the grounds that are in need of some TLC. I did see they have a posting for a new Master Gardener so I’m sure that will be corrected.All in all a don’t miss experience though, as it’s a soul nurturing nature immersive treat.

Diana Kuenzli — Google review

Beautiful place. Took my mom for her birthday in April a few years ago. They have several different areas of their garden to explore. Including a beautiful gift shop. I have yet to go during Christmas, but I have heard it's even more beautiful when decorated with lights.

Mary Anna — Google review

Bellingrath Gardens is always a fun experience. Lots of colorful Christmas light displays. There are various themes throughout the disolay. There is an underwater theme....a New Orleans theme, to name a few, and of course they all have the Christmas theme. The only thing that I find negative is the price of admission and gift shop prices. For 2 people the admission fee is $38. I know they have a lot to maintain. I just feel that it's a tad high.

Robert Jackson — Google review

Bellingrath was amazing. The lights for the holidays and the home are gorgeous. They had excellent little extras, S’mores station, drinks(both adult and non) and various snack foods.I would highly recommend getting there early. When we were leaving the traffic was backed up for mikes to get in. We got there before dark, toured the house, walked the grounds and it worked out perfectly.

Mike Priebel — Google review

Absolutely breathtaking! I would suggest mid-March this season would be a great time to see the Azaleas all in bloom. We will visit again soon. A great place to bring you family and its handicap accessible!

Wendy Fabel REALTOR — Google review

One of the most beautiful places I have ever seen! Make sure to do the tour of the house as well. Such a beautiful place. Will definitely be back!!

Ashley Paige — Google review

Absolutely gorgeous. We visited using the Mobile Attraction Pass from TripAdvisor. The trails were easy to follow and well maintained. There were enough signs to inform without being intrusive.The grounds are very lovely and you’d be hard pressed to find a better way to spend time outdoors.We were unable to visit the home because tours are not self-guided and only occur on the hour. That was the only disappointing thing and it did not diminish our experience.They were setting up for the Christmas light show. It will be amazing 🤩. I wish we could stay for it.

Maureen Jackson — Google review

This place is a jewel. The grounds are kept meticulously as well as the buildings. I really do not know how to review this place because everything was wonderful... so let's just say this is the easiest 5-star review I have ever done.We paid for the tour of the house and the $25.00 per person was worth it. I say this because this place truly supports itself, and they do it well.The story, the artifacts, the pleasant personalities, the gardens... all of it. Top shelf.I will write captions on all my videos and photographs that I added to this review to help you understand.

Chester Cunningham — Google review

Awesome green houses, gardens, the house tour, the lights. This is a sixty-five acre manicured area. The presented photographs not include the feeling of calmness, the fresh smells of the roses and other plants. This is a result of work and pride. A must go to...

Tom Rueb — Google review

4.8

(3125)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (203)

4.5

(843)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (204)

12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd, Theodore, AL 36582, USA

(251) 973-2217

28

Gulf Islands National Seashore

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Public beach

Outdoor Activities

Gulf Islands National Seashore, spanning 135,000 acres along the Gulf Coast of Mississippi and Florida, is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can indulge in activities such as swimming, boating, camping, fishing and birdwatching at its numerous white-sand beaches including Fort Pickens Beach. Historical landmarks like Fort Barrancas and Fort Pickens bear testimony to the area's Civil War history while Naval Live Oaks boasts an impressive trail network for hiking enthusiasts.

Very serene setting if you want to enjoy peaceful beaches. We camped for 10 nights near to the beaches and could hear the waves all day and night. Very soothing experience. The area has a ton of bike trails, if you want to explore by bike. Langdon beach has restrooms and water taps / outdoor shower to wash off beach sand after a long day of play at the beach. Sunsets and sunrises during December cannot be described in words.

Sandeep Nitta (Sandy) — Google review

Plenty of room, good facilities, friendly staff, and a beautiful beach. Entry fee is well worth it if you are going more than once. Plenty of room to be in the waves without going deep.

Bill Hall — Google review

The Davis Bayou area in Ocean Springs, Mississippi offers scenic views of the Mississippi Sound and the marshy, swampy areas that provide habitat to native alligators, turtles and a variety of large birds (including Osprey and Herons). We like to walk near the boat ramp and the area south of the visitors center for the best water views. Don't miss this wonderful destination if you are passing through this area.

Susan Petrey Carriker — Google review

Ft. Pickens Campground is our favorite vacation spot. short boardwalk to the most magnificent (and uncrowded) beach on the Gulf of Mexico, with an amazing historic site - and if you’re lucky seeing the Navy Blue Angels rehearse… is there a better definition of heaven?!

Cem Basman — Google review

Just an amazing experience! Beautiful soft snow white sand,natural beauty and interesting historical sites. A must for everyone's bucket list. Just keep an eye on the weather...those pop-up squalls can be scary!⛱️🪣🍻😎💯🫶🇺🇸

Randy Hudspeth — Google review

Such a wonderful peaceful spot. I may not only is it gorgeous, but it pays tribute to those people who have fought the good fight and served in our military so that we can sleep in peace at night. Thank you to all those who served as well while we're on the subject. I'm a disabled vet and although it was not the funnest time in my life, because of those people that are fighting every single day protecting me I would gladly grab a gun and head back. But this is a great little area, what I normally do especially during the daytime you know when it feels good outside, go by and get me some food to go, and then I just run over there it's running center of town so I run over there and eight, look at the water it's peaceful is quiet, it's just it's something really special I really enjoy going over there.

Brittain Mitchell — Google review

Beautiful white sand beaches that squeak when you walk on them. Ample parking in multiple stretches along the length of the park. Worth a trip.

cliff defor — Google review

Absolutely beautiful, sugar white sands that are clean. It's a great place to go. And not crowded at all which I like. The water is unbelievably clear. One of my favorite places

Ryan Beverly — Google review

Best beach in the Gulf! It's not crowded, it's very clean and beautiful. The water is clear. It's one of the better beaches to find shells.

Jamie Blair — Google review

It's a beautiful place with so much to explore! We camped (tent), cooked over a fire, biked the trails, visited the fort, enjoyed the beaches, & so much more! You can see the lighthouse (Pensacola NAS) across the bay shining at night. So much small wildlife to encounter. 🥰 I can't fit it all in this post! We Loved our camping trip here!! 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

Desmond LeMesurier — Google review

What a little slice of heaven! Took our grandkids for a few hours of fun in the sun. They even caught a 🦀 and let it go! Clean beaches. No crowds. Water was beautiful. Had washing stations and picnic tables near parking lot. Convenient.

Melissa Klotzbach — Google review

Beautiful drive to the Seashore!! Gorgeous white sand... if you've been to White Sands out in New Mexico that's how the Seashore sands look. Beautiful sunset over the sand also!!We saw the bunkers also that protected these shores during the Civil War.

Rena Correia — Google review

One of the most gorgeous beaches ever. We love to spend the day here 💕 white fine powder sand can't be beat

Erin Krupke — Google review

4.8

(6885)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (209)

5.0

(1292)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (210)

Gulf Breeze, FL 32563, USA

(850) 934-2600

29

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Biloxi

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Casino

Casinos & Gambling

Hotel

This casino is themed around rock music and offers a great betting experience with 500 interactive slots and 800 traditional slot machines. It's also packed with entertainment options, including concerts and nightclubs.

Visited this past weekend & everything was excellent. The hotel staff was friendly & helpful. We requested a refrigerator & it was delivered in less than 10 minutes. The lady was so nice & asked if we would also like a microwave, less than 5 minutes later it was at our room. The room was neat & clean. The casino staff was just as nice & helpful! Enjoyed our stay very much!

Gus Shawn — Google review

The lobby and casino are amazing! I love looking at all of the memorabilia. The room was nice and clean but it was a bit worn. The bathroom was impeccable; however, there was a little less privacy than what I prefer, too many glass doors there. The casino play was good. We played for several hours and basically broke even. Overall, we had a very enjoyable evening here.

Vicki Billings — Google review

It was fine I guess but less of a tourist casino and more of a locals slot machine hangout. The casino is really small and there were very few tables open - couldn’t get seats for 3 to play blackjack. A bunch of other goofy card game tables were open and empty. Hardly anyone likes the games outside of very popular ones so I think maybe flexible tables would be better.The HR Cafe was fine but nothing special like the originals with regards to scale and collection, and the menu any what it used to be. The food was good and the bartender waited on us and she was great. Very friendly staff.

Alan Petry — Google review

Pro's: Casino being continually cleaned. Restrooms were all clean. So many machines to choose from to play. Wide variety of food available.Food in the hard rock cafe was very good. The cafe style area was also good.Cons: hard to find a server to get beverages from,both in main casino & high limits room& non smoking rooms. The smoking part of the casino was not too bad as I am a non smoker ,& didn't gag on any clouds from smokers. Must have a very good ceiling exhaust system. Plenty of memorabilia on display which was interesting to look at. I just wish valet cost was not $30 + tips to the runners. Maybe give seniors & handicap people a lower cost break please. All in all enjoyed my 5 hrs there. Didn't loose too much which was a bonus.

Mary Lusher — Google review

I can't comment about the rooms. I will say that the burger I had there was fantastic. The bartender that served me my food was friendly and very conscientious. I would easily go back to this place. I didn't get a chance to visit the casino but I would definitely like to. This left a lasting positive feeling for this place. Shoot I would easily stay here if I was offered a chance. I'd love to go back and maybe stay next time.

Thomas Carter — Google review

We really like it here. Neither my wife, nor I, are advanced gamblers and they are so patient and helpful when we play. We're not huge spenders but they still treat us so well anyway. Every employee we interacted with during our stay was pleasant to interact with. Bartenders, front desk, pool staff, and the casino staff, all just wonderful to us. Will definitely be back.

Chad Emling — Google review

This is my very first time visiting the location and honestly it was a really great experience. The room was nice, really comfy and welcoming. Had great assistance. The food, was REALLY GOOD. My parents had a really good time at the casino, they loved it. I will surely come back again soon. 😊❤️

Vianey Maldonado — Google review

Rooms need to be updated. The door handle on the room door was very hard to open. Checked in at 9pm. Went to dinner and returned back to the room. Upon my return, the temperature in the room was 62. We changed the temperature to 73 and left from the casino. Upon my return at 3 a.m., the temperature in the room was 66. It would not go higher. Called the front desk, and they sent maintenance up to check the problem. He flipped a switch inside the wall behind a panel, and it warmed up to 72. The temperature would not go higher than 72. I had the thermostat set at 76. Management and maintenance needs to complete routine maintenance checks on the functions of all guest rooms. The only good thing I can say is that my morning coffee view was amazing. Drinking coffee and seeing the water view help start my day.

Kawana Jones — Google review

I have enjoyed staying and visiting at this Hard Rock location. The rooms are very nice and clean. Enjoyed coming into my room with my music selection playing. The staff are efficient and friendly. If I have needed additional towels or other necessities, they are delivered within an appropriate time.There are many great eating selections at this location. The casino area is clean and well kept. There are various game selections available. I would highly recommend this casino and hotel.

Theda Goodridge — Google review

My husband and I stayed for 2 nights for our anniversary. Everything was amazing, the restaurants, casino, bars, hotel room, pool - everything! Check in was simple with the friendliest lady who was very helpful and patient with our questions. Check out was even more convenient.Loved our view, we were on the 6th floor and had views of both the MS Sound and the pool.The only negative we experienced..The buffet left a lot to be desired. Very expensive for limited choices of bland food.All staff from restaurants and hotel were so kind and welcoming. We felt well taken care of the whole time.All in all, we loved staying here and look forward to coming back!!

Amanda Broadway — Google review

The property is beautiful. I had a reservation with Sugar Factory 15-minute wait for two people after being seated for a waiter to come over to take drink orders, only after being requested when I noticed a party of 11 walk in and there order was taken right away after I had already waited 15 min. I spoke with the Manager Drew and services improved right away he was very nice and pleasant to have around during the dining experience. I didn't get the guy name from the back that brought out our food but he was very polite also our waiter was great as well after the rough start to our dining experience.

kendra shorter — Google review

Wife and I have been here several times and we've been satisfied each time. We brought the kids on this particular visit. They absolutely love it! All they wanted was pizza and the pool 😎.Like most hotels, room rates are highest on weekends. ANNNND as a reminder, don't forget to figure in those extra fees (7%Sales Tax, Resort Fee, 3% Hospitality Tax and 2%Convention Tax 😉)

Fred Arrington — Google review

Didn't know when we booked but smoking is permitted all over the resort including the elevators. Rooms are dated. Casino relatively small. Restaurants were fantastic as well as the view. Probably won't be back. Better values out there for the price but had fun.

David Mills — Google review

First time to this location. We did not stay here but visited the casino. The area was large and plenty of room to get around. The floor service was great! Drinks were not hard to get and the machines were up to date with a few old school ones too. Will say it was a little dark but over all a good experience. Would definitely come here again.

Patrick Smith — Google review

This is my second time here with the same experience both times. Booked a King room in the Platinum tower. The whole tower is supposed to be non - smoking. It’s evident that they don’t enforce it or care. On both occasions, Immediately after getting off the elevator the hallway reeks of weed. We get into our room and it’s the same if not worse. The front desk was little help and only offered another room with different beds or an air scrubber. Housekeeping was very responsive but all they could offer was some spray. This will be the last time I stay at this facility.

Mark Williams — Google review

I was less than impressed with my stay.The room had an amazing view but was in serious need of updating and the sheets were stained. The cleanliness wasn’t up to par either. I found hairs all over. They also misgendered me even though I provided correct information. I would not recommend your staff gender customers based on NAMES.

T Spencer — Google review

The room was clean and spacious. The casino had all the basics for tables, slots, and some good food options at relatively reasonable prices. We ate a big breakfast with chicken and waffles and an omelette and they were hot, fresh, and well prepared. The waitress was polite, attentive, and informative. The hotel is right on the water in MS. If you are passing through or live nearby this is a good place to try your luck and hang out a while. Good luck!

Aero NGNR — Google review

Very cool hotel. Loved the room, amazing view of the Gulf. Glass shower was great you can shower while seeing the beauty outside. Only negative thing if you like daily room service you have to make sure you ask for it. If not you will not get it. The Casino is a good size with lots of slots..and tables. Several different food choices inside also. Very clean also and friendly staff. And it's right on the water. Beautiful pool but was to cold to go in the time I was there. Definitely a do again.

Bridget Wetz — Google review

Great place to hang out. Our favorite pizza place actually. Pie Five Pizza. We stop here just for the pizza some times.Pro: platinum tower rooms are super cool and modern. They have great views and are nice.Con: royal tower needs to be freshened up as the rooms are showing their age and some strong smells can be an issue.

James Stafford — Google review

My boyfriend and I had booked a room for 2 nights here but it was so nice and we were having so much fun we ended up staying another night. It was very clean and the staff was super friendly. Allan hit 2 jackpots on Buffalo Grand the same night. It was a wonderful experience and I hope to go back very soon!! I highly recommend this place!!🤩😍🥰🤑🏝🎰🎲♣️♥️♠️♦️🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸

Amy Alford — Google review

Our room was a little lived in, shower heads need to be replaced, and the mini bar had apparently been broken into. It worked but it was empty. The service was on point. Great location. I got a hair cut and shaped my beard. They colored my wife's hair and it was perfect. Exactly what she wanted. The ladies were amazing. Made us feel very comfortable, they were the best. My wife gets super anxious around new people and her hairstylist got her to open up, share stories and laugh. I was very impressed and grateful. Mine as well.

Benjamin Holley — Google review

We had a really nice room with a great view, but we won't be back. First of all, the room was not clean. There was garbage on the floor, the bathroom had not been wiped down, and the carpet needed to be vacuumed. Even worse, is there are no housekeeping services. One of the reasons we stay at a hotel, is that someone cleans the room and makes the bed, but not here. We asked for more towels, they were laid on top of our luggage near the door. Reservations was a joke. I had to make several phone calls because what I was told on the phone, did not match the confirmations I received. It took hours to straighten out the reservation. I've stayed at many different Hard Rocks and always enjoyed them. I was told to lower my expectations before I arrived, but I didn't think it would be this bad.

Mike Figuero — Google review

Had a great time, only comment is that the property and rooms especially could use a face-lift. Basic amenities in other casino/resort rooms, laundry bags, fridge, microwave, were "upon request if available". Mold in the room coffee machine. Drywall patching and painting in room was very evident. Furniture had plenty of use distress. Pool area was very nice as well as casino floor and restaurants.

Chris Faison — Google review

We had a blast during our stay! Our first room had a connecting door to another room and the patrons were screaming all night. We requested another room and were quickly granted another room on a higher floor *without* an adjoining door. We were blown away by the stellar customer service. Casino was wonderful and the drinks plentiful. We'll definitely be back!!

Jennifer Weitzel — Google review

The pool had a swim up bar. The entire area was well stocked with plenty of chairs and umbrellas. There were pool waitresses to take drink and food orders. They were all lovely young ladies who were great at their jobs. I want to give special thanks to Olivia, who made our experience at the pool even more enjoyable. She was friendly with a genuine smile that made me feel like she was actually as happy to be there as I was. All of the bartenders deserve to be praised as well. The entire staff that I encountered met or exceeded my expectations. I enjoyed my stay.

Mel Barras — Google review

So above our expectations! We took this Biloxi trip on a whim, and booked the Hard Rock, and to say we were satisfied is a complete understatement! The location was very easy to access and come and go from, the view was amazing as well. From the first time we stepped in until the time we left the staff were amazing, very friendly and welcoming, everyone we interacted with was smiling faces, saying hello, asking how we were from security to housekeeping, front desk staff and all in between! The pool area was great, a nice swim up bar in the pool, great sitting area, two hot tubs, one of which was very spacious. The towels supplied were very big and plush. Even had a great view from the pool to the ocean. Our room was very clean, spacious, had a great view out the window, a nice large bathroom. The beds were very comfortable and the pillows didn't go flat! The only complaint about the room was just needed more plugs closer to the beds, otherwise it was excellent. There's plenty of restaurants & entertainment that you don't even have to leave if you so choose. It was our first time staying at a Hard Rock but definitely won't be the last. They certainly left a great impression and made you feel like you were very welcome and they were glad you were there. I highly recommend staying here.

Michael Lee — Google review

We enjoyed our stay, we are smokers and appreciated our room. Unfortunately, I had to put towels to block our door due to the INTENSE marijuana smell. When we were checking out we brought it to the receptionist attention and her comment was “well you were on the smoking floor” also we weren’t the only ones to complain, but there is noting they can do. I read the guidelines for the state and it’s for Medical Marijuana only. So yes there was something that could have been done.Lesson learned, always choose non-smoking… just really disappointed.

Jessica Riehl — Google review

The rooms are beautiful and the view is nice. There needs to be more attention to details like dust on the headboards, too many chips on the beautiful furniture, and the coffee pot looked like immediate death. Other than that, I enjoyed my stay.

Walter Poole — Google review

I've stayed here awesome rooms. I've won 3 jackpots here, and people are awesome. The place is just great oyster. On the ha Half Shell is just wonderful. You gotta have to love oysters, tho & Fish in general.

Elizabeth Pratt — Google review

The staff is outstanding! Had a blast for wife's birthday, many awesome memories and made some friends too. Sarah and William at the front desk are the best! They helped us figure out a difficult situation without the frustration. We will definitely be coming back as we won five hundred bucks our last night there!

West Coast Info-tainment — Google review

Rooms were clean and big. We had a king-sized bed and had plenty of room. They did not have ANY charging ports at all, which was a little surprising. No microwave, but when we asked about one, they brought one immediately to our room.

Stacy D — Google review

Rooms were nice but not 281 dollars a night nice. We stayed at the Hampton Inn in Richland, Ms the night before that were much nicer and half the price. When you get there you are charged another 100 dollars per room and I had 2 rooms. They said it could be up to 10 days before it would debited back into my account. Only one of our rooms were ready when we checked in and we didn't check in until after 4pm. Just expected more maybe I was unrealistic in my expectations.

Donna Stephens — Google review

First time to stay at Biloxi Hard Rock. Got upgraded to Platinum tower for some reason. Room was really clean and larger than expected. Beds great. Shower was wonderful with plenty of hot water. Check in was simple and quick with very friendly clerk. Every where we ate was good. Expensive but good. Casino had a wide variety of slots and tables. Only negative was only two Ultimate X video poker machines ( my chose of games). While playing drinks were plentiful and waitress were easy on the eyes. (tipping helps). Down side it rained all three days there so couldn't do much outside. Truly enjoyed stay.

Bernard Boeckman — Google review

The hotel itself is nice aethstetically speaking. Staff was friendly. So why three stars? Ugh the smokers! They are everywhere. I don't think they smoke where they are supposed to either. You cannot visit the casino or restaurant without walking through clouds of lung killing death murder. You also can't take kids to the restaurants until they text you that your table is ready which is another story. I did like the three head shower, but the shower door did not close the whole way, and the toilet seat kept falling down on my junk. So yeah, don't bring your kids here. Try a different venue.

Douglas Baldwin — Google review

4.3

(18338)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (216)

4.0

(1872)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (217)

777 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS 39530, USA

(228) 374-7625

30

Beau Rivage Resort & Casino

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Casino

Casinos & Gambling

The Beau Rivage Resort & Casino is a sophisticated hotel with stunning views of the Gulf. It offers an outdoor pool, a spa, and a casino for guests to enjoy. The dining options are diverse and vibrant, including eclectic restaurants and bustling bars. One notable restaurant is The Buffet at Beau Rivage, which boasts an expansive selection of global cuisine in a tastefully decorated space.

Spacious and nice rooms! Restaurants are good. Buffet is $15 for breakfast and servers are super nice. Casino is large. Enjoyed top golf suite and the spa. Pool is awesome. Only recommendation would be to have a pull up spot to check in so you know the room is ready before you park in the deck and drag all your luggage in.

Amanda Gambill — Google review

Fantastic experience all around! From the maintenance team up to the managers, everyone was hospitable, kind, and helpful. The hotel was decked out for Christmas and so fun! The room was so pretty and the view was an added bonus. Delicious food in the restaurants, too. Make sure to get some specialty coffees at the Bean and try a muffin or coffee cake. And do some shopping at The Jewelry Box! All the employees were so knowledgeable. I can’t wait to stay here again!

kat — Google review

This was my first time gambling and I was there with a friend celebrating her birthday. That's the most fun I've ever had losing money. I totally lost it when I found out there were little electronic slot machines in the bar. Okay, so I'm easily amused! But seriously... I hope I can stay in the hotel one day because this looked like a magical Wonderland. Especially walking through that little garden entrance thingy with all the lights. Absolutely stunning. beautiful property. I'll definitely be back to give you more of my money soon! (I never win anything based on chance so... It's just a donation. 🤣)

Alice Malice — Google review

Absolutely beautiful facility. The room was so clean, comfortable, and our Gulf view was perfect! The resort has excellent choices to choose from for dining. The food and service were wonderful! MGM properties is the only way to go. The Beau has the same feel as if staying at a Vegas Resort. It is a family friendly Resort, with close access to local beaches and other fun dining options. We will definitely be back !!

Leslee Russell — Google review

The Beau Rivage, frequently called The Beau, is one of our favorite resorts, casinos, and get-away places. We love how the decorations change almost monthly depending on the holiday: Halloween, Christmas, Valentines, etc etc. The rooms are clean, spacious, and comfortable. The views of the water and easy access to the 'beach' area are the best around. The casino has numerous slots and table games, with friendly and helpful dealers. The dining options are good at Beau, but there are also several restaurants (and casinos) within easy walking distance. We love the Black Clover lounge, as well as the sports bar, especially for watching games. They have a mini indoor Top Golf type range. The pool is awesome, and though I've not tried it yet, the spa looks divine! We've been going for years, and they are always tastefully improving and updating. If you're planning a trip to Biloxi, this is your place!

Kaki T — Google review

So much more to do than gamble. The Christmas displays were beautiful. Snack bar has excellent pizza. Sushi restaurant was very good. Italian was authentic and delicious. I can't wait to go back when it warm enough to enjoy the pool area.

Seb B — Google review

Went to have a good evening of dinner and fun. I guess we got there too late to the buffet and they asked us if we wanted anything else as they were closing down the food access after being there 15 minutes. Wow! Spent $65.00 for 15 minutes worth of eating! Food was not that impressive. I would suggest that they warn you at a thirty minute mark that they will be closing and not take your money 15 minutes before they shut down. Last time I will eat at their buffet! We found other places inside to eat but we were hungry. Thought it would be a good idea to get something to eat before games and the buffet was the first one we saw. As we left we walked around to play a few games. Well to make a long story short, we looked around and hardly anyone was winning and when they did it was small payouts. Years ago I was impressed. Now all there is to play is a bunch of imported looking machines. Everyone there looked down and out. Roulette wheels were not very forgiving either. It's like they changed the balls every turn. Sorry but electronic import machines with strange Chinese dragons on them and just playing the lights is not for me anymore.. the old times are gone, no more old style slot machines. Just not what it used to be. Sorry but I don't think I will be back. Drove three hours for an awful evening. I had taken my girlfriend there for her birthday. Well it wasn't what we expected.

Mickey Rytman — Google review

We had the opportunity to take a deal from MGM to come to Biloxi from Florida on a bundled trip that included chartered flight and 3 nights at the “Beau”. First impression is this property is beautiful and gives you a close to Vegas type of experience. The room we had was bittersweet being on the absolute end and the furthest from the elevators. When we arrived it stated in the email that we were checked in and encouraged us to bypass the front desk and go straight to our room. Guess what? The digital key did not work and we had to call down and wait for a security person let us in. Slight setback but the room was a corner and offered a second window for some different views. Unfortunately not gulf view but still not bad considering. The room furnishings and overall quality are getting dated. Clean and kept the best it could be but definitely ready for a remodel. Those being the only complaints to consider this place is the high standard in comparison to the competition nearby. Casino doesn’t have the lower $5 minimums you might see around town but to be expected when they offer the nicest resort. Beautiful Chinese New Year decorations fill the lobby. Staff and dealers when fun and friendly. Slots were actually pretty good to us and had a nice mix of old and new machines. Overall a great experience and we hope to return again.

Tom Richards — Google review

Make sure to use Hᴏᴛᴇʟʙoʟʟʏ.ᴄᴏm when booking your stay. This site will compare countless booking websites and normally will have prices much cheaper than others! Thank me later on! This place is the best rated in this area. I have been coming here for a long time. If you decide to stay here you for sure will love it I'm sure!Such a nice casino/resort with a great layout! Lots of machines and games to choose from and hotel staff is top notch! Beautiful pool and nice gym and spa facilities. The buffet had a large variety of food and even with a large line moved quickly. It was a great experience and we will definitely be back!

Martin Hubbard — Google review

Beau Rivage is an amazing Gulf Coast destination. While there, we were able to take a day trip from Biloxi to Mobile and to Pensacola (less than a two hour drive)! On our second trip to Beau Rivage, yes we were there twice this summer, we enjoyed a day trip to New Orleans (90 miles west). Oh, did I not mention the incredible restaurants, shops and on site salon at Beau Rivage? There’s something for everyone! The food is phenomenal, the shopping very upscale and enjoyable. The salon services were invigorating. And the casino, wrapped it all up with a bow! This place is definitely our family favorite casino resort getaway!

Beth Vartanian — Google review

Beautiful casino \ hotel! The spa was absolutely incredible! The rooms are spacious and very nice! The little bar on the right just as you walk into the casino was so so much fun! The band that plays every weekend is what made it so fun! They were soo good and played songs from back in the 90's and 2000's.

Candace Cheatham — Google review

Beau Rivage provides the best lodging experience in Biloxi! The hotel is beautifully decorated for Christmas. It is like a winter wonderland. It also has great stores to shop in. The casino is for smokers, but the smell is at a minimum compared to other casino hotels I have stayed at. I'm not a smoker, so clean air is important to me. I love staying at the Beau!

Karen Love — Google review

I haven't stayed here yet.We went for the brunch at The Buffet, and WOW! Just about everything you could want to eat and everything was so delicious!Lots of other restaurants are available that we hope to visit at some point also.We had never been, as we don't go to casinos, but there is great shopping and dining, and the decor is breathtaking!

Jenny Jessee — Google review

Always beautiful, but the smoke in the casino is so very bad. They really need to work on a better air purification system. They have taken all but a handful of quarter slots out. Those are my favorite. Had a good time as always.

Dianna Haskell — Google review

Fantastic hotel, our first time here. The property is well kept, updated and plenty of staff in all areas. They have numerous food outlets, all of the ones we tried were fantastic. Too cold on our trip for the pool but it is beautiful. The spa was nice and would recommend. Our room was well appointed but we paid a lot for a corner suite for the views. Disappointingly all we could see was the rook and parking garage, real bummer. If you book this type of room don’t get 3rd floor. Overall great property.

Tammy Morgan — Google review

Remember to use Hᴏᴛᴇʟʙᴏʟʟʏ.ᴄᴏᴍ when booking your room. This web site will compare hundreds of hotel sites and usually will have prices much cheaper compared to others! Thank me later! This resort is one of my favorites in the area. I've been coming here for a long time. If you decide to stay here you for sure will love it I'm sure!Beau Rivage is an excellent Casino with friendly staff. I enjoyed my time there. I especially enjoyed club Eight 75. I will be returning since my date enjoys playing poker in your facility. I have not had the pleasure of staying in your hotel but hope to have that privilege one day

SUMON SIKDER — Google review

Great place to stay. The parking garage is free and the check-in process was very quick. Has a lot of shops in the lobby as well as some good eating places that aren't in the Casino area. Has an Arcade for the kids and an indoor Golf simulator for the Big Kids. Had the Buffet for lunch and it was very good and only $19.99. It is part of the MGM rewards program so be sure to sign up for free and get your card printed off and have them scan it for your stay and food. There were also plenty of elevators that were quick so there wasn't any waiting around for them.

J W (Jurlt) — Google review

My room was clean and nice. The line to the buffet was very long and didn't move fast so I didn't get to eat there...I was disappointed that the table games are $15 minimum. I finally found one Ultimate Texas Hold Em table that was $10 and played that for a little while. Both open craps tables were $25 minimum. I was able to find some cheaper tables at other casinos in the area.

Josh — Google review

Buffet was worse than a Golden Corral! Room was not as clean, and had a smell. The pool was so crowded that I wasn't able to swim. There were 70 something people!! I always loved going to the pool. Was there for 4 days and was not able to use even once! I wondered if they had opened it to the public? The Casino itself remains the same. Will not be going back. Have been patron for around 15 years, no more! So sad.

Dawn Azimi — Google review

Super cute MGM property. Very "Vegas" feel without having to travel all the way there. It is simpler, and I wish there were more food options but the rooms are very nice, the pool and gym are great, and the casino is well kept.

Ashley Naumann — Google review

Our room was excellent! Clean and smelled good, which helps after leaving the casino floor. Lots of friendly faces around every corner! I've never had so many conversations on an elevator! Lol. They have a great view of the gulf from their pool deck, lots of open space to hang out and relax outside, with a bar. The pillows were so comfy, we bought 2 to take home.

Amanda Davis — Google review

My wife and I had a short trip last month. We loved the room,very clean and roomy. The casino was awesome , especially the Bet MGM BOOK. The buffet was moved there temporarily and the food was delicious. So many offerings from meatloaf to shrimp to fried chicken. Overall a great resort, casino experience.

bob koceja — Google review

The MGM Folks treat you so special. We come in on a Charter Flight for usually 3-4 days and with some very nice people who become friends. The restaurants are nice and clean with very tasty food. They decorate for every Holiday it seems which is so pretty. I am in real estate, so I notice these things. If you have a need, the front desk is quick to assist you. This has become one of my favorite places to visit. I LOVE The Beau Rivage!

Fran Hawley — Google review

This is probably the nicest hotel in the coast. We didn't stay here but ate at the buffet. The hotel recently changed the buffet and my opinion is that it isn't worth it. Food selection is very limited and if your in two desserts they only had a handful of options.If you want a better buffet go to the Place. Lots more options and the food is better there.The crowd for this buffet was mainly seniors, and maybe that's why I thought the food was just bland, catering to them I suppose.

Brad Shimkus — Google review

Nothing special about this casino. The restaurants are sub part. They did have the buffet open and we ate there. No real live music on the weekend. Just a local casino which still have smoking. The non smoking was located off the the smoking areas. What was good the whole trip was free promotion.

Si — Google review

This is one of the Nicest Casinos that we have stayed at! From the time you walk in the front door to the time you leave, there are nonstop breathtaking sights. Also being walking distance from other casinos, food, and gas stations is always convenient.We were able to check in and enter our room digitally. Plus, the app allowed us to print physical keys at the kiosk by the front desk.We can not wait to stay here again in the future!

Kyree Baxstresser — Google review

Incredible resort and casino. Great selection of next generation slots. Room was spacious, beautifully decorated, and beds comfy. Good restaurant options, something for everyone. Reservations, flight, airport transportation, and baggage handling were all done first class. Hassle free travel for the casino going senior. Good comps and great pkg deals are a plus, and this resort offers it all. No wonder they have regular repeat guests at this MGM location.

Diane Mullaney — Google review

The rooms are very nice. The one I stayed in was very spacious, but my sister room was average size. Free parking and elevator for convenience. Lots of shopping 🛍, gambling, and food options, but definitely not for the frugal wallet. As with all or most casinos 🎰 drinks 🍸 of all kinds, are free. Their inside elevator to the room are uniquely structured. You need your room key card at all time to get on the elevator, and rooms 1-15 have their own elevator section, and 16-Up has its own section. Though the main areas are really beautiful and maintained. Going to the rooms are a lot of construction 🚧 zones and questionable sites. Overall, I enjoyed my stay. P.S. please do not order anything using your room service. My sister had to pay and additional $50.00 because her daughter called and placed an order off the menu (she went and picked it up and paid for the meal at the restaurant, but still got charged an hotel service fee).

Victorious Resources — Google review

Wonderful resort and casino. Check in was a great! Bell service was spectacular! Buffet was average but restaurants were excellent. Room was fabulous with stupendous house keeping services. I felt very generous and gave large tips because they deserved it. I also won four digits at the casino which was exciting!!!

DR SHANDOWLYON REAVES — Google review

Beau Rivage Casino is the Class of the Gulf Coast Casinos hands down. Their Buffet and Food establishments are excellent, well priced and awesome quality. The other shops inside are top tier, and surprisingly affordable. The slots are humming and actually pay very well; the table games and roulette are entertaining, with excellent potential for payouts. My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed ourselves for hours till the wee hours of the morning. Can't wait to go back.

Bruce Pollard — Google review

Didn't stay just went for the buffet for dinner 1 night and breakfast the morning after. The food is always hood southern cooking red beans and rice is must. The mac and cheese is delicious just the right amount of creamy gooey delight. The fried chicken is a staple I. Southern cooking and this places version of it is very light and crispy and seasoned to perfection. The cat fish and fried shrimp were good as well.

Darrel Boston — Google review

The buffet and the staff are fantastic. Gigi at the buffet made sure we were taken care of, and we appreciated her. Went to the casino, and the only blackjack tables open were two $50 tables and one $500 table. No thanks - played a couple slots and took off. I suppose the other casinos had cheaper tables, but there weren't a lot of affordable table options.

Arik Kerr — Google review

4.4

(22664)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (224)

4.5

(2486)40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (225)

875 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS 39530, USA

(228) 386-7111

40 Best Stops Between St. Augustine and Natchez (2024)

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