SPORTS & RECREATION / DAY TRIPS & GETAWAYS
Kennedy Space Center & Merritt Island
321-452-2121
www.kennedyspacecenter.com
Visitors can take an unforgettable journey through space and time at this premier tourist destination that has drawn millions of visitors from around the world for more than three decades. The center tells the story of the U.S. space program with its moon and Mars launches and satellites. Numerous space-related attractions combine with the pristine Merritt Island National Wildlife Reserve for a wide range of activities.
Greater Fort Lauderdale
800-22-SUNNY
www.sunny.org
Enjoy nearly 25 miles of sun-drenched beaches and more than 300 miles of navigable inland waterways in the area that gained national renown as the place to celebrate “spring break.” Posh resorts, water taxis, premier golfing, Broadway shows, unique shopping districts, and a lively nightlife are just a few of the world-class amenities that keep Fort Lauderdale on the list of the most popular vacation destinations for all ages.
Greater Miami
305-539-3000
800-933-8448
www.gmcvb.com
Few locations in the world can rival Miami for cosmopolitan sophistication and tropical splendor. The beach community sizzles with action and excitement while the city shimmers with live entertainment, shopping districts, and culture. Ocean Drive serves as the heart of South Beach, where Art Deco style blends with high-energy dance clubs and an international nightlife.
Greater Orlando
407-363-5872
www.orlandoinfo.com
Convenient to residents of Tampa Bay is the entertainment center of nearby Orlando, distinguished as the world’s top vacation destination. This idyllic metropolitan area appeals to outdoor adventurers, nature lovers, and golfers as well as to families drawn by the endless list of amusements. Theme parks, amusement parks, water parks, zoos, and nature preserves are nearly as abundant in Metro Orlando as the Florida sunshine.
Daytona Beach
800-544-0415
www.daytonabeachcvb.org
The world’s most famous beach, thanks to the Daytona International Speedway, is open year-round and boasts an ocean park atmosphere that is second to none. In addition to the bright lights and attractions in Daytona, visitors enjoy the pristine Volusia County beaches, providing outstanding surfing, first-class fishing, and a wide array of water sports. New Smyrna Beach is often dubbed the “world’s safest bathing beach.”
The Florida Keys
Islamorada
305-664-4503
800-FAB-KEYS
www.islamoradachamber.com
Key Largo
305-451-1414
800-822-1088
www.keylargo.org
Key West
305-294-2587
www.keywestchamber.org
Lower Keys
800-872-3722
305-872-2411
www.lowerkeyschamber.com
Marathon
305-743-5417
www.floridakeysmarathon.com
From the moment you venture into the world of the Florida Keys, this tropical oasis invites you to plunge into deep relaxation. Some of the nation’s most dazzling underwater adventures include expert guides for scuba diving, snorkeling, or waters sports. Key Largo offers premier marine retreats from an underwater state park to dolphin adventures. The Islamorada area is the world’s sport fishing capital, and Key West is known for its night life. Golf courses, exclusive art galleries, museums, posh resorts, and unspoiled nature are all magnets to this tropical paradise.
Southwest Florida
Lee Island Coast
www.leeislandcoast.com
Captiva & Sanibel Islands
239-472-1080
www.sanibel-captiva.org
Known as the world’s finest region for collecting seashells, serene retreats like Sanibel and Captiva Islands combine with welcoming beach communities along the Florida Gulf of Mexico shoreline. Water sports, fishing, golfing, nature study, and beach combing are just a few of the many popular pastimes in this picturesque and relaxing vacation destination.
