Story by: Anna McGauley Stockton
With airfare through the roof, long TSA lines looming, and delays becoming more of the norm than an actual on-time arrival, it’s no wonder people are thinking of alternatives to a typical vacation. And we’re lucky to live in a place where people come to vacation, we’re also surrounded by fun, interesting, and unique activities to make a staycation so exciting, you won’t even notice that you’re in your own backyard.
Day at the Museum
Living in an area that is so rich in history, it is no wonder we have some of the best museums around. From Native American to archeological finds and especially our unique and extremely important military history, there are museums to choose from for every age and interest all along the Gulf Coast. And as summer temperatures rise, indoor activities are the way to go!
For history lovers, the Destin History & Fishing Museum, the Pensacola Museum of History, and countless other small yet important historical museums are waiting to educate and entertain. While the military buff has options as well, from the impressive National Naval Aviation Museum and the Air Force Armament Museum, the Gulf Coast boasts military history like no other.
Catch an Adventure
I recently had an influx of amazing pictures come through via text message. What were the pictures, you may ask? They were images of my nephew and friends reeling in a nearly 12-foot Great White shark from the local beach. You see, they had hired a guide for an adventure fishing trip. The package deal included an expert fishing guide and everything you need, from bait to gear, to catch the big ones. These fishing trips can range from one day to multiple days and using the expertise of the guide, along with technology such as drones, can produce impressive catches. Companies that offer these adventurous opportunities are available throughout the Gulf Coast and are a great way to have an amazing adventure, right in your own backyard.
Spring into Fun
Florida’s springs are notorious for their clear, clean water, wildlife viewing, and an all-around wholesome natural experience. With kayaking, canoeing, swimming, tubing, and snorkeling opportunities available at most springs, our local springs are perfect for a day trip with active kids or for a relaxing adult trip. And with average water temperatures a crisp 68-72 degrees, taking a dip in the natural Florida spring water is a great way to beat the heat that takes over our Gulf Coast summer days.
Seize the Day
You don’t have to stay overnight at local resorts to enjoy the amenities available. That’s right; many local resorts offer day passes to enjoy all the perks of the resort, without having to commit to an overnight stay. Many resort day passes allow the use of the resort pool and waterpark (where available) to lounge or play, the restaurant/pool bar, and even the fitness center.
These day passes are a fabulous way to take advantage of the amazing resorts and amenities offered in our area. A resort day pass can take an ordinary day when restless kids run the house and turn it into a day of sun, fun, and exhausted kids at the end of the day.
Explore Local Parks
The Gulf Coast of Florida has no shortage of local, state, and national parks. This preserved land is teeming with wildlife, adventure, and fun activities. From hiking the hundreds of miles of hiking trails available to check out nature on land, to the waterways that allow for exploration from the safety of a canoe or kayak, there’s so much to see, do, and experience in our parks.
