In the 1930s, the Federal Writers' Project sent mostly anonymous writers, but also Zora Neale Hurston and Stetson Kennedy, into the depths of Florida to reveal its splendor to the world. The FWP and the State of Florida jointly published the results as Florida: A Guide to the Southernmost State, which included twenty-two driving tours of the state's main roads. Eventually, after Eisenhower built the interstates, drivers bypassed the small towns that thrived along these roads in favor of making better time. Those main roads are now the state's backroads—forgotten by all but local residents, a few commuters, and dedicated road-trippers. Retracing the original routes in the Guide, Cathy Salustri rekindles our notions of paradise by bringing a modern eye to the historic travelogues. Salustri's 5,000-mile road trip reveals a patchwork quilt of Florida cultures: startling pockets of history and environmental bliss stitched against the blight of strip malls and franchise restaurants. The journey begins on US 98, heading west toward the Florida/Alabama state line, where coastal towns dot the roadway. Here, locals depend on the tourism industry, spurred by sugar sand beaches, as well as the abundance of local seafood. On US 41, Salustri takes us past the state's only whitewater rapids, a retired carnie town, and a dazzling array of springs, swamps, and rivers interspersed with farms that produce a bounty of fruit. Along US 17, she stops for milkshakes and hamburgers at Florida's oldest diner and visits a collection of springs interconnected by underwater mazes tumbling through white spongy limestone, before stopping in Arcadia, where men still bring cattle to auction. Desperately searching for skunk apes, the Sunshine State's version of Bigfoot, she encounters more than one gator on her way through the Everglades, Ochopee, and the Skunk Ape Research Headquarters. Following the original Guide, Salustri crisscrosses the state from the panhandle to the Keys. She guides readers through forgotten and unknown corners of the state--nude beaches, a rattlesnake cannery, Devil's Millhopper in Gainesville--as well as more familiar haunts--Kennedy Space Center and The Villages, "Florida’s Friendliest Retirement Hometown." Woven through these journeys are nuggets of history, environmental debates about Florida's future, and a narrative that combines humor with a strong affection for an oft-maligned state. Today, Salustri urges, tourists need a new nudge to get off the interstates or away from Disney in order to discover the real Florida. Her travel narrative, following what are now backroads and scenic routes, guides armchair travelers and road warriors alike to historic sites, natural wonders, and notable man-made attractions--comparing the past views with the present landscape and commenting on the changes, some barely noticeable, others extreme, along the way.

Your All-in-One Guide to Florida’s Best Outings! If you’ve ever asked, “What should we do today?” then you’ve never seen Florida Day Trips by Theme. This comprehensive guide to the Sunshine State is jam-packed with hundreds of Florida’s top spots for fun and entertainment. Take a simple day trip, or string together a longer vacation of activities that catch your interest. Destinations in the book are organized by themes, such as Lighthouses, Festivals, Outdoor Adventures, and Amusement and Theme Parks, so you can decide what to do and then figure out where to do it. Useful for singles, couples, and families—visitors and residents alike—this guide by Florida author Mike Miller encompasses a wide range of interests. Discover the state’s unique attractions—historic buildings, museums, beaches, the Everglades, Keys, and more. The book’s handy size makes it perfect for bringing along on your road trips. Plus, with tips for other things to do in the area, you’re sure to maximize the fun on every outing. With Florida Day Trips by Theme at your fingertips, you’ll always have something to do!

Traces the story of the MacIvey family of Florida from 1858 to 1968.

A brilliantly illustrated guide to the secret splendors, quieter haunts, and wilder side of Florida, from spectacular shores and otherworldly swamplands to historic sites and cultural gems.

A guide to visiting the odd and less known tourist attractions in the state of Florida.

Welcome to the Sunshine State Whether you want to visit the Mission Control Room at the Kennedy Space Center, take an airboat ride in the Everglades or discover the historic Coral Gables, your DK Eyewitness travel guide makes sure you experience all that Florida has to offer. Florida is known for its sun-kissed beaches and magical theme parks, but this diverse state offers so much more. From nature trails and national parks, to sizzling nightlife and sumptuous seafood, Florida has it all. Our newly updated guide brings Florida to life, transporting you there like no other travel guide does with expert-led insights and advice, detailed breakdowns of all the must-see sights, inspiring photography and our trademark illustrations. You'll discover: - our pick of Florida's must-sees, top experiences, and hidden gems - the best spots to eat, drink, shop, and stay - detailed maps and walks that make navigating the country easy - easy-to-follow itineraries - expert advice: get ready, get around, and stay safe - color-coded chapters to every part of Florida, from the Gold Coast to the Gulf Coast, Orlando to the Keys - our new lightweight format, so you can take your guide with you wherever you go Want the best of Miami in your pocket? Try our DK Eyewitness Top 10 Miami and the Keys.