Highlights of my trip to Florida

Palm Beach Zoo (Photo by me)

I try to get to Florida at least once a winter. It’s my 11th commandment and I would suggest that you take a trip when we get past this coronavirus period in our lives. When I return from the sunny state I like to share my adventures with my radio audience and the readers of the Examiner. So here you have some highlights of my recent trip south.  We’ll be going to four locations.

I realize when going to south Florida you don’t go to see movies. But hey it does rain there on occasion and when it does I’ll direct you to The Movies at Delray, 7421 Atlantic Avenue. There are five cinemas all very comfortable. They show first run and art films. During the year they host many special events. Adult admission six dollars til 5 p.m. Free parking.

Next up is the Wakodahatchee Wetlands, 13270 Jog Road, Delray Beach. This was created to inspire and educate people about the importance of water conservation. It recharges the area’s groundwater resources and provides a natural habitat.

It is part of the south section of the Great Florida Birding Trail offering opportunities to observe birds in their natural habitat. It is 50 acres and over 150 species of birds have been identified. Your visit will take you along a 3/4 mile boardwalk.

Each morning the Southern Region Water Reclamation Facility pumps about two million gallons of 90% treated water into the wetlands. Take your time while walking and look carefully. Many of the animals, like the alligators and turtles, are hard to see.  It’s free.

Now we head to 1801 Ocean Blvd, home to the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center. By the way, gumbo limbo is a tree native to tropical regions of the Americas. There are 20 acres in which you’ll find four aquariums, butterfly garden, sea turtle garden and rehabilitation, a living coral reef, an indoor museum, and a trail.

It’s goals are education, conservation and research. Hours are 9-4 (Monday-Saturday) and 12-4 (Sunday). Admission is free but they do ask for a five dollar donation….561-544-8605

Our final destination is the Palm Beach Zoo, 1301 Summit Blvd, West Palm Beach. Open 363 days a year from 9 to 5 with adult admission $24.95. It houses 550 animals representing about 190 species on 23 acres.

Animals range from eagles, bears, cougars, emus, caiman, jaguars and even komodo dragons.  The zoo is laid out so you can follow the paths to each exhibit and areas (like the Tropics of the Americas, The Islands, and Waterfowl of Asia).

I stayed there for two hours enjoying the animals and relaxing on the benches you’ll see along your way. Free parking….561-547-9453.

All of these destinations are definitely family-friendly.

Tired yet?