Explore Evacuation Zones In Florida

Introduction

Florida is a popular tourist destination known for its sunny beaches, theme parks, and nightlife. However, it is essential to know about the evacuation zones in Florida as the state is prone to hurricanes and natural disasters. This guide will provide comprehensive information about the top attractions, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences in the evacuation zones of Florida.

Top Attractions

Disney World

Located in the evacuation zone of Orange County, Disney World is a must-visit attraction in Florida. It has four theme parks, two water parks, and several resorts. The Magic Kingdom is the most popular park and features iconic attractions like Cinderella Castle and the Pirates of the Caribbean ride.

Universal Orlando Resort

Also located in Orange County, the Universal Orlando Resort has two theme parks, Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. Harry Potter fans will love the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which features rides like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and the Flight of the Hippogriff.

Hidden Gems

Winter Park Farmer’s Market

The Winter Park Farmer’s Market is a hidden gem in the evacuation zone of Orange County. It is open every Saturday from 7 am to 1 pm and features fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. Visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee and listen to live music while browsing the stalls.

Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art

The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art is located in the evacuation zone of Seminole County. It features the largest collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, including stained glass windows, lamps, and jewelry. The museum also has a collection of American art from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Food Scene

Se7en Bites

Se7en Bites is a popular restaurant in the evacuation zone of Orange County. It specializes in Southern comfort food like biscuits and gravy, chicken and waffles, and mac and cheese. The bakery also serves delicious pastries like cinnamon rolls and cupcakes.

Black Bean Deli

Located in the evacuation zone of Orange County, Black Bean Deli serves authentic Cuban cuisine like empanadas, Cuban sandwiches, and plantains. The restaurant also has a selection of beers and wines from Latin America.

Budget-friendly Tips

Free Outdoor Activities

There are several free outdoor activities in the evacuation zones of Florida, including hiking in the Wekiwa Springs State Park, visiting the Lake Eola Park in Orlando, and walking on the Daytona Beach Boardwalk. Visitors can also enjoy free concerts and movies in the parks during the summer months.

Happy Hour Deals

Many restaurants and bars in the evacuation zones of Florida offer happy hour deals on food and drinks. Visitors can enjoy discounted prices on beer, wine, and cocktails during happy hour, which is usually from 4 pm to 6 pm.

Outdoor Adventures

Kayaking in Rock Springs Run

Rock Springs Run is a natural spring in the evacuation zone of Seminole County. Visitors can rent kayaks and canoes and paddle down the crystal-clear water. The river is surrounded by lush vegetation and is home to several species of birds and fish.

Biking on the West Orange Trail

The West Orange Trail is a 22-mile paved trail that runs through the evacuation zone of Orange County. Visitors can rent bikes and explore the scenic trail, which passes through several parks and historic sites. The trail is also popular for jogging and walking.

Family-friendly Activities

LEGOLAND Florida Resort

Located in the evacuation zone of Polk County, LEGOLAND Florida Resort is a theme park that is perfect for families with young children. It features over 50 rides and attractions, including the LEGO Ninjago World and the LEGO City.

Gatorland

Gatorland is a wildlife park in the evacuation zone of Orange County. It is home to thousands of alligators and crocodiles, as well as other animals like snakes, birds, and turtles. Visitors can watch alligator shows and take a zip line ride over the park.

Off-the-beaten-path Experiences

The Holy Land Experience

The Holy Land Experience is a theme park in the evacuation zone of Orange County that recreates the biblical times. Visitors can watch live shows, visit replica buildings like the Garden Tomb and the Tabernacle, and learn about the history of Christianity.

The Dali Museum

The Dali Museum is located in the evacuation zone of Pinellas County and features the largest collection of works by Salvador Dali outside of Europe. The museum has over 2,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and drawings.

Natural Wonders

Wekiwa Springs State Park

Wekiwa Springs State Park is located in the evacuation zone of Seminole County and features a natural spring that is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The park also has several hiking trails, picnic areas, and campsites.

St. Augustine Beach

St. Augustine Beach is located in the evacuation zone of St. Johns County and is known for its white sand and clear water. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and fish on the beach, or explore the nearby Anastasia State Park.

Vibrant Nightlife

Church Street Entertainment District

The Church Street Entertainment District is located in the evacuation zone of Orange County and is home to several bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. Visitors can enjoy live music, drink specials, and dancing in the historic district.

Ybor City

Ybor City is a historic neighborhood in the evacuation zone of Hillsborough County that is known for its nightlife. It has several bars and nightclubs that play Latin music, as well as cigar shops and restaurants that serve Cuban cuisine.

Local Markets

Winter Park Farmer’s Market

As mentioned earlier, the Winter Park Farmer’s Market is a great place to shop for fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. Visitors can also find unique souvenirs and gifts from local vendors.

Orlando Farmer’s Market

The Orlando Farmer’s Market is located in the evacuation zone of Orange County and is open every Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm. It features over 50 vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts.

Beaches and Mountains

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is located in the evacuation zone of Brevard County and is known for its surfing and fishing. Visitors can also visit the nearby Kennedy Space Center or take a cruise from Port Canaveral.

Mount Dora

Mount Dora is a small town in the evacuation zone of Lake County that is known for its charming downtown area and scenic views. Visitors can hike or bike on the nearby hills, or take a boat tour on the Lake Dora.

Cultural Immersion

Little Havana

Little Havana is a neighborhood in the evacuation zone of Miami-Dade County that is known for its Cuban culture. Visitors can visit the Domino Park, watch a salsa performance, or try authentic Cuban food at the local restaurants.

Chinatown

Chinatown is located in the evacuation zone of Miami-Dade County and is home to several restaurants, shops, and cultural events. Visitors can try dim sum, visit the Buddhist temple, or watch a lion dance performance during the Chinese New Year.

Art and Music Scene

Orlando Museum of Art

The Orlando Museum of Art is located in the evacuation zone of Orange County and features a collection of American art from the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum also has a collection of African art and contemporary art.

Hard Rock Live

Hard Rock Live is a concert venue in the evacuation zone of Seminole County that features performances by famous musicians and bands. Visitors can also enjoy drinks and food at the Hard Rock Cafe, which is located next to the venue.

Walking Tours

Historic Downtown Sanford

Historic Downtown Sanford is located in the evacuation zone of Seminole County and has several historic buildings and landmarks. Visitors can take a walking tour and learn about the history of the town, or visit the local breweries and restaurants.

Art Deco Historic District

The Art Deco Historic District is located in the evacuation zone of Miami-Dade County and features over 800 Art Deco buildings. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour or join a guided tour to learn about the architecture and history of the district.