Day Trips from the villages
The Villages, being centrally located in the state of Florida, offers residents many opportunities to visit nearby places just a short trip away. Below are some of the exciting things I've done nearby.
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Blue Springs State Park is about an hour and 15 minutes away in Orange City. During the Manatee season, which runs from mid-November through March, you can view several hundred Manatee's from the spring's overlooks. During the warmer months park goers can enjoy the constant 73 degree waters swimming or snorkeling. River Boat tours are also available. For more information or reservations contact St. Johns River Cruises at (386) 917-0724.
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La Chua Trail at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is located near Gainesville. This park became Florida's first state preserve in 1971 and is now designated as a National Natural Landmark. Habitats of the park include alligators, bison, horses and more than 270 species of birds. The entrance is only open on weekdays.
Location: Gainesville Length: Up to 3 miles Lat-Long: 29.610250, -82.304264 Type: round-trip |
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Captain Mike's Lazy River Cruise down the Withlacoochee River is a really fun 1 or 2 hour cruise. You'll see alligators, birds and lots of turtles. Mike has a great sense of humor to keep everyone amused. After the cruise enjoy a wonderful dinner at Stumpknockers. Located at 13821 SW State Rd 200, Dunnellon, FL 34432 at Stumpknockers. Visit his website at www.lazyrivercruises.com
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Delightful downtown Dunedin has a charming character all its own. With such a great array of things to see and do in downtown Dunedin, residents and visitors alike return time after time to shop, dine, have fun or do business. Since 1977, Dunedin is the spring training home of the Toronto Blue Jays, as well as the class-A Dunedin Blue Jays of the Florida State League.
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Christmas in Mount Dora - Mount Dora is host to numerous events and celebrations that will bring magic to your holiday season. You can check out their website here.
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Visit beautiful Mount Dora. Whether it's a huge weekend festival, concert in the park, an afternoon boat tour or a steam train ride, there's something in Mount Dora for everyone.
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