Sunshine State of Mind: Recent Episodes
Florida Podcast
From the state parks to the theme parks we cover everything that's fun under the Florida sun! Whether you're a visitor or a permanent tourist like us, we want to help you get the most out of your time in Florida.
This week we catch up on what's opening soon and talk about the ever-evolving Covid situation as we start to inch back to normal. Also, Shannon checks out a trendy Tampa restaurant, and Andy has a close encounter with a manatee.
In this Episode:
- Brunch at the Oxford Exchange
- Manatee encounter from the kayak
- 2021 midyear update
- Amazon Purchase of the Week: Kwikset Emergency Keys
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
We're back after an unplanned hiatus! This week we tell you where we've been, and talk about our trip to the Dali Museum in downtown St. Petersburg to see the "Van Gogh Alive" exhibit.
In this Episode:
- Our 4-week unplanned hiatus caused by home renovation chaos
- A trip to the Dali Museum to see the "Van Gogh Alive" exhibit
- https://thedali.org/exhibit/van-gogh-alive/
- https://youtu.be/nCWsPY2nHJY
- Amazon Purchase of the Week: MOCOLY Women's Cargo Hiking Pants
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
We talk about our week off for Spring Break where we visited Silver Springs State Park, Tampa Bay Downs, Pass-a-Grille Beach, and went out for a deep-sea fishing trip on a party boat out of Clearwater Beach.
In this Episode:
- New DisneyWorld Florida license plate to be released
- Drive-in movie theater coming to St. Petersburg
- https://stpeterising.com/home/2021/3/8/drive-in-movie-theater-is-coming-soon-to-st-pete
- Spring Break discussion
- Deep-Sea Party Boat fishing
- https://queenfleet.com
- Amazon Purchase of the Week: Kamp-Rite Outdoor Camping Tailgating Folding Director's Chair
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
Florida continues to grow, and this winter will probably send even more people to the Sunshine State. This week we take a look at, and react to US News & World Report's list of the best Florida cities to move to in 2021.
In this Episode:
- Happiest Florida Cities
- https://www.winknews.com/2021/03/08/study-says-cape-coral-is-happiest-city-in-florida/
- Best Florida cities to move to in 2021
- https://realestate.usnews.com/places/rankings/best-places-to-live-in-florida
- Amazon Purchase of the Week: The Southerner's Cookbook
-
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
This week we went to Spring Hill for a kayaking trip on the Weeki Wachee River and review the experience on this river famous for its crystal clear water and frequent manatee sightings. Also, a new theme park is on the way, live music returns to Busch Gardens, and a visit to Cockroach Bay Preserve State Park.
In this Episode:
- Cockroach Bay Preserve State Park
- https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/cockroach-bay-preserve-state-park
- Live music returns to Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival
- A new Peppa Pig theme park is on the way
- Kayaking at Weeki Wachee State Park
- https://weekiwacheekayakrental.com
- Amazon Purchase of the Week: Feline Greenies Pill Pockets
-
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
This week we checked out the Second Saturday Art Walk in downtown St. Petersburg, a fun monthly event where you can grab a local beer, check out some local art, meet the artists, all while in an easy-going setting. There are lots of Art Walks all around Florida for you to check too.
In this Episode:
- 2021 Hurricane names
- Walt Disney World is turning 50 this year.
- St. Petersburg Art Walk Discussion
- https://stpeteartsalliance.org/artwalk
- List of other Florida Art Walks
- Amazon Purchase of the Week: Desert Reptile Substrate
-
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
Hey, our hometown Tampa Bay Buccaneers just won the Super Bowl! We'll talk about that for a few minutes before getting back to our normal Florida discussion. This week we talk about some little-known gems we've never talked about or even heard of, before.
In this Episode:
- A few Super Bowl thoughts
- Little known Florida gems we've never talked about before.
- https://thefloridatravelgirl.com/things-to-do-in-florida
- Amazon Purchase of the Week: Miracle-Gro Potting Mix
-
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
Tampa is hosting the Super Bowl in just a couple of weeks, and the hometown Buccaneers are the first team to ever play in the big game on their home turf. If you're coming to town, a local, or just somebody who might visit one day, we have a big list of outdoor, Covid friendly, things to do around town.
In this Episode:
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers are in the Super Bowl.
- List of outdoor things around the Tampa Bay area to do.
- https://tampabaydatenightguide.com/outdoor-activities-in-tampa-bay-before-summer/
- Amazon Purchase of the Week: Fluker's Buffet Blend Aquatic Turtle Food
-
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
This week we take a look at the year ahead and all the best new Florida attractions we except (and hope) to open in 2021.
In this Episode:
- 2021 Florida Attractions Preview
- https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/epcot/space-220/
- Amazon Purchase of the Week: 2021 Pooping Pooches Calendar
-
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
Happy New Year! This week we got 2021 started by taking our new kayak on it's maiden voyage through the mangrove forests of Weedon Island Preserve. A great little nature preserves along the shores of Tampa Bay in St. Petersburg.
In this Episode:
- Our kayaking trip at Weedon Island Preserve near St. Petersburg.
- http://www.weedonislandpreserve.org
- The Top Ten Kayak trips in Florida
- https://floridakayaker.com/best-kayaking-florida
- Amazon Purchase of the Week: eBook: Revolutionary Mothers
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
By listener request, today we complete our Trilogy of Florida Wonders. This week we list, discuss, and debate our Seven Theme Park Wonders of Florida.
In this Episode:
- The Seven Theme Park Wonders of Florida
- Amazon Purchase of the Week: Giant Inflatable Unicorn Pool Float
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
Last week we discussed Floridas Natural Wonders, and now it's time for the sequel. This week we list, discuss, and debate our Seven Manmade Wonders of Florida.
In this Episode:
- The Seven Manmade Wonders of Florida
- Amazon Purchase of the Week: Midwest Bolster Pet Bed
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
Florida is a state with a lot of natural beauty and natural wonders. This week we list, discuss, and debate our Seven Natural Wonders of Florida.
In this Episode:
- The Seven Natural Wonders of Florida
- http://sunshinestateinsider.com/natural-wonders-of-florida/
- Amazon Purchase of the Week: NCAA College Facecover
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
We are back after a bit of a break to tell you about some of the fun stuff we've been up to, and review some of the places we've gone over the last few weekends. Jet Skiing at John's Pass, a Florida Christmas Tree Farm, and a visit to the NEW St. Pete Pier.
In this Episode:
- Snowcat Ridge opens in Dade City
- https://snowcatridge.com
- We visit and review the new St. Pete Pier
- https://stpetepier.org
- Withlacoochee River Park
- https://www.pascocountyfl.net/303/Withlacoochee-River-Park
- Visting a Florida Christmas Tree farm
- http://www.ergletrees.com
- Jet skiing at John's Pass
- https://www.johnspass.com
- Photos: http://sunshinestatepodcast.com/cassadaga-florida-photo-gallery
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
This week Shannon took a trip to Cassadaga, the "Psychic Capital of the World", where she visited the Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp, took a walk on the Fairy Trail, and even had a session with a psychic medium! We had a really interesting discussion about this unique experience in this unique town. Also, Sea World offers a great deal for teachers, and Scream-a-geddon returns for Halloween 2020
In this Episode:
- SeaWorld offering free season pass for Florida teachers.
- Scream-a-geddon, Florida's largest horror attraction, will return with a new haunted house.
- Shannon visits Cassadaga and has a reading with a psychic medium.
- Photos: http://sunshinestatepodcast.com/cassadaga-florida-photo-gallery
- Amazon Listener Purchase of the Week: Dance Class Kids Molly Jane Tap Shoes
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
An invasion of rotten mollusks! Classic mini golf courses! And a promising study that just shows beer is even better that we already knew. This week we get caught up with a few different stories and happenings from around Florida.
In this Episode:
- The Florida Historic Mini Golf Trail
- http://floridahistoricgolftrail.com
- Mote Marine Lab teams up with Darwin Brewing to find a cure for red tide.
- https://www.tampabay.com/news/environment/2020/08/31/could-beer-help-florida-raise-a-glass-to-the-end-of-red-tide/
- Sea Squirt Invasion
- https://www.baynews9.com/fl/tampa/news/2020/08/28/thousands-of-rotting-sea-squirts-stinking-up-pass-a-grille-beach-
- Polynesian Resort Renovation
- Theme park season pass deals
- Hollywood Studios trip report/Mickey & Minnies Runaway Railway ride review
- Support the Show with Amazon
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
After months of unprecedented closures Walt Disney World has reopened, but with a lot of changes. We spent a day at Animal Kingdom and this week we talk all about what we thought of the new rules and the current Disney experience. Also: A kayaking trip to a Florida State Park and a getaway to the Blue Ridge Mountains.
In this Episode:
- Cheap Kayaking at Colt Creek State Park
- https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/colt-creek-state-park
- A quick trip to North Georgia
- We discuss our recent trip back to Walt Disney World and all of the changes that have been made to deal with COVID-19.
- Listener Purchase of the Week: Hill's Science Diet Dry Cat Food
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
Is there something in Florida that you love, that others dont? Maybe something you think is overrated, and don't get the hype? This week we share some of our own Unpopular Florida Opinions.
In this Episode:
- Our Fourth of July weekend at Siesta Key Palms Resort
- https://www.siestakeypalmshotel.com
- We discuss some of ours and some listeners unpopular Florida opinions.
- Listener Purchase of the Week: Altec Lansing Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
The current situation has put the breaks on some highly anticipated new Florida attractions. This week we take a look at where we are now, and when we might expect to see all these new projects finally open.
In this Episode:
- 2020 Florida attractions status & discussion; Busch Gardens, Sea World, Walt Disney World, and Universal Studios
- Island's of Adventure "Velocicoaster" virtual ride
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Ba8m8HRSTU
- Listener Purchase of the Week: HURR-PRO Universal Hurricane Window Clips
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
This weekend we visited Repticon, the Reptile Convention at the Florida State Fairgrounds and even brought home a new family member! Then we headed over to Tarpon Springs to check out a local brewery.
In this Episode:
- We visit Repticon and bring home a new family member.
- https://repticon.com/
- Five Branches Brewery in Tarpon Springs
- Listener Purchase of the Week: Batman Cuff Links!
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
We are back from a little bit of a hiatus, and just spent a weeklong getaway in what may be one of our new favorite places in Florida; Anna Maria Island. This week we share what we did and what we ate on this underrated little gem of a place on Florida's Gulf Coast.
In this Episode:
- Our week on Anna Maria Island
- Links to the places we ate
- Hurricane Hanks
- Joey D’s Chicago Style Eatery
- Poppo’s Taqueria
- Ginnies & Jane E’s
- The Donut Experiment
- Two Scoops
- Dips
- Island Scoops
- Listener Purchase of the Week: PELONIS Oscillating Stand Up Tower Fan
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
Another week of lockdown has us looking forward to the days when things start returning to "normal". This week we run down and talk about some of the things we can't wait to do again once this is all over.
In this Episode:
- We list and discuss some Florida things we can't wait to do again.
- Listener Purchase of the Week: Six Deck Automatic Card Shuffler
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
We've been binge-watching Netflix just like the rest of the world these days and finally got around to watching Tiger King. This week we give our reaction to this wild ride that puts a big focus on one popular Florida animal attraction; Big Cat Rescue in Tampa. We also watched The Big Show Show, a family-friendly sitcom about a retired wrestler and his family life in Florida.
In this Episode:
- We react to our locked down binge watching of Tiger King.
- We review The Big Show Show, also on Netflix.
- Link: Big Cat Rescue's response to Tiger King.
- Listener Purchase of the Week: Toilet Paper!
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
Yeah, everything is still closed and will be for the foreseeable future. So this week we put together a list of good news from around Florida and a few things to look forward to once the world goes back to normal.
In this Episode:
- Video: Some Good News with John Krasinksi
- Listener Purchase of the Week: Fender Deluxe Blues Harmonica
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
Everything is shut down, and we're all stuck inside while our favorite Florida places are shut down. It's a bummer. So let's take a virtual visit around Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom to play some trivia while learning a few cool things about the iconic theme park.
In this Episode:
- Magic Kingdom Trivia
- Listener Purchase of the Week: DJI Osmo Pocket Handheld Gimbal w/ 4K Camera
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
A lot has happened in the world since last week, and not much of it has been good news. The coronavirus pandemic has all but brought activity in Florida, and around the world, to a halt. This week we talk about the impact COVID-19 has had on Florida tourism since so many of the things we love in this state have been temporarily shut down.
In this Episode:
- Coronavirus brings Florida theme parks, attractions, and events to a complete standstill.
- Florida attractions that are closed, what's still open, and what to do now
- Listener Purchase of the Week: Clue Board Game
- Shannon's Recommendation: Alton Brown's Handwashing Tutorial
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
Spring is around the corner, and beach season will soon be here. But which coast has the better beaches? Is the West Coast the best coast? Or is the Atlantic Ocean the place to be? This week we put the Gulf Coast up against the Atlantic Coast in six key categories.
In this Episode:
- Only one Florida city ranks as one of the best cities to celebrate St. Patricks Day
- https://wallethub.com/edu/best-worst-cities-for-st-patricks-day-celebrations/19603/
- Busch Gardens puts finishing touches on Iron Gwazi
- The Magic Kingdom hit with a series of technical issues in the last week
- Video: Haunted Mansion lights on and maintenance door open.
- Florida Face-off: Gulf coast vs. Atlantic coast beaches
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
This weekend we had a great time at "Up Up & Away", Florida's largest hot air balloon festival in Lakeland. Also, one new ride is opening at Disney World while one classic attraction is getting ready to close.
In this Episode:
- Mickey & Minnies Runaway Railway opens this week at Hollywood Studios.
- Spaceship Earth at Epcot is closing for a multi-year reimagining.
- Trip Advisor lists their best beaches in the world, and some Florida beaches made the cut.
- We talk about and review our day at "Up Up & Away Florida".
- Photos: Up Up & Away Florida balloon festival
- Listener Purchase of the Week: 5.11 Tactical EMS Pants
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
This week we mix up the format a bit and talk about some of our favorite Florida Man headlines of the past year. Also a little bit Walt Disney World talk.
In this Episode:
- Cinderella's Castle at Magic Kingdom is getting a facelift.
- We discuss some of our favorite Florida Man stories of the past year.
- Listener Purchase of the Week: Purina Pro Plan Cat Food
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
It's still early in the year 2020 and at the start of a new decade. This week we put on our prognosticator caps to predict and discuss which current Florida theme park attractions we think won't survive to see the next decade. Also, some "Monster" news emerges on what's coming to Universal's Epic Universe.
In this Episode:
- New details emerge on one more land at Epic Universe
- USA Today lists 3 new Florida attractions among their best new attractions of the year
- https://www.10best.com/awards/travel/best-new-amusement-park-attraction/
- We discuss which current Florida theme park attractions we don't think will make it to the next decade.
- Listener Purchase of the Week: Evolve 100% Boar Bristle Hair Brush
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
Two weeks ago we ran down a number of Florida food festivals happening in Florida, so this week we're going to explore some of the unique, weird, and offbeat events for 2020 that could only happen in Florida.
In this Episode:
- Unique, offbeat, "Only in Florida" events for 2020
- Fiddler Crab Festival
- http://steinhatcheechamber.com/the-events-calendar/fiddler-crab-festival
- Gasparilla Pirate Festival
- http://gasparillapiratefest.com
- Rattlesnake Festival
- http://www.rattlesnakefestival.com
- Sugar Sand Festival
- https://sugarsandfestival.com
- Siesta Key Crystal Classic
- https://www.siestakeycrystalclassic.com
- Biketoberfest
- https://www.daytonabeach.com/biketoberfest
- Venice Shark Tooth Festival
- http://www.sharkstoothfest.com
- Hemingway Days
- https://fla-keys.com/hemingway-days/
- Worm Gruntin' Festival
- http://www.wormgruntinfestival.com
- Flora-Bama Interstate Mullet Toss
- http://www.florabama.com/mullet-toss
- Listener Voicemail; Brandon from the Florida Focus College Football Podcast
- Listener Purchase of the Week: Custom Leather Keychain
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
This week we came across an article in Travel & Leisure that listed the best places to visit in Florida. We go through and discuss that list and give our own thoughts and opinions on each place listed. Also some news about Universal's Epic Universe, SNL pokes fun at Disney Fastpass and listener mail.
In this Episode:
- Universal Studios confirms "Super Nintendo World" will be part of Epic Universe.
- Saturday Night Live pokes fun at Disney Fastpass & Orlando
- Travel & Leisure's - "The Best Places to Visit in Florida" discussion
- https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/beach-vacations/best-places-to-visit-in-florida
- Listener Mail; St. Augustine questions, new listeners, and food festival feedback.
- Listener Purchase of the Week: RUIGPRO Sport Camera Backpack Clip Mount for Gopro
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
The Florida festival season is ramping up, and with it comes all kinds of great events to try new foods all over the state. This week we discuss ten interesting and unique Florida food festivals.
In this Episode:
- Listener mail about our visit to Daytona Beach
- The Florida Aquarium is offering discounts for bringing in Gasparilla beads.
- We discuss ten unique Florida food festivals
- Florida Strawberry Festival - Plant City
- https://flstrawberryfestival.com
- South Florida Garlic Festival - Delray Beach
- https://garlicfestfl.com
- Key Lime Festival - Key West
- http://www.keylimefestival.com
- Lobsterfest - Key West
- http://www.keywestlobsterfest.com
- Blueberry Festival - Plant City
- http://www.keelfarms.com/bbfest
- Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival - Fernandina Beach
- https://www.shrimpfestival.com
- Speckled Perch Festival - Okeechobee
- http://www.okeechobeemainstreet.org
- Zucchini Festival - Windsor
- http://www.windsor-z-news.org/events.html
- Cuban Sandwich Festival - Kissimmee & Tampa
- http://www.thecubansandwichfestival.com
- Kumquat Festival - Dade City
- https://kumquatfestival.org
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
The year 2020 is upon us and we're looking forward to a lot of fun new stuff making it's way to the Sunshine State this year. In this episode, we run down ten of the most exciting things we're looking forward to this year. We also talk a bit about our winter break, and the end of a 70-year-old Florida tradition.
In this Episode:
- A little talk about our winter break.
- The Florida Welcome Center no longer gives away free orange juice.
- Ten exciting things on the way for 2020
Contact Us! We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Shop at Amazon
In this "Best of 2019" review episode, we talk about some of our favorite things we saw and did around Florida (and beyond) in the past year.
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
This weekend we headed out to Disney's Hollywood Studios to ride the brand new "Rise of the Resistance" at Galaxy's Edge! Let's talk about this mind-blowing new attraction!
In this Episode:
- Getting up early to get our Boarding Pass for Rise of the Resistance and our thoughts on the virtual queue system
- Our Spoiler Free reaction and review of the ride.
- And then we give our full review of the ride with spoilers for those who want to know!
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
Last weekend we were invited to check out Christmas in the Wild at ZooTampa. We talk about our visit to the zoo's Christmas party, and some of the early reaction to the opening weekend of Rise of the Resistance at Galaxy's Edge.
In this Episode:
- Rise of the Resistance opens at Galaxy's Edge to long wait times
-
We visit ZooTampa for their holiday party "Christmas in the Wild".
-
We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
The manatee is one of Florida's most iconic symbols, and wintertime is the best time to see them. When the temperatures dip, manatees will gather in springs and the warm-water outflows of power plants in huge numbers. This week we talk about some of the best places to see these gentle giants in the wild.
In this Episode:
- We talk about manatees and the best places to see them this winter
- http://sunshinestateinsider.com/best-places-in-florida-to-see-manatees/
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
This weekend we took a long weekend trip to the self-appointed "Worlds Most Famous Beach", Daytona. Daytona Beach is the birthplace of auto racing, and a former spring break hot spot, but it still offers a lot of bang for your buck if you're looking for a cheap beach getaway in Florida. We review the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse, the Riverfront district, the Boardwalk, and give our thoughts on the current state of the town.
In this Episode:
- Interactive Pac-Man escape maze coming to Orlando in 2020
- https://www.themazelive.com
- We visit and review Daytona Beach
- Riverfront District
- https://riverfrontshopsofdaytona.com
- https://aberrantart.com
- Ponce Inlet Lighthouse
- https://www.ponceinlet.org
- The current state and condition of the town
- A1A: A Pockmarked Paradise
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
It's already November, so we run down five awesome Florida events happening this month all over the state. Then we talk a little about Shannon's trip to Weeki Wachee to meet mermaids and our recent experience back at Galaxy's Edge where we finally tried the Blue Milk.
In this Episode:
- Five Hot November Florida Events worth checking out.
- St. Petersburg - The worlds largest Christmas light maze
- https://enchantchristmas.com/stpete
- St. Augustine - Nights of Lights
- https://www.visitstaugustine.com/event/nights-lights
- Kissimmee - Ice!
- www.ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com
- Jacksonville - Porchfest
- http://www.jacksonvilleporchfest.org
- Captiva Island - Hobie Cat World Championships
- https://hobieworlds.com
- A day with the Weeki Wachee mermaids.
- Heckling stormtroopers for photo ops at Galaxy's Edge
-
We try the Blue Milk.
-
http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
We just hit our 100th episode! And now for Episode 101 we're going to revisit the same topic of Episode 1: the best roller coasters in Florida. Only this time, we asked our listeners and the internet to decide.
In this Episode:
- We opened an online t-shirt shop!
- http://www.SunshineStateShirts.com
- Florida's Top Ten Best Rollercoasters discussion.
- The poll is still active if you want to cast your vote
- https://www.ranker.com/list/best-roller-coasters-in-florida/sunshinestate
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
This week we review Scream-a-Geddon, Florida's premier horror park that's considered one of the best Halloween haunted attractions in the country. Also a visit to the John's Pass Seafood & Music Festival in Madiera Beach, and we learn about a free and unlikely thing to do in Florida; watch college ice hockey.
In this Episode:
- Free Things to Do: College Ice Hockey games
- We visit the John's Pass Seafood & Music Festival
- https://www.johnspassseafoodfest.com
- The Bourne Stuntacular coming soon to Universal Studios
- A review of Scream-a-Geddon, Florida's premier horror park
- https://www.screamageddon.com
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
It's getting closer to Halloween so it's time to get a little scary. This week we round up 10 scary experiences that are uniquely Florida. We're not talking about haunted houses or ghosts this time either, but 10 real places to visit and things to do if you dare!
In this Episode:
- Kayak fishing at Weedon Island Preserve
- http://www.weedonislandpreserve.org/
- The Disney Skyliner is running again.
- Ten fearful Florida experiences
- Ziplining over Alligators - Orlando, FL
- https://www.gatorland.com/experiences/screamin-gator-zip-line/
- Gator Nights - Weston, FL
- https://www.evergladestours.com/airboat-rides/gator-night/
- A nighttime boat tour of Lake Jessup - Oviedo, FL
- https://www.theblackhammock.com/airboat-rides/individual-packages/index
- The Eagles Nest - Weeki Wachee, FL
- Video: Eagles Nest Cave Diving
- Hudson Grotto - Hudson, FL
- Video: Hudson Grotto Deep Dive
- Spook Hill - Lake Wales, FL
- Swimming with Sharks - Tampa & Orlando, FL
- https://www.flaquarium.org/swimanddive
- https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/events-tours/epcot/epcot-divequest
- Bioluminescent Paddling - Merritt Island, FL
- https://www.adayawaykayaktours.com/webapp/p/204/night-bioluminescene-tours
- Grindhouse Video - Tampa, FL
- The 17 Runs - Thonotosassa, FL
- https://www.canoeescape.com/17runs.htm
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
This weekend we went back to the Pickin' Patch in Dunnellon, one of our favorite places to have some Fall in Florida fun. And we took a couple rides on the Disney Skyliner this weekend, just narrowly becoming one of those unlucky passengers who were stuck on it for hours.
In this Episode:
- A trip to the Pickin' Patch in Dunnellon, Florida
- Stopping by Swampy's, a fun riverside restaurant with a great Florida vibe.
- Rainbow River tubing info
- Our review of the Disney Skyliner the day it broke down.
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
After a short break, we are finally back! Recently Wallethub did a study to find out which American cities are the most fun, and today we're going to countdown which Florida cities made the cut and talk a little bit about what makes each of these fun Florida cities. We have some new roller coaster news, the Disney Skyliner is open, a wild new restaurant opens in Boca Raton, and we talk about five fun Florida events to look forward to in October.
In this Episode:
- New roller coasters for Busch Gardens & Sea World
- https://buschgardens.com/tampa/roller-coasters/iron-gwazi/
- https://seaworld.com/orlando/roller-coasters/ice-breaker
- Disney Skyliner is open
- Post-apocalyptic themed restaurant, Rex Baron, coming to Boca Raton
- http://therexbaron.com/
- The most fun cities in Florida
- http://sunshinestateinsider.com/most-fun-cities-in-florida
- Wallethub's most fun cities in the US.
- https://wallethub.com/edu/most-fun-cities-in-the-us/23455
Five Hot October Events:
- The Roar Offshore
- www.roaroffshore.com
- Ft. Lauderdale International Boat Show
- www.flibs.com
- Oktoberfest Tampa
- www.oktoberfesttampa.com
- Sea and Sky Air Show
- https://specialevents.coj.net/Special-Events/Sea-and-Sky-Airshow.aspx
- Key West Fantasyfest
- www.fantasyfest.com
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Blog: http://www.SunshineStateInsider.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
Just a quick little episode here to let everybody know what's going on with the podcast, and where we've been for the last couple of weeks. We're also in the middle of updating our recording set-up, and plan to be back to our regular release schedule ASAP!
Thanks for understanding and for listening to the show.
The big day has finally arrived! Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge has opened at Disney's Hollywood Studios. We stopped in for a couple of visits this weekend, took a few spins on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, and we can't wait to tell you all about it.
In this Episode:
- Look for our podcasts soon on YouTube. Search "Sunshine State of Mind" and subscribe!
- We visit and review opening weekend at Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge
- Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run ride review
- On ride video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFUbO79QebA
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
Disney made some major announcements regarding the future of Epcot, and everything that's in store for the park in the next couple of years. And researchers at one of our favorite places, The Florida Aquarium, make a major discovery that could help our coral reefs.
In this Episode:
- Researchers at The Florida Aquarium in Tampa make a major discovery.
- https://cbs12.com/news/local/a-scientific-breakthrough-at-a-florida-aquarium-could-save-americas-great-barrier-reef
- Disney announces major changes coming to Epcot
- New Epcot concept art and new Epcot logo
- http://sunshinestatepodcast.com/new-epcot-concept-art-and-logo/
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
Florida will be getting it's first snow park this winter (???) and it's only the middle of August but Halloween events are already getting underway at Florida theme parks. We run down the entire list of haunted houses and scare zones at Universals Halloween Horror Nights. And finally, we discuss and breakdown an unhinged rant that recently went viral from a woman who thinks "Childless millenials should be banned from Disney World"
In this Episode:
- Florida's first snow park to open in Dade City
- http://sunshinestateinsider.com/floridas-first-snow-park/
- The full list of Universal's Halloween Horror Nights haunts and scare zones
- http://sunshinestateinsider.com/universals-halloween-horror-nights-2019s-final-list-of-haunts-and-scare-zones/
- A mom's rant against childless millennials at Disney World goes viral.
- http://sunshinestatepodcast.com/unhinged-rant-against-childless-millenials-at-disney-world
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
Universal Studios just dropped a giant announcement last week; the official announcement of their upcoming theme park "Epic Universe". We were on vacation when the news broke, but better late than never! This week talk about everything we know (so far) about the park, and tell you about what we did and where we went on our summer vacation. Spoiler alert: It wasn't Florida.
In this Episode:
- Our summer trip to Los Cabos, Mexico.
- Universal announces "Universal's Epic Universe".
- We look at the concept art and discuss some of the rumors, leaks, and speculation of the things that we might see when this park opens.
- Link to Concept Art
- http://sunshinestatepodcast.com/universals-epic-universe-concept-art-rumors-leaks
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
Central Florida is pretty much the tourism capital of the world, and that means lots of smaller attractions mixed in with the world class destinations. Are any of these little "tourist traps" worth checking out? We think so, and in this episode we're going to talk about our favorites.
In this Episode:
- We discuss some of our favorite Central Florida tourist traps that are worth checking out.
- https://www.gatorland.com
- https://wildfloridairboats.com
- https://iconparkorlando.com
- https://dinosaurworld.com
- https://myoldtownusa.com
- https://www.tampaelectric.com/company/mvc
- http://thepiratemuseum.com
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
The Hollywood Tower of Terror at Disney's Hollywood Studios just turned 25 years old this week! To celebrate one of our very favorite rides we play a game of Hollywood Tower of Terror Trivia. Play along and see how much you know about this iconic Florida attraction.
In this Episode:
- Disney worker punched in face by angry Tower of Terror rider
- https://www.yahoo.com/news/disney-worker-punched-face-angry-105925052.html
- Tower of Terror Trivia
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
On Saturday we headed out to Clearwater Beach to volunteer for a beach cleanup with 4Ocean. Then popped into Frenchy's, one of our favorite beachside restaurants. Also this week; a father & son visit every Legoland in a whirlwind adventure, a new Gulf Coast scuba diving location becomes reality, and updates on Halloween Horror Nights and the gondola system at Walt Disney World.
In this Episode:
- Cleaning up Clearwater Beach with 4Ocean
- http://sunshinestatepodcast.com/our-day-at-the-clearwater-beach-4ocean-cleanup/
- https://4ocean.com
- Lunch at Frenchy's (Wow).
- http://www.frenchysonline.com
- Father & son visit every Legoland in 13 days.
- https://www.miamiherald.com/living/travel/article232643557.html
- Disney Announces Opening Date for Skyliner Gondolas
- https://ziggyknowsdisney.com/new-disney-skyliner-details-air-conditioning-and-expansion-to-animal-kingdom-coming/
- Ghostbusters themed house coming to Halloween Horror Nights
- https://www.mynews13.com/fl/orlando/attractions/2019/07/17/ghostbusters-house-coming-to-universal-s-halloween-horror-nights
- Underwater Circle of Heroes memorial off the Pinellas coast takes shape
- https://www.firstcoastnews.com/article/news/national/military-news/statues-lowered-40-feet-underwater-in-gulf-of-mexico-for-1st-dive-memorial-honoring-us-veterans/77-b291f6dc-72f1-40c7-b7c0-5ae47bd05c6a
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
This week we took a free kayak tour through one of our favorite Florida state parks, and let you know how you can too! And more news about Star Wars Galaxy's Edge, Hagrid's Motorbike Coaster, and that new Florida based horror movie "Crawl" opens to good reviews (but a bad box office).
In this Episode:
- Florida based horror movie "Crawl" opened this week.
- Hagrid's Motorbike Coaster at IoA continues to have issues.
- Lot's of details emerge on the new "Rise of the Resistance" attraction at Galaxy's Edge
- Free kayak tours at Hillsborough River State Park
- http://sunshinestatepodcast.com/free-kayak-tours-at-hillsborough-river-state-park/
- More info on how to sign up for this, and other Florida State Park events.
- https://www.floridastateparks.org/index.php/events/second-saturday-paddle
- https://www.floridastateparks.org/events
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
Summer is in full swing, and those of you who are parents of little ones might be running out of things to entertain your kids with. This episode we run through some ideas for some cheap, and some free things to do to keep your kids entertained until school starts again.
In this Episode:
- Fourth of July at Siesta Key Beach
- The most boring tourist trap in Florida?
- https://www.farandwide.com/s/worst-tourist-trap-every-state-39268cbfe16f44b4
- Cheap & Free Florida Summer Activities for Kids
- https://kidsskatefree.com
- https://www.kidsbowlfree.com
- http://www.floridasprings.org
- https://www.milb.com/florida-state
- Instagram pic of our Sea Turtle Sand Sculpture
- https://www.instagram.com/p/BvX79ppAoLG/
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
This week checked out a Florida vineyard, Keel and Curley Winery in Plant City for their annual Watermelon Festival. Wild Florida in Kenansville may be the first place in the world to breed albino alligators. And we talk about our plans for 4th of July in Florida.
In this Episode:
- Wild Florida produces world's first albino alligator eggs
- http://www.fox35orlando.com/entertainment/attractions/-snowflake-and-blizzard-at-wild-florida-produce-world-s-first-albino-alligator-eggs
- A visit to Keel and Curley Winery
- https://keelfarms.com/winery/
- Fourth of July in Florida & link to last years Fourth of July rundown episode
- http://sunshinestatepodcast.com/jellyfish-fireworks-fourth-of-july-in-florida/
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
This week Florida's newest water park, Island H20 Live, opened in Orlando. We stopped by for a visit and to explore the recently opened Margaritaville Orlando Resort. Also, a visit to St. Pete Pride, a tasty local burger joint, and Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure has had a less than smooth opening week.
In this Episode:
- Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure opens to long lines and technical difficulties
- https://www.mynews13.com/fl/orlando/attractions/2019/06/21/universal-hagrid-coaster-technical-issues
- Orlando's newest major water park, Island H20 Live, officially opens
- https://attractionsmagazine.com/island-h2o-live-now-open/
- A visit to Margaritaville Orlando Resort
- https://www.margaritavilleresortorlando.com
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure opened this week at Universal's Islands of Adventure, and a new Wallethub study says that Florida is the 2nd most fun state in the country. Let's discuss!
In this Episode:
- The new Harry Potter themed roller coaster opens at Islands of Adventure.
- POV Ride Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMtR5_TinqE
- Ten hour wait: https://www.clickorlando.com/theme-parks/universal-s-new-harry-potter-ride-attracts-10-hour-wait
- Wallethub study says Florida is the 2nd Most Fun State in the country.
- https://wallethub.com/edu/most-fun-states/34665/
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
Last weekend we played "out of town tourist" in Orlando, spending two full days at Disney World, and then visiting one of our favorite beaches in Florida near St. Petersburg. We also have a couple of restaurant reviews, and a recommendation on a great resort at a great price in Orlando.
In this Episode:
- New Brazil pavilion may be coming to Epcot's World Showcase in 2022.
- https://wdwnt.com/2019/06/breaking-brazil-pavilion-will-open-with-no-attraction-in-2022-at-epcot
- Two long, full days at Magic Kingdom & Animal Kingdom
- A visit to the Sugar Factory Orlando
- https://sugarfactory.com/location/orlando/
- Grand Beach Orlando resort
- https://www.groupon.com/deals/ga-bk-grand-beach-3
- Fort Desoto Beach
- Engine No. 9 restaurant review
- http://www.no9burgers.com
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
The weather in Florida is heating up, so let's go to a water park! This week we rundown just about every water park in the state and see what's new for 2019.
In this Episode:
- Circle of Heroes at Veterans Reef underwater memorial
- https://brighterfutureflorida.org
- Florida Water Park Rundown
- Panhandle
- Big Kahuna's - Destin
- https://bigkahunas.com
- Shipwreck Island - Panama City Beach
- https://www.shipwreckisland.com
- Sam’s Surf City - Pensacola
- https://www.samsfuncity.com
- Big Kahuna's - Destin
- Northeast
- Shipwreck Island - Jacksonville Beach
- https://jacksonville-beach.adventurelanding.com
- Shipwreck Island - Jacksonville Beach
- Central
- Island H20 Live - Orlando
- https://www.islandh2olive.com/
- Volcano Bay - Orlando
- Typhoon Lagoon - Orlando
- Blizzard Beach - Orlando
- Legoland - Winter Haven
- Island H20 Live - Orlando
- East Coast
- Daytona Lagoon - Daytona Beach
- https://daytonalagoon.com
- Sailfish Splash - Stuart
- https://www.martin.fl.us/SailfishSplashWaterpark
- Daytona Lagoon - Daytona Beach
- West Coast
- Adventure Island - Tampa
- Buccaneer Bay/Weeki Wachee - Spring Hill
- https://weekiwachee.com/buccaneer-bay
- Southwest
- Sun Splash - Cape Coral
- http://sunsplashwaterpark.com
- Sun-n-Fun Lagoon - Naples
- https://www.napleswaterpark.com
- Sun Splash - Cape Coral
- Southeast
- Paradise Cove
- http://www.broward.org/Parks/ThingsToDo/Pages/ParadiseCoveWaterPark.aspx
- Rapids Water Park
- https://www.rapidswaterpark.com/
- Paradise Cove
- Trip Advisor's Top 25 Water Parks in the US
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/TravelersChoice-Attractions-cWaterParks-g191
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
Gatorland turned 70 years old this week! To help celebrate Gatorpalooza we learn some fun and interesting facts about Florida's official state reptile in a game of Alligator trivia. Listen and play along!
In this Episode:
- Gatorland turns 70 years old.
- https://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2019/05/17/classic-florida-attraction-gatorland-celebrates-70th-anniversary-with-gatorpalooza-on-saturday
- Gatorpalooza alligator trivia
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
This weekend we stopped by a great little hidden gem of a restaurant in small town Florida, and went to see the new Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy show at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Also, news about Orlando's record breaking tourist numbers and new attractions on the way.
In this Episode:
- Review of Kafe Kokopelli in Dade City
- https://www.kafekokopelli.com
- Yummy Chicken & Waffles
- Review of The Burg in St. Petersburg
- https://theburgbar.com/
- Review of the new Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy show at Disney's Hollywood Studios
- Orlando sets new tourism record in 2018
- Two new record breaking thrills rides coming to ICON Park in Orlando
- http://sunshinestatepodcast.com/two-big-new-attractions-coming-to-orlandos-icon-park/
- Free electric vehicle rides in South Florida.
- https://tinyurl.com/SF-freeEV-services
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
Disney's Hollywood Studios celebrated their 30 year anniversary this week, so we thought it would be fun to explore some fun facts and secrets about Disney's third park in a fun game of trivia.
In this Episode:
- Welcome to our new listeners from Podcoin!
- Use referral code "SUNSHINE" for 300 bonus points - https://www.podcoin.com
- A visit to the 47th Annual Amateur Sand Sculpture Contest at Siesta Key Beach.
- http://sunshinestatepodcast.com/siesta-key-sand-sculpture-contest/
- Listener call from Brandon from the Florida Focus podcast
- http://www.floridafocuspodcast.com/
- Disney's Hollywood Studios turns 30.
- Hollywood Studios Trivia
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
Florida is full of wild places, from the Panhandle to the Keys, with critter encounters and locally famous animals you can see in person. In this episode we talk about some of the best places around the state to find some of Florida's favorite fantastic beasts.
In this Episode:
- Historic birth of a baby rhino at Zoo Miami
- https://www.cnn.com/2019/04/24/us/rhino-born-artificial-insemination-trnd/index.html
- Florida couple catches enourmous, record swordfish
- https://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/florida-keys/article229534754.html
- We talk about some Florida animal encounter experiences and famous Florida animals
- Seacrest Wolf Preserve - https://www.seacrestwolfpreserve.org
- Big Cat Rescue - https://bigcatrescue.org
- Winter the Dolphin - https://www.seewinter.com
- Chester & Pearl - https://www.gatorland.com
- Scarface the Tarpon - https://robbies.com
- Skunkape Research Headquarters - http://www.skunkape.info/
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
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We're back and with a lot of new stuff on the way to talk about this week. A new roller coaster, a new waterpark, and a new cruise ship will soon be sailing from Florida. And then let's talk about some quick service Disney dining tips.
In this Episode:
- Tigris, the tallest launch coaster in Florida, opens at Busch Gardens
- New waterpark opening at Margaritaville Resort
- Huge new cruise ship, the Carnival Mardis Gras, announced and on the way to Port Canaveral
- Quick service Disney dining tips
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay just celebrated their 60th birthday this past week, so let's learn some history and some things you might not have known about this iconic Florida attraction by playing along with us in game of Busch Gardens trivia.
In this Episode:
- Summer is back (already) and it's hot!
- Busch Gardens turns 60 and announces new roller coaster, Tigris.
- Busch Gardens trivia and discussion
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
This week Shannon talks about her worst fear in the world, we go pin trading at Magic Kingdom, then we talk about a full week of news coming out of the Central Florida theme park scene. New stuff at Legoland, Sea World, Busch Gardens, and some controversial rule changes at Disney World.
In this Episode:
- How we feel about spiders, snakes, and palmetto bugs
- Cheap fun playing Disc Golf
- Pin trading and riding the Jungle Cruise at Magic Kingdom
- Florida theme park news - Busch Gardens turns 60, new lands open at Legoland & SeaWorld, and new rules at Disney have angered some.
- http://sunshinestatepodcast.com/three-new-rule-changes-for-guests-coming-to-walt-disney-world/
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
This week we enjoyed a week of "Staycation" in the Sunshine State for Spring Break. We rundown and review everything we did this week, and take the Florida Man Challenge for ourselves.
In this Episode:
- The Florida Man Challenge
- Florida Man headbutted by Alligator
- Florida Man Dressed as Fred Flintstone Stopped By Deputy
- Florida man accused of throwing samurai sword at police
- Listener Mail
- We recap and review what we did on our Spring Break "Staycation".
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
With so much to do aimed at tourists, it turns out Florida is a great place for a "Staycation" for those of us who live here. This week we run down a list of things to do that you might not have thought of.
In this Episode:
- Florida Spring Break "Staycation" Ideas discussion
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
Every now and then we all have those fleeing moments we'll never forget that that make us say "wow!". In this episode we each list and talk about some of those moments that could only happen in Florida.
In this Episode:
- Busch Gardens announces new coaster for 2020 - the tallest, steepest, and fastest hybrid coaster in North America.
- http://www.fox13news.com/news/local-news/busch-gardens-says-next-roller-coaster-will-be-world-s-steepest-fastest-hybrid
- Hidden gem recommendation: Happy Hangar Cafe
- http://www.thehappyhangar.com/
- Florida "Wow!" moments list and discussion
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
We talk about some great new stuff that's on the way to Epcot and Islands of Adventure, then take a look at the new Trip Advisor list that ranks the best beaches in the country. A lot of them are right here in Florida, but does the their number one beach deserve the top slot?
In this Episode:
- "Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure” to open at Islands of Adventure on June 13, 2019.
- https://insidethemagic.net/2019/02/fan-made-video-1st-look-hagrids-magical-creatures-motorbike-adventure-mg1/
- A new pavilion and a lot of improvements are coming to Epcot.
- https://www.themeparkinsider.com/flume/201902/6620/
- Trip Advisor's "Top 25 Beaches in America for 2019"
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/TravelersChoice-Beaches-cTop-g191
- 4Ocean beach cleanup at Siesta Key Beach in Sarasota.
- https://4ocean.com/
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
This week Universal Studios unveiled the name opening date of the new Harry Potter themed roller coaster at Universal's Islands of Adventure. So we thought we'd take a look at both Harry Potter themed areas and compare them in another edition of Florida Face-off!
In this Episode:
- Florida Face-off - Universal's Wizarding World of Harry Potter; Hogsmeade vs. Diagon Alley
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
This week we stumbled across an article from Travel & Leisure Magazine that ranked each and every Walt Disney World attraction, and thought we'd take a crack at ranking ours. In this episode we discuss that list, and each of us rank and talk about our Top 25 attractions at Walt Disney World.
In this Episode:
- We'll be at Siesta Key Beach in Sarasota on February 23 to volunteer for a 4Ocean beach cleanup. Here's the link if you're interested in joining one near you.
- https://4ocean.com/pages/cleanups-event-calendar
- We rank and talk about our Top 25 attractions at Walt Disney World.
- https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/disney-vacations/best-worst-disney-world-rides
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
It's that time of year again! Time to eat some deep fried food on a stick and test your endurance on rides designed by madmen. The 2019 Florida State Fair is on!
In this Episode:
- We talk about our weekend trip to the Florida State Fair in Tampa, the foods we tried, the rides we rode, and the stuff we saw.
- http://www.floridastatefair.com/
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
Nearly 18 years ago, one of us decided to make the move from the Midwest to warm and sunny Florida. With this winters brutal temperatures and snow across much of the northern part of the country, a lot of others might be thinking of doing the same. In this episode we talk about what it's like to move to and live in Florida, and cover some of the misconceptions and realities of living here.
In this Episode:
- We are now part of the Podcast Florida Network.
- https://podcastfl.com/
- Some insights and things to know about moving to and living in Florida.
- Florida Man!
- https://www.good.is/articles/florida-man-sunshine-laws-transparency
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
This week we talk about our trip to the Epcot International Festival of the Arts, where we did an "around the world" scavenger hunt that forced us to explore deep into all of the countries pavilions at World Showcase. We also found out more details on the recently announced Jurassic World roller coaster at Islands of Adventure, the upcoming Millennium Falcon ride at Hollywood Studios, and a possible look at what might be coming to Animal Kingdom in the future.
In this Episode:
- More details on the just announced Jurassic World roller coaster coming to Universal's Islands of Adventure
- https://www.wftv.com/news/local/new-jurassic-park-roller-coaster-headed-to-islands-of-adventure-documents-show/906446496
- Zootopialand coming to Disneyland Shangai. Maybe a preview of what's to come at Animal Kingdom?
- https://variety.com/2019/biz/asia/zootopia-land-shanghai-disneyland-1203115032/
- We talk about our trip to the Epcot International Festival of the Arts.
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
This weekend we took a day trip up to Crystal River to a part of Florida dubbed "the Nature Coast" that is world famous for it's manatees. We visited the Florida Manatee Festival, then headed over to Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park to see wild manatees, a famous hippo, and other Florida wildlife up close.
In this Episode:
- New Jurassic World roller coaster coming to Universal's Islands of Adventure
- https://www.themeparkinsider.com/flume/201901/6554/
- We stop by the Florida Manatee Festival in Crystal River
- And we visit Homossassa Springs Wildlife State Park for encounters with manatees and the oldest hippo in North America
- https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/ellie-schiller-homosassa-springs-wildlife-state-park
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
We were recently invited by the great folks at the Florida Aquarium in Tampa to come check out their new exhibit "Waves of Wonder", have a penguin encounter, and go out on a wild dolphin sightseeing boat tour. We also interviewed Kari Goetz, the Florida Aquarium's VP of Marketing, who told us all about the Florida Aquarium's mission and the idea behind "Waves of Wonder" that focuses the aquariums efforts on conservation and animal welfare.
In this Episode:
- Florida Aquarium penguin encounter
- Wild dolphin boat tour
- Interview with Kari Goetz, the VP of Marketing at the Florida Aquarium
- We walk through and review the Florida Aquarium
- https://www.flaquarium.org
- Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
There is a LOT of new stuff planned this year for 2019 and beyond. We all know that Star Wars Galaxy's Edge at Hollywood Studios is hugely anticipated, but there's a lot more coming soon to get excited about. This week we run through all the new stuff we're excited about for the new year.
- Listener email recommends we check out the Deep Hole at Myakka River State Park.
- 2019 Florida attractions discussion
- Details and renderings of the NEW St. Pete Pier, planned for a late 2019 opening.
- http://www.newstpetepier.com
- Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
Happy New Year everybody! We launched this podcast back in the Spring of 2018, and it's been a lot of fun so far. Thanks to everybody who has made us a small part of your life! This week we take a quick trip to Cuba (sort of) and then talk about some of our favorite things we've seen, done, and experienced all over Florida in 2018.
In this Episode:
- How to "visit" Cuba (technically) without even leaving the state, getting a passport, or dealing with all that annoying red tape.
- We list our favorite moments and things we did around Florida in 2018.
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
If you're visiting for the week, or enjoying some Florida "Staycation" time, there is a LOT going on around the state to keep the holiday cheer alive between Christmas and New Years Eve.
In this Episode:
- A night at the Tampa Riverwalk Christmas boat parade
- We run down and discuss some of the best events going on this week between Christmas & New Years Eve in Florida.
Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
Winter in Florida means it's cool enough to get out and enjoy everything that Florida has to offer in the great outdoors. Play along with us in another round of Florida trivia, this time as we explore some fun facts and things to see and do in some Florida's awesome state parks.
- Play along with us in Florida State Park Trivia
- https://www.floridastateparks.org
- That Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe we talked about
- https://www.buzzfeed.com/mikeprice/caramel-pretzel-chocolate-chip-cookiess
- Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- Click through this Amazon link or the one on our homepage when doing your regular Amazon shopping.
This week is a bit of a potpourri of Florida attraction discussion, as we learn about more Marvel attractions opening up at Disney parks around the world that (maybe?) are on the way to the Florida parks in the future. Find out where Florida's theme parks stack up against some of the other best theme parks in the country, and we list some of the best things to do in central Florida that are NOT theme parks.
- Marvel attractions popping up all over Disney's other parks.
- https://www.themarysue.com/marvel-disney-theme-parks/
- Fun things to do in Central Florida that are NOT theme parks
- https://www.clickorlando.com/entertainment/fun-things-to-do-in-central-florida-that-arent-theme-parks
- Guessing America's Ten Best Theme Parks
- https://www.travelchannel.com/interests/amusement-parks/articles/top-10-amusement-parks
- Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- Click through this Amazon link or the one on our homepage when doing your regular Amazon shopping.
Winter is on the way, and that means the yearly of migration of "Snowbirds" and warm weather seekers looking for a tropical escape. This week Shannon found an article in Coastal Living that lists ten beaches right here in Florida that are just as beautiful as anything you'd find in the Caribbean. We give our own thoughts, reviews, and share some stories of times we've visited a few of them.
- We discuss this recent article called "10 Florida Beaches So Beautiful You'll Think You're in the Caribbean".
- https://www.coastalliving.com/travel/top-10/florida-beaches-look-like-caribbean
- Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- Click through this Amazon link or the one on our homepage when doing your regular Amazon shopping.
Disney's Hollywood Studios has a bit of a bad reputation these days as being a "half-day" park, especially with the current construction and some recent attraction closures while we wait for some more shiny new stuff over there. Is this reputation undeserved? Or is there enough to do at Hollywood Studios to fill an entire day? We spent a day from rope drop to final fireworks show to see if there's enough to do at Hollywood Studios to fill an entire day.
- Contact Us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- Click through this Amazon link or the one on our homepage when doing your regular Amazon shopping.
This week we headed over to Wild Florida, a wildlife sanctuary and airboat tour operator near St. Cloud, Florida. We had a sloth encounter, made friends with a Cockatoo, and a great time learning about Florida wildlife at this great little attraction.
This show includes:
- We discuss and review our day trip to Wild Florida.
- https://wildfloridairboats.com/
- Contact us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- Click through this Amazon link or the one on our homepage when doing your regular Amazon shopping.
With the release of the new "Fantastic Beasts" movie this week, we thought it was time for another Florida trivia episode! Play along as we discover some fun facts, Easter eggs, and little known secrets of the "Wizarding World of Harry Potter" themed areas at Universal Studios & Islands of Adventure.
This show includes:
- Universal's Wizarding World of Harry Potter trivia and discussion.
- Bonus episode available for our Patreon supporters.
- https://www.patreon.com/posts/florida-face-off-22663055
- Contact us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- Click through this Amazon link or the one on our homepage when doing your regular Amazon shopping.
Halloween has come and gone, and Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) has arrived. On this episode we look back and recall some of our favorite Florida attractions that have left us for the Big Theme Park in the Sky.
This show includes:
- We list and discuss some of our favorite Florida attractions that have closed, been replaced, or just went out of business.
- Contact us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- Click through this Amazon link or the one on our homepage when doing your regular Amazon shopping.
This week we take a look at the two big theme parks at Universal Orlando Resort and put them up against each other in a Florida Face-off! Which of these two parks do we think wins? We look at rides, entertainment, kid friendliness, theming, atmosphere, and which one we think is the best overall.
This show includes:
- The most popular Halloween candy in Florida.
- Walt Disney World installing huge new solar farm.
- https://wdwnt.com/2018/10/new-solar-power-facility-at-walt-disney-world-to-open-before-end-of-2018/
- Florida Face-off discussion, Universal Studios vs. Islands of Adventure
- Contact us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- Click through this Amazon link or the one on our homepage when doing your regular Amazon shopping.
Legoland unveils their big new plans for 2019, then we talk about our visit to MarineQuest in St. Petersburg and finding a Halloween pumpkin at the Pickin' Patch in Dunnellon.
This show includes:
- Legoland shows off their new plans for Lego Movie World
- https://www.themeparkinsider.com/flume/201810/6341/
- A visit and review of MarineQuest - an educational, open house event at the Florida Fish & Wildlife research institute
- http://myfwc.com/marinequest
- We talk about our trip to The Pickin' Patch, a great (and cheap!) Florida pumpkin patch full of fun activities for Fall.
- http://www.dunnellonpumpkinpatch.com/
- Contact us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- Click through this Amazon link or the one on our homepage when doing your regular Amazon shopping.
This week we complete our October in Florida Halloween Trilogy and take you on a road trip of famously haunted places full of ghost stories and creepy occurrences.
This show includes:
- Hurricane Michael and how you can help.
- https://www.volunteerflorida.org/donatefdf/
- Spaceship Earth at Epcot closing for two years for renovation and reimagining.
- Thank you's and shoutout's to Patreon supporters.
- A haunted Florida road trip
- The Lodge at Wakulla Springs
- Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine
- Don CeSar Hotel in St. Petersburg
- Tampa Theater
- May Stringer house in Brooksville
- Contact us!
- We want to hear your own reviews and Florida trip reports!
- Website: http://www.sunshinestatepodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
- How to support the show
- Become a Sunshine State of Mind Patron
- Click through this Amazon link or the one on our homepage when doing your regular Amazon shopping.
This week we keep the Halloween and haunted house theme alive, as we play some Haunted Mansion trivia! How much do you know about one of the Magic Kingdom's most popular and iconic attractions? You might learn some secrets and little known facts about this home for 999 happy haunts!
This show includes:
- Forever Florida closes without warning.
- Weeki Wachee Mermaids will be performing at Sea Life Orlando for a limited time.
- How to support the podcast.
- www.SunshineStatePodcast.com
- https://www.patreon.com/sunshinestatepodcast
- We play "Haunted Mansion Trivia".
- Contact us!
- Website:
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
October is finally here! And that means lots of scary events and haunts all around the state. We list and discuss some of the most frightful events in Florida to get you ready for Halloween.
This show includes:
- Infiniti Falls will finally be opening this week at Sea World
- What's going on with Gwazi at Busch Gardens.
- Best Halloween events in Florida
- The Haunt at Old Town in Kissimmee
- https://myoldtownusa.com/events/haunt-old-town
- Petrified Forest Scare Trail in Altamonte Springs
- https://www.apetrifiedforest.com
- Orlando Haunted Yard in Orlando
- https://www.orlandohauntedhouses.com/halloween/orlando-haunted-maze-fl.html
- Scream-A-Geddon in Dade City
- https://www.screamageddon.com
- Haunt Nights at Adventure Landing in Jacksonville Beach
- https://www.hauntnights.com
- Haunted Brewery Zombie Hunt in Jacksonville
- https://thehauntedbrewery.com
- House of Horror Haunted Carnival in Doral
- https://www.houseofhorrorcarnival.com
- Demented Escape Room in Margate
- http://www.dementedhaunt.com
- Torment Factory in Gainesville
- https://www.tormentfactory.com
- Contact us!
- Website: www.SunshineStatePodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
This Saturday was Museum Day, where many museums across the country open their doors for free. So we checked out the Tampa Bay History Center in downtown Tampa, then on Sunday hit up another free event, the Tampa Bay Lightning Fan Fest.
This show includes:
- We visted the the Tampa Bay Lightning Fan Fest on Sunday.
- Two more long time Disney attractions are set to close.
- We checked and review the Tampa Bay History Center for Museum Day.
- https://www.tampabayhistorycenter.org/
- Contact us!
- Website: www.SunshineStatePodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
Our weekends planned boating trip was cancelled due to this summers especially nasty Gulf Coast red tide, so let's talk about a new roller coaster coming next year to Busch Gardens, attendance levels at Sea World, and a new addition to the world famous rocket garden at Kennedy Space Center.
This show includes:
- We caught a case of the Red Tide Blues this weekend. Here's a link to the latest information on which beaches are effected.
- http://myfwc.com/redtidestatus
- A new launch coaster is revealed for 2019 at Busch Gardens
- https://www.travelandleisure.com/attractions/amusement-parks/busch-gardens-tampa-bay-tallest-launch-roller-coaster
- Sea World attendance is on the rebound.
- https://money.cnn.com/2018/08/06/investing/seaworld-attendance-earnings/index.html
- The retired Delta II rocket to join the rocket garden at Kennedy Space Center
- https://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/space/go-for-launch/os-delta-2-rocket-garden-20180916-story.html
- Contact us!
- Website: www.SunshineStatePodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
The Florida State Park system introduces it's "Every Stamp is a Story" passport stamp collection game, and then we discuss all the new rumored Nintendo themed rides and attractions coming to Universal Studios. Are you ready for some real life Mario Kart? We are!
This show includes:
- Florida State Park system's "Every Stamp is a Story" passport challenge
- https://www.floridastateparks.org/every-stamp-story-program
- New details emerging on Universal's plans for new attracions based on Nintendo classics
- http://themeparkuniversity.com/universal/nintendos-zelda-slated-to-replace-lost-continent-at-islands-of-adventure/
- Jurrasic Park closes at Universal Hollywood. Florida's version is likely next.
- https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/experience/theme-parks/2018/09/04/jurassic-park-ride-closing-last-ride/1197880002/
- Contact us!
- Website: www.SunshineStatePodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
This show includes:
- Disney announces that the new Star Wars Galaxy's Edge will include the infamous cantina bar.
- Hurricane season looks like it might start to ramp up.
- We talk about our visit to Epcot's International Food & Wine Festival.
- Contact us!
- Website: www.SunshineStatePodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
Shannon talks about her recent trip to Tallahasee and some hidden gems she discovered in Florida's capital. Then we go through a list of more hidden gems all over the state and talk about our experiences at some of them.
This show includes:
- Shannon visits MoMo's Pizza and Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park in Tallahasee
- https://www.floridastateparks.org/park/Maclay-Gardens
- We talk about a list we found online called "14 More Hidden Gems In Florida That Everyone Must Visit"
- https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/florida/more-hidden-gems-fl/
- Contact us!
- Website: www.SunshineStatePodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
Halloween events are already getting started around Florida. Too soon? A long running show at Universal's Islands of Adventures comes to an end. Then we talk about and review our recent cruise aboard the Carnival Sensation out of Miami.
This show includes:
- Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween opens at the Magic Kingdom
- New haunted houses planned for Universal's Halloween Horror Nights.
- Eighth Voyage of Sinbad’ to close at Universal’s Islands of Adventure
- https://attractionsmagazine.com/sinbad-show-closing-universal-orlando/
- We review and discuss our 5 nights aboard the Carnival Sensation
- Contact us!
- Website: www.SunshineStatePodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
This week we visited the newly opened Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios! We talk about what we liked, what we didn't, and how we think this new themed area impacts the overall experience at Hollywood Studios.
This show includes:
- Review and discussion about Toy Story Land at Hollywood Studios.
- Contact us!
- Website: www.SunshineStatePodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
This week we take on the other side of the debate and look at Walt Disney World to talk about some the things we think makes Walt Disney World the better experience over Universal Studios.
This show includes:
- What does Walt Disney World do better than Universal Studios discussion.
- Contact us!
- Website: www.SunshineStatePodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
This week we focus on Universal Studios in Orlando to list, discuss (and argue!) about some of the things that we think Universal Studios does better than Walt Disney World. What do you think? Let us know!
This show includes:
- What does Universal Studios do better than Walt Disney World discussion.
- Contact us!
- Website: www.SunshineStatePodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
It's that time of year again...Shark Week! In this episode we share some recent sharky news from our shark surrounded state, and then list off some great places around Florida to experience sharks; either through glass, on a boat, in the water, or just with a cocktail in your hand on the beach.
This show includes:
- Florida researchers discover new shark species, name it for founder of Sarasota's MOTE Marine Labratory & Aquarium
- https://www.floridatoday.com/story/news/local/environment/2018/07/17/new-shark-species-genies-dogfish-squalus-clarkae/788109002/
- Giant goliath grouper eats shark in one gulp (video)
- https://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article215224205.html
- Texas woman arrested for taking 40 live conch shells in Key West.
- https://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/florida-keys/article215027715.html
- It's Shark Week! Our best places in Florida to experience and see sharks in the Sunshine State.
- Sharkys on the Pier in Venice, FL - voted best beach bar in Florida.
- https://www.floridabeachbar.com/sharkys-on-the-pier
- Caspersen Beach in Venice, FL - "Shark Tooth Capital of the World"
- https://www.visitsarasota.com/parks/caspersen-beach-park
- New Smyrna Beach in Volusia County - "Shark Attack Capital of the World"
- http://www.news-journalonline.com/news/20180206/volusia-county-remains-world-shark-bite-capital
- Shark-Con - yearly shark, scuba, and ocean conservation event
- http://shark-con.com/
- Florida Aquarium in Tampa, FL
- https://www.flaquarium.org/
- MOTE Marine Labratory & Aquarium in Sarasota, FL
- https://mote.org
- Florida Shark Diving in Jupiter, FL
- http://floridasharkdiving.com
- Contact us!
- Website: www.SunshineStatePodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
This week we visited John’s Pass in Madiera Beach, and stopped in to review the Florida Air Museum in Lakeland, one of those "brown sign on the interstate attractions" that you might have driven past a hundred times. We also discuss a bunch of water themed news, from a new underwater art museum in the Panhandle to an exciting new way to celebrate "Shark Week". It's a packed show!
This show includes:
- A trip to Madiera Beach & John's Pass
- http://johnspass.com
- The country's first underwater museum of art is now open off the coast of Florida
- https://umafl.org/the-nations-first-underwater-museum-of-art-is-officially-open/
- Watch 'Jaws' on the water in South Florida
- http://www.southflorida.com/events/sf-jaws-shark-movie-screenings-dania-beach-miami-20180712-story.html
- Sea World quietly removes ticket perk for Discovery Cove
- http://www.orlandoparksnews.com/2018/07/discovery-cove-tickets-no-longer.html
- New details on Disney's Florida Resident Theme Park Select annual pass option
- We visit and review the Florida Air Museum in Lakeland
- https://www.flysnf.org/ace/
- Contact us!
- Website: www.SunshineStatePodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
We talk about how we spent Fourth of July this year and give our thoughts on Walt Disney Worlds new Florida resident annual pass option. Then we checked the box on one of our Summer Bucket List items this weekend by taking a ride on the Orlando Starflyer, and give our full review on this massive new attraction in Orlando.
This show includes:
- Fourth of July at Siesta Key Beach in Sarasota
- Universal Orlando’s Cinematic Celebration nighttime lagoon show makes its debut
- https://attractionsmagazine.com/universal-orlando-cinematic-celebration-debut
- Walt Disney World Introduces New Annual Pass option for Florida residents
- http://www.orlandoparksnews.com/2018/07/walt-disney-world-introduces-new-annual.html
- A visit to ICON Orlando 360
-
Orlando StarFlyer Review
-
Contact us!
- Website: www.SunshineStatePodcast.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floridapodcast
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
The brand new Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios has finally opened this week, and then we discuss some of Florida's State Parks to visit during the hot Florida summer.
This show includes:
- New Toy Story Land finally opens up Walt Disney World's Hollywood Studios
- An overnight visit to Wakulla Springs State Park and the (haunted?) Lodge at Wakulla Springs.
- Great Florida State Parks for Summertime
- Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
- Blackwater River State Park
- Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park
- John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
- Cayo Costa State park
- Caladesi Island State Park
- Egmont Key State Park
- Sebastian Inlet State Park
- Honeymoon Island State Park
- Contact us!
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Follow us on Facebook
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
It's already deep into June and the weather here is heating up! So we think it's time for a Disney World waterpark war! It's another Florida Face-Off between both of the Walt Disney World waterparks, Blizzard Beach vs. Typhoon Lagoon. We compare both parks based on water rides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and overall atmosphere.
This show includes:
- The Busch Gardens parking lot situation
- Florida Officials Approve Plan to Build Largest U.S. Mall
- https://www.wsj.com/articles/florida-officials-approve-plan-to-build-largest-u-s-mall-1529406001
- Blizzard Beach vs. Typhoon Lagoon debate and discussion
- Follow us on Facebook
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Instagram: sunshinestatepodcast
- Email: Contact@SunshineStatePodcast.com
A jellyfish invasion hits Florida's East Coast beaches, new details are coming out on the upcoming Harry Potter roller coaster at Universal's Islands of Adventure, our favorite 4th of July destination and where else to find Florida fun this 4th of July.
This show includes:
- Over 1,200 people stung as jellyfish bloom invades Florida's East Coast
- https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/state/1-200-florida-beach-goers-stung-by-jellyfish-within-days-local-officials
- New details on Harry Potter roller coaster at Universal Island of Adventure
- http://www.orlandosentinel.com/travel/attractions/theme-park-rangers-blog/os-et-universal-harry-potter-roller-coaster-20180612-story.html
- Track layout and details: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I7Q9-CG8AxM
- Our Fourth of July tradition at Siesta Beach
- More Fourth of July celebrations across Florida
- https://www.floridatravellife.com/articles/4th-july-celebrations-florida
- Panama City Beach: Star Spangled Spectacular
- Napes fireworks at the pier
- Key West: The Key Lime Festival
- Fourth of July at Florida State League minor league ballparks
- Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix Festival
- http://sarasotapowerboatgrandprix.org/
- Contact us!
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Follow us on Facebook
- Email: Contact@sunshinestatepodcast.com
This week we visited and review Topgolf Tampa, with locations all over Florida, it's a lot more than just a driving range. We also discuss some great Florida beach bars, a new attraction at ZooTampa, and an incredible new cruise ship will soon be sailing out of Miami.
- This show includes:
- Sharky's at the Pier in Venice voted Florida's best beach bar
- https://www.floridabeachbar.com/2018-award-winner
- Norwegian Bliss cruise ship, with Go-Karts, Laser Tag, and a crazy scary water slide to sail out of Miami this fall.
- https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2018-06-07/go-karts-on-deck-19-laser-tag-coax-cruisers-to-open-wallets
- https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/norwegian-bliss-cruise-ship-review
- New Roaring Springs water ride opens at ZooTampa
- https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/hillsboroughcounty/roaring-springs-brings-old-florida-charm-cool-thrills-to-zoo-tampa/67-561943894
- We visit and review Topgolf
- http://www.topgolf.com
- Contact Us!
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Follow us on Facebook
- Email: Contact@SunshineStatePodcast.com
This week we visited Adventure Island waterpark in Tampa, then talk about some lesser known beaches on Florida's Gulf Coast. More speculation and details emerged this week about the rumored third major theme park from Universal Orlando, and we discuss some of our own ideas we'd like to see in the new park.
This show includes:
- Adventure Island waterpark discussion
- Travel & Leisure article - "These State Parks Have All the Beauty of National Parks — and None of the Crowds"
- http://www.travelandleisure.com/attractions/parks-gardens/uncrowded-state-parks-for-summer
- Cayo Costa State Park
- Outside Magazine article - "North America's 16 Best, Most Overlooked Beaches"
- https://www.outsideonline.com/2312091/coast-clear
- Gasparilla Island
- Loggerhead Key
- New rumored "Star Trek Land" could be part of Universal's plans for new park
- https://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2018/05/29/everything-we-know-about-universal-orlandos-heavily-rumored-star-trek-area
- Contact Us!
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Follow us on Facebook
- Email: SunshineStatePodcast@gmail.com
We learned that one of the things on our "Summer of 2018 Florida Bucket List" has hit a little snag, talk about Disney food, then get into a detailed review of Legoland Florida. We discuss the rides, the atmosphere, the water park, and if it's worth the price of a ticket.
This show includes:
- Opening for massive man-made lagoon on hold for now.
- http://www.fox13news.com/news/local-news/opening-for-massive-man-made-lagoon-on-hold-for-now
- The food at Pixar Fest
- https://www.buzzfeed.com/keelyflaherty/i-tried-a-ton-of-the-pixar-foods-at-disneyland-and-heres?
- We review Legoland Florida
- Contact Us!
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Follow us on Facebook
- Email: SunshineStatePodcast@gmail.com
We breakdown and discuss a list we found online titled "The 11 worst tourist traps in Florida and where to go instead", offering our own take and opinions of some of these places that made the list.
This show includes:
- Wallethub's 2018’s Best Summer Travel Destinations
- https://wallethub.com/edu/best-summer-travel-destinations/3792
- Beer and Wine expands at the Magic Kingdom
- https://www.eater.com/2018/5/18/17368102/disney-world-alcohol-sit-down-restaurants
- "The 11 worst tourist traps in Florida and where to go instead"
- http://www.thisisinsider.com/tourist-traps-florida-2017-5
- Water parks vs. Florida springs
- Discovery Cove vs. Swimming with Manatees
- Gatorland vs. the Everglades
- Sanibel Island seashells vs. Venice Beach shark teeth
- South Beach vs. Miami Beach
- Orange groves vs. Strawberry picking
- Daytona 500 vs. the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg
- Key West sunsets vs. Anywhere else on the Gulf Coast
- Contact Us!
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Follow us on Facebook
- Email: SunshineStatePodcast@gmail.com
In our first "Florida Face-off" we compare Florida's two premiere zoological theme parks; Walt Disney World's Animal Kingdom and Busch Gardens Tampa. Which park has the better rides and attractions? Better theming and atmosphere? Better animal exhibits? And which park offers the most value for your money? This battle turned out to be a lot closer than we expected!
Let us know your thoughts, or recommend a "Florida Faceoff" that you'd like us to discuss in the future.
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Follow us on Facebook
- Email: SunshineStatePodcast@gmail.com
A trip to Walt Disney World is certainly not cheap; admission, hotels, food, drinks, all that stuff can add up to a lot in a hurry! But there are a few ways to help take some of the pressure off your wallet when you visit. As a couple of Florida theme park veterans and annual pass holders, we've learned a few tricks over the years to make our own visits a little less expensive, and in this episode we're going to share a little of what we know with you.
This show includes:
- Universal Orlando is offering a BOGO ticket deal for Florida residents
- http://www.fox13news.com/news/florida-news/universal-orlando-resort-offering-florida-residents-bogo-deal
- Walt Disney World money saving tips
- How to get free water
- How we save money by bringing in our own food
- Staying off-property vs. on-property
- Skip the Park Hopper passes, save money
- Take advatage of free child admission
- Handing your camera to a pro Disney photographer
- Free souveniers for the kids
- Where to find discounted Disney Gift Cards
- If it's summer in Florida, it's going to rain! So plan ahead and bring your own poncho
- Free soda at Epcot
- Contact us!
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Follow us on Facebook
- Email: SunshineStatePodcast@gmail.com
Sea World announces a new Sesame Street land for Spring of 2019, free beer returns to Busch Gardens, and "Fast & Furious: Supercharged" at Universal Studio opens to lukewarm reviews.
We also visit Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park in Port Richey for a kayaking trip that included a close encounter with a pod of dolphins.
- Sea World's new Sesame Street land is on the way for Spring of 2019
- https://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2018/05/02/seaworlds-sesame-street-will-open-in-orlando-spring-2019
- Free beer is back at Busch Gardens Tampa
- http://www.tampabay.com/things-to-do/events/Free-beer-is-back-this-summer-for-Busch-Gardens-visitors_167803264
- A Fast & Furious flop at Universal?
- https://www.orlandoweekly.com/orlando/the-new-fast-and-furious-supercharged-attraction-might-be-universals-biggest-misstep-of-the-decade/Content?oid=13283327
- Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park
- https://www.floridastateparks.org/park/werner-boyce
- Kayaking Groupon at Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park
- https://www.groupon.com/biz/port-richey-fl/werner-boyce-salt-springs-state-park
- Contact us!
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Follow us on Facebook
- Email: SunshineStatePodcast@gmail.com
Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World turns 20 years old this week! To celebrate we list off twenty fun facts that you might not have known about the park; like what happens to all that elephant poop? And what's really at the center of the Tree of Life?
- Link to YouTube video mentioned on this episode:
- Ten Things you didn't know about Disney's Animal Kingdom - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4hiZ3aMgfk
- Contact us!
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Follow us on Facebook
- Email: SunshineStatePodcast@gmail.com
We traveled the state from coast to coast to find destinations all over Florida that native (and transplanted!) Floridians would rather keep to themselves. These are the non-Disney Worlds, the lesser known gems that aren't advertised all over those tourist brochures you see in the hotel lobby. These are Ten Amazing Places Floridians Don't Want You to Know About.
Link to the YouTube video that we reference to give you a look at each of of these locations; https://youtu.be/Rjro7-6bkUI
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Lake Jesup, Sanford - The most "alligator infested lake in Central Florida" and a great, natural alternative to places like Gatorland.
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Caspersen Beach, Venice - While all the tourists are up at Venice Beach, you'll be sifting for sharks teeth with the locals.
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Downtown St. Petersburg - What many still think is a quiet little retirement town, has actually turned into a hip destination for arts, music and food lovers.
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Thai Buddhist Temple, Tampa - The Sunday Thai market is a weekly, must see, food and musical festival set amongst a beautiful backdrop.
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Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, Micanopy - You don't have to head way out West to see wild bison and horses roaming in a natural unspoiled setting.
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Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales - The centerpiece here is the 295-foot singing tower that sits among a world class botanical garden and bird sanctuary.
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Everglades Safari Park, Miami - Just outside bustling Miami, you can finally take that airboat ride through the Everglades that's on your bucket list.
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Falling Waters State Park, Chipley - In a state as flat as Florida, we bet you didn't know there was a place to see a 72-foot waterfall
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Florida Caverns State Park, Marianna - We bet you didn't know there was a large underground cave system you could visit either.
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Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring, Williston - Swim, snorkel, or scuba in crystal clear water in this amazing, one of a kind underground freshwater spring.
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Have your own favorites? Let us know!
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Follow us on Facebook
- Email: SunshineStatePodcast@gmail.com
We each came up with a list of the top five things we want to do around Florida this Summer, and reveal them to each other here. We look forward to reporting back, reviewing and sharing our experiences with these as the Summer of 2018 gets rolling.
- Link to mentioned Washington Post article about St. Petersburg
- Once-sleepy St. Petersburg, Fla., awakens with vibrant arts and nightlife scenes
- World's tallest swing, the StarFlyer soon to open in Orlando
- http://www.wfla.com/news/florida/worlds-tallest-swing-ride-starflyer-towering-over-orlando/1143173986
- Link to info about Sunshine Skyway Fishing Piers mentioned in this episode
- https://www.floridastateparks.org/park/skyway
- Contact us and let us know where else we need to go!
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Follow us on Facebook
- Email: SunshineStatePodcast@gmail.com
We love the theme parks of Central Florida, but there are a handful of attractions that we would rather see bulldozed, updated, or replaced with something better. We discuss which attractions we'd like to see retired, and suggest some updates we'd like to see to improve others.
- The story of Alien Encounter.
- www.themeparktourist.com/features/20150310/30034/depth-retrospective-extraterrorestrial-alien-encounter
- Do you have your own "Least Favorites"? Let us know your thoughts and opinions!
- Email: SunshineStatePodcast@gmail.com
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
Universal Studios Florida just began showing off their new Fast & Furious: Supercharged attraction during technical rehearsals this week before the grand opening in May. What do we think of Universal's decision to base a major attraction around this franchise? Does Universal Orlando rely too heavily on motion simulator rides? And we discuss, debate, and list our favorite motion simulator rides across Central Florida.
- Thanks to @thetimtracker for giving us all a sneak peak of the new ride during it's soft opening this week.
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nk8Y5pB_FuU
- Our own experience at the soft opening of Pandora: Flight of Passage
- Is the Fast & Furious franchise strong enough to attract theme park fans to Universal?
- Too many motion simulators at Universal?
- We rank and discuss our favorite motion simulator rides in Florida.
- Listener tweets
- Rumors of a Moana "Fire Mountain" roller coaster at the Magic Kingdom.
- https://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2017/04/24/move-over-volcano-bay-rumors-point-to-a-new-volcano-coming-to-magic-kingdom
- Have your own favorites? Let us know!
- Twitter: @FloridaPodcast
- Follow us on Facebook
- Email: SunshineStatePodcast@gmail.com
There are dozens of towns in Florida that call themselves the "Capital of the World" in one thing or another. In this episode, we talk about some of these places, what they're World Famous for, and what to see and do there.
- University of Florida International Shark Attack File
- www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/shark-attacks
- Fossil Guy's Guide to Fossil Shark Teeth Hunting at Venice Beach
- www.fossilguy.com/sites/venice/index.htm
- Stuart Sailfish Regatta
- www.stuartsailfishregatta.com
We spent three days in St. Augustine, seeing and doing just about everything in town, and came up with our list to discuss of the best things to see and do in America's Oldest City.
- Castillo de San Marcos
- St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum review
- www.thepiratemuseum.com
- Old Town Trolley Tours vs. Red Train Trolley Tours
- Ghost Tours
- Ripley's Believe it or Not Museum
- https://www.ripleys.com/staugustine/
- St. Augustine Lighthouse review
- St. Augustine Alligator Farm
- Exploring the city on foot
Central Florida is the "Theme Park Capital of the World" and with so many parks, comes a lot of roller coasters! In this episode we rank and discuss each of our five favorite roller coasters in Central Florida and why we love them. Our favorite roller coasters at Walt Disney World, Busch Gardens, Universal Studios, and Legoland are discussed and debated.
Here's a link to that YouTube video we talk about on this show that got everybody in the comments all riled up!
- YouTube: Top Ten Roller Coasters in Florida