Road Trips North NORTH RE GION Life slows down along these scenic byways. Journey through fi shing towns and cross ancient Indian trails in quintessential “Old Florida.” ➊ Big Bend Scenic Byway Just south of Tallahassee, this 220-mile road hugs Florida’s curvy northwest coast, giving the “bend” its name. The byway encompasses Leon, Wakulla and Franklin counties, with landscapes ranging from sun-kissed beaches to the longleaf pines of Apalachicola National Forest. Plan a visit for fall or winter, when the deer, black bears and other wildlife are most active. Bring your appetite to Apalachicola, a laid-back coastal town that produces 90 percent of Florida’s oysters. After you’ve had your fi ll at any of the seafood restaurants in town, satisfy your sense of curiosity with a visit to one of Apalach’s Crossing Cash Creek, north of East Point on the Forest Trail West section of byway educational attractions. Tour Orman House Historic State Park, an antebellum home on the banks of the Apalachicola River; walk the nature path and check out the aquariums at Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve; or stay cool at the John Gorrie State Museum, which pays homage to the man who invented the precursor to the air conditioner. Next, cross the bridges over Apalachicola Bay to St. George Island. Walk the soft sand, climb the lighthouse, and enjoy another seafood meal—after all, you’re on vacation—before heading back to the mainland. From here, take in the view as you drive up the coast about 60 miles northeast to St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, home of the annual Monarch Butterfl y Festival in October and wildlife year round. Birdwatchers fl ock there—pun intended—to catch a glimpse of the American bald eagle, hear the call of the red-cockaded woodpecker, and observe more than 300 bird species who call the area home. Check the calendar at fws.gov for a schedule of events, which include guided birding tours, nature fi lms and children’s activities. Also enjoy fi shing, hiking and a peaceful view of the lighthouse near the mouth of the St. Marks River. Pure bliss. ð MAIN STREETS Travel Back in Time on Apalachicola's Market Street Explore Apalachicola’s Market Street where 19th-century commercial blocks are now filled with independent shops selling gifts, clothing and accessories. Old warehouses now house art and antiques, and grand homes serve as quaint inns. Check out any restaurant for a taste of legendary Apalachicola oysters. Apalachicola Bay VISIT FLORIDA is showcasing Florida Main Street communities in partnership with the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) and the Department of State’s Florida Main Street Program. Search { Main Street } on VISITFLORIDA.com 16 4 VISITFLORIDA.com PHOTOS: COLIN HACKLEY
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