John McNamara

This author has written 40 articles
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: Rides, Animals And A Different Florida Theme Park Experience

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: Rides, Animals and a Different Florida Theme Park Experience

If you have already spent time exploring the major Orlando theme parks and want a different kind of Florida adventure, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay gives you a change of scenery without leaving Central Florida. Instead of focusing only on rides, the park combines major roller coasters, African wildlife, animal encounters, family attractions, live entertainment, and plenty of places to slow down between activities. That combination is what makes Busch Gardens different. You can spend part of your day riding some…

Our Dolphin Meet & Greet Day At Miami Seaquarium

Our Dolphin Meet & Greet Day at Miami Seaquarium

The Drive South And A Silent Weather Prayer for the Miami Dolphin Meet & Greet Saturday began with that classic South Florida contrast: bright light over Fort Lauderdale and a wall of charcoal hanging over Miami. I loaded the car with our crew—my 13-year-old daughter, her 11-year-old friend, and her friend’s mom and dad—and we headed down the highway for our 11:00 a.m. Dolphin Meet & Greet at Miami Seaquarium. Traffic was kind to us for a weekend, the kind…

Jungle Island Miami: Where Adventure Meets Exotic Animals

Jungle Island Miami: Where Adventure Meets Exotic Animals

My Family Adventure at Jungle Island in Miami The Journey from Fort Lauderdale to Miami I woke up with excitement knowing we had a special day ahead at Jungle Island, one of Miami’s most unique attractions. My wife, my 13-year-old daughter, and I had been looking forward to this trip for weeks. We live in Fort Lauderdale, so it was just about an hour’s drive south on I-95 into downtown Miami. That may sound easy, but as of this writing,…

SeaWorld Orlando Animal Encounters: Penguins, Orcas & Dolphins Up Close

SeaWorld Orlando Animal Encounters: Penguins, Orcas & Dolphins Up Close

Our Family Day at SeaWorld Orlando: Penguins, Orcas, Dolphins, and More Visiting SeaWorld Orlando has been on our family bucket list for years, and this past weekend, my wife, our 13-year-old daughter, and I finally made it happen. We wanted a day filled with up-close animal encounters, unforgettable shows, and thrilling rides, and SeaWorld delivered all of that and more. Our plan was ambitious—we booked the three main animal experiences they offer: the Penguin Encounter, Lunch with Orcas, and the…

A First-Time Cruise Adventure From Miami Aboard The Carnival Glory

A First-Time Cruise Adventure from Miami Aboard the Carnival Glory

Taking a cruise vacation is a popular choice in Florida, and Miami is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world. In 2012, I had the opportunity to set sail from the Port of Miami aboard the Carnival Glory, and I’m excited to share my first-time cruise experience—from start to finish. Arrival in Miami and Getting to the Port The journey began with a scenic and easy drive down I-95 South to beautiful Miami. We used a shuttle service…

Mallory Square In Key West: Our Sunset Adventure

Mallory Square in Key West: Our Sunset Adventure

A Historic Gem by the Sea in Key West During our recent trip to Key West, my wife and I made sure to spend an evening at Mallory Square, and it quickly became one of the highlights of our trip. Standing at the edge of the Gulf of Mexico, Mallory Square has been part of Key West’s heart since the 1800s. Originally, it served as a bustling hub for the wrecking and salvaging industry, where goods from shipwrecks were brought…

Sloppy Joe’s In Key West: A Personal Journey Through Time, Taste, And Tunes

Sloppy Joe’s in Key West: A Personal Journey Through Time, Taste, and Tunes

Visiting Key West is like stepping into a vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and unending festivity. At the heart of this lively island lies Sloppy Joe's Bar, an establishment that has become synonymous with the Key West experience. From its storied past to its delectable offerings and pulsating live music scene, Sloppy Joe's encapsulates the spirit of the island. Join me as I delve into the rich history of this iconic bar, explore its deep connection with Ernest Hemingway, savor…

A Taste Of The Keys: My Visit To Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen In Key Largo

A Taste of the Keys: My Visit to Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen in Key Largo

Savoring the Florida Keys: My Unforgettable Meal at Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen in Key Largo If you find yourself cruising down the scenic Overseas Highway, making your way through the Florida Keys, one stop that should absolutely be on your itinerary is Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen in Key Largo. Known for its legendary food, quirky décor, and a history as rich as its famous Key Lime Pie, Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen is more than just a restaurant—it’s a piece of Keys history. On…

Discovering The Wyland Gallery In Key West: A Celebration Of Marine Life And Art

Discovering the Wyland Gallery in Key West: A Celebration of Marine Life and Art

Walking down the vibrant streets of Key West, you’re likely to stumble upon a treasure trove of artistic gems, but one destination that stands out above the rest is the Wyland Gallery. Known worldwide for its breathtaking depictions of marine life, this gallery serves as a sanctuary for those who love the ocean, appreciate art, or seek a deeper connection to nature. Here’s a closer look at the magic of Wyland’s art, the artist himself, and how his work resonates…

Flagler Beach, FL: A Hidden Gem On Florida’s East Coast

Flagler Beach, FL: A Hidden Gem on Florida’s East Coast

The Perfect Weekend Getaway from Orlando or Jacksonville If you're looking for a quick and refreshing weekend escape from the hustle of Orlando or Jacksonville, Flagler Beach is the perfect destination. Just a short drive from both cities, this charming coastal town offers a serene retreat with stunning ocean views, vibrant local dining, and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo retreat, Flagler Beach offers the perfect balance of relaxation and…