Sunshine State of Mind

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: 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

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 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 2020In 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 Trailhttp://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 gataway 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 Dayhttps://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 weekVideo: 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 Tosshttp://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