The One Unforgettable Attraction In Florida You’ll Want To Cross Off Your Bucket List ASAP
By Megan Todaro|Published June 20, 2024
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Megan Todaro
Author
Megan Todaro was born and raised in Miami, Florida, and still calls The Sunshine State home today. While saving lives and putting out fires during the day, Megan is also passionate about writing and travel, especially when it comes to sharing her knowledge of her home state. A few of Megan's favorites include: favorite Florida vacation destination - New Smyrna Beach. Favorite Florida restaurant - Eastside Pizza in Miami. Favorite Florida hidden gem - Shibuya Sushi Art. Favorite Florida OnlyInYourState article: Take A Terrifying Florida Road Trip That Will Surely Haunt Your Dreams.
You’ve heard about Italy’s famed city of Venice, right? The one where over 150 canals run through the area, making the city one giant collection of tiny islands all connected by walkways and bridges? What if we told you there was something similar to that in Florida, but on a much smaller scale? There is a scenic canal paddling adventure in Winter Park that deserves to be on everyone’s bucket list. These historic waterways connect the city’s picturesque Chain of Lakes and are an unforgettable attraction in Florida with impressive highlights.
The scenic canals of Winter Park, Florida, are a highlight for anyone exploring the area, particularly by kayak, canoe, or paddleboard courtesy of Get Up and Go Kayaking.
Guests who sign up for the historic paddling tour, will be guided through the historic waterways bordered by dense vegetation, including cypress trees draped with Spanish moss, ferns, and other native plants.
The canals were originally constructed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to facilitate boat travel between the lakes. They played a crucial role in the development of Winter Park, helping to make it a popular destination for winter visitors and affluent residents.
As guests wind through the Venetian-style canals, they’ll be see some of Winter Park’s most beautiful historic homes and estates. These residences often feature Mediterranean Revival and other classic architectural styles, with manicured lawns and lush gardens that extend down to the water’s edge.
One of the coolest aspects about this unforgettable attraction is that you’ll be in a clear-bottomed kayak! Keep an eye out both above and below for the various wildlife, such as turtles, fish, and a variety of birds, including herons, egrets, and anhingas.
Plus, since these canals are almost always calm and much less crowded than the lakes, this tour is ideal for paddlers even with minimal paddling experience. As always, make sure to wear your life jacket before you cast off!
What do you think about this unforgettable attraction in Florida? Have you ever taken this canal paddling adventure in Winter Park? Sound off in the comments section! You can also find out more about reserving a paddleboard or kayak, by visiting the Get Up and Go Kayaking website or the Get Up and Go Kayaking Facebook Page.
Ready for more exciting activities to enjoy on the water in Florida? Explore these Viator experiences to round out your bucket list.
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