If you are planning your first Florida vacation, Central Florida is your likely destination. After all, Disney, Universal and SeaWorld are big draws, and worth visiting. But what about after you have finished with the big three attractions? Instead of visiting yet another theme park, venture into natural Florida - the real Undiscovered Country.

Where Dinosaurs Roam: One place you can visit is our own 'lost world' - Everglades National Park. Located in South Florida, the Everglades are almost primeval. Dinosaurs (in the form of alligators and crocodiles) sun themselves on banks. Giant blue herons and wood storks fly overhead, looking like pterodactyls. Tiny ghost orchids are elusive, seeming to live up to their name.

Atlantis Revisited: How about a park that is almost entirely underwater? John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in the Florida Keys is a watery delight. Snorkeling and diving are both terrific, among the best in Florida. Not into getting wet? Take a glass-bottom boat ride and gasp at the wonders below the waves.

Cool Water, Bright Sky: Tube down a spring-fed river at Ichetucknee Springs State Park in North Florida. Bring your own float or rent one from one of the many roadside vendors. The water is crystal clear and rather cool - it stays around 70 degrees all year long. The water is refreshing, though, for the days can be quite hot. And the float is decidedly beautiful.

Journey to the Center of the Earth: See Florida from a new perspective - underground! You may not exactly journey to the earth's core, but Florida

From the Sea to the Sky: Canaveral National Seashore in Central Florida is worlds away from its near neighbor, Kenney Space Center. At Canaveral, expect a beautiful beach, serene and sun-bright. You can also enjoy boating, hiking, swimming and fishing. Bird-watching is also a popular pastime, as is kayaking in the park's back country.

Florida Loving: Do you want to get away from the crowds? For years, Lover's Key State Park in Southwest Florida was only accessible by boat. Not to worry if you are boat-less because now there is a bridge you can cross into this slice of paradise. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, the beaches are sandy and the water calm. Shelling is popular, as are canoeing, kayaking and fishing.

These are only a few of the wonderful places that await you in natural Florida. After you've seen the bright lights and big cities, come relax with us in our parks and beaches. Discover a whole new reason to come back and see us again. And when you are planning that next Florida trip, come visit http://www.great-florida-vacations.com for more ideas of places to visit.
About the Author

Gail Nettles is a Florida native who enjoys showing the Sunshine State to visitors. She is also the publisher of http://www.great-florida-vacations.com