The Wandering Disciple

Sarasota, Florida: Along the banks of the Myakka River lies one of Florida’s oldest state parks. Myakka River State Park is home to many unique ecosystems which provide home to thousands of plant and wildlife species. The land of the park was once the ranch of Bertha Palmer. Palmer was a pioneer settler of the region and one of the biggest landowners in Florida. Following her death, the land was awarded to the State of Florida and in 1934 became one of Florida’s first state parks. The early development of the park was contributed to the Civilian Conservation Corps. They helped to construct many of the park’s building in cabins during the great depression. Today Myakka River State Park has grown to over 58 square miles. It features plenty of outdoor activities the whole family can enjoy. From hiking, biking, watching wildlife, kayaking, camping or just kicking back and enjoying the great outdoors, it’s all here for you to take advantage of. The park features of 38 miles of hiki...

Sarasota, Florida: Part history museum, part nature preserve; the Crowley Museum and Nature Center have been transporting visitors back in time for over 30 years. Here you can take a glimpse into early pioneer life or take a hike deep into natural Florida. Founded in 1974 by William Jasper Crowley, the Crowley Museum and Nature Center is a 190 acre preserve that combines a pioneer village and museum with trails and wildlife. As you enter the property and head to the visitor’s center, you are right in the middle of the pioneer area. It is here you will find the museum which houses exhibits from the Crowley family and the area of Old Miakka. The are is also home to the Pioneer Cabin, Sugar Cane Mill, blacksmith shop and the Tatum House. All buildings have been relocated here and then restored to their original state and furnished with pioneer era furnishings to help tell the story of early pioneer life. From the village you can embark on a hike out to the Tatum Sawgrass Marsh at th...

Tampa, Florida: Jungala is located within the jungles of the Congo. Here guests can come face to face with wild animals and wild rides. This four acre attraction opened in 2008 and is home to the tiger and orangutan exhibit Jungala is themed as a play area for older kids, featuring a three story play structure with rope bridges and up close looks at animal exhibits located within the play structure. The area features two rides, the Jungle Fliers and Wild Surge. Jungle Fliers is a zip line ride that takes guests on a birds eye view of Jungala. Wild Surge is a launching tower that shoots riders out of a waterfall canyon. Jungala is also home to the tigers and orangutans. The animal exhibits have are designed to make the guest feel like part of the attraction. There are air conditioned pavilions to sit and observe along with trails that pop up inside the attraction giving the feel that you are with the animals. You can even play tug of war with a tiger. There are a few shops an...