Tucked deep in the Ozark Mountains of southern Missouri lies the Paddy Creek Wilderness Area, a 7,200-acre haven of rugged beauty and untamed wilderness. Located at 2180 Highway 17, Houston, MO 65483, this protected area is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With its diverse landscape of forests, glades, and streams, Paddy Creek Wilderness Area offers a unique and unforgettable experience for those who venture into its depths.

One of the main attractions of Paddy Creek Wilderness Area is its extensive network of trails, which offer some of the most spectacular hiking and backpacking opportunities in the state. The area’s 17 miles of trails range from easy to challenging, taking visitors through dense forests of oak, hickory, and pine, as well as across scenic glades and along the banks of Paddy Creek. For those looking for a more immersive experience, dispersed camping is allowed throughout the area, offering the chance to spend a night or two under the stars.

In addition to its trails and camping opportunities, Paddy Creek Wilderness Area is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The area’s forests are dominated by oak, hickory, and pine, while its glades support a unique community of grasses, wildflowers, and shrubs. Wildlife is also abundant, with white-tailed deer, turkey, and black bear all calling the area home. For anglers, Paddy Creek offers excellent opportunities for smallmouth bass and panfish.

For those planning a trip to Paddy Creek Wilderness Area, it’s essential to be prepared for the rugged and remote nature of the terrain. Visitors should bring plenty of water, food, and sun protection, as well as a map and compass or GPS device. Due to the area’s wilderness designation, motorized vehicles and equipment are prohibited, and visitors are asked to follow all Leave No Trace principles to minimize their impact on the environment.

Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker, a nature photographer, or simply someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Paddy Creek Wilderness Area has something to offer. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and opportunities for adventure and solitude, this Missouri wilderness area is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors.

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Welcome to the oasis in Clearwater Beach, Florida. Inspired by Winter the Dolphin, this hotel is both family-friendly and eco-friendly. Winter’s Beach Club is located at 655 S. Gulfview Blvd. in Clearwater Beach, Florida. For more information, click here.

Relax in nautical surroundings featuring a fun, ocean-inspired theme inside, while a stunning pool and pristine beach await you outdoors. This is the premier beach resort in Clearwater Florida!

Accommodations: Bright and airy, all 91 rooms are a breath of fresh ocean air. Smooth-textured light woods and pops of deep blue and seafoam green bring the outdoors in, while marine-life artwork inspires a lively beach spirit. Many rooms have balconies for catching the evening breeze off Clearwater Beach. With five different room types, one is just right for your family. All rooms are equipped with free WiFi, a mini-fridge, microwave, and a coffee maker.

Dining: The breezy-casual, newly-renovated restaurant, Cabanas Coastal Grill is now open!  They offer breakfast, lunch and dinner inside or on the covered patio. Dig into fresh seafood, chicken, pasta, and vegetarian dishes, along with wine, cocktails, craft beer, and signature frozen drinks.

Guests of Winter’s Beach Club receive a 20% discount on regular-priced admission, 20% discount on photo souvenirs, 20% off expanded gift shop at CMA, 20% off food and beverage outlets at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, which is located just 6 miles away.

Meet rescued marine animals through our alliance with Clearwater Marine Aquarium, home of marine life from the famed Dolphin Tale movies.

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Brevard Zoo In Florida Is the only zoo in the country to offer guided kayaking tours through an animal exhibit! Brevard Zoo Is located at 8225 North Wickham Road, in Melbourne, Florida! For more information or to check prices and availability, click here.

You can choose a guided kayaking tour through Expedition Africa or go off on your own adventure in Wild Florida. These incredible kayak adventures provide unique views of Giraffes, Zebras, Rhinos and more!

Don’t miss out on the fun! Make sure to plan your trip accordingly. This is one of those adventures you will remember for years to come! Accessible kayaking is now available at the Wetlands area in Wild Florida! Click here to learn more.

Kayaking tickets are available for purchase from Kayak Beach in Expedition Africa or the Zoo’s main gate. Tickets for kayaking in Wild Florida can be purchased at the Zoo’s Cape to Cairo train station or at the Wetlands Outpost. Children under 5 are not permitted to kayak and children under 12 must be accompanied by a paid adult.

At the time of this publishing ticket prices are as follows: The guided Expedition Africa tour is $12.95 per person. The self guided Florida Wetlands Tour is just $6. Both tours are open to those 5 and older! To check current prices, click here.

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Located at 2668 E. 875th Rd, Utica, IL 61373, Starved Rock State Park is a breathtaking natural wonder in LaSalle County, Illinois. This 2,630-acre park is situated along the south bank of the Illinois River, offering stunning views and unique geological formations. For more information, click here.

Starved Rock State Park is home to 13 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. The trails take visitors through lush forests, sandstone canyons, and along the riverbank. One of the park’s most popular attractions is its 18 sandstone canyons, carved by the Illinois River over millions of years. Visitors can explore these canyons, including French Canyon, LaSalle Canyon, and Owl Canyon, among others.

In addition to its natural beauty, Starved Rock State Park is also steeped in history. The park is named after a historic event in which a band of Illinois Native Americans was trapped on a rocky outcropping (now Starved Rock) by a rival tribe. The park also features the Starved Rock Lock and Dam, a historic lock and dam system that played a crucial role in the development of the Illinois River. Visitors can learn more about the park’s history at the Starved Rock Visitor Center.

Amenities at Starved Rock State Park include picnic areas, a restaurant, and lodging options. Visitors can choose from 129 campsites, including some with electric hookups, or stay in one of the park’s many cabins or lodges. The park also offers guided hikes, bird-watching tours, and other educational programs throughout the year.

Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply looking for a unique outdoor adventure, Starved Rock State Park has something for everyone. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and range of amenities, this Illinois state park is a must-visit destination for anyone in the Midwest.

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In the 2024 U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hotel rankings, Acqualina was named the #1 Best Hotel in the U.S. and #1 Best Resort in the U.S. Acqualina was also named #1 Best Hotel in Florida, #1 Best Hotel in Miami Beach, #1 Best Resort in Florida and #1 Best Resort in Miami Beach. The Acqualina is located at 17875 Collins Avenue in Sunny Isles Beach Florida! For more information or to check prices and availability, you can visit their website here.

Acqualina is a luxurious seaside sanctuary to make lifelong memories. The resort is ideally situated to enjoy a glorious day out in Miami, exploring art and cultural activities, nature, shopping tours, watersports, and more. Let the concierge team help plan your perfect Miami day.

Lush, richly appointed accommodations are the hallmark of the guest experience at Acqualina. Designed to offer a sense of modern luxury with classic furnishings and finishes, each of the guest rooms and suites present oversized floor plans and private balconies.

Guests routinely say that Acqualina is the most luxurious waterfront escape they’ve ever experienced, thanks to the personalized services, signature Mediterranean decor, sumptuous dining options, incredible ocean views, world-class spa, and expansive suites you’ll continue to dream about long after they’ve been dreamed within. Perhaps that’s why Acqualina is the most decorated resort in South Florida, earning a Forbes Five-Star Award for the hotel and spa for 11 consecutive years, the title of TripAdvisor’s #1 Beachfront Hotel in the U.S., and top awards from USA Today (including the #1 Best Destination Resort in the U.S.) and from U.S. News & World Report as the #1 Best Resort in the U.S.

Acqualina is located on one of the most world-renowned and aspired-to beach destinations on Earth, so the enviable location alone is often enough to create exquisite moments.  The grounds feature year-round outdoor living-room-style settings with plush furniture. Natural Paspalum grass sways alongside the signature red beach umbrellas and lounge chairs, which beautifully offset the blue and green hues of their natural surroundings.

Rooms and suites at Acqualina go above and beyond other Miami resorts. They feature panoramic ocean views, premium luxury linens, and a range of high-end comforts designed to delight and inspire. The suites are also the most spacious in the city, so you have plenty of room to stretch out and relax.

Many guests at Acqualina enjoy simply lounging on the beach and soaking up the famous warmth of the Sunshine State. For those looking for more, they offer a wide range of activities on property, so there’s always something for everyone. Young children enjoy AcquaMarine, a biology-inspired on-site educational program. There, kids have fun with learning through hands-on activities that foster appreciation, love, and respect for the ocean. Families, couples, and solo guests appreciate the lovingly curated Acqua Experiences, available both on and off property to provide memorable moments. Swim lessons, painting classes, and scuba-diving classes are only some of the unique curated offerings.

With incredible accommodations, world class dining, incredible views, and some of the best beaches in the United States, Acqualina is a vacation destination all by itself. Do yourself a favor and book your next vacation at Acqualina! To check prices and availability, click here.

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