🌴 Florida Living
Weather, local culture, and everyday Florida living — news for residents and transplants alike.
Franz Wagner Ready for New Era as Magic Camp Opens
The Magic forward says he is healthy and eager to adjust as Orlando begins training camp under Sean Sweeney.
Florida Home Hardening Tax Exemption: What Qualifies
A clear guide to Florida’s 2026–2029 refund for qualifying impact windows, exterior doors and garage doors.
Florida Wind Mitigation Inspection 2026: New Form & Discounts
What Florida homeowners need to know about the April 2026 wind mitigation form, eligible inspectors, qualifying features and insurance submission.
UCF Football Adds Walt Disney World Helmet Sponsorship
UCF’s football team will debut a Walt Disney World helmet bumper sponsorship during its game against TCU.
Walt Disney World Logo to Appear on UCF Football Helmets
The Disney logo will debut on UCF Knights helmets for Saturday’s Big 12 opener against TCU.
MCO Schedules Emergency Training Exercise Near Gates 1-29
Orlando International Airport says a scheduled exercise will run from 4 to 10 p.m. beneath Gates 1-29.
JetBlue Joins Disney World’s Airport Luggage Transfer
JetBlue is now eligible for Disney World’s free airport luggage transfer at six value and moderate resorts.
Pompano Beach’s Luxury Development Wave Keeps Growing
Major downtown and oceanfront projects are bringing branded residences and higher price points to Pompano Beach.
Higher Tides May Bring St. Augustine Street Flooding
St. Augustine is warning that higher-than-normal tides could cause low-lying street flooding through Tuesday.
ECP Terminal Expansion Takes Shape With Steel Beams
Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport’s new terminal wing is projected to open to passengers in April 2028.
NASA Tests Smarter Taxi Systems for Busy Airports
NASA and Boeing tested cockpit and runway tools designed to improve safety and efficiency at busy airports.
Brightline Reportedly Eyes Chapter 11 While Trains Keep Running
A reported Chapter 11 filing would cover Brightline’s corporate debt, while its operating unit would remain outside the case.
6 Florida Springs, 2 Days, 300 Miles: The Ultimate Springs Road Trip
From a lazy tube run near Orlando to an underground cave spring in Williston, this road trip hits six of Florida's most iconic freshwater gems.
FWC Installing Anchoring Markers in Key Florida Keys Harbors
New signs and buoys are going up at Boot Key, Bahia Honda, and five other Monroe County waterways.
Inside Golden Oak: Living in a Beauty and the Beast Home at Disney World
A Miami family shares what it's really like to own a Belle's-cottage-inspired home inside Walt Disney World's private Golden Oak community.
Disney Hires Its First-Ever Chief Technology Officer
Karandeep Anand, former CEO of Character.AI, steps into the newly created CTO role on October 2.
Where to Spot Celebrities in Miami Right Now
From Carbone to the F1 Grand Prix, Miami's A-list scene is thriving — here's where to find it.
American Airlines Recruiting Ex-Spirit Staff in Orlando This Week
Two aviation hiring events at a Bonnet Creek hotel give former Spirit employees a path back into the industry.
Lovebugs Are Invading Florida — Even Disney Hotel Rooms
It's lovebug season in Central Florida, and this year's swarms are making it indoors at some Walt Disney World resorts.
Caladesi Island State Park May Gain 42 Acres of Barrier Island
A nearly untouched Clearwater barrier island is under consideration for purchase using Florida Forever conservation funds.
Florida REAL ID Upgrade 2026: Documents, Cost & How It Works
Federal enforcement is here — here's exactly what to bring, what to pay, and what happens after you get your star.
Seven Sisters Campground: Florida's Hidden River Gem
This low-key Homosassa campground puts crystal-clear springs and manatee country right at your doorstep.
8 Florida Breweries Tap Into State Parks With Pints for Parks
Eight craft breweries statewide are crafting parks-themed beers to benefit the Florida State Parks Foundation.
Florida Vehicle Registration Renewal 2026: Every Way to Do It
Birthday-based expiration, online portals, Publix kiosks, the MyFlorida app, mail, and when you truly can't skip the Tax Collector.
Ponte Vedra Artist Brings Live Embroidery to Local Events
Emily Gleason is among the first in Northeast Florida to offer on-the-spot custom embroidery at parties and events.
Apopka Budget Fight Puts Community Celebrations at Risk
Mayor Nick Nesta's stripped-down budget proposal zeroed out funding for beloved Apopka traditions — and commissioners pushed back hard.
Tampa Bay Rays' $2.36B Stadium Clears Two Key Votes
Dual government approvals move the Rays' fixed-roof, multi-use venue closer to a targeted 2029 opening.
Charlotte County: A Quieter Gulf Coast Retirement Gem
Just north of Fort Myers, Charlotte County ranks among Florida's top five counties for retirees — and locals say it's more affordable than most of the coast.
Florida Property Tax Exemptions You Can Stack in 2026
Most Florida homeowners only claim the base homestead exemption — here's how to layer on senior, widow, disability, and veteran savings on top.
Meet Tapioca, Ocala's Grinning Mini-Bully Looking for a Home
This 3-year-old mini-bully at the Humane Society of Marion County has been waiting patiently — and smiling — for her perfect family.
Miami's MAST@FIU Ranks No. 2 in Florida, 31st in the US
U.S. News & World Report put 13 Florida schools in the national top 100 — and South Florida claimed six of those spots.
Florida Save Our Homes Cap 2026: How the 2.7% Limit Works
Florida's constitutional assessment cap quietly saves long-term homeowners thousands every year — here's exactly how it works in 2026.
Panama City's Airport Is Clearing 350 Acres to Grow
FAA-approved work will start with stormwater drainage before roads and trees are cleared north of the terminal.
St. Augustine Rewrites Event Fee Rules at Francis Field and Beyond
New time-based pricing and updated permit fees take effect October 1 across city venues.
23-Year-Old Pilot Lands Plane in Ocean Off Boca Raton Beach
Faith Tenkley ditched her family's twin-engine Piper in the Atlantic after her landing gear failed — and walked away uninjured.
Indian River County: Florida's Low-Key Retirement Gem
Tucked between Orlando and West Palm Beach, Indian River County offers uncrowded beaches, fresh seafood, and wide-open parks at a gentler pace.
Wakulla Springs: Old Florida's Best-Kept Natural Secret
Just south of Tallahassee, one of the world's deepest freshwater springs offers manatees, gator sightings, and riverboat rides for about $8.
3 Locals Picks for an Alcohol-Free Day in Miami
A vintage shop owner on Bird Road mapped out a perfect sober day — from Coral Gables to Key Biscayne.
3 Sober Things to Do in Miami, From a Local Who Knows
A Miami photographer shares his go-to spots for a great day out — no bar tab required.
Best Indoor Activities in St. Pete for Rainy Days
From world-class museums to axe throwing and cat yoga, St. Pete has no shortage of ways to wait out the rain.
5 Florida State Parks Worth the Drive, From a 25-Year Local
A longtime Florida resident shares five state parks that deliver real nature without the tourist crowds.
Lafayette Blue Springs: Cabins, Camping & Crystal-Clear Swims
This remote North Florida gem sits halfway between Tallahassee and Gainesville — and most tourists have never heard of it.
6 Florida Beach Towns Where Retirees Can Live for Under $1,800/Month
From Pensacola to Fort Walton Beach, these Gulf and Atlantic Coast towns still offer real retirement value.
Florida TRIM Notice 2026: How to Read It and Lower Your Bill
Your annual property-tax preview arrives in August — here's how to decode every line and fight back before the deadline closes.
Jacksonville Humane Society Lets You Name Your Own Adoption Fee
Dogs and cats are available through Aug. 14 — and you decide what you pay.
Wekiwa Springs: Central Florida's Cool, Clear Lakeside Escape
Just 30 minutes from Orlando, this Apopka gem offers 72-degree spring swimming, kayaking, and miles of shaded trails.
12 Florida Beach Towns Where Rent Stays Under $1,800
From the Space Coast to the Gulf, these communities keep one-bedroom rent under $1,800 a month.
2026 Hurricane Season Looking Calmer Than Usual for Florida
NOAA now puts the odds of a below-normal Atlantic hurricane season at 75%, up from 55% earlier this year.
Should Florida State Parks Require Reservations? One Lawyer Says No
An Orlando attorney argues mandatory day-use reservations at parks like Wekiwa and Blue Spring shut out the public they're meant to serve.
Silver Springs Gets $436K Gift From Late Volunteer's Estate
Monica McNamara of Ocala left the landmark Ocala park a transformative estate gift after years of volunteering there.
Pennekamp State Park Gets $250K Boost for New Aquarium Center
A Pittsburgh foundation's $250,000 gift helps fund the $52 million Discovery Center opening at Key Largo's iconic coral reef park in 2028.
Track Chairs Coming to Four Florida State Parks
A new partnership is putting all-terrain track chairs at Florida state parks, opening up beaches and natural areas to more visitors.
Prescribed Burn Set for Savannas Preserve State Park Friday
About 170 acres of mesic flatwoods near Port St. Lucie are slated for a controlled burn, weather permitting.
Florida Specialty License Plate Sets a Program First
A newly released Florida specialty tag has achieved a milestone no other plate in the program has reached.
10 Smart Ways to Stay Cool This Florida Summer
From 72-degree springs to frozen tiki bars, Central Florida has plenty of ways to beat the heat without emptying your wallet.
Caribbean Beach Resort: Fun, Theming, and Skyliner Access
A colorful moderate resort with a great pool and unbeatable Skyliner access — just know what you're getting into before you book.
Florida Homestead Portability: How to Take Your Tax Savings With You
When you move to a new Florida home, your hard-earned Save Our Homes tax savings don't have to stay behind — here's exactly how to bring them with you.
21 Florida Towns That Make Retirement Actually Affordable
From beach communities to inland gems, these spots combine low taxes with a quality of life worth retiring for.
Grande Lakes Orlando: A Luxury Retreat Near Disney World
Just 15 minutes from Walt Disney World, this Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott complex offers a peaceful, spa-forward escape from the theme park grind.
Evermore Orlando Launches New Signature Experiences
The resort near Disney World just added curated family offerings at both Evermore Residences and Conrad Orlando.
Evermore Orlando Adds Guided Park Tours & Signature Experiences
From private tree-planting ceremonies to guided theme park days, the lakeside resort near Magic Kingdom is rolling out a range of curated add-ons.
Key Largo's Pennekamp Park Is Getting a Major Aquarium
A new Discovery Center will anchor the iconic park with seven tanks and 43,000 gallons of water.
13 Florida State Parks With Waterfront Cabins and Yurts
From Gulf Coast dune lakes to Suwannee River bluffs, these parks offer cozy stays that won't break the budget.
ALDI's Late-July Sale Has Budget Finds for Disney Trips
From $7 sandals to flowy maxi skirts, ALDI's one-week sale has wallet-friendly picks for park-goers.
ECP Airport Hits Record Highs With Busiest Month Ever
More than a million travelers flew through Panama City's ECP in the first half of 2026, spurring a major terminal expansion.
Blue Spring State Park Now Requires Online Reservations
Starting July 15, all daytime visitors to the popular Volusia County park must book a day-use pass online before arriving.
Your License Plate Can Help Florida's State Parks
The $33 'Explore Our State Parks' plate sends $25 straight to conservation and park improvements statewide.
Florida Homestead Exemption: How to Apply & What You Save
Every Florida homeowner should know these eligibility rules, the March 1 deadline, and the Save Our Homes cap that keeps your tax bill from spiraling.
New Smyrna Beach: The One Florida Coast Town That Still Works for Retirees
A detailed cost analysis finds New Smyrna Beach is the last affordable beachfront option for median-income retirees.
Family Fun in Altamonte Springs: Top Picks for Kids
This Seminole County city north of Orlando packs parks, dining, and year-round activities into one family-friendly package.
SunPass vs. E-PASS vs. Toll-by-Plate: Which Saves You the Most?
Florida's toll roads are unavoidable — but getting gouged on them is entirely optional if you know which pass to use.
Wekiwa Springs Is Getting Eco-Glamping Tents This Fall
Four new glamping tents are coming to the Apopka park, giving visitors a fresh way to sleep under the stars.
Haunted Mansion Sleep Sets Land at the Disney Store
New loungewear and sleep sets inspired by the Haunted Mansion and Mickey icons are now available online.
Orlando Airport Warns of Weather Delays for Arriving Travelers
MCO has issued a heads-up to incoming visitors about potential flight and baggage slowdowns tied to severe weather.
19 Florida Hidden Gems Only the Locals Know
From tucked-away gardens to quirky eats, these under-the-radar Florida spots are worth seeking out.
Tropical Depression Threatens Florida This Weekend
The National Hurricane Center is tracking a tropical depression that could affect Central Florida — and your weekend Walt Disney World plans.
Orlando Airport Weather Ground Stop Delays Disney Travelers
A rare weather-related ground stop at Orlando International briefly snarled travel plans for arriving and departing guests.
Another Florida State Park Now Requires Reservations
A beloved Florida state park joins a small but growing list of parks requiring visitors to book ahead before arriving.
Blue Spring State Park Now Requires Day-Use Reservations
A new online pass system launches Wednesday to cut down on long lines and crowding at the popular park.
The Florida Keys Aren't a Beach Destination — And That's the Point
From flats fishing to Duval Street, the Keys offer experiences you won't find on any sandy shore.
Palm Beach Airport Gets a Presidential Rename
West Palm Beach's main airport has a new official name, branding, and aviation codes to match.
Central Florida Under Heat Advisory for Third Straight Day
East Central Florida, including the Orlando theme park corridor, faces another heat advisory on Saturday, July 11.
Florida State Parks Blend Glamping, Springs, and Sustainability
A new report highlights how Florida's state parks are upping their game with modern amenities and eco-friendly options.
Tiger & Rory's TMRW Sports Eyes Downtown Orlando HQ
The tech-forward sports venture co-founded by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy could bring nearly 200 jobs to the city's urban core.
Your Guide to Indie Bookstores and Book Clubs Around Tampa Bay
From local author picks to bimonthly book-and-film nights, the Tampa Bay area has a thriving independent bookstore scene.
Florida Counties Join Forces to Boost Winter Tourism
From beaches to golf to fishing, a coalition of Florida counties is rolling out coordinated campaigns to draw winter visitors.
Florida State Parks Roll Out More Disability Access Options
Beach wheelchairs and accessible tours are making Florida's state parks more welcoming for visitors with disabilities.
Blue Spring State Park Now Requires Day-Use Reservations
All visitors — including passholders, walkers, and cyclists — must book online before showing up.
7 Florida Beach Towns Where $1,650 a Month Can Fund Retirement
A new study identifies coastal communities where retirees can stretch a modest budget without giving up the salt air.
St. George Island Gets New Accessible Beach Viewing Platform
A new partnership brings improved beach access to one of Florida's most beloved Panhandle parks.
Seven Low-Key Florida Beaches Worth the Drive
Skip the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds — these seven under-the-radar stretches of Florida coastline are worth seeking out.
Visit Florida State Parks Free for America's 250th
A national milestone means no entry fees at Florida's finest state parks — here's what to know.
Florida's Best-Kept Secrets Worth the Drive
Skip the theme park lines — these under-the-radar Florida spots deliver big without the crowds.
Free State Parks Near Jacksonville This 4th of July
Florida is dropping admission fees at most of its 175 state parks for the Fourth of July weekend.
20 Under-the-Radar Florida Spots Worth the Drive
From underground caverns to wildlife sanctuaries, the Sunshine State has plenty of crowd-free gems waiting to be explored.
Free State Parks Near Jacksonville This 4th of July
Florida is dropping admission fees at most of its 175 state parks for the holiday weekend.
8 Best Natural Springs in Florida (And What to Know Before You Go)
From tubing at Ichetucknee to glass-bottom boats at Silver Springs — a real guide to Florida's clearest, coldest water.