Heritage Highlights

 In the rodeo town of Arcadia, buy yourself a pair of cowboy boots and mosey around town to look at the circa 1880 buildings and antique shops. Follow in history's and cattlemen's footsteps (without having to sidestep cow pies) along the Florida Cracker Trail (Route 64) to Highway 27, Florida's artery through the heartland. Avon Park's historic district dates back to 1912, with neo-classical and Art Deco flair. The Avon Park Historical Society & Museum, 3 N. Museum Ave., resides in the town's old railroad depot. Hours: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Mon. - Fri.; 2 - 4 p.m., Sun. Closed Sat. Call (863) 453-3525.

To the south, '20s boomtown Sebring is synonymous today with car racing, but back then, the railroad meant its success. Explore its intriguing collection of vintage structures and charming circular downtown.


Nature Trek

 Today we follow the region's roots straight into the heart of Florida agriculture, where cattle still range and sandhill cranes fill the skies and grasslands. From Route 80 (Palm Beach Boulevard), we'll head north on Route 31 to the old logging town of Babcock, the Crescent B Ranch and the Telegraph Cypress Swamp.

Continue along Route 31 north to Arcadia, canoeing headquarters for trips along the aptly named Peace River. Florida's oldest and largest canoe outfitter, Canoe Outpost - Peace River, at 2816 N.W. County Road 661, is ready to take you on a paddling adventure. Call (863) 494-1215.

Take Route 70 east out of town to head to Okeechobee, a farming community on the shores of Lake Okeechobee, a bass fishing haven of Florida. The Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail loops the lake with 110 miles for cyclists and hikers. Call (863) 983-8101.

The Castle, built by Renaissance man Howard Solomon (equal parts artisan and comedian), contains galleries of his art and more than 80 interpretive stained glass windows.


Culture Quest

 From Arcadia, head north on back road Route 661 to teeny Ona, whose claim to fame is Solomon's Castle, 4533 Solomon Rd. The Castle, built by Renaissance man Howard Solomon (equal parts artisan and comedian), contains galleries of his art and more than 80 interpretive stained glass windows. The Boat in The Moat, also built by the artist, is a replica of a 16th century Spanish galleon and houses the Castle's restaurant. Hours: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Tues. - Sun. Call (863) 494-6077.

Head next to Highway 27. As you drive south, you approach the Caladium Capital of the World, Lake Placid. It celebrates its colorful ornamental crops each year with a summertime festival. Year 'round, its downtown preserves history in its own colorful way: 30-plus realistic murals, some even with sound effects and matching trash receptacles. The circa 1926 train depot is home to the Lake Placid Historical Society Museum, 19 W. Park Ave., and its four rooms are stuffed with historic furnishings, photos, clippings, clothing and other artifacts. Hours: 1 - 3:30 p.m., Mon. - Sat. Closed Sat. during summer. Call (863) 465-1771.