History & Culture http://www.visitflorida.com/history/ Florida boasts the oldest cities in the United States. While Spain settled St. Augustine in 1565, Florida’s first people arrived in 12,000 B.C. Until Juan Ponce de Leon came in 1512, Florida was inhabited by Timucua, Apalachee and Calusa tribes. That long history, and history made after the U.S won Florida from Spain in 1821, make Florida a top cultural travel destination. Ponce, Francis & Henry http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/ponce-francis-and-henry http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/ponce-francis-and-henry Devote a day to each of St. Augustine's strongest heritage influences, escorted by three of its great lates, Ponce de Leon, Sir Francis Drake and Henry Flagler. Small Town Charm, Big City Sophistication http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/small-town-charm-big-city-sophistication http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/small-town-charm-big-city-sophistication Central Florida's cultural venues are fresh, dynamic alternatives to what you find on the usual cultural circuit. Downtown Tampa: Past and Future Rolled into One http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/downtown-tampa-past-and-future-rolled-into-one http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/downtown-tampa-past-and-future-rolled-into-one Tampa's development was sparked by the cigar industry, and the city continues to thrive. Experience its history and cultural diversity at museums and historic sites throughout Ybor City and downtown. My Big Fat Greek Vacation http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/my-big-fat-greek-vacation http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/my-big-fat-greek-vacation Though most people's introduction to Greek came courtesy of the popular movie, My Big Fat Greek Wedding, the small town of Tarpon Springs on Florida's west coast offers a real education in Greek life and culture. Walk Lakeland http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/walk-lakeland http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/walk-lakeland Lakeland is a place where you can spend more than a day exploring parks and gardens, admiring historic downtown buildings restored to their former luster, and discovering a community where art and culture abound. Experience all this and more on a walking tour of downtown Lakeland. Historical Hotspots in Florida's Capital http://visitflorida.com/articles/historical-hotspots-in-floridas-capital http://visitflorida.com/articles/historical-hotspots-in-floridas-capital "Historical site" and "hotspot" aren't often used in the same sentence, but Tallahassee breaks with tradition to offer cultural attractions that are not only educational, but downright entertaining. Check out the downtown cultural district, visit historic Mission San Luis and head outdoors to explore the city's beautiful historic gardens. Immerse Yourself in Keys Culture http://visitflorida.com/articles/immerse-yourself-in-keys-culture http://visitflorida.com/articles/immerse-yourself-in-keys-culture At first glance, the Florida Keys are water and sky, horizon and clouds, mangroves and marshes. But look in the right places and you'll find an island chain that's alive with history and culture. From Flagler to Hemingway, the rich heritage of the Keys has left us much to appreciate. In true Keys style, the best way to explore it all is to take your time. Art of the Unexpected http://visitflorida.com/articles/art-of-the-unexpected http://visitflorida.com/articles/art-of-the-unexpected In Central Florida, the bass fishing's great, the orange groves smell fresh and Florida's famed theme parks sit only a short drive away. But, what you may not know is that the region also has much to offer art lovers. Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, Broadway shows, topiary gardens and fine art exhibitions can all be found here in Polk County. Cultural Currents http://visitflorida.com/articles/cultural-currents http://visitflorida.com/articles/cultural-currents Known for its award-winning beaches (Caladesi Island, anyone?), the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area's cultural happenings are making waves of their own this summer. Cultural currents including fresh shows, events, exhibits and a museum make-over electrify the season. After all, who says re-runs should rule summer. In the Key of Inspiration http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/in-the-key-of-inspiration http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/in-the-key-of-inspiration From Hemingway to Hiaasen, Audubon to Buffett, artists are inspired by the Florida Keys, painting pictures with words, brushes and song. Small Towns, Big Culture http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/small-towns-big-culture http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/small-towns-big-culture Arts thrive in Florida's Indian River County. Talla-history http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/talla-history http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/talla-history Follow in the footsteps of early history makers in Florida's state capital. The Wright Stuff http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/the-wright-stuff http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/the-wright-stuff Frank Lloyd Wright's architecture shines in the Central Florida 'Sun.' Put the Fun in Funky Florida Foods http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/put-the-fun-in-funky-florida-foods http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/put-the-fun-in-funky-florida-foods Discover Florida's culinary treasures from coast to coast.