Kissimmee is also home to many, many restaurants. Chances are if you're in the mood for it, they'll have it along Hwy 192. You can also enjoy some fun dinner shows, like Capone's and Arabian Nights. Not in the mood for food, you can stop by one of the many souvenir shops and outlet malls where you can shop for Disney merchandise at a fraction of the price.

If you're out for some site seeing, make sure not to miss the historic district of Downtown Kissimmee. I personally love the architecture of the Osceola Courthouse.

Don't Miss List!

Next on the agenda is St. Petersburg, FL. I had visited St. Pete when I was about 10 and I was completely amazed by the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. I had anticipated returning for many years but never quite got around to it until recently. The views are still breathtaking, you can see out to sea in every direction you turn and the city is rich with history and culture.

The Dali Museum Under Construction

One of the most famous attractions in St. Petersburg is the Salvador Dali Museum, recently relocated and renovated to host the strangest and greatest collection of the late surrealist painter's work. The architecture of the new building is one that Dali himself would have been proud of, featuring what AOL calls, “a glass slug-like element that appears to crawl through the building and around the façade, a metaphor for Dalí's signature juxtaposition of the classical and fantastical.” Which is perhaps why the building is in their Buildings You Have to See Before You Die List.

If art isn't your thing, you won't have a problem finding other things to do. Near the Dali museum, and stretched out across the ocean, is The Pier. A five tear hub of entertainment, featuring shops, restaurants and even an aquarium. Although, I will admit The Pier has seen better days, it's definitely a site worth checking out. From the Pier you can take a trolley for only .25 cents that will give you an approximate half hour tour around the city's historic district, tour guide included. Along the tour you'll see sites such as the Holocaust Museum and one of the three outdoor open post offices left in the world.  

The Pier at St. Petersburg

Trolley Ride through St. Pete

Attractions: It's easy to loose yourself in the culture of St. Pete, but if you can, stop by Haslam's Book Store (Haslam's Books). The establishment is one of Florida's largest new and used bookstores and houses around 300,000 books. If you're an avid reader, you're sure to 
enjoy this spot.
Shopping: If you're in the mood for some antiquing, head on over to the Central Avenue Antique Marketplace, which features an assortment of art, pottery, jewelry and antique furniture vendors.

View from The Columbia Restaurant

Where to Eat: I personally recommend The Columbia restaurant which sits on the fourth floor of The Pier. The Cuban cuisine is delectable and the views of the ocean from the glass windows are gorgeous. Don't forget to try the mojito. If you're out for a quick bite, then The Cupcake Spot will satisfy that sweet tooth and leave you craving for more with their array of delicious, hand-made cupcakes. For their menu check out The Cupcake Spot
Events: There is always something going on in St. Pete, check out their events calendar for more information at St. Pete Events

After living in Miami for 27 years, I realized I didn't know much about the sunshine state besides my surroundings in South Florida. I had visited Orlando several times while vacationing at Disney, and had always been compelled to stay. In January 2010, I decided that I would make the move. Walt Disney World is now practically in my backyard and I love the mouse as much now as I did when I was 2. However, being on a college student budget, I decided to explore all that Central Florida has to offer, without the theme park expenses. Orlando is in the dead center of some of the most amazing sights and places that Florida has to offer, so with camera and tote bag in hand I set out to explore the different Shades of Sunshine.

This blog is designed to help you navigate through the various cities in Central Florida. You will find that at the bottom of each review I have included a “Don't Miss List” which gives you a quick overview of the experiences I found the most captivating. Please feel free to share any stories, pictures or recommend any good places, after all I'm still pretty new to the area. I'd also love to hear your feedback.