The Pioneer Woman Magazine recently published a list of the best Christmas Tree Farms in every state. In Florida, you’ll have to travel to the central part of the state to get to what they say is the best Christmas Tree farm in the area. And you will be in for a memorable experience that allows you to explore thousands of trees.
Each of the locations that Pioneer Woman named offers acres of fresh Christmas trees grown right onsite at the property. Then, you either cut down the tree of your choice or select one that the staff takes down for you. “The best part is that you’ll be supporting a local farm, many of which have been in their families for generations,” they state. Your efforts give back to the local community, and it’s a great way to kick off a festive holiday season.
The best Christmas Tree Farm in Florida, according to them, is also well known for their hayrides.
Gibbs Christmas Tree Farm in Citra Florida
Located on East Highway in Citra, Gibbs Christmas Tree Farm announced in October that they are ready for a great 2023 holiday season. "After three tough years of shortages and many years of dry summers, we installed an irrigation system and of course had one of the wettest summers in years," they said in a Facebook post.
Now in its 23rd season, Gibbs Christmas Tree Farm officially opened right after Thanksgiving—specifically, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. "You'll find choose-and-cut Sand Pines or pre-cut Fraser Firs, the latter of which are brought in fresh from North Carolina," Pioneer Women explains.
The in-ground trees are planted in lines allowing customers to navigate the property conveniently. Then, you can hop on the hayride for a complete tour of the farm. Finally, wreaths, snack items, and drinks are also sold at Gibbs Christmas Tree Farm, allowing you to make a complete day of this holiday experience.
Florida Has 2 Of The Most Beautiful Bridges In The Country
According to Infrastructure Report Card, there are 617,000 bridges in the United States. Outlets such as Attractions of America and Mr. Hudson have each come up with lists of the most beautiful bridges. Two of them call Florida home.
A bridge can be a historical landmark in addition to a pathway that connects communities. Certain bridges, like the Golden Gate in San Francisco, draw thousands of tourists each year. People plan trips around visiting this site and taking in its incredible views. Unsurprisingly, the Golden Gate Bridge is either #1 or #2 on each of the aforementioned lists.
The bridge that it shares the top spot with is famous for its ability to walk or bike over. The Brooklyn Bridge connects Brooklyn Heights to Manhattan via six lanes. Many charity-driven bike rides also cross here as it offers unique perspectives into New York City without any tollways.
Florida Bridges
In Florida, American Road and Transportation lists over 12,000 bridges in the Sunshine State (though not all of them are in functional condition). There are two however, that stand above the rest. One is architecturally astounding. The other feels like a gateway into a mysterious paradise.
"American bridges are often designed with looks to match their engineering ingenuity," Mr. Hudson explains.
What's fascinating about bridges in America, is they are constructed of different materials and serve different purposes. For example, the final and tenth selection in Attractions of America's feature is the Benson Bridge, Multnomah Falls, in Oregon. This is a foot traffic bridge that is only 45 feet long. It allows visitors to walk 105 feet above the Lower Multnomah Falls cascade
Let's take a look at the two most beautiful bridges in Florida.
Sunshine Skyway Bridge, Tampa
Connecting St. Petersburg to Terra Ceia, this bridge is 4.1 miles long. This stunning bridge over Tampa Bay is often lit up with colors that highlight the skyline. Furthermore, since 2018, there has been a Skyway 10K race that closes the bridge each year.
Seven Mile Bridge, Florida Keys
This two-lane bridge is technically part of Route 1. It's a magical gateway into the Florida Keys. Mr. Hudson points out, "the Seven Mile Bridge usually has space for sightseers to park up and admire the Florida Keys." In 1982, a heavy renovation made the lanes wider, allowing for a safer and more comfortable drive. The last annual seven-mile bridge run took place this past April.