Amelia Island

Dispel the idea just visiting Disneyworld with the kids. For the history buff and “educational travel,” here are some destinations you may want to keep in mind you’re looking for cheap flights.

St. Augustine: This is a place for historians to soak up the architecture and history of one of the oldest cities in the U.S. If you’re in favor of more outdoor attractions, why not visit famous landmarks such as the Castillo de San Marcos, Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth, as well as historic sites like the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse? St. Augustine is the oldest continuously-occupied European-established city and port in the continental U.S.

Amelia Island: This is the state’s northernmost barrier island, and is also known as the “isle of Eight Flags” because of its rich history that features pirates, shrimpers, nobles and confederates. Fernandina Beach was an important seaport during ancient times and today, historians can do “research” at the state’s oldest continuously operating bar, the Palace Saloon. For travelers to want a truly relaxed seaport community, Amelia Island may just be the “off the beaten path” Florida visit you’ve been craving. A bonus? 13 miles of beaches.

Kingsley Plantation Historic Site, Jacksonville: This restored house located on Fort George Island located near Jacksonville is the Kingsley Plantation, a landmark of interest to travelers with a propensity for history and also Civil War buffs. Built out of “tabby” material made of oyster shells and sand, the plantation was built by Zephaniah Kinsley who lived there from 1814 to 1837. What’s left to visit here include the plantation house itself along with remnants of old coquina slave huts and Indian mounds. For the traveler who wants to be “in the know,” this is an excellent drive-by point of interest, and just 15 miles away from Jacksonville.

Edison and Ford Winter Estates, Naples: These estates are located in Ft. Myers, Florida and comprise the winter homes, gardens, laboratory and museums of both Thomas Edison and Gerald Ford. It is a Florida Historic Landmark and on the National Register of Historic Places and is a 20-acre compilation of historic buildings as well as the award-winning Moonlight Garden. The museum also houses hundreds of inventions, artifacts and special exhibits.

Egmont Key State Park, St. Petersburg: This park is actually located on the island of Egmont, which has several cultural and historical events that have occurred there since the earliest time settlers in Florida. Egmont was named in honor of John Perceval, the second Earl of Egmont. He was also an Irishman and a member of the Irish House of Commons in 1763. Associated with both Spanish conquistadors, Egmont Key has historic ruins and is accessibly only by boat from Tampa Bay.