Author Archives: JSR Media

The Storied Past Behind the Crystal River Archaeological State Park

When I reached Crystal River Archaeological State Park, I threw my car into a space and immediately set off striding toward the highest spot for miles around. The day was cool and clear—perfect for pretending to be on a trip into the distant past. I passed lots of families strolling around the park, the children […]

How Jacksonville’s Madison Hughes Found Her Voice

Jacksonville native Madison Hughes had her first brush with fame in 2022 when she wowed the nation (and superstar judges  Camila Cabello, Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani) on “The Voice,” stirring big emotions with her version of Bob Dylan’s “Knocking on Heaven’s Door.” The singer only had one more appearance on the popular vocal competition, […]

Naples Botanical Garden Celebrates Environmental Artistry

A visit to Naples Botanical Garden feels like stepping into a living masterpiece, where every leaf, bloom and pathway tells a story of tropical splendor. Nestled in the heart of Naples, this lush, 170-acre sanctuary is a celebration of botanical artistry and environmental stewardship, offering visitors an immersive experience of nature’s wonders. With multiple habitats […]

Follow Our Key Lime Pie Trail to These 10 Places

The Florida Keys takes its Key lime pie as seriously as its sunsets. From tangy to sweet, whipped cream to meringue and traditional to downright wild, here are 10 must-try spins on the Sunshine State’s signature dessert. Upper Keys High TideKey Largo From Key lime cheesecake muffins to Key lime chicken and traditional pie, this […]

Get Key-zee With These Three Guides to the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys have long promised a blend of fiery sunsets, legendary lore and mysterious habitats. When I arrived at Little Palm Island Resort & Spa, a secluded retreat off Little Torch Key, I was searching for something I couldn’t quite define. With only 30 thatched-roof bungalow suites, the resort felt worlds away from my […]

V. 27 Spring 2025 Travel Issue

Why Natalie Morales Wants to Be the Scorsese of Miami

Natalie Morales‘ first-ever audition couldn’t have gone much worse. While walking around a grocery store in Southwest Miami, 9-year-old Morales spotted a poster encouraging kids to audition for a theater show. She badgered her mother to take her to the casting session. There was just one problem. “My mom was in no way a show […]

The Rollins Museum of Art’s New Curators See Things From a Different Perspective

Paintings loom high above small heads. Signs bark, “Do Not Touch!” Narrow gallery corridors leave little room to roam. Despite the vivid colors and boundless creativity on display, museums can often feel off-limits to children—quiet, restrictive and at odds with the spirited energy kids bring. But the Rollins Museum of Art is changing all that […]

Five Unexpected Central Florida Adventures

Tucked among the Spanish-moss-draped oaks and swaying palms, a different kind of Florida magic awaits in the heart of the state. This bucolic landscape is home to 17 communities, including Lakeland and Winter Haven, which make up the area known as Central Florida. This spring, skip the theme park lines and swap animatronics for authentic […]