The year is coming to an end and many people are already looking forward to 2023. Even if not much changes over the year in Florida, at least in terms of weather and landscape, it does not mean that the Sunshine State is at a standstill. Visit Florida provides an overview of what’s new in Florida:
The Saenger Theater in Pensacola is looking forward to spoiling Panhandel visitors with first-class Broadway performances next year. The 50th Anniversary Tour includes plays such as ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’, ‘The Book of Mormon’ and ‘CHICAGO: The Musical’.
Racing and riding fever
For the 65th time, motorsport fans will come to the prestigious Daytona 500 together to immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere of the ‘Great American Race’ and eagerly await whether their favorite driver can win the race. The Daytona 500 has opened the NASCAR season since 1982 and was allowed to do so once more this year for the 75th anniversary of the racing series.
Ocala, the equestrian capital of the world, located in Florida’s Marion County, is now home to the World Equestrian Center (WEC), the largest equestrian facility in the country. The complex offers the perfect conditions to receive guests for competitions and training camps, whether professional or equestrian fanatic.
It has a 248-room hotel, restaurants, shops, arenas and exhibition centers designed for various equestrian disciplines. The Ocala Winter Spectacular Show kicks off in January.
Hotel openings and fine dining in St. Augustine
In St. Augustine some hotel openings are planned for 2023. Located just a short walk from the Old Jail Museum and the St. Augustine History Museum, the new Hilton Garden Inn Historic features an outdoor pool, exercise room and on-site restaurant.
The Hyatt Place Vilano Beach Hotel brings classic Florida architecture to life. Decorated with beautiful Art Deco touches, the three-story hotel has 120 guest rooms and a rooftop bar. Here, well-known local chef Michael Lugo will open his next major restaurant in the Sunshine State in January 2023.
At ‘Pesca’, the Puerto Rican chef will take his creativity to new heights, reinterpreting coastal Florida cuisine mixed with influences from South American, Caribbean and European cuisines.
Experience the mangroves of the Keys interactively
Im Truman Waterfront Park in Key West the new Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center was opened in November 2022. The modern attraction features various exhibits designed to introduce visitors to the habitats of the Keys mangroves.
These include a colorful, light-filled aquarium showcasing coral restoration, an interactive paddle board experience, and a shipwreck exhibit on the Florida Keys Shipwreck Trail.
The main exhibit focuses on the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and aims to educate regarding the importance of conservation and sustainability through interactive experiences. (OF)