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Off the Beaten Path Insider

Gary McKechnie

I'm a native Floridian from Orlando, back in the heyday of Old Florida. My passion for exploration took me and my motorcycle on adventures to seek out a different side of the Sunshine State. Join me as we break the city limits to explore remote (and not-so-remote) destinations, visit funky diners and meet native Floridians, all while in search of those kitsch-cool attractions and events.



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Cedar Key Arts Center is taking applications for the 2013 festival through December, 2012.

Artists: Apply Now for the Cedar Key Arts Festival in April

by Gary McKechnie
December 10, 2012
If you’re a fan of Cedar Key, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most popular small towns in Florida. And if you’re an artist, your should know that the 49th... Read blog »

The slow boat to Fort George Island

Take Your Car into the St. Johns River -- by Ferry

by Gary McKechnie
December 09, 2012
I know a surefire way to make a good road trip a great road trip. A ferryboat. There aren’t many in Florida, but they're incredibly helpful in shaving off miles and many,... Read blog »

Opened in 1932, Angel's Diner has lasted to be Florida's oldest diner eatery.

Have a Historic Meal at Angel's Diner in Palatka

by Gary McKechnie
December 08, 2012
If you know Florida pretty well, when someone mentions Palatka the conversation usually shifts to Angel’s Diner. Folks in Palatka (about 30 miles southwest of St. Augustine) are used to hearing... Read blog »
Related Tags: Driving Tours, Dining, Palatka

What do you do with used vegetable oil? Ripple Effects uses it to power a powerboat!

St. Augustine's Ripple Effects Eco Tours Has the Power of Vegetable Oil

by Gary McKechnie
December 07, 2012
There are two reasons why I’m happy to write this blog. The first is that any time you can get off the beaten path is a good time; especially when it’s... Read blog »

A life-sized manatee and her calf are a focal point at the new Marvelous Manatee exhibit.

'Marvelous Manatees' Exhibit Opens at Sanibel's J.N. 'Ding' Darling Refuge

by Gary McKechnie
December 06, 2012
A few weeks ago I visited one of my favorite Florida places –  the twin islands of Sanibel and Captiva, off the coast of Fort Myers. I was there for the opening... Read blog »

A chasmosaurus: A dinosaur you'll see for half price when you bring a gift to Dinosaur World on Dec. 9

Bring a Holiday Gift for Half-Off Your Admission to Dinosaur World

by Gary McKechnie
December 05, 2012
This Sunday, Dec. 9, if you donate a toy you’ll receive half-off on your admission to Dinosaur World in Plant City. The toy needs to be new and in its package,... Read blog »
Related Tags: Family, Parks, Plant City, Adventure

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