A Local’s Guide to Florida’s Extraordinary + Quirky Treasures (Things to Do. Where to Eat/Stay/Shop. Events to Attend) Circa 2011. The kitschier the better!
Support Small Publishers by visiting our website, subscribing to our newsletter, & using BING as your default search engine. Authentic Florida is devoted to putting a spotlight on unique, fun, and affordable Florida-based experiences (old and new) from a locals' point of view. We shun most chains (unless they were birthed in Florida) and look for interesting mom-and-pop establishments, things to d
o, places to visit, eat, shop, stay, and any remaining roadside attractions. With easy planning and a moderate budget, we provide an uncomplicated journey that hopefully will enhance a genuine appreciation of the Sunshine State and inspire others to explore more of what Florida offers its residents and visitors alike. Our goal is to provide a road map for creating lifelong memories. Be sure to sign up for our free weekly e-newsletter at AuthenticFlorida.com. Also, socialize with us on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok and Pinterest. AuthenticFlorida.com was established in 2011.
08/13/2025
Happy from Authentic Florida! 🏴☠️🎢🎨🐬🏈
Today we’re raising a cup of Cuban coffee to all the gems in the 813 — Tampa, Plant City, & beyond!
Whether it’s a walk in historic Ybor City or watching manatees in Apollo Beach, it’s always a good day in the 813.
Authentic Floridians Rock
08/13/2025
Spotted on the Beachline Expressway (SR-528) today. 😳 Not quite sure what it was 👉 it was too dangerous to try to capture a front view. But it was definitely eye catching!
Tonight, we attended a screening of 'The Donn of Tiki' at in Maitland. It's a captivating documentary about tiki legend Donn Beach. The filmmakers did a Q&A! 🎥✨
See comments for a link to our Florida Tiki Culture Guide.
08/09/2025
Saturday mood: Chasing waterfalls at Rainbow Springs. 🌈💦
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Authentic Florida is an award-winning website that celebrates the Sunshine State’s unique (and sometimes kitschy) treasures. We share recipes using "fresh from Florida" products while covering charming Florida towns/communities, restaurants, places to stay, events, artists as well as fun Florida finds/products (old and new). Our eyes are always scouting one-of-a-kind mom and pop establishments and we love to recommend great getaways around the state.
Whether you live here or vacation here, we hope you will become a part of our #AuthenticFloridian family.
With easy planning and a moderate budget, our readers will take an uncomplicated journey that enhances their genuine appreciation of the Sunshine State and hopefully inspires them to explore more of what Florida offers its residents and visitors alike.
Native Floridian Robin Draper started AuthenticFlorida.com in 2011 to share Florida in its simplest form – one that has always been there, yet is often forgotten. She wanted her readers to witness "real" Florida through travel stories, pictures and video. Whether kayaking through the mangrove tunnels', discovering uninhabited islands, walking beaches for prehistoric shark's teeth or hiking lesser known State Parks and trails, her goal was to share lots of tips and ideas for your next adventure.
Fast forward to 2018 ... Melanie Lentz-Janney, who moved to Central Florida in the mid-1970's, took over Authentic Florida Media (AuthenticFlorida.com) as its Owner/Chief Experience Officer. Melanie is very passionate about Florida and gravitates to all things Florida Kitsch in addition to the simple and delightful pleasures Robin so eloquently shared. Melanie has been a marketing/public relations professional for 25+ years as well as an award-winning documentary filmmaker. She has ambitious ideas for AuthenticFlorida.com and is thrilled to be able to use her skill set and passion to enhance the Authentic Florida brand.
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If you want to get get more involved in recommending great treasures around the state, be sure to join our private Facebook Group: Authentic Floridians Rock.
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Thank you and may all your days be authentic ones!