It’s always enjoyable when I keep my travel bug well fed. Thankfully, from Tennessee to Central Florida… there’s no shortage of possibilities fit for exploring.

1. Devil’s Den

Located in Williston, Florida, this prehistoric spring attracts many explorers. Looking at it from up top, it looks like a black hole in the earth. Walk down the stairs and find the stunning underwater cave. The water stays around 72 degrees year around, making it perfect for scuba divers summer and winter. They will provide snorkeling gear (breathing mask and flippers) for $30.

2. Blue Cove Hideaway

Visit the rock quarry in the boondocks near Athens, Tennessee. The family whom owns the property, opened it to the public and now charges a $5 fee. Get out of the summer heat to spend a day filled with cliff jumping, swimming, homemade zip lining, and rope swinging.

3. Blue Spring State Park

Start by walking under the treetops and over the bridges, take a look around at your surroundings. Alligators will be across the river and a variety of birds will be flying around. Visit the manatees during the months of November through March. Want to get a closer look? They offer kayaks, canoes, and river cruises.

4. Dick's Creek Falls

This Dahlonega, Georgia destination is combined with hiking, waterfalls, and scenic beauty. Sliding down the slippery rocks, jumping into underwater holes, and swimming are just a few things you can do here. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts!

5. Shell Island

Shell Island is a seven mile stretch of land in between the Gulf of Mexico and Panama City beach, Florida. Everyone in the group can have their own personal adventure. Take a boat and go fishing! Panama City beach has some of the best fishing along the entire Gulf Coast. Another option would be experiencing snorkeling the right way... Rockfish, hogfish, hermit crabs, baby seahorses, and more! Wondering what the name is all about? Sand dollars, moon snails, conch shells, pin shells, periwinkles, whelk and olive shells are just a few to name. The island is full of nature and it is enforced that you leave it the way you found it.