Herlong Mansion Bed and Breakfast
Are you a Halloween loving baby boomer? If you’re traveling through Florida this weekend, try these trick or treating ideas.
The skeleton dangling near the front gate won’t be enough to scare you away from Herlong Mansion in Micanopy. Giant pumpkins guard the large veranda of this historic bed and breakfast located in Florida’s second oldest inland town. Be sure to say hello to Dracula and Frankenstein who hang out in the front hall.
The Herlong Mansion makes a convenient headquarters for a night on the town in Gainesville. A short drive will take you to a mediterranean dinner at Ti Amo! Restaurant before settling into your seat at Hippodrome State Theatre. Try not to scream too loud during the spooky play, Woman in Black. But, here’s a warning, I almost jumped out of my seat.
Dracula greets Herlong guests
Florida zoos will be celebrating too. Take the grandkids to Spooktacular at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens where jack-o-lanterns light the paths to special animal exhibits, candy stations, an Enchanted Forest and a Pirates Cove.
On Florida’s west coast, Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo will show children and adults a spooky good time at ZooBoo where activities are rated by scariness. From the Little Tykes Boo House, rated one skull, all the way to Sinister Shadows, a seven on the scary skull scale, the zoo promises visitors a fun night.
If you’re looking for more grown-up entertainment, try the Florida Aquarium’s fundraiser in Tampa. The sharks, sea turtles and stingrays will be hosting Nauti-Night Costume Party for those of us over 21. Start planning your attire because the best costume wins $2,500.
Will you be in the Florida area during Halloween weekend? How will you be celebrating? Or, for those of you in other parts of the country, what activities does your community host? Post a comment to tell me about it. Even baby boomers like to trick or treat.
