Florida's South Central Gulf Region is a Tropical Paradise Brimming with History

Florida, best known for its crystal clear waters, sandy beaches and year-round summer weather has a culture all its own. The South Central Gulf Region is probably one of the most well known of all, including such cities as Naples, St. Petersburg, Tampa, Sarasota and Fort Myers. Florida's South Central Gulf Coast can really say that it tops the industry in fishing, aerospace, agriculture and tourism. It even boasts its own NFL sports team - the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The region also holds some of America's greatest history, having been a winter host to such great figures as Thomas Edison, the inventor of the light bulb and Henry Ford the founder of Ford Motor Company, who revolutionized the transportation industry in the early 20th century.  
   
The city of Fort Myers has a reputation all its own. Fort Myers became the first nationally known winter resort in 1898 with the building of the Royal Palm Hotel. Fort Meyers also features a variety of institutions of higher education, such as Edison University, Hodges University and Florida Gulf Coast University, among others. So, choices in premium education are always in reach. One great site you don't want to miss in Fort Myers is the Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium, settled on 105 unspoiled acres of land in the South Central Gulf Coast. Calusa incorporates up-close and personal animal exhibits, along with guided hikes through its numerous nature trails, making it a regular go-to destination for outdoors enthusiasts year round.
   
In the center of the South Central Gulf lies the city of Tampa, a city filled with post-modern architecture most commonly demonstrated in its metropolitan high rises and corporate downtown areas. Tampa has some of the most interesting museums in the South Gulf Coast as well, including; The Tampa Bay History Center, the Tampa Children's Museum, and the Tampa Museum of Art. This big city has over 28 public libraries for literature buffs. Tampa is also the home to the MacDill Air Force base, which frequently holds air shows and other like events. Residents can relax knowing Tampa is recognized for having some of the best-rated hospitals in the nation numbering more than 20 throughout the city.
   
Another key location within the Central Gulf Coast is Naples. The self proclaimed “Golf Capital of the World” having more than 80 championship golf courses, it has well earned the title. Its name was adapted from the saying that it surpasses the Naples bay in Italy. Naples has a vast choice of pristine beaches including, Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, Clam Pass Beach Park, and Vanderbilt Beach just to name a few. Don't forget to check out the Naples pier, which stretches 350ft from shore. Residents of Naples are awarded free parking for life, just one added perk to being part of the elegant city.
   
So, whether you are in the South Center Gulf Coast for an enriching historical experience or planning to call it home, there is always something interesting to do. Even exploring the “waterfront wonderland”, Cape Coral, the city with the most canals in the world, can shed light on the region's natural beauty. Nonetheless visiting one or all of the small islands that are located just off shore will give you a glimpse of the coast's radiant appeal and lavish tropical living at its finest. So next time you are planning a memorable vacation or winter getaway, don't let the South Central Gulf Coast of Florida miss your eye. The tropical paradise of the Southern United States, enjoy all it has to offer anytime of the year. Remember, with winter temperatures rarely falling below 65 degrees, its summertime all the time when you are in the South Central Gulf Coast.