When in Florida: A traveler's guide

For today's blog, Los Angeles-based travel blogger Ahmed Nashaat sets his sights on the opposite side of the country and looks at some of the best places to visit in the Sunshine State.

The Old Post Office is a two-story building in Fernandina Beach, Florida, built with bricks from South Carolina in 1883. It is the third post office constructed on this site and was called the U.S. Custom House and Post Office when it opened its doors in 1917 until 1969, when it closed because of lack of use. This Post Office was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1974 and has been restored to its original beauty. It is still available for rent for weddings or small events.

The Amelia Island Lighthouse is a historic site, one of the best places to visit in Florida because there are over 600 along the coast. The first lighthouse on the island was established in 1828 but was damaged by a hurricane. A new lighthouse was built in 1859, which had its light tended until the 1870s when it became automated and unmanned.

Gatorland is an iconic part of Florida and one of the most visited attractions in the state. It is a 100-acre theme park and wildlife preserve that has been around for over 50 years. The air-conditioned shows are among the best places to visit in Florida and include up-close encounters with trained alligators.

Ahmed Nashaat of Los Angeles notes that the Kennedy Space Center is one of the best places to visit in Florida. It offers self-guided tours for visitors and even includes an IMAX theater that screens films in space. The Astronaut Hall of Fame is likewise located within the park boundaries, which features exhibits about each astronaut's career history.