Hair By Leyda Hernandez

Where's the beef? It's at the Florida State Fair, held annually at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa. You'll be attending the official state fair where the Sunshine State shows off its agricultural might. For 11 days, there's a corral full of indoor and outdoor exhibits, rides, craft shows, musical acts and wild foods like chocolate-covered bacon to taste. You won't want to miss this experience.

Want to see a sea cow? Head over to the Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Center. Stand on the observation platform to see hundreds of manatees swimming below, each weighing about 2000 pounds and measuring up to12 feet long. Afterwards, stroll down the 900 foot Tidal Walkway Nature Trail to see vibrant birds and animal life in their natural habitat.

Rent a canoe from Canoe Escape, located minutes from downtown Tampa. Take the whole family on a paddling adventure on the Hillsborough River that surrounds a 16,000 acre wildlife preserve. Pack a lunch and bring your camera to capture pictures of the alligators, snakes, turtles and birds you'll see on your adventure.

Dazzle your sweetheart on a sunset cruise aboard Tampa's Yacht Star Ship. Enjoy dinning selections from the executive chef's menu of award winning, four-star cuisine. After your meal, sip on fine wines or bar classics while dancing to the sounds of romantic music on the lounge deck underneath a blanket of stars.