Inventing the Florida Vacation: Midcentury Tourism in the Sunshine State via Zoom

Florida has always attracted vacationers, but in the 20th century, tourism exploded as places like Weeki Wachee Springs and Busch Gardens opened. Join pop culture historian Leslie Goddard to explore the rich history of Florida tourism from the 1940s up to 1971. We'll explore the amusing and quirky attractions that helped the sunshine state become America's favorite vacation destination.  From waterskiers at Cypress Gardens to the alligators at Gatorland, these tourist diversions amazed and enchanted vacationers in midcentury Florida. 

This program is co-sponsored by Southold Free Library and North Shore Public Library.