The Number 1 ‘City-Like Town’ in the United States Is Right Here In Florida

Sometimes you want that city feel, but in a smaller town. Fort Myers is kind of like that. As is Naples. Florida actually has lots of these hidden gems, which offer the amenities of a city but with a smaller town vibe. Now, one Florida town has been named the best "city-like town" in America.

The study comes from TheTravel.com. In it, they explain, "Living in a big city means having access to all the luxuries, but it also means having to deal with a hectic lifestyle and constant bustle. Everyone in metro cities seeks a quiet town retreat to escape the grind of modern life, and the United States is brimming with these small towns." They add that, "While some small towns exhibit a rustic charm, many have amenities comparable to those available in larger cities but offer a tranquil atmosphere and recreation."

If you're wondering about the No. 2 pick, that goes to Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Gatlinburg, according to the story, is a "a popular entryway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and offers travelers the chance to take advantage of hiking trails and endurance-testing adventure activities."

St. Augustine. Of the city, TheTravel.com says, "St. Augustine, the oldest town in the U.S., is brimming with Spanish colonial landmarks, like Castillo de San Marcos, and pristine beaches, such as Vilano Beach. While strolling the streets allows visitors to admire the town's Moorish Revival-style architecture, heritage buildings such as the Alcazar Hotel and Casa Monica Resort & Spa offer luxurious staycations paired with fine, decorative art." They add that the best time to visit is from March to May. Find the full list of the best city-like towns in America, go here.

Florida Endangered Species List Is Now Up To 39 Species

Everglades National Park is home to a number of threatened and endangered plant and animal species. Some of the best known of these are the Florida Panther, American Crocodile, American Alligator, West Indian Manatee, Wood Stork, and Snail Kite.

Florida now lists 39 species as endangered or threatened.  Most of the species might be found in Everglades National Park.  These species are all listed under the Endangered Species Act of 1973.  These species include 8 plants, 6 invertebrates, 3 fish, 9 reptiles, 10 birds and 3 mammals.

The plants, not pictured here, include Blodgett's silverbush, Pineland sandmat, Garber's sandmat, Cape Sable thoroughwort, Florida prairieclover, Twospike crabgrass, Everglades bully, and the Florida bristle fern.