Orlando
is a great city. I don't think another city has as much family fun. The
Disney, Sea World and Universal theme parks are the anchor tenets.
These parks attract visitors by the thousands each and every day of the
year. Every time I pull into the parking lot of a theme park I am
amazed by the line of cars is waiting to get in each and every day. I
can't help it, I start adding up the parking fees and start thinking
just one day in parking fees and I could be set for the entire year.
The excitement of Orland is unmatched. High tech rides use all of your
senses to deliver the ultimate experience. Aliening fighting in the Men
in Black ride and the villain fighting Spiderman ride are great
examples that put you into the action and leave you wanting more. I
love the theme parks. But after a day of high intensity fun, the kids
can start to fall apart. It can become sensory overload and sometimes
the way their systems deal with it is a total and complete melt down.
We have all been there. Every time I see it I always say silent prayer
for the momma and the child. It is tough. A great way to side step the
melt down is a yin and yang plan; up time and down time, a little crazy
mixed with a little calm. Calm in Orlando? Yep it is not hard to find.
Here are some of my favorite low cost, high fun options that allow you
and the kids the opportunity to unwind and relax.
Lowes Royal Pacific Hotel Kick back and relax
in a tropical paradise at the exotic Loews Royal Pacific Resort at
Universal Orlando®. From the breathtaking beauty of the lush
tropical landscaping and sparkling waterfalls to the serene tranquility
of the orchid court where flowers are always in bloom, you'll be
transported to the enchanted isles of the South Seas. Find a spot at
the tropical lagoon-style pool, kick off your shoes and forget about
the rest of the world at the Loews Royal Pacific. For the Florida
Resident Rate follow the link below. http://www.universalorlando.com/hd_florida_hotels.html
The Pool @ The Royal Pacific
Universal Studios Adventure Parks
Universal Orlando® Resort This is more than a theme park. It's an entire
universe of action and thrills featuring TWO spectacular theme parks
unlike anything else in Orlando. At both Universal Studios and Islands
of Adventure every member of the family can share unforgettable
experiences together. You can have the ultimate adventure, enjoy fun
with your kids, rejuvenate yourself, have a romantic dinner, challenge
yourself on incredible theme park rides, and relax by the pool in a
beautiful Florida setting. For the Florida Resident special follow the
link below. http://www.universalorlando.com/hd_florida_index.html
Orlando Science Center Loved it! Escape the crowds
and wander around this 6-story science center. Have you ever thought
about a visit to Jupiter, or how about a trip back in time? Want to pet
a reptile or stare face to face at a dinosaur? At the Orlando Science
Center, your imagination and curiosity are your keys to unlocking
worlds you've only imagined. Each day at the Science Center is a full
day of exploration and discovery. Admission $17 adults/ $12 Kids. Use
your MOSI pass to get in free. http://www.osc.org/Index.aspx **
Across the street from the science center is a 400-year-old oak
tree that was alive when the declaration of Independence was signed.
Great Tree!
Orlando Science Center
Wekiwa Springs State Park
Wekiwa Springs State Park Located at the
headwaters of the Wekiwa River, the beautiful vistas within this park
offer a glimpse of what Central Florida looked like when Timucuan
Indians fished and hunted these lands. Just one hour from most central
Florida attractions, Wekiwa Springs offers visitors the opportunity to
relax in a natural setting, enjoy a picnic, or take a swim in the cool
spring. Canoeists and kayakers can paddle along the Wekiva River and
Rock Springs Run. Thirteen miles of trails provide opportunities for
hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding. Options for camping include a
full facility campground and primitive camping areas. Canoe and kayak
rentals are available. For information about rentals, call (407) 884
4311. http://www.floridastateparks.org/WekiwaSprings/