Category: Florida

Totally Awesome Guide to Legoland Florida Rides

Post author By Elle MacRae
Post date April 20, 2024
No Comments on Totally Awesome Guide to Legoland Florida Rides

Legoland Florida is one of the best theme parks for little kids and big kids to visit. There is so much to see and do at the park including thrill rides, chill rides, character meet and greets, and spectacular shows. It is one of my kiddos favorite theme parks in Florida.

Let’s dive in and take a look at all of the totally awesome Legoland Florida rides! The Legoland Florida theme park has ten sections each with its own unique Lego theme.

In this post, the rides are organized by thematic section.

Legoland Florida Rides by Section

Fun Town

Fun Town is where you’ll find the first attractions. A two-level carousel called Grand Carousel and the Wells Fargo Fun Town Theater which features 4D films.

Grand Carousel

Grand Carousel is a double decker slow moving carousel ride that your kids will absolutely love. The ride is outfitted with animal statues and benches. The second floor tends to fill up pretty quickly.

Pro-Tip: Save the carousel for last! Head to the back of the park, instead, to take advantage of shorter lines. Many visitors are tempted to hit up the carousel first thing since it is the first ride in the park.

Ride Requirements: Riders below 48″ must be accompanied by an adult or a responsible person 14 years or older.

Heartlake City

Heartlake City opened in 2015 and centers around the Lego Friends series. It has 1 ride- Mia’s Riding Adventure, a theater, and a heart-shaped fountain with Lego brick instruments.

Mia's Riding Adventure

If your little one is a thrill seeker, you won’t want to miss this one! Saddle up and join Mia for a riding adventure! On this spinning ride, you’ll travel forward and backward on a circular platform that sits on a U-shaped track.

Ride Requirements: Riders must be 48″ or higher.

Duplo Valley

This area was designed with toddlers in mind. It hosts two rides Duplo Train, and Duplo Tractor, an air-conditioned playground called Duplo Farm, an outdoor playground, and a toddler splash pad.

Duplo Train

A slow moving train coasts along gentle bends on this toddler friendly ride.

Ride Requirements: Riders below 34″ must be accompanied by an adult.

Duplo Tractor

Cruise around the Duplo farm in this slow moving tractor ride. The tractor moves along a track going around smooth turns.

This was one of the first Legoland Florida rides that our family enjoyed together. The boys are obsessed with vehicles these days so it was perfect for them!

Ride Requirements: Riders below 42″ must be accompanied by an adult or a responsible person 14 years or older.

Lego Kingdoms

Journey back into medieval times at Lego Kingdoms. The Dragon is a remodeled roller coaster from the park’s Cypress Garden days. Here, you’ll also find a toddler friendly ride called The Royal Joust, a small circular rollercoaster called Merlin’s Challenge, and a playground known as The Forestmen’s Hideout.

This was our family’s favorite of all the Legoland Florida rides!

The Dragon

This super awesome (and totally hilarious) indoor/outdoor roller coaster offers a look into the life within the enchanted Legoland castle.

The Royal Joust

This ride is perfect for little ones. Mount a Lego horse and travel across medieval Legoland.

Merlin's Challenge

This was our family’s favorite Legoland Florida ride! Climb aboard a Lego train and cruise around this fast, spinning circular rollercoaster.

Land of Adventure

You’ll find a treasure chest of fun in this Ancient Egyptian themed section. Don’t miss Beetle Bounce, Coastersaurus, Lost Kingdom Adventure, Safari Trek, and Pharaoh’s Revenge- a super fun playground.

Beetle Bounce

The line for the Legoland Florida ride moves super fast! The Beetle Bounce takes riders on a bouncy flight on an obelisk. Riders are lifted 15-feet into the air and dropped quickly down. Our oldest (7) and our youngest (4) loved this ride!

Coastersaurus

Travel through a prehistoric jungle filled with life-sized lego dinosaurs on this classic Legoland Florida ride. This junior coaster is perfect for kids that aren’t quite tall enough or old enough for the more intense thrill rides.

Since the coaster is designed for young riders, grown-ups might find the carts a little cramped.

Lost Kingdom Adventure

This is another one of our favorite Legoland Florida rides! Riders travel back to ancient Egypt in search for treasure on this dark, indoor ride. As you’re coasting through Egypt, you’re equipped with a laser blaster for protection. Shoot at targets to see how many points you can acquire!

Safari Trek

Board a slow moving off-road vehicle and travel through the African plains. See if you can spot giraffes, elephants, lions, and more!

The Lego Movie World

This section is centered around The Lego Movie. There are three main attractions here including Masters of Flight, a flying theater attraction, Unikitty’s Discodrop, and Battle of Bricksburg a super wet family-fun ride.

Masters of Flight

Climb aboard Emmet’s Triple Decker Couch and magically get transported into the LEGO MOVIE Universe. You’ll soar to Cloud Cuckoo Land, MIddle Zealand, Pirate’s Cove, and more in this flying theatre. Be prepared to experience mist, wind and smells on this super fun Legoland Florida ride!

Unikitty's Discodrop

This ride is very similar to Beetle Bounce. Riders are taken on a bouncy flight that spins around in circles as it bounces you up and down.

Battle of Bricksburg

You’re almost guaranteed to get wet on this family-fun water ride! Hope on our boat and coast around the town of Bricksburg defending it against evil Duplo alien invaders.

Lego City

Cruise into the heart of Lego City for trunk loads of fun! Kids can act like grown-ups and drive almost every vehicle imaginable! Here you’ll find Ford Driving School, Ford Jr. Driving School, Flying School, Boating School, and Rescue Academy.

Ford Driving School

Kids 6-13 climb into cars for this “real-life” driving experience. After navigating around the other absolutely insane drivers, kids receive their official LEGOLAND driver’s license.

Ford Jr. Driving School

This scaled down version of the driving school is for kids 3-5. They get to cruise around a smaller, less chaotic road course. At the end of their driving test, they will receive their very own driver’s license.

Flying School

This ride is perfect for thrill seekers! Take flight and soar on this iconic Legoland Florida ride. You’ll twist, turn, and glide through the air on a steel coaster.

Boating School

This is the quintessential Legoland Florida ride! Visitors get to captain their very own speedboat. Using the gas pedal and steering wheel, you’ll be in total control of our boat.

Kids love this ride! There are Legoland employees guiding captains so they can safely navigate the water. The rides duration depends on the rider’s control, but it usually lasts between 4 and 7 minutes.

There are several boats, however, so the line moves rather quickly.

Rescue Academy

Ring the alarm! There’s a fire! It is up to your family to rush to the fire, put it out, and make your way back to the station. This ride is very hands on. It requires quite a bit of energy, strength, and teamwork to make the firetruck move. This was our family’s least favorite Legoland Florida ride.

Lego Technic

In this section you’ll find Technicycle, a pedal-powered spinning machine that propels you into the air, The Great Lego Race coaster, and AQUAZONE Wave Racers.

Technicycle

The faster you peddle, the higher your paraglider will travel on this wild and crazy peddle-powered spinning machine.

The Great Lego Race

Lego masters! Start your engines! The Great Lego Race puts riders in the center of an action-filled road race on this super thrilling rollercoaster.

AQUAZONE Wave Racers

It wouldn’t be a Legoland Florida ride without a bit of water! Cruise over the water in your own water craft! As soon as the racers start moving, you have the ability to control your Wave Racer. Steering the wave racer can help you avoid blasts of water- otherwise, prepare to get wet!

Pro-Tip: There are two different platforms on the Aquazone Wave Ravers, so the line moves faster than you may think.

Imagination Zone

This zone features 2 spaces where kids can get creative! At Build & Test kids can build race cars and zip lines, and Lego Mindstorms is an exhibit where they can build robots. At WB Games Zone kids can play video games. There is one ride, Kid Power Towers, where guests hoist themselves to the top and free-fall to the bottom.

Kid Power Towers

On this unique ride, passengers hoist themselves to the top of a Lego tower for sweeping views of Lake Eloise and the entire park.

Checking Out the Legoland Florida Rides

Many people think Legoland Florida is in Orlando however, it is actually in the town of Winter Haven just southwest of Orlando. It’s about 36 miles, or an hour away from Disney World.

Address: 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven, FL 33884

If you’re driving, Legoland Florida is easily accessible via I-4 (via Orlando or I-75 (via Tampa).

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure!

For future reference, be sure to save our post “Totally Awesome Guide to Legoland Florida Rides”! Pin one of the images below to Pinterest. Go ahead and follow 5 Suitcases on Pinterest while you’re at it!

Be sure to also check out our Legoland Secrets and our review of the Legoland Hotel.

Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Instagram for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

Tags FLORIDA, LEGOLAND, THEME PARK, UNITED STATES, USA

Florida Jacksonville National Parks, Monuments, and Seashores United States

Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve: 6,000 Years of Human History

Post author By Elle MacRae
Post date February 24, 2024
No Comments on Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve: 6,000 Years of Human History

A restored slave cabin at Kingsley Plantation

We are extremely fortunate to have a National Park right in our backyard! Just down the road from our house (in Jacksonville, Florida) is the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve.

Located in the northeast corner of Florida, Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty and rich history of the area. With over 46,000 acres of wetlands, waterways, and forests, the preserve is home to an incredible variety of plant and animal life.

In addition to the natural wonders, the preserve also boasts a rich human history, with numerous archaeological sites and structures dating back thousands of years. Visitors can explore the remains of pre-Columbian villages, colonial-era forts, and more recent structures like the Kingsley Plantation.

Whether you’re looking to hike scenic trails, paddle through pristine waterways, or dive into history, Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve has something for everyone. With its unique blend of natural and cultural offerings, this hidden gem is a must-visit destination for any Florida adventurer.

Highlights of the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve

Kingsley Plantation

Kingsley Plantation is a historic estate located in Jacksonville, Florida. It was owned by Zephaniah Kingsley, a wealthy plantation owner, in the 18th century. The property offers guided tours of the slave quarters, plantation house, and other historical buildings. It’s a great spot for a picnic or nature walk, surrounded by beautiful scenery and wildlife. A visit to Kingsley Plantation is a fascinating and educational experience for history lovers.

Fort Caroline

Fort Caroline was originally established by French Huguenot colonists in 1564, but the settlement was short-lived and was later destroyed by the Spanish. Today, Fort Caroline is remembered as an important part of Florida’s history and is a popular destination for visitors from all over the world. From its beautiful location on the banks of the St. Johns River to its rich cultural heritage, Fort Caroline is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Florida’s past.

It’s an excellent spot for hiking and learning about the early colonists.

American Beach

During the dark days of racial segregation, African Americans were not allowed to visit most of Florida’s beaches. American Beach was founded in 1935 to provide African Americans with beach access.

Theodore Roosevelt Area

The Theodore Roosevelt Area is a 600+ acre area covered with hardwood forest, wetlands, and scrub vegetation.

Visitors can enjoy miles of wooded nature trails, ancient piles of oyster mounds, and scenic views.

Cedar Point

Cedar Point is a 400-acre ecological and historic preserve located on the southern tip of Black Hammock Island. The park encompasses thousands of years of human history. It is a popular spot for boaters, kayakers, paddleboarders, and hiking.

Things to Know Before Visiting Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve

The Best Time to Visit Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve

The best time to visit is in the winter or spring when the weather is cooler and the bugs aren’t nearly as bad.

Entrance Fees

There is no fee to enjoy this park.

Cell Service

We had great cell service during our visit to the park.

Pet Policy

Pets are allowed on all trails and outside areas however, they are not permitted indoors.

Distance from Nearby Cities

Orlando, FL – 145 miles
Tampa, FL – 225 miles
Miami, FL – 355 miles
Atlanta, GA – 360 miles
Charlotte, NC – 390 miles
Birmingham, AL – 505 miles

Distance from Nearby National Parks

Everglades National Park – 390 miles
Congaree National Park – 285 miles
Great Smoky Mountains National Park – 475 miles
Biscayne National Park – 395 miles
Dry Tortugas National Park – 520 miles

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure

Save our Pin The Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve to help you plan your trip. While you’re in Jacksonville, we suggest visiting nearby Jacksonville Zoo, Blackrock Beach, Little Talbot Island, and the Museum of Science and History. You should also check out The Ultimate 3-Day Jacksonville Itinerary or if you want to visit beyond the city, take a peep at Planning an Awesome North Florida Vacation.

Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Instagram for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

Post Updated: 3/20/2024

Tags FLORIDA, JACKSONVILLE, NATIONAL PARK, UNITED STATES, USA

Florida National Parks, Monuments, and Seashores St. Augustine United States

Fort Matanzas: A Local’s Guide

Post author By Elle MacRae
Post date June 24, 2023
No Comments on Fort Matanzas: A Local’s Guide

Fort Matanzas is a Spanish fort located on an island in the Matanzas Inlet, southeast of St. Augustine, Florida. Fort Matanzas is an impressive reminder of a major chapter in America’s early history. The National Monument tells the story of St. Augustine’s diverse history, and its impact on the development of the United States. The fort was built to protect the southern approach to St. Augustine from attacks by the British. Fort Matanzas was part of a larger defensive system that included the Castillo de San Marcos, Fort Mose, and the city of St. Augustine.

In 1742, construction of the fort began. It was completed in 1743 and was armed with 24 guns. The fort was never attacked and it was eventually abandoned in 1821. The fort was restored in 1924 and is now a National Monument.

At Fort Matanzas, visitors can explore the grounds, look at artifacts from the fort and learn about its history from the Ranger-led talks. The fort offers an audio tour and some self-guided tours. There is also a museum and bookstore at the Visitor Center.

Visitors should be aware that the site is an active wildlife habitat, and some areas may be closed for conservation purposes. In addition, the fort is only open during daylight hours, so visitors are encouraged to plan their visits accordingly.

Those visiting Fort Matanzas should also plan to bring a camera and wear appropriate clothing, including good shoes and a hat. The fort is located on an island, so the weather can be unpredictable and temperatures may drop or rise significantly in a short period of time.

For visitors looking to make the most of their visit to Fort Matanzas, the site offers a wide range of opportunities for learning and exploration. Seeing the fort and its natural environment, visitors can connect to the history of the area while also learning more about the importance of conservation and stewardship

If you are planning to visit Fort Matanzas, here is everything you need to know!

A Brief History of Fort Matanzas

Fort Matanzas is a Spanish fort located on an island in the Matanzas Inlet, southeast of St. Augustine, Florida. The fort was built by Spanish colonialists between 1740-1742 to protect the southern approaches to St. Augustine from attack by the British. The fort was part of a larger defensive system that also included the Castillo de San Marcos, Fort Mose, and the city of St. Augustine.

The fort was made of coquina, and was armed with 24 guns. It was never attacked, and eventually it was abandoned in 1821. The fort was restored in 1924 and is now a National Monument.

Fort Matanzas played an important part in the history of the American Southeast. The fort served as a reminder of the Spanish presence in the area and was a symbol of the Spanish mission to protect their territory from attack. Fort Matanzas was one of the most important Spanish forts in the New World, and it stands today as a reminder of the importance of Spanish influence in the area.

In 1763, the Treaty of Paris granted Florida to the British. The fort quickly lost its strategic value, and was eventually abandoned. In 1922, the fort was declared a national monument and began to be restored. In 1924, it became part of the National Park Service.

Today, visitors to the fort can take a guided tour, view the architecture and artifacts, and explore the grounds. The fort gives visitors insight into the past, and the evolution of the region.

Fort Matanzas is an important reminder of the history and culture of St. Augustine and its people. Its story is one that shaped the history of America and shaped its people. The National Monument is a great way to explore a critical part of America’s past that is often overlooked.

Visiting Fort Matanzas

Fort Matanzas is open to the public and is free to visit. Visitors can access the fort by taking the free ferry from the Visitor Center located across the Matanzas Inlet. The ferry is available from 9am – 5pm daily.

The fort also offers a variety of programs, events, and activities throughout the year. These events include nature walks, guided tours, and special events related to the history of the fort. Visitors can also take part in Fort Matanzas’s Junior Ranger Program and Junior Archaeologist Program.

Things to do Nearby

While visiting Fort Matanzas, there are plenty of activities and attractions nearby that visitors can enjoy.

The St. Augustine Lighthouse is a nearby favorite. The lighthouse is a restored 19th century tower that offers beautiful views of the historic city. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the tower, explore the grounds and museum, or take part in a solar eclipse viewing event or evening ghost tour.

The Castillo de San Marcos is another popular attraction located close to Fort Matanzas. The fort is a restored 17th century site that is one of the oldest and most impressive Spanish forts in the United States. Visitors can tour the fort and learn about its history, including facts and stories about the Spanish occupation of St. Augustine.

The Anastasia State Park is another great spot to explore and take in the local wildlife. The park offers a variety of activities, including fishing, swimming, and boating. Visitors can also take a walk along the beach to take in the views, or enjoy bird watching, nature trails, and a campground.

Other popular activities near Fort Matanzas include kayaking and paddle-boarding on Matanzas Bay, visiting St. Augustine’s historical sites like the Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum and Flagler College, or trying different restaurants or shops in nearby St. Augustine.

Fort Matanzas is an incredibly important part of St. Augustine, as well as American history. The fort was built to protect he city and its people during the colonial period. It’s incredible that it still stands today, and visitors can get a sense of what life was like in the past.

Whether you are an experienced traveler or just looking to explore Fort Matanzas with the family, it’s a must-see. Its fort walls, artifacts, and grounds provide a powerful portrait of St. Augustine’s past. Beyond the fort, there are numerous other attractions in the area to explore and experience. You won’t regret spending the day visiting Fort Matanzas.

Things to Know Before Visiting Fort Matanzas National Monument

The Best Time to Visit Fort Matanzas National Monument

The best time to visit is in the winter or spring when the weather is cooler and the bugs aren’t nearly as bad.

Entrance Fees

There is no fee to enjoy this park.

To catch the free ferry over to the fort, you’ll need to secure a ferry reservation at the Fort Matanzas Visitor Center. Reservations cannot be made in advance.

Cell Service

We had great cell service during our visit to the park.

Parking

Parking for Fort Matanzas is plentiful. It can be found directly in front of the Visitor’s Center.

Pet Policy

Pets are not allowed inside the fort of Fort Matanzas. Pets must be kept on a leash at all times on the outside sections of the park.

Distance from Major Cities

Jacksonville, FL – 60 miles
Orlando, FL – 90 miles
Tampa, FL – 180 miles
Miami, FL – 320 miles
Atlanta, GA – 420 miles
Charlotte, NC – 440 miles
Birmingham, AL – 500 miles

Distance from Nearby National Parks

Everglades National Park – 330 miles
Congaree National Park – 340 miles
Great Smoky Mountains National Park – 520 miles
Biscayne National Park – 520 miles
Dry Tortugas National Park – 460 miles

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure

For future reference, be sure to save our post: Fort Matanzas: A Local’s Guide . Pin one of the images below to Pinterest. Go ahead and follow 5 Suitcases on Pinterest while you’re at it!

Be sure to check out our family-friendly Northeast Florida Itinerary. Consider visiting Castillo de San Marcos, the St. Augustine Pirate Museum, and Anastasia State Park while you’re in the area.

Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Instagram for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

Post Updated: 3/20/2024

Tags FLORIDA, NATIONAL PARK, ST. AUGUSTINE, UNITED STATES, USA

Florida Florida State Parks State Parks United States

Florida State Park Bucket List

Post author By Elle MacRae
Post date May 27, 2023
No Comments on Florida State Park Bucket List

Florida has an impressive 175 State Parks and we’ve compiled them all together to create the Florida State Park Bucket List. Our goal is to visit all of Florida’s State Parks and share our experiences with you.

The parks in bold are ones that we have visited, and the ones that are hyperlinked are ones we have written about in-depth here on 5 Suitcases. The parks are listed in alphabetical order.

Florida State Park Bucket List

Addison Blockhouse Historic State Park
Alafia River State Park
Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park
Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park
Amelia Island State Park
Anastasia State Park
Anclote Key Preserve State Park
Atlantic Ride Preserve State Park
Avalon State Park
Bahia Honda State Park
Bald Point State Park
Baseline Road Trailhead
Beker-South Fork
Beker-Wingate Creek State Park
Big Lagoon State Park
Big Shoals State Park
Big Talbot Island State Park
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
Blackwater Heritage State Trail
Blackwater River State Park

Blue Spring State Park
Buckman Lock- St. Johns Loop North & South
Bulow Creek State Park
Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park
Caladesi Island State Park
Camp Helen State Park
Cayo Costa State Park
Cedar Key Museum State Park
Cedar Key Scrub State Preserve
Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park
Cockroach Bay Preserve State Park
Collier-Seminole State Park

Colt Creek State Park
Constitution Convention Museum State Park
Crystal River Archaeological State Park
Crystal River Preserve State Park
Curry Hammock State Park
Dade Battlefield Historic State Park
Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park
De Leon Springs State Park
Deer Lake State Park
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park
Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park
Don Pedro Island State Park
Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park
Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park
Dudley Farm Historic State Park
Dunnellon Trail

Dunns Creek State Park
Econfina River State Park
Eden Gardens State Park
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
Egmont Key State Park
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
Estero Bay Preserve State Park
Eureka West Recreation Area
Plantation Historic State Park
Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park
Falling Waters State Park
Fanning Springs State Park
Faver-Dykes State Park
Felburn Park
Fernandina Plaza Historic State Park
Florida Caverns State Park
Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail
Forest Capital Museum State Park

Fort Clinch State Park
Fort Cooper State Park
Fort Foster State Historic Site
Fort George Island Cultural State Park
Fort Mose Historic State Park
Fort Pierce Inlet State Park
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park
Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail

Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area at Flagler Beach
Gasparilla Island State Park
General James A. Van Fleet State Trail
George Crady Bridge Fishing Pier State Park
Grayton Beach State Park
Haw Creek Preserve State Park
Henderson Beach State Park
Highlands Hammock State Park
Hillsborough River State Park
Historic Santos Recreation Area
Honeymoon Island State Park
Hontoon Island State Park
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

Ichetucknee Springs State Park
Indian Key Historic State Park
Indian River Lagoon Preserve State Park
Inglis Bypass Recreation Area
Inglis Dam & Island Recreation Area
Inglis Lock Recreation Area
John D. Macarthur Beach State Park
John Gorrie Museum State Park
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Johnathan Dickinson State Park
Judah P. Benjamin Confederate Memorial at Gamble

Kenwood Recreation Area
Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park
Koreshan State Park
Lafayette Blue Springs State Park
Lake Griffin State Park
Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park
Lake June-in-Winter Scrub Preserve State Park
Lake Kissimmee State Park
Lake Louisa State Park
Lake Manatee State Park
Lake Talquin State Park
Landbridge Trailhead
Letchworth-Love Mounds Archaeological State Park
Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park
Little Manatee River State Park
Little Talbot Island State Park

Long Key State Park
Lovers Key State Park
Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park
Madira Bickel Mound State Archaeological Site
Madison Blue Spring State Park
Manatee Springs State Park
Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway
Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park
Marjory Stoneman Douglas House

Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park
Mound Key Archaeological State Park
Myakka River State Park
Natural Bridge Battlefield Historic State Park
Nature Coast State Trail
North Peninsula State Park
O’Leno State Park
Ochlockonee River State Park
Okeechobee Battlefield Historic State Park
Oleta River State Park
Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park
Orman House Historic State Park
Oscar Scherer State Park
Palatka to St. Augustine State Trail
Palatka-to-Lake Butler State Trail
Paynes Creek Historic State Park
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

Perdido Key State Park
Ponce de Leon Springs State Park
Price’s Scrub State Park
Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park
Rainbow Springs State Park
Ravine Gardens State Park
River Rise Preserve State Park
Rock Springs Run State Reserve
Rodman Campground
Rodman Recreation Area
Ross Prairie Trailhead & Campground
Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park

San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park
San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park
San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve State Park
Santos Trailhead & Campground
Savannas Preserve State Park
Seabranch Preserve State Park
Sebastian Inlet State Park
Shangri-la Trailhead & Campground
Silver Springs State Park
Skyway Fishing Pier State Park
St. Andrews State Park
St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park
St. Marks River Preserve State Park
St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park

St. Teresa Tract of Bald Point State Park
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park
Stump Pass Beach State Park
Suwannee River State Park
Suwannee River Wilderness State Trail
T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail
Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park
Terra Ceia Preserve State Park
The Barnacle Historic State Park
Three Rivers State Park
Tomoka State Park
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
Torreya State Park
Troy Spring State Park
Waccasassa Bay Preserve State Park

Washington Oaks Gardens State Park
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Wekiwa Springs State Park
Werne-Boyce Salt Springs State Park
Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park
William J “Billy Joe” Rish Recreation Area
Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park
Withlachoochee Bay Trail
Withlachoochee State Trail
Ybor City Museum State Park
Yellow Bluff Fort Historic State Park

Yellow River Marsh Preserve State Park
Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park

25/75 visited

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure!

Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Instagram and Twitter for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

Tags FLORIDA, STATE PARK, UNITED STATES, USA

Florida Florida State Parks Orange City State Parks United States

How to See Manatees at Blue Spring State Park

Post author By Elle MacRae
Post date April 8, 2023
No Comments on How to See Manatees at Blue Spring State Park

Seeing manatees at Blue Spring State Park is high on many people’s bucket list. If it’s not on yours, it most definitely should be! Seeing manatees at Blue Spring State Park is such an amazing and unique experience. In this post, we’ll give you all of our best tips for making sure you spot these gentle giants during your visit!

6 Tips for Seeing Manatees at Blue Spring State Park

Plan on visiting during the cold months. On cold days, manatees leave the river and head to the springs where the water temperature is warmer. The springs maintain a consistent year-round temperature of 72 degrees.

Consider visiting on a weekday. Even during the winter, the springs get pretty packed. The manatees at Blue Spring State Park are pretty popular! If you visit during the week, it’ll be a lot less crowded, which not only makes getting into the park easier, but it also makes viewing them a little more enjoyable. If you go on a weekend, you might feel rushed.

Check Facebook. Each morning, an employee hops in a kayak and counts how many manatees there are in the spring run. Then, the staff posts the number of the Blue Spring State Park Facebook Page. The number can range anywhere from 0 to hundreds of manatees. At the time of publication, the highest number of manatees counted in the run was 729 on 1/17/23. We visited just 2 days before and saw 625 manatees!

My rule of thumb for this is, if the weather has been cool for a couple of days, it’s a pretty safe bet that there will be several manatees in the run. I check the numbers the day before and plan my trip for the next day.

Get there early. Honestly, if you wait until they post the number of manatees on Facebook, you may end up getting there too late. People drive from all over to get a glimpse of the manatees and the park often reaches capacity by 10:00 (sometimes earlier). Plan on getting to the park close to 8 am (when it opens). Once all of the parking spots are filled up, the parks moves to a one out, one in system.

Let Your Eyes Adjust. Once you get to the park, it may take a moment for you to spot the manatees. Their grayish color allows them to blend into their surroundings or the shadows. Your best bet is to look in the areas where the sun is hitting the water.

Manatees come up for air every 5 minutes. You’ll see them slowly start to surface, stick their adorable little noses out of the water and take a breath before going back under.

Often times, you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of manatees playing near fallen trees.

Go beyond the dock. Most people go out on to the metal dock that is closest to the parking lot and picnic area. Following the boardwalk to the left, heading towards the river, to scope out other vantage points. You can even head down to the kayak launch to try to get a glimpse of the gentle giants.

Oh, and in case you’re wondering, Blue Spring State Park is equally as magically during the summer! It’s one of our favorite swimming holes here in Florida. The natural lazy river is perfect for floating on a humid summer day.

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Ultimate Guide to the 2024 Seven Seas Food Festival at SeaWorld

Post author By Elle MacRae
Post date March 25, 2023
No Comments on Ultimate Guide to the 2024 Seven Seas Food Festival at SeaWorld

Antarctica Empire of the Penguins at SeaWorld Orlando

Foods and families alike will love the annual Seven Seas Food Festival at SeaWorld Orlando! The event takes place each year and features global cuisine and drink pairings that will blow your mind. The Seven Seas Food Festival includes rock, country, Latin, and throwback concerts at special times such as Mardi Gras, St. Patrick’s Day, and Cinco de Mayo. The event is included in your ticket price, however, there are upgrades available to help you enjoy the total experience.

Seven Seas Food Festival 2024

The event takes place on select dates between February 2, 2024 and May 19, 2024. It overlaps some of the biggest party holidays including, Mardi Gras, St. Patrick’s Day, and Cinco de Mayo.

Visitors can choose from over 200 food and drink options including 50+ unique food choices, 75+ craft beers, and 75+ wine and cocktail selections. These flavors are expertly paired to offer your palate a tantalizing experience.

Culinary Marketplace Hours

Thursdays and Fridays: 11:00 a.m. – Park Close
Saturdays and Sundays: 11:00 a.m. – Park Close

The Seven Seas Food Festival is set up going around the lagoon. 28 different stops wrap around the lagoon from the entrance way to the Glacier Bar. If you work your way around the lagoon, you’ll end your visit near the performance space.

Seven Seas Food Festival Food and Drink Menu- 2024

The below menu is in number order starting at #1 and ending at #24. The foods in bold are the ones we tried and have rated.

1. Flamecraft Bar

Features 13 rotating draught beers.

Specialty Cocktails:
Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri (Flor de Cana Rum, Strawberry)
Frozen Pina Colada (Flor de Cana Rum, Coconut
Frozen) Orlando Vice (Piña Colada and Strawberry Daiquiri)

2. Smugglers

Craft Brews:
Cloud Chaser by Crooked Can Brewery (Winter Garden, Florida)
Two Hearted IPA by Bells (Kalamazoo, Michigan)

Wines:
Moscato (Ca Montebello, Italy)
Riesling (Fulkerson Winery, New York)

3. Caribbean Moonshine Tasting

Specialty Cocktails:
Marmalade Mayhem
Cat 5 Coconut
Passionfruit Prohibition
Banana Breeze
PB&C Cannonball

4. Café De Mar

Food:
Whiskey Maple Hog- Cinnamon roll with bacon and a whiskey glaze

Specialty Cocktails:
Frozen Orlando Vice (Piña Colada and Strawberry Daiquiri)
Strawberry Daiquiri
Piña Colada

Wines:
Peach Moscato (New Jersey)
Sangue di Giuda (Italy)

5. French Market

Food:

Duck Confit- served with Tabais Bean
Escargot- Garlic butter, Crostini

Dessert:
Mini Creme Brulee- Rich Vanilla Custard, Caramelized Sugar

Wines:
Bordeaux Rouge-Comtesse de Malet Roquefort, France
Sparkling Wine Cremant de Loire Brut- J. de Villebois, France

6. All-American Market

Food:
Cannonball Chicken Wings- Tossed in Cannonball BBQ Sauce
Lobster Mac & Cheese- Sharp cheddar mac and cheese, lobster, crispy shallot, green onion
Fried Pickles- Served with a Texas Petal Sauce

Craft Brews:
Veteran’s Pride APA- Wop’s Hops Brewing
Yuengling Lager

Specialty Cocktails:
Strawberry Whiskey Smash (Jim Beam, Strawberry)

7. Polynesian Market

Food:
Lamb Ribs- roasted lamb served with Hawaiian Slaw, sesame seeds, pickle red onion and a BBQ sweet & sour sauce (GF)
Ahi Tuna Poke Nachos- Tortilla chips, wakame, furikake, spicy aioli, toasted sesame oil

Craft Brews:
Big Wave Golden Ale (Kona Brewing Co., Kailuna-Kona, Hawaii)

Specialty Cocktails:
Frozen Polynesian Summer (Captain Morgan Pineapple Rum, coconut cream, mango, pineapple)

8. North Atlantic Market

Food:
Classic Lobster Roll- Brioche, tender butter lettuce, garnished with micro celery
Prince Edwards Island Shrimp Fritters- PEI shrimp, succotash, fermented spicy aioli
Fish & Chips- fried cod, sidewinder fries, tartar sauce
Boston Cream Pie- Vanilla Pastry Creme, Chocolate

Craft Brews:
Liberty Limeade

Specialty Cocktail:
Moose Juice (Canadian Club whisky, raspberry, cranberry, lemonade)

9. Coaster Cocktails

Specialty Drinks:

Pipeline (Henricks gin, Tito’s vodka, Bacardi rum, peach schnapps, orange juice, pineapple, grenadine)
Kraken (Tito’s vodka, Midori, green apple, pineapple juice) Mako (Milagro tequila, pineapple, blueberry, lime sour)
Ice Breaker (Spiced rum, passion fruit, lemonade, Sprite)
Penguin Trek (Non-Alcoholic) (Sprite, Blue Raspberry, Garnish with Silver Edible Glitter)

10. Sweet Sips

Food:
Raz Dazzle Cupcake- Vanilla cupcake, raspberry filling, vanilla frosting, raspberry
Coco Loco Cupcake- Chocolate cupcake, chocolate filling, chocolate frosting, chocolate hard shell
Island Dream Cupcake- Pineapple cupcake, Malibu frosting
Orange Bliss Cupcake- Orange cupcake, Grand Marnier frosting
Passionate Cupcake– Passionfruit Cupcake, Passion Liqueur, Peach Schnapps Mousse, White Chocolate Straw)

Wines:

Riesling White Wine (Chateau Ste. Michelle, Woodinville, Washington)
Peach Moscato Fruit Wine (Tomasello Winery, Hammonton, New Jersey)
Moscato d’Asti Sparkling Wine (Risata Wines, Piedmont, Italy)
Sangue di Giuda (Ca Montebello, Oltrepò Pavese, Italy)

11. Italian Market

Food:
Palermo Fontina Cheese Meatballs- Homemade meatballs with Fontina cheese and fresh herbs in Pomodoro sauce garnished with Garlic panzito
Mini Calzone- Ricotta, mozzarella, house made marinara sauce
Italian Cannoli- Mascarpone vanilla cream, cherry and pistachio crumbs

Craft Brews:
Va Bene Italian Pilsner (Ivanhoe Park Brewing)

Wine:
Pinot Grigio- Gabbiano, Italy
Chianti– Da Vinci, Tuscany

12. Italian Wine Tasting

Smooth Red Blend- Roscata, Italy
Tre Red Blend- Brancaia, Italy
Sweet Rose- Sonoroso, Italy
Sweet White- Sonoroso, Italy

12. España

Wine:
Cava Brut (Bodegas Pazo De Villarei, Valencia, Spain)
Abadia Do Seixo (Bodegas Pazo De Villarei, Rias Baixas, Spain)
Vendimia Seleccionada (Vega Del Rayo, Rioja, Spain)
Cermeno Vedimia Seleccionada (Covitoro Bodegas, Toro, Spain)

13. Sweet & Sour

Specialty Cocktails:

Jalapeño Margarita (Jalapeño tequila, Triple Sec, lime sour)
Strawberry Margarita (Rock N Roll strawberry tequila, Triple Sec, strawberry lime sour)
Watermelon Margarita (Milagro Tequila, Triple Sec, watermelon, lime sour)
Mango Margarita (Milagro Tequila, Triple Sec, Mango, Lime Sour)

14. Irish Market

Food:
Bangers and Mash- Guinness Sausage, Boursin Mashed Potatoes, Peas, Gravy
St. Patrick’s Day Nachos- Crispy Potato Chips, Corned Beef, Cheese, Red Cabbage
Jameson Donut- Chocolate Jameson Mousse, Chocolate Icing, Candy Orange

Craft Brews:
Guinness Draught (Guinness Brewery, Dublin, Ireland)
Strongbow Cider

Specialty Cocktails:
Irish Cold brew Latte (Jameson Cold Brew, coffee, cream, simple syrup)

15. Mediterranean Market

Food:

Walking Gyros- Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Tzatziki Sauce
Moroccan Grilled Lamb Chop- Boursin whipped mashed potatoes served with tzatziki sauce, micro celery garnish (GF)
Baklava- Flaky filo dough layered with honey drenched walnuts (Vegetarian)

Specialty Cocktails:

Mediterranean Sangria (Red sangria, red wine, cranberry juice, orange juice, lime)

Wine:
Akakies Sparkling Rose (Kir-Yianni, Greece)
Assyrtiko (Mylonas Winery, Greece)

16. Indian Market

Food:

Garlic Naan with Chickpea Curry- Tomato Cream Stew, Peas, Chutney
Chicken Tikka Masala- Tomato Cream Sauce, Peppers, Jasmine Rise

Dessert:

Jalebi- Indian Funnel Cake with Wildflower Honey

Beer:

Kingfisher Premium Lager

Cocktail:

Mango Mojito- Bacardi Light Rum, Mango, Lime, Mint

17. Asian Market

Food:
Tempura Battered Sushi- California Roll, Deep Fried, topped with Masago, Eel Sauce
Deep Fried Dumpling- Asian vegetables served atop Ponzu sauce (Vegetarian)
Bing Su- Salted caramel ice cream topped with caramel popcorn and caramel

Craft Brews:
Asahi (Asahi Brewery, Osaka, Japan)

Specialty Cocktails:
Elderflower Mule (Tito’s Vodka, Elderflower Liqueur, Ginger Beer, Lime)

Wine:
Shimizu-No-Mai Pure Snow Sake (Takashimizu Brewery, Akita, Japan)
Kobai Plum Wine (Gekkeikan, Kyoto, Japan)

18. Waterway Bar

Food:
Penguin Pretzel

Craft Brews:
Featuring 12 rotating draught beers

Specialty Cocktails:
Frozen Jack & Coke
Frozen Pina Colada
Frozen Lime Margarita

Wine:

Chardonnay (Juggernaut, Sonoma Coast)

19. Mama's Pretzel Kitchen

Featuring 8 rotating draught beers.

20. German Market

Food:
Bratwurst- Smoked bacon and cheddar brat, pretzel bun, sauerkraut served with beer infused cheese
Footlong Pretzel on a Stick- Choice of: chocolate, sprinkles or cinnamon sugar (Vegetarian)

Specialty Cocktails:
German Blood Orange Mule (Monkey 47 Gin, Blood Orange Ginger Beer, Orange Slice)
Sparkling Strawberry Punch Mocktail (Sparkling spritzer, strawberry)

Wine:
R Riesling (August Kesseler, Germany)

21. Beer Graden

Craft Beer:
Golden Road Mango Cart
Kona Hanalei
Blond Belle Isle- Brewlando
Wicked Weed Burst Sour Strawberry Kiwi
Hazzle Little Thing- Sierra Nevada
Island Beats Tropical IPA- Lagunitas Brewing

Wine:
The Stag (St. Huberts, Paso Robles)

22. Gulf Coast Market

Food:
Cajun Shrimp and Grits- Cheddar stone grits, royal red shrimp, andouille sausage, roasted tomatoes, green peas
Boudin Balls- Cajun Rice Balls with Ground Pork & Chicken, Remoulade Sauce
Beignets- Cinnamon sugar, Whipped Cream

Craft Brews:
Purple Haze (Abita Brewing Co., Covington, Louisiana)

Specialty Cocktails:
Hurricane (Bacardi Dark Rum, passion fruit, orange and lime juices)

23. Mexican Market

Food:

Taco al Pastor- Mazina tortilla, chipotle ancho adobo chicken, grilled pineapple nappa cabbage, onion, and cilantro
Mexican Street Corn- Queso fresco with cilantro avocado crema garnished with tajin (GF, Vegetarian)
Dulce de Leche Mini Cake– Sweet Moist Milky Cake with Caramel

Craft Brews:
Modelo Especial (Grupo Modelo Brewery, Mexico City, Mexico)

Specialty Cocktails:
Frozen Pitaya Punch (Bacardi Rum, Triple Sec, dragon fruit, cranberry, lime)

24. Glacier Bar

Food:
Seven Seas Bougie Donut- Strawberry cheesecake filling, strawberry buttercream, brown sugar crumble

Craft Brews:
Featuring 6 rotating draught beers

Specialty Cocktails:
Spicy Piña Margarita (Milagro Tequila, spicy pineapple, lime sour)
Sparkling Mojito (Flor De Caña silver rum, club soda, mint)

Wine:
Bin No. 27 Port (Fonseca, Portugal)

25. Brazilian Market

Food:
Picanha Steak – Cilantro chimichurri, three bean salad (GF)
Pão De Queijo- Brazilian cheese bread, Guava Dipping Sauce
Galinhada- Marinated Chicken Thigh, Saffron Rice

Craft Brews:
Easy Fridays Lager (Hidden Springs Ale Works)

Specialty Cocktails:
Frozen Guava Mint Caipirinha (Cachaca, guava, mint, coconut water, lime juice)

Wine:
Reserva Malbec (Don Genaro, Mendoza, Argentina)

26. Half Pipe Pavillion

Peach Lemonade (non-alcoholic) Peach Puree, Lemonade
Tito’s Lemonade– Tito’s Vodka, Lemonade, Basil
Cucumber Mint Lemonade- Tito’s Vodka, Lemonade, Cucumber, Mint
Strawberry Lemonade- Tito’s Vodka, Lemonade, Strawberry

27. Caribbean Market

Food:
Smoked Jerk Chicken Slider- smoked chicken on a brioche bun with pineapple slaw and cilantro
Mojo Pork Tostones– Cilantro Garlic Sauce, Pickled Onion
Rum Cake- Topped with Whipped Cream

Craft Brews:
Cerveza Palma

Specialty Cocktails:
Coconut Mojito- Bacardi Light Rum, Coconut, Lime, Mint
Caribbean Sunset- non-alcoholic (orange, lemonade, Sprite, grenadine)

28. Veggie Market

Food:

Veg’d Out Sandwich- Soybean Chicken Patty, Brioche Bun, Green Goddess Sauce, Arugula, Tomato
Taco ‘Bout It– Plant Based Chorizo, Pico de Gallo, Lettuce, Crema
Lil Fruit Tart– Lime, Mango, Dairy-Free Custard, Lavender

Cocktails:
Strawberry Lemonade (Non-alcoholic)- Lemonade, Strawberry

Wines:

Pinot Noir
Sauvignon Blanc

Sampler Lanyard

If you’d like to try several different food and drinks, you may want to consider purchasing a sampler lanyard. You can save up to 40% with a 10 sample lanyard or up to 50% with a 15 sample lanyard.

10 sample lanyards cost $70 each and $15 sample lanyards cost $85 each. Lanyards can be shared by multiple people.

2024 Concert Line Up for the Seven Seas Food Festival

February 3- Kool & the Gang
February 4- Josh Turner
February 17- Gente de Zona
February 24- Hanson
February 25- Newsboys
March 2- Gloria Gaynor
March 3- Night Ranger
March 16- Corey Kent
March 23- Blood, Sweat, & Tears
March 24- Warrant
March 30- Natalie Grant
March 31- Big Bad Voodoo Daddy
April 6- Grupo Niche
April 7- Owl City
April 13- Hoobastank
April 14- Chris Janson
April 20- Gavin DeGraw
April 21- Jason Derulo
April 27- Chris Lane
April 28- Ludacris
May 4- Relient K
May 5- To Be Announced
May 11- To Be Announced
May 12- All-4-One
May 18- To Be Announced
May 19- To Be Announced

You can purchase reserved seating on the SeaWorld Orlando website if want to ensure decent seats for the show
The concert lineup for the Seven Seas Food Festival is slowly trickling out. This list will be updated as more acts are announced.

Special Events

Mardi Gras

SELECT DATES, FEB. 8 – 18
- POP-UP PARADE – The Wild Arctic Plaza will come to life as entertainers, bead captains, stilt walkers, and musicians bring the Mardi Gras spirit to SeaWorld during this special pop-up parade.
  Select times from 12:30 – 6 p.m.
- LIVE MUSIC – Immerse yourself in the music of New Orleans as our live band brings Cajun and jazz classics to Orlando.
  Select times from 12:30 – 6 p.m.
- STREET PARTY – The sights and sounds of Bourbon Street will take over Wild Arctic Plaza with a DJ, street performers, and a dance party.
  Select times from 12:30 – 6 p.m.
- GULF COAST FLAVORS – Enjoy classic Gulf Coast flavors as part of our Seven Seas Food Festival including beignets, po’ boys, and southern libations.

St. Patrick's Day Celebration

Dates Unreleased

STREETS OF GREEN – Make your way to the Irish Market Plaza at select times to see lively entertainers, amazing stilt walkers, and more.
Select times from 12:30 – 6 p.m.
TIMELESS TUNES – Lose yourself in Irish melodies as traditional musicians bring their beautiful sounds to Orlando throughout the day.
Select times from 12:30 – 6 p.m.
TASTES OF IRELAND – Take your Seven Seas Food Festival voyage to the Emerald Isle for classic recipes like corned beef hash and toast the day with a Guinness Irish Stout. See what’s new on the menu, 11:30 a.m. – park close.
11:30 a.m. to park close.

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If you’re interested in seeing manatees in the wild, check out our post on one of our favorite state parks: Blue Spring State Park or read our post about the 12 Best Places to see Manatees in the Wild.

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Tags FLORIDA, SEAWORLD, THEME PARK, UNITED STATES, USA

Florida Orlando SeaWorld Orlando United States

All You Need to Know About Visiting SeaWorld Orlando with Kids

Post author By Elle MacRae
Post date March 3, 2023
No Comments on All You Need to Know About Visiting SeaWorld Orlando with Kids

The kids examining rays at SeaWorld Orlando

Our three kids are obsessed with thrill rides and sea animals, so a trip to SeaWorld Orlando was inevitable for us. I had reservations about visiting the park, but I was pleasantly surprised by everything the park has to offer. Over the last couple of decades, the park has grown from more than aquariums and animal shows. It’s now a mecca for rollercoasters and thrill rides and home to some of the most unique rides in all of Orlando, Florida.

In this post, we’ll break down all of the attractions and ocean-themed fun by age group so you can see just how much SeaWorld Orlando has to offer!

Getting Around SeaWorld Orlando

The rides and attractions of SeaWorld Orlando encircle a lagoon at the center of the park.

If you’re traveling with little kids, you may want to head to Sesame Street, first. There are signs posted around the park showing you how to get- how to get to Sesame Street. Just past the entrance (when you see the first coaster), head right down a path and follow it to Sesame Street Land.

If you’re a mission to tackle some of the most insane coasters in Orlando, you’re going to want to head left.

We suggest hitting up Sesame Street Land, or a few of the coasters, before heading to the animal shows, encounters, and aquariums.

It’s easy to do a lot of unnecessary walking at SeaWorld Orlando- since the attractions circle a lagoon, you’ll have to backtrack if you don’t do the attractions as you come to them.

The Animals of SeaWorld

Thousands of animals call SeaWorld Orlando home. Here, you can get up close and personal with dolphins, whales, rays, octopus, sharks, penguins, fish, and more!

Be sure to take a look at the daily schedule to see what shows and learning experiences are available during your visit. Choose from Dolphin Days, Orca Encounter, Sea Lion High: The New Class, Pets Ahoy, and Ocean Discovery.

Dolphin Cove

Dolphin Cove is a 700,000 gallon lagoon that is houses a pod of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. This is one of the largest interactive dolphin pools in the world. If you pay for a dolphin feeding/encounter, it will take place here.

Pro-Tip: Dolphin feeding tends to draw a large crowd, so plan on going first thing in the morning.

Dolphin Nursery

Is there anything cuter than a baby dolphin? We think not! The Dolphin Nursery is home to new dolphin mommies and their calves.

Pro-Tip: This is one of the most popular attractions in the park. It is located right near the entrance of the park. If you’re interested in visiting, stop by right as you enter the park. If the area is closed off that means there’s a dolphin in labor or one that has just given birth.

Jewel of the Sea Aquarium

Located next to the Journey to Atlantis ride, this aquarium boasts jellyfish illuminated by an interactive backlight.

Manatee Rehabilitation Area

Each year countless manatees are injured by boats and ships, or malnourished when their food source is wiped out. Florida zoos, aquariums, and SeaWorld Orlando take in these gentle creates to rehabilitate them and release them- when it’s possible to do so.

In the rehab area, you may be able to wish these creatures a speedy recovery and learn how you can help keep them safe.

Manta Aquarium

Our favorite spot to watch the marine animals was the Manta Aquarium. We watched in amazement as thousands of graceful animals danced in front of our view.

Pro-Tip: Hit up this aquarium before or after you ride Manta. The aquarium is air conditioned and is a great spot to take a break for the Florida heat.

Pelican Preserve

Located near the Manta Ride and Manta Aquarium, these outdoor exhibit is home to several rescued pelicans.

Antarctica Empire of the Penguins

I’m going to be very honest with you- we were really disappointed with this exhibit. We waited in line for 40 minutes to see the penguins…and it was literally just tank with penguins. Perhaps we should have done our research, because we though that it may be a ride (considering the line).

Don’t get me wrong, the penguins were a lot of fun to watch, but the line was really long considering it was just another aquarium.

Shark Encounter

Surround yourself by sharks, barracuda, eels, and venomous fish in the world’s largest underwater acrylic tunnel! The 60 foot tunnel is an absolute must-see!

Stingray Lagoon

Stingray Lagoon is another popular animal attraction. This habitat showcases over 200 stingrays- some of them as large as 5 feet in diameter! Don’t miss the opportunity to feed and touch these gentle creatures!

Turtle Trek

This habitat offers underwater viewing rooms that give visitors an up-close-and-personal view of turtles. Follow a sea turtles journey their sandy nest to the ocean.

Wild Arctic Habitat

Learn all about belugas, walruses, and harbor seals in this freezing cold habitat!

SeaWorld Orlando with Toddlers and Pre-Schoolers (+ Family Rides)

Believe it or not, there is plenty to do with young kids at SeaWorld Orlando! Although our boys (age 5) weren’t tall enough for the rollercoasters, they still had loads of rides they could experience in Sesame Street Land.

Rides for Toddlers and Pre-Schoolers

Abby's Flower Tower

With a bit of magic from Abby Cadabby’s wand, you’ll be sent up, up ,up in a colorful flower pot on Abby’s Flower Tower. This ride gives you great views of the hustle and bustle of Sesame Street.

Height Requirement: 42″

Big Bird's Twirl 'n' Whirl

Hop into one of Big Bird’s nests and twirl ’round and ’round on this family-fun ride! Riders control the speed of the spinning with a steering wheel at the center of the nest.

Height Requirement: 36″

Cookie Monster's Cookie Drop!

Buckle up and hold on tight as you bounce up and down on Cookie Monster’s Cookie Drop!

Height Requirement: 42″

Elmo's Choo Choo Train

All aboard Elmo’s Choo Choo Train! Be on the lookout for butterflies, caterpillars, and Twiddlebugs on this family-friendly ride.

Height Requirement: 36″

Infinity Falls

Climb aboard a circular raft and prepare to get drenched on this family water ride! Explore tropical ruins filled with breathtaking waterfalls, surprise geysers, and flowing fountains before plunging down one of the tallest drops of its kind into a pounding waterfall! Infinity Falls is the world’s tallest river rapids attraction!

Height Requirement: 42″- 77″

Pro-Tip: Plan on wearing clothes and shoes that will dry easily if you’re going to ride the water rides. Use a dry bag or rent a locker to keep your items dry. Hit up the ride early in the day for the lowest waits- and time to dry off.

There are family dryers available for an additional charge.

Journey to Atlantis

This family-friendly flume rollercoaster transports you to the mythical paradise known as Atlantis. You’ll explore dark passageways in the sunken city before being catapulted 60 feet out of the city gates into the waters below.

Height Requirement: 42″

Pro-Tip: Try to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon for shorter wait times- this is one of the most popular rides at the park! Avoid queueing up for the ride after one of the shows lets out- people tend to catch a show and then do the ride since it is close to the Whale and Dolphin Theaters.

Rubber Duckie Water Works

If your little one isn’t up for the larger water rides, or isn’t tall enough, they can still have fun splashing about in the Rubber Duckie Water Works- an outdoor splashpad.

Slimey's Slider

This is my favorite ride in all of Sesame Street Land (who am I kidding…it’s my favorite in the entire SeaWorld Orlando theme park!). This exhilarating swoop and swivel ride spins, rocks, and slides!

Height Requirement: 42″

Sunny Day Carousel

This classic ride is perfect for young kids and family’s alike.

Guests under 42 inches tall must be accompanied by a supervising companion (at least 14 years old) standing next to the rider on the inside of the Carousel to ride. One supervising companion (at least 14 years old) per child under 42 inches. Hand-held infants are only permitted to ride on the bench seats.

Pro-Tip: Ride the carousel during the Shamu show times for the shortest wait times!

Super Grover's Box Car Derby

If your kiddo isn’t quite tall enough for some of the larger coasters (listed in the section below), they’ll be happy to know there’s a kid-friendly coaster in Sesame Street Land! Super Grover’s Box Car Derby is a family-friendly coaster full of hills, twists, turns, and small dives!

Height Requirement: 38″

SeaWorld Orlando with Big Kids and Teens

Our adrenaline junkie daughter was super stoked to see how many thrill rides there are at SeaWorld Orlando. The rollercoasters there are insane– some of the best in Orlando! If you’re older kids like thrill rides, this is definitely the place for them!

Rides for Big Kids & Teens

Ice Breaker

The Ice Breaker is SeaWorld’s first launch coaster. It features four airtime filled launches (both forwards and backwards!) and a reverse launch into the steepest beyond vertical drop in Florida! The ride has a series of exhilarating twists, turns, and airtime hills that will send your heart racing.

Height Requirement: 54″

Kraken

Designed to mimic the mythological beast that terrified sailors for centuries, Kraken is Orlando’s only floor less roller coaster. Riders feet dangle as the zoom across this exhilarating coaster at heights of 150 feet!

Height Requirement: 54″

Mako

You guys! Our 9-year-old is obsessed with this ride. Mako is the tallest and fastest rollercoaster in Orlando! This hyper coaster is known for it’s high speeds, deep plummets, and racing turns. Named after one of the ocean’s fastest sharks, this coaster hits speeds of 73 mph.

Height Requirement: 54″

Manta

Soar like a manta on the only flying roller coaster of its kind in Florida! The ride will send in in a head-first, face-down nosedive before you are sent spinning, gliding, and flying like a giant manta ray.

Height Requirement: 54″

Pro-Tip: The lines are the shortest during the first hour of the park opening. You cannot take anything with you on the ride, so unless you have someone sitting this one out- you’ll need to rent a locker to store your stuff.

Food Options at SeaWorld Orlando

No outside food, beverages, or coolers are allowed to be brought into SeaWorld Orlando, except you may bring a bottle of water or a refillable water bottle.

Breakfast is available at the Panini Bistro Cafe until 11 am.

Eateries include:

Altitude Burgers -accepts All-Day Dining Deal
Captain Pete’s Island Hotdogs -accepts All-Day Dining Deal & mobile ordering is available
Coaster Coffee Company- serves Starbucks coffee, pastries, and treats
Dine with Orcas
Edy’s Ice Cream Parlor
Expedition Cafe -accepts All-Day Dining Deal
Flamecraft Bar- a full-service bar
Glacier Bar- serves Coca-Cola Freestyle, frozen drinks, and ice-cold beer
Lakeside Grill –accepts All-Day Dining Deal
Mama’s Pretzel Kitchen
Panini Shore Cafe -accepts All-Day Dining Deal & mobile ordering is available
Seafire Grill -accepts All-Day Dining Deal & mobile ordering is available
Sharks Underwater Grill and Bar
The Sand Bar
Voyager’s Smokehouse- -accepts All-Day Dining Deal & mobile ordering available
Waterway Bar- full-service bar
Waterway Grill- -accepts All-Day Dining Deal & mobile ordering available

All-Day Dining Deal- if you purchase this package, you’ll be able to eat and drink all day. Orders can only be placed once every 90 minutes at participating restaurants. Receive 1 soft drink or tea, 1 entrée and 1 side or dessert.

Learn more at SeaWorld.com

Visiting SeaWorld Orlando in the Winter

On our first family visit to SeaWorld Orlando, we visited in January and it was freezing! Without warning, every single rollercoaster was closed and we were told that due to the temperatures, most of the animal shows were unavailable. We got to see the dolphin show, but all of the other animals were tucked away elsewhere.

Sunny Day Guarantee

If you’ve ever visited Florida in the summer, you know that afternoon showers are almost inevitable. If it rains, some of the park’s attractions may be unavailable. Whether it’s a mere sprinkle or a torrential downpour, stop by Guest Services and you can get a complimentary pass for a return visit. The visit must be used within 1-year of the initial visit.

This offer is not valid for complimentary tickets, 14 Day Length of Stay tickets and packages, Discovery Cove ticket packets, or for visitors who do not have their original admission ticket or order number.

Our Favorite Orlando Theme Parks Ranked

For Toddlers, Pre-School, & Young Kids

For Older Kids & Teens

Disney World (especially Magic Kingdom & Animal Kingdom)
Legoland Florida (located just outside of Orlando)
Peppa Pig Theme Park (located just outside of Orlando)
SeaWorld Orlando
Universal Studios

Universal Studios
Islands of Adventure
Disney World (Hollywood Studios)
SeaWorld Orlando
Legoland Florida

Save these SeaWorld Orlando Tips and Start Planning Your Adventure!

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Tags FLORIDA, orlando, SEAWORLD, THEME PARK, UNITED STATES, USA

Florida Jacksonville United States

Our Top Insta-Worthy Places in Jacksonville this Holiday Season

Post author By Elle MacRae
Post date November 19, 2022
No Comments on Our Top Insta-Worthy Places in Jacksonville this Holiday Season

Do you hear what I hear? Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas” is playing on devices all over town. That means one thing, it’s time to break out those ugly sweaters, grab a cup of eggnog and start hitting up the best Insta-Worthy Places in Jacksonville this Holiday Season!

From downtown, to the northside, the beaches, and everything in between, the First Coast is gearing up for the holiday season. Whether you’re looking for classic displays or something a bit more whimsical, we’ve got your covered on the most Insta-Worthy Places in Jacksonville!

Downtown Jax Christmas Tree

In the years past, the Downtown Jax Christmas Tree has been proudly displayed at The Landing. Now that The Landing has been demolished, the city’s tree is proudly on display in James Weldon Johnson Park, across from Sweet Pete’s, City Hall, MOCA, and the Main Library. Head downtown to strike a pose with this traditional holiday classic!

Speaking of Sweet Pete’s, this candy shop is totally Insta-Worthy, as well! The largest candy shop in the southeast is known for its elaborate seasonal displays. This place is one of the most Insta-Worthy places in Jacksonville year round!!

Blackhawk Bluff Neighborhood Christmas Lights off Girvin Road

This is probably the most popular light display in the entire city of Jacksonville. My family has been coming here for nearly two decades to check out the dangling twinkling lights. This drive-through display is located in the Blackhawk Bluff neighborhood off of Girvin Road. A majority of the houses are completely decked out with the neighborhoods signature hanging lights.

Load up the car or pile into the truck bed, crank up your favorite holiday tunes, and slowly make your way through this incredible holiday site. Be sure to have your camera ready because this is one of the most Insta-worthy places in Jacksonville!

Dazzling Nights

The Jacksonville Arboretum is joining the fun of being one of the most Insta-worthy places in Jacksonville! The park began hosting their Dazzling Nights holiday experience in 2021. Trust us, you haven’t experienced the park until you’ve seen it under the twinkling lights! The holiday displays line the trails of the arboretum. Be sure to have your camera ready to snap photos of the star tunnel, synchronized kinetic balls, and the breathtaking Moroccan lanterns.

Trust us, you will not want to miss this one! Not only is this one of the best Insta-worthy places in Jacksonville, but it’s also a great place to visit with your family or even on a date!

ZOOLights

Each year the Jacksonville Zoo lights up for an amazing holiday display! While the zoo animals are nestled all snug in their beds, with visions of sugar plums dancing in their heads, Zoolights takes center stage! The entire zoo is decorated in festive multimedia light and holiday music. This has become a staple for Jacksonville locals!

Deck the Chairs

This is probably the most Florida thing you’ll ever ever encounter this holiday season! Every year Jax Beach hosts Deck the Chairs- an event where classic red life guard chairs are transformed into festive works of art!

This holiday tradition began in 2013 and has evolved into quite the spectacle. The displays are located at the SeaWalk Pavilion and light up every night through New Years Day. This is hands-down one of the most Insta-Worthy places in Jacksonville!

Check Out Our Reels

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Trip to see these Insta-Worthy Places in Jacksonville!

Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Instagram and Twitter for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

Update: 12/9/22 with Reels

Tags FLORIDA, JACKSONVILLE, UNITED STATES, USA

Florida St. Augustine United States

St. Augustine Nights of Lights: The Ultimate Guide to this Stunning Event

Post author By Elle MacRae
Post date November 12, 2022
No Comments on St. Augustine Nights of Lights: The Ultimate Guide to this Stunning Event

The St. Augustine Nights of Lights is one of the largest holiday celebrations in all of Florida. The entire historic district gets illuminated will millions of lights during this annual event. One of my favorite memories from my days at Flagler College was strolling the blocks around campus checking out all of the stunning white lights.

The event has been chosen by National Geographic as one of the 10 Dazzling Holiday Lighting Displays in the World on multiple occasions. Since this is such a huge event, it’s always rather crowded- especially on weekend. To get the most out of the St. Augustine Nights of Lights, you’ll want to plan ahead. Our Ultimate Guide to St. Augustine Nights of Lights will help you map out the perfect experience!

The event runs from the Saturday before Thanksgiving until the end of January each year. During this time, the businesses stay open later and the local tour companies offer seasons tours.

St. Augustine Nights of Lights in a Nutshell

If you have never been to St. Augustine, you are truly missing out. This quaint town in northeast Florida is the quintessential historical town. It comes complete with cobblestone streets and historical landmarks such as Castillo de San Marcos and the Oldest School House and ornate squares.

The historic district has narrow streets lined with top-notch restaurants, shops, and museums such as the St. Augustine Pirate Museum and the Lightner Museum. It is also home to my alma mater, Flagler College. The beauty of this city is amplified with light displaces and Christmas decorations that makes St. Augustine Nights of Lights unlike any other.

Glowing white lights illuminate the entire historic district adding to the magic of this small town. The St. Augustine Nights of Lights was inspired by the traditional Spanish practice of displaying candles in windows during the Christmas holidays.

People flock from all over northeast Florida, and other parts of the world, to see the St. Augustine Nights of Lights. Plan on it being quite congested- especially around the areas of St. George Street, Flagler College, Plaza de la Constitución, and the Lightner Museum. The crowds can also make it difficult to navigate the streets and find parking.

Ways to enjoy the St. Augustine Nights of Lights

There are many ways to experience the St. Augustine Nights of Lights. You can see it by car, trolley, boat, or on foot. No matter which way you choose, you’ll have a magical evening!

On Foot

One of the best ways to experience the St. Augustine Nights of Lights is on foot. We suggest staying in one of the many hotels in the historical area. Another option is to Uber into the historic district early in the afternoon when there is less traffic, or score a parking spot with your on vehicle and remain there throughout the afternoon.

We suggest the following route: Flagler College, the Lightner Museum, Cordova Street, Treasury Street, St. George Street (up to the Old City Gates), and walking back down the waterfront towards the Bridge of Lions past Plaza de la Constitucion, Casa Monica Resort, and back to Flagler College.

Orange Street, near the Old City Gates, is also a notable side street.

By Car

Another way to experience the St. Augustine Nights of Lights is by car. Traffic is crazy- you’ll have to dodge cars, bikes, pedicabs, trains, trolleys, pedestrians, electric vehicles, horse drawn carriages, etc. The streets with the best lights include King Street, Cathedral Place, Cordova Street, San Marco Avenue, and Avenida Menendez.

The nearby historic neighborhood of Lincolnville also has some great light displays.

Via Tour

There are several different tours that you can book to enjoy the St. Augustine Nights of Lights, as well. The most popular are the trolley tours that allow you to hop on and hop off. You can choose from Ripley’s Red Trains or Old Town Trolley’s. Both tours take similar routes around the historic district. It’s important to note that during the busy weekends, lines to participate in these tours be as long as 2 hours.

Another unique way to enjoy the St. Augustine Nights of Lights is via a boat tour. Believe it or not, St. Augustine is even more beautiful from the water! Although you won’t get to see as many of the lights from the boat, it’s a fun way to celebrate the season.

To make the event even more magical, you can see it from a horse drawn carriage.

Know Before You Go

The evening temperatures in December typically range between the 40s and low 60s.
The lights come on at 5:30 every evening.
The event goes from the Saturday before Thanksgiving until the end of January every year.
Parking in the historic district can be a challenge. Plan on arriving in the area mid-day, parking your car and leaving it there. Parking can be found for $15/day in may places. Consider parking at the parking garage near the Visitor Information Center.
Bars and restaurants in the area get crowded and most places do not take reservations. Plan on eating early.
If you want to book a tour or a hotel room, do so early as they tend to fill up/sell out quickly.
Consider visiting in January to avoid the crowds.
Don’t miss the Lightner Museum, Flagler College, and the waterfront!

Suggestions for Spending a Few Hours in the Historic District

Hopefully, you’re planning on arriving in the area early. There are plenty of things to do in the historic district to help you kill a few hours.

Here are some of our favorites:

Flagler College
Lightner Museum
Castillo de San Marcos
St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum
Potter’s Wax Museum
Ripley’s Believe it or Not

For food or drinks we suggest:

San Sebastian Winery
St. Augustine Distillery
Columbia Restaurant
Florida Cracker Cafe
Cousteau’s Waffle and Milkshake Bar
Pizzalley’s Chianti Room
The Cuban Cafe and Bakery
The Spanish Bakery
Prohibition Kitchen
Grilled Cheese Gallery
A1A Ale Works
OC White’s Seafood and Spirits

Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure

Be sure to give us a like on Facebook or follow us on Instagram and Twitter for more travel tips and tricks. See you next time!

Tags FLORIDA, ST. AUGUSTINE, UNITED STATES, USA

Florida Florida State Parks Jacksonville State Parks United States

Big Talbot Island State Park- Pure, Untouched Beauty

Post author By Elle MacRae
Post date October 22, 2022
No Comments on Big Talbot Island State Park- Pure, Untouched Beauty

Big Talbot Island State Park is one of Jacksonville’s best-kept secrets. It is an amazing place to visit for shelling, hiking, biking, paddling, and boating. It is home to one of Florida’s most stunning (and unique!) shorelines. The beaches in this park showcase massive sun-bleached driftwood trees and mars-like rock formations both of which are popular with photographers.

Pro-Tip: Swimming is not recommended at these beaches due to the strong current. There is also no lifeguard.

History of Big Talbot Island

Fishing has been a popular attraction here for thousands of years. This island was once home to Florida’s indigenous people, the Timucua. Evidence of Florida’s most ancient residents can be seen in shell mounds or ancient piles of oyster shell and food refuse.

General James Oglethorpe (aka the dude that founded Georgia) named the islands (both Big Talbot and Little Talbot) in honor of Charles Baron Talbot, Lord High Chancellor of England. He sounds pretty important, eh? Big Talbot Island was once home to at least two plantations. The plantations grew oranges, sugar, indigo and cotton. Prominent plantation owners in this region were Spicer Christopher (on the north end of the island), John Houston (on the south end of the island), John McQueen, and Zephaniah Kingsley on present day Fort George Island).

Fun Fact: A team of University of North Florida’s archaeologists are excavating the island. It is believed that the island was also home to the Mocama people.

Big Talbot Island Visiting Information

Hours: 8 am until sundown, 365 days a year. The boat ramp is open 24 hours a day.

Fees: $2 for the fishing pier, $3 per vehicle entrance

Experiences and Amenities

Bicycling- The park offers several miles of paved an unpaved trails. A newly completed 4-mile paved trail winds through the maritime forest and overlooks the surrounding wetlands. The new trail connects preexisting trails to form a greenway connected to the nearby parks.

Boating- There are numerous tidal creeks along the Intracoastal Waterway that are easily accessible via canoes, kayaks, and even power boats. Simpson’s Creek and Myrtle Creek are popular waterways in the region. Launch from the north end of the island to access the Nassau Sound and the Atlantic Ocean.

Fishing- The saltwater marsh surrounding the island offers some of the best fishing in the area. Enjoy snagging a redfish, sea trout, whiting, flounder, black drum, etc. The bridge at Simpson Creek is a popular fishing spot.

You can also fish from a pier for a fee of $2 per person.

Hiking- The park has an abundance of trails including:

Shoreline Trail- provides access to Boneyard Beach and the Nassau Sound.
Black Rock Trail– (our favorite!) a trail that winds through the maritime hammock and empties into a one-of-a-kind beach.
Old Kings Highway Trail and Jones Cut Trail- unrefined trails that travel through a lush maritime hammock.
Timucuan Trail- a paved 3-mile multi-use trail that is perfect for families with bikes or strollers!

Paddling– Conveniently located between Big Talbot Island and Little Talbot Island you’ll find Kayak Amelia, the official outfitter for the parks. Kayak Amelia offers kayak and canoe rentals and guided tours.

East Coast Greenway

The Timucuan Trail runs through Big Talbot Island State Park. This trail is a small portion of a large trail network known as the East Coast Greenway. The greenway connects the park to Amelia Island State Park and Little Talbot Island State Park.

The Greenway is part of a large network of trails connecting 15 states, 450 cities and towns and running from Maine to Florida. It runs from the Canadian border down to the Florida Keys! Holy crap, right?