Anytime we would tell friends that we were planning a trip to Florida, they all assumed that we were going to Disney World! Many were surprised to hear that we were not doing Disney, but instead planning an affordable family vacation to many other Florida vacation spots.

Before I tell you what these other locations were, you might be wondering why we decided to visit other parts of Florida instead of Disney with our children this time. I am not knocking Disney, as Disney is a lot of fun too. However, there are many other things to do in Florida that do not involve Disney.

We traveled with our 10-year-old and 8-year-old children to the following great Florida vacation spots:

Discovery Cove – is a sister park of Seaworld, and is like no other park you will ever visit. It is a great place to visit with children of all ages as you get to swim and snorkel with or without the stingrays and colorful tropical fish. For an extra fee, you can choose to swim with a dolphin. All food and drinks are included in the price of your admission.

Seaworld Orlando – is like a marine zoo full of aquariums, big marine-animal exhibits, and spectacular shows involving dolphins, whales, walruses, and sea lions. There are great play areas for the children at Seaworld as well.

Aquatica – is a waterpark in Orlando, and is owned by Seaworld. There are two large wave pools, waterslides, and kiddie play areas. This park is suitable for all ages as well.

Gatorland – is a smaller park in Orlando that is not very well known by many people, but is so fascinating. If you want to see live alligators up close, this is the most educational place to bring your children. The live shows they have there are also very fun and comical to attend with your children.

Busch Gardens, Tampa – Tampa is only located about 60-75 minutes away from Orlando. Busch Gardens is like being in Africa, with all the African animals and exhibits. Busch Gardens is well known for its phenomenal roller coasters, but offers lots to families with children of all ages.

Universal Studios Orlando and Islands of Adventure – many people think that the Universal parks are only meant for teenagers and adults, but that is not true. Our children had a lot of fun and enjoyed these parks, just as much as we did. These attractions feature many simulated rides, and water rides that will get the whole family excited.

Kennedy Space Center – is another educational area to bring older children. It is located about 60 minutes away from Orlando. You will all be astonished at the sizes of the shuttles, the rocket boosters, the engines, and so much more. You need to be sure to visit the Launch Simulator, to get a real feel for blasting off into space!

New Smyrna Beach – this is a coast town in Florida. It is located close to Daytona Beach, and is filled with other tourists. It is a chance for your children to experience the Atlantic Ocean, and learn about and see high and low tides, and perhaps even see some turtle hatchlings!

What I have just described is just the tip of the iceberg. These Florida vacation spots have nothing to do with Disney, but I can guarantee you that you and your children will have as much fun as our family did visiting these locations.

Author Bio: To help your family plan out an affordable trip to Florida, I have written the ebook, “The Essential Money-Saving & Planning Guide to Non-Disney Florida Attractions: Discovery Cove, Seaworld, Aquatica, Busch Gardens, Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, Gatorland, Kennedy Space Center, and New Smyrna Beach”. Be sure to visit my book’s site to get your copy today!

Category: Travel
Keywords: florida family vacation, orlando, seaworld, disney, trip, universal studios, kennedy space, travel