We recently got into cruising and our trip to cocoa beach pier was absolutely awesome there was a waiter named Harvey. I was really thankful for his service I was so impressed with him that he got me my coconut drink for me that I have been wanting everywhere we have been. My only regret is getting him to sign my coconut so I named him HARVEY after him. Wonderful experience He was really great deserving of a raise. It’s a place I would love to visit again. So Harvey you’re awesome thank you so much…from Tennessee

We stopped by the Cocoa Beach Pier early in the afternoon while exploring the area and were pleasantly surprised. The pier itself is fantastic, a vibrant mix of eateries, shops, and great ocean views, all right on the beautiful, pristine beach. The beach atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, perfect for a stroll or simply soaking in the coastal vibe. We were able to park right out front, which was convenient, though it cost $20. We didn’t really look for other parking options, but the ease of access made it worth it for us. Overall, it's a great spot to take in the scenery, grab a bite, and enjoy a classic Florida beach experience!

My wife and I stopped here late in the morning of August 15, 2025 while on a camping trip to Jetty Park a few miles to the north of it. We tried to go in the morning after breakfast, but the parking lot was closed and the attendant told us it opened at 11:00, but it was going to cost us $15 to park. I wasn't real happy about that, but we came back after checking out nearby Ron Jon Surf Shop for a few hours. It appears the Westgate Mall company bought out the pier a few years ago and has done a good job of cleaning it up and renovating it. There are several restaurants along the pier now and we dined at the giant Tiki Bar way out on the end of it. You can also rent beach chairs and umbrellas on the beach. Overall, in spite of the expensive parking fee, this is definitely a nice place to go if you are visiting Cocoa Beach.

Cocoa Beach Pier is the spot to be—lively, full of energy, and with amazing waves, especially on the right side of the pier. Spent a month here and loved every minute. Great surf, ocean views, and a vibrant atmosphere make it unforgettable for locals and visitors alike.

Beach is clean. Expect crowds. We took our beach blanket and stuff but there are chairs and umbrella rentals in the beach. Thing is all those close at 5pm, then they collect them back. There were washrooms, we were able to change clothes in them. Enough space for that but not too clean. There were showers to wash off sand. Also there were gift shops and restaurants. We were able to buy some beers and food. Don’t forget to take your ID for that. 1 beer for 1 ID. Other than sunbathing saw people surfing, playing volleyball as well.

Excellently well maintained, there are ice cream shops, souvenirs stores, a restaurant , restrooms and some space to walk and admire the ocean and the beach and the surfers. Really refreshing to go up there 100% recommended . It’s Free. Opens with good weather because if there is a bit of bad weather it will be closed for safety.

I bought so much clothing from one of those shops! The word Threads was in it, I don't remember. I bought all my souvenirs there, clothing, jewelry. I ate at Pier 52, it was awesome!! I had the Gator Melt.

I haven’t visited this place in a while, and it still feels as interesting as ever! There’s a wide variety of animals from all around the world (including here), spread out into multiple exhibits! I do like some of the animals in here, such as giraffes, lemurs, and birds. Recently, they’ve added a lot more digital activities such as in the Rainforest Trek exhibit (you can scan multiple QR codes to take mini quizzes and learn more about the animals). There’s even murals you can take pictures in front of, made by talented artists! I recommend you take your kids to this zoo, since there’s a lot to explore and do!

This is a lovely zoo with nicely shaded paths and great visibility. They have a creative boardwalk and several feeding opportunities available. It is not a large zoo (done on about 2-3 hours) but an enjoyable one with healthy and active animals.

We visited Brevard Zoo for the first time today, and we absolutely loved it! 🚗 The drive from Orlando took a little over an hour, but it was definitely worth it. The zoo is very green, clean, and perfectly designed for families with kids. The children were especially excited about the giraffes — you can get really close and even feed them. The Halloween decorations created a fun atmosphere, and the Star Wars characters made their day! We got amazing photos 😄 There are lots of shaded areas, clean walkways, and the staff is friendly. It’s a perfect place to walk around with kids, take pictures, and enjoy the activities. Our children had such a great time that they came home tired but happy. We’ll definitely come back again and highly recommend it to other families!

The best zoo or animal park I have been too (besides Disney's Animal Kingdom). So well maintained and perfect balance of areas and things to do. Great activities for kids and feeding a Giraffe was icing on the cake.

It is always a pleasure to visit the Brevard Zoo. It is easy to navigate, especially for those who have difficulties walking. The zoo is divided in several sections from Africa to Australia, the Rainforest, and Florida. I personally enjoy the giraffes. At their enclosure you can buy food for the animals and feed the giraffes on a platform high enough to look them straight in the eye. The lion enclosure is newer and quite large, and it includes three brothers. Another cool enclosure is in the Australia section, where you can experience kangaroos without barriers - however, you can only observe, but not touch or interact with them. There are numerous volunteers to answer any questions you may have about the zoo and its animals. They know the personalities, history, and quirks of certain animals which they will happily share with the visitors. This zoo is worth every penny.

GREATLY IMPROVED! OK so admittedly I had not ventured to the Brevard zoo in probably what has been 20 years now. Boy does time fly, right? but they have really made some huge improvements. It's really pleasant and the walkways railings are all in good shape and well maintained. The vegetation has been trimmed and pruned and it just makes for lots of nice greenery surrounding you as you stroll along. there were enough animals and exhibits to keep it interesting and was very good the way everything was laid out!

My kids and I really liked this zoo! I’d consider this a medium sized zoo (not as big as Miami Zoo but definitely bigger than the Palm Beach Zoo). There are a lot of animals to see and there are quite a few volunteers around the park who are happy to tell you about the animals. There is a little kids water area which is great for cooling off, a petting zoo, and areas where you can feed certain animals. The food options are good but expensive. My children and I spent 3.5 hours visiting and were able to see everything. I plan on visiting again in the future.

I am so impressed with KSC! Thank you for extending a free entry to veterans and discounts for family. We came in on Veterans Day and had a fabulous time. I was here years ago and I loved all the updates and changes made. This is an exciting day of exploration for young and old alike. The up close and personal views of these massive flying machines takes your breath away. The bus tour that is included in the entry price was very informative and the eagles were in their nest! Awesome day!

​🚀 A Wonderful Place to Explore Space History ​This museum is a wonderful place to learn about the history of the space race. The exhibits are fascinating and make the visit truly worthwhile. ​However, I would recommend that the management consider investing a bit to improve some of the areas that are starting to look very dated, specifically the animations and screens. They seem quite old and updating them would significantly enhance the visitor experience. ​Overall, it is definitely worth visiting! ​Would you like me to translate or write any other reviews for you?

A wonderful experience overall! There’s an impressive amount to see and do. From start to finish, everything was engaging and well put together. You’ll definitely want more than one day to explore it all. There’s just too much to appreciate in a single visit. If you’re planning a trip, give yourself plenty of time!

I left much later than planned as I kept finding cool things to do! I did the experience with the bus tour at the start of my visit and it was well worth it. The two hour trip with a few stops along the way deep within the complex and the excellent narration of Jerome gave me great insight into what I was seeing (excellent if you have attention challenges). Seeing rockets on the pads preparing for launch hours later from a distance at pad 39, standing in front of the massive vehicle assembly building and more during the bus tour was great. The last stop is the Apollo 8 firing room which was extremely well done with the actual communications from the control room. At the main complex, do not miss the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit. And a bonus near the end of the tour seeing the eagles up close at their nest. Overall, exceeded my expectations and could have spent many more hours.

Absolutely amazing experience with so many authentic pieces. My wife and I made an entire day out of this and would probably have done more with extra time. We took this as part of a hotel package but looking g back would have made a dedicated trip. I learned so much about a subject that I had been fascinated by as a child but let slip away. They were I teractive and engaging with most activities but gave you a do it yourself pace to explore.

We went November 3rd and really enjoyed our day. Loved the bus tour, I recommend doing that first. Loved that I bought the digital photo package for $20. Then getting dressed in a space suit and doing pictures was really fun. Lots to learn and explore, you won’t be disappointed.

Extremely enlightening especially for fools who doubt the Apollo missions and the Moon Missions in general. Exceptional Layout. The entire facility is far grander than many people can imagine. The sheer amount of infrastructure and legacy alone are reason to visit and peer into the era of American excess and innovation as well as see new Giga innovators like Space X, and Blue Origin, the only 2 providers in the world to land Orbital rockets. 🇺🇸💚💙 Do this, use a whole day, take your time, bask in the glory.

I recently visited Daytona Beach with high expectations, but unfortunately, the experience was quite underwhelming and did not live up to the hype. As a destination known for its vibrant beach culture and attractions, I was expecting a lively and enjoyable atmosphere, but several factors left me disappointed. The beach itself was not as pristine as I had hoped. The sand was deserted , which was very disappointing. Additionally, the beach seemed less clean than anticipated, with litter in some areas, which was disheartening. I was expecting a lively and energetic atmosphere, but instead found the area to be somewhat lackluster. Many of the shops and attractions felt dated, and there was a noticeable lack of vibrancy in the downtown area. It seemed as though the town had seen better days and was in need of revitalization. My visit to Daytona Beach was not what I had anticipated, and I left feeling disappointed. The beach and town did not meet my expectations, and the overall experience was underwhelming. While I understand that some people may enjoy the area for its historical significance and annual events, it did not resonate with me as a destination I would be eager to return to.

Parking fees are steep. You can drive on this beach. Lots of people.

I love the warm orange color of the sand here. It’s ’s such a unique sight! One of the coolest things about Daytona Beach is that you can actually drive and park right on the beach if you have four-wheel drive. The fee is around $30–33, but if you have a disabled parking pass, it’s free. Otherwise, there’s street or lot parking nearby. Bathrooms are available, though they could use a bit more frequent cleaning. You can rent chairs and umbrellas, which is great if you want to relax without lugging your own gear. There’s also a food truck/ice cream vendor right on the beach if you don’t bring snacks. The best part for me? The waves, they’re absolutely perfect for relaxing, playing, or just watching roll in. Daytona Beach truly earns its title as “The World’s Most Famous Beach”!

Most definitely doesn’t live up to the hype. To me, it seemed very underwhelming. I guess if you were here to see the races it would be more impressive maybe? I don’t know, I just don’t get it.

Just got back from Daytona Beach, Florida, and I gotta say, it was a total blast, bro! The "World's Most Famous Beach" title is legit, the energy is high, and the vibes are exactly what a Chad from Charlie's Angels needs. The main attraction is definitely that wide stretch of hard-packed sand and the warm Atlantic waves. We're talking golden sand, perfect for soaking up the sun and making some epic memories. It's clean, easy to access, and the beach patrol keeps an eye on things, so you feel safe while you're catching those rays. The fact that you can drive right onto the beach is a game-changer – super convenient and a unique experience you won't forget. The views of the sunrise and sunset over the water are absolutely magical, no joke. When I wasn't feeling the laid-back beach life, I hit up the action. The Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier offer classic fun, with shops, arcades, and plenty of places to grab some food. The food at Joe's Crab Shack was a whole experience in itself, with a "Shark Attack" drink that was a total show. Daytona has a unique mix of vibrant and laid-back, family-friendly yet exciting, making it the perfect spot for anyone looking for a sweet getaway. Highly recommend this slice of paradise to anyone who wants to have a blast! I'll be back, no question.

Been coming here for 40 plus yrs. Still amazed at the size of this beach. It's never crowded, anytime of the day. It's a gradual walk into the water, no drop off. Perfect for kids. Lots of places to stay and eat. The pier is so much fun on a Saturday night. You can't beat this place!

Daytona beach really surprised me! I loooved getting to spend time in the water and just relaxing. Very chill and family vibes. The sand is white and the water is clear enough for me. I would definitely go again and visit!

It was not as great as I had hoped from previous reviews implied. We toured the park and watched a show. We also did the half hour airboat tour. We did not see any gators on the tour but we did see an abandoned nest. Staff were friendly. It was enjoyable but not what we were expecting. Animal enclosures seem quite small. The bird enclosure was neat. My son enjoyed seeing the large alligators in the pond. We decided to skip the drive through safari.

It's always great to return to Wild Florida. Definitely worth the drive out to see so many exotic animals. This time we included a Capybara Encounter. Piper was a great guide. Passed along so much information! She made the visit fun and also showed us the warthogs adjacent to the Capy area Thanks Piper for making our visit special!

We embarked on an unforgettable adventure to the wilds of Florida, embarking on the exclusive VIP tour. Arriving before the park’s opening, we were promptly checked in, eliminating any wait time. Our knowledgeable tour guide led us through the entire park, sharing captivating insights about each animal we encountered. Her genuine passion for these creatures shone through in her words and actions, as she passionately explained their unique characteristics and the efforts made to protect and educate the public about their significance. One of the highlights of the tour was our opportunity to engage with the capybaras, lemurs, sloths, and, my personal favorite, the African porcupines. Contrary to popular belief, these porcupines don’t shoot their quills at you. Instead, they exuded a playful and affectionate demeanor, resembling and even resembling excited dogs. Their adorable nature made them a delightful addition to our journey. Throughout the park, we were treated to a diverse array of wildlife, including crocodiles and alligators. Interactive shows provided valuable information about these magnificent creatures and their various species. Additionally, we visited a petting zoo featuring goats and a majestic white turkey. Our day of exploration culminated in a delightful lunch at the park’s café, where we were delighted to discover a vegan option. The attentive staff ensured our food was prepared in a separate area with separate utensils, demonstrating their commitment to maintaining hygiene and preventing cross-contamination. To quench our thirst, we indulged in the delicious Safari slushies, which came in souvenir bottles adorned with alligator heads. Next we embarked on a scenic airboat ride through a vast lake, where we were treated to breathtaking views of wild alligators, birds, and the untouched beauty of Florida’s past. This serene and awe-inspiring experience left us feeling both exhilarated and relaxed. Finally, we embarked on our own drive-through safari, allowing us to explore the park at our own pace. The tour guide even provided designated areas for vehicles to pull over, accommodating those behind us who wished to pass. This personalized experience ensured that we fully immersed ourselves in the wonders of the wild Florida. Here, you’ll encounter a diverse array of animals, including deer, zebras, antelopes, camels, crocodiles, alligators, bison, cows with impressive horns, and a magnificent giraffe where you can feed it and take pictures. The Safari, Gator Park, Wild Florida, and our knowledgeable tour guide made this experience truly special. If you spend some time here, you’ll be in for a treat. We sincerely appreciate everything and look forward to returning soon. Thank you again for making us feel so special and sharing the lives of the animals with us.

My kids loved this whole visit! The fan boat was really cool and our tour guide was so knowledgeable! We took the one hour boat tour and it was so worth it! Make sure to pack some sunglasses lol. Seeing alligators in the wild was really cool but my kids really really loved the animals at the park. You can tell they are well looked after and loved.

Had an amazing day at wild florida we did the air boat ride with captain Mark who was very entertaining and great at pointing out wild like saw lots of gators and birds during the tour. We also did the drive thru safari plus the adventure park was amazing highly reccomend esp if Busch gardens is too expensive wild adventure was affordable and u deff the a good bang for your buck. Buy in advance made check in super easy and u can plan for what time u want to take your ride

Visited Wild Florida to surprise my 11-year-old son with the Capybara encounter, and it was a hit! He thoroughly enjoyed it, and the instructor's expertise really added to the experience. The animal park itself is a manageable size, yet packed with a diverse array of fascinating animals. The Wild Safari ride was the highlight for my 4-year-old. The abundance of animals to spot, combined with the fun checklist provided, kept us entertained and engaged from the comfort of our car. Overall, Wild Florida offers a fantastic and memorable family day out

Amazing park, came with the family over the weekend arrived around 9:30 in the morning and then had to wait in line to enter the drive-through Safari. Spend a good hour doing the Safari, then went to the gator Park to see some more exotic animals. They do offer airboat tours, which is worth it. Get to see gators and their egg nests in the wild

We were going to just tour the museum, but the tram tour of the racetrack area was only $15 more, so we did both! The tram tour was awesome! Just being in the infield area of the track made my day 😃 ! The gentleman giving the tour (I wish I could remember his name) was exceptional! The amount of information he provided was mind boggling 😊 ! The museum was really well done and had many more exhibits than I really thought they'd have. The gift shop at the end has something for everyone on your list! I would definitely tour the entire place again!

We had a fantastic time on the Daytona International Speedway VIP Tour! From the moment we entered the building, the staff were friendly and welcoming. We loved seeing the cars in the lobby, learning about the history of the Speedway and its legendary drivers, and exploring the facilities, museum, and gift shops. The rooftop lookout, VIP lounge, and observation deck provided incredible views of this iconic track. Special thanks to the many sponsors; NASCAR, AdventHealth, Toyota, Ally, Rolex, and others, who help make this such a world-class experience. Every NASCAR fan should take this tour at least once! Our only suggestion is that the 22-passenger tour bus used for the VIP tour could be improved. The design of the bus unfortunately blocks much of the forward view, so passengers—especially those in the front seats, can’t clearly see the sites as the guide describes them. It would make the experience even better if a bus with an unobstructed front view were used, allowing guests to see each location as the driver approaches it. Overall, a fantastic experience that we highly recommend. We look forward to visiting again!

On our way home. We've been wanting to visit for a while, I'm glad we did. The tour was very informative. The track is fantastic. The museum was great. They had a virtual drive.

Huge thank you to the Daytona Beach Speedway for partnering with the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office to support families during the Thanksgiving drive. With so many people affected by the SNAP benefit delays during the government shutdown, this event made a real difference. It’s incredible to see a major community landmark step up and help local families in such a meaningful way. Your generosity, organization, and commitment to the community truly stand out. Big thanks to everyone involved, you helped bring hope and relief when it was needed most.

We thoroughly enjoyed this tour. We are not into racing but it doesn't matter we learnt more than we thought 🤔 and was well worth the money. The museum was far better than the Silverstone race track in the United Kingdom.

The World Center of Racing! No place on earth like Daytona. I took my whole family to the 500 and my oldest son and I went three years straight to the night race in the summer. An amazing experience for a lifetime of memories.

Great track and amenities. We came for a Chin Track Days event and had a blast. Toured the facility and explored the museum. Would definitely recommend coming to Daytona for track days, racing, or tours!

Stetson Mansion is a tastefully restored 1886 home once occupied by the Stetson family. Several different families have lived in the home and one still does. We actually saw some of their living quarters while on our tour of three floors, and the school house. Photos are only allowed outside and in the school house to protect the family's privacy. The home still has original wood floors, woodwork, staircase, and leaded glass windows, as well as some lighting and cedar siding. The original electric was worked on by Thomas Edison who also gifted the family lighting fixtures still in use. The home sits on over 2 of the original 300 acres.

Our Glass Guild toured the Stetson Mansion on a Saturday morning and we all felt it was “off the charts “ enjoyable, educational and enchanting! Kayla, the owner greeted us warmly and pleasantly checked in our 18 members. Then Alix, our energetic tour guide took group photos for us in front of the mansion before starting our enlightening tour of the 3 story 1886 Mansion. Alix was fascinating, weaving storytelling about the famous Hat maker, John Stetson and his family, and his connections to Thomas Edison, who personally wired this home for him. Alix was extremely knowledgeable about the architectural details of the woodwork, from the gleaming parquet flooring with unique patterns to intricate crown molding and staircases. We were impressed with all the leaded glass windows throughout each room! She kept us spellbound with the knowledge of this home and all the connections to Deland… We as a group highly recommend this historic tour!! Don’t miss it.

1st time ever to attend their Christmas celebration decorations which were magnificent. So much detail, so much dedication and love in the creation and so very interesting..looking forward to attending a historical tour they will host in Feb

Alix was an incredible tour guide! John B. Stetson built this beautiful mansion in DeLand Florida as his winter getaway away. We enjoyed the home decorated for Christmas and it was stunning!

We enjoyed the Christmas decor tour at the Stetson Mansion in DeLand, Florida today. Alix was a great tour guide and while the holiday decor is indeed something to see, the real star of the show is the house itself. It’s incredibly well preserved and absolutely breathtaking. We’re hoping to return for the historical tour (sans holiday sparkle) sometime next year.

I, my wife and another couple took the Christmas tour of the Stetson Mansion yesterday. We were all extremely impressed with the detail and thought that went into the beautiful decorations with each room having a different theme. Alexi, our guide, was just great! She blended a small amount of the history of the mansion with her description of the decorations. I'm a woodworker by hobby. I was so impressed with the woodworking everywhere I looked, in the floor, in the doorways and even in the support beams overhead. I would love to see the infrastructure of the home that is still rock solid after 139 years. There were no "creeks" in the floor as you walked through! I may go back and take the history tour after all of the decorations are put away.

OMG! I have no idea this treasure was near me. It's an architectural masterpiece inside and out. I couldn't close my mouth. I went and it was Christmas decorated, and it was a dream every detail, every decoration was so beautifully placed. Definitely going back in a few months to see and have the full tour. Our tour lady was so inform and funny. The only thing wish they had like a small coffe and some snack or even a light lunch. That would round up the whole experience. Thanks for preserving this beautiful house and share it with us.🙌🙏❤️

Lovely grounds to walk amid beautiful flora, fauna, and flowers. A peaceful, quiet place. Come listen to the bell tower and tour the mansion (El Retiro), but don't forget to visit the museum, store, and cafe. A wonderful way to spend the day. We were there for a special walk through event on the grounds and stayed later for the evening outdoor concert. A must see Florida attraction!

I have wanted to go here for a very long time. This place is so pretty and the tower is amazing. They have a little area for children that is creative. They even have a well that the kids can pump the water from. The views are really nice and you'll see tons of butterflies. Definitely should be on your list if you like Gardens and Outdoors.

What a beautiful setting! Bok picked a beautiful location, almost 100 years ago, to build this carillon (bells)tower that is still operational. They play beautiful music for our enjoyment. Another side visit is El Retiro (historic estate) and is worth extra $10 for personal tour. Highly recommended! Lake Wales is a very quaint town too to explore!

Bok Tower Gardens is one of those places that instantly makes you breathe a little deeper. The gardens are beautifully cared for, full of winding paths, quiet nooks, and vibrant flowers that make every turn feel special. The Children Garden is amazing full of imaginary and hands on play. The Singing Tower is just stunning - hearing the carillon play over the gardens is honestly magical. It’s peaceful, relaxing, and the kind of spot you leave feeling lighter than when you arrived. Perfect for a slow walk, a picnic, or just a moment of calm.

One of the best parks I've been to in Florida hands down. It does cost to visit so keep that in mind. But absolutely stunning gardens to walk through and the singing tower is wonderful to hear and has some outstanding architecture. The park was very clean and kept up well. They have so many venue options for hosting events it's crazy! All with their own little aesthetic. The cafe on property was wonderful. We tried their shaken coffee which was delicious. They had so many picnic areas it was hard to choose one spot.

I cannot say enough wonderful things about this place! It's truly Gorgeous. So peaceful, simply magical to be surrpunded by nature. The staff were helpful and friendly. My wife and I had a wonderful experience, we will definitely be back!

Pretty much my happy place to visit, we finally became members after so many times coming over. Every time we come we find something different, it's magical ✨️ 💛. Still areas I have not explored yet. Amazing people work here as well. I can't describe the wonders and wisdom here. I hope you enjoy the experience and find what you seek here. I recommend trying the Elderberry Cider while walking or a latte in colder weather. Pizza and fish tacos are pretty good when you get hungry. Check out El Retiro historical Mediterranean House, perfect tour guides. Interesting events.

Universal Studios Orlando was an unforgettable experience! One of the highlights of our visit was taking the Hogwarts Express between the two parks — not only was it convenient, but it also felt like we were truly part of the Wizarding World. The level of detail and storytelling on that ride alone was incredible. But hands down, my favorite attraction was Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. From the moment you step into the Gringotts Bank, you’re completely immersed in the world of Harry Potter. The animatronic goblins, the massive chandelier, the underground vaults — everything was so well designed, it honestly felt like we were in the movie. The ride itself was thrilling, and the entire experience had us in awe from start to finish. We also spent a lot of time wandering through Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade, both packed with amazing details and great photo ops. The theming is next-level — from the moving portraits and magical shop windows to the sound effects and music, everything was spot on. We couldn’t leave without picking up a ton of souvenirs from the gift shops — wands, house scarves, chocolate frogs, and other fun Harry Potter merchandise for the whole family. If you're a Harry Potter fan, this is a must-visit. Even if you're not, the creativity, immersion, and overall fun at Universal are more than enough to make it an incredible day.

I’ve visited the Universal resort multiple times and have always come away with incredible memories. Parking is always easy enough and the walkways to CityWalk are well marshalled/sign posted. Wait times for rides massively vary based on time of day and public holidays (I recommend an early start and going as far from the entrance of each park, then working your way back). You can get lightening passes but it does expensive for a group. There’s plenty of live shows and character meet and greets, some highlights for me being meeting the Transformers and watching The Blues Brothers perform. The jewel in the crown is undoubtedly ’Harry Potter’, such a magical experience for little ones, there’s two sections spread across Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, connected by a Hogwarts express. The Simpsons ‘Springfield’ is really fun too, I enjoyed a pint of Duff in Moe’s. The facilities are generally really good, you’re never far from food/drink and you can avoid long waits by using the app (be sure to try a giant Turkey Leg… yummy!). The parks are kept clean. I recommend the nighttime show, which includes fireworks, a drone and fountain display with characters and music from Universal movies such as Back To The Future, Jaws, Jurassic Park, Transformers, Ghostbusters and Harry Potter.

It was awesome, did the day pass for the day and the Halloween horror night for the evening. It really wasn't as busy as what I was thinking and what I've always heard from people. Got on the attractions fairly quickly without having to have a fast pass the park was nice and clean and actually people were pretty well behaved . Definitely will be going back with more of an extended stay and explore the other parks

I’ve been to Universal numerous times now and each time is a blast, always leaving with new memories. Best part is Harry Potter, the details they put into creating the theme park is incredible & very nostalgic for me. From someone who watches the movies every year around the holidays and then being able to step into the wizarding world myself is magical! TIP: Take a family picture somewhere in the wizarding world and have the live option on, then go into the settings for that picture and put it on a loop - now it’s a moving picture, just like how the pictures are done in Harry Potter! Overall, expensive park but completely worth it if haven’t you been!

I had a fantastic time a Universal! My only complaint would be that every single ride sprays you with water. I want to know what study was done or who decided that to make a simulator ride more immersive you need to have the ride sneeze on the riders. But whoever did, I have some questions for. Jokes aside, the attention to detail of the different themed sections are unreal. I thoroughly enjoyed exploring the entire park. My crew got through about 21 different rides/experiences staying from open till close. We definitely got lucky with the crowds our day and of course waited 105 minutes for Hagrid’s magical creature ride. But overall, so much fun!

Like a dream come true! Finally getting to see Harry Potter diagon alley was amazing. Loved all the other lands. Having express passes is definitely recommended! Especially if you're going to park hop. We had breakfast at the leaky Cauldron and it was delicious.

I decided to go on a whim and it was fantastic. Always fun at Universal and slands of Adventure. Went on the E.T ride, haven't been since I was kid and still loved it. i enjoyed all the rides I went on. Highly recommend getting the premier pass.

We flew across the country to go to Universal. We went to Islands of Adventure the first day and Epic today. It was me and my husband and I thought we had prepped for a great kid-free trip. The park is visually stunning. It's clean and there are plenty of staff members to help with your every need. I also appreciate that they have covered/cool areas to stand under in line - that is thoughtful. The lines are absolutely ridiculous. 4 1/2 hour wait for the Harry Potter ride. We were in the park for over 5 hours and rode two rides. The two with the shortest wait times were the Frankenstein ride and the Warewolf coaster - both disappointments - which is probably why the lines were so short. While I now understand why people are forced to spend 2-5 days at the parks - it now makes sense that is the only way you can wait to go to your can't miss rides. I wish I would've just skipped this park and spent a second day at IOA, at least there are 2 great coasters there. It was a complete waste of money and a bummer that they close earlier when it happens to rain most of the afternoon and the rides are delayed due to weather.

What an awesome experience! The best park in Orlando I must say. Lots of different attractions to go, and auch incredible worlds and atmosphere created. Including Harry Potter, Jurrasic Park, Marvel, etc. Any fan of roller-coasters will have a blast. Favourite ride for me was Velocicoaster hands down. Enjoy

Out of the Universal parks in Orlando, Islands of Adventure still has the most fun stuff to do. That being said, the wait times, especially for the new Harry Potter ride (hagrid's magical creatures motorbike adventure) are UNBELIEVABLY long. My friend and I thought coming here on a Wednesday in October (during the school year) would mean shorter lines, but every roller coaster had a minimum 1 hour wait. We didn't go on the Hagrid's ride because the estimated wait time was 240 mins... Yes, that's right. 4 HOURS! How can they sell so many tickets that every ride can have such a ridiculously long wait? All the rides we made it onto were fun, but you can't help but ask yourself if a few minutes of fun is worth hours of waiting around uncomfortably in the Florida heat and humidity with no A/C, limited shade, and nowhere to sit. Not to mention how expensive the tickets are now. Plus the food and merchandise costs. I'm struggling to understand why this is fun. The only way you can actually enjoy this park is to buy the express pass. Which, again, is crazy expensive. But without it, you might as well be throwing the ticket money into the trash.

We rope dropped because we were doing both Islands of Adventure & universal studios (which I recommend getting the park hopper pass so you can ride the Hogwarts express). Hogsmead is so adorable and a dream come true as a Harry Potter fan. The rides were amazing. I recommend getting express passes if you can. It definitely beats waiting in line and using your valuable park time doing things you enjoy.

Islands of adventure was great. We decided to do this for a one day ticket and leave universal studios Florida and epic universe out… we couldn’t recommend it more. The wait times were ok… but overall fine. It didn’t ruin the experience and we went during a busy time. Best part overall. The Velocicoaster in Jurassic World park. Best roller coaster I’ve ever been on. Food was ok… for theme park food was alright.

Very nice looking park. The number of rides is not that large, but there are some very good ones there. Hagrid's and Velocicoaster are the top two. You should also check out Spider-Man, River Adventure and possibly the other Harry Potter ride, but that was down during our visit. Plenty of food options too.

Great theme park, visited on a Tuesday with a 9am-7pm opening, got all the rides done in a day and got to do some twice. Waits not to long, 20-30mins max on most except Hagrids Magical Creatures Motorbike adventure, with 80mins posted as a minimum. The VelociCoaster is the best roller coaster I have ridden across the Disney, Universal theme parks in USA. Wear a poncho (and shoe covers) on Popeyes Bilge Rat Barge you will get soaked and Ripsaw Falls will drench you.

This is a fantastic place. We are all huge Harry Potter fans, so very excited to visit. The sets and designs are out of this world, as are the rides. The main downside is the volume of people that can detract from your enjoyment. Having to fight to move around, get in and out of shops is crazy. Sadly this only brings out the worst in fellow muggles in the park. The lockers for rides was very stressful. Personally I'd avoid during school holidays and summer. There's loads to love about this section of the park but Universal need to prioritise the experience over volumes of people in the park. We bought our son a new generation wand and 92 dollars for what is essentially moulded plastic is insane. This creates much of the movie atmosphere in the areas but just as you're starting to enjoy it, you're being pushed or bumped into. I'm so pleased we paid for fast passes as 2 hours to queue for rides in the extreme heat is horrific for all, especially families with small children.

If you're a Potter fan, this is a must. The attention to detail is breathtaking, and there are all sorts of nooks and crannies to explore. The Escape from Gringots ride is great fun, and there is a ton to see even when you're standing in line. If you have an interactive wand, look for the many places to use it here. The only downside is the crowds, but where ISN'T that the case?

Visiting Diagon Alley in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Orlando is nothing short of magical. The moment you step through the brick archway, the real world slips away and you’re transported straight into the heart of the wizarding world. The views are breathtaking and surreal, from the towering dragon perched atop Gringotts to the charming crooked storefronts lining the cobblestone streets. Every detail feels lovingly crafted, making it easy to believe you’ve wandered into the pages of the books or scenes from the films. What truly sets Diagon Alley apart is its ability to feel timeless. No matter how many times you visit, the experience never loses its wonder. Whether you’re savoring a butterbeer, browsing Ollivanders for the perfect wand, or watching the dragon roar to life, each moment feels just as enchanting as the first. It’s a place where nostalgia and awe intertwine, creating an experience that delights fans of all ages. If you’re looking for a theme park area that offers true immersion, unforgettable sights, and pure magic, Diagon Alley is an absolute must-visit.

My favourite part of this Universal park. Creepy, magical, stunning artistic designs of an 'off kilter' magical world. The ice cream is a must at the cones shop, as is the infamous butter beer available nearby. Slightly disappointing is the lack of fire-breathing from the dragon at the bank, two days on the trot. Come on Universal...you charge plenty for admission.......

The wizardly world was actually the best part of Universal Studio to me. They really did a great job with the exterior, interior and overall vibes of the place. So many people were stopping at the windows of each store, twirling their wands to cast magic spell, and the windows will actually respond back with water, smoke or other things. There was also the dragon who spit fire every 10 minutes. Standing underneath the dragon, I could actually feel the heat of the fire. They had so many different shops here. One dedicated to all kinds of wands. Another shop had all the costume, replicas, apparel and gears from the franchise. We found a bank shop that sold Happy Porter money and coins. We actually got a $10 bill and coin set. There were couple other shops that sold variety of merchandise. There were couple of rides here, one of them was very popular, wait time was over 40 minutes and all items needed to be put in lockers before entering the ride.

Really cool place. Every Harry Potter fan would appreciate this. Literally feels like you’re in the movies. I also got a butter beer which made it feel even more authentic.

We love visiting Hogsmeade and Hogwarts in Universal’s theme parks. The detail is incredible, down to the products in the stores it feels so authentic and you are completely immersed in the world of Harry Potter.

It was a fun little tour of the Fort. Small but mighty. Nice boat ride over to the island. Park Rangers were definitely into what they do for a living, very energetic about giving the history of the fort! Free tour but the spots go fast.

Very interesting, loved the history lesson and had no idea a fort could be so small! Loved Ranger Linda and our Captain was great as well. The nature walk was also pretty awesome and loved learning that the live oaks grow away from the salt water!

Well kept, clean and fort. Short boat ride to the fort with a lot of history. Beautiful place. Bathroom and vending machine with drinks are available. A hiking area is also available.

Great place for a little family outing. They have lots of picnic tables, shade, public restrooms, trash bins and vending machines with cold drinks. The gentleman in the information office was very kind and friendly. He gave us maps and information on the area. The ferry was closed when we went so we did not get to pay the $2 and ferry over to the monument. The walking trails are nice but not recommended for anyone who may have a fear of spiders.

Great morning out, the boat and fort are free and take about 50 mins. Even on a quiet day it filled up so get there a bit before. There is also a lovely loop hike to do by carpark of about 20 mins.

It's a fun free things to do. The fort is so small it only takes a few minutes to see but it's free. The ferry ride is maybe 50 yards but again free for everyone. There is a walking path through the hammock and beach access.

First of all the entrance is free. The staff is very knowledgeable and even passionate about this historic site. It is very cool to see and be at this almost 300 years old fort, not to mention the beautiful scenery. If you are in the area, this is a must visit.

Disney are supreme at looking after their guests. Every thing is clean. The queue times are reasonable. The shows - Fantasmic, Indiana Jones, and the parades are amazing. It's such a good vibe. So much to see and do!

Went to Animal Kingdom today. This park is done so lovely and full of details. The sections, like Pandora, Africa, Asia, Discovery Island, are hugged with bushes, trees and all kind of greens filling every space. This park is a wonderful mix of zoological exhibitions, delightful food & drink options, as well as first class entertainment! Live performances from singers, bands, and characters makes this park even more fun for the whole family!

Crowds we were told are way down. Still seemed attended but not overwhelming. Staff were wonderful. Expensive-but it's Disney. Need to make some amenities more senior accommodating such as higher toilets and hold bars in most or all showers. Worth it? Unlimited funds - go for it. Else watch your spending so you can enjoy all the pretend they offer.

Stayed at the Wilderness Lodge as a DVC member and it was perfect for us...simple room for two. Rooms were recently renovated. Clean and fresh. Fun casual feel. Mobile quick service was fast and easy. Staff was also very friendly and helpful with any questions we had. Looking forward to next visit.

Walt Disney World is pure magic from start to finish! ✨🏰 Every park — Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom — offers something special, from thrilling rides and incredible shows to world-class food and unforgettable atmosphere. The Cast Members are friendly and go above and beyond to make every moment feel magical. Everything is clean, well-organized, and beautifully themed. Whether you’re there for the rides, characters, fireworks, or just the joy of being immersed in Disney magic, there’s truly nothing else like it. 🌟🎆🐭 A five-star experience every single time — worth every moment!

Wife is a super Disney fan while I'm more of a Dollywood guy. Either way, my wife wanted to see the changeover from Halloween to Christmad but....alas, they did not do it on 11/1 like we hoped. Also, as a Halloween lover, I was Hella disappointed that they had no Halloween decorations (unlike at Disneyland). The Haunted Mansion was normal (no Jaxk Skellington anywhere) so that was disappointing but, overall, Disney is still a magical place to be. The Tiana ride was my favorite ride by far, followed by Tron which justifies the long wait time (about 55 minutes).

I know that Disney World is a classic family vacation place, but this place has lost its charm. Nothing feels magical in the extreme heat while waiting over an hour for every ride. I would have expected much better crowd control, or at least fans, or spray water to cool off. They need to learn a lesson from Universal, where most lines are indoors, air conditioned and move fast more quickly. The parade as well as the outdoor shows were great fun. We got to see Elsa at the castle and my kids (13 and 17) loved it. The daily fireworks seem out of touch with today's environmental sensibility. We did however, LOVE the Jungle Cruise with Skipper Ray. She was amazing!!! She was funny, gregarious, witty and really seemed to love her job. We were there for 12 hours straight, trying to get as much as possible in. On another positive note, it's greatly appreciated that we could bring our own food in. The prices at the restaurants are ridiculously high. I do not think I will visit again.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is absolutely stunning! 🦁🌿 From incredible attractions like Avatar Flight of Passage and Expedition Everest to the breathtaking Kilimanjaro Safaris, it feels like stepping into another world. The park is beautifully themed, full of lush greenery, animal encounters, and immersive details everywhere you look. The walking paths are wide and scooter-friendly ♿, and there are plenty of shaded areas to relax. Entertainment, food options, and cast member interactions make it feel both adventurous and peaceful at the same time. A true must-visit Disney park — magical, wild, and unforgettable! 🐘🦜✨

Animal Kingdom may have been my favorite park of the four, maybe because it had the Avatar Flight of Passage ride, which is thee best ride at Walt Disney World. It would have been great to take a whole day just to walk around Animal Kingdom to view the exhibits they have. Between the Tree of Life and the Floating Rocks, I think you could spend hours just looking at those. As with all the Walt Disney World parks, the food at the Animal Kingdom park was great. You need to try the macaroni and cheese with pulled pork.

Disney Animal Kingdom never disappoints! Do the private elephant tour if you get the chance. The safari is best in the morning when the animals are stretching, roaming and having breakfast. Walk around and check out the Tree of Life, exceptional carvings. Enjoy live drumming and vendors. Best land/ride to experience is Avatar!! Yak and Yeti is a favorite if you enjoy Asian inspired dishes, and don't forget to catch the Lion King live show!

My daughter loves animals and she had a lot of fun here. The Safari was super fun and most of the animals were active (we went in the morning). Everything looked amazing too, I really liked how it was decorated.

Highly recommend starting your day with the safari for the best animal viewing possibilities!! We saw so many animals up close and got some amazing pictures. The World of Pandora area is just stunning to look at and Avatar Flight of Passage is hands down my favorite ride in the park, the design and detail that the Disney Imagineers put into it is incredible! Also, recommend the short train ride to Rafiki's Planet Watch, its mostly kid stuff down there, but the thing I found most interesting as an adult was you could watch live veterinarians in action.

Lots of changes taking place at the moment so not a huge amount of rides to experience. Avatar and Safari rides are the pick of the bunch. Make sure you catch the Safari ride as early in the morning as you can as the animals are far more active. The animal trails and in particular Gorilla Falls are also worth your time.

It's more than a Disney Zoo. It is centered around an animal theme but also includes a significant presentation of Disney's commitment to conservation efforts around the world. Educational and entertaining, something Disney just excels at. It exudes the attention to detail that has made Disney parks so wonderful. In typical Disney fashion (as i was told by employees), many of the items on the African safari train were actually sourced from Africa. Having been to East Africa, I found the atmosphere to be surprisingly realistic. Highly recommended.

We went here october 15th, a wednesday. It was crowded, im not sure if its always like that but it was still a very pleasant experience. Highly recommend the fast pass as always, and be sure to buy in advance because eventually the selections are limited. There was plenty to offer for children and some high thrill rides for adults. The Tron ride and space mountain were really fun. The wait time without the fast pass can be 2-3 hours for some of the more popular rides. The park closes at 11 but a monorail takes you from the parking lot to the magic kingdom entrance. We left right at close and it was chaotic getting back on the monorail. It was almost a ride line in its own. Still everyone should make an effort to go at least one time in their life. It was fun and we will have to go back at some point. Be sure to save up money, a Disney sweater is usually about $60 which seems to be around the average price of apparel.

Magic Kingdom is . . . Magical. It's our 3rd trip this year and it never gets old! This was our first time going on Halloween then again November 1st and seeing the overnight transformation. Highly recommend! My friend and I surprised our sons who are cross country besties with this trip. Neither knew we were going OR that the other would be there. It made the trip extra magical watching them run the parks together!

In my opinion THE best Disney park in Florida. Something for everyone. Tron is awesome but best ridden in an evening as the atmosphere is slightly better. Find a spot for the electric parade in the main Town Hall square as it's far less crowded than along Main street and the Castle area. My top tip is to then follow the parade immediately behind the rope carried by the cast members at the rear of the parade. This will take you straight to the Castle steps where, 30 minutes later, you'll bag a fantastic view of Happily Ever After, the evening Projection and Fireworks show.

Haven't been in over a decade. As always very clean and decorated. See parades were well performed and all rides were operational that weren't shut down. The day after register's day was very busy took over an hour to leave via monarail at the end of the night. All foods were prepared fresh and tasted great.

Great family vacation. Planning things out helps minimize the concern around cost. And the legends are true -- the customer service was exceptional in handling my questions and occasional "emergency". Greatly appreciated the staff's patience and understanding.

Had fun at Disney World's Magic Kingdom Park with our kids and grandkids. The rides are great. The attention to detail with the rides is impressive, and they are alot more than just amusement rides. Every ride is themed, and even waiting in line adds to the theme of the ride. Granted, the lightning lane is the way to go. It is nice to be able to ride more than 2 rides in 4 hours. Each area in the park has it's own character, and it was even fun noticing the details through. The lights and even the trash cans are themed. The food is really good. It's a little more expensive than some amusement parks, and major league baseball parks we've been to, but it is good.

Visited Magic Kingdom with my mom on November 1, 2025, and it was an unforgettable experience! From thrilling rides to the breathtaking fireworks and the vibrant parade, everything was pure Disney magic. The park was beautifully decorated and the atmosphere was full of joy and excitement. We were pleasantly surprised by the great vegan food options available throughout the park — definitely a plus for plant-based visitors! Tips for a great experience: Arrive early to make the most of your day and beat some of the lines. Use lighting lane pass to skip long waits for popular rides. Stay for the nighttime fireworks — they’re absolutely worth it! Catch the parade from Main Street for the best view. Bring a portable charger — you’ll be using your phone a lot for photos and the Disney app. Highly recommend for families, couples, or anyone looking to relive their childhood dreams. Can’t wait to go back!

Great for kids of most ages. Perfect for kids between 4-13, as this park is catered to this age group. So the rides aren't extreme, and good enough for smaller kids. Fun little place. Expect to spend a high mark up on any food. They could work on making their park entry car lanes MUCH better to prevent a 45+ minute bottleneck.

Where do I start...... Amazing park friendly staff! A lot of food options and a lot of fun stores for kids! Ride had no wait max 5 minutes only a couple of rides were closed most of them were open though! Rides were kid-friendly and the shows were awesome the park was big and not crowded! Really clean park and bathrooms! And a lot of fun Lego statues! Even had a garden! A lot of shaded areas so we didn't get hot! Honestly such a fun and not crowded park!!! Really enjoyed it!!! Would recommend to everyone! ❤️ 11/10 Amazing!

My granddaughter and family enjoyed this park. We visited during the week, and the weather was beautiful, with no crowds. My favorites were Lego City and the aquarium. My three-year-old granddaughter is still talking about all the rides she and her parents were able to take her on. There are height restrictions for most rides, but she met most of them. Fortunately, the second day we went (the second day was Pepperpig Park) was the only day parking was being collected, and the fee was between $35 and $50. Despite the cost, we would definitely go again.

This is our second time visiting the Legoland Resort and staying at the Legoland Hotel and it's always a great time for the family! The hotel is not cheap but it's so worth it! There are Legos everywhere to keep the kids entertained, Pajama dance party, fun themed rooms, fire pit and s'mores, fireworks show and a great pool area! We went to the park during Brick or Treat and that was great! Lots of candy and no wait times for the rides, we enjoyed the Cypress Gardens area. We can't wait to go back!

Buy tickets at least the day before to save some money. Download the app and you will be able tonteack wait time for rides and attractions, although the wait time might be less than advertised. We packed snacks for the day and filled up water bottles for drink if you like that option. Our kids are 2, 8, and 9 and they had a blast. Even the baby with the small amount of rides still had fun.

How does this theme park for kids have an average rating of 4.4 as of right now as I’m typing this? That’s wild. We went there today with my almost 3 and 5 year olds and it was better than those parks over in Orlando (I won’t name names). Calm atmosphere, 5 minute wait times for all the rides, kid friendly atmosphere as in everything is catered to littles, really fun rides, beautiful landscape, etc… My son loved the coasters and the dark rides, and my daughter loves Duplo Valley so there’s a little bit of everything for everyone. My husband loved the botanical garden. So yes, there’s a botanical garden INSIDE the theme park. Maybe to preserve Florida heritage. It has a monstrous banyan tree, waterfall, bridges, lakeside views, etc.. A seriously PERFECT quiet garden with pathways to get your little to sleep. What a wonderful break from the park. Definitely coming back. The only disappointment was the pirate cove boat ride was closed. We really want to ride it.

Legoland Florida is the best for smaller kids.(Height 42" without an adult) I have 4 kids and they can ALL ride everything at Legoland which is very nice because usually my oldest Daughter was the only one who could ride the roller coasters at any other adventure park but Not Legoland they made it possible for every kid to ride EVERYTHING. Its awesome !! I would recommend going during Christmas time to see the whole place lit up. Its truly a great time and great memories.

In the heart of St. Augustine, Florida, a city steeped in history, the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument rises as a beacon of the past. Completed in 1695 after 23 years of painstaking labor that began in 1672, this breathtaking structure stands as a testament to Spanish ingenuity and determination. Originally conceived as a fortress to safeguard their treasures and secrets, its immaculate architecture commands attention, overlooking one of St. Augustine's most picturesque vistas. Though tours offer an immersive experience within its walls, even a glimpse from the exterior reveals the monument's unparalleled grandeur. Constructed from unique Coquina stone, the walls exhibit a mesmerizing mosaic of tiny shells, a strategic choice that proved impervious to English sieges. Today, the Castillo stands resolute, each piece of Coquina holding echoes of the past, while the land upon which it rests cradles everlasting memories along the bay. As visitors approach, they are transported back in time, captivated by the stories etched into every stone. The Castillo de San Marcos not only stands as a physical structure but also as a living narrative, preserving the legacy of those who built and defended it. Its enduring presence ensures that the tales of courage, strategy, and cultural heritage will continue to captivate and inspire generations to come.

This was an amazing experience, I enjoyed visiting the Castillo de San Marcos. The history here is incredible — it really feels like stepping back in time. The fort itself is beautiful, and the views of the water are awesome. The cannons were definitely my favorite part. It’s just one of those places that makes you appreciate how much history St. Augustine has to offer. Highly recommend it, go during the day and at night.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ An incredible piece of history! The Castillo de San Marcos is absolutely breathtaking. The views of St. Augustine Bay are stunning, and the old Spanish stone walls make you feel like you’re stepping back in time. The park rangers do a great job explaining the fort’s history, and the cannon firing demonstrations are a must-see. It’s very well preserved, clean, and easy to explore at your own pace. Highly recommend bringing water and comfortable shoes — and take a moment to just enjoy the ocean breeze from the top walls. A perfect stop for history lovers, families, or anyone visiting St. Augustine!

Awesome experience! The fort has many places to explore and learn new things. I would recommend everyone visit. You can buy the tickets online or at the entrance. We bought ours at the entrance in minutes with very helpful and pleasant staff. There are multiple places to sit, rest and take in the magnificent views.

Very cool historic castle to tour! The top offers a great view of the water and surrounding area, plus old cannons you can check out. On the ground level there are multiple rooms to explore, each with interesting displays and information about the history of the fort. You can also see step-by-step demonstrations of how soldiers would load and fire the cannons as well as their muskets, which is really fascinating. The staff dressed in Spanish army costumes brought the place to life and made the whole experience feel even more authentic. Definitely worth visiting if you’re interested in history or just want to see something unique.

What a fabulous place to go with friends family or just to go for a visit on your own. Great for family with children as well. Lots of history to learn about. There's a small gift shop with really cute items. Because this is also a National Park if you have a park pass your entry is free. If you're military you'll also get in free and can bring a visitor with you at no extra cost.

The Castillo de San Marcos is always well worth the visit. The structure alone clearly articulates its history and its various functions from the 17th through the 20th centuries The grounds are well-maintained by the NPS and are excellent for walking. This fort is one of the many treasures that makes Saint Augustine the beautiful city that it is. To see the ancient walls lit up at night is breathtaking.

Loved our time here ! Lots of shops we went to and plenty of places to eat at and enjoy outdoor seating in such pretty garden settings. Definitely will go back.

What a nice street for a stroll! Lots of interesting stores and restaurants. Never miss a good stroll on this street. In fact, it is a must when visiting St. Augustine, Florida. I enjoyed every bit of its historic significance to America.

Nice bustling street with a variety of stores and great architecture! Must visit when in St. Augustine!

This is a very scenic and historic district of St. Augustine! Plenty of shops and restaurants with anything you could want to eat and do. The buildings had great design and courtyards for sitting. It also hd trolley stops and plenty of restrooms. It’s very nice but beware of the crowds, it’s packed thick!

So cool, the shops , the restaurant's, the outside bars with live music the inside bars with live music. The food great. This place has it all for everyone. Tons of sweets for those who love all sweets, they have everything.

Love this street , St George St it feels like ( Krupòwki ) in Zakopane, you just walk and shop and eat and enjoy. I couldn’t pass by without stopping . I will be back 😂❤️ Every year we travel to FL I want to stop by

One of the most interesting streets in the city. Be sure to take a walk along it!

Best Distillery Experience in Florida! Yep another non-food review! What a blast! From the first sip to the last, this place knows how to deliver an experience. The rum, gin, and vodka samples were great — but the bourbon? Absolute favorite. And The Saint… wow. Hands-down the star of the show. Dominick was our guide and he crushed it — friendly, funny, and clearly loves what he does. He made the whole tour feel like we were hanging out with a friend who just happens to know everything about spirits. The classroom is gorgeous and super organized, which made learning as fun as the tasting. I’m already planning my next trip — certification, here I come! You're in the St Augustine area, stop by and as always, tell them we sent you!

This distillery is known for its famous bourbon. We stopped by and took a FREE self-guided tour which includes 4 cocktail samples. It took us about 45min-an hour to get thru with reading info provided. The staff were friendly and obviously love their jobs. They were fun to talk to about the history. After you done you could go for more tasting. The parking are on the side of the building sharing with the restaurant.

My son and I toured the distillery while traveling through Saint Augustine and had a fantastic time! The tour was extremely engaging and informative, we learned a lot, all the employees were extremely friendly in each room had a different tasting. It was a lot of fun. We actually wind up buying several pieces of merchandise in the shop before leaving. If you are in the area, it is a free tour and a lot of fun. Definitely add it to your list!

I’ve been coming here since shortly after they opened in 2013 and somehow they manage to outdo themselves each time. Today, we did the bourbon tasting tour. Dominick was amazing! We learned a lot, tried some incredible bourbon, and had a great time.

Saint Augustine Distillery was such a fun time for our group! We loved trying the tasty cocktails and liquors—they were all delicious and unlike others we’ve had before in S Florida. The gift shop was also a blast, with lots of cool items to take home. Highly recommend stopping by!

This place does complimentary cocktail tastings with their spirits. Everything we tried was tasty. You work your way through the building on a self guided tour as you make stops at different tasting stations. The last tasting station is in the gift shop.

The Florida Bourbon tasting was fantastic! Dominick is an entertaining and knowledgeable guide and he’s passionate about experiencing the good moments in life! The saint is a lovely, smooth bourbon and we went home w two bottles. You should go but make sure you get Domenick!!

Beautiful fort, I’ve been coming here for years. Great scenery, right by the water. They have a gift shop and visitor’s center as well. It’s $6 per car to get in and an additional $2.50 per person to see the fort. Plenty of parking, but the road from the entry point to the actual parking lot is pretty far with a low speed limit. Overall, it’s worth visiting!

Fun activities, lots of history, and very knowledgeable staff and reenactors. I had a blast visiting and cannot wait for my next visit. Very good views of the Fort from the beach, which is easily accessible. There are several enjoyable trails to hike, walk, and bike as well.

It holds the history of the island. For $6 entrance fees we were able to tour the park. The salt marsh is a great first stop. The light house can be seen from here. The history of the light house is on a plaque at this stop. Walking on dunes is prohibited. A paved road takes you through the park with pullouts along the way. The vegetation is thick on both sides of the road. A camp ground is available too for those interested in camping. The fort itself is something to see. Interesting that there was never an engagement there.

My boyfriend and I loved exploring Fort Clinch! It was worth the $6 entry fee and $2.50 per person to enter the Fort. The beach at this state park is beautiful but lots of oysters (watch your step)

Fort Clinch State Park is great for camping! The sites are in great repair, and are a short walk to the body of water. You can fish there all year! There is also a bathroom/bathhouse that are kept clean by the staff. (There is also cell phone signal if you are worried about that.)

What an awesome local treasure! We were in for the weekend and truly enjoyed this community and this park. The history of the park is very interesting and the guys were very knowledgeable.

We accessed the park on a rented “ arcimoto” electric 3 wheel vehicle . I highly recommend seeing the park this way or on a bike to get immersed. Facts about the park can be found on the website. I want to add some directions to navigating the park instead. There are basically two places to see if visiting for an hour or two. The fort and the beach. See the photos to orient. First sign you come to is clearly marked beach to the right - you could spend an hour or a day there! Straight ahead is the fort. We did take at least an hour to tour. The video and small museum are informative. The fort property is interesting and well staged. Just to see the tree canopy and Spanish moss was interesting. Side turn offs are separate camping areas etc. Check out the park map!

Great afternoon adventure! We were visiting the Mayo Clinic and we decided to spend our afternoon at the zoo! We arrived about 12:00 and left at 5:00. It was the perfect amount of time. Our favorites were the gorilla’s and chimps. This is really a beautiful zoo with so many different species. Most of the paths are shaded which really makes it nice to walk around.

Had a fun experience with the family here. We bought the pass that includes the train and the whole experience. The grandkids loved the train and the play park for kids and the penguins the best. I'm sure lots of other things too. We went early on Sunday right after it opened. The lions and turtles were still sleeping. The food was good, portions were large. We had chicken strips and fries. The reusable drink cup is $10 and refills are I think $1.50.

When we travel, we always check out the local zoo. I’m embarrassed to say that I’ve lived in FL my entire life, and never visited the Jax Zoo. My hubby and I recently visited - twice within 6 weeks because it was sooooo good! Their exhibits are well done, the collection of animals is quite impressive and the grounds are well maintained. We thought the entrance fee was very reasonable and most employees / volunteers were helpful. 100% recommend for all ages. If walking is too much, suggest buying the pass that includes the train ride.

A great zoo. Pet the manta rays and even feed them. That’s quite the experience or feed the Giraffes. I never realized how big their heads are. Beautiful creatures. It’s great fun for all ages Make sure you choose the right plan for tickets. . General admission doesn’t entitle you the activity to go on the train or feed the Giraffes!

Jacksonville zoo is one of the best! The current metalworks are fantastic! There is a great playground for kids with a tree house, rope bridge, cement slides and more. It's a little pricey. If you're local, get an annual pass and go often! Highly recommend. Go and spend the day.

We finally visited the zoo and was not disappointed. We loved all the animals. Sometimes it does get sad knowing they are captive, but these animals had friends in their enclosures and looked like they were treated well and feed even better. The small inside reptile and amphibian walk through buildings were the most exciting to us! It was like a super game of hide and seek. The giraffe feeding was what we looking forward to all day. We were a tad disappointed that there was only one small area to feed, but lucky enough one of them was willing to come over and let us feed. Staff was very friendly and knowledgeable. The train ride was fun also. We got on the train from the very start and rode to the back of the park and walked from back to front which was awesome in our opinion. The layout of the park is great also with one main road and the different areas branched from that. Plenty of restrooms along the way and areas to stop for dining or just a quick drink spot. Several areas had adult drinks..... this was like THE BEST PART. My daughter connect to the nature adventure compass and played along the whole way until it got disconnected and annoyed her. But all was fun and we 10/10 recommend. Just be careful with booking a hotel and make sure to do research about the area before you book.

Absolutely love this zoo! It was our first time going but will definitely be back. If you have not been or considering going I highly recommend. Out of all the zoos I have been to this is now a favorite!

My mother-in-law was in town and we took a troop up there to rent a canoe and see wildlife. The water was beautiful, as a spring is always are, we saw alligator, turtles, tons of birds and fish! The water is absolutely clear. We did our own little thing in a canoe with three of us... And my service dog. We had an absolutely wonderful time and will definitely go back. I would suggest doing a tour because we caught a few tours that were giving some pretty cool information and we will definitely try that next time. After we were done we went hiking a little bit. We ran into a gentleman who was liking along the trail and he warned us that there are bear there. So next time I will definitely take some mace with us just in case. But the paths are well marked and it's beautiful. Lots of hiking to be had. It's pretty flat but very sandy.

My friend came to visit so we played tourists for the day and drove to the spring for the glass bottom boat ride and brunch. We had such a lovely visit in the park. The park is beautiful, we'll maintained, lovely local vegetation and wildlife from birds to reptiles. We strolled the pathway for a while taking it all in. The glass boat ride did not disappoint with one exception no Manatee but we saw the wonderous and famous springs, turtles, alligator and tons of birds. The Captain was entertaining and knowledgeable about the history of the springs. Then we enjoyed brunch at the café on sight. We lingered there for a while enjoying sangria, coffee drinks and of course delicious entrees of eggs Benny and chicken and waffles. After brunch we enjoyed checking out the shops and the water fountain. All in all a great park for a visit. I look forward to returning for some kayaking

Silver springs state park is absolutely one of the most beautiful places in the world! I immediately feel in love the second I stepped into the park. I highly recommended hopping in a kayak and doing the full river! It's about a 4 our adventure but you see soooo many amazing beautiful things. There was no shortage in wildlife there and you can tell they are all well loved, protected and cared for.

Wow.. what an amazing way to spend a few hours! We rented the glass bottom kayaks which were very easy to control after about a minute in them. They are made to not tip very easy and one person on the tour with us went from sitting to kneeling and moving to the front to get a picture with no issues at all. Alyssa, our guide, was very knowledgeable, kind and beautiful. Our time in the water was 2 hours and every minute we were finding something to see. Manatees, turtles, alligators, they have monkeys but were not around on this day, fish etc. A very peaceful experience and perfect for most anyone that can get into a kayak and paddle. You will not be disappointed with the site for sure. There is some places to eat etc on site as well.

This is a must-see experience if you do the 90 minute glass bottom boat tour. The Springs are incredibly beautiful. We got to see lots of manatees, alligators, turtles, and birds. Sadly, we did not see any monkeys. I highly recommend! Male a reservation in advance to guarantee you get on one of the boats.

Absolutely beautiful park with crystal clear water - you can see the bottom from anywhere on the river. It is a very slow flow River that makes for an easy canoe trip. It takes about 1.5 hours to do the loop. There are lots of fish, turtles, and fish to see. We were lucky enough to run upon a baby manatee that we were able to follow for 15 minutes.

Amazing place with breathtaking views and so many wild animals. But for me absolutely the best were really nice and helpful staff and park rules which allow people to come with dogs as long as they behave. Thanks to that you can spend great family time on the trails. You can also rent a kayak which is so much fun.

We really enjoyed our time here and could have easily spent another hour or two to see everything! Best of all it is free. They have light food on site and a nice gift shop as well. Everything was reasonably priced. They also offer a free golf cart shuttle for those that do. It want to walk from the overflow lot!

I live close to the Manatee Viewing Center and have the opportunity to spend multiple times each week there during the season. When Bay waters cool down below 68 degrees the wild manatees will come into the canal at the center to get warm. The docents and employees along the piers can certainly educate you about these gentle animals. Often you’ll see numerous sharks, rays, tarpon, other fish and various birds as well. The mangrove walk is shaded and there is a lot to learn about these unusual plants. There are well kept walking trails and an observation tower. You can also visit the Turtle Rehab facility and Energy Conservation Center. There’s no fee to visit or park. There is parking near the center and additional parking at the overflow lot and golf carts to help get you to and from the center if walking the trails is not your thing. Ramps are present for those who cannot negotiate steps. This place is kept clean inside and out. There is a snack bar and a very reasonable gift shop. There is an information center to teach you about the manatees and the mangrove forest.

It was really cool with so many manatees to see! A nice little boardwalk so a lot of people can look at one time. There nature trail was kinda neat too. I recommend checking the first parking lot, or waiting for the free golf cart ride to save yourself a long walk

Awesome place! There's additional trails that you can take a walk on that lead you to a tower with free binoculars to use. I thought this was super considerate and nice! The actual viewing spot is right behind the building near the parking lot. The gift shop was pretty cute too and had a good selection. We saw 6 blacktip sharks and around 9 manatees when we visited beginning of November. Apparently January is the best time to come. We definitely recommend this place!

Absolutely love this place. You can spend the whole day there and it's all free. It's great for kids. My daughter's 7 and loves it, they do a good job of catering to the kids. Then, yet it's educational enough to not be borning for adults and tell me who doesn't love to see a sea cow. Parking is limited, but they have a huge overflow section.And they use golf carts to run you back and forth. And from that location, you can get a ride over to see the sea turtle hospital, which is run by the Florida aquarium. Where they rehabilitate, sea turtles that have been hurt or sick.

This was a really cool free thing to do! We had some time to kill before going to the Tampa airport and decided to check it out. We had a party of 9 people with us, so to be able to kill time here free was a win in my book. So many manatees, sting rays, sharks, and fish! They do have a cafe that looked good and we did buy some things from the gift shop. Overall for a free activity 10/10!

Very well setup with many options for the docks to view the marine life. Although we didn't catch a glimpse of a manatee, we did see many tarpon and some very large ones taboot. Definitely recommend stopping here to check it out and it is easy to get to, right off of highway 75.

We had such a great time at Busch Gardens Tampa! The park was super quiet when we visited, which made the experience even better - we were able to go on all the rides multiple times without waiting in long lines. It felt like we had the park almost to ourselves. The highlight of the day was definitely the newest coaster, Iron Gwazi. It’s an absolute must-ride - fast, smooth, and full of thrills from start to finish. We couldn’t get enough of it and rode it several times! Overall, the park was clean, well-run, and offered a perfect mix of excitement and relaxation. If you get the chance to visit on a quieter day, you’re in for an unforgettable experience.

Busch Gardens blew me away on my recent visit! The holiday décor was stunning—festive, detailed, and honestly more impressive than what I’ve seen at Disney lately. The food and beverage selection was excellent too, with tons of flavorful options and great seasonal drinks that made the experience feel extra special. The park has clearly invested in major upgrades. Everything felt cleaner, more modern, and much more thoughtfully designed. Plus, there are a ton of awesome rides for both thrill-seekers and young kids, along with multiple playgrounds for all ages—perfect for families who need a breather between attractions. Overall, Busch Gardens has really stepped up its game. The improvements, atmosphere, and value easily put it on a level that rivals—and in many ways surpasses—Disney. Highly recommend!

My favorite happy place in the world when it comes to amusement parks. Busch Gardens prices on tickets is unbeatable for a park that has some of the best rides in the world. The lines are a max of 15 minutes, it is super shady when walking from 1 ride to the other, the fans blow on you so youre not melting in the summer sun and there is something for every age. From safari and animals to rides, it really is a park build for families in mind. The drive is 2 hours for me but its totally worth it!

Oct 2025 We visited busch gardens while holidaying in Orlando for 2 weeks ..It's been 6 years since we last visited, so were very much looking forward to it and the weather was also a lot better than last time...We used the free transport service supplied from SeaWorld Orlando👍. As it was free can't complain .we did have a couple of pic ups on the way , which slowed the journey a bit..We arrived there about 45mins after park open ...The main thing I liked was the coach didn't leave till after park closed , so we were able to make a good full day of it ... Only 2 rides were not operational on the day , cobras curse and the log flume which is now permanently close ...The main attraction for us was going to be iron gwasi ..!!🫣 They hadn't finished it on our last visit,so was very much looking forward to it and it didn't disappoint..The ride is mental from start to finish , Awesome..😁 Apart from a couple of new additions to the park, everything was exactly the same . Although it was a Tuesday and the park was quiet..we didn't have time to check out the animal parts ..But everything else we managed to do more than once...We did have the all day dine , which was ok..kids got more from it than mum and dad did..Food was ok ..Only down side was I couldn't find open and closing times for restaurants on the app (same as SeaWorld)..so a restaurant I did fancy was closed 1 hour before park closed ..Which was disappointing...Overal we had a great day and would return again if we came back to Florida 👍👍

Fantastic day out. Caught the free shuttle bus from Orlando. Went weekday mid November and no ques, although we didn’t actually go on any rides. We did do the safari where you get to feed giraffes, AMAZING. This was on a Black Friday deal for $25, You get quite a bit of time with them and plenty of lettuce to feed them. We also did the sloth encounter (also a black Friday deal for $35), you got to meet 3 sloths (including the baby one) and also got to stroke one. Highly recommend doing this. A fab day out.

My family and I arrived at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay early on Saturday, November 22, 2025, about 30 minutes before the official 10:00 a.m. opening. Staff began letting vehicles into the parking areas around 9:45 a.m. We upgraded to preferred parking, which I highly recommend; it offered a convenient, short walk of just a couple hundred yards to the park entrance. The admission process began promptly at 10:00 a.m. and was a breeze, likely because we had purchased our tickets and parking pass in advance. Since no one in our group enjoys roller coasters, I designed an animal-centric itinerary aimed at an efficient viewing route. My plan led us to the back of the park first, which is where we hit a snag: this section doesn't open until 10:30 a.m. We had to backtrack and follow my itinerary in reverse order. This information wasn't readily available anywhere I looked, so it's a minor inconvenience worth noting for future visitors. Despite the small route change, our overall experience was wonderful. The staff were consistently friendly and informative, all facilities and restrooms were clean, and the animal enclosures appeared well-maintained. I would definitely recommend a visit to Busch Gardens, suggesting you look for discounted tickets during a sale to maximize value. This route took us approximately 4 hours to complete at a leisurely pace. Below is my animal-centric Itinerary. Suggested animal-centric itinerary starting at 10:30 a.m. Continue straight in from entrance to Bird Gardens and Kangaroo, Head North on map towards Jungala to Orangutangs & Tigers, Use the Skyride to go back to beginning of park, Head South on map to Cheeta Run & walk around the Edge of Africa, Jump on the Train once off the train head up to the Asian elephants (if we choose to), Head South on map to see the Penguins, then the Gorillas & Chimps, Continue to head south on the map to the exit.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay always delivers, but the Christmas season takes it to another level. The Christmas Village is a blast — great energy, solid food options, and plenty for the kids to explore. The lights throughout the park are absolutely spectacular and make the whole place feel new again, even if you’ve been a hundred times. Add that to the already top-tier coasters, animal areas, and consistently smooth operations, and you’ve got one of the best holiday park experiences in Florida. Easy five stars - worth the trip every year.

Thinking this is just a museum dedicated to the circus wrong. of course there is circus memorabilia in two buildings that take you back to your childhood, but there is also the mansion from John and Mabel Ringling, and there is also an art museum with some of the most incredible paintings You have seen in the most amazing building. The property is lush and beautiful. I highly recommend a visit.

My husband and I visited here earlier in the year it was such a cool experience. So much beautiful art, history, lovely gardens, and so much more. This is the kind of place you wander around all day long. The banyan trees are the largest we’ve ever seen in FL. It was kind of disappointing that the rose garden was under construction but I guess we’ll just have to come back again. The staff were all helpful and shared lots of cool information. The cafe was cute but a little over priced so we decided not to eat there. Thank you for an amazing time. This is a great spot to take cool pictures. We were very impressed by the miniature circus.

This place has so much richness to offer! Ensure to leave yourself ample time to enjoy the entire 65 acres of this Museum. The garden is beautiful and so is the 🎭 🖼️ building. The circus 🎪 history. Great place if you're an arts enthusiast. Bonus: catch the sunset on Thursdays they close at 8PM last photo!

The museum and grounds are stunning. The lovely art is displayed in beautiful grand rooms. Docent Larry was ever so knowledgeable about the history of John Ringling . Jody, another kind docent, a true look a like to Julia Roberts, the actress , was so friendly , as well. The museum has so much to see and read about the art, a true memorable experience. A must “ go to” if you are in Florida… bring the kids, let them view art and learn some history, then they can run around on the playground near the rose gardens. Try to go near sunset, like on Thursday’s 5’O Clock deal… and capture a picture as the sunsets with the Greek garden sculptures are in full view.

Loved this place. There is a lot to do here. We ran out of time. It is set in a beautiful garden but there is a lot of renovation going on at the moment. Our favourite bit was the circus. It was fun to learn about the history and the miniature circus was just amazing.

Beautiful 66 acre property with museum, art gallery, castle and manicured grounds. Bring your walking shoes because you will definitely get all of your steps in for the day. To see it all plan to spend at least 5 or more hours here. Highly recommended. 👍🏽 🤡 🎪🤹🎠

We were there for 3 hours! So much to see! Amazing 🤩. The only let down was the Ca' d'Zan house. They charge extra to go there but you cannot go to the second floor currently, and they don't say it upfront....you find out when you get there! Charging full price to see half the house is dishonest...let people know upfront and let them decide. Despite that, the grounds were beautiful, the museum art was stunning ✨ and the circus museums were so fun and interesting to look at and learn the history of the circus 🎪.

What a fantastic zoo!! My family is in town visiting from out of state. We used our reciprocal zoo membership to visit. I told my husband about halfway thru the day that if we didn’t have our membership and had paid full price it would’ve still been worth visiting. The kids and us had a blast! The zoo was very clean, the exhibits seemed spacious and the animals seemed happy and well cared for. The rides throughout the park, water play area and playground were an unexpected added bonus! We will definitely be back the next time we’re in town.

This zoo is awesome. I was visiting from Miami for a concert and decided to extend my trip to enjoy the zoo. It’s not as big as ZooMiami, but it makes up for it with a lot of heart and some great theming. I’m particularly fond of the Animal Kingdom style safari ride they have here. It’s great and super informative. The Africa and Florida sections are really good but the Australia section leaves a LOT to be desired. That being said, I highly recommend coming here either by yourself, as a couple, or as a family. It really is fun for all ages.

I have been to a few different cities Zoos but this is one of the better ones for sure. They got a great selection of animals and activities for all ages. They got a show on Disney + called Secrets of the Zoo: Tampa, if you want to check it out before going to ZooTampa. There are a ton of food options and different animal experiences as well. I would recommend signing up for the experiences in advance to make sure there is availability the day you want to go. They have added a dinosaur exhibit and they also do theme events during the holidays. If you live in the Tampa Bay Area, I would recommend buying the pay for the day pass because you can come back as much as you want for a year.

Today my grandson and I enjoyed a full day and did not see everything. We purchased the one day with all 2026 admission included. The Christmas holiday permeates the zoo that is usually open til 5pm with special evening holiday event by separate admission or members free We loved the Aftica section with elephants, white rhinos, hippos, giraffes, and less usual a smiles like Okapi and Tapir. We were sad that the train was not working today but my grandson loved the children’s ride with Outback cars and banana airplane ride. The carousel with a dragon and elephant were a hit. Over and over The areas for animals were divided by continent and with a Florida section. Several food selections offered pizzas, popcorn, canned alcohol, bottle beverages often in 100% recycled containers. I found a hot dog eatery with hot dogs and sausage under $11. Delicious Men’s women’s and family Restrooms were located throughout the park, with a dedicated wheel chair accessible stall with grab bars and 4ftx6 ft space. Restroom doors were push and heavy to open. A touch pad opening would be helpful for some visitors inc the woman in a wheelchair that I held the door for— and she agreed about the touch pad. The zoo is mostly accessible except at some rides and kids playground. Today 3 employees went above and beyond. LAURA at customer service understood my mistake in not bringing my phone charger and charged my phone so I could drive my electric vehicle. JACOB at Kona Ice answered my question about their service project. he talked so proudly about Kona Ice that I thought he was the owner, but he is a proud employee. CARLO was the most awesome docent at the giraffes. My grandson got a blister and crying hysterically near one of the shops. DESTINEY offered bandaids and ointment. She maintained complete calm while he screamed, with no judgement. She asked if he wanted some ice cream and gave him a small amount. That gesture really comforted him. Great experience today. Just be aware, the exit is through the gift shop

Was really looking forward to this visit at they claim its a top zoo. Its got a lot of unique activities, unfortuantely all of them seem to be closed or abandoned. The water slide was not running, and most of the booths and other quick service stands had no employees running them. Was hard to find anything to eat or drink The zoo was dead, as in it felt like a ghost town which in a way is nice because some animals were closer due to the low noise of bigger crowds it just felt very very. We tried to go into the African resteraunt and they said the kitchen was closed, the water slide in florida was not running, there were no handlers out to talk to us about the animals, no encounters, or really any sort of event other than the Halloween event which takes place after normal business hours. Very quiet but hard to find any events to do. Really like the australia area which had lots of play items for kids to burn energy out on while also getting see animals. Feels like an educational but fun place to visit, would really enjoy coming back still even with the setbacks experienced. Feels like a blend between a amusement park and zoo. Good value.

We like ZooTampa! Actually a small zoo but lots of things to do! I describe it as a zoo mixed with a theme park! We just bought the CityPass tickets but I just got the annual membership because its gonna be so much worth it especially with a toddler! Our favorite is the “Australia” section where there is a splash pad, a playground, rides, petting zoo! There are also lots of tables and shaded area for parents to wait. It’s clean and well maintained! There are fans everywhere to ease up the heat and also misting stations! The animals are well taken care of! They also have a rehabilitation area for manatees and stingrays that can be touched! Parking is free when we went but they will be implementing a pay parking starting January 2026 for non-members! Can’t wait to come back!!!!

ZooTampa was an absolutely wicked awesome day, bub. We went during the off-season, so it was no lines, no crowds, no waiting — just pure, relaxed exploring. Felt like we had the whole place to ourselves. The rhinos were incredible — giant prehistoric tanks just hanging out. The elephants were majestic as always, and the giraffes were a definite highlight, towering over everything like they owned the zip code. The Africa ride-along tour was wicked cool and made the whole experience feel like a mini-safari. The primates were pure entertainment, doing what primates do: judging us, ignoring us, and occasionally showing off. And the manatees? My wife was in absolute heaven. Those gentle sea floaters were adorable and calming to watch. Now listen — they technically did have a big cat. One lonely tiger, clearly on his coffee break, just sprawled out living his best lazy life. Didn’t move a whisker. I respect it, but I still had to laugh. Overall, the place is clean, well-run, full of cool animals, and just an all-around wicked good time. Five stars without hesitation. If you’re in Tampa, don’t skip it — this zoo is the real deal.

They are currently doing construction on the ranger experience, so the boat ride was full all day. The mermaid show was great though. I’m fascinated with how they sync with what we hear in the audience. The show is short enough the hold the attention of younger children. There are beautiful peacocks that roam the grounds, and bring a bathing suit because the water park looks fun too. I didn’t have my suit with me. Definitely a great attraction to check out.

Beautiful place to enjoy an incredible view! This stunning spring with crystal-clear waters offers the amazing chance to see manatees up close, all surrounded by nature. You can explore the area by kayak—rentals are available for solo paddlers or pairs. Keep in mind that swimming in the spring is not allowed, and no food is permitted—it’s all about preserving the beauty of the environment. If you’re looking to swim, there’s a beautiful natural pool nearby, also with crystal-clear water, surrounded by comfortable lounge chairs where you can relax and soak up the sun. You can also catch one of the fun shows offered in the area. There’s a nice restaurant on-site—we enjoyed some tasty burgers and delicious French fries. Highly recommended whether you’re visiting with family or just looking for a peaceful escape on your own or with someone special!

Weeki Wachee Springs is an amazing excursion and truly a one-of-a-kind experience. The water is crystal clear and teeming with manatees, and the best part is that you can interact with them naturally and at your own pace, without a guide mediating the encounter. The spring feels like a hidden paradise with plenty of ways to enjoy it—kayaks to rent for exploring, rope swings to launch into the refreshing water, and tree ladders to climb for extra adventure. The only downside is that the rental facility could use a little updating and modernization to match the beauty of the springs themselves. That said, the natural surroundings more than make up for it. All in all, Weeki Wachee is an excellent place to spend the day, whether you’re looking for peaceful time on the water or a bit of thrill and fun. Highly recommended for anyone who loves nature, wildlife, and a unique Florida adventure.

One of the best springs in FL. So pristine and clear. I’ve kayaked this many times and love the peacefulness of the environment and beauty of Florida.

I'll give them two stars for their efforts but don't come for the mermaid show. There's a natural spring pool with a lifeguard on duty, the slide is closed, and there's a half hour mermaid show consisting of a host and two mermaids playing out a skit for young ones with the host kicking one of the mermaids at one point. I really didn't get that. First come first served, no reservations. $13.00. No animal shows, nothing else except a souvenir shop and restrooms. It is a State run park and they must be real short on funds. I give them credit for trying to keep this once main attraction open today. Visited Sep 2025

Simply awesome. The Mermaids were amazing. This place represents outstanding value for money.

Don’t waste your time! Arrived around 12:00 and was told the cruise was already booked for the rest of the afternoon. A bus load had arrived and since it only holds 20 ppl. They had booked the next 4 hours. There were 2 upcoming shows to see but not until 2:15 and 3:00. Walked around and the places to eat were closed off to accommodate the bus tour. Only thing available were cold drinks and frozen ice cream bars. Basically you would have to wait for 2 hours and do nothing until the 2 shows. They should have told us that before we purchased tickets. It was $13 each so we decided to go ahead and leave and not wait for the shows. On btw, you could not get back in if you left the premises, even if you wanted to go back after getting something for lunch to see the shows! 😱😱😱

The day we went was cold and they opened exhibition at 1 pm. While we were waiting we walked around and it was pretty cool. After we went to see butterflies. I have never seen some such a big butterflies and different colours

This is one of my favorite museums in the entire state. The butterfly collection is gorgeous and their breeding program is amazing. We especially love the button quail, that clean up the floor in the aviary. It's a must do every time we're in gainesville.

Butterfly Rainforest had a nice large enclosed patio area full of beautiful butterflies and Luscious Landscaping. It was also a little bigger then I thought it would be. I didn't realize it had a full Museum inside until we arrived and I saw the sign for the museum. The museum was great it had a lot of different displays and was very informative. This is a great place for young & older children alike. Heck, I'm middle-aged and love it!!..

We had an amazing experience here at the butterfly garden! Seriously can't say enough good. We got a couple dollar discount on admission because of being FL residents.The indoor portion was very informative and educational. Also very well laid out and organized. The outdoor area, actual rainforest garden, was beautiful! Water fountains, birds, butterflies and beautiful plants. We enjoyed walking and taking it all in. Can easily spend a couple hours here. We enjoyed being able to observe all the nature up close in a safe weather proof environment. The Florida museum is right next door. We did not visit that today, but it was quite large and looked to be a full day. Parking was $4 and in a lot right next to museum. Restrooms available and a nice fair prices gift shop and penny machine at entrance.

100% worth the drive and the admission. Great for recharging and relaxation. Between the sounds of the waterfalls and the birds and the multitudes of butterfly species it was a sensory overload. Combine this attraction with the natural history museum and the art museum next door (both free admission) and you've got your morning or afternoon fully covered.

Absolutely wonderful place to visit! The garden with the butterflies also has turtles, fish, and several birds. The facility is clean and well-maintained. There were students from the university throughout the museum speaking with guests, which was a nice touch.

I took my wife here and it was awesome. There are so many different types of butterflies and finches as well. If you're a person that likes butterflies here's the place to go. They would land on you and fly all around you. Plus Free parking on the weekends.

We came here for a quick after walk-through. The price was a bit steep for what they offer, but we were happy to contribute to the sanctuary. Good variety of wildlife. Excellent flamingos. The exit was closed, so you have to turn around and walk back the way you came, so that was a bother.

It was a great day for a walk through the springs. The hurricane from last year did some damage, but they've done a great job restoring and making the park presentable and accessible. Buildings were closed, with few staff and volunteers, but those who were there were kind and helpful. We arrived mid-afternoon on a Friday. A crazy amount of vultures are hanging out with all the other birds. Plenty of animals to encounter for the size and space. I look forward to visiting again.

We visited the Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park on a weekday, November 2025. They were starting to decorate for the Christmas holidays. Unfortunately, there is still significant damage from the last hurricane, last year. So not only were some of the walkways and bridges either closed or less than optimal. All the things like restaurants and gift shop were still closed. Although they did have a snack truck that also sold the entrance tickets. We took the tram both ways to and from the park. It runs from the visitor center/parking, to the park. As does the boat ride. I wanted to take the boat ride one way. But the times were more limited, and not when we were making the trip in and out of the park. But I’ll live. But I guess we saved the extra money for the boat trip. The tram is free. The park itself is a nice place to see wildlife that mostly is natural to Florida. It is also a safe new home to the wildlife who can no longer survive in the wild for whatever reason. I will say the we waited too long and put off visiting. Because of this, we missed out seeing the Hippopotamus that sadly passed away this spring after many years greeting visitors. They had a nice manatee program at 11am and 1pm to learn about Manatee’s. Followed by their feeding time following the show. We screwed up and forgot to visited the under water viewing section. Yes it was our fault, but also because of the bridge closure that had us walking all the way around to what we missed (getting to the show). All in all it was a nice park that I’m sure we will probably visit again, maybe multiple times in the future.

Had a wonderful day here at Homosassa. You can tell that the animals are well taken care of and the employees and volunteers are informative and kind. It's a great way to get to know the natural wildlife we have here in Florida. Also, the path that the tram uses is a walkable hiking trail and it makes for a very peaceful stroll. Pictured with this review are the pelicans, the panther, the bear, and one of the many species of owls that are at Homosassa.

5/26/25 used my Florida State Park pass and did about 1.6 mile on the board walk since half of it is closed. Got to see tons of animals! Beautiful waters, nice area!

It is a great family friendly spot. They have native Florida animals. All of the animals are there for rehabilitation. They were injured. Some cannot be released due to the injuries. This allows them to live and gives us a chance to see them.

We went off roading with the maintenance guy and he recommended this place. What a pleasure! We saw a FL panther up close and watched manatee munch on lettuce. It was stupid hot that day but the shade was just enough to make it bearable. Thanks for all you guys do for these animals.