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Top cities between Weeki Wachee and West Palm Beach
Best stops along Weeki Wachee to West Palm Beach drive
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40 Best Stops Between Weeki Wachee and West Palm Beach

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Wanderlog staff
Updated
• updatedApr 10, 2023

How long is the drive from Weeki Wachee to West Palm Beach?

The direct drive from Weeki Wachee to West Palm Beach is 252 mi (405 km), and should have a drive time of 4 hrs 6 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Weeki Wachee to West Palm Beach, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Orlando, Winter Haven, Kissimmee, Melbourne, Fort Pierce, Jupiter, Crystal River, Ocala, Clermont, and The Villages, as well as top places to visit like Silver Springs State Park and Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing, or the ever-popular Sholom Park.

Visiting Weeki Wachee or West Palm Beach? See our Weeki Wachee Trip Planner and our West Palm Beach Trip Planner.
252 mi
Total Distance
4 hrs 6 mins
Drive Time
40 stops
Cities / Attractions
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Top cities between Weeki Wachee and West Palm Beach

The top cities between Weeki Wachee and West Palm Beach are Orlando, Winter Haven, Kissimmee, Melbourne, Fort Pierce, Jupiter, Crystal River, Ocala, Clermont, and The Villages. Orlando is the most popular city on the route. It's 2 hours from Weeki Wachee and 3 hours from West Palm Beach.
1

Crystal River

Nature & Parks
Bodies of Water
Crystal River, a coastal city in western Florida, is known for Kings Bay and the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, which provides year-round shelter for manatees. The Three Sisters Springs Wildlife Refuge offers boardwalks with views of the marine mammals and natural springs. Additionally, Crystal River Archaeological State Park showcases remains of an early Native American settlement. This water lover's paradise boasts an abundance of freshwater springs where visitors can observe the largest gathering of manatees in Florida from November through March.
0% as popular as Orlando
16 minutes off the main route, 14% of way to West Palm Beach
2

The Villages

The Villages, located in Florida, is a well-known census-designated place that spans across Sumter, Marion, and Lake counties. This master-planned community offers an array of exciting local attractions and activities for both residents and visitors to enjoy. One popular outdoor activity is taking a 2.5-mile loop around the Hogeye Sink Marsh preserve at the northern end of Marsh Bend, where you can encounter diverse wildlife such as birds and alligators along the way.
0% as popular as Orlando
15 minutes off the main route, 26% of way to West Palm Beach
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Rooms
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2
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3

Ocala

Ocala, a city in central Florida, offers a blend of history, art, and natural beauty. History enthusiasts can explore Fort King National Historic Park while art lovers can admire pre-Columbian artifacts and contemporary art at the Appleton Museum of Art. Nature lovers can enjoy kayaking and glass-bottom boat tours at Silver Springs State Park before venturing into the expansive Ocala National Forest.
0% as popular as Orlando
24 minutes off the main route, 27% of way to West Palm Beach
4

Clermont

Clermont, a charming city in central Florida, is located just 22 miles west of Orlando and 22 miles southeast of Leesburg. With a population of around 43,021, it offers a residential atmosphere with a focus on retail trade, lodging, and tourism-oriented dining options. One notable attraction is World of Beer, boasting an impressive selection of over 600 global beers.
0% as popular as Orlando
1 minute off the main route, 31% of way to West Palm Beach
5

Winter Haven

Winter Haven, located in central Florida, is a city known for its Chain of Lakes, offering waterside parks and eateries, boat ramps, and water-sports rentals. The area is home to the Legoland Florida Resort on Lake Eloise, featuring a 1930s botanical garden and Lego-brick attractions. Additionally, the nearby Circle B Bar Reserve offers forest trails and wetlands inhabited by alligators.
1% as popular as Orlando
19 minutes off the main route, 38% of way to West Palm Beach
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6

Orlando

Orlando, located in central Florida, is renowned for its abundance of theme parks, including Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando. These attractions offer a variety of experiences, from magical kingdoms to thrilling adventures. Beyond the theme parks, Orlando boasts diverse neighborhoods such as downtown Orlando with its vibrant nightlife and residential areas characterized by picturesque landscapes and historic architecture. For those seeking a romantic venue just outside of Orlando, Historic Venue 1902 in Sanford's Historic District provides an enchanting setting for weddings.
Most popular city on this route
7 minutes off the main route, 39% of way to West Palm Beach
7

Kissimmee

Kissimmee, located in central Florida's Osceola County, is a city known for its close proximity to numerous amusement parks, including the expansive Walt Disney World Resort complex. Situated along the northwest shore of Lake Tohopekaliga, also known as Lake Toho, Kissimmee offers the picturesque Kissimmee Waterfront Park with its walking paths and fishing pier.
3% as popular as Orlando
7 minutes off the main route, 45% of way to West Palm Beach
8

Melbourne

Melbourne, a city in Florida located southeast of Orlando, offers a diverse range of attractions. The Eau Gallie Arts District is renowned for its galleries and the impressive Foosaner Art Museum. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Rossetter House Museum & Gardens, which has been restored to its original 1908 appearance. Across the Indian River Lagoon, Howard E. Futch Memorial Park at Paradise Beach provides stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
1% as popular as Orlando
19 minutes off the main route, 61% of way to West Palm Beach
9

Fort Pierce

Fort Pierce, located on Florida's east coast, offers a variety of attractions for visitors. The National Navy SEAL Museum showcases naval artifacts and weaponry, while Fort Pierce Inlet State Park boasts a lengthy beach ideal for swimming and surfing. Art enthusiasts can explore the A.E. Backus Museum and Gallery, home to works by the renowned 20th-century painter from Fort Pierce. Additionally, Heathcote Botanical Gardens presents an extensive collection of tropical bonsai.
0% as popular as Orlando
12 minutes off the main route, 75% of way to West Palm Beach
10

Jupiter

Jupiter, a town on the southeastern coast of Florida, offers a variety of attractions for visitors. The red 1860 Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse provides stunning views of the Loxahatchee River and is accompanied by a preserved pioneer-era homestead and a museum showcasing regional history. Nearby Jupiter Beach overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, while Carlin Park features beachfront amenities such as playgrounds and tennis courts.
0% as popular as Orlando
6 minutes off the main route, 89% of way to West Palm Beach

Best stops along Weeki Wachee to West Palm Beach drive

The top stops along the way from Weeki Wachee to West Palm Beach (with short detours) are Magic Kingdom Park, Universal Islands of Adventure, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley. Other popular stops include Universal Studios Florida, ‘McCarthy' Wildlife Sanctuary, and Walt Disney World® Resort.
1

Sholom Park

Mentioned on 
27 lists 
Park
Outdoor Activities
Sholom Park, located in Ocala, FL, is a 44-acre botanical garden offering a serene and picturesque escape from city life. The park features stately pavilions, landscaped gardens, and a peaceful pond surrounded by meticulously maintained green spaces. Visitors can explore the 2-mile paved trails that wind through the park's natural beauty while enjoying opportunities for bird watching and wildlife spotting.
I have been to this park a couple of times and it is a great place to walk, meditate, enjoy nature and just to have some quiet time. They have plenty of benches around the park if you need to take a break or if you just want to sit and enjoy nature or have some quiet time. I wish we had a park like this in GA!
Kristi T — Google review
It’s a beautiful park. Well maintained with so many spectacular views. You can walk, run , meditate or simply enjoy being there. Check out weather forecasts and time as it gets close by 5pm.
Dr P — Google review
Very calming and quiet environment. It’s a big property to walk around, their zen garden is fantastic for meditating, specially with the raking of the rocks. Great place for a picnic, frisbee and a quiet calm moment by yourself or someone. Bring a book if you’re a reader and some change to feed the koi fish with your children.
Alejandro S — Google review
This was my first time visiting a park like this, and it was absolutely amazing! The park is beautifully maintained and incredibly peaceful — the perfect spot to get recentered, pray, meditate, and gather your thoughts. Whether you prefer walking to clear your mind, sitting quietly to relax, or simply enjoying the calm of nature, this park offers it all. I especially loved taking a moment to feed the fish and enjoy the outdoors without the hustle and bustle of the crowds. As an added bonus, there’s even a lovely Zen Garden that enhances the overall sense of serenity. A hidden gem worth visiting again!
Haile H — Google review
Beautiful park. Quiet and Peaceful. There is a zen garden in this park. Tons of beautiful flowers! If you’re looking for a place to walk or spending quality time. This would be a great place!
Alyssa S — Google review
Found this by mistake. This park was so beautiful and peaceful. My 8 yr.old grandson, loved watching the fish and the turtles in the pond.
Anna H — Google review
Absolutely beautiful, well cared for, quite, wonderful place to relax and take a breath.
Sandra W — Google review
Shalom Park is more than a park, it’s a spiritual sanctuary made for slowing down and taking time to look around you and see why we are all here on this earth. Every time I am at Shalom I find a sense of peace in the beautiful nature surrounding me. I come here multiple times a week to get some exercise in while smelling all of the beautiful wildlife and enjoying one of Gods greatest creations. I love the concept behind Slalom, there are quotes and poems all around the park and different themes like the Japanese Garden. The amount of effort and creativity behind Shalom is something I have never experienced before and I feel blessed to be able to visit every week without paying a dime. Shalom is by far the most beautiful and artistic park I have been to filled with culture and knowledge. The park is privately owned and open to the public, they close fairly early around 5pm and no pets are allowed.
Jenna — Google review
4.8
(2629)
•
4.8
(631)
7110 SW 80th Ave, Ocala, FL 34481, USA
http://www.sholompark.org/
(352) 854-3677
2

Silver Springs State Park

Mentioned on 
+63 other lists 
State park
Nature & Parks
Silver Springs State Park is a historic Florida attraction with crystal clear spring runs, offering glass-bottom boat tours to spot turtles and alligators. The park features an on-site museum showcasing the area's natural history and a re-created 19th-century pioneer settlement. Visitors can enjoy activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding while encountering diverse local wildlife including manatees and turtles.
Magical. Simply magical. My husband and I had the most wonderful and relaxing time paddle boarding and kayaking here. It’s easy to book on their website (read all the instructions before you go) and super convenient. They supply the paddleboard and kayak and then even pick you and your equipment up downriver at the end of your journey to drive you back up to the parking lot. It’s a decent amount of time depending on how you pace it, for us at a super easy pace it was a bit over 3 hrs so definitely bring water! But man…what an amazing adventure. From the second you push off the rest of the world melts away and you are literally engulfed in Florida’s natural splendor. Beautifully shaped trees, crystal clear water, large fish and turtles swimming under you, gorgeous birds preening on tree stumps, diving for fish or soaring overhead and occasional crocodiles and even manatees! If you’re afraid of the heat, we went in August and it actually wasn’t so bad because there is so much shade on both sides all the way down the river to stay under. But for a half day adventure? Totally worth it! Just 3 hours of floating and relaxing and wondering at the beauty around you. Please, please, please. If you get the chance or are in the vicinity, stop and swing by. If you want to reserve a kayak or paddle board definitely do so on their website in advance. But either way, put this on your list. It’s so breathtaking and absolutely worth it 👍
WS — Google review
My wife and I were able to return to Silver Springs State Park and take one of the glass bottom boat tours this time. We definitely recommend taking the 90 minute tour as opposed to the 30 minute one. Our captain and guide, T.C., did an excellent job telling us about the history of the park and the details of the springs. He also pointed out the wildlife and gave us details about the ecosystem. We were fortunate to see a number of the animals that inhabit the river including manatees, alligators, monkeys, and numerous wading birds. After the boat ride, we had lunch at the cafe and were impressed with the food quality and prices. This is a great place to spend the day.
Luis R — Google review
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.
Brigit K — Google review
What a beautiful place. We went to the park and rode the 90 minutes Glass bottom boat for the very reasonable senior discounted price of $25 a person. Captain Luke was knowledgeable and funny. It was a really nice boat ride. We saw anhingas, turtles, alligators, monkeys and several other birds. What a beautiful place. I'm glad that it is a state park. We are lucky to have such a nice place
Michael R — Google review
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
Shanni Y — Google review
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.
Bart T — Google review
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.
Heather J — Google review
Great boat ride. Beautiful area and lots of wildlife. Had a great time. The only not so great was the restaurant. We ordered cheese sticks and cheese bread. Way too greasy. Try the ice cream instead.
Leanna H — Google review
4.7
(12149)
•
4.3
(2414)
5656 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs, FL 34488, USA
http://silversprings.com/
(352) 261-5840
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Rooms
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Adults
2
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0
Travelers
2
3

Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing

Mentioned on 
3 lists 
Museum
Non-profit organization
Specialty Museums
Nestled in Ocala, Florida, the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing is a must-visit for any motorsport enthusiast. Established in 1984, this captivating museum showcases an impressive collection of over 300 vehicles across two distinct buildings. The Drag Race building features around 90 iconic racing cars that tell the thrilling story of drag racing's evolution, while the Antique Car building houses an additional 50 vintage automobiles that celebrate automotive history.
I freaking loved it!!! If you are into cars or drag racing, this is def somewhere you want to visit. I've watched drag racing my whole life, and I learned more about drag racing and its history than I ever learned just from watching racing on tv. It was so cool to stand right next to the heroes I saw on tv they have so many cars from a lot of the top names in drag racing. There is a ton of memorabilia that you get to look at. There are cars with cards explaining the significance of that car. They have a room full of cars that have information all around them then another room full of cars with info but not as much as the previous room then another room full of engines some cut away engines, intake manifolds, carburetors and other cool stuff. I spent 3 1/2 hours just walking around the museum they have a whole other building with even more cars that I didn't get to see yet, trust me I'll be back again to see. They also have a room where you can buy alot of items stickers model cars shirts and things, i assure you if you are a car lover and a drag races enthusiast this is one stop you must put on your bucket list! It was $22 to get in the door, and they offer many discounts to military and other categories. It made me want to drag races even more, which I didn't think was possible
The 2 — Google review
This place is historic. Every artifact is genuine to its time and place. Worn racing attire, actual dragsters driven, real engines, trophies, endless amounts of photos. Every step taken in this wonderful museum tells a story. There is so much to see and learn here and Don Garlits has given everyone the opportunity if they just take time to listen. 11 out of 10 recommend this fantastic experience. Thank you, Don Garlits and your great museum staff members.
Dyllan D — Google review
This place is amazing. I couldnt believe how many drag cars were on display plus the vintage automotive museum. Both were out of this world.. Thank you Don Garlitz for your service to the racing community and giving everyone the opportunity to recognise your fantastic achievements.
Barbralea S — Google review
I have beenn3 times now. This last trip was the ultimate. November 1st was the date for the Mopars at the Museum show. Awseome show with dozens of beautiful Mopars. After the show, Big Daddy hosted a tour of the museum. To hear him tell the stories about the cars sitting there and the people that built and drove them is simply amazing. He hosts tours of the museum throughout the year. I highly recommend taking one.
Marvin R — Google review
This place was awesome! So much history and so much to see. Well worth the admission fee. This place brought back so many memories. If you love Drag Racing this is a must see place. The antique car museum next door (included with admission to Drag Racing museum) had so much nostalgia not car related and was great as well. All the stories behind each vehicle was a treat to read.
Brian C — Google review
I was born in the 60’s. I remember a lot of these events and vehicles. Definitely wore very penny and hour I spent there. I’ll be glad to visit again the future. This place was so clean. I didn’t see any dust on the cars, eccentric the black ones.i left in amazement!
Scott N — Google review
An absolutely underrated place. So much history and cool stuff for kids and adults. You could spend hours in there if you don’t have small children. Lots of reading to do and videos to watch. Some cool interactive things to do as well. We almost met Don Garlit, but he came and went without us, knowing. He seems like a great guy and wow, has he achieved a lot. Super grateful for him putting this together for the younger generation to experience.
Rick W — Google review
I had seen this museum from I-75 so many times, I finally got to stop in. There's SO many cars! Lots of history, stories, feats and memorabilia. Stop and visit! Support this great museum!
Juan B — Google review
4.9
(2901)
•
4.7
(575)
13700 SW 16th Ave, Ocala, FL 34473, USA
http://www.garlits.com/
4

Gypsy Gold Horse Farm

Mentioned on 
1 list 
Horse breeder
Sights & Landmarks
Gypsy Gold Horse Farm offers an inspirational and educational experience for visitors. The owner, Dennis, shares his deep connection to the Vanner horses and gypsies, leaving guests touched by his commitment to their well-being. Visitors are encouraged to spend time up close with these gentle and majestic animals, providing an extraordinary experience. The farm's rich history and the passionate storytelling of Dennis create a captivating visit that leaves guests feeling inspired. Additionally, Taylor provides exceptional knowledge about the farm and its animals.
Absolutely worth your time. We took the 2 hour tour and it was fantastic! The owner Mr. Thompson taught us the history and back stories of the breed. His wit and charming way of presenting his farm and horses history, was electric. The farm setting is beautiful as well as the horses. Relaxing morning tour is what I recommend. They have coffee for guests and its easy walking around the farm. Just wear good walking shoes for sand and grass. 5 star tour...highly recommend and we want to go back. Thank you Mr. & Mrs.Thompson
Debbie R — Google review
Very nice place to visit and experience the great Gypsy Gold Horses. They have 2 tours. The short one is good with little kids and it’s about an hour long. If you are really interested in knowing the history then other longer tour is good which last around 2.5 hours. The location is beautiful and staff is super friendly. They will feel you like you are home. Do visit if you are near Ocala.
Nikhil D — Google review
Spending some time in Ocala all the way from Australia. This tour was such a fun morning, my husband and enjoyed it so so much! I could listen to Dennis’ stories forever ! The history behind it all is sooo very intriguing, you can truly tell Dennis is a very wonderful man that has such passion for what he does. I would recommend this to all! Bring along some carrots and apples and the horses will love ya! The donkeys and birds are an added bonus as well. Again, love your work yall, keep it up ❤️
Lily L — Google review
We really enjoyed the history that started the Gypsy Vanner's journey to the US. Eileen shared her love of these majestic horses during the tour. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the farm. It was a pleasure to meet the owners and see their beautiful farm.
Marie G — Google review
The two hour history and farm tour was a highlight of my trip in this area. The beauty of the Gypsy Vanners is magnificent! The owner’s passion for his horses, their cultural history and helping others is so genuine. I loved meeting the special donkeys he has as well. It was a unique and heartwarming experience.
See W — Google review
Gypsy Gold is a treasure. Dennis is so passionate about his life's work. The places he has been and his travels were amazing to hear. I truly hinged on his every word. I hope this treasure of a place continues forever. It is his labor of loved and should be honored. He is a tue visionary. His sister inlaw gave us a tour and she is just as passionate about these magnificent horses. I can't wait to visit again.
Heidi E — Google review
Karen and Shannon took great care of us on our tour today. We had VIP tickets that included meeting a Clydesdale foal. Our tour included all kinds of great information about what the Cobbs do with their horses, how they breed the horses, how they pick individuals for jobs, and how they spearheaded competitions for their horses in Florida. The horses we met were sweet and curious. It was a treat to meet your gentle giants and learn about the job that these amazing horses do. Thank you for sharing your horses with us!
Greg H — Google review
We had a great time learning all about the horse breed and the people who own the farm. The horses were beautiful. I also enjoyed the other great animals ( mules, donkeys, macaws). I would recommend this to anyone that loves horses.
Jean S — Google review
4.8
(454)
•
4.9
(1107)
12501 8th Ave, Ocala, FL 34473, USA
http://www.gypsygold.com/
(352) 307-3777
5

Lettuce Lake Park

Mentioned on 
65 lists 
Park
Nature & Parks
Lettuce Lake Park, situated in the natural floodplain of the Hillsborough River, is a 240-acre park offering various outdoor activities. Established in 1982, it provides wooded picnic areas, playgrounds, cycling paths, and walking/jogging trails. The park also features an interpretative center with exhibits and an observation tower for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.
Cool park. Saw some gators around the boardwalk and at the lookout including a mama with her babies. The playground is optimal for 4-5 year olds. A little small for older children but nicely kept. A lot of awesome trails though and my family and I had a great day exploring.
Peter P — Google review
This was a nice park with an impressive boardwalk. I don't think I've seen a boardwalk this long anywhere else. Peaceful and serene views of the water, lots of animals to be seen. Birds, gators, fish, turtles, are all over the place. Saw a pretty good sized gator with her babies. The cypress trees are amazing there too. There were a few I would have expected to see blocked off due to size and probable age but surprisingly they weren't. The tower is not too high, yet enough to get great views of the water. There are some nice, but short hiking trails, though you'll never forget you're in town cuz you can always hear the traffic from them, (but not while on the boardwalk, only the side trails). There are a few pavilions scattered around the park also that can be reserved. This is the 2nd Hillsborough county park I've been too recently and they are well maintained and cared for. You can rent canoes here also.
Victoria V — Google review
This was such a gorgeous park, especially for a picnic! The picnic shelters are all covered, secluded, and surrounded by palms and other trees. The boardwalk trail is very scenic and is great for birders, photographers, and general nature enthusiasts like myself!
Natasha W — Google review
We went here today, monday november 3rd at around 11am. it was very quiet and peaceful, we saw a few gators, squirrels and turtles. Very nice experience for $2!
Milena S — Google review
Two of eight trails I hiked in the 10th Annual Hiking Spree. Amazing area overall. Nice nature viewing… alligators, spiders, and Yeti lol. Me and my daughters had a great time walking the trails here and working out on the amenities. Definitely will be back!
Dr. D — Google review
Beautiful park that is filled with lots of shaded walking trails. This place is great for an afternoon outing with your family and friends. It is also a kid and pet friendly. This park sits on the lake so it has beautiful scenery, and wildlife available.
Ricory G — Google review
Beautiful park, with access to a play ground, outdoor fitness equipment, picnic shelters and paddle boat/canoe rentals. However make no mistake, this park is a good example of wild Florida and offers a lot of paved and unpaved hiking as well as a boardwalk over wetlands with stellar plants and wild life to admire.
Soraya W — Google review
I’m not sure if I have already written a review for lettuce Lake but I feel like an updated review is needed due to all the changes. I haven’t seen any reviews that give updated information.Today is 8/31/2025. My husband and I decided to take a walk this morning at lettuce Lake because it’s probably one of our favorite walking places but it’s been a while since we have gone due to all the work being done on the boardwalk area. The last time we went, which was a few months ago part of the boardwalk was shut down for repairs after the storm last year. i’m excited to share,It is fully open now and beautiful! They did such a great job with the boardwalk. If you just go on the boardwalk, it’s alittle over a mile walk. That includes all directions on the boardwalk. some of which are dead ends. If you’re looking for beautiful nature, tranquil, peaceful walk, lettuce Lake is the best! Not only is there the boardwalk section, but there is also paved sidewalks that loop around Park.We ended up walking 3 miles, twice on the boardwalk section and also on the pave sidewalks but we have explored more then 5 miles during the cooler months at this park. There are bathrooms throughout. We also love the Welcome center, which is a room with information on just about everything you will see on the property,including taxidermy, animals, fun facts to read on and two snake exhibits with live snakes named Arya and popcorn. every time we go to lettuce lake we see A ton of wildlife, including so many different types of birds, rabbits, squirrels, and our favorite gators! This trip was no different and we saw A 4 foot gator, sitting under the boardwalk ( they love to hide there so keep eye out)and about five teeny baby gators we were so excited to spot! Is also a 3 to 4 story lookout tower that is fun to go to the top and spot gators in the distance. It’s just a two dollar entry and several different places to park. they have been working hard on redoing the park so we saw them working on some of the picnic pavilion huts that You can rent here. They do also have a canoe area where you can rent canoes and leave right from lettuce Lake. You would just tell the person taking your two dollar entry that you’re interested in renting canoes and they will give you more information. There are also several playground areas throughout this park. One of which is what we call adult playground because it’s for exercising, but I’m sure kids would have a blast. We happen to notice no biking signs for the boardwalk, but I’m unsure if bikes are allowed throughout the rest of the park. ( we have never seen bikers only rollerblading)When it’s nicer out, only a few months out of the year in Florida, we like to take the off-road trails. They wind in and out of trees and have a nice designated path,( unpaved) but we avoid the summertime due to wet grounds and or bugs. I would definitely suggest bug spray here around at this park because of how many trees there are. overall, this is definitely a must for anyone looking for a place to get some steps in and have a really peaceful enjoyable time, see some wildlife, and with the boardwalk being finished only a few weeks ago, we will definitely be back more often.
Nicole T — Google review
4.7
(6102)
•
4.6
(1096)
6920 E Fletcher Ave, Tampa, FL 33637, USA
http://hillsboroughcounty.org/locations/lettuce-lake-park
(813) 987-6204
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6

Alexander Springs

Mentioned on 
17 lists 
Nature & Parks
National Parks
Bodies of Water
Alexander Springs is a picturesque natural spring located in the Ocala National Forest in Florida. The crystal-clear water of the spring remains at a refreshing 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making it an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Surrounded by lush vegetation and towering trees, the area offers opportunities for picnicking, hiking along nature trails, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can also enjoy canoeing or kayaking on the spring run that leads to the nearby Alexander Springs Creek.
4.0
(261)
Florida 32702, USA
7

Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens

Mentioned on 
+46 other lists 
Zoo
Outdoor Activities
The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, established in 1923, is a sprawling 116-acre sanctuary and arboretum located just north of Orlando. It houses over 500 animals from 205 different species and boasts a diverse collection of flora. Visitors can explore various natural habitats and exhibits showcasing the animals' environments.
We went several months ago on our trip, I was going through the photos in my phone, realized that the experience we had here was amazing. The place was clean and soooo many different beautiful things to see. The night view was absolutely astonishing. If we get a chance to go back we would definitely consider going.
Amy E — Google review
My wife and I stopped here in the late morning of Thursday, August 14, 2025 while on a camping trip and moving between Apopka and Port Canaveral. I was in my Dodge RAM 1500 pickup and towing my 20 travel trailer, but there was hardly anyone at the zoo yet and there was plenty of grass lot parking to fit both my truck and trailer without having to temporarily unhitch it. On the walk in to the ticket booth from the parking lot, we noted that they have this very cool little "kiddie train" and a mini-train station right at the entrance. There is also an extensive array of zip lines and launch/landing platforms around the park's entrance area for adults and older kids to enjoy but we didn't see any staff on duty on this weekday visit, so it may only be operated on the weekends. The ticket booth staff was friendly, and they gave me a Veteran discount that saved me about $10.00 on my entrance ticket. See my attached receipt on what entrance cost. Once inside the park, we noted that there is a splash pads for younger kids to enjoy, and it was operating with several kids enjoying the shooting water jets and cooling off. We then proceeded to walk and tour the zoo through a nice circular pathway route and series of board walks. It is very well laid out and they have a fairly extensive array of animals from tropical and temperate zone habitats, particularly for a medium sized zoo. It's also very kid friendly and there are several places to get cold drinks and snack foods around the interior of the park. After we were finished the tour and exited the gate we walked inside this conference hall to enjoy some air condition, and saw a picture of Jungle Jack Hannah, who got his start here as a Zookeeper way back in the early 1970s when the place first opened. We've always been fans of his show, this was a nice finish for us. Overall, this is a very nice zoo, and I would not hesitate to recommend it for kids of all ages (and old-aged big kids like my wife and I). It's easily accessible from Orlando or Daytona with lots of nice expressways close by.
Edward M — Google review
This is an amazing facility with very knowledgeable and friendly staff. Feeding g the giraffe was the highlight of my Son's entire trip. There are a lot of animals to see and learn about, many of which are very engaging! Would definitely recommend as a family adventure :).
Courtney L — Google review
This place is just beautiful!!!! The Sanford Zoo is an absolute gem! From the moment you walk in, you can feel the care and passion that goes into every detail. The animals are healthy, active, and clearly well cared for, with habitats that are both beautiful and educational. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and always happy to answer questions, making the visit even more engaging. I love how interactive the experience is—there’s something for all ages, from the lush botanical areas to the fun animal encounters. It’s the perfect mix of adventure, learning, and relaxation. A must-visit for locals and visitors alike!
Kuma — Google review
Well kept small zoo. We took the train ride expecting to see the zoo, but what we basically saw was the woods around the parking lot & cut cardboard cutouts of animals placed near the tracks. We enjoyed the morning. Mid September weather, not so hot.
Meg D — Google review
Not crowded. Nicely laid out and comfortable walking with many benches to sit. Water fountains very sparse, nice cold water dispenser in Bear enclosure info building. Giraffe exhibit a fave, and there's a little butterfly sanctuary at the entrance to Giraffe enclosure that had a nice bench to watch the butterflies fluttering by. One star off because many of the animals were clearly unhappy, even though well tended and cared for. Pretty normal for zoos.
Cary S — Google review
Had a great time while we came in to visit. Small zoo but has a lot of character for what it is. Staff is very welcoming and friendly. Exhibits were perfect for viewing and animals were very active.
ROY T — Google review
Spent some time touring the grounds and visiting the animals. Great smaller zoo with a great selection of endangered animals! Everyone was incredibly nice and helpful. Good grounds and nice landscaping! Make sure you get a ticket for the train ride, it was so much fun!
Aaron W — Google review
4.3
(9926)
•
3.8
(832)
3755 W Seminole Blvd, Sanford, FL 32771, USA
http://www.centralfloridazoo.org/
(407) 323-4450
8

Magic Kingdom Park

Mentioned on 
+6 other lists 
Theme park
Water & Amusement Parks
Disney Parks & Activities
Magic Kingdom Park is an iconic attraction located at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. It is organized into six themed lands and features a variety of rides, costumed characters, and parades. The park's highlights include the famous Cinderella's Castle, Space Mountain, the Haunted Mansion, and Pirates of the Caribbean. Visitors can also enjoy nighttime fireworks and light shows that illuminate the castle and Main Street, USA.
Truly the happiest place in earth. I find the staff to always be friendly and helpful. The rides are fun. There are many family friendly rides and rides that fit bigger framed people. The shows are well designed, written, and performed. It does get crowded at certain times. Any negative I have experienced was based on behavior of guests. Even these situations are rate and overall, I have a wonderful experience in each visit.
Jeffrey L — Google review
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.
Max — Google review
magic kingdom has always been fun and will always be fun. it’s one of my favorite parks in disney. me and my husband came here for our honeymoon, and we had the time of our lives! being able to ride the fun rides, experience the park together, meet the characters, and even just shop around at the shops was fun! we bought the photo pass in advance for the parks and that is definitely a must! it was great being able to see and get all of our photos that were captured from the day!!
Haley A — Google review
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!
Bunny W — Google review
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.
GARY L — Google review
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.
DJ M — Google review
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.
Israel G — Google review
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.
R R — Google review
4.6
(244576)
•
4.5
(69448)
Bay Lake, FL 32836, USA
https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/destinations/magic-kingdom/?CMP=OKC-80007944_GM_WDW_destination_magickingdompark_NA
(407) 939-5277
9

The Breezeway Restaurant & Bar

Mentioned on 
12 lists 
$$$$affordable
Bar & grill
The Breezeway Restaurant & Bar, located in historic downtown Sanford, offers a laid-back atmosphere with an open patio area where you can enjoy signature cocktails and Southern-inspired dishes. The restaurant features a scratch kitchen that prepares multi-course meals using fresh ingredients and raw foods. Guests can dine in a chic nautical interior or on the charming open-air patio surrounded by tropical greenery and a fountain while listening to jazz, country, or modern music.
My wife and I are regulars here and always enjoy our time at the Breezeway. However, we wanted to mention our valentines dinner specifically. We had a fabulous time! Our server, Jacob, was attentive, funny, and knowledgeable. We were head over heels with our dinner specials of the seafood pasta and strawberry chicken salad thanks to his suggestion. Thank you Breezeway for making our valentines day special!
Alexis H — Google review
Don't sleep on this place. I had a fried hot buffalo chicken wrap with their in-house chips and DESTROYED it. The chicken was SO juicy and perfectly cooked. Their chips weren't over salted and they had the perfect crunch. My photo is of the remaining half because I inhaled the first one before I decided to talk about it.
Epione — Google review
What a gem! Locals and new friends are always so nice, the staff makes you feel like home and the kitchen takes their time to make your order just perfect! Incredible food at super reasonable prices! Inside or outside…the vibe is awesome for some fresh air out.
Ben S — Google review
Christian our server was AMAZING! He had a bunch of tables but still managed to be attentive. The appetizers, fried green tomatoes & cheese curds were delicious but our main food, mahi mahi taco's and grilled grouper came out cold and we chose to just get it to go after they remade it. We had our pups so we sat on the patio outside which was a little dirty plus it was raining. Overall not a bad experience I would go back even if just to have the appetizers.
Juice — Google review
The Black & Bleu burger was amazing and my husband enjoyed his Ruben! Jacob provided outstanding service!! We will be back!
Tracee E — Google review
Definitely one of the best spots downtown Sanford! Food is always amazing! Staff is friendly, and the atmosphere after dusk is remarkable!! Cassie was the sweetest server I’ve ever had! Very helpful throughout the whole night and never let our drinks run down on a busy Saturday night!
Dakota T — Google review
Love this place. I went with my sister and her mother-in-law and had lunch before our Ghost tour. Jacob was out server and let me tell you he took great care of us. I told him he reminded me of Doc Holiday and he stayed I'll be your huckleberry and of course it was over we lived him from them on. Must go see him and get some awesome food and live music came around five pm. Thanks again Breezeway you rock Sanford.
Tabby B — Google review
What a pleasurable experience! First as smoker I appreciate the fact that you are allowed to smoke on the outside. I had the shrimp and grits it was AMAZING. You had choice of sides but very limited and nothing that really went with the shrimp and grits so I got fries. The wait staff was really nice. I would totally return again. Oh and they have proper pint size glasses unlike “The Station”
James W — Google review
4.4
(2057)
•
4.4
(401)
112 E 1st St, Sanford, FL 32771, USA
https://thebreezewayrestaurantandbarfl.com/
(407) 878-1284
10

Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Mentioned on 
+5 other lists 
$$$$expensive
Theme park
Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park is a unique wildlife park that stands out from other Disney experiences. It combines the elements of a theme park, zoo, and African safari with a touch of Disney magic. The park is divided into six sections offering animal encounters, thrill rides, safaris, and shows. One of its highlights is the nighttime performance called Rivers of Light, which showcases animal folklore with captivating lights and effects.
I am so glad we chose this park for our second day. We loved the safari ride highly recommend. The expedition Everest was epic! Avatar made me and my husband motion sick, but it was beautiful and the kids 6&12 loved it and we're fine. I highly recommend visiting this park! So much fun!
Ashley H — Google review
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! 🐘🦜✨
Lee S — Google review
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.
R R — Google review
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!
Olivia S — Google review
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.
Dana P — Google review
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.
GARY L — Google review
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.
Merlin B — Google review
Animal Kingdom is an amazing park! If you love nature, this is the place for you. The Tree of Life is a must-see monument — truly impressive. The park combines rides, shows, great food, and nature all in one place. It feels like a mix between a theme park and a living zoo. You absolutely have to visit the World of Pandora — it’s breathtaking and one of the best experiences in the park. Everything is well organized, clean, and the staff is incredibly friendly. Highly recommended!
FabOsc R — Google review
4.7
(138783)
•
4.4
(34934)
Bay Lake, FL 34747, USA
https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/destinations/animal-kingdom/?CMP=OKC-80007823_GM_WDW_destination_disneysanimalkingdomthemepark_NA
(407) 939-5277
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11

Walt Disney World® Resort

Mentioned on 
+31 other lists 
Amusement park
Water & Amusement Parks
Walt Disney World® Resort is a renowned destination that includes expansive resorts, dining options, shops, and four theme parks featuring various rides and shows. The Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World stands out as Central Florida's sole AAA five-diamond resort, offering top-notch amenities from one of the world's leading luxury hotel brands.
My family and I have visited the Walt Disney World Resort more than six times, and each trip has been an unforgettable experience. It’s truly magical and a place where we’ve made countless cherished memories. Some of my favorite moments are watching my children, around ages 5 and 6, completely immersed in the fun and wonder. We’ve enjoyed all four parks—Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios—but Magic Kingdom remains our favorite for its timeless charm. This is a spectacular destination, and I look forward to returning again. I highly recommend it to anyone with kids—it’s well worth the experience.
Sean H — Google review
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!
Maria B — Google review
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!
Melanie F — Google review
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.
Steve V — Google review
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!
Lee S — Google review
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).
Hip H — Google review
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.
Ilyse Z — Google review
Walt Disney World in Orlando is a magical and unforgettable destination for families, friends, and Disney fans of all ages. The resort is massive, with four theme parks—Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom—each offering unique attractions, shows, and immersive experiences. The attention to detail in the parks is incredible, from themed lands to character interactions and spectacular parades. The resort provides excellent services including convenient transportation options (buses, monorails, boats), plenty of dining choices ranging from quick bites to fine dining, and well-maintained accommodations across various hotels and resorts. Staff are friendly, helpful, and consistently provide the “Disney magic” experience. While the parks can be crowded, planning with Genie+ or early park entry helps maximize the visit. Walt Disney World combines fun, entertainment, and fantasy, making it a must-visit for both first-timers and returning guests.
Mr. T — Google review
4.7
(263016)
•
4.4
(34557)
Florida, USA
https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/?CMP=OKC-80007798_GM_WDW_destination_waltdisneyworldresort_NA
(407) 939-5277
12

Epcot

Mentioned on 
+6 other lists 
$$$$expensive
Theme park
Epcot, short for 'Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow,' is a Disney theme park that opened in 1982. Divided into two sections, Future World offers rides and interactive exhibits while World Showcase features the cultures of 11 countries. Unlike other parks, Epcot has a more relaxed atmosphere with excellent food and shopping options. Visitors can enjoy low wait times for rides and character meets, as well as an impressive firework show at the end of the day.
First time at Epcot and it wildly exceeded expectations. My wife and I drank and ate our way through the various countries and I highly recommend that to anyone. All the food was amazing and the drinks were great. Pretty good pricing on the food and drink as well - each of which is well worth it.
Hip H — Google review
Honestly mixed feelings about this. Epcot is great. It was clean, staff was nice, signs easy to read, park easy to navigate. I have lived in half the countries represented there and visited most of the others. It’s amazing to walk through, visually just stealing the show from the amusement park part, very realistic and so well done. May have had more fun if it was just adults. I just don’t get the allure of spending so much money to spend 70-80 mins in line for a ride time after time. The rides were fun experiences, the kids were better than I thought they might be after waiting for so long but the waiting just makes it unenjoyable. Line to get in. Line to get food, line to ride rides, line to get through gate at local condo, line to sit in on highway with traffic and construction. Too many people, too many lines, too many dollars. The app was an awesome plus for to. Tracking line length, able to order in advance, all good perks! Next Florida vacation will be a crowded beach and boogie boards for the kids however… I can’t foresee going back.
Melissa D — Google review
Brilliant. From the rides to the worlds. Staff are very polite accross the whole park. Not something i can say about other parks. Food is brilliant around the worlds and the fireworks at the end are fantastic. Uber home great value .
Paul S — Google review
I had more fun here than I was expecting. I thoroughly enjoyed eating and drinking my way around the world for the international food and wine festival. The fireworks show at the end of the night is spectacular and we'll worth staying.
Orion F — Google review
My mom and I spent a wonderful day at EPCOT on November 2nd, and it truly exceeded all our expectations. Being there right before the end of the Food & Wine Festival gave the park an incredible energy, especially in the World Showcase. It was the perfect atmosphere for strolling and enjoying the beautiful fall weather. ​The highlights were easily the major attractions. We absolutely loved Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, the coaster is smooth, thrilling, and the music choices are brilliant. We also enjoyed the immersive Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure in the France Pavilion. The blend of Future World’s innovative spirit and the World Showcase’s cultural experiences makes EPCOT perfect for all ages. We stayed through closing to catch the new Luminous: The Symphony of Us fireworks show, which was a spectacular and emotional way to cap off our visit. ​ ​If you're visiting EPCOT, especially during a festival, a little planning goes a long way. I highly recommend using the My Disney Experience app to secure a Virtual Queue spot or purchase an Individual Lightning Lane for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind first thing in the morning; it's the most popular ride and sells out fast. Since the World Showcase opens later than the front of the park, start your day tackling Future World headliners like Test Track (check for single rider access for a shorter wait) and Soarin' Around the World. You can then spend the afternoon and evening leisurely exploring the 11 World Showcase pavilions, which is when the area is at its most magical. For our vegan friends, you will be well-fed! During the Food & Wine Festival, look for the green leaf symbol on the Outdoor Kitchen menus—we especially loved the Potato and Pea Samosa from the India booth and the Fried Falafel Pita in Morocco. Year-round, great staples include the Black Bean Burger at Connections Eatery and the plant-based entrees at Sunshine Seasons. Always ask a Cast Member, as Disney is excellent about accommodating plant-based diets.
Vishal K — Google review
It was a great experience but definitely more for adults. A very cool experience of different cultural vibes, basically around the world. Irish, italian; just to name a few. If you want to try different beers or good cuisine this is probably the best park for that. 9pm they hold a firework show, which was very cool but highly recommended to find seating 30mins early. There were also boat rentals who got to have drinks as far as i could see. Definitely something worth going for, i would have had i known. Parking was fairly straightforward and did not require any tram to go from the lot to the park as Magic kingdom does.
Max — Google review
epcot has always been fun and will always be fun. me and my husband came here for our honeymoon, and we had the time of our lives! being able to ride the fun rides, experience the park together, meet the characters, and even just shop around at the shops was fun! we bought the photo pass in advance for the parks and that is definitely a must! it was great being able to see and get all of our photos that were captured from the day!!
Haley A — Google review
We came for a quick trip and our last day, our flight kept getting delayed so had some extra time at the park. Epcot is probably my favorite park! Been waiting for Test Track to reopen and it was certainly worth the wait! Well done, Disney, well done!
Bunny W — Google review
4.7
(157733)
•
4.3
(29898)
Bay Lake, FL, USA
https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/destinations/epcot/?CMP=OKC-80007838_GM_WDW_destination_epcot_NA
(407) 939-5277
13

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley

Mentioned on 
+43 other lists 
Theme park
Water & Amusement Parks
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley is a magical recreation of the famous street from the Harry Potter series, featuring a wand shop and a thrilling ride based on Gringotts Bank. This enchanting area at Universal Studios Florida offers an immersive experience for fans of the beloved books and films. Visitors can explore intricately detailed shops, such as Zonkos Joke Shop and Honeydukes Sweetshop, before indulging in themed treats and drinks like butterbeer.
Ticket prices have gone thru the roof to visit these parks in Florida. Two tickets to Halloween Horror Nights and two Fast Passes will cost you over $1,000 now. We didn't do the Fast Pass so be prepared to wait an hour minimum for most rides and 2-3 hours for the most popular ones. So if you got a bonus check or donated a kidney, you could afford a family of four to visit. Cokes are $20 each for a cup and unlimited refills from Coke stations, half of them didn't have ice. It will cost you over $100 to just eat the fast food in the park, over $200 if you have a sit down dinner. I didn't have any of the alcohol here but I'm sure it's even more expensive. All in all, consider it a once in a lifetime trip for the kids. Should be 12 and older so they can ride everything and enjoy it. There are a few things for smaller kids but the park is more geared for bigger kids and adults.
B B — Google review
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.
Sean M — Google review
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?
R. B — Google review
⸻ I visited The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios during Christmas break in December. Honestly, it was really fun and really cool. It felt so unique. I have never been to an amusement park that put this much effort and detail into honoring a franchise like this. It felt like I was walking through a scene from Harry Potter. I forgot the name of the streets in the movies where Harry and Ron get candy, where Harry gets his wand, and where the bank is, but it felt just like that. They nailed the atmosphere. One of the coolest parts was when my daughter got a wand. You get to pick which wand you want and then you can use it around the Harry Potter world to do spells. It is motion activated, so you have to move the wand a certain way to trigger things. One spot made a water fountain go off. Another made lights flicker. One of them made a painting or picture come to life and talk. That whole feature was just so awesome to see in person. They also have this huge dragon on top of one of the buildings that breathes real fire every so often. You can feel the heat from it and the whole area lights up when it happens. There are also spots where water leaks down the walls on purpose to add to the atmosphere. They even have the candy shop where you can buy the same candies from the movies. All in all, my daughter and sister had a blast. I had a blast too, and we did not even go on any of the rides. That is why I gave it four stars instead of five. The only downside was the wait times for the rides. Anything related to Harry Potter was at least a three hour wait. That part was honestly frustrating and kept us off the rides, but we still had a great time just exploring everything else.
Cardagains — Google review
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.......
Glynis M — Google review
Halloween Horror Night's 2025 Went On October 29th, it was sold out so the houses were packed. Times hitting over 125 mins. Way to many people , would rather pay a bit more and have smaller crowds Houses I managed to visit were well made and great actors However, Harry Potter area Seems to be losing it's edge. Not impressed with Diagon alley toilets they stink out the area by Hagrids motorcycle and Nocturn alley. Not a pleasant experience having to whiff the aroma of stale urine. Need to deep clean the toilets universal, it's ruining the HP atmosphere
Derek T — Google review
We had such an amazing time at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal! From the moment we walked in, it felt like we had stepped right into the movies. Every detail was incredible, from the cobblestone streets to the castle towers and shop windows. The actors were absolutely fantastic, so lively, fun, and interactive with the crowds. They really brought the whole experience to life and made it feel magical and personal. The rides were thrilling and beautifully designed, especially the ones inside the castle. Everywhere you look there’s something to see, and the attention to detail is just unbelievable. Even the shops and restaurants were full of charm, and you truly feel like part of the story while you’re there. And of course, the butterbeer is a must! It’s sweet, creamy, and totally worth the hype. We tried both the cold and frozen versions, and they were delicious. It’s one of those treats you can’t leave without trying at least once. Overall, it was such a fun and memorable experience for all ages. Whether you’re a huge Harry Potter fan or just looking for a magical day out, this place is absolutely worth visiting
Jeanne T — Google review
Absolutely breath taking as you walk from the main park to the alley. Not a big Potter fan and I still found it fascinating. The goofy wand interactive windows are really fun to watch or experience woth a wand purchase....dont miss the dragon on top of Gringotts...every 10 minutes spews fire!
Darren D — Google review
4.8
(21438)
•
4.8
(41353)
6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, USA
https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/theme-parks/universal-studios-florida/the-wizarding-world-of-harry-potter-diagon-alley
(407) 363-8000
14

Universal Studios Florida

Mentioned on 
+110 other lists 
Theme park
Water & Amusement Parks
Universal Studios Florida is a sprawling amusement park in Orlando that offers an immersive experience into the world of Hollywood entertainment. The park features movie-themed rides, attractions, and entertainment that cater to visitors of all ages. From family-friendly adventures like Despicable Minion Mayhem to high-speed coasters like Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit and Revenge of the Mummy, there's something for everyone.
Visiting Universal Studios Florida was one of the most unforgettable experiences I’ve ever had! From the moment you walk through the gates, you can feel the energy, excitement, and attention to detail everywhere. The park is spotless, beautifully maintained, and full of amazing attractions for every age and taste. The rides are absolutely incredible — especially The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which truly feels like stepping into another world. Every corner is so perfectly designed that you can’t help but be amazed. The Jurassic World VelociCoaster and Revenge of the Mummy are must-try attractions for thrill-seekers — fast, intense, and full of surprises. For something a bit more relaxed, the Minions and Simpsons areas are super fun and full of great photo spots. What really stood out to me was how friendly and professional the staff are. Everyone was smiling, helpful, and clearly happy to be there, which made the whole experience even better. The park also has plenty of food options, from quick snacks to full meals, and everything we tried was delicious. Prices are what you’d expect for a theme park, but the quality makes it worth it. I also loved how organized everything was — the lines move quickly, the mobile app helps a lot to plan your day, and the whole park feels safe and well managed. You can really tell they think of every little detail to make sure visitors have a great time. Universal Studios Florida is more than just a theme park — it’s a world of fun, fantasy, and pure joy. Whether you go with friends, family, or even on your own, you’ll have an amazing time. I can’t wait to go back!
Daniel — Google review
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.
Naruto N — Google review
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.
Mike ( — Google review
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
James M — Google review
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!
Bethany — Google review
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!
Elie K — Google review
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.
Allison R — Google review
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.
Atlas R — Google review
4.7
(155821)
•
4.3
(41647)
6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, USA
https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/theme-parks/universal-studios-florida?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=GMB
(407) 363-8000
15

Universal Islands of Adventure

Mentioned on 
+71 other lists 
$$$$expensive
Theme park
Water & Amusement Parks
Universal Islands of Adventure is a top destination for thrill-seekers and fans of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The park features iconic attractions like Hogwarts Castle in the Wizarding World's Hogsmeade, family-friendly areas like Seuss Landing, and classic rides such as Jurassic Park. Visitors can experience innovative thrills on Spiderman and Skull Island: Reign of Kong. One standout attraction is Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, offering a unique story coaster experience.
My first visit and I was not disappointed, I was amazed! First, I like the procedure for the rides. When you choose a ride,.. The lines are inside where the people can be sheltered from the rain or sun while they're waiting to ride. Also, I like the personal effects of personalizing the movie scene. They have many gift shops, snack bars, and restaurants. The scenery of the walkway and shopping areas are beautiful! It was an amazing fun experience and hope to return with my family.
Michael R — Google review
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.
Kristi L — Google review
If I could give more than 5 stars, I would! This is the BEST amusement park we’ve been to in the USA so far and we highly recommend it! We bought regular admission tickets and managed to get on every ride we wanted to with minimal wait times (except Hargrid’s Motorbike - which we expected to wait an hour for that and it was WELL worth the wait). The velocicoaster was THE BEST in the park. Unbelievable ride - so fast and such great views. The Hulk was awesome, along with the Spider man ride, and the Jurassic park River ride. Harry Potter world was my absolute favorite. I’m a super fan and have been my whole life so this was a dream come true to visit this park! The castle was so beautifully designed along with Hogsmeade village. My daughter got a once in a lifetime experience at Olivander’s wand shop and was the chosen one during one of their shows. Such an amazing core memory for all of us. The butter beer was DEADLY - we had 4 of them by the end of the afternoon 😂 Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride was PHENOMENAL. What a great way to use both VR and real life props to bring the world to life. Walking through the castle to get to the ride was so cool - the talking portraits were amazing and they really brought the world to life throughout the entire walk and ride. Cannot say enough great things about this park. We would absolutely return if we go back to visit the parks down there again!
Kristen B — Google review
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.
Jessica M — Google review
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.
Allison R — Google review
Very awesome theme park! Lots of fun attractions and areas to visit. Lines are long for certain rides like Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, but that's because it's a pretty cool ride. Like any great ride, expect lines and wait times to be long unless you have an express pass or beat the rush in the early morning. Wait times averaged 2-3 hours for this ride. Suess Landing is a great place for younger children, though some rides that you think would be fine for the smallest of kids still required a height requirement of 36 inches. The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride (understandable I suppose) as well as the Cat in the Hat ride (come on now...) were two that really surprised me for having a requirement. But hey, safety is safety. One Fish Two Fish is a huge hit for younger children and toddlers as well as the Caro-Seuss-el (Merry-Go-Round) that have no requirement other than needing a ride companion. Water rides are available and are quite fun throughout Toon Lagoon. Food was good. Offerings like Cinnabon and Auntie Anne's Pretzels are favorites for our family. The Chili Cheese Fries in one of the Lost Continent's food booths were quite good too! And of course, the Hogsmeade Butter Beer from Harry Potter was fantastic, as always! Getting into the park in the morning isn't too hard, though if you go early, you can expect a small wait time to enter the park upon opening. Otherwise, entering the park at almost any other time throughout the day is pretty quick. Great place for families with children ages 3-18 I'd say.
Adam K — Google review
Universal Islands of adventure is a fun place for all ages. If you are staying in one of the hotels, remember that islands of adventure opens 1 hour early for hotel guests. Arrive at the park early where comfortable shoes, and expect to spend the entire day at the park. I would suggest that you go to Mythos restaurant for an enjoyable dinner, food is wonderful, service is fantastic and in my opinion, is a much more expensive than any other restaurant in the park.
Ruth P — Google review
I always love Islands of adventure! The Hulk is always my first stop... well after eating lunch in the City walk! Couple rides were down during our visit, which was a bummer, but then I think safety first. So, if me missing a few roller-coaster rides helps someone else go home safe, then it's worth it!
J M — Google review
4.7
(105422)
•
4.6
(52522)
6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, USA
https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/theme-parks/islands-of-adventure
(407) 363-8000
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16

Harry P Leu Gardens

Mentioned on 
+91 other lists 
$$$$cheap
Botanical garden
Harry P. Leu Gardens is a 50-acre botanic garden and estate located on Lake Rowena, featuring a diverse array of flora including roses, camellias, cycads, azaleas, philodendrons, and bromeliads. The gardens offer free admission on the first Monday of every month from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
It's beautiful here! And the origami sculpture is fantastic - I tended to use that map to get around because it's smaller. There are nice big open spaces, wandering trails, and little tucked away hidden gardens, so put your exploring feet on. Of course, in the middle of the day in July it was hot hot hot, but still worth the walk around, and they sell ice cream inside the welcome building. Parking is in two "lobes" around the entrance area, and not a ton of it. Beautiful roses, tropicals, and even an arid garden with cacti, they do a good cross-section here. Don't miss the birdhouses around the trails - they're so cute! Made to look like our houses, there's a plantation mansion, everglades swamp house, even a little English thatched cottage. Super cute and worth looking out for.
Sara W — Google review
Lovely place! It’s very big so please take the map to enjoy the full experience. You can walk around, it’s very peaceful and the coffee inside was actually pretty good. I enjoyed it. Bathrooms are pretty good too, they have one at the entry and another one in the gardens, in the Cottage area. Very clean. Lovely pictures!
Kate G — Google review
WOW! Absolutely gorgeous. Over 15,000 square feet of lush gardens and fun activities for everyone. Definitely recommend the rose and tropical gardens! All of their gardens are beautiful and well-maintained by the staff and volunteers. We also enjoyed the tour of the homestead which I would highly recommend! They gave an incredible timeline and walkthrough of the home and history of the garden. Would absolutely go back and would recommend this to any travel-goers near the Orlando area!
Jordan M — Google review
I recommend this park! I love nature and walking. My husband invited me, but I didn't know where we were going. It was a warm autumn day. There weren't many people around. We walked for many hours, looking at the plants, relaxing on the benches, and talking. It's a shame the museum was closed that day. I love learning the history of the place I'm in, pieces of history about the lives of the people who lived there and created this place.
Tatiana D — Google review
Went here for a visit with my boyfriend, and at the time they were holding a themed scavenger hunt, which guided you through the park and led you to a treasure chest! Extremely beautiful place, all plants are labeled carefully and the terrain is not hard, so most levels of walkers/slow joggers can have fun here! There is some (avoidable) uphill incline and boarded walkways for those with accessibility/wheelchair concerns. Most areas are shaded and there is a beautiful, vintage styled rose garden with a fountain. Overall, all ages would find something to wonder at here. Admission is not extremely pricey, so make sure to check this out if you’re in the Orlando area!
Amanda A — Google review
Absolutely lovely garden filled with birds and butterflies. I felt this garden was inspiring and beautiful. I highly recommend!!! ❤️ Located just minutes from downtown Orlando, Harry P. Leu Gardens is truly a hidden gem and a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. As soon as I stepped through the gates, I was surrounded by a lush, tropical landscape that felt both calming and rejuvenating. The pathways wind through beautifully maintained gardens, each section offering something unique—from rose gardens bursting with color and fragrance to towering camellias and serene shaded areas under centuries-old oak trees draped in Spanish moss. I saw an incredible variety of birds during my walk, and butterflies flitted between the blooms, adding to the almost magical atmosphere. The gardens are well-labeled, so you can actually learn about the different species as you stroll, which made the experience even more engaging. The historic Leu House Museum is also worth a visit while you're there, giving you a glimpse into the area's history and the family that once lived on the property. Whether you're a plant lover, a photographer, or just looking for a quiet place to reflect, this garden is a must-visit. I left feeling relaxed, inspired, and connected to nature.
Shawna 8 — Google review
Amazing!!! The Leu Gardens is remarkably lush, peaceful and serene. The grounds are well maintained with paved walkways throughout. We were pleasantly surprised at how large the gardens actually are (and there are numerous benches, to relax and enjoy the surroundings). The staff was courteous, knowledgeable and very helpful. Highly recommended.
Joseph B — Google review
I recently visited Harry P Leu Gardens while searching for a possible location to host an outdoor event—and I was absolutely blown away by the beauty and tranquility of this place. From the moment you enter, you’re surrounded by lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and winding paths that seem to transport you out of the city and into a peaceful oasis. The gardens offer a variety of stunning settings for events, from expansive open lawns and romantic rose gardens to intimate shaded nooks under towering oaks and palms. Each space feels thoughtfully maintained and uniquely beautiful, offering flexibility for both large gatherings and more personal affairs. One of my favorite spots was the floral clock area—so picturesque and peaceful, with a perfect blend of sunlight and shade. The rose garden, with its charming arches and colorful blooms, would be an unforgettable backdrop for a wedding or vow renewal. Even the lakeside spots are serene, with reflections of trees dancing on the water and the occasional heron adding a touch of magic. The entire property has a calming energy. Despite being right in the heart of Orlando, it feels private, secluded, and ideal for a meaningful celebration. You can tell the staff take great pride in maintaining this natural sanctuary. If you’re planning a special outdoor event, I highly recommend touring Leu Gardens. It’s more than just a venue—it’s an experience.
Millo V — Google review
4.7
(5337)
•
4.5
(1460)
1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803, USA
https://www.leugardens.org/
(407) 246-2620
17

SeaWorld Orlando

Mentioned on 
+123 other lists 
Theme park
Nature & Parks
SeaWorld Orlando is a renowned theme park in Orlando that offers an array of marine-themed attractions and shows. Visitors can enjoy thrilling rides like the Manta roller coaster and the Kraken Unleashed virtual reality roller coaster, as well as up-close encounters with dolphins, penguins, sea lions, and turtles. The park's killer whale show, One Ocean, provides insight into the majestic creatures' behaviors.
Oh my goodness! What a fabulous way to end family vacation! We went to hall-o-scream! So much to do in so little time! A staff member, Amanda (don't know her last name) was by the VIP area when we entered at 7pm on 10/12. She was EXTREMELY helpful and informative for a family that has never been to SeaWorld let alone Halloween SeaWorld. My daughter loved the roller coasters and I loved loved all the different scare areas. They did get everyone in our party to jump which was fabulous as we are a family of ghosts ghouls and goblins. The opening scene was beautifully put together and gave us chills. The monster show was gorgeous! I spent more tonight on Halloween attire than I did any other day of my trip and honestly completely worth it. All of my family (3 adults 2 teens) enjoyed it and it had something for all of us. We came down from Alaska for vacay and to look at areas to possibly move to and this was a last minute add in. For $45.99 I would go again if I could. Thank you for ending our week off from life with a great show!
Tama W — Google review
We arrived on the Friday before Labor Day weekend. They open only 10.a.m. that day. Many people didn’t know, arrived much earlier and so there was a long line around the whole pick-up/drop-off area. But we made it into the park around 10.30h. So it was better that it looked at first. The three major shows are still good. The coaster rides are really thrilling. So not all of them are for the whole family. This might explain the surprisingly short wait times. I did not see anything over 30 minutes. Many rides were 10 min or under. Don’t go by the wait times in their App. Even their own staff at guest relations admit that the App is not reliable here. I only give the park four stars, since the organization lacks here and there. But overall we had a great time. I read reviews from people complaining about prices at the ticket booth. Well guys, your own fault. It is a known fact that these days at many places online booking saves money. I read complaints about their food prices. But the portions are big. And if you buy online tickets you get a voucher worth $20 per ticket for food without any extra costs. You can redeem it for food or merchandise. But you need to go to guest relations counter to receive it.
Mr. B — Google review
Beautiful place. Not very long waiting times for rides even on a weekend. If you don’t like rollercoasters or go with elderly people/small kids they have a lot more to see. Great for going with family. It has more animals and shows than I expected; I was surprised with the amount of activities to do. Will definitely go again.
Yoly C — Google review
Halloween Trick or Treating at SeaWorld is a must! They had a ton of stations set up and had great candy and snacks. I love that they encouraged to keep coming back as well! A friend and I brought our sons for a surprise Mommy n Me Trip. The trip was off to a rough start just due to the shut down and both of us being tied to the government in different ways, the struggle is real. BUT the trip had already been planned so we were making the most of it! I want to give a special thank you to Nery at guest services who was helping us redeem a voucher. She was so detailed in helping us plan our day! She was so kind and just brought sunshine to our first day of our trip. She is amazing!!!
Bunny W — Google review
We loved all the exhibits and aquariums they had. My daughter especially loved petting the stingrays experience. The ritas inside was also delicious. There wasnt waits but it was a weekday and it rained so all the rides shut down sadly. We still had fun ultimately though
Cassie K — Google review
We had a great time at SeaWorld. I had no idea they had rides. We ended up with a 2nd day free because it rained and the Vacation booth gave us tickets for free admission the next day. I thought that was really nice. Also we got tickets in advance with groupon included a free meal so that was another plus. But we enjoyed our visit to SeaWorld and will be back. The Orca Show was so much fun.
Vikki R — Google review
Everything always wonderful. I believe they don't overpush like Universal does around halloween. Its packed enough. The good enough where its not annoying..if that makes sense. They ppl are definitely kinder then disney. And are not so anal..about certain rules. Its more of a relaxing atmosphere. So u can enjoy all of it
Elissa S — Google review
My experience at Sea World Orlando was amazing! We watched dolphins do tricks and were really amazing, I went on some rides and were also really great and the food at the restaurants or stores within this amusement park was really amazing. We went there on a Sunday a few months ago. We went to colourful lights on the drones at night and staff were really friendly. Would highly recommend going there.
Xavier A — Google review
4.4
(112249)
•
4.3
(34328)
7007 Sea World Dr, Orlando, FL 32821, USA
https://seaworld.com/orlando/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=gbp_listing
(407) 545-5550
18

Exotic Animal Experience

Mentioned on 
2 lists 
Animals
Outdoor Activities
Exotic Animal Experience (EAE) is a privately owned zoo where visitors can have intimate encounters with various animals such as lemurs, kangaroos, wallabies, sloths, and deer. The facility is licensed by the USDA and Florida Fish & Wildlife. Guests can enjoy close interactions with a variety of animals during group experiences led by knowledgeable guides who provide plenty of individual time with the animals.
Me and my boyfriend did the ultimate experience here and it was worth every penny! It’s a very relaxed and fun environment where you get to hold and hang out with all the animals. All the animals are very sweet and social, you can tell they get a lot of love and are so well taken care of. Leslie and the others that work there are very nice and made this such a wonderful experience. I have already told all my friends that if they are ever in Orlando they have to go!
Jamie D — Google review
Wow what a once in a lifetime opportunity. Would recommend anyone who loves animals to visit. The animals were healthy and friendly. The staff was knowledgeable. The facility was very clean and we were welcomed into all the living areas of the animals. We held lemurs, sloths, spider monkey, bush baby and more. Incredible and unforgettable. Would visit again.
Tammy A — Google review
The staff was very polite and knowledgeable about all of the animals. Everything was very clean and presented professionally. The animals seemed very happy and loved interacting with people. It was really a one of a kind experience.
Ali-Jah C — Google review
Giving 1 star due to unprofessional customer service and inaccurate details on website. It states “No Appointments Booked Over 30 Days in Advance.” I tried booking on April 20th for a May 19th (Thursday) appointment and was told there were no more spots available. Wish i knew to book months in advance. I’m very disappointed I can’t go during my stay in Orlando , I was looking forward to the experience.
Kyra — Google review
We brought our son to the Exotic Animal Experience for his birthday on May 1st.. We had such an amazing experience. The staff is absolutely wonderful. They are friendly and very knowledgeable of the animals. For me, what I loved the most was seeing how much the animals love the owner and staff. You can tell the animals are so happy and so well taken care of. I’ve been to other animal experiences and have felt rushed. It was the exact opposite here. They really make sure each person gets adequate time with each animal. The property is very well maintained and very clean. I really like that the owner only books small groups at a time. It gives you room to spread out on the property and feel like you’re alone with the animals. We had an issue paying and had to stay behind about 20 minutes after the experience ended. The staff was so understanding and so willing to help us get the issue resolved. Thank you so much for allowing us to come visit and spend the day with your fur babies! It was such a special experience that we will never forget!
Emily V — Google review
We went to the zoo yesterday! It was my 3 teen girls and I. We did the group experience first...it was amazing! We got to interact with animals you typically wouldn’t get to interact with. Zebra, camel, lemurs, sloth, kangaroo and more! Leslie, Garret and Jodie were very knowledgeable about all the animals and gladly answered all questions. The animals were very active and well kept! They have a huge area that they live in, play in and it’s very clean. You can tell how much Leslie loves her animals. Her dogs were awesome too! My daughter did the simply sloth experience after the group experience for a graduation gift. She was in heaven! She got to hold, snuggle and feed the sloth. They also offered a great deal on photos. It was nice to be able to interact with the animals the whole time and not have to worry about taking pictures. As an animal lover it was great to go to a zoo and actually see happy well taken care of animals:) Thanks again for an amazing experience!
Christine S — Google review
I was looking for something different and hands on for my daughter's birthday/5th grade graduation. Well, this was it! You can tell the animals are very well cared for and several have a very special bond with Leslie. All the tour guides were super friendly and very knowledgeable. Leslie is wonderful and you can tell how much she loves what she does. We will definitely be looking to do this again. From Baby Girl, the most welcoming camel you have ever met, to the fun and rambunctious lemurs, you will truly enjoy your time spent here!
Desiree D — Google review
What a experience!!!!!! So happy we didn’t listen to some of these reviews! The animals are so sweet and loving they really love their owner and care takers which was really awesome to see. The animals really are well taken care of. I noticed some complaints on the owner saying she can be a bit mean. That wasn’t the case with our group she was very informative what people have to remember is these are her babies she going to protect them as much as she can if you simply listen you will have a awesome time like we did! At the end she brought out a new addition to the family that was just born. I would highly recommend this tour well worth every penny! Thanks again for such a awesome experience! You have a great staff!
Lisa — Google review
I took my wife here to celebrate her birthday and it was fantastic! We did the basic group visit. We were grouped up with about 10 or so other people. Courtney guided us through the different animals and gave us lots of information about all of them. Even though we were in a larger group, they made sure that everyone got plenty of individual time with the different animals. I never felt rushed. First, we got to pet a zebra and a sloth. Then we got to actually go into the lemur's pen and interact with them! My favorite part was getting to play with the kangaroos and bottle feed some of them. They're so gentle and friendly! The entire experience was incredible! You can tell that Leslie really cares about every single one of her animals and takes great care of them. I cannot recommend this place enough!
Joe C — Google review
How this place has anything but 5 stars, just proves why animals are better than people most of the time. 😂 There is nothing I can say sufficiently in the characters allowed in this review. This is not a Zoo, it’s an experience. Leslie loves what she does, and it shows immediately. The staff are passionate, and happy. The animals are comfortable, and relaxed. There is no pressure or exploitation of any of these animals. Leslie is authentic, and loving to her pets. (She is quite possibly on saint level, with how great with people, after taking care of these animals so well all the time.) So any review talking negatively about her, was likely missing the entire point of this experience. The Animals. What you see here is epic, and special. What you experience here is unique, and inexplicable. Call, and book. You will not regret it, I promise you. My wife and I had an incredible time, and can’t stop commenting on the obvious care, and passion this place contains. They have something special here. For the experience you receive, you will leave feeling truly good inside, knowing that the animals are happy, loved, and you are helping them to continue being cared for. The energy from the animals, and the people, remind you that there is in fact so much good in this world. The opportunity to experience these beautiful, exotic animals, without feeling as though they are prisoners in cages. These are NOT zoo animals, they are Leslie’s pets. What a difference!!! Thank you again Leslie, for letting people into your “home”.
G C — Google review
4.6
(72)
•
4.8
(420)
https://www.exoticanimalexperience.net/
(407) 383-6766
19

Airboat Rides at MIDWAY

Mentioned on 
1 list 
Boat tour agency
Tours
If you're looking for an unforgettable adventure, look no further than Airboat Rides at MIDWAY! Nestled along the scenic St. Johns River, this experience offers not just thrilling airboat rides but also a chance to meet Pork Chop the pig before you embark on your journey. As you glide through the waters, keep your eyes peeled for majestic bald eagles and alligators basking in the sun.
Our family of four had so much fun on this tour of the St. John’s River and wetlands! The landscape was so beautiful and we enjoyed getting to see all the wildlife and learn more about this area. Our tour guide, Anne was amazing and so much fun! Our kids loved holding the alligator at the end as well. If you’re thinking about taking this tour, definitely add it to your itinerary! We’d definitely go again! Thank you Midway!
Rene H — Google review
Wow what an amazing experience. We saw a few gators but the beauty of the area is something worth seeing on an airboat. You can’t get that experience anytime else other than on an airboat. Keep in mind that gators like hot weather and no wind. They also get scared by noise and something big. They do a great job of making it entertaining and fun. I’d go on this even if I wasn’t there to see a gator.
C B — Google review
ABSOLUTELY book with this crew! Easy parking, easy location to navigate to, little gift shop inside, cold drinks, cold beers and ice cream in the cooler for the kids! Our guide was super chill and awesome and I did not expect to get so educated on the land and the alligators! Really great experience and get to hold a gator after. Affordable and a wonderful experience!
Stephanie B — Google review
This is a super fun thing to do!! You see plenty of alligators, learn about the ecosystem and area. Our guide was super knowledgeable and cool! They have snakes, the best birds, Coco is the sweetest and you get to have your picture holding an alligator at the end. He also takes a pic on the boat! First trip on an air boat and definitely not the last. Next time I come to Florida I’m definitely coming to Midway again.
Gina S — Google review
So much fun! We saw around 20 gators of varying sizes, lots of birds, and we were excited to see a Bald Eagle. Our boat guide was Alex and he was very knowledgeable, friendly and funny. He provided lots of information about the river and the ecosystem. We will be back again in the Spring to see go again.
Carla A — Google review
Great experience! Captain Alex was an excellent guide, definitely made the trip memorable. Saw a ton of gators and was lucky enough to be able to get into cypress swamp area. Highly recommend!
Linda O — Google review
It was such a great experience for our family with 2 girls 2,5 yo and 4,5yo. Our captain was amazing sharing a lot of interesting facts about the nature, finding gators and even spider in middle of the tree. We were so lucky having him with us. Thanks a lot for wonderful weekend!
Art A — Google review
We had a great time. Our captain had a great sense of humor and narrated the entire trip. It was a one hour ride and we were able to see the wildlife. This was perfect for my two teen boys. They had a lot of fun.
Janice M — Google review
4.9
(2407)
•
5.0
(584)
28501 E Colonial Dr, Christmas, FL 32709, USA
https://www.airboatridesatmidway.com/
20

Round Island Beach Park

Mentioned on 
1 list 
Park
Nature & Parks
Round Island Beach Park is a serene and peaceful beach destination that offers a nostalgic, old-fashioned charm. It's not crowded with tourists and provides a quiet atmosphere for families to enjoy picnics, walks along the beach, and playtime at the playground. The park features picnic pavilions, walking trails, beach access with showers and restrooms available. Visitors can relax by the shore while listening to the soothing sound of ocean waves.
Stopped at the Round Island Beach park yesterday. It was very clean. Parking was super easy. Beach area is really wide and there are plenty of shells for those looking for some. Closest place to eat is a few miles away. So you better pack your own snacks and beverages. There were lots of people fishing. We didn’t see a lot of wildlife. Just a few sea turtles.
Heather B — Google review
Nice place for a little walk. We saw a couple manatees, some forested areas, some mangroves, climbed an observation tower to view inter coastal waters. Beautiful spot that I’ll visit again.
Burk S — Google review
Simply breathtaking! The mosquitoes will get you ! So wear long sleeve even in the morning and heat 🥵 but absolutely amazing
Christal H — Google review
Great place to walk an or kayak. This is Wonderful spot for family's to see manatees an other Florida wildlife! Huge lookout tower! Quick tip ... During the summers months wear bug spray before you get off the bridge to start the trail. 🦟🦟🦟🦟
Margaret D — Google review
Best spot to see see manayees, dolphins and baby dolphins. Quiet clean and guaranteed to have a good time. I've seen manatees 95 % the time. Best nature preserve or wildlife trail in Indian River county
Ryan H — Google review
Love, love, love this beach!! ❤ Very quiet, peaceful Beach. Not a tourist spot as it is far enough away from anything that would attract tourists. A family trip just looks like an old fashioned Beach that you remember from your childhood. You see the occasional fisherman, or just the person who likes to relax in their chair and read a book listening to the ocean's waves crashing on shore. There is a lifeguard on duty in case you decide to dip your toes into the water. The beach is lined with private residences far enough back that you don't even notice them too much behind the natural vegetation. Again, this is not a tourist location. You would need to bring all of your own supplies as there is nothing around this area for food or beverages.
Anne M — Google review
Love this beach!! It is always quiet and it's beautiful!!
Terri B — Google review
Beautiful day. Very quiet and had the beach to ourselves. Lots of pretty things to look at. Easy access to the beach. Plenty of parking available. Also, has picnic spots available.
Mike F — Google review
4.7
(874)
•
4.6
(346)
2200 South A1A, Vero Beach, FL 32963, USA
https://indianriver.gov/business_detail_T21_R24.php
(772) 268-5978
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21

The National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum

Mentioned on 
31 lists 
National museum
Museums
The National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum, situated near Fort Pierce in St. Lucie County, Florida, is a top-notch naval history museum dedicated to preserving the remarkable legacy of the Navy's Sea, Air, Land (SEAL) and Underwater Demolition (UDT) Teams. Established formally in 1985, this museum boasts an impressive collection of rare SEAL-related artifacts such as WWII-era demolition training obstacles and Vietnam-era Patrol Boat Rivers.
🎖️ Very interesting museum! Given that SEALS originated in Fort Pierce, this museum is a must-visit! 🪖 They have a very good collection of original artifacts! Very interesting stands with engaging stories! You can even “board” some of the boats and a helicopter! 🚁 ⏳ You will need ~3-4 hours to take your time and view all of the artifacts. 🎥 In the begging of the museum they have a video room where a series of videos about various operations are shown. The total run time is ~2 hours. But, each video is about 15-20 mins. long. I would suggest going through the museum first and visit this room at the end of your visit. 🎁 Make sure to stop by the gift shop. They have a lot of pins and memorable coins! 🅿️ There is plenty of parking on site. 🚽 There is a bathroom in the “middle” of the museum. Everything is nice and clean.
Constantin L — Google review
Excellent show of history dedicated to those who served. Stories told you probably didn't even know about, tons of cool artillery and history you get to experience unlike other museums that we've been to. My personal favorite was the boats they had outside on display and some of the weapons they had inside of the building. If you are in the area or if you have an interest in this stuff I highly recommend giving this place a check out to see some truly incredible things.
Diana S — Google review
Had a great day visiting this amazing museum. I went with two marines brothers and the site is great. Be prepared for a long visit, at least if you like to check every exhibit and read the whole history about, due they share all the data and items are plenty. The store I believe it could have more stuff but stills fine. 💯 % recommendable
Walter M — Google review
A lovely visit to this museum right next to the beach by the way a huge plus…. ⭐️⭐️⭐️ the outdoor exhibits are free to wander, able to enter the huge ship was a nice touch - I did enjoy taking pictures from the height of the ship, they had educational videos about war & the ship’s history. The outdoor was a nice walk & it had an obstacle course for the kids. The inside was $16/but they offered military discounts. All items have been donated and actually used somehow in someway so that was interesting. Well maintained but did spend more time outside than inside. A day out visit was worth it!!!
Haven — Google review
Love the interactive displays. Great history sections like a real natural museum. Memories of the O course was something. Great memorial plaque wall. And all the challenge coins I ever heard of
Lester S — Google review
Don’t let the size fool you this place is packed with awesome history! Carve out about 2-3hrs there is a lot to see and the staff are really friendly and welcoming. Phenomenal museum show casing the sacrifices we “entitled” Americans take for granted to live free, love this place and makes me proud to be a Floridian!
Kent C — Google review
It is a very interesting place that I could spend a lot of time reading and learning about Navy Seal as there're so many exhibits and historical artifacts. There're nice and clean restrooms inside and also a gift shop.
Nik S — Google review
Excellent setup for different eras of the Seals in action, did close early for the veterans memorial next door in the park.
Rob H — Google review
4.8
(2393)
•
4.8
(1384)
3300 N Hwy A1A, Fort Pierce, FL 34949, USA
http://www.navysealmuseum.org/
(772) 595-5845
22

Fort Pierce Inlet State Park

Mentioned on 
28 lists 
State park
Park
Fort Pierce Inlet State Park is a stunning 340-acre state park situated on North Hutchinson Island near Fort Pierce. It boasts a half-mile beach that offers various activities such as swimming, fishing, surfing, and scuba diving. The park's coastal hammock habitats and dunes make it an ideal spot for bird-watching and outdoor recreational activities year-round. Known as one of South Florida's prime surfing locations, the park also hosts prestigious surfing competitions from September to February annually.
Absolutely lovely! Great place for kayaking. It had lovely mangrove tunnels. If you don't have kayak there are kayak rentals. Also nice trail through a forest. Beautiful beach overlooking the inlet and another great beach by the ocean. A place full of natural variety!
Osolot W — Google review
State Park pass holder so no fee for me but I took a photo of the current cost for non-pass holders. Beautiful state park. Inlet access. Ocean access. Separate parking for each. Baskets to help pick up things left behind. Park was clean. Rangers were present. A couple walking the beach areas and saw one cleaning up trash. They stay on top of their duties. One of the trails was a. It over grown. Bathrooms, picnic tables, grills, pavilions, beach showers, parking seemed plentiful. Lovely turtle sculptures at the entrance and also love the canoe with plants.
J. R — Google review
First visit to this state park and our whole family loved it! We have 5 kids and they loved the beach. It was very child friendly. It was only $6 to get in. There were bathrooms, some outdoor grills and a very nice beach area. Not too crowded. We went to the inlet side but we were told there are also ocean side beaches. Absolutely beautiful clear water and lovely scenery! Will be back again and again!
Ashley J — Google review
We went here twice on our trip to Fort Pierce. There's a $6 entrance fee and access to all the beach you can imagine. Unfortunately, we were there on a yellow and then a red flag day but we went wading in the inlet where it felt safer on the yellow flag day only. We otherwise walked along the beach, hung out under our umbrella and had some lunch. It was fun to watch the larger speed boats pass by as well. We also found lots of shells to add to our collection as well. Along the short walk from the parking lot to the beach, we also saw some turtles. The white sand is beautiful as well. Everything seemed so clean. FYI there are no dogs allowed at this beach and we saw the park ranger ask somebody with a dog to leave. There are restrooms that are okay on being clean.
Rebekah — Google review
Accessible beach for children with special needs. We had a wonderful experience. Morgan was very kind and got us a special beach wheelchair so we could easily bring our daughter with a disability down to the beach. It made all the difference! We’re very grateful for the thoughtful service and accessibility.
Deborah M — Google review
A great spot to anchor. Very convenient anchorage. The only downside is the locals who think that the water is theirs and they harass you with their speed boats especially in NO WAKE Zones!!!
Eston D — Google review
🌊🏕️ 905 Shorewinds Dr, Fort Pierce, FL 34949 🎟️ Entry: $6 per vehicle | 🫡 Veteran-welcoming | Open daily from 8 AM–sundown 🏕️🌊 ⸻ 🔥 The Vibe: This park is a peaceful, adventure-ready slice of Florida paradise, whether you’re fishing off the jetty, paddling calm waters, or floating with the chance of spotting a manatee or dolphin gliding by. From nature lovers to families, surfers to solo strollers — this park delivers for everyone. ⸻ 🌞 Pro Tips for a Legendary Visit: ✅ Bring Snacks & Supplies – There are supermarkets and a pharmacy nearby (about 5–7 mins away), so grab your drinks, snacks, sunscreen, and sandwich game before pulling into the park. ✅ Hydrate Like a Pro – The beach area is a short walk from the parking lot, so bring water bottles, coolers, and electrolytes if you’re planning to stay for a few hours — there’s no quick dash for a drink once you’re on the sand. ✅ Beach Cart = Game Changer – If you’re hauling paddle boards, umbrellas, or kids, a collapsible wagon or beach cart will save your shoulders. ✅ Early Bird Gets the Best Spot – Parking near the inlet fills up fast on weekends and holidays — arrive by 9:30 AM if possible. ✅ Sunscreen & Shade – There’s minimal natural shade on the beach. Pop-up tents and wide-brimmed hats are your best friends. ✅ Pack Light, but Smart – Don’t forget: towels, bug spray, goggles/snorkel, and cash or card for entry. ⸻ 🌴 Recap of Activities: • Swimming & Sunbathing – Calm, kid-friendly waters • Fishing – Solid action on the jetty (bring bait or buy nearby) • Surfing & Paddleboarding – Rentals available just 10–15 mins away • Hiking – Small but scenic trails through dunes and mangroves • Manatee & Dolphin Spotting – Early mornings and inlets are best • Picnicking – Grills, tables, and golden hour views guaranteed ⸻ 💯 Final Verdict: Fort Pierce Inlet is Florida nature at its finest — quiet, clean, and full of opportunity to unwind or gear up for ocean fun. It’s veteran-friendly, affordable, and convenient if you plan ahead. Don’t just go for the view — go prepared, and you’ll unlock a 10/10 day every time. ⸻ 🔥 Trending Hashtags: #FortPierceInletVibes #SurfSnackSwimRepeat #VeteranApprovedAdventures #FloridaCoastGold #ManateeMoments #NatureWithPrep #HydrateAndHang #10StarBeachDay #SunSandPrepared #PaddleLifeFlorida
Ricardo F — Google review
The state park was mostly empty. It cost me $4 to get in as a solo occupant. It was a beautiful beach. I like that they provide baskets to pick up trash on the beach. There are a lot of parking spaces. The only annoying thing is all the construction from the new bride being built creating traffic.
Sarah G — Google review
4.7
(2420)
•
4.6
(347)
905 Shorewinds Dr, Fort Pierce, FL 34949, USA
https://www.floridastateparks.org/hours-and-fees/Fort-Pierce-Inlet
(772) 468-3985
23

Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center

Mentioned on 
1 list 
Nature & Parks
Aquarium
The Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center is a 57-acre research and educational site featuring a network of nature trails, a lagoon, and saltwater tanks. Visitors can explore the building's interactive games, learn about Florida's water and animals in the museum, and take advantage of restrooms on-site. The attraction offers a chance to feed stingrays and invertebrates while observing large saltwater turtles and fish up close. Admission prices are $8 for children and $16 for adults.
Last week we went to the Florida Oceanographic Center during our stay on Hutchinson island. It obviously is extremely hot outside this time of year so I recommend bringing water and sunscreen. There are some AC and shady areas to cool down but a good portion is outside. We loved the indoor area that was an aquarium inside with tons of cool fish in it. Highly recommend spending some time visiting.
Rocky 2 — Google review
It was neat, but with how much it costs compared to the other things in the area I expected a bit more. The mosquitos there are super terrible. I feel they should just hand out bug spray for free. My kid got eaten alive just walking around the sting ray and where they feed the fish. The gift shop was decently priced. A boys hat fell in the lagoon and the employees did a great job of safely removing it.
Kalla M — Google review
A wonderful facility! The talks were informative and accessible, and the employees giving them were both knowledgeable and passionate. We walked away with lots of useful information, including how we can make a difference in our own lives when it comes to conservation! The animas seemed well cared for, with many of them being here due to an inability to be released back into the wild rather than just being here “for show.” Would highly recommend a visit!
Becki W — Google review
We love this place its so nice here. There is tons of wild life exhibits. Tons of stuff for kids and adults. The staff are great. You can spend all day here easily. So much fun. Highly recommend for a family outing 👌 👏
Jenilea — Google review
We greatly enjoyed our afternoon here! We saw the big game feeding demonstration, did the interactive sea critter and sting ray touch exhibits, and walked around the inside area as well. Well worth the price of admission! The only thing we didn’t do was the walking trail. It was very muggy and mosquito filled due to recent rain. Shout out to Jasmin at the sea critter touch tank as well as the sting ray area!! She was very knowledgable and funny :)
Kristen F — Google review
The staff is fantastic, they truly are friendly & informative. The place itself however, has little to offer. You can view it all in about an hour or less. You can walk the mangroves & be led to the inlet 🫤 which isn't beautiful obviously. Kids can touch some sea life & view a couple of things indoors away from heat. Other than that, it's just okay to visit.
Finallywoken13 — Google review
We had a time to look around and stop by the marine life center . This place is very good for kids. My son love string ray . They have sensory area : String ray , crabs and etc . Highly recommend!
Local F — Google review
A great educational experience for children and adults. Colorful oceanographic displays, stingray touch tanks, aquatic aquariums and live interactive instructors teaching about sea turtles and sea life, there is a lagoon with fish, stingrays and nurse sharks. Well worth spending a few hours here.
Christine C — Google review
4.7
(1813)
•
4.5
(732)
890 NE Ocean Blvd, Stuart, FL 34996, USA
http://www.floridaocean.org/
(772) 225-0505
24

Elliott Museum

Mentioned on 
1 list 
Local history museum
Museums
The Elliott Museum is a contemporary museum showcasing art exhibits and interactive displays that document the cultural history of Florida. It features an exceptional car collection, as well as historic collections, making it a must-see for those interested in Florida's past. The museum also includes a gift shop on its second floor, where local artist works are available for purchase. With accessible facilities such as handicap access and elevators, visitors can fully enjoy this treasure coast gem at an affordable price with senior and child discounts available.
Excellent car collection. Was not expecting it. Artwork was beautiful. Restaurant adjacent had live music on Sunday and the beach was right behind it all. What a great way to spend a Sunday. Highly recommend.
Lucy Z — Google review
I was stunned at the amount and quality of their items. This is an absolute jewel and a must see. I was not disappointed. Cost is minimal for the value of seeing great works. If the docent is available for the cars, ask to see it. They have a racking system unlike anything I've ever seen. Take your time and take it all in. I think they have other exhibits that are invited and showcased. When I visited it was Tut and Faberge eggs replicas. Active duty and veterans were admitted free with ID at the time of this post. Great way to spend your time.
Kimberly H — Google review
🏛️ Great museum! Really worth a visit. 1st floor is filled with unusual antique cars and bicycles. Plenty of interesting historical facts about local residents and inventors. 2nd floor is filled with myriad of unique artifacts of Florida history. Most of them are just displayed in a makeshift old store. You can spend hours just exploring this area alone. 🎧 They have an excellent and free audio guide. 🚗 Make sure to check out “car vending machine”. Plus at least two electric cars from 1900s and 1970s. Fun fact, most of their cars are drivable. They rent them to movie studios, news productions, weddings and just take them to auto shows. They have 1930s “Woody” (Ford Model A Staton Wagon) that you can sit in and explore. Make sure you do it and find out just how much more comfortable our cars are today. 🏕️ Moonshine tent display on 2nd floor is excellent. ⏱️ Give yourself ~3-4 hours to explore the museum. 🅿️ There is plenty of free parking in front of the museum. Plus public beach parking right next to the museum. 🍹There is a “Tiki Bar” on site. If you are hungry, you can visit it too. 🚽 Bathrooms a nice, roomy and very clean.
Constantin L — Google review
Neat place. Great classic car section. Different exhibits to enjoy that are changed periodically.
Tara B — Google review
I was very impressed with this museum. I didn't expect so many rooms to view. I expected that 1 hour would've covered everything. I was wrong. You should allow at least an hour and a half 2 hours possibly longer depending. I definitely recommend it.
Karen G — Google review
A very nice local museum that has something for just about everyone. I spent 2 hours there and could have stayed longer. I investigated because i saw a King Tut sign. All the display items were replicas but you got a feel for the size of the artifacts found in the tomb. The museum has a 50+ car collection with mostly card that are from before 1950. It has a baseball card collection with some bats and balls on display. It has a replica Faberge Egg display which is very large. It has a large selection of Highwayman Paintings which were pretty good. I recommend a visit.
Leonard P — Google review
First time visiting and we were delighted with the place. Small but loaded with many fascinating details and historical facts. It’s well worth a visit and recommend taking your time to understand the small items on display. Impressed with the historical items from our area in Florida.
Paul H — Google review
My husband and I drove two hours to check this place out. Loved it. It may be a smaller museum but so many exhibits. Friendly and knowledgeable staff. The only thing I wish had been different was to be able to tour the garage. There was a gentleman already there to provide more info on the cars that were on the floor.. Will definitely be back.
Krissy S — Google review
4.7
(892)
•
4.4
(625)
825 NE Ocean Blvd, Stuart, FL 34996, USA
https://hsmc-fl.com/
(772) 225-1961
25

Bathtub Beach

Mentioned on 
1 list 
Beach pavillion
Nature & Parks
Beaches
Bathtub Beach is a family-friendly destination with a unique feature - during low tide, the reef creates a shallow pool resembling a bathtub. This makes it an ideal spot for young kids and those who want to swim without worrying about the tide. The beach offers limited parking but provides amenities such as a gazebo, shower, and bathroom. Additionally, Bathtub Beach is handicap accessible with designated parking and wheelchair-accessible sidewalks leading to an overlook pavilion and sun deck.
Such a great self-serve beach with a few daytime lifeguards and excellent snorkeling for being right on the shore with a massive collection of seashells, small fish, and birds. A clean bathroom with a drinking fountain but no on site restaurants- however lots of great options within a 2-15 min drive would 10/10 recommend
Dr. A — Google review
My boys 10 & 15 loved this beach! It was the favorite of the ones we visited. There are shells, but not a ton. If you go early in the morning it isnt crowded. Parking is limited, so be prepared if you are arriving after 9/930! Bathroom and showers on site. Short walk to the beach.
Kalla M — Google review
Plenty of parking, nice bathrooms and showers, + lifeguards. Clean beach right on the ocean at the southern tip of Hutchinson island. Excellent shelling here. This location has the most shells over 3 other locations on Hutchinson Island that claim good shelling conditions.
Leonard P — Google review
Had a great time swimming and snorkling, the water was great, thte reef was cool. There is construction on going there but the bathrooms were nice and clean! I hope they add outdoor showers or rinse stations outside the bathrooms to wash the sand off after leaving the beach.
David D — Google review
Loved this very different looking Florida beach. The shallow area near the rocks has clear water and tiny fish and tons of shells. Very cool place that recently reopened after being closed due to hurricane damage
Veronica B — Google review
Beautiful beach great for family. I can dive to the corals and see some fish. It's not far from the shore. When the tide is out, you can even walk there on your feet.
Marcela R — Google review
Nice beach for families with a protected reef really close in. A far amount of common shells, nice beach walk South towards inlet. Clear water. Lots of parking. Lifeguard.
G G — Google review
Nice an quiet beach , we really enjoy our day :)
Claudia R — Google review
4.6
(745)
•
4.3
(556)
1585 SE MacArthur Blvd, Stuart, FL 34996, USA
https://www.martin.fl.us/BathtubBeach
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26

Busch Wildlife Sanctuary

Mentioned on 
1 list 
Wildlife refuge
Nature & Parks
Busch Wildlife Sanctuary is a refuge and nature center in Florida that focuses on the rehabilitation of local wildlife. The sanctuary offers kid-friendly trails through woods and wetlands, providing visitors with the opportunity to observe a variety of animals, including deer and owls. The exhibits are designed to blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings, creating a picturesque setting for both visitors and wildlife. While there is no entrance fee, donations are encouraged to support the care of the animals.
What a great place to go & see Florida wildlife. Excellent access for walking the path, pushing kids in strollers or taking someone with a walker or wheelchair. Entry by optional donation. They make it easy- goes to a good cause. Great gift store & educational opportunities. Nice clean facilities. Well done on the new build. Thankful they are rehabbing area wildlife & giving locals (and tourists) a nice place to see animals outside a traditional zoo setting.
Kathy A — Google review
This place is better than a zoo—and it’s completely FREE! (Donations appreciated) Busch Wildlife Sanctuary is a spacious, peaceful haven where animals are not just on display but actually cared for in environments that mimic their natural habitats. The animals are well-kept, with proper environments and things to play with The sanctuary feels close to nature, with beautiful trails, shaded spots, and thoughtfully designed enclosures. There’s a reptile room with A/C (perfect break from the Florida heat) and an amphitheater with amazing fans, making the educational talks super comfortable and fun. The staff is kind and visible throughout the facility, ready to help and answer questions. Whether you’re local or just visiting Jupiter, this sanctuary is 100% worth your time. It’s educational, family-friendly, and a great way to support wildlife rehab and conservation.
Tooba.005 S — Google review
Very clean and organized, one of the best shelters I've visited. The staff is very attentive and explains about all the animals there. It's very nice. I recommend you visit it and donate to keep it open. 🤍
Anna S — Google review
What a great outing with the family! It is donation only and has such a nice set up and beautiful animals! Kids and adults will enjoy this! Highly recommend!!!
Rita W — Google review
Great sanctuary! Family friendly activity to support wildlife. The new facilities are really nice. The tour is about 1 hour. There are also activities and a gift shop. Donations only entry fee makes it not only accessible for all, but shows that it is not-for-animal profit. Had a great time.
Stephanie D — Google review
This is a very nice, well maintained animal sanctuary. They have different birds, owls, foxes, bobcats, panthers, bears, and more. The caged areas are a good size overall. I've been to some sanctuaries where the panthers' enclosures were only a fraction of the size. Summer is getting hot, and there aren't any fans or misters as you walk around so I'd bring water, a hat, and a portable fan if heat is an issue for you. I would say 1-2 hours is enough time. We were there almost 2 hours but went slow, reading all the exhibits in the welcome center and looking at all the animals and reptiles. I know they also have shows and presentations, so you'd have to check online or call for the schedule. They have a gift shop that also has a few drinks and ice creams/popicles. It's donation only. They have a cash or card option.
Kristen D — Google review
This is an awesome wildlife sanctuary that is definitely worth visiting if you have an hour or so. It's not super large, but if you go at the right time, it's really cool. We went right after it rained (it actually drizzled a little on us here) and about an hour before they closed, and all of the animals were super active! We got to see the panthers running around playing with each other (they were in separate areas but still ran at each other and played), the otters running around and swimming, the owls making noise and eating their dinners, and much more.
AdventureEvermore — Google review
Ed and kary were amazing they helped us with a hurt raccoon and informed us a lot! They were super sweet and provided us with care after handling the situation, they kept in contact and handled the animal properly. They took the time out there day to come get the poor thing and im super greatful for them!!
Mia J — Google review
4.8
(1626)
•
4.7
(786)
17855 Rocky Pines Rd, Jupiter, FL 33478, USA
http://www.buschwildlife.org/
(561) 575-3399
27

Lion Country Safari

Mentioned on 
1 list 
Wildlife and safari park
Nature & Parks
Lion Country Safari is a fantastic drive-thru safari where visitors can see lions, rhinos, and other animals roaming freely. The park also features an amusement park with various activities such as mini-golf, a waterslide, water park, and a restaurant. Visitors can opt for VIP tours that provide an up-close experience with the animals and knowledgeable guides like Kimberly who offer insights into the wildlife. Additionally, there are walking tours that include a petting zoo and giraffe feeding.
My husband and I were unsure if we should go without our kids, and im glad we still went. We had an absolutely amazing time. We arrived around 130pm, and the car drive through the safari took us about 1.5 hours while listening to the audio guide and stopping while seeing animals. We then went into the park (bring your bathing suits). Enjoy the day. Everything is included except the additional feeding of animals, but you can still get close and encounter them all. We grabbed a dole whip to cool off. By 4pm, we were done with the park, but if we had the kids with us, we could spend all day at the water slide and water park. We decided to drive through the safari one more time as it was getting dark as it was about to storm. I'm so glad we did. The animals were way more active and out walking around compared to mid day when they were hiding in the shade. Lions were active, and the workers were actually putting them away, and they were up roaming around. It was faster, only took us 30 minutes as we passed by other cars that were still enjoying the animals.
Hannah L — Google review
This place is great. Kiss loved safari drive through ans got to see animals. It was hot so some were hiding in the shade but we were still able to see. After drive through, we went to the park are and there is more things to see and do. They have petting and feeding opportunities there. They have merry-go-round and a few other small rides (great for kids 3-7). They have 2 big water slides (have to be over 48 inches) and a splash pad with smaller rides for smaller kids. I remember making a day out of it. Our family had a great time there.
Yelena A — Google review
We love Lion Country Safari! It’s such an amazing place to bring the family and friends. You are allowed to respectfully drive through the park and take in the surreal sights of the diverse array of animals and habitats. You can take your time to truly appreciate everything that’s available. Once you’re done driving through the safari, you can spend some time at the park to continue to observe Gods creatures, grab a snack, let the kiddos play at the waterpark, or purchase some souvenirs. I highly recommend spending a day at the Safari.
Ben L — Google review
What an incredible safari tour! With so many animals to view it was well worth the admission cost. When driving through, you receive (at your wish) a voice guided tour that you can get scanning the qr code which provides you with facts and history of each animal within the park. What makes this park even more incredible, is you can walk through another park where you view birds, flamingos, giraffes and go on a boat tour (extra fee). There is a small amusement park along with gorgeous flowers and fascinating decorative paths to walk through. Definitely a place for those between 2-120 years!!!!
Sarah W — Google review
Amazing experience! 🦁 The safari was so much fun — we got really close to the animals, especially the giraffes and zebras. The place is clean, well organized, and perfect for families. You can tell the animals are well cared for. Definitely worth the visit
Ofek S — Google review
It was a nice visit! Although I would like to have had the windows down the animals didn’t seem interested in approaching our vehicles but we had our windows up, it was nice to drive through once and walk around we did the feeding and petting area we enjoyed the boat tour and the maze. We didn’t eat there but we stopped by a Mexican restaurant close by avanges or something like that. But it was a nice time we left there happy. Wasn’t too hot walking around we ran through splash pad but didn’t stay there’s
Kevin V — Google review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I visited Lion Country Safari and it was such a wonderful experience! Seeing the animals up close from the comfort of your car is truly unique. Everything is very well organized, the animals look healthy and well cared for, and the drive-through safari is so much fun for the whole family. After the ride, there’s also a walk-through area where you can feed some animals, enjoy games, and other activities. It’s the perfect place to spend a full day surrounded by nature, learning, and fun. 🦁🦒🦓🐘 🫶🏻🐘🦒🦓
Andrea C — Google review
We had a great experience. We arrived at 9:30 and all of the animals were alert and active. Some were running and playing. You can drive through the safari multiple times. There are other animals in the walking portion of Lion Country Safari. I didn't take many photos because I wanted to enjoy the moment.
Jen M — Google review
4.6
(14029)
•
4.5
(1977)
2003 Lion Country Safari Rd, Loxahatchee, FL 33470, USA
http://www.lioncountrysafari.com/
(561) 793-1084
28

‘McCarthy' Wildlife Sanctuary

Mentioned on 
1 list 
Animal rescue service
Zoos & Aquariums
McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary is a refuge for more than 170 animals. They offer guided tours and interactive programs for children, but reservations are required. The animals appear to be well-kept and healthy, and the staff are organized and friendly. Restrooms are available on-site, but visitors must be escorted if they need to use them during a tour. Guests must stay with the group at all times and touching or handling the animals is allowed at their own risk as stated by signage in the area.
Our recent visit was a delightful experience filled with learning about animals. Josie, our guide, was exceptional—helpful, knowledgeable, and passionate about the sanctuary's mission. Her insights made the visit truly enriching. However, the sanctuary itself is quite small, which was a bit of a surprise. While it's well-maintained, I couldn't help but wish they had more space and larger enclosures for the animals. Hopefully, with more funding, they can expand their facilities to provide a better environment for the animals and enhance the visitor experience. Overall, it's a wonderful place with potential for growth, and we look forward to seeing how it evolves in the future.
Andrea Z — Google review
This big cat sanctuary didn't disappoint. It is clean, shady and lots of animals to look at. Our tour guide Jossie was great, knew a lot of interesting information and kept us interested. A definite must.
Debbie D — Google review
5 stars aren't enough. 1st time visit, Took my son and daughter-in-law and it was such a plesent experience. Josie was our guide and she was so personable and knowledgeable. Her dedication and passion was so evident. The interactions with the animals was pure joy, you can see how well they are cared for and maintained. Created and operations completely on donations and love. I highly recommend a visit. Check their website as they have limited hours as to not over stress the animals which I certainly appreciate. Completely ran on donations and love
Tammy S — Google review
The place was clean. The girl who did the tour was knowledgeable but the two people that came with me and myself started getting bored, she talked WAY to long on each animal. I'm sure we weren't the only ones to feel that way. After awhile you kinda just zoned her out. Aso I'm handicapped and needed to sit down occasionally. It would have been nice had an employee at least clean the chairs & benches ( which I appreciated ) they were so dirty, you didn't even want to sit down. That is why I deducted a star. Animals were really cool. If you are able to stand in one place for 10 to 15 minutes on each animal, and listen to a tour guide go on & on, I highly recommend this place.
Cheryl H — Google review
This was our 6th time here and it never disappoints. Everytime you come is like the first time! Always something new, always another example of selfless people caring for beautiful animals. Our guide this time was Josie, which was absolutely amazing. Very knowledgeable and has a wonderful personality. My son was in town from Ft Drum and when asked what he wanted to do, he said to come here. This is our favorite day trip adventure. They even had umbrellas delivered to us mid-tour when it started to rain. Five stars is not enough!
Troy K — Google review
We loved the variety of animals and our tour guide Josie was so knowledgeable and friendly. There will be many more trips there in our future!
Sherri M — Google review
Absolutely incredible. We got 2.5 hours on the tour..lots of information and the animals seem very loved and well cared for.
Andrew F — Google review
Had an incredible time with our family at McCarthy, kids ages 5, 8 & 10. I highly recommend this place. It’s well worth the money spent. It’s evident the animals are loved and well taken care of. We are so glad we took time on our vacation to visit McCarthy’s.
Fiona S — Google review
4.9
(824)
•
5.0
(3709)
12943 61st St N, West Palm Beach, FL 33412, USA
http://www.mccarthyswildlife.com/
(561) 790-2116
29

Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum

Mentioned on 
46 lists 
Museum
Sights & Landmarks
The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum, operated by the Loxahatchee River Historical Society, is a historic site that offers guided tours of an 1860 lighthouse and a small museum at its base. The area's rich history, including Spanish expeditions and shipwrecks, is showcased in the museum's galleries. Visitors can also explore outdoor structures such as a pioneer home.
Cool lighthouse that is still actively in use and whose history dates back to the 1800s. The staff here (mostly retiree volunteers) is very engaging, very knowledgeable, and very friendly. It’s quite a hike getting up the lighthouse, but once on top, it has an amazing view. The staff gave us a detailed history overview briefing while we were at the top of the lighthouse. Cost to enter is very reasonable. What’s also unique about the sight is the ginormous Banyan tree at the base of the lighthouse. It’s a one of a kind tree that is a non-native tree of the region. People who are claustrophobic may not want to attempt the lighthouse staircase climb as it’s a narrow and very steep staircase. Also, I noticed when standing at the top of the lighthouse, you can feel the structure swaying in the wind (it’s a gentle sway), but it did make me a little nervous whenever you feel it 😬
Matthew W — Google review
Perfect day beautiful place. You even get exercise. Climbing the stairs to the lighthouse. There's walking paths and the views worth it. There's a nice breeze at the top of of the lighthouse, the gift shop sells handmade local items and there's lots of waterfront restaurants nearby, including a really good ice cream shop with espresso across the water.
VEF — Google review
Mother in Law suggested we visited the Lighthouse on our way up to the PSL. Very sweet sweet group of people working there!! Shout out to Mr. Frank he was such a sweetie! Beautiful history behind the Lighthouse, everyone is very knowledgeable, I absolutely recommend stopping by, the price of entrance is nothing compared to the amazing view!! 10/10 experience!
Ren P — Google review
What a great experience with our tour guide Frank DiLucia. So very knowledgeable and so very nice to explain all the history on this lighthouse. Take the tour with him for sure full of great humor. The history and visiting g to the top of lighthouse was awesome. Pay the ticket go thru it all. Thank you Frank from your Michigan couple, Pat and Jim Walsh
Patrice R — Google review
The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum is truly a cultural treasure. From the moment you arrive, you’re surrounded by breathtaking views of the water and lush vegetation that create a peaceful and awe-inspiring atmosphere. The natural beauty of the area alone is worth the visit, but the history tucked within these grounds is what makes it unforgettable. Climbing the lighthouse offers panoramic views that are absolutely stunning—you can see the coastline stretch for miles, and it gives you a real sense of Florida’s rich maritime heritage. The museum itself is full of stories that connect the past to the present, from the Native American tribes who once lived here to the lighthouse keepers who maintained the beacon. This place is more than just a landmark—it’s a living piece of history and an experience that leaves you with a deep appreciation for the culture, nature, and legacy of the area. A must-visit if you’re anywhere near Jupiter!
William D — Google review
It was totally worth it the visit. Staff is incredibly kind, and they will give you all kinds of tips to better enjoy the visit. The entrance price was $15/person, and you have access to several indoor exhibitions, outdoors areas, and the climbing to the lighthouse with stunning views!
Sandra L — Google review
One of the better lighthouse attractions in the state. Enjoyed walking the grounds, and exploring the inside of a piece of history. Extremely nice staff, and worth the price of admission.
Derek S — Google review
Wonderful journey through history. Worth the climb up to the top for the 360 view. Staff very friendly. $15 entrance fee for adults.
Jorge R — Google review
4.7
(3227)
•
4.5
(1161)
500 Captain Armours Wy, Jupiter, FL 33469, USA
https://www.jupiterlighthouse.org/
(561) 747-8380
30

Loggerhead Marinelife Center

Mentioned on 
39 lists 
Nature & Parks
Animal hospital
Loggerhead Marinelife Center is a renowned non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of ocean ecosystems, particularly focusing on the rehabilitation of threatened and endangered sea turtles. The center offers interactive marine-themed exhibits, a sea turtle hospital, and an opportunity to witness the rehabilitation process of these majestic creatures. Visitors can explore local marine life displays, including a prehistoric Archelon sea turtle replica, saltwater aquariums, and educational exhibits about South Florida's marine environment.
Oh wow, wow, wow!! What an amazing place to visit for FREE! The staff there were fantastic and so knowledgeable - we spoke to such wonderful and inspirational young marine biologists- i cannot recommend this place enough. The turtles were incredible and the babies were just exceptional. Terrific feeding sessions with excellent commentary from very educated young women. The gift shop was a joy and staff interested in what you had to say. Free parking with access to the Juno Beach were you could see the turtle nests cordoned off and a board telling you how many nests and hatchings for each species. A wonderful few hours spent!!!
Debbie W — Google review
Do you want to see baby turtles? Because they have baby turtles! And also adult turtles that are being rehabilitated and they’re all so amazing. The staff is super knowledgeable and told me awesome turtle facts. Totally picked up a super soft shirt and an awesome bucket hat and a cute bracelet. They run on donations so entry is free but a couple of bucks dropped in the box is appreciated.
Caitlin P — Google review
Non-profit so donations accepted but not required. Wonderful work being done at this beautiful facility. Great educational place to visit. Excellent children's exhibits. Knowledge and friendly docente. Nicely stocked gift shop. There's a cafe but we didn't visit.
Mallena U — Google review
What an amazing facility!! You get up close to the turtles and the volunteers are very knowledgeable and friendly. My wife and I are members other Georgia Sea turtle center and we have been to the Sea turtle hospital in marathon key. This was the last one on our bucket list. We had an amazing time talking to the staff and watching the turtles.
Richard R — Google review
We had a fantastic time visiting the Loggerhead Marinelife Center! It’s an incredible place focused on sea turtle conservation, and you can really see how much care and passion the staff put into their work. The center is well-organized, educational, and fun for both kids and adults. We loved seeing the rescued sea turtles up close and learning about their rehabilitation. The exhibits are interactive and informative without feeling overwhelming. It’s the perfect mix of education and entertainment. It’s also free to visit (donations are encouraged), which makes it an easy stop if you’re in the area. Highly recommend for families or anyone interested in marine life or environmental conservation. A meaningful and memorable experience!
Amarilis V — Google review
Very nice marine life center. Rescues turtles, jellyfish, sharks and other fish. Excellent for all ages. We spent about 4 hours: did the free presentation, the paid tour, gift shop and lunch. Super interesting!
Bree M — Google review
This place is amazing. They do such good work with the sea life in their care. We went to the early Access Tour and Jen (I think that was her name) did a great job. We were so impressed at her knowledge and the depth of the tour. Please make a donation if you can, as they rely on donations to do all that they do.
Rick D — Google review
This is a marine sanctuary that nurses sick turtles. It has 3 floors - a gift shop, a Cafe, an amphitheater, tanks with fishes, sharks and of course turtles. They have rooms for educational presentations and educational exhibits throughout. It also has a turtle hospital and rehabilitation center. Did I mention free admission? However, they do request a donation and they suggest $10. Here is where you can see turtles, fishes and sharks, up close and personal. Well maintained facility. Free parking. Don't forget to visit the beach in the back where you can see turtle nests and info on how many nests and hatching for each species. Incredible. Really fascinating. I was there 2 hours and I didn't get to see it all. Summary: I cannot recommend this place enough. Great for kids, school field trips or just visiting on your own. You are going to love it. FYI - they survive on donations. Please be generous. Or better yet, Adopt a Turtle. Amount of one time donations, $40, $75, $100 or $250. You will get a gift pack based on your donation that includes Reusable logo bag, a small or large stuffed turtle, a hat, a straw, Sea Turtle Adoption Certificate and a paper framed photo of your adopted Turtle. I adopted Paddles. And so glad I did. I can check her progress online until she is released back to the water. If I return, I can visit and spend time with her. Paddles is an adult turtle with a boat strike. The fracture was stabilized with bone plates. Treating her with antibiotics, pain management, and wound care. Let's pray for her recovery. Visiting this place could possibly change your life or at least get you an adopted Turtle. Miriam C #travelingtheworldwithmiriam #loggerheadmarinelifecenter
Miriam C — Google review
4.8
(4889)
•
4.8
(1380)
14200 U.S. Rte 1, Juno Beach, FL 33408, USA
http://www.marinelife.org/
(561) 627-8280
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