As dance families, we often find ourselves journeying to diverse cities for dance competitions, particularly Nationals. Many of these destinations boast renowned tourist attractions—think Disneyland in Anaheim or Disney World in Orlando—but these can quickly become costly. Revisiting the same cities annually for competitions can diminish the allure of these pricey excursions. While lounging by the hotel pool is enjoyable, it might lose its luster, prompting a desire to venture out and explore without draining the wallet.
That's why we're thrilled to initiate a weekly blog series spotlighting various major destinations for dance competitions. Each week, we'll unveil a spectrum of family-friendly activities in these cities, spanning from cost-free and budget-friendly options to moderately priced escapades. Our aim is to empower you to optimize your trips with entertaining and economical outings beyond the typical tourist hotspots.
Naturally, these are merely our suggestions, and we encourage you to contribute your cherished must-visit locales in the comments. Let's cultivate a vibrant and resourceful community to elevate every dance excursion into a truly unforgettable experience!
This week, our spotlight continues to shine on Orlando, FL!
Free Activities to do with Kids
Lake Eola Park: Take a leisurely stroll around the picturesque Lake Eola Park. Kids can feed the resident swans, enjoy the playground, or rent swan-shaped paddle boats for a relaxing ride on the lake.
Disney Springs: While many attractions at Disney World come with a hefty price tag, Disney Springs offers free admission and a plethora of entertainment options. Explore the LEGO Store, catch live performances, or simply soak in the magical atmosphere.
Orlando Farmers Market: Experience the vibrant local culture at the Orlando Farmers Market. Held every Sunday at Lake Eola Park, it features fresh produce, artisanal crafts, live music, and food trucks.
Low to Moderately Priced Activities to do with Kids (Under $35 per person)
Gatorland: Get up close and personal with Florida's most famous residents at Gatorland. Watch thrilling gator shows, explore the petting zoo, and even zip-line over alligator-infested waters for an unforgettable adventure.
Orlando Science Center: Ignite your child's curiosity at the Orlando Science Center. With interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and a planetarium, it's a perfect blend of education and entertainment for the whole family.
ICON Park: Take a spin on The Wheel at ICON Park for breathtaking views of Orlando's skyline. Afterward, explore the attractions, restaurants, and shops that make up this vibrant entertainment complex.
Moderate to Higher Priced Activities to do with Kids (Under $100 per person)
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: Embark on a journey to space exploration at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Witness historic spacecraft, meet astronauts, and experience thrilling simulations that will leave your family inspired.
Universal Orlando Resort: While Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure offer world-class thrills, you can still enjoy the magic on a budget by purchasing one-day, single-park tickets. Immerse yourselves in the wizarding world of Harry Potter or brave the exhilarating rides at Universal Studios.
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament: Transport your family back in time for an unforgettable dinner experience at Medieval Times. Feast like royalty while cheering for your favorite knight in epic jousting matches and medieval games.
Tips for Finding Great Deals
Groupon: Keep an eye on Groupon for discounted tickets and packages for various attractions in Orlando. It's a fantastic way to save money while still enjoying the best the city has to offer.
Combo Tickets: Many attractions offer combo tickets that provide access to multiple experiences at a discounted rate. Be sure to explore these options to maximize your savings.
Advance Booking: Plan ahead and book tickets online to take advantage of early bird discounts and avoid long queues at popular attractions.
Drivable Destination Ideas for Families
Tampa Bay: Just over an hour's drive from Orlando, Tampa Bay offers a variety of family-friendly attractions, including Busch Gardens, the Florida Aquarium, and beautiful beaches.
St. Augustine: Step back in time in the nation's oldest city, St. Augustine. Explore historic landmarks, visit the Castillo de San Marcos, and enjoy the charm of this picturesque coastal destination.
With an array of affordable and unforgettable experiences, Orlando stands out as an ideal destination for families seeking adventure and fun. Whether you're exploring iconic attractions or venturing to nearby gems, there's no shortage of excitement waiting to be discovered in the heart of Florida.
Stay tuned for our next blog post, where we'll embark on a journey to another vibrant city, uncovering its hidden treasures and family-friendly activities. Let's continue our exploration of diverse destinations, making every dance trip a memorable experience for the whole family!
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