To many people, Orlando, Florida, is known as the world's vacation capital because of the myriad of things to do there. In fact, if you have just so much to spend on a vacation, you'll need to be careful not to spend all your money on the first few days of your trip. One way to reduce your expenses is to go there when the children are back in school because that is when most places lower their rates. Once you're there, here are three of the most worthwhile sources of fun.
Gatorland
What started out more than 60 years ago as a one-man roadside attraction is now Gatorland, known as The Alligator Capital of The World. It's a 110-acre wildlife preserve that contains thousands of alligators and crocodiles that are a safe distance away from the visitors, yet close enough to observed in their habitats. In addition, after you enter through a simulated alligator's mouth, you'll be treated to shows that feature reptiles and birds of various shapes and sizes, a petting zoo for younger guests along with programs aimed to educate. It costs less than $20 for an adult and about half that for a child under 12. Schedule to be there for about four hours.
Gatorland
14501 South Orange Blossom Trail
Orlando, FL 32837
(800) 393-5297
http://www.gatorland.com/
Discovery Cove
For a complete change of pace, you should go to Discovery Cove where you can swim with the Dolphins, enjoy the best snorkeling in Florida, or see coral reefs replete with exotic fish. Its architects have created a seclusion that belies that fact that Disney World and SeaWorld are almost within walking distance. Plan on spending a day here to enjoy all that they have created here, like the pearl white beaches, the amazing waterfalls, and the river that winds its way through the entire park. By Orlando standards, the entrance price of about $190 is high but it includes all the well-prepared food and drink you consume as well as a complementary 14-day pass to either SeaWorld or Busch Gardens in Tampa.
Discovery Cove
6000 Discovery Cove Way
Orlando, FL 32821
(877) 557-7404.
http://www.discoverycove.com/DCO2/Default.aspx
Cirque du Soleil
This version of Cirque de Soleil is destined to run as long as the one at the Tropicana in Las Vegas because it is simply fantastic entertainment. This show is called La Nouba, which comes from the French phrase meaning "live it up!". It is a memorable blending of a stage show musical and a circus in that it has acrobats, live music, amazing choreography and a host of unusual characters woven into a story. If you are looking for a way to feed your family's imagination, you'll have to see this production. Tickets to this show will run you about $50, and up, depending on your seats' location.
Cirque du Soleil
Walt Disney World Resort
Orlando, FL 32830
(407) 939-7600
http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/lanouba/en/intro/intro.asp
About The Author
Bill Herrfeldt specializes in finance, sports and the needs of retiring people, and has been published in the national edition of "Erickson Tribune," the "Washington Post" and the "Arizona Republic." He graduated from the University of Louisville.
