Charlotte B

Latest posts by Charlotte B

The New Minion Land Takes Over Universal Orlando

Submitted by Charlotte B on Sun, 08/27/2023 - 7:33am

Follow the little yellow guys to the newest, coolest area of Universal Orlando Resort: Minion Land! Photo courtesy Universal Studios Florida

Minion Land is finally here! Universal Orlando Resort has once again raised the (yellow) bar in the realm of theme park attractions with the unveiling of its latest addition. Located on Illumination Avenue at Universal Studios, vibrant Minion Land brings to life the whimsical world of the beloved yellow creatures from the Minions franchise.

With the addition of Minion Land, Universal Orlando has created an experience that captivates guests of all ages. With its interactive attractions, delicious cuisine, and immersive entertainment, Minion Land represents Universal Orlando's commitment to providing unforgettable experiences to its visitors. Strap on those overalls and goggles -- it's time to read our Minion Land guide!

Brightline Train to Debut in Orlando: Fun on the Tracks

Submitted by Charlotte B on Fri, 08/25/2023 - 10:22am

All aboard the new Brightline Orlando train for a fun way to travel through Florida! Photo courtesy of Brightline

The City of Orlando, already renowned for its world-class theme parks and attractions, has added a new gem: Brightline Train. Florida's high-speed rail system, known for its seamless travel experience, is extending its tracks to Orlando and promises families a fun, convenient way to explore the Sunshine State. Whether you're a local resident seeking a weekend adventure or a vacationing family looking to elevate your trip, Brightline Train Florida offers a unique opportunity to embark on a stress-free adventure.

Dinos, Foam Party, Touch-A-Truck, and More Awesome Things to Do in Orlando This Weekend

Submitted by Charlotte B on Wed, 08/23/2023 - 8:41am

It's the last weekend to bring the kids to Island H2O for an epic foam party!

Looking for the best things to do in Orlando this weekend? Here are some family-friendly events and activities to add to your list.

Stroll the Central Florida Zoo Friday evening during Sunset at the Zoo; this month's event celebrates Native American & Alaska Native culture and heritage. It's the final weekend to enjoy the Foam Party at Island H2O Water Park, where guests can dance through mountains of foam. This Saturday at Children's Safety Village's Touch-A-Truck, kids can get up close and climb inside some of their favorite community vehicles, and meet the people who drive them. See below for all the details on these weekend events and many others.

Subscribe to our email list to be the first to know about all the fun activities around Orlando, and check out our Orlando Summer Guide to soak up the last few weeks of summer weather before fall arrives....although who are we kidding; it's going to stay warm in Orlando well into the fall!

Free and Cheap Afterschool Programs for Orlando Kids

Submitted by Charlotte B on Sun, 08/20/2023 - 7:05am

The YMCA of Central Florida provides beforecare and afterschool programs at select Orange County elementary schools.

Orlando kids are back in school, and that means afterschool programs for families with working parents looking for affordable options. We've rounded up several options for cheap, afterschool programs in Orlando, and some are even available at no cost! These afterschool programs in Orlando offer engaging activities such as academic support, sports, STEM, and more, within a fun and safe environment.

Extreme Sports and More Thrilling Activities for Kids in Orlando: Go-Karts, Axe Throwing, and More!

Submitted by Charlotte B on Fri, 08/18/2023 - 10:58am

Kids can take to the water at Orlando Watersports Complex. Photo by facility

Extreme sports and activities for older kids and teens provide action-packed fun and avoid screen time! From go-karts and zip lining to axe throwing and paintball, we've gathered exciting options for every type of thrill-seeker in Orlando.

Check out the best extreme sports and activities for kids in Orlando. And just a helpful tip: Much to the dismay of Croc-wearing kiddos the world over, most of these activities require closed-toe shoes, so be prepared to wear sneakers or bring them along.

Best Sandbars Near Orlando and Central Florida for Families Interested in Adventure

Submitted by Charlotte B on Fri, 08/11/2023 - 11:29am

Anclote Key, made up of four islands off the Gulf Coast's Tarpon Springs, is a popular gathering place for boaters. Photo courtesy Visit St. Pete-Clearwater

Central Florida sandbars are popular gathering places for Florida boating families. These Florida families love sandbars because of shallow and safe waters, offering children an ideal space to play and swim right off the boat! The opportunity to explore, beachcomb, and create amazing memories along a coastal environment further solidifies sandbars as great destinations for family outings.

Sandbars sit along coastlines, near island shorelines, or within river channels. Coastal sandbars are visible above the water's surface during low tide, but usually become submerged during high tide. Read on for our list boat-accessible sandbars around Central Florida, including saltwater sandbars within a 2.5-hour drive from Orlando, as well as sandbars at Orlando's lakes and springs. Don't have a boat? No problem! Enjoy smaller sandbars along Florida's beaches during low tide.

For more water related family fun, check out our Guides to the Best Shark Tooth Beaches in Florida, Top 10 Natural Springs Near Orlando, and Exciting Lakes for Water Activities Near Orlando.

14 Best Baby Classes in Orlando: Baby Sign Language, Mommy and Me, and More

Submitted by Charlotte B on Sun, 08/06/2023 - 8:23am

Babies experience colorful, sensory play at A Kids Gym.

New moms often look for opportunities to get their babies out of the house and around other moms. Mommy and me classes are fantastic ways to spend quality time with babies while meeting other moms and children in Orlando. And these Orlando baby classes aren't just for moms -- dads, grandparents, aunts, nannies, and other caregivers can join in on the fun, too! We’ve rounded up some of the best parent-baby classes in Orlando and central Florida.

35 Things To Do with Preschoolers and Toddlers in Orlando Before They Turn 5

Submitted by Charlotte B on Fri, 08/04/2023 - 11:00am

Orlando toddlers and preschoolers will have a wonderful time at Peppa Pig Theme Park.

Orlando toddlers and preschoolers—it's time to party! While it may seem that most of the fun things to do in Orlando are geared toward big kids and teenagers, there are PLENTY of toddler and preschooler activities nearby.

As a mom raising young kids in Central Florida, I can relate to the need to find scaled-down theme park rides for preschoolers, toddlers, and young kids, as well as free, low-key visits to playgrounds. Read on for the top things to do with preschoolers and toddlers in Orlando, from rides and zoos to splash pads and indoor activities, too!