Charlotte B

Latest posts by Charlotte B

Holiday Light Shows: Christmas Displays and More in Orlando for 2021

Submitted by Charlotte B on Fri, 11/26/2021 - 6:48am

Celebrate the holidays at Legoland with seasonal shows, holiday Lego characters and more. Photo courtesy of Legoland

For many Orlando families, visiting local Christmas lights is a treasured holiday tradition. It’s a great way to get in the Christmas spirit, and Orlando has no shortage of options. From dazzling displays at the theme parks to lighted boat parades, we’ve rounded up some of the best places to see Christmas lights here in Central Florida.

Get an exclusive view of Give Kids the World Village as it's tranformed into a wonderland of lights at Night of a Million Lights; stroll through illuminated forests and watch dancing light displays at Leu Gardens' Dazzling Nights; or venture to Mount Dora for the town's amazing seasonal lights. Read on for the very best holiday light displays around Orlando and Central Florida.

Top Places to Host Your Child's First Orlando Birthday Party

Submitted by Charlotte B on Sun, 10/31/2021 - 8:29am

Orlando Science Center’s all-inclusive party packages are designed to take the hassle out of planning your child’s party.

First birthdays are a big milestone, especially for parents who persevered through those difficult first 12 months of life. It’s no wonder parents want to go all out to celebrate the occasion. But planning a first Orlando birthday party can add a lot of undue stress, so why not choose a venue that can alleviate some of the tasks involved in party planning? We’ve rounded up some wonderful Orlando birthday party venues perfect for hosting a first birthday party in Orlando.

In addition to the venues below, local playgrounds and splash pads are also very popular party options for first birthday parties. For a complete list of all the great ways to celebrate birthdays locally, check out our Guide to Kids' Birthday Parties in Orlando.

Deliciously Fun Dinner Shows in Orlando for Kids

Submitted by Charlotte B on Sun, 10/24/2021 - 10:04am

Orlando dinner shows, like Pirate's Dinner Adventure, satisfy kids' appetites and need for entertainment. Photo courtesy of show

Looking for a memorable dinner experience, especially where your little one can let loose and just be a kid? Enjoy a meal and entertainment at these family-friendly Orlando dinner shows. From jousting knights to magic tricks, there are a variety of restaurants offering dinner and a show in Orlando that will keep kids (and adults) smiling throughout the meal.

Fun Orlando Museums for Children to Explore Their Worlds

Submitted by Charlotte B on Fri, 10/22/2021 - 10:09am

Discover what is real and what isn't at Orlando museums like The Museum of Illusion. Photo by Jody Mercier

Orlando has a diverse collection of fun museums for children and families to explore. From kid museums in Orlando to others within a day trip's drive, and themed museums for train fanatics and even something for chocolate lovers, there are many Orlando museums for both residents and tourists alike. We've listed some of our favorites below. Read on to find some Orlando museums to add to your itinerary!

10 Scenic Train Rides in Florida for Every Family to Enjoy

Submitted by Charlotte B on Sun, 10/17/2021 - 10:17am

Visitors can actually ride the exhibits at the Florida Railroad Museum, which hosts a variety of experiences throughout the year. Photo courtesy of the museum

Looking for a new way to tour the beautiful Sunshine State? Immerse yourself and your family in fun and adventure as you step aboard these Florida train rides. Whether you’re looking for a scenic day trip by train, a theme park train ride, or a special holiday train ride like The Polar Express, there are scenic train rides in Florida to please every age and interest. Train enthusiasts—both large and small—will love riding the rails on these Florida train rides.

And if you're looking for an easy, fast, and luxurious way to travel between West Palm Beach and Miami, check out our experience on the new South Florida Brightline train!

Florida's Legoland Pirate Island Hotel: An Arrr-some Vacation

Submitted by Charlotte B on Fri, 10/01/2021 - 1:10pm

Florida's Legoland Pirate Island Hotel is a wonder of creativity. Photo courtesy author

Ahoy there, mateys! Legoland Florida’s newest fully immersive hotel–Pirate Island Hotel–opened to the public just last year. My family recently got a chance to visit for my son’s birthday, and we had a blast. It is a great addition to the other two onsite hotels: the attached Legoland Hotel and the nearby Legoland Beach Retreat. Read on to discover all the cool details about Legoland Pirate Island Hotel, and how to squeeze as much fun in your hotel stay, brick by brick (get it)!

35 Things To Do in Gainesville, Florida, with Kids

Submitted by Charlotte B on Sat, 09/25/2021 - 2:02pm

Cheer on the Gators in Gainesville, FL! Photo by the author

Gainesville, Florida, may be known as a college town, but there are so many other things to do in this city north of Orlando—and much of it is perfect for families and kids. As a Florida native and a University of Florida graduate (Go Gators!), I love to take the trip to Gainesville, FL, with my kiddos whenever I get the chance.

Here are some of our favorite activities and attractions in and around Gainesville, FL. From outdoor activities and sports, to museums and festivals, you are sure to find something that peaks your family's interest.

For more fun destinations for families around the Sunshine State, visit our Florida Family Travel Guide.

Orlando Mini Golf Courses for Family Fun

Submitted by Charlotte B on Fri, 09/17/2021 - 9:25am

Putter around at Congo River Mini Golf...just watch the waterfall. Photo courtesy of Experience Kissimmee

Cooler weather in Orlando is the perfect time to get outdoors, and miniature golf is a fun, easy outdoor activity the whole family can enjoy. We’ve rounded up a list of Orlando mini golf courses and around Central Florida sure to entertain kids of all ages!

Another great side of miniature golf is that many of these attractions host birthday parties and other group events. Visiting Orlando on an epic family vacay? No trip is complete without a game of mini golf and getting the best souvenirs—those tiny pencils and bragging rights for a hole in one.

Read on to find out where to play mini golf with the kids in Orlando, and spend a day (or evening) on the green. For more outdoor family fun, why not take a family boat trip, visit a drive-thru safari, or check out a new playground?