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North Florida offers some of the state’s most exciting adventures for kids and families. Whether your kids dream of flying or enjoy a good water park, there is truly something for every age and personality. Here are several of North Florida’s best attractions from DAS Demo.
National Museum of Naval Aviation
Unbelievably, this Pensacola-based museum is free. Some of the highlights include a Top Gun Air Combat simulator and Blue Angels practice shows (check with the museum for show dates). In addition, there is an IMAX theater featuring shows on air and space flight, as well as exhibits showcasing hundreds of planes and historical artifacts.
Located in Tampa, Adventure Island offers a theme park-alternative to a typical day at the beach. Spanning thirty acres, the park includes a wave pool, rivers, slides, and waterfalls. Kids can conquer five-foot tall waves in the wave pool or swing on vines in the lagoon while you enjoy a cool beverage from one of the many cafes and restaurants at the park. Or you can all hop in a raft for some real family bonding while battling the authentic water rapids at the Island’s Wahoo Run.
This ghoulish take on mini golf is sure to have your kids squealing in delight. This franchise has locations around the country, including one in Winter Garden, just outside of Orlando, Florida. The monster theme manifests as a glow-in-the-dark golf course with animations and plenty of scary decor. If kids tire of practicing their golf swing, there is also music and food to enjoy. The attraction also includes an arcade.
Tampa Bay’s Florida Aquarium is one of the best in the world. It offers the standard display of fishes, as well as some interesting attractions like "Explore A Shore," essentially a full-fledged water park within the aquarium. "Explore A Shore" lets toddlers and kids play in pirate ships and coral caves. Other interactive attractions include the opportunity to swim with fish (reservations required), and "Aquariumania!" where visitors can create virtual aquariums.
These four destinations are just a sampling of the many available to families in North Florida. There are also a number of gardens, beaches, parks, and zoos to choose from, not to mention movie theaters, libraries, and museums. No matter what attraction you choose, you’re sure to have a memorable experience in North Florida!
