December 29,2007-(Seminole War Re-enactment-Dade Battlefield State Park-Bushnell, Florida) What an educational day! My son, husband and I truly enjoyed the re-enactment of the second Seminole War battle today. When we first arrived, we wandered back in time through authentic soldier and Seminole Indian camps. Participants were in period dress, and they all were full of information they were eager to share. Next, we strolled through the concession and craft area. There were many reasonably priced crafts and my son decided on an arrow head and feathers. Finally, it was time for the war re-enactment. I truly enjoyed the day, and we will plan to go again in January 2009. If you would like to learn more, please visit their website at www.dadebattlefield.com.
NEW! Dinosaur World-My husband and my parents and I took our two younger children (7 year old boy and 2 year old girl) and my niece and nephew to Dinosaur World today. We often pass Dinosaur World on our way to South Florida, but had never stopped and looked around. I have to say I was impressed. We spent about 3 hours in the park, and the kids had a great time. They particularly enjoyed the fossil dig and the gift shop! Prices are reasonable and I found this attraction to be extremely clean. TIP: If you plan on attending the noon time fossil dig, have an adult hold your place in line and take the kiddos over to the playground to kill time. The dig gets busy and you get the best fossils if you are first in line! Also, check on-line as there is a discount coupon, and if you are a teacher, you get in free during the month of January! www.dinoworld.net
Silver Springs-See the true beauty of Florida. Your family will experience glass bottom boat rides, up close looks of native animals and plants, and at the end of the day you can cool off at the water park. This is one of our children's favorites day trips. www.silversprings.com
Uncle Donald's Farm-My 13 year old and 7 year old are AVID animal lovers and they adore this place. There are tons of animals to observe, horseback riding, and you can even milk a goat. http://www.floridasecrets.com/Uniquesites/WCsites/WCSpotlights/UncleDonaldsFarm.htm
Deleon Springs and the Old Spanish Sugar Mill Restaurant-This is one of my favorite day trips with our children. To begin with, Deleon Springs is an absolutely picturesque piece of Florida. The higlight of the trip is a visit to the Old Spanish Sugar Mill Restaurant. Each of the tables are equipped with a griddle in the middle of the table where your family will cook their own breakfast, particularly pancakes and waffles. YUMMY! I suggest visiting during the cooler months if possible as the facility is not air condititioned. http://www.floridastateparks.org/deleonsprings/
Gatorland-My children love a day trip to Gatorland. My son and daughter especially like feeding nectar to the lorakeets and the petting zoo. This is safe and exciting way to get an up close look at the famous alligator. www.gatorland.com
Farris and Foster's Chocolate Factory-We discovered Farris and Foster's Chocolate Factory while looking for a new and interesting place to have our daughter's 13th birthday party. This place was a ton of fun. First of all, the kiddos decorated chocolate pizzas, then they covered rice krispie treats, pretzels, gummy worms, etc, in chocolate, and finally the covered marshmallows in chocolate. They then received tins to place their goodies in to take home. All in all a fun day for all ages. www.farrisandfosters.com
