Best of the Best
When Cypress Gardens reopened last year as Cypress Gardens Adventure Park, hopes for its success were riding as high as the new roller coasters. After all, Florida's oldest tourist destination had been forced to close its gates in 2003 and some feared that even if it reopened, it would never be the same. Fortunately, it's true — the park will never be the same... it's better!The gardens are as beautiful as ever and so are the hoop-skirted southern belles. The ski shows are back, as are the paddlewheel boat and slow cruises through the canals in the botanical gardens. It's what's new that's exciting. Set amid a backdrop of the park’s natural beauty and a boardwalk setting reminiscent of old–style amusement parks are two adventure zones featuring an array of famly-pleasing rides. Included are four coasters and the world’s tallest spinning rapids ride. In addition, the park added a new seasonal water adventure park this summer that has been a splish-splashing success. Splash Island features five rides and plenty of water play for all ages.
If attendance is any indication, the remaking of the old park has been a success. It has been reported that first-year attendance has shattered expectations with nearly double what the new owner originally projected, and the park will end its first year of business in the black.
Why should anyone be surprised? The new owner simply gave us what we've all been wanting — interesting and affordable entertainment in a family-friendly atmosphere for a reasonable price. Give us what we want... and we'll come!
Best New Attractions
SheiKra at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is making a splash... literally! The first diving coaster in the United States ends with a big splash water finale. SheiKra is only the third dive coaster in the world, and the first to incorporate an Immelmann loop, two 90-degree dives, an underground tunnel and a water feature. Wow!While Disney is celebrating 50 years of theme parks with its Happiest Celebration on Earth, Disney World joined the festivities by recreating attractions from other Disney parks. Among them is the best stage show Disney has put on in years — Cinderellabration, the "happily ever after" tale of Cinderella and Prince Charming.
Best Beaches
After two years in second place, Florida's Fort DeSoto Park took top honors in Dr. Beach's annual list of America's Best Beaches. Who's going to argue with the expert?Best Resorts
Nickelodeon Family Suites by Holiday Inn opened with a splash on Memorial Day Weekend. The all-suite resort caters to kids from the character-themed sleeping quarters to the huge outdoor waterpark to character meals and more. It's like staying in a theme park!Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee still remains high on my list. It not only caters to its guests, but offers the public uniquely themed productions to enjoy throughout the year like Summerfest and ICE!
In spite of all the negative news of shark attacks, red tide and hurricanes, millions are still coming to Florida. Why? Because where else can you find plenty of sunshine, beautiful beaches, spectacular sunsets, wonderful resorts, popular attractions and water everywhere? That's truly the best Florida has to offer... and that's good enough for me!
