Florida is one of the top vacation destinations in the nation because it has plenty of what vacationers look for — beaches, theme parks and shopping. In addition, theme parks offer extended hours, roll out special shows and include concerts by some of music's biggest talents! So, if you're planning a Florida vacation or getaway this summer, check out the tips, fun destinations, things to do and special summer events listed below.
1. Summer Travel in Florida
© FlaUSA.com
It's summer. The kids are out of school and it's time for the family vacation. While Florida is one of the top vacation destinations in the nation, summer travel in the Sunshine State can present some challenges — not the least among them is the heat, crowds and budget busting costs. If you're planning to travel in Florida during the summer, I've gathered some resources here that address these challenges — including best times to visit, getting here and getting around, what to expect from the weather, cost-cutting tips, Florida's top destinations and tips for staying cool on hot summer days.
2. Florida Summer Vacation Fun from A to Z
© NASA
Florida summer fun is as easy as A-B-C! From popular attractions to zany getaways, here are 26 suggestions for summer fun. Use this quick list for summer vacation and getaway ideas — from dining with astronauts to taking a step back in time with life-size dinosaurs!
3. Florida's Summer Camps
© Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo
When school is out, camps across Florida fling open their doors to nearly every adventure imaginable. But, gone are the days of summer camp being limited to a few days "roughing it" in wilderness-style dorms. Instead of swimming, canoeing, volleyball and campfire sing-a-longs, many kids are undertaking adventures of a different sort, and some are in the most unlikely places... like your favorite theme parks!
4. Busch Gardens' Summer Nights
© Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is celebrating 50 years of fun this summer with extended hours and a street-party atmosphere featuring thrilling coasters and special entertainment. The Summer Nights party kicks off June 6 and continues through August 16.
5. Sounds Like Summer... at Epcot
© Dawn Henthorn, licensed to About.com
Legendary music will have Epcot guests rockin' and rollin' this summer when popular tribute bands take the stage at America Gardens Theatre in Epcot's World Showcase. The nightly concerts are included in regular Epcot admission.
6. SeaWorld Rocks... AfterDark!
© SeaWorld Orlando
Beginning this May 23, 2009 and continuing throughout the summer, SeaWorld AfterDark will offer guests a rockin' evening encore, featuring extended hours and special attractions.
7. Summer Concert Series at Universal
© 2009 Universal Orlando Resort
Some of music's biggest names in pop, hip-hop and R&B will perform this summer in Universal Orlando's first-ever Summer Concert Series. The chart-topping talent will perform live on Saturdays at Universal's new Music Plaza from June 13 through July 4, 2009.
