With only 18 summers in a child’s life, it’s very important that you make an effort to plan for something special to capture those childhood memories with your kids and if possible extended family.

Have you ever considered a vacation with your extended family?

I personally recommend planning for a summer vacation getaway with your children and children’s grandparents. Planning it at the end of the summer somehow seems to make summer feel longer. It’s also a special way to end the summer making memories before the business of the school year starts.

For our family, it’s our way of pressing pause and really enjoying moments with our children and with our parents.

Disclosure: Wyndham provided us with a complimentary vacation condo during our stay. I did not receive any monetary compensation for this post. All opinions expressed are my own and my family’s.

Planning a Trip with Extended Family

We planned a multi-generation stay in Orlando with grandparents who are visiting us from India.
This summer trip we were invited as guests at the WyndhamBonnet Creek Resort in Orlando. Here’s a sneak peek of our stay at this gorgeous resort along with some tips we’ve learned after traveling with our whole family for many years.

These tips can help you plan your next adventure with your extended family to your favorite destination.

As you begin to plan for your family vacation getaway it’s always best to get together and find a system that works for everyone. Here are a few online tools that we use as a family with my parents, my husband’s parents, our siblings and their families, and even close friends when we plan vacations with a large group.

We’ve planned quite a few trips with kids that include family members and I’d like to share some tips that work best while planning. It takes a little time and finesse to plan all your fun vacation activities.

Pick a Destination

This is probably the hardest task of them all!

As a family, we keep an ongoing list with our extended family of places we’d like to explore.
We each try to find budget-friendly deals at those locations when possible. We’ve traveled to the beach, mountains, and even a cruise together with multi-generations but pretty much any location can work.

We have a Pinterest Board filled with Places to Travel if you’re looking for inspiration. This summer we wanted to be in Orlando with a variety of options to choose from.

{Click here} for my post about places to Visit in Orlando.

Find a Destination to Accommodate a Large Group

As you are choosing a vacation destination I recommend looking for a location that can hold a large group with multiple rooms. Booking a large space at times can be more budget-friendly too.

We all need space at times during the extended trip, especially when you have little ones who need naps too so having separate sleep areas can help. Be sure that it provides a full kitchen. With a large group on vacation, you can save a lot of money making meals at home together. Many larger places require a week’s stay so keep that in mind while you are searching.

We planned our trip at Wyndham Bonnet Creek in Orlando at the end of summer because of the choice of having 1, 2, or 3 bedrooms with your vacation condo. The condo had a large common area for all of use to spend time together and at the same time also had the ability for us to each get ready in our own areas and for the kids to have some playtime together too. 

The full size kitchen and eating area was a helpful feature so that everyone could sit down to eat together at mealtime. There’s something very special about having all of your family eating meals together for a period of time that helps to build connections and memories.

One thing to keep in mind as you schedule is to give your family time to just enjoy the space that you’ve booked for the week. Many facilities have great amenities to keep your family entertained. Our resort, Wyndham Bonnet Creek, had far more amenities than we could ever have anticipated. Plus they have a daily activities calendar too. We enjoyed discovering all of the features together each day. 

They had 5 pools, splash park, 2 lazy rivers, private cabanas, hot tubs, kids’ playground, volleyball court, ping-pong tables, pool tables, walking path, fitness center, game rooms, picnic area with grills, kids craft center, and much more! We packed a few family games that we knew everyone loves to play too for back in the room too when we need downtime to refresh.

Honestly the lazy river, near our condo in Tower 5, attracted our family the most and we spent several hours there floating around the pool in our tubes. I loved that there were grandchildren, grandparents, aunts, uncles and parents all doing the same thing with smiles, laughter and relaxation.

We floated and swam around it as we enjoyed the castle features and cannons that splashed us. We packed a snack and drinks in our cooler so that we could stay there a bit longer. A few of the pools even had water slides, one even looked like a pirate ship!

One of the highlights of our trip at Bonnet Creek was each night to be in our room on the balcony when it was time for Disney’s Fireworks. Since the resort is on Disney property you are so close! From our balcony all of us joined together to watch them at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. They were gorgeous reflecting over the water.

Create a Vacation Board on Pinterest

• Research Local Attractions together as a whole family and add pin ideas onto a shared Pinterest Board.
• We usually make our secret board so no one needs to see what we’re planning outside of our family.
• Plus then we can type below in the comment section opinions about things and why they are ideal.
• You could even add the price of the venues on the pin description so you can budget accordingly.
• We make ours a Place Board so we can also highlight where the locations are that we are pinning. Makes it so easy to find when you are at your destination.

One tip is to start with a hotel’s feature page. Many Hotels have already done the search for you on what’s close by. Many hotels and visitors bureaus have also started creating their own Pinterest Boards too.

Ideas for Things to do in Orlando

We did spend quite a few days at Bonnet Creek Resort however since we were there for a whole week we also had days to go on adventures together in the mornings or afternoons. We spent time at Downtown Disney Area near the Resort. Then we drove up to International Drive to explore the new Sea Life and the Orlando Eye.

We also drove over to the Florida Mall to go to the new Crayola Experience. No trip to Orlando is complete without a beach trip so we drove up to the Central Florida Zoo on our way to Daytona Beach. It was so much fun exploring these locations together as a whole family. 

Plus we had our good friends who are local join the fun a few times too! The more the merrier!

Of course, with the resort on Disney property, we could have easily spent time visiting the Disney amusement parks.

We’re saving that for our next time visit this fall when it’s a bit cooler. Here’s our Planning for Disney Pinterest Board we can’t wait!

Perhaps a quick trip to SeaWorld too, we loved it last holiday season.

Create a Google Calendar-

One way that we’ve found to be effective is to use a Google Calendar to schedule out our days. Once you add multiple people to an experience it’s helpful to be sure everyone in on the same page and has felt that their interests are being expressed.

You could even add in a link from your Pinterest board pin to be sure everyone knows what’s planned.

Communicate on a Google Document or Facebook Group–

Find one method that works for your family to discuss the trip. We’ve done both ways and either way using a Google document or a Facebook group with files works well. It’s a way that no matter where you log in, you can view it and add to it when needed. It also keeps an Audit track of who added what notes.

Share Responsibilities with Everyone–

We took turns being the person who does various roles such as cooking dinner. It’s a vacation and trust me it takes a little bit of work with so many people in one spot to be sure one person doesn’t feel that they need to take care of the whole family. The kids really get into helping when they know what’s expected of them too. 

We hung the task list up on the fridge so everyone could remember what they committed to. Having so many family members in one space it’s important to keep things organized.

Create a Vacation Meal Plan Together-

We all have our own little things that we enjoy eating so take time before the trip to plan out what needs to be added to the grocery list. My suggestion is to only send one person or two to the store to grab all the items on the list.
It can be overwhelming if everyone joins the shopping adventure.

Take a peek at the area you are visiting and find a few select restaurants that you want to save as special experiences together. With larger groups see if they take reservations so that your family isn’t having to wait for long periods of time for a table. Bring something for ALL the kids to do so that they are entertained. Bigger tables tend to take a little bit longer for service, especially when all the grown-ups are having fun talking.

Discover Wyndham Bonnet Creek Resort

Our vacation at Wyndham Bonnet Creek Resort had a variety of options to keep our family entertained and make lifelong memories together. The property was well maintained with active and friendly staff. The landscaping surrounding the entire property made you feel like you were in a tropical paradise. Our condo itself was beautifully furnished with everything you need for your family to live there for a week but still make it feel like a special experience in an upscale family friendly space.

The Vij Family Review

Our family had an amazing vacation at the resort that we will never forget. I’ve already asked my parents to look at their calendars to see when we can book a trip with them and the kids to return. The kids’ favorite was the lazy river feature. The view from our room in Tower 5 on the 10th floor made our experience extra special each morning and night.

Grandparents Review

Our favorite was the fireworks each night with our grandchildren and the evening walks around the beautiful lake.
Being able to spend time together as a family was priceless.

Aunt and Uncle’s Review

It was such a fun trip for our extended family to stay together and enjoy quality family time at Wyndham Resort. Kids enjoyed the lazy river with cousins and activities offered by the resort. Watching fireworks from the balcony was one of the memories that will stay with us forever. We can’t wait to plan our family reunion again there.

We hope you find these tips helpful as you plan your next vacation getaway with extended family. With the convenience of online tools, you’ll be set for success and able to spend quality time with your whole family making memories that last a lifetime.

Have a tip for vacationing with extended family? Please tell us below in the comment section.

Thank you Wyndham Bonnet Creek Resort

Thank you to our new friends at Club Wyndham for inviting us to be their guests for the week. Club Wyndham is a leader in providing world-class vacation ownership experiences, with more than 75 resorts found in America’s most popular destinations.

Be sure to follow them on Facebook,Twitter,Instagram,Pinterest and visit their siteto check out how you can book your next trip

Club Wyndham** LIKE IT? PIN IT!**

Click here to see MORE Travel Ideas

SeaWorld Christmas Celebration

This past weekend we were invited by SeaWorld as media to attend their Christmas Celebration in Orlando, FL. It was so much fun to wake up the girls with a big SURPRISE we’re going to SeaWorld today!  For many years our family has enjoyed scheduling a trip to spend the day and night there. Starting in late November, the entire park is transformed into a Holiday Wonderland. 

For us with our busy schedules, this visit helps to create special holiday memories together for our family with so many moments that are unforgettable.  

SeaWorld Christmas Celebration is available Nov 28 to Jan 2, so you still have time to go!

As you enter SeaWorld you first start with the HUGE Christmas tree that welcomes you as you enter Seaworld.  Shamu is often there with his Santa hat, so plan to stop for a photo opportunity. We even grabbed our Santa hats at home to bring with us this trip to make it even more special for the kids.

The decorations as you arrive make you feel like you’ve stepped into a Christmas story. Be sure to give yourself time for photos during your trip as there are lots of photo opportunities.  We’re sharing tons with you in this post, I couldn’t choose just a few it’s that much fun!

My biggest tip for planning out your SeaWorld Christmas Celebration trip is to look online ahead of time at the schedule and decide what you want to see and do as a family. During the holidays this transformation at SeaWorld allows you additional opportunities for your family to enjoy so plan accordingly. At an additional cost SeaWorld provides a Christmas Family Fun Tour, Santa’s Fireside Feast  & Christmas Show Seating.

We like to arrive early when the park opens so we can also see all the Sea Life at Seaworld and still have time for the special evening events. Right now my daughters’ favorites exhibits are the Penguin Encounter and the Aquariums under the Manta Roller Coaster.

Here are our top 10 Favorites at Sea World During the Christmas Celebration! 

Top 10 Ways to Celebrate the Holidays with SeaWorld 

The Polar Express Experience 

First things first we headed to see a very special visitor at SeaWorld.  We had the chance to become a part of the story Polar Express, trains as all! We watched a video as we journeyed to the Wild Artic to discover the North Pole and scenes from the movie including a very large Christmas tree and SANTA himself along with his sleigh!  

Love the special touch as you leave with the ticket with the words BELIEVE.  It’s quite magical with your child to experience.    

Shamu’s Happy Harbor Rides 

Then we headed to the children’s section of called Shamu’s Happy Harbor. We were surprised that our 4 year old was tall enough now to ride all the rides at 42 inches. There was hardly anyone in line so she had a blast with her big sister and Mommy and Daddy riding them for the first time. As we were riding the rides drummer boys walked by with elves playing the drums!

Plus as we left we had a photo opportunity with Santa Shamu and Mrs. Clause Dolphin.     

Elmo’s Christmas Wish 

Next up on our list was to visit Elmo and his friends to see what Elmo’s Christmas wish was.  With bubbles and snow and Holiday music and dancing this show was a big hit with my two girls who are 4 and 8.  

O Wondrous Night 

This was a special show for our family, we had not yet seen O Wondrous Night in previous years.  The lines at times can be long for this show, so be prepared to arrive early for a spot for your family. Through 30 songs seamlessly put together the angels sing the story of Christmas. There are adorable puppets that each tell their side of the night Jesus was born, it’s a creative way to keep the kids entertained and parents too.

The end is really moving with a true living nativity including camels, goats, sheep, an alpaca, a zebu and a flock of white doves. The audience at the end gave a standing ovation, which I hear happens at just about every show.

Winter Wonderland on Ice 

Ice skating outdoors in Florida? Yes it happens at the SeaWorld Christmas Celebration and I’m in love!  The combination of songs and costume changes makes it such a special experience to watch. The talented team of skaters take your breath away and help you find your holiday spirit.

The surprise element is the water fountains with lights and sea of trees behind the performers that are choreographed to the music.  Simply breathtaking.  

Shamu Christmas Miracles 

The last show that we went to was to see the Orca whales performing to Holiday Music.  It focuses on the everyday miracles that surround us in our lives. The big surprise for me is the way the utilize the water fountains to light up with the music making it a light and water show along with the whales, musicians and trainers.

Sea of Trees 

Day or night the Sea of Trees puts you in the holiday spirit. The entire waterfront is covered with over 100 Christmas trees that dance with lights to the holiday music. The first show that they start it’s fun to stand on the bridge and be surrounded by the light and music show. <

Holiday Reflections: Fireworks and Fountain Finale 

Even though it’s a bit later in the night for little kids after sunset, it’s a must see for the holiday season.  SeaWorld celebrates the holiday season with soaring fountains, dazzling tree lights, and festive fireworks, choreographed to joyous holiday musical favorites.

Our favorite spot to watch is fireside near the waterfront.  There are a few vendors there too with hot chocolate and holiday treats for the kids.  Plus it’s close to the exit of SeaWorld to save a little bit of time as you leave.  

Snow Flurries at SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration

The best part is as you leave it’s snowing!  Yes at least it’s the one place in Florida I know it will snow for my kids to experience for just a little bit and imagine what it’s like to have a white Christmas.  

Enjoy a Special Trip during the Holiday Season with your Family {Take LOTS of photos}

This experience was one that my family will remember for many years to come.  We had so much fun spending the day together allowing the Christmas spirit into our hearts.  We enjoyed listening and singing to Christmas songs, the beautiful Christmas decorations and characters dressed up like Santa Clause.  

For us the memories of our trips will be one special gift to our family for Christmas.   

Ticket Information about #SeaWorldChristmas Celebration

SeaWorld’s holiday shows are included in regular park admission. One-day tickets are $95 ($90 for ages 3-9). The park is offering one free child’s admission with each paid adult. That offer runs through Dec. 31.  In addition they have special holiday seating available to help ensure you’re able to see all the shows up close that your family wants to see.

Disclosure: SeaWorld provided us with 4 media tickets for our family to experience and share about their Christmas Celebration. All opinions expressed are my own from years of enjoying this special event with my family. #seaworldchristmas

Save this review for your next family trip to Universal Studios!

This is a sponsored post on behalf of Loews Hotels. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.

Here’s a look at our recent trip to this vibrant, retro-style resort with rooms and suites brilliantly designed for fun and affordability. We were able to relax with a splash, surrounded by amazing iconic architecture inspired by classic Florida beach resorts of the 1950s and 60s.

Planning a Family Vacation at Universal Studios Resort

We’ve been looking forward to a weekend getaway for our family in Orlando and could not wait for it to kick of at the Cabana Bay Beach Resort, one of Universal Orlando Resort Hotels. We chose Cabana Bay Beach Resort for the relaxed & retro Beach 50s vibe and for the cost – starting at $120/night.

Florida residents be sure to check out their special rates just for YOU!

Our van was packed with our swimsuits and Harry Potter t-shirts as we headed down for a 2 night stay which included 2 day 3 park Tickets to Universal Studio Park! We arrived on Friday afternoon walking past “Dad’s station wagon” parked permanently outside the hotel, along with three other vintage cars.

Honestly I could feel the stress melt away as we ventured into the lobby on the Cabana Bay Beach Resort with the old time music playing.

It’s step back in time with vibrant colors and retro style decorations.

We checked in to our Family Suite which starts at $160 per night and was able to drive our car, near the room’s entrance. In a resort with 2200 rooms, this was a noticeable perk. They’ve done a good job of spreading out the entrances and parking ability. Once we parked our car, we didn’t see it until Sunday night when we left the theme parks.

I can’t tell you how nice it was to be able to stay on Universal property and be able to take advantage of their complimentary on site shuttle transportation and garden pathways to the theme parks. Plus Universal’s Volcano Bay was an easy walk from our hotel room on a special tropical path.

Cabana Bay Beach Resort

There are two options for resort rooms at Cabana Bay Beach Resort. Upon arrival you’ll enjoy vibrant, retro-style with rooms and suites brilliantly designed for fun and affordability. The iconic architecture is inspired by classic Florida beach resorts of the 1950s and 60s. I felt a little like I was stepping into my parents childhood and what they may have experienced, a perfect spot to bring the grandparents along with you too.

Rooms are wonderfully decorated and decently sized. The 1950s-60s vibe is carried through right down to small details such as the bedside clock and VO5 shampoo in the rooms!

Standard Rooms at Cabana Bay

Two queen beds, iconic decor and a flat screen TV turn each 300-square-foot Standard Room into a private getaway. You can upgrade to a Poolside Room to enjoy lush views of the hotel’s tropical foliage and expansive pool area.

Family Suites at Cabana Bay

There’s plenty of space for everyone with 430 square feet of living area. Suites sleep up to 6 with two queen beds and a pull-out sofa, plus it includes a sliding privacy partition and a compartmentalized bathroom so 3 people can get ready at once.

YES… you read that right everyone can be getting ready at once for early morning access to the parks!

You’ll find a kitchenette with a mini refrigerator, coffee maker, microwave and sink so you can enjoy a cold drink, quick breakfast, snack or a light bite to eat whenever you like.

Perks of Staying on Property at Universal Resorts

Enjoy one Hour Early Admission

Enjoy Early Park Admission to Universal Orlando  including the The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Universal’s Volcano Bay one hour before the park opens (valid theme park admission required).

A little tip.. be sure to check on the Universal Studios app which park is offering early admission that day.

My two girls were quite excited to spend a good portion of their time in the World of Harry Potter. With our Express passes we were able to do so much in the time we had during the two days we were there.

More Than Just A Room Key

When you stay at any Universal Orlando Resort Hotels you get resort-wide charging privileges using your room key card. You can also use your key card for complimentary access† to select live entertainment venues at Universal CityWalk for the length of your stay.

Restaurants On Site 

Cabana Bay Beach Resort has a variety of locations for restaurants to enjoy with your family. The Bayliner Diner is set up food court style with five stations as well as grab and go options — it offers TONS of hot and cold meal choices as well as snacks. It was nice to see a Starbucks right there on property too.

Resort Style Living for Your Family 

The best part was that you could literally spend days just on the resort property having fun with your kids. Cabana Bay has their very own bowling alley, Galaxy Bowl which has it’s own restaurant. Plus a largeGame-O-Rama arcade, pool side ping pong tables and two beach style pools, slide, winding lazy river and more. Plus a large Jack LaLanne fitness center overlooking the pool area.

Pools at Cabana Bay Beach Resort

The Cabana Courtyard has a zero-entry pool with a waterslide, a kids play area, hot tub, the Atomic Tonic pool bar and cabanas for rent. On the other side of the resort was the Lazy River courtyard, with a zero-entry pool with a sand beach, a lazy river with waterfalls and cannons, The Hideaway Bar & Grill, and a nice big hot tub.

TIP: You’ll need to bring your own tube or you can purchase a new tube onsite for a few dollars and it’s yours for your stay.

Plus you’ll enjoy the exclusive benefits of staying in Universal and wake up to this view!!!

Volcano Bay

Did you know you also get Volcano Bay Early Access and special gate entry from Hotel? One our second day of vacation we arrived at opening and were able to do so many water slides in the limited time we had there at Volcano Bay.

The rapid river was once of our favorites, not tube to float you get life vests to experience as you quickly float along on the ride.

Plan your visit to Universal Studios Resort

Take advantage of early admission to the Universal Studios Parks, free shuttles and enjoy your stay at this Retro fun hotel. Click now to plan your next vacation at Cabana Bay Beach Resort.

Share your family’s adventure with the hashtag #CabanaBayResort! 

Orlando can be an amazing location for tourists and locals. People literally travel from all over the world to visit the numerous Orlando attractions. One hidden secret is that there are so many other resources for mini vacation spots with your family that are budget-friendly, especially if you’re looking for something away from the main Orlando theme parks.  

Planning a Staycation as a local can be just as much fun to find those hidden gems we forget to visit.

Image Source Wikipedia

If you don’t live in Orlando come back tomorrow for a list of staycation ideas for over 60 cities!  

Click here for 60+ Cities Staycations

Planning a Staycation in Orlando

Here are some of my favorite spots for a perfect little getaway this summer with your kids in Orlando!

Hotel Adventure in Orlando

After living in Orlando for nearly 30 years we are always trying to find new things to do. One of my biggest tips is to book a hotel for your staycation, there are SO many to choose from in Orlando! It’s a memory your kids will never forget. Even if that’s all you do.

Here’s our experience at Wyndham Bonnet Creek Resort and Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort.

TIP: Find a hotel with an amazing pool that includes a yummy free breakfast & free cocktail reception hours. So much more bang for your dollar!

Orlando Overview Image Source Wikipedia

Indoor Fun in Orlando

• Orlando Science Center
• Medieval Times
• Orlando Museum of Art
• Orange County Regional History Museum
• Free Summer Movies 
• Free Summer Bowling 
• Crayola Experience 
• Monkey Joes 

Outdoor fun In Orlando

• Central Florida Zoo
• Kennedy Space Center {had to include, worth the travel}
• Leu Gardens
• Lake Eola Park
• St. Johns River Cruise
• Rocks Springs  …horseback riding
• Fun Spot Entertainment Center
• Miniature Golf…anywhere is fun!
• Check out a Playground new to you or Orlando Park for an adventure too!
• Have you looked at the most current Events at local Orlando Venues?

Discovering Springs and Rivers In Orlando image source Wikipedia 

Water Fun in Orlando 

• Splash Pads in Orlando  There are tons of local Splash Pads in Orlando  Barnett Park, Shady Park, Downtown Disney, Dr. P. Phillips Community Park, Capehart Park, Downey Park Splash Playground, Fort Mellon Park
• Springs near Orlando There are some amazing Spring Located in Central Florida including Blue Springs, Rocks Springs in Kelly Park, You can even Book a Canoe Ride on Wekiva Springs.
• Uptown in Altamonte Springs Crane’s Roost Lake is a beautiful location for families to visit, picnic, stroll around the lake which includes quite a few bridges.  Plus enjoy a Fountain with a Laser light show each evening at 7, 8 & 9 pm
•  Scenic Boat Tour in Mt Dora if you’re up for a little adventure.
• BEACH  AND most importantly… you have to drive to the beach!  EAST or WEST it’s less than two hours away. One of our favorite spots have been the Splash Pad at Daytona Beach and Honeymoon Island on the Gulf Coast.

Uptown Altamonte Springs at Crane’s Roost Lake  image Source wikipedia

Shopping Fun in Orlando

• Outlet Malls in Orlando  Premium Outlet Malls have a few locations. We love the life-sized chess game and playground at the Vineland location. The International Drive location has a stream and little area with activities for kids.
• Point Orlando Point Orlando is a favorite culinary spot with a few kid friendly options. Monkey Joe’s is an indoor spot for kids to jump around, literally!  There’s a Movie Theater too. Take some time to at least drive by Wonderworks, your kids will love it!

Downtown Disney image source wikipedia

Theme Parks in Orlando

If you’re still looking for a bit of the Theme Park Magic without the Ticket Price here are a few tips from a local who’s entertained quite a few out of town guests with these plans!

• Disney World Let’s start with one of the Most Known Attractions in Orlando Disney World ! There are many options to purchase tickets for…. Magic Kingdom , Epcot, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon  If you can go for the ticket price do it while they kids are still little they’ll love it! The Florida Residents’ Pass is the best ticket option when they are available.
• Disney Springs Did you know that for minimal cost or for FREE you can visit Downtown Disney?  Located on Disney property it’s our go-to spot when we want to sneak in a little Disney Magic without having to go to the theme parks. Disney Springs, formerly known as Downtown Disney has many options for Kids to do! Featured locations are Lego Store, T-Rex Restaurant and Fossil Dig, Rainforest Cafe, Bippidi Bobbidi Boutique, Boat Ride, Train Ride, Photo Opp with Disney Statues, Little Splash Pad for Kids, Carousal, Tons of Restaurants, Bowling, Movie Theater, Balloon Ride and MORE!!!
• Disney Boardwalk Did you know you can visit Disney’s Boardwalk for free too? You can catch a glimpse of Epcot’s fireworks in the evening too.
• Universal Studios Universal Studios and Island of Adventure are a big hit with family. I have a little local secret if you head to City Walk for an evening getaway it can be tons of fun. Don’t forget to sneak in a little boat ride with the kids. They have quite a few restaurants, a movie theater and sometimes there is street music. Wet ‘N’ Wild can be an entire day and night of fun too!
• Sea World  Sea World, Aquatica , Discovery Cove Year after year Sea World is just about the only park that we just simply can’t not visit which is why it’s the one pass we always have. With younger children it’s nice to not have to be rushed and fit into lines. There are so many little spots to simply sit and observe the marine life. Plus as your kids get older there are some fun rides and a splash park for them too.
• Legoland 

Budget Friendly Ideas for Vacations in Orlando

Living in Central Florida with Kids can be such a treasure to our families. At times I forget how lucky we are to have all of these amazing attractions in our backyard! Giving ourselves a break from some of them is important to make those trips extra special when we do go.

Plus there are times when our budget needs to take things a bit more local. Take the chance to explore a few more options this summer.

A big thank to Savings Lifestyle and The Happy Housewife for hosting this Staycation Series. With a city as large as Orlando, I know there is a lot more that could have been included. So, if you’re favorite Orlando area spot is missing, please tell us about it in the comments below!

You may enjoy these travel destinations with your family…