When it is time for family fun vacations, it can be hard to decide where to go. If you want to narrow it down, consider that two of the top family vacations people choose are the mountains or theme parks. For those of us in the Southeast, that often means a choice between an Orlando vacation and the Great Smoky Mountains, both of which have some pretty terrific features.
Orlando
Orlando is right in the middle of Florida, within easy driving distance of both coasts. This makes it a wonderful spot to vacation, because it gives visitors the option of leaving Orlando to experience some of the other interesting places in Florida. Places near Orlando include St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city, Tampa, home to Busch Gardens, Cape Canaveral and the Canaveral National Seashore, and much more.
On the other hand, once you are in Orlando, you may never want to leave! Whether you want to spend time in the thriving downtown area, perhaps riding the swan boats on Lake Eola, take a boat tour through Winter Park’s chain of lakes, or just stick to the Kissimmee area and all the theme parks, you will surely never be bored. Theme parks in Orlando include:
- Walt Disney World, including The Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, and Animal Kingdom
- SeaWorld
- Wet and Wild
- Gatorland
- Universal Orlando Resort including Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure
The Great Smoky Mountains
Of all the National Parks in America, the Great Smoky Mountains is the most visited. This is because its natural beauty is breathtaking, its flora and fauna are diverse, and the Appalachian culture it helps to preserve is fascinating. Very near to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, it offers visitors such activities as:
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking trails
- Auto trails
- The opportunity for shop for treasures, in the nation’s largest arts and crafts community
No matter what your vacation preference, you can find help planning your trip from Best Vacations Ever. With expert advice and know-how on the best ways to spend your travel time, they can help you to plan the vacation of your dreams. Check them out online, or follow them on Facebook or Twitter, to learn more.