Wannadoo City Gives Free Adult Admission Through January

Wannado City, a not-so-free place in Fort Laurderdale where kids can pretend to be pretty much anything they want to be in a realistic setting, is offering a special free adult admission through January.

It doesn't exactly make for a free daytrip. Children's admission still is $40, but the special saves parents $10.

No Daytripping during Thanksgiving

My dad loved Thanksgiving. He always said it was the best holiday because it was all about family and friends. That was my dad, all about family and friends.

I'm not a big fan of Thanksgiving. It is the worst holiday for me because it brings back memories of my dad. My dad passed away Thanksgiving night a few years ago, just a few hours after volunteering at a homeless shelter passing out meals to those in need.

I miss my dad. Thanksgiving is all about my dad.

Every Thanksgiving, as the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade plays on television, I remember the years in New York when we would get up at the crack of dawn and head to the parade route, standing and jostling for position with other New Yorkers. Everyone else in the family complained about going. Not me or my dad. It was our idea. Other parades just don't compare to the Macy's parade when you see it live. It's a truly great experience. And we did it free, all the way, well except for the few tokens we paid to get there. We knew where to stand so we got to see star performances for free.

Even Black Friday shopping, which I love because of the bargains I get, is not the same any more. It's where I was when I got the news about my dad. Standing with a bunch of strangers waiting for a sale to begin. It took me a few years to be able to return to the sales. It just wasn't fun.

But now my family has made new traditions. We have a meal we prepare together. Then we put up our Christmas tree. And watch "It's A Wonderful Life."

Very simple. But inexpensive. And memorable.

My dad would approve.

Is being stranded on a cruise ship REALLY a bad thing?

I have seen the reports of the stranded cruise ship and the efforts by the Navy to bring them food, etc. I have tried to be sympathetic to the plight of those passengers who cannot leave their cruise ship until it is towed to San Diego on Thursday.

I am sure it was scary. But I've been through a few hurricanes -- two back-to-back -- and what they went through at the fire sounds like an evacuation. No electricity, a/c or hot food? Sounds like the aftermath of the hurricane when you survive on cold sandwiches and MRE's (meals ready to eat.)

I've been on cruise ships. As each one came to an end, I have to admit I secretly wished that maybe something would happen so I wouldn't have to get off the ship just yet. It's been my dream to have to call my boss from a cruise ship and just explain I can't come home yet.

Cruising isn't in my budget these days, even though there are some fantastic deals out there. So, I have to say, I don't think I would be totally upset if the ship I was on was delayed and I a) had my trip refunded, b) got a voucher for another FREE cruise and c) had to extend my vacation for a few more days.

As long as no one was hurt, of course.

Happy Daytripping!

Halloween weekend -- lots of free things to do as a family

Halloween weekend is just a few days away. I've already booked us up with activities.
With so many free activities to do in our area on the east coast of Florida, there is no way I'm sitting home. I already know I'm in competition with my son's obsession with ClubPenguin, a children's web site featuring penguins, which also is holding an online Halloween party. Staying home means watching him play on the computer for hours.
No, thank you.
The activities have already begun, with free events at Michael's Crafts to make and take masks and other art projects during the week. Trick-or-treating at the mall, Halloween parades and costume contests by the city recreation department, and harvest festivals at local churches also are scheduled this weekend.
"You know, he doesn't have to do everything," my husband remarked this morning as I was rattling off the list of activities for the weekend.
"I know," I responded. But inside I was thinking, "Yes, he does. If he wants to." He only will be little for a few more years. By the time he becomes a teenager, he won't want to do these fun, free events. Besides, most of these activities are outside, where he can have fun AND get some fresh air away from the computer.
And most of these activities are free, or low cost. I only spent $1 on his headless man costume, finding most everything else at the house.
Most cities in Florida are planning Halloween parades or costume contests on Saturday. Check with your city or local newspaper for time and location. Churches are a great place to find Harvest festivals with free bounce houses, candy giveaways and games.
You don't have to spend a lot of money at these events. But you will create a lot of warm memories.
Happy Daytripping! And Happy Halloween!

Go Florida daytripping or do real work -- my dilemma this weekend

I love daytripping. And with work and my children's school, I don't have a whole lot of time to go Florida exploring during the week. So Saturday is my only day to really play.

If I had my way, I would not stay home at all on the weekends. I would always be on the go, whether playing close to home or visiting other areas in Florida. I've lived here about 20 years and I'm embarrassed to say I haven't seen the entire state yet. I've never been to the Keys or seen the caverns in the Panhandle. They are both on my to-do list.

But, being a grown-up, I also have to listen to my adult conscience and remember that someone still has to clean the house and do the shopping. And, with active children, weekends also mean soccer games or birthday parties.

That is my situation this weekend. I think I'm grounded. I have tons of errands that I have been putting off. I should clean the entire house and rid myself of mega-clutter. I really need to have a garage sale, perhaps to make money so I can go visiting Florida next weekend or during the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. Because, seriously, I would much rather spend my money on a great getaway than on any thing that is only going to take up space in my house.

I've decided to get my children involved in the yard sale. I've given them each two boxes and told them they must fill them with items from their room they want to sell -- of course, I have to approve those items. I wouldn't want someone to get the idea of selling his school uniforms or school books. On the yard sale day, the child will get his own little spot in which to set up his "stand." Whatever the child sells from his spot, he gets to keep the money.

I figure this will give my children part ownership and buy-in of this yard sale, as well as keep them out of my hair for most of the sale.

Those of you who are lucky enough to get out this weekend -- have a great time for me. I'll be dreaming of my next escape as I barter with strangers over my junk.

Happy Daytripping!

Free Biketoberfest events in Daytona Beach Oct. 15-17

I'm not a biker. I've never even been on a motorcycle.
But Biketoberfest this weekend in Daytona Beach is offering a lot of free entertainment and fun, which makes me feel a little adventurous. For those people who are bikers, you may want to check out some of these events and activities.

Here is the complete schedule. Among the highlights, free admission to the Daytona 500 Experience and free demo rides at the Daytona International Speedway. Free admission to activities at the Wing House of Daytona Beach.

The events last from Oct. 15 through Oct. 17. Daytona is only about an hour away from Orlando, but that's driving in a car. I don't know what the motorcycle riding time is.

Happy Daytripping -- and if you are going to Biketoberfest, stay safe!

Four days and night free jazz and art activities in Clearwater this weekend

Jazz lovers will enjoy this idea: Four days and nights of free jazz entertainment at the annual Clearwater Jazz Holiday, Oct. 14-17.

The event coincides with the Clearwater Jazz N Art Walk on Saturday and Sunday, featuring an aart show and kids' activities.

I'm not into jazz, but I do like the idea of free music. Pack a lunch and you've got a great daytrip weekend without spending a lot of money.

Orlando Science Center has $5 admission on Saturday

Admission to the Orlando Science Center is $5 on Saturday, part of the center's special Greenovations event. Read about the event, which features kid's activities, speakers, exhibits and seminars here.

The Orlando Science Center is filled with hands-on activities and exhibits for children and offers incredible films on a giant screen. General admission usually is about $17 for adults, so Saturday's special price, sponsored by Wal-Mart, is really a bargain.

Saturday's hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Ghost hunting in Florida is a free daytrip and chance to make memories

October in Florida means the arrival of exciting Halloween events, such as a Boo at the Zoo at every zoo in the state, Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween at Disney and Universal's Halloween Horror Nights. I've been to most of these events -- actually went to the first HHN when it cost less than $20 for tickets -- and they are great. But these days paying $50 to $75 for one night of Halloween fun just isn't in the family budget.

These things weren't in the budget for my family when I was a child in North Carolina. But my dad, the king of the cheap daytrip, found a way to make October and Halloween exciting. One Saturday night, he loaded us all into the car. As we drove, he told us the legend of a man killed by a train and who came back searching for his head along the railroad tracks. He said some people had seen his ghost or the lantern light shining in the dark -- and did we want to see if it was true? I'm not sure exactly where in North Carolina this was, but as young pre-teens, we were game for anything.

My dad took us to the railroad tracks and for the next hour we strained to see something, anything and took turns saying "Shh" or "What was that?" or "Is that him?" Truth be told, we didn't see any ghost or anything. But, we created a memory that stays strong some 25 years later.

Florida is another state rich with ghost stories and tales of hauntings. Many of the places rumored to be haunted are free to get into and open to the public. This site lists places throughout the state -- as of 2009 -- that have a legend or spooky tale.

Spook Hill in Lake Wales also is a free tourist attraction. Cars appear to drive uphill!

So keep your money to those high-priced Halloween events. Visit a real -- or rumored to be real -- haunted place for some real thrills and adventure. Just be careful and don't go by yourself, especially if you're visiting a cemetery. The spirits that inhabit woods and cemeteries could be real.

Happy haunting and daytripping!

Looking for some easy, inexpensive ideas for this weekend? Here are some ideas

The weekend is coming up, and the weatherman predicts cooler temperatures. Or, at least, cooler temperatures for Florida. That means time to get outside for some free family fun!



Here are some ideas that have free admission:

The Youth Jamboree in Indian River County on Oct. 9 advertises free games, hay rides a karaoke contest and other fun for kids at the Indian River County Fairgrounds in Vero Beach.



The Lake County Folk Festival is happening Oct. 9 and 10 in Eustis and features arts, crafts, children's activities and games. Kids can make their own musical instruments!



Celebration Oktoberfest in Celebration -- near Orlando -- features free entertainment, hayrides and nightly falling leaves. The event is Friday and Saturday. Leaves fall at 7, 8 and 9 p.m.

What's great about these activities is that they go all day from about 10 or 11 a.m. and continue to about 9 p.m. That means you can run your errands or attend the soccer games and then head to some fun later in the day.

If anyone attends the Celebration Oktoberfest, send me some pictures of the falling leaves. It sounds cool!

Fall festivals make for great cheap Florida day trips

I love this time of year. Many cities, counties and non-profits sponsor fall festivals and street parties to welcome October. And while October in Florida often doesn't seem much different than September or even June, attending a free fall festival helps you pretend for just a little bit that the seasons could possibly change in the Sunshine State.

Here are a few free events to consider attending this weekend:

Stuckeyfest: I've never been to this before, but just the name sounds really interesting. Here is the info from the Lake County website:
Stuckeyfest is a free event from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 2231 Taylor St., Mascotte. Family games such as Jello Jiggs, a parade at 4 p.m. and a block party from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Autumn in the Park: Twenty-third annual Artwork and crafts festival. The number of vendors and crafters often varies at this event, but there is usually a lot of different artists to make meandering around the event, sponsored by the Treasure Coast Pilot Club, worthwhile.
Autumn in the Park is from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday, Riveside Park, Vero Beach.

Family Days: Carnival, parade, entertainment, bounce houses, games, crafts and community expo continuing through Sunday in Port Orange. Most of Family Days activities are free, except for the carnival rides.

Hurricane Evacuations 101 -- and on a dime

The H word is a four-letter word here in Florida. Ever since battling back-to-back storms in 2004, when it seemed as if I evacuated almost every week in August and September. I hold my breath in trepidation every time hurricane season rolls around.

Lately, it seems as if we are hearing more and more about developing storms. They have spared us so far. But some day the storms will make landfall in the Sunshine State. And, if you have children, you need to be ready. Believe me, evacuations can become expensive very quickly.

Here are some tips:
*Hurricane toys are essential if you have children. On a whim, I grabbed a new noise-making educational toy for my 3-year-old back in 2004 as I grabbed soup cans and water from the shelves. It was the best $10 I ever spent. During the storm, which can sometimes last for days, your child is going to need something to do. A good way to distract him is with a new toy. I used to confiscate a few unopened toys from the child's birthday to put away with the other hurricane supplies. If I didn't use them, they materialized at Christmas. Even if you just grab something at the store on the day before the storm, make sure you have a new toy or book on hand. Preferably with lights in case the electricity goes out.
* Forecasters usually have an idea of where the storm is heading. If more than one track shows the storm going toward your town, start making reservations. Especially if the storm looks like it will be greater than a Category 3. If you wait until evacuations are ordered, you will not find a room and end up in an emergency shelter. Granted, emergency shelters are free and sometimes you can get a snack or something. But those shelters are considered a last resort for a reason. Usually, you can find a reasonable hotel inland for $50 or so. Hotels are not allowed to suddenly raise the room rate during a hurricane. It's called price-gouging and it's against the law. Make your reservation for a week, based on when the storm is expected to make landfall. Make sure there is a last-minute window so you can cancel if the storm turns away from your area. And keep following the storm so you can adjust your reservation if necessary without having to pay for extra nights. Hurricane Frances kept stalling in the ocean. So, I would call every night and change my arrival date, but adjusting the departure date. By the time the storm actually hit, I was still covered. Others weren't as lucky. Some at the hotel were actually made to leave the night of the storm (after being at the hotel for 1-2 nights already) because they hadn't changed their reservation and others had reserved a room.
* If you are visiting Florida anytime between June and November, check the weather reports before you come down. If a hurricane is heading toward your designation, DON'T GO. It will be better for your wallet if you cancel rather than have to worry about evacuations or people evacuating to your hotel. Evacuations are not fun. People who evacuate are not fun to be around. They will be tense and worried about the storm and the homes they have left behind. The hotel people will be grateful to you for freeing up a room for the evacuating residents.
* If you have pets, find a hotel that takes pets. Do not wait until the last minute to do this. There aren't that many hotels that accept pets, and those will be filled quickly. Know who to call before the storm hits. And don't just show up at a hotel with an animal and expect the hotel to let you bring the animal inside. (Although, some hotels do relax the "no pets" rule during a storm.)
* Bring your canned goods, water, can opener and food with you to the hotel. This will save you from spending more money at restaurants. Some hotels offer free breakfasts and will continue this practice during a hurricane as long as they have food. I stayed at one hotel during a hurricane that served fresh-baked cookies every night. If your hotel does this, get there early. The cookies were gone within 10 minutes. Believe me, evacuees will load up on cookies, especially if they don't have their own food with them. And they won't hesitate to take cookies from small children, no matter how cute they are.

Those are the main tips I have. Anyone have any others? Let me know by posting a comment in this section.

Happy Daytripping (With No Hurricanes!)

Finding daytrips during the school year

Now that summer vacation is over and the children are back in school, I'm limited to planning my travel time. I've found some places that offer free admission are only open during the week, which means I can't visit them unless the kids are out of school for the day.

I'm doing research now to find more places offering free admission on the weekends. Also, I'm starting to plan ahead for Thanksgiving and winter breaks. If anyone has ideas, let me know. I'll also pass along any ideas and deals I find.

Happy daytripping!

Sugar Mill Botanical Gardens -- a free trip to the sugar mill and dinosaurs

We were in search of a free place to spend a few hours near Daytona Beach last week. We found it at the Sugar Mill Botanical Gardens in Port Orange, Volusia County.

Here, the ruins of the Dunlawton Sugar Mill and the remnants of Bongoland, a Florida attraction of yesteryear that featured concrete dinosaurs, can be found amongst gardens and walking trails.


Among the ruins of the sugar mill.

Below, a small box turtle makes its way through the outdoor chapel, a popular site for weddings.


We spent a few hours at the gardens, our visit cut short by a sudden downpour. This is not the place to be if it's raining. While there is a gazebo, and the sugar mill exhibit is covered, most of the attraction involves outdoor walking trails.


When you visit, pick up a self-guided tour brochure at the volunteer station. The brochure lists all the sights and exhibits in the gardens. Kiosks and plaques also are spread out throughout the gardens and sugar mill to identify the exhibit or explain the history of the gardens and sugar mill.

Some of the dinosaurs from Bongoland are still embedded in the scenery of the gardens, thrilling my child. There's also a lot of interesting history to learn about the place, and even my 7-year-old liked it. I had a difficult time trying to convince him we couldn't finish our tour in the rain.

Don't go expecting a lot -- the walking trails are simple, and the cement dinosaurs are not painted. But admission is free, and it's a fun place to wander, away from the touristy attractions. There is a donations box in the front near the entrance, but no one stands over you so you feel guilty if you don't put money in the box. Volunteers maintain the park.

The Sugar Mill Botanical Gardens is located at 950 Old Sugar Mill Road, Port Orange. For details, call (386) 767-1735.

Free environmental movies this weekend

Saw this blog post by Kevin Mims of VisitFlorida.com about the free Wildlife and Scenic Festival on tour in Franklin County Aug. 27-28 and in Apalachicola Sept. 3-4. The event features free environmental movies.

Check the blog for times and locations.

Free Friday Five -- Five free things to do in Florida

Welcome to Friday -- here are five free things to do in Florida

1. DeSoto National Park, Bradenton
2. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, Titusville
3. Old Dillard Museum, 1009 NW 4 St., Fort Lauderdale First African-American school in Broward County.
4. Manatee Village Historical Park, 1404 Manatee Ave E., Bradenton
5. Polk Museum of Art, Lakeland

Check back for more details on these places later!

Florida residents save big money on Disney hotels through Oct. 2

Walt Disney World is offering 42 percent off its resort hotels for Florida residents through Oct. 2. Here is a way to have a fun, inexpensive weekend, even if you don't have Disney tickets.

Stay at the resort and spend your time at the themed pools and on-site activities at the hotel. Disney hotel guests can take a bus to other resorts and use those facilities as well. For $100 or less, families can spend a weekend at a Disney hotel enjoying the pool, taking a ride on the monorail or participating at the Sing-A-Long at Fort Wilderness. Bring your own food -- some hotels have microwaves and refrigerators -- and pretend you're on vacation.

You can also spend the day at the Disney Village Marketplace, also free.

For non-residents, value season begins Oct. 2.

Summertime coming to an end; now weekend daytrips our only option

As Florida schools begin the new year, families get out of summer vacation mode and into a regular routine of school, homework, dinner, bed, repeat. That includes our family. Luckily, we live in a state where it is sunny and warm most of the time, so taking a daytrip or weekend getaway isn't that difficult.

But now I'll be looking for a day trip for the weekends. I hate staying home on the weekends, even though there is plenty of cleaning to do at the house. I would rather hit the road and make memories than beds.

Any ideas for a great weekend getaway for the fall in Florida? Let me know, and I'll share my thoughts. Day tripping doesn't have to stop when summer ends. In fact, for Florida, it's just the beginning of great weather!

Free Friday Five -- Five Free Things To Do In Florida

Welcome to Friday! Here are five free things to do in Florida:

1. Visit Florida Southern College, Lakeland. Enthusiasts of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture will see several buildings designed by the famous architect. After, you can walk along the adjacent Lake Hollingsworth. Guided tours cost $15 for adults, but you can take a free self-guided tour of the Child of the Sun Visitor Center.

2. The Dinosaur Store, Cocoa Beach. It's a gift shop for sure. But it's an interesting place to look around to see fossils and unique items. It's almost like a museum. The store has an adventure zone in the back for kids, but that costs money. You don't have to visit the adventure zone to enjoy looking at this unique store.

3. While in Cocoa Beach, check out the famous Ron Jon Surf Shop. It's two floors of beach, surf and souvenirs. It's free to look around.

4. Ron's Miniature Shop, 751 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando. A fun place to see dollhouse displays and everything you need to furnish one. Warning: Many of these items are breakable. Watch children when visiting.

5. The Airport. My dad would be so pleased. Yeah, it may seem hokey, but the airports in Tampa and Orlando are more than just a place to catch a flight. They're filled with little shops, exhibits and plenty of opportunities for people-watching. Security won't let you get close to the gates, but the airport is still a cool place to spend a few hours. Granted, this one isn't completely free -- you still have to pay for parking.

Free classic movies in Stuart

This isn't a daytrip, but if you are in Stuart this weekend, the Lyric Theater is showing free classic movies. On Saturday, Stephen Bogart -- son of Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall -- will give a free presentation after the showing of The Treasure of Sierra Madre, starring his famous father.

Alfred Hitchcock's "The Birds" and "Psycho" are showing on Sunday.

The theater is showing free movies, such as "The Wizard of Oz" and "Gone With the Wind," throughout the month.

The Lyric Theater is located at 59 SW Flagler Ave., Stuart, FL 34994. For information, call (772) 286-7827.

How to make a Florida day trip less expensive

If you are planning to spend the day in the theme parks in Orlando or Tampa, keep these tips in mind:

- Bring a small cooler bag filled with water and sandwiches. Bringing your own bottles of water will save you a lot while you tour the theme parks in the hot Florida sun. Water is something you can't do without in Florida. You just don't have to blow your budget on water. Bringing your own food also saves, especially when a simple burger costs more than $3 at most places. Most theme parks won't give you are hard time if you bring a cooler small enough to stow in a stroller or carriage. They might balk, however, if you try to bring in one of those mega-coolers.

-- Stay away from the gift shop. This is difficult to do when rides empty out into the gift shop filled with themed toys and gifts for children. But try to steer the kids away from the overpriced merchandise and on the rides. Spending 20 minutes in the gift shop not only will take you away from experiencing the theme park, but will empty your wallet.

-- Shop around at the hotels. You're in Florida for the theme parks and attractions, so you'll spend little time at the hotel. There are plenty of clean, inexpensive hotels around. Many offer free breakfasts. Remember to pack sandwich bags before leaving home -- there is nothing wrong with grabbing an extra couple of pieces of bread, peanut butter and jelly at the breakfast bar and packing it for lunch.

-- Don't fall for the timeshare tour. They're usually found in hotel lobbies and promise free tickets to theme parks and shows. I've never actually gone on one of these tours, but I have heard they are a big waste of time (unless you really are in the market for a timeshare.)

-- Don't sweat the small stuff. Remember you are on vacation. If you don't go on every ride in the Magic Kingdom or Universal Studios, it's not a travesty. The important thing is to build memories!

Free Friday Five -- Five Free Things to Do in Florida

Florida is filled with things to do and see that don't cost anything. Here are five ideas for a day trip that have free admission:

1. Fort Matanzas, St. Augustine. Historic fort. Visit during "Living History Day" for a free re-enactment with musket demonstrations and cannon firings. Living History Days are Aug. 7, Sept. 11, Oct. 2, Nov. 6, Dec. 11. For hours and directions, visit Fort Mantanza's web site.

2. Orlando Brewing Company, Orlando. Free brewery tours Monday through Saturday at 6 p.m.

3. National Naval Aviation Museum, Pensacola. Bi-planes, vintage uniforms and other exhibits. Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week.

4. Okeeheelee Nature Center, West Palm Beach. About 2.5 miles of nature trails.

5. Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Center, Tampa. See manatees swimming in the wild and exhibits. Open Nov. 1 through April 15.

Orlando history museum free July 31-Aug. 1

The Orange County Regional History Center in Orlando is offering free admission this weekend (July 31-Aug. 1).

Some of the exhibits at the center include a Pioneer cracker home and a 1927 courtroom.

The center is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m., Sunday.

Regular admission usually is $9 for adults.

For information, call toll-free 1-800-965-2030.

Kennedy Space Center offers free child ticket for each adult ticket

Florida residents can save when they visit Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral. Through Sept. 9, Florida residents get one free child ticket for each adult ticket purchased at full price as part of Kennedy Space Center's Buy One Inspire One package. You have to download a coupon to present to the cashier.

And, everyone who buys a ticket to Kennedy Space Center can validate it when leaving the attraction for a second day free. Tickets to Kennedy Space Center include a bus tour to the launching areas, IMAX 3-D movies, the Astronaut Hall of Fame, Shuttle Launch Experience and other exhibits.

With the specials offered, Kennedy Space Center can be a inexpensive day trip. It's less than an hour away from Orlando.

Adult tickets are $41. Child tickets cost $31.

Upgrading to an annual pass -- $53 for adults, $43 for children -- also is a good, low-cost option if you plan to visit the center more than once.

Free Friday Five -- Five things to do for Free in Florida

Welcome to Free Friday Five -- a list of five free things to do for Free in Florida. I'm hoping to make this a weekly event. Send me your suggestions!

1. Florida Museum of Natural History, Gainesville
2. Holocaust Memorial, Miami
3. Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary, St. Petersburg -- see an earlier posting with photos.
4. Downtown Disney, Orlando
5. Environmental Learning Center, Vero Beach -- see earlier posting.

Happy Daytripping!

Wannado City offers discounts for Florida residents

Wannado City in Sunrise is offering discounts for Florida residents on its one-day passes. Florida residents now can get children's tickets for $35 -- a $5 savings -- and adult's tickets for $7 -- a $3 savings.

I've never been to Wannado City, but it's on my list of places to visit before my child gets too old. It looks like a great children's playground. Children get to pretend to be bakers, TV reporters or archaeologists. Costumes and sets included. They interact with each other and the adults, who can also go hang out in the parents' lounge, in the "city."

While heading to Wannado isn't exactly a free or cheap day trip, I wanted to alert readers of the discounts now available. Wannado also offers annual passes for $100, which includes free admission for two adults.

Go stargazing in Ocala for free on Saturday

Here's a free activity at the Silver River State Park. The Ocala Astronomy Society is bringing out the telescopes for stargazing 7:30 p.m. Saturday. Don't forget the bug spray!

And remember, admission to the state parks is free on Saturday!

Here's the information, found on the Florida State Parks website:

STARGAZING
Silver River State Park
Date: July 17, 2010; 7:30 pm
Description:
The Ocala Astronomy Club comes to the park with telescopes and knowledge for an educational evening under the stars. This is a great opportunity for beginning astronomers to ask questions about a new scope, or to find out what they are seeing in the sky. Bring a lawn chair or blanket; insect repellant suggested. Event is weather permitting.
Fees: July 17, 2010; 7:30 pm
Contact: Deborah.Wilson@dep.state.fl.us
Directions:
Silver River State Park is located east of Ocala, 1 mile south of S.R. 40 on S.R. 35. From Interstate 75, take exit 352 onto SR 40 east, about 9 miles to SR 35. From Interstate 95 take exit 268 to Route 40 west, about 60 miles to SR 35.

Take a picnic on Saturday at a Florida State Park

Admission to all state parks are free Saturday, July 17, as part of Parks and Recreation Month. Florida's state parks vary greatly, but are a fun -- and on Saturday, free -- way to spend the day. Hiking, fishing, swimming are just some of the activities you can find at a state park.

Visitors to Big Lagoon State Park also get to enjoy a free Old-Fashioned Picnic on Saturday. Here are the details, found on the Florida State Parks website:

OLD TIME PICNIC IN THE PARKBig Lagoon State Park
Date: 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Description:
The Department of Environmental Protection’s Big Lagoon State Park and the Friends of Pensacola State Parks are holding an Old Time Picnic in the Park. Join us for a Memories of Elvis concert by Johnny C, carnival style games, food and drinks and roaming entertainers. Food, drinks and game tickets are available for a small donation to the Friends of Pensacola State Parks.
Fees: Park admission fees are waived the day of the event in honor of Parks and Recreation Month.
Contact: (251) 978-5042
Directions:
Big Lagoon State Park is located at 12301 Gulf Beach Highway, abut 10 miles southwest of Pensacola.
From I-10 take Exit 7 south on Pine Forest Road. Turn right on Blue Angel Parkway, right on Sorrento Road. Finally go left on Bauer Road.

Sea World offering twilight tickets to visitors

Here's a tip on how to save money at Sea World, if you aren't a Florida resident: Buy a "twilight ticket" for $39.99. This ticket lets you in after 3 p.m. at a reduced rate. Sea World is open until 10 p.m. during the summer, giving you plenty of time to experience the park without paying full price.

But if you are a Florida resident, your best bet for Sea World is to get the Fun Pass. It's about $69 -- less than a one-day admission for non-residents -- and is good through Dec. 31. There are no blackout dates. I've gotten Fun Passes in the past and they are a great deal. Good for special events such as the annual Spooktacular and Christmas events. Fun Passes do not include parking.

Look here for more information on Fun Passes. Twilight tickets are available through Labor Day

What are you doing for the weekend?

It's Friday! Where in Florida will you go today?
Stay tuned for the Free Friday Fives -- five free things to do or see in Florida, or tips for a free Florida day trip.

How to beat the heat when daytripping in Florida

It's hot here in the Sunshine State. I mean the kind of heat that makes you feel like you're the fondue in a melting pot. The summer months can be brutal here, so hot and humid that you just want to stay inside in the cool air-conditioning.

But then I look at my young son and know better. We have to get outside and play. Out in the fresh air. Away from the video games.

There are quite a few free indoor museums, theaters and nature exhibits that are free or low-cost in Florida. Many cities have free fountains and water parks for kids to play, giving parents a day off from visiting the expensive theme parks. Sun Splash Park in Daytona Beach, for example, includes interactive fountains and beach access for free.

Here are five economical ways to stay cool while taking a day trip in Florida:
1. Pack a cooler with lots of bottled water. Recycle water bottles by refilling after use and freezing. Use these to keep new bottles of water cold.
2. Take an extra change of clothes. When the sweat drenches your skin or your child's, it will be so worthwhile to change into some fresh clothes.
3. Stay out of the direct sun between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. This is peak times for heat. Best to find some shade or indoor activity.
4. Don't forget your sunscreen. The most important item, especially if you're going to be outside in Florida. Nothing kills a day trip like a sunburn.
5. Bring baby wipes to cool off your face and neck periodically.

Fireworks on the Fourth of July

I love watching fireworks on July 4. It's probably one of my favorite free things to do. This year, I got to sit in the back of our SUV watching the fireworks over a river with my family. It was peaceful as we watched the explosions of color while munching on a pizza.

But the fireworks produced by my local community pale in comparison to the displays I remember years ago in New York. Back in the mid-1980s, around 1986 or 1987, I was privileged to witness the best fireworks display ever. The Statue of Liberty had recently been refurbished, and the City of New York had partnered with some wealthy, prominent families to shoot off the fireworks around Battery Park. The display was breathtaking. I stood in the center of Battery Park with my family and watched a 360-degree display of pyrotechnics surround me. Everywhere I looked, a shooting star or starburst was there. I still remember it vividly. And that one display ruined me forever to any minor fireworks displays.

Happy Birthday America!
Now, let's go daytripping!

Free Florida July 4th daytrips

I love the Fourth of July. Not only is it a commemoration of this country's birthday, but there are usually plenty of activities scheduled in Florida. No need to pay for theme park tickets when the family has plenty of things to do that don't cost a dime!

In Orlando, the Orlando Sentinel has compiled a list of July 4 parades, festivals and ideas for free activities.

This list compiled by the St. Petersburg Times contains free activities in the Tampa Bay area. Note: some items on this list cost money.

On the Treasure Coast? Here is a list by Scripps Treasure Coast Newspapers on free July 4 activities from Indian River County to Palm Beach County.

Florida resident? Disney World now offers monthly payments for annual passes

While this blog is really about free and low-cost places to visit, I had to add this. Walt Disney World is now offering a monthly payment plan for Florida residents' annual passes. I have lots of tips on how to save money while visiting the Disney theme parks, and one of those ways is to buy an annual pass. With the monthly payment plan, families don't have to put out the entire purchase of the pass all at one time.

Tip: Have one member of the family get an annual pass that includes free parking, while the others get a seasonal pass at a lower cost. The blackout dates won't be a big deal because no Floridian should go to Disney during the summer, two weeks at Christmas or spring break anyway. Cast members only check one pass for free parking.

BP Oil Spill affecting tourism in Florida

An earlier post references the ultimate free Florida day trip -- a trip to the beach. But now the BP oil spill is affecting the Florida beaches. And it's not over yet.

When will it stop? And will the beaches ever recover?

Environmental Learning Center, Vero Beach

Another great idea for FREE family entertainment. The Environmental Learning Center in Vero Beach is a 64-acre campus that teaches about Florida's habitat.

The island campus is located just west of Disney's Vero Beach Resort at the base of the Wabasso Bridge.

Ospreys nest on the campus and telescopes are set up offering a close-up view of the birds in their nests with their young.

Hands-on activities include a touch tank, dry lab and manatee puppet demonstrating how manatees eat.

The 64-acre campus also includes boardwalks for mini-hikes through marsh, hammocks and mangrove forests. It's a great way to spend a couple of hours quietly while learning about Florida's environment. Get out of the heat by visiting the gift shop. There's also a lending library of nature and environment books for adults and children.

The ELC also offers free guided nature walks and canoe and pontoon tours (for a nominal fee). Groups can arrange for an overnight sleepover at the ELC.

Admission to the Environmental Learning Center is free to everyone.

Hours: Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday, 9 a.m. to noon. In the winter months, this is extended to 4 p.m.

Sunday, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
255 Live Oak Drive, Vero Beach

(772) 589-5050
http://www.discoverelc.org/

Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary, Indian Shores

Here is a great daytripping idea! The Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary in Indian Shores, FL. It's educational for kids and adults and a fun, free way to spend a couple of hours. Admission is free to everyone.

Located in Indian Shores, between St. Petersburg and Clearwater on the Gulf Coast, the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary is the largest wild bird hospital and sanctuary in the United States.

Residents and sanctuary volunteers bring injured wild birds to the center to be nursed back to health and be released back into the wild. Those birds that come in too injured to be rehabilitated get to stay in a permanent pen at the sanctuary.

Visitors aren't allowed to go inside the bird hospital. But they can stroll around the permanent pens and rehabilitating staging areas filled with brown and white pelicans, owls, hawks, terns and gulls. Some wild birds make their homes here as well and walk around the sanctuary to chirp to the other birds and mingle with the visitors. Be sure to look up because many of these birds make nests in the trees and roost in the branches. There also is an air-conditioned education building where visitors can watch a video about the sanctuary.

There are containers asking for donations to help pay for feeding and caring for the birds. But visitors don't feel obligated or guilty about not giving a donation.

Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary

18328 Gulf Boulelvard

Indian Shores, FL

http://www.seabirdsanctuary.com/

The beach -- Florida's original free daytrip

This is a given, which is why I'm making this my first post on cheap Florida daytrips. The beach is the ultimate free day. The best part is that there is a beach within driving distance of virtually every place in Florida.

Surfers prefer the Atlantic coastline, while those on the Gulf side (when there isn't a gigantic oil spill to avoid) love the warm, waveless waters that almost feels like you are stepping into a bathtub.

Tips: Visit a less touristy beach such as those found along the Treasure Coast in Vero Beach and Fort Pierce for quiet solitude. Wabasso Beach in Indian River County is a public Atlantic Coast beach with a lifeguard located right next door to the more pricey Vero Beach Disney Resort. Only difference is the price -- free. And free parking that is usually plentiful. On the other side of the coast, beaches in Indian Shores don't seem crowded. There is public parking along Clearwater and Indian Shores beaches, but space is limited, so prepare to drive around looking for an empty spot during the hot summer months.

Pack a lunch and cooler with drinks. Bring some boogie boards that Wal-Mart sells for under $20. (Boogie boards are optional. I've never bought one and always had fun on the beach.) And you have an inexpensive day out with the family.

Just don't forget the sunblock.