30 Days & 30 Ways to Enjoy Florida; Day 3, Theme Parks
One man's dream turned a state into a tourist mecca, bringing along for the ride a Mouse, a whale, a boy-wizard and a whole lot more. Photo by Rori Paul.
What would Florida be if she didn’t have theme parks? Well, she’d likely be very rural, very farm-oriented and you’d likely find most of her tourism along the coasts; very little inland. Over the years prior to the most famous Mouse making his home here, Florida had draws; fishing, beaches, tanning, and the rich and famous would find themselves along the shores of the Atlantic and Gulf in leisurely pursuits. Think Titanic on land.
Then along came a guy with a bigger dream and a lot of ideas. He bought up a few acres, put in a castle and some rides and a legend, a destination, a tourism mecca was born.
Sure, there had even been some of those “old Florida” road-side attractions in the years before Walt and Micky arrived, many more in their wake. And today those same road-side attractions, at least those who’ve stood the test of time and location, location, location are still around. Yet it is the theme park, the thrill ride and that most famous Mouse that continue to drive the tourism of Florida.
Walt Disney World launched a new world of Florida fun, and since a whale, a boy-wizard and a few animals to boot have joined the party. Some have come and gone, others are hopping on board, yet it is we who are the beneficiaries of one man’s original dream.
Here are just a few of the theme parks that make Florida such a beloved international destination – and one thrown in because its joining the ranks soon.
Walt Disney World
Sea World Orlando
Busch Gardens Tampa
Universal Orlando
Gatorland
Legoland Florida
Weeki Wachee
Old Town Kissimmee
Orlando Fun Spot Action Park
Dinosaur World
Silver Springs
Holy Land Experience
Adventure Island
Lion Country Safari
Adventure Landing
Aquatica
Wet – N – Wild
Discovery Cove
Inclusion in 30 Days & 30 Ways in Florida lists does not mean nor indicate endorsement. We are simply providing a list of options for your consideration. Please read other Rori Travels Florida articles for services, providers, locations and our opinions, but the options here are provided merely as a starting point for your Florida vacation plans.
