Local Area Attractions Near Orlando NW / Orange Blossom KOA Journey

Kelly State Park Rock Springs Run 400 E. Kelly Park Rd., Apopka, FL (407) 254-1902. To find out if there is parking and entry available call (407)254-1906 Rock

Springs at Kelly State Park is known for its tubing trail, Rock Springs Run, a meandering creek fed from the spring emerging from a rock bluff. This state reserve also boasts 17 miles of trails and recreational hunting opportunities.
Wekiva Springs State Park Wekiwa Springs 1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka FL (407) 884-2009 floridastateparks.org Wekiwa Springs is a popular recreational area for Central Floridians. You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities at this state park, from horseback riding to camping, canoeing, and of course swimming in their well-maintained spring. In the summer months, the park is so busy it often runs out of parking space, so arrive early.
Blue Spring State Park Blue Springs 2100 W French Ave., Orange City, FL 386-775-3663 floridastateparks.org Blue Springs is the largest spring along the St. John’s River. Its water stays at a crisp 73 degrees year-round, attracting Manatees during their mating season. Snorkeling, swimming, and scuba diving are popular activities at this beautiful spring.
Silver Springs State Park Silver Springs 5656 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs, FL (352) 261-5840 If you’ve never been to Silver Springs, you’ve likely seen it in film. This crystal clear spring was the movie set for the cult classic Creature From the Black Lagoon and the James Bond film Thunderball, to name a couple. Besides being a minor attraction for film buffs, Silver Springs also offers glass-bottom boat rides, horseback riding trails, kayak rentals, and camping facilities.

Disney World  (30 minutes)

Disney World (30 minutes)

Disney facts: Walt Disney World was opened on October 1, 1971 and used the full name of its creator in its title. To paraphrase his brother Roy Disney at the opening, everyone had heard of Ford cars, but not necessarily Henry Ford who invented them. He wanted everyone to remember it was Walt Disney's dream and creation Around 48 million people visit Disney World each year. The annual attendance at Disney's Magic Kingdom® Park is around 17 million, followed by Epcot with 10.9 million, Disney's Animal Kingdom with 9.6 million and Disney's Hollywood Studios with 9.5 million. There are over 6000 rides in Disney world including Animal Kingdom, located within the park. Disney has some of the fastest and scariest rides Disney World is located in Orlando, Florida. The first theme park, the Magic Kingdom, opened in October of 1971. Epcot was added in 1982, followed by Disney's Hollywood Studios in 1989 and Disney's Animal Kingdom in 1998. The recreational "world" also features 2 water parks, 23 hotels, shopping and dining. Visitors from all over the world travel to Florida to enjoy a "magical" vacation. http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/

Seaworld (30 minutes)

Seaworld (30 minutes)

Sea World Orlando is the smallest of the three major theme parks in central Florida, but it is one of the most refreshing theme parks to visit. If you are traveling with children in particular, then you will really want to visit Sea World Orlando. After spending a few days at the "other larger parks", Sea World Orlando will give you and your family members a break from the long lines. Sea World Orlando has only a few rides and the rest of the park is designed around shows such as Believe, starring Shamu, so there is no waiting in lines.

Sea World

Universal Orlando Resort     (26 miles)

Universal Orlando Resort (26 miles)

Universal Orlando® Resort is more than a theme park. It's an entire universe of action and thrills featuring TWO spectacular theme parks unlike anything else in Orlando.

  • Universal Studios Florida® Theme Park
  • Universal's Islands of Adventure® Theme Park

You can also experience The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ - Only at Universal's Islands of Adventure At both Universal Studios and Universal's Islands of Adventure every member of the family can share unforgettable experiences together. You can have the ultimate adventure, enjoy fun with your kids, rejuvenate yourself, have a romantic dinner, challenge yourself on incredible theme park rides, and relax by the pool in a beautiful Florida setting. Universal Orlando

Lego Land

Lego Land

The newest park to come to Central Florida, Lego Land! This 150 acre, interactive theme park is specifically designed for families that have children from ages 2-12. This is the largest Lego Land in the world!! With over 50 rides and a variety of shows, restaurants, shopping and attractions, this new theme park is a must see! Open year round. Admission is charged. Lego Land is wheelchair accessible. Located in Winter Haven.

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Gatorland

Gatorland

Don't miss the Alligator Capital of the World; a 110-acre theme park and nature preserve. At Gatorland, see hundreds of alligators and crocodiles, from the breeding marsh to daily reptilian shows. Take the swamp walk right through their habitat or Zip line right over it! Visit Flamingo Lagoon, the aviary and the snakes, then cool off in the splash park before heading home to tell tall tales about your close encounters with gators! Open daily 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Admission is charged. Gatorland is wheelchair accessible. Located in Orlando

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Fun  Spot

Fun Spot

Fun Spot is a great place for the family to spend a day in Central Florida. Located near Old Town, this place has rides for all ages, but more geared towards teens and adults. Ride go-karts, rollercoasters, and sky-coaster! All are sure to get your adrenaline pumping. Open all year. Admission is charged. Fun Spot is wheelchair accessible.

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Old Town

Old Town

Go and visit Old Town. This local theme park has rides for all ages, restaurants, shopping and more! And if you are staying with us during the weekend, make sure to go see the Old Town Car Cruise on Saturday nights! See cars of the past take a slow cruise down main street. Your family is sure to have fun! Open year round. Admission is charged. Old Town is wheelchair accessible.

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Holy Land

Holy Land

The Holy Land Experience brings the land of the bible to life like no other experience before. This place is a living, biblical museum that takes you back to the times of the bible and the words that make it powerful. Come and see this unique museum/theme park for yourself! Hours of Operation: Tuesday - Saturday, 10:00 am - 6:00 pm. Holy Land is handicap accessible. Located in Orlando.

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Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

If you've ever wanted to be an astronaut, this is a must-see! This Nasa spaceport has launched all manned space flight missions and is now home of the Space Shuttle Atlantis. Tour the Air Force Museum and the Astronaut Hall of Fame, watch films, and see moon rocks and rockets. Open daily 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Admission is charged. Located in Titusville.

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Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens

If you're an animal lover planning a Florida family vacation, be sure not to miss the largest zoo in Tampa, Florida. In fact, one of the largest zoos in all of North America - Busch Gardens® Tampa. Here you can also enjoy thrilling rides, wonderful shows and see animals from all over the world!

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Daytona International Speedway                                (  55 easy miles)

Daytona International Speedway ( 55 easy miles)

Daytona International Speedway is the home of "The Great American Race" - the Daytona 500. Though the season-opening NASCAR Sprint Cup event garners most of the attention - as well as the largest audience in motorsports - the enormous 480-acre motorsports complex boasts the most diverse schedule of racing on the globe, thus earning it the title of "World Center of Racing." In addition to eight major weekends of racing activity, rarely a week goes by that the Speedway grounds are not used for events that include civic and social gatherings, car shows, photo "shoots," production vehicle testing and police motorcycle training. "The Speedway is a venue that is known throughout the world as a place where everyone in motorsports wants to claim a victory," said Speedway President Joie Chitwood III. "However, we're also committed to being versatile enough and responsive enough to provide a site where community activities can successfully be held." http://www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com

Orlando (15 minutes)

Orlando (15 minutes)

"Take a Look at Orlando!"

In 1856 Orlando became the county seat of Orange County, Florida. The “Town of Orlando” was incorporated on July 31, 1875 with an area of 4 square miles. Orlando incorporated as a city in 1885. Today, the City of Orlando as a result of numerous annexations has an area of over 100 square miles and is still located entirely within Orange County.

Orlando might be home to some of the nation's greatest theme parks, but there is a lot more that the City has to offer visitors. Here is some useful information on City events and activities for you to enjoy on your visit to The City Beautiful.

http://www.visitorlando.com/

Golfing in the Area

Golfing in the Area

If golfing is your sport, then we have some of the finest courses in the area. From beginners to expert, we have a course for you! - Mount Dora Golf - Mission Inn Resort - Forest Lake Golf - Errol Estate Resort - Dubsdread - Metro West - Eagle Dunes - Black Bear Golf Club - Magnolia Plantation Golf Club

Mount Dora (15 minutes)

Mount Dora (15 minutes)

Mount Dora is situated in a county that has 1400 named lakes, and its elevation of 184 feet above sea level qualifies it as a Mount in the State of Florida. At one time citrus was the major industry in the area, with a great deal shipped from Mount Dora. Famous as a Festival City Mount Dora hosts a top-rated spring art festival and a fall craft festival; fall bicycle rides & antiques ...more boat shows; a sailing regatta; into the holiday season with the 'Lighting of Mount Dora', a wonderland created by a million twinkling lights; then the annual Christmas Walk. There are probably more interesting and varied antique dealers per square foot than any other place in Florida. To top that off, nearby Renninger's Antique Market attracts thousands to its many weekend fairs and extravaganzas.

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Renningers Antiques Center - Two Markets on One Property Open Every Weekend

Renningers Antiques Center - Two Markets on One Property Open Every Weekend

Located on 117 acres of scenic, rolling land, in beautiful Lake County, the heart of Central Florida. Amid spreading oaks, garlands of Spanish moss waving gently from their branches, you'll find the best of both worlds!

Open Saturdays & Sundays

Antiques Extravaganza
Special 3 day Antiques Shows January,
February and November.
Over 1000 Dealers.

Antiques Fairs
Held monthly except during January,
February, and November.

Farmers & Flea Market
Open Saturdays & Sundays 8 AM to 4 PM

Guitars & Cars
2nd Sunday of the month

Thundering Spirit Pow Wow
Antique Center
Saturday & Sunday 9 AM - 5 PM
(352) 383-8393

Contact Information Farmers & Flea Market
(352) 383-3141

Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Nestled in lush tropical foliage, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens boasts over 400 animals, 23 acres of botanical gardens, an Insect Zoo and Reptile House, live animal encounters, and many educational opportunities.

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Rohr Hot Air Balloon Rides     (11 miles)

Rohr Hot Air Balloon Rides (11 miles)

Rohr Balloons specializes in aerial entertainment, offering champagne hot air balloon rides, private engagement flights, and weddings aloft in North Texas and Central Florida, as well as corporate hot air balloon advertising nationally. Rohr is a family owned and operated business with an estimated 30,000 satisfied passengers flown to-date. Rohr Balloons was founded by Chuck Rohr in 1972 and has grown over the years with the help of his son Brian, who now operates the North Texas headquarters. Chuck and Brian are both highly accomplished commercial pilots. Chuck received his balloon rating in 1968 after reading a magazine article about hot air balloon happenings in New Mexico. He traveled to Albuquerque and experienced his first flight. Soon after, he received his license and has been airborne ever since. He has added many accomplishments to his list along the way, including holding a FAA flight examiner license since 1982. In addition to his 1980 Kool World Pro Balloon Championship, he also holds awards such as: three-time champion of the Great Balloon Race (Bahamas to Florida), Florida State Champion, Illinois State Champion and Texas State Champion, among others. He currently provides champagne balloon flights and flight examinations over beautiful Mount Dora, FL. Brian Rohr started developing his ballooning skills at the age of 6 and has been flying full time ever since. He attained his fixed-wing airplane rating at the age of 17 and his commercial balloon rating in 1992 at the age of 18. Brian's perfect safety record, positive attitude, and eagerness to provide exceptional client satisfaction propels Rohr Balloons above and beyond the competition. http://www.rohrballoons.com/ridesfl.html

Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament   (37 miles)

Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament (37 miles)

Welcome to the 11th century! Just beyond the great doors of our Hall of Arms waits the celebration arena, the heart of each of Medieval Times' nine castles. From high above King Philippe and his daughter-in-law, Princess Leonore, preside over a four-course feast. Below, privileged royal guests are transported to faraway lands including a romantic snowy rendezvous in the woods and an authentic medieval tournament for the Battle of Champions ® -- with the help of Hollywood-caliber special effects, of course. http://www.medievaltimes.com/orlando.aspx

Al Capone's Dinner Theater  (36 miles)

Al Capone's Dinner Theater (36 miles)

Capone's is unique experiences starting from the moment you give your secret password to enter the dinner theater. You will be escorted to your table by our mobsters, dames and characters from our show. This interaction is part of a cherished memory for so many of our guests. We feature restaurant quality food and rate high among Orlando restaurants. Children of all ages will enjoy the family show! http://www.alcapones.com/

So Many Things to do in Central Florida

So Many Things to do in Central Florida

There are so many things to do and see in the Orlando area, you'll need stay for more than a day!

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Wildlife Dr

Wildlife Dr

Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive General Information Guide New self-guided audio tour In September 2016, the St. Johns River Water Management District launched an audio tour for this property to give visitors an overview of the district's restoration work on the former farmlands that make up the Lake Apopka North Shore, and the plants and animals that can be found here. The tour includes 11 points of interest along the wildlife drive and are indicated by numbered signs. A smartphone or other mobile device with an Internet connection will be needed to stream the audio. Standard carrier data rates apply. To join the audio tour at any time during your visit, go to www.sjrwmd.com/LANS. About the wildlife drive The Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive is a one-way 11-mile drive that begins at Lust Road and ends on Jones Road in Orange County, Fla. The drive is open Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and federal holidays between sunrise and sunset. The drive is closed other days due to ongoing restoration work. The entrance gate will be open during daylight hours and will close approximately one hour prior to sunset to allow visitors to complete the drive and exit the property prior to sunset. For your safety, the speed limit is 10 mph and the maximum vehicle length is 25 feet. Vehicles pulling trailers are not allowed. Directional signs are located along the route and gates will be closed/locked for the public's safety in areas where work is ongoing. Several “pull over” areas provide visitors a chance to stop along the drive. Stopping is limited to the pull over areas. A portion of the drive intersects with a multi-use trail (shown as the Lake Spur on the map inside
About this property Lake Apopka is in the headwaters of the Ocklawaha River. At approximately 48.4 square miles in size, Lake Apopka is the fourth largest lake in Florida and receives water from spring flow, rainfall and stormwater runoff. The lake was identified for cleanup under Florida's Surface Water Improvement and Management Act of 1987. In 1996, the Florida Legislature passed Chapter 96-207, Florida Statutes, furthering its previous mandate to clean up the lake by providing funds to buy additional agricultural lands north of the lake. The former farmlands make up the Lake Apopka North Shore, a restoration area where the St. Johns River Water Management District's major activities include marsh and floodplain restoration and the creation of a marsh flow-way that filters Lake Apopka's waters by circulating lake water through restored wetlands, returning cleaner water to the lake. The wildlife drive is along a portion of the former farm fields. These public lands help protect water quality and storage, indigenous floral and faunal species, cultural resources, and provide natural resource-based recreational opportunities.

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