40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (2024)

The top stops along the way from West Palm Beach to New Bern (with short detours) are Magic Kingdom Park, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, and Walt Disney World® Resort. Other popular stops include Savannah Historic District, Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, and Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park.

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Bok Tower Gardens

40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (1)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (2)

40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (3)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (4)

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$$$$affordable

Garden

Bok Tower Gardens is a National Historic Landmark in Citrus County, Florida that features beautiful gardens, twice-daily carillon concerts, and the Mediterranean-style Pinewood Estates (circa 1930s). The gardens also hosts outdoor classical-music concerts.

What an absolutely beautiful hidden gem Bok Tower Gardens is!!! If my friend hadn't told me about it I wouldn't have stopped to check it out. What a vast array of beautiful landscape to walk and explore; 250 acres worth!! We barely scratched the surface and I look forward to going back to explore more! I love how all the plants are labeled so we know what we are admiring!! We so enjoyed the gardens and the tower, and next time will explore more of the nature trails. We also enjoyed the children's garden, Hammock Hollow, where my 5 year old could explore on terrain more fitting to her size!!We grabbed a bite to eat at the cafe; delicious sandwiches and ice cream!! Was a nice treat before exploring the gardens. Make sure to also take time to go inside their mini museum and learn the history behind Bok Tower and Gardens, as well as learn more about the making and insides of the tower itself.Bok Tower Gardens is a place you could spend your entire day exploring, as well as just relaxing on a blanket with a picnic relaxing!!

Rae — Google review

This place is beautiful. We spent half a day there walking around and looking around at all the beautiful plants and trees. It was amazing to walk around and check out the grounds and old buildings. The tower is amazing and we stayed for the carillon bells. I can't explain the beauty at this place, just spectacular. The food at the Cafe is delicious, great salads and sandwiches. I really enjoyed this place and recommend, so relaxing and a place to de-stress.

Brooke M — Google review

Great family friendly location, awesome museum and tourist center with an 8 minute video explaining the history of Bok Tower. Cafe had awesome food, kids loved it. Awesome scenery. Great children's playground. We will definitely come out again, the kids loved it!

Neida O — Google review

Seriously beautiful and worth a visit at least once. The singing tower is stunning and very well maintained. Also enjoyed a good portion of the general gardens walk, lots to see! Make sure to take in the views around the tower itself, the elevation is a rarity in Florida and so nice to see.

Elizabeth H — Google review

Definitely worth visiting these gardens over 200+ acres. Incredible variety of plants and exotic vegetables. Great play areas for kids. Incredible musical tower with bells, called Carillon, popular in Europe.

Paul B — Google review

This is definitely one of Florida’s hidden treasures. Unspoiled by man’s forward progress, this sanctuary features some extremely beautiful trees, plants, flowers, and foliage. And of course, the main centerpiece is the Bok Tower Bells. If you want to avoid crowds and screaming children, and screaming adults, this is definitely worth the visit. It’s about 45 minutes or so from the Walt Disney World resort. It’s definitely worth the drive.

Michael C — Google review

I was able to check Bok Tower Gardens from my Florida bucket list. It was a remarkable visit to the gardens. From the moment you drive up to the towers, you are captivated by the beautiful scenery. The gardens feel like something in a fairy tale made real. The welcome center is this huge modern/museum space. I like how they maximized the space without looking cluttered. My kids had a blast looking for shark teeth in the front gardens. I’ve really love how the gardens were kid friendly and had a separate area for them to discover. We discovered so many fun zones for the kids to explore. Finally, we journeyed deeper into the gardens to more beautiful plush greenery with a huge pond that had Lilly pads. My daughter said the tower looked like Rapunzel’s tower. We didn’t get to admire the towers for long because the rain poured down. I will definitely visit again to explore more of the gardens.

Shelly O — Google review

Absolutely loved it! So much so that I purchased a membership, which grants you either free admission or 50% off admission to about 50 gardens or history centers throughout FL. A regular annual membership is $60 but it’s only $30 for students.Bok Tower Gardens is well-kept, with a wonderful variety of greenery and plenty of places to sit & enjoy. There were a lot of people picnicking and napping. Definitely worth the trip. Bring some snacks and a blanket and you can easily spend a few relaxing hours here.

Sieda — Google review

Definitely worth the visit. The entire grounds is kept so nice. Everywhere you look there are hidden areas to sit. We enjoyed walking up to the tower and getting to listen to the bells, it’s an experience unlike any in our area.We were specifically blow away by how nice the childrens area is. It’s very thought out, and the creativity that was put into it should be celebrated. Overall we had the most amazing day here.Can’t wait to come back and explore some more.

Ctine D — Google review

Being there is better than these few photos. While we were there it was almost on going bell's ringing in a musical way. So beautiful and peaceful. Another of history and surprised of who created this place and the people who were involve had an effect even in D.C. .

Glenn W — Google review

This was a really lovely experience and I would love to come back. I feel like they offered everything I would have ever expected or hoped for as far as gardens or estates go, and they did it well. Between the gardens themselves, the introductory video, the museum, the cafe, the tower itself and the gift shop, everything was top notch.

Tracey C — Google review

So glad we got the chance to explore the Bok Tower Gardens. This place is massive and so beautiful. Be prepared to walk-around and really take in the beautiful flowers and serene landscape. I even got a chance to grab some of the plants from the gift shop. Reasonably priced and happy to have something to remember the time spent there. This is a great place for a stroll, picnic and some good exercise.

Nay F — Google review

Beautiful garden. Trails were paved and mulched, well kept. Bathrooms were cleaned. I enjoyed the walk through the garden. Looking at the map, I thought it was a lot bigger but after walking, it fell just right. Not too short, but also not too long. Perfect for younger kids. As you drive in, you pay at the front gate, then drive to the parking lot.

Luke C — Google review

This day across the board was perfect! Weather impeccable for our day out at the Bok Tower gardens!The cafe had very friendly staff .Food was very fresh when ordered!The staff in the information center were thrilled to help us learn about the garden as well! Beyond pleased to have spent a peaceful day here ❤️

Angel L — Google review

We had a great time walking around these gardens on a quiet Saturday morning. I particularly enjoyed the endangered plants garden and outdoor kitchen. Walking around here for a few hours brought us peace. It was nice to escape from the busy city and take some time to enjoy nature. Hopefully we will be back again one day soon.

Fairooz H — Google review

We love the many incredible Botanical and Natural Gardens that Florida offers for visits, at the “top” of our list is Bok Singing Tower. On this particular visit we had a goal to hike their trail system along with the Garden. We ended up doing over 5 miles including a variation of terrain. It is no easy feat to hike a grade of significance in Florida.The bonus was the large number of Azaleas in bloom. The music from the carillon echoed in the hills as we traversed the sand and clay terrain. The gardens transported us to far away places with strange sounding names. Then we inadvertently crashed a wedding where the theme from Jurassic Park brought in the Groom and Bride’s entourage. And you know… in that setting it worked.

Neal — Google review

My family visited on one of the Wawa Fun Days. On the last Thursday and Friday of the month you can register for free tickets online. I highly recommend visiting, it’s fun for all ages! There is such a variety of gardens and plants and even wildlife.I recommend going first thing in the morning during the summer. Be aware that gardens open at 8am, however, the visitors center, cafe and shop (with mobility cart rentals) do not open until 9am. Which is fine as there is a lot close by while you wait an hour. There is some walking however it’s not as extensive as some other gardens may be, many of the gardens are close together.Pictures of the tower don’t do it justice. It’s a beautifully made building with 60 bells 🔔 inside. It sounds gorgeous when it chimes every half hour. They also have someone who plays a show on them during the afternoon.The visitors center is clean and has beautiful, informative exhibits as well as a theatre that plays a 15 minute clip with some history of the grounds. Enjoy!

K C — Google review

The landscape is so diverse and well maintained. There were so many portions of the gardens to explore. The tower was really neat, the bells have a beautiful sound. The Old Florida is very interesting and fun to explore. We would highly recommend a visit, plus it's out in the country. This is an opportunity to get away from all the crazy traffic of a more densely populated area

Angie H — Google review

Loved everything about my visit today from the super friendly helpful staff, to the well thought out and maintained gardens. The short movie with the historical information was helpful. Bathrooms located throughout the grounds. Ate at the Cafe on site which was convenient and good to refuel. Saw fish, turtles, snakes, all different kind of birds. Spent 4.5 hours there and still did not see everything. Definitely will be back!

Kimberly D — Google review

My family and I went here for the first time yesterday and we loved it! There was plenty to keep them entertained and lots of space to run out some energy! The grounds are beautiful, especially around the tower. We will definitely bring a blanket and have a picnic out there next time. We ate at the cafe and it was delicious.Definitely would recommend bringing the whole family here!

Christy L — Google review

What a wonderful experience! While visiting friends in Cocoa, FL, we planned a day trip and drove to Bok Tower Gardens (something they'd talked about doing for a long time and just hadn't been). The grounds, gardens, the home on the property- El Retiro- were all beautiful! And the main attraction- THE SINGING TOWER!!! oh my goodness!!!! It was stunning. It looked like we were in another country or maybe we'd walked through time??, into Middle Earth (Lord of the Rings). I hope to visit again, soon! It was just a perfect day!

Jennfer H — Google review

Lots of beautiful areas to walk around even with small children. Lots of shade and there are many outdoor children activities behind the eating and gift shop area. It's much cooler in the summer and before 11am is perfect in the winter.

Monique B — Google review

Undeniably beautiful. This garden is enchanting, well laid out and stunningly kept. I would love to be able to climb the tower. The water features and children’s area is also well thought out. This place is almost 100 years old and was a gift to all Americans from Mr. Bok. This place is a true treasure and gift. A must see place

Jared M — Google review

This is now my favorite place in Florida. BEAUTIFUL. Well taken care of, tons of different plants and flowers, so many different trails. You can easily spend a couple of hours just exploring around this beautiful place, but at the same time, everything is close so it’s not an exerting walk by any means. Ironically, although the tower and music are gorgeous, it was everything around it I would go back for. Loooved it.

Elianne F — Google review

Wow! Gorgeous! Beautiful! Are words to describe this beautiful part of Heaven on earth! This park is beautifully laid out to enhance the natural beauty of its flora and landscape.

Barbara D — Google review

Absolutely magical experience. If you love plants and nature, do not hesitate to visit Bok Tower Gardens. The landscaping is beautiful, the tower is stunning and the wind whispering through the oak trees around the tower are glorious. The vegetable gardens and kids area are really nice as Well. Plan to stay at least 2 hours or the entire day with a picnic lunch if you can. Pick up lovely plants or items at the nice gift shop on your way home.

Josie L — Google review

Beautiful gardens and paths. The bell tower was gorgeous. Loved the history lessons in the visitor center. There are lots of interesting plants to see, and everything was well labeled to learn as you go. Educational and fun!

Andrew W — Google review

Wife and I were at a wedding in the adjacent neighborhood. Decided to give it a try. Looks very cool from a distance. Very quiet and serene. Neat plants and ponds. We were there in the early morning. A few other folks. We took a walk around. The background story is neat. I really enjoyed our time there. Not many places like it anywhere else.

John M — Google review

Wonderful place ❤️Historical architecture of buildings, beautiful rich park. Cozy museum - with detailed information screens. There is also a playground for children and a cafe. A great place to spend a day with the family in a charming location.

Tatiana G — Google review

Absolutely loved it... so beautiful and peaceful.The waterlily pond was breathtaking! The walking paths were clean and easy. I truly enjoyed the 5 hours I spend with nature at this beautiful garden!

Rosa C — Google review

We recently purchased a duo membership and it's already paid for itself. It's such a peaceful and beautiful place. Plan for a couple of hours of walking the properties. It's stunning and there's so much to see! Cute cafe and shop and you can buy plants to bring home!!

Jalain O — Google review

Beautiful and peaceful gardens with many rare native Florida plants and excellent walking paths for all levels! Carillon bells played from the tower are so relaxing! Video screen area with bench seating to watch the artist playing. Highest point in FL and amazing views of countryside! Short historic movie at visitors center! Annual pass includes many other gardens across the country. On site restaurant is delicious and reasonably priced! Amazing gift shop with gardening gifts and environmental options.

Johnna N — Google review

Just back from a visit to Bok Tower Gardens and I've got to say, if you're someone who loves a bit of nature and history, this place is a must-visit. Nestled in Lake Wales, Florida, the gardens are a creation of Edward W. Bok, a Dutch immigrant who really gave back to his adopted country. This beautiful spot isn't just about the lush landscapes; it's also home to a stunning 205-foot tall Singing Tower. The sounds of the carillon bells ringing through the gardens are simply majestic.We went for Mother’s Day and it was the perfect setting. The tower, the music, the expansive views—all contribute to a peaceful, yet exhilarating experience. They even play a mix of top 100 hits, adding a modern twist to the historic backdrop.For anyone looking to spend a day surrounded by beauty and calm, I can't recommend Bok Tower Gardens enough. Bring a picnic, enjoy the koi fish in the reflection pool, and just let the beauty of the place wash over you. Whether you're a history buff or just someone looking to unwind outdoors, this place has something for everyone.

Paulina F — Google review

A beautiful place, we went on a hot summer day, but it was worth it. One thing you have to do is take a tour of the house, a piece of history that has so many beautiful details is a dream.And then keep strolling to the tower, where you can stay there and enjoy the afternoon, have a picnic or just relax. But the Tower is a masterpiece you will enjoy those beautiful melodies. And to finished our day we have a delicious lunch at their cafe 😋. And we stop at the shop for a little memory. It was a perfect day. Oh we did the WaWa day and play the scavenger hunt lol and we also have fun at the kids area,

Luz R — Google review

This place is AMAZING. I'd give it 10 stars if I could. Such beautiful grounds with vistas from the top of the "mountain" 😂The cafe has excellent food with beer and wine. Gorgeous gift shop and the tower is WOW! Concerts at 1 and 3pm. We took our dog and it's very dog friendly. Because we went last minute, we didn't bring a picnic lunch, so if you go, definitely pack a blanket and lunch and eat up by the tower on the beautiful lawns under the massive oak trees. Serene and peaceful retreat. 💚Admission is $20Dogs $10 - totally worth it!

Andrea C — Google review

Well planned area. The area to park in had trees lining it so obviously for Florida your vehicle wasn't hot. The people were friendly. The different plants were awesome. We even saw a snake gardener snake it was all good. All the plans were really nice and like I said the setup but everything even when you were walking lots of shade there was a good Breeze we've really enjoyed our time there

C C — Google review

Strolling in a garden with a singing tower is wonderful and unique. My younger kid wondered how the music was played: by the wind or by machines. He felt creepy, making up all sorts of theories until we saw the carillonneur on the screen outside the tower. The tower looks so gorgeous and it is the reason I wanted to visit the garden. We wish we could see more variety of flowers next time. In general, very memory experience. Pick a spring cool day to go there. I heard it could be very hot there in the summer. We would go back there more times if the garden is closer either Tampa or Orlando. Staff there are very friendly. Thank you! I also feel grateful that back in 1929s, people had the vision of this place and made it a reality.

Xiaoli M — Google review

This is one of the best botanic gardens on the whole east coast of the USA.Great walking paths, well labeled plants, duper staff, interesting varied environments.Add to that a great kids area and a carrollon that plays every half hour and you have an all day to multiple day stop.I highly recommend seeing this site.Good for the whole family, even rover.

Stephen G — Google review

Visited 4/16/2024 and had a great time. All the staff we met were friendly and helpful. The grounds are immaculate. We brought a picnic lunch and enjoyed time by Bok tower as the carillon played. There are lots of small secluded areas to enjoy time together in a peaceful outdoor area. The tour of El Retiro is worth it and brings you back to a time long past. We did stop in the cafe, where they have a selection of beers, food, and ice cream among other things. All were excellent. I'll be back!

Walter P — Google review

Bok Tower is a beautiful place to visit. On a trip to Orlando, we ventured out here to slow down a little and walk through their gardens. The tower is gorgeous, with koi ponds on either side. There’s a little cafe to grab a beverage before starting on your walk. There’s also a visitor center to learn more about the grounds. I saw a ton of lizards and even a snake. One tip - the tower tolls at the top of the hour and then plays the bells.

Cassie G — Google review

Absolutely beautiful park, so much to see and do. We went to take group pictures, and it did not disappoint.The park Is a little in the middle of nowhere, but will be worth the drive (about 1 hour from Orlando).

Rick W — Google review

Amazing gardens to wander around. Peaceful and relaxing. Make sure you get there for 1:00 pm to hear the recital. You will need 2 to 3 hours to see everything properly. The kids garden is a lot of fun for adults as well. Reasonably priced cafe with friendly staff.

Raymond W — Google review

Bok Tower is an expansive garden where the centerpiece is a giant bell tower. You can enjoy a well-manicured garden while listening to the captivating sounds of the bells. Admission is $20 per person which is a bit expensive. There is a cafe and gift store on campus, along with a theater and visitor center which displays some history of the Tower.I saw several groups of people having picnics and enjoying the warm March day.

Kevin M — Google review

Lovely day at Bok Tower Gardens. Beautiful gardens, lots of paths to follow through lush, tropical greenery. Numerous flowering plants. Mixture of paved trails and those covered with mulch.Had a chicken blueberry salad at the cafe on the premises. A Carillon concert at 1pm was amazing. Such a peaceful spot!

Jeanne R — Google review

Magnificent!! I was here many years before all the gardens were added. Such a huge variety of flowers and plants, vibrant colors, the winding paths with groups of plantings artfully designed - with many to attract bees and butterflies, plenty of places to sit after much walking, exceptionally clean... And then there's the tower itself. Beyond words...exceptionally well maintained, looks new.And add to all this a perfect sunny cool day with a nice breeze -- we were in 7th heaven. We will definitely be back.

Vivian B — Google review

4.8

(10191)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (6)

4.5

(2472)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (7)

1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853, USA

(863) 676-1408

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The National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum

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Museums

Local history museum

Military Museums

The National Navy SEAL Museum is a compact but impressive establishment with displays showcasing the history and equipment used by the Navy SEALs. Visitors can explore exhibits of armory, weaponry, and historical artifacts while also experiencing a realistic feeling of being a paratrooper inside a helicopter. The museum has an excellent section on Medal of Honor recipients, which highlights their bravery in full detail. Additionally, visitors can learn about the various operations that were conducted by Navy Seals outside declared wars such as Panama and Haiti.

This is a small museum but packed full of excellent exhibits, armory, movies and weaponry. The volunteer docents were very good and explained everything to us before we entered. Climb inside the helicopter and you will get a realistic feeling of what it was like to be a paratrooper. The Medal of Honor section was excellent because it gave the full story of the bravery of the recipients. We particularly enjoyed seeing all of the operations that were conducted by Navy Seals outside of declared wars (Panama, Haiti, etc.) The Normandy section was very good as were the sections on canines. Great experience.

Theresa H — Google review

The museum was a fantastic experience. It's not the biggest, but each item and exhibit was authentic and high quality. Extra points if you are able to speak to some of the workers regarding the origin stories of some of the pieces. There is a military discount for veterans and active duty. The grounds outside the building also have really great exhibits. To cap it off, you can walk from the parking lot to the beach and enjoy some fun and sun all in one visit

Travis H — Google review

This place is cool! The outdoors are totally free and perfect for kids (of all ages). There is a fee to tour the museum inside. The ships are amazing and really give you a sense of the hardships of battle. After your done here, you can go directly to the beach in the same parking lot, or the playground next door. BTW parking is ample and also free 😃

Family R — Google review

This is a must see if you are in the area and I’d say it is even if you have to drive a while. All the items on display here are authentic and not replica which was really cool. Lots of great things to see on display and things to learn. The staff here is great and knowledgeable as well. I learned a lot about the history of the SEALS which was really interesting. I had no idea that they started right in Ft. Pierce. This place is an awesome place to visit. Do yourself a favor and check it out.

Jon H — Google review

Great place if you are there when there is not a crowd. I enjoyed all the exhibits. They were quite interesting and the obstacle course outside was fun. At the same time, I was quite disappointed about the inconsistency of mask wearing among the staff and the inability to socially distance within this setting. That's why I only gave a 4. We were between 2 large groups of people who were oblivious to everyone else around them and totally ignored any type of 6 foot space. Even a staff member who was unmasked continued to approach me (masked )to talk about something-disregarding my "No, thankyou"'s and my backing away from him. I just found it surprising during Covid. I think it would work better if there was perhaps an overall limit on the number of people in the building at one time so there is more ability to have some distance from others.

Melissa A — Google review

Being a Navy Veteran, this place has been on my list for a while. I finally got the opportunity to go today. (9/3/22) It's an INCREDIBLE experience. A very well laid out museum with tons to see and interact with. It really brought back a lot of memories for me.If you are planning on going, set aside a GOOD block of time. Also try to go when the weather is good because there is a lot to see outside on the grounds as well.Just an overall incredible experience. I look forward to going back, hopefully with friends and share all the history contained therein.

Michael E — Google review

This museum has so much information so I recommend allotting 2-3 hours to tour. I really enjoyed my time there and learned so much about the Histiry of the Navy Seals.The museum and grounds are spectacular and so well kept. I was super impressed with everything.Mr. Andy Brady runs the museum and he shared quite a bit of the SEAL history as we were leaning facility.There is a store on site with souvenirs and more. I highly recommend visiting if in the area or have a passion for the Navy Seals.

Dr. R — Google review

I brought my two year old and my 8 year old here. I was able to use a wagon and navigate thru pretty okay. It has lots of gear, weapons, machinery-pretty much everything navy seals use and have used. They show you the changes in equipment over the decades. They have an outdoor obstacle course that the navy seals use. My son had fun. They also had some boats, and other vehicles that you can actually get inside of. There is a small memorial garden honoring fallen seals throughout the different wars. I feel like it’s a bit pricey for what they have and to be honest to allow people to experience history. Adults are $15, children are $7 and toddlers and infants are free.There are a couple of picnic tables you can sit at and snack on. It does say no backpacks or big bags but because I had my son I guess they let me through with them-they didn’t question me.

Galila A — Google review

A very insightful and educational experience. I enjoyed the exhibits,the staff and Historical information. I learnt a lot and felt extremely greatful for those that have sacrificed their lives and fought for this great nation and the world.

Chiana H — Google review

Excellent museum for all ages. Interactive and informative with recent updates. Free entrance after 3pm. Closed Monday. Highly recommend if you’re in the area. And beach short walk away.

Brad A — Google review

What a tribute to those who have kept us safe and freedom alive! Weapons, vehicles, and moving stories of heroic sacrifice fill every corner. Modern static and interactive displays. Videos are so well done. Full size Blackhawk Helicopter inside. History spans from early beginnings as training ground right in Fort Pierce for WWII UDT Frogmen to today's SEAL (Sea/Air/Land) Teams. Outside is an amazing collection of boats and displays. Gift shop is well stocked with many mementos for your visit. We took 2 hours and scratched the service. Tickets are so reasonably priced. Don't miss WII beginnings: Normandy Invasion clearing mines and beach fortifications while being shot at and all with "swim trunks and a knife".

Chad S — Google review

What a gem! A fantastic family friendly museum! Th kids learned so much and truly enjoyed the hands-on, engaging activities inside the museum and the ropes course outside! HIGHLY recommended!!

Mor Z — Google review

Wife and I were just passing through meandering our way back from Miami and by chance found this place. I will say I was taken aback at the history and the exhibit was amazingly put together and the staff was soooo knowledgeable about every aspect of the navy seal community I didn't want to leave I wanted to stay and learn everything I possibly could but had to get home plus they were closing but I highly recommend seeing this if you wanna know exactly how tough and how great out navy seals are 10 stars isn't enough for this place.

Rusty M — Google review

Leave it to UDT (oh yeah, Seals) to have a museum this awesome. We've visited three times and each time learn something new or discover a display that somehow missed our attention on the previous visit.Make sure to visit on a sunny day as the outside displays (mostly SDVs and watercraft) are worth the walk.The gift store? Just have your credit card at the ready, that's all I have to say about that.

The E — Google review

The National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum is an absolute treasure trove for anyone fascinated by the remarkable feats of the Navy's elite forces. From the gripping exhibits detailing the daring missions of the UDTs and SEALs to the awe-inspiring collection of artifacts showcasing their bravery and innovation, every corner of this museum immerses you in the extraordinary world of naval special operations. Whether you're a history buff, a military enthusiast, or simply seeking inspiration, this museum offers an unforgettable experience that leaves you with a profound appreciation for the sacrifices and achievements of these extraordinary warriors.

Carlos P — Google review

Very impressed with this museum! The size can be deceiving from the outside. Every inch of this building is packed full of awesome artifacts and information.It’s also very clean and well kept. Also very easy to navigate.I highly recommend! Took us around 1 hour and 15 minutes to slowly walk and watch the videos.

Cruiser P — Google review

The National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum in Florida is truly an epic experience for anyone interested in the history of the Navy SEALs and the incredible sacrifices they've made for our country. From the moment you step onto the grounds of the museum, you can feel the weight of the history and the importance of the mission these brave men have undertaken.The museum is filled with an amazing collection of artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays that bring to life the heroic stories of the Navy SEALs. From the early days of the Underwater Demolition Teams to the modern-day operations, every aspect of their remarkable journey is captured in vivid detail.The highlight of the museum is undoubtedly the actual gear, weapons, and equipment used by the SEALs, including the famous MK V Special Operations Craft and the SEAL Delivery Vehicle. Walking through these displays, you can't help but be in awe of the skill, bravery, and dedication of these warriors.The museum also offers a number of hands-on experiences, like the chance to climb aboard a real Navy SEAL Mini-Sub and to test your skills on the SEAL Obstacle Course. These activities give you a small glimpse into the intense training and preparation that these elite soldiers undergo in order to carry out their missions.One of the most moving parts of the museum is the tribute to the fallen heroes of the SEAL teams. The memorial wall and the displays honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice serve as a powerful reminder of the tremendous courage and sacrifice of these brave men.The staff at the museum are incredibly knowledgeable, passionate, and dedicated to sharing the incredible history and legacy of the Navy SEALs. Their enthusiasm and willingness to engage with visitors make the experience even more enriching.Visiting the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum is not just a visit to a museum; it's an opportunity to gain a deep understanding and appreciation for the men who have served and continue to serve in the Naval Special Warfare community. This museum provides a truly epic and humbling experience that will leave you with a profound sense of respect and admiration for the Navy SEALs and their unwavering commitment to our their nation.

Gary M — Google review

So much better than expected! My wife spent a lot more time reading the displays next to the exhibits, and was more interested than she thought she would have been going in. The story telling is great, displays include everything from vehicles, boats, helicopters and gear. Great gift shop with reasonable things appropriate for friends and family. Discounts for families, seniors and vets. Go!

Kevin K — Google review

A must see for every freedom loving American citizen! Humbling, inspiring and truly amazing! And a fitting tribute to the warriors who have served!

Sam C — Google review

An incredible museum, and tribute to our Navy Seals. I highly recommend visiting.

Paul L — Google review

Very interesting visit. We learned a lot about Fort Pierce History.

La D — Google review

What a great place to visit!! I am so thankful for these men who have given everything for our freedom!!! My wife's uncle was on Seal Team 2 and found his name on the wall. The staff was so helpful in finding his graduation photo!

Norman H — Google review

Went to the annual Veterans Day celebration, and the museum staff put on another outstanding show. The fly-in and demonstrations were excellent

Jay T — Google review

If you're in the area, this is definitely worth visiting. The history surrounding the museum is very interesting. The exhibits are all excellent and informative as are the friendly staff. It's a beautiful museum and beautiful grounds. The admission is also reasonable.

Craig H — Google review

4.8

(2226)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (8)

5.0

(1368)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (9)

3300 N Hwy A1A, Fort Pierce, FL 34949, USA

(772) 595-5845

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40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (10)

3

Wild Florida Airboats & Gator Park

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Tours

Nature preserve

This attraction features an airboat tour and alligator-handling show in a protected swamp. The park also has a tropical bird aviary and petting zoo.

My family had a wonderful time at Wild Florida. The boat tour was relaxing and very enjoyable. Bobby was an awesome tour guide. My kids had the best time feeding the gators, big and small, and we all enjoyed seeing the various animals up close. Better than the typical zoo experience by far. The staff was extremely helpful and friendly. I highly recommend this as a stop while in the Orlando area. I also recommend going earlier in the day if you're on a later boat tour because there is much more to do and see than I expected. The food was amazing as well!We did the safari tour after our boat tour. The kids enjoyed every second of seeing the animals so closely. Our car was even attacked by an angry ostrich (or maybe emu). We found it funny but the poor bird wasn't so amused. The park is run very well and the kids even got a map to track what animals they saw. Cannot recommend this enough.

Megan C — Google review

We absolutely LOVE this place! We did the boat tour on Saturday at 9:00 am so we arrived around 8:20, plenty of parking spaces (by 10:00-11:00 am was completely packed) and we checked in and waited until our boat arrived. Beautiful views, boat is pretty noisy, but tolerable, we saw a couple of baby alligators, which was awesome, and a lot of birds. The captain of the boat was knowledgeable and nice. I think his name was Bobby. After the boat tour we were allowed to go to the park and see the different exhibits and animals.We fed alligators, we even hold a baby one (with permission and supervision obviously). We pet baby goats, and a tiny pig , they were adorable! . All the staff are super friendly and nice!! For sure we’ll be back soon . 100% recommended!

Frecklebean — Google review

This place is amazing! Came for our 5 year anniversary and the drive through was stunning, we seen so many beautiful animals that look very well cared for and happy. We seen some little deer jumping and running and some water Buffalo going for a dip in the water even got to see some zebras come right up next to our car and an ostrich that wanted a taste of our car lol plus so many other beautiful animals, we seen animal in the map that they give you at the gate.Wonderful experience and we will definitely be back.

Ash P — Google review

What an awesome day we had at Wild Florida. Even being native Floridians we learned a few things. We were fortunate enough to have lunch with “Crusher” the resident 13 ft alligator. What an amazing experience. The staff and trainers are very knowledgeable and courteous which made our experience that much better. I highly recommend visiting the park to anyone. We will definitely be back.

K — Google review

Such a fun and friendly place! The parks are immaculate. Animals very healthy and happy. The staff is as friendly as family, too. Lots to see and learn. Wish we had spent more time there.

Claudette C — Google review

Wild Florida is a great place. It was a lot of fun. It is not a full day unless you want to spend a lot of money. We did just an animal interaction & just walked around. If you want to do the air boat ride & drive through safari you can spend a full day. But even if you want to do even one of those things, I definitely recommend it. The staff is super friendly & zoo keepers speak very highly of the place. The food is well priced, good quality, & the corn bread is fantastic. We bought more on the way out. Definitely worth the trip & we will be making another this year.

Robert C — Google review

We did the safari and some of the Gator Park only because it was 100°. Safari was beautiful! Feeding the giraffe was great! Gator Park is nice, looking forward to going back when it's not so bad of weather.

Ashley — Google review

Fantastic evening airboat ride. Saw a few alligators and Eagles plus lots more that we wasn't expecting. So peaceful and amazing to see when we stopped in various areas. The tour guide was great and pointed out loads to us with some amazing facts. The Gator Park was very good staff all friendly and helpful. Well worth a visit.

Karl D — Google review

They lock the gates 10 minutes after closing make sure to get to car with enough time to get out. Also there is no lighting on the paths & once the sun is down it was hard to see to get out of the park. More don't touch a snake if you see one instead of an exit signs. Lots of gators. We had a nice time. The trails were mostly dirt. Like most animal parks you need to watch out for wet walkways.

Crystal S — Google review

Absolutely loved our visit to Wild Florida. We got a Groupon for 4 people and it came with feed for 4 people. We got to hold the baby alligator. The staff were so helpful and Informational. My 3 year old niece loved the playground. Could have spent a whole day!

Brittany L — Google review

Just finished this adventure and I must say it was well worth the money spent. A first class operation all the way.Air boat captain (Kevin) did an outstanding job of showing us bald Eagles , alligators an other marsh wildlife.The wildlife park drive through was an extremely pleasant surprise. A large variety of high plains wildlife and at a very close up look. One of the best we have been to.

Gary W — Google review

We couldn't have been happier with the sloth encounter that my daughter went to. She is still smiling days later. The woman running the encounter was great. She was friendly knowledgeable and made the whole experience enjoyable for everyone involved. If love animals and want to get up close this is a great place to visit.All of the animals encounters are booked separate from just an admission to the park. I highly recommend booking encounters in advance.Unfortunately we did not have time to explore the rest of the park, since we had other plans we had to get to, but we did get to see some of the other animals on our way to and back from the sloths.It's not the place to go for a whole day, but that doesn't mean it's not worth the trip. I would definitely return next time we are in the area, to check out their other attractions.

Greg N — Google review

Great time. Went when it was summertime, but was still doable. Would recommend early in the day, or cooler time of year. Did the Safari, and really enjoyed it. Plan on 60-70 minutes for the Safari. This includes admission to the Gator Park. Overall, would plan on around 4 hours to see everything. Did not do the airboats.

Andrew M — Google review

The safari drive was so fun. There are 2 options, going a long 2.5 mile route or a shorter option if you just want to get to the zoo. We saw many animals who were very close to the car. The zoo was much larger than I thought and we spent about 5 hours here. There’s a petting zoo with goats and pigs which was cool. We were lucky enough to catch some shows as well. I will definitely be back

Briana H — Google review

Wild florida is a great day out for all of the family.We started our day with a trip on the air boats where we saw alligators and bold eagles in the wild.We then walked around the zoo section and saw loads of incredible animals, saw a couple of shows, and got to hold an alligator.We then went around the drive through safari and finished the day by feeding a giraffe.A great day out, I would highly recommend it.

Danny I — Google review

Great family experience. Loved the freedom of taking our time through the drive through safari, many animals came right up to the car for some cool pictures. The gator park was eventful as well, so many animals to check out. Few shows to check out as well, we missed it.

Lynette J — Google review

We had the best time! I definitely recommend paying extra for an animal encounter(s). I did online ahead of time for my son. He fed and petted a porcupine and lemur and petted a sloth. Truly an amazing experience. The animal keepers were very professional and answered a lot of our questions. We also made sure to tip them. There is an alligator feeding but we choose to skip that one. And of course we went into the aviary section and fed the birds. We stopped at the Chomp House Grille and had a cheese steak sub and chicken tenders. It was pretty good! Although this park is small it has a lot of animals. Our favorites was Pepper the Fennac Fox.

S S — Google review

Wild Florida is a gator park and much much more. It is about 30 miles south east of our Blue Heron 1806 rental condo.Wild Florida also has a 'drive through Safari', Airboat tours and wildlife park featuring gators and an assortment of animals from around the world. The park has a great swamp walk, petting zoo and bird house in which you can feed the resident animals and birds. You can even arrange an alligator feeding experience and walk through a swamp. All their attractions are very reasonably priced and they even have Florida residents rates. We highly recommend Wild Florida. It is well worth the drive! Don't forget to get a picture holding Fluffy the gator!

Blue F — Google review

Different type of animals in safari..Gator park also has variety of animals. Most of them were resting during afternoon time. So I recommend either morning or evening time.Air boat also seemed fun, we couldn't do it due to time constraint.

Sanket G — Google review

We Absolutely loved it! A nice fun trip to see some animals we've never seen before. The pricing is great and very affordable. Every staff member we met was extremely helpful and nice and answered all our questions. Also they have snacks and drinks which BONUS they are not expensive and crazy prices like most places weve gone in florida. They have multiple shows going on we had the most fun at the gator feeding show. They have a petting zoo with goats and pigs. We did not get to do the air boat ride but I'm sure it is excellent. I highly recommend checking this place out for some family fun time!

Tony G — Google review

We had so much fun. Our driver was informative and hilarious! There is a zoo you can walk through as well. We saw a few actors out on the water and other wildlife as well. Highly recommend to anyone.

Melissa W — Google review

Took my 12 year old daughter on a whim for something to do on spring break. I’m SO glad we did! She loved seeing all the animals so close, and feeding the giraffe, Walter! We even got to see a Watusi delivery a brand new baby calf, watched momma clean her baby, and the whole herd, including a bison and 2 camels come to see the new baby! It was such a joy to be a part of! The park was great to see and then seeing new life come to be and all the animals so excited to see the baby made it even better! Thank you for letting us in to be a part of that!

Amanda T — Google review

Great experience on the water. The temperature was a little on the chilly side, so be sure to dress accordingly. Our boat captain was great and really knowledgeable about the lake and the different animals and birds we saw. The boat was comfortable, but definitely wear ear plugs if you sit near the back.

Chris M — Google review

This place is great and well worth the money! They also have food and delicious ice cream on site. A gift shop with something for everyone. And the experiences themselves! Outstanding. You're going to need several hours here if not half a day

April F — Google review

Went on the airboat ride..it was good. Park was full of gators and other animals to see. Went to the drive through animal park as well...very nice with a large variety of animals. Overall was a great time for the family.

Kyle D — Google review

Been here with my family multiple times and we have fun EVERY time! This last time we saw so many babies (Summer) Did the Safari, Gator Park and Airboat ride. Would definitely recommend a visit if you can withstand the Florida heat & humidity

Be J — Google review

I'd go just for the delicious ice cream! We had a great time during our visit. It was remarkable how close we were to alligators and other wildlife. The sloth encounter was a delight. Staff were welcoming, knowledgeable and friendly.

Jen M — Google review

Absolutely awesome day and extremely interesting. Great value for money. Feeding the gators was a true sight to remember 😊 staff are very friendly and attentive.

Lisa M — Google review

We had an Excellent experience at the Wild Florida “Gator Park” / Zoo. Everyone who works there is Extremely nice and truly go Above & Beyond to make your visit a Memorable! They have a wide variety of animal species who you can clearly tell are truly LOVED by the staff and receive Top Quality care! From an Albino Alligator (2 actually) and a varying array of reptiles and birds to Monkeys & a Kangaroo! They offer a ‘Petting Zoo’ area with the Sweetest Wire Haired Pigs (not positive what they’re called) named; Juniper & Birch who actually come Running to you when you call out their names!! The Capybara family had the Most Adorable little babies in their little ‘Capy House’ as well!!All around we had a Wonderful experience and I would especially like to thank Carmen for catering to our food allergies and ensuring we had The Most Delicious lunch and Elric (sorry if I misspelled it!) for being so kind and helpful while helping us with our order!

Sara D — Google review

Loads of fun for kids and adults. Went during the summer months, it's definitely better to go when it's cooler, you'll see more active animals and be more comfortable too. The fan boat tours are a must (but tickets in advance because they book up), and make sure to feed the giraffes!

Stephen — Google review

This was a spur of the moment trip and it was an excellent day. The Safari and the gator park were just what we needed. The Safari took about 90 minutes. Spent another hour at the Gator Park. They have Florida resident discounts which is always nice.

Jeanne S — Google review

We had such a good experience. We pet and fed the porcupines. Fed the alligators. Went on an airboat ride. And finally drove through the safari. There were so many baby animals! I was driving and didn't get the chance to take a lot of pictures. A recommend buying your tickets in advance for any of the animal encounters.

Dianna — Google review

This place is Florida's best kept secret. This was an amazing experience and was a great way to get away from the crowds at Orlando parks. We paid around $170 for five people abd we had an absolute blast. They offer so much for such a low price. The safari comes with a walk through Zoo and optional animal encounters for additional costs. This will be a Florida to do staple for my family and I moving forward.

Lucas B — Google review

Absolutely brilliant day out. We booked a 1 hour tour and had captain farmer as our guide. He was such a knowledgeable guide and clearly enjoyed taking tourists out around his local area. Enjoyed the wildlife park after our tour. Highly recommend. And would definitely return

Matthew H — Google review

4.7

(6195)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (15)

5.0

(2276)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (16)

3301 Lake Cypress Rd, Kenansville, FL 34739, USA

(407) 957-3135

4

Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park

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$$$$expensive

Theme park

Disney's Animal Kingdom is a vast wildlife sanctuary, divided into six sections where visitors can experience animal encounters, thrill rides, safaris and shows. It aims to combine the elements of a theme park with those of a zoo and African safari. The attraction also incorporates Disney characters and storytelling for an immersive experience. Among the highlights not to be missed are Finding Nemo The Musical, Kilimanjaro Safaris and Expedition Everest.

This is one of our favorite Disney parks, especially when the weather starts to get cooler. We concentrated on the Asia and Africa portions of the park today. These are very well themed and make you feel like you are in another exotic part of the world. There are many interesting things to see and do there. Their crowning glory is the Tree Of Life that greets you when you first enter the main part of the park. It has many intricate wood carvings that make it up and it houses the It's Tough to be a Bug attraction. There is one of the best restaurants in Florida located here too. The Yak and Yeti restaurant. The best thing I like is all the different vegetation, waterfalls and wildlife that you can see here. There are several nature trails you can walk, a safari and even a train ride. These also are live shows, rides and plenty of places to buy souvenirs, food and drink. You will certainly be kept entertained and well fed if you go here.

John H — Google review

Pandora was mind blowing, a floating mountain over your head! Wow. Really impressive, well done Disney. Tree of life is always amazing, wish the food was better. Also pretty crowded and we went on a weekday in May. Didn’t have a chance to get on any rides, and we were at the park at 8 o’clock. We’re not willing to wait an hour for a ride, but apparently lots of people are. We had perfect weather, so didn’t feel the need for AC. Several of the animal habitats were being cleaned, so we didn’t see tigers or antelope. Overall a really nice day

Mary K — Google review

Great place to experience all types of animals, ants, culture, and great rides! The Yeti is one of my favorite roller coasters, the view before the drop is amazing! Pandora is a BEAUTIFUL area, the rides are very fun and definitely raises all senses. The area in within itself is exquisite, especially at night. The safari is the most interesting aspect, to have the ability to see such animals up close is so cool and we all are so fortunate to have the opportunity to experience this. Animal Kingdom is overall a great place to bring kids and photo ops!

Jackie F — Google review

Absolutely great experience. If you can wait a bit, Avatar ride is by far the best experience I've ever had. The expedition to Himalaya is fun too as well as the Safari. The park is smaller than Magic Kingdom but definitely recommended.

Michael W — Google review

If you are planning a big Disney vacation this is a good kingdom to start with as a warm up. I highly recommend the fast pass and lighting lanes if you don't want to wait in long lines. This park isn't as crowded so it was a good way to learn how to schedule rides and plan out your day. Pandora was really beautiful and my son made himself into an action figure! Lion King show was really amazing. I get motion sickness really easy and I could handle all the rides fairly easy. It did rain almost every day so bring a pair of flip flops and a poncho. We put our sneakers away when it would rain so they wouldn't get wet. If you like nature and animals this is a great park to visit. Lots of food choices. We brought water bottles and protein bars to cut on some food costs.

Maria V — Google review

Went on a Sunday in September.Easily, my most favourite park! Got there for 8am solo with genie plus activated. Got my shaking Jamaican and walked on and off every ride. It was great. The music, the atmosphere, the food, the authenticity of the countries. The jungle juice is super underrated! The safari ride was amazing, as we got to see a elephant taking a bath (apparently, rare). If the park was open later and had the light show, I could have stayed the whole time just staring at the architecture. The cast members are very nice and helpful to get where you need to go.I wasn't a huge fan of the corn on the cobb. I've had better.

Jan M — Google review

I recently revisited Disney's Animal Kingdom Park after a few years, and it was just as magical as I remembered, if not more. The park has made some new additions that are absolutely fantastic. The Avatar ride, in particular, is a standout – it's so impressive! The rides throughout the park are great fun and there's something for everyone, no matter your age. One of the best parts of the park is the variety and quality of food available at the restaurants; they really add to the experience. And of course, seeing the animals roam freely is a joy. This park truly offers a bit of everything for everyone, making it a perfect destination for families or anyone looking for a fun day out.

Arelys Q — Google review

Our first visit here and it was amazing! The tree of Life is a gorgeous sight to see and the wild birds flying around the area brought the place to life among all the people. Wish the park was open later as we could have stayed much later than the 5pm close time as there is lots to see especially if you or the kids enjoy nature/animal watching.The scenery in each section of the park is a spectacle and the Avatar themed Pandora land was what I couldn’t wait to explore. It’s unreal being there and Flight of Passage had to be my personal favorite ride of all 4 parks.This park stands apart from the rest connected you feel to the plants and animals throughout and although there are less rides overall, it’s well worth the trip because of what they offer.Bonus: huge Starbucks with quick service to give you a cool boost to battle the summer heat!Disney world is definitely a magical place and this park carries on that theme just as strong as the others!!

Randy D — Google review

It was lush and gorgeous everywhere we went! Even the places where we waited in lines were interesting and well-kept. We loved the bug show inside the big tree, the jungle safari, and the Pandora river ride.

Leah T — Google review

We had an amazing time! We love this park. My only complaint is the crowd levels. It's always packed, so be prepared. I'm very excited to see the updates coming to this park. The rides are all amazing. I really enjoy the safari too. Just all around was another fantastic day. Also, I love seeing the pin boards back out and all around.

Mel W — Google review

This place was pretty cool. Great for kids and family. Bring lots of water because you will walk a lot. Sunscreen and snacks, too. Or you'll pay quite a bit inside. Definitely go on the jumanji jungle cruise. All the animals we saw were a highlight.

Shawn S — Google review

Great time! Highly recommend if you have little one’s. There is plenty to see and do that everyone has fun. A few playground areas are scattered around the park too so you can sit and watch your kids play or join them in the fun! We did a few rides, but mainly enjoyed the ambiance and the animals. Again it was perfect with our little guy!

Caleb W — Google review

Perfect weather! We went to all the islands, the Pandora ride left me completely speechless, really was a lot of fun. Got drenched in Asia, the ride was nice but it seemed like I took a shower! Safari was great, got to see many of the animals (pics included). Did not sit down for one minute.Is n exciting place

Astric C — Google review

An amazing weekday experience at the Animal Kingdom. The lush landscape and beautiful wildlife makes it all worth it. Entertaining shows and highlights like rides and attractions are the cream on top. It was my first experience and surely one to remember. I think you need a few days to get the full experience but it was certainly something incredibly memorable for the kids and adults.

Tasha C — Google review

Animal kingdom to me is the best park by far. I love the animals and all the different things you can see and try their. Perfect for taking photos too in various places! I highly recommend the festival of the lion king show! Took scout with me my lion character.

Braze W — Google review

Really awesome place to visit for the family. Must see area in the park is the avatar area! Lots of good places to shop and eat. Rainforest cafe was great. Definitely go on the Safari to check out all the different animals in the park. Park ride lines were not to bad unless you are waiting for avatar. Overall great experience and would recommend checking this park out.

J — Google review

Each Disney park has a unique look and experience but animal kingdom is one of the most unique looking and feeling places out of the 4 parks. Plus they have the Avatar attraction! Kids loved the park! It’s especially nice during the time they have Christmas decorations up as well.

Justin B — Google review

Amazing! This is the best park of the four if you like more chill stuff. There are rides for all ages and it is extremely fun! I recommend the feathered friends in flight show!

Parker — Google review

Had a great family visit. We especially enjoyed the safari. Everything is expensive, but if you know that coming in its saves some frustration. A lot of walking covering a lot more area than anticipated. Nice playground for small kids provides a good break.

Bob M — Google review

Had a great time there. The lines were insane long next time we will get genie+ and get lightning lane passes. I feel it's worth the money. We spent more than 2 hours in line for avatar flight of passage.The ride was amazing tho. Me and my gf loved it. It's a technical marvel. Was awesomeSecret for this ride is to get in the middle. Know you really don't have a choice but if you can figure it out... sit in the middle. There's a little bit of visual distortion on the outside seats.We go lucky seated in the middle

Random S — Google review

Amazing experience however roller coaster was down.But park was clean, was easy to wander, nice rides and experiences. The safari was amazing to see. Variety of food choices.Some Longish waits for rides but I think that’s normal.

Jen.juhlke — Google review

We bought a 3 day-3 park pass that could be used anytime within a 7 day period. That was the best deal you could get to visit 3 parks. Otherwise, you should get a park hopper pass. The Genie+ service allows you to get lightning lane. We rode every ride we wanted and saw The Lion King show. Absolutely loved Pandora kingdom with Avatar virtual 3D ride. The best!

Tami S — Google review

We spent six hours exploring the Animal Kingdom without our children. We really wished they were there but we think that this is the best place to come if you are an adult and aren't into riding rides. We did the Pandora 3-D ride which was epic. We also did a safari and it was really exciting to see all the wild animals in a much more open and free atmosphere. The park was laid out nicely and if it was peak season we would definitely have splurged for the lightning passes but I believe you have to reserve those in advance. Weather was beautiful and overall was a great experience although it isn't cheap. Our tickets were approximately $150 each. Stay hydrated!

Thomas S — Google review

Animal Kingdom is hands down the best of all the Disney Parks. It's stunningly beautiful. The lines move fast and are amazing! The food is so good. So many awesome animals and photo opportunities! Also a ton of places to sit in the shade! We had a wonderful day, and since we gate dropped we did a ton of stuff and even managed a lightning lane for Flight of Passage!

Brandy N — Google review

So not the best park for rides if you don't like avatar or animals but if you do this is awesome. We love Avatar and this park has been a long time bucket list. Flight of passage, and river journey are both great rides and have lived up to expectations. Recommend getting genie+, there are not a lot of rides here but it's worth getting just to do those 2. Ride times for them never got below 1 hour the whole day we were there. Pay to ride Passage and book lightning lane for journey. Also Recommend going to Nomad Lounge at 11 when they open to put your name in for a table later in the day. We got in line at 11:20 and got a table at 2. When we came back at 2 they were booked for the whole day. There drinks and small plates are so outside of normal park eats and they are a real treat. The best ice cream sandwich was in Dino land USA, at Dino bites. It's a great dessert and really helps cool you off.

Nerdy F — Google review

Some of our best Disney magic photos or in this park. It was our first time visiting the park and it was worth it. I would say that if you're planning a Disney trip, you can do this one in particular and under a day. It was not my favorite park, but they've done a wonderful job putting it together. If you're into the hole Safari thing and avatar, this is the place for you.

Shan L — Google review

The experience with in the park was awesome and educational in areas. There are boats that go around the river in this park with characters and bands. The rides were fun and I highly recommend the Pandora area for the flight ride.

April M — Google review

It was my first time going here since I was very young and don't remember, so it felt like my first time going here. I had high expectations considering it was Disney, and I think it still exceeded expectations.Some of the views are amazing between Pandora and Mount Everest, and the Yeti ride is up there as one of the best rides at Disney.

Tony P — Google review

Beautiful place but I think it has very few attractions inside, one day will be more than enough to do everything and get time to rest.We went with our little girls and they got in love with animals and shows ❤️Service as usual was good and helpful.We enjoyed it a lot

Josias M — Google review

Very clean park with a great safari and very nice shows but not my favorite Disney park. We were there at rope drop first thing in the morning and the Aviator ride Flight of Passage was already at a 50 minute wait time by the time we ran to it (I was unable to grab the lightning lane tickets). Not as many rides but their animal exhibits were nice. The Lion King show and both bird shows were awesome. I will say because it's a smaller park it only takes a half day so it's easier to park hop.

Sarah C — Google review

Love Animal kingdom! Been there multiple times and every time we had so much fun. At safari ride, you see different animals.I love going to Gorilla Fall. Baby gorillas have grown up quite a bit since last year, and teenage boys were moved to different locations.Best part of the park is Avatar ride! Regardless of long line, it’s worth waiting.Lion King show is a MUST!This is the first time we saw the show and were blown away! The costumes, quality of show was comparable to the Broadway show in smaller scale.My daughter went to the river raft ride and got soaked but had so much fun. When you get tired, you can sit on by the water in Asia, have ice coffee and pastries from Joffrey.Whether you want to see animals and stroll around the park or want to get on fun rides, Animal Kingdom has everything you can imagine and much more.

Amy K — Google review

Loved this park and its tropical feel. Easy to get around and some fabulous shows and rides. I liked the restaurants here and the fact that you could buy fruit. The water fountains are plentiful. Top tip - take plastic cups to avoid carrying heavy water bottles. We booked a multi pass for the lightning lanes and a single pass for avatar. We booked a time for avatar to avoid missing it. It was incredible. Unfortunately we forgot about the Na'vi river ride and we missed that. There was an hour queue for that one.This is a full day park. We got there at 8am and did most things by 5 pm without resting but still missed a couple of rides.

Charlotte W — Google review

Interesting mixture of theme park and zoo-like environment. Very open though so there is a real need to be prepared for both heat and rain as shade/cover is sparse.As with everything Disney, queues are long but done so well that they are part of the experience. Rides are incredible.I found the animal carers engaging, knowledgeable and welcoming of interest from everyone.We ate at the Yak and Yeti restaurant and the food was incredible (Cantonese Pork Belly Bowl and Korean Chicken and Ribs). Possibly the best meal we have had so far in any of the Disney resorts.Will be venturing back to pick up on the few experiences we did not manage to fit in.

Dean O — Google review

We went to animal kingdom on springs break with my son 5 years old and my teen age daughter. Both had a lot of fun. I recommend to go early morning and start with the avatar theme park. Don’t miss the safari ride. Do it ether on the early morning or the end of the day for the waiting time. Download the app it will help you a lot with the waiting time and with guid your trip.

Daliah B — Google review

The park boasts breathtaking beauty and offers an extensive array of attractions and amenities. Its aesthetic charm is truly remarkable, evoking the enchanting ambiance of movies seen on both TV and the big screen. The attractions are meticulously designed to provide boundless entertainment, catering to individuals of all ages (it's virtually impossible for anyone not to relish this park experience!). Furthermore, the park's infrastructure is tailored to ensure visitors enjoy optimal convenience: the restrooms are impeccably maintained and conveniently located, a diverse selection of food and beverages is readily available throughout the premises, and lockers are provided for storing belongings securely before embarking on any rides. Additionally, the park staff are exceedingly attentive and helpful, further enhancing the overall guest experience. Whether you're seeking thrills, relaxation, or simply a day of family fun, this park undoubtedly exceeds expectations, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit.

Leonardo N — Google review

So much fun. I went with my wife and apparently I haven't been on a ton of rides here. We rode dinosaur, safari, it's tough to be a bug, and more in the 4 or so hours we were there. Everyone was friendly and we had a great time.

Mike F — Google review

This park is incredible! This was a new park experience for me as an adult. Been to Disney World many times prior but this experience was incredible. Pandora Experience is amazing! A full sensory experience that I will never forget! The safari and all the other rides and food possibilities are stellar. Definitely a return park!

Timothy A — Google review

Really fun park to visit. Nice mix of seeing animals and going on rides. The safari drive is a must and we got to see the zebras and giraffes running around.Everest is a great roller coaster with a fun surprise halfway through that I wasn't expecting. Tree of life is always amazing to see.Pandora is so well done and just an amazing place to walk around and just look at.

Richie 1 — Google review

It’s my second favorite park other than magic kingdom. It felt absolutely amazing inside it. All the nature sound and atmosphere, the animals and the attractions. Disney totally killed it for this one. Looking forward to come back again next year!

X Z — Google review

Phenomenal experience. Escape from Everest, Kilimanjaro Safari, Na'vi River Cruise, Flight of Avatar are all top notch attractions. The Pandora section is breathtaking, especially after dark. One year we'll spend more than just a day here to experience everything this place has to offer. So many themed shops and eateries and they're all so well done. And in typical Disney style, everything is just perfect, from the attractions, stores, eateries, to the garbage cans and the bathrooms.

Deen B — Google review

My family and I enjoyed our visit to Animal Kingdom park. Our favorite was the jeep ride through park to see the beautiful animals. The Zebra was my favorite. The cast members throughout the park from entrance to exit were very helpful and nice. I give them hands up dealing with customers and the heat! I thing I’d like to see in all the parks is more seating. Can’t wait - 2026 for my next visit. I definitely recommend the fast pass for all parks.

Chantay C — Google review

Wonderful day! Kids were picked to meet and spend the morning with Pocahontas! What a treat! Disney employees are just the sweetest people. They are so kind and caring; especially with the kids.We also saw tons of animals that day and went on all of the rides.Couldn’t imagine a better visit to Animal Kingdom! Thank you!!!

Pam K — Google review

My experience was made special by the photo pass people one in particular and that was Trevor who definitely brought that Disney magic to me and my wife he’s funny and out going we ended up having a private photo session and then basically bumped intoHim multiple times around the park for more photos I really hope your reading this Trevor if it wasn’t for you we wouldn’t have had such an amazing time I wish you the best.Animal kingdom is a great park my favourite ride has to be forbidden mountain expedition Everest I was so excited for this one the tree of life is incredible for people visiting sometimes you gotta find the magic but sometimes the magic finds you the park is great for the family and adults

Official A — Google review

IMHO...Best family fun through out Disney. All the wildlife and plants give it a warm, comfortable feel.The bug show is only 10 minutes, but recommend doing this when when you want comedy and excitement.The Lion King is also a must as it blends acrobats with a good story, and fun, familiar music.Recommend purchasing a separate lightning pass for Avatar...to say it is a 4D simulator does not do it justice. The separate pass does not interfere with the regular lightning pass.

Tom E — Google review

My personal favorite park. As an animal and nature lover it doesn't disappoint! My personal favorite is an event they do called birds of flight they do in the center view of the big tree. A whole bunch of parrots fill the sky and come down around everyone and they're gorgeous birds. It's also home to my favorite coaster in all the Disney parks, Everest. Avatars area is incredibly detailed. Plus, it's practically like visiting the zoo!

Joshua S — Google review

Best disney park! We spent two full days here on our honeymoon and we could've spent more just walking around and taking in the scenery. It rained one of the days and it just made the park so much more beautiful looking with rain. Especially in Pandora! Also, Flight of Passage is by far the absolute best ride in all of the parks!

Darcy H — Google review

We literally love this park! The safari was nearly an hour long which was absolutely incredible. We took so many photos! The worldly vendors and shops looked so authentic we felt like we were on a grand trip around some of the most exotic parts of the world.Sadly we didn't get to do any rides because our time was cut short. I intend.to go back to all the parks next year so I pray I can plan better and get it all in. The safari again as well!!!

Cijaye D — Google review

Super fun park! Great shows, food, rides, and shopping! Lion King show was fabulous! Try the safari rides! Growing up next-door to a zoo I can definitely say this did not feel like a zoo and felt very open and refreshing! Highly recommended A+

Lisa M — Google review

This park was so much fun! We took my stepson, baby girl, and my parents. The safari ride was amazing! The kids loved seeing all the animals up close and personal. It was my first time as well, and it was a great experience. We went to the Avatar area, and my daughter loved it. She was only 9 months old and was allowed to ride in the Avatar River ride. The food was great, even though it was expensive, it was worth every penny. Lastly, we ate at Rainforest Cafe and it was thoroughly enjoyable!

Ashley E — Google review

Animal Kingdom was one of the three parks my family and I visited during our Disney Trip, and despite my very much looking forward to visiting, I was really disappointed.If you don't get Genie+ ahead of time and don't get the park super early, go ahead and expect 45 minute plus waits for almost every major attraction. We did get to do the safari and a few other minor rides, which was fine, but it simply felt like there was nothing but an absolute mass of people any which way you turned, even on a weekday. We still very much enjoyed ourselves, and I always enjoyed the food and snacks in this park.Just beware that all the shaded spots will constantly be unavailable just due to the sheer amount of people in the park. Next time we come, I might just skip Animal Kingdom this time around.

Robert M — Google review

Do you like animals? Do you like rides? Do you like Disney (optional)? Then Animal Kingdom is the perfect place for you! This place has animals everywhere that you wouldn't see at home and multiple ways to see them. Safari, jungle trek, gorilla path, you name it. Personally I recommend checking out the gorillas they always keep me and my family entertained for the longest (we spent an hour just watching them live life). Along with real live plants and animals, you can experience fictional or extinct animal species as well. The Land of Pandora is amazingly detailed and the rides definitely do not disappoint. I'm just sad they got rid of the floating avatar in the tube while on the line for Flight of Passage, that thing was so cool. Food is also terrific but sadly nothing to see at night as the park closes early (the animals gotta sleep it makes sense). Oh and also, watch out for Expedition Everest, that ride keeps breaking all the time so ride it while you can because you never know when it'll go down for the day.

Om T — Google review

First time ever at this park and it was fantastic to see all that it had to offer. The safari was very pleasant and we were very fortunate that nearly all the animals were out and fully displaying themselves. Everest was thrilling and the journey to the ride itself was beautiful. Pandora just is an experience unto itself. Truly breathtaking and the rides are just hard to put into words. A lot of water and shade is highly recommended on those 90+ degree, 11+ UV index days. The park can take a lot out of you.

Tony G — Google review

Disney's Animal Kingdom in Florida is our favorite park because it truly caters to visitors of all ages. One of the highlights of our visit was the incredible safari experience. Our knowledgeable guide provided fascinating insights about the animals, and we were able to see them up close in their natural habitats. While the park requires a fair amount of walking, wearing comfortable shoes is essential. We decided to try the Genie Plus pass (Now Lightning Pass), which, despite the additional cost, proved to be a game-changer. It saved us valuable time and allowed us to enjoy more rides and attractions. Taking the advice of other reviews, we came prepared with packed lunches, water bottles, and backpacks, which made our day even more convenient. Overall, we had an unforgettable time at Disney's Animal Kingdom and highly recommend it.

Adele O — Google review

This had some of the best visuals of the park. Disney has done a really great job here. Between Avatar, It's tough to be a Bug, Expedition Everest and River Journey you will have a busy and fun day.

Art B — Google review

First time visitor to Disney Animal Kingdom. It was fantastic. The "Tree of Life" is spectacular. We went on the private tour (14 people) of Behind the Scenes Elephant area. Cora, the baby elephant was there. Elephants roamed freely in a very large, open area.Our Guide was enthusiastic and well-informed. Learned a great deal about Elephants, the Disney live animal philosophy and the profile of a Disney Guide. Guides seem to love their job. They're tenured employees with years of experience.

Traveling O — Google review

Wonderful. It seems to be inside different worlds, real and fantastic ones.They have recreated the world of Pandora down to the last detail: from the plants to the sounds, to the floating mountains and even the details of the ground. The thematic areas are well represented and I recommend the safari! A place to visit at least once in a lifetime, where you can really feel the connection with nature.

Marcella S — Google review

Went with our daughter and family. Everyone loved it especially the Everest ride! That was too dark and fast for me! Not keen on roller coasters but younger members of the family loved it. The Safari ride was one of my favourites, but get there early. We all loved It's tough to be a bug! Don't miss this.

Peter B — Google review

We had a good time at Animal Kingdom. The safari ride was cool, and the Pandora experience was awesome! My kiddos and husband loved the Yeti ride as well. I felt like the food options were pretty reasonably priced as well, which is so nice. My only disappointment was that I expected more of an animal experience. There are animals and of course the safari but I really thought it would be pretty emersive and it's really not. Overall it was a fun day and we checked it off the bucket list!

Amanda F — Google review

5

Walt Disney World® Resort

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Amusement park

Water & Amusement Parks

Walt Disney World® Resort is a renowned destination that includes expansive resorts, dining options, shops, and four theme parks featuring various rides and shows. The Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World stands out as Central Florida's sole AAA five-diamond resort, offering top-notch amenities from one of the world's leading luxury hotel brands.

Disney is always a beautiful destination but I have some recommendations. My first recommendation is, if you don’t like waiting in long lines buy the lightning pass. Also if you’re a thrill seeker there may be a couple rides for you but they’re mostly shows. Wear comfortable shoes and loose clothing because it will be hot and it’s a big park so there will be a lot of walking involved. Stay hydrated, bring a backpack so you don’t have to carry anything by hand. Lastly but most importantly have fun. All in all it is an experience so enjoy it.

Zelekah N — Google review

I have visited several times Disney World before the pandemic and really enjoyed it. Very Beautiful and lot of activities for Kids and Adults as well. Our recent visit was a little disappointment . We went there last spring break and the park was very busy. It took a long time to get into any rides or activities unless you pay more for the fast lane. Also 2 week’s before the spring break all the parks except EPCOT were fully booked. We’re lucky we’re still able to Book EPCOT because on the start of spring break all the parks were fully booked. Also you need to get a park reservation in advance in addition to your pass tickets to enter the park. And it cost $25 to park your car inside the park. I advise that you install the My Disney application to help you navigate the park. The application gives you update in real time how Long the wait for each rides in the park as well as schedule times of each activities in the park. You can also use the application to buy tickets and park reservation .The fireworks at EPCOT was amazing. Overall still a good place to visit probably better if you go there on off season..

Manny A — Google review

It is a lot of walking and not for the weak. Take your water bottles to refill to save on spending.Overall we had a GREAT time. There are Lightning Lanes available to get on rides faster that cost $20 (like a fast pass). First day was Hollywood Studios then last half of the day Animal Kingdom. Day 2 we went to Magic Kingdom and it's so spread out we did not make it to Epcot. I recommend the Magic Bands because you can basically use it like a pay app on your wrist. We lived it up and used the Magic Bands and charged everything to the room. We liked the Monorail system and took the Ferry Boat back to parking.

Pardeep K — Google review

Oh my gosh this place is nuts. So many fun things to do. The rides, the food, the merchandise. Everything here is so fun and just a great experience. The first recommendation i have is the Magic Kingdom Park, this place is literally magical just like the name says. The next stop is Disneys Animal Kingdom Theme park. And also check out the Epcot Presentation because that is some really cool stuff they’re gonna be doing with the Epcot center

Jordan J — Google review

Disney does a great job at keeping the guest happy. It is the happiest place on earth. The rides are fun, and the shows are great. If you can make it, I'd recommend going at least once. It's my favorite amusement park that I ride the majority of the rides. Bring good shoes and rain gear. It rains a lot in Florida.

Donna M — Google review

Disney World is the pinnacle of family entertainment. There's something for everyone. Every detail is carefully selected. Live music is phenomenal. Food choices galore. We ate lunch in Morocco Pavillion--Outstanding!Buyer beware! Disney is spectacular but exceptionally expensive.

Traveling O — Google review

What is there more to say about The most Magical Place on Earth. It’s my happy place and I love being there. I’ve traveled many places and countries but I can’t stop going to Walt Disney World. Always a great time and new experiences every time I go.

Fred P — Google review

We got to visit WDW, Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure for a recent family Vacation. While our single-day Disney Park visit itself was pricey, incredibly packed, and loosely planned, the park itself was fun. Was fortunate to ride Space Mountain but sadly the fast passes did not quality for most rides we wanted to go on, plus having been sold out for a week beyond even our date of visit.Food was very expensive, but tasty. The Magic Kingdom Parade was really awesome to see as well as the evening castle stage show. Other family members also enjoyed the rides they went on.If you really want to see and do everything at even just the Magic Kingdom, be sure to spend extra for Fast Passes far in advance; otherwise be prepared to wait a bit in line as expected. Even then, with how busy it was, multiple days might be considered to ride everything.The Genie App, while useful, does also have a hamburger menu to show the full list of shops, restaurants, etc., while using it. Also, keep in mind nearly every boutique focuses on take-out ordering so you'll want to make sure you get orders in at least 45 minutes in advance if not more if you're planning meal times - there are to-order lines of course, but you might wait awhile as both on-premises and to-go orders are being processed. It worked well enough - just not the most ideal method for handling crowds in the tens of thousands or more.Overall, still a fun time. Still magical. Not quite the same as being there when young but still had a good time.

Doug F — Google review

The most magical place in the world. Have the best time here, staff were very friendly. The rides were really fun but you do have to wait quite a bit for them which is understandable. Meeting the Disney characters was a wonderful experience. The whole atmosphere is very nice but be prepared to walk a lot. Overall it’s a great place, 10/10 would recommend

Gabrielle P — Google review

We stayed at the Coronado Springs Resort. Father’s Day and our 9 year anniversary and we celebrated in style. It is a lot of walking and not for the weak. Take your water bottles to refill to save on spending. Overall we had a GREAT time. There are Lightning Lanes available to get on rides faster that cost $20 (like a fast pass). First day was Hollywood Studios then last half of the day Animal Kingdom. Day 2 we went to Magic Kingdom and it’s so spread out we did not make it to Epcot. I recommend the Magic Bands because you can basically use it like a pay app on your wrist. We lived it up and used the Magic Bands and charged everything to the room. We liked the Monorail system and took the Ferry Boat back to parking.

Rachael C — Google review

Beautiful resorts. We stayed at the Dolphin for a few days and then transferred to Animal Kingdom Lodge for the rest of our stay. Loved them both. We also spent time visiting the other resorts. Each were unique and offered something different. There are several free modes of transportation as well. Boat, monorail, skyliner, and buses that can take you to each of them.

Christine A — Google review

Absolutely thrilled to share my enchanting experience at Disney’s Magic Kingdom! From the moment I stepped into the magical realm, I was whisked away into a world of pure delight. The attention to detail in every corner of the park is truly astounding; it's as if fairy tales came to life! The heartwarming character encounters left me feeling like a kid again, and the exhilarating rides were a true adrenaline rush. But what truly set this trip apart was the impeccable service – from cheerful cast members to the meticulously clean and organized attractions. Every moment was like stepping into a dream. Disney managed to capture the essence of joy and wonder and transformed it into an unforgettable reality. This trip was nothing short of a spellbinding journey, and I'm already counting down the days until I can experience the magic all over again!

Lynn M — Google review

THE HALCYON IS THE GREATEST DISNEY EXPERIENCE OF ALL. I was a guest on the Halcyon. Hands down the single greatest Disney experience we have ever had. Worlds above any other. We wanted to book another Halcyon cruise immediately but found out they were closing. A huge loss. So many of our friends had not heard of the Halcyon and would have liked to go after hearing of our experience and seeing our photos. The cast was excellent. Every member of the crew was cheerful, attentive and helpful. The rooms were spectacular. The food wonderful.

Kaijugal K — Google review

We absolutely loved it here for our first time the staff and characters were all nice and friendly my son got to meet Cinderella and the actress was so patient with him and extremely kind knowing he had autism….I’m still gonna 5 stars my only complaints was every including food and drinks are crazy expensive my hubby bought to regular size soft drinks andIt cost him near $10 for just 2 sodas….. my other complaint would be the guest services didn’t give me the correct information

Ashley S — Google review

Amazing! The pictures do not do justice to how much detail and effort goes into these parks! Always clean, staff is easy to find for questions and transportation between parks is super easy! Had a blast at 4 of the Disney parks!

Tommy B — Google review

Disney World is a favorite vacation spot, it is such an incredible experience! You absolutely get what you put into it. There are crowds so remember to pack your patience and to dress comfortably, and definitely consider buying the Lightning Lane passes, it can help streamline the day a bit.

Mary W — Google review

Absolutely enjoyed every second spent here. Who said Disney’s not for adults, I could tell you, it sure is. Awesome spots for food with various choices and a lot of places to choose from to shop. From was one of my favorite rides.

Omer S — Google review

Wow. Just wait. We absolutely loved our visits to Magic Kingdom. It truly is the most magical place on Earth. The staff are very friendly. It's kept very clean. Prices are typical of the type of theme park. The selection of rides is very good. I'd recommend the Barnstormer. It's very good for those that meet the height restrictions. We cannot wait to come back again.

Steve H — Google review

It was a great time, as always. The first day of our honeymoon was spent at Magic Kingdom. We had a fun week. Crowds weren't very high in mid-August. We rode everything we wanted to ride, watched shows, and got plenty of photos around the parks with memory maker. We went to each park and also went on the Disney Wish.

Nikki G — Google review

I recommend going prepared to walk and remember to drink plenty of water. Everything is very magical and beautiful. The food is not tasty and total fast food!!so don't think you're going to eat well.The parade at night is worth staying to see the end of the fireworks but I advise you to leave 10 minutes before it ends because the queues to get out of the island get huge.

Nara M — Google review

Walt Disney World Resort is comprised of multiple theme parks, each with separate entry costs. I truly believe that everyone - from all around the world - should visit each park at least once to experience the magic that has been created there. Multi-day and multi-park tickets offer incredible savings for multiple visits, so definitely plan your trip.

Joshua ( — Google review

It is one of the best places in the world! Am so in love with the multiple parks and the ease of hotel access between the parks with shuttles. Great packages and heaps of fun. Have always loved being a pass holder, and the water parks are an added bonus.

Brielle J — Google review

The rides and atmosphere is fabulous. Food at quick service is too repetitive. Very few gluten free choices in quick serve. Chefs are great trying to help. Dislike seeing Starbucks and other chains within the park. Please consider Colonial period correct clothing. Dresses were wrinkled and ill fitted. Disney should represent the USA in a more dignified manner. Landscaping is very nice, too.

Ames — Google review

Our family has loved Disney World through the years. As the kids have grown up we have found new ways to enjoy the parks. On our last trip we stayed at the newly renovated Grand Floridian. Excellent vibe. Nice to have options to getting into the parks: boat, monorail, bus, and walking. Well worth the extra expense of staying at a nearby Disney property.

Sunset S — Google review

Went in 2021.It's definitely worth it for kids.Make sure to go when the ☁️ is nice. It started to rain halfway during the day, and kind of slowed everything down. But, the views of all of the structures are fantastic.Purchase tickets ahead of time.Rides are mostly for kids.Make sure to take the ferry ⛴️ to arrive at the theme park.It's free and a better experience.

Juned A — Google review

Disney, magical encounters with beloved Disney characters and special seasonal events. (Please note that character encounters and seasonal events are subject to change or cancellation.) And starting in April 2023, this will be where Walt Disney World's latest attraction takes place.Knowing the behind-the-scenes and close-up experience of the other part of the reality of this place, we can be aware of things that go beyond our natural perceptions and understanding. It's really magical! Disney's reception is AMAZING.I can experience one of the most incredible and memorable experiences in my life.Knowing behind the scenes and experiencing up close to the other part of the reality of this place, we can be aware of things that go beyond our natural perception and understanding. It's really magical! Disney's reception is AMAZING.

Еаликино А — Google review

It's always fun going expect to pay an arm and a leg, though. 1 star since you have to pay for parking ( 175 a ticket per person, parking should be free) Bring a bottle to fill with water, don't fill from the fill stations go to a store that serves beverages and ask for water, the water from the fill station taste like swamp water. If you have small kids under 40 inches tall go to magic kingdom they have the most rides they can go on for their height.

Korbin — Google review

Always amazing!!! I can do 50 reviews on this place! Here's a quick one... If you're an adult and you think it's only for kids you are wrong! Come out and enjoy the Adult Disney World!! 🙃😁 Pub Crawl the through the Magic Kingdom Resorts! 🍻

Babarazzi P — Google review

Disney is really magical!!! Put your walking shoes on, it’s a huge park. We caught the parade so that was beautiful and got to see a lot of characters at once. We did have the 3 park pass, we went to Epcot for food, Hollywood Studio for thrills and Disney for all the magic! I absolutely loved it. Now you can take a small cooler with drinks and food. You don’t have to spend a lot once you’re in the park. It is worth it for sure to get the fast pass so don’t miss out. I can’t wait to go back!!! Do not miss out on the firework show, get there at least 1 hour before and get a spot to view. It will be the best part of your whole day 🫶🏽🫶🏽🫶🏽

Michelle P — Google review

It is pricey, but after experiencing it we have zero regrets! Disney World is simply exceptional, and there’s honestly nothing else like it. There is literally endless fun to be had! The food, the rides, the shows, the decor, the cast members, everything is amazing :) Even their lost and found program. I filled out their online form, and they found my stuff within 30min. This place is Magical

Christian P — Google review

Amazing. We did Epcot, Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom and Hollywood studios.The rides range from "omg I can't believe this is real" to "this is kind of boring."That was our reaction. Some rides blow you away with how much detail or how realistic the simulation feels...and others are a ride with TV screens. Luckily, the underwhelming rides typically have shorter wait times so you don't feel screwed.My personal favorite ride:(S tier ride is Guardians of the Galaxy. We did this twice in our 5 day pass)Animal Kingdom(Avatar was amazing, make sure to do safari)Hollywood studios(shows were great and rides are awesome)Magic Kingdom(most rides here are really aimed towards kids. Tron was fun for adults and kids alike.)Epcot(cool trip around the world with some awesome rides).A great experience for all at the end of the day. Disney is very efficient with managing the mass amount of people, but that being said, wait times are intense! If you are traveling to visit, you have to get Genie+ and learn how to use it properly!Almost every line, especially ones with long wait times have air con.Photographers are in all parks ready to snap pictures of you and your family!

Pacs — Google review

Early entry (resort stay) great day going around trying food and drinks. Been a long time since I've been here. Tron was definitely a great ride. My favorite part of the park hands down.

Xavier T — Google review

Walt Disney World is perhaps the best theme park around. We visited during September of 2023, although I feel like I need to share my experience even now.For starters, there's 4 theme parks (not including the water parks), and many things to do. Our favorite park was Magic Kingdom, with Hollywood Studios as a close second. There's plenty of things to do, whether you're an adult or a child.The last time we went before our trip last year was 2015, so it was our first time seeing Toy Story Land, the new EPCOT and Magic Kingdom rides, as well as Pandora. The highlight of the trip by far was Cosmic Rewind in EPCOT: this is a must do. We stayed at the Grand Floridian, which I would not recommend at the price point, especially due to ongoing construction. There's plenty of more affordable hotels that have a bus directly to all 4 theme parks. The one thing we found nice about the Grand Floridian was the walkable path to Magic Kingdom. It's about a 10 - 15 minute walk depending on how fast you go, and leads directly to Magic Kingdom. I don't recommend walking during the afternoon as it gets pretty hot (unless you go during December - March), but it's definitely nice early in the morning or late at night. Since our trip, they've limited how strict park hopping and reservations are, but be aware this still exists, and can be annoying if you want to park hop earlier.If you've made it this far, I want to talk about the cons now. For starters, we have noticed a quality decline in the parks since our last visit. This was anywhere from rides being broken down more frequently, to actual quality issues on rides such as Pirates and Small World. For the amount you're paying, it's clear Disney is not upping their investment in keeping the parks as clean as they used to be. I mean, the Aladdin Carpet ride in Adventureland was making literal squeaking noises as it went up and down. While these may be small issues to many, if you're paying tens of thousands of dollars to go here, you expect the same level of quality for as much as you're paying. Last example I'll give (there were many more) was EPCOT. It seems to be fine now, but during our trip, there were construction walls everywhere due to them redoing the center area of the park. It was very hard to walk around the park due to practically every path being limited by some sort of construction wall, which made crowd levels in these already small paths really bad.Overall, I would give our trip a 4/5, with 1 star taken off due to our hotel experience, and an obvious degrade in quality over the years. Still, this is one of, if not the best theme park you can visit.

David — Google review

Walt Disney World Resort is like stepping into a magical world! It's filled with enchanting attractions, beloved characters, and unforgettable experiences. The attention to detail is incredible, and there's something for everyone, from thrilling rides to charming shows. It's a place where dreams really do come true! 🏰✨

Noorul ( — Google review

This is the kind of hotel that raises the bar for other hotels. It's thoughtfully appointed, it doesn't have all the extra frills but it doesn't NEED it. You have a clean and spacious room (love the sitting areas) a comfortable bed, plenty of pillows and bedding. Clean smelling and very new looking. Felt welcoming. Was quiet. Their breakfasts were fantastic, complete with a little play area for the littles. But the most important part was the service, everyone was so kind and polite. I felt appreciated. They surprised me with a little something for my birthday.I would recommend this hotel to anyone staying in the theme park area.

Angie N — Google review

Overall, I don't think this place is worth the money. If you don't buy a fast pass to bypass main lines, you'll be stuck for hours waiting in lines. Or you'll walk miles in between rides or places. Food is expensive, not that good, and lack of public water access to drink is sad. Feels so much like a money grab. And in the day of artificial intelligence, they need more interactive things for people. Tron and guardians of galaxy rides were a highlight.

Shawn S — Google review

In one word, Expensive! That said it was lovely, our room was nice. Grounds were nice. Park was great. Nice transportation from area to area. Amazing staff. Food was good in upper tier restaurants, not so much in lower tiers.

Marianne N — Google review

You go back to being a child. You see all your favorite movies and characters. It made me emotional to experience this!! Amazing attention, amazing atmosphere, the food is amazing and just in general a wonderful experience. Be mindful of the weather!!

Kate G — Google review

It has so many rides and adventures! I visited in 2018,and I'm just now reviewing it.The Tower of Terror looked so scary,I didn't go on it. The iconic teacup ride was awesome and lucky I didn't get to dizzy.The Cinderella castle looked grand and was a great icon of the Disney franchise.Sure tickets are were like $250 per person in 2018, But it was a great day!I would totally recommend going to Disney world which is not far from Orlando! Great experience!

Krish T — Google review

First time here and a time was had. I was solo and not to do what I wanted (well maybe not all cuz of the wait times 😅) but I had fun. Will definitely be back and plan better. Also need better shoes for all the walking

Kelly N — Google review

We have the annual pass for Disney parks and it is truly a beautiful experience every time we go with our kids.On weekends, we take advantage of the waterparks, especially on the warmer days. You have to stay and see the fireworks in the evening. It’s definitely something magical 😊

Diana M — Google review

Put simply, the greatest place on Earth. Disney go to extraordinary lengths to make your visit as perfect as possible, there are so many little things they do that contribute to it all. The staff are incredibly friendly and so nice to everyone, it makes it a wonderful place to visit.

Jonny 5 — Google review

My wife and I recently visited Walt Disney World, and it was an absolutely magical experience. Each park offered its own unique charm, from the enchanting Magic Kingdom to the adventurous Animal Kingdom. The cast members were incredibly friendly and went above and beyond to make our stay perfect. The dining options were fantastic, with a variety of delicious meals and unique themed restaurants. We especially enjoyed the character dining experiences. The attention to detail in the parks was remarkable, and the nightly fireworks and parades were breathtaking. Overall, our visit to Walt Disney World was a five-star experience filled with unforgettable moments. We can't wait to return and create even more memories in the happiest place on earth.

Fazzix L — Google review

Went with my adult(?) Sons. We all had a blast. StarWars the best!Tron was the longest wait for them, while I shopped.The one coaster I rode, Guardians of the Galaxy Ride was a blast, but Don't think I want to do it again. Great for the under 60 group lol.

Ellen R — Google review

It's getting back to what it should be before they got greedy. Love going to all the parks. We we skipped AK this time due to weather but with annual passes we can go a different time. EPCOT'S festivals are amazing & you go near the end of one you can catch both with the flowers.

Deborah D — Google review

I hadn't been in 11 years, and it was just as fun as back then. Great experience. Staff is amazing! I actually went around the world twice! It was the Flower & Garden Festival while I was there, and if you haven't seen it, it's an absolute must!

Renee V — Google review

Visited Epcot center with family on June 17th. It is a very memorable experience to visit and see the various cultures depicted in one park with plenty of amazing opportunities to capture memories. Never a dull moment.For those who may need wheelchair there are both motorized and regular options. Motorized one costs $85. They will refund $20 once you return it with the key and the receipt.There some criticisms that are reserved for the Disney World App and the inbuilt options to purchase the Lightning lane, Virtual Queue and Genie plus were not at all intuitive.I can imagine even tech savvy folks struggling to make sense and asking questions such as “if that’s what I selected then why is this not happening??” Or “what is the reason for preventing me from entering this virtual line or booking a lightning lane for this show if I have already paid for it?”Also, many of the restaurants are super overpriced as if it’s also a once in a lifetime experience or expense so people will fork out bushels of cash for it!! Insanely expensive!! What makes them think that Millionaires will come to Epcot center to have their lunch?!?!?!There are some select locations I identified where normal people who are NOT filthy rich can have normal healthy food!Go to the location where they have Soarin and there they have multiple food options including some for vegetarians.

Manoj M — Google review

😁 Magical? Yes! Affordable? Sure.So our trip was during the pandemic. Many of the attractions were open. Some weren't. We had to schedule an event in advance but still had to wait an hour or more even with the appointment. The ones that were open got closed because it rained every day. Still Awesomeness!! We had parades and Disney characters to meet. Bunches of walking so if you have a handicap plan ahead as there are rental devices available IF you planed for it. We got to fly into space in a Star Wars ship. We got shot down and managed to land safely😁. We met aliens too!Seriously if you've never been there you owe it to yourself to JUST GO!!We have pictures and I'll share them here when I can

Terry B — Google review

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6

Epcot

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Theme park

Epcot is a Disney theme park that was created with Walt Disney's vision of an Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow in mind. The park has two distinct sections, Future World and World Showcase, which showcase interactive exhibits sponsored by corporations and the cultures of 11 different countries respectively. Compared to other parks, Epcot has a more laid-back atmosphere and is known for its excellent food and shopping options.

Had an amazing time at Epcot, the weather was hot but there was lots of shade and air conditioned shops. The queue for the rides were average . We had a great time as a family looking for the eggs around the world. There were lots of things to do and see from all cultures around the world. We also tried to find as many of the golden statues as we could and enjoyed the spectacular show at the end of the day! Great time all round

Sean M — Google review

One of our favorite parks: however, not in July when it is 95+ with 60+% humidity. Rise of the Guardians is the newest ride - important note use the app to join the virtual cue early in the morning!! We didn't do our research and had to wait until 1 pm to join the cue, finally able to physically join the cue at 715 and on the ride by 815. All I can say is WOW!! Fantastic, fast paced indoor coaster that will take your breath away!! I was thankful the rides are indoors so escape the heat. Once you get to the back of the park to visit the countries, there are a few rides but not many. We ate in England - fish and chips, dessert in Belgium and water in every location we could. They are doing the Food and Wine Festival until Oct 2022 and while there was a good variety available, the cost of eating at multiple places added up quickly. I wish they would have had a pay 1 price and eat as much as you wanted. We missed the show on the Lake - Harmonious because we were in line for Test Track which ultimately went down just before it was our turn. We will be back, but in the heat of July....

Cynthia W — Google review

While visiting Epcot Orlando, I found that it may not be the best place to be if you're not particularly interested in learning about other countries' traditions and cities. The park's main focus on cultural exploration may not appeal to everyone. Additionally, I noticed that there were only a few rides that kids might truly enjoy, which limited the entertainment options for families.I have to say, I was quite disappointed with the Lightning Pass system. It seemed like a bit of a rip-off, as they only allowed you to use it for a maximum of two or three rides, and then you couldn't use it again. It didn't provide the flexibility and convenience that I was hoping for.Furthermore, the snacks and items available for purchase in the shops were pretty expensive. It would have been nice to see more affordable options for visitors on a budget.One aspect that stood out to me was the lack of provision for hot and bad weather. Unlike other parks like Universal, Epcot Orlando didn't offer opportunities to cool down with periodic water sprays or misters. This made enduring the hot weather quite challenging and uncomfortable.Considering these factors, I personally wouldn't consider Epcot Orlando the best choice for a memorable vacation. I would recommend exploring other attractions and destinations that align more with your preferences and interests."

A A — Google review

October 2023A trip to EPCOT felt like a trip around the world. I found unique, authentic, and eccentric food and merchandise items. It was fun to re-explore this park where always found something new, and with the current construction going on I may have to return. There were some new attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind (Virtual Queue or Lightning Lane purchase only) and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure (Genie+ preferred).Sadly I did not see as many street performers versus the last time but seems a bit more food options. I did enjoy sampling different Coca-Cola products from around the world and too bad cold not buy the one that tasted like cucumber & Sprite. The food was really good and fun to experiment. The cast members are also from all over the world and very nice and friendly, and wasn’t sure they even spoke English but nodded and smiled.Some of the hidden places either I forgot or never explored was The Land where I rode the Living with the Land. There was a huge atrium with a restaurant called Garden Grill Restaurant, and saw some Disney characters greeting guests.The front section of EPCOT had been renovated and still is where the gift shop was huge. Spaceship Earth looked amazing at night with the LED light display. There was a lot to see and experience where in the past we stayed at Disney’s Boardwalk Inn where recommend it where you can walk to EPCOT.The park is kept very clean and not as congested like theater parks for very easy to walk around.

Paul D — Google review

Fantastic experience for the family. Disney does everything great! The lines for some of the more popular rides are long but that's to be expected. They do a great job of entertaining people in the lines. They think of everything and more. If you can make reservations ahead of time it's recommended. We found a bunch of gluten and dairy free dining options. Hope to come back again someday.

Marcus T — Google review

Epcot is a very beautiful, modern park with great attractions and a unique feature: several "stations" representing countries from around the world, with souvenirs and typical food. The rides are very cool, and some offer lighter options for those who don't want too much adrenaline. Additionally, its closing show is extremely beautiful. It's a very large park, and you'll do a lot of walking (like in the others), so always have a water bottle on hand. It's very hot in the middle of the year.

Leonardo N — Google review

Loved this park and the rides. Loved the food as well. As you walk around the lake, each country has its own pavilion, offering food and drink from that country. There's even a British pub, so we had to go in there. I would deffinately recommend staying for the firework display, they were amazing.

Nigel A — Google review

Enjoyed my time at Epcot!! Check out the Disney photo pass when you first enter & have some amazing photos taken. Saw a great show performance as soon as I entered the park. Lots of great stuff to do with the family!

Dj D — Google review

My favorite Disney Park! I love traveling around the world and tasting all the food and sipping different drinks. I've enjoyed the flower festival and the food and wine festival. Can't wait to go back again and again. Guardians of the Galaxy and Ratatouille are my favorite rides.

Misi — Google review

My favorite Disney World park! So beautiful with gorgeous landscaping. Very relaxing to walk around, even when it's busy. I think it has the best overall layout too, and some of the best food options of all the parks. Some very thoughtful and unique attractions too.

Ersin S — Google review

Disney is no doubt one of the most magical places on earth! We loved "traveling" through and sight seeing all the different countries portrayed in Epcot. They do such a wonderful job bringing the unique experience as you travel the park. We loved going into the shops and trying the different foods and drinks. We had a wonderful time and can't wait to go back

Katie H — Google review

A lot of kiosks were closed. One joffee coffee kiosk had employees that would rather talk than serve customers. They had a bee in the muffins/ cookie container and did not seem to care.The rest of my visit was great.We went to nine dragon restaurant and the service and food were excellent. Wish i knew our server name, she was the best. Food hot and delicious. They even made sure what we ordered did not contain or cross contaminate due to allergies.The characters had personalities as usual and even though i am an adult i love them. The person in them make them come alive. I will visit again. So much to do, but put on your walking shoes and stay hydrated.

Velvet C — Google review

It's simply amazing. Love how you can walk around the world and eat and drink foods from all over the world. if attending the food and wine festival, you're in for a real treat!Rides are great, shows are great, and the fireworks are superb!

Chinn3rs T — Google review

I went to Disney World with my sister in late August, and Epcot was amazing! It seemed like going around the world, going to countries in which Disney movies reside! From the imaginative rides to meeting different characters, it was amazing! (I missed a few characters to meet, but I'll come back in a few years with my mom and get the ones I missed.)

Jacob A — Google review

Had a great time! Loved the International theme, people, and food! Rides are some of the best in the USA. Had a lot of marathoners in the morning running through the park which was a hassle but Disney made up for it with free parking. Thanks Walt! 😊

Jeff P — Google review

This is the best theme park that I’ve ever been to! Guardians is the best coaster that I’ve ever ridden! Test track is awesome too. I recommend using the Disney vacation club thing to get in late. I was able to use it and get into Epcot from 7pm to 1am and got free snacks, drinks, and experiences. Best time of my life. And also I got on guardians twice. Once at 8pm and another at 1am. Thanks for it mom and dad. Disney is awesome

Landon J — Google review

Amazing park! It’s like a science centre + aquarium + mini world travel type of park. They have lots of food options with great quality. The varieties of food is much better than the other 3 parks.There’s less rides in this park per Se, but most rides are very informative.I enjoy the butterflies garden!

Ming — Google review

Must visit park of Disney worldAwesome landscaping of gardenAll characters of Disney available to meet at different times different locations, easily we can get timings by visiting Disney app.Fire work and traveling in ferry is beautiful experience..This park is for all age group people..

Chetna R — Google review

My favourite park to visit! The food and wine festival was a lot of fun. So many delicious treats to try! Was pretty busy but the park is very spread out so it didn’t feel super crowded.

Laura B — Google review

First time back to Epcot in over 30 years. Still my favorite park. There are so many delicious things to try at each of the countries represented. Epcot has some nice rides and attractions too. Christmas must be the best time to go there because there's so much more to do. There are also a lot more adult beverages to try for the holidays. Definitely the best park for the grown ups.

Heather D — Google review

Epcot has always been a wonderful park to visit. My favorite time of year is the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival. My teenagers love Test Track and I love Soarin’ but don’t forget the rides and shows in the countries around the world. There are also characters to meet along the way. Phenomenal dining choices. Plus there’s a Food and Wine Festival! Regardless of your age, there’s something for everyone!

Melissa F — Google review

First time visit in 30 years. Enjoyed the experience with two amazing people. Take your best people and a lot of room on your credit card😉😀. We spent the weekend at the Dolphin Resort making access to and from the park attractions easy via walking or boat. The fireworks show at the end was easily seen from the boardwalk. Try the food and drinks around the world. You will not be disappointed.

Troy D — Google review

Drinking around the world was so awesome! This was my first time at Disney and I will add its better to have someone with you and knows where they are going rather than trying to navigate yourself. It was a great self love trip/experience! Oh, also, the Ratatouille ride is super cute! You MUST try! The Souring ride is also super awesome. I felt like I went everywhere I needed to go without a passport! Lol And the fireworks at the end are super cool. Music, screens and water works. Well worth it!

Debbie Z — Google review

Epcot was super nice! Great park to chill and walk around with your family and friends. If you are a foodie, this is the park for you. They host their annual food and wine festival which unfortunately I didn't get the chance to experience because it started after the day I left. But there's always next time! The rides are pretty good too, especially their new, thrilling Guardians of the Galaxy ride.

Jenny N — Google review

Probably one of the best parks overall. Not as many rides as Magic Kingdom but the Guardians of the Galaxy ride was amazing and the food everywhere was great plus the AC on the buildings helped a lot especially on day 3

Z — Google review

Epcot is nothing short of a breathtaking journey through cultures, innovation, and imagination. From the moment you step foot in this incredible park, you're transported to a world of wonder and excitement.The World Showcase is a true marvel, offering a vibrant tapestry of cultures from around the globe. Each pavilion is meticulously crafted, providing an authentic experience that celebrates the diversity of our world. Whether you're strolling through the cobbled streets of France or admiring the architecture of Morocco, every corner of the World Showcase is a testament to the attention to detail and dedication of Disney Imagineers.The Future World section of Epcot is a celebration of human ingenuity and innovation. From thrilling rides to interactive exhibits, there's something to captivate visitors of all ages. The Spaceship Earth attraction is a particular standout, offering a captivating journey through the history of communication and human progress.The staff at Epcot are a shining example of Disney's commitment to exceptional guest service. They're friendly, knowledgeable, and go above and beyond to ensure every guest has a magical experience.Whether you're a fan of thrilling rides, a lover of culture and exploration, or simply looking for a place to create unforgettable memories with loved ones, Epcot is the perfect destination. It's a place where dreams come to life, and every visit promises a new adventure. I can't recommend Epcot highly enough, and I'm already counting down the days until my next visit to this enchanting world!

Joe T — Google review

Epcot has many cool aspects to it and one good ride Mission to mars, but overall it's overpriced and kid oriented. Disney doesn't need my money and I probably won't be back (universal is better for adults)

William J — Google review

Epcot is going to be on the top of my list to return and go through the different countries for an entire day. I definitely didn't have enough time in the day to enjoy everything this place has to offer!

Chase A — Google review

As an annual pass holder, this is my favorite park at Disney World. There are different themed festivals going on here yearly and the best things about them are the food and drinks. The festivals are what I believe make this park the best. You can't get bored at this place since there's always something fun and exciting happening 😄 This is a beautiful park and I will always choose this park first to visit before the other parks.

Maritoni O — Google review

A very fan way to spend a couple of days. One day for the front of the park with all the thrill rides and one for the world showcase where you can eat and drink stuff from many different countries. I recommend the fish and chips in Great Britain.

Chris M — Google review

🌎Food, Festivities, & Fun🌎Epcot is one of my favorite parks. I'm a big foodie and I love attending the seasonal food events year-round. Lots of unique cultural eats, shows, and attractions to enjoy, along with appearances from Disney characters (most of which are paired with their country of origin). From immersive ride experiences to delicious food, Epcot is well-worth the experience. I highly recommend going during the Food & Wine, Festival of the Arts, or Flower & Garden showcases.

Casey C — Google review

Really nice park but feels the most dated of the 4 Disney parks you can visit. Guardians of the galaxy is a fantastic ride and would 100% recommend. The moana water experience was really well done and we all had great fun controlling the water.

Richie 1 — Google review

My personal favorite of the Disney parks. It's home to guardians cosmic rewind and that ride is just *chefs kiss* perfection.I really like how it's more of a laid back park that you casually stroll around the world exploring each countries stores and little niche Easter eggs. There's something for everyone in the family. Drinks for the adults and frozen for the kids. Park is really pretty at night with the ball lit up as well as moanas little walk through

Joshua S — Google review

Must see if you are coming to DisneyWorld. Visited during spring and enjoyed the International Flower and Garden festival. It's super busy here but not impossible to move and get on rides. Food and craft offerings from around the world. Alcohol is served at this park.

Art B — Google review

Magical experience with my 5 year old. It’s a full day of nonstop fun and memories to be savored, not rushed. Food is astronomically expensive in my opinion but otherwise it’s great value. Waited almost an hour and a half to get into Guardians of the Galaxy ride even though I joined the virtual queue at exactly 7 am. Thrilling ride and worth the wait but it’s a commitment. Having dinner at Space 220 and skipping fireworks, toddler is exhausted!

Jeff D — Google review

Really hot in the summer, but this is a park that adults can enjoy as well as children. Drinking and eating around the world is always a blast! Make sure to bring lots of water to stay hydrated and go on lots of rides (indoors and air conditioned). Fireworks at night was a nice touch.

Gautam K — Google review

It was AMAZING! Can’t wait to go again! The drinks are reasonable price and more than likely taste great. Had a drink from China, didn’t taste all that great. The wait time for rides and character meets were 10-15 min long ! Most attractions are just walk through of exploration so heads up. Not a lot of rides. Get close for the firework show because it is a light show more than anything ! Cool thing i learn was everyone who worked in a certain country are really from there on a representative visa! Cool right ?

Taesia M — Google review

Epcot is by far my favorite park! The Food and Wine Festival is amazing, there's so many options, most less than $10. There's something for everyone! The recent updates are great, the Moana interactive water feature is so fun for kids! There's a ton to do for kids and it's also perfect for an adults only night out.

Kati W — Google review

Everything you hear about it is true. Amazing rides and shows (firework and light show finale is truly stunning). Park is kept spotless, and beautifully maintained. Hundreds of staff are always available to help if needs be. Negatives is it's not cheap, make sure you book things in advance if you can, even so expect to do a lot of queuing. Also expect to do a lot of walking!

Ian Y — Google review

We went for the flower festival and it was quite fun. However, as a person with a disability I would have expected more from this park. I routinely encountered issues getting on rides because the staff was not clear on boarding procedures. They also simply assume that everyone in a wheelchair is someone that can walk, but simply chooses not to out of convenience. Rides like test track were an absolute nightmare to get in and out of, and I ended up taking a chunk out of my leg doing so. Not a massive one, but enough to bleed for over an hour and require a bandage. Disney really needs to step up their accessibility, because the Universal Parks completely obliterate them in this aspect. Not to mention that it took over 40 hours of waiting on the online chat to get pre-screened for accessibility. I thought that was absolutely pathetic. I'm being very relaxed with my review here, and trying to set aside those negative experiences. It's a nice place and a decent venue when on vacation. But it doesn't quite deserve the massive praise that it gets. There are many, many flaws with this park if you have any kind of disability.

James R — Google review

My favourite Disney park! Been coming since I was a child on our family holidays to here most summers. The fireworks here on a night are fantastic and a MUST SEE! All the rides are amazing and informative! PS. If you’re a thrill seeker then you must ride Test Track, Mission Space and Guardians of the Galaxy: cosmic rewind. For family’s who enjoy informative outings and to ‘explore the world’ this park is excellent (United Kingdom is my favourite pavilion but that might just be me being biased as I’m from the UK). A must do park! The photos and videos attached are from July 2023. We will be returning to the park in 2025!

Daniel E — Google review

We went to the flower and garden festival and it was so fun. Lots of good food and the atmosphere was amazing. Super fun but lots of walking obviously. It definitely was busy but that’s just the nature of Disney. I would say you should strongly consider getting the Genie+ passes because it really does save you a lot of time and is worth it if you figure out how to work the system. Overall, really fun trip and would do it again a million times.

Ava E — Google review

The restaurant we went to in the Italian area was awesome. We enjoyed seeing the parts of the world. Epcot offered some rides that were similar to Disney Magical Kingdom. One was in Mexico and reminded me of The Small World ride, except it had Donald Duck with friends. We also had fabulous pastries in Norway. My daughter had to try some Japanese dishe and also purchased a beautiful kimono. It's a great family experience for all ages.

Joleen — Google review

On a gray, blustery Spring Break Friday the park was as quiet as I've seen it in YEARS! It was great - no lines, great food and a good time! The flowers were amazing too- absolutely lovely wherever you looked!

Laura B — Google review

Taste of the world 🌎 and very authentic!! Great scenery and tons of shopping.The rides were a mix of high tech and nostalgia.Guardians of the Galaxy was worth the lighting lane purchase. MUST Experience!!!Fun for everyone.

Chris T — Google review

For a Orlando Family Vacation, Epcot is the absolute best! Beautiful Architecture and scenery in this park such as the mini replicas of the world’s countries and the famous Spaceship Earth. So many food options and would definitely recommend going to the taste testing fountain to see how good Beverly is 😉. Long waits but overall they were worth it. If possible, absolutely try your hardest to make it on the Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind queue, it is the best theme park ride ever! Better than Hagrids! Very good experience.

Elijah O — Google review

Food from around the world. Drinks from around the world. The best place I believe to have a relaxed day at any of the Disney parks. Not as many rides as the other parks. But more picture opportunities if you want around the world pictures. Disney characters are present at certain countries. But the best pictures I take are with the replicas of architecture and lands of other countries squeezed into this park.

Yves P — Google review

1st visit, and it was an epic adventure as well as an epicurean delight. Their annual Food and Wine festival was taking place and what a delight to "eat & drink" my way around the world! Also several fantastic rides.

J. C — Google review

Very cool! Wish I would have gotten there earlier in the day so I could explore everything. There's so much to see/do/eat/drink! Can't wait to go again!

Heidi M — Google review

Disney EPCOT is a must go place in your life. Lots of fun there and kids love it. I enjoyed very much. The mini world is fun. Very busy place and basically the whole world is there. Fireworks and light show is wonderful. It would be one of the best memories in your life.

Stanley C — Google review

So much to do and so many foods to try! Always love the fish and chips in England and of course a baguette with butter in France! Soarin is one of my favorite rides. The fireworks and laser show is stunning.

Paul M — Google review

Early entry through the hotel was nice. Use the virtual pass. I’ve been once years ago when the kids were little and they barely remembered, seeing them enjoying Epcot as adults was amazing. Sample foods and drinks from the countries and enjoy meeting a world of people visiting. Oh, and the beautiful architecture and flowers are gorgeous.

Terry B — Google review

Epcot is often the most underappreciated of the Disney parks, but it has many things to keep your family entertained. From the new Journey of Water to the classic tour around the world.Then, when Food and Wine is happening, the world side becomes even more fun.While you will have more crowds and more inebriated people to deal with, it's worth the enjoyment of trying foods and drinks from around the world in one location.

Josh S — Google review

The amount of information about ecosystems and sustainability was incredible! Very educational, touching and a lot of fun! Didn't manage to see even half of the park in 1 day, so will definitely come again. The guardians of the galaxy are extremely popular, so join the virtual queue early on.

Lucia P — Google review

I loved this park. I believe this is one of the coolest Disney parks and is on the same level as Hollywood studios. I like Hollywood studios more because I think I had more opportunities to see characters in the entire parks. And the themes are so realistic that I felt like I was living inside that world. But the roller coasters and rides at this park are definitely great.

Sabrina S — Google review

Epcot at Walt Disney World is another great park. Fun rides, has some really good restaurants, and lots of shops.Where else can you see so many countries in once place.This park always has events and little concert shows going on. Always just the website.Make reservations for the restaurants beforehand on their app as they do fill up.

Scott J — Google review

Fantastic experience! The Guardian of the Galaxy ride is a must. Pro tip! Booking your virtual lane and buying the Lighting Lane will allow you to ride this ride twice in one visit. Definitely recommend it! ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 🎢 😍

Simon H — Google review

I could see the appeal of going here if you are unable to travel globally. All employees in a 'country' have to be from the country they are representing to work there, which gives a fun 'authentic' experience. However, there's very little to genuinely look at and don't be surprised that there's only a small handful of rides

Samantha J — Google review

7

Magic Kingdom Park

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Water & Amusement Parks

Disney Parks & Activities

The Magic Kingdom is a renowned theme park within WDW, consisting of six themed lands that include rides, parades and costumed characters. It's known for its iconic Cinderella Castle, as well as popular attractions like Space Mountain, Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean. The park offers nightly fireworks displays that illuminate the castle and Main Street USA. Geared toward young children and their families, the Magic Kingdom provides an immersive Disney experience with a focus on storytelling and mythology.

An absolute must visit for adults and kids big enough to walk on their own.We started on Epcot and moved to Magic Kingdom (two grown adults) we spent over 10 hours in a single day between the two and didn’t even get to see half of magic kingdom (we did no rides just sight seeing and food stops)If you have kids start at magic Kingdom and plan no less then one full day, several if you have the time. As two adults in Epcot eating/drinks as we got hungry or thirsty and without any concern for cost we spent about $300 above the cost of parking and entry tickets. (Adult beverages and two “meals”).A final note, if you go absolutely plan to stay for the firework show. Video and photo do no justice to the visual or audio quality of the display. LED lights in the trees are synced to the projector lights and are synced to the street lights, synced to the projectors on the castle, synced to the choreographed fireworks. All of that on top of an absolutely mind blowing audio set up that resonates from what I imagine is hundreds or thousands of speakers throughout the park. To top it all off you may even see Tinker Belly fly from the castle off into the distance. (Best use of a zip line and LED outfit I have ever seen)Plan ahead so budget isn’t a concern and just plan to enjoy yourself. Bring sunscreen and stay hydrated. (A hat or umbrella to block to sun would go a long way to increase your sunshine stamina).

Daniel R — Google review

We had a great time here with the kids. This was our first visit to a Disney park since we were kids ourselves so there was a lot that we didn’t know.First off, the parades and shows throughout the day are incredibly well orchestrated and the kids loved it. There’s always something to see which is nice.We didn’t go for the photo pass which turned out to be a good choice because all the photos they took of us sucked. We did however buy the genie+ pass that allowed us to book rides ahead of time. If you’re going for only a single day definitely get this to optimize your time.The rides are a little more dated feeling than at Animal Kingdom but the kids didn’t notice.This is the most important thing to know heading in…EVERYTHING COSTS A FORTUNE.Here’s what you should consider bringing with you or buying elsewhere and the Disney prices for each.Portable fans ($30ea)Poncho ($10ea)Water ($3.50ea)Minnie ears ($30ea)Lunch ($15-30ea)Lots and lots of snacks.Have fun :)

Mike G — Google review

They say this is the happiest place on earth... and I fully agree with them!! I have never been happier in my life! All the cast members were super friendly and helpful when I needed them! The characters were all great, sweet and so amazing! All the food here is divine and not to badly priced for a theme park. The rides and attractions are fun and you don't always wait to long, but if it is a long line then they have covered walkways and fans! You can ask almost any guest service or food place for free water if you can't find one of their water fountains. The stores are beautiful and well stocked with a lot of merchandise! I am already planning my next trip! It is well worth it!!

Kyojuro R — Google review

Great park in particular for families. You can ride almost everything with kids older than 5. Only Tron might be something for older kids. But it is also a hell of a ride, highly recommended. Stay of possible until the end, the fireworks are really impressive.

Michael W — Google review

Out of all the parks, this is the one where the cast members and rides feel the most magical. I really enjoy how the parks are back to their old vibe and the cast members truly add to the experience, unlike when they were staffing the park with only college program due to the pandemic. I also noticed that this park is the only one that balances the ratio between lightning lane and Standby Lane when feeding a queue to an attraction. This makes the wait time to be more accurate, if not faster than what's displayed. We attended the Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party and it was worth every penny. Had tons of fun.

Carlos A — Google review

One of the classic parks! Disney parks always deliver.Tron was an amazing ride. Highly recommend it. Really cool structure and recreation of the Tron aesthetic, the weird position you’re in makes for a different and interesting roller coaster experience, and the parts where you go outside was cool.The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train was good too. Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain are always fun. The Space Mountain here is one person per row unlike the one in Tokyo Disneyland which is 2 ppl per row.We also went for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party where you could be at the park until midnight, get free cookies and hot chocolates at a bunch of places, see a bunch of shows and parades, and interact with cast wandering around. The projection mapping on Cinderella’s Castle was fun and spectacular. Christmas vibes were super cute. Space Mountain had Christmas lighting on l and it was cool to see the inside for the first time.

Yuri Y — Google review

i had so much fun! this is my third time here, and every time it never ceases to amaze me. spacious, and lots of fun rides for everyone. lines got sort of long (especially weird for a weekday), so we got the genie + passes, which let us ride many rides and even the bigger ones we rode multiple times. you have to join a line queue for the tron ride- it’s so cool!

Ryelie C — Google review

Incredible place to take the kids. There is a lot to see in this park from rides to attractions. Many options to meet the characters which was a lot of fun. The Magic Kingdom's Starbucks took 45 minutes to get our order; that was a bummer. Magic Kingdom had the most amazing fireworks I have ever seen; they were amazing. Great place to visit with the family just remember to have patience while walking the park.

Sarah C — Google review

Magic isn't only for your children. Adults can live the fairytale too!I proposed to my wife here! We took the back stage tour, we have been on every ride, but we keep finding new things to do and ways to experience the magic!The food isn't healthy, but it is feel good food.A fun way to spend time with friends or family. A great way to make some core memories!Also, the call them fireworks for a reason... 🔥

Sam M — Google review

This is truly a magical place for kids and adults. We spent a day here and had a great time. If you stay at any Disney resort, you can enter the park 30 minutes earlier than the general admission. Download the Disney app to help plan your day at the park.

Kenneth H — Google review

Disney Magic Kingdom is an iconic slice of Americana, offering a magical experience with its themed areas, diverse rides, and various cuisines. Most attractions are geared toward younger kids, with notable exceptions like Space Mountain and TRON for thrill-seekers. The Line Genie service is a huge time-saver, allowing you to experience far more attractions than you would without it. Some rides, like TRON, are not possible to access without it.The park offers three different experiences based on the time of day. Mornings are rushed and ordered, with visitors hurrying to do as much as possible. Afternoons are hot and humid but more subdued. My favorite time is the evening when the lights come up, and everything slows down, creating a more relaxed atmosphere.For the best view of the fireworks, head to the side of the castle where the Walt and Mickey statue is located, near the main entrance. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure a good spot. The area will be quite crowded during and after the show, but it is worth it for the spectacular display.Classic attractions like "It's a Small World" and the Haunted Mansion are still running and dripping with nostalgia. There are plenty of places to get food and snacks throughout the park. I highly recommend trying the Dole Whip if you like pineapple. Note that several sit-down restaurants require reservations that must be booked well in advance.Overall, Disney Magic Kingdom lives up to its name and the hype. Plan ahead, use the Line Genie, and enjoy the enchanting experience.

Kevin H — Google review

If you can only visit one park at Disney, make sure to visit the Magic Kingdom. Brought back childhood memories and even as a group of 4 30+ year old adults we had a blast ! Wait time for Tron was brutal though, as we waited 1 hour 54 minutes for it ( Lightning Lane was sold out ).Highly recommend staying for the fireworks show at night.We did the following attractions ( wait times added too )1. 7 dwarfs coaster . 35 minutes2. Speedway . 17 minutes3. Tron: 114 minutes4. Space mountain . 24 minutes5. Big thunder . 20 minutes6. Haunted mansion . 42 minutes7. Disney concert 15 minutes8. Monsters inc 13 minutes9. Fireworks 30 minutesTake note that the monster Inc is a comedy type show and you may get picked on ( in a friendly way ) so just know that before you go.

Haris Q — Google review

Great experience to have with family and friends. Best place to take if you have kids but I went with adults and we had a lot of fun. Prepare for long lines and a lot of walking but the parades were amazing, and the castle was magnificent. 9pm showcased the fireworks and that was pretty cool. Definitely recommend!

Andy M — Google review

Visited as 3 adults for the opening Mickey's not no scary Halloween party. Having travelled from the UK and not doing the Disney parks this year it wasn't to be missed for a first time experience. Last visit was 7 years ago and it didn't disappoint.Arrived at 4pm, you don't have to make a reservation for special events and rode Haunted mansion, Splash mountain, Big thunder mountain and pirate's of the Caribbean with little to no queue. The event start at 7pm and managed to ride space mountain in the dark and the tea cups with a spooky theme.The check up points for candy were everywhere and you collected tokens to exchange for allergies.Enjoyed the magic of walking down Main Street and soaking the atmosphere all in. Whilst most of the shops were shut to prepare for the event still managed to get some goodies.As for a day in the it's perfect for little ones, adults or those with any additional needs. Plenty to do for all.The event queue for merchandise was hectic so I recommend waiting until later on in the evening if you wish to purchase anything.Don't forget to collect your free print on the way out and if it rains the parade or show may be delayed (which is what we experienced) but wait for it! It's worth it 😊 characters are about in costumes but be prepared to wait for over an hour for some. Elvis stitch, Winnie the Pooh and friends were especially popular. Jack and Sally are in the main theatre and they tend to be the busiest due to the event.

Cara H — Google review

Despite a downpour that push the fireworks until 22:00 the “Happily Ever After” show was amazing. The day was enjoyable with the family despite the 95 deg F temperatures. The highlight would have to be TRON. The night ride in the front seat was outstanding! It was a unique coaster experience on the light cycle.

Jason B — Google review

"Most magical place on earth," still remains true. The entire day was hot & the lines were long at times, but we had a blast at this theme park! We were a bit lucky with the weather because it rained; however, it was still humid it's Florida. Still, there are plenty of air conditioned places for a cool off, water, & other needed supplies. In our opinion, you will not need a lightening lane pass. Those lines were long too & even though some rides said 45/75 minutes on the myDisney app, we never waited longer than 45 minutes. The entire kingdom is clean, staff are always in character, variety of options to shop & eat, & an overall great family experience. Stay for the fireworks show. Place yourselves close to the monorail to see them - thank me later :)

Dr. L — Google review

Magic Kingdom is a realm of pure magic and wonder, where dreams come to life and the heart is forever young. Stepping into this enchanting kingdom is like entering a storybook brought to life.The iconic Cinderella Castle stands tall, radiating a sense of awe and anticipation that sets the stage for an unforgettable experience. The attention to detail in every corner of the park is nothing short of extraordinary, creating a world that feels both familiar and utterly fantastical.The attractions are a symphony of thrills and imagination, catering to guests of all ages. From the nostalgic charm of classics like "it's a small world" to the heart-pounding excitement of Space Mountain, every ride promises an adventure that lingers in your memory.The parades and fireworks displays are a spectacle of artistry and emotion, leaving guests with a sense of wonder and awe. The dedication and talent of the performers are evident in every dance step and soaring note.The staff at Magic Kingdom are the true heart and soul of the park. Their boundless energy, friendliness, and genuine passion for creating magical moments elevate the experience to a level beyond compare. They're the real-life fairy godmothers and wizards, ensuring that every guest feels like royalty.Magic Kingdom is not just a theme park; it's a place where joy knows no bounds, and every corner is infused with the spirit of dreams. Whether you're reliving cherished memories or creating new ones, a day at Magic Kingdom is a day well spent. I can't recommend it highly enough, and I'm already counting down the days until my next visit to this land of enchantment!

Joe T — Google review

It is a huge, very beautiful park with a giant castle as its main attraction. There are some roller coasters and many ways to be entertained. The food is very good and the fireworks show at night is the best thing in the world and a unique experience. You You need to visit it someday, period, because just as the name says, it brings a unique experience for you and all the visitors there. You can also take a photo with several characters that you love.

Vini C — Google review

Magic Kingdom was amazing for where my kiddos are at the rides, and attractions were great. I've heard it is a bit less enjoyable for the older kids as the majority of the park is geared for a younger audience other than Tomorrow Land. Which I can see, however, it is still such a great place to visit and see the location. We loved every minute.

David B — Google review

It's always a magical place. A most see with the family. The experience is amazing. ThePrice is starting to become a factor. 200 a day per person to wait on long lines and hopefully enjoy 3 rides during your day is definitely something that needs to be addressed. Also, charging for geni and only being able to choose one t8me slot at a time instead of being free and choosing 3 at a time definitely does not help.

Frankie C — Google review

The absolute best park in all of Disney! So many iconic rides and things to see. Recently came here for the Christmas party for the first time and it was amazing! The park really lights up and you get the real Christmas feel. Love when it snows it’s unlike anything you’ve seen and a must see!

Christopher C — Google review

We loved it! It definitely brought out the kitten all of us!It's been roughly 20 years since I've been, but it was wonderful to go and show the experience, experienced it as a child and then again as an adult. It was good to see you that some of the stable rides were still standing. It was hard to get on trying no matter what we did. Mountain was awesome! Magic Mountain never disappoints. I would definitely have to take the baby on the teacups and small worlds for good measure. The lines were ridiculous so the genie plus service definitely helped them in some situations but not on all the rides.It's a dry park though, so be forewarned, it's not like the other parks in that regard.King was pretty easy. Just remember where you parked. You can save that in app or on your phone and remember how to get to your tram section.

Moochie M — Google review

Truly one of the best theme parks in the world. A must do for anyone who has the chance to do so!From classic Rides from your favourite Disney movies to new attractions and new takes on old classics. Get your fill of all your Favourite treats like PopCorn, Mickey ice Cream bars and Dole Whips! Meet your favourite Disney characters like Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy. And of course the all too magical fire works at the end of the Day.Ensure you download the Disney world app. It allows you to buy tickets and make reservations. It also gives you a full map of the park and See wait times for rides and see where your favourite Disney characters are in the Park. Through the app you can purchase Disney genie + or the new lighting lane program that allows to you skip the standby lines in most rides.To make the most of your visit, Do your research before going. Watch YouTube videos on “how to Disney World”And remember Disney World is in Orlando Florida. Disney Land is in California. People still make mistakes when purchasing tickets or making reservations.

David R — Google review

The Magic Kingdom Park was a great way to start our vacation. There were so many attractions that appealed to both kids and adults alike. The park catered to all people. It was wheelchair accessible and provided scooters to those who needed assistance getting around. The parade was fun and the amenities were plenty. The park was clean and neat and left me feeling satisfied at the end of the day.

Michael M — Google review

We went to Magic kingdom & had a fabulous time! We were able to be there for Mickeys not so scary Halloween! The kids got to trick or treat! It was such a fun experience!! The wait times were low!! We ended up leaving a little before midnight. It was the best time, no wait for the ferry.

Nicole D — Google review

This was our first time taking out toddlers to Disney. I love the fact that we were able to bring in our own snacks and drinks in our travel cooler. It wasn't that crowded and the Disney Genie Plus Lightning Lanes help cut down our wait for some ridesnot the popular ones though. I would definitely suggest getting familiar with the app prior to your trip. Make sure to also bring an extra charging pack for your cell phone because you will be using it all day for the app. We only had to order lunch once since we came prepared with our own snacks. The rides we were able to get on with our toddlers were pretty good and they enjoyed them. We loved the shows and parades throughout the day. I am glad we did not get the photo pass and would not suggest getting one. Almost every picture they took of us was awful. You will be better off taking your own photos. Our best photos were taken when we offered other families to take photos of them and then they take one of us. My toddlers had a great time and all in all we enjoyed our time here and will definitely be coming back.

Chelle D — Google review

Simply W O WI was here with my wife and our little daughter, having been here once before as a couple a few years ago.An absolute experience for which a single day is hardly enough. There is so much to see here. Starting with rides to different parades, countless restaurants, shows, etc.Simply breathtaking.However, the truth is that the park is not only incredibly large but also incredibly expensive! The Preferred Parking alone costs $50. So we have spent for the one day including tickets & food a total of more than $ 500 - our little daughter had to pay no entrance fee.However, the glow in the children's eyes was absolutely worth it!To see as much as possible, I can only recommend to activate the Genie+ service in advance. It makes planning your day a lot easier.The absolute highlight of the day was definitely the Meet&Greet with Mickey&Mini.

Johannes — Google review

This is the classic Disney park. From the moment you enter and walk down Main Street there is a different feel than any other park. There are endless great snack and food options all over the park and cast members that are present to make your day magical. The mix of old classic rides with newer technology rides like tron is great. The shows are outstanding and the evening show happily ever after is one of the best there is.

Jj P — Google review

Magic Kingdom truly is the most magical place on earth. From the attention to detail throughout the park, right down to the cast members - it’s a wonderful experience.There are lots of food/drink options throughout the park. Some restaurants will take reservations - save yourself a wait and make one in advance if there’s a particular time/place you’d like to dine.Crowds are generally large, however manageable. If you’re not big on waiting in line, I would recommend the Lightning Lane pass (Genie+) and you’ll be able to pack in more and not waste your day in queue.Disney is expensive and that’s a fact. You can bring snacks and empty bottles in and refill with water inside the park to help cut costs. Merchandise prices can vary. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking.Overall, wonderful experience for the first time or the fifth time.

Christina M — Google review

Taking the kids to Magic Kingdom for their first time was definitely a wonderful experience. He all had a great time, enjoyed most of the shows, and literally spent the whole day at the park. At night, it was beautiful to see the castle light up. Everybody was waiting for it to light up, and when it finally happened, the crowd went crazy specially the kids, like they couldn't believe what they were seeing. I would definitely go again soon and also visit the other parks as well. But overall, Animal Kingdom is my favorite Disney park!!!

Naty R — Google review

The magic kingdom park is really magical. The whole park transforms into a virtual reality where you are in Sindbad at one point and in princess world at other. There is something for everyone ; The various thrill level rides, fireworks, parade, meet and greet, the ferry/train ride to enter the park, food, decor!The wait times during holidays are high and may be there is a way to better manage the lines. The app offers interactive games to engage while waiting your turn, but some other interactive acts in the waiting room would be ideal. The park was open until mid-night during the Christmas break so in all we managed to avail much more than we anticipated.Much better than the Animal kingdom. If contemplating where to go first then this is it.The genie plus pass for fast lanes is definitely worth it and pretty reasonable at $30 per person.The park requires physical ID unless the tickets are added to the wallet. Plan accordingly. Ample restaurants and souvenir shops for each attraction.Recommend Space Mountain, Haunted Mansion amongst others.P.S. They do not have the laser show like Disneyland at LA.

Ruchita A — Google review

My daughter and I went for a weekend getaway. We had a blast. All the cast members were very helpful. The weather was beautiful. We are exhausted from having too much fun. We rode every single ride. We had a truly magical time. See ya again real soon, Disney.

Gessica E — Google review

Magical indeed! The park did not disappoint. Although, I do wish we could have enjoyed more rides. But the lines got so long it was impossible for us to wait for hours with two little ones who have very little patience. We spent literally all day there and enjoyed as much as we could.

Eve N — Google review

Magical place for firework!20 + years ago we came to Magic kingdom with toddlers and babies. Now we come back with grown kids and it’s totally different experience.Lots of fun, but it is way too crowded.Some rides were still the same (it’s the small world and few other rides). We enjoyed 7 dwarfs, space mountain and big Thunder mountain rides.The parade was fun to watch and brought us all the memories we had with family.Even after the firework, the park was still crowded so we went on few more rides and left the park after 10 pm. Definitely a magical park that’s worth going to, even with crowds.

Amy K — Google review

No matter how busy the parks were, no matter how hot the temperature was, this park was extremely well-maintained and especially clean! My family and I hadn't been to Disney since 2015, and we had the best time! The entire park smelled nice, everything was run efficiently and cleanly. Since we only had one day, we went to Disney World Magic Kingdom, and Epcot. We chose a few rides to go to, and we loved it! Next time we go, it should be for a few days so we could enjoy it more!

Jessica B — Google review

Fantastic day. Tron was incredible. Do not miss this ride. It blew my mind. Book in the virtual queue as soon as it is open. We also bought a multi pass and used the lightning lanes. So worth the money. We used the Disney app to book rides and organise our day. We were there for 12 hours and still didn't get to see and do everything. Arrive when the park opens. Saved so much time with the lightning pass. The usual type of food for a theme park. We ate in a restaurant there and bought snacks and drinks. I recommend that you take extra snacks because it is a long day and can become expensive. There are water fountains everywhere. We took empty plastic cups to fill up and avoid carrying water bottles. Worked well.

Charlotte W — Google review

Always busy, but never an impediment to have fun. For the shows, go early to get a good spot, especially for the Happily Ever After, an 1 hour and a half is required to get a good spot. And as well, if you’re going twice to the park, you can take advantage as most of the lines are shorter at this time. After the night show, most of the people are leaving, so if you wait, stores are less busy. Keep in my that most of the time is sunny, sunglasses, a cap, or even an umbrella are helpful.

Maria C — Google review

Going to Disney “magic kingdom” it healed my inner child- however the crowds were horrible, staff were very rude, and food was nasty and overpriced. But for a person like me - I did love the experience- watching the parades and seeing the show at 8:30 was great 😊- everything else pretty mediocre- I still however plan to go to other Disney parks- no need to visit this one for a second time.

Lashondp — Google review

Truly the most Magical place on Earth. My four year old was in shock from the moment she saw the castle. We loved every single second of our trip. Will definitely be back. Buy tickets in advance

Tai S — Google review

The Magic Kingdom is definitely the Happiest place on Earth. No matter which one you visit, here or in another country, the park staff are nice and helpful. The prices are a little high for stuff but you can find things that are priced reasonably. If you are having a birthday some food vendors will give you special birthday gifts, things from a birthday cupcake to stickers. They are perfect for the child in you. The food options are great, whether you are a meat eater or vegetarian or vegan, they have excellent options for everyone. Some lines do fill up fast some ride the least popular rides first then go to the more popular ones later in the day. Shaded areas are available around the parks and are a welcome spot to sit or stand while you're waiting for someone to get off a ride. No matter how old or how young you will find adventures around every bend.

Dana P — Google review

I have been going to the Magic Kingdom since I was a kid, first time was 1977.It’s always been a magical place to get away from the real world.Even though the last ten years or so Disney has changed and their reputation has dropped quite a bit, I still love this park.The rides, restaurants, and just the feeling of walking down Main Street USA and seeing the castle even today makes me smile.Always great to get away!

Scott J — Google review

I recently visited Disney's Magic Kingdom with my family, and it was an absolutely enchanting experience. From the moment you walk through the gates, you are immersed in a world of wonder and joy. The attention to detail in the park's design is incredible, making you feel like you've stepped into a fairytale.The attractions are top-notch, catering to both young and old. Whether you're soaring through the skies on Space Mountain, taking a whimsical ride on It's a Small World, or experiencing the classic charm of the Haunted Mansion, there's something for everyone. The parades and shows are spectacular, with vibrant costumes, catchy music, and your favorite Disney characters coming to life.The food options are diverse and delicious, ranging from quick snacks to sit-down meals. I highly recommend trying some of the iconic treats like Dole Whip or Mickey-shaped pretzels. The staff is always friendly and helpful, ensuring you have a magical day.One of the highlights is the nightly fireworks display, which is nothing short of breathtaking. Watching the sky light up over Cinderella's Castle is a moment that will stay with you long after you leave the park.Overall, Disney's Magic Kingdom offers an unforgettable experience filled with joy, excitement, and a touch of magic. Whether you're visiting with family, friends, or even on your own, it's a place where dreams come true and memories are made. I can't wait to visit again!

Q H — Google review

Magic Kingdom @ Walt Disney world in Orlando,Florida. What a magical day! Even brings the kid sparks out of the adults. I believe the adults had just as much or event MORE fun than kids! And for kids it's the most magical experience in person! It's something different. To meet your childhood or modern day all time favorite Disney characters is unspoken words literally! And Disney Characters are complimentary with greeted hugs, conversations, compliments, small stories, and even pictures! How could you EVER forget such experiences. Most definitely an unforgettable experience!. I would definitely purchase tickets before hand and be prepared to walk entirely. Food was great, gifts shops were crazy expensive but expected and worth every happiness my child had.

Sada N — Google review

Not my favorite park but it's still a fun place that I like visiting just because of the rides, food and the castle!Pro tip: Stay hydrated and cool during the very hot days. The FL heat sucks. Make sure to take some mini fans to keep yourself cool since there will be times that you have to wait in line for a very long time. Also, try not to bring a lot of things to carry (if possible). Just bring the essentials if you can. This park can get packed and it should be a good idea to feel comfortable during these times.

Maritoni O — Google review

Incredible... love to come to disney every single time. Don't expect thrill rides, expect quality and a fabulous family experience. The food, the fireworks and iconic views of the castle... its all amazing. The cast members are amazingly kind and helpful. Build memories and come to the parks. It's not cheap is the downfall.... bring your own water bottle for drinks to fill, bring your own poncho for the Florida rain. Recommend to stay on property, many locations and budgets to select from.

Anita E — Google review

We had a blast, we went to eat at the Crystal Palace and saw Pooh, Piglet, Eeyore, and Tigger. The price for Park Hopper was reasonable. We stayed and watched the fireworks and it was awesome to watch. We rode on just about every roller coaster that they had, and the wait times to get onto the rides were reasonable. We also went to Disney Hollywood Studios and we had a blast there as well. Even the wait times for the rides there were reasonable. I would highly recommend Disney World to anyone who comes to visit for a vacation to go there.

Tina R — Google review

The park is beautiful and fun. There are a lot of rides and character encounters.I recommend going in early to have the most amount of time to enjoy the attractions.It is stressful to plan to go to this park because you need to have everything planned by the minute to get your money worth. The price is high and they charge for parking as well.

Steven Z — Google review

We visited the park first during the "After hours" on Monday and then again during regular time on Friday. We could sit in many rides without queue in After hours.So I would suggest if possible, book after hours. You are only going to miss a few rides. We could ride Tron also.During regular hours, there were a lot of people. But the crowd management was excellent. The average waiting time was around 15 minutes. Download the My Disney experience app. It is very useful.Also during regular days, you have to book slot for "Tron" through the app.The fireworks was amazing.Overall a lifetime experience for all.

Vaibhavkumar R — Google review

A truly magical place for the young and old. This is our second visit after many years and it's still fun. More rides, parades and character meets than shows at this park. It can get hot when waiting in the queue, so keep water handy. Use the App to see the current waiting times, ordering food and paying for goods. The Lightning Pass was costly, so I did not our purchase it. The fireworks are worth staying around for.

William L — Google review

The park is exceptionally beautiful, offering an awe-inspiring experience for visitors. It is truly an incredible destination to explore. Despite its vast size, it stands as the most frequented park within Disney, resulting in bustling crowds and lively activity. However, the park's expansive array of activities and attractions effectively accommodate this influx of visitors. While there may be slightly longer queues in some certain areas and at certain times, they do little to detract from the overall enjoyment of the experience.The park's attractions are remarkably entertaining, catering to a wide range of interests and preferences. While it may be particularly appealing to children, adults are also sure to find plenty of excitement and enjoyment throughout. The nightly show is a highlight not to be missed, featuring captivating performances and stunning visual effects. It's worth the wait to witness its splendor.Like other Disney destinations, the park maintains its facilities to the highest standards, ensuring that restrooms are consistently clean and readily available throughout. Additionally, there is a plethora of dining options to satisfy any craving, along with a variety of beverage choices to complement the experience.With its unparalleled beauty, diverse attractions, top-notch amenities, and vibrant atmosphere, the park promises an unforgettable adventure for visitors of all ages, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking magical memories at Disney.

Leonardo N — Google review

Our visit to Magic Kingdom in Orlando was absolutely magical! From the moment we entered the park, the atmosphere was filled with excitement and wonder. The attractions were incredible, with something for everyone to enjoy, from thrilling rides to enchanting shows. The staff were exceptionally friendly and helpful, making the experience even more special. The parades and fireworks were breathtaking and truly captured the essence of Disney magic. Every detail, from the cleanliness of the park to the quality of the food, was top-notch. Magic Kingdom is a must-visit for families and Disney fans alike!

EL_CABE — Google review

We had a magical experience from the enter to exit doors. Superb atmosphere, vibes, attractions; shows and rides, characters, entertainment, facilities, services, and restaurants.The entire family will enjoy every single moment.At the end of the magical journey, it is the fireworks and lovely nighttime spectaculars - at 9:20 PM, the astounding fireworks, extravaganza featuring lights, lasers and amazing special effects would conclude your memorable day.

Raed A — Google review

My first visit and I felt like a kid 😃 My husband and I celebrated our anniversary and it was perfect from beginning to end. It wasn’t that crowded and employee was such a big help throughout the park. The parade was amazing. 🤩 Took pictures with some of the princesses. This anniversary was amazing at Magic Kingdom!!!

Marsha G — Google review

Like other Disneyland park, it is filled with fun and joy for kids and adults. They have strollers and wheelchair rental for those who need it.Majority of cast members are amazing. Of course there will be some who could do better.They have special nights and such, so ensure to check on the app for special hours. Genie + is a must in my opinion. It is a bit pricier, but hey… it really helped in saving time!Food options are most American and quality is meh, but oh well. It’s a grab and go type of thing. Some of their sit down restaurants are great - Cinderella Royal’s Table, Be our Guest etc.

Ming — Google review

Had an excellent time. The lightning pass is huge, and use it wisely. They have water everywhere for the hot days yo buy and drink. Everyone there is helpful and kind to you. The last time I was there was nearly 40 years ago. Things changed a bit lol. If you can watch the fire works at night. Amazing they can pull that off every night.

JJ C — Google review

Amazing! Keeps getting better every year. We went last July and was just incredible. The fireworks at the end of the night are a must see! This park really does make you feel like a big kid. Booked up again for 2025 and cannot wait to see my partners reaction to the castle!! 10/10

Daniel E — Google review

Park was breathtaking. Very surreal. I found a few cons with this park. I found a lot of the employees rude towards people which I don’t know why. Secondly it’s a long walk in between things to do so you can’t do everything in the park in one day as it’s extremely busy. Other than that the park is incredible. Disney does a great job with the whole surreal experience. Would be a 5 star for me but some of the workers shouldn’t be working there especially in a kid environment

Robert F — Google review

What a magical experience ! I enjoyed strolling around the park and also the rides. Everything is very well organized. Plus lots of dining options.One of the best shows was Mickey's Philhar magic. I was amazed by the 3D experience here. A must watch !

Neha K — Google review

Perfect weather and ride times were well managed by the teenagers who used the app to find optimal choices based on wait times.The Tron virtual queue needs to be tightened up. Once it was our turn, we still waited 70 minutes to board. Great ride, though

Bob M — Google review

Magic Kingdom is, well, magical. Lots of characters to meet, lots of rides. The fireworks show is amazing, don't miss it if you only have 1 day at the park! The cast members, all the ones I've met have been extremely kind and helpful.Genie+ is more useful here than any other park due to the sheer number of rides available. We love coming back again and again!

Danielle O — Google review

Our visit to Disney's Magic Kingdom in Florida was absolutely fantastic. After carefully reading reviews, we decided to purchase a 4-day pass and allocate one day to each park, and it turned out to be an excellent choice. Being prepared for a day at Disney means being ready to walk several miles, so comfortable shoes are essential. It's also wise to bring your own water and snacks, as the prices inside the park can be quite steep. Magic Kingdom is predominantly geared towards young kids, making it perfect for families with little ones. The Lightning Lane pass was a great help in managing our time and avoiding long queues, although not all attractions were covered. The highlight of our day was undoubtedly the captivating parade and the mesmerizing fireworks show, which were truly magical and well worth the wait. Additionally, we thoroughly enjoyed the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train ride, Tiana's Bayou Adventure, and meeting numerous beloved characters. It was an enchanting and unforgettable family experience, which was the primary purpose of our trip.

Adele O — Google review

Went on a Sunday during down season and again for Mickey's not so scary on a Tuesday.If you are choosing between one, I'd say do the Halloween party, if your kids can handle some not terribly scary Halloween fun. The parade is great, the amount of candy given out is insane. all the big rides have shorter wait times, and most everything is open.lightening lanes are worth buying as lines can get ling

Ryan B — Google review

8

SeaWorld Orlando

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Theme park

Nature & Parks

SeaWorld Orlando is a theme park where visitors can see marine life including dolphins, penguins, and killer whales. There are also exhibits with smaller animals like turtles and sea lions. There are educational aspects to the park too which is great for children. The resort-style pool complex at the Renaissance Orlando Resort features an interactive water playground that's one of the most entertaining in Orlando.

This was the best park of all 3 we visited those time. plenty to do. All included meals. I was worried how people talk about how poorly the animals are treated. But I seen wonderfully healthy animals thriving. Our 5 kids 6 to 19 loved it. Great deal and we are definitely going to go back next visit. Christmas decorations and rides for big kids made it a perfect day.

Heather M — Google review

The shows here are very good. Dolphins, Killer Whales, & Sea Lion shows were very informative & action packed shows. Definitely recommend getting to the shows at least 30 minutes before start time to get a decent seat.Lines for everything is crazy. 1-2 hour lines for food, popular roller coasters, & of course entering the parking lot. As others suggested, definitely eat a big breakfast to power through the first few hours at this park as outside food is strictly prohibited besides bottled water. Otherwise, if you get here early try to order food upon entering before the lines get crazy in the early afternoon.One of my favorite exhibits was the penguin experience. Tip, try going towards the park closing as the regular line was only 15 minutes to get in, not bad.Good luck, and enjoy.

Alex L — Google review

One of the best and affordable theme parks in Orlando. New rides added. Killer whales show is still the best overall now with a total educational program that your kids will love it. Totally worth the visit. 4 stars because food is below average for the price and you cant bring anything with you. Not healthy or decent choices. Everything else, from staff to service is great. Enjoy your visit. Take it from a local guy that lives two blocks away from it.

Nelson R — Google review

Great experience! Definitely get a dining plan but share it because it is a ton of food! We also got a souvenir drink cup that we shared and refilled for free that helped with cost. The Quick Queue passes are a game changer and my kids were able to ride all the rides in one day. The animal shows are educational, entertaining, and funny. The animal viewings are fantastic. I really enjoyed seeing their Rescue animals and knowing they make a difference in the welfare of so many animals in the wild.

Corri S — Google review

Great place for the whole family. Buy the all day food voucher as expensive to eat inside park if not. We went mid week and Ques were very short. Good wheel chair or mobility scooter access to all areas of the park. Staff were excellent and very friendly. Your ticket also allows this park to keep working on Marine conservation!

Paul M — Google review

Fun place to visit. Kids enjoyed the rides and shows with dolphins and whale's.Lot to see and do,one day is not enough for sure to see it all. We came at great time, before Christmas when everything is decorated and there is snow with Xmas trees,just beautiful. Recommend! 🥰

Nataša M — Google review

Park was busy which was to be expected. To ensure you get the most out of your day (shows, entertainment, roller coasters etc) I would highly recommend purchasing the fast pass to ensure you don’t waste your time and energy waiting in 2 hour lines. I was hesitant because of the amount but I never had to wait in lines, I was able to experience all the shows, ride for an unlimited time, eat and still have fun without wasting time. You go for the experience and the fast pass will ensure you have a fun time.

Sarah V — Google review

We visited Sea World on a beautiful 70 degree Florida day in February! We went during the week, and it was not crowded at all. The parking experience was fine and very quick. There was a minimal wait to get into the park. We did purchase a year pass for the same price as a one day admission! We loved the seal/ sea lion show ( You will get wet if you sit up close). My favorite was the shark exhibit and the Shark Experience Restaurant, where you can dine while watching sharks swim around you! I thought the park employees were helpful in directing us around. Yes it's pricey here, but I think this is the best theme park in Florida!

Robert — Google review

Went with my adult kids, 84yr old mother-in-law, daughter-n-law, and three grand kids ages 2 months to seven years. Not much to do for two infants and seven year old was not tall enough for many of the rides she was interested in, but she enjoyed herself. The shows were helpful like the Orca and dolphin shows. Really enjoyed those. The food at the BBQ restaurant was less than desirable and not worth the cost. About $36 per meal. We had the brisket and the ribs. Ribs weren't bad with added BBQ sauce but the brisket was not flavorful and tough. Plenty to do. Need more than a day. Lines were lengthy on Aug 8, 2024 after much rain during the week and rain for about an hour on that day. One ride, Journey to Atlantis was 1hr 25 min wait initially, after my kids waited that time, there were technical issues, the ride shut down and never reopened before the park closed at 8pm. Overall, we'd go again.

Toni P — Google review

Penguin exhibit was the coolest part for us. It was about an hour wait to get into the exhibit. Lines for food is just atrocious as well as the popular coasters. Eat big before you head into the park and give yourself some time before hanger sets in. Cool shows and great animal exhibits. Sea lions were cool and you can go and buy food to feed them. Good times, just wish the lines weren't so bad

Fung S — Google review

This place was amazing! Could very well be my favorite amusement park. The variety of things to do makes it a perfect spot for the roller coaster riding thrill seeker, as well as the laid back admirers of sea animals. This place is essentially a zoo for sea faring animals and it does a great job at letting you interact with these beautiful creatures. Feeding the seals and sea lions was one of my favorite activities. There are enough eateries to satisfy the pickiest eater, and if you're really making a full day of it, the all day eating pass is a nice option. With so many photogenic attractions, this is a great place to create some lifelong memories with the family!

Jonathan C — Google review

I loved the shows and the food. I recommend buying the food inclusive package. My first experience ever at Sea World and loved the animals. Each show, I oohheed and awed at all the work behind the scenes that went into each performance. The love the trainers have for the animals is expressly seen and awesome. The time they had to put in for a show, wow. The energy was contagious.

Marcie H — Google review

4 of us went ( all adults ) . We bought the food package, which we very much recommend. We weren't worried about going on the rides, but did she all the shows. It's not like it used to be a few decades ago , The shows were short, and all ended with a speech to appeal to the animal activists. Overall had a great time. Highly recommended specially for kids. Make sure you see the penguin house !

Rick N — Google review

Been here plenty of times. Came this time for the Craft Beer & Food Festival. All the stations were open, even after a storm that lasted about an hour. Park was crowded even after the rain & 100 degrees weather. All the food from the stands were good. Roller coaster rides were all about a 50 minute wait. Penguin encounter is closed & fenced off. Overall a good Aquarium park.

Christopher — Google review

My dad took me here in the late 80s and again a few days ago. Great experience to see everything & how amazing the park has grown. Definitely bring your family and friends here. We also got tickets to see the Halloween Theme After Hours and It Was Fun.

BENNY — Google review

Pleasantly surprised. Shows were fun. Roller Coasters are way better than Disney World. Tickets are affordable, park merchandise not so much, all day meal plan are worth it. 4 stars because the kraken was not available. Just had a fun time overall.

Michael S — Google review

Sea world was a lot of fun! I highly recommend getting the fast pass. We rode everything and the longest wait was like 15 minutes. The dolphin experience was pretty cool too. Food isn’t great, but what do you expect lol. A fun day indeed!

Jacob K — Google review

The staff were all very friendly and approachable when we had questions or help needed for anything. The shows were good, entertaining, and educational. All the rides were fun and safe, and since we had quick passes, our wait time was minimal to get on. I also enjoyed how almost every ride had easy purchase access for pictures taken, and they were quickly available, so you weren't waiting and wasting valuable time for them. Another positive is how they were able to crop the photos to get only your group of people in it, you also have an option for digital and a print out of the picture to frame in one they sell or no frame at all. Years ago, they didn't offer that. The food and drinks were on point. SeaWorld is the place to go with your family for fun without a doubt for sure. From feeding the wildlife, watching the shows to riding the roller coasters, there's fun for everyone of all ages!

Nichole F — Google review

Great park! They are a cashless park now & that goes for the $30+ parking too.The shows were great, the penguin area in Antarctica is really freezing cold lol.The rides are all fun with wait times varying from 15-45min.There is a Sesame Street area for kids that is so cute along with a splash pad, story time area, & kiddie rides for them.

D'Leta S — Google review

Wonderful place for the entire family. Lots of things to see and do. The penguin 🐧 exhibit was wonderful!!! I could have stayed all day to hang out with beautiful animals. Plus it was nice and cool in there. The tower was amazing. You get a 360 view of it all and more of a must-do (even though it costs $5.00) lots of walking.

Sarah R — Google review

My family and I had a great time. If you have a little one the best spot is sesame street. My daughter had a blast on the kiddie rides and couldn't stay still in line to take photos with Elmo and friends. My wife had her fun on the roller coasters while I enjoyed the animal shows and all the animal exhibits. Definitely a great way to spend the day.

Rogelio A — Google review

Great family park! We went for a family trip ranging in ages 3 to 72.The animals are fascinating for all ages. In addition to viewing, there are several shows that give you a chance to learn more about them while being entertained.For the younger children, you can spend time in Sesame Street Land. With tamer rides, a splash pad and playground, as well as a parade, it's the perfect place for the little ones.The roller coasters are crazy, probably some of the best in the area!For a very affordable theme park experience, go to their website and check out the hotel packages. You can't beat the prices!

AJ M — Google review

We brought our son here on Thursday, and he had a blast! He got to see all kinds of animals from flamingos, dolphins, sharks, alligators, walrus, seals, sea lions, otters, sea turtles, beluga whales, etc. I honestly was not expecting the park to be as big as it is, nor did I know it was also a theme park. I honestly thought it was like an aquarium. I did not expect there to be rides. The rides were themed around some sea animals, which I thought was creative! There are 4 different parking areas, if I remember correctly: RV, general, preferred, and VIP parking areas. I recommend families to bring their kids here for an amazing experience!

Montana D — Google review

That place had no summer heat tolerance. They don’t have drinking water fountains , no tents or covers, no tents, limited AC places, lines over 90 minutes.No sprays or refreshing areas.Totally disaster to go there in summer.Not enough staff. Ride that could pass 40 people in one hour took ages to make.Also nothing to do there for small kids.Only shows.This park has to make major changes to respect guests and make more refreshing areas.And now you can’t buy separate fast pass for each ride- must buy 130$ per person on top of tickets quick queue even if you came for few hours.I’m gonna skip this place for a while and not renew my membership as my daughter and i almost got overheated with THERMO hit.We had headaches both.Could do only 2 shows and one ride.Dolphins show and killer whale was the only refreshing fun.

Ilona ( — Google review

Great family experience. Sea World started out its operating day with the national anthem. They offer an amazing military/ veteran discount. The park was clean. The lines were not long. Rides were great, and the whole family learned a lot. Highly recommend for families.

PJ W — Google review

The underwater exhibits are the best, and you should definitely check out all of the live animal shows if you can. While the animal exhibits are great, the park feels poorly configured and oftentimes you're walking a good while before you can see the next most interesting thing. Because of that, the park can sometimes feel very sparse in certain sections of the park. If it's raining, try to go to one of the underwater exhibits, we got stuck outside when it poured with nowhere to go. The staff seems to disappear when it rains as well.

Joe W — Google review

First time to SeaWorld! I had a great time. I love how much water there is, and the new pipeline coaster is super fun. We watched a dolphin and killer whale show, and they were both as amusing as they were educational. You're able to ride every coaster that was open, except for one. But we will certainly be back!

Eric R — Google review

If you are considering going to Sea World, just go! It’s wonderful. We had such a nice day even though it did sprinkle. The shows are wonderful. We went to all of them. We were able to buy discounted tickets ahead of time and also got the all day dining on sale. Much cheaper than going to a Disney theme park. The Christmas show was fantastic. The mime was funny at the sea lion show. It was a day well spent and the park was decorated for Christmas. We were there the day before Thanksgiving.

Mary B — Google review

Rides: I enjoyed the rides, especially the manta. the lines were moving pretty quicklyShows: still enjoyable, especially the dolphins show, Otter and seal encounter. We were hoping to catch the Blue Horizon show, but we're told that they do not have that anymore.Other animals encounters like shark, sting rays ... etc. It's not as great compared to the last time we were there (9 years ago). The touch tanks were pretty bad. There was no attendant there to interact with the kids. All the tanks are very dull and murky, not great condition for photos.Overall, I would give it a 3 because it didn't give us the excitement that it used to. The atmosphere was kind of stale. The staff whom we encountered with were very monochromatic, with no personality, lack of passion.

Teresa — Google review

We purchased season tickets to all 4 parks as a local Florida resident with a large family we found it to be the best deal.Our first visit to SeaWorld was great and the family had a great time. I recommend knocking out your rides you want to do right away in the morning and doing the shows and exhibits after as the ride wait times got significantly longer as the day went on.We went during the Seven Seas food festival and it was fun to try different foods the kids really enjoyed it and the food was better than I expected.Over all the experience was great and we will be back again. The reason for the 4 stars and not 5 is that we found we had several issues with staff helpfulness throughout the day.It started with parking there was a hold up in our line for over 15 minutes and then when we got to the booth they for got to give us our preferred parking pass so that caused more issues when we went to park.Later in the park when trying to use some of our membership rewards and redeem the free animal feeding we had the same issue. We were told we had to have a paper ticket not a digital ticket but had to ask the staff several times where to get it from but he brushed us off the first few times.Lastly we once again tried to redeem some season pass perks with free food tastings but the app was not working properly and our options was to take a 30 minutes walk to guest service or figure it out on our own. We ended up have to redeem it directly from the website on our phones native browser as the app on multiple phones would not let us complete the checkout but it still took 20 minutes or so to figure out.

Jess P — Google review

Orlando's first attraction is still going strong. The animal shows are pretty much what I remember from decades ago, but now they have a bunch of really good roller coasters. A little pricey, but loads of fun. Pro tip: Get the app in advance and use it to purchase tickets in advance. The lines at the ticket booth were unreasonably long.

Lewis W — Google review

I have been trying to give my kids a new experience each year. This year we picked Sea World. I got tickets with all day dining in advance so skipped the ticket lines and only waited to have them scanned to enter the park. Right before going I also downloaded the Sea World app. Let me just say this made our visit even better. I could look to see the various show times and we were able to see both the dolphins and Orcas shows. We visited the sea lions, stingrays, penguin cove, and dolphin nursery. In between we rode Atlantis, the Cracken, Infinity Falls and some of the kids rides in Sesame Street. We ate at a couple of places and stopped in a third for fruit and to cool off. The app allowed us to see wait times and guided us to our next adventure with the in app directions. The shows were great and my family had an amazing time. This was their favorite vacation yet.

Aimee F — Google review

I am torn about the fact that there are animals in an amusement park but it works. Unfortunately I didn't get to see the gorillas or Chimpanzee presentations. I think it was too hor even for the animals. The rides were incredible way better than I expected. I would say I would come back and that's a pretty good review or someone who doesn't really go to a music box or theme parks.

Dee D — Google review

Here's the real deal... SeaWorld is great. The food quality is decent and expected for a theme park. However, the price is a bit out there for what is offered.General parking today is $37!There are no half-day (after 4pm) tickets.The best values are adding the Quick Queue, animal feedings, and the all-day meals.

Alex G — Google review

Came for vacation and it was out first time. We bought our tickets online which sped up the process to enter the park. The orca show was absolutely wonderful. Very interesting to learn about the orcas and crazy how they have been trained. The kids world was perfect. Lines were long! But that is expected. I'd definitely get the fast passes next time although they are not for the kiddie rides. Lots to do and see. Loved all the exhibits. My kids enjoyed themselves. Fun park!

Courtney — Google review

There's a lot to see and do at Sea World. The park is nicely laid out, clean, and easy to navigate. It's big, so plan your trip accordingly. The staff we interacted with were pleasant and helpful. While we enjoyed the rides and educational exhibits, the shows were the highlight for us.

Cheryl M — Google review

My family and I really loved our visit to Sea World! The Orca show was absolutely spectacular—we watched it twice! The dolphin show was also amazing, with the cast doing an excellent job of keeping everyone entertained. The roller coasters were intense and fun, perfect for any coaster enthusiast.However, I have to dock one star due to an issue with line hopping. It was quite frustrating to see one or two family members go to the front of the line and then have the rest of their group cut in to join them. I hope Sea World can address this problem to improve the experience for all guests.

Clinton — Google review

We had a good time. Unfortunately, we had two different age groups. The teens and the 6 year olds. So we probably wouldn't do it again without their mom to help get both age group to where they can go on more rides. We are young grandparents. I personally felt we waisted more time walking or standing in line than the girls were getting to ride on the rides. The big bummer was that the Infinity Falls broke down twice on us while in line. We never got to ride it but wasted a ridiculous amount of time standing in a line that seemed to have never gone anywhere for us.One ride we all got to ride on together was the Penguin. My 6 year olds loved it. (Must be at least 42")The dance party before the fireworks was a blast. The girls all had a great time dancing. The firework show was great!! Who doesn't love a firework show.For corporate If you actually read this?? I felt sorry for 1 particular lady trying to do her job. They want you to stay in 1 large section for fireworks and after. So that means they have 3-4 sections with stairs. They want everyone to exit the same stairs when you can safely exit all the other stairs and the sidewalk going in the same direction. That poor employee was trying hard to stop people and get them redirected that SW wants them to go. A lot of people pretty much gave her the middle finger and ignored her. Trust me, she tried hard, and we felt bad for her. It didn't seem very safe with everyone all at once trying to rush up the darn stairs going the same way. Maybe a safety officer should sit back and witness the craziness that goes on when the park closes and rethink their protocols.1 more thing. When someone stands in line for a ride for an hour or more and it closes. They should cut the line off immediately and issue those people who did not take part in your fast pass to have a chance to get back in line once it reopens. Standing in line 2 x for 1 ride and never getting to ride it is ridiculous!!!!

Terri W — Google review

Always a favorite spot to visit. It's great for the whole family & our kids love it! Shows are lots of fun! Plan to spend all day to get all of the experience in because there's a ton to see. We do suggest getting the Dining Pass... It turns out to be worth it for the meals & in between drinks & snacks.

Brad W — Google review

Although we didn't go on any rides and only wanted to see the animals. I would recommend buying tickets in advance. The rides had about a 60+minute wait on everything. It was hard to maneuver with kids running wildly with no care and no one watching them. If you are old enough try one of their cocktails, they were good and they have a lot of liquor in them so it was worth the price.

Justin S — Google review

Dolphins show and Orca show were amazing .. there are some extreme roller coasters rides at this park , if you love the thrill then it will be awesome. Unfortunately for us it was super hot day and there were little shaded space to take rest ……

Neha S — Google review

The only reason I gave it 4 stars is because of the prices of food. Overall, it was great. The tides were awesome. The shows were awesome. Loved seeing all of the animals from the ocean. It was very interesting and educational. The rain did end our trip early, but SeaWorld compensated us for another day. They didn't have to, but we were very thankful that they did since we drove all the way from Kentucky.

Kasie M — Google review

Loved it! But wasn't prepared for the water ride that drenched you, needed fast drying clothes & shoes! Did not want to pay $6 for a dryer:( Animals appeared happy in their environments and great shows!

Kandy H — Google review

This was our first visit back here in about 20 years and wow! I am very impressed with the growth of this park. So many improvements and additions…We enjoyed the Dolphin show, the Sea Lion show and all the beautiful aquariums. The Shark area was fantastic!! Manatees and turtles… alligators and flamingos all things Florida and so many coasters!Gift shops with nice merchandise and plenty of food options.Easy parking. No wait to get in on a Saturday at 9:15 amThis was enjoyable for all of us- from 9 months to 56 years old. We all loved it.I highly recommend a visit here!

Lynn R — Google review

An experience for the whole family. We came with a baby girl and even she enjoyed it.I recommend arriving early to get everything done and not miss the shows.There is a huge variety of animals and shows with huge aquariums and interesting animalsDon't miss the the seals (and tom the mime), orcas and dolphins.*We came in the middle of the week and didn't buy the express ticket and there was really no point, there weren't such big queues

Nadav M — Google review

This was a very good trip. The rides didn't have an extremely long wait time, maybe because it was a Tuesday. The staff were willing to answer any questions I had. The Sesame Street section was great for our 2 year old. Great experience.

Odayne T — Google review

This was my first time back since I was a kid, family and I went with my 1 1/2 year old. We all loved the orca and dolphin encounters, great views of the sea life throughout. There were several rides our son could enjoy with us as an accompanying adult (32inches tall). For a larger theme park food was reasonably priced (still high, but not excessive like other parks we've seen).

Brittany H — Google review

If you are just going for the roller coasters don't bother. They are good but not worth the wait and price. The workers are incredibly slow and inefficient at loading cars and getting them out in a timely manner. If you are traveling with big groups - be prepared to do coaster math - trying to figure out if the whole group will get on the coaster at the same time.It is a family park. However there aren't many bigger rides offered for kids. My son is between 48" and 54" and he was still limited to a few rides plus the kiddie rides in Sesame Street.Of course go to the shows they offer. Get there early. We attempted to go to the orca show once and it was already at capacity almost 10 minutes before it was supposed to begin.The food is pretty decent but pricey. If you plan on spending the whole day, then definitely consider doing the all day dining. We got two for our family of four and got meals every 2 hours that we shared.All in all it was a good day but not somewhere I would look into going back anytime soon.

Corinne B — Google review

Very fun, educational and interesting. Lots of animals and shows, fun roller coaster rides, a kids area and food. It is only card for all payments but they do have machines that give you instant prepaid cards on site. Easy to navigate as it’s really a big circle. Im sad that the Antarctica exhibit was closed but I’m excited that they’re building a new roller coaster and area.

JC O — Google review

Be careful on extra sunny days !!!I recently visited Sea world with a group of 10 and we had all dine in pass it was so worth it I definitely recommend to come early buy the tickets in advance and if you get it from a third party remember to redeem it before you walk in. Lines get very crowded and lots of wait. Bring a towel or two if you come with kids definitely rent a stroller. Or even better bring yours. There is lots of walking around. Discuss with your party members what and when you would like to see the shows. If you are interested on see the whales 🐳 if you want to get soak wet please seat at the lower level seats ( there is a definitely you will get wet) please don’t say I have not warned you.For the pass all you can eat there is a place where anual members have a lounge where is a stand with AC and the have an amazing skirt steak you should try! Also there is the only place where you can find seltzer water. I look everywhere and yet I couldn’t find any other place. There is pizza hot dogs however there is a stand close to the whale show that has good food and has salads fresh fruit. There are stands that you need to ask that you want milk instead of soda. There is a stand near the observation tower that had chicken strips and was open right after the park closed. They have milk and fresh fruit.I had fun at Sesame Street’s place and we took pictures there is a small place where you can play with water with the kids it’s open and there is parades often during the day.This trip was a great deal from the airline fares the car rental the house rental to no extra for food.If you are considering going to the rides bring extra comfortable shoes the lines are about one hour long wait or buy the express pass.Bring an extra battery pack to charge your phone and I put apple tags to my kids in case we get lost 😞( it works like a charm) especially because mine are runners and they are special needs.

Mariol E — Google review

A great park for the wonderful experiences and awesome staff(ambassadors). The roller coasters are very enjoyable and there is one for all ages. The food selection is good and all the prices are reasonable. Always look for their ticket deals and food packages.

Quatez B — Google review

Amazing place, went for the fourth of july. There is so much to do and see. There are a bunch of different spots to get all types of food. The orcas were beautiful and a must-see. The event shows were great and worth it. The fireworks and pyrotechnics show was amazing. Great for all ages, the sesame street they have is great and has a lot of thing the young kids can do.

Chris R — Google review

Definitely a great place to go with the family. Everyone gets to enjoy. I recommend always buying tickets in advance. And pay attention to the all day dinning deal that is amazing if you are planning ti stay there for long hours and eat. Is it think 59$ worth every penny food is very good a you have a lot of options.

Javier J — Google review

We had a fantastic time. Kids were fairly young, but there were tons of things they could do. They even got to ride a few coasters, which they were excited about. With adult rides, they have a good parent swap, so you can both get a chance to ride while the other watches the kids. Naturally, there are lots of shows you should definitely watch. There are lots of exhibits to see all the cool fish, turtles, and sharks. It's not the cheapest place, but none of these parks are, but the experience is worth it.

Anthony C — Google review

Enjoyed the day here with a good friend. We ate some nice food and got to enjoy the sea lions show. My friend’s daughter works here, so we got to see her doing what she does. Guy Harvey was here for a Meet & Greet, so we got to see him. Sheena Easton & Tiffany were performing later but we were anxious to beat the traffic on I-4, so we didn’t stay for that. The park was pretty clean, parking is not as organized as we would have liked but we enjoyed the time we were there and opted to leave to escape some of Florida’s heat and head home. Ironically, we are Florida residents.

Lisa M — Google review

I was skeptical about visiting here as online reviews trashed this place compared to Universal.I'll say this. It was worth my money! If you like relaxed experiences and thrilling shows which you can sit and enjoy. This is the perfect place.I had visited with my parents (around 60 yrs age) and we didn't want to do much rides and wanted to sit and enjoy for the most. This worked out perfectly for us.

Ritwik V — Google review

Great park for family and friends. There are alot of fun rides and nice shows. One thing to keep in mind if you buy a dining pass is they do close all the good restaurants early and force you to eat nasty pizza, chicken fingers, or burgers. Itwasa waste of money for me and my family because we only ate one good meal.

Kienna J — Google review

I went on my birthday May 31st. We bought tickets on the app on my phone and got to the park when they opened. Everything seemed to cost a lot of money starting with parking and the cups for unlimited drinks. We had a great time though. It was actually better than what I was expecting I was worried about the heat and walking but it wasn't bad. I also ate at Sharks underwater grill that was a great time. It made the day even more special. We actually plan on coming back again we liked it that much.

Teri T — Google review

4.4

(102374)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (59)

4.5

(34035)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (60)

7007 Sea World Dr, Orlando, FL 32821, USA

(407) 545-5550

9

Brevard Zoo

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40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (63)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (64)

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Zoo

Outdoor Activities

The Brevard Zoo, a community-built zoo that has been in operation for over 22 years, boasts more than 500 animals and offers unique experiences such as feeding giraffes, zip-lining and a children's water play area. The zoo's landscape features distinct geographical zones showcasing wildlife from Florida, South America, Africa and Australia. Specially designed enclosures and free-flight aviaries blend seamlessly with the undergrowth providing visitors with the feeling of wandering through a wilderness.

We've always enjoy going to the zoo. And, the Brevard Zoo is a great place to visit with family and friends. We were very excited about the giraffe exhibit. The walkway is at just the right height for them to stick their head over the railing and be able to feed them. The children there really loved doing this.Of course there are lots of other exhibits, the bears were frisky, the alligators were sunning themselves and the monkeys were a hoot, especially the baby.

William K — Google review

Great place to spend the day learning about environmental and wildlife conservation. Plenty of locations to hydrate and snack. Food prices were reasonable. Terrific water play area for kids. Staff and volunteers were friendly and informative, especially at the Kangaroo enclosure and Aviary. All the boardwalks were in good repair. Plenty of shaded locations to sit, but suggest wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and comfortable clothes and shoes. Well organized exhibits. Outside food and drinks prohibited. All animals appeared healthy. Wheelchair accessible and large paved parking lot. They also have tram/train and canoe tours, but I didn't participate in those experiences, so I can't review that part of the zoo. Bathrooms were clean. The gift store was neat and organized and had a variety of merchandise at different price points.

Tammy E — Google review

My visit to Brevard Zoo was a solid 5/5 adventure! The excitement of feeding giraffes lettuce and interacting with birds using nectar cups and popsicle sticks with seeds made the day unforgettable. The kangaroo walking exhibit was a unique thrill, reflecting the zoo's commitment to diverse and engaging experiences. What stood out even more was the zookeepers' exceptional knowledge and friendliness. They were always eager to share valuable information, enhancing the overall educational aspect of the visit. Make sure to bring a few quarters to feed the fish, turkeys, deer, etc!!

Joshua C — Google review

I concur with the comments of many other reviewers and visitors of this location. This is one of the best, if not the best zoo in the country. The animals are lively and appear to be at peace with enough room to feel relaxed and at ease within their areas. The zoo is well-kept, clean, orderly, and designed in a way that it is not overcrowded even with a large number of guests present.

Happy D — Google review

First and foremost I have to mention the lunch spot Nourish 321; you should definitely plan to have lunch there! We had the club sandwich, which was basically 2 sandwiches with fresh cooked bacon and comes with lots of vegetables and multi-grain bread and chips. We also purchased the fresh brewed ice tea, Banana and naval orange. I was so impressed with the healthiness, quality and deliciousness of the lunch available. We are so used to paying a boat load for food that is sub par at these types of places; this just wasn't the case here. I highly recommend.Ask for the zoo, it was such a nice experience and they had a nice variety of animals. My favorite animals to see were the giraffes and the cheetahs. You can feed both the giraffes and some of the birds and this is extremely fun. The Birds Landing all over you can make for some hilarious moments.They will be getting a new lion exhibit soon and we will be back to enjoy that also!

Krystle W — Google review

An older zoo that needs some maintenance. We went on a Sunday and several of the exhibits didn’t have animals in them. Snake exhibit was tiny. On the positive side, there’s a good bit of shade which helped with the summer Florida heat in July. They had multiple species together which was interesting. Some of the bird cages were open air so they would fly by overhead. Not a bad way to spend 3 hours.

Rachael S — Google review

We had a good time. The zoo layout is great. There's a section for the little ones to have fun, get wet, and learn. They have 2 kayak adventures, they Africa one was not available because the water level was low. We did the other. They have an interesting concept that is better than some of the bigger and more popular zoos, and I would say it is worth donating to them.

Zermandus — Google review

This is a nice Zoo. It may not be the largest in the area but it is still very good. The volunteer staff were very friendly and helpful. The Zoo has a good sellection of animals that seemed to have plenty of room to roam around and seemed to be well adjusted in their enclosures. This Zoo is a little more for younger children but adults will enjoy it too. There are sections were you can actually walk around with free roaming Kangaroos, Emus and birds. This is a great place to enjoy the Florida flora and fauna from around the World. We had a good time and will be coming back again in the future.

John H — Google review

This is one of the best Zoos in the country in my opinion. We have the annual pass (well worth it) and go about twice a month. They’re always adding new activities to keep it interesting. Also and my favorite part is the animals are very happy and well cared for!

Kristen C — Google review

One of the best zoos I’ve been to. The giraffe enclosure was just amazing and being able to feed the giraffe, his name was Doc. My daughter & I loved the experience. Lots of animals to look at. Being able to walk around the kangaroo enclosure was interesting as well. Just being able to be close to animals that you don’t see everyday was amazing. The staff and volunteers at the zoo are helpful and knowledgeable. Thank you everyone!

Day W — Google review

It started to rain almost immediately after we paid for our admission. This made the trip a lot more enjoyable!!We got to see the animals doing things they normally do not do. They were standing in formations that we hypothesized as a natural instinct during thunderstorms.Some animals did not come out of their hidey-holes and for good reason. These were some of the smaller animals that preferred to stay safe from the storm.Anyways, enjoy some of the short clips I made during my time at the Zoo.Leave a like, comment, and share my reviews!Thank you everyone for the 80,000 views!!👊🏾😎

Ashy2knees E — Google review

Really nice zoo for being so small. They do an incredible job at having volunteers around to support them, and the staff is just as quick to help. Lots of animals, and they all seem to be having a good time playing around. They offer some great deals for membership and on. Definitely plan on spending 2.5 to 3 hrs, and thats if you dont have kids and want to visit an extra park for them in the zoo. From splash pad to sand to playground, there is lots to do. Let alone kayaking and climbing the air trail they have.

Justin B — Google review

Yesterday was Boo at the Zoo, we took my littles to trick or treat at the Zoo. The employees here are so helpful and so pleasant, You can tell they enjoy their jobs. The price to get in is not too bad, but joining the zoo is well worth it. You can come anytime. you can see all the things they do for the community. As a local zoo this is a great place to visit . I am a school bus driver and come to the zoo often. They work with the schools to do Zoo School, where the students spend their day in the zoo doing school work.

Stephanie J — Google review

What an amazing zoo! You feel fully immersed in each of the lands. Got to see some really cool animals and got to feed a giraffe! Definitely a must see if you’re in the area. The train ride is worth the extra fee

Weronika — Google review

It’s a zoo that raises great animals. Every corner is well-detailed. The staff are very enthusiastic. They have designed the animals’ living environment and space in a scientific way. The animals look very relaxed and content. Forced to operate and perform, but the animals seem happy to show themselves to tourists, friendly environment, happy animals.

Co C — Google review

Season passes will get you discounts at other zoos and aquariums across the USA. Great zoo. We stopped visiting and donating this year after the 4th year.It has became clear they will never finish the lion habitat within their lifetime. Visit and you'll see what I mean..

Pool B — Google review

If you're local invest into a membership, we got ours today!We had a blast great space, great location, such beautiful walkways, they take care of the animals so well, feeding 🦒 was so fun and things to do and see beautifully said. The Cobb Salad was delicious, which is rare usually themed places tend to lack in this but it was all great. Very fun we're coming back to do some kayaking which we love and adventure zipline.

Paulina F — Google review

We had an absolute blast at the zoo! My daughter was over the moon with the giraffe feeding experience, and the bird and kangaroo encounters were fantastic. Although the train ride was enjoyable, we couldn't help but wish it were longer. The proximity to the animals made the experience even more captivating!

Shaun P — Google review

Very pleasant little zoo. We broke a trip going further south by taking a couple of hours break to walk around here. You can save a couple of bucks by buying tickets online, but the admission price is pretty reasonable.Not a large zoo by any stretch but still some great animals to see, and some innovative habitats that we enjoyed seeing, and in some places allowed for unusual or better close-up viewing.Loved being able to walk amongst the kangaroos, get close up with rhinos, and see a baby impala only 2 1/2 hours old.Certainly worth a visit if you enjoy zoos.

Andy B — Google review

My family (all adults) were sooooo impressed with the Brevard Zoo. We went on a very hot day in June. There is lots of shade in some of the exhibits and in the eating area. The zoo has a conservation focus and the exhibits seem natural and designed to give each animal the type of environment it needs for optimum health and happiness. Animals are eating natural food (fruits and veggies) and are obviously well fed and taken care of. The staff members are pleasant and helpful. There are lots of places to sit and rest. The food is also excellent and there are good vegetarian options. This was a great experience, even on a very hot day.

Katherine H — Google review

Love spending time here. It is the most interactive zoo I've ever been to. Giraffe, kangaroo and Cockatoo feedings are just the beginning! And only a couple bucks. Membership is definitely worth it. Not just for kids. Adults will enjoy it too!

Daisey B — Google review

We took our kids here while in the area over the Christmas and new years break. This is by far the best zoo we’ve ever been to!! We had so much fun! We loved how you could interact with the animals and really see them. We especially loved the kangaroos, giraffes, and feeding all the birds. Wish we would’ve been able to see the sloth but he was snuggled up and not visible. Even still, we had the best time!! Thank you for such a magical place and caring for these beautiful animal friends.

Krista D — Google review

We love the Brevard Zoo! It has tons of shade, great walking paths, an easy-to-follow layout, and up-close and personal animal encounters. Feeding the giraffes was an amazing experience!

Michelle B — Google review

I've been going to the Brevard Zoo since I was a kid, and it's just gotten better and better. I never had a bad experience here, and it's such a fun way to spend any day of the week with your family! The train ride was a little more brief than I remember it, and I would recommend doing other things instead. I highly recommend the bird feeding, but you have to get there early. The birds get full really fast. The part with the snakes is another one of my favorite parts. The splash pad and playground are great for little kids. And if you wanted to do something a little extra, I would suggest zip lining at Treetop Trek, which I'm pretty sure is accessible from the inside of the zoo now. The first time I went I entered from the parking lot, but it might depend on the specific zipline you're doing. Annual passes are also totally worth it if you want to come a lot. You should definitely check this place out if you want some fun!

Mr. G — Google review

This is a nice zoo, we finished everything in about 3 hours! We went when the zoo opened and saw just about all of the animals. We enjoyed the train ride and the kangaroo walk.

Kortney D — Google review

Always a great visit to Brevard Zoo. Today, Frankie, the rino could not find his way back to his pen. The giraffes were late to the feeding. They were so curious as to way Frankie was stuck within a small confine of rocks. He could not figure out how to escape! After the giraffe were let into the feeding pen, he was so agitated he finally foind a way back to his pen.All the staff workers at the exhibits are so knowledgeable and friendly. We can't wait until the lion exhibit is finished! We bought our tickets online and saved time getting in. Weekdays do not seem aa crowded as the weekends. Parking was easy and close enough to the entrance. We arrived around 10:30am and the animals were still eating. Most animals were out and about. The short train ride was fun and we were able to see the Bongos and Impalas up close.

Rebecca M — Google review

What an incredible experience on a rainy Florida day. The zoo was practically empty given the weather and the zoo staff could not have been more accommodating. There were staff or volunteers at nearly every exhibit and they went out of their way to answer questions and provide information. The volunteers went out of their way to inform and educate us, and not just say hello, it really makes the experience so much more worth it. Feeding giraffe, the birds, the rain ride, the kangaroos — all of it was incredible! Buy your tickets in advance to save a few bucks, and definitely visit the gift shop after. All of the add-on experiences are 100% worth it!

Lee K — Google review

Awesome small zoo with lots of big fun! I recently paid for the membership. Makes a perfect, manageable day out (thats doesn't break the bank) for my kids. They also have an adorable water area as well that offers some relief from the hot Florida sun. We notice something new every time we go. Ride the train, the camel is usually front and center....Wont disappoint!

Kaitlin K — Google review

What a beautiful outdoor setting to create memories with friends and family that never gets old. Shaded paths make it easy to get your "steps" in. Ever evolving exhibits allow up close views of a wide variety of animals, but expect something under construction as they continue to grow and update. There's always an abundance of volunteers to answer questions. Most popular are the giraffe and kangaroo exhibits and bird aviary. The kids can cool off and refresh in the Splash Pad area. Something for almost everyone. It seems most guests plan for a return visit before they even leave. No wonder it's been voted one of the most popular zoos in the country.

MaaRee 2 — Google review

What a beautiful zoo! The animals appear to be very well cared for and I love how their enclosures allow them to run overhead. They have so much space, and then they are given food in a way that mimics how they would hunt for it in the wild. You should go in the early morning when they’re feeding the animals. (Although for very small children, it may be a bit too real). Feeding the giraffes and lorakeets were the highlights.

Renee H — Google review

We had a great time. I would highly recommend the train ride. We had a zebra and bongo walk right up to the train for all of us to see up closeThe food was delicious as well.

C H — Google review

We visited the Brevard Zoo while on vacation in CoCoa Beach Florida It is located Just South of Cocoa off of State Route 95. It is a wonderful zoo with you guessed it... large variety of animal exhibits. We enjoyed feeding and petting the Giraffes and I was in awe with the American Crocodile exhibit. Easy to get around and lots of fun and places to get a bite. The staff was informative and helpful. Be sure to go early as it can get quite busy by the afternoon.

Ray W — Google review

It is beautiful, and it's still a work in progress. The changes are amazing and well thought out. They considered all the surrounding of each animal as home as possible. I enjoyed all of the park attendants and all the information they had to offer!! My Grandprincesses enjoyed every moment of it. Have to go back and see the Lions!!! The 3 brothers are as majestic as ever!

Ulda C — Google review

A lot of animals r active every time we go. The Zoo animals seem happy. I love the layout and how there is lots to do even though it's smaller then other zoos I have been to. Very pretty plants too!

Fern T — Google review

Excellent small zoo. One of my top 10 favorite zoos in the USA. Well managed. Animals seem very well cared for. They're building an Aquarium soon (at the Cape). We really enjoy every visit. Go early for best viewing. ♡♡♡

Momma B — Google review

We had a great time today at the zoo! Tons of animals took a few hours to do! Giraffes are so fun to feed bring some cash so you can feed animals such as great day spent with family!

Nicole M — Google review

Awesome day stopping by the Zoo to see the animals and have lunch. We have the 2 person year pass that's like $150 it's a great deal. We come to go kayaking or have lunch or to do the animal experiences, treetop trecks and all those kinds of things super fun local thing to do.

Jarrett E — Google review

A very well maintained zoo. The animal enclosures are very similar to the jungle habitat. The train safari is also very good. The children's splash zone is great. There is a farm animal petting section as well. And you can feed the fishes and wild turkeys with food in the feeder box ( quarter per feed). You can cover it in 2-3 hours. There are kayaking and zip line options as well 🙂

Priyanka J — Google review

Very nice zoo, plenty of well thought out exhibits. They have a good variety of animals. Kids splash pad area was neat. The train ride was nice, you can walk in a enclosure with kangaroos, and feed birds. Overall much nicer and lots of shade compared to central florida zoo in Sanford.

Vibes T — Google review

4.7

(7169)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (65)

4.5

(2627)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (66)

8225 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL 32940, USA

(321) 254-9453

10

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (67)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (68)

40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (69)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (70)

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Visitor center

Museums

The amusement park offers a variety of exhibits, shows, and attractions that are sure to please visitors of all ages. Highlights include the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit and the Rocket Garden. There is also a Heroes & Legends exhibit featuring the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame presented by Boeing.

This was our first family visit. We had a wonderful visit, Super educational. Highly recommend as it's so much history and truly something for every age. I wish I had more time to spend as could not manage to experience all the exhibits with kids and family. Everything, the movies are very informative. Shuttle Launch Experience heard it was good which they closed by the time we could get the kids from the bathroom but heard it was very good. Take the bus to the Apollo Center to touch a Moon rock.

Mohammed A — Google review

We absolutely loved this place. Loads to see, do and play with. Very interesting tours and information everywhere. The children loved it, I loved it and the wife loved it. The place is huge, so sadly we couldn’t do or see it all in the time we had, so would require a second trip. If we ever go back to Florida, we will definitely go here again and see the rest. So many great memories. Please go and visit, you won’t be disappointed.

Mark B — Google review

We enjoyed the space history and seeing plans and preparations for the future. Saw the new private companies buildings and launch pads. This is the 3rd time I've been here in 10 years and I still want to come back for more. Well worth the price. We took the extended bus tour this time. So glad we did. Should have brought water though.

Vonnie S — Google review

What an incredible place to visit. There is so much history and shared beautifully. We went on a Sunday in July it wasn't too busy but very hot. When waiting for the bus over to see Apollo, they had fans and misters. They did a great job keeping those buses moving and people transported fairly quickly. Nice day

Melissa N — Google review

My children and I (ages 43, 24, 20, and 17) enjoyed this visit so much. Everything was so informational and exciting. We went a little late in the day, and can recommend that you get there as early as possible. Staff was helpful and gave suggestions on which exhibits we had time for and how to get to each one. The bus rides were pleasant and the videos shown were entertaining and informative. We plan to make our next visit start earlier and include two days so that we can see as much as possible.

Christina T — Google review

The Kennedy Space Center was amazing. It is informative, it is cool, and it’s a lot to take in and see in one day. I recommend arriving when the place opens. I arrived one hour after and did not have time for the bus tour.Nice place to take kids if you have them or go alone/group/couple. Experience is for all ages.They have a Space Shuttle experience and many other attractions for all to enjoy.

Cynthia Q — Google review

Visiting NASA fulfilled one of my childhood dreams, and after experiencing it, I realized that dreaming about coming here from childhood is truly worthwhile. NASA doesn't just provide information; it offers actual experiences. For instance, instead of just describing the shuttle crew's experiences, they let us actively engage with it. The shuttle descent, for example, can be experienced through intelligently created slides. If you're into science, this is a must-visit place. I'll definitely come again.

Sahan P — Google review

The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex has so much to offer, but the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit stole the show for me. Seeing a space shuttle – one that actually flew missions – is awe-inspiring. The way they've presented Atlantis, tilted and with its cargo bay doors open, makes you appreciate the sheer complexity of these machines.There are plenty of other cool exhibits (and that simulated launch is also a must!), but if you're fascinated by the shuttle program, make sure to dedicate time to Atlantis. Between the films, displays, and being so close to an actual orbiter, it's an experience that leaves you in awe of human achievement.Also, spend at least 2 days and also book the explorer tour, it is 2 hours and worth every second!

Edward W — Google review

This is an AMAZING place to visit. My kids were super excited about the Planet Play playground and I had a great time playing with them. I can easily say this is the absolute BEST playground I've ever been to (we've been to A LOT!). I mean the place is full with amazing experiences and tons of exciting things to see and learn. One day was not enough for me. I hope we can make our way back someday.

Eve N — Google review

In the four years we’ve visited family , we have avoided the space center due to the cost of admission. We thought we would give it a try to see what it was all about and WOW it exceeded our expectations. Our visit here was our favorite part of our trip this year. There’s so much to do and to see , we actually didn’t get to see it all! Quite frankly , if you have kids, a two day admission might be the way to go! We really enjoyed the way this experience is guided and organized but yet you can do it at your own pace. We took the bus tour and that was a fun excursion! Our favorite exhibit was the Atlantis building ! So much fun. We actually took our 5 month old and he enjoyed it rolling around in a stroller! It’s a great mixture of indoors and outdoors . We will definitely visit again.

Kortney D — Google review

It was 25 years since I last visited, and there was a lot I hadn't remembered, plus a lot new since then.It was great to see the rocket garden again, this time with updated rockets added.It was awesome to see the shuttle up close. The Enterprise was there on my last trip. This time, it was different, though. Seeing the Atlantis got my eyes misty.The Mars exhibits were interesting, and the kids enjoyed the play area.Nice to see the big, white building again and rockets up close on the bus tour. It is amazing how small we are compared to them.Always something to take the family to, even though the price is up there. Even with Florida discount, it is an expensive day trip.

Justin B — Google review

An amazing place to visit.It's spread out over two main centres, so we took the free bus from the Apollo/Saturn Centre first. It's about 10-15 mins and there's a commentary on the way as you pass the Vehicle Assembly Building, the crawlers and a view of the launch pads in the distance.After getting off the bus at the Apollo/Saturn centre, you enter a big hall and watch a video about the history of space flight. You then enter the original control centre and watch a video of a launch, including rattling windows, which was brilliant.Then you enter the huge room with a Saturn 5 rocket and loads of other interesting things. And there are toilets, gift shop and cafe.Back at the main Kennedy Space Centre, there's too much to do in one day. Including the world's biggest space shop! Obviously over-priced, but a huge range.We went into the shuttle exhibit, which we had to queue for, but it moved quickly.We went into a large hall and watched a video, then went into another large room and watched a virtual 360 degree video about the shuttle. Really well done. We then went into the main exhibit with the original Atlantis shuttle. There are lots of other interesting things to see, including a shuttle ride, which was brilliant. Make sure you take any loose items out of your pockets as you go vertical!

M H — Google review

Very memorable experience and well worth the $57 ticket price! I thought it was kinda expensive, but after the first attraction I realized why they ask that price. It is much more than just reading plaques and looking at exhibits… there’s so much to do and participate in! Plan on spending the entire day there. Got there at 9am and left at about 4:45pm. We saw almost everything in one day and we were hustling! I can see how the two day pass can be worth it if you are in the area a while. Came on a Sunday in late January and it was fairly crowded. We didn’t wait in lines too long, but on an extremely busy day, there’s no way you could see everything in one day. The park is outdoors as much as it is indoors so dress accordingly to the weather! Parking $10, several food places with fair prices.

Lauren — Google review

Lots of activities! Lots ofinformation! Lots of walking to do! I was glad as a middle aged individual that we purchased a 2 day pass, so that we could split the activities. You can't see everything in one day! Did about 5 major activities the first day including the bus tour (which is a must do). Lots of food and merchant memorabilia around, impossible to go hungry. Ample parking and rest rooms.

Bernard A — Google review

Well worth the money!! Suggest bringing cash for parking cos only 1 booth accepts credit card. The IMAX Asteroid Hunters 3D was incredibly well made and informative. The bus tour culminating at the Apollo/Saturn V exhibit was amazing as well. Atlantis exhibit was great but could’ve done without the 2 mini movies to get in. Overall 10/10!!

Jack P — Google review

One of the best theme-park-meet-museum places I've ever been to. Outstanding quality and quantity of expositions, extremely helpful and engaged staff, great depth of information adequate both for children and adults. There are some amazing simulator rides to be had, and multiple reveal moments that will just floor you. The Saturn V rocket is a sight to behold. A must see in Florida, if not in the entire US!

Szlafroq — Google review

Woah!! We've been huge fans of the space program since we were kids in the early 70's- and nothing, I mean nothing could have prepared us for this experience!!! The amount of hard work, the attention to detail, the history that literally comes to life in real time!!!! The food is wonderful! The staff there are friendly, and have tremendous knowledge that they are eager to share! If you haven't been, book a trip now! If you have been, tell a few friends and go back together! WOW!

Mike P — Google review

Such a great place to visit with family and kids. A lot to learn about space, shuttles and missions. Highly recommend to buy two day admission tickets and register ahead of time for virtual reality experiences. It’s so much fun! Atlantis experience was my favorite by far 👍 make sure you check out the second floor of the gift shop, you can talk to a real astronaut there, get an autograph, take a picture and ask him a question! I’m glad we scheduled this trip on a weekdays! We also got a chance to watch the Falcon9 launch on a second day! Transportation ticket was about $70 extra per person, bus takes you to the spectators place about 3.3 miles away from launch! This is once in a lifetime experience 💯

Zarina S — Google review

A must see place if you are interested and into space exploration. The indoor and outdoor exhibits are top notch and amazing. Plan on spending at least a full day to fully enjoy everything. I was blown away by how well everything was and the size of the exhibits. Great for all ages.

Reuben R — Google review

What a cool place! We have 7 year old twins and could've definitely split this up across a couple of days. We were here all day and started running low on the food we brought and little kids patience. Overall though, everything was great. There was enough to keep the kids and adults entertained.

Brandon Y — Google review

Great place to take students on field trip! I can’t wait to go back in a day that I can explore on my own! The American audacity to explore space is amazing!The lunch provided on the field trip was amazing. It is such a professionally run operation. The educators were top notch.

John M — Google review

Amazing venue: Historical, inspirational, memorial, and educational all wrapped into a gift box. Witness a rocket launch on your visit date and get a big bow on top!😘🤪From Alan Shepard (1st American astronaut) and the Mercury project. The inspiration of President Kennedy "Why choose to go to the moon? We choose to go not because it is easy, but because it is hard!" The history of the space race, the Apollo project, and the technology it inspired. The memorial of those who became our heroes and those who gave their lives in the achievement of our goals. The educational and technical achievements of Space X (Star Link) and Blue Origin in the commercialization of the space program. The James Webb space telescope and Mars rovers and future trips to the moon and Mars!Space X launched satellites on the day we visited. Unfortunately, the launch was not supported and was delayed from 640pm to 1013pm. We witnessed it from Orlando but missed: the dust cloud, the rocket ignition, heat, earth tremor, and sounds of a launch. We did get launch time and location to witness the vapor trail from Orlando 90 miles away from ground zero!

Richard C — Google review

Aside from the higher entrance fee (slightly lower than regional attractions), this place is amazing. There are so many significant world historical world level sights here and the opportunity to visit multiple locations. In particular I enjoyed the bus ride and Apollo Rocket facility. The experience is staged in a way that's quite immersive and actually authentic. It's snap shot a time traveller would marvel in. Overall the lines were not too bad and price points inside the park were reasonable. Finding a spot to charge one's phone was challenging, however I found one bench with wireless charging. Our family of 3 had a great time.

Harold P — Google review

The John F. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and Expolore Tour bus ride information exchange is an awe-inspiring experience. Bypassed the exhibits to get on a 1330 hours explore tour bus. It was 1.5 hours long, and we got off the bus three times to view structures from afar. One tour guide and one bus driver. When you get off the bus to observe the sights, stay inside the yellow line areas/defined tour bus areas. There is no free water on the bus. Florida sun and fun in the mid afternoon is tempered by the use of an air-conditioned bus. The tour guide was not a former NASA employee but a dual UK-USA citizen. He was soft-spoken and knowledgeable. The press area where the Apollo shots were seen is historical. To be on the road network where the large rockets are moved to the pads was an "ah-uh" moment. All pads are far apart, and many are in use by the US Space Force and thus not visible. Tortoises were seen on the sides of the road....but not any other wildlife. The size of the rockets, fuel pods, hangers, pads, and ramps is what strikes you at first. For someone who watched Mr. Walter Cronkite announce the shots on TV, this was a real treat to see the actual launch locations, albeit from afar.

T C — Google review

Far exceeded my expectations!I'll start by saying I'm not a huge space nerd or anything (though a general nerd for sure!), and this destination wasn't at the top of my list of places to visit on my Florida trip. I thought the admission price was a bit steep, but I was in the area (and survived the sticker shock of Disney), so decided to go for it.I went with my wife and 2 and 5 year old daughters. There was so much for all of us to do! The Planet Play, which is basically a giant indoor playground, was amazing. My girls could have just stayed there all day. The exhibits elsewhere were both interactive and informative.The bus trip to see the Saturn V rocket was absolutely worth it. It just has to be seen to believe how massive it is. The Space Shuttle Atlantis was phenomenal... Actually everything was.We only got to see a fraction of what there was to see and experience (kids got tired). If I were there by myself, I could have easily spent at least a couple days here. It absolutely exceeded all of my expectations.

Gravel R — Google review

Really great place to visit with the family or just adults. There is a lot more to do here than 10 years ago and with minimal wait lines compared to other theme parks. We had a great time and and I would suggest paying extra for the KSC extended bus tour as it stops at a lot of very educational and interesting spots for a once in a lifetime viewing opportunity.

Todd L — Google review

A fantastic learning experience. There are a ton of things to see and do. A crammed full day to try to see as much as possible is doable if you're aware of the times for all the movies and experiences. I snapped a couple photos at the entrance of the attractions and times and flowed from one thing to the next pretty easily and started at 10am. Highly recommend and will always want to come back!

Neal B — Google review

Amazing attraction! A must see place for the historical value and the overall value for the history of the human race. The park is well setup, easy to navigate, perfectly managed and organised. I was particularly impressed with the amount of objects of historical importance put in display. You don't want to miss the area dedicated to the Apollo mission . Just a wonderful experience, money well spent. If you can, you should plan the visit over two days as there is a lot to see. Also, make sure not to miss the bus tour!

Simo C — Google review

We had a good time there. With the senior citizen discount it was $70 each plus tax and an extra $10 for parking so it cost over $160 for two of us. Without the discount admission was $75 +tax, and active duty military was $70. They are turning it into a theme park compared to the last time I was there in 1981 which was much different.I would suggest getting there as early as possible to get to see everything and bring plenty of money.

William M — Google review

This was one of the best experience I've ever had! Just amazed by the exhibition! If you really want to see everything, you'll need more than one day. In one day you can cover pretty everything but without spending much time by reading. It is impressive, huge and amazing! I don't regret any dollars I spent there, and it wasn't cheap. If I'll have opportunity, I'll return

Fillip H — Google review

We had a family trip on December 2023 during Christmas must visit Kennedy Space Center an incredible experience! 🚀✨ It's awesome to see rockets and great work what scientist and astronauts doing and how there journeys are and you can enjoy some food and coffee there. (Even if it was a bit pricey, )but the overall experience was worth it. Would definitely recommend.!

Sanchita S — Google review

My 13 year old son and I visited about a week ago on a Saturday. It took us quite a bit of time to be able to park- so many people on a Saturday morning at 11:00 a.m.! Learn from us and get there earlier. :)Once we made it past the gates, we absolutely loved our time at the space center. We paid for the Explore Bus Tour. I have no idea what the other bus tour is like but this one was great. The driver made lots of stops so we could get out and take pictures. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and kept us engaged the entire time.Seeing Saturn V and watching all the presentations/mini-movies are an absolute must! So fascinating and awe-inspiring! I love history and this place was just wonderful! I loved learning about the astronauts and all the men and women that have worked so hard on our space program.Even if you’re not in love with learning about history, this place is still incredible to see. Oh- and yes, there were a lot of people there but because the visitor center is SO big, it never felt like there were TOO many people. Large crowds were never a big problem for us while there.

Annalee R — Google review

Atlantis was our favorite part, the reveal was amazing and we enjoyed the launch experience. The bus tour was great and very informative. We spent the entire day there and it was enough time for our group. We waited a while to get in but once inside it didn't feel overly crowded and the lines weren't terribly long. One of the employees even showed us a video of himself driving the Mars rover and told us what it was like to do so. This was awesome and put it over the top for our kids.

Andrew N — Google review

Watching a live Discovery episode about space travel is the best way to describe it. Don't expect a theme park with intense attractions; instead, it's an educational park where everything is meticulously arranged. The atmosphere is more relaxed than in the big parks, and the staff are a bit friendlier and more helpful. This makes the experience at the KSC a 5-star one. We also had the privilege of witnessing a launch from the grandstands, which was definitely the highlight of the day. We spent 6 hours in the park, including waiting time, so you can easily fill a whole day there.

Steve G — Google review

This was a unique experience for sure. It seems to be more geared towards children than adults but it does have appeal for adults. There is a lot to see and the 2 day pass is far cheaper per day than a 1 day pass. We went for 1 day and was able to get through everything. If you like to read all the plaques and get more involved with the exhibits I'd recommend planning for 2 days as there is a lot to go through. The food line was chaotic and took a long time but the food was good.

Robert G — Google review

We had the best time! I was nervous because we have been to the SC in Houston and hated it. This was well planned, and fairly priced. We used the kiosks and even with the ID me, the military discount didn't work. We stopped at the information center and Deiandre (I think I butchered that spelling, sorry!) was so helpful with correcting it for us. I visited with 3 kids ages 5, 12 and 14. All three had a blast. I felt like the food was fairly priced and there were plenty of places. We saved the bus tour for last and they even had strollers which my 5 year old was happy to climb into. Seriously every detail was well thought out. The play area was huge, if I lived there I would have an annual pass just for that. There is a child swap for the simulator. My kiddo fell asleep while in line and we were about to utilize it however he woke up just in time . The simulator was a blast and worth waiting for . We were there from open to close and still didn't get to see everything. We will happily visit again!

Ashley H — Google review

Worth the trip with only a few minor issues. Easy to get to but best to buy ticket online in advance. Plenty of parkingWhile there are guides it would help to have more with available directions. They advocate using your phone for a map but that is not as good as the paper map as the app stands nowDefinitely take a bus tour. However it passes quickly but does not stop at the Vehicle Assembly Building which would have been interesting. Seeing the Saturn V center is worth it. If lucky you may be able to see a launch (one was scheduled but they had to scrub at the last minute - disappointing).Definitely stop at the Atlantis shuttle building and see the Deep Sky IMAX film on the James Web telescope.Could use some souvenirs etc to purchase on James Webb. Also not sure why you have to pay to park.We weren’t able to see everything but you can do fairly well with a one day ticket. They advise 2 day and it really depends on how deep you want to get into it. Would have liked someone to go outside with the group and explain the launch sites across the water.Regardless of a few negative issues it is worth going.

Steve — Google review

What a great experience! You can spend the entire day here exploring. There are even training sessions but book way in advance if you want to do those. They offer different tour packages if you're interested in that too. Bus tour is included in the general ticket purchase and well worth taking. Fun surprises throughout the buildings! Must for everyone!

Jennifer R — Google review

My visit to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex was an out-of-this-world experience! I was captivated by the sense of wonder and exploration that permeates every corner of this incredible facility. The Visitor Complex offers a perfect blend of education, entertainment, and inspiration for visitors of all ages. From the awe-inspiring rocket displays to the interactive exhibits showcasing the history and future of space exploration, there's something here to ignite the imagination of every visitor. One of the highlights of my visit was the chance to see real spacecraft up close, including the iconic Saturn V rocket and the Space Shuttle Atlantis. Standing in the shadow of these engineering marvels was a humbling reminder of the incredible achievements of humanity in space exploration.The educational opportunities at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex are second to none. The staff are passionate and knowledgeable, offering insightful commentary and engaging presentations that bring the wonders of space to life in a way that's accessible to visitors of all ages.I am so disappointed that I could not wait until evening to visit a rocket launch the same evening I was there.Overall, my visit to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex was truly unforgettable. Whether you're a space enthusiast or simply curious about the wonders of the universe, this is a must-visit destination that will leave you inspired and in awe of the endless possibilities of space exploration. It stands the epitome of what mankind can do - to make the impossible possible.

Santhosh J — Google review

Amazing. Staff is friendly and accommodating. The exhibits are interesting, interactive, and inspiring. There is so much to do and see. You really need the whole day. I really enjoyed the time here. Also, we greatly appreciate that there were wheelchair rentals for $10 dollars which made all of the exhibits very accessible for my mom. What a great day!!

Becky L — Google review

The experience was awe inspiring such a moment where history meets reality. The center so full of history and wonder. It was filled with rockets from the past and legendary astronauts who walked the moon. The many different eras of legends who dared to question the unknown and explore with risk filled motivations. The food was interesting and the exhibits which gave endless information. The icing on the cake being The Atlantis which when you see it made you imagine the sheer power of those boosters and being attached to SBRs and a fuel tank. Then to top it all off being able to experience for a brief moment that power in a simulated rocket launch. Also a rather important thing to know is that paid parking is required to enter the park. The G forces and the inverted speed feeling it all culminate into what you imagined, just better. The facilities were decent yet many lacking in water pressure. Even though they stress clean hands all the way up to the elbows in their clean hands diagram. The experience something that certainly fulfilled so many thoughts I had about manned and unmanned space travel.

Matt E — Google review

Awesome place! I got to see my favorite rocket; Saturn V! If you're a space geek like me then you'd totally love this place! There's many delicious food items here and the shop has some pretty cool stuff! There's many different, and REAL, space shuttles that were used on display here! There's many things to do and if you really wanted to do everything, you'd probably have to make it a two day trip, but I only went for one day, so I couldn't imagine how much better it could get. And, the rides were rlly fun! I'd recommend for everyone of all ages.

Tay — Google review

This was a wonderful experience. An employee was so helpful and directed me first to go on the bus which takes you to another museum a couple miles away. Once done there it brings you back so you can see other things.The only things I recommend for coming are be prepared to spend the whole day, there are so many cool simulations and because they let other people in (rude) it takes a while to try everything. Which leads me to my other recommendation, hand sanitizer to be safe.I had a great time and would love to bring the niblings with me next time.

Catherine B — Google review

If you are into space exploration, the space program, or a history buff, this is the place. We came on a week day, but it was still pretty crowded. Lots of spring break families with their kids. You can take a bus tour to the Saturn program museum. Neat to see the rockets, control rooms, and artifacts from this era. Another building has interactive flight simulators. We chose Mars, the red planet. These are short, maybe 20 minutes, and the chairs move and roll with the simulation. There is also an astronauts hall of fame. We spent only 4 hours but you need at least a day to see everything.

Steve K — Google review

A place to absolutely see if you are in Orlando for the parks, a few kilometers away there is one of the most fascinating places on the planet.The complex is huge and despite what the guides report, difficult to visit in a single day unless you give up something.Although the service is poor, with very little information and it is difficult to orient yourself with the guides, it remains a fantastic experience, so I recommend making a visit plan before arriving.

Christian F — Google review

It's basically a museum. There are many displays and lots of stuff to look at but very few things that I would consider rides. And even then, the rides are pretty poorly done. We took our 4 year old and our 6 year old and they had fun, but they would've had just as much fun going any where else that had the same kind of carnival style rides. Also, we went on a day when Florida residents got 4 tickets for $150 ish. Even at that price point it felt like a lot for what they offer. Don't get me wrong I'm really glad we went. It's definitely something that I would say Go see it one time, but as far as ever going there again I cannot imagine that our family would ever do that again especially since if we had not gotten discount the cost for tickets would have been well over $300. And there's really nothing there that I would be willing to pay that much for us to go see. The last thing I will say about it is that we had lunch in the on-site restaurant and we had hamburgers and french fries and it was more than $70. So I just do not feel like the cost of the tickets is worth what you get. Nice place. Very interesting exhibits. But in my opinion wildly, wildly overpriced.

Florida F — Google review

My son bought me tickets, which included The Explorer two-hour bus tour for my birthday along w/my husband. We arrived at 9 & left shortly after 4. The place is very clean. Wonderful day especially the bus tour w/Lee, our guide. He was a world of knowledge about the launches, launch pads, where the astronauts stay while there, the assembly buildings, other buildings, various fuels used in the rocket engines and I could go on and on. The tour included seeing these areas. If only I could remember all our tour guide told us. The Atlantis bldg. was by far the greatest to see the size of the actual rocket, which was hanging above us. It absolutely amazed me. The rocket garden is super. There are a number of other air-conditioned buildings to walk through and some with short videos shown on the walls. Other than being a very sunny, hot day I loved every minute of it!

Diane W — Google review

An awesome must hit spot when in Cocoa Fl, my wife and I came out for a small weekend getaway. We had a great time we got there early and the staff was very friendly and helpful, they even gave tips on what exhibits to visit early to avoid the big crowds like The Atlantis. We were absolutely blown away by all the Real/Used artifacts like mission flown rockets/shuttles. Absolutely mind blowing size and the exhibits were very informative. Would definitely recommend to people of all ages! Everyone could learn something while visiting. If the opportunity is available we definitely recommend taking the bus charter to the other part of the park and going to view the launch pads as well as the big assembly building. Very surreal seeing it in person. Hope to visit again soon!

Joseph D — Google review

Ever since I was little , I have wanted to visit Kennedy Space Center. I was luck to be in the area for school for a few months and finally got the chance. It did not disappoint in one bit. Everything in the park is so interesting, and it all is amazing to take in. While the tickets are a bit pricey (around 90 bucks), it is well worth it and totally understandable from what you actually get. I would advise, bring water and coming early to be able to see everything.

P J — Google review

This place is absolutely FANTASTIC! There are tons of exhibits to see, and program presentations that give a great history of space exploration. The staff is super friendly and knowledgeable and the security check is good. Don't want anyone allowed in that would damage any of the property or endanger guests. The complex is HUGE. There is also a Crawler that carries the rockets to their destination which is really cool to see. You may even see a gator or a wild boar roaming around 😉

Scott — Google review

This was such an awesome experience coming here as a first timer with my Dad! We love all things ✨️Space✨️! If you're a Space enthusiast like us, this should definitely be high on your list of places to visit! Highly recommend the tour bus around the grounds - the drivers make it fun and are so personable and knowledgeable. All of the displays and interactive theaters were so thoughtfully executed and placed, including the Space Shuttle Atlantis, rockets, and everything in between. There were so many things to do and see here, we weren't able to get to all of the exhibits/attractions, so if you do come, plan to spend about 2 days here.They do have an on-site cafe named the Orbit Cafe, however, the food we had that day, was pretty basic and overpriced, in my humble opinion. Overall, it was such a worthwhile visit. I'd love to come back and see some launches next time around!

Michelle R — Google review

Got off our cruise early and decided to give it a look. We arrived right as the gates opened which would prove to be a phenomenal idea. Received the military discount at the easy to use self checkout kiosk and in we went. Most every attraction we went to we only had a dozen or less people with us. Around lunch it was definitely crowded. Our impromptu visit just happened to be on the anniversary date of the very first shuttle launch which was very cool. Not only that but meeting Steve Swanson was amazing ! When we saw Atlantis presented the way it was I got chills like a little boy. The attractions and history were absolutely amazing. Something that without a shadow of a doubt needs to be brought back into service. Plenty of bathrooms throughout and if you decided to eat there they actually have a great selection to include an amazing salad. Definitely wouldn’t mind visiting again, an overall blast for two grown ups. Lastly every staff member we encountered from the gate guard to the restaurant cashier were amazing, helpful, and polite.

David W — Google review

Lovely place for both Adults and Kids. Middle and High school kids can understand and enjoy it more.Great place to see more about space, rockets etc.Has a good collection of different Rocket models.There are few attractions which are worth the wait in line and enjoy the Simulators.Bus tour is a must one to know more about the space center - Don't take the ride immediately after entering the visitor center or before 3 hours of closing. The queue will be big.Movies especially in IMAX are a must watch.

Krishna K — Google review

Awesome day exploring the space center and we were lucky enough to witness a launch as well. You definitely need all day here to see and experience everything properly. I definitely recommend the simulation of a launch ride. My dad has his mobility scooter and he was treated like a king 😊👍❤️

Lisa M — Google review

It was incredible! We spent 2 days here with our child and were pleasantly surprised by how well everything is thought out and organized. Each location offers thrilling adventures with lots of details and interactive information. A kind lady at the information center drew up a perfect plan for us to explore the center on our own in one day (attached) - follow it and you won't regret it. A must-visit place for everyone in Florida!

Yurii S — Google review

I took my 18 year old daughter and fiancee on Friday, July 20th. It was so hot, the first thing we did was jump on a bus for a tour. I'm so glad we did! We had an amazing time. We got so much more information than if we'd just stayed in the main area. We also ate at the Space Rock Cafe and had great burgers. We saw real space shuttles and equipment. 1 day is not long enough to see everything. I highly recommend going if there is time!

Tiffany B — Google review

Amazing place to visit. Lots of history and ambience. Hard to compare it against a theme park as it’s technically a working museum. But the comparison is helpful. It’s worth booking in advance and visiting the Saturn 5 and Shuttle exhibits. They are definitely the best exhibits. The food is pretty average. Plus the signage is terrible and very confusing so you will need a good sense of direction. Downloading the app helps. Overall a great experience and highly recommended.

Matt W — Google review

Absolutely worth a visit! There's an abundance of learning, activities, and exploration opportunities here. To skip some of the lines, I recommend purchasing tickets in advance. Visiting on a Saturday, we encountered a queue for entry/security. To make the most of your time, prioritize the bus tour upon arrival—it's a fantastic way to beat the rush before the last bus heads out. The Apollo center videos were informative and engaging for all ages. Spotting native wildlife during the bus ride was also a highlight. Food prices were reasonable, and the kids were thrilled with Planet Play—a super cool play space.

Jordan — Google review

An amazing experience. Great place to take the kids for a day. I recommend doing the explorer tour, well with it. Getting to see all the launch pads and even a couple of bonus things that day. Can spend the entire day here easily. Seeing the Saturn 5 rocket in real life is just incredible

Kyle B — Google review

A must do!!!!! The last time that I have been here was 2008/2009, due to living in the Northeast. It was nice then, but now I would say that it's a phenomenal day out. A much pricier ticket than it was of course, but ID Me had a special going on that made the tickets half price. We got there an hour after opening and we were walking out 5 minutes after closing. The space shuttle exhibit was so kick@$&. Every foot of the grounds and bus tour was a great experience. Highly, highly, highly recommend.

Brian M — Google review

Had a great time today. Excellent exhibits. Shuttle display and is a must see. Want to give a “shout out” to Angie at the Bus Tour entrance. She was very upbeat and informative (in 90+ degree temps). We needed wheelchair assistance for getting on the bus and made sure we were regularly updated on the status of the bus’ arrival.

Donna M — Google review

Kennedy Space Center is one of the biggest attractions in the Orlando area. Who among us hasn't heard about NASA and space conquests? Who wouldn't want to see this world in person?Rockets, spacesuits of cosmonauts, huge buildings and lots of equipment that has been produced for space explorers.The area of the center is huge and special shuttle buses transport tourists between the various points. Along the way we had the opportunity to see alligators roaming the streets.We were most impressed by the simulation of a rocket launch, when we sat in the command center and could feel everything in the room shaking. The whole staging was preceded by a countdown, just like in Hollywood movies. In addition, you can see many rockets up close, including the largest one that flew into space: the Saturn V, or the Atlantis shuttle.Unfortunately, you can also be disappointed in person. First of all, most things are old, even decades old. Even in our homes we have newer technologies than those presented at NASA. I expected some extraordinary technologies, straight out of American movies. Especially since it was NASA that very often pioneered novelties in the world.Nevertheless, for space fanatics, this is a real shrine.Another downside is the ticket prices. And especially those for children, which are only cheaper by a few symbolic dollars.On the plus side, there is certainly a huge parking lot.

Ss S — Google review

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11

Daytona International Speedway

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Car racing track

Sights & Landmarks

Auto Race Tracks

The Daytona International Speedway is one of the countrys major racing meccas and is home to the iconic Daytona 500. The track offers various tours that last from half an hour to three hours, with some VIP experiences even offering a lap or two around the track at high speeds. The race itself takes place yearly in February and is known as one of the most exciting races in the world.

What can I say, amazing venue even just for the tour. I say just but the time taken by the staff in the tour and the details provided were amazing.The museum is great to see too and invokes the spirit of Indy perfectly. Would highly recommend.

Richard G — Google review

I got great seats and the fanzone experience but it wasn't the VIP I truly wanted. Drivers don't sign autographs for kids anymore. That was kinda disappointing. Race was great. Prices not bad at the concessions.

Danielle W — Google review

It was an excellent experience to go to Daytona and be inside the most famous track in the world, we went to the Jeep Beach festival, it is a “crazy pod” the volunteers and everyone who was there were happy, the vibe was spectacular!!! Daytona here I go again

Diana L — Google review

Posting review late, we visited here on September 17, 2023Highly recommend coming here, either for a race or to experience the tours! I was a little kid in a candy store, this place is amazing if you're a race fan! I recommend doing the tour, lots of great information that I never knew about!If you don't do the tour, definitely go visit the museum! They don't just have Daytona cars in there. They have a little bit of everything! Very cool! I wish we would've had more time to see everything in the museum though, we had to catch our tour bus by a certain time. The gift shop has something for everyone, so don't leave without stopping in there. Overall, I'm very happy we came here even though it wasn't race day! We'll be back though!

Stephanie E — Google review

This place is more organized than my local school district, amusement park, and boyscout troop combined. Everyone is so incredibly nice.Our experience is a memory for a life time.

Debra B — Google review

Great tour. You're driven around and open tram to all the high points on the exterior of the Speedway. We got to see all the different entrances. Campgrounds and high points. Then we entered through the tunnels to the center hub of the Speedway. We got to see the winner circle. The car garages, and views of the stands from ground level. From there, we exited and went in via the Toyota entrance where we got to watch a few of the cars go around the Speedway. You can buy driving tours where you get drive and go around the racetrack, and that's what we saw. At the end, we went through the museum and got to see souvenir pictures that we took upon initially entering. Great tour but a little price at $25 per person but glad we went.

Rhonda V — Google review

They've really improved the fan experience over the years here. You can't have a bad time at DIS even when the weather isn't optimal. We had the coldest weather for the Rolex 24 and I'm not a cold weather girl but I braved it and had an awesome time with my Mom!

Georgiana H — Google review

This is the closest racetrack to us. I like to go here for the several car shows they have during the year and for the museum. This is the best time to visit as there is plenty of spaces to park then. If they are having a race make sure you get there early as it will fill up quickly. The museum is real nice and you can see the history of the track there as well as some of the cars that raced on it. This is also the place to buy your souvenirs.

John H — Google review

My grandsons and I took the tour of the Speedway. It was awesome! They are big race fans and enjoyed being able to get on the track. This tour is worth the $25 tickets. It also includes the museum.

Annette — Google review

This experience was awesome. We got the tickets to take our boys to see the museum and take the tour of the track. It was well worth it. Our kids had so much fun, and we were so happy that they enjoyed it. It was a bit pricey, but honestly, it was worth it, especially seeing my kids' faces.

Crystal B — Google review

A must for car enthusiast! The tour is awesome!! Our guide was very knowledgeable, got to see most of the track, even had some cars going round the track. Lots of great auto racing history in the museum

Daniel S — Google review

I loved attending the Rolex 24 race! I've also taken the Speedway tram tour a few times and really enjoyed that experience as well! I don't even know anything about racing.😉 The tours are a little different every time depending on what is happening at the track. Always plan ahead because tours can sell out. I highly recommend any activity at The Daytona International Speedway!

Stacey D — Google review

I won a chance to drive my own car on Daytona International Speedway through a loyalty rewards program called Marriott Bonvoy. I drive a Suburban daily, so I did the only sensible thing I could think of, I rented a 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 3LT with every bell and whistle on it Chevy has and had the time of my life! We were supposed to only get four laps each on the track, but a few of us got lucky and got five in! It was something I'll never forget. All of the employees went out of there way to make sure we were all having a great time, top notch from start to finish!

Dereck K — Google review

We went on the tour a few weeks ago and I would definitely recommend. You get to see every part of the speedway, walk on the track, and sit in the seats, plus the museum is very cool. They give you so much history and information, it’s definitely worth it.

Kiara W — Google review

We really enjoyed our tour here. For the price you get a lot for your money. You get to go on a tram tour, our guide was super nice. You visit the track, the stands, the winner circle area, and the wonderful museum. I highly recommend it!

Walter M — Google review

Truly a cool place for all gear heads and car enthusiasts. Enjoyed attending the Turkey Run car show. So much to see, all on the inside of the track. Really cool getting to walk on such a famous track racetrack! Didn't have to pay for parking either.

Kaleb C — Google review

One of the best experiences I had on my Florida visit! Most people are not aware that you can actually buy tour tickets that will take them directly on the actual race track (near the start finish line!) which is super cool as you get to experience the track by being actually on it!

Ajit M — Google review

First time to a race. It was cool ! I loved the seats we were in it was a great view. Bring your own snacks and drinks its pretty expensive to buy food.Fun day except for the accident. 😬

Julia S — Google review

The tour guide was very knowledgeable. He gave many opportunities for pictures to be taken. Staff even assisted everyone with picture taking.We got to see a handful of cars do laps around the track. The facility as a whole is very well kept.The only downside is that I felt a sense of "bait of switch" with the supposed photo that was noted to be included in the tour.Multiple pictures ARE taken,and you have the opportunity to choose whichever you like at the end of the tour.HOWEVER, you get presented with different options of your pictures to PURCHASE 😬. If you don't buy it,they give you a card with a QR code to SCAN and download/upload..🤯 The advertising clearly says that a picture is included..but they didn't specify as to HOW..so fyi..but despite that, I'd return there hands down. Oh and the guide gave helpful advice about attending when actual events are happening! That itself will be helpful for anyone 🥳.

JUSNATURAL. — Google review

The Nascar experience was incredible. If you can really try and pick a package that is longer than 8 minutes. I did the 32 minute package and don't regret a single thing! All the people helping you are professional and friendly. The ladies running the souvenir booth are awesome.

Scott B — Google review

My husband and I took the tour. You get so much more for your money. The people are so nice and helpful to answer all your questions. It is so much to see, and you get your picture taken. They can print it there, and they also give you a card to scan and order it.

Umeka W — Google review

We visited for the Magic or Lights. Our family really enjoyed it. It seemed much longer than other displays we have visited which made it a good value for the money. The staff was friendly, and the picture ops very nice. We will definitely be back next year and hope it's a little different each time.

Miranda — Google review

One of America's most iconic sports venues. Attended the 2024 Daytona 500 but spent the day before at the museum and on the midway. My son and I had SO much fun and thoroughly enjoyed race day! But you can go to the museum and to take a tour when there are no races and learn about racing rich history, not just NASCAR. I will be back!

Joe S — Google review

I just happen to be traveling and working in the Daytona Beach area on Bike Week so I decided to shoot across the street from where I was working, to the Daytona Speedway to check out all the vendors and awesome bikes. I commend the event for all of the signage and barricades that they put up. Everything was easy to navigate and there were NO QUESTIONS on where you could and couldn't enter or exit at. It was quite the awesome sight and experience! Everyone I met or spoke to was super cool and approachable. (Yes..even some of the bikers that were a little long in the tooth...they were all awesome people!) Good energy, good vibes, good people, great bikes, great times! Everyone should experience this, even if you don't ride...you'll enjoy it!

Richard M — Google review

This place was awesome! The views and stops on the tour were great!! However, the lady that gave our tour was mean to several people on the tour and treated all like children who are going to the principal. That’s only reason it’s not a 5 star! We were told about 60 days a year you can get in the track and this was one of those days! It was crazy cool too see what an 18 and 35 degree slope looked like on the track. 18 is a very steep him, 35 would slide you back down.

Brandon E — Google review

Went with friends to take the tour. We had a great tour guide “Dave”. Very knowledgeable. Made the experience worth going. Sold us all on the sport and we will be coming back for a race. Thanks Dave !

Mojo J — Google review

Attended the Daytona 500 in 2023. Probably one of the coolest events I’ve been to recently. We got passes that allowed us to show up early and attend concerts and other venues in the infield before the race. Tons of food and drinks along with plenty of music and experience to last a lifetime. Parking on race day definitely sucks though. I recommend finding a different option for getting to and from the event. Tons of bathrooms and food once the race started. I don’t think there is a bad seat in the stadium either.

Clinton A — Google review

The track tour is worth every penny!Seeing the track in person vs on TV is 2 completely different things!Definitely a must for any Nascar fan!Thanks again!

George R — Google review

Just did a tour not a race unfortunately. I recommend the higher priced tour experience. You will see a lot more, right up to being on the roof. There's a lot of history here and it's very incredible. Even the track itself, how steep the grade is.

Kyle B — Google review

For all the car enthusiast out there this is a once on lifetime experience if you get to go to Daytona 500 even if you’re not a big NASCAR person it’s really cool to see the speed and the culture at this racetrack. The track is beautifully maintained and the grandstand is well built where everything is very visible at the venue is also extremely friendly

Chris V — Google review

Went for the Daytona 500 and will for sure go back. Track is huge. Lost of different levels for different views. Seats were honestly not bad. Free wifi was pretty fast to be honest. Really good connection. Bathrooms were clean. Parking is obviously madness but it’s expected with events of that size. Entrance was super easy. 10/10 in my book.

Kameron A — Google review

I LOVE THIS PLACE!!! Been coming here 20yrs. The new stadium vs the old is so much nicer! The escalators to the top of level 3 are the best thing ever!!! No more climbing stairs. Plus the fact that you can bring in your own soft side cooler wow what a great way to spend the day watching some racing. Cars, trucks and motorcycles there is always something great to see here. Buying your tickets in advance can certainly save you some money.

John L — Google review

My husband and I attended Jeep Beach ⛱️ and camped from Tuesday on ...it's was like "awesomeness π" if there were such a thing!!! I never expected it to be even bigger and better than last year...# such an awesome ride. # see y'all next year!!!

Katherine S — Google review

Fantastic experience, fanzone tickets a must, signed start line. Live bands, food amazing. Atmosphere unbelievable. Definitely need ear plugs. Daytona 500 book well in advance. Great day, but be prepared to stay in the area a few days after as they may change the day of race depending on the weather.

Sue P — Google review

Jeep Week 2024 was another awesome event for the books. The weather was Florida breezy and awesomely sunny! The vendor freebies (ducks, bags, Monster drinks and stickers) were plenty, and food truck ally was diverse in way of food amd beverage options.We had a great view of the Jeep obstacle course by actually sitting on the track at the turn against the wall (see photo).We can't wait for next year's Jeep Week!!

Wendy P — Google review

Pretty iconic venue for anything motorized.From the auto shows to the races.Lots of parking. The outdoor bathrooms need better servicing. Like overflowing toilets, wet floors, and no toilet paper at 10:00am (event start time).Things could be improved, but it does it's job fine.

Brian M — Google review

If you’re a NASCAR fan you need to visit the Daytona Speedway at least once. This place is massive. Don’t sleep on seeing a concert here or catching any race including the Rolex 24 hour of the Daytona 500. If you’re ready for more than take a few laps in a stock car at 150 miles per hour +

Matt R — Google review

Went to Daytona 500. What a wild ride. We had 2nd row seats and it was intense. I wanted to experience the most intense experience and we got it. However you will have a better viewing experience from the top rows.All in all I really enjoyed it.Once in a lifetime experience don't care to go back. It's far more enjoyable on TV.But it was an intense and insane experience in reality

Random S — Google review

This racetrack was much bigger than I thought the pictures don’t even give it justice! I was supposed to attend the Daytona 500 this year but because of the rain they had to postpone it till the following Monday so I had to go home. However, even though the Xfinity race and the Daytona 500 race was postponed because of the rain, I still enjoyed my time and got to see race cars up close and got to see how they land in their positions. It was an awesome experience. Will come again when the weather gets better.

PhatGyrlSnoop — Google review

We love the tour. It was interesting and entertaining. I learned so much and lots of pictures opportunities. The museum was also great.The train ride takes may be 1 hour, and there are spots you can go down to explore, take some pictures 📸 .The museum and souvenir shop are until 5 pm.The tickets vary in what tour,race, events, or experience. We just got the regular tour one, which is about less than $30.We enjoyed our visit.Hopefully, we will experience the race 🏁 next time.

Phia V — Google review

Going on the track is a good experience. You cannot imagine the angles of the slope that these car are going. The guide was very knowledgeable and shared great stories. The small museum is also very nice.

PATRICK G — Google review

4.7

(25916)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (87)

4.5

(3777)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (88)

1801 W International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, USA

(800) 748-7467

12

Worlds Most Famous Beach Daytona Beach

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Beach

Nature & Parks

The beach known as "World's Most Famous Beach" is a popular spot in Daytona Beach for tourists to take photos. With miles of coastline, the area is home to many different attractions and festivals throughout the year.

HOURS: The beach is accessible and free for pedestrians and bicyclists 24 hours a day, depending on tides and weather conditions. Driving and parking on the beach is open to vehicles from sunrise to sunset from November 1 through April 30 and from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm (out when the tide comes in) from May 1 through October 31.Parking is $20 a ticket which you can use for the whole day.PROS: You park 25 feet from the waterfront. Aqua ocean views. Mixed demographic, all ages. Bathwater warm water.CONS: Absolutely nothing. A must visit!

C N — Google review

1sr time at the beach here. The water is very clear. It’s busy on the weekend of course but great for a day at the beach with family. We went Saturday but it started raining and Sunday tide came but we had time enough to enjoy the beach!!!

Angie J — Google review

Save your money not worth it.. unless you bring everything there is nothing to do here. The water is nice and the beach is relatively clean but other than that it's not worth it. It's packed and loud, no shade or any attraction, not really any where to get food. and despite the fact that on the website it says there are designated areas where you can take your dogs there are none and you will get kicked off the beach, after they take your money and let you on it

Dana G — Google review

Definitely one of my go to places mainly because I can park on the beach!!

Otto J — Google review

Awesome views with great beaches. Very convenient to drive on beach and park not having to drag coolers, umbrellas, etc.

Dillon L — Google review

A beautiful beach ⛱️ it was worth stopping g by and swimming 🏊‍♂️ in

GASPAR P — Google review

Been coming here for 40 plus yrs. Still amazed at the size of this beach. It's never crowded, anytime of the day. It's a gradual walk into the water, no drop off. Perfect for kids. Lots of places to stay and eat. The pier is so much fun on a Saturday night.You can't beat this place!

Alistair R — Google review

I normally avoid this are of Daytona, it is where the party seen is. Although I went today seeing how last minute we decided to go watch the sunrise so we did and then hung around the beach for a few hours. The beach was dirty the people that go there to party unfortunately do not clean up after themselves! There was a man passed out in the sand as well, clearly from the night before and yes I made sure he was alive and gave him some water and he went back to sleep without a care in the world. Do your part and clean up your trash.Otherwise it was a great trip. We enjoyed the sunrise and we spent a couple of hours getting some vitamin D. Kudos to the workers on the beach they where out early picking up the trash and emptying bins doing their best to clean it up so BIG THANKS for that. I would advise going further away from the boardwalk for family’s just my opinion but as always we had a great time.

Lilmisskml — Google review

Daytona beach really surprised me! I loooved getting to spend time in the water and just relaxing. Very chill and family vibes. The sand is white and the water is clear enough for me. I would definitely go again and visit!

Ronny S — Google review

If you are planning to visit this beach, do not search “Daytona Beach” we got confused as Daytona beach is a city name. You need to search by including “World famous” in it, and it’s for a reason! You can drive in your car around the shore for $20. The beach is very clean and calm. If you have enough time do spend an evening there, you will never get bored of this calmness. We saw all kinds of people having fun, camping, dancing, modeling and making best of their time. There are limited parking outside the entry gate, it’s better to take ticket and drive at the shore. A must go if you are around Orlando

PIYUSH K — Google review

Very clean beach, never crowded and the water is always fun to play in. If you are lucky enough, you can catch dolphins swimming near the shore in the morning.

Mike B — Google review

The ‘Worlds Most Famous Beach Daytona Beach’ sign is nice and all but really the beach is pretty good and totally worth a visit; don’t just snap the sign and leave. Mostly blue water, light sands and great to see everyone social distancing. waves looked fairly gentle, a lot of fishing and a lot of families having good times in the sun. Beach umbrella rentals doing a roaring trade when I was there.

R C — Google review

Love the option to bring my Jeep on to the Beach

Our C — Google review

Driving on the beach is a different experience. But other than that, nothing special about the beach. Very congested place. Unclean beach. No easy access to showers or washrooms. People blasting music with loud speakers and smoking everywhere. Can’t even breathe fresh air at the beach due to the cigarette smell. Jacksonville and St.Augustine beaches are so much better. Daytona is an overhyped place.

Naren — Google review

This area (experiencing a high rise construction boom) has become run-down, with little variety in cheesy souvenir shops, T-shirt shops and bars predominant. Everywhere we walked we inhaled the secondhand skunky-stink of pot smoking tourists. Ugh. The beach itself was a mess with trash - tossed cups and food rinds littering the sand. Sidewalks are grimy - City of Daytona Beach, you should be ashamed..! Hire people to rake the beaches and use pressure washers on those sidewalks.! Disgusted by the condition - we will never return here..!

Thea — Google review

Came by to walk the pier and check out the food. The whole beach smells like smoke and garbage. It feels super dirty so you won’t have an appetite. The beach did look like a great spot to play in the sand and had great waves.

Kate S — Google review

Beautiful area! The public beach is a little crowded but if you stay at a condo or hotel on the beach it's absolutely wonderful.

Leara C — Google review

Miles of old worn-down and poorly-aging condominiums dot the highway. The place needs a major face-lift and more recreational and modernized dining options. Some of the high rises are so close to the waterline, it looks like they are about to fall in. In December, this place is a ghost town.

Travel T — Google review

4.6

(2278)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (93)

4.5

(4751)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (94)

838 E International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32118, USA

13

St George St

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Notable street

Sights & Landmarks

Points of Interest & Landmarks

St. George Street is a charming pedestrian thoroughfare in the heart of the city's Colonial Quarter. It features excellent restaurants and retailers as well as a historic church and 18th-century schoolhouse. The street is popular with locals and tourists alike, making it a great place to shop for souvenirs or have a coffee or meal.

One of my most favorite places to visit. Luckily I don't live far away.

Jamie D — Google review

Lot of shop to visit and enjoy the walking. People are friendly , good places to eat. Will come back soon.

Osman L — Google review

Beautiful place, it's a colonial street, with stores and a lot of people walking and enjoying the view.

Rocio R — Google review

Very cool place with tons of shops and places to eat!!!

Kathleen S — Google review

Amazing street! There are a lot of fun things to do here. We visited some stores and museums, we ate pizza and ice cream.It is a very picturesque street and has some nice spots for pictures. There are public restrooms along the street.They have a great variety of restaurants, but we tried the pizza at Pizza Time. This is a great place to visit.

Steven Z — Google review

Great trip with the family. The history is impressive and the shops were fun to browse. Will come back.

Anonymous B — Google review

Great place to shop and Walk around

RD M — Google review

Multiple homeless and souvenir shops. We walked down to see what it was about. Saw the oldest schoolhouse. Many restaurants but very expensive. Don't plan to spend too much time. Parking is available at the visitor center for a flat fee. There are parking lots closer but more money.

Cori H — Google review

First time! So many fun shops, restaurants and entertainment!

Theresa M — Google review

Food, shopping, churches, cathedrals, courtyards, and squares. There's something for everyone here in this fascinating and historical street.

Don C — Google review

Wow!! Truly felt like you were stepping back in time. So many great restaurants and shops in an incredibly historic area!!

ShelbyKY T — Google review

Nice place for shops, bars & music. One of must visit places.

Sudhesh N — Google review

One of the most famous streets, it is a lively street full of tourists, and it has many restaurants, coffee, sweets, ice cream, and gifts.

Sara M — Google review

This place was super cool and pretty! When I visited St. Augustine I came twice and enjoyed both visits! The street is so cool with lots of shops, restaurants, dessert shops, and historical places. I totally recommend!

Faith M — Google review

St George Street in St Augustin is just awesome. Love walking around and look in the stores .

Wenche D — Google review

St. George Street is a gem in town, offering a charming glimpse into antique, olden styles. 🏰The street emanates old European vibes, adorned with numerous shops, creating a beautiful atmosphere. 🛍️Since cars aren't allowed, a stroll is a must, and I guarantee you won't regret immersing yourself in this delightful experience. 👣✨

Bhushan — Google review

Beautiful, clean, safe place for families to enjoy! So much history.

Jordan J — Google review

A great shopping and people watching pedestrian walkway in the heart of everything.

Aaron — Google review

The landlord of many units on the street cut down every tree on every one of his properties. My particular unit has absolutely no escape from the sun, or no shade around whatsoever.

Mike V — Google review

Great historical street with gift shops and different eateries.

Josh H — Google review

Nice place to go for a walk. Mostly a tourist trap with expensive stores.

Maria S — Google review

Exciting place abuzz with tourists, good food and tons of shopping.

Patrick S — Google review

Feels like taking a charming journey back in time. The historic buildings and vibrant shops create a delightful atmosphere that captures the essence of the city's history and culture!

Raul R — Google review

There are many shops to walk through. So many shops have jewelry, souvenirs, candy and sweets. There are several places to eat too.This is near the old gate to the city. The pirate museum is nearby, and across the street is Castillo de San Marcos fort. Also, Bridge of Lions is nearby and will take you over to Anastasia Island, where you can visit the lighthouse and the Alligator Farm.

Linda L — Google review

4.7

(205)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (102)

4.5

(5782)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (103)

St. Augustine, FL 32084, USA

14

St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

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Museum

Sights & Landmarks

The St. Augustine Lighthouse Maritime Museum is a fascinating collection of artifacts from the history of the lighthouse and its keepers, as well as a look at the many shipwrecks that took place along the coast. The tower itself is stunningly beautiful with amazing views, making it an ideal spot for photo ops.

A must see when visiting St Augustine or the area! It's a short drive from the more central area of the city, which was a great break and gave us a chance to drive over the bridge of lions. We didn't visit the park, only the museum, but the area was lovely. My 9-year-old and I did the full climb to the top of the lighthouse - if you can swing it, do it! There are 8 landings and the windows are open so it's nice and breezy in the right weather going up with time to rest. If there's a line, it'll go quickly - they can only allow so many people in at once so it's most comfortable for everybody. There are cool facts and interactive elements and progress marked on the way up. The entire museum area is awesome, especially loved the shipwreck exhibit and the on-site shipwreck artifacts conservation lab (my son's favorite part!). Lots of great historical facts and displays.

Christina L — Google review

I love lighthouses and this one is the bee’s knee’s. Bought tickets online with a discount. Dog friendly except inside the buildings. 219 steps to the top and worth the admission. Great piece of preserved history and functional architecture. The light is impressive at night and incredible in the day. Beautiful wooded paths on the grounds and they sell pickles and snacks! Gift shop has excellent selection and prices.

Tiffany S — Google review

Your thighs will burn going up the stairs but it is was beautiful! Full of history and gorgeous views! Highly recommend bringing water if there during the summer! The staff were all very friendly and the bonus was that they are pet friendly!! Dogs are welcome, just not in the lighthouse itself.

Tiffany L — Google review

Great museum and well thought out. Signage was cool and informative on the way up the tower. Loved the cat story! The facilities were expansive with lots to do. I'd love to spend a whole day here sometime... But it is easy enough to breeze through casually in under an hour if you need to.

Sam L — Google review

The St. Augustine Lighthouse was absolutely amazing. My sister and I went here with our family for our birthday. Everyone we talked to who worked there was so friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. The lighthouse was beautiful and such a cool experience. We also enjoyed visiting the lighthouse keepers' houses and grounds and seeing what life was like for the lighthouse keeper and his family in the 1800s. When we got to the top, the view was absolutely amazing. The volunteer at the top, John offered to take our picture and encouraged us to come back up an hour later to see the sunset from the top of the lighthouse, which was beautiful. He walked with us back down the lighthouse, chatting with us the whole way and even wished my sister and I a happy birthday. All of the volunteers/employees were also very friendly.

Gabrielle T — Google review

Great place to spend a few hours! Lots of good informational displays. Climbing up the lighthouse was less challenging than I thought it would be and I really enjoyed the view from the top, along with the nice breeze of course! Everything was very well cleaned. Unexpectedly, there were nice, short walking trails around the lighthouse that were mostly shaded and had benches to sit on while enjoying nature.

Becky G — Google review

Any absolute delight. Has History, souvenirs, antiques, archeology and more. More than a museum. Don't be intimidated if you have mobility handicaps. Staff is wonderful to make doable suggestions to make those with canes or walkers welcome and comfortable even if climbing stairs is physical limited. Restrooms available in several convenient locations. Many kid friendly things including pirate ship playground, outdoor play area with games and a trail that promotes hands on learning. Climb to the top of the lighthouse or enjoy the view from a comfy seat. Be sure to appreciate the landscaping and Florida foliage as well as the lighthouse keepers garden. The Tin Pickle is the stop for a hotdog, muffin, brownie, soda or a cold beer. We watched men building boats on site. We watched and archaeologist work on items retrieved from ocean dives. Be sure and hike the trail that goes behind the lighthouse. See the lush native plants. Enjoy the huge trees covered in Spanish Moss. Well worth the money and wonderful history lesson for kids of all ages. Staff is beyond helpful and kind.

Debbie B — Google review

Had such a great visit! The lighthouse is so well taken care or we climbed all the way to the top! Its quite a climb but worth it and there are many spots to sit for a break on the way up.. the views are absolutely immaculate and all of the additional exhibits and mini museums were awesome!

Zinnia T — Google review

$30 bucks get you access to the lighthouse and the museum on property. Cool history and a 160+ stair climb to the top of the lighthouse that will give you a workout. Don’t forget to stop at each open window as you climb for a cool constant breeze to stay cool. They sell cheap bottles of ice cold water so may be advisable to grab a bottle (or two) to stay hydrated in the Saint Augustine humidity. The view at the top is just breathtaking!

Dan's V — Google review

Amazing evening in st. Augustine's lighthouse ghost tour. If you're into ghost tales of events that happened of a housekeeper lighthouse Inn. It's an amazing 2-hour tour on the historic ground at the existing lighthouse that is still in use today. Off the shores of Florida on the Atlantic coast is a lighthouse that has been used since the 1800's. The tours are guided for 2 hours. It is all outside so be prepared to still be hot and deal with mosquitoes. You can walk to the top of the lighthouse. It is dark until you get closer to the top with a light that will come on. It's 219 stairs to the top. But the view of the whole tour is well worth it.

Joshua E — Google review

Great historic lighthouse and surrounding campus with plenty of period hardware and historical information. The 219 steps are on a spiral staircase that has eight landings with windows and/or factory boards so you can rest while learning or enjoying the view. The lighthouse and the rest of the buildings/grounds are in excellent condition. The outside observation deck, just below the light housing, is the highest level you can go and you can see for miles, looking down on St. Augustine. It is cheaper to buy tickets online using codes from various sources and there is a senior discount rate. Staff were all very friendly and helpful, completing the package for a must-see attraction for history/lighthouse buffs.

Alan M — Google review

Overall, pretty good experience. This place does get crowded, though, (especially with children!) but that’s to be expected of any attraction in Florida. The actual lighthouse has a pretty long line because of the crowd, but it didn’t take long. View was good. Got good pictures. Good piece of history.

Carson M — Google review

The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum is a nice place to visit and learn about it's history. Prices are reasonable and they have different offers to also include multiple visits along with discounts to other Florida attractions.The lighthouse itself is not air-conditioned (not sure anyone expects that it would be) but all of the other buildings on the property are air-conditioned which is a great relief on hot summer days.You can walk up the many stairs to go to the top of the lighthouse. Once at the top, the views are very nice and there are plenty of photo opportunities.Other buildings on the property talk about the use of the lighthouse over the years and about the area and families that took care of the lighthouse.One building in particular shows how old artifacts are restored and taken care of after they are found.Don't worry, of course they have a gift shop! From what I could see, the prices seem very reasonable and not your typical Florida gift shop that is over priced. A welcomed surprise.Parking is a little tight so make sure you take your time and don't rush in to park.

David A — Google review

The place is great, a really wonderful experience. There is a height limitation for children, so if you have small ones, bring another adult so you can take turns going up the lighthouse. It's a really beautiful and well kept place that offers a lot to see. The water is walking distance away and is beautiful in and of itself. Really enjoyed the experience with my family. I look forward to going again soon. The experience will also be nicer when my daughter can go up the steps.

Adam B — Google review

This was a lovely impromptu stop! The views from the top were gorgeous and expansive and the climb up (although nearly 219 steps) was very manageable due to the benches you can sit on the way up and how well made the stairs are. The building has just been recently renovated and it looks amazing! Each of the exhibits in the separate side buildings were also meticulously maintained and informative. We spoke with several staff members who were extremely friendly and helpful. Overall an incredible place to visit and affordable! Come support historical St. Augustine

Heather W — Google review

A fun, unique experience. Nice views from the top obviously. Be aware if you have kids that for safety reasons there is a height requirement to go up and you aren’t allowed to carry anyone up (or down). There are some unique trails around the property as well including a maritime hammock to explore. There’s also a pirate ship playground for little kids who can’t go up.

Bobby K — Google review

I think I did this review on my phone and am now editing because I didn't give quite enough detail. The lighthouse itself is fantastic to see and we've been here a few times. You have to have purpose to make the climb, though, LOL! The breeze, and view, at the top make it worth it. My husband always has a bit of a height thing when he climbs. But the staff we encountered while we were there were fantastic! One of the fountains was broken, and it was a very hot day, and I was looking for a place to re-fill my water bottle. The lady that was standing at the entrance to the lighthouse did not know one was broken, and made sure I knew where the closest functioning fountain was. We were sure glad to find it since it was July in the hot south!

Jamie Z — Google review

A Beacon of History and Wonder: St. Augustine LighthouseNestled on the picturesque shores of St. Augustine, the St. Augustine Lighthouse stands as a timeless sentinel of history, guiding generations through the annals of time. I had the pleasure of visiting this magnificent structure just last week, and the experience left me in awe of its rich history and undeniable charm.A Glimpse into HistoryThe St. Augustine Lighthouse is more than a towering beacon; it is a living testament to the past. Stepping onto its hallowed grounds, I was transported back in time. The lighthouse, with its distinctive black and white stripes, has a history that spans over 140 years. It has witnessed the ebb and flow of time, bearing witness to countless stories of sailors and seafarers who depended on its light to navigate treacherous waters.As I explored the meticulously preserved keeper's house and surrounding grounds, I was enveloped in a sense of nostalgia. Each step I took felt like a journey through history. The exhibits within the museum provided a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the keepers who tended to this vital beacon, often braving the harshest of conditions to ensure the safety of others.The Ascent: A Journey to RememberThe highlight of my visit was undoubtedly the climb to the top of the lighthouse. With each step up the spiral staircase, I felt a growing sense of anticipation. And when I finally reached the observation deck, the view that greeted me was nothing short of breathtaking. The panoramic vista of St. Augustine, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Matanzas River stretched before me like a canvas of natural wonder.From this vantage point, I couldn't help but reflect on the generations of mariners who had relied on this lighthouse to guide them safely home. It was a humbling experience to stand where they once stood and appreciate the significance of this towering icon.A Lasting ImpressionMy visit to the St. Augustine Lighthouse was not just a journey through history but a memorable encounter with the enduring spirit of exploration and discovery. The lighthouse and its surroundings are a testament to the dedication of those who have worked tirelessly to preserve this treasure for future generations.As I reluctantly descended the staircase and bid farewell to this historic gem, I left with a profound sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a remarkable piece of history. The St. Augustine Lighthouse is more than a tourist attraction; it is a living embodiment of the past, a beacon of light that continues to inspire and captivate all who have the privilege of visiting.If you find yourself in St. Augustine, I wholeheartedly recommend a visit to this iconic landmark. Prepare to be transported through time, to stand in the footsteps of keepers and mariners, and to witness a breathtaking view that will linger in your memory for years to come. The St. Augustine Lighthouse is not just a destination; it's an unforgettable journey into the heart of history itself.

Francis X — Google review

A great place to visit while in St. Augustine. Around $15 admission for adults. Children under 12 and seniors slightly cheaper. Lots of historical material to read and watch. Lighthouse views from the top are well worth it.We spent over an hour here on a Monday afternoon. There were a lot of parking spots but not too many left. We purchased tickets inside and traveled the grounds. Several smaller buildings and the lighthouse provided lots of interesting information. 219 spiraling cast iron steps to the top can be challenging for some. Landings along the way for those who may need it.Recommended for those who enjoy history.

David T — Google review

This is a beautiful and well done park and museum! Driving in at night was a little spooky due to the lack of street lights but GPS did a great job and took us right into the parking area. That lack of street lights was very apropos, making the illuminated lighthouse itself more starkly juxtaposed against the dark sky and surrounding area.The front porch of the museum was a relaxing place with nice Christmas decorations.

Wind S — Google review

Beautiful grounds, friendly and dedicated staff. The evening sunset tour was breathtaking. The climb up the many stairs was nicely broken up by different exhibits in various levels. The view from the top was spectacular and it was nice that they allow as much time as you want once up top. Our tour guide shared plenty of stories of the light house’s history….and also provided us with some of the ghostly tales associated with the place! (I was disappointed that I missed the ghost tour a day earlier and our guide was so kind and accommodating). I can’t say enough about this lovely pace and it’s awesome employees!

R D — Google review

I love the lighthouse! I live in St Augustine and like to take evening pictures too. I took my out of town niece, this is a great stop with a lot of history. I park across the street as parking always challenging close to the beach. Parking is free though! I bought the annual pass for me and a guest and is about the same as 2 admissions, I’m family now with a free souvenir! My first picture was taken in the parking lot, so watch for traffic if you want that shot during business hours.

Jeff P — Google review

Such an awesome place! You can just feel the history all around you. I wasn't able to climb the tower this time but I have done it before and it is an amazing veiw!! Definitely do it if you are able. The museum of the house is great and the grounds are incredibly beautiful!! Take time to check it out while you're in St. Augustine!

Christy T — Google review

Beautifully maintained and wonderful community around the lighthouse and the super interesting and well done museum. Loved that wasn’t crowded with information, just enough for a great discovery walk and get to know more about the idea of how the keeper and his family lived at that time and how the boat would wreck out on the shallows. Beautiful people that work there and an alive community of boat builders and wreck divers. Loved it. Happy to participate of it.

Gema M — Google review

Yes, it's a typical lighthouse; however, all lighthouses are amazing to me. The area had additional displays on the ground to peak your interests, as well as an extensive gift shop.Could use more shaded areas to rest close to the displays.Surprise to climb to the top and have two guides at the top of the lighthouse to give more historical information. Great idea & kudos for them to climb the 219 steps!

Jack M — Google review

Fantastic experience! The lighthouse itself is great for the whole family, and the accompanying museum buildings were fascinating! My favorite part was that there are volunteers stationed throughout that offer extra info and answer questions (of which the kids and I had a LOT). Highly recommend! PS There are coupon codes on their own website if you purchase advance tickets online.

Jen — Google review

I didn't visit St. Augustine expecting to conquer one of my greatest fears. I'm extremely fearful of heights, but visiting the lighthouse and all its splendor was on my list of things to complete in St. Augustine. I don't know what I was thinking, walking in. I guess I expected to visit a closed off lighthouse or maybe walk a few steps and complete another historical bucket list. But no, the lighthouse in its glory, standing tall and proud, shared its soul with me. It really is a sight to behold and take in. I was able to reach the top and rotate the walkway, thanks to the help of an amazing staff member and my lovely boyfriend, who was the catalyst for me even wanting to go to the top. He never once lost patience with me and held my tightly gripped hand with enthusiasm and love. I never caught the worker's name from today but bless his heart as well. This man went above to help me through my fears. I'm sure he's had experience with this sort of situation because he was amazing at keeping me focused. I'm thankful for such a beautiful experience to share on my 3 year anniversary with my boyfriend, and to the experience, for allowing me to keep growing as a person. This museum is well worth the visit, don't hesitate!!

Miki A — Google review

It was a wonderful experience atop the light house. One has to climb up more than 200 stairs but the view from up there is worth it.We went there on a Thursday and the place had a decent amount of crowd. It has multiple museums mentioning the history of the lighthouse, US Coast guard and shrimp industry.You have lots of places to take good photos from and they also have a gift shop. They have kids play areas, and also good places. There's something for everyone. Entry is relatively cheap too!Do visit here if you are in St Augustine!

Bhushan — Google review

We visited for the Dark of the Moon tour and had a great time. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, and the guided portion of the tour was entertaining. Climbing the lighthouse was quite a task, so if you're out of shape like me, I recommend saving it for last, since there are a few other places to explore during the self-guided half of the tour.We didn't have any definitive activity during our visit, but we certainly plan to come again!! Especially during the day so we can learn more about the fascinating history of this American landmark.

Rebekah L — Google review

Excellent place to visit to get an in-depth knowledge of all things marine, history and how a lighthouse operates. Every piece of history for the marine was crafted for someone to enjoy the experience of being in that world. I really enjoyed the story told of how the lighthouse was founded and kept. The museum curated the story between the different floors that meshed well. If you’re able to, it’s worth the fun to climb the many steps in the lighthouse to reach the very top. I was so grateful that the climb had different platforms to rest lol. Sheesh, that was a test of endurance and glad we made it. The view on top was breathtaking! As a history nerd, I’m always delighted to be able to witness pieces of history.

Shelly O — Google review

It’s so amazing how this place has evolved through the years. 1) if you are a Light House junkie… this is one of the more easy light houses to climb. There are landings to rest on multiple leveled. 2) I live they have their own building for gift shop and a solely made the LightHouse Keepers house the museum. 3) staff is super friendly and helpful. 4) love the added outbuildings and exhibits. My aunt got married at the light house 30 years ago. I have come to visit it several times since I was 12 and now I’m almost 40. I love seeing how it’s been maintained and grown into the historic venue it is.

Carolyn H — Google review

A MUST DO WHEN VISITING ST AUGUSTINE!!! VERY HISTORICAL! ❤️ There's ghost tours and all kinds of things to see and do not just a lighthouse. Beautiful though!!! Can climb to the top. It's so so beautiful! I decorated my whole house St Augustine lighthouse theme i love it so much. Peaceful and relaxing little wine store there too.

Missy — Google review

Awesome experience! Our 9 year old autistic son has been telling us for months about this lighthouse so we surprised him with a trip to go see it & it didn’t disappoint!I have seen a lot of reviews saying don’t wear flip flops or sandals to walk up the 219 steps - I’m 6’3 300lbs and wore slip flops and was just fine. The views were beautiful from the top! Enjoy the burn in your thighs about 150 steps up lol! I recommend going early to avoid the afternoon heat for anyone who doesn’t like to sweat, the lighthouse itself isn’t air conditioned but everything else was.Staff was extremely helpful and friendly! Will definitely come back!

Zach S — Google review

My family and I went and visited the lighthouse on Thursday. We had a wonderful time. The property is so lovely and well kept. And the view is spectacular. We were very lucky to have a wonderful employee named John offer to take a family picture of us in front of the lighthouse. He definitely knew what he was doing and took a beautiful family picture of us. Would highly recommend adding the St. Augustine lighthouse to your list of places to visit.

Caitlin R — Google review

This is a very cool location and well worth the admission fee. We were running late during our visit so we plan to go back during another visit. This time, we wanted to be sure to see the actual lighthouse.I decided to conquer my fear of heights today so I went to the top. I must say it was worth the climb.The staff was VERY friendly and I especially enjoyed speaking with the nice lady at the top today. She was very knowledgable and kept me occupied while I was stressing over the height of the lighthouse.The gift shop had a nice selection of relevant and interesting gifts.I’m trying to cut back on the five star reviews but we highly recommend this attraction!!

Richard L — Google review

I visited back in January and climbed twice! I was the first one up for the day I went, I arrived pretty early but I was really excited.The staff was there to help guide me. The climb was really nice, with large landings with informational signs.Since I got there really early, I enjoyed the quiet exploring of the other buildings on the property. I love history but have a hard time focusing if there is a lot of background noise from other visitors. That's why I go to places right when they open!Overall, I had a great time and I'd come back to climb the lighthouse again!

Lauren — Google review

Beautiful day to go to the Lighthouse. My 3 children and I had a good time climbing to the top. My youngest tried to race everyone lol. The staff are knowledgeable and will answer questions. It's supposedly haunted and I'd love to come back at night for a tour. The view from the top is amazing. The steps are worth it. There are landings for those who need to catch their breath or slow down. Highly recommend.

Heather D — Google review

This non for profit museum & lighthouse are a must see. After being greeted by the friendliest staff we proceeded through the gift shop to the museum then lighthouse. It was such an educational experience with the best views St. Augustine could offer. Truly a gem & worth taking a 1/2 day to tour this historical site. Just note that there is not an elevator available at the lighthouse.

Nicolle P — Google review

Great experience. 219 steps to climb - it’s doable if you’re relatively fit and healthy. The views are worth it! The gift shop has cute souvenirs.

Desiree M — Google review

Wonderful experience! We paid the fee to go to the top and it was well worth to climb the 219 steps. Outstanding views! Beautiful lighthouse! Staff were friendly. Restroom was as to be expected. Reasonable prices in the gift shop. Will definitely return!

Jen B — Google review

Enjoyed this short tour did manage to take the walk up to the top of the lighthouse with great views and a great breeze as well. Cost was $15 per person for general admission which lets you tour the houses on site as well as scaling the lighthouse. Didn't spend a long time here maybe an hour and a half but it was enough we just stopped here on our way traveling south to the beaches.The only negative I had here was the parking lot extremely tight spots extremely limited space to back out of a space it took me a while to get my vehicle extricated from its parking place... It was not easy to do 😂

Thomas K — Google review

This was a great experience. The climb to the top is challenging but many stops along the way to either rest or allow others to pass. View from the top is beautiful! Keepers building was interesting and there were some men actually building wooden boats. Nature trails were fun too!

Linda R — Google review

Always fun visit a new light house while on vacation. The climb to the top is definitely worth it! Such a beautiful view.Make sure to check out all of the buildings on the ground. There's lots of interesting artifacts in them. Such interesting history.Buying tickets online saved us a little bit of money.

Ron E — Google review

4.7

(13402)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (111)

4.5

(6887)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (112)

100 Red Cox Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32080, USA

(904) 829-0745

15

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (113)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (114)

40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (115)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (116)

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Fortress

Sights & Landmarks

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is a historic fort that offers self-guided tours, showcasing its drawbridge and gun deck, as well as providing stunning views of Matanzas Bay. This masonry fort, the oldest of its kind in the country, was constructed to safeguard Spain's territorial claims in Florida following pirate attacks during the late 1500s.

As cool as the first time I saw it as a kid. A great visit for fans of history and for kids! There are lots of ranger led activities around and all of them are a ton of fun while being very informative. Parking is difficult, but there is a lot of street parking along the waterfront if the lot by the fort is full.

Orion M — Google review

One of my favorite forts! This location has so many interesting places to walk around and check out throughout the whole fort as you learn so much from every place you look in! I managed to come in for free on National Park Day so definitely take advantage when it happens! Make sure to arrive on some days where they demonstrate a cannon launch! It’s an experience I would never forget! Definitely bring your national park stamp book if you have one to get the stamp!

Daniel D — Google review

This was amazing! The fort is so cool and preserved very nicely. The park rangers were happy to answer questions and sharing interesting tid bits. We have a park pass so we got in for free but I still think it would have been worth the price.Lighting was withing the 5 miles or whatever it is when we got in so we couldn't go to the top for a bit. We took our time on the ground level and read all the signs and explored the top as soon as it opened. I wish we could have gone on a night when they shoot the canons off. That would be such an amazing thing to see!I highly recommend going, you won't regret it.

Susan P — Google review

This was quite an interesting place to visit. So much history here. We have a 4th grader so we we’re able to get in for free. You can get into any national park for free as part of a program for 4th graders nationwide. The displays were all very informative and the staff here was super friendly. There is a scavenger hunt game that is great for the kids. The views of the harbor and the Bridge of Lions were incredible. Parking here in the afternoon can get crazy. We had to drive around the parking lot a couple of times to catch someone leaving. You pay per hour to park but we took our time and we’re there just about 2 hours.

Jon H — Google review

As a point of historical significance, the reference and homage pair to this fort by the staff and local community is apparent from the ticket gate. The actors that interact with the public are very impressive with the attention to detail and period knowledge they exhibit and the cannon firing demonstration is a must see.Nearby parking is very limited, but the available public transit and flat walkways make for a quick commute from wherever you can find a spot. The first floor and exterior are accessible to most mobility disabilities; and while a very shallow staircase prevents wheeled access to the ramparts, those with limited mobility in their legs should find a fairly easy climb.

Kevin C — Google review

Incredible history and reenactments here. I’ve been coming here for 35 years and there’s always something new and enjoyable every time I get to explore this fort. This time we were able to catch the reenactment on top where they fired off a cannon. It was so cool to imagine what this looked like centuries ago. I will absolutely be coming back again and look forward to it.

Sean A — Google review

What a treasure! The National Park Service has done a fantastic job to maintain and develop this 300+ year old monument to colonization history. Parking on the grounds is really cheap at 2.50 per hour. It took us 3 hours to see and enjoy everything. The admission was 15.00 per person BUT I used my senior pass and got in for free. Well worth the one time charge to visit all 400 national parks. You can get into many restored rooms and listen to the excellent stories from the park rangers.

John T — Google review

If you visit just one place in St. Augustine it has to be Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. The history, the architecture, the location. It's spectacular. There is so much to see in every room and a lot of information to read about the history and the lives of the soldiers, prisoners, settlers, etc. The cannons are a work of art. Just to be around something that has been built in 1500-1600's and is still around is incredible. You can easily spend a couple of hours there. There is also a cute gift shop. There are a lot of volunteers that will gladly answer any questions you might have. I wish we had our kids with us, they would have loved to tour it.

Ella C — Google review

This was a very neat place to visit. It’s huge and there’s lots to do and see here. You can’t come to St. Augustine and skip this attraction. Do be prepared for lots of walking, and big crowds to be around. We weren’t there a single day that there wasn’t a massive crowd. I recommend getting there early in the morning to get in line for tickets.

Amy J — Google review

Stopped at this gem on the way back from Orlando. Ended up being my favorite thing on the trip by far.The ambiance of the landmark is spot on. The beautiful, light-blue water coupled with the local Florida wildlife makes for a great sight. In addition to that, the preservation and appreciation for history makes you feel like you’re in the time period. They even fly the Spanish flag - accurate to the period of its founding.The landmark also provides excellent information to truly educate about the fort’s history and founding. You also have quite a bit of freedom to explore; most rooms you can look around and (the best part) you can walk on top of the fortifications.

Noah D — Google review

This place is awesome and great to see where it all started for Central and South America countries and Florida. It is a Federal Monument so Veterans are free along with 4 guests. Parking in Augustine can be a challenge, unless you park in the free public parking garage across the street and it is still within walking distance to everything. It's a tourist area but the shops and restaurants are really good and there are plenty of them. It is a beautiful area!!

Craig's T — Google review

A well preserved Spanish fort in St. Augustine, the oldest continuously inhabited city in the US. It's part of the National Park system, and for those with a National Park pass, entry to the inside of the fort is free. Also, access the the area all around the outside of the fort is free to everyone. Scenes of life in the fort is recreated in several areas. Various canons and other equipment/supplies are on display. There is a small gift/souvenir shop (National Parks stamps available) just inside the fort entrance. Great views of the city and waterfront can be seen from all around the upper level of the fort wall. Although there is a paid parking lot on the grounds ($2.50/hour) parking can be a little difficult to find at peak times. This isn't a large fort, so one to two hours is plenty of time to see the whole thing. The spaces are large enough for large camper vans and smaller (class C) RVs. Our 22' van fit within the space markings. There are several small spaces for motorcycles . There are no oversized spaces in this lot, but there is a free parking lot for all sizes of RVs just a few blocks to the west (No overnight camping allowed). Overall, if you are interested in military/colonial historical sites, this fort is definitely a place to visit.

Alan M — Google review

My family had a fun time at Castillo to say it was not a planned trip. It was like getting a fun history lesson of the fort. We spent about 1.5 touring the rooms of the fort (this will vary person to person). I would recommend going on a cool day as we did. In summer I assume it can get hot and the crowds of people.

Cee — Google review

What an amazing piece of history! It is absolutely worth the visit. I recommend bringing the kids to so they can learn some history but also come alone because you can read all the info posted throughput the fort because you realize all this historic time capsule has been through. I am amazed every time I visit this place that it is open to the public and you can walk through such an incredible time capsule.

The T — Google review

This is a piece of history must see!Just go straight to the parking garage.You can get the directions from the Castillo website. The lot is usually full at the Castillo.Historic St. Augustine is beautiful! Lots of good places to eat! There are Art galleries and niche shops to check out. Really good vibes!

Brigitte C — Google review

This past weekend my boyfriend and I decided to come to st.Augustine for the weekend so I could show him all my favorite places. The Castillo was number one on this list. We both love history, so I knew he’d fall in love with the place as soon as he saw it. I honestly think it exceeded his expectations. He’s already planning for our next trip back! Aside from it being a magnificent pierce of history, it also helped that all of the staff and the rangers at the fort were so kind and helpful, and it really made an impact on him. He was stunned at how informative everyone was and how genuine everyone seemed.. I explained to him that St.Augustine isn’t like all the other “touristy” places. Especially not the Castillo de San Marcos. People here genuinely love this town and it’s structures, and they are excited to show it off to whoever is willing to listen. So thank you so much to everyone at the Castillo for making this trip memorable one for us! We can’t wait to come back!!!

Amber K — Google review

Truly one of a kind. It’s a must-see in St. Augustine! The staff, dedicated volunteers and city have done an excellent job with preserving this jewel and making it fun and educational for all visitors! The view from the top part of the Fort is incredible. This was such an interesting attraction. After leaving this establishment you simply feel closer to history.I’ve visited as a child and now as an adult….and it’s always enjoyable!

TallyTastingTampa — Google review

I've come here many times since the late 1960's when my father first brought me. I remember having a souvenir Spanish cannon from here as a child and It's always worth the trip. St. Augustine itself is pretty touristy, but it's a pleasant way to spend an afternoon and send yourself back in time to the days of forts, castles, and dangerous adventures. Take your kids so they take away the memory of a lifetime and maybe a Spanish Cannon.

Jeffrey M — Google review

Great historical site that is rather unique. It is $15 for adults while under 16 are free. Military and veterans can get a National Park pass for free with proof; that gets three adult guests in with you also. Nice views of St. Augustine from here. Parking is $2.50 per hour.

Stephen — Google review

Just an absolutely lovely place to visit.The site is steeped in a rich history.The views of the surrounding area and the city of Saint Augustine are beautiful.It’s worth a visit, even if you don’t pay for a tour; you can walk around the property.It’s especially nice at sunset.Grab some ice cream in town and walk the property and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city of Saint Augustine~

Eric J — Google review

An amazing and historical monument in the original and oldest city of Florida. So much depth of history that you need to really take your time enjoying each section. The views are stunning. Park Rangers are very informative. Try visiting on a "cool" day if that's possible! The park also has parking but it's on a first-come first-serve basis. Bring a good pair of walking shoes and water and enjoy!

MannyG33309 — Google review

A truly exceptional monument. The graffiti in the barracks alone are world class social history - Spanish sailors and soldiers, then US, and imprisoned Apaches too! Views are great. Staff are helpful and knowledgeable. The Firearms display is very well done.

Mike S — Google review

Definitely recommend! Learned a lot out the fort and the history. Self guided tour spent about 2 hours here. Money well spent to help preserve such a national monument. We also bought the national park passport too and got our stamps.

Deziree R — Google review

Samantha Brown's Places to Love was spot on with this feature attraction. Make sure to add to your list of things to do. Well kept by the National Parks and Recreation. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water. It's very scenic. Park staff is very friendly. Must see if you're in the area. Active and retired military discount. They will register you in the database for Gold Star and military membership to visit ALL National Parks.

Brian L — Google review

Definitely worth the admission especially if you can time it around the cannons being fired. But, there are plenty of historical markers if you just want to walk around it. Also a beautiful place to sit and watch the sailboats or picnic on the large lawn. There is limited parking, but a large paid garage is across the street. They have nice restrooms and a small museum.

Burgess A — Google review

There is a dizzying number of tour options in St. Augustine, and you can quickly part with a ton of $$ because there’s an entry fee for just about everything. The Castillo is one of two historical attractions that I think are a must see** because of its uniqueness and its long history.Built in the 1700s by the Spanish, it is the largest and oldest “concrete” fort in the US, and it is almost entirely intact. It is fascinating to think about the fact that the fort has been utilized by Spanish, British and American military forces over the centuries, reflecting Florida’s unique and varied history.There is a decent self-guided tour inside the fort, and if you’re there at the right time, you can hear “first-hand” accounts from actors dressed as Spanish soldiers. This believe they also fire cannons on Saturdays, but we were there during the week.You can also walk around the outside of the fort and go on top of the fort to see the cannons in place, as well as capture beautiful water views. This is a truly unique glimpse into one facet of history in our country’s oldest (continuously inhabited) city.(**The lighthouse and museum is the other attraction that I would give 5 stars to.)

Angi W — Google review

This is a beautiful national park with lots of history. Park Rangers were very friendly and informative. Kids were having fun doing Jr. Ranger activities. The cannon demonstration in full dress at 3:30 is a must see!

Jennifer D — Google review

Love visiting here! There is so much history and overall great experience. You can sense what it must have been like to be a soldier serving here, especially when you see the living spaces and tour the top area where the cannons are. Here is a helpful tidbit, if you are a veteran, go to the ticket booth, bring your ID that shows proof and you can have free access for LIFE to the fort and you can bring up to three guests with you and they are free too! It is a national pass you can use here as well as to other national monuments and parks and such! This fort is also located right across the street from the Pirate Museum, local parking garage, and lots of restaurants. It's totally worth the visit coming to this area!

Amy M — Google review

This Castillo de San Marcos National park/Monument can get very crowded. You will want to arrive early. The parking lot is very small. There is plenty of parking further away where there's a tram that goes to the fort.Admission is per person and reasonable. If you are a senior (62+) opt for the lifetime pass. You can then go into any US national park and bring up to 3 guests at no additional cost.The fort itself isn't huge. You can easily see it all in 1 hour. They do fire off the cannons at specified times but it doesn't look like they do that early.The small lot is not free. You pay by plate at a kiosk or by an app.

David A — Google review

Nice historical fort. $15 per adult seems a little high compared to other parks. You can easily explore the fort in 45 minutes.The Powder Room is a cool spot but be prepared to squat down to get through the low passage.Parking for 2 hours was $5.00 and expired time was being enforced while we were there.If you found this review helpful, please like and follow for more random travels!

William B — Google review

It was amazing. If you love History it is an amazing place. With it being the oldest military fort in the United States. That's in amazing condition. It's a National Park , So I use my senior lifetime pass to get in. So I'm not sure of the cost.

Randy B — Google review

Wonderful place!A beautifully preserved antique, well-kept and authentic. The love and care of the staff is immediately visible.A very informative exhibition, we walked around for two hours, looked around and read the explanations, just wonderful.It’s good that there are many excursions for schoolchildren, children study real history using real buildings and exhibits, and this is wonderful!You are unlikely to see so many ancient cannons in one place anywhere else.A beautiful bay with Parisian trees and fresh sea air complete the picture.Thank you very much!

Igor — Google review

They were closing up when we got there but it was still pretty cool. It was a lot like Fort Independence in Boston so a lot cooler if you haven’t seen forts before. The grounds were very nice and people seemed to really enjoy the surrounding area as well. You can walk around the outside for free or get tickets and go in.

Brandon P — Google review

It is nice to see real castle in St Augustine, Florida. They perform cannon shots to make it real castle in history. Performers have historical Spanish military uniforms. View from castle is awesome. You can walk around the castle. But you need to get ticket to get in the castle. There is a parking place next to it. But it is hard to find spot. You can try St Augustine city parking place close by.

H O — Google review

Old fort, cool to see they used all natural resources to build it. Go in and out of rooms with all kinds of facts and things ,take your time and read the signs to understand everything that went on there. Climb steps to the top---no elevator watch little kids there is no handrails and the upper walls are low they have signs posted do not sit on walls but there are benches to sit. Price is $14.95 adults kids are less get a coupon book and museums have great discounts

Jean E — Google review

Amazing!Must see. Well worth the drive.The scenario is Great.Easy accessibility and we'll lit.Parking down the street.Part of historyKid friendlyHighly recommended

JESSE C — Google review

Military (active & veterans)is free to tour. We had a blast, loved the view from the top. They do have nice clean bathrooms and a decent gift shop. If you're visiting, put this on your bucket list because it's something you wouldn't want to miss.

Kayla G — Google review

Absolutely beautiful. The day we were there it wasnt very busy. The weather was beautiful. Views from the top of the fort were amazing. Lots of panels to read for info if self guiding. Lots of neat things to see. With 3 teens it kept them interested. We love visiting historic landmarks when we can.

Angela W — Google review

Great educational experience although the heat can shorten your visit. The view is beautiful and it's set up to see how it looked when they 1st came here. Cheaper to buy a national family pass if you have multiple kids 16 or older.

Jane D — Google review

St. Augustine is a charming old town with a plethora of culinary delights. The Castillo de San Marcos is an incredible sight to behold, steeped in history and architectural beauty. One tip I highly recommend is to thoroughly research and plan your visits, ensuring the places you want to explore are open. The castle closes after 5 p.m., so it's essential to schedule your visit accordingly.Visiting during the Christmas season adds an extra layer of magic, as the town is adorned with festive decorations, enhancing the overall experience. Exploring the Castillo de San Marcos during this time truly captures the spirit of the holidays and the rich history of the area. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in this fascinating destination!

Jose A — Google review

Had family members come to visit us from California, we took them to Saint Augustine—the oldest city of USA. They were so happy to see the fort and to know some history of our country…we got there around 10:00am during the weekday, plenty parking spaces, but saw people were waiting for the spot to park when we got out of the fort, city needs to build more parking spaces. Thanks to the people who manage the monument and keep it nice.

Emily C — Google review

My family loved visiting the fort! The history is great and the exhibits inside are informative. We enjoyed seeing how the soldiers lived (my teenage son especially liked the explanation of the toilet system) 🤣The sights of the water and city from on top the castle walls are neat to see. If you have a chance to hang out, make sure to see the cannon fire demonstration. Parking might be tough if the lot fills up, but it’s not a far walk from the parking garage at the visitor center.

Chaplain L — Google review

We went to St. Augustine for a day while on vacation. To see a real-life castle in person. It was very affordable for the family, and if you are military, you can get in free. My husband was able to get me, my 17 yr old and 14-year-old with a National Park pass that we just learned about, and my 11 year old was free! It's a pay to stay parking system so you just pay for how long you stay. I think we spent $3.75. You can also use your ticket to come back the next day.

Jauquis C — Google review

It's a great place to go see while at St. Augustine. There are entry fees, but they are not excessive. It has a souvenir shop and bathrooms, and most of the Fort is open to viewing. You can explore the inside and outside, walk around the moat, go upstairs, and look at the cannons and guard posts. Placards provide historical details and events.

Flexin' M — Google review

Fascinating history with great displays. Blistering hot day - just like when we visited Fort Ticonderoga in NY a couple of years ago - we seem to pick 'em for those fort tours! Would have been nice to have a guided tour - was tempted to listen in on the guides for the kids' field trip tours.

Mitzi R — Google review

I loved it. The architecture is beautiful, and as someone coming from Chicago, I’ve never seen this technique before in building with sea shells in the walls. The museum does not take long to be seen but totally worth supporting this location. Staff is very friendly as well.

Oana T — Google review

Me and my family went here it was amazing. this is my second time here. We got to bring my parents this time for Arkansas they came to visit so we took them here to the oldest city in the United States of America to see the most prettiest fort and Georgetown Road. We got to see some amazing stuff and learn amazing history about this fort. We also got to watch them fire the Cannons at the ships which was pretty cool. It's amazing what people went through. This place is a a must see if you love history.

Samantha H — Google review

What a wonderful National Treasure! The Castillo de San Marcos stands as a testament to the fortitude of the Spanish soldiers and their families who could have easily given up in this military outpost but stood their ground and spent 23 years building this magnificent fort.The coquina blocks have withstood the test of time and held together well against the sieges by the attacking forces. I first visited this fort when I was 9 years old on a 4th grade field trip and this visit inspired my passion for learning about history. Since then I have enjoyed a 36 year career as a professional tour guide and storyteller educating elementary school students and their families on tours in St. Augustine and around the country.

Scott Y — Google review

4.7

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4.5

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11 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084, USA

(904) 829-6506

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16

Forsyth Park

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Park

Nature & Parks

Forsyth Park is a 30-acre urban public park in Savannah's historic district and is internationally known for its Forsyth Fountain. The park also includes an outdoor theater, cafe, children's playgrounds, tennis courts, soccer fields, and a Confederate memorial.

This park is the home to the most photographed fountain in Savannah.This is a large park with a sense of peace and deep history.The sidewalk circles the outer edge of the park and then cuts through towards the fountain.Lots of people from all.walks of life visits here and simply hang out just to enjoy the energy it emits.Definitely worth the visit.

Laura L — Google review

The park was beautiful and a lovely stroll down the center under the canopy of trees.Playgrounds were available, tennis courts, plenty of grass to place a blanket and relax.On our Sunday afternoon there were many homeless and at one end of the park they were having an event offering food and water for the homeless. It got a bit rowdy by a few attendees. A bit of yelling, pushing, throwing of water bottles. But the rest of our visit was pleasant.We walked down the center as well as on the outside parameters to enjoy the architect of the older homes.Be smart and be aware of your surrounding while visiting.

Rita C — Google review

Loved this park! Easy to walk through and had so many cool things to look at! People were friendly and the architecture was just amazing! If you think you don't have time, you do! It really does not take long to walk through, we walked it before we were able to check in to our hotel, maybe 30 min tops! And we saw a lot in that time frame!

Jenika T — Google review

Such a beautiful park. Complete with its historic fountain and huge open green fields we didn't want to leave. It's a must stop for anyone who takes a trip to the shining jewel of the south, Savannah GA.

John W — Google review

An absolutely beautiful park to visit, relax, exercise, or whatever you decide to do at that time. Trees are spectacular in their beauty, with lovely old homes surrounding the perimeter. There’s even a restaurant (Collins Quarter) available for eating or an outside coffee/drink window to order beverages. Definitely a “must visit” place while in Savannah.

Sherri R — Google review

Beautiful big trees around and peaceful park to rest, meditate, walk and also play. There are 2 kids park within the park. The Fountain in the center is very beautiful. Must go there and spend some Time.

Madhumita D — Google review

Great park in Savannah. We got there in the morning and it was fairly crowded. Has historical statues. Has a lovely fountain. Has public restrooms and a restaurant and Leopold's ice cream parlor. The one at Broughton st usually has a long queue, so this might be a better option for you if you don't want to wait that long. People were enjoying themselves in the park and it was well maintained. I had a good time!!!

Deepak K — Google review

Great park in Savannah. I frequent visit this park due to it’s attraction. This time I visited in the late morning time and found very less people so feel comfortable to have family photograph.Don’t forget to buy painting or handmade ornaments (as a memory of park visit) sold by street vendors. You are supporting locals by buying some products .Park is clean and have public restroom. If you are with kids, they can enjoy in kids zone too

Lila B — Google review

Park was absolutely beautiful! An early morning stroll was magical on this beautiful morning. The park was very clean and I loved looking at the fountain and reading all the statue plaques. I love history and this park is full of it. Statues prompted me to immediately go to google and find out more about the people they were erected for. Early morning is great because not a lot of tourists. Most were runners and walkers which lest the fountain wide open for pictures.

Kelly D — Google review

This is the one place I wanted to visit on my trip to Savannah and it did not disappoint. Beautiful park! Amazing fountain! It is set up perfectly from the minute you set foot in the park to see the fountain. Trees offer shade everywhere (good thing because we went in July and it was 98), benches for resting were too. It even has a snack bar/restaurant with outdoor seating. I’m not sure if there was indoor since we did not go inside and I have to say the cleanest public park restrooms I have ever seen in my life anywhere….seriously. A park is never complete without playground for kids which it has. It made me wish my Granddaughters were with us, they would of LOVED it! Great place to see, do not skip it and do not forget to take your picture in front of the fountain.

Ina S — Google review

Had a wonderful morning stroll at Forsyth Park in Savannah, GA. Despite the recent storm, the park remained Lovely! Appreciated the dedicated crew diligently cleaning the sidewalks, enhancing the overall experience. A refreshing and enjoyable outing in January!

Rhonda F — Google review

This park is located near downtown Savannah and has very open dog-friendly spaces and fields. Some old monuments are scattered around, which makes for a great Sunday stroll.We highly recommend checking out the nearby restaurant CQ for a lovely brunch and coffee. (They also have a to-go window that you can walk up to!)

Christopher E — Google review

It's a great park for spending a couple of hours playing with the family. There was playground equipment, a splash pad area, a restaurant, basketball courts, and a large grassy area for picnics or playing, not to mention the fountain and historical monuments. Bikes have to dismount through the main park area, so there's no worries about getting run over by a bicyclist while you are wandering through or taking pictures. The flowers and trees are gorgeous. My only complaint is the bathrooms are difficult to find, not the cleanest, and not kept up. Every stall was completely out of toilet paper.

Stephanie G — Google review

Park with an area of 10 Acres. Beautiful and well maintained. This park has a beautiful fountain. We enjoyed our time here. There are many vendors selling paintings, souvenirs etc. This park has children's play area. This park has many seats to sit and relax. The park was crowded during our visit as it was saint Patrick's weekend.A must place to visit in Savannah for a cool atmosphere.

Siju J — Google review

Stunning park that is safe and always well kept. The Farmers Market on Saturdays is great, has tons of food and fresh produce. There are always fun events in the park and Collins Quarter has done a great job with the concessions area. Great to just walk around, it's huge and you'll always find something new. Great to sunbathe and relax as well. The botanical garden is a hidden gem. 2 playgrounds for the kids and at least 2 football fields worth of open grass for sports or exercise. Beautiful full trees provide shade and ombiance.

Nicole G — Google review

This is an amazing park!. It has so much history and the water fountain is phenomenal to watch and enjoy the view. Nice place to come and sit and read a book or have a picnic with your love one's.

Jefe S — Google review

Very well-maintained beautiful park. Good place for a get-together. Play area and Splash pad are available for kids. I think it's difficult to get a car parking on weekends. The restroom is very clean, but there was a big queue in the ladies rest room.

Vasantharajan T — Google review

This has to be one of the most beautiful, peaceful and idyllic places in all of Savannah. The park has lush grass and beautiful walkways lined with ancient trees that are dripping in Spanish moss. Different artists were stationed on one path selling sundries and at the end of the path was a gorgeous fountain. There is a small botanical garden in the park and surrounding the area were rows of gorgeous homes with tall ceilings and wrought iron, long shutters and inviting porches that remind you of the South.

Tiffani P — Google review

Beautiful, serene park. Enjoyed our visit. It is dog friendly. Must see if visiting for the first time. I recommend walking through the park at dusk or early evening. We enjoyed viewing the holiday decorations and historic homes.

J J — Google review

In this park you will find the city’s most famous fountain (installed in 1858 and modeled after the fountains at the Place de la Concorde in Paris).It has two playgrounds, basketball and tennis courts, restrooms.Forsyth Park is dog-friendly and probably the top picnic destination in Savannah.The beauty and peacefulness of this park are appreciated by all who visit it.

Grecia L — Google review

This place is breathtaking.It feels alive. You can feel the history here. Felt safe the whole time. Slight difficulty finding a parking spot, but it is worth the challenge.

Michael A — Google review

Obviously, it is gorgeous. Cannot go wrong taking the time to stroll through this beautiful park. I will miss all of Savannah's squares when I return home. The Farmers Market on Saturday was great also, with many vendors.

Megan S — Google review

A must see- nice area, rented scooters and scooted to the fountain from our hotel. The trip there took us through all the squares, and the fountain was really pretty.

Molly Z — Google review

It is a beautiful historic park in the city's historic district. I love how the town maintains its beauty, especially its well-kept boardwalks and the water fountain in the park's center, which exudes classic elegance. This is an excellent place for locals and tourists to walk, jog, or relax.

Patrick M — Google review

Took my son to play on the playground on a Thursday. There are two playgrounds I found out. Some of the equipment is metal so be careful with the sun heating it up during the day. The equipment was in good shape. There are benches to sit at at the playgrounds. We enjoyed walking to the fountain. It was cool to see some local artists selling their artwork or jewelry along the paths. The restrooms are by the restaurant and it was clean when I used it. There is a fun little hidey garden near the smaller playground with roses and benches. The flowers were in bloom and so beautiful. We did get a parking spot by the tennis courts which is free.

Melody O — Google review

Love going to Forsyth. Did the 5k walk which was very well organized. The park is great for people watching, enjoying a nice day, walking, events.

Deborah L — Google review

Top notch Park from end to end. Historic monuments pretty much every block for a 12 square block radius. The water fountain is amazing along with the rose garden building you walk in and the aroma of roses just smacks you in the face! I would recommend coming here if you are in the area because it's a nice place to get away from the big city while you're still in the big city.

David F — Google review

Beautiful Park. I Felt safe there. I didn't see 1 police officer there unfortunately. The take out window staff at the park cafe where not so helpful or friendly. That didn't affect the park overall but next time I will take my money some place else.

Donald A — Google review

This is a great park to stroll if you are visiting Savannah, big trees, fountain, large lawn to play, relax, walk, exercise, it has kids play area, stage etc. There is a restaurant, well maintained park and trails. When we visited, there were people selling their art inside this park on a trail. Restrooms were clean and were pretty busy on weekend. Paid parking around is available, sometimes on a walking distance.

Chanchal — Google review

Beautiful park and trees. Public bathrooms. Two playgrounds. Lots of grassy area for sitting and playing. There is a restaurant on site that we did not use. The fountain is gorgeous.

Cindy M — Google review

Went to this place twice. Yesterday it was raining super heavily and found no oneToday morning it was crowded. Nice place to every fortnight/monthly markets here.They got good stuffs like painting, posters, accessories, eatables, clutches, juices and much more.

Heema P — Google review

Beautiful! This is a great park with lots of history. It’s a nice place to take your dog for a walk or go on a picnic. It was spread out so it didn’t feel crowded. We parked nearby for free and walked to eat down by the River Front!

Rhonda G — Google review

An absolutely beautiful park with tons of Spanish Moss hanging in the live oaks. Tons of activity there, from basketball pick-up games to cricket, to volleyball.....book readers, music lovers, etc.

John P — Google review

This park is a MUST VISIT for any tourist visiting the area. Beautiful park with a spectacular fountain surrounded by large trees.

Thor D — Google review

Lots of open areas to sit. Bring a blanket to layout, no picnic tables to sit at.The fountain was green. Pretty cool for Saint Patty’s day.

Jeffrey K — Google review

Beautiful square and fountain! Great space to walk, sit, read, picnic, play, etcGreat restaurant inside the square as well, making it easy to enjoy all day.

Jg B — Google review

For the tourists and locals - Depending on the time you are visiting, you will see different scenery. Don’t just pay attention to the famous fountain, look up to find the hawk (it likes to sit on the big branch higher than the lamppost height), owl (I haven’t found it yet 😅 but my friends seen a pair). The photo and video were taken in early Spring 2024. Eat the local honey (this year’s) if you are allergic to the pollen; I take it before and after visiting the park.Most of the locals chillax on the grass. I love the varieties of dogs in this park. If you want to experience some local creativity and what’s in the vicinity, visit on the weekends. There’s farmer markets, local and aspiring artists, for your stomach and 👀 . Oh yes, some musicians serenading 🎶🎺too. Parking can be challenging during peak hours and on the weekends after 9 a.m. Wear comfortable shoes. Bring water to hydrate. Use discernment when walking in the park. And 📸 ready!Stroll, don’t rush in the park, to enjoy the creations around you 😉. Many of the trees, plants, bushes were planted centuries ago for our enjoyment. To remind us we are a big family. Bonus: there are many beautiful historical homes of different styles around the (N, NE) park, which I absolutely love 😍. Check them out if you love architecture details and history.

Ramonda S — Google review

3.5 is probably a more accurate rating… the homeless people (who cussed us out for sitting on the bench) sure put a damper on the visit!The park is super pretty, the tree cover over the sidewall makes it a great place to walk, and the water features were nice for the kids to play in.But, really… who wants to hang out with angry homeless people 🤷🏽‍♂️

Nick ( — Google review

4.8

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4.5

(9065)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (137)

Savannah, GA 31401, USA

(912) 351-3841

17

Savannah Historic District

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Historical place

Sights & Landmarks

The Savannah Historic District is an area of the city of Savannah that was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1966. It is one of the largest urban historic districts in the United States, and it contains a wide variety of architecture from the 18th century through to the early 20th century.

We had some time to check out this historic district in Savannah while staying near bye for a conference. The homes here are historic and the architecture is very nice. My favourite part of this historic district was Forsyth Park and the fountain there as well as the Spanish moss trees all over. The park is a nice place to walk around as well as the area as we walked everywhere.After seeing the homes and Forsyth Park we enjoyed River Street where there’s lots of restaurants and bars to enjoy something to eat and walk along the river where there were vendors selling things. I would definitely come back if ever in the Savannah, Hilton head area again

Donald H — Google review

I visited the Savannah Historic District last summer and had a wonderful time! It is such a beautiful area with a plethora of options for food, shopping, and entertainment. Many of the roads or paths I encountered were brick or cobblestone, which are beautiful but can pose issue to those who use wheelchairs or a blind person using a cane. Overall though, the brick walkways were very well kept and didn't seem to pose much of a risk at the time of my visit and there was not a lot of cobblestone. The main roads are paved. There is an area by the riverfront that utilizes a fair amount of stairs spread out, so if someone is in a wheelchair there will need to be a bit of a re-route to get to that specific area of the riverfront. It is a very lively and fun area with a lot of music and lights which is very fun, but if you are someone who struggles with sound sensitivity I would suggest bringing earplugs or your choice of aid to help damped that. Overall, a beautiful, must see area in my opinion, and has few inaccessible areas from my point of view in my visit.

Cada S — Google review

Did trolley tours with two different tour companies; two different days (Thursday and Monday) and experienced many different guides and saw wonderful landmarks. If your a tourist visiting Savanah historic district I highly recommend using a trolley tour. There is so much to see and hear about.

Jherie L — Google review

What a beautiful city steeped with so much history. We took a 90 minute tour with Old Savannah tours (our tour guide was Hampton- he was fantastic). This is a place we definitely need to come back and spend some time in but if you've got 90 minutes to spare, you should make the detour!

Tanya H — Google review

I'm a huge history buff. The wealth of information and history here was worth the visit alone. Everyone must go to Savannah at least once in a lifetime.

Stephanie W — Google review

We had a great time visiting the historic district. Many beautiful ancient buildings (build in 19th century) with great architecture, good parks, famous restaurants, beautiful tree tunnel, good river walk, museums, greenery and finally Church with beautiful architecture are the specialities of historic district. If you are visiting for one day, we recommend using old Town trolley tours of Savannah. Based on our experience this trolley service runs at good frequency and have hope off and on facility at major tourist attractions. For an extensive tour, a 2 day visit is needed for covering all the places. If you are coming by car, one major problem will be parking availability.

Siju J — Google review

Great place to spend a beautiful day walking and taking photos.With dozens of shops and restaurants to keep anyone entertained. LotTo do lot to see.

Frank I — Google review

Savannah has a great town with lots of interesting history. We enjoy walking around for a couple hours seeing all the amazing homes and parks/plazas.

Tim S — Google review

Savannah's spirit is delightful. In each square and around every corner there is a unique experience. Take a quick glance at the city plan then just walk and explore N-S along Bull street and E-W on River Street, Broughton, Oglethorpe, .... all the way to Forsyth Park. The city is dotted with attractions ranging from historic jems to contemporary art galleries and inspiring architectural renovations. Savannah offers a first class experiences in all seasons, no need to wait for popular events or festivities. Just stop by for a day or a few and enjoy hospitality in this energetic southern bell.

E A — Google review

So many preserved homes of a wide variety of styles and colors in old growth tree lined streets. Wear comfy shoes!

Michael W — Google review

We did a trolley tour of Savannah's Historic District and it was really nice. The driver was really informative. It is a beautiful place. 😍

Sandra M — Google review

Walk the River than take the Old Town Trolly tour ride around once than hop off & on at any stop our tour guide Sam was great! We Ubered to waterfront cheaper than trying to park. If planning and you want to stay waterfront book in advance.

Karen M — Google review

Absolutely gorgeous. Great walking city. Just watch where you walk cobblestones will trip ya!

Brittney P — Google review

Went for a girl's trip & stayed at the Marshall House! It is Gorgeous! We also went on a tour where we learned about the history of this beautiful area & how everything came about! The driver & his crew were very nice & knowledgeable! They made the tour exciting!! In conclusion, I recommend seeing this Beautiful part of GA. Too amazingly gorgeous to miss.

Mandy B — Google review

Just spent a few hours but will be back. Parked in the Visitors center, stopped in to get a map and advise. The lady was very helpful with suggestions based on my time there.

Frank Y — Google review

Such a fun place to explore! Cute squares of greenery and churches and historic houses. We spent a day here and thoroughly enjoyed.

Limia H — Google review

Visited savannah for the first time. Two days are not enough to explore the place. It has got a lot of options and it’s really well developed ❤️Savannah is known for its real life greenery and ghosts but I didn’t found any so far 😂Love the placeSmall sweet and live

Heema P — Google review

Good experience to ride the trolley down town and take the tour around the historic area. We also stopped for food at Spankys on the river. It was a great experience and the gift shops were reasonably priced

Danyetta B — Google review

This was my first visit to historic Savannah. I only stayed two days, but I had a good time. I used a company called Kelly Tours to get an overview of Savannah. They take everyone through a 90-minute tour first. We had an excellent guide. Then you pick where you want to next. For example, you could call and say I'm at stop 9, I would like to go to stop 5. I called them three times. Each time, it took less than 5 minutes for them to get to me. Some stops were about a 10 minute walk, the weather was nice so I walked some. I feel like I saved so much time, and I saw everything that I wanted to see. I didn't get a lot of good pictures because there are lots of trees and greenspace.

Beverly ( — Google review

Most site seeing places are entry free, on the river Bank side there was a fireworks 🎆 display for good 20-25 minutes ard 10pm it gets included under Destination fees with ur hotel booking.

Navzy P — Google review

First time visitor. Two days is not enough to experience all the district has to offer. Lots of. Museums and Art Galleries. The history and architecture is amazing. Take the trolley to get an idea of where you want to spend more time. The trolley operators can be fun and entertaining.

Alex B — Google review

4.8

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5.0

(14398)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (143)

301 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401, USA

(912) 944-0455

18

The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist

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Catholic cathedral

Sights & Landmarks

The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist is a neo-gothic Catholic church with elaborate stained glass windows, and music recitals are often held there. It was almost entirely destroyed by a fire in 1898, but was rebuilt the next year and restored to its former glory.

In the heart of Savannah's historic neighborhood, a really well historic church. Some of the stained glass windows are quite lovely. Beautifully constructed church. The church is well-maintained and has a large seating capacity. In Savannah, there is a spot you should go. This church is both cold and peaceful, making it ideal for prayer. It's free to walk in with a suggested donation of $3. The photographs do not do it justice, and the rush of emotion I felt as I went in was unrivaled.

Nitish D — Google review

Stunning architecture in the middle of Historic Savannah. Well-kept grounds and interior pristine. One of the beautiful places to visit that should be added to your list.

M — Google review

Magnificent place beautifully decorated inside and outside. A lot of history in it and meticulous work of artists. Very often it’s closed for touring due to active service or wedding.The story of Jesus Christ is told by sculptures along the side walls. There is a mix of different art and designs but all is combined very well and supports each other. We did not use guided tour, but it was still very interesting to walk along the walls and read and look at everything.

Lana K — Google review

Historical cathedral with a beautiful stained glass windows and expansive alter. It’s a suggested $3 donation to go in. They offered a free tour where the presenter explained the cathedral’s history and pointed out some interesting features. It took about 20 minutes overall and was very informative. It is an active church so do be mindful about people praying. I would recommend coming here for a first-timer to Savannah and spending half an hour!

Shanelle S — Google review

If you've never experienced such an amazing and heavenly place, then you should come here. It is amazing, and the artwork was breathtaking! Even if you are not Catholic, it is wonderful, and it is totally free they only ask for donations. Also, they still have services there as well! I loved this place, and so did my grandkids they were amazed at the grandeur of the church. Now, you might not want to bring kids who are a bit loud, for it needs to be quiet. It's still a church, after all. But really and truly amazing.

Tenita W — Google review

This Cathedral is Massive and absolutely STUNNING!! 100% worth the stop! They have visiting hours so that you can actually go inside and tour the area and take photos of all of the beautiful stained glass. Beware though: there is no public restroom.

Honor W — Google review

There are no words good enough to describe this experience... a must see to know!! The outside is spectacular, but the inside is miraculous! Your mere presence is altered by the surroundings as you sit in reverence!!!

Michael V — Google review

The cathedral is beautiful from the outside. It is very well preserved and maintained. The dual steeples can be seen from most of Savannah! The interior is breathtaking!! We felt a sense of holiness! The magnificent 66 foot tall ceilings, the stained glass, the carvings, statues, chandeliers and so much more make this a must experience when visiting Savannah!

Eagle M — Google review

This Cathedral is stunning. I was here for Mass on Mother's Day, and I was in awe of everything, the liturgy, the music, the atmosphere. The church was decorated with I don't even know how many dozens of roses, giant roses. The choir sounded celestial. The bishop celebrated the Mass - and delivered a wonderful homily. The windows are stunning, especially the Ascension and Immaculate Conception windows. I am a little perplexed by the lack of wounds visible on Christ's hands, but a gorgeous image. As usual, so many details. I especially liked the "Communion of Saints" images around the ceiling.

Nicholas P — Google review

Beautiful place. Hard to imagine the hours of work in all of the intricate details throughout. Soaring ceilings, beautiful stained glass and extremely detailed carvings throughout. If there is a red sign out front that says worship in process - not the time to go. Usually between 12:30 - 4:30 on weekdays is ideal to visit.

James P — Google review

The cathedral was beautiful! We were there about 20 to 30 min before a service and there was a lady in the back of the church yelling at anyone that wanted to take pictures. I absolutely get it and was respectful and didn't make a peep. Apparently, the cut off walking around the church and taking pictures 30 min before services.... so plan accordingly! I was able to snap a few when she was yelling at others.🙂 It's absolutely worth the trip to see!

Lynne L — Google review

OH MY GOODNESS! This is GORGEOUS! No matter your beliefs, you should check out this BEAUTIFUL cathedral! The architecture is breathtaking and well, just go see for yourself. 💕I remember thinking it's donation only.

Jessi — Google review

Absolutely Breathtaking.Eye candy for the soul.No matter what religion you are, the beauty inside is undeniable, the energy is peaceful and employees are knowledgeable and willing to share.Definitely take the opportunity to venture inside if they have the doors open.I've been there 3 times to view and appreciate the outside, but this time was the first time I was able to enter.It was worth every moment spent there.It is free, but there is a sign asking for donations.

Laura L — Google review

Beautiful place. They have a person explaining when it was built and the history of the Basillica. The stain glass is amazing and the woodwork also. It is free to enjoy but donations are recommended because it goes to the up keep of the church and the also help the fellow veterans and homeless people in the area.

Nels A — Google review

A lovely cathedral. We attended Mass there and it was beautiful.It is not open to the public during Mass but there are hours before and after the Masses. A beautiful place to sit quietly for a bit and recover from sightseeing.

Patricia B — Google review

The guard at the entrance made me feel right at home; he's such a friendly person. Stepping inside feels like entering another dimension, with so much to explore and observe. It's history at its finest, and the architecture is truly breathtaking.

Janet N — Google review

A must see if you’re in this town, a true piece of history. This Cathedral is absolutely massive in size and so beautiful. The stained glass is gorgeous and so detailed. The wood work is stunning with an insane organ. A very unique place to visit.

Aaron B — Google review

Absolutely gorgeous. The sanctuary is beautifully detailed. One gets the feeling of a sacred, holy place upon entering. We stayed for the historical lecture which was very informative and interesting.

Bill T — Google review

We always visit this breathtaking cathedral when visiting Savannah. Make it a must-see when you are there! The history and beauty are worth the visit.

Lana W — Google review

Came here on St Patrick's Day. It is one of the biggest churches is Savannah. The church architecture is so beautiful.The vibe is peaceful and calming. You'll keep admiring the beautiful glass windows and sculptures here.Please be respectful while taking photos though.

Bhushan — Google review

It was hard to capture how beautiful this church is. We just don't have historical places like this on the West Coast, so I was in awe. I grew up Catholic, so it brought back comforting memories. I lit a candle and sat in the wood pew to take in the sights, smells, and the beautiful colors of the stained glass with the sun shining through them. I love how they allow the public to come into the church to look around during times when they aren't having mass.

Tammy S — Google review

Beautiful, beautiful church! I felt like I stepped into a church in Europe! One of the prettiest sights in Savannah!

Atasha J — Google review

Absolutely gorgeous and free although they do take donations. Friendly staff. We went at Christmas and there was a gigantic very detailed nativity scene which was very impressive. I bought a Christmas ornament there with many choices of the stained glass pieces in the church. The organ was specifically made for this church and is a sight to see. Check times before you go because they do shut it down during services.

Kate M — Google review

The church was beautiful. They asked for a donation but it was not required. To light a candle for a prayer that you had a donation request. I give it a 4 only because in my opinion there is historical importance to the building and some information would have been helpful. Not sure any takes note but the would on Jesus switches sides from one window to the next. Guessing those windows are expensive! It’s all. About the details! Lol

Brian L — Google review

One of the best St Patrick's Day parades I've ever been to....the floats went on and on and on. Some very talented musicians, dancers, various local organizations represented.Didnt get into the Cathedral but was perched outside on the bleachers stands for a great viewing position.

Alan A — Google review

Beautiful cathedral. The security guard outside was super friendly. Worth seeing if you're religious or just an architectural buff or maybe just like historical places.

Dan P — Google review

Beautiful cathedral that has endured for such a long time. Went to their Christmas service that was very packed . As huge as it was, people still had to stand in the back. I come to this place almost every year to just enjoy the decorations and ceremony. A must see for anyone .

Joe S — Google review

Es una bella joya de la arquitectura!Se siente una paz impresionante al caminar por sus pasillos.Sus vitrales, sus pinturas y sus diseños remontan la majestuosidad, belleza y la grandeza expresión humana.(Translated by Google)It is a beautiful jewel of architecture!You feel an impressive peace when walking through its corridors.Its stained glass windows, its paintings and its designs trace the majesty, beauty and greatness of human expression.

Arturo G — Google review

Always beautiful but extra special at Christmas. The Nativity is impressive! The stained glass, steeples and wood carvings are hypnotizing. Just gorgeous! A must see when visiting Savannah.

Jessica — Google review

The Cathedral was beautiful. Such history in this beautifully preserved building. Please make sure to speak with anyone working there to give you the history of this place. Quite fascinating.

Gloria D — Google review

4.8

(6092)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (150)

5.0

(9832)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (151)

222 E Harris St, Savannah, GA 31401, USA

(912) 233-4709

19

Tybee Island

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Outdoor Activities

Beaches

Tybee Island is a small city and barrier island situated near Savannah in Georgia. It is famous for its extensive sandy beaches, including South Beach with its pier and pavilion. The northern part of the island houses Fort Screven, which boasts 19th-century concrete gun batteries and the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum. The light station has been rebuilt several times over the years, while the museum located in Battery Garland focuses on local history.

4.0

(3669)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (156)

Georgia 31328, USA

20

Coligny Beach Park

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Park

Outdoor Activities

Beaches

Coligny Beach Park is an oceanfront recreational area featuring well-maintained walking and biking paths, as well as amenities like Wi-Fi, swings, and the option to rent beach equipment. It is a popular destination for families as it is conveniently located near a playground and the Hilton Head Island Children's Museum. Locals also frequent Islanders Beach, where they can enjoy grilling facilities and picnic pavilions in addition to swimming in the Atlantic Ocean.

I love this beach park. The trees are so beautiful and the water was so clear. They have lots of pine trees and the bright green leave plants. I also love that parking was easy, at least when we went in December. They also have bathrooms and showers.

Atche P — Google review

Free public access to the Atlantic Ocean in a Hilton Head Island, SC! Beautiful boardwalk bringing you into the heart of the park. Clean restrooms, rinse off area, changing rooms and lots of shaded seating stops. Wheel chair and scooter accessible mat also available. Beach with lifeguards is very clean with several umbrella chairs and prime seating for families enjoying the day at the beach. Would definitely return!

Elizabeth K — Google review

Beautiful beach with all amenities like washrooms, foot wash, changing rooms, showers, parking.Walk to the beach is a pathway with beautiful trees, you can take your carts along with beach chairs.During the day beach was quite jammed but when I went in the morning around 7am it was much less crowded and looking more peaceful and beautiful then the day.Water of the beach is very very salty so if you skin allergies take precautions.You get Chairs along with umbrella shed on rent but I did not take it so don’t know the rent.P.S- I would request to each of you reading the review not to leave your plastic cans/items near the beach( I saw many during the day visit). Also other request would be to minimize the use of plastic so that our oceans don’t get destroyed.

Arpita A — Google review

Wonderful beach! Very clean and well maintained. We loved the walk up to the beach. There is plenty of seating where you can just rest and admire the beauty of the park. Just a short ways from the main Coligny Beach Park entrance, there is tons of safe, free parking. People (tourists and locals) are very friendly and will guide you if you need help. We particularly loved the outdoor changing area because we visited the beach again on the day we had checked out of our hotel. We were able to let the kids get in the ocean and play in the sand, and then come and rinse off and change into dry clothes right at the park. This extended our trip and gave us another day to enjoy the beach as we still had a safe area to get dressed. The park is close to tons of restaurants and shops. Just leave your car in the free lot and go explore. It’s worth it!

Renita T — Google review

I live in Atlanta and don’t mind driving here because it’s clean, family-friendly, has free parking, and it really is beautiful. I love this beach! Lovely place to spend the day with my family

Nurse Y — Google review

We enjoyed walking the different shops around the plaza. There were many to choose from and there is something for everyone (even kids). Be forewarned, don't walk on an empty stomach because the eateries will starve you. There is a pirate ship play area that the kids enjoy. Certain times you'll hear the live music.It was a joy seeing my granddaughter having so much fun (her first beach visit) watching the gulls, jumping the waves as they rolled to shore, and building sand castles. The splash pad they have for the kids and the areas that lead to the beach are nice and well maintained. Restroom are clean. There are beach wheelchairs (should anyone need one) that you call to reserve so that it's easier to get them on the beach. The beach is very clean and there are trash bins to use if needed.If you have never been to HHI, Coligny Beach Park especially, do yourself a favor and make plans to go. Even if it's a day trip. The atmosphere is amazing for relaxing and everyone we met there was so friendly.

Bobbie F — Google review

Beautiful place, flat beach area, soft sand nice to walk in the area that close to the water, not crowded, there is clean station and toilets. Pretty nice and clean side walk. Ocean water is pretty cold right now. friendly wave all day long..

AnVe 2 — Google review

Cool beach, gets busy during hot days for swimming.Many people around so it's mostly safe.Nice sunrises over the Atlantic and decent sunsets.Oceans can be flat as pancake or have 4-5 foot choppers in the same day. High and low tides add about 20 yards to beach area.Fun place to people watch

M C — Google review

This was our first time coming here. Making our way to Florida. This park is actually really nice & convenient! So many wash off showers, bathrooms are decent, swings to sit down and chill. The beach sand was so nice, there was some trash here and there. The waters are warm!! I've never felt the waters that warm before. I recommend this park though, it's a nice place to take the family.

Katie K — Google review

FREE PARKING!HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE right down to the ocean! There are mats lining the path that wheelchairs can roll on easily.This place is stunning.Very little shells on the beach. It's nice to see a city put so much into public access. Restrooms, showers, water faucets and more! The water was good and cold from the fountain which is a surprise.The sunrise was pretty even if that one cloud blocked it a little.Plenty of restaurants within walking distance too!

Ray S — Google review

The atmosphere is pleasant, and the area is well thought out. They have complimentary buggies for use by those who would have difficulty walking to the beach. There are wide mats for walking on to reach the beach. There are swings and benches for resting along the way. At the entrance, a splash area provides a cooling area for children to play. Some areas are covered for shade. Chairs are available at the beach. It is evident that people enjoy being there.

Barbara B — Google review

A good beach access point for the public. It has all the necessary after beach clean up facilities. The restrooms were kept as clean as possible for a public restroom. There was good enough sanitations. The park had several shops and restaurants which were unfortunately all closed as I visited on Christmas day.

Abhish A — Google review

Coligny Beach Park on Hilton Head Island is a must-visit destination for both solo travelers and families alike, the boardwalk leading to the expansive beach offers an intoxicating blend of natural beauty and modern convenience.The crown jewels of this picturesque location are the enormous live oaks that shade the park's well-maintained boardwalk that transforms the park into a cool retreat even in the peak summer heat. They're not just functional – these age-old guardians of the island possess a rustic beauty that adds a unique charm to the landscape.The park's splash pads are a real delight, particularly for children. A fine mist keeps visitors cool under the South Carolinian sun, adding an element of fun to the soothing serenity of the beach. The area is kept clean and is perfectly safe, making it an ideal spot for families to create lasting memories.Adding to the park's tranquility are the numerous swings scattered throughout the park. There's nothing quite as relaxing as swinging gently under the protective canopy of the oaks, enjoying the soft sea breeze and the hypnotic rhythm of the nearby ocean waves.Coligny Beach Park is a harmonious blend of leisure and nature.

Lisa M — Google review

Best beach to spend an afternoon with friends. Very clean beach. Found sand dollars and starfish. Life guards and helicopter kept eyes on water for any potential threat of sharks. Warnings were given and everyone had to get out of the water. It was about 30 minutes. Then the all clear was given. Clean bathrooms. Definitely my favorite beach!

Spedrock W — Google review

Beautiful beach, easy access and lovely rest area with water spigots to wash off your feet as well as showers to rinse off completely. Could use more parking but there isn't anywhere to add it - plus, it's walkable from many of the condos nearby. The sand was perfect and waterntemp was cold but bearable for an October sunrise.

Patricia B — Google review

This is a beautiful entrance to the beach. They have swings along the walkway and other seating as well. The walkway to the beach had padding down making it an easier walk. We enjoyed the laid back atmosphere at the beach and the water was nice. I would only recommend they have enclosed showers so that you can have more privacy when cleaning up after your day at the beach. They did however have a splash pad area that helps with the sand.

Caiwenkontay — Google review

Out of all my visits to this magnificent island, I never once had been to this beach access in Coligny Plaza, as I always have beach access inside Sea Pines, so I decided to try something new. What sort of local guide would I be if I didn't?As far as the actual beachline goes, it's a beach, so everything there was what I expected it to be, but as far as the entrance, it was well-maintained and there were enough restrooms around! The beach itself also extends quite largely, so there's plenty of room for everyone!

Beastlycharizard13 — Google review

Beautiful beach. Can get crowded in the summer for sure. These pics were from 7:00 a.m. walking on the beach. Coligny area is a great place for family and fun. Lots to do

Sheri W — Google review

This place always has been good. We have been visit this place for more than 8 years and it is always a good experience. Big free public parking, showers, bathroom and a good path to the beach. Relax time always. We highly recommend for, fun, family and a chill place to stay with infrastructure.

CDV — Google review

Looks like a well maintained area, clean with restrooms, showers, swings, and short easy walk to the beach. parking upfront was easy to find as we went during winter. Parking was free. We didn't stay for very long but enjoyed the area quite a lot..there is shopping nearly and restaurants too. We saw lot of people with dogs too.

Sanjeeta P — Google review

What a beautiful place. I am from Myrtle Beach and HH is like a whole other country compared to where I live. Coligny Park is a perfect gateway to the white sandy Beach and ocean.

Beverly J — Google review

It's a nice beach area but a lot of small jelly fish everywhere. From what I learned, they don't sting they just get washed up during high tide. The beach was crowded and the people were not very friendly, especially the lifeguards. Of course, there's no place to sit unless you want to pay for it, so bring your own chairs. It's more of an expensive tourist area that people like to go hotels all around you, hence all the people. There is plenty of parking but plan on walking a bit. It's a nice beach, but I don't plan on going back anytime soon. There are some shops and restaurants nearby if you want to shop and eat. There's a nice park area with a big playground and a big field for the kids to play on. There is an area where you can hear music during the summer months.

Ingrid H — Google review

This particular public access to the beach was easy to access. Loved the mesh walk-way over the sand! Also loved the area where we were able to rinse our feet/legs and shoes before getting in our car.

J H — Google review

Great beach with a lot of space to set up chairs, blankets or whatever. A lot of walkable or bikeable stores and restaurants close by. Stations to wash off feet, showers and bathrooms. There is a wheelchair accessible mat at the entrance that brings you to the beach as well as beach wheelchairs you can borrow for free.

Hannah M — Google review

This place is really nice. The beach is usually very clean and well maintained. Has a nice long wide mat that makes it easy to get through the soft sand. There are some nice shops and places to eat. All of which are within walking distance from the beach and where you park. Definitely recommend coming here. FYI It does get crazy busy during tourist season

John — Google review

Love the fact if you are in a wheelchair you can go and see the beach with no problem. Also if you have a hard time walking in the sand they have a cover over the sand in which makes it easier to get there. The cover doesn't get hot either.

MeLinda R — Google review

The best place to enjoy the beach or see a sunrise! Parking is easy! It’s always clean in the early mornings! Water pad/splash pad is perfect to rinse off before heading back to the car!

Hillary M — Google review

This beach has changed a lot over the years. In 2024, it is very very crowded. If you are not wanting to see hundreds of people, you may need to walk about a quarter mile or so to the right of the main Coligny Brach Circle entrance.Just walk until you see no more of those big blue umbrellas and it will feel a bit more organic. You can also arrive early around 7:30 AM or so and it feels a bit more peaceful.(There are other beaches on Hilton Head if you are looking for a public beach that is not such a party spot.)Overall, it’s lovely and fun. The nearby shopping and food selections are in an outstanding location relative to the beach. However, at this point, please know that it is quite crowded.

Kimberly D — Google review

Coligny Beach is a high quality spot with nice facilities, including restrooms and changing cabanas. It’s a great walking beach, especially at sunrise. You can rent chairs and umbrellas ‘in season’. There is plenty of parking nearby.

Keith M — Google review

A beautiful park with lovely bench swings on the walkway to the beach. We were there in December and the temps were in the mid 50s. It was warm on the swings and cooler on the beach, where it was windy. If you dress for the wind it is a beautiful walk along the beach and not very crowded this time.if year.

Hadassa 1 — Google review

Public beach parking (free) is conveniently located close by. From the parking area, strategically placed signs guide pedestrians towards the park entrance. There are shops and facilities like restrooms and shower areas. The walkway is flanked by benches and trash and recycling bins. There are cabanas and chairs for rent if you didn't bring your own shade or umbrellas. Come early and beat the crowd.

Sam P — Google review

It’s a beach. But not only is it a beach it’s a clean beach. I like the fact that it was clean and seemed to be well maintained by whoever maintains beaches. We came in town well for beaches. And we was not let down by the beauty of this beach. It had sand and water which was exactly why we stopped here.

Bobby M — Google review

The first time I had been there and it was very clean. It had a lot of added family touches. Share toys and clean up area for the beach. The changing rooms and the restrooms were very clean. I loved the porch swings as well.

Dustie B — Google review

You can rent umbrellas and lawn chairs. Popular spot to sun bathe and swim. Showers and changing rooms are available. Clean bathrooms and water fountains. Very populated.

Holly B — Google review

My family comes to this beach often throughout the year. Off seasons are always the best when there are not as many people. There is a splash pad which is seasonal. Restrooms, bench swings, and places to rinse sand off. It's a more family friendly area. Our toddler loves to play in the tide pools if they are there. We did find a sand dollar once in one of the tide pools. I love that you can rent wheelchairs designed for the beach if you need them. At times you will see the coast guard helicopter making their rounds. There may or may not be a lifeguard, seems they are out during peak season. Two downsides is that at times finding a parking spot can be so difficult with the amount of people and secondly the walk from the parking lot to the beach can be very long. Parking is free FYI and there is a park near the far end of the parking lot. People do bring dogs. You may see pelicans, sand pipers and jellyfish.

Melody O — Google review

GREAT Beach!Parking- Parking is free, however, to park in the lot closest to the beach, you want to get there early. We arrived around 1050a and the lot was full. We were able to park at Circle Center.The walk was no more than 5 minutes.Plenty of signs leading you to the beach.Entrance- There is a splash at the entrance and the men's and women's restrooms. There are also benches and swing seats with plenty of shade. There is a Pavillion to the right with a bar and hot dog stand.Beach- I love that the path leads all the way down to the beach. It made it so much easier to pull our wagon.The beach was smooth and clean. We did notice there weren't any seashells.We went 4th of July weekend, so it was crowded, but we never felt like people were on top of each other. It still felt spacious.There are lifeguards on duty, which is always great.The only negative for me were the bathrooms. Maybe more drains or something to help with the water. The bathroom felt like I was walking through puddles of water and I slipped.Overall, an amazing beach and is not far from Atlanta. We are planning to return again in a couple of weeks!

Renee G — Google review

4.7

(9998)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (164)

4.5

(3680)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (165)

1 Coligny Circle, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, USA

(843) 342-4580

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21

Shelter Cove Community Park

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Park

Outdoor Activities

Hiking Trails

Shelter Cove Community Park is a popular gathering spot in the city that hosts frequent shows and festivals. In addition to its entertainment value, the park also features green space for sports and fitness activities. The park is well-designed for children to burn off energy, making it an ideal destination for families with young kids. Located in Hilton Head, the park is surrounded by great shopping options including numerous restaurants and small shops.

Shelter cove has some of the best shopping in restaurants hands down. This park was so well designed for the kids. They were able to burn some energy off so they could behave well at the dinner table. We went twice in our week vacation down there in Hilton Head. Highly recommend stopping by here if you have kids. Let them burn some energy off so they don't act up at the store's while shopping lol

Emily B — Google review

We always stop at this area when in Hilton head. Nice shops and restaurants. We ride our bikes from the resort there are a lot of great trails along the marsh.

Nicole F — Google review

Shelter Cove Community Park is a beautiful park located adjacent to the Shelter Cove Towne Centre. It includes a large grassy area for recreation, a stage for concerts, and an area with playground equipment for children. Plus, it has a gorgeous view of the marshland. It's a beautiful place to run and play or simply to sit and relax.

Greg S — Google review

Love Shelter Cover Community Park! This is a great place for both locals and tourists alike. Within a quick 5 minute walk in any direction you can find places to eat, places to shop, grocery store, gas station, playground, waterfront, and usually some event going on. The park is clean and very family friendly and wheelchair/stroller accessible. It is worth discovering for yourself!

Cassandra C — Google review

Have been here a couple times while visiting the area.. Nice park with good views. There are stores and small shops. Also a few nice restaurants and club located close by.

John S — Google review

Love this park. It's close the restaurants and shopping and has the Memorial park. It's a great place to watch the sunset and to look at the amazing Memorial built for veterans. You can even purchase a brick for a veteran and they will have there name there for ever. They have done such a good job in building a beautiful park. It's a MUST visit while you're in HHI.

Don K — Google review

Cute little park with a community market on Sundays. Location was excellent to do extra shopping after the market. Playground was perfect for kids of different ages to explore and had good benches for parents.

Morgan M — Google review

This is new to us. Wonderful amenity. Well laid out paths, nice views, respectful of the natural environment. Nice veterans memorial. Perfect place for sunset pics. Connects to other Shelter Cove paths. Highly recommended

Brian C — Google review

Great place to view the Tuesday night fireworks as well as the sunset, just get there early (around 6:30pm) and eat dinner and hangout or else parking can be difficult! The fireworks kicked off around 9:37pm and lasted for a decent amount of time.

Cheyenne S — Google review

Shelter Cove Community Park is a very well-designed shopping center, community park for the whole family to enjoy. All of the photos were taken on our recent visit at Christmas and the park is just beautiful! The playground is great with rubber mulch and very cushioned for wild kids like mine:). Large grass area to run around or picnic with the family. Hilton Head puts on events there all the time such as movie nights under the stars, snow at the beach, 4th of July celebrations etc. Check with the community calendar to make sure you don't miss out on any of the great events going on there. This is a park we often take people that come to the beach to visit us. They always seem to maintain the park very well and we will continue to go there as it is just a great place to hang out, walk around, shop, eat, date night and of course go and see Santa Clause at Christmas!

Anchors C — Google review

Beautiful place to watch the sun set!

SEG — Google review

It's a wonderful community park but there's very little shade along the boardwalk so pick your days carefully and wear lots of sunscreen. The views are absolutely beautiful

Ralph L — Google review

Beautiful path to walk or bike along the marsh/water. Great for bird watchers. Mixed path - paved and raised wood decking over marsh. Art sculptures too.

Jeanne L — Google review

This was one of our favorite stops as a family on our day-long biking trip! Beautiful waterfront views and a very well put-together park with lots of seating, a very nice playground (with video surveillance), and restrooms. This park is right next to the French Bakery and other good eateries.

Devon M — Google review

There's something for everyone here. There is a variety of shops and restaurants, and live music on some days. Beautiful views from restaurants when sitting for outside dining!

M C — Google review

The best on this side of the island! Free and a playground foe kids with water fountain, restrooms lots of seats and walking for the family. Sunscreens in the bathrooms and lots of cameras around to spy on you! And free wifi however not enough handicap parking.

Cya V — Google review

This is a awesome Greenway that goes put over the edge of the marsh area near shelter cove. There is open parking at the end, and there are two small parks that this takes you to.One is a veterans memorial park with pavers of some veterans of various wars. I am not sure how the featured veterans were chosen, but still a pretty stopThe 2nd park is behind shelter cove shopping center, and has a playground, and gazebo area as well as easy access to shops and restaurants.The whole trail is probably about a mile, but might be a nice excursion if you find yourself in the area

Andrew M — Google review

This is a wonderful place to watch the sunset. There are walking trails, picnic benches and a nice playground for kids. Lots of children, families, teens and elderly enjoying the evening. Several people were walking their dogs. This location is near the marsh and is very peaceful. We saw lots of water birds flying overhead heading to the rookery for the night.

Debbie W — Google review

We have dogs so we couldn't go to the beach and happened to find this place. It was very well maintained and landscaped nicely. We walked the beautiful paths for an hour we would have stayed longer but it was very hot out that day.

Walter H — Google review

4.7

(1152)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (177)

5.0

(2815)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (178)

39 Shelter Cove Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, USA

(843) 341-4600

22

Hunting Island

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Island

Nature & Parks

State Parks

Hunting Island is a state park featuring sandy beaches, marshes, a maritime forest, a saltwater lagoon, and a lighthouse. The park is well-maintained and boasts various historical buildings, two beaches with bath houses and beach gift shops, as well as campgrounds with their own gift shop. Driving through the island feels like entering a rainforest due to its lush vegetation.

my favorite beach ever. it’s so peaceful and quiet, at least the part i went to was!! it was also just so beautiful.

Brenna — Google review

It has been a tradition of my family for as long as I can remember. I literally grew up here. Although this beach isn't my favorite, there's always heavy nostalgia every time I return. Our recent visit was for a pop up family gathering and a continued celebration of moms bday.

Mike W — Google review

I always love Hunting Island. It's well maintained and the beach is beautiful. There is a light house that you can go up in, various historical buildings, a campground, 2 beaches, bath houses, a beach gift shop, and a campground gift shop.

Christina S — Google review

Top campground just meters from beach — good facilities, clean, quiet — some fun trails for cycling/hiking — beware the mosquitoes!

Andrew H — Google review

Pretty magical Little Beach. Evidently my family's been coming here for years and I finally realized why, the views are fictitious!

Dylan W — Google review

Quiet and peaceful. Seashells everywhere and will more than likely see a sea turtle nest or two. Beautiful views and great for families if you don't want the business of Hilton Head Island.

Katie E — Google review

What a beautiful park! Driving through seems as though you're entering a rain forest. Gorgeous beach and amazing lighthouse. We were disappointed to find out upon arrival that the lighthouse is closed.

Mary R — Google review

Tranquil, relaxing beach in October. The water was still warm enough to swim. Clean shoreline and the palm trees behind the sand make a peaceful backdrop.

Phyllis M — Google review

Quiet, relaxing beach. Great for shell hunters. Picnic area for family gatherings,with tables and grills.

Robin W — Google review

Beautiful park! The history of the lighthouse is amazing. Cute playground for kids to play on. The marsh walk was easy & lots of birds. The boneyard was amazing! So beautiful! A bit of a walk from the pier parking lot, but well worth it.

Kam — Google review

Absolutely amazing! Not too many people due to limited parking, and the scenery is unique. It’s dog friendly and our dog had a blast!There aren’t any trash cans anywhere by the beach or on the trails so bring a trash bag to put away your trash. There is a trash/recycling bin in the parking area

Katya К — Google review

This beach captured my heart like very few other places on earth have. Its pristine sands, crystal-blue waters and serene atmosphere make it my favorite beach in the world. Watching the sunrise here feels like witnessing a masterpiece painting come to life. Each visit feels like the first, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Truly, a hidden gem that deserves all the praise and more.

Ken Y — Google review

North Beach is the best place to watch the sunrise or the sunset,but I prefer North Beach for sunrise,there are many other places to watch the sunset as you will see in the pictures

Kim R — Google review

This is our 3rd visit to this South Carolina state park and it doesn’t disappoint! Our campsite was on the perimeter of the campground and backed up to the primitive campsites of which none were occupied during our visitThe RV sites have electric and water, fire pit and picnic table and many are heavily wooded and private. Its more of a hard packed sand rather than gravel site for parking. The store has ice, firewood and other supplies.There’s a trail that you can walk to from the campsites as well as beach access. Other trails start from the 2 other entrances along Sea Island Parkway as well as a short hike on the sound side which connects small islands out in the marsh via boardwalks. That’s a great place for birding. We saw a river otter and 4 Bufflehead ducks hunting fish in the marsh. The trails all offer a variety of scenery from forest to marsh to beach including the ghost forest at the south end of the island. Its a photographer ‘s paradise !

Hiker S — Google review

This was our first time visiting and we loved it!!! Driving to the beach you feel like your in a Jurassic park movie!!! The beach is beautiful, filled with shells!! And the lighthouse is magnificent! Be sure to go see it, and there’s a cute little gift shop too!!! Also…. The boneyard beach is simply amazing!!! I’m sure if you go you will enjoy this beautiful area as much as we did!! ☀️🌴

Lyn S — Google review

Another view of a beach, awesome trees, lighthouse, horseshoe craps and Boneyard Beach.

RedeAdventures “ — Google review

We went twice in one week. The visitor center is a nice first stop. Lighthouse is at the upper (northern) beach with picnic tables (gnats drove us away from lunch there, however, early March). You can find some shells, but had better luck last year. Saw some people on horseback. Not crowded at all; plenty of room! I explored only a small bit of trails; looks great if you want to hike or bike. The road into the park is also beautiful.

Mark M — Google review

One of the few South Carolina beaches. The park is clean and they road leading in is interesting.

Robert R — Google review

Love this place!!! We have been going every year for 14 years. I enjoy the NOT crowded beach, the lighthouse, spacious sites, unique finds in shells & the wildlife. The last couple years price has went up & have started adding fees per night if you bring a Golfcart-so be sure to check for extra charges-love they added a place to wash & dry clothes!

Pam C — Google review

This is either the end of the world or it’s beginning. Excellent beaches, inland trails, scenic views, camping / campgrounds, fishing piers, history, etc. etc. If you are in Beaufort, go. If you’re in South Carolina, go. Just go!😀

Carl W — Google review

Gorgeous. Miles of beautiful beach along the Atlantic Ocean. The museum was so informative. Can't wait to visit again. Hopefully the Lighthouse will be open to the public

Stacy W — Google review

We enjoyed our visit to the island. The drive into the park was remarkable. It would be easy to get lost if they didn't have signs telling you the way out.

Brenda W — Google review

4.7

(401)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (179)

4.5

(2359)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (180)

South Carolina 29920, USA

23

Charleston Tea Garden

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Sights & Landmarks

Farm

Nestled on Wadmalaw Island, just a scenic drive from Johns Island, the Charleston Tea Garden is a picturesque site with acres of tea plants and offers trolley and factory tours. Established in the late 1700s, it continues the tradition of American grown tea that was invested in by the Lipton Company in the early 1900s. Visitors can explore this historic plantation and sample its renowned American Classic Tea.

This was a wonderful tour. I especially liked that it was very easy and not much walking. We parked right by the factory and gift shop. They have a trolley tour that explains everything about their teas. Our tour guide was funny and enjoyable. I plan to bring friends back for the tour, especially those that don’t want a lot of walking. The tea samples are great. The inside tour is quick and has benches along the way to sit. My recommendation is to go when they are harvesting so you can see the whole process on the tour. We will be back.

B H — Google review

We enjoyed our visit to the tea farm, great tour guide on the trolley and very informative. The factory tour was good and fun to watch. The gift shop had hot and cold teas to try. We had a chance to try the first cut tea of the season which had a rich and buttery flavor. Lots of cute tea items in the shop. They have a wonderful place under trees with picnic tables and nice bathroom facilities.

Terrie W — Google review

We loved this tour. It is such a rare and unique experience to see how tea is grown, harvested, maintained and processed. This is not an Antebellum plantation tour, it is a tour of an active tea plantation. Do not miss the factory tour (which is separate from the trolley tour) and does not have a separate charge. Hopefully you can see the factory in operation, which is most of the time from April to October. It is just down the road from the Angel Oak tree which is very much worth stopping to see as well.

Nicki A — Google review

This was the second time my fiancé and I have visited, but the first time with my family. I will always love coming to the Charleston Tea Plantation. There is a free factory tour every 15 minutes on the hour that explains how they process their tea. There is also a trolley tour - $15 per person for ages 12 and up, $7.50 per child ages 4-11. The trolley tour is such an incredible and informative experience. It was fascinating learning about the tea and the history of tea. In addition to the tours, there is also a great gift shop. They have dispensers (hot and cold) so you can try a variety of their teas. I would recommend the Charleston Tea Plantation to anyone wanting to learn more about the history of Charleston!

Jillian G — Google review

We booked online today and we had such an amazing experience. Every single person that worked there was extremely kind and welcoming. They answered every question we had about the experience and about the way tea is grown. I highly recommend paying for the Trolley Ride, it was adorable and made the ride down there worth it. We wished the factory tour had more to it, but other than that we had a great time! We enjoyed seeing the “World’s Largest Sweet Tea.” It’s also about 15 minutes to the Angel Oak Tree, so definitely do both!

Katelyn T — Google review

A must-go if you are a tea fan. Maybe the only large-scale tea plantation in the US. Go on the $15 trolley ride and learn all about tea agriculture. Walk through the free factory tour and learn about processing. Beautiful location, free iced and hot tea tasting, public bathrooms, fun gift shop.

RickK — Google review

A wonderful little experience to fill 2 hours. A cute gift shop with many tea products and free tea samples (hot and cold). A free factory tour that is video led and allows you to see in on the small operation. We paid for the trolley ride through the tea fields with a stop at the greenhouse. It's not super cheap, but a great way to view the only tea farm in North America. We enjoyed it with our kids and would recommend it as something to do during a visit out to see the 400 year old Angel Oak tree and park.

Rebecca M — Google review

This is a good stop if you're in the Charleston area and don't mind doing a little driving, especially if you're a tea fan. There is a large gift shop filled with your standard gift shop items, a free video guided factory tour, and all you can drink hot/cold tea while you're there. I'd say the most impressive thing in their gift shop is tea from their first harvest. Most of the cold tea varieties are sweetened already, and you can find whatever add-ins you may need next to the teas.They have lots of outdoor seating including picnic tables where you can wait if you're doing the garden trolley tour ($15). The tour was very informative and it included a visit to their greenhouse as well.

Sara O — Google review

The Charleston Tea Garden is such a fun experience. The drive out to it is absolutely serene. Step into the don't shop, where you can browse through a vast collection of craft items, tea, and treats. Sample hot and iced teas of various flavors. (They were all good!) Take a free tour of the factory. It will only take approx. 10-15 minutes. And for $15/person, take the trolley tour of the entire property.

Chris T — Google review

A must see place if you are a tea lover. It is the only tea farm in the entire region of the country. They process the tea leaves once a week. The trolley tour is really nice. You can sample tea in the gift shop. So many cute things in the gift shop

Eloise L — Google review

Our visit was 28 August 2023 during a family vacation for the week. I am a connoisseur tea drinker, especially for herbal tea varieties. We were a family of 6 women from 80s to 50s. It was nice to ride in the bus with seniors especially in heat. Some of the dust does kick up when it is dry out. We really enjoyed the tour and information provided. The staff were all so pleasant and the sample teas helped in our choices. Yes, we all left with some teas and other items. I am still cherishing the last box of mint tea and apple butter that I have. My two great-nieces enjoy their flower pens. I would recommend a trip to this location. If down with my traveling friends, I would bring them over as well.

Philly R — Google review

The highlight of my recent Charleston trip. I enjoy supporting local and American made products, and this will for certain be my new go to for tea. Friendly staff and beautiful farm and store. Lots of tea to sample for free. It was great to sit and sip on the porch. If I am ever in the area I will surely be back!

Jenna H — Google review

The only tea farm in the USA! Free factory tour, free tea tastings, both hot and cold and well stocked gift shop. Restrooms and free parking available. Tour the Tea farm on a tour bus for $15. The tour is about 45 minutes. Our tour guide, Andi, was informative and entertaining. Sara from the gift shop was helpful and took a group photo for us. If you love tea, farming or beautiful scenery, this tour is for you.

Gail H — Google review

One of my favorite places I visited while in Charleston! Our tour guide was hilarious and I learned so much about tea. Who knew green tea and black tea were from the same plant?! The gift shop was full of so many great finds, and there are a few interesting locations to take pictures at. It’s definitely worth the stop!

Kylie — Google review

We very much enjoyed our visit and tour at the Tea Garden. Sally drove us back in to see the fields and greenhouse and gave us some great insights into the industry.The free tea bar was a treat and the little self guided factory tour was interesting and educational.

Stephen B — Google review

This is a great little secret of Charleston. The Charleston Tea Garden is the only location in the US that grows and sells tea. This location has two tour options and a gift shop. As a bonus the gift shop has many cold and hot teas on site that you can enjoy -- unlimited.The first tour option is free and about 15 minutes long. It takes you through the process of how they process and make different teas. Unless it's bad weather, they generally are harvesting and processing tea daily.The second tour option has a small fee. I think it was around $15 a person for adults. This is a trolly tour that is covered (great for when it's raining). This tour takes you around their 18 fields and the nursery. You can see first hand how the tea is harvested, learn the history of the tea garden, and quit a lot about tea. The guy giving the tour is fun and knowledgable.Overall it's a great stop, even if you don't want to take the tour. The tea on site is grown and processed there. The First Flush is the best to get.

Brandon D — Google review

The Tea Garden is a great place to spend a few hours. It's free to park, walk around, and visit the guest shop plus factory. There are also free restrooms just outside. You can choose to pay for a tour on a bus run by the tea garden. If you choose no to, you can always walk around on your own. It's a pretty place that's worth your time.

Michael B — Google review

We visited Charleston Tea Garden this week on our honeymoon and had the most amazing time! The staff were so friendly and welcoming! Steven (our trolly driver) was so informative and made sure we had a great time! We spent time after the trolly tour looking round the factory and exploring the grounds and tasting lots of great tea.This is a must stop for all tea lovers in the area!

Gracie C — Google review

If you are in the Charleston area, you should not miss this. You’ll learn more than you ever could have imagined about tea.For example, did you know that all varieties of tea come from the same plant? Yeah, me either.They have a small little self-guided factory tour, a tasting room with unlimited tea, and a paid trolley tour around the farm. You can spend about a half a day here,and it’s quite educational.

Ben H — Google review

The Charleston Tea Garden (Plantation) in South Carolina. This is an absolutely BEAUTIFUL plantation. The trolley costs $ and no dogs allowed on it so we didn't ride them but dogs are allowed on the grounds but not image the shop. Parking is FREE, admission is FREE, lots of hot tea and cold tea samples (full cups) inside are FREE, and there is a little self guided tour that's FREE with video and you can see through large windows the factory where they make the Charleston Teas. The gift shop is where the tea tasting is and how you enter the free tour and lots of cool things to buy in there. This is a PERFECT place to go to if you're looking for FREE stuff to do in/around Charleston, SC.

Laura W — Google review

I did this because I felt it was unique, and I am so grateful. The place itself is beautiful, and our guide, Steve, was knowledgeable and fun. There is a little shop full of cute items and you can, of course, also get some tea. In addition to the gardens and greenhouse, you also get to view the manufacturing area, and they are videos that explain how everything is processed. I learned a lot and really enjoyed my time here!

Nicole W — Google review

Had the pleasure of visiting the tea garden today. It is a unique to SC experience, offering fascinating history of this one of a kind farm. The spring weather was beautiful for the open window trolly tour. The tour wasn’t terribly long however it included 4-5 stops with explanations, Q and A time, and an audio recording lecture supplemented the drivers speeches. In the gift shop there were hot and cold tea samples available and other items for sale. It was pleasant browsing and the shop attendants were kind and quite knowledgeable. Highly recommend visiting!

Onna K — Google review

I really enjoyed the trolley tour and tea tasting The charming tour guide was funny and engaging. Seeing the factory inside was also interesting. Even the kids enjoyed it. I never knew there was so much to know about tea. We bought our tickets once we got there and had 45 minutes to taste tea and do the factory tour.

Kim M — Google review

Such a fun and interesting place! The tour was entertaining and educational. I love the tea and brought some home with me. Definitely worth a visit if you are near the area.

Liz H — Google review

We had the best time visiting on Mother's Day.We enjoyed the quick factory tour which is about 12 minutes but was very informative. We also had booked, in advance, the trolly tour. Out driver was very nice and provided a good amount of info to supplement the recording. The grounds are fun told walk around. We enjoyed sampling all the different teas for free. If your in the SC area go check them out if your a tea lover.

Debbie A — Google review

If you know a minimum about tea & always wanted to know more take the time to visit this place. Interesting history & tea processing explained. Endless cups of tea, hot or iced & information to enlighten! Trolly ride around the active farm fields is the only way to see it all. No walking about in the fields on your own allowed as it's an active, working farm. Trolly is worth doing. Enjoyed the ride & the driver was thorough, personable & truly seemed to enjoy sharing his time with us. No question was too large or too small. Gift shop is delightful. Did I say there's endless cups of tea?!!

Dona B — Google review

This was a very informative tour and our trolley driver was great! Very informative and passionate about the plantation. The gift shop could use some brighter lights. It's cute and they have a lot of stuff, but some things are hard to read due to lack of light. The tea is good. A different taste than what I'm used to (Numi black breakfast tea), but still very good.

Shannon M — Google review

We took the Trolley tour while visiting Charleston and loved it! This place is a gem and the people working there are very passionate about their craft. The garden was beautiful and the tour was very educational. They also had samples of different teas available in the gift shop and a short and free factory tour. I would highly recommend visiting!

Molly S — Google review

I took the tea garden tour on July 1st and was so pleased. The ladies inside the gift shop were so pleasant and accommodating. I enjoyed the tour of the processing facility, the grounds and our tour guide was knowledgeable and you could tell he got great satisfaction explaining all about the plantation. I would go again and will the next time I'm in Charleston.

RM A — Google review

Highly recommended while in Charleston - it's free to visit the site but an additional charge to take the trolley tour.There is a gift shop with all the tea that you can drink and a factory tour as you walk past a series of recorded video presentations.

Ryan S — Google review

Visiting the Charleston Tea Garden should be on everyone’s list of things to do. It’s a nice diversion from downtown Charleston and all the touristy things. The property is very well maintained and offers a variety of things to do. There is a tour of how the tea is harvested (free). If you’re there on a Tuesday or Thursday, you can see everything in action. There is also a very informative trolley tour ($) that you can take to get a glimpse of the property. The gift shop offers plenty of souvenirs and there’s a variety of complimentary tea (hot or iced) to drink. Enjoy your visit!!

Elizabeth B — Google review

I don't like tea but thought seeing how tea leaves becomes the tea in a cup would be interesting, and the tour did not disappoint. I was able to do the factory tour while waiting for my farm trolley tour. It was very interesting. I had fun buying tea for friends who do love it.You can buy tickets for the trolley tour in advance and I recommend going on a week day vs weekend. They may actually be harvesting and processing tea leaves during visit if you do it on a week day.

S.M. E — Google review

Such a quiet and relaxing area. We stop in every time we visit Charleston to pick up loose leaf tea. They have different hit and cold teas to sample while visiting. We enjoy sitting outside in one of the ricking chairs, sipping tea just relaxing. They do offer a tour of the plantation which is very informative as well.

Nancy B — Google review

If you like tea, this is the place to stop by. My husband and I went on both the property tour and the factory tour. Both of these were informative and interesting! Our guide was upbeat and kind. We really enjoyed listening to him!

Chase B — Google review

We really enjoyed the Tea Garden experience. Steve, the trolley driver/guide was vey knowledgeable and you can tell, he loves his job. We learned a lot on the factory tour and they have a lovely gift shop.

Alexis W — Google review

Area is comprised of three main activities; main area is the gift shop, behind of which is the free video guided viewing area of a processing factory floor, and the last of which is a trolley tour of the tea plantation. There is no walking around on the plantation nor walking tour permitted.Gift shop has free tea of varietal flavors in both hot and cold complimentary to sample. Bathroom is outside.Trolley tour was pretty fun. Had Andie as our tour guide, cracking quirky jokes and tea puns that I assume has been well practiced as she spouted them with great enthusiasm.Although the tour and videos purport this being the only tea producer in NA, Believe it's really just the largest commercially viable one. Probably due to the historical establishment of the tea plants.

Kevin L — Google review

Had a friend in town and wanted to do something local. Impressed with the information Steve shared on the trolley tour. Very educational! Look forward to enjoying a daily cup of tea grown in the low country!

Ashleigh R — Google review

4.7

(2006)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (186)

4.5

(1693)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (187)

6617 Maybank Hwy, Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487, USA

(843) 559-0383

24

Fort Sumter National Monument

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Fortress

Museums

The fort at Fort Sumter was the site of the first shots in the Civil War, and it continues to be a popular tourist destination. The fort is only accessible by water, and daily ferries run informative trips back and forth. It's also a National Historic Landmark.

The paddle boat ride was relaxing. The raising of the flag was really cool and the story that he shared was neat. Gave you a better appreciation for both sides of the civil war. It's amazing how much the enslaved people did in this part of the country to build this part of the country.

Joni G — Google review

This starts with a nice relaxing ferry ride to the island. We loved sitting on the deck outside and looking at the water and the city. Once we arrived at Fort Sumter, we were giving a brief overview by one of the Rangers about the monument. The Rangers are extremely knowledgeable and can answer almost any questions. There is a lot of history there and it is interesting to learn. It’s well preserved a great addition to our Charleston trip. We probably would not go back again but we were glad we went once.

Erica P — Google review

The tour of Fort Sumter was the perfect length at approximately an hour. We took the first tour at 9:30 and I highly recommend it. It is cooler and better yet we rode with all the docents! Ranger Walter gave the history of the Fort and the area. It is mostly preserved in its mostly destroyed state. Restoring it imo would take away from the story.

Walter F — Google review

A fun ferry ride with a wonderful tour guide. He had been doing it for 23 years and you could hear the passion in his voice. The other ranger who led most of the tour was also very informational. The site was fun to see and impressive - great history. Only complaint was that we did not have enough time to also really tour the museum part, but we still got to see everything.

Megan M — Google review

Must do experience while in Charleston. I must admit spending time on the water to and from the island was half the reason I visited Fort Sumter. The views of the Battery, Ravenal Bridge, and Sullivan's Island from the ferry were stunning. Knowledgeable guides and a very well written brochure provided more background and history than could be absorbed for one day. Next time I'd like to go early and stay late, so I could spend more time in the museum. The sound system can't compete with the engine and the waves. More speakers on board are needed to be able to actually hear the park ranger clearly. Old and young alike catch just enough snippets to be tantalized without being informed. Also, the web site refers to a garage on the Charleston side without providing a map or the cost of parking, so we opted for Patriots Park on the Mt Pleasant side for $5. All in all, the excursion was well worth the time and money. I'll make time for a fourth trip when I can make a day of it. Fascinating, really.

S H — Google review

This is a must do exhibit if you visit the Charleston area. You have a brief ferry trip to the monument. As you arrive, you can see the stations of where the cannons were pointing outward. The fort itself is well preserved and it’s history is very fascinating. Quick tip: You can take part in the “raising” and lowering of the American flag if you are on either the 9:00 or 4:00 tours. The overall tour was quite informative and pleasant.

Michael A — Google review

While it was one of the hottest days, the Ferry ride and the Fort were amazing. Because we were on the first tour of the day, they needed help raising the garrison flag. I didn't hold the flag but I got to witness my family participating. Bring a water bottle, they have refill fountains at the fort.

Jeanne S — Google review

The ferry ride to Fort Sumter is pleasant and relaxing. When we got to the fort, we had to wait almost 15 minutes for the ferry in front of us to load and depart before we could disembark and explore the fort, and our time was cut short because of it. My advice, please plan to get back to the ferry on time so others may have the same experience. Other then being rushed, it was a great experience, hearing the story of the history of the fort was fascinating, and the museum was packed full of information and artifacts.

Michele S — Google review

Ft Sumter Is Beautiful a lot of cool history!I recommend you take the Last Ferry of the day you also will have a chance to take down the flag and fold it when arriving at the island for the last Trip!Very beautiful place and the museum is pretty cool!

The W — Google review

If you are in the area this is definitely a must-stop if you enjoy and appreciate history. I only wish you could stay a little longer on the island. Definitely buy tickets in advance as it may be sold out if you wait to purchase them when you get there. Boat ride does have food and drinks you can purchase. Didn't feel sick on the ride despite it being windy out.

Abigail L — Google review

Essential American history expedition. Park Rangers were knowledgeable and did a great job sharing both Union and Confederate viewpoints to give the complete story of one of the pivotal places in our nation’s history.

Darren H — Google review

First, the 30 min ferry ride was relaxing and informational. We were able to spot dolphins several times during the ride. The historic Fort itself is wonderful to explore. They have a museum which explains the history of the Fort and displays historic artifacts. The flag raising ceremony (first trip only) was also very meaningful. Restrooms were clean and well maintained. There’s also a tiny gift store at the fort.

Han S — Google review

Nice relaxing and informative boat ride out. We were the first tour of the day so we got to see the raising of the flag. Amazing when coupled with the history of the fort. The young lady who gave us the history was amazing at her job. I teared up a couple times. (I'm like that with some history things I guess.) When arriving and going to the flag pole, and continued history, it knocks out 10-15 minute from the hour that you have, The only thing I would like to see is an extra half hour to tour the grounds more. Other than that it was well worth the time and ticket to get there!!

Stagerlee — Google review

Great place to soak in history. Wish we had a bit more time to get around and read all the plaques and fully experience the museum.

Matthew R — Google review

As a history nerd, this monument literally makes me giddy. I spent several hours exploring this place boring my poor parents with every random fact I know. It is definitely worth the trip if you know the history. Even if you don't know the history, it is still pretty darn cool. I mean, who doesn't love old abandoned forts and cannons?

Jeanette H — Google review

A great experience!! I wish the ferry options allowed for a longer visit, as it did feel rushed. You get about an hour to explore, however I would have probably wanted 2 hours to really immerse myself and read all the history. Also, the ferry will cost you $30+ per person just as a heads up.

Katelyn A — Google review

Wonderful place, can feel the past come alive here. The ferry ride gives you a chance to see other ships too. Currently a ticket is $35.. Note to park in the lot for the ferry, is $5 same as it has been the last 10+ years.

Matthew F — Google review

Historical, cool, and interesting site. A little underwhelming, unless you're a huge History buff and want to spend the time doing the videos and Live Ranger talks. If you haven't been, it's worth the quick stop in. The small entry fee is worth it to help keep a Historical site active. I usually ha e more but, again I was mildly underwhelmed.

Brandon K — Google review

Staff and rangers were all very friendly and helpful. So much history! The ship had air conditioning on the lower level and the museum in the fort. So nice, would totally visit again!

Stuart S — Google review

Very interesting. The volunteer tour guide on the ship provided a lot of great historical information, and we had the added joy of being there at a time to help lower the massive American flag.

Jason G — Google review

Arrived at Patriots Point early and had to wait an hour for the next ferry over, which was fine. The trip across the bay was nice and met some nice folks both ways of the ride. Supposedly, there were dolphins on the way back, but I didn't see them.You are allotted one hour in the fort, which doesn't seem like a lot, but the fort isn't that big, so that's plenty. There is a museum there but did go in.Overall, it was a nice day, as you can see by the picture.The red line on the pole is how high the way used to be.

M S — Google review

Very important events in our nation happened here. The rangers on the island & visitors center tell the story well. You have to take a boat ride to go. You can catch it from Liberty Square (difficult to find parking) or from Patriots point at Mount Pleasant. At the Point there is adequate parking for a small fee.

Kathy H — Google review

Pretty nice, interesting history. Not the largest, so an appropriate size for the one hour they give you if you speed run the placards. Maybe a little expensive given the time but probably necessary to find the ferry.Small gift shop that's swipe only, but inside there's a free ink national park stamp for your book if interested.Additionally, challenge coins at the register.

Peyton H — Google review

Very cool overall experience. The one thing I would love is for the rangers to offer more information. I’d pay another $5 at the actual site for a loose tour of facts beyond the introduction story.

Ryan F — Google review

Nice ferry ride to the fort with a speaker who tells a short story about the fort. Impressive information about our nations history. You're only allowed 1 hour on the fort, so don't take too long at the museum or gift shop! !

Angela H — Google review

A definite must when you come to Charleston, especially if you're a historian, you will really enjoy this one. The ferry ⛴️ was nice as well this is a very educational tour, get in line early if you want to pick your seat on the ferry, also I recommended the last one of the day because they have the flag folding ceremony where the you get to participate if you want. I was a bit taken back, standing in the middle of the fort thinking of the events that took place there, I only wish it was a bit longer there was a lot to take in but not a lot of time to do it.

Dominique C — Google review

If you are a history lover, you will be happy you chose to go. Relaxing ferry ride over and back. Snacks and drinks for sale on Ferry.

Tonya B — Google review

30 min ferry ride (each way) and an hour on land. Ferry has snack/drink options for purchase and restrooms, Ft has none (aside from a water bottle filling station and gift shop). Very worthwhile tour!!!

Bekah B — Google review

It's nice with an enjoyable, approximately 30-minute ferry each way. I recommend sitting outside as their is at least a nice breeze. The AC on the mid deck doesn't work well and it's rather hot. The bottom floor smelled horrible due to the AC constantly dripping into the carpet, hardly any AC down their worked either.

Jason M — Google review

Visited on a Wednesday afternoon - rode the ferry ($37/person) to Fort Sumter, stayed an hour on the island, then rode back.There was a 10 minute history presentation by a ranger upon arrival, and the rangers were available for questions during the visit.Cool to see the cannons, brick walls, etc. But I personally felt it was an overpriced experience.Would recommend for anyone interested in historical monuments.

Jamie O — Google review

A piece of history. You can still see the scars from the cannon fire. Great museum inside. Only problem is it's hard to take it all in during the hour you have at the fort. The boat ride there and back is enjoyable.

Harry P — Google review

Certainly the funniest park ranger I've met yet. He was also a wealth of knowledge and as personable as they come. The site is amazing and rife with history at every turn. Ft. Sumter has seen so many pivotal moments in American history. Also enjoyed a nice boat ride out to the island. There is a gift shop at the fort, but prepare yourself. If there are a lot of people, the gift shop gets crowded quickly as it is very small.

Ryan M — Google review

Honest revel I love national parks. The historian did a wonderful job sharing the history. We had 3 park rangers on our ferry. It was about 30 minutes each way plus about and 1 1/2 hours to tour. Not enough time to go through the museum. But loved the information and experience. FYI we had dolphins jumping in front of our ferry...so cool!

Janice M — Google review

What a beautiful and simple tour and experience. It’s the perfect length of time, incredible history, and a great activity within the harbor. The staff were fantastic, clean restroom aboard the boat, affordable concessions and eager staff to share in the history.

Ryan A — Google review

Fun historical site. Great place to help your kids have a sense of patriotism and learn some history! Our park ranger, Andy, was amazing. My only complaint was that our national park pass didn't do anything for us at this location.

Dkn — Google review

Fort Sumter has an amazing history that is worth the visit. The ferry takes about 30 mins to get out there and a ranger will give a quick 10 min presentation upon arrival. You only have an hour while you're out there so take full advantage of it. I wish we had more time but it was still a blast. We were even greeted by dolphins at the fort.

Alex M — Google review

A beautifully crafted tour to one of our nations most important historical sites. The Park Rangers are exceptionally knowledgeable and provide ample time to ask questions once they concluded their initial speech pertaining to the history of Fort Sumter through the ages.Wear shoes, bring sunblock, and a snack if you get hangry like me.Approx 3 hours from start to finish.

Joshua F — Google review

Highly recommend taking the time to see this tour! The history and the boat ride through the harbor were both memorable! Arrive early to stand in line to board the boat and buy your tickets in advance.

E B — Google review

Great historic site to visit! Park rangers are helpful and knowledgeable to answer any questions! The site try’s to be wheelchair accessible but much of the ground is brick or rocky as well as part of the monument requires stairs to access. The area is kept very clean and there is a water refill station available for visitors.

Darren G — Google review

4.7

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4.5

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South Carolina 29412, USA

(843) 883-3123

25

Waterfront Park

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Park

Nature & Parks

Points of Interest & Landmarks

The Joe Riley Waterfront Park on the east side of Charleston provides sweeping views of the harbor and is a popular spot for people to relax, picnic, and take in the sights. There are drinking fountains scattered throughout the park and wireless Internet access.

This park is set along the ocean and calls you to remember the history of the area as you walk along its paths.Flowers & Majestic Trees line the walking routes that eventually guide you to the the famous Pineapple fountain ⛲️ and the pier.Lots of restaurants and shopping close by.A relaxing way to spend a few hours or all day.

Laura L — Google review

Such an amazing place to walk around and have a nice evening stroll. Lots of benches to sit down and take a moment to relax. Beautiful fountains (including the famous Pineapple fountain) down here! The boardwalk is right next to the water and leads all the way to the water taxi pickup. The grove of trees is like walking through a green tunnel, especially gorgeous close to sunset with the suns rays penetrating the leaves.

Ajimon T — Google review

Here is a Google traveler review for Joe Riley Waterfront Park:Pros:Beautiful waterfront location with stunning views of the Cooper RiverLarge, open spaces with plenty of room to walk, run, or bikeSeveral playgrounds and splash pads for kidsPicnic areas with grills and tablesPublic restroomsFree parkingCons:Can get crowded during peak timesNo shade in some areasNot much shade for picnickingNo food or drink vendors on-siteOverall:Joe Riley Waterfront Park is a great place to relax, enjoy the outdoors, and get some exercise. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, so be prepared for crowds. If you're looking for a quiet place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, this might not be the park for you. But if you're looking for a beautiful, well-maintained park with plenty of activities to keep you busy, then Joe Riley Waterfront Park is definitely worth a visit.Rating: 4 out of 5 starsDate of visit: June 21, 2023Time of visit: 10:00 AMWeather: Sunny, 75 degrees FahrenheitOverall impression: I really enjoyed my visit to Joe Riley Waterfront Park. The views of the Cooper River are amazing, and there is something for everyone to enjoy. I would definitely recommend this park to anyone visiting Charleston.

Eduardo J — Google review

One of my favorite points to visit. The tree-shaded alley with plenty of vintage, original benches, the waterfront promenade, the Pineapple fountain, the pier with covered swing benches, the front entrance fountain to play with, live musicians entertaining for kind donation. Great place for people and nature watching.

E T — Google review

A staple must do on your Charleston visit!Enjoy the park with trails under oaks or along the marsh, benches, swings on the dock leading to the marsh, a dock by the Tug Boats, and of course infamous Pineapple Fountain.One of the best views of the Charleston area bay and especially for sunrise!You can find me here occasionally doing my morning rucks or on the docks enjoying the sea!We hope you enjoy our beautiful city of Charleston!- The Pirate Hunter

Justin M — Google review

Super cool cool park. We felt like we were in a Jane Austin book taking a turn around the gardens. It was incredible beautiful and well cared for. We wish we had more time to just come and chill. This is a must got for a quiet place to rest. It’s very peaceful. Now should be mentioned it’s not a park for kids to run or dogs to be walked etc. even a sign that says no running. It’s a tranquil park. Which is what brings some of it awesomeness.

Steven D — Google review

Beautiful water front park with lots of trees, benches and great views. Check out the pineapple and other fountain. Kids should wear their bathing suits, and adults can dip their toes too! A few restaurants and an ice cream shop are nearby.

Steve T — Google review

Nice walking area along the water. There are 2 fountains that the kids are allowed to play in and cool off, dont forget to bring a towel. I fountain is called the pineapple fountain which looks like a pineapple. The pier is nice, has a shaded area with a couple of swings. Grandchild was able to ride her bike along the path.

Joy B — Google review

Beautiful waterfront location with stunning views of the river. The park is full of large, open spaces with plenty of room to walk. Although some of the sidewalks were under water today due to rain. There are several playgrounds and splash areas for kids. There are picnic areas with grills and tables,Free parking if you can find a spot.

Kelly ( — Google review

Whenever I'm in Charleston I almost always visit this place. The view overlooking the harbor as it splits to the Cooper River and the Ashley River is superb, with the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop. From a historical standpoint you can see the different forts and why Charleston was such a difficult port to capture.I suggest watching the moon rise on a nice clear night and I assure you, you'll be enchanted.

Insite2life — Google review

AWESOOOOME! SUCH a gorgeous place to walk around and have a nice evening stroll. Beautiful fountains down here! And the boardwalk right next to the water…and the grove of trees is like walking through a tunnel. So beautiful, such a nice little pretty spot. If I lived in Charleston, I’d be down here every week! A MUST VISIT if you ever find yourself in historic Charleston! 👍👍

Dan T — Google review

This park is a great place to take a break from the touring and activity of the city proper. There was a lovely breeze and shade so it was refreshing. It is a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy watching the sailboats in the harbor or the kids playing in the fountains.

Cris L — Google review

Wow. What a beautiful park. The fountains are the main attractions in the park other than the view of Fort Sumter. Great place for kids to dip themselves in the fountains on a hot summer day. Had sail boats floating by. Plenty of shady places to cool off while walking the surrounding area. The swings on the dock are the best. So much to do here. You won't regret giving this beautiful part of Charleston SC a gander. Will definitely be back for more.

Frankie R — Google review

Joe Riley Waterfront Park is an easy walk from King Street and City Market. This beautiful and pristine park overlooks the Charleston Harbor. Stop at the Pineapple Fountain, slip off your shoes, and wade in the water. Stroll along the tree-lined pathway and enjoy the beauty of Charleston.

Chris T — Google review

We had a beautiful day. October is a perfect time to visit. Nice place to take a break and rest. You can reflect, watch sail boats, and listen to street artists.

Laura M — Google review

If you are looking to take an early morning or late evening stroll, this is the perfect spot. There are plenty of benches if you want to grab a book to read, have a picnic, or just take in the scenery and enjoy nature.

Kevin G — Google review

We visited on a weekday afternoon in the spring. It was fairly busy with spring break tourists. It was difficult finding parking. We had to circle a lot before we found a lot with open spaces. There are two fountains and a boardwalk. People are allowed to play in the fountains! No one was in them due to the cooler weather. The pier has a covered picnic area and bench swings. My kid loved the swings! There's a Carnival Cruise Line dock next door and there was a ship there! The pineapple fountain was gorgeous. It was much more detailed than I expected. There's an area with benches close by shaded by many live oaks. Just beautiful.

Amber C — Google review

The Charleston waterfront is beautiful. There is something about the Atlantic Ocean in the south It has a certain beauty and charm about it. It’s so calm and peaceful. I had a great time and the great views of the waterfront from the park were outstanding.

Douglas D — Google review

We visited in start June when it is hot in the mornings but perfect time to visit these outdoor locations in Charleston. Flowers were starting bloom and spread through the park. The fountain was beautiful.

Krishna N — Google review

We visited in late March when it is chilly in the mornings but warms to 70’s in the afternoon, perfect time to visit these outdoor locations in Charleston. Flowers were starting bloom and spread through the park. There are two walkways one that is the pier and one the has elaborate homes, lined with huge oak trees. Several cute places to sit and watch the pier or to have a nice picnic. The fountain was beautiful.

Savanna H — Google review

Beautiful waterfront park in downtown Charleston. We got to see a cruise ship docked nearby. Perfect place to admire the fountains, sit on swings or benches and relax or visit with friends, have a picnic. Very nice park with water views. We enjoyed it.

Brandi W — Google review

Beautiful park with two water fountains overlooking river, with lots of benches for your evening enjoyment.

Chanbo K — Google review

This place is really nice. Easy to spot dolphins. I saw a dolphin couple. We took a really nice walk. It's also really nice to rent a bike and ride. Pineapple fountain is also really beautiful.

Krishna S — Google review

Wonderful waterfront park! We went end of March 2024 and there was a ton of construction which made getting there with a wheelchair a tough experience but once we did it was great! The paths were not very wheelchair friendly because roots had grown under the bricks (not unexpected) so I would suggest having someone assist a wheelchair user. We did see a dolphin on the peer! Swings were busy so we didn’t get to try those. Will return again in warmer months!

Sandy R — Google review

This park is awesome, it's got the pineapple fountain you can put your feet in and it's also got the splash pad, there is the pier that is a must go to, it's where you can find the famous swings.

Trey . — Google review

Wow what a beautiful place to spend a few hours!! Beautiful sights and walkways! Lots of benches and places to sit & soak up some South Carolina sunshine also🌞

Callie P — Google review

Gorgeous park with lot of area to walk, sit and relax, take photos, etc. Loved going here with family and had an amazing time.

Jacks — Google review

Beautiful park for family and friends. It’s an easy walk from city market, plenty of spots for taking pictures and relaxing at the park . It has nice pier, fountains, eco rock, benches along the big trees etc. We enjoyed walking around and took some nice pictures here.

Chanchal — Google review

Was a nice peaceful walk. Sad that a big hotel is being built right next to the boardwalk. There are some wooden swings you can sit on and relax.

Abigail L — Google review

Loved the covered swings looking out over the water. Very clean and nicely maintained park. So many photo ops here.

Elizabeth B — Google review

4.7

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4.5

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Vendue Range, Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401, USA

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26

Charleston City Market

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Market

Sights & Landmarks

The Charleston City Market, a market complex located in downtown Charleston, South Carolina, has a rich history dating back over 200 years. Spanning four blocks, this historic market offers a diverse array of food vendors and artisans selling various crafts such as sweetgrass baskets. The Market Hall, an architecturally significant building that faces Meeting Street, serves as the centerpiece of the market. Stretching from Market Hall to East Bay Street are a series of one-story market sheds that complete the complex.

I went to this beautiful gallery of art. I was told that Jonathan Green was one of the best artist in town. Great Customer Service. Willie was very nice, neat and charming. Great Prices too!!🙂

Tawana G — Google review

I loved visiting this market. It was fairly big for the area that it’s in. I was expecting a much smaller market and was pleasantly surprised. There was so much to see and buy. I bought some prints, little gifts, jewelry, candies and had to buy some of the beautiful grass woven art pieces. There is lots more to do outside of the market that is very close and I loved that aspect also. It was a tight squeeze but we went on a weekend so maybe it’s less crowded during the weekdays. You are going to love it, but pack your comfy shoes for sure.

JJ H — Google review

The City Market is a must-stop if you are visiting Charleston. This market is packed with all different types of vendors and artisans. The handmade straw baskets are works of art, and the paintings are breathtaking. Different vendors vary throughout the week, so stop in several times.

Chris T — Google review

Had a great time browsing all the very unique and interesting gifts offered by so many different vendors. Everyone was polite & friendly, the basket weavers even made a rose for our little one which made her day.

David W — Google review

Starting from the intersection of Meeting Street and Market Street then extending all the way to East Bay Street, the Charleston City Market is a renown location to buy a wide assortment of locally produced goods or at least from certified local vendors. During the day it serves predominantly as tourist market (but still nice) and there are, on certain evenings a Night Market where only locally produced goods are available. In both cases it is worth a visit if you are visiting as you are sure to find a nice memento of your visit here...and you'd be supporting a small local business. Enjoy!

Craig B — Google review

This is a great outdoor market with lots of history. Great local vendors here offer great pricing. It’s a very southern market where you can buy homemade goods. I definitely recommend taking a stroll through the market if you’re in downtown Charleston.

Douglas D — Google review

Definitely a must see in Charleston. Although busier, it's probably better to go on a weekend when I would imagine more vendors would be out. But I am not exactly sure how that works. If you are really shopping, it probably takes about 2 hours to get through the entire market. There are plenty of public parking areas. The parking garage we parked at was $4 for 2 hours.

Jordan Y — Google review

A must see when you visit Charleston! Packed with something for everyone. I bought a book, a few pieces of art, and post cards. Very welcoming. I felt comfortable with my mask on. I would visit here again. From grits, to baskets, to art there is so much to see! Such a beautiful experience. Truly a place worth stopping and experiencing. You can find parking, there are lots and street parking. Also there is a lot of food in the area. Enjoy!

MJ W — Google review

This was my second time visiting the market while in the state. It was such a lovely time. So much beautiful art and good snacks! Of course, everything is surrounded by the beautiful city with so many different shops. The only downfall is the horse carriage rides, leaves horse poop in the ground in some areas with a fresh scent.I do recommend going during the week if you can, so it's a little busy.

Lauren L — Google review

We were looking for something to do before we had to head to the airport. This is an interesting market that has a huge variety of things to look at and shop. There are permanent stores and what appears to be less permanent stalls for local vendors. Most of it is in outdoor covered pavilions with one section indoors and air conditioned. It began to rain hard, which quickly flooded the streets. There were 7 to as much as 12 inches of water between the buildings. I had to take my shoes off and roll my pants up to escape. Would have like to see the whole thing. It was a very memorable experience.

Brent H — Google review

Love the Charleston City Market.There are a lot of interesting shops. Some are handmade items, too.Wide variety of artworks,spices, etc.The high ceiling with fans and long 2 buildings are impressive. There are also bathrooms.Walking down the shops is sure a nice experience. ...

Phia V — Google review

The Market is great and houses lots of great vendors both day and night with food, artifacts, art, jewelry, bags, clothing, and so much more. Lots of the items are handmade, especially at the night market. The market extends about 3 or more blocks and lots of great eating places and other stores around the market. You definitely want to visit the market! We did twice!! 😃

S M — Google review

Absolutely a blast! My mom and I took a little weekend trip and were looking to do some shopping. Stumbled across the City Market and let me just say, you HAVE to come here at least once!! Easy parking in paid parking lots or public parking decks (not expensive). We found T-shirt shops, hats, bags, pottery, handmade items, magnets, candies/foods, etc.

Kristen M — Google review

Marvelous public market in the middle of downtown Charleston. The place has different kind of vendors, from arts and crafts to local shoes designers. Even if you don’t buy anything, I encourage people to talk a walk inside to enjoy its architecture.

Arthur A — Google review

One of my top fave experiences while we were visiting Charleston. Really cool market with all sorts of local stuff to buy and eat. Also just fun to look around. They only have certain hours so make sure to check the site. We caught the tail end of the market so a lot of people were already packing up or gone already for the day. Still a unique experience to find touristy or less touristy m/more unique Charleston items. I bought some delicious pecans roasted in cinnamon sugar. I will say roads are really tight and smaller in this part of town so brace yourself and search for nearby parking.

Chelsea C — Google review

This is definitely a must stop, whether during the day or at night. My friend and I loved walking through the market and perusing all the local vendors and shops. We purchased a couple of gifts for ourselves and for others. I loved some of the unique jewelry and basket shops, and other items like the freeze dried skittles I couldn't quite understand. There's a plethora of things to buy!

Heidi M — Google review

The barn was very clean and smelt nice, and had bathrooms, which we were not expecting. It was easy and fast to get into the wagon as they tell everyone where to sit. We had Jordan, who was a very good coach horse and clearly knew the route. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and friendly. We saw a lot of the beautiful back alleys and were told a lot of history.

Julie J — Google review

A great place for unique gifts and souvenirs from the Low Country. Authentic, hand made items by local craftsmen, garments, soaps, etc. Sweet grass baskets too. Parking is a bear or the other "B" word. Garages and lots can be $20/day. Place floods during a heavy rainstorm. Closes at 5 with vendors taking all their goods with them. A must see.

Steve T — Google review

Ok so it's getting an average review based on access and walking. Repeat of products and parking. Worth the shopping trip but if you have mobility issues just know it's going to be a challenge. The horse carriage is a mixed thoughts, really hard to get in for some, But such a nice way to hear stories and see the sights. Just wish they had a horses only lane .

Amy R — Google review

My husband and I shopped at Charelston City Market and we bought a beautiful ornament of a Charleston map, put on an oyster shell. It is so unique and beautiful. This wonderful lady sold it to us, she was so nice. I also bought a wallet to match my purse that I bought in Savannah, Georgia. There was so many things to choose from and I love what we bought. My husband also, bought me a beautiful bohemian cover-up with a brooch, it is also reversible.

Kelly W — Google review

I've been all over the country and frankly no places touches Charleston, and as tough as I am, as a former football player and coach, its "also romantic" lol. But throw in the awesome history and you feel like your back in time when walking the city or taking a carriage ride. Very fun place, restaurants and bars are fantastic too. You must visit Charleston, no joke, beautiful and fun.

RSK41 2 — Google review

Love it! Everything from peanuts, salt water taffy to beautiful paintings, photography, jewelry, purses...you name it. Four buildings full of treasures!

Roz L — Google review

This is a great market with many local artists.Nice place to get hand painted fridge magnets, hand painted christmas tree ornaments, and sweet grass braided baskets. Everything is expensive but it's a touristy area so that was expected.They have public restrooms and ATM machines.Great spot to buy some souvenirs.

Lizz C — Google review

This was my 2nd visit to Charleston City Marketplace. It's an open-air market with no walls and vendors lining either side of the aisles with all sorts of unique sweet grass baskets, jewelry, clothing, food, books and so much more. I purchased a very unique handmade cane with a silver metal handle for a friend at a very reasonable price. Also, I purchased several pieces of jewelry for gift giving and some sweet grass items. The vendors are generally very friendly and some are the artisans who created the items on display. Three blocks long with lots of parking nearby, both street and lot parking. Each time I've gone, I wish I had more room in my suitcase for additional items. Several restaurants surrounding the market, including Henry's with great food and ambiance, are either at the bar or table seating. There's also an area to get carriage rides within a block. Easy walking area and open 7 days a week.

Micki K — Google review

If you are in Charleston you might as well swing by. As far as old city markets, this is one of the oldest and it’s huge. A decent amount of local vendors, but would have liked to have seen more quality booths with quality goods. There are a few authentic sweetgrass basket makers and their booths are a must see. Gorgeous baskets. Clean restrooms and easy enough to find parking on the street or in a lot. Not many food places inside, but plenty in the area.

Elizabeth K — Google review

I prefer to come on Fall. But we visited today in the middle of the day in Summer ☀️ 🥵We bought a Mango smoothie tho 😋The place had a bunch of people with their dogs 🤍They have lots of crafts and beautiful things!!

C J — Google review

The market has so many booths with unique items - it took over three hours to see it all. I lucked out and went on the day of the Christmas tree lighting so there was a night market too. I went to the market in the morning and then again for the night market. A lot of different vendors set up for the night market. It wasn’t difficult to find a parking spot for either time. It was a lovely day and I bought many unique items from food items to baskets to jewelry.Side note: Be careful of the people outside the market trying to “gift” you with a handmade sea grass rose. They are relentless with demands for money. Just be prepared to pay if you accept the “gift”.

Suzanne S — Google review

This place is very charming with a lot of variety with regards to venders. We happen to not realize that they begin to close up around 5pm so come early and shop. Certainly a great place to find a unique and memorable souvenir or gift while you’re in Charleston.

Darren G — Google review

This place is usually on the list of places to go and see on Trip Advisor and Google. I usually go to these to look for unique souvenirs and shot glasses. Yes, it’s a tourist trap and worth walking around to window shop. I didn’t buy anything because I didn’t see anything that interested me and the prices weren’t cheap. People were friendly. You’ll see some weaving baskets, jewelry, clothing, etc.

Nicholas P — Google review

Very cool, large market with lots of local vendors selling many different products. You could purchase belts, paintings, hats, handmade leaf baskets, and much more. We visited at least 2-3 times in our short stay. It was a bit pricey, but it's also a big tourist attraction so it makes sense. It wasn't too busy though, we were able to take our time and got a few souvenirs to bring back.

Caleb S — Google review

There seems to be something for everyone. Whether you are looking for handmade jewelry, accessories, candles, hats, fragrance, jellies, cookies, or Charlston themed souvenirs, I am sure you will enjoy your visit. Be sure to visit the numerous nearby shops and horse and carriage tours.

Mario M — Google review

Fun place to go while you're in Charleston, but don't expect leisurely shopping. It's usually packed with tourists walking along like zombies. Most of the stuff being sold there is by local merchants, so that's a plus. You can find decent deals on quality items if you look closely. There are restrooms available, as well as food shops to get a bite to eat. Expect to do alot of walking. Most all retailers take cash and credit, using scanners for their phones or normal registers. Overall, it's a fun experience, the shade it provides while you're in the area is a total blessing, but it is not something I'd do more than once while I visit Charleston.

Eric R — Google review

Cool market, lots of vendors and stuff to see and possibly buy. Watch out for the street folks peddling the grass roses though. This kid tried to get my elderly mom to give him money for a "basketball trip to Alpharetta". I told him no thanks and he cussed me out and walked off.

Destiny F — Google review

Open air market with vendor booths amid centuries old buildings. Great walking / touring area. Close to waterfront and historical parks and buildings. I'm not much for markets, but the walk was very nice.

AccuSpect I — Google review

So cute!! The tiny little tourist traps are wonderful!!! The art, souvenirs, candy, books kid clothes are plentiful!!! Indoors, some of it is actually air conditioned. Charleston the same flair as Savannah.

Wendy L — Google review

Just steps from the port so best not to go when ships are visiting. Specialty foods and local crafts and kitschy souvenirs. Pick up a pack of benne wafers for a nice gift for friends.

Irene L — Google review

4.5

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4.0

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188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401, USA

(843) 937-0920

27

Middleton Place

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Historical landmark

Nature & Parks

Middleton Place, a sprawling rice plantation on the Ashley River dating back to the 1730s, is located about fifteen miles northwest of Charleston. Once home to the Middleton family, who played significant roles in South Carolina's colonial and antebellum history, this landmark suffered damage during both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. Despite being ransacked by British troops and burned by Union soldiers, Middleton Place stands today as a National Historic Landmark District.

We have visited four plantations in the Charleston area. This is our favorite setting and relaxing atmosphere. The grounds are exceptionally maintained. We spent two hours walking the grounds. It is the various buildings that tell the story. One stop shows a very large number of Middleton slaves. Depicted by each location and where they determined their value to the plantations.The house tour is self guided after a short synopsis of the Middleton family and furnishings.We had lunch outdoors in a very relaxed setting. Salad with baked chicken breast, green fried tomatoes with sauce and corn fritters with honey butter.

Runnsun — Google review

Lovely grounds. You pull into the gravel parking lot and there is a Cafe/market to the left. Please know that is not the only place to grab a bite. You can access this, as well as the gift shop, prior to your paid entrance. We opted for a tour of the house for an additional $15pp. Not sure if I would do that again. We were maybe in there 15 minutes....maybe. it's self guided but there are volunteers to tell stories or answer questions. If you are expecting a grand southern plantation mansion, this is not it. Its a small 2 story home. The first thing you see upon entering the plantation is the large reflecting pond. Very beautiful. The next thing you'll notice is the livestock running amuck. Namely sheep. So be careful where you walk. 😉 they do have a lovely dining room. It was a very nice plantation. Lots of grounds to explore. Everyone was very nice. Just not that grand southern home. Not sure the livestock gets the best care. Which is why I gave it 4 stars.

Sherri F — Google review

We visited Middleton in late September 2022. Granted, hurricane Ian provided atypical weather, but in general, it’s probably not the best time to visit. Little to nothing was in bloom. The grounds were well kept and people were friendly and helpful. There were a few animals freely roaming - a handful of sheep and some swans. They had horse stables but nothing super interactive. There are some small buildings to showcase how the enslaved lived, but it’s not very detailed. The grounds had easy walking paths - mostly sand-based so if you are wearing sandals, know you’ll get a littledusty. There’s a restaurant on site which is nice. The beyond the fields tour … wasn’t a tour. You gather around under a tree, sit on benches and listen to a historian explain the enslaved conditions. It was informative, but different than how it was presented. There is a restroom, gift shop and plant shop in the parking area. It’s not a must-see for me. We spent about 2.5 hours here.

Cortney A — Google review

Absolutely gorgeous location. The oak trees are stunning, the gardens are lovely to stroll through, and I love a history lesson. We went to the restaurant last week and enjoyed the drive out, delicious food and cocktails and friendly and helpful staff. Shout out to Maggie who helped us make memorable dish selections. Looking forward to coming back later this fall for a wine stroll. I went last year and enjoyed it so much, I am coming back with girlfriends! I would recommend it as a date or as a nice evening with friends.

BKV — Google review

This place is just stunning. The landscapes and wildlife (birds, butterflies..)are all so amazing! Walking around feels so relaxing and refreshing. Even the restaurant is great for a tourist place! Can't wait to come back to visit again in different seasons.

彥萱Ann ( — Google review

Restaurant had a very good steak, but the locally made cinnamon ice cream, I honestly cannot stop thinking about it. The view outside this restaurant, although "wild" not tamed, alligators were ALL OVER THE PROPERTY, was Southern thick farmland and just spectacular. The property tour was very neat and the history was rich and interesting. The Inn was very different and unique, rooms had ceiling to floor windows showing the lush grounds. An interesting property worth the visit.

Cyndi B — Google review

Breathtaking! This place was the highlight of our honeymoon. The cured gardens and ponds were like a dream. The staff are all very helpful and know their stuff or will send you to someone who does. What a pleasant and enjoyable day. Give yourself a whole day to soak in the history and experience of this estate. Enjoy!

Kevin K — Google review

Beautiful grounds and house. Wonderful restaurant on property with absolutely amazing food. House tour was very informative as were the historical interpreters around the grounds. Very relaxing and serene surroundings.

US 1 — Google review

Middleton Place is really special. First the staff are very helpful. And they are easy to find. Everything is well organized & with the map, it's not hard to get around. The grounds are beautiful and peaceful. There are plenty of beaches to set and enjoy the views. It's nice the restaurant is on the grounds. Having a place to set, cool off and relax helps so much.

K A — Google review

Great historical place to visit. Beautiful landscapes and the old buildings are amazing. Bring bottled water as it was hot a d humid and there is a lot of walking but, worth every minute of it.

Jeff K — Google review

Absolutely beautiful! Loved getting to walk around and explore the gardens- there were tons of free garden tours or other guides that you could listen to- to learn more information about. But overall it was such a wonderful way to spend the afternoon. It’s pretty far North Charleston- and tons of walking- we got there around 9:30am and didn’t get done until 12:45pm- so allocate for a good chunk of time here!

Kelley — Google review

Absolutely loved it! Amazing grounds and scenery. The house tour was really cool, lots of history in the building. The restaurant waa nice, I didn't eat there, but it smelled amazing. Had a couple drinks at bar, beat Old Fashioned I have had in years! Huge shout out to Colby H.....kudos buddy!

Gloria W — Google review

We booked a tour van out to the estate which included transportation, tour of house and lunch. Self guided tour of grounds and gardens in between the timed tour and lunch.Beautiful place and well preserved house with interesting articles from the Middletons. Gardens are beautifully maintained. All of the staff were extremely helpful and kind. A must if visiting Charleston.

Bernadette J — Google review

This is a lovely place to spend the day. We went specifically to see the Middleton Oak. The ticket agent was helpful with directions to get to the oak on the shortest route. The grounds are lovely with lots of wooded, shady paths. We saw swans in the reflecting pond and alligators in the flooded rice fields, which my daughter was very excited about. The two gift shops are very nice and well stocked with a variety of items of different price points.

Rhonda W — Google review

Visiting from Georgia and this was such a fun outing! Bought student tickets online, quick and easy. The parking is good. The whole estate is very large and worth the price. There are some small trails around the swamp, some by the water, some around the garden. It is all well maintained and beautiful. We were not able to attend any of the tours but there are plenty scheduled throughout the day. The livestock here are very nice and obviously well taken care of. The chickens ran up to us expecting food, which kind of startled my partner. I loved the whole experience here. Though I do recommend coming when the heat of summer isn’t in full affect, we were dripping sweat by the time we were done here in July.

Unknown I — Google review

Middleton has beautiful gardens and grounds along the Ashley River. You can find period reenactment of many of the trades that used to exist on the plantation, along with animals that would have been present during the Middleton family's residency. It has also been the set for movies, such as "The Patriot."The Foundation that runs Middleton does an excellent job maintaining the property and in recent years has been very open about the tragic reality that the Middleton family owned hundreds of enslaved people. It seems they are trying to do their part to preserve history and acknowledge the failings of the past.

Scott P — Google review

Really beautiful and well-maintained gardens which was so peaceful and serene. Special shoutout to the tour guides Eloisa (for the garden tour) and Gary Finch (for the Beyond the Fields tour) who were so passionate and did such an amazing and engaging job with the complimentary tours! Really loved the amazing nature views and animals on the plantation too and had such a great time. Would definitely recommend for all nature and animal lovers! 🥰🌷🍀

Liu Y — Google review

Middleton Place is an absolute marvel of natural beauty! 😍❤️The breathtaking landscapes left me in awe, making every corner a picture-perfect moment. Strolling through the gardens, I couldn't help but feel a deep sense of admiration for the family behind its preservation. Their dedication and foresight in maintaining such a stunning estate are truly commendable. It's a place where history and nature intertwine seamlessly, leaving visitors like myself with a profound sense of respect and wonder.🤩

Chloe T — Google review

Went on a Wednesday night when they were having one of their annual wine walks. Four stations with a red and a white wine as well as a cheese board and finger sandwiches at each station. The grounds were beautiful, not a lot of colorful flowers, but lots of greenery. The ponds had alligators and turtles, made for a magical night. Highly recommend.

Jaime K — Google review

I have been to Middleton multiple times over the years. It has beautiful gardens that you can get lost in. Don't look at the pics here. Just get out and see it. I went to a Creative mornings event that was hosted here and didn't pay but there is usually a fee. There is a cute garden center where you can buy plants, but the big draw is the incredible southern landscape. Enjoy!

Descartes — Google review

My wife and I went here for our 30th anniversary. Even though it was hot we had a great time walking the gardens. We had lunch in the restaurant where the food is very good. I highly recommend spending the day here.

Bryan R — Google review

Amazing plantation with knowledgeable guides and tons of history. We visited early October and the weather was spectacular. Did Beyond the Fields and Guided Garden Tour. Both were included in the admission price. Ate lunch in the restaurant which was wonderful. Our wait staff was engaging and attentive. (No tax on the bill!) Learned so much about slavery and history of the plantation. The trees alone were worth the visit. One was 1,000 years old! I highly recommend.

Robyn B — Google review

Incredible tour with lots to do! My husband and I spent 6 hours walking around the beautiful property, ate an incredible lunch and toured the main house. So many beautiful things to look at and a lot of rich history. Make sure to say hello to Arthur, the resident stable cat!

Miranda Z — Google review

Magnificent! You could spend all day here and still want to come back for more. The volunteers there are very knowledgeable and helpful, you can tell they love being there. A ton of history to absorb there. Animals are friendly and there is no shortage of picture opportunities. Restaurant on site is good but a little pricey.

Katie I — Google review

What a wonderful place to visit. It has great trails throughout the property, and it is so peaceful and beautiful. It is truly a step back in time. I loved the trails that were bordering the Ashley River.... phenomenal! A huge Osprey dove down, caught a fish, and flew right by us. So cool! We did not do the house tour, but I was perfectly content outside with the beautiful topography and interacting with all the animals, most excellent visit!

MA B — Google review

Beautiful ❤️ and Natural Surroundings. Please check Flower Blossoms season and you will enjoy it.Yes, live alligator 🐊 all around the place.

Devang P — Google review

Huge property, nicely laid out walking tour of the gardens and working areas. The day we were here, they were doing guided golf cart tours of the rice field.There is an extra cost to see the home on this site. I would suggest going earlier in the day rather than later due to heat during this late spring and summer.

Leith B — Google review

Great way to spend the afternoon in Charleston area. This place was brimming with history but had enough to keep all ages occupied. I have 4 kids aged 12-17 and they really enjoyed the grounds. The house tour is an addition that added a lot of context. They have numerous guided tours on the grounds themselves including a garden tour and a stable tour. Beautiful place and worth the trip.

Andrew J — Google review

4.7

(2616)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (229)

4.5

(4416)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (230)

4300 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, USA

(843) 556-6020

28

Battleship North Carolina

40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (231)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (232)

40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (233)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (234)

Mentioned on

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History museum

Museums

The USS Battleship North Carolina is a decommissioned military vessel turned museum that is well-known for its location on the Wilmington waterfront. The museum houses exhibits which detail the battleships impressive service during World War II.

One of a kind ship with a great tour route. I've been to several ship museums and this was outstanding. Very well maintained. The upper decks were closed because the mast was being restored but even so the tour route allowed you to wander all through the ship and each compartment was very well displayed. What is cool is that the ship remains primarily in WW2 configuration, and the (I think) Measure 33 camouflage is awesome. I was lucky and got a ticket to view the Azalea festival fireworks from the deck- closest thing to watching a shore bombardment you could get I suppose. Job Well Done to those that served and continue to serve on the ship.

CSL — Google review

Great piece of history to tour and see what the greatest generation was apart of. You are able to take tours or go and your own pace. You can feel how cramped a battleship that size is that would hold 2000 people. This is great for young and old to enjoy an hour or more of seeing something amazing in an amazing era of industrial age.

Steven P — Google review

The Battleship is great for kids & adults to see how our military lived & still do also there are probably some updates to the battleships now. This ship is huge! We visited on a Friday at 4pm (hour before closing) in June 2023, so it wasn't crowded, which was good. It was $14 for adult, I think around $8 for a child. Although a good experience, I'd prefer not to take another tour through it! 🤣Stairways are tight, some curvy, & I not temptress controlled so in the summer >t was freaking hot down there!. Plenty of signs & arrows to te you which way to go but still can get confusing. Takes at least an hour (or close) to get through it. After about 15 min I was looking for the exit. It's a workout! However, so fascinating to see the living quarters, the newspaper/ mail area, kitchen & how food was stored, laundry room, etc. Amazing to see how soldiers lived in such a confined space for months/years at a time & didn't kill each other.At the end there is a gift shop (of course over-priced but most are). There's a small sitting area with vending machines. After being in that heat, you'll definitely need a something to drink.Great piece of history to learn about & tell/show or kids & generations to come. It's Def something I think everyone should experience at least one time!

Mia — Google review

What an awesome experience. My hubby and I were on our way to the Outer Banks and decided to make this a stop. My hubby served in the Marines and was excited to visit. The ships deck was handicap/wheelchair accessible. The rest of the ship is not. I am claustrophobic, so I was only selected to make it as far as the galley. My husband enjoyed the entire experience and explored the entire ship. He said it was fantastic, and he enjoyed the heck out of being able to do so. He highly recommends a visit if you love ships!

Carla P — Google review

A beautiful piece of history. There was no wait to enter even though it was a Saturday morning. The tour guides and volunteers are very knowledgeable about the history of the ship and love to answer any questions. Most areas of the ship are open to the public, there are a few tours you can join for access to areas not open for the general public, check online. It is wheelchair accessible in a few areas but the majority of the tour requires climbing up and down narrow stairs. The wooden walk around the ship is very nice and allows for great pictures. The gift shop is nice and has some refreshments, there are also some drink vending machines in various areas on the decks.

Ellen C — Google review

Bucket list visit for me. Well-preserved and maintained museum ship, with an extensive below-deck self-guided tour that gives a great feel of daily life aboard ship as well as the massive machinery needed to propel such a vessel. Great also to see a period-correct OS2U Kingfisher scout plane mounted on a catapult on the stern of the ship.

Nathan V — Google review

What a cool way to see history. I suggest you come check out World War II’s nostalgia decorated battleship! Very easy to get too and come see. If you are wheelchair bound they do have access to get into the facilities. I would ask for assistance. Self guided tour is very easy and they give you a nice little map that’s not difficult to read. Plenty of things to see outside and inside as well. They do have AC units running for those wondering about being too hot inside the ship. Overall it’s a wonderful experience and just something awesome to witness history first hand and American 🇺🇸 might 💪 first hand! Yes you can go into one of the turrets and yes it’s a little tight but cool to experience. Well worth the visit folks!

Joshua K — Google review

Beautiful historic place. Paying for a deck pass helps support the ship as it is self supporting and I thought that was amazing. Also when you get on the deck you can go up 4 levels into the captains den (picture of the bow) and down a level into the sleeping area. So much to explore and overall a great experience.

A — Google review

I cannot decide if this is the most massive ship I've ever been on or if the incredible access to everything just makes it seem so. So many decks to explore and I love the way that there is a balance between the military operations and everyday life of the ship. The memories and quotes from the servicemen really bring to life what it was like to live and work on this vessel. We spent 3 hours touring Deck After Deck. Incredible!

R H — Google review

If you’re in the area and can manage to go up and down steep stairs, this is a must visit!This is the second Museum Battleship I’ve visited, the first being the USS Missouri and I enjoyed my visit here more than the Mighty Mo. There are less tourists on the North Carolina so it’s easier to explore the tight corridors and the ship appears to be cleaner.If we’re in the area again, we’ll definitely come by for another tour.

Y L — Google review

Since my two daughters joined the Navy in 2022- visiting restored battleships is our “thing”.This is the second ship we have visited- and some distinct differences from the USS Alabama. First of all- you could go up into the 16 inch gun turret- all the way- you could sit in the chair and see the control panels, where they loaded the shells, the optical sights, all very cool!Another cool thing was the first person narratives that were in all the different locations- mess hall- laundry- medical offices (the barking dog one was hilarious!)These narratives made the areas and situations so lifelike- I could actually imagine these people telling the story!The ship had been beautifully restored- and it was enjoyable to walk around and learn about its history!

Stephanie B — Google review

This was way cooler than we expected. My two boys (aged 6 and 10) loved climbing ladders to get to a different level, and I was impressed by how much they learned on our self-guided tour. I enjoyed learning about the daily life aboard the battleship, especially the post office and the radio room. This excursion is not for the faint of heart however. The ladder steps are very steep and challenging. The spaces are small and there is no air conditioning, ( I was very appreciative of the electric fans that were stationed throughout the facility.) If you're planning to visit here, definitely go on the Riverwalk first because when you see it first from afar, you truly appreciate the actual magnitude of the ship when you step foot on it. I would definitely recommend visiting the Battleship North Carolina, if you're a history buff. It is well worth the price of admission

Jodi P — Google review

Amazing place. Being able to walk through almost all the most important parts of the battleship is really something. The kids had a blast, but there are some very steep sets of stairs and ladders, so I can see how younger kids (e.g. 3 and under) would not be able to do this alone, and it's so narrow that even parents would have a tough time going up/down the ladders/stairs carrying a toddler/baby. All is well kept and gives you a chilling sensation when you put yourself in all those sailors shoes, imagining what the ship would have looked like at its peak.

Omar L — Google review

Being a competitive World of Warships player, it's on my bucket list to visit every surviving battleship in my lifetime. USS NC does not disappoint. She was the first "modern" battleship built for the USN and featured multiple cutting edge shipbuilding technologies in her construction. She is in a remarkable state of preservation. The parking lot is sufficiently large, however it is prone to flooding, so make sure to wear shoes that won't soak through if you don't want wet feet. Getting to see an iconic piece of American WW2 naval history for a small $14 admission is a steal in my book.

Donald S — Google review

My granddaughter has been wanting to visit the battleship for a long time so today was the day. It has been about 10 years since my last visit. She loved it. We followed the signs for the self tour. So much more has opened up since my last visit. There were many volunteers in period uniforms throughout the ship. They answered questions and told stories of ship life as it was back in the 1940's. One Chief even typed a liberty chit for my granddaughter after explaining to her all about what liberty was and how sailors got to go on liberty.

Kevin G — Google review

What an incredible experience! The tour was well done and you could explore SO much of the ship. Admission was inexpensive. Ship was clean and really felt like you were going back in time. There were so many things to see and touch even my kids (all under 10) enjoyed it. Definitely wear comfortable shoes!

L B — Google review

Awesome! We had great time and our kids 8-3 enjoyed it a lot. Fun for the whole family, best when cloudy or cool out. Almost took 2 hours to fully tour.

Vijay S — Google review

Stopped by Battleship North Carolina on the way home, and wow, what an experience! I don't want to give too much away, but the history packed into this ship is incredible. You can walk through almost the entire thing, and it's such a unique way to connect with the past. We visited on a hot day, so it got pretty warm inside, especially in certain areas, but they do have fans running. It actually gives you a feel for how it might have been for the crew back in the day out at sea.The highlights for me were getting into areas like the cannon hull and even spotting a gator from the ship’s upper deck! Definitely wear good walking shoes because this tour involves a lot of walking, and you’ll need a few hours (2-3) to take it all in. Bathrooms are available too, which is a plus. Highly recommend visiting if you get the chance!

John H — Google review

We visited from out of town and decided to spend our free Saturday here. We are strong supporters of our military and fascinated by military and especially WWII history. The battleship didn't disappoint. Parts of it were under construction and closed to the public but we still had over 3 hours of walking in all parts of the ship. Many signs, stories and lots of helpful information to help you see, feel and smell what life aboard the ship must have been like. The self guided tour was great. The museum building was new and clean and the staff were extremely knowledgeable and helpful too. I highly recommend for families.

Bryan T — Google review

This ship is massive and really really cool. To see all the history this ship has to offer is alot to take in. It is like a maze once inside, I actually got disoriented a few times. That's not a good feeling, so it goes to make me think of what the sailors must have felt until they got used to living on this ship for months at a time. One of the coolest aspects of this ship is that it's really like a miniature city inside. They had everything they would have needed to survive. This is a must-see if you've never been. The size of the guns are mind blowing. I'm sure you will enjoy it!

Brent T — Google review

It was a self guided tour that allowed us to go at our own pace. It did get hot while inside the ship, but there were a decent amount of fans through out. Definitely recommend to wear tennis shoes, the painted floors were a bit slippery in our sandals. The stairs are very narrow and steep.Over all a super cool experience. My 5 and 3 year old boys loved it and asked to go back again 😊

Tori B — Google review

I love military history. This is my second battleship that I ever visited and I was very impressed. This was a great museum that we could see just about any part of the ship. Staff was located all over the ship to give some valuable information. Be prepared to walk up and down some steps.

Blake — Google review

Really cool place to take the kids and learn some history. If you’re in Wilmington even just for vacation, this is a cool place to visit. So much to learn and think about while you climb in and out of all the compartments on the ship and read about how the service men spent their days. The guns are also very impressive, it’s a little surreal to sit in the seats and think about what transpired on ships like these during war times. Highly recommended!

Milo B — Google review

Visited the USS North Carolina near the downtown area of Willmington NC with my grandson and we had a great time. A beautiful well maintained ship with living history at every turn. A lot to see and take in. Directional signs throughout. Lots of climbing to the 9 different levels of the ship. Not recommended for small children and elderly people. Highly recommend a visit.

Michael D — Google review

Great self guided tour! Lots of history!Very reasonably priced.Lots of steep up and down steps, so if you have bad knees or legs, might want to skip.

Greg M — Google review

One of the last few classes of battleships, it's in good shape and quite a lot is open for the public to see and get to enjoy the history. Recommend walking shoes and would not call it very stroller friendly. Places you could hit your head are well marked and protected but you are walking and climbing through some step stair and ladder areas.

Stephen — Google review

I was visiting a friend in Wilmington from Ohio. Let me start by saying this was AMAZING!Absolutely not what I expected and it was huge! It was such a learning and eye opening experience. I loved it.There were times when I did feel a little panicky, mostly deep in the ship when it was getting really hot and there was no easily accessible exit. But I kept it together and we just worked our way out.Be forewarned, it gets very hot in some places. They do have forced air pumping through the ship, but it doesn’t work everywhere. Take WATER! There are some tight ladders/staircases, maybe not great for little kids or wearing dresses/sandals. I recommend turning your cellphone to airplane mode. I had no signal for most of the tour and by the time we resurfaced, my phone died.We spent about 1.5/2 hrs on the ship and we took the water taxi from the other side of the river over and that was worth it!Go! You won’t be disappointed!

Stephanie R — Google review

Very well done and well preserved WW II battleship! Amazing access to multiple decks/levels.Tour guides are knowledgeable, well-trained and friendly.This is a living piece of history and one you should definitely go experience!

Matthew T — Google review

This place is great. We spent 2.5 hours here but ran out of time because it was closing. We would have needed 3 hours to fully see everything, but we read all the signs.There's so many levels and so many things to look at. My favorite part was the mess hall, but all of it was really interesting. The diary entries on the sign were my favorite part, but my husband loved the history. They have decent parking, the bathrooms were clean.

Dani D — Google review

Such a cool experience!I was visiting a friend in Wilmington and he suggested that all of us check out this battleship.Approaching the exit from the north was a little weird- it's easy to miss. From the south, it's easy to find the exit. There was plenty of parking even for a Saturday. No wait to get our tickets and begin our tour.Lots of interesting things to see here. From the long guns, to seeing how the bullets were loaded, how the crew sat in their stations, to where everyone ate and slept - all of it was fascinating!My favorite parts were climbing into the revolving canon chamber, and seeing the medical stations.There was someone in the Captain's bridge explaining some of the history of the ship. Me and my kiddos had a ton of fun here!

Jits08 — Google review

We have visited here 3 times now and loved it every time! It is the most accessible battleship I've ever been on (in terms of what they open up to the public). There is so much to see and so many photo opportunities. You definitely want to schedule several hours. I went with my three kids (ages 7, 5 & 2) who never let me stop to read any of the information and we still spent 2 1/2 hours walking the decks and checking out below deck.

Kerri — Google review

The ultimate battleship museum. Step back in time and see what our baby men went through to fight for our freedom. Lots of access to the ship and plenty of crew memories to read first hand along the way. Take your time but keep in mind it can get hit below decks in summer time.After your tour take a walk around the ship with the new walkway too for some great views!

Andrew R — Google review

Top notch tour. It was hot, sweaty and misrerable weather: and I loved the ship.Its definitely worth the extra money to pay for the guided topside tour. The stories and anecdotes about the ship really bring the ship to life. That's what is so important about sites such as these. That we don't forget the stories of the men who served.As for the below decks portion of my self guided tour, it was really amazing to see how the sailors lived on board. You can almost hear and feel what it must have been like to serve on such a mighty vessel.Highly recommend this for a visit. If the weather is nice, you could almost make this a full day.

Edward H — Google review

Visiting the Battleship North Carolina offered a unique and engaging experience, akin to stepping into a vivid time capsule that captures the essence of naval life. The tour allows visitors to delve deep into the intricacies of a battleship, presenting an educational journey through history that is both immersive and captivating. My daughter and I thoroughly enjoyed exploring the various compartments and decks, which provided a comprehensive insight into the sailors' lives during wartime.However, one aspect that could enhance the realism and depth of the experience is the use of actual figurines instead of the current cardboard cutouts. While the cutouts serve their purpose, life-like figurines would add a more tangible and authentic feel to the tour, making it easier for visitors to connect with the history and stories of those who served on the ship. Recognizing the potential cost implications of such an upgrade, I believe that a slight increase in ticket prices would be a reasonable trade-off for the added value and enriched experience that real-life figurines could provide.Overall, the visit to Battleship North Carolina is a must-do for anyone interested in history, naval warfare, or looking for a unique educational outing. The blend of historical authenticity and educational content, coupled with the potential for further enhancements, makes it a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

Robert R — Google review

I was completely drawn in and enticed by the USS North Carolina battleship in Wilmington. Initially, I had no intention of taking the tour, but the sheer presence of this massive ship compelled me to explore it further. The admission price was completely reasonable, and knowing that all proceeds go toward the preservation of the ship made the experience even more worthwhile.Opting for the self-guided tour, I found myself immersed in the history and grandeur of the vessel for about two hours, though one could easily spend more or less time exploring. The unique experience provided a wealth of knowledge about the ship and its role in history. I would highly recommend this attraction to anyone with an interest in history or as a family outing. It was truly an unforgettable experience that left a lasting impression.

Kat C — Google review

Great experience visiting a real warship for the first time. As a family we enjoyed visiting it to the coreOnce you finish visiting you will be entering rest area where you will have restrooms and vending machinesYou can also get your names engraved using machine available for 15 bucks. Chain accessories is available for 4 bucks

Dinesh K — Google review

We had a great time going down all the way to the bottom of the available decks (some of the stairs are very steep and I would not recommend going too far down if you have bad knees or hips). I loved all the rooms; you really get to see how cramped it was! Truly remarkable how hard the men on the ships worked all the time!!

Amy ( — Google review

Arrived at 3pm as we had a busy day. We powered through the whole tour in about 2 hours. Could have spent all day there though. Ship is in amazing condition and TONS to see. Really enjoyed the visit and would highly recommend the museum to all ages. You can even man the 40mm bofors guns and rotate the turret!

Grant W — Google review

My twins are really intrigued by military history. We've been on the Yorktown plenty of times. Decided to make the trip to the Battleship North Carolina to check it out. They had a blast. Awesome experience. Will definitely be coming back.

Dustin F — Google review

The ship is a fantastic museum - very informative. The staff and volunteers on the ship were amazing, very friendly and helpful, and appreciated..!Highly recommended while in Wilmington..!

Ryan S — Google review

The USS North Carolina is a fabulous ship to see. It was different from all the other ships we have been on. At first, we couldn't figure out why the layout wasn't the same. We realized that this battleship is a different class than all the other ones. Since there were only two of that class of ship built, the BB 55 is very unique. It is very well preserved, and the tour allows you through most of the ship. The admission is inexpensive, and parking is free. This is a must-see for any ship enthusiast.

Casandra E — Google review

Always a great visit. This time they've opened up a couple of different spaces. I always plan to visit the North Carolina when I'm in the area. Be forewarned. Touring this ship, like any other Navy vessel will require climbing up and down ships ladders, but it's worth it!

Dan G — Google review

The USS North Carolina Battleship is a remarkable historical landmark that offers an immersive experience into naval history. As one of the most decorated battleships of World War II, it provides a unique glimpse into the lives of sailors who served aboard. The self-guided tour allows visitors to explore various parts of the ship, including the deck, crew quarters, and engine rooms, each filled with informative displays and artifacts.The ship is well-preserved, giving a genuine feel of its wartime service. The staff are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, adding to the overall educational experience. The USS North Carolina is a must-visit for history buffs, families, and anyone interested in military history. It's not just a museum; it's a journey back in time. Be prepared for some tight spaces and lots of stairs, but it's well worth it for the experience and the stories you'll take away.

Manjunath C — Google review

This is a must-see exhibit to visit and spend time at. Be sure to bring your tennis shoes because you'll be climbing up and down metal ladders within tight spaces. This was well worth the trip and I highly recommend it for the whole family ... just keep track of your kids, there's a lot of compartments to hide in!

Fishead61 — Google review

An amazing piece of history! We often don't appreciate the sacrifices these brave servicemen made (there were no women on board during WW2). This floating city serviced the needs of about 2300 people, but with little in the way of comfort or privacy (there was none!). Still, the complexity and efficiency of the ship are astounding, even more than 80 years after it went into service. It all makes you think twice before complaining about your morning coffee!I wish there were more tours and guides, because I'm sure we missed a lot!

Lou T — Google review

Stepping on the ship is like going back in time. For anyone who has ever had a family member in the Navy during WWII this is incredible. To walk around the ship and see the things how our dads, uncles, grandpas did, speechless. This is definitely a family must stop if you’re in Wilmington. Thank you to all who help ensure the ship is kept in such a great condition.

Lindsay S — Google review

This is a great educational and informational attraction. You can learn so much about what the Crew/Staff members did day to day, in and out of war. A step back into not just North Carolina's past but America's. I highly recommend going!

Eagle M — Google review

A wonderful place to explore! So much history to discover. I took the self tour and explored the ship on my own. It is huge! Bathrooms available in the ship as well as visitor center. Lots of construction going on. Ample parking. Friendly staff. Definitely check it out!

Cadence G — Google review

Very cool experience. It's HOT walking around the ship in the middle of June but it's definitely worth it. There is so much history and we got to explore more of the ship than I originally thought. Glad that our family decided to stop and check it out. Was one of my favorites parts when visiting Wilmington.

Lillian W — Google review

4.8

(10455)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (235)

4.5

(3620)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (236)

1 Battleship Rd NE, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA

(910) 399-9100

29

Airborne & Special Operations Museum Foundation

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Army museum

Museums

Specialty Museums

The Airborne & Special Operations Museum Foundation is an extensive exhibit featuring the U.S. army, airborne and special ops. It includes a theater, motion simulator, and various exhibits that display the history of soldiers who have sacrificed for their country's freedom. The museum is well-organized with memorial plaques and gardens to walk through. Admission and parking are free, but visitors are highly encouraged to donate so that this inspirational institution can continue to honor lost, current, and future soldiers.

A great afternoon to learn and pay respect to our lost, current and future soldiers who protect us from harm. Well organized and displayed. This exhibit is free but highly recommend a donation to keep such an inspirational institution going so that we never forget what our soldiers gave/give up for the freedom we take for granted.

Denese E — Google review

I took my youngest daughter to see some of the history her father was a part of. The exhibits were exceptional. There was a point where my emotions almost got the better of me. This museum is filling a large void with regards to information on the sacrifices our men and women in the Armed Forces have made to better this country and the world! The Staff was excellent! Definitely going back soon and frequently.

LeVan C — Google review

As you walk through the doors of the U.S. Army Airborne & Special Operations Museum, you are immediately transported into the world of these elite soldiers. The museum's exhibits are designed to take you on a journey through the history of the Airborne and Special Operations Forces, from their early days in World War II to their current role in the Global War on Terrorism. It was a great experience.

Anthony — Google review

What an amazing Museum and History lesson! Free admission…lovely gift shop! They really did a magnificent job showing the history of the Airborne and Special Operations!

Angela G — Google review

A wonderful visit to the Airborne and Special Operations museum just outside of Fort Bragg! Definitely allow yourself at least 2 hours to tour the entire facility and watch a few video loops. Admission is free and so is parking, there is a lot to see around the museum, memorial plaques and gardens to walk through.

Ian F — Google review

Very Awesome Museum! It was very fun and interesting to go there and learn all the history. It was extremely cool to see all the models. There is a great gift shop there too. Without doubt going to The Airborne Museum is a great opportunity to take advantage of!

Jack C — Google review

An outstanding and highly recommended museum - to include free admission..!Plenty of parking and there was a gift shop onsite, too.

Ryan S — Google review

Went and spent almost 3 hours walking around through this AWESOME museum. Can't recommend visiting enough. There are so many exhibits!! Tank, plane, choppers, machine gun nests, and so much more. Oh, and it's free.

No N — Google review

Such a great homeschool field trip. There was so much to be taught and the museum does an excellent job illustrating the different roles and wars that took place. Can't believe it's donation only. They could easily charge a hefty entrance fee.

Carissa B — Google review

Time allocated: 3.5 – 5 hrsFantastic! If you are not interested in the military or history, you may be able to go through in an hour. But if you like military history, you may find yourself staying for several hours. Only thing that was evidently missing was a static display of the aircraft that supported the Airborne and Spec Ops. Granted there are a couple within the museum, but sadly there are no large outside exhibits.

Mark S — Google review

Amazing museum! It's free and even kids will have a great time. The veterans memorial is on the other side of the road, which is also very interesting.

V L — Google review

Amazing museum and wonderful staff. I can literally spend 4 hours here and still feel as though I'm missing important historical facts. Definitely recommend.

Dark S — Google review

I could have spent three more hours in this museum. The dioramas are so well made. The stepwise sequencing of events from inception to present day ops was "loud and clear". Floor directional arrows would help, as well as increased air flow on the exit end of the display area. Well worth the time and donation money to see the details from a black project perspective.

TK C — Google review

Immersive. You feel like you’re walking through history. The mannequins are positioned so realistically. The exhibits are full of artifacts and interesting information. The layout of this museum is well thought-out.

Thyblacksmith — Google review

Eye opening and humbling. Well laid out self-guided tours through the history of the airborne and special operations group, from the creation of the parachuting program for WWII through modern day operations, there is a lot to see and learn. Seeing the main rotor of super 62 was especially moving to me.

William D — Google review

This is a well done visual history with interesting artifacts and lifelike figures. Starts at 1940 and walks you through to current conflicts. The volunteer staff were kind and shared the path to take through the exhibit. While we didn’t get to experience the simulator because it was down for repairs, we spent 1 1/2 hours walking through reading and viewing the exhibits. As veterans, it’s hard to leave without being impacted by the men and women who have served our country. As a free museum, I would definitely recommend visiting.

Heather B — Google review

OMG, this is a Drop Zone hometown field trip favorite. This place is phenomenal, so rich in history and information. We had an amazing time and can't wait to return.

Kalisha T — Google review

One of the best military museum I have been, very informative information, the staff is friendly, polite and knowledgeable. We enjoy our time here. Thank you ! 👍👍👍

John W — Google review

If you're into military history, it's absolutely worth checking out. Free admission (donations are accepted) . Friendly and knowledgeable staff. The exhibits are very well crafted and tasteful. Go out of your way to see it.

Düyü N — Google review

It is a good museum that requires updating, and because of space constraints, it needs to include rotating exhibits in the gallery. One of the current temporary exhibits, "Opening the Vaults: Treasures of Fort Liberty Museums," requires a better flow and more items showcased.While the museum celebrates over 80 years of U.S. Army Airborne and Special Operations Forces it requires a better balance of the two in the modern era (post-Korean War).

Mark O — Google review

Great place to take my boys and enjoy learning about the men who sacrificed for our freedom! This museum is well done. It is free admission.

Melissa M — Google review

It's a fantastic museum. If you are in the Fayetteville area or we're stationed at Bragg, sorry, I won't call it by its new name. It was Bragg when I was there, so Bragg, it will remain.Awesome exhibits. I took a whole lot of pictures, but you've got to experience it for yourself. But here's Iron Mike.

M S — Google review

If you have never been to this museum called Airborn & special operations museum before I highly recommend that you check them out because it's one of my favorite things to do in the downtown Fayetteville NC area.One thing I have to say about the service there is that they are very positive and friendly and welcoming to all of the guests and willing to answer any questions that you may have regarding on how to purchase tickets or what things you need to check out during your visit to this wonderful museum in the downtown FAYETTEVILLE NC area.One thing I have to say about the atmosphere of this place is that it's very welcoming and inviting when you first walk into this museum and overall it's just a wonderful place to enjoy a great time with your friends and family at this wonderful museum in the Downtown FAYETTEVILLE NC area.Let me tell you about my experience from the last time that I was there it was amazing and the people that were working there were super helpful with anything that you may need during your visit and overall that's what I appreciate from a place that offers a amazing service to all it's guests.One thing I have to say about the cleanliness of this place is that it's very clean and organized and a lot of trash or dirt anywhere around the museum they keep this place very clean and organized.The reason why I'm giving this place five stars is because it's one of my favorite things to do in the downtown FAYETTEVILLE NC area and I would highly recommend this place to anyone who has never been there before to check it out because it's a wonderful place to visit.In My conclusion this place by far has exceeded my expectations for one of my favorite things to do in the downtown Fayetteville NC area and I will definitely keep coming back to this place because overall since I have been going there I've never had a bad experience ever since I've been going to this wonderful place.One last thing If you are ever in the downtown Fayetteville NC area and looking for a great place to enjoy a great time that offers an amazing experience and wonderful service and a great price then you should definitely check out this place called the Airborn & special operations museum when ever you are in the downtown Fayetteville NC area and looking for fun things to do.

Michael C — Google review

One of the best military museum I have been, educational, informational, the staff is super friendly, polite and knowledgeable. We enjoy our time here. Yes and do not forget to donate Thank you !

John W — Google review

Loved the exhibit and how it took us on a tour through time! Definitely worth a visit.

Elizabeth R — Google review

Great place to bring family that are visiting you if you're in the military or retired. Staffers are super friendly and seem to be veterans themselves. Very helpful kind people

Matthew B — Google review

Amazing museum sharing special ops stories thru life-size diorama! Enjoyed many new-to-me bits of history.

Kim B — Google review

This place is amazing, a hidden gem filled with history!! Go check this place out. You won't be disappointed!!

Liddy C — Google review

Walked through today with my father in law. We were fasinated by the historical outlay of all the exhibits. The museum walks the patron through the history of ABN/SF one jump at a time. Every one should add this to their bucket list.

William S — Google review

If you are interested in US military history, this museum is worth checking out. Excellent WWll airborne exhibits.

James K — Google review

Amazing Museum, comprehensive history of AA and Special Ops. Well worth the time to visit. Take some cash as it's free but they do accept donations

Pamela Z — Google review

An absolutely incredible museum. Definitely worth seeing if you're in the Fayetteville area. Admission is free and of course donations are accepted.

Christopher C — Google review

4.9

(3181)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (237)

5.0

(1097)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (238)

100 Bragg Blvd, Fayetteville, NC 28301, USA

(910) 643-2778

30

North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

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Museum

Educational institution

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is the largest museum of its kind in the southeast and dedicated to natural sciences. It features a collection of 1.7 million specimens from every animal species and is spread across three campuses.

A large, poignant, nicely arranged collection of NC natural history from prehistoric time to now and beyond. So much to read and see and great interactive screens in Building 2 (don't miss going!) The building is really nice and well-planned. Nice customer service. Clean bathrooms. Great for all ages. Free and handicap-accessible. Free parking. In a great area close to other attractions.

Michael S — Google review

This place has definitely improved over the years! It's definitely worth your time going. It's free to enter and the paid events are not expensive at all. The best part is, you could spend all day there and still not see everything! I especially love their dinosaur exhibit. My only complaint is I wish the dinosaur exhibit was larger and more interactive for $10 a person. But I was surprised that they move!

Ariel — Google review

Outstanding museum that continues to thrive and innovate. Currently under construction which is a testament to their constant growth. Big dinosaur stuff on the way! So informative and interactive. The exhibits truly come to life. The museum is free however certain exhibits are ticketed. Membership is less than $100 for families! You can’t beat that. A beautiful place to learn and grow. I highly recommend and look forward to coming back, I’ve been visiting this museum since I was a kid! I admire the progress and look forward to more knowledge and creativity. Stop by when you can!

MJ W — Google review

Awesome museum well equipped with labs, movies 🎥, events, displays, and much much more to keep you entertained all day long. The best part is it FREE admission 🎟️ of course you can spend some cash in the gift shop, cafe and other places to enhance your experience but really no need for this amazing inspirational Museum. Come check it out.

Brent M — Google review

This is a free museum that is open to people of all ages. I was so impressed by their collections. It’s a 4-story museum with a breezeway that connects to research labs that are currently in operation. They have interactive exhibits that are so fun for the kids and adults alike. Watch for special exhibits that they are rotating through. Be sure to keep an eye out for some unique finds that are native to North Carolina and even more rare finds that exist only in this museum. The staff is very friendly and helpful!

Maegan B — Google review

Loved it. This place was massive and free. Two buildings, one was four floors and the other was three floors it took us about 5 hrs to go though the whole building and see everything. The bug exhibit was amazing especially with the terrariums of live bugs. Sadly the butterfly room was closed but we did see the sloth that was in their and got to watch him eat. They also had live feedings during the week. They also have a nice little Cafe next to the butterfly house on the fourth floor so you can watch the butterflies while eating.

Stephanie V — Google review

Amazing Place! I took my family here for the first time and had quite the adventure. There are countless things to see and do and I only wish I could've done more. They have almost everything you can imagine in a museum. From the Paleontology Lab to the Living Conservatory, From the Biodiversity Lab to the 3D Cinema, this place has it all. Whether you're taking your kids there to learn something new or just looking for a little bit of nostalgia. No matter the reason, this place certainly has what every adult and child needs.

Jared E — Google review

This museum is in downtown Raleigh and offers a nice variety of things to view and learn about. It is free to get in. The museum also has movies and special exhibits that require payment. Some of the areas close sooner than others. However, whether young or old, this place has something to educate anyone of any age. It is two buildings with multiple floors. There is a parking deck close by to park in, and it's just a short walk to the entrance.

Lettie C — Google review

If you have never been to this museum in RALEIGH NC before, called the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, before I highly recommend that you check it out because it's one of my favorite things to do in the RALEIGH NC.One thing I have to say about the service there is that they are very positive and friendly and welcoming to all of the guest and willing to answer any questions that you may have regarding on how to purchase tickets or what things you need to see during your visit to this wonderful museum in RALEIGH NC.One thing that I have to say about the ambiance of the place is that it's very welcoming when you first arrive and overall it's just a wonderful place to enjoy a great time with your friends and family while you're in the RALEIGH NC area.Let me tell you about my experience from the last time that I was there it was amazing, and I would highly recommend this place to anyone who has never been there before to check out if you are interested in learning about science and overall it's just a wonderful museum to visit.The reason why I'm giving this place five stars is because it's by far one of my favorite places to visit whenever im in the RALEIGH NC area.One thing I have to say about the cleanliness of the museum is that it's very clean and organized and overall not a lot of trash or dirt anywhere around the museum they keep this place very clean and organized.In my conclusion, this place, by far, has exceeded my expectations for one of my favorite things to do in the RALEIGH NC area.One last thing if you are ever in the RALEIGH NC area and looking for a great place to enjoy a great time with your friends and family that offers an amazing service and a great experience and a great price then you should definitely check out this place called the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences whenever you are in the RALEIGH NC area.

Michael C — Google review

Huge museum and completely free! If this is the only museum of natural science that is closest to you then yes I would highly recommend this one. It’s four floors and two different buildings as well. The other building has a lot of labs in it for students which I thought was cool. You could see them researching through the glass. There’s a lot of information in this museum. If you read everything it will take you all day. I do like the snakes that they have. I was surprised to see an actual animal alive in this museum because majority of the museum is obviously from stuff that’s not alive, like the extinct dinosaurs, really cool and a really awesome giant sloth skeleton. I don’t know if I’ve seen that anywhere! And I travel a lot. If you have kids, this is a must. They do also have a café in here in case anyone gets hungry.

Terra S — Google review

Very impressed with the amount of exhibits considering the admission is free. My small children loved it. Worth the visit and your donations. The staff at the Microbe viewing station were awesome. They let me 3 year old use a microscope. He loved every second of it. Very knowledgeable and engaging.

Robert K — Google review

We took our kids here while on vacation in North Carolina. They had such a great time looking at the dinosaur models. I was very impressed that such a neat place was free to visit. You can tell that all of the models were very expensive and well made. My favorite part was learning about space and all of the space rocks they have on display. They also have a really pretty butterfly botanical garden that is also home to a sloth. Sadly this area was closed to visitors being able to go inside. Overall a 5/5 experience, perfect for learning! I can't wait to go back when the kids are a little older and can really appreciate what it has to offer.

Angelica D — Google review

Little disappointed that alot of the interactive labs and displays weren't working on the nature side. We originally went here 5 years ago and now again in 2023. As an adult nothing has changed much. Kids enjoyed it as they were to young to remember our first visit. If you do want to do labs do them first as they close at 3.

Michael N — Google review

What an amazing place!! Lots of natural science exhibits from reptiles to dinosaurs with great staff available to answer questions and help with the hands-on displays. Something for all ages from toddlers to adults and there is no cost to get in to see the exhibits. There are some things like movies and such that do have a charge, but with everything to see on multiple levels, we didn't have a need to see any of that. Every time I come to North Carolina, I am more impressed with the states commitment to quality of life for the residents here, and this free museum is a great example.

Tom H — Google review

Great museum! We spent about an hour there but could have spent the whole day. Lots of exhibits to check out, and lots to learn. There were lots of families walking around and enjoying the experience! They have some dinosaurs, spiders, bugs, geology, history, etc. very well laid out among the 4 floors with a cafe on the fourth floor. There is also a Sloth that you may be lucky enough to see like we did!

Jason M — Google review

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is an absolute gem! This museum is super fun for the whole family, especially for kids who have so much to learn and explore. There are countless hands-on experiences that make learning fun and engaging.The museum consists of two buildings, each with four stories, so it’s easy to spend two hours or more here. The best part is that it’s free for everyone! They also offer wheelchairs for those who need them, making it accessible for all visitors.Don’t miss the 3D movies (tickets required) for an even more immersive experience. I highly recommend visiting this museum—it’s a must-visit for anyone in the area!

KC T — Google review

Free admission. Worth your time. 5 floors of a very diverse exhibition. Very kid friendly. Cafe on the 4th floor for a quick snack. Bathrooms everywhere. Easy to navigate. Loads of parking nearby.Staff is very friendly, the mood is great. Variety of live animals (bugs, butterfly, etc)Must visit in Raleigh. Also a great alternative toMarbles just down the road.

Brian A — Google review

This museum was well worth the drive to visit. We have three elementary school age kids and there were plenty of cool things for them to feel engaged with. A lot of real animals, taxidermy animals, humongous skeletons dangling from the ceiling....and plenty of viewpoints to see these things from. There were elevators and escalators to every floor as well as bathrooms on every floor. They also had water bottle refilling stations by every bathroom. There was a large parking lot nearby that is free to park in on the weekends. While we were there, we did the 3D movie which was very enjoyable. It was 25 minutes long, a bit long if you have kids under five, but it went by quickly. The 3D glasses aren't great for small heads, so be prepared to bend/adjust a lot for smaller children. All in all, it's an amazing museum to go to and even better that it's free. Well worth donating to them anyway despite the free admittance.

Elizabeth T — Google review

Super cool place to visit! Place takes donations no tickets the gift shop has something for everyone! The buildings connect and each had 4 floors ! They even had a butterfly house!

Marissa S — Google review

The museum is among the best ones I have visited. The general admission is free for all, yet there are plenty of, if not too many things to look at or do. Their collections are impressive: rocks, animal and insect specimens, live insects and aquatic creatures, dinosaurs and real labs. Meanwhile, there are a lot of designed hands-on activities (w/ waiting time) that may especially interesting for kids. The buildings are in very good condition, too - lots of benches, clean restrooms, etc., and that's another plus.The only thing to pay attention to is that some activities close earlier than the museum.

Feiyang — Google review

Located in the heart of downtown Raleigh, this museum is an excellent choice for a weekend getaway or a weekday excursion with kids. It boasts an impressive collection of live insects on the top floor, other floors included snakes such as copperheads, cottonmouths, rat snakes, and other snakes commonly found in North Carolina. The dinosaur exhibits were a big hit with the children.We also decided to explore the spider exhibit, but I wouldn't recommend it. There are far more captivating displays and a 3D film to enjoy elsewhere.What's even better is that there's no admission fee, and the place wasn't crowded during our visit. I wholeheartedly recommend this museum for families, kids, or anyone with a passion for spending quality time exploring.Parking is available in public areas, and even on a weekend, we found ample street parking.

Ajesh R — Google review

Granddaughter is visiting from "Theme park heaven Florida" and I'm glad we have something that we can do while she visits Raleigh area.It's a great family atmosphere with plenty of very friendly help.Lots of interaction and she really loves the butterfly room! 🦋

Donna N — Google review

First and foremost, this museum is entirely 100% free! 🆓 Located right in the middle of downtown Raleigh, this museum really does focus a lot on natural sciences, and it's more than just animals too! There are different exhibits throughout the massive building, some relating to dinosaurs and fossils, some relating to forests and the animals that live there, and even more relating to precious and rare gems and the like!There's even a section about bacteria and viruses!Our state's incredibly diverse geography, and the flora and fauna that inhabit it, are thoroughly explored top to bottom in this excellent museum! If you're looking for something free and fun to do, this is it!

Beastlycharizard13 — Google review

We go to this museum all the time! We have never been during Bugfest. It was absolutely amazing!! One of the ladies that work there told us it’s the biggest event of the year. They offer several insects for you to see and touch, they also have lots of vendor set ups outside, you’ll get to see people dressed up in costumes, face painting, and just a lot of education on the several different kinds of insects . My kids loved it. We had so much fun and look forward to going next year.

Shonda T — Google review

This place is fantastic. Completely free, very well kept and clean. There is something for everyone there. Will be back soon.

Alain B — Google review

This was our second time visiting this museum. The first time, we didn't realize how extensive it was and weren't able to get it all in. This time, though, 2 adults spent the entire day exploring the whole place. We especially loved the Amazing Pollinators exhibit and spent at least an hour playing 4 different pollinators (bats, birds, flies, and wasps) and another half hour with the games side of it. We also enjoyed the dueling dinos exhibit and being able to see an actual working lab and ask questions of the palientologist. He was great with the kids in the group in front of us and knew how to tailor the answers in age appropriate ways. The Daily Planet Cafe had some delicious breakfast burritos, smoothies, and iced lattes. All around we loved the whole experience and definitely recommend planning to spend an entire day there.Pros: affordable, accessible (they provided noise reducing headphones for free and have a quiet space for sensory sensitive people), inclusive to LGBTQ, varied exhibits, interactive exhibits, unique information.Cons: 3D theater is an old school high school auditorium style with small seats we barely fit in, some exhibits are obviously dated (one mentioned "electronic mail and fax" 🤣).

Sam S — Google review

Located in the heart of Raleigh (Downtown), it’s a perfect spot to spend your day. I visited the Museum on Saturday with my son and was surprised with the crowd. Plenty of live creatures are welcoming you in the museum. My son and I mostly like the snakes section. You can spot large skeletons of Whales, Dinosaurs etc. There are 2 different sections of the museum. One is more related to Science whereas the other is more towards animal habitats. I would like to visit the Museum again.

Amol M — Google review

the museum is rich in exhibits 3 or 4 floors, for all ages. About 2 hr walk through. You are your own tour guide. Best part is its no cost at all. You'll learn a bit of history on wildlife and science. The dinosaur exhibit was pretty cool. I was to scared to get in there with the butterflies though, it would be a nice experience if you aren't squirmish like me. Quite fascinating. Something fun to do if you're already in the area. I wouldn't suggest traveling more that 2 hours to get here. I don't like that there's certain life wildlife displayed in cases that aren't the appropriate length requirements for them to thrive in. I hope they are taken out at night or something, but don't believe they are. But overall all great experience.

Courtney — Google review

Good place, I learned a lot here. Meanwhile, many exhibitions are closed due to some reason and some living animals- particularly insects are kind of disturbing.In general, it is a well-designed, educational, and free museum, so I am giving five stars.

Tianling W — Google review

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in Raleigh is a captivating journey through the state's diverse ecosystems and wildlife. With engaging exhibits, interactive displays, and knowledgeable staff, it offers an enriching experience for visitors of all ages. From dinosaur fossils to live animal habitats, the museum provides a hands-on exploration of the natural world, making it a must-visit for anyone curious about science and nature.

Mr.S Q — Google review

Went with the kids on field trip to the North Carolina museum and it was totally awesome! Need about 2 days so we could take our time and really check everything out. I think I liked it more than the kids 🤗.

Kevin M — Google review

Absolutely awesome free museum for a family to spend time together! The live butterfly conservatory was a bonus but their collection of blue whale bones is out of this world. So amazing to behold. Too bad only the arthropods collection had live insects. The rest were interesting facts and items to experience. Too bad the section on racism and women in science were tiny and could expand much much more.

David E — Google review

Fun and educational place with lots of great exhibits. It was surprise for us knowing the museum is absolutely free to the public. Clean and very well maintained place. They also have canteen with good sandwiches and other snacks. Our favourite section was butterfly dome where we saw several species of butterflies. Love to visit this place again.

RAJAT J — Google review

A great place to spend time in Raleigh. Entrance is free you only pay for movies and special exhibits. Beautifully maintained and designed museum.

Dan S — Google review

First of all, this place is educational. Probably will learn more here than from a teacher. Second, it’s entertaining and can brighten your schedule. Lastly, it’s free, which makes it a wonder without any price that you have you pay. Located in the heart of Raleigh, this place is a must for any visiting people.

Daniel D — Google review

Really nice museum, highly recommend! Free of charge, including the new dinosaur exhibition (you need to grab a ticket, however - at no charge). Don’t forget the butterfly room.

Samielle D — Google review

What a great museum North Carolina had! I could spent a whole day here just looking how amazing they created the space. It’s spacious,detailed, and neat, and clean. The museum also has special exhibitions to interact with the visitors. With the amount of what they provide, it’s amazing that they don’t charge visitors to enter the museum. It’s a great place to learn and bring kiddos to explore.They have a cafe if you want to rest a bit and enjoy a cup of coffee while waiting for the kids to explore 😃

Nelly K — Google review

4.8

(2396)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (246)

4.5

(2341)40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (247)

11 W Jones St, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA

(919) 707-9800

40 Best Stops Between West Palm Beach and New Bern (2024)
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