If you’re looking for something fun and exciting to do outside of Orlando, check out Crystal River. Less than 2 hours away, Crystal River is a Wildlife Sanctuary where you are almost guaranteed to see Manatees. The natural springs in the river keep the water at a constant 72 degrees, which in the winter months brings in hundreds of Manatees. In the summer months, there are only a few “regulars” who remain in Crystal River and Crystal Bay. Most manatees will migrate to warmer waters. We went last weekend, and while we spotted only a handful of manatees, we had a great time cruising around the bay and still had the opportunity to get up close with them in the water. We have already made our plans to go back in the winter! Local tour companies offer guided snorkel excursions, as well as kayak rentals. We used RiverVentures who I highly recommend. Be sure that the company you choose provides all equipment needed, including a wetsuit!

Until August 14th Disney’s Magic Kingdom Wishes Fireworks display has been replaced with the Summer Nightastic. If you haven’t seen it yet, I highly recommend you do so. For those who have been to a Mickey’s Not-so-Scary Halloween Party or the Very Merry Christmas party, you would definitely remember the spectacular perimeter fireworks. Now you don’t have to wait for a special occasion. The Summer Nightastic show lights up the sky with perimeter fireworks everynight!

This October, Walt Disney World will combine my two favorite past times: running and eating. October 2nd marks the inauguration of Disney’s Wine and Dine Half Marathon. This is the first and only half marathon held by Disney that takes place after hours. Starting at 10pm, runners will make their way from the Wide World of Sports, through Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and finish at Epcot. Not up to 13.1 miles? This is also the first and only race that is offered as a relay event. The first runner will cover 4.8 miles, while the second finishes up the 8.3 remaining. The best part: the after hours party. From the moment you cross the finish line until 3am you will have exclusive access to Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival. Visit the Official Disney Sports website for more information!

If there is one thing you must see while visiting Florida, it’s a real-life alligator! While there are plenty of them in the wild, Gatorland gives guests the opportunity to get up close and personal with the reptiles. Gatorland has just announced a million dollar attraction coming to the park, the Eco Zip Line. For $60, you can cruise along the 56 foot high zip lines over the Cuban Crocodile and Alligator Breeding Marshes. The experience is expected to last 45 minutes and also includes a scenic nature walk through the swamp. No opening dates have been released yet.

This summer SeaWorld is hosting SeaWorld AfterDark. With regular park admission, guests will have the opportunity to stay at the park and access all the attractions, as well as new shows and a fireworks display. The highlights include Shamu Rocks, which debuted last summer, Sea Lions Tonite, a new comedy show, and Reflections fireworks spectacular. Guests will also be able to get up close and personal with SeaWorld’s marine life.

Be sure to check SeaWorld’s website for ticket promotions. Typically for slightly more than the cost of admission you can purchase a dual-park ticket for SeaWorld and Aquatica or Busch Gardens.