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3 Local Ideas For Spring Break

By Alysa Hritzik, Publisher, North Lake Macaroni Kid March 6, 2019


Spring Break is just around the corner and we have some ideas of how your family can enjoy it without extravagant travel planning! Central Florida has a tremendous amount of day trip and overnight spots but we narrowed it down to our top 3 family favorites.

1. Bonnet Creek - If you love the idea of relaxing in a lazy river and enjoying a beverage by the pool while the kids have endless fun on the water slides of a pirate ship and playing putt putt golf, then definitely check out the Wyndham Bonnet Creek Resort! We have stayed in various accommodations at this resort including a three-bedroom condo, a king hotel room with bunk beds and a regular double bed hotel room. All of them were comfortable, spacious and very clean. Florida resident deals are often available so make sure to ask! Free shuttles to theme parks directly from the lobby and a wide variety of restaurants onsite are an added bonus. If the Wyndham is booked up, try the Hilton Bonnet Creek which is adjacent and every bit as nice but with only regular hotel room sizes.


2. Nature Coast - The best part of the Nature Coast is the lack of crowds and the laid-back atmosphere everywhere you go. Our favorite locations are Homosassa and Crystal River to cruise the river, swim in the various springs, fish and eat at many waterfront restaurants. The Plantation is a waterfront resort in Crystal River with a long history of providing a fun, family-friendly atmosphere for locals looking to relax. McCrae's Marina in Homosassa is a good launching spot for your boat or kayak and there are plenty of boat rental companies along the river. Rent a pontoon for the day and take your time exploring. You might even see a manatee or two along the way! Airboat rentals are common although I have never personally done it. Check out Peck's Old Port Cove or Crump's if you want some delicious seafood. Our kids love to visit the Homosassa Springs State Park for the day where you can watch a Hippo feeding, explore an underwater viewing area with tons of fish species and manatees, and take a glass bottom boat ride. 


3. Glamping - Ok, so I have never actually done this one but I have always wanted to give it a try! Several of my friends have thoroughly enjoyed Westgate River Ranch Resort and highly recommend it. The weather is perfect this time of year for camping in Florida and I can't think of a more appealing environment for those who like the outdoors but also like a comfy bed at night. Like myself. You can book one of their glamping tents, take your own RV or tent. They offer horseback riding, a petting zoo, fishing, a rodeo, bungee jumping, golf and more! If you decide to try this one out, please let me know what you think by commenting below!