Florida

[frizzytwig]

I want to go to Florida next year but my children are will obly be 7 & 5 years. I thought the Gulf coast might be best as I'm worried that going to Orlando they wont be able to go on half the rides as they will be too small. Can anyone give me any advice.

[spudqueen]

Why not do one of those half and half holidays where you start off in Orlando for a week and then go to the beach for the second week?
Yes there are rides in the theme parks that your children won't be able to go on, but equally there are lots of rides that they will be able to go on, aimed at the younger children. (For example, in Islands of Adventure there is a 'Cat In The Hat' section with all the rides and restaurants themed around the books). There are also lots of other things to do in the Orlando/Kissimmee area, my children really enjoyed playing Mini Golf (we'd called it crazy golf, but the courses over there are SOOO much better than here!), then there are the water parks, helicopter rides, airboat rides, Gatorland (alligators!). And I'm sure that most 7 and 5 year olds would get a lot of pleasure out of seeing some of their favourite characters at the theme parks!

[Peri]

I totally agree with spudqueen.  There is plenty for all age kids.  We have been bringing ours since they were babes in arms.  In Busch Gardens in Tampa there are lots of rides for smaller kids.  Disney concentrates more on characters and shows and there are very few white knuckle rides. The cat in the hat and Seuss Landing in Islands of Adventure is absolutely magical.  Seaworld also. They know how to cater for families over there.  

[juliely]

Busch Gardens is a must for you, as well as Sea World.
Try Clearwater, the beaches are super, very safe for youngsters.

[frizzytwig]

Many thanks for your answers, I have much to think about now.

[Ray the DJ]

Most rides at Disney World and Universal Studios require a minimum height of 44 inches, some require 48 inches.
My 6 year old grandson is forty seven and a half inches tall and had a great time.