Kid-friendly spots you can't miss in Central Florida

EVENTS

Detroit Tigers Spring Training: For more than 80 years, Central Florida has been the home of the Detroit Tigers during spring training

"Spring training is a great chance for those who love baseball to get up close and personal with their favorite players," Keprios said.

Throughout February and March, the Detroit Tigers will be in Lakeland preparing for the 2017 season. Spring training venues such as the newly named Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium, which has about 8,500 seats, are smaller and offer a different experience, compared to regular season games at Comerica Park in Detroit. The players often are more accessible for photos and autographs.

If you can't make it for spring training, Central Florida is also home to a minor league baseball team, the Lakeland Flying Tigers.

"From April to October, families can get up close and personal with the future of major league baseball," Keprios said.

Sun 'N Fun International Fly In and Expo

If you are in Central Florida between April 4-9, 2017, plan to attend the Sun 'N Fun Fly In, the second largest air show in the U.S. Visitors can see airplanes of all sizes, old war planes and watch the Blue Angels soar through the sky. Along with the Blue Angels and airplanes, check out the afternoon air shows, night air shows, performances by some of the world's top aerobatic pilots and jet demonstration teams, and hundreds of exhibits, workshops and forums.

More than 250,000 people attend the Lakeland air show each year. Visit Central Florida calls the early morning Saturday hot air balloon race a "must see."

MUSEUMS AND GARDENS

Bok Tower Gardens

Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales is a natural beauty that gives visitors reasons to return every year. During Peak Bloom in February and March, more than 150 different varieties of flowers produce a dazzling array of color along the attraction's many walking paths. Time your visit right and you'll hear bell concerts (daily at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.) from the 60-bell Singing Tower Carillon that spans 205 feet.

In July 2016, Bok Tower Gardens opened the Hammock Hollow Children's Garden, a play area that is designed to educate kids about conservation and the connection between themselves and nature. Hammock Hollow includes water features, art, plantings and a stage for little performers and musicians.

Explorations V Children's Museum

Explorations V is Lakeland's hands-on museum for kiddos. It's all in the name: Little visitors can explore art and science exhibits and learn by using their five senses. Some activities offer a way for children to host a news show or weather forecast and to explore the galaxy by driving police cars, flying a plane, sailing a boat or even flying a space shuttle.

Temporary exhibits and programs change daily to keep fresh ideas flowing through your little one's mind and to make vacation memories.

ATTRACTIONS

Legoland

Let your own inner child loose at Legoland. The Winter Haven attraction features over 50 rides, plus a plethora of shops, restaurants, shows and other attractions, as well as Legoland Water Park and the 152-room Legoland Hotel.

If you can't make it to Legoland this spring, come visit this summer when the Legoland Beach Retreat opens in June 2017.

Safari Wilderness

Take a safari on camel back or safari bus, see a large herd of scimitar-horned oryx, a species that is extinct in its native African home, and watch nature as it happens at Safari Wilderness in Lakeland.

"Safari Wilderness is like taking a visit to Africa," Keprios said. "Take the chance to feed lemurs, see zebras feed or go on a safari on camel back. It's a unique experience."

Be sure to plan ahead for this adventure as reservations are required to tour the 260-acre preserve.

OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Lake Wales Spook Hill

Do you want get your child interested in going outside and experiencing some of the weird wonders the world has to offer? Visit Spook Hill in Lake Wales. Spook Hill has become known worldwide for the strange phenomenon that happens when you put your car in neutral on the white line. Watch your kids as they feel the car roll backwards and uphill by itself.

Norby's Steaks and Seafood

This hideaway restaurant, also in Lake Wales, is known for its flame grill and signature seasoning and steak sauce. Norby's been part of Central Florida's dining scene for 23 years. You also can purchase some of their sauces and seasonings to take home.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

Bone Valley ATV Park

Bone Valley, the first all-terrain vehicle park in Polk County, offers off-road fun for the whole family with over 200 acres of ATV and motocross trails, training spots and picnic areas. The 15 trails vary in experience levels, from leisurely to advanced, so there is a trail for everyone.

Bone Valley, which opened in 2015, can help you rent an ATV for your wild ride, or you can bring your own. If you bring your own, state law requires all ATVs to be registered in order to ride on public property. You will need to contact the tax collector's office at (863) 534-4711 before visiting the park to attain the proper documentation. For riders under the age of 16, a rider's education class is required. Helmets are required for riders of all ages.

MUST-TRY BITE

Lang's Taste of Florida Cafe

When you visit central Florida, Lang's Taste of Florida Cafe is a must to experience their famous grapefruit pie, as seen on the Food Network's "Epicurious." The Haines City cafe, which opened in 1951, also boasts fresh salads, sandwiches and grapefruit slaw.

Central Florida is more than just Disney World's backyard. Whether you and your kids are high-action adventurers or in search of new memories at interesting attractions, there's something for everyone to do.

"I know visitors will enjoy all (we have) to offer," Keprios said.

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