Cypress Gardens

If you need a break from the bustling Disney parks, consider Cypress Gardens. This park recently reopened after a make over.

It is an easy drive from Kissimmee down the I4, off for Haines City then follow the signs to the 530 turn right and it is well posted.

Even at its busiest, it is quiet. The gardens are beautiful and a real relaxing walk. There is an ice show that is a good break from the sun and is a patriotic tribute to America.

You then move into the fair, the rides are good old fashioned fun fair rides with no queue of more than a couple of minutes. As the park is not busy kids can run free as you can watch them. Some of the rides are better than Disney - there is a drop that is really scary and tumbling thing - also, if you are tall avoid the jumping thing.

There is a water park that closes about 6pm and is very new and fun.

Check out the web site for shows, the Beach Boys were on when we were there.

A great alternative to the bustle of Disney.

Fiona