WEEKI WACHEE SPRINGS , SPRING HILL
An original roadside attraction from the 1940s , the mermaids of Weeki Wachee remain a rich part of Florida ’ s
heritage , and a fun day trip to boot . Watch the mermaids perform the aquatic version of “ The Little Mermaid ” from the 400-seat underwater-viewing theater . Cruise down the river on a narrated tour or take in an animal
encounter show featuring snakes and alligators . Bring your swimsuit for Buccaneer Bay , which includes flume rides , tubing down a lazy river and a water-play area for the little ones . www . weekiwachee . com
TRADEWINDS ISLAND GRAND RESORT , ST . PETE
Located on the pure white sand of St . Pete Beach , Tradewinds Resort offers a fine mix of relaxing luxury for the grown-ups and endless water activities for the kids . Explore the meandering waterway by paddle boat¸ spin some tall tales with Redbeard the Pirate , sample some salty fare at the unique Flying Bridge — actually a floating Florida cracker cottage — or get back out to the beach and whoosh down the three-story inflatable slide . Splash Island also has a 15,750 squarefoot floating inflatable water park boasting such features as a giant trampoline , 10-person rocking seesaw , slides , climbers , and of course , plenty of lounging rafts . www . tradewindsresort . com .