Finding fun family attractions in Central Florida doesn’t have to revolve around theme parks. Polk County in the Lake District offers enough to keep a family, a couple, or even a single traveler entertained for weeks. The beautiful weather allows for the availability of a multitude of outdoor activities, from attending a Detroit Tigers spring training game to simply strolling through the local botanical gardens and smelling the freshly blooming orange blossoms. The myriad of things to do in Central Florida starts in Polk County.

Spring Aviation Events

Aviation enthusiasts will be thrilled to attend Central Florida’s many flight-based attractions in 2011. From March 29 through April 3, visitors can attend the 37th Annual Sun’ International Flight & Expo. n Fun in Lakeland, FL. This event alone provides six full days of aviation-focused events, including daily air shows, hot air balloon launches and over 4,000 planes to explore. Kids 10 and under can attend for free, making this one of Central Florida’s many family attractions.

If someone you know loves both planes and cars, they’ll want to be there on April 2 for the 14th annual Mustangs and Mustangs event. This spring vintage car and aircraft show focuses on restored P-51 Mustang aircraft as well as Ford Mustang automobiles from many eras and styles. Multiple events for adults and children are available at this expo, ensuring entertainment throughout the day.

Fun and Stylish Free Festivals This Spring

If aviation doesn’t excite your group, consider one of the many festivals taking place in the spring of 2011. Known as one of Central Florida’s top attractions, Mayfaire-by-the-Lake will take place on the 7th and 8th May on the shores of Lake Morton in Lakeland, Florida. As one of the area’s oldest and largest arts festivals, visitors can explore the work of more than 180 artists, enjoy free live entertainment, and kids can participate in a variety of free activities designed to encourage their spirit. creative. Mayfaire-by-the-Lake is the culminating event of the 9-day MayfaireFlorida: Festival of the Arts, which will include cultural events and activities at numerous Central Florida arts venues.

For another cultural event, visitors can enjoy the Child of the Sun Jazz Festival & Urban Triathlon at the Lake Mirror Amphitheater in Lakeland. The Jazz Festival portion takes place on Saturday, April 16 from noon to 10 pm and is free to attend. Visitors can experience the jazz masters doing what they do best. At the Urban Triathlon, beginning at 7:30 am that same day, attendees can cheer on their favorite participant to complete the swim/bike/run event. Proceeds support local charities.

Enjoy the spring flowers at Bok Tower Gardens

Spring visitors can experience the highlight of Polk County: seeing and smelling the orange blossoms in bloom. Not only that, but visitors may also want to explore Bok Tower Gardens, which is an oasis of botanical gardens and serene walkways. One of Central Florida’s most beloved attractions, the gardens offer several official ‘events’ to attend, including an Easter Sunrise Service, a Concert Under the Stars with the Imperial Symphony Orchestra, and an in-depth guide to what’s blooming in various times of the year. After all the excitement of your vacation, explore these zen-like gardens and breathe in the essence of Polk County.