Kids Activities in Polk County, Florida

Polk County, situated in central Florida, has much to offer for residents and tourists alike. From activity camps, large parks and theme parks there is something for everyone to enjoy. If you want to add a little education to the fun, Polk County offers several museums that allow children to get hands-on learning and interaction with the exhibits.

Activity Camps

Children's activity camps are an excellent way to keep kids entertained while on a visit to Polk County. Camps run from one or two days to more than a week and there are dozens such as Camp Rock, which runs throughout the entire summer. At camp kids are given a chance to meet new friends, and engage in fun games and educational activities. Places fill up fast, so be sure to book early, information on the various camps can be found on the Polk Country website.

Day at the Park

With over 60 park facilities in the county, the parks in Polk County offer a range of facilities. Sports facilities--basketball, baseball and football--are available, as well as general playgrounds, walking trails and multi-purpose field areas. Many of the parks offer pavilions, restrooms and picnic facilities. A breakdown of the parks and what facilities they offer is available on the Polk County website.

Theme Parks

Theme parks offer rides, amusements, shows and a fun-packed day for children and adults alike. Recently announced, Polk County, Florida is to host LegoLand. Construction has already begun and the park is expected to open Fall 2011. The theme park will offer more than 50 rides as well as over 100 acres of park to explore. Unfortunately, the other theme parks in Polk County, Cypress Gardens and Splash Island, have shut down while owners try to decide what to do with them.

Visit a Museum

Polk County has several museums for visitors to enjoy. At the Explorations V Children's Museum you can explore three floors of exhibits taking part in hands-on learning while having fun. The Fantasy of Flight and the Florida Air Museum offer children the chance to explore the wonders of aviation while looking at rare and vintage aircraft.

Learn About Candy and Fresh Fruit

A favorite past-time of children, eating candy. The Davidson of Dundee factory in Polk County, Florida offers children the chance to see how the candy is made as well as healthy alternatives in fresh and dried fruit. The factory was featured on the Food Network and offers free tours of the facility. As well as being able to see how the different types of candy are made, visitors are taught about the nutritional value of candy and healthy alternatives such as fruit. This can be used to explain that candy is not harmful in appropriate amounts and help to change a child's attitude toward healthy food. Visitors are offered free samples of fresh marmalades and fruits.

References

Article reviewed by Pam Hughes Last updated on: Dec 7, 2010

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