Although central Florida's Polk County may not be the tourism hot spot of Miami or Orlando, there is still much for healthy and active families to do there. Whether they are enjoying one of Polk County's numerous parks, eating fresh or visiting a museum, there are numerous opportunities for them to learn, play and keep fit.
Parks
If you want to have a picnic or let your kids run around outside, Polk County is home to more than 60 parks, including Banana Lake Park, Mosaic Peace River Park and Gordon Heights Park. Many of these parks offer sports fields where you and your family can play basketball, soccer or toss a baseball. Some parks even have boat launches where you can go out in a kayak or canoe.
Museum
If you want to combine a fun and educational experience for your kids, bring them Explorations V Children's Museum in Lakeland. The museum offers multiple levels of fun where your kids can learn about art, journalism and science. The museum features a news station where your child can even star in his own news broadcast.
Fresh Fruit
Your children can learn about the citrus industry while visiting The Davidson of Dundee factory. Part of the visit includes a tour of the facility where citrus candy and preserves are made. Admission is free and as part of the tour, your kids will learn why fruit is a better and healthier alternative than candy.
Camps
If your stay in Polk County is extended, enroll your kids in a summer activity camp. Your kids will be occupied with numerous active and educational opportunities while interacting with new friends. Many of these camps, such as Camp Rock, even supply the campers will meals. Each camp varies in focus, so do some research to find the one best suited for your kids.
Time Frame
Late fall through early spring is the best time to visit Polk County. Temperatures sit comfortably in the 70s during the daytime and rainfall is minimal that time of the year. Summer, although a popular time for vacations, is not the best time to visit the area. Temperatures are frequently well in the 90s and the weather is muggy and humid.
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