Father and adventurous 8yo daughter plan to spend 14 days in Florida. Interspersed with Magic Kingdom, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, Discovery Cove, Seaworld, and Animal Kingdom, beaches or other diversions are needed to round out the vacation. Any advice on this, amount of time necessary at each attraction, and lodging change? I really appreciate your help.

St. Augustine is fun place for kids with a mix of kitch (Fountain of Youth, Ripley's Museum, Alligator Farm{actually very cool}) and great historical sites (the giant fort Castillo de San Marcos and the restored lighthouse where you can climb to the top). Anastasia is a state park at the north end of St. Augustine Beach with a fantastic beach and campground. If you could post more details: where your driving from or are flying to and if your daughter would have more fun playing in thr surf (Atlantic) or in calm clear water(Gulf) ect. it would be easier to make reccomendations. Tim

If you have an 8 year old going to Disney I would definetly stay on property for a few days. It will make your trip easier. If you want value for your money stay at The Sports or Music hotels. Buses go into the park quite frequently and you will be able to see much more. Also do not forget to get up early each day to see the most of the parks. This also applies to Universal and Islands of Adventure.

I haven't been to Florida, but I just wanted to say it was great to see this post! I highly commend you for taking some time out with your daughter, she'll remember it forever! My dad took me to DisneyLand when I turned 8. Just me & him and I have such fond memories of it now! Good for you!!!

Zack
you are just a short drive from the great gulf beaches at Clearwater (Tampa Bay area). Also, if you are up for another good amusement park try Busch Gardens in Tampa. Their live animals put Animal Kingdom to shame.

Thanks for all of your support thus far.
Tim... we're flying in from S.F. Bay Area, CA