Thigns to do righ tbefore Christmas - not Disney

My family (me, wife, 14 and 11 yr old girls) will be in Florida for Christmas. Sister lives in Sarasota, but we want to spend some alone time before going to her house for Christmas. Thinking Orlando (but open to other suggestions). Been to Disney. Kids aren%26#39;t into it, so looking for other options that are not just roller coasters (although some of them are fun too).

Thanks

Thigns to do righ tbefore Christmas - not Disney

bush gardens is always beautiful and they have rides too!

Thigns to do righ tbefore Christmas - not Disney

Hi there. I live in Sarasota and I just wrote a post over at UpTake.com that lists the top ten holiday parades and events going on around the state of Florida. Perhaps it will give you some ideas: 鈥ptake.com/blog/top-ten-christmas-parades-a鈥?/a> Enjoy! Barbara

Perhaps some time at Tarpon Springs (near Tampa) to check out the sponge fishing activity. Or Homosassa Springs (a bit further north) to see the manatees in their natural habitat.

You didn%26#39;t mention what types of things you do like, but if you check out www.christmasinorlando.com they have tons of events going on in and around Orlando during December. These include theatre productions, art exhibits, special events at the theme parks, dinner shows and more. There is also Cirque at Downtown Disney and Blue Man Group at CityWalk. Both of which are highly recommended by those who have been. Sadly, I%26#39;m not one of them. :(

Ice at Gaylord Palms

If you%26#39;re in Sarasota and looking for things to do, Sarasota Ballet has programs going on (if the girls enjoy that). Powel Crosley Theatre is performing some Dickens works in that fascinating house. Then of course there are plays, symphony, museums, aquarium, historical sites, botanical garden, parks with alligators, etc. Nearby is Solomon%26#39;s Castle; also nearby are shows with Lipizzan Stallions (see www.hlipizzans.com).