Top 5 Student Friendly Attractions in Florida

by guest blogger and student James S.

Millions of tourists flock to the sun kissed state of Florida every year in search of some much needed fun and relaxation. Luckily this winter I had the chance to escape law school in Massachusetts and enjoyed a couple of weeks in Orlando, Florida.

Although vacations are never easy on a student’s wallet, I did find some attractions that were less expensive than the great, but pricey, Disney World and Universal Studios.

Here is my round up of 5 top student friendly attractions in Florida:

Gatorland, Orlando

This quirky attraction celebrates Florida’s oldest reptilian resident – the alligator. Tickets are surprisingly affordable and the park showcases a wide range of alligators varying in size and age. Highlights include watching alligator shows and even getting the chance to get your picture taken with you sitting on an alligator! Gatorland’s latest attraction allows you to zip line across the park and over the multiple gator enclosures.

Old Town, Kissimmee

A quaint attraction designed to look like an old fashioned American town; it is free to enter and has many attractions and restaurants to choose from. The wide range of specialty gift shops makes it perfect for buying gifts to take home and most of the attractions aren’t particularly expensive. Some of these attractions include a Ferris wheel and a rollercoaster and vintage car cruises are a regular happening.

Downtown Orlando

If you find yourself becoming tired of the somewhat cheesy elements of the predominantly family themed attractions in Florida, you might want to take a trip to downtown Orlando to sample its colorful nightlife. Covering a large area, downtown Orlando hosts a variety of nightclubs, bars and award winning restaurants. A favorite destination for locals and tourists alike, its prices are much more reasonable and student friendly in comparison with the night life options nearer the parks and attractions.

The Beaches

You don’t want to finish a vacation in Florida without sampling at least one of its beautiful beaches. Although it can be a bit of a drive from the tourist epicenter Orlando, the beaches are absolutely worth the trip. A top free attraction for students, the beaches boast warm clear waters and miles of sand to explore. Favorite beaches include the beaches on Sanibel Island and the Siesta Key beach.

Downtown Disney, Lake Buena Vista

If you are a struggling student and can’t quite afford tickets to go inside the various Disney World parks, the next best thing is Downtown Disney. With free parking, anyone can hang out in Downtown Disney without park entry tickets. Choose from a variety of restaurants, Disney themed shops and a large movie theater.

As you can see, a trip to Florida as a student doesn’t have to leave you in the red. There are many attractions that are free or very affordable. So don’t hesitate to take a trip down to Florida and make sure you thoroughly enjoy its gorgeous weather and endless miles of sandy beaches!

bio: James S. is currently a student in Boston, who enjoys blogging about topics he is passionate about. These include travel, education and the outdoors.

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