March 30th is known as National Virtual Vacation Day. Let me share some sites with you where you can take a vacation in an afternoon from your computer, tablet, or smartphone! Whether you are a couch potato or an avid traveler there are always times we cannot travel, but we can always enjoy a virtual vacation. Let’s get started! 100 Virtual Tours – Here you can see the ruins of Pompeii, the Louvre, Palace of Versailles, and so much more.
Earth Cam Enjoy the view of lower Manhatten, sights of spring, football and baseball stadiums.
Times Square Enjoy this view of the city that never sleeps!
There are plenty of other options out there, but there are a few to get you started on your Virtual Vaca! I would love to hear about other webcams and virtual tours that you use! Tell me about them in the comments!
Daytona International Speedway isn’t just a race track—it’s a year-round hub for adrenaline-fueled action, thrilling motorsports, and family-friendly events. Whether you’re a racing enthusiast or looking for a fun-filled experience, there’s something for everyone at this iconic venue. In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through some of the most exciting events that take place at Daytona International Speedway throughout the year.
Rolex 24 at Daytona
One of the most prestigious endurance races in the world, the Rolex 24 at Daytona kicks off the racing season every January. This 24-hour sports car endurance race brings together top drivers from around the world, featuring high-speed action that keeps fans on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Whether you watch from the grandstands or camp in the infield, this is a must-see event for any motorsports fan.
Speedweeks
Leading up to the legendary Daytona 500, Speedweeks is a series of exhilarating events that build excitement for the biggest NASCAR race of the year. Featuring races like the Bluegreen Vacations Duel and the NextEra Energy 250, Speedweeks offers multiple opportunities to witness high-speed action before the grand finale—“The Great American Race.”
Bike Week
Every March, thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts roll into town for Bike Week, a week-long celebration of everything on two wheels. Daytona International Speedway serves as a major hub for the event, hosting demo rides, vendors, and high-octane motorcycle racing. Whether you’re a biker or just love the roar of engines, this event is a can’t-miss experience.
Coke Zero Sugar 400
Held in the summer, the Coke Zero Sugar 400 is one of the most exciting NASCAR races of the year. Known for its intense competition under the lights, this race often plays a pivotal role in the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs. Fans flock to Daytona to see their favorite drivers battle it out in a thrilling night race that always delivers dramatic moments.
HSCRA 24 Hour Race
For fans of historic sports car racing, the Historic Sportscar Racing Association (HSCRA) 24 Hour Race is a special event that brings classic cars back to life. This endurance race showcases vintage and historic sports cars, allowing spectators to relive the golden era of racing while witnessing these beautifully restored machines in action.
Jeep Beach
Off-roading enthusiasts unite every spring for Jeep Beach, one of the largest Jeep events in the country. While much of the event takes place on the beach and throughout the Daytona area, the Speedway hosts a massive gathering of Jeep owners, featuring obstacle courses, vendors, and off-road exhibitions.
Subiefest
Subaru fans get their own time to shine at Subiefest, an event dedicated to celebrating the Subaru community. Featuring car showcases, autocross challenges, and meet-and-greet opportunities with fellow enthusiasts, this event is a dream for Subaru lovers.
Turkey Rod Run
One of the largest car shows and swap meets in the country, the Turkey Rod Run takes place over Thanksgiving weekend. Classic car owners and collectors gather at the Speedway to showcase their vehicles, shop for rare parts, and enjoy a weekend of automotive culture. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or simply admire classic cars, this event is a highlight for car enthusiasts.
Magic of Lights
As the holiday season approaches, the Speedway transforms into a winter wonderland with Magic of Lights. This drive-through light display features dazzling holiday scenes and immersive experiences that make it a favorite tradition for families and visitors alike. The festive atmosphere and spectacular displays bring holiday cheer to all who attend.
License to Drive
For those who dream of experiencing the thrill of racing firsthand, License to Drive is an event that allows participants to take the wheel on the legendary Daytona track. Whether you’re driving a high-performance car or taking part in a ride-along experience, this event offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to feel the speed and excitement of Daytona International Speedway.
Plan Your Visit
With so many incredible events happening year-round, there’s never a bad time to visit Daytona International Speedway. Whether you’re a racing fan, a car enthusiast, or just looking for a unique event, this legendary venue has something for everyone. Be sure to check the official Daytona International Speedway website for event schedules and ticket information so you can make the most of your visit!
Which event are you most excited about? Let us know in the comments!
Spring break in Central Florida offers something for everyone—whether you’re a history buff, adventure seeker, nature lover, or science enthusiast. From space exploration to alligator encounters, here are 13 must-visit attractions that will make your spring break unforgettable!
🚀 Kennedy Space Center
Experience the thrill of space exploration at the Kennedy Space Center. Walk among giant rockets, meet astronauts, and witness the incredible history of NASA’s space missions. Don’t miss the Shuttle Atlantis Exhibit and the Astronaut Training Experience!
🔬 Orlando Science Center
Perfect for families and curious minds, the Orlando Science Center offers hands-on exhibits, planetarium shows, and interactive science displays. The KidsTown area is a favorite among young explorers!
🐊 Gatorland
Get up close with Florida’s most famous reptiles at Gatorland. This unique attraction offers thrilling shows, a boardwalk through the swamp, and even a screamin’ zip line over alligator-infested waters!
🌿 Jungle Adventures
Step into the wild at Jungle Adventures, a hidden gem where you can see native Florida wildlife, take a jungle cruise, and learn about the region’s rich ecology.
🇺🇸 Presidents Hall of Fame
History lovers will appreciate the Presidents Hall of Fame, where life-size wax figures of U.S. presidents and a miniature White House bring history to life.
🍊 Citrus Tower
Enjoy breathtaking views of Central Florida from the top of the historic Citrus Tower in Clermont. Built in 1956, this tower offers a unique look at Florida’s citrus-growing past.
🎭 Madame Tussauds
Pose with lifelike wax figures of celebrities, historical icons, and superheroes at Madame Tussauds Orlando. It’s the perfect spot for fun photos!
🐠 SEA LIFE Aquarium
Explore the wonders of the ocean at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, featuring walk-through underwater tunnels, interactive touch pools, and vibrant marine life.
🚢 Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition
Step back in time at Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, where real artifacts and immersive exhibits tell the story of the world’s most famous shipwreck.
🏖️ Canaveral National Seashore
For a more relaxed adventure, visit Canaveral National Seashore, an unspoiled stretch of beach with stunning views, sea turtle nesting grounds, and great opportunities for wildlife spotting.
🦓 Brevard Zoo
More than just a zoo, Brevard Zoo offers kayaking through animal exhibits, zip-lining adventures, and unique animal encounters with giraffes, rhinos, and more.
🏰 Fort Christmas
History comes to life at Fort Christmas, a replica of a 19th-century fort built during the Seminole Wars. Explore pioneer homes, historical artifacts, and cultural exhibits.
⚔️ Medieval Times
Step into a world of knights, jousting, and feasting at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament. Enjoy an action-packed evening filled with thrilling battles and medieval-style dining.
Plan Your Central Florida Spring Break Adventure!
No matter what kind of adventure you’re looking for, Central Florida has it all. From theme parks to hidden gems, these attractions will make your spring break one to remember!
Thanksgiving and Christmas are two of the busiest seasons in the theme parks and ticket prices vary widely from park to park. So we made a video to compare the ticket prices at the theme parks around the holidays so you can pick which park best fits your budget.
Here is a brief breakdown of the costs for Florida’s 5 main theme parks.
If you plan on visiting any of the parks the week of Thanksgiving or Christmas through New Year’s Eve, you are looking at higher ticket costs than at some other times of the year.
Thanksgiving: Novemeber Saturday 23-Saturday 30
Legoland – $89-104
Busch Gardens – $97-103
SeaWorld – $97-105
Universal Studios – $219-224
Disney – $159-189 (Depends on the park)
(Disney parks vary in price with Animal Kingdom being the cheapest and Magic Kingdom having the highest ticket cost.)
Christmas: December Saturday 21-Wednesday 31
Legoland – $89-104
Busch Gardens – $90-103
SeaWorld – $97-105
Universal Studios – $224-234
Disney – $159-189 (Depends on the park)
Which park are you planning to visit for the holidays?
National Roller Coaster Day, celebrated annually on August 16th, is a day dedicated to the thrill, excitement, and adrenaline-pumping experiences that roller coasters provide. For coaster enthusiasts, there’s no better place to celebrate than Busch Gardens Tampa, a park renowned for its diverse and exhilarating collection of roller coasters. Let’s take a ride through the park’s iconic coasters and explore what makes each one a must-experience on this special day.
1. Iron Gwazi: The King of Coasters
Iron Gwazi, is a hybrid coaster that has quickly gained a reputation as one of the world’s most intense rides. Combining wood and steel, this coaster stands as North America’s tallest and the world’s fastest and steepest hybrid coaster. With a 206-foot drop at a 91-degree angle and speeds reaching 76 mph, Iron Gwazi offers an unrivaled experience of airtime and inversions. It’s a coaster that pushes the limits of thrill, making it the perfect ride to celebrate National Roller Coaster Day.
2. SheiKra: The Ultimate Dive
For those who crave the sensation of free-falling, SheiKra is the ride to conquer. This dive coaster, one of the first of its kind in the United States, features a heart-stopping 200-foot vertical drop that leaves riders dangling at the edge for a few suspenseful seconds before plummeting straight down. Reaching speeds of 70 mph and with two inversions, SheiKra offers a breathtaking experience that perfectly embodies the spirit of National Roller Coaster Day.
3. Montu: A Masterpiece of Inverted Coaster Design
Named after an ancient Egyptian god, Montu is one of the most celebrated inverted coasters in the world. This coaster flips the traditional coaster experience on its head—literally—by suspending riders below the track. Montu’s seven intense inversions and high-speed twists make it a relentless ride that coaster fans adore. With its Egyptian-themed surroundings and precision-engineered thrills, Montu is a masterpiece of coaster design that continues to impress even the most seasoned riders.
4. Kumba: A Classic Legend
No visit to Busch Gardens Tampa is complete without a ride on Kumba, a classic coaster that has been thrilling guests since 1993. Kumba’s roar can be heard throughout the park, a fitting sound for a ride that offers seven inversions, including a 135-foot drop and a unique diving loop. Despite its age, Kumba remains a fan favorite, delivering a smooth and intense ride that stands the test of time. It’s a reminder of how traditional steel coasters continue to captivate and excite.
5. Tigris: Florida’s Tallest Launch Coaster
As Florida’s tallest launch coaster, Tigris delivers a powerful punch in a compact space. This ride launches riders forward and backward through a series of inversions, twists, and drops, reaching speeds of up to 62 mph. Tigris is a multi-launch coaster that offers a dynamic ride experience, with elements that keep you guessing until the very end. It’s the perfect coaster for those looking to experience something different and thrilling.
6. Cheetah Hunt: The Speed of a Cheetah
Inspired by the world’s fastest land animal, Cheetah Hunt is an exhilarating launch coaster that propels riders across the park’s Serengeti Plain. With three launches and speeds up to 60 mph, Cheetah Hunt mimics the quick, agile movements of a cheetah in pursuit. The ride’s unique combination of speed, airtime, and scenic views makes it a family-friendly favorite that still packs enough punch for thrill-seekers.
7. Scorpion: A Sting of Nostalgia
For those who appreciate the classics, Scorpion offers a nostalgic trip back to the early days of roller coasters. This compact steel coaster, with its signature loop and tight turns, provides a quick but intense ride experience. While not as towering as its newer counterparts, Scorpion’s charm lies in its simplicity and the smoothness of its loop, which delivers a thrill that remains timeless.
8. Cobras CursE: Florida’s first family spin roller coaster
Cobra’s Curse is a unique family-friendly spinning coaster that combines thrilling twists, turns, and dynamic rotations with immersive theming. Riders embark on an adventure through an Egyptian archaeological dig site, where they encounter the menacing curse of the giant snake king, complete with a 30,000-pound snake icon. The journey begins with an exciting vertical lift that brings riders face-to-face with the massive snake head. The coaster then propels them through a series of forward, backward, and spinning sections, offering unpredictable thrills and a different experience with each ride.
9. Phoenix RisinG: Family Coaster
Phoenix Rising is the newest attraction at Busch Gardens Tampa. This family-friendly coaster is designed to simulate the experience of soaring like the mythical phoenix, rising and swooping through the sky. As the ride swings back and forth, it gradually gains height and momentum, giving riders a sense of weightlessness and gentle thrills. Phoenix Rising is perfect for families and guests looking for a fun and slightly thrilling experience without the intensity of larger coasters.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Coaster Destination
Busch Gardens Tampa is a roller coaster enthusiast’s dream, offering a diverse lineup of rides that cater to every thrill level. Whether you’re conquering the towering heights of Iron Gwazi, diving into the abyss on SheiKra, or enjoying the speed and agility of Cheetah Hunt, there’s a coaster at Busch Gardens for everyone. On National Roller Coaster Day, there’s no better place to celebrate the joy of coasters than at a park that offers some of the best rides in the world.So, strap in, hold tight, and get ready to scream—Busch Gardens Tampa is the ultimate destination for roller coaster fans this National Roller Coaster Day!
“Planning a trip to Busch Gardens? In this video, we break down the ride height requirements for all the major attractions! Whether you’re visiting with kids or seeking thrill rides, find out which coasters and experiences you can enjoy based on your height. Don’t miss out—watch now to ensure you make the most of your day at the park!”
There are more than 10 tours or experiences that you can add-on to your day at SeaWorld Orlando. Now, of course, there is certainly no need to include one of these experiences, but they would be perfect for guests who are looking for
Behind-the-Scenes Access: Tours offer exclusive access to areas not open to the general public, allowing you to see how SeaWorld operates behind the scenes.
Up-Close Animal Encounters: Get closer to dolphins, penguins, sea lions, and other marine animals, with opportunities to interact, feed, and learn about them in a more intimate setting.
Expert Guidance: Enjoy a personalized experience led by knowledgeable guides who provide in-depth information and answer questions, enhancing your understanding of marine life and conservation efforts.
Educational Experience: Tours provide an educational experience for all ages, teaching you about marine biology, animal care, and SeaWorld’s conservation initiatives.
Exclusive Photo Opportunities: Capture unique moments with animals and in restricted areas that are only available to tour participants.
Memorable Experiences: Tours create lasting memories with unique experiences, like touching a shark, visiting animal rescue centers, or learning about the daily care routines of the animals.
Learn more about some of the tours, through these videos.
Ultimate VIP Tour
Enjoy a guided, private group tour including front-of-line access to rides, VIP seating at our signature shows, animal interactions and more!
The whole family will enjoy meeting a warm-weather penguin, and making new friends in Sesame Street Land! You can even add on additional animal experiences and receive souvenirs that will remind you of this grand adventure.
Between May 1, 2024 – August 18, 2024, Florida residents can save on admission to the Kennedy Space Center Visitors Complex with a special offer!
For $159+tax, residents can pick up 4 tickets to use by August 18th. This is a savings of $141+tax if 4 adults visit or a savings of $130+tax for 2 adults and 2 children.
This ticket offer is only available at the park as you must show proof of Florida residency. You can do this by showing a valid Florida’s Driver’s License or utility bill.
How to Redeem
To redeem download and print off the ticket from the Kennedy Space Center Website. Arrive at the park! Walk past the self-service kiosks, the NASA Meatball and, the President Kennedy Presentation screen to the Will Call to Purchase the tickets.
What to do During Your Visit
The Kennedy Space Center has a lot to offer and thankfully, with Summer temps already upon us, most of the attractions are indoors!
Here are some of the things we think are must-do attractions!
Take the Bus tour. – We highly recommend the Bus tour and if you get into the park early, when it opens, you can check out the rocket garden for a few minutes before hopping in line for the first Bus out to the Apollo/Saturn V Center.
Apollo/Saturn V Center – The presentation at the Center will take you through the history of the Apollo Program from the failure of Apollo 1 through the climax of Apollo 11! See space suits, an actual Lunar Lander, a full-length Saturn V rocket and, much more!
Atlantis – After you get back from the Bus Tour you are just a short hop away from the building where Atlantis is housed. Follow the progression of the Shuttle’s development in a presentation that ends with the grand reveal of the Shuttle Atlantis!
Gateway – Within Gateway you will find more flown space hardware from a SPACEX CARGO DRAGON COTS-2, SPACEX FALCON 9 BOOSTER, to an ORION EFT-1 CAPSULE!
ALL SYSTEMS ARE GO! – If you have little ones, you should definitely see All Systems are Go a presentation by Snoopy, Charlie Brown and, their pals about the Artemis Program and future space flight.
Hero’s and Legend’s – Last on our list of must-do things, is the Hero’s and Legend’s building. Here you get a great presentation by the early astronauts and at the end, you get to explore the memorabilia from many astronauts and end up in the Astronaut Hall of Fame!
As you prepare for your visit to the Kennedy Space Center Visitors Complex, enjoy this video about Micahel Collins the Command Module Pilot on Apollo 11.
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.”
Every visit to an attraction, theme park, museum, state park, or race event is different and calls for a variety of gear.
Whether you are just enjoying a day in the park solo, with family and friends, or like we often do at Ant on the Move, spend the day filming and photographing the park, you need to come prepared.
Personally, I like to travel as light as possible. Occasionally, like on my most recent visit to SeaWorld Orlando, I carried a backpack loaded with cameras and their gear.
So what is in my bag on a big filming day compared to a typical day at a theme park?
Filming Day
On a day when I am specifically taking photos for YouTube thumbnails and Instagram posts, I carry a backpack. In the backpack will be my
On more relaxed days I generally just carry my pocket wallet, keys, annual pass lanyard, theme park water bottle, a GoPro (with an extra battery), and cellphone. That is it!
What are your go-to items for theme park day trips?
Back in 2021, I made a YouTube video about “How to Use Guest Tickets at SeaWorld.” Now, I do not recall exactly where the inspiration for the video came from, but I think it has something to do with the year 2020 and this annoying thing called “Reservations.” The process of getting into the park for pass members was more complicated and there was an added element for getting the guest tickets. We made the video and it did surprisingly well. So well in fact that is kept getting videos long after the process for getting guest tickets had changed.
Ant on the Move 