(Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
This super hot summer we've been having has sent us all seeking refuge in the coolest spots around and 3 Florida waterparks have been voted the best in America.
What better way to beat the heat than a trip to waterpark? Not only to be able to cool off, but to fill a day with thrills on the slides, relaxing in the lazy river and maybe even a cold drink from the bar sounds like perfection. This summer I went to two different waterparks: Disney's Typhoon Lagoon and Adventure Island in Tampa. Typhoon Lagoon has the best lazy river, in my opinion. It goes all the way around the park, so you can use it as a form on transportation from one slide the other. Not to mention a way to lay back, relax and cool off. The water from the waterfalls is usually a little on the chilly side, so it's a welcome chill on a super hot day. Adventure Island has SO many water slides. I couldn't even do them all in one day, but if you go, I recommend the Aruba Tuba. It was my favorite.
What Florida waterparks were voted the best in America?
The 10Best series from USA Today had a panel of experts nominate their favorite outdoor water parks around the U.S. and then they had readers vote on their favorites. Coming in at #1 is Aquatica in Orlando. I went last summer and had a blast. One of the coolest things there is the Dolphin Plunge which is a slide that takes you through a pool of Commerson’s dolphins. #4 on the list is H20 Water Park in Kissimmee. It has everything you need for a fun day from slides, high-speed rafting and a lazy river. Coming in at #7 is Adventure Island in Tampa, located right next to Busch Gardens. Again, if you love slides, this the spot.
You can check out the Top 10 list here.
2 Florida Cities Named As Best Places To Visit In America
Maybe I'm partial because I love living here, but I have to agree with a new list that names 2 Florida cities as the best places to visit in America.
Ever since I was a kid, I dreamed of living in Florida. My parents had a house in Clearwater Beach that we visited regularly as I was growing up and I told myself that one day I would end up here. And finally, at the age of 34, I made it! First landing in Sarasota and eventually moving further south to Fort Myers. Florida is everything I dreamed of and more. I love the beautiful beaches and the year-round warmth. Even right now when it's 1000 degrees and 1000% humidity, I'll take it!
If you too love being a Floridian, this may come as no surprise that 2 Florida cities have made a list of the best places to visit in America. U.S. News put together their list based on different factors including attractions, accommodations & dining options and votes from thousands of travelers around the country.
In Florida, Key West came in at #16. Mentions of deep-sea fishing, Duval Street and historical places like Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park and Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum made it a must-visit city. Destin, up in the Panhandle, came in at #17. Travelers highlighted Henderson Beach State Park and Shores at Crystal Beach Park.
You can see the full list here. Below are the top 10.
Top 10 Best Places to Visit in America:
10. Kaua'i
Kaua'i is also known as the Garden Island for its natural beauty that stands out from other islands. Koke'e State Park and Wailua River State Park are must-visit's.
9. Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park is a massive park covering almost 1 million acres. Make sure to visit the Hoh Rain Forest, Hurricane Ridge and Lake Crescent.
8. Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming has great scenic spots like Inspiration Point and Phelps Lake Overlook. If you're looking for wildlife, you'll find moose, elk, bears and bison.
7. Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park in California can fill your nature needs. Make sure to visit Half Dome and Glacier Point and hike Cathedral Lakes and the Mist Trail. You'll also find amazing waterfalls like Yosemite Falls and Horsetail Fall.
6. Zion National Park
The views at Utah's Zion National Park are unbeatable. Angels Landing Trail is challenging and less populated, as you do need a permit that is awarded in an online lottery. Other popular hiking trails include the Pa'rus Trail and Narrows.
5. Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone is America's first national park. From hiking trails to geysers and hot springs, there's something for everyone. Make sure to stop at the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center to learn about wildlife in the area like bison, wolves and grizzly bears.
4. Honolulu- Oahu
Oahu provides a best of both worlds with the city and the beach. Waikiki Beach is a must-visit, as well asWaimanalo Bay Beach Park, Kalama Park and Pearl Harbor National Memorial.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CvdQVKjSk4p/?img_index=1
3. Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona offers hiking paths like the Bright Angel and North Kaibab trails and whitewater rafting on the Colorado River.
2. Maui
Maui offers some very unique things like the Road to Hana and the black sand beaches of Wai'anapanapa State Park.
Glacier National Park
Glaciers put the name in Glacier National Park in Montana. Between lakes, mountain ranges and waterfalls, there's plenty to see and do from hiking, skiing, kayaking, fishing and canoeing.
