


Candyland Cottage is a picture-perfect destination that combines two of kids' favorite things: ice cream and candy! This charming, whimsically-decorated parlor in Longwood offers hand-dipped ice cream, towering sundaes, and shelves stocked with nostalgic sweets that will delight children and spark happy memories for parents. The cottage atmosphere makes every visit feel like stepping into a storybook.
Weekday afternoons (2-4pm) are ideal for a less crowded experience. Avoid Friday and Saturday evenings when families flood in for after-dinner treats. Summer evenings can have long lines, so consider a late afternoon visit instead.
Ice cream prices are typical for hand-dipped parlors (expect $4-8 per person depending on size). The cottage has limited indoor seating, so you may need to enjoy treats outside or plan for takeout on busy days.
Busiest during summer months and can have extended hours. May have special holiday-themed treats around Christmas and Halloween. Florida's year-round warm weather makes this a consistent destination, though outdoor seating is most comfortable in fall and spring.
Reiter Park is a picturesque lakefront gem on Lake Fairy that offers everything families need for a perfect outdoor day. With a well-maintained playground, shaded picnic pavilions, scenic walking trails, and a fishing pier where kids can try their luck at catching bass and bluegill, this park combines natural beauty with family-friendly amenities that keep children entertained for hours.
Wekiva Island is a stunning natural spring oasis where families can splash in crystal-clear waters, paddle along scenic waterways, and swing from rope swings into the refreshing springs. This unique outdoor destination combines water adventures with relaxed riverside dining, making it perfect for families seeking a full day of Florida nature without driving to the coast.
Lukas Nursery & Butterfly Encounter offers a magical experience where kids can walk through a tropical conservatory surrounded by hundreds of colorful butterflies landing on their hands and shoulders. This working nursery combines the wonder of butterfly interactions with beautiful plants and gardens, making it an educational and enchanting outing that feels like stepping into a nature documentary.
Big Tree Park offers families a unique opportunity to witness ancient natural history up close with Lady Liberty, a majestic 2,000-year-old cypress tree, accessible via an easy boardwalk trail through beautiful wetlands. Kids can burn off energy at the playground after exploring nature, making it a perfect blend of education and outdoor fun that even younger children can enjoy.