by Adele Woodyard
What are you doing for your Mom on Mother’s Day? Looking for something different? Here’s a few ideas that may fit the bill:
Tampa
Cracker Country has something very different for Mom—they’ll fill a gift basket with items you pick out at the Cracker County General Store. No extra charge for the service, but you .must be there on Saturday, May 1. While you’re on site. check out the Discover the Past program at the museum. Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission $6 adult, $5 seniors and ages 6-12. Florida State Fair Grounds. museum@crackercountry.com
Mom gets in for FREE at the Lowry Park Zoo, on Saturday, May 8 and Sunday, May 9, with your paid admission. Can be child ($15.95 ages 3-11) or adult ($20.95) ticket, but must be purchased that weekend only. Open 9:30 a.m-5 p.m. 813-935-8552. http://www.lowryparkzoo.com
St. Petersburg
Was your Mom a flower child? Does she remember—and sing Aquarius—but never saw the show HAIR? You have until May 16 to take her to the American Stage in the Park performance at Demen’s Landing. Shows are 8 p.m., Wednesdays through Sundays. But hurry, even if you want blanket seating, $11-$21. Reserved chair $27, is mostly sold out for all performances. 727-823-7529. http://www.americanstage.org
Orlando
If shopping’s her thing, Mom will welcome a Shop and Slumber weekend on a combo package offered by the Mall at Millenia and the Orlando World Center Marriott Resort from May 1-16, 2010. The $239-$289 per room per night includes one night accommodations, breakfast in Solaris, 10 % discount at all on-site restaurants, spa, and retail shops at the hotel. Mall at Millenia’s complementary services include 30-minute make-over, personal shopping at Gucci, Godiva chocolates and more. For information, call 888-999-6753, ask for SHO rate code. http://www.marriottworldcenter.com; http://www.mallatmillenia.com
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Mom like Gospel music? The 25th anniversary of the Stellar Awards brings a Mother’s Day Gospel Music Festival to Orlando, May 7-9. Along with music artists, are cultural and recreational activities, and a Mother’s Day brunch and fashion show. Admission: $55 to $200. 888-627-7060; http://www.thestellarawards.com
Wakulla Springs
A 25 year tradition is the Mother’s Day Buffet Lunch at the Wakulla Springs State Park and Lodge. May 9, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m; for prices and reservations (required), call 850-926-0700. http://www.floridastateparks.org
Santa Rosa Beach
If Mom’s an outdoor lover she’ll really go for a two-night stay at Topsail Hill State Park, even if it can’t be over the Mother’s Day weekend. Tuesday and Wednesday nights up to May 26.are the specials for a bungalow ($220) or cabin ($270). Either one includes day trips to Camp Helen and the southern plantation at Eden Gardens State Parks. In between the trips, are white sand beaches with giant dunes, and freshwater fishing on coastal lakes. 850-267-0299. http://www.floridastateparks.org
More ideas on our web site. Click on: http://www.vacationfunflorida.com/bargains
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