Discovery Cove (Orlando, FL)

Best for: age 6 to 14

Discovery Cove, sister park to Sea World, is a tropical compound of pools, rivers and beaches. Daily admission is capped at 1000 people, providing guests the crowd-free opportunity to snorkel a fish-filled coral reef, wade among huge but benign sting rays, float in a lazy river and, the highlight of the day, swim with dolphins. After learning hand signals for communications, visitors get 30 minutes with a pod of bottlenose dolphin, culminating in a one-on-one swim in the pool. Special “trainer for a day” programs provide further backstage access to the animals while sleepovers pitch tents beside the dolphin lagoon.

Details: http://www.discoverycove.com/, 877/434-7268, day passes from $139-$409. Tip: Book space in advance as sellouts are common.

Disney World (Orlando, FL)

Best for: age 3 and up (Magic Kingdom), age 10 and up (Epcot), age 5 and up for Animal Kingdom and Disney-MGM Studios

The king of the theme park realm, Walt Disney World, actually consists of four adjacent parks with separate admission: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney-MGM Studios. Crowned by Cinderella’s castle, Magic Kingdom is the classic storybook-inspired park where Mickey Mouse and Snow White stroll the grounds as celebrities and gentle rides such as It’s a Small World and the Mad Tea Party spinning teacups have entertained several generations. Epcot recreates the world in pavilions devoted to 11 countries, including culturally related entertainment, food and shopping. Animal Kingdom hosts wild animals and Disney-MGM Studios creates TV- and movie-themed rides and attractions. The Disney galaxy includes hotels, spas, golf courses and other attractions begging a week to see it all.

Details: http://www.disney.com/, 407/827-7200, day passes from $48-$60, seven-day tickets $23-$29 per day, valid at all the Orlando Disney parks.