An 18 minute drive from the Holiday Inn, we love this Florida wildlife state park! The animals here call this park home due to injuries or other circumstances that prevent them from being released in the wild. The walk is scenic and beautiful. and you can see manatees, black bears, bald eagles and many different bird species, alligators, foxes and many more. We love the personalized information for each animal and all the natural beauty this park has to offer. Adults $13, children aged 6-12 $5, children under 5 are free.

Kings Bay in Crystal River is a 20 minute drive from the Holiday Inn and is known as the Manatee Capital of the World. The natural Kings Bay spring maintains a constant 72 degree temperature year round. As the weather warms up in April, many manatees leave the spring as the Gulf warms up. We have spotted Manatees in April and in warmer months, and always enjoy the calmness and beautiful view at Kings Bay and Three Sisters Springs.

Things to do in Kings Bay

- Manatee watch & snorkel tours

- Kayaking & paddle boarding

- Hiking & birding at Crystal River Preserve State Park

5 minutes from the Holiday Inn. Funny Farm Alpaca Rescue continues to give 35 to 40 alpacas a comfortable home where most are elderly and special care. They have been taking care of alpacas for 20 years. Limited hours, plan ahead!

Busch Gardens is a 355-acre animal theme park in Tampa. It is the coaster capital of Florida, and also one of North America's largest zoos. Described as the ultimate day trip. Right across the street is Adventure Island, a 30-acre water park owned by Busch Gardens. 23 minutes from the Tampa airport, and an hour an a half from the Holiday Inn.