How to read the ratings
C = Child Appeal
A = Adult Appeal
P= Public Facilities
S = Service
(Each category has a maximum rating of 30.)
$ The cost icon reflects the price for one child and one parent during high season.
I = inexpensive ($15 and below)
M = moderate ($16-$30)
E = expensive ($31-$60)
VE = very expensive (above $60)
1. Magic Kingdom Walt Disney World Resort Lake Buena Vista, FL 407-824-4321
(C)29 (A)26 (P)27 (S)27 ($)VE
It's pure "magic" at this undisputed crown jewel in Disney's 47-square-mile empire (encompassing theme parks, water wonderlands, and hotels), thanks to fireworks, parades, rides, and meals with Mickey that "bring out the kid in everyone." "No matter how many times you go," there's always more to do, eat, and explore, so you'll "need two days to really see" everything. Shrewd use of the free FastPass system helps you navigate more quickly. Guests at on-site lodgings get in an hour early on Sunday and Thursday.
2. Discovery Cove 6000 Discovery Cove Way (Central Florida Pkwy.) Orlando, FL 877-434-7268
(C)27 (A)27 (P)28 (S)27 ($)VE
Just a couple of miles northeast of Walt Disney World, a "once-in-a-lifetime experience" awaits (adjacent to big brother SeaWorld Orlando). Although swimmers must be 6 or older to realize the "fantasy" of frolicking with "playful," "kissing" dolphins (the main attraction), this "daylong treat" is "enjoyed by all ages," since visitors can "interact with stingrays" and "other creatures of the sea," not to mention "beautiful birds in the aviary." Yes, it's "expensive," but "everything is included" [MDASH] from the "awesome eats" to the keepsake photograph. Rates vary by season.
3. Monterey Bay Aquarium 886 Cannery Row Monterey, CA 831-648-4888
(C)29 (A)27 (P)28 (S)25 ($)M
"One would have to be a very cold fish not to love" this aquarium. "Beautifully set" on California's "rocky," "gorgeous" coast near Carmel, this attraction is a favorite, thanks to "stunning exhibits" ranging from touch pools for toddlers to "big shark tanks." With so much to keep both kids and adults engaged, your biggest challenge may be "getting the children away from the sea otters to see the rest" of the "fabulous" displays. Just outside, you can watch sea lions, whales, and more swimming in their natural environment.
4. St. Louis Zoo 1 Government Dr., St. Louis 800-966-8877
(C)29 (A)27 (P)28 (S)24 ($)I
Not only is this "wonderful facility" "a great way for families to spend an entire day," but "constant improvements" mean there's "always something new" to love each time you visit (the "excellent Penguin & Puffin Coast exhibit" is already "very popular"). Helpful hint: General "admission is free," but parking isn't, so "get there early" and stash your wheels on the street.
5. Disneyland 1313 Harbor Blvd. Anaheim, CA 714-781-4565
(C)29 (A)25 (P)26 (S)25 ($)VE
Approaching its 50th anniversary, "Walt's original wonderland" is "older than kids, older than parents, but still a hoot." "Powerhouse attractions" include Peter Pan's Flight and Pirates of the Caribbean, plus "dazzling" fireworks, "don't-miss parades," and the "breathtaking" Fantasmic! "spectacular." Although it's "crowded" and "astronomically priced," the place has such "timeless appeal," they should dub it "Foreverland." "Use FastPass" and "stay on-site" to rest before "heading back out for more."
