by Mary Quast

Created on: December 09, 2008   Last Updated: September 20, 2009

When one thinks of visiting Orlando, Florida with children the first things that come to mind are Disney and Universal Studios. But there is much, much more. Believe it or not, Orlando offers fun that can also be educational.

*For the science-minded kids, a visit to the Orlando Science Center is a must.

The Science Park offers basic scientific principles for all ages in a hands-on manner. Children can experiment with magnets and coils and "play" with electricity; they can construct a paper structure that floats, shoot an air cannon and much, much more.

For ages 2-10, Exploring Trees Inside and Out is an interesting and fun exhibit being shown daily from through January 4, 2009. This is a hand-on exhibit offing sensory exploration of trees. Children can investigate the inside of a tree trunk, look through the veins of the leaves, watch a simulation of photosynthesis, perch in a "bird's nest", and hear the sounds a tree makes.

For ages 3-16, check out Beakman's World Tour. The children's television show comes to life daily in this traveling exhibit that is full of demonstrations and experiments. This exhibit featured until January 31, 2009 focuses on the rain forest, the universe, dinosaurs, and the body.

For ages 5-18, the Grand Canyon Adventure: River at Risk takes viewers on a fantastic river-rafting trip along the Colorado River. This show is featured daily through March 31, 2009. Visit the website for exact show times.

For ages 6-18, especially boys who enjoy learning about war they should see Sacrifice and Prosperity: Central Florida at War exhibit. From Orlando's first settlement during the Seminole Wars to the rise of the high-tech battle of today, children will enjoy this first hand look at the history of war and it's impact on Central Florida.

The Orlando Science Center is located on 777 East Princeton Street in Orlando (32803); phone 407-514-2000 or visit http://www.osc.org for more information.

*For the artistic children ages 7-18 in your family, a visit to the Orlando Museum of Art is in the picture.

Of Cloth & Culture: African Textiles from the Norma Canelas and William D. Roth Collection is on display through January 31, 2009. This collection features textiles from various regions of Africa. Beautiful beaded items ranging from aprons to animal skins will amaze anyone.

American Portraits & Landscapes is a featured display for those interested in fine art. Works featured by Benjamin West, Thomas Moran, Rembrandt Peale, John Henry Twachtman,

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