Any Canadians familiar with the Clearwater area?

[riu girl]

A very close family friend lost his wife in a tragic boating accident over the summer.
So for Christmas week he has rented a condo for himself and his 3 young children , 7 years and under. He just booked it today.

Folks, this man doesn't have any knowledge of the Clearwater area whatsoever and is a very special guy and I would like to help him out.

I was wondering if anyone could offer any suggestions in the way of attractions/family activities in the Clearwater area. Or websites to try and find some activities. I think his children are aged 7,5, and 3.

I'm not sure if he is interested in going up to Disney over not. He has never been to Disney, plus it will be Christmas week plus he will be on his own with three young kids. I was thinking of perhaps instead reccommending Busch Gardens or Cypress Gardens since the crowds may be less.
I also know of a pirate cruise in Clearwater.

ANY suggestions/web sites whatsoever would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you
Suzy V

 

[cabmom]

My inlaws live in St. Petersburg. I would say that Busch Gardens would be a hit with the kids, we love it. Also, the beach is a great place for the kids to hang out. There's places like Chuckee Cheese in the area. A big mall in St. Peters is called Tyrone Square Mall. How about doing a google search on Clearwater?

Marilynn

 

[Hug the Mouse]

We've visited my inlaws in Clearwater a couple of times. Lots to see and do.

Clearwater Beach has the whitest, powdery sand I've ever laid on. A great spot to spend a day.There are several State Parks in the area, the names of which escape me, but the beaches go on for miles and are a great place for kids to go shelling.

floridasbeach(dot)com

Busch Gardens was fun...we only went one day and just covered the amusement park, didn't have time for the animals, need 2 days really.

Last trip we visited a small zoo called Lowry Park zoo. My kids (2,3,7 at the time) had a great time. You're close to the animals(we got to pet sting rays!)and a small splash pad.

lowryparkzoo(dot)com

There is a large aquarium inTampa with great displays. We even got to pet sharks.

flaquarium(dot)org

Hope your friend is able to have a nice escape in Florida from his tragedy.


***As I don't have enough posts I'm not allowed to post URL's so please forgive the (dot)coms***