This is the only Cave Tour we've done in the area, so we have nothing to compare it to...
It was a little pricey for the short actual cave tour. It was interesting to go in the small boat and hear what the tour guide explained about the history of the cave/river. I'm not sure the kids found it too interesting however. The old dance area was interesting and we did get a few photos. After the tour it's a good walk to the butterfly pavilion but the kids loved it! The hiking is as intereseting as you make it for them too! For a separate fee you can get a rock bag and mine for gems in their mining station outside the main door. I espcially like the kids project they have set up. Check out the website..they don't advertise at the ticket office. You pick up a ranger form and complete the booklet. Picnic tables outside to do this but bring your own pens/pencils etc. Turning it in gives the kids a free patch! Nice half day tour for the family.
More suitable for families with kids over age 5. I can't imagine dragging a baby or small toddlers on this one!

The "idea" of this hotel is great. We made areservation for a room as the last night of a three week trip way up north. We had an 8-9 hour drive left the next day and had already been on the road two days. We found the hotel fine and it does look great from the roadside with the teepees etc. We checked out our room and changed our minds. WIth three kids (5,8,7) and two adults we knew that it would be a tight fit...too tight for us. the rooms are basicall three doubled beds in width (and there are two beds inside). No room for suitcases etc. SMall bedrooms. The AC didn't not work very well, very old and loud. A dismal play area outside for the kids (they loved the horse swings though). We left and had dinner at a nearby A&W..it was not very good or clean...we just couldn't stay there ...as the last night of our trip we wanted more comfort and so drove a few miles south to Franklin and found a brand new Holiday Inn with a POOL!
The wigwams either need to close or do a total renovation of the property!

We stopped in Indianapolis while driving through the state specifically to see this famous kids museum. We were not disappointed. The kids loved the dinosaur area..very hands on..The travelling exhibits were great!
We didnt get a chance to see the planetarium show. There is a lot here for one day. The kids loved the merry-go-round and the hands on work exhibits..and the playground area. We didn't stop the entire day. I do suggest packing a lunch. The cafeteria prices were outrageous! Lots of toruing groups from summer camps (a little tough to navigate with middle schoolers running around). I'm not sure when the best time of year to visit is, but perhaps a normal school day it is quieter.

Quite a bit pricey, but it's worth the money!
I suggest arriving BEFORE sunset to enter and pay before the crowds start arriving. If you arrive when it is already dark you'll be forced to stand in line for a very LONG time! You can rent wagons, but I suggest bringing your own wagon or stoller if you have little ones..it can be a long walk for little legs. Bring a thermos with hot chocolate as it does get cold some nights ..or you can purchase your own at the main pavilion. They've done a great job with the different themed areas and the light scene from the lake is breathtaking!
We try to go every few years!

The Wharf is a wonderful little Orange Beach secret!
We live just east of Perdido Key and come out here instead of going into pensacola for or "date nights".
Great Race theater that is never too busy!!
Lots of little boutiques and gift shops..some a little trendy/pricey...but you can always find something different here. I jsut love the beachy, on vacation feeling here! Ferris wheel is a big hit with kids and they've added a zipline as well.
Concerts all year long and great activites for families throughout hte year. last winter we did Christmas photos with Santa with the water in the background! Wonderful. They also have a little ice rink!
Add the wharf into a stop at the beach or a drive through Gulf Shores and it's a great day for locals or visitors