Mother's Day in Florida

Mom treats us like royalty year-round, so why not make her queen for a day on Mother's Day? Here are some fun things to do with Mom at various popular spots throughout Florida. The list is arranged alphabetically by destination.

n honor of Mother's Day, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection's (DEP) Florida State Parks will offer 50 percent off day-use admission for any group that visits a state park with their mother on Sunday, May 8, 2011.

"We are pleased to offer this special discount for state park visitors who take the time to honor their mothers this weekend," said DEP's Florida State Parks Director Donald Forgione. "If she is an outdoors person, history buff or would just enjoy some relaxation, a state park is the perfect place for a memorable Mother's Day."

Florida's state parks can offer mom a stroll through ornamental gardens, space to bask in the sun on sandy white beaches, a shaded trail to spot wildlife and native plants or a quiet picnic bench to curl up with her favorite book. Whatever mom's fancy, there is a wealth of opportunities for families to pamper and treat her for Mother's Day.

A mother's heart always has room to love a child. One of the greatest joys of my life is being a mother. I raised two lovely daughters who now are grown up and married. It is important for me to be there to laugh and cry with my daughters. I understand how they needed me to help them through the ups and downs of childhood so one day they would become independent young adults working to achieve their dreams.

Explore Florida's abundance of wildlife, natural communities and cultural heritage at our award-winning state parks. For more than 75 years, Florida State Parks have inspired residents and visitors with recreation opportunities and scenic beauty that helps to strengthen families, educate children, expand local economies and foster community pride. With 160 parks, 700,000 acres and 100 miles of beaches, visit soon and often to enjoy Florida's natural treasures. For more information about Florida's state parks, visit www.FloridaStateParks.org.