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A four-metre alligator lies in wait at Westgate River Ranch in Polk County. -- Photo by Phil Raby

As the airboat came to a stop, I looked at my 2-year-old sitting on her dad's lap while I wiped away the swamp water that had sprayed on my face. How did she just enjoy our close encounter with a 4-metre-plus Florida 'gator? She was giggling away. It was time to check on the teenager and mother-in-law riding in the back. They both had big smiles on their faces as they removed their ear protection.

Ranging from ages two to 62, those aboard had just experienced another great Polk County family day.

With multigenerational travel on the rise, finding that ideal vacation spot for different members of the same family can be challenging. Polk County in Central Florida makes that part easy.

Located conveniently between Orlando and Tampa, the area is easily accessible and contains some of the state's most beautiful natural spaces. Its other big pull can be found in the amount of attractions within its borders geared to all ages.

Just For Kids

Explorations V Children's Museum is where little ones will enjoy unique, hands-on exhibits that include dressing up as a firefighter or driving a sheriff's car. Or, if it is out-of-this-world transportation they're after, there is also a space shuttle ready to be flown.

Cypress Gardens Adventure Park has thrilling rides for visitors of all ages, but children will have a special blast getting on the many rides specifically designed for the under-10 crowd. Other attractions at the park, which is easily navigated with strollers, include a small zoo with exotic animals and a butterfly conservatory.

Teen Travellers

Teenagers and family vacations can be the perfect mix for tedium, but the interactive Fantasy of Flight museum will chase away the boredom.

The history of aviation is taught through exciting exhibits allowing visitors to experience what would have been going on in a WWI German bunker under attack.

At the end of the tour it's time to experience simulated air combat at "Fightertown." After learning your WWII mission in the briefing room, participants get in a Corsair fighter cockpit and shoot down enemy aircraft in the South Pacific.

These flight simulators realistically depict the sounds and sights of aerial combat. The computer will tally your hits at the end of each session. What teenager won't love to play this very cool game?

Grown-up fun

Central Florida boasts a rich, but little-known history in cattle ranching. Lake Kissimmee State Park illustrates the roots of ranching in the area at Cow Camp. Through conversations with a costumed actor in a recreated ranch, visitors get a taste of what cattle ranching was like in 1876.

An airboat ride at the ranch is thrilling for family members of all ages. -- Photo by Phil Raby

Nature trails snake their way through the park, which is teeming with wildlife. Be prepared to run into alligators sunning themselves at the side of a lake or finding sandbill cranes foraging with their young on a trail.

For mature travellers

Grandparents who just want to relax will find the City of Lakeland the perfect place to kick back.

The Antique District harbours over 50 shops and galleries, and a walk through Hollis Garden, located downtown is the perfect way to end a day. The formal garden contains over 10,000 flowers, trees and shrubs. As well, it offers a beautiful view of Lake Mirror, one of the city's seven lakes.

Something for everyone

A waterfall and lily at the serene Hollis Gardens in Lakeland, Fla. -- Photo by Phil Raby

Westgate River Ranch is where the family can have fun together. An airboat ride into a swamp to see alligators is a soft adventure people of all ages can enjoy. Back at the ranch, kids can visit the petting zoo or try their hand at horseback riding.

Evening brings a family hay ride with a singing cowboy. Every Saturday there's a rodeo with real cowboys and cowgirls.

Do your homework

Coordinating three-generation vacations may sound like a recipe for perpetual family discord, but it doesn't have to be that way.

Here are some tips:

- Rent a vacation home. That way everyone has their own space and can retreat to it if needed. Other advantages are a full kitchen, private pool and a washer/dryer. Four-bedroom vacation homes can be rented for as little as $700 a week.

- Keep your regular family routines in mind. Little ones usually get up early and teenagers like to sleep in, so don't expect that to change while on vacation.

- Make sure toddlers and grandparents get rest and don't try to schedule too much in one day.

- Plans rarely fall in place perfectly, so remember to be flexible and enjoy the time with your family.

More Info

For details on Polk County attractions, restaurants and accommodation visit, sunsational.org

Travel writer A.P. Rodrigues can be contacted through R + R Creative