Orlando attracts over 50 million visitors each year, according to Visit Orlando. Since many Floridians transplanted from another state, some of these tourists are residents’ loved ones who frequently travel to our beautiful sunshine state to enjoy family time and, of course, our region’s plentiful attractions. Well, at least that’s the case with my family.

Don’t get me wrong…I am definitely blessed to have family members who visit often. But it seems like I am constantly working on logistics for our next get-together. Our family has unofficially created an official planning routine: one person checks for flight deals, another coordinates transportation to and from the airport, one takes charge of restaurant reservations, and I organize the “family activity.” Who knew Orlando Family Magazine’s Featured Event and Calendar would become self-serving tools for my personal use? The family activity has morphed into an ongoing joke because I get oddly obsessed with finding a uniquely entertaining adventure for our whole clan to enjoy. Some family members lightheartedly whine that we “always have a scheduled outing” but, in the end, everybody loves it! These silly escapades bringng us together to experience an attraction or event that we likely would never otherwise try, and that guarantees future reminiscing sessions filled with laughter of memories.

So, I have yet another family visit coming up but, fortunately, I won’t need to spend hours hunting for festivals or sites because I’ve hit the jackpot with a new guidebook! John Brown, news anchor on Fox 35’s Good Day Orlando, just released 100 Things To Do In Orlando Before You Die (www.100ThingsOrlando.com). John describes it as a “bucket list” to the city’s hidden treasures (and I couldn’t agree more). In reading the paperback, I found that I had already discovered some of our area’s gems, but still have a long to-do list, which, of course, is perfect for my continual need for family-fun activities. Sure, John includes places that you’ve likely heard of ─ though maybe haven’t taken the time to visit ─ but weaves in many local “secrets,” such as a behind the scenes tour at Walt Disney World (just $79 on top of general admission), Disappearing Island, Spook Hill, and 97 others! Pick up a copy to help customize your own bucket list and then share with us on Facebook and Twitter

Consider traveling just a bit further to beat the summer heat on Florida’s east coast. We’ve compiled an extensive list of things to do this summer in Volusia County. Prefer to stay local? Then consider taking a drive down International Drive, where you can find a ton of affordable, fun attractions, restaurants, and retail. If you’re thinking that this area of town is reserved for tourists…think again ─ it’s time to tour your own town! Orlando Family Magazine has combined our June & July issues because we’ll be busy working on our own summer bucket lists!

What’s on your summer bucket list?