Great article. But for an even cheaper alternative to see the "real" Florida, try some of the great state parks in the area. Some of my favorites are Lake Louisa State park in Lake County (just a short trip from Kissimmee down US 27), or Blue Springs in Volusia Co.

I wish I'd known about this Disney conservation area when I used to live down there, even if it was under another name at that time. I agree with Jables - I used to LOVE Blue Springs, especially during the winter months when the manatees would bask in the tributary where the warmer water bubbling from the spring made its way out towards the river. I also remember seeing the occasional alligator, snakes and tropical birds. Beautiful place!