The recently re-opened Manatee Lagoon is one of the best places to visit in Florida to see these gentle 1,500- to 2,000-pound creatures. Manatees love people. If they see you on a dock, they'll swim right up and have even been known to roll over in the water, so people can pat their bellies.

On the endangered list for many years — mostly because of irresponsible boaters — they're now making a comeback, and today some 6,300 manatees are known to inhabit the waters around the state, more than almost any other place in the world (there's even talk of removing them from the endangered species list).

Manatee Lagoon features imaginative hands-on exhibits, observation areas, a manatee webcam, and an outdoor deck at which the manatees congregate, especially in winter. The star of the show is Mia, whose travels and interactions with other sea cows you can track. This is a fun attraction for all the family.

If after visiting the manatees you've got a hankering to see more marine life, head to the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium. In addition to its huge aquarium, this family attraction features plenty of fun hands-on displays, a planetarium, and a mini-golf course.

Address: 6000 N Flagler Drive, West Palm Beach, Florida

Official site: www.visitmanateelagoon.com