A Central Florida vacation often conveys mental pictures of families swarming fairytale castles and a certain upright walking mouse. However, there are so many more things to do in Central Florida than visit endless theme parks. With so much to see and do, an excursion to the sunshine state can prove a perfect girlfriends' getaway location. Whether looking to see the sights, indulge in some shopping or simply relax, a Central Florida vacation will surely offer something for all the ladies in the your travel party.

Where To Stay On A Central Florida Vacation

Finding the perfect Central Florida vacation rental for a girls' getaway will set the tone and ambience for the entire trip. Rent a luxury vacation home including a personal pool and relax by requesting a private masseuse and private chef to pamper you and your girlfriends. Imagine Vacation Homes and Contempo Vacation Homes provide lavish surroundings for their guests. Some resorts will even host an intimate dinner party in your travel group's honor. The Stanford Inn, another great choice, offers bed and breakfast accommodations as well as tea room services.

What To Do On A Central Florida Vacation

For a truly unique adventure, unleash your inner cowgirl at the Westgate River Ranch Resort. This authentic dude ranch located near Lake Wales boasts an extensive range of recreational activities to boost the fun and excitement factor in any girls' weekend – all in one location! Some of the many events visitors can participate in include horseback riding, nature hikes, swimming, fishing, airboat and swamp buggy rides, golf and even trap and skeet shooting.

Those ladies looking to kick up their heels on a Central Florida vacation can experience authentic line dancing at the River Ranch Saloon which offers entertainment, live music and even line dancing lessons on Friday and Saturday nights.

All this outdoor exertion can work up quite an appetite. Dine at the Smokehouse Grill for a delicious meal with your girlfriends. This waterfront restaurant features a menu to satisfy any craving. Post-dinner, be sure to mosey on over to the Westgate River Ranch Rodeo Arena. The weekly Saturday night rodeo showcases genuine old west talents like trick riding, calf-roping and barrel racing. This traditional country-western exhibition will certainly entertain and amuse!

The dude ranch isn't the only adventure in town on a Polk Country girlfriend getaway. Fantasy of Flight offers various adventures for groups looking to get airborne and enjoy the scenic sky vistas of the region. Sign up for a hot air balloon ride and indulge in a relaxing three hour trip over the surrounding countryside. The thrill seekers in your crew can also experience a Fantasy of Flight biplane ride complete with historical background details and various tales before takeoff. There’s even an option for visitors to fly the plane themselves. Plan ahead and make advance reservations to secure a spot on these busy schedules.

Retail Therapy On A Central Florida Vacation

Polk County also offers a plethora of shopping opportunities within its borders. The area abounds with antiquing establishments. These little shops make for a perfect all day girls-only outing. Antique buffs should check out The Barn Antiques, The Stable Gifts and The Back Porch Tearoom. Additionally, downtown Lake Alfred is home to Sherman's, Biggar’s and Potpourri Antiques and Gifts. All these merchants provide an abundance of collectibles as well as the chance to do a little window shopping with friends. While in Lake Alfred, enjoy lunch at Lavender & Lace Tea Room or Lang’s Taste of Florida Café. Some shops and restaurants are open seasonally so be sure to put a call in before leaving.

Of course, some girls prefer searching for new items rather than classics. Round up the ladies and check out the Lakeside Village Shopping Center in Lakeland. Home to an endless selection of shops, boutiques and restaurants, this shopping village will provide hours of deal hunting, browsing and conversation.

With so many exciting, relaxing and fun activities to choose from, Polk County makes an ideal location for the next girlfriends' getaway.