With many ways to get your group in gear, Central East Florida puts teambuilding on overdrive.
“We have a lot of cool things to do,” says Bonnie King, deputy director of the Space Coast Office of Tourism. “Kayak competitions on the Indian River Lagoon, stand-up paddling excursions, ‘brews cruises’ where the group visits local breweries… it’s such a positive for the groups coming in.”
Following are just a few of the many options:
- Speed Racers
When you come to Daytona, you might expect things to speed up a little, and they do at Speed Park Motorsports, where attendees put the pedal to the metal and challenge each other at go-kart racing. Three tracks—including a rookie track for beginners—allow people to go at their own pace.
“A lot of groups prefer to have the park to themselves,” notes park representative Ariel Jennis.
The pace picks up when visitors get behind the wheel of a real NASCAR stock car, or do a drive-along, at the Richard Petty Driving Experience, based at Daytona International Speedway.
- Playing Along
With its go-karts, mini golf, laser tag, rock wall, game arcade and seasonal water park, Daytona Lagoon is the perfect pick-me-up after a day in sessions and, conveniently enough, it’s practically next door to the Ocean Center convention venue.
Onsite Gilligan’s Sports Bar & Grill includes a private meeting room and a huge observation deck overlooking the water park.
- Surfing U.S.A.
Renowned as a world-class surfing destination, Cocoa Beach is the home of such champs as Kelly Slater. But anyone can aspire to hang 10 here thanks to a multitude of surfing schools; among them, Ron Jon Surf School where attendees learn to ride the waves with help from pro instructors. Up to 87 can participate, but a ratio of four students to one instructor guarantees personal attention. The only requirement is the ability to swim and equipment is provided; just bring your suit, sandals and sunscreen.
“Our classes are in hour increments,” says instructor Nicole Demars. “Normally, people get up and start surfing after about two hours.”