Enjoy different experiences at Walt Disney World, SeaWorld when temperatures drop this weekend

Central Floridians and those visiting the theme parks will get a taste of winter — a Florida winter, that is — this weekend when temperatures are expected to dip into the 40s and 50s overnight. Locals (like me) already are planning which boots and sweaters to break out before the weather reverts back to daytime averages in the 80s. But whether you’re a resident or a visitor, this weekend offers an opportunity to experience the theme parks in different ways. Here are some ideas:

** Drink plenty of hot chocolate or warm coffee. Although this might not be appealing for most of the year in balmy Florida, this weekend will be the perfect time. SeaWorld has the best deal for hot chocolate, with its refillable souvenir mug. It works the same way as its drink cups — after a one-time purchase of the cup, all refills are 99 cents. During SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration, the Christmas market sells a number of specialty hot chocolates with various flavors. At Disney World, coffee lovers can get their Starbucks fix in all the parks and Disney Springs. The popular chain also sells delicious hot chocolates.

** If you’re staying in the Disney resorts, don’t forget that some, like the Fort Wilderness Resort or the BoardWalk Inn, offer enticing fireplace settings in their main lobbies. Others, such as the Polynesian Resort or the Beach Club, have nightly beachside fire pits complete with s’mores that also can be fun family escapes from the rare Florida cool-downs. The cozy evening gatherings around the fire can be the perfect way to wind down after a long day in the parks, too.

** Holiday sleigh rides take place every night in December at Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. Cuddle with your loved ones while enjoying some of the Christmas decorations and outdoor beauty of the area. The horse-drawn carriages depart from Crockett’s Tavern near Pioneer Hall each night from 5 to 10 p.m. Each carriage holds four adults or two adults and three small children for the 25-minute rides throughout the property. Cost is $79 for the carriage, which can be reserved up to 180 days in advance at 407-WDW-PLAY.

** Have you ever wanted to try “chestnuts roasting on an open fire” as the classic Christmas song describes? You can at Walt Disney World! Guests are invited to have a complimentary tasting of the warm chestnuts at the Grand Floridian. Cast members are heating the chestnuts outside the lobby doors on the first floor. Inside, you can purchase them at the sweets shop inside the life-size gingerbread house.

** Change your touring plan. When vacationers arrive at the theme parks, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and the anticipation of their favorite attractions. But when it’s cold, adjust your schedule accordingly. Plan to visit indoor attractions in the morning or evening, when temperatures are coolest. As the day warms up, spend more time outdoors.

** Need an excuse to shop? Now’s the time to buy that sweatshirt you’ve been eyeing. Or maybe the “purchase with purchase” deal is a blanket you actually will use.

** Finally, this should go without saying, but just in case: Steer clear of water rides, such as Splash Mountain or Journey to Atlantis, or the Splash Zone at the Shamu show. These places may be open but do you really want to spend the rest of your day shivering from wet, soggy clothes?

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