Unlocking Time Travel in 'Magic Tree House 9

Magic Tree House 9: Dolphins at Daybreak is a children's fantasy adventure novel written by Mary Pope Osborne. It is part of the Magic Tree House book series, which follows the adventures of Jack and Annie, two siblings who discover a magical tree house that can transport them to different times and places. In this installment, Jack and Annie find themselves traveling to the ocean during the time of the dinosaurs. They are on a mission to find a special kind of writing material for their friend, Morgan le Fay, who is a powerful enchantress. With the help of a magic rhyme, they are transported to a coral reef, where they embark on an underwater adventure. The main theme of Dolphins at Daybreak is the importance of taking care of the environment and the creatures that inhabit it.

Knights, pirates, mobsters and more provide dazzling entertainment while you feast on delicious fare at Orlando’s famous themed dinner shows. In the Lake Buena Vista area, top options include the original Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament (get discount tickets), Capone’s Dinner & Show, and the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Review, the latter of which is at Walt Disney World. In the I-Drive area, choices include Mango’s Tropical Cafe, Teatro Martini Orlando, Pirates Dinner Adventure and Wantilan Luau at Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando. Discover: Orlando’s Top Dinner Shows

Things to do include Axecelsior Axe Throwing, Orlando Auto Museum, The Pinball Palace, Arcade Orlando, Bowling Orlando, Jump Start Trampoline Park, Karting Orlando, and Rage Room Orlando, among others. Offering tours exclusively by reservation, Giraffe Ranch is on 47 acres of countryside adjoining Florida s second largest wilderness area, the Green Swamp, complete with native orchids, lush pastures and rolling wetlands.

The main theme of Dolphins at Daybreak is the importance of taking care of the environment and the creatures that inhabit it. Throughout their journey, Jack and Annie encounter various marine animals, such as dolphins, sharks, and sea turtles. They learn about the challenges these creatures face due to pollution and other human activities.

Things to Do in Orlando Beyond Theme Parks

Orlando offers no shortage of things to do. Sure, we’re the Theme Park Capital of the World. But did you know that we also have a vast range of attractions and recreational activities beyond theme parks, including ecotourism adventures in the great outdoors, standalone attractions and other unforgettable ways to play?

To guide you, we’ve compiled a list of Orlando’s top outdoor and indoor attractions. Because we know you’re going to want to spend time at our theme parks — but we wouldn’t want you to think they’re the only reason to visit Orlando.

The opportunities for outdoor fun in and around Orlando are endless, including ziplining, airboat rides, animal encounters and much more. For additional information on these and other outdoor experiences, visit our Ecotourism, Golf and Sports pages.

Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures

About an hour south of Orlando’s main tourism districts, Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures invites you to glide across the headwaters of the Florida Everglades at speeds up to 40 mph aboard six-passenger airboats. During the 45-minute tour, you’ll encounter areas untouched by man and see a wide range of exotic wildlife. Night expeditions, which last an hour, are also available. Save on discount tickets: Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures

Brevard Zoo

Discover more than 900 animals from around the world set within the natural beauty of Florida landscapes, just an hour from Orlando’s tourism districts on Florida’s east coast. Kayaking next to a giraffe, touching a rhino, feeding colorful parrots, walking with kangaroos, and even soaring high above a South American rainforest are all part of a “typical” day at Brevard Zoo. Discover: Orlando Zoos & Gardens

Catboat Escapes

Captain your own personal catamaran across some of the cleanest waterways in Florida at Catboat Escapes, located in Clermont about 40 minutes west of Orlando’s main tourism districts. Glide across open wetlands, through cypress trees, across vast lakes and down into Cypress Cove, with Spanish moss dangling above you as your personal guide tells entertaining stories about the Crooked River and the community that lives around it.

Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens

Nestled in lush, tropical foliage, Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is home to 23 acres of native gardens and more than 500 animals. It also features an insect zoo, a reptile house, a children’s area with animals you can feed and pet, a splash playground, and the Seminole Aerial Adventures zip-line attraction. The zoo is located in Sanford, about 40 minutes north of our main tourism districts.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Go beyond a typical aquarium experience and immerse yourself in the world of marine life rescue at Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA), about 90 minutes from Orlando’s tourism districts on Florida’s west coast. Explore the working animal hospital, feed sting rays and participate in education presentations. You can also enjoy animal encounters, behind-the-scenes tours, eco-boat excursions and other programs, including watching the daily care of rescued creatures, fun educational presentations, and more. Discover: Day Trips From Orlando

Congo River Golf

Play award-winning miniature golf at Congo River Golf in Kissimmee close to Walt Disney World® Resort. As you play, explore the Congo and experience tranquil waterfalls, mysterious caves, tropical rainforests, challenging golf holes and more on an unforgettable African adventure. Discover: Orlando Mini-Golf

Dinosaur World

See over 200 life-size dinosaurs in a natural setting at Dinosaur World, a self-guided outdoor museum in Plant City about an hour west of Orlando’s tourism districts. In addition to the standing exhibits, reasons to visit include a fossil dig for children, two live shows, an indoor museum with real artifacts and an animatronic dinosaur display.

Epic Paddle Adventures

Epic Paddle Adventures invites you to explore crystal-clear springs, search for marine life on the intercoastal, and enjoy some local sunshine on one of Orlando’s many gorgeous lakes. They pride themselves on providing hands-on, intensive instruction so you can feel comfortable on the water and focus on having the journey of a lifetime.

Fun Spot America

Fun Spot America is Central Florida’s only family-owned theme park, and it has two locations: International Drive, aka I-Drive, in Orlando and Kissimmee near Walt Disney World. Both provide the same level of fun, but they are distinct enough to allow for completely different experiences. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or someone who prefers the lights and sounds of an arcade, these parks offer plenty of excitement for the entire family, including multi-level go-kart tracks and Orlando’s only wooden roller coaster. Save on discount tickets: Fun Spot America

Gatorland

Situated on more than 100 acres, one of Orlando’s oldest attractions provides affordably priced family fun. See thousands of alligators and crocodiles, along with an aviary, a breeding marsh with observation tower, Florida panthers, a petting zoo, and a splash pad for younger visitors. Gatorland also offers one-of-a-kind reptilian exhibitions and special up-close encounters, as well as the separately ticketed Screamin’ Gator Zip Line and Stompin’ Gator Off-Road Adventure. Save on discount tickets: Gatorland

Get Up and Go Kayaking

About 40 minutes north of Orlando’s main tourism districts, Rock Springs at Kelly Park boasts a free-flowing spring that Mother Nature keeps at a consistently cool 68 degrees. It’s an ideal location for a memorable family adventure — and there’s no better way to really see it all than renting 100% clear kayaks from Get Up and Go Kayaking. Discover: Orlando’s Natural Springs

Giraffe Ranch

Have you ever fed a giraffe? At this attraction in Dade City, a little over an hour west of I-Drive, you’ll get to know giraffes and other species from around the world, all in a setting that seems right out of Africa with huge live oaks and open grasslands. Offering tours exclusively by reservation, Giraffe Ranch is on 47 acres of countryside adjoining Florida’s second largest wilderness area, the Green Swamp, complete with native orchids, lush pastures and rolling wetlands.

Hollywood Drive-In Golf at Universal CityWalk

Play two state-of-the-art, 18-hole courses that pay homage to creature classics of yesteryear: “The Haunting of Ghostly Greens,” based on vintage horror, and “Invaders From Planet Putt,” focusing on “little green men”-style science fiction. Hollywood Drive-In Golf is part of Universal CityWalk, the open-air dining, entertainment and shopping district at Universal Orlando Resort. Discover: Things to Do at Universal CityWalk

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex & Nearby Museums

Visit space without ever leaving Earth. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Center invites you to witness actual rocket launches, meet real astronauts, and see if you have “the right stuff” via immersive training experiences, all while exploring the past, present and future of space exploration. (Rocket selfie, anyone?) The historic, world-famous venue is just an hour from Orlando’s tourism districts on Florida’s east coast, resulting in an easy day trip. And with so much to see and do, it’s easy to make a full day of it — especially when paired with the nearby American Space Museum & Space Walk of Fame or, for a change of pace, The Wizard of Oz Museum. Discover: Things to Do at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Luxe Rentals

Explore Orlando’s wild waterways in style with a helping hand from Luxe Rentals, which is open daily as long as the sun is out. Whether you want to take the family on a thrilling jet ski ride or have a relaxed date night on a sunset cruise, they are ready to help make your dreams come true. What’s more, skilled instructors will be on the water with you at all times to ensure your safety and comfort.

Nona Adventure Park

Make a splash at Nona Adventure Park with water-based, family-friendly adventures. Between the inflatable aqua park and obstacle course, wake cable course, ropes course, climbing tower, and rock walls, it’s one of many unique experiences awaiting you in the forward-thinking Lake Nona community, minutes from Orlando International Airport. Discover: Things to Do in Lake Nona

Orlando Kart Center

Located about halfway between our main tourism districts and Orlando International Airport, Orlando Kart Center (OKC) offers outdoor go-karting on a 6/10-mile track and an 8/10-mile track, both with real curbing and bumps. Their karts are gas-powered and can go up to 45 mph, and there’s even an option to race your own go-kart if you have one. Discover: Best Orlando Go-Karting

Orlando StarFlyer

Standing 450 feet tall, Orlando StarFlyer gives you the chance to zoom over International Drive at speeds up to 60 mph — if you dare. Prioritizing safety, the family-friendly thrill ride is one of many things to do at ICON Park® in the International Drive Entertainment District. Discover: What to Expect From the Orlando StarFlyer

Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park

Practice your best Tarzan yell before heading to Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park, which is minutes from Walt Disney World in Kissimmee. It features 97 challenges for climbers of every skill level, including swings, nets, ropes, a trapeze and other ways to show off. Safety is never an issue, either, as you’ll be securely clipped to a safety cable, and all guests receive a safety demonstration from trained instructors.

Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf

Ahoy, mateys — and fore! The affordably priced Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf on I-Drive has two nine-hole courses with lots of piratical flair, including cascading waterfalls, dungeons, tropical vegetation and an actual pirate ship. Discover: 29+ Things to Do for $29 or Less

Real Florida Adventures

With more than 40 years’ experience, Real Florida Adventures has explored every nook and cranny of the Sunshine State, and they’re eager to share their energy and passion to help you create memories that will last a lifetime. Choose from a wide range of expertly guided tours, including Kennedy Space Center rocket launches, kayaking, natural springs, snorkeling with manatees, and airboat rides, to name a few.

Revolution Adventures

An off-road motor and fishing venue set in 230 acres of Florida countryside, Revolution Adventures is close to all major tourist attractions. You’re invited to jump in the driver’s seat for the guided adventure of a lifetime on all-terrain vehicles, dune buggies or even ARGO amphibious Mucky Ducks. Revolution also offers bass fishing on its private lake, as well as archery lessons and clay shooting. All equipment is included. Save on discount tickets: Revolution Adventures

The Showcase of Citrus

Located in Clermont about an hour east of Orlando’s main tourism districts, The Showcase of Citrus is a family-owned and operated, 2,500-acre estate that cultivates over 50 varieties of citrus. From U-pick citrus to monster truck tours to gem mining to simply enjoying a relaxing picnic, there are activities for everyone of all ages.

Spirit of the Swamp Airboat Rides

Glide through a beautiful, natural paradise of swamps, marshes and incredible wildlife at Spirit of the Swamp, about 30 minutes southeast of I-Drive. This operator uses small, six-passenger boats for an intimate experience, and private airboat rides are also available.

Tank America

Want to drive a tank but not prepared to join the military? Visit the only place in Florida where you can do so: Tank America. Take command of a real Abbott Self-Propelled Gun tank and conquer a half-mile of obstacles, turns and hills with lots of surprises along the way. Discover: What to Expect at Tank America

Wallaby Ranch Hang Gliding Flight Park

Using the latest tandem aerotowing techniques, Wallaby Ranch Hang Gliding Flight Park provides the safest, most enjoyable hang-gliding experience possible. Located southwest of Walt Disney World, they offer their signature Discovery Tandem Flights and hang-gliding instruction throughout the year.

West Orange Trail Bikes & Blades Co.

Stretching from Winter Garden in the south to Apopka in the north, the paved, 22-mile West Orange Trail is a must-visit for nature-lovers who come to Orlando — and Winter Garden’s West Orange Trail Bikes & Blades Co. puts it all in reach with hourly, daily and weekly rentals of road bikes, sport comfort bikes, kids bikes and trailers. They’ll even deliver to your hotel. Winter Garden is west of Orlando’s main tourism districts. Discover: Things To Do in Winter Garden

Wild Florida Airboats, Gator Park & Drive-Thru Safari

At Wild Florida, travel deep into 4,200 acres of protected swamps, marshes and rivers that make up the headwaters of the Florida Everglades. On your journey, you’ll get an in-depth look at the gators, birds, eagles, trees and plants that can be found in the area’s beautiful wetlands. What’s more, airboat tickets include complimentary admission to the wildlife park and a hands-on gator demonstration. And now, you can drive a car through their Safari Park for a self-guided tour with more than 100 exotic animals and native Florida wildlife, just 45 minutes south of I-Drive. Save on discount tickets: Wild Florida

Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour

One of the area’s best hidden-gem attractions, the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour offers a relaxing, narrated, one-hour cruise through the gorgeous waterways of Winter Park, about 30 minutes north of our main tourism districts. Along the way, you’ll see Rollins College, Kraft Azalea Gardens, Winter Park’s Isle of Sicily, multimillion-dollar mansions and an abundance of wildlife. Discover: Things To Do in Winter Park

ZooTampa

About 90 minutes from Orlando’s tourism districts, ZooTampa is a place where you can come nose-to-nose with an endangered Florida panther, witness life-saving care of majestic manatees, go on a safari through Africa, and so much more.

Orlando has indoor activities for all ages and interests — from making your own Crayola crayon or indoor skydiving, to experiencing an upside-down “amusement park for the mind” or putting pedal to the metal on high-speed go-karts. Visit our Arts & Entertainment and Shopping pages for even more ideas on ways to have indoor fun in Orlando.

Altitude Trampoline Park

Channel your energy and cut loose with your best flips and tricks at Altitude Trampoline Park. Located in Kissimmee near the theme parks, this attraction offers 35,000 square feet of indoor trampolines and other fun activities.

Andretti Indoor Karting & Games

Race with a legend at Andretti Indoor Karting & Games — the only indoor karting experience endorsed by Mario Andretti. Adjacent to International Drive and the Orange County Convention Center, this 150,000-square-foot facility features multi-level indoor karting, 12 lanes of boutique bowling, more than 120 arcade and prize games, two-story laser tag, six virtual-reality racing simulators, a motion theater, and an extreme ropes course with a curved-rail zipline, as well as a full-service restaurant and bars. Save on discount tickets: Andretti Indoor Karting & Games

Chocolate Kingdom — Interactive Factory Adventure Tour

Embark on a delicious journey at Chocolate Kingdom — Interactive Factory Adventure Tour in Orlando’s I-Drive entertainment district. Joined by a handsome prince and his dragon sidekick, your personal tour guide will take you through a Cacao Tree Greenhouse, a one-of-a-kind Chocolate Museum, a Mystical River of Chocolate, and a Bean-to-the-Bar Micro Batch Factory that uses old-world machinery. You’ll even have the opportunity to create a customized chocolate bar.

Crayola Experience

Enjoy a full day of creative play and colorful fun with more than two dozen hands-on activities at the family-friendly Crayola Experience, located at The Florida Mall ® . Covering two stories and 70,000 square feet, Crayola Experience invites you to name and wrap your own Crayola crayon, and learn how crayons are made in a fun live show. You can also sculpt colorful creations at the Crayola Model Magic compound, watch as your digital art comes to life on a huge interactive wall, and melt crayons down into shapes. Save on discount tickets: Crayola Experience

Batmobile at Orlando Auto Museum, Part of Dezerland Park in the International Drive Entertainment District

Dezerland Park

Part of the I-Drive Entertainment District, Dezerland Park is a destination in its own right with numerous indoor attractions to enjoy. Things to do include Axecelsior Axe Throwing, Orlando Auto Museum, The Pinball Palace, Arcade Orlando, Bowling Orlando, Jump Start Trampoline Park, Karting Orlando, and Rage Room Orlando, among others. Discover: Things To Do at Dezerland Park

Dinner Shows

Knights, pirates, mobsters and more provide dazzling entertainment while you feast on delicious fare at Orlando’s famous themed dinner shows. In the Lake Buena Vista area, top options include the original Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament (get discount tickets), Capone’s Dinner & Show, and the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Review, the latter of which is at Walt Disney World. In the I-Drive area, choices include Mango’s Tropical Cafe, Teatro Martini Orlando, Pirates Dinner Adventure and Wantilan Luau at Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando. Discover: Orlando’s Top Dinner Shows

Drive Shack

Leave Lake Nona with the perfect golf swing courtesy of Drive Shack, where you’ll play from climate-controlled, covered driving bays. Offering an innovative take on the sport, this venue turns golf into fun games like ShackJack, which is based on classic blackjack, and Monster Hunt, where you destroy monsters to save a princess. After your game, take a break with mouthwatering food and beverages on the outdoor deck overlooking Lake Nona.

The Escape Game Orlando

Located in the heart of I-Drive, and rated as Orlando’s No. 1 escape room by TripAdvisor, The Escape Game offers immersive, 60-minute adventures that bring epic stories to life in a one-of-a-kind tactile experience. You and your team will work together to find clues, overcome challenges and ultimately complete a mission. Escaping will require teamwork, communication, wits, a sense of adventure and most importantly: you. Save on discount tickets: The Escape Game Orlando

Escapology

At Escapology on International Drive, you and up to seven companions race against the clock to find clues, solve puzzles and escape inside of 60 minutes. Scenarios include Scooby-Doo and the Spooky Castle Adventure, Murder on the Orient Express, Antidote, 7 Deadly Sins, Mansion Murder, Narco, and Under Pressure, with Star Trek: Quantum Filament and Lost City coming soon. Discover: Orlando Escape Games

ICON Park® Indoor Attractions

The adventures continue at ICON Park with indoor attractions for the whole family to enjoy. Discover: Things to Do at ICON Park

The Wheel at ICON Park®

Technically speaking, The Wheel is outdoors, but you’ll experience it in climate-controlled comfort aboard one of the roomy, Wi-Fi-enabled capsules. Towering over International Drive, the 400-foot-tall observation wheel will give you an unbeatable view of Orlando. Save on discount tickets: The Wheel at ICON Park

Madame Tussauds Orlando

At Madame Tussauds Orlando, you can rub shoulders with lifelike stars from film and television, music, sports, pop culture, and history. You can even meet some of the world’s best-known superheroes as part of Justice League: A Call for Heroes featuring the stars of DC Entertainment’s Justice League motion pictures, including Batman, Wonder Woman, Superman, Aquaman, The Flash and Cyborg — and photography is always welcome. Save on discount tickets: Madame Tussauds Orlando

As they search for the writing material, Jack and Annie encounter a friendly dolphin named Bella. With Bella's help, they navigate the underwater world and discover the magic they need. Along the way, they witness the beauty of coral reefs and learn about the importance of protecting these delicate ecosystems. Magic Tree House 9: Dolphins at Daybreak is a book that combines adventure and educational content. It introduces young readers to marine life and raises awareness about the importance of environmental conservation. By immersing children in a captivating story, Mary Pope Osborne encourages them to appreciate the natural world and take action to protect it. The Magic Tree House series has been praised for its engaging storytelling and ability to teach young readers about various historical periods and scientific concepts. Magic Tree House 9: Dolphins at Daybreak continues this tradition, offering an exciting and educational reading experience for children..

Reviews for "The Magic of Reading: A Review of 'Magic Tree House 9"

1. Sarah - 2/5 stars - I was really disappointed with "Magic Tree House 9". The story felt rushed and the characters were underdeveloped. The magic door to different time periods seemed like a cheap plot device and the adventures lacked any real excitement or depth. Overall, the book felt like a repetitive formula without any new or interesting elements. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone looking for a captivating read.

2. John - 1/5 stars - "Magic Tree House 9" was a complete letdown. The writing was dull and lacked imagination. The dialogue felt forced and unrealistic, making it hard to connect with the characters. The story itself was predictable and lacked any real surprises. I was hoping for an exciting adventure, but instead, I got a boring and unimaginative tale. I would not waste my time or money on this book.

3. Emily - 2/5 stars - I found "Magic Tree House 9" to be a disappointment compared to previous books in the series. The plot felt weak and uninspired, and the characters were flat and uninteresting. The magic treehouse itself, which usually adds an element of mystery and intrigue, felt forced and almost unnecessary in this installment. I would not recommend this particular book to fans of the series as it didn't live up to the earlier books' standards.

4. Alex - 2/5 stars - I was not impressed with "Magic Tree House 9". The story felt repetitive and lacked originality. The pacing was slow, and the adventures lacked any real excitement or sense of danger. The characters, including Jack and Annie, felt one-dimensional and lacked depth. Overall, this book felt like a filler in the series rather than a captivating addition. I would not recommend it to anyone looking for an engaging and thrilling read.

Exploring the Themes of Friendship and Adventure in 'Magic Tree House 9