As mentioned, Sea World did not end our fun on the first full day. We got back in the car and drove back into town and checked into our new hotel, the Drury Inn and Suites downtown. After researching hotels, this appeared the best reasonable option for our family. It was centrally located directly on the riverwalk. I was so pleased with this hotel! It was a winner! When I had been researching, I wanted to spend a little more and stay on the riverwalk, but couldn't find a room that had a river view AND was a suite. I opted for the suite. I figured (probably pretty accurately) that most river views were just that...a view, not a balcony. The Drury Inn was in an old bank. It was a beautiful historic building with a magnificent lobby with the traditional old bank feel: high ceilings, lots of light, marble, etc... It had a lovely view of the river. We went to our room. The room was pretty small with far too much outdated furniture in it to walk comfortably, but there was a living room, kitchenette/hallway, bathroom and completely separate bedroom. It was the perfect spot for our family. And the bedroom even had a balcony with a...river view (and a bat)!!! God surprised and blessed my spirit that was still in turmoil in the midst of spiritual battles. I was able to experience a peaceful, quiet morning reading his word on the balcony the next morning.
view from the balcony...
After putting our bags down and taking a quick shower, we all went downstairs to sample the hors d'oeuvres hour that was an added perk. Hors d'oeuvres? More like a full meal! There were hot dogs, nachos, hot grilled chicken, spaghetti with red sauce, a salad bar, two types of hot soup, a baked potato bar, popcorn, and drinks--both alcoholic and not...all for FREE! Meanwhile, there was a swanky feel to the whole environment further added to by the grand player piano playing jazz during our dinner. After a long day, we ate enough to agree that we were done with dinner for the night.
view from our dinner table in the lobby
We opted to head out to the river and take a riverboat cruise as our last thing of the day. (also of note: the stop for the riverboat tours was just outside of the hotel) I think we all agreed that this was our favorite part of the whole trip. It was so relaxing to just sit and watch the beautiful scenery pass and to listen to our guide talk a bit about the area. We started just before dusk and gradually got to watch the sunset and the sky darken as the magical lights started to light up the night.
Off to bed...This night was the much better rest of the very weary!
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