Florida offers a range of kid-friendly activities, from theme parks to natural adventures. Whether you’re looking for things to do in Florida with kids, you’ll find plenty of fun options for unforgettable family experiences together.
Florida is a dream destination for families looking to create lasting memories. With the best time to vacation in Florida being during the warmer months, the state is home to world-renowned theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, promising endless fun and excitement. Beyond the thrills of amusement parks, Florida offers educational experiences at places like the Kennedy Space Center and the Florida Aquarium.
Nature-loving families can explore the Everglades, enjoy beach outings, or visit zoos and wildlife sanctuaries. With its diverse attractions and sunny weather, Florida provides countless opportunities for family bonding and adventure. When considering where to stay in Florida, you’ll find options that cater to every preference, whether you seek adrenaline-pumping rides or serene natural beauty. Florida has something for every family.
Table of Content
- Things to Do in Florida with Kids
- 1. Walt Disney World
- 2. Universal Studios
- 3. Clearwater Beach
- 4. Siesta Key Beach
- 5. Everglades National Park
- 6. Gatorland
- 7. Kennedy Space Center
- 8. Museum Of Science And Industry
- 9. Biking Trails
- 10. Kayaking Adventures
- 11. Seaworld Orlando
- 12. Zoo Miami
- 13. Airboat Rides
- 14. Glass Bottom Boat Tours
- 15. St. Augustine
- 16. Fort Zachary Taylor
- Pro Tips for Booking Hotels in Florida with Kids
- Conclusion
- FAQs
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Things to Do in Florida with Kids
Make your Florida family trip unforgettable with these things to do in Florida with kids. Enjoy thrilling theme parks, chill out on beautiful beaches, and discover amazing nature spots. From exciting outdoor activities and educational fun to amazing animal encounters and historic sites, Florida has all the ingredients for a memorable family adventure with kids.
1. Walt Disney World
This magical place is one of the top family vacation spots in Florida. It has four amazing parks:
- Magic Kingdom: See Cinderella’s Castle and ride iconic attractions.
- Epcot: Explore different cultures and enjoy futuristic rides.
- Hollywood Studios: Experience movie magic and thrilling rides.
- Animal Kingdom: Discover exotic animals and adventurous rides.
Each park offers unique experiences. You can meet your favorite characters, watch spectacular shows, and enjoy delicious food. Don’t forget to check the daily parades and fireworks!
2. Universal Studios
Another fantastic destination is Universal Studios. It has two main parks:
- Universal Studios Florida: Enjoy movie-themed rides and shows.
- Islands of Adventure: Experience thrilling rides and magical lands.
- Kids can explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. They can ride the Hogwarts Express and try Butterbeer. Superhero fans will love Marvel Super Hero Island. Jurassic Park and Seuss Landing offer fun for younger kids.
Both parks have many dining options and souvenir shops. Plan your visit to make the most of your time. Check the park maps and schedules for showtimes and ride wait times.
3. Clearwater Beach
Known for its soft, white sand and clear waters, Clearwater Beach is a favorite among families for its many kid-friendly activities. If you’re looking for free things to do in Clearwater Florida, you can:
- Build sandcastles with your kids.
- Swim in the warm, shallow waters.
- Visit Pier 60 for daily festivals and street performers.
- Take a boat tour to see dolphins.
Clearwater Beach also has many amenities. You will find restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. Parking is available, but it can be busy. Arrive early to secure a spot.
4. Siesta Key Beach
Famous for its powdery, white sand, Siesta Key Beach is loved by families for its calm, shallow waters that are perfect for kids.
- Let your kids play in the soft sand.
- Enjoy a picnic under the palm trees.
- Join a drum circle on Sunday evenings.
- Explore the nearby playgrounds and parks.
Siesta Key Beach offers excellent facilities. There are restrooms, showers, and concession stands. Lifeguards are on duty, ensuring your family’s safety.
5. Everglades National Park
Visit the Everglades National Park for an unforgettable adventure, one of the best things to do in Florida for free. This unique park is home to many animals. See alligators, manatees, and exotic birds in their natural habitat. The park has many trails for hiking and biking. Kids will love the Anhinga Trail, which is easy and full of wildlife. Don’t miss the airboat rides—they provide a thrilling way to explore the wetlands. The park also offers ranger-led programs that are educational and engaging for kids.
Activity | Description |
Hiking | Explore various trails like Anhinga Trail. |
Airboat Rides | Enjoy thrilling rides through the wetlands. |
Wildlife Watching | See alligators, manatees, and exotic birds. |
Ranger Programs | Join educational and fun ranger-led activities. |
6. Gatorland
A must-visit for kids who love reptiles, Gatorland is known as the ‘Alligator Capital of the World.’ It offers exciting activities and shows. Watch the Gator Jumparoo Show. See alligators jump for food. Kids can also feed the baby gators. For a real adventure, try the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line. It takes you over the alligator breeding marsh. There are also nature trails and a petting zoo. Gatorland is both thrilling and educational.
- Gator Jumparoo Show: Watch alligators jump for food.
- Baby Gator Feeding: Kids can feed baby alligators.
- Screamin’ Gator Zip Line: Zip over the alligator marsh.
- Nature Trails: Enjoy walking through beautiful trails.
- Petting Zoo: Meet friendly animals up close.
7. Kennedy Space Center
The Kennedy Space Center is a must-visit for space enthusiasts. Located on Merritt Island, this center offers an immersive experience of the world of space exploration, making it the best place in Florida in January.
- Rocket Garden: Walk among actual rockets from NASA’s past missions.
- Space Shuttle Atlantis: See the real Atlantis shuttle up close.
- Astronaut Encounter: Meet real astronauts and hear their stories.
- IMAX Theater: Watch stunning space documentaries in 3D.
Kids can also engage in interactive exhibits and simulators. They can pretend to be astronauts for a day!
8. Museum Of Science And Industry
The Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) in Tampa is another excellent destination. This museum is packed with hands-on exhibits that make science exciting.
- Kids In Charge!: The largest children’s science centre in the nation.
- Disasterville: Learn about natural disasters through interactive displays.
- Sky Trail Ropes Course: A thrilling adventure above the museum.
- Virtual Reality Simulator: Experience cutting-edge VR technology.
Families can explore topics like technology, engineering, and maths. There is always something new to discover at MOSI.
9. Biking Trails
Florida boasts numerous biking trails that are safe and fun for kids. With so many things to do in Florida with kids, these trails offer a great way for families to enjoy outdoor adventures together.
- Legacy Trail in Sarasota: This trail is 12 miles long and very smooth.
- West Orange Trail in Winter Garden: A 22-mile trail with parks and playgrounds.
- Shark Valley Trail in Everglades: This is a 15-mile loop offering amazing wildlife views.
These trails offer rest areas and beautiful scenery. Remember to pack snacks and water. Always wear helmets and follow trail safety rules.
10. Kayaking Adventures
Kayaking in Florida’s rivers and springs is a thrilling experience for kids. The calm waters make it a safe and enjoyable activity.
Location | Description |
Silver Springs | Explore clear waters and see fish and turtles. |
Weeki Wachee | Paddle through a scenic river and spot manatees. |
Wekiva River | Enjoy a peaceful ride with lots of wildlife. |
Most locations offer kayak rentals and safety gear. It’s always a good idea to bring sunscreen and a hat. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife and enjoy the serene environment.
11. Seaworld Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando is a fantastic destination for families. This park provides unique marine animal experiences. Kids can watch dolphin shows and meet sea lions. The park also features thrilling rides and interactive exhibits.
- Dolphin Encounter: Kids can touch and feed dolphins.
- Shark Encounter: Walk through a tunnel surrounded by sharks.
- Turtle Trek: A 3D experience showcasing sea turtles.
These activities make learning about marine life fun and engaging. SeaWorld Orlando is an excellent choice for an educational day out.
12. Zoo Miami
Zoo Miami is one of the largest and oldest zoos in Florida. It houses over 3,000 animals from around the world. The zoo offers numerous interactive experiences for kids.
- Giraffe Feeding: Kids can feed and pet giraffes.
- Amazon & Beyond: An exhibit featuring animals from the Amazon rainforest.
- Critter Connection: A hands-on area with farm animals.
The zoo also features playgrounds and splash pads. This makes Zoo Miami a full-day adventure for families.
13. Airboat Rides
Airboat rides are an exhilarating way to explore Florida’s wetlands. These flat-bottomed boats, powered by huge fans, glide over the water at high speeds. Kids love the thrill of zooming through the swamps.
During the ride, you can spot alligators, turtles, and exotic birds. The tour guides share interesting facts about the wildlife and ecosystem. It’s a fun and educational experience.
Some popular locations for airboat rides include:
- Everglades National Park
- Lake Kissimmee
- Big Cypress National Preserve
14. Glass Bottom Boat Tours
Glass bottom boat tours offer a unique way to see underwater wonders. These boats have clear glass floors, allowing you to see fish and coral reefs without getting wet.
Kids can observe colorful marine life and learn about ocean ecosystems. The guides often point out interesting creatures and provide fascinating information.
Top spots for glass bottom boat tours are:
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
- Silver Springs State Park
- Key Largo
Both airboat rides and glass bottom boat tours provide unforgettable experiences. They combine adventure with education, making them perfect for family outings.
15. St. Augustine
St. Augustine is the oldest city in the U.S. It’s like stepping back in time. The whole family can enjoy it.
- Visit the Castillo de San Marcos. This stone fortress is over 300 years old.
- Explore the Colonial Quarter. It shows how people lived long ago.
- Walk down St. George Street. This street is full of shops and history.
This is a great place to learn and have fun. Kids will love the old buildings and stories.
16. Fort Zachary Taylor
Fort Zachary Taylor is in Key West. This fort played a big role in history. It’s perfect for a family visit.
- Tour the fort. See cannons and learn about its role in the Civil War.
- Enjoy a picnic at the park. There are tables and grills available.
- Swim at the beach nearby. The water is clear and inviting.
This is both educational and fun. It’s a wonderful place to spend the day with kids.
Pro Tips for Booking Hotels in Florida with Kids
When you’re planning a fun trip to Florida with your family especially kids, finding a great place to stay can make all the difference. Here are ten top-reviewed hotels that have been loved by lots of travelers :
- Sugar Sands Inn & Suites, Panama City Beach – A cozy spot right by the beach.
- Seahaven Beach Hotel, Panama City Beach – Perfect for sunny beach days.
- Ramada Inn Miami Airport North – Close to the airport and great for quick trips.
- Carriage House Resort Motel – A family-friendly place with lots of space.
- Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay – A big hotel with lots of cool things to do.
- Voco Sarasota An IHG Hotel – A modern hotel in Sarasota with fun features.
- The Standard Spa Miami Beach – A special place to relax and enjoy the beach.
- The Banyan Hotel Fort Myers Tapestry Collection by Hilton – A comfy and stylish hotel.
- Sterling Breeze by Panhandle Getaways – A nice spot with beach views.
- Holiday Inn Express Clearwater East Icot Center An IHG Hotel – Great for families with kids.
These hotels have many happy guests and can make your family vacation extra special.
Conclusion
Florida offers unforgettable adventures for families. With things to do in Florida with kids, from theme parks to beautiful beaches, there’s something for everyone. Make memories of exploring wildlife and enjoying outdoor activities. Planning a trip to Florida ensures endless fun and excitement for kids. Don’t miss out on these amazing experiences for a perfect family vacation. Don’t miss out on these amazing experiences and the countless things to do in Florida for a perfect family vacation.
FAQs
Orlando is the most kid-friendly part of Florida. It offers theme parks like Disney World, Universal Studios, and LEGOLAND.
Siesta Key Beach in Florida is the best kid-friendly beach. It offers soft white sand, shallow waters, and family amenities.
Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and LEGOLAND offer exciting attractions for kids of all ages.
Yes, Clearwater Beach and Siesta Key are perfect for families with calm waters and soft sand.
Visit Kennedy Space Center for interactive exhibits or explore the Florida Aquarium to learn about marine life.
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