Get ready to soak up the sunshine—because summer is right around the corner, and if you’re dreaming up a family getaway, we’ve got you covered! No one loves dealing with massive crowds during summer travels, so we’ve handpicked our favorite unique activities for you to experience off the beaten path in Florida. Whether your vacation vibes are beachy, spooky, adventurous, educational or artsy, Florida is your ultimate go-to destination—and there’s something here for every member of the fam.
10 kid-friendly activities to make your Florida trip memorable
Here are some of our favorite one-of-a-kind experiences to ensure your visit to the Sunshine State is absolutely unforgettable.
1. Spot a mermaid at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Dive into the whimsical world of the Weeki Wachee Mermaid Show, where mermaids have been performing playful underwater feats for the past six decades. This captivating performance blends fun and fantasy against the breathtaking backdrop of the natural spring. And the enchantment doesn’t stop with the mermaids—the state park offers the whole family an unforgettable experience, whether splashing amid the stunning scenery or kayaking down the spring run.
2. Go shelling on Sanibel Island
Elevate your beach time with a visit to the #1 shelling beach in North America. This little piece of paradise is a magnet for shells from the Gulf of Mexico. Let your kids go wild collecting shells for their epic sandcastle creations, or take your own zen moment to gather some shells during a leisurely stroll along Sanibel Island’s shores. When it’s time to escape the sun, keep your curiosity piqued with a visit to Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum—the only accredited museum in the United States dedicated solely to shells and mollusks.
3. Embark on a turtle walk at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center
For a truly one-of-a-kind adventure, sign up for a Turtle Walk with Gumbo Limbo Nature Center in Boca Raton. Although recommended for families with kids aged 8 or older due to its late-night schedule, the experience is undeniably worthwhile. With the chance to witness the ancient and fascinating nesting process of loggerhead sea turtles, this unique activity is more than just a beach outing. It’s an opportunity to cultivate a lifelong appreciation for conservation and the marvels of marine life.
4. Tube down the springs at Kelly Park in Apopka
Just an hour’s drive from Orlando, tubing at Kelly Park is not your average family activity—it’s a fun-filled adventure set against the lush backdrop of Florida’s natural beauty. Glide down Rock Spring Run, where families can kick back, relax and take in the scenic landscapes while floating downstream. The crystal-clear spring water provides a refreshing escape, and the gentle current ensures an exciting journey that’s pure fun for everyone—from the littlest adventurers to the young at heart.
5. Time travel through Florida Caverns State Park
Adventure-loving fams, this one’s for you! Embark on a journey through time in the dazzling caves of Florida Caverns State Park—the only place in Florida where you can take a guided tour through a massive cave system. Marvel at the rock stars of the underground world—rare rimstone pools, graceful “soda straws,” and shimmering calcite that have been growing, bit by bit, for thousands of years. Beyond the striking natural wonders, the state park offers campsites, horseback riding, cycling, swimming, geocaching, and boating.
6. Discover the spooky history of St. Augustine
As the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the continental United States, St. Augustine has centuries of history and spirited lore to unravel. Nestled on Florida’s east coast, this town is an ideal destination for families with a penchant for the paranormal. With half a dozen spirited attractions to choose from, St. Augustine provides a thrilling blend of historical anecdotes and chilling tales, making a ghost tour a unique and family-friendly adventure. From the iconic Castillo de San Marcos to the ancient streets lined with historical buildings, the tours allow families to immerse themselves in the city’s rich and eerie history.
7. Encounter a koala at the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society
Escape to the Outback without crossing the globe by indulging in an exclusive Outback safari at the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society—the only place in North America for an up-close encounter with a koala. This unique experience caters to animal enthusiasts and aspiring zoologists of all ages. As an exciting bonus, they also just announced the birth of a baby two-toed sloth, which we can only imagine will be melting hearts, adding an extra dose of adorable charm to your visit.
8. Find hidden treasure on a Pirate River Quest
Amidst the roller coasters and theme park thrills in Florida, embark on an exceptionally memorable adventure by setting sail on the quest for Captain Redbeard’s lost treasure at LEGOland. Unleash your inner swashbuckler and navigate through uncharted waters as the whole family enjoys a breathtaking boat ride that transforms into an epic treasure hunt. This playful expedition guarantees enjoyment for even the most skeptical of pirates, ensuring a uniquely unforgettable experience amidst the theme park paradise of Florida.
9. Venture to another world at Planet Play
Embark on an out-of-this-world adventure at Kennedy Space Center’s Planet Play, a space-themed wonderland that offers a galaxy of unique activities for explorers of all ages. From racing a Mars rover to climbing through black holes and navigating planets, this immersive experience transcends traditional play. And it’s not just for kids—parents can enjoy coffee, wine and beer with an expansive view of the play area from the Planet Play Lounge, and toddlers can enjoy a soft play area on the moon. An educational and unforgettable interstellar experience awaits the whole family!
10. Get immersed in multisensory art exhibits at the Wizard of Oz Museum
Explore larger-than-life immersive experiences at the Wizard of Oz Museum. Step into a world where realistic digital landscapes and enhanced storytelling take the classic tale to playful new heights. This incredible destination goes beyond Oz, offering immersive Van Gogh and Universe experiences that seamlessly blend fantasy, art, play and learning. Let imaginations flourish as kids envision skipping down the yellow brick road, swirling around Starry Night, or soaring through space in this unique and fun-filled activity designed for creative minds of all ages.
Crafting family memories is a breeze with these exceptional excursions in Florida. Whether you’re craving beachy bliss, spooky thrills, adventurous escapades, educational insights or artsy vibes, Florida offers it all. Dive into an unforgettable vacation that caters to every taste and preference, making it the ultimate family destination.
