There’s no better place to spend a vacation with the kids than Florida. With its beautiful beaches, theme parks, and water parks, this state is full of fun things to do to keep your family busy! Whether you’re looking for something simple like roller coasters or want to take a mini adventure through the Everglades.
The favorite thing about visiting Florida amusement parks is that there are always things happening throughout the day that keep us entertained for hours on end (and don’t forget about fireworks!). Plus, it allows you to see how other people celebrate their birthdays over beers by eating cotton candy from a bucket while watching fireworks explode around them; it doesn’t get much better!
We’ve got some great ideas for getting everyone involved in activities they’ll enjoy. Let’s get started!
- Walt Disney World, Orlando
Walt Disney World is the top-rated destination in Orlando, Florida. Located just outside Disney World, you can visit this park with your family and friends. There are many attractions to choose from, which include:
- Pirates of the Caribbean
- Splash Mountain Waterplay Ride
- The Magic Kingdom
- Main Street Electrical Parade
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom
- Dinosaur Park Expedition
- Everest Toy Story Land
- Universal Studios Orlando, Orlando
Universal Studios Orlando is a movie-themed amusement park in Orlando, Florida, that opened on June 7, 1990, as Universal Studios Florida, with the resort opening three months later on July 1. It is the largest of the four theme parks operated by Universal Parks & Resorts.
This beautiful park has various rides for all ages, including roller coasters like King Kong 360 3D and Revenge of the Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor or Harry Potter and the Escape From Gringotts (which was my favorite). Several family-friendly attractions include Jurassic Park – The Ride 3D, one of America’s best roller coasters by Amusement Today readers!
- Kennedy Space Center, Titusville
Kennedy Space Center is in Titusville, Florida. If you’re looking to visit a space center that’s family-friendly and educational, this is the place to go! The visitor’s center includes exhibits on NASA’s history and mission and hands-on activities such as rocket building and flight simulation.
If your family wants to take part in other activities at Kennedy Space Center, there are plenty of opportunities for them:
- You can ride on a shuttle simulator (ages 6+)
- You can explore what it would be like if humans ever traveled beyond Earth’s orbit (ages 8+)
- You can try out simulators for smaller rockets like kitchens or even full-size ones (ages 12+)
- LEGOLAND, Orlando
LEGOLAND Florida Resort is a theme park, water park, and hotel complex in Winter Haven, Florida. The largest LEGOLAND theme park in the world—with more than 50 rides and attractions—LEGOLAND Florida Resort has a variety of LEGO models, such as Miniland USA. With its many activities for all ages, you’ll find something to do at this family-friendly attraction!
In addition to the more than 50 rides and attractions, LEGOLAND Florida Resort has seven themed lands: Miniland USA, Imagination Zone, LEGO City, LEGOLAND Water Park, Pirate Shores, and Land of Adventure. You’ll find something engaging for everyone at this popular theme park!
- Biscayne National Park, Miami Area
Biscayne National Park is one of the largest urban parks in Florida. The park boasts over 400 acres, making it one of Miami’s most accessible and popular family-friendly attractions.
The history behind this attraction goes back to 1912, when Theodore Roosevelt created a preserve for birds by purchasing land from local farmers who had previously been raising crops on these lands. Nowadays, you can see hundreds of species of birds, including hawks and owls, and penguins swimming around in their natural habitats.
You can do numerous activities at Biscayne National Park, including Bird watching – You’ll be amazed by all the different wildlife found here!
- Everglades National Park, Everglades
Everglades is the third largest national park in the lower 48 states; Everglades National Park is the largest wilderness area east of the Mississippi River. It’s home to many endangered species and ecosystems, including mangroves and hardwood hammocks.
Everglades National Park was created in 1947 through an act of Congress. The park protects almost 90% of Florida’s mangrove forests, which are essential for providing renewable resources such as food, fish, and shellfish for millions of people throughout South Florida, as well as protecting against coastal erosion during storms like hurricanes
- Naval Aviation Museum, Pensacola
The Naval Aviation Museum Pensacola is on the grounds of the former Naval Air Station, now known as NAS Whiting Field. They offer a variety of family-friendly activities like airplane rides, airshows, and flight simulators.
The museum is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM (closed on Christmas Day). Admission prices vary depending on age groups and attractions featured in your visit. However, admission is only $5 per person for children ages 6 through 12 years old or $8 for adults over 65 without an accompanying child under 16 years old; seniors 62+ are admitted free, with one guest paying a total price for them both.*
- Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, Key West
This attraction is open to exploring nature wonders 365 days a year, seven days a week. It’s closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day, so check the website before traveling!
The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is one of the best places in Florida for kids who are into nature and butterflies—and it’s not just because they have some friendly birds you can pet.
This facility has an indoor butterfly garden with over 3 million butterflies flying around it! There are also special exhibits about insects like ladybugs (which are great for teaching kids about cooperation), spiders (another good lesson about sharing), and butterflies. And if your child is interested in exploring and learning more about plants, this attraction has plenty of them, including palms from around the world!
- St. Augustine Alligator Farm, St.Augustine
If you’re longing for a fun family activity in Florida, look no further than St. Augustine Alligator Farm. The attraction allows visitors to learn about alligators and their habitat while getting up close with these beautiful creatures. It is the best place to go so your kids can experience something new without being scared by an animal that could eat them whole!
The farm is on Highway A1A next door to Spinnaker Maritime Museum (a must-see if you’re visiting). This location provides excellent views of downtown St. Augustine and allows visitors access to their gift shop or restaurant if they choose not to tour the farm but still want some delicious food there instead!
- Kelly Park, Apopka
Apopka is a city in Orange County, Florida, United States, approximately 16 miles northwest of Orlando. Kelly Park is a popular family-friendly park in Apopka, just off the Orange Blossom Trail. This large playground features swings, slides, and merry-go-rounds for children to enjoy while their parents are relaxing on benches or taking in some sun by the lake.
You can also go fishing at Kelly Park Lake and rent boats from them to go out on it!
- Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, State Hill
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is a beautiful state park home to the Weeki Wachee River and its famous manatees. The park has an abundance of wildlife, including Florida panthers and alligators. There are also trails for hiking and biking through the woods.
You can take a bus ($7 per person) to Spring Hill from Tampa or Sarasota or drive yourself by car (about $8). If you’re riding your bike, bring along some water for when you’re thirsty!
Once at the park entrance gatehouse—which will be manned 24 hours a day during your visit—you’ll pay $7 per person for admission into the park itself; if they don’t have someone working there, then just ask them what time they close today/tomorrow morning before leaving town
- Ichetucknee Springs State Park, Fort White
Ichetucknee Springs State Park is astonishing to visit during Florida’s spring season. It’s located in the Apalachicola National Forest and has many beautiful natural springs that can be explored on foot or by boat. You can get a guided tour of the park, giving you more insight into what makes this area special.
Head east on Highway 319 (also known as W State Road) for about two miles until you reach Ichetucknee Springs State Park’s main entrance gate near mile marker 1. The campsites are available here as well as cabins if you’d like somewhere else to stay overnight after exploring some of their trails during your adventure!
If possible, try going during the low season since most activities cost less than when it gets crowded during peak times (like Easter weekend).
- Pier 60 Sunset Celebration, Clearwater Beach
Pier 60 is a great place to watch the sunset. The pier is located on the beach and offers a great view of the sunset, making it an ideal family spot looking for a quality, enjoyable time. Many restaurants, shops, and attractions nearby will keep your children entertained while you enjoy your meal or browse through some souvenirs.
It’s also worth noting that Pier 60 has some activities for kids: there are several playgrounds for them to play on; they can ride go-karts or miniature golf carts; they can even participate in mini golf if they want something other than just watching!
- Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales
Bok Tower is a botanical garden and National Historic Landmark in Lake Wales, Florida, United States. The gardens are unavailable for visits on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
Bok Tower Gardens is a popular tourist attraction in Central Florida. It was founded by George W. King of Chicago as the Bok Tower Garden Company in 1909 with the help of his wife Elsie (née Mannering).
The gardens were designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr., son of the famed landscape architect who designed Central Park in New York City. The park is situated on a high ridge overlooking Lake Wales and has become an icon of Florida’s citrus industry. The main feature at Bok Tower Gardens is the bell tower, which stands tall and weighs over. It is one of the most significant freestanding stone structures in Florida.
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Key Largo
This attraction is a state park located at the southern tip of Key Largo. The park is named after John Pennekamp, a former Florida state senator who helped create the park.
The park has been added to the National Register of Historic Places listings because it contains significant natural resources and cultural landmarks that make it an essential part of our nation’s history. United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) designated this park as an International Biosphere Reserve.
- Giraffe Ranch, Dade City
If you’re in the Tampa Bay area, it’s worth a stop at Giraffe Ranch Dade City. This family-friendly attraction has an outdoor petting zoo, an animal barn, and playgrounds for kids to play on. They also have plenty of benches for parents to relax or take a break from the kids if they need it!
You can bring your food and beverages (no outside food or drinks), but there are no outdoor restrooms, so make sure you pack some extra towels and sunscreen in case that happens!
- Museum of Arts and Sciences, Daytona Beach
The Museum of Arts and Sciences Daytona Beach is an excellent place for kids of all ages. The museum has many exhibits that will excite your child’s curiosity, including the planetarium, aquarium, and butterfly house.
In addition to these three exhibits, many fossils are on display at this museum. The museum is also home to the Florida Museum of Natural History and the Center for African Art. Both of these museums have a lot of exciting exhibits that will fascinate both kids and adults.
- Naples Botanical Gardens, Naples
Naples Botanical Gardens is a must-see for anyone visiting Naples, Florida. The gardens are located in the beautiful Gibson Park and offer an array of plant species worldwide. There are also ponds for bird watching and lush rainforests that you can explore on foot or by bike.
Naples Botanical Gardens was founded in 1973 as an educational facility dedicated to maintaining native plants worldwide while providing educational programming for children at all levels. Today it’s one of the most extensive botanical gardens in Florida, with over 3 acres worth exploring!
- Manatee Observation and Education Center, Fort Pierce
Manatee is the place to go if you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly day trip. The center is open year-round and is at the Fort Pierce Marina. You can enjoy an educational experience with your kids by watching manatees in their natural habitat from a boat or train! It’s not just about seeing these fascinating creatures—it’s also about learning all about them!
The center has various exhibits, including one focusing on the Indian River Lagoon. You can also explore the manatees’ habitat and get up close with them as they swim.
- Avalon State Park, Fort Pierce
If you’re looking for a place to go hiking with your kids, Avalon State Park is the perfect spot. Located in Fort Pierce, Florida, this state park offers plenty of things to do for all ages!
Avalon State Park has an extensive nature center where you can learn about local wildlife and explore the surrounding environment through interactive displays. They also have a theater that hosts concerts throughout the year—and if you’re lucky enough to get tickets before they sell out (which happens fast), it’s just $5 per person! The boat ramp allows visitors access to Biscayne Bay or St. Lucie River, so they can enjoy fishing along those bodies of water or even see dolphins swim by on their way home from work at nearby dockside restaurants.
- Blue Spring State Park, Orange City
If you’re looking for a fun-oriented family-friendly attraction, look no further than Blue Spring State Park. This fantastic state park is located just outside Orange City and has been open since 1939. The park has many different attractions for people of all ages that will keep your whole family entertained!
The main attraction at this park is Blue Spring, a natural spring that provides fresh drinking water to visitors who visit its beautiful scenery or cool off in its waters. There are many things to do at this great Florida State Park, such as hiking trails and camping sites where you can spend some time relaxing with friends or family members who may be visiting from out-of-town on vacation together with you!
- Boca Raton Children’s Museum, Boca Raton
Boca Raton Children’s Museum is in Florida City on the campus of Florida Atlantic University, open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday, and admission is free for all ages over four (under six are admitted at no charge).
The museum offers interactive exhibits that children can explore on their own or with an adult in tow, including:
- an art studio where they can create their masterpieces using paint and brushes
- a play area filled with toys for imaginative play
- a science lab where kids get to discover how things work by conducting experiments
- other hands-on educational experiences like cooking classes or puppet shows
Special events occur throughout the year, such as story time programs for parents and babies alike, allowing families to spend quality time together while learning something new! If you have older children interested in exploring museums separately from their siblings, consider taking advantage of this option because it will give them plenty of freedom within these spaces too.”
- Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Clearwater
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a marine life conservation center and aquarium in Clearwater, Florida. It is on the Gulf coast near Tampa Bay and houses over 250 species of animals and plants.
The aquarium was founded in 1976 by local businessman William Ahearn who had been collecting fish for many years before starting his collection. In 1980 the first exhibit opened to visitors with a tank filled with corals, anemones, and colorful fish from around the world! The facility now includes several exhibits, including an underwater tunnel through which visitors can view sharks swimming below them and touch tanks where you can hold your hand against an octopus or sea horse (both part of their permanent exhibit).
There are also animal touch screens throughout where children can learn about different types of sharks by touching them on screen. These include nurse sharks who feed off other reef creatures like crabs but only eat once every few days, so don’t bother trying to catch one yourself because they’ll bite off more than what hurts when they bite back!
- Wynwood Walls, Miami
Wynwood Walls is a street art district in Miami, Florida. It was formed in 2013 by the local community and has become a popular tourist attraction. The area is covered with murals on walls, buildings, and sidewalks that depict everything from pop culture icons to political figures to celebrities’ faces.
The area is home to several galleries, studios, and small business owners. The community hosts events throughout the year, including First Fridays Art Walk and the Wynwood Music Festival.
- Dry Tortugas National Park, Key West
Dry Tortugas is a national park in the Gulf of Mexico, 70 miles west of Key West, Florida. The park protects most of the 70 small islands that make up the Dry Tortugas, with the exception of Fort Jefferson and Garden Key.
The best and advisable way to explore this place is on a boat or kayak tour. You can also drive through some parts if you’re feeling adventurous!
The main attraction here is getting up close to these islands so you can see how they were formed by earthquakes and hurricanes over thousands of years.
- J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, Sanibel Island
J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge Sanibel Island is a wildlife sanctuary located on Sanibel Island on the Florida Gulf Coast. Congress created the refuge to protect essential habitats for birds and other wildlife, including endangered species like the American alligator and bald eagle.
The refuge encompasses about 110 miles of coastline along Boca Grande Pass & Indian Passes and over 80 miles of saltwater shoreline along Apalachee Bay & Laguna Madre (which includes Fort Myers Beach). There are many opportunities for bird watching here—you can see pelicans feeding their young or egrets fishing for shrimp at nightfall!
- Rainbow Springs State Park, Dunnellon
Rainbow Springs is a Florida State Park located in Dunnellon, Florida. The park is open from 8:00 am until sundown, 365 days a year. There are two types of activities at the park: swimming and hiking/biking trails.
The water park includes three pools (one for each age group), including one for toddlers under three years old; it also has an area where you can rent surfboards and more! You could spend all day here if you wanted to!
The park has a nature trail that leads to a beautiful view of the lake and the surrounding area. There are also several hiking trails throughout the park, including one that takes you to an old Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp. If you enjoy biking, there is even more for you!
Florida is a promisingly beautiful place to visit, with many fun things to do with kids. It’s also one of the most family-friendly states in America. If you plan to visit Florida, we hope this list has given you some ideas!
