Here are some great cities and resort towns to take the kids to when vacationing in Florida!
I grew up in Bergenfield New Jersey. I will never forget the time I came home from school and my mother said that she, I and my sister were going to Miami Beach for 4 days and 3 nights.
I was only 7 or 8 years old but I still remember being excited like it was just yesterday.
To be honest, I do not remember the name of the resort but I remember playing on the beach for hours.
If you want to surprise your kids with an impromptu trip to the Sunshine State, here are some go-to getaways sure to please the kids!
The Sunshine State offers a variety of family-friendly vacation destinations year-round. From the outstanding accommodations at the Westgate Resorts to the amazing explorations at the many waterparks, Florida is the perfect getaway to take with the kids.
Below, we have featured some of the best family vacation spots for the ultimate fun-filled experience.
St. Petersburg and Clearwater
There are many gorgeous beaches in St. Petersburg and Clearwater like the immaculate Caladesi Island State Park beach and the popular action-packed Clearwater Beach, but there is not a better family-friendly beach than Fort De Soto Park.
Fort De Soto Park (& Beach)
In Fort De Soto Park and Treasure Island, there are fully equipped playgrounds and beach campsites, as well as beachfront restaurants that families can enjoy.
Families can also visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium where stingrays, sharks, and sea turtles can be seen, or take a double-decker catamaran out to see to check out dolphins leaping gracefully.
The Great Explorations Children’s Museum is a favorite spot for kids. It has an indoor playground to a large collection of STEM toys. In addition to playing and burning off some energy, children stimulate their minds.
Destin
Destin, on Florida’s Emerald coast, is a beautiful weekend destination for water-loving families. Fishing, surfing, and sunbathing are the most popular activities on this breathtaking shoreline.
The Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park offers lazy rivers and waterslides, as well as penguins and dolphins at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. The kids are sure to enjoy racing at the go-karting track.
The kids will love the fun-filled Destin Harbour Boardwalk or a boat ride to Crab Island. Here, they can enjoy inflatable water slides, obstacle courses, and climbing the rock walls.
At Henderson Beach State Park, you can choose a spot to enjoy the calm scenic views.
Orlando
Among Florida’s family destinations, Orlando is the first one that comes to every child’s mind.
Of course, some of Orlando’s main attractions include Universal Studios, SeaWorld, and Disney World, among others.
Alligator lovers will enjoy a visit to the Gatorland theme park, where you will see these beautiful creatures up close.
In nearby Legoland, Lego fans can indulge themselves in interactive Lego-themes games.
A visit to Orlando is not complete without checking out KidsTown, an interactive exhibit where kids can learn how oranges get from the tree to the breakfast table.
Sanibel and Captiva Islands
Families seeking a quiet and peaceful getaway will love the barrier Islands of Sanibel and Captiva. Sanibel Island is home to J.N. Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge, where different varieties of birds, reptiles, mammals, and amphibians are rehabilitated.
There are also many waterways that are perfect for canoeing and kayaking for active families.
This destination offers a variety of learning opportunities for kids and families including observing dolphins jumping in the water, discovering marine life, or engaging in hands-on science exhibitions.
Tampa Bay
On foot, you can explore Tampa’s downtown Riverwalk, or you can hop in a canoe and observe wildlife along the Hillsborough River. At the Lowry Zoo, children can enjoy wonderful encounters with different animal species. The Florida Aquarium which recently came up with a breakthrough to potentially save the 3rds largest coral reef in the world, is a top attraction with the little ones while the Laser Ops Extreme Gaming Arcade is sure to be a hit with the teenagers.
Conclusion
Florida has a variety of amusement parks and attractions that appeal to kids and adults alike. Its beautiful sandy beaches, educational interests, and a wide array of outdoor activities will keep guests coming again and again.
