Florida is known as the Sunshine State and for good reason. It’s somewhere that always seems perfect for a holiday. We have had some amazing trips to Florida with kids and been lucky enough to have visited the state multiple times. We always try to get out and explore on our family trips to Florida so have amassed some knowledge of things to do in this lovely state. With its warm weather, beautiful beaches, exciting attractions, and outdoor adventures, Florida offers endless opportunities for fun and memorable experiences. Whether your family loves thrilling theme parks, wildlife adventures, or relaxing beach days, Florida has something for everyone. Let’s take a tour around the state and explore its unique regions, top cities, and the best activities for kids in Florida.
👩💻 About the author – Nichola is a family travel expert and has written for The Guardian, The Telegraph, Lonely Planet Magazine and Wanderlust, amongst many others. She’s spent over a decade travelling the world with her children, finding the best places for you to explore too.
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Table of Contents
About Florida with kids
Florida is a really diverse state. There are plenty of areas really geared up for tourism. But there are many sleepy seaside towns also crying out to be explored. It’s somewhere to come and spend as much time as you have. You won’t be disappointed.
Our guide – Amazing trips to take in Florida with kids
We have had some wonderful trips in Florida with our children. From our road trip through Georgia and Florida to a 14 day Florida itinerary all through the state.
Best things to do in Florida with kids
There are so many things to do in Florida for children. Some of our favourites are –
- Watch dolphins in the wild at New Smyrna Beach
- Eat Key lime pie
- Enjoy the theme parks of Orlando
- See a rocket taking off from Cape Canaveral
- Take an airboat ride in the Everglades
- Walk the white sand beaches of the west coast
- Travel to the furthest point in Key West
- Spot the unique shells of Sanibel Island
- Tour the Ringling Museum in Sarasota
- See a mermaid show at Weeki Wachee Springs
- Ride bikes in Shark Valley
Interesting places to stay in Florida with kids
There are some great places to stay all across the state. Some of the favourites we’ve stayed in have been
- Omni Amelia Island
- Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Universal Orlando
- Aqualinas Beach, Miami
- Melia Celebration
- Vinoy Resort, St Petersburg
- Endless Summer Resort, Universal Orlando
The best places to go in Florida with kids
Florida is full of exciting possibilities. Deserted beaches to colourful theme parks. Whatever you’re hoping to get out of a family holiday Florida won’t disappoint.
North Florida: Natural Beauty and Family Adventures
North Florida offers an inviting mix of beaches, history, and southern charm, perfect for families. The barrier islands, such as Amelia Island, are known for their wide, sandy shores, calm waters, and quaint historic towns ideal for exploring by bike. We absolutely loved or time on Amelia Island, it felt like such a wonderful break away. Jacksonville boasts miles of family-friendly beaches, interactive museums, and a vibrant riverfront for picnics and play. Inland, Tallahassee, the state capital, surprises with its leafy parks, nature trails, and fascinating museums like the Tallahassee Museum, where wildlife meets history. This region blends coastal fun with educational stops, from lighthouse climbs to Civil War forts. Families can enjoy a slower pace here, with plenty of outdoor activities — kayaking, dolphin-spotting boat tours, or simply building sandcastles. With its laid-back charm, affordable attractions, and diverse landscapes, North Florida makes for a relaxed yet enriching family holiday destination.
Top Cities and Towns in North Florida for kids
- Jacksonville
Jacksonville, the largest city in Florida, is packed with family-friendly activities. Visit the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, where kids can meet animals from around the world and enjoy the splash play area. The Museum of Science and History (MOSH) is another highlight, offering interactive exhibits and planetarium shows that kids will love. Don’t miss Jacksonville Beach for a day of sandcastle building and swimming. - Tallahassee
Florida’s capital city is a hub of education and nature. Families can explore the Tallahassee Museum, which combines a zoo, historic buildings, and adventure courses. Take a stroll through the stunning Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park, or visit the Challenger Learning Center for hands-on science exhibits and an IMAX theater. - Amelia Island
This charming destination is perfect for families looking for a laid-back vacation. Enjoy horse riding on the beach, kayaking, or a relaxing boat tour. The Pirate Playground is a favorite spot for kids, while the whole family will love the scenic Fort Clinch State Park.
Best Things to Do with Kids in North Florida
- Visit Big Talbot Island State Park for nature trails and unique driftwood-covered beaches.
- Explore St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city, with attractions like the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument and St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park.
- Take a riverboat cruise on the St. Johns River, perfect for spotting wildlife and enjoying Florida’s natural beauty.
Central Florida: Theme Park Capital of the World
We’ve had so many trips to central Florida, it’s a destination, we, and in particular, the kids, adore. Central Florida is a dream destination for many families, thanks to its world-famous theme parks and varied attractions. Orlando is home to Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort, offering magical adventures for all ages. In nearby Kissimmee, you can stay in family-friendly resorts or try hot-air balloon rides over the lush landscape.
Beyond the theme parks, Tampa adds a coastal twist with the Florida Aquarium, Busch Gardens, and soft Gulf Coast beaches just a short drive away. Families will love the mix of adrenaline-filled rides and opportunities to encounter animals up close. Central Florida also has nature reserves and freshwater springs, perfect for cooling off on a hot day. With sunny weather year-round, endless entertainment, and kid-focused facilities, it’s a region where family memories are made daily — from meeting Mickey Mouse to splashing in natural springs under the Florida sun.
Top Cities and Towns in Central Florida
- Orlando
Orlando is a dream destination for kids, filled with iconic theme parks. Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando are must-visits. Beyond the parks, check out the Crayola Experience, an interactive museum celebrating creativity, or explore the fascinating exhibits at the Orlando Science Center. - Tampa
Tampa offers a blend of thrilling attractions and cultural experiences. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay combines a zoo with roller coasters, making it a hit for kids of all ages. The Florida Aquarium and ZooTampa at Lowry Park are other favorites for animal lovers. For some indoor fun, visit the Glazer Children’s Museum, where kids can play and learn in interactive exhibits. - Kissimmee
Just a short drive from Orlando, Kissimmee is home to unique family-friendly attractions like the Old Town Kissimmee, a retro-themed shopping and entertainment district. Kids will also love an airboat ride through the nearby Everglades Headwaters, where they can spot alligators and birds.
Read more of our posts from this area:
Universal Orlando resort for toddlers
Ten secrets of Universal Resort
The best day trips from Orlando
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
The best things to do in New Smyrna Beach
A review of Hard Rock Cafe Orlando
Hard Rock Cafe Tampa Airport review
Melia Celebration Resort Orlando
Best Things to Do with Kids in Central Florida
- Spend a day at LEGOLAND Florida Resort, featuring rides, a water park, and life-sized LEGO creations.
- Take a hot air balloon ride for breathtaking views of Florida’s countryside.
- See wild dolphins at New Smyrna Beach
- Walt Disney World Resort (Orlando) – Explore the four magical parks, from Cinderella’s Castle in Magic Kingdom to the wild safaris at Animal Kingdom.
- Universal Orlando Resort – Experience movie-themed rides, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, perfect for older kids and teens.
- Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex (Titusville) – Learn about space travel, meet astronauts, and see real rockets.
- Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens (Sanford) – See animals, feed giraffes, and try the kids’ splash playground.
- Wekiwa Springs State Park – Swim, kayak, or picnic in crystal-clear natural springs.
- Crayola Experience (Orlando) – A colourful indoor playground where kids can make their own crayons and art.
South Florida: Beaches, Culture, and Wildlife
South Florida is where tropical vibes meet family fun. Miami offers colourful neighbourhoods, from the street art of Wynwood to the sandy stretches of South Beach, where calm mornings are ideal for young swimmers. The Miami Children’s Museum and Jungle Island provide interactive, hands-on adventures for little ones.
Fort Lauderdale’s palm-fringed beaches and water taxis make exploring easy, with kid-friendly museums and boat tours adding variety. On the Gulf Coast, Naples charms families with its pristine beaches, calm waters, and the Naples Zoo. Nature lovers can explore the Everglades on airboat rides, spotting alligators and unique birdlife. The region blends city energy with peaceful natural escapes, so families can enjoy both cultural attractions and days spent shell-hunting by the shore.
South Florida’s mix of sunshine, warm seas, and diverse activities ensures there’s something to delight every age group. It’s an area of Florida we have really enjoyed exploring with our children and they love the beaches here/
Top Cities and Towns in South Florida with Kids
- Miami
Miami is a vibrant city offering a mix of culture, nature, and fun for kids. Visit Zoo Miami, one of the largest zoos in the U.S. Families will love the Frost Science Museum, which features a planetarium, aquarium, and hands-on exhibits. - Fort Lauderdale
Known as the “Venice of America” for its canals, Fort Lauderdale is a great place for families. Take a scenic water taxi ride, or visit the Museum of Discovery and Science, where kids can play and learn. For outdoor fun, head to Fort Lauderdale Beach or the nearby Butterfly World, home to thousands of colorful butterflies. - Naples
Naples is perfect for families seeking relaxation and nature. Spend a day at the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, or visit the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, filled with interactive exhibits. Naples also boasts beautiful beaches like Lowdermilk Park, where kids can play in the sand and splash in the calm waves.
Best Things to Do in South Florida with Kids
- Take an airboat tour through the Everglades National Park to see alligators and other wildlife up close.
- Explore the coral reefs at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo, the first underwater park in the U.S.
- Enjoy family time at Matheson Hammock Park, featuring a man-made atoll pool perfect for young swimmers.
Read more of our posts on south Florida
A guide to Fort Lauderdale Airport
Southwest Florida: Relaxation and Nature
Southwest Florida combines stunning beaches, cultural attractions, and relaxed coastal living, making it perfect for a family trip. Sarasota offers white-sand beaches like Siesta Key, as well as the fascinating Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. Families can enjoy boat tours, spot dolphins, and even visit the circus-themed Ringling Museum for a quirky educational twist.
Fort Myers has shell-covered beaches on nearby Sanibel Island and historical sites such as the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, which spark curiosity in kids. Further south, Marco Island offers a peaceful, upscale retreat with gentle waves and nature tours through the Ten Thousand Islands, where manatees and sea turtles can be spotted. This region’s calm waters and uncrowded beaches are ideal for young swimmers, while its variety of attractions ensures parents enjoy the trip as much as the children.
Top Cities and Towns in Southwest Florida
- Fort Myers
Fort Myers is a hub of family-friendly activities. Visit the IMAG History and Science Center for hands-on exhibits, or explore the beaches of Sanibel Island for shelling and wildlife spotting. The Edison and Ford Winter Estates offer beautiful gardens and educational exhibits. - Sarasota
Sarasota is known for its arts scene and family attractions. The Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium is a hit with kids, as is the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Don’t miss a visit to the famous Siesta Key Beach, often rated the best beach in the U.S. - Marco Island
Located near Naples, Marco Island is a quiet, family-friendly destination. Take a dolphin-watching tour or explore Tigertail Beach, known for its shallow waters and abundant wildlife. Kayaking through the island’s mangroves is another adventure kids will enjoy.
Best Things to Do with Kids in Southwest Florida
- Visit Lovers Key State Park for beach picnics and kayaking adventures.
- Take a nature tour to see manatees in their natural habitat at Manatee Park.
- Explore the pristine beaches and nature trails at Cayo Costa State Park, accessible only by boat.
Florida Keys: Island Fun for Families
The Florida Keys offer a unique island-hopping adventure for families, connected by the scenic Overseas Highway. Starting in Key Largo, families can snorkel in shallow reefs at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park or explore glass-bottom boat tours.
Islamorada is perfect for fishing trips and dolphin encounters. In Marathon, kids will love visiting the Turtle Hospital to learn about sea turtle rescue. Key West, the southernmost point in the continental US, has colourful streets, historic homes, and sandy beaches ideal for picnics. Along the way, families can stop at state parks for swimming, kayaking, and wildlife spotting. The laid-back island pace, combined with the chance to see coral reefs, tropical fish, and spectacular sunsets, makes the Keys a magical destination. It’s an adventure where learning about marine life meets simple pleasures like spotting pelicans and eating key lime pie by the water.
Top Cities and Towns in the Florida Keys
- Key West
The southernmost point of the continental U.S., Key West is a laid-back destination with plenty of family-friendly activities. Visit the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory or the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum to learn about sunken treasure. Don’t miss a sunset celebration at Mallory Square, where street performers entertain the whole family. - Marathon
Marathon is a family-friendly hub in the middle of the Keys. The Dolphin Research Center and Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters provide unique opportunities to interact with marine life. For outdoor fun, visit Sombrero Beach, a quiet spot perfect for swimming and picnicking.
Best Things to Do with Kids in the Florida Keys
- Snorkel at Bahia Honda State Park, one of Florida’s most beautiful beaches.
- Take a glass-bottom boat tour to see colorful coral reefs.
- Explore the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center for a fun and educational experience.
Florida’s Best Beaches for Families
- Clearwater Beach: Known for its soft, white sand and shallow waters, perfect for kids.
- Destin: Famous for its emerald-green waters and family-friendly atmosphere.
- Cocoa Beach: A great spot for beginner surfers and home to the Kennedy Space Center.
- Anna Maria Island: A quiet beach destination ideal for families seeking relaxation.
- Fort De Soto Park: Offers a playground, calm waters, and plenty of space for family fun.
Florida’s Best National and State Parks for Kids
- Everglades National Park: Perfect for airboat tours and wildlife spotting.
- Dry Tortugas National Park: Accessible by ferry or seaplane, this park features a historic fort and stunning snorkeling opportunities.
- Wekiwa Springs State Park: Great for swimming, kayaking, and hiking.
- Silver Springs State Park: Known for its glass-bottom boat tours.
- Biscayne National Park: A haven for snorkeling, boating, and exploring coral reefs.
Our Florida recipes
We love recreating recipes from our world travels. Whenever we go to America we are always inspired to cook up some new ones. Here are some of our favourites –
The best vegan chcolate chip cookie recipe
A recipe for cauliflower buffalo wings
Recipe for pumpkin and peanut butter cookies with chocolate chip
Check out our full guide to the USA with kids here
