SURPRISE ME!
From theme parks and nature trails, to water parks and amazing beaches, there’s a never-ending list of fun things in to do in Florida, especially for children. Aptly nicknamed the Sunshine State, here are only some reasons why you should head there for a wholesome family vacation.
Think Florida and the first thought that jumps to mind is the gigantic Walt Disney World, which Florida has almost become synonymous with. Princess castles, cartoon characters that come alive and brain scrambling rides—words don’t do justice to the Disney experience, for it has to be savoured first-hand.
The movie-themed Universal Studios Florida and the fantastical Islands of Adventure, home of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter must also feature on your list. Alongside the original SeaWorld Orlando Park, don’t miss the company’s newer properties—Discovery Cove and Aquatica. At Discovery Cove, admission is limited to only 1,000 visitors per day, providing access to crystal clear snorkelling lagoons where the dolphins swim. The iconic Legoland and Cape Coral waterpark are worth a visit too.
For roadside kitsch, visit Kissimmee's Old Town, just five miles from Walt Disney World. The Saturday night classic car show and unlimited ride wristbands offer something for everyone in the family. If your kids are brave, take a walk through the permanent house of horrors.
Read more: 10 Things That Should Be On Your US Travel Bucket List
You must take your kids to the Florida Everglades—the only place in the world where alligators and crocodiles co-exist. The sheer variety and numbers will amaze you, and this is probably the only place where you will see albino alligators.
While there, don’t forget to take the kids on the Pirate Cruise! The crew will keep your lil’ ones busy from the time they board the ship until you are back in the harbour. A water gun fight, pulling a sunken treasure chest up from the ocean, and plenty of dancing and games for everyone to enjoy!
Read more: The 7 Most Gorgeous Cities to Visit in the USA
It’s always a good idea to mix some learning with fun. The oldest city in the USA (St. Augustine) is in Florida. Settled in 1565, this is the oldest continuously occupied city in the United States. Many of the city’s buildings have been restored to their original configurations. A hop-on, hop-off trolley tour allows you the freedom to enjoy the city and its fascinating history at your pace.
Kennedy Space Center, on the Atlantic Coast near Titusville, Florida is quite a delight for science nerds. It has been the launch site for every manned US space mission since 1968. After a tour of the complex which has everything explained in a very kid-friendly manner, let your kids have lunch with an astronaut followed by the IMAX Theater and space flight simulator experience.
Slightly older kids will thoroughly enjoy the Naval Aviation Museum. This free museum is the world’s largest Naval Aviation museum filled with Naval aviation history and hundreds of restored aircrafts over an area of 35,000 square feet. If possible, schedule your visit during a Blue Angel practice, for it’s a visual extravaganza.
Florida is famous for its unspoilt beaches—800 miles of soft white sand and crystal clear water with a hint of emerald green that will leave you spellbound. So surf, swim, laze around with a book while your kids make sand castles. The waters during summer months are just the right temperature and a pleasure to swim in. Watch sunsets that will linger in your memory forever. While Miami is full of action and entertainment, Caladesi, Daytona and Clearwater have a more relaxed and laidback beach vibe.
It’s not without reason why so many families return to Florida year after year. There’s just so much to see and do; one trip doesn’t do justice. In Florida you wouldn’t just have a vacation, you’ll make memories that your kids will never forget either.
Best Kiddie Hotels in Florida for Fun and Frolic
MakeMyTrip Blog | Apr 22, 2019
Want to See Real Life Mermaids? Visit Florida’s City of Live Mermaids!
Malavika Mandapati | Nov 15, 2019
Here’s What Once-in-a-Lifetime Road Trips in Australia Look Like
Jyotsana Shekhawat | Jan 17, 2025
6 Coolest Destinations in Australia for Your Next Family Trip
Surangama Banerjee | Jan 17, 2025
5 Cities That You MUST Have on Your Itinerary for a Memorable Australian Vacay
Surangama Banerjee | Jan 17, 2025
Flying to Australia in Time for Boxing Day? Here’s How to Jazz Up Your Holiday!
Jyotsana Shekhawat | Jan 15, 2025
Honeymoon-Perfect Destinations in Australia
Jyotsana Shekhawat | Jan 15, 2025
Beautiful Birthday Gift Ideas for Your Mother!
Pallak Bhatnagar | Nov 14, 2024
Druk Path Trek With the Shape Shifting Mahakala!
Sachin Bhatia | Oct 25, 2024
Perfect Birthday Presents to Delight Your Wife
Anisha Gupta | Oct 22, 2024