Let’s be honest, when most people think “Florida + family,” the first thing that pops into their head is probably Mickey Mouse. And fair enough! Theme parks are great, but Florida’s got so much more up its sun-soaked sleeve than just rollercoasters and fairy-tale castles. If you’re moving to the Sunshine State with kids, or just planning a family getaway, you’ll want more than a daily dose of crowds and queuing. So let’s mix things up a bit, shall we?
Here’s a round-up of 10 family-friendly activities in Florida that’ll keep everyone smiling.
1. Kayaking with Manatees in Crystal River
Have you ever met a sea cow? They’re like the golden retrievers of the ocean—big, gentle, and weirdly charming. Crystal River, just a couple of hours north of Tampa, is one of the only places in the U.S. where you can legally swim or kayak alongside wild manatees.
It’s peaceful, it’s magical, and for kids who’ve never seen anything bigger than a goldfish in the wild, it’s borderline mind-blowing. Plus, the crystal-clear springs mean you actually see what’s going on beneath the surface, which, let’s be honest, isn’t always the case in Florida waters.
2. Airboat Through the Everglades (and Yes, Spot Gators)
The Everglades aren’t just some swampy afterthought; they’re a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a giant outdoor classroom if you play it right. Hop on an airboat and keep your eyes peeled for alligators, turtles, and weird-but-wonderful birds.
It’s part thrill ride, part science lesson, and it’ll definitely get the kids off their screens for a few hours.
3. Kennedy Space Centre – Because Rockets Are Still Cool
Look, space is just… cool. No matter how old you are.
At the Kennedy Space Centre near Cape Canaveral, your family can touch a moon rock, meet an astronaut, and see real-life rockets up close. If you time it right, you might even catch a launch—cue goosebumps and wide eyes all around.
There’s enough hands-on stuff here to keep younger kids busy, and just enough wonder to spark big questions about stars, spacewalks, and what it means to explore the unknown. It’s the kind of place that leaves you looking up, quite literally, with a head full of dreams and maybe a new favourite planet.
4. St. Augustine – A History Lesson That Doesn’t Feel Like One
History might sound boring until you walk the cobbled streets of St. Augustine, the oldest city in the U.S. Think Spanish forts, pirate tales, and ghost tours that are just the right mix of spooky and silly.
There’s even an alligator farm (with zip lines over the reptiles, if you’re feeling bold). It’s educational, but not in a “read-this-plaque” kind of way.
5. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium
This one’s for the animal lovers in your crew. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is home to rescued sea turtles, dolphins, and otters, and yes, this is where the movie Dolphin Tale was filmed.
It’s less like a traditional aquarium and more like a working rescue centre, which makes it feel real and hands-on. You get to see the animals up close, hear their stories, and maybe even walk away thinking a little differently about the ocean and what lives in it.
6. Beach Days at Siesta Key – Because Sandcastles Are Still Magic
Florida’s got beaches for days, but Siesta Key near Sarasota? That’s next-level. The sand is so white and soft, it almost feels fake (but in the best way).
Perfect for toddlers who want to dig all day or teens who just want to chill, the beach is a low-effort, high-reward option. Throw in a beach ball, a cooler of snacks, and sunscreen that actually stays on, and you’ve got a whole day sorted.
7. Biking Along the Pinellas Trail
Not every family trip needs to involve engine noise. The 47-mile-long Pinellas Trail runs through some of west Florida’s cutest towns—Dunedin, Tarpon Springs, and more.
Rent bikes or bring your own, stop for ice cream or lunch along the way, and let the kids burn off that post-cookie sugar rush somewhere other than your hotel room.
8. Weeki Wachee Springs – Yes, There Are Real-Life Mermaids
Alright, “real-life” is a bit of a stretch, but the mermaid shows at Weeki Wachee Springs have been a Florida oddity since the 1940s, and they’re still going strong.
The performers swim in crystal-clear spring water while wearing full mermaid tails (and somehow singing underwater?). It’s bizarre, charming, and kids absolutely love it. Bonus: there’s a water park and river float nearby, so you can turn it into a full day out.
9. Shell Hunting on Sanibel Island
If your little ones like collecting things (and whose don’t?), then Sanibel Island is pure treasure. Known for its unique “Sanibel stoop”, the hunched-over posture of eager shell hunters, this island has some of the best shelling in the world.
Grab a bucket, walk the tide line, and see who can find the weirdest or prettiest shell. It’s simple, satisfying, and surprisingly addictive.
10. Catch a Baseball Game – Minor League Style
Florida’s home to a ton of minor league baseball teams, and catching a game is like stepping into a Norman Rockwell painting, minus the formality of a big-league stadium.
It’s cheaper, more relaxed, and the players often hang around to sign autographs. Grab a hot dog, let the kids cheer like lunatics, and soak up that old-school Americana vibe.
Tips for Families Visiting Florida
Plan for the Weather: Florida’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s wise to pack accordingly. Pack sunscreen, ponchos, and light layers just in case an afternoon shower rolls in. For a comprehensive guide on what to bring, check out our article on packing essentials for when you visit the USA.
Rent a Car if You Can: While some cities have decent public transport, having a car gives you the freedom to explore beaches, springs, and small towns at your own pace.
Look for Local Deals: Many attractions offer Florida resident discounts, combo passes, or seasonal specials—worth checking before you book.
Pick the Right Time of Year: Spring and autumn tend to offer the best weather with fewer crowds. Summers can be hot and busy, so plan accordingly if you’re travelling then.
Also, understanding local customs and avoiding common pitfalls can make your trip to Florida a whole lot smoother, especially when travelling with kids. From tipping etiquette to navigating busy tourist areas, a little heads-up goes a long way. Check out our guide on travel mistakes to avoid in the USA to help you steer clear of the most common slip-ups.
Choose Family-Friendly Accommodation: From beachfront resorts to vacation rentals with kitchens and pools, Florida’s packed with options that make travelling with kids much easier.
With its mix of wild nature, laid-back beach towns, and larger-than-life attractions, Florida’s made for family memories. Whether you’re watching a rocket launch, floating down a spring, or hunting for seashells at sunset, you’ll find something magical waiting around every corner. It’s a state where a kayak paddle can turn into a wildlife encounter, where history sneaks in between scoops of gelato, and where magic isn’t always found behind turnstiles.
Whether you’re settling in for the long haul or just passing through with a suitcase full of swimsuits, there’s a version of Florida your family hasn’t met yet.
And who knows? That unexpected stop, the one you didn’t plan for, might just become the story you tell for years.
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