Resorts, beaches, theme parks-- ideas about where to go, in this most popular state for family vacations.
Florida is a favorite for families, with its double whammy of theme parks and beautiful beaches; but beyond the best-known spots, other great Florida family vacations await. Below are a number of ideas and reviews (moving roughly clockwise around the state).
LOTS of ideas, roughly clockwise around the state. Florida has many different areas for families!
Still in a class of its own as a Florida vacation -- and even globally-- is Disney World, with its four giant theme parks and two waterparks. Travel With Kids has info on where to stay, what to do... Start here, with Tips to help you have the best possible time.
Amelia Island, in the northeast not far from Jacksonville, has lots to offer as a beach getaway; historic town and fort also.
45 minutes east of Orlando is 72 miles of shore known as Florida's Space Coast: the place where the moon launches blasted off, and where space-shuttles launch today. Big draw is the Kennedy Space Center, and beautiful beaches. Less known are the eco-tours: this area has estuaries, marshes, and 250 sq. miles of wildlife refuges. Cute towns, too, like Cocoa Beach.
This affordable west coast area two hours from Orlando has nature outings, some cultural gems, and miles of top-rated beaches. Read about local attractions; fun outings such as dolphin-spotting, shelling, and Captain Memo's Pirate Cruise; and resorts that welcome kids.
Seems such a natural combination: most school-age kids get a nice break in March or April, and Florida's beaches make lovely getaways. But spring break at Florida beaches is known for partying by college spring-breakers. What's a family to do?
Off the west coast near the bottom of Florida are Sanibel Island and Captiva Island: two beautiful islands for nature lovers. The beaches are famous for shelling, and several resorts welcome families.
The legendary Everglades are a wonderful place to visit, and can easily include education-as-fun as kids learn about this unique ecosystem.
This 335-acre theme park has thrill-ride roller coasters, great water-rides, lovely grounds, attractive African theming, and opportunities to view elephants, rhinos, giraffes, etc. A fun, pretty park that's manageable to do in one day.
In the Panhandle near Tallahassee is one of the world's largest and deepest freshwater springs. State Park; swimming; hiking; river boat rides; old lodge-- neat place to visit!
A unique idea, on a Florida vacation: swim in a natural habitat with these gentle giants.
An unexpected thing to do in Florida, if you're near St. Petersburg: families with older kids should seize the chance to visit the Salvador Dali Museum, the world's top collection of the works of this artist who succeeded perhaps too well at celebrity; this museum has canvasses that will impress even the most art-allergic teen.
About's Guide for Florida Travel covers more regions, plus beaches, theme parks, maps, photos, and general trip planning.
