Florida might be home to the "The Most Magical Place On Earth," but look beyond the Orlando theme parks And you'll discover a wealth of other locations to explore and distinctive activities to enjoy in Florida, with each one being highly deserving of recognition as an inspiration-worthy destination. Florida vacation the whole family will enjoy.
Whether you're starting from an actual rock launchpad or exploring the stunningly clear natural springs, there’s plenty to discover here catering to all types of interests, budgets, and preferences. Being both a Floridian and a mother myself, I’ve compiled this list of must-visit spots around Florida outside of just amusement parks. Also included are some really distinctive activities perfect for engaging children and teenagers throughout your stay.
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1. Visit Kennedy Space Center and fly with an astronaut
Parents and caretakers will find themselves just as awe-struck as their kiddos at Kennedy Space Center. Spending a day there is sure to pique everyone's curiosity about what lies beyond our planet, making it one of most bucket list-worthy things to see in Florida.
One of the numerous family-friendly activities includes the opportunity to “walk in the shoes” of a mission team member and soar alongside an astronaut. Led by a seasoned NASA astronaut, this tour lets you enter a space shuttle simulation where you will experience blasting off into orbit at a speed of 17,500 miles per hour. Savor a meal with an astronaut and look forward to additional delightful surprises throughout your comprehensive adventure.
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Families will also enjoy Planet Play, an engaging zone where children can explore playing on the planets; the Rocket Garden; the space shuttle Atlantis exhibition; meeting fellow astronauts; and even touching an authentic moon rock.
If your schedules allow for variability, consider coordinating your trip around a rocket launch, though keep in mind these events can be abruptly cancelled. Round out your vacation with additional activities. Space Coast experiences . Kennedy Space Center is about an hour from the top Orlando attractions , also making it an easy-to-reach destination whether you travel by train, car, or plane.
2. Float or swim your way down a natural lazy river
Florida boasts an extensive system of freshwater pools, caves, and preserved fauna, yet Rock Springs at Kelly Park distinguishes itself with its family-oriented natural "lazy river" and shallow bathing zone featuring consistently pristine turquoise waters throughout the year. You can explore this enchanting haven known as Rock Springs via distinctive tubing adventures or transparent kayak tours (these must be booked through a tour operator). Rise and Shine for Some Kayaking to reach some areas).
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The park features hiking trails accessible throughout the year, along with a guarded swimming zone available during high season. Additional benefits consist of crowd control measures through limited visitor numbers and a stringent alcohol ban aimed at maintaining the laid-back ambiance of the site. Regarding local fauna, you'll commonly encounter deer and turkeys; however, some guests exploring this tranquil Floridian destination have claimed sightings of more exotic creatures like bears, monkeys, and alligators too.
Families who enjoy outdoor activities can enhance their visit to Rock Springs by trying primitive camping right at the location (feeling secure that they're just under half an hour away from Disney World). Keep in mind that similar to several distinctive attractions in Florida, this option necessitates some preparation since it operates on a first-come, first-served policy for guests.
3. Search for scallops along the Gulf Coast
Beforehand, you should create a strategy for one of Florida’s most distinctive activities: snorkeling for fresh scallops along the Gulf Coast of the Sunshine State. The scalloping season varies from about 10 days to multiple weeks based on where you are, turning the adventure into a thrilling scavenger hunt suitable for both children and grown-ups as you search among the shallow sea grasses, watching out for scallop shells and their small, vivid blue openings.
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Reaching the seagrass beds is straightforward. Initially, you ought to rent a vessel equipped with a legitimate saltwater fishing permit to sidestep additional expenses. single-use licenses you'll utilize just one time Your captain will guide you to prime locations where bay scallops thrive, typically in waters not much deeper than those of a swimming pool. After anchoring, you'll put on your snorkeling equipment (make sure everyone has their own set since bringing personal gear means avoiding rental units that may have been previously used) before diving in and gathering as many scallops as possible until you hit the daily catch limit.
The scallops are harmless but not easy to catch at first; miss one, and it will quickly flutter a few feet away from you, adding more fun to the chase. Wrap up the day with lunch and water games on a sandbar, and look forward to the feast that awaits. Staying in a vacation rental ? Bring back the scallops and whip up a delicious seafood dinner from scratch. You also can take your bounty to a local restaurant, where a chef will prepare your scallop meals for you.
4. Unleash your inner cowboy or cowgirl at a dude ranch
Ranches typically bring to mind scenes of rugged landscapes found in areas such as the Rockies and Badlands. However, in Florida, you can experience a "Wild West" escapade with all the necessary elements at hand. Westgate River Ranch .
This estate spanning 1,700 acres above the Kissimmee River offers far more than just an agritourism destination; it provides an adventure where every child can imagine themselves as a little cowboy or cowgirl. The site boasts lavish glamping options such as Conestoga wagons and tepees, hosts the country’s oldest continuous Saturday evening championship rodeo, and includes a Cowboy Adventure Park equipped with a mechanical bull, climbing wall, miniature tractor track, and even a pumpkin patch for some seasonal fun.
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The list of activities continues with archery, horseback and pony riding, swamp buggy airboat rides, a pontoon cruise, a petting farm, and trap and skeet shooting. Campfire stories are made more fun with the S’mores ‘N Pours experience, which families can book as a package that includes a bottle of top-shelf bourbon for the grownups.
5. Zip-line and trek above miles of pristine natural beauty
You don’t have to travel out of the country to go zip-lining in a lust forest. Families with kiddos aged seven and older can soar through the treetops of the Mobbly Bayou Wilderness Preserve, just outside of Tampa Bay.
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Empower Adventures offers a variety of zip-lining experiences—including some of the region’s longest and fastest—as well as ways to experience the area’s natural beauty. Families can choose from traditional zip-lining and themed options such as sunset and moonlight tours, adding an element of mystique.
This zip-lining course is unique because its aerial obstacles challenge you with suspension bridges, swinging logs, and other exhilarating activities. Highly trained, expert guides are on hand throughout each tour.
6. Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland with millions of lights
Trading in snow angels for sand castles is one of the many joys of vacationing in Florida during the winter holiday season. For families who seek to escape looming polar vortexes but still want that magical feeling, you get from resplendent light displays and gingerbread house-style buildings, head to St. Augustine For its Nights of Lights festival, one of the more peculiar activities in Florida takes place annually. This event pays homage to the rich history of America’s most ancient city, tracing back to the former Spanish custom of lighting white candles in windows during Christmastime.
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However, during the Nights of Lights festival, the event reaches new heights with over three million lights displayed, along with illuminated boat parades on certain days. Be sure to allocate some time for visiting the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument and exploring Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth, or consider planning your visit accordingly. excursion to the close-by Amelia Island If building sandcastles is what you're aiming for, include Ponte Vedra Beach and Anastasia State Park in your itinerary for a Florida getaway.
Keep in mind that St. Augustine is situated in the northern region of the state, which means winters may see milder temperatures compared to typical Floridian weather. Despite this, you'll have ample opportunities for enjoyable beach visits; however, be sure to dress accordingly. Apart from the climate, St. Augustine's position makes it conveniently reachable for those embarking on a Florida road trip who are traveling from the East Coast or elsewhere within the state.
7. Go snorkeling in a biodiverse estuary, followed by having lunch on a tiny tropical island.
Should your children fantasize about diving into the ocean from Ariel’s perspective in “The Little Mermaid,” then Blue Heron Bridge, situated close to West Palm Beach, offers an ideal opportunity. This site has been recognized as one of the top dive locations globally by Sport Diver magazine. Standing tall above an estuary, the bridge provides both snorkelers and scuba divers with pristine waters teeming with various aquatic creatures and colorful coral reefs. Common sights include tropical fish, octopuses, and rays; however, spotting seahorses, sea turtles, and even manatees can also occur for fortunate visitors.
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This distinctive Floridian destination provides convenient aquatic entry via a compact shoreline, with ample parking available closeby. To ensure optimal clarity and circumstances, aim to enter the water approximately an hour prior to peak tidal activity. Additionally, it’s advisable to book a guided tour Through a nearby dive shop to make sure you remain close to the renowned "Snorkel Trail" and maximize your enjoyment. Timing it correctly allows for roughly two hours of exploration.
To cap off a day of unique things to do in Florida, take a packed lunch and rent kayaks to explore the lagoon to Peanut Island (be sure to follow the safety guidelines as boaters share these waters). This small slice of paradise can easily make you feel like you’re somewhere in the Caribbean It’s ideal for having picnics, taking nature hikes, relaxing at the beach, and even more snorkeling activities.
8. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and enduring charm of Key West.
Each island within the Florida Keys holds charm, yet Key West stands out for families due to its rich cultural tapestry, eccentricity, and abundance of kid-friendly activities. Should you be planning a drive through Florida, this journey becomes more delightful with stops at various islands such as child-oriented destinations like Key Largo and Duck Key en route. Despite Key West’s famous Duval Street being known for its lively atmosphere, the casual “5 o'clock somewhere” ambiance remains welcoming for all ages—provided you avoid scheduling your visit around raucous events.
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Popular museum choices for families in Key West encompass the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum, and Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. Additionally, there are numerous quintessential Florida sites in Key West that deserve a visit, primarily for their photogenic appeal. These spots include the Southernmost Point landmark as well as the Curry Mansion, reputedly the origin place of the renowned key lime pie.
Several fantastic ways to enjoy Key West with your family may not be immediately apparent. Consider going on a sunset cruise, joining a ghost tour (suitable for older children), or booking a fishing excursion in the Back Country; these activities offer enjoyable and distinctive experiences in Florida. Additionally, planning a visit to Dry Tortugas National Park—a cluster of tiny islands approximately 70 miles offshore from Key West—can only be reached via boat or seaplane, making it an unforgettable day trip option.
8 Florida Attractions That Are Just As Entertaining As Disney And Universal originally appeared on FamilyVacationist.com .
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The perspectives and personal beliefs presented in this article belong solely to the writer and may not align with those of USA TODAY. FamilyVacationist.com and TourScoop.com are under the ownership and operation of Vacationist Media LLC. Using the FamilyVacationist travel recommendation methodology , we examine and choose family vacation ideas , family vacation spots , all-inclusive family resorts , and classic family vacations For every age group. TourScoop includes guided group tours and tour operators , tour operator reviews , tour itinerary reviews and travel gear recommendations .
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 8 Florida attractions that are just as much fun as Disney and Universal
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