I don’t know about you, but I spend a lot of time thinking about where to go on vacation, especially with family. Whether it is for a romantic getaway or a simple getaway with the family, there are some amazing places that we would love to visit in Florida.
Most of us spend our days at work and in school. We forget about the time spent with family and friends, and we barely get to experience the true feeling of adventure. There is a big difference between adventuring in your city or town or going on vacation in exotic places far away from civilization. However, there are plenty of Florida family vacation destinations that will let you experience both adventurous activities as well as reconnect with nature.
Florida is a state with thousands of miles of beaches, resorts, and attractions. Each Florida family vacation destination offers something different to every traveler. The perfect family vacation is about experiencing new things and spending quality time together. So whether you are looking for something easy and affordable, or a little more adventurous, we have got you covered.
Best Florida family vacation destinations to visit (2022)
Most people think of Florida as a vacation destination. But if you are thinking about traveling to Florida with your family, there are many places in the state to explore including some all inclusive kid-friendly resorts in Florida. From Miami to Key West, here are some family vacation destinations in Florida worth considering when planning your next trip.
1. The Gateway to the Everglades, Miami
Many people believe that Miami is best known for its Art Deco architecture and nightlife scene, but there are plenty of things outside of South Beach worth seeing while in Florida. You can start your trip exploring the Everglades, where you can find tropical wildlife, white water rafting, and more. Dining options in the area include unique resorts and top-rated restaurants that are perfect for welcoming weary travelers back to their hotel rooms after a day of hiking through some wild places.
Gateway to the Everglades is a nature reserve located in Miami-Dade County, Florida. It is one of the largest urban parks in the United States and it offers visitors a chance to experience all that South Florida has to offer, a perfect vacation destination for families in Florida.
The park contains more than 2,000 acres of natural habitats including mangroves, subtropical forests, wetlands, and prairies. There are also many attractions within Gateway to the Everglades such as:
- The Sawgrass Expressway Scenic Overlook – This overlook provides a beautiful view of the Gulf Stream and Sawgrass Mills River Delta.
- Tamiami Trail – This long trail runs through the park and offers visitors a chance to see alligators, deer, and other wildlife.
- Coral Reef Aquarium – This aquarium features more than 4,000 specimens of fish, coral, and invertebrates from around the world.
- Butterfly Garden – This garden contains more than 1,500 different species of butterflies from all over the world.
2. Historic Old Tampa
The historic old Tampa is a unique Florida family vacation destination for those seeking a quirky and fun family vacation. The area offers lots of fun nightlife options including bars, clubs, and other venues where you can soak up the atmosphere together as a family. There are plenty of things to do in this city for kids and adults alike from shopping at local boutiques and charity shops to live music experiences.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers stadium also makes a convenient location for family vacations in Florida because you can even go behind the scenes with your kids watching practice rolls out of the locker room, or listening to some game prerecorded on their way to their seats.
Old Tampa is a historic district located in Tampa, Florida. It is a designated U.S. National Historic Landmark and was added to the National Register of Historic Places on December 12, 1966.
If you’re interested in history, then you’ll love Historic Old Tampa. This city is home to a number of interesting attractions, including the old jail, the courthouse, and the historic district.
There are also a number of restaurants and shops in Historic Old Tampa that will offer you a taste of local flavor. If you’re looking for something more cultural, then check out the galleries and museums located here.
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3. Walt Disney World, Orlando
It doesn’t matter if it’s for pleasure, or business, there are many family-friendly activities available in Orlando which make the city a great option to consider if you’re traveling with your children this summer. Family fun could include a trip for a trip to Walt Disney World where you can take a trip to all the fun of theme parks. take exciting rides, and take an intimate tour through Disney’s dream world.
When you’re not in the theme park there are plenty of activities to enjoy within and near Orlando that provide amazing outdoor adventures for you and your loved ones, such as walking trails that lead to natural waterfalls and lakes or boarding an excursion bus, and visiting the museums in the area that you can explore in the evenings and during the day to enjoy local bars.
Walt Disney World, Orlando is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It is home to attractions like The Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios:
- The Magic Kingdom is the most popular theme park at Walt Disney World with over 18 million visitors annually. It features rides such as Cinderella’s Castle, Space Mountain, and Pirates of Caribbean.
- Epcot is a park that celebrates creativity and innovation. It features attractions like Test Track, Soarin’ Over California, and Expedition Everest.
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios is home to attractions like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Toy Story Land, and Jedi Training Academy.
4. Rock ‘N’ Roll Water Walk, Cleveland
If you’re looking for a fun and challenging workout for you and your family, then the Rock ‘N’ Roll Water Walk is perfect for you! This aerobic exercise combines elements of rock climbing, water walking, and hiking to create an intense workout that will leave you feeling energized and invigorated.
The Rock ‘N’ Roll Water Walk is a relatively short but challenging workout that can be completed in about 20 minutes. The steps are simple: start by standing on the edge of a pool or river with your feet slightly apart, then slowly walk your feet towards the water while keeping your back straight. As you get closer to the water, begin to climb rocks or jump over small pools. Once you reach the other side, slowly walk your feet back to the starting point.
This aerobic exercise is great for improving strength and stamina as well as toning your muscles. It’s also a great way to relieve stress and improve your overall mood. So if you’re looking for an exciting and challenging workout, then the Rock ‘N’ Roll Water Walk is definitely worth trying out!
5. Cedar Point near Sandusky, Ohio
Cedar Point is an amusement park located in Sandusky, Ohio. It features world-class roller coasters including the Dragon’s Fury, Millennium Force, and Top Thrill Dragster. Cedar Point also offers an extensive waterpark with rides such as the Cedar Point Wave Pool, the Splash Island Water Park, and the WhiteWater Rapids. It is one of the best family vacation spots in Florida.
Here are some things to do in Cedar Point near Sandusky, Ohio during your vacation with your family:
- Visit the amusement park and ride all of the rides.
- Enjoy a picnic in one of the many parks that surround the amusement park.
- Take a walk around the lake or go for a swim.
- Check out one of the many shops that are located in and around Cedar Point.
- Go on a bike ride or roller skating session.
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6. Rock Climbing in Fairview Park, Ohio
Rock climbing is a great way to get your heart rate up and improve your fitness. Fairview Park has many different types of rock climbing that are perfect for all levels of climbers.
There are also many beginner-friendly routes that are perfect for people who have never climbed before. If you’re looking for something more challenging for you and your family, there are routes that will test your skills and push you to your limits.
No matter what your level, Fairview Park has the perfect climbing route for you. So if you’re looking to add some excitement to your fitness routine, give rock climbing a try!
7 . Lexington Frozen Custard and Outdoor Adventure Center
Another great place to visit with the family when you’re visiting Cleveland, Ohio. This indoor/outdoor center has an ice skating rink and is usually filled with children of all sizes boarding for free skates on Sundays which gives a great opportunity for the family to get fit, cool off, and provide a fun experience for their children as well.
With indoor trampoline parks inside, a go-kart track (with free helmets!), an ice skating rink and now even rollerblading rinks this is great place for younger families who love to be active to fill up the rest of their day.
8. Steele Creek State Park
Steele Creek State Park is a beautiful state park located in the heart of the Ozarks. The park offers camping, hiking, biking, fishing, and more. This Ohio park’s name is derived from a nearby creek as well as one located just on the outskirts of Cleveland, known for its deep rock pits and tree-lined creeks that carve through the numerous glades and rolling hills of this beautiful state park.
The park is home to a variety of natural attractions such as the Ozark Scenic Railroad, White River Falls, and many other waterfalls. There are also several trails that wind their way through the forest and along creeks.
If you’re looking for a relaxing day out with family or friends, Steele Creek State Park is definitely worth a visit!
9. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad and Lake Hopatcong
The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad is a popular tourist attraction in the Cleveland area that offers a scenic ride through the Cuyahoga Valley. The railroad also offers opportunities to visit several attractions, including Lake Hopatcong, which is known for its beautiful views and crystal-clear waters.
This quaint railroad is a great starting point for anyone wanting to get out into nature on one of its many scenic runs, there are even some historic tours of the railroad by steam locomotive if you’re interested in getting up close to the action.
10. Crystal Lake Park
Just across from Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad and Lake Hopatcong lies this gem of a park and it’s a great weekend getaway into nature where you can do a spot of camping, hang out by the lake and bring your entire family out to enjoy some great nature. It’s also home to one of The Pines’ oldest golf courses which is super lucky because most other parks don’t have ponds on their grounds that are as beautiful as this one.
Crystal Lake Park has a variety of activities for kids to enjoy. These include playgrounds, a pool, basketball courts, and more.
If you are looking for a place to take your children that offers a variety of activities, Crystal Lake Park is the perfect destination.
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11. Highbanks Metro Park, Ohio
Highbanks Metro Park is a public park located in the city of Cleveland, Ohio. It is a great place to visit if you are looking for a scenic hike with plenty of nature to explore. The park has over a mile of hiking trails that wind their way through the woods and hills, providing visitors with a variety of scenery to enjoy.
The trails are well-maintained and easy to follow, making them perfect for both beginner hikers and more experienced hikers. There are also several picnic areas scattered throughout the park where kids can stop for lunch or dinner.
If you are looking for a day trip for you and your kids that will offer something different than the typical tourist attractions, Highbanks Metro Park is definitely worth checking out.
12. Edgewater Park, Cleveland, Ohio.
A little bit of life away from the usual for most up-and-coming cities are parks that cater to a younger population, residents love going here simply because it’s one huge playground where they can be kids again without worrying about having done something wrong or getting into trouble.
Edgewater Park is a beautiful park located in Cleveland, Ohio. It has a variety of attractions and activities for kids that make it a great place to spend a day or two.
Some of the attractions at Edgewater Park include:
- The Conservatory – This is a beautiful greenhouse that contains plants from all over the world. You can visit the garden during regular business hours or during special events like concerts or festivals.
- The Playground – This playground is perfect for children and features swings, slides, and a play structure.
- The Lake Erie Beach – This beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and boating.
- The Nature Trail – This walking trail takes you through different types of vegetation and habitats.
- The Boathouse – This boathouse has both indoor and outdoor facilities for enjoying a boat ride on Lake Erie.
13. Clearwater
Another Florida family-friendly vacation spot that can be incorporated into the school-age children You can bring your family members to take part in enjoyable activities:
- Visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. The aquarium houses over 12,000 species. It has a range of exhibits, including shark tanks as well as an invertebrate display and an underwater coral reef.
- Visit The Clearwater Mall. The mall is home to a vast assortment of shops that include high-end brands such as Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus.
- Take a drive around town, and enjoy the breathtaking views. Clearwater is situated in the Gulf of Mexico and has numerous attractions for visitors to discover including Sunset Point Park and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
With its breathtaking beach with white sand, Clearwater truly is a gem to not miss.
In case you’re bored of the beaches and sand, or the ocean, be sure you go to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium where you can observe marine life, including sea turtles and stingrays, and other species. Experience the exciting Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise or enjoy the dolphin-watching excursion on an open-top catamaran that has two decks.
Clearwater has many other activities to take your family to such as mini-golf indoors as well as indoor surfing Sunset cruises along shopping at Pier 60.
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14. The Cuyahoga Valley National Park
The Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a national park located in Northeast Ohio, United States. The park was established on September 25, 1974, and covers 827 square miles.
The park features more than 400 miles of hiking trails, including the Appalachian Trail which passes through the park. It also has more than 100 lakes and ponds, as well as over 1,000 miles of streams and rivers.
The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, white-tailed deer, raccoons, foxes, beavers, and turtles. There are also a number of historical sites within the park such as the remains of an 18th century Shawnee village and General Henry Knox’s summer home from 1794.
A much sought after theme park for people in Cleveland, it always seems to get very busy and is best visited over a long weekend on the days when you’re able to check out all its beauty.
15. The Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, Ohio
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum is a great place for kids to learn about the history of rock and roll. The museum has exhibits that cover every era of rock music, from the early days to today. There are also concerts held at the museum every year, so there’s always something fun happening.
There are many fun activities that kids can do at the Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. Some of the activities that are available include:
- Visiting the exhibits and learning about the history of rock music.
- Playing interactive games in the museum’s arcade.
- Taking pictures with famous rock stars in front of their statues.
- Learning about different instruments used in rock music.
- Create your own rock star profile.
16. Daytona Beach
If you’re contemplating where to your next vacation to Florida with your family and friends, Daytona Beach is a good option.
The area is packed with activities for children, Daytona Beach is a destination that your entire family is bound to love.
Daytona Lagoon Daytona Lagoon Fun-filled waterpark and the arcade, pier, and rides on Daytona Beach Boardwalk are great things to do with children.
Your kids of any age will be able to love NASCAR racing in the Daytona International Speedway. Daytona International Speedway.
The lighthouse is a must, go to the Marine Science Center and simply enjoy a relaxing day on the beach to enjoy the last morning in the Daytona holiday.
17. Mall Theater
Considering family vacation destination in Florida? Mall Theater – An antique theatre in Cleveland that hosts many interesting events and shows is for you.
Mall theaters are a great place to spend a family fun day. They offer a variety of activities and attractions that will keep the whole family entertained.
Some of the activities that you can enjoy at mall theaters include:
- Movie screenings: There are usually a number of movie screenings that are available at mall theaters. You can choose from movies that are new or old, family-friendly or not so much.
- Arcade games: If you’re looking for something to do on a rainy day, head over to the arcade games section and play some of your favorite games.
- Shows: There are usually several shows that are playing at any given time, and they vary in terms of age and content. Some shows may be rated PG or PG-13, while others may be rated R for adults only.
- Laser tag: If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, laser tag is definitely the activity for you! It’s easy to set up and it’s sure to get everyone laughing and excited at the same time.
18. Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church
If you considering a religious location for you and your kids then this place is for you. There are many fun things to do at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church for kids. Some of the activities that are popular include:
- Visiting the church’s beautiful gardens.
- Watching a movie in the auditorium.
- Attending a Sunday school class.
- Playing games in the playground.
- Participating in a parish-wide event like Lenten fish fries or an Easter egg hunt.
19. Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale has an abundance of sun, sand, and palm trees, so it is a South Florida destination that is a must-see for you and your family. There are so many different holiday spots with beaches and oceans to enjoy different experiences.
The gorgeous beaches that stretch for miles are a tranquil stretch of waters are perfect for boating excursions or just soaking up the beauty of nature, Fort Lauderdale has loads of family-friendly places to visit.
If you’re looking to have a blast You can go snorkeling or paddleboarding, jet skiing, or diving with scuba equipment within the water in the Atlantic Ocean.
Your children are bound to be thrilled by the scenic paddlewheel boat cruise or learning how to drive on a Segway.
Parents should not feel discouraged There are plenty of things you can also do go to the craft breweries along Ale Trail of Greater Fort Lauderdale as well as museums and indulge in a little gambling, shopping, and even nightlife.
20. Captiva Island
Captiva Island is one of the most popular Florida holiday destinations for families to visit. If you’re looking for a relaxing vacation that doesn’t require any planning or thinking go to Captiva Island.
The region offers plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family can enjoy, such as fishing, sailing, snorkeling and boating, biking seashells, and water sports gathering.
When you’ve been through enough fun you’re ready to visit The Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge, Florida’s natural preserve.
If the kids are exhausted and are having enough fun, parents can enjoy activities in bars, live entertainment, restaurants, or even the spa.
Florida family vacation destinations: Final Thought
There are plenty of Florida family vacation destinations that will let you experience both adventurous activities as well as reconnect with nature. This part of the United States has unique vacation destinations for families with kids of all ages with beautiful beaches, exciting theme parks, kid friendly activities, and more!
We have explored several options for you and your kids to enjoy the most fun during your vacation in Florida in this article. Even as a first time traveler, there are several business travel tips to keep in mind for safety for you and your family.
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What part of Florida is good for family vacation?
The best part of Florida for a family vacation is the Tampa Bay area. This region has many attractions and activities that are perfect for kids and adults alike.
Some of the attractions in the Tampa Bay area include; Busch Gardens, SeaWorld, Universal Studios, Disney World, and much more.
There are also plenty of beaches to enjoy such as Clearwater Beach, St Petersburg Beach, Daytona Beach, Fort Lauderdale Beach, and Palm Beach County.
What is family vacation?
A family vacation is a trip that is taken by a group of people who are related to one another. This could be aunts, uncles, cousins, siblings, or spouses.
The main purpose of taking a family vacation is to have fun and relax. It is also an opportunity to get away from the daily grind and spend time with friends and family
The benefits of taking a family vacation are many. First and foremost, it allows you to get away from the daily grind and relax. Secondly, it can provide a sense of togetherness and strengthen relationships.
Also, taking a family vacation can help you learn new things about your family and yourself. By spending time together outside of the normal routine, you may be able to resolve some conflicts that have been simmering beneath the surface for a while.
How do I plan a big family vacation?
There are a few things that you need to take into account when planning a big family vacation. Whether it involves the entire large family or just a few members of the family, knowing how to plan a big family vacation is essential. Here’s a detailed guide on how to plan a big family vacation:
#1. Decide on the type of vacation: First, you will need to decide on the type of vacation that you would like. This could be a beach vacation, amusement park trip, or some other activity-filled outing.
#2. Create a budget for your vacation: Once you have decided on the type of vacation and destinations, research which locations are available in your budget and what types of activities are offered at those locations.
#3. Decide how many people will be traveling: Next, come up with a plan for how many people will be traveling and what their individual travel needs are. This includes things like deciding who is going to stay home and take care of the children while the rest of the family is away, arranging for child care, and making sure that everyone has transportation to and from the destination.
#4. Create an extra budget: Make sure to have enough money saved up so that you can cover any unexpected expenses that may crop up during your trip.
#5. Research on destinations: To plan a big family vacation, you will need to do some research on the different destinations that are available. You can also use online tools to find the best deals on flights and hotels.
#6. Book a flight ahead of time: You should also decide when you would like to travel and make sure that you book your flights and hotel rooms as early as possible to get the best deals.
#7. Decide on vacation activities: Next, you will need to decide on what activities you would like to do while on your trip. This could include visiting attractions, going shopping, or participating in recreational activities.
#8. Prep for different weather conditions: Be prepared for any weather conditions that may occur while on your trip and bring appropriate clothing and gear. Seventh, have fun!
#9. Consider the age of your children: The age of your children is an important factor. Younger children may enjoy activities that are more stimulating while older children may prefer less action-packed vacations.
#10. Consider your transportation needs: Make sure you have all the information you need about public transportation, car rentals, and airport transfers before departing so there are no surprises during your trip.
These are some of the important factors to consider when planning a trip.
What is the best kid friendly beach in Florida?
There are several beaches in Florida for kids, based on their age, interests, and location, parents can help choose a suitable beach for their kids. However, some of the most kid friendly beaches in Florida include:
1. Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach is known for its crystal clear waters and wide variety of activities that are perfect for families. There are plenty of restaurants and attractions that are perfect for kids, including a water park, amusement park, and more.
2. Daytona Beach
Daytona Beach is home to world-famous Daytona International Speedway and is a great place to spend a day with family. The beach is also popular for surfing and fishing, making it the perfect spot to spend a summer day.
3. Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale has miles of coastline that offer plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, boating, fishing, and more. It’s also home to several amusement parks such as Fun Spot America and Margaritaville USA that are sure to keep kids entertained all day long.
4. Miami Beach
This famous beach town is known for its beautiful architecture and world-renowned nightlife scene. There are also many family-friendly restaurants and attractions available here such as the Dolphin Habitat at Miamarina Bay and the Children’s Museum of Miami Beach.
5. Gulf Islands National Seashore
This national park offers a variety of activities for all ages including swimming, kayaking, biking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. There are also several family-friendly restaurants located on the park’s premises. This national park has a wide variety of activities and attractions that are perfect for families. There are plenty of beaches where you can swim and play in the waves, and there are also plenty of trails that lead to secluded coves and pristine wildlife habitats.
7. Siesta Key Beach
This small island beach is known for its crystal clear waters and stunning white sand beaches. It also has a number of playgrounds and other attractions that are perfect for families with children of all ages.
8. Islamorada Beach
This tropical paradise is home to some of the best fishing in the state as well as miles of pristine white sand beaches that are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. There are also plenty of family-friendly activities such as parasailing and jet skiing available at this beach resort.
Here is how to choose a perfect vacation location
When it comes to where to go on vacation, there are many factors that people consider. Some look for warm climates and beaches, while others want to visit places with a high level of biodiversity. Florida is a great destination if you are looking for all these things and more. From the tropical weather to the beautiful beach resorts, Florida has it all.
There are a few things you need to consider when choosing a perfect vacation destination.
First, you should decide what type of vacation you want. This could be a relaxing beach vacation, an exciting ski trip, or a family-friendly amusement park visit.
Second, you should think about your budget. Are you looking for a luxurious all-inclusive resort or would you rather stay in local accommodations?
Third, make sure to research the different destinations before making your decision. Do some online research to find out what is available and read TripAdvisor reviews to get an idea of what people thought about the destination.
Moreso, make sure to budget carefully so that you don’t overspend on unnecessary items like souvenirs or transportation. By following these simple tips, choosing the perfect vacation destination should be a breeze!
Finally, plan your trip carefully so that you don’t miss any important attractions or events that are happening while you’re away.
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