Best Things to Do in Orlando for an Epic Family Vacation 

Go Shopping at Disney Springs 

Disney Springs is a fun outdoor shopping center in Orlando. This is a wonderful place to experience the Disney magic without spending the entire day at one of Disney’s theme parks. Your family can go shopping. You can all dine at a restaurant. Or you can watch live entertainment.  

For a more unique family activity, take a ride on the hot air balloon. Talk about a way to make memories during your vacation! 

I recommend visiting Disney Springs either early in the day or during the week to avoid the massive crowds.  

Explore City Walk 

City Walk is similar to Disney Springs. Except this area is outside Universal’s theme parks. A walk around this area will have you dining at fabulous restaurants or shopping until you all drop.  

It does get crowded at City Walk. Especially at night. So, venture over early in the day or during the week if you don’t want to dodge people all the time.  

Go Out on an Airboat Ride 

Airboat rides are one of the best ways to see alligators and other native wildlife in Orlando. Early morning rides will result in the animals being the most active. However, rides at sunset provide stunning pictures.  

Go Swimming with Manatees 

You won’t find too many places in this world where it is legal to swim with manatees. However, when you are on a family vacation in Orlando, you have the option to swim with these creatures over in Crystal River.  

Crystal River is an hour and a half from Orlando. But it is the perfect day trip when you want to get away from the city and head out in nature.  

Keep in mind that you cannot touch the manatees when you are swimming with them. They are protected creatures, so you must give them their space. However, you may find that one swims right next to you while you are in the water.  

I recommend having your camera ready for this family adventure. You will want to capture it all, so you can remember it forever.  

Wander Around Harry P Leu Gardens 

These gardens are the perfect place to relax, enjoy a picnic lunch, or run off some energy. I recommend finding a spot in a large area when you arrive. This way you can relax, as you watch the kids run around.  

Ride a Swan Boat Around Lake Eola 

Lake Eola is one of the most beautiful places in Orlando. To see this lake from a different perspective, rent a swan boat. These swan-shaped paddleboats will give your entire family a workout. But they are the best way to get close to the fountain in the middle of the lake.  

This is one of the best things to do in Orlando when you need a little downtime.  

Grab Fresh Foods at the Orlando Farmers Market 

The Orlando Farmers Market is held every Sunday at Lake Eola. Florida produce is available every week. You will also find specialty foods and artisan goods during your visit.  

Your family will love listening to the live music coming from the beer garden.  

Take a Bike Ride on the West Orange Trail 

The West Orange Trail in Orlando is twenty-two miles long. You will find this trail over in Winter Garden. This is to the west of Orlando.  

You won’t need to ride from one end of this trail to the other. You can simply ride for as long as you want before turning around. The best part though is you will discover numerous breweries, cafes, and stores along this trail. So, you can stop as often as you want when the kids need a break.  

Check Out the Lakefront Homes 

There are plenty of lakefront homes in Orlando. Most of these homes are located on the connected lakes within Winter Park.  

I recommend taking an hour-long boat tour of these lakes and canals. This will allow you to see the lakefront homes, as well as some of the native wildlife.  

Experience Art at Rollins Museum of Art 

Rainy days happen in Orlando. And when they do, you need to be prepared with indoor activities. Even if it’s just for an hour or two.  

Rollins Museum of Art will allow you to escape the rain, or the extreme heat. This museum is full of modern works of art from India and Turkey. Eighteenth century American paintings are also on display.  

Act Crazy at the Museum of Illusions 

Okay, so the kids might not appreciate Rollins Museum of Art. But they will love spending time inside the Museum of Illusions! In fact, this museum is one of the best things to do in Orlando with kids.  

The whole family can act crazy in all the different exhibit rooms. Over in the Ames Room, the kids will appear to be twice as tall as you are. And in the Reversed Room, you will all need to figure out which way is up, or down.  

Other fun rooms include the Symmetry Room, Infinity Room, and Kaleidoscope Room. The all-time favorite space though is the Vortex Tunnel. Make sure you have your camera ready when you enter. You won’t want to miss out on those photographs!  

Explore the Kennedy Space Center 

Another fabulous day trip option from Orlando is the Kennedy Space Center. It is approximately an hour from the city.  

There are plenty of interactive activities available to your family at the Kennedy Space Center. A guided tour of the Rocket Garden will allow you to see all the changes made within space exploration. Interactive tests are available at the Moonscape exhibit.  

Learning about the space shuttle program will be a blast, since you get to hear everything from an actual astronaut.  

Just don’t forget to pay your respects at the Challenger and Columbia crew memorial.  

I recommend adding a behind the scenes tour for your visit. This way you can also see the launch sites and spaceflight facilities.  

Ride the Wheel at ICON Park 

ICON Park is a wonderful place to go when you have a couple hours of free time. While there are plenty of things to do at this park, it is the Wheel that will keep your family entertained.  

Riding the Wheel will allow you to see much of Orlando from four hundred feet in the air. Each individual capsule is air conditioned. So, you won’t need to worry about the heat during your visit.  

I recommend visiting at night when the Wheel is lit up with LED lights.  

Experience a Pirate’s Dinner Adventure 

Most kids love pirates, or mermaids, or both. So, why not make your dinner entertaining one night by attending a pirate’s dinner adventure?  

As you are eating your dinner, you can watch the pirates and mermaids perform different stunts. Live music will be playing in the background. There will plenty of action to keep your whole family on the edge of your seats.  

Wander Through the Orlando Science Center 

The Orlando Science Center is one of the best things to do in Orlando for families. Especially when you are trying to escape the heat or the rain.  

The interactive exhibits will allow your kids to learn about so many scientific things. And yet, they won’t even realize they are learning something new, because they will be having so much fun!  

Lots of racing action will take place inside the Hot Wheels exhibit. Climbing, splashing, and building will happen in Kids Town. And you may discover a few dinosaur bones in the DinoDigs exhibit.  

Take the time to look at the Tiny Green Home. Then imagine trying to live in that small home with your family. Yeah, probably won’t happen! That’s okay, you have a fabulous home to go back to after you finish checking off all these best things to do in Orlando from your list.  

Go Back in Time at Old Town 

Old Town is a charming area in Orlando. Your family will take a step back in time, as you wander through the charming streets. Ride the Ferris wheel or the carousel. Practice your skills at the Rootin’ Tootin’ Shootin’ Alley.  

Just make sure you take the time to stop at the Old Town General Store. You’ll find numerous back-in-the-day souvenirs. The kids will love scooping the taffy from the large barrels and sipping out of the old glass bottles of Coke.  

Visit the Pioneer Village at Shingle Creek 

Another fascinating place to go back in time is the Pioneer Village at Shingle Creek. You can wander through original buildings that include a general store, schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, and pioneer homes.  

Live demonstrations are held on the second Saturdays of each month. So, we will want to plan your family vacation in Orlando carefully if you want to see those.  

Have a Blast Tree Trekking 

Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park is one of the best places to go tree trekking in Florida. This is one of the best things to do in Orlando with kids who are adventurous.  

A visit here will test everyone’s skills when it comes to Tarzan ropes, swinging logs, suspension bridges, and ladders. There are even ziplines you can ride to see stunning views.  

Visit the Chocolate Museum and Café 

Chocolate lovers will fall in love with the Chocolate Museum and Café in Orlando. Touring the museum will take just under an hour. During that time, you will learn about the history of chocolate, as well as see antique chocolate making machinery.  

The tour ends in the tasting room. Everyone will get to sample some yummy international chocolates.  

I recommend stopping at the café before you leave. This will ensure you get your chocolate fill, as you dine on pastries, other baked goods, and delicious hot cocoa.  

Relax on Cocoa Beach 

No family vacation in Florida is complete until you have spent a day at the beach. The closest beach to Orlando is Cocoa Beach. It is approximately a one-hour drive.  

While swimming and relaxing on Cocoa Beach are popular, there is so much more to do here. Consider fishing off the Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier. Take a surfing lesson or go parasailing.  

Just make sure you take the time to wander through the nearby shops. You never know what souvenirs you will discover along the way.  

Find the Ghosts in Orlando 

Every city seems to have their local ghost stories and Orlando is no different. You can actually take a ghost tour in Orlando to hear some of the area’s best ghost stories.  

There are different ghost tours available in Orlando. Some will have you visiting haunted pubs, while others will take you to the ghosts in Church Street Station and the History Center.  

Play a Round of Mini Golf 

Despite the heat in Florida, there are tons of mini golf courses in Orlando. Find one that is close to your hotel and play a round or two.  

I do recommend playing mini golf either early in the morning or later in the evening. Most of the mini golf courses are not shaded, so these times will ensure you have a better chance of staying slightly cool while playing.  

These are some of the best things to do in Orlando for an epic family vacation. It is possible to add many of these activities to your itinerary in addition to visiting some of the theme parks. All you need to do is let me know what your family is interested in, and I will personalize your itinerary accordingly.  

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized family vacation itinerary for your trip to Orlando or another destination?  

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session with me. When you click the link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.  

Not ready for a personalized family vacation planning session just yet? Sign up for my newsletter and continue to receive all the exciting travel information I share.  

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Best Things to Do in Florida Keys 

Experience Art at the Key West Museum of Art and History 

The Key West Museum of Art and History can be found inside the Custom House. This house was constructed back in 1891. It was used for different municipal roles over the years before turning into this museum’s home.  

Inside the museum, you will discover exhibits filled with art, as well as the history of the area. Don’t skip past the exhibit about Ernest Hemingway’s life. Especially if you don’t plan on visiting his home.  

Check Out the Key West Lighthouse 

One of the best things to do in Key West is checking out the Key West lighthouse. This lighthouse was constructed back in 1848. The lighthouse, and the nearby keeper’s quarters have been carefully restored and preserved.  

I recommend climbing up the eighty-eight steps to the top of the lighthouse to see the views.  Make a competition out of it to see who can reach the top first. The kids will love that! 

Explore the Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park 

This state park is eighty-four acres in size.  And it is the best spot to spend time if your family loves being out in nature. Head out on the six miles of walking trails. Or simply use the picnic area to relax and enjoy your lunch.  

Visit Island Dolphin Care 

During a visit to Key Largo, you will have an opportunity to check out Island Dolphin Care. Rescued dolphins spend their time at this facility, as they are being rehabilitated to reenter the wild.  

You can easily spend the day watching the dolphins in the water. Or you can participate in some of the many interactive experiences available to guests. I guarantee the kids will love caring for the dolphins all day!  

Another option for spending time with dolphins is the Dolphin Research Center. In addition to dolphins, this facility cares for California sea lions.  

Walk Along the Old Seven Mile Bridge 

The Old Seven Mile Bridge is only open to pedestrians and cyclists nowadays. It is an excellent place to walk and see the views of the water. You don’t need to tackle all seven miles. However, feel free to do just that if you have the time and the energy.  

Visit the Turtle Hospital 

Dolphins aren’t the only animals being rescued and rehabilitated in the Florida Keys. Over at the Turtle Hospital, you can visit with the sea turtles.  

It is recommended you make reservations for your visit to the Turtle Hospital. It is usually busy, especially at peak times of the year.  

Explore National Key Deer Refuge 

The National Key Deer Refuge is located between Marathon and Key West. If you are driving through the Florida Keys during your family vacation, you will pass right on through this area.  

This refuge was established back in 1957. Endangered Key deer live within the refuge. These miniature deer are only as big as a large dog. So, it can be easy to miss them if you are not paying attention. 

Relax at the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory 

Sixty different species of butterflies can be found inside this glass-enclosed conservatory. In addition to the butterflies, you will spot twenty different bird species.  

This is an excellent place to relax and enjoy a little solitude while in the Florida Keys.  

Have Fun at Mallory Square 

Mallory Square is the must-visit destination in Old Town Key West. Entertainment is almost always available in this square. One day, you may see cats walking a tightrope, while the next may have a person swallowing a sword or juggling fire.  

If you can tear yourself away from the entertainment, head into one of the numerous shops to purchase souvenirs. Don’t skip the Key West Sponge Market or the treasure hunting store.  

Oh, and don’t leave Mallory Square too early. This is considered the best place to watch the sunset in the Keys. Actually, it is even one of the best places to watch the sunset in the US. 

Go Snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park 

One of the best things to do in the Florida Keys is snorkeling at the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Out in the water, you will discover plenty of marine life, as well as old shipwrecks.  

If you have younger children, or don’t want to snorkel, you can always spend time on the shell-covered beach. There is a small swimming area there. It is perfect for getting your feet wet and having a little fun.  

You can also take a glass bottom boat tour if you want to see all the action underwater without getting wet. Perfect for those days when you forget your swimsuit!  

Check Out the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum 

The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum is filled with history and personal items. Start with a tour of the inside of the home before heading out into the gardens. I say this, because if you start outside, you will never get to the inside.  

This is because of the sixty plus cats who live within the gardens. Those cats are all descendants of Hemingway’s cats. Most of the cats are famous because of their six toes. All the cats are very friendly and love to snuggle.  

Head Out to Dry Tortugas National Park Via Ferry 

Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote island in the Gulf of Mexico. It is approximately seventy miles from Key West.  

Head out on the ferry to explore this island, as well as Fort Jefferson. One of the best things to do in this part of the Florida Keys is snorkeling. Some of the best snorkeling spots include Fort Jefferson’s moat wall, the Historic Coaling Pier, and the coral heads in Garden Key.  

If you want to spend more time at this national park, I recommend taking a seaplane instead of the ferry.  

Enjoy the Beach at Bahia Honda State Park 

You cannot visit the Florida Keys and not spend at least one day on the beach! Bahia Honda State Park has one of the best beaches in the Keys. There are two beaches at this park. One faces the ocean, while the other looks towards the old railroad bridge.  

Wander Along Duval Street in Key West 

A family vacation in Key West should always include a little time wandering along Duval Street. This street is full of museums, shops, cafes, and galleries. Stopping in them all will require you to stay all day. Keep this in mind if you are trying to get as much done as possible during your family trip.  

Head Out on a Sunset Cruise 

Don’t want to be with the crowds in Mallory Square at sunset? Well, head out on a sunset cruise and you won’t need to worry about an influx of people.  

Some of these cruises are simply boat rides. Others include dinner and drinks. Choose the sunset cruise that is perfect for your family and enjoy watching the sun set from a different vantage point.  

Drink a Beer at the Florida Keys Brewing Company 

One of the best things about breweries and wineries is they are becoming child friendly. Therefore, you won’t need to skip having a drink during your family vacation. Just take the kids in with you, let them play a few games, and enjoy a soda. All while you are sipping on a new to you brew.  

You can always promise them a little chocolate from a place like Key Largo Chocolates if they are really good!  

Eat a Lot of Key Lime Pie

Key lime pie is everywhere in the Keys. In fact, eating this pie is one of the best things to do in Florida Keys.  

So, try a slice of key lime everywhere you go. Then decide which piece was your favorite. Maybe you can even go back and enjoy another slice of your favorite before you head home from this adventure.  

Grab Family Pictures at the Southernmost Point Buoy 

There are plenty of places for family pictures in the Florida Keys. However, your favorite might be at the Southernmost Point Buoy.  

This is actually the southernmost point in the US. So, be prepared for crowds of people. If you want to avoid the crowds, arrive really early in the morning. If not, wait your turn and see if someone is willing to take a few pictures of your entire group, so no one is left out.  

Go Shopping at the Rain Barrel Artisans Village 

There are quite a few places to go shopping in the Florida Keys. However, one of the best things to do in Florida Keys is shopping at the Rain Barrel Artisans Village. You will see the forty-foot-long lobster outside this village from the Overseas Highway. Talk about capturing your attention!  

Your initial goal will be to get a picture of Betsy the lobster. But your curiosity will get the better of you and before you know it, you will all be exploring the stalls.  

Head to Robbie’s Marina to Feed the Tarpon 

Tarpons arrive at Robbie’s Marina by the dozens waiting to be fed. So, don’t disappoint them! Take time during your family vacation to stop at this marina to feed the tarpon. Have your camera ready to capture the open mouths that look like the top of a five-gallon bucket.  

Head Out on the Old Town Literary Walking Tour in Key West 

Do you have a bookworm or two in your family? If you said yes, the Old Town Literary Walking Tour should probably be on your family vacation itinerary. During this tour, you will stop at many of the writers’ homes in Key West. A couple of those writers include Shel Silverstein, Tennessee Williams, and Robert Frost.  

Take a Tour of the Harry S. Truman Little White House 

Yes, there is a Little White House down in the Florida Keys. This house was constructed in 1890 and served as a vacation home for some US Presidents. This was before Camp David became the favorite retreat of Presidents.  

Harry S. Truman spent the most time at the Little White House. Therefore, you should expect most of the displays to reflect his life and career.  

These are some of the best things to do in Florida Keys during a family vacation. I can help you determine which ones should be on your itinerary, as well as share other options your family will love. My goal is to make sure you make tons of memories while on vacation with your family. After all, we all know the days are long, but the years are short. And you may be feeling that more than ever at this point!  

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized family vacation itinerary for your family trip to the Florida Keys or another destination?  

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session with me. When you click the link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.  

Not ready for a personalized family vacation planning session yet? Sign up for my newsletter to continue to receive all the travel information I share.  

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Best Destinations for a Family Vacation in Florida 

Coral Castle in Miami 

Miami has long been known as a fabulous destination in Florida for families. If you choose to vacation down in Miami, you must take the time to check out Coral Castle. This structure took twenty-eight years to build. The owner, Ed Leedskalnin, used more than one thousand tons of coral rock to create this castle.  

It is said that he built this castle at night, using no modern construction methods. So, no one really knows how this castle is still standing after all these years.  

Here’s what I do know. It is a perfect side trip in between time at the beach and shopping adventures.  

Apalachicola National Forest in Bristol 

If your family loves spending time outside in nature, you must add Apalachicola National Forest to your list of things to see in Florida. This is the largest forest in the state. It is full of sparkling lakes, natural springs, and rivers.  You may not want to spend a lot of time here. But nonetheless, it is important to see as many water features as possible. 

Take the time to hike along the trails. Or at least drive along the Apalachee Savannahs Scenic Byway.  

Falling Waters State Park in Chipley 

Not many people have heard about the town of Chipley in Florida. However, it should be well known, thanks to the Falling Waters State Park. This fern-covered park is where the tallest waterfall in the state is located. The waterfall drops down into a massive sinkhole.  

You can go swimming in the springs here. So, make sure you all take your bathing suit and some towels!  

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach 

If you are the type of person who loves to include history and culture in your family vacations, these gardens and museums should be at the top of your list. Inside the museum, you will find numerous exhibits that focus on Japanese culture.  

Outside, the gardens are full of fountains, ponds, and foliage. I recommend spending a good part of the afternoon in the gardens, so you can truly get the full experience.  

Neptune Memorial Reef in Key Biscayne 

Down in Key Biscayne, you can spend time at the Neptune Memorial Reef. However, you can only do this if you are certified in scuba diving. It will be worth it to get certified though, if only so you can see the largest manmade reef in the world.  

This is only one of the best scuba diving places in the world, so don’t think your certification will go to waste any time soon.  

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens in Gainesville 

These botanical gardens are quite close to the University of Florida. You can easily combine a visit to the gardens with a college visit for your teen.  

I know, I know… You’re not ready for that yet!  

Anyway, the Kanapaha Botanical Gardens are where you can find a large collection of bamboo trees in Florida. There are ponds full of Victorian water lilies. And you won’t want to miss the massive herb garden, as well as the other twenty-four gardens.  

Walk around, or sit on a bench, to enjoy the atmosphere.  

These are the best destinations for a family vacation in Florida. If you have been searching for a way to explore this state without setting foot in a theme park, you now know you have options. However, the hard part might be choosing which destination your family will love the most.  

So, are you ready to book a family vacation to see these best destinations in Florida?  

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to schedule a planning session with me by clicking here. When you click on this link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.  

Not ready to book a family vacation? Sign up for my newsletter and continue to receive all the travel information I share each week.  

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