foreign
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Cascades down in beautiful bright Rays
warming you up from the inside as you
sip on your Margarita you can head on
down to the vast Azure beaches
stretching for miles on end and once
you've basked in the sun to your heart's
content you and your family can explore
theme parks lagoons and museums if that
sounds too good to be true well prepare
to be surprised in all the best ways by
Florida welcome back to wonderfully lost
a travel Community for parents by
parents for today's video we're heading
down to sunny Florida and counting down
our picks for the best spots for a
family vacay so let's get right into it
number seven Amelia Island with 13 miles
of vast pristine beaches forests and a
plethora of outdoor recreational
activities we're starting off strong
with a million Island if your family is
on the lookout for an adrenaline rush
head on down to Egan's Creek Greenway in
Fernandina Beach and hike on the trails
there just a heads up you might see some
Bobcats and alligators on the hike so
don't let that freak you out too much
located right next to Fernandina Beach
you'll find the pirate playground which
is nothing short of Heaven for children
there your kids can experience art music
and nature through a series of fun
activities on Amelia Island's main
village you'll find plenty of shops and
restaurants including the villaville
color toy store where your kids can make
their own toys number 6. Saint Augustine
often the Serene destinations in Florida
get overlooked by all the loud theme
parks in the state and while Florida
theme parks are great there's a lot to
be said for the quiet charm of Saint
Augustine which just so happens to be
one of the oldest cities in the U.S as
parents we want our children to
experience a diverse array of sights and
attractions when we travel but sometimes
managing fun with education and history
can be a bit tricky if you're interested
in our journey as parents and how we
parent while traveling try checking out
our blog for some handy tips
one way of getting the balance right is
to stop at a historical City such as
Saint Augustine with our kids if your
children are nature lovers take them to
an Intercoastal Waterway cruise and spot
marine animals with them soak in the
history of the City by visiting the
Magnificent castle of Saint Mark the
Fountain of Youth and the Saint
Augustine Lighthouse if you've got teens
you can always book a ghost tour of
Saint Augustine and have some spooky fun
together after all if there's one thing
teenagers love it's ghosts number 5.
Orlando you simply can't visit Florida
without visiting Orlando we're sorry but
we don't make the rules not only is
Orlando the theme park capital of the
world but it's one of Florida's biggest
attractions if you've ever heard or seen
anything about Universal Studios or
Disney World then you know that you can
spend your entire Florida vacation just
exploring these Parks but while these
theme parks are what Orlando's most
known for there's actually a lot what
your family can do in this eccentric
City other than these theme parks too if
your kids aren't into mini and Mickey
Mouse head on down to the Orlando
Science Center which hosts several
interactive exhibits and learn all about
science other than that we also
recommend checking out the Crayola
Experience at the Florida Mall which as
the name suggests is a quirky colorful
Adventure which will bring out the inner
artist in your child their newest
installation the Meltdown has kids
painting with melted wax which is an
experience that they'll remember for a
long time to come to top it all off
Orlando has a bunch of natural
attractions too check out wakiwa Springs
State Park and the Tibet Butler preserve
to see for yourself number 4. Daytona
Beach your family vacation to Florida
wouldn't be complete without a visit to
the beach it's a good thing then Florida
is full of beaches so pack your family's
beach bags sunglasses and good spirits
and if you need any help with that check
out our family traveling kits Linked In
the description and head on down to
Daytona Beach if you really want your
kids to have the time of their lives
take them to the Daytona Lagoon for
little kids which suggest the Castaway
children's play area which is a watery
Haven full of fun little quirks if your
kids are older however head on down to
the Daytona International Speedway and
experience some NASCAR racing which is
sure to get their blood pumping other
attractions include the lighthouse and
the incredibly educational Marine
Science Center for All the Little
Einsteins and Marie curies in the family
once you're done exploring swim in the
calm Waters of the beach and simply
relax number three Surfside Miami Miami
is a wild bustling city with a lively
nightlife not really suitable for a
family vacation that's what we've been
told about Miami but pay a visit to
Surfside and you'll see a completely new
side to the city now tranquility and my
Miami aren't two words that necessarily
go together but at Surfside The
Impossible comes true there's a reason
why Surfside is known as Miami's Uptown
Beach Town decked with malls and the
absolutely Majestic Sun Harbor Boutique
Hotel families can spend their time here
without having to worry about a single
thing housing 19 massive rooms the sun
Harbor comes with ethereal Courtyard
views and a fully equipped kitchen after
you've taken in the Setting Sun nestling
behind the Azure of the waters you can
head on down to the kitchen and make
yourself a drink as for your kids you
can keep them entertained by visiting
Harding Avenue with them which is a
walkabout District packed with shops and
boutiques if you don't feel like walking
you can always rent bikes and amp up the
fun a notch also don't forget to try
surfside's mind-blowing food we'd
recommend visiting Josh's Deli for some
Hala Breads and matzo ball soup if
you're looking for a healthier
alternative check out the fresh carrot
instead
number two Key West a vacation can be
many things it can be exciting it can be
adventurous and it can even be a little
bit nerve-wracking no matter how much of
an adrenaline rush you may want out of
your vacation there's no denying that
when you come back to your hotel room
after a long day of wandering about you
want nothing more than to crash into bed
and relax well no place does relaxation
better than the Island City of Key West
in Florida while every single island in
the Florida Keys is worth checking out
what makes Key West special is just how
much you can experience in a single
location in Key West there's just so
much to see and do not only do you
experience culture and history but you
and your family will also have the
advantage of stopping at many different
Islands such as Key Largo and Duck Key
along the way some family favorite
destinations that you should definitely
check out include the famous Ernest
Hemingway home and Museum where you and
your children can learn about The Life
and Times of this writer if your
children aren't into literature you can
visit the Key West butterfly and nature
Conservatory or the Mel Fisher Maritime
Heritage Museum instead other
destinations that are definitely worth a
stop include the southernmost point
landmark and the Key West aquarium
number one Naples for our number one
pick we're reeling it back in and
choosing a destination that highlights
everything that tourists love about
Florida Naples there's a reason why
Florida is the most visited state in the
United States visitors flocking to
Florida have a certain idea of what to
expect for most people Florida is known
for its crazy theme parks malls and
beaches in Naples you get the chance to
live the quintessential Florida
experience since the city is best known
for its golf courses shopping malls and
beaches in other words Naples is the
perfect family vacation destination
because it offers you options located in
the southwest region of order you and
your family can spend days lounging
around on the white sand beaches as you
soak up as much sun as you want once
you've experienced the wonderful beaches
you can head on down to the city and
explore the wonderful attractions all
around you from sightseeing at the
Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens to
kayaking at the Naples Pier the fun is
never ending if you're traveling with
younger children we recommend checking
out the golisano Children's Museum of
Naples a quirky and fun Haven for your
kids to let loose in and the cherry on
top is the fact that Naples is home to
some Stellar Resorts too the Ritz
Carlton Naples is one such example of a
high-end beachfront Resort that offers a
kids club too so that the whole family
can feel pampered and loved thanks for
watching hey are you a Wanderer yet if
not head on over to our travel blog at
wonderfully losttravel.com
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Planning a family vacation in Florida, US? Check out our guide to the 10 Best Places For Florida Family Vacations!
Welcome back to Wanderfully Lost – home to all your travel needs. And today, we’ll take you on a journey through the best places for an unforgettable family vacation in the Sunshine State of Florida – full of exciting activities, historical insights, and fun attractions.
And it is not very hard to do so. Florida has everything! From world-renowned theme parks to stunning beaches and captivating wildlife, you’ll find it all here.
For an even better family vacation, free of hassles and avoidable mistakes, check out our Family Essentials Travel Kit – a checklist to help you plan the perfect family vacation.
With that said, these are our picks for the 10 best places for family vacations in Florida!
1. Orlando
Let’s kick off our list with the world’s theme park capital – Orlando.
Home to Walt Disney World Resort, this magical wonderland is a dream come true for kids and adults alike.
Explore the iconic Magic Kingdom, venture into the future at Epcot, embark on thrilling rides at Universal Orlando Resort, or interact with marine life at SeaWorld. Don’t miss the chance to experience the enchanting Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
Other than world-class parks, Orlando also offers a range of other family-friendly activities. Visit the Orlando Science Center, where kids can engage in hands-on exhibits and learn about science in a fun way.
And if you’re looking for a muddy outdoor adventure, head to Gatorland, a unique wildlife park with Florida’s famous alligators and other common animals. Space fans can also take a trip to the Kennedy Space Center and learn about NASA’s space exploration missions.
- Key Attractions: Kennedy Space Center, LEGOLAND Florida, Orlando Science Center
2. Miami
If you went to Florida and didn’t visit Miami, did you even go to Florida?
Especially when you can spend your days basking in the sun on the city’s stunning beaches or exploring the diverse neighborhoods like Little Havana and Wynwood, known for their rich cultural heritage and colorful street art.
Visit the famous Miami Seaquarium, where you can watch mesmerizing dolphin and killer whale shows. And don’t forget to take a scenic drive along Ocean Drive and experience the lively nightlife of South Beach.
Immerse yourself in an interactive experience with exotic animals at Jungle Island, a zoological park that lets you get up close and personal with fascinating creatures. Or explore the Frost Museum of Science, where you’ll find a variety of interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and an aquarium to engage and educate the whole family.
For a unique adventure, hop on an airboat tour through the Everglades and witness the incredible wildlife that inhabits this unique ecosystem.
- Nearby Attractions: Everglades National Park, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, Jungle Island
3. Key West
For a laid-back and tropical family vacation, look no further – Key West is the place for you!
Lying on the southernmost point of the continental United States, this charming island offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty.
Explore the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, where you can immerse yourself in a magical world of colorful butterflies. Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where the famous author lived for many years.
But Key West is also all about wild outdoor fun!
Take a snorkeling or diving trip to the Florida Reef, the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States. You can also visit the Key West Aquarium and learn about the marine life that thrives in the surrounding waters.
For a day of adventure, take a ferry ride to Dry Tortugas National Park, a remote island paradise known for the historic Fort Jefferson.
- Key Attractions: Dry Tortugas National Park, Key West Aquarium, Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
Click here for a more detailed guide on what to do in Key West.
4. St. Augustine
Step back in time and discover the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in the United States – St. Augustine.
From cobbled streets of the historic district to the 17th Century fort, Castillo de San Marcos, this place is no short of a wonder.
St. Augustine is rich in history, and families can delve into the past through various activities. Visit the Lightner Museum, housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, and marvel at its collection of fine and decorative arts. For a unique and spooky experience, take a ghost tour and explore the city’s haunted sites.
Don’t miss the chance to experience a pirate-themed adventure aboard the Black Raven Pirate Ship or visit the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park. If your family enjoys outdoor adventures, head to Anastasia State Park, where you can hike nature trails, spot wildlife, and relax on beautiful beaches.
- Top Attractions: Anastasia State Park, Lightner Museum, Marineland Dolphin Adventure
5. Tampa Bay
If there is any place in Florida that offers a perfect mix of cultural attractions and outdoor adventures for families, it’s Tampa Bay.
Visit Busch Gardens for thrilling rides and encounters with exotic animals, a favorite among locals. Explore the vibrant underwater world at the Florida Aquarium.
Make the most of the stunning outdoor spaces in Tampa Bay. Clearwater Beach offers pristine white sand and clear waters for sunbathing and swimming.
Hillsborough River State Park boasts picturesque hiking trails and kayaking and camping opportunities, while the Lowry Park Zoo allows for an up-close experience with diverse animals.
- Nearby Attractions: Salvador Dali Museum, The Museum of Science and Industry, Tarpon Springs
6. Naples
Known for its pristine beaches and upscale atmosphere, Naples is a paradise for families seeking relaxation and natural beauty.
Spend your days having a blast building sandcastles and searching for seashells on the breathtaking beaches. Take a leisurely stroll along the iconic Naples Pier and soak up the sun and the stunning views.
Don’t miss the chance to visit the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, where you can get up close and personal with a wide variety of animals in a lush tropical setting. For a truly one-of-a-kind experience, make sure to explore the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, which is home to the largest remaining stand of ancient bald cypress trees.
To top it all off, indulge in delicious seafood at waterfront restaurants and enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico.
- Nearby Attractions: Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, The Baker Museum
7. Fort Lauderdale
Get ready to groove in Fort Lauderdale, where beautiful beaches, funky canals, and an electric atmosphere come together to create the ultimate family playground.
Take a scenic boat tour along the Intracoastal Waterway and admire the stunning mansions and yachts. For a unique experience, hop on the Jungle Queen Riverboat and embark on a sightseeing adventure through the “Venice of America.”
Fort Lauderdale also boasts natural beauty and outdoor activities. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park offers hiking trails, bike rentals, and canoeing opportunities amidst a tropical oasis. But for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking with the family, there is no better place than Fort Lauderdale Beach Park.
- Nearby Attractions: Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, Museum of Discovery and Science.
8. Sarasota
Sarasota is a fantastic destination for families seeking art, entertainment, and outdoor adventures. From The Ringling, a world-renowned art museum and circus museum complex to Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, where you can witness captivating marine life and learn about ocean conservation – this has it all!
Sarasota is also home to Siesta Key Beach, renowned for its powdery white sand and clear turquoise waters. Families can visit Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, showcasing stunning displays of tropical plants and orchids. Sarasota Jungle Gardens provides an interactive experience with wildlife, including bird shows and feeding flamingos.
- Key Attractions: Siesta Key Beach, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Sarasota Jungle Gardens
9. Clearwater
Famous for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, Clearwater is a family-friendly paradise on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Spend your days lounging on Clearwater Beach, known for its soft sand and breathtaking sunsets. Visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, home to Winter the dolphin, star of the movie “Dolphin Tale.”
For some adrenaline-pumping fun, head to Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise and set sail on a pirate adventure. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Caladesi Island State Park, an unspoiled barrier island accessible by ferry.
- Nearby Attractions: Pier 60, Honeymoon Island State Park, Ruth Eckerd Hall
10. Amelia Island
Amelia Island is located on Florida’s northeast coast and offers a calm retreat with pristine beaches and charming southern hospitality. From sunbathing and swimming to building sandcastles on unspoiled beaches, you and your family will find all sorts of water fun here.
Explore the Amelia Island Museum of History, where you can learn about the island’s rich heritage. Take a scenic horseback ride along the shore or go on a kayaking adventure through the marshes and creeks. Wrap up your day with a delightful dinner at one of the island’s many waterfront restaurants.
Amelia Island is also known for its historic sites and natural beauty. Fort Clinch State Park offers guided tours of a 19th-century fortress and opportunities for fishing, hiking, and camping. Take a day trip to Cumberland Island, a designated national seashore with pristine beaches and wild horses. The Fernandina Beach Historic District is a charming area to explore, with Victorian architecture, unique shops, and delicious dining options.
- Top Attractions: Fort Clinch State Park, Cumberland Island, Fernandina Beach Historic District
And there you have it – the 10 best places for a family vacation in Florida.
Not feeling like going to Florida? Check out our Youtube channel for many more travel destinations and family vacation ideas just like this – because the wandering never stops.