Reclaiming Wonders

Looking for the best Florida road trip route or planning a family vacation around Florida things to do? Living only a few hours north in Georgia, our family has explore some of the best vacation spots in Florida for families as well as some lesser-visited unique places to visit in Florida. As frequent road-trippers, our Florida trips have involved quite a few road trips around Florida.

Don’t just plan a family Florida vacation from a “top 10 places to visit in Florida” list. Take your road school on the road, and make sure your Florida trip planner includes the best museums in Florida, amazing historical sites in Florida, and family-friendly Florida national parks.

Let’s head to Florida with kids clockwise starting at St. Augustine in northwest Florida, road trip to the Keys, and back up the Florida west cost through the Tampa area. Yes, I know there are a million things to see on a Florida family vacation. This isn’t a set Florida trip itinerary – these are Florida road trip ideas for you to add to the Florida road trip itinerary.

This very-long-list includes all the places around Florida we have personally visited and what we thought about them. No generic “best of Florida” lists here!

Affiliate disclosure: When you click and purchase a link in my post, I may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. I promise to only recommend products or places that I have personally want, used, or researched. Thanks in advance for the gallon of gas. 😉

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Jacksonville: A Beautiful Florida Garden

Located at the northeast corner, Jacksonville, Florida, is a great destination for families with beautiful beaches, outdoor adventures, and rich history. Explore the scenic Riverwalk, visit the Jacksonville Zoo, or enjoy hands-on learning at the Museum of Science & History. With plenty of parks, cultural attractions, and easy access to nearby coastal spots like Amelia Island, Jacksonville is perfect for a family-friendly getaway.

Cummer Museum and Gardens on the Water

This first stop in northeast Florida was beautiful – the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. It’s even listed on the list of National Historic Places. Plan to spend a couple of hours exploring inside this beautiful historic mansion which is now filled with art works. But the best part is the garden behind the house which looks out across the nearby Atlantic Ocean.

~~~> Note: A lot of these gardens and museums around Florida were selected specifically because they wouldn’t cost extra when using our reciprocal membership. You can save money too; read all about it “Museum Memberships: How to Save Money on Family Travel (2025)”.

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St. Augustine: A Florida History Trip

A day in St. Augustine, Florida is the perfect mix of history and charm on your Florida trip. Start with a visit to the Castillo de San Marcos, then stroll down the historic St. George Street for unique shops and cafes. Enjoy fresh seafood for lunch, drive across the causeway to climb the St. Augustine Lighthouse, or walk around the historic St. Augustine district. End the day with a sunset cruise or ghost tour through the city’s historic cobblestone streets.

~~~> Full post information here with more than 20 free places in St. Augustine to wander on your Florida trip! “St. Augustine Walk: See Florida’s Oldest City for Free”.

Fort Matanzas: A St. Augustine Day Trip

For families looking for a St. Augustine day trip, Fort Matanzas National Monument is an important historical site in Florida. Accessible only on a ranger-guided free Fort Matanzas ferry trip, this Spanish-built coquina fort near St. Augustine has stood as a guardian of the Matanzas Inlet since the 1700s. Starting from the Fort Matanzas Visitor Center, you will get your Fort Matanzas tickets to ride the ferry over to Rattlesnake Island for your ranger-guided Fort Matanzas tour.

~~~> Learn how to spend your day at Fort Matanzas with these detailed Mom tips and answers here at “Fort Matanzas FL: How to Make this St. Augustine Road Trip”.

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Cocoa Beach: Explore Florida’s Space Coast

Visiting Cocoa Beach, Florida offers the perfect mix of sun, surf, and space-inspired adventure. Known as the Surf Capital of the East Coast, it’s a hot-spot for water activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, and even surfing. Don’t have your paddleboard? There are plenty of nearby ocean sport stores to grab a cheap $20 board for the kids to share for a day of fun.

This east coast Florida beach has a laid-back vibe and variety of attractions. Relax on the sandy shores or visit the iconic Cocoa Beach Pier with its shops, restaurants, and stunning ocean views. Cocoa Beach is a must-visit destination for beachgoers and adventure seekers alike.

Kennedy Space Center

Visiting the Kennedy Space Center is an unforgettable journey into space exploration. Explore the Rocket Garden, see the Space Shuttle Atlantis, and tour the Apollo/Saturn V Center with its massive Saturn V rocket. Interactive exhibits, astronaut encounters, and simulators bring NASA’s missions to life, and you may even catch a live rocket launch.

When we visited Florida’s NASA Space Center, we opened the place and closed it out. There’s so much to see here, that you need to plan for a whole day of visiting!

See a Florida Shuttle Launch

Watching a SpaceX rocket launch from Cocoa Beach is a one-in-a-lifetime experience that will amaze all members of the family. Gather on the sandy shores or near the Cocoa Beach Pier for a clear view of the rocket soaring into the sky. The rumble of the launch and the sight of the fiery trail against the ocean backdrop create an unforgettable moment that showcases the excitement of space exploration.

Check out this Florida rocket launch schedule to consider planning your trip to coincide with your Florida road trip. Mom tip though… Don’t plan your trip with a guaranteed rocket launch. The dates change last minute and there’s no guarantee of a launch even when you get down there.

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Crescent City, FL – Quiet on the Water

Crescent Fish Camp

Need the perfect central Florida RV resort near St. Augustine? Just head to Crescent Fish Camp in Crescent City, Florida where you’ll find a beautiful waterfront view along the St. Johns River. This Florida fish camp with cabins is a peaceful Florida RV resort for all types of travelers… even if they don’t plan on fishing in Crescent Lake.

One of the four partners in the Outdoor Adventure Retreats (OAR) collection, this central Florida campground with cabins is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts and the rest of their group! This adventure retreat and Florida RV park fish camp has everything you need to stay on-site for your next getaway at Crescent Lake Fish Camp.

~~~> Read all about it here “Crescent Fish Camp: Relax at the Best of Florida“. It’s the perfect quiet rest on a busy Florida road trip.

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DeLeon Springs: Water Play and Pancakes

Only fifteen miles from the Atlantic Ocean, the small town of DeLeon Springs, Florida with around 2,600 residents offers a perfect family day trip with swimming, hiking, and wildlife. An hour north of the busy Orlando area, this is a great natural Florida town for a day trip in nature.

DeLeon Springs State Park

DeLeon Springs State Park in Florida is a natural gem known for its crystal-clear springs and unique dining experience. Visitors can swim, snorkel, or paddle in the refreshing spring waters surrounded by lush landscapes. Want something more? Head out on an hour-long boat ride through the swamp to look for crocodiles, water birds, and other animals.

The park’s highlight is the Old Sugar Mill Pancake House, a charming historic restaurant where you can cook your own pancakes on a griddle at your table. Served with a variety of toppings, the pancakes are a perfect treat after exploring the park.

Combining outdoor adventure with a fun, interactive meal, DeLeon Springs offers a truly memorable day for families and nature lovers.

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Orlando: Parks and People!

Central Florida’s Orlando is busy – home to over 300,000 residents and around 74 million visitors annually. A top family vacation spot, it features world-famous attractions like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld along with interactive museums and beautiful nearby springs. As much as I (sometimes) love these Orlando theme parks, Florida has so much more to see!

Discovery Cove to Swim with Dolphins in Florida

While we have been to Disney World and spent a few days at Sea World in Orlando, my family’s favorite place in Orlando was Sea World’s sister park of Discovery Cove. Only minutes from the main campus of Sea World, Discovery Cove is an amazing all-inclusive tropical vacation.

This magical one-day, all-inclusive resort at Discovery Cove offers a swim with dolphins in Orlando, relaxing on the sand, and snorkeling in a man-made lagoon with tropical fish and stingrays. It’s like a Cancun vacation without the travel price tag or passport requirements. Located adjacent to Sea World’s water park Aquatica and traditional Sea World park, this park is amazing.

~~~> Learn all about why we love this park and how to plan your first trip here: “Discovery Cove 101: How to Plan This Epic SeaWorld Adventure”. Warning: one read and you’ll be searching for tickets.

Sea World’s Waterpark and Roller Coasters

Our Discovery Cove passes came with four days of all-access entrance to the other Sea World parks. With this, we spent one day at Discovery Cove and additional days at Sea World Orlando, Sea World Aquatica, and Busch Gardens in Tampa. It was the kids’ first time at a giant water park and their first trip to Sea World.

If you’ve never been to other Sea World parks, there’s so much to do! Orlando’s Aquatica was my kids’ first big water park adventure, and it’s an amazing place for kids of all ages.

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Vero Beach: McCarty Treasure Museum

Vero Beach, Florida, located on the Atlantic Coast, is a charming destination known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. Located about 80 miles north of Boca Raton and roughly 120 miles north of Miami, it’s a quieter, more laid-back destination. Don’t overlook these scenic beaches and outdoor activities on your way to the bustling cities to the south.

At the McCarty Treasure Museum, Bring history to life for your little pirate treasure hunters with real treasures from the sunken ships. Because of its location on the east coast, ships frequently cruised this area on the way to the Caribbean. It’s a real life Pirates of the Caribbean adventure that just might have your kids searching for gold on your Florida beach days.

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Boca Raton: Salt, Sea, and Turtles

Boca Raton, Florida, about 45 miles north of Miami, offers cultural and natural attractions like free activities at Red Reef Park and Gumbo Limbo Nature Center. Right on the water, explore these beautiful beaches and nature trails.

Gumbo Limbo Nature Center’s Sea Life

The Gumbo Limbo Nature Center in Boca Raton, Florida is the perfect FREE family destination just north of Miami. Nestled along the Intracoastal Waterway, the center features scenic boardwalks through coastal hammocks, interactive exhibits at the nature center, and a butterfly garden.

Explore outdoor aquariums showcasing local marine life including sea turtles at the on-site rehabilitation facility. Guided nature walks and educational programs offer insights into Florida’s unique ecosystems, making it a perfect destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts.

Although it doesn’t cost anything to visit Gumbo Limbo Nature Center or Red Reef Park, you will have to pay to park. Leave your stuff in the car to visit the nature center, and grab your swim gear and picnic before heading across the street to Red Reef Park.

Red Reef Park: Snorkeling Off the Beach

Located right across the street from Gumbo Limbo Nature Center in Boca Raton, the beauty of Red Reef Park is perfect for a family beach adventure. With beautiful sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, the park is a haven for snorkeling, offering vibrant coral reefs just offshore teeming with marine life.

Visitors can also enjoy shaded picnic areas, scenic walking trails, and fishing along the Intracoastal Waterway. With its combination of natural beauty and recreational activities, Red Reef Park provides a peaceful escape and a chance to explore Florida’s coastal charm.

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Downtown Miami Museums

Visiting Downtown Miami offers an exciting mix of culture, entertainment, and stunning cityscapes. Known for its modern skyline and waterfront views, the area is home to attractions like the Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) and the Frost Science Museum with an aquarium. Stroll through Bayfront Park or explore the lively streets of Little Havana filled with international cuisine, cigar shops, and unique boutiques. With its blend of urban energy and tropical charm, Downtown Miami is a busy tropical destination perfect for dining and sightseeing.

We’ve been here once and dealt with the traffic. Honestly, we saw Miami… and don’t care to go back. To each his own. 🙂

Bill Baggs Cape State Park and Lighthouse

Don’t make your Miami trip only about the crowded local Miami beaches. Head out to the natural part of Miami for day playing on the beach. While there is plenty to do at this Florida State Park including a museum and nature trails and lighthouse viewing, we just enjoyed the beach. Bill Baggs Cape State Park is a great Miami escape, and it only costs $8 per vehicle.

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Everglades National Park

You’ve planning a Florida trip to Everglades National Park, but are you really ready? Let’s me show you how and why this Florida National Park should be a must-visit nature destination on your Florida road trip. The Everglades is the United States’ third largest national park.

Essential to the ecosystem, the grasslands of the Everglades encompass many different ecosystems and water areas. Plan to rent a boat and get out to see it from the water! Did I mention it’s also the only place in the US where you can see American alligators and crocodiles?

Set the very tip of the Florida peninsula, Everglades National Park encompasses two million acres and should be on your Florida travel list if you’re headed to Key West or visiting the big city of Miami.

~~~> Don’t plan a trip to the Everglades without reading all the details here: “The Everglades: How to Plan an Epic Florida Trip”. I learned some travel lessons here, and I want you to avoid the same mistakes!

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Florida Keys: Key Largo and Key West

Key Largo: John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Honestly, Pennekamp State Park was not what we expected. It was crowded, the water was not clear, and despite our snorkels, this was not a good snorkel adventure. While it’s completely possible that we were there on a bad day, check your weather report and familiarize yourself with the park map.

Key West Sunsets, Snorkeling, and Snacks

A trip to Key West is filled with tropical charm and fun. Start with a photo at the Southernmost Point, then visit the beautiful Ernest Hemingway Home and stroll the bars, galleries, and shops near Duval Street. Enjoy some beach time at Fort Zachary Taylor with snorkeling or swimming, then catch the sunset at Mallory Square while eating Key lime pie from Kermit’s.

Our favorite part of our days exploring Key West was the morning we spent with Danger Charters on a sailboat trip out to kayak among the mangrove forest out in the bay. Read here – “Plan an Epic Florida Keys Snorkel with Danger Charters.”

~~~> Despite all the beauty shown about Key West, there are factors you should know before planning a family trip to Key West. Make sure to read this real-life Mom review: “Key West Warnings: Everything to Know Before You Go”

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Big Cypress NP’s Quiet Beauty

Big Cypress National Preserve in South Florida is a unique wilderness ofnatural beauty and wildlife. The preserve – which I had never heard of – has a visitor center and boardwalks through the lush cypress swamps, pine forests, and prairies. Right on the road crossing from Miami to the west coast of Florida, this quick stop is a great outdoor break.

Visitors can hike scenic trails, kayak through winding waterways, or take a scenic drive along Loop Road to spot alligators, wading birds, and other native species. With its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes, Big Cypress is the neighbor of Everglades National Park.

This a great stop for Florida adventurers who want to see the Everglades but don’t have a full day for an Everglades adventure. Not to mention, the small visitor center allows a potty break and some learning in the small museum area.

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Fort Myers: Unique History Sites 

Fort Myers, Florida, located on the Gulf Coast, is about halfway down the west coast of the state. It’s across the state from Miami on the east coast, with approximately 120 miles separating the two cities. Known for its beautiful beaches like Sanibel Island, see unique attractions like the Edison and Ford Winter Estates and the Native American Mound House.

Thomas Edison and Henry Ford Estates

The Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers offers a fascinating look at two iconic inventors. Tour their historic homes, explore their sample gardens, and the labs where Edison and Ford worked. Explore exhibits on Edison’s inventions, Ford’s cars, and lush botanical gardens along the Caloosahatchee River for a perfect blend of history and nature.

Make sure you pay attention to the immense banyan trees which were planted by Thomas Edison in his attempt to bring rubber production over to the United States. Spend a couple of hours learning about these famous northern US inventors while exploring the grounds of their neighboring Florida vacation homes.

Calusa Indian Mound House at Fort Myers Beach

The Mound House in Fort Myers Beach offers a fascinating look at the Calusa Indians. With exhibits showcasing the Native American tools, pottery, and history, you will go on a tour of the water, have hands-on learning with a guide, and watch a video about the shell mound.

Excavations into the side of the 2,000-year-old shell mound, you will learn about the Calusa’s history and life. Explore the scenic grounds with views of Estero Bay while looking for lizards and water birds among the tropical plants.

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Vietnam Wall of Southwest Florida in Punta Gorda

Add in some history appreciation at the Vietnam Wall of Southwest Florida in Punta Gorda. This free detour is a half-scale replica of the original Maya Lin design in Washington DC. Locals in the area honor it and pay respect to their loved ones just as they do at the DC one. Made from the same granite source as the Washington Vietnam Wall, this is an important history stop in Florida and a special place for the kids to experience.

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Sarasota Sunsets and Surprises

Sarasota, Florida is beauty on Florida’s Gulf Coast about 60 miles south of Florida’s third largest city, Tampa. Famous for its circus history, Sarasota began as the winter home of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Explore the surprisingly grande buildings at the Ringling Museum of Art, Shelby Botanical Gardens, and enjoy the beautiful beaches.

Walk Along the Bayfront Park and Marina

Wandering Sarasota’s waterfront is a relaxing way to enjoy its coastal charm. Stroll through Sarasota’s Bayfront Park, admire the marina views, and watch the sunset across the Sarasota Bay. Walk around the marina and check out all the amazing boats.

This is a popular park was busy during our stay, but it would be a great place for getting your feet in the sand while having a dinner picnic.

Explore the Marie Shelby Botanic Gardens

The Marie Shelby Botanic Gardens  in Sarasota, Florida, is a stunning oasis of tropical beauty and scientific discovery. Known for its vast collection of epiphytes like orchids and bromeliads, the gardens feature lush landscapes, serene walking paths, and breathtaking views of Sarasota Bay. Visitors can explore themed areas such as the Tropical Conservatory, Mangrove Bay Walk, and a children’s rainforest garden. With rotating art exhibits and a focus on plant research and conservation, Selby Gardens is a perfect blend of natural wonder, education, and tranquility.

PS: This garden is on the reciprocal list for the American Horticultural Society; a reciprocal membership with our Atlanta Botanical Garden membership.

Ringling Museum of Art and Ca’ d’Zan Mansion

Sarasota was the winter home of the Ringling Brothers circus at the beginning of the 1900s – bet ya didn’t know that! The Ringling Museum in Sarasota is a unique mix of art, history, and culture.

It features the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art with European masterpieces, and the Circus Museum, showcasing vintage costumes and artifacts. Visitors can also explore the stunning Ca’ d’Zan Mansion and lush gardens overlooking Sarasota Bay, making it a must-visit destination on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

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St. Petersburg: A City of Art

Downtown St. Petersburg, Florida, is a vibrant hub of culture, art, and waterfront beauty. The downtown area is very walkable! Known for its trendy cafes, craft breweries, and unique boutiques, it’s an art lover paradise. Art lovers can explore the renowned Dalí Museum, the Florida Holocaust Museum, the Chihuily Exhibit at the Morean Art Center, or the colorful street murals scattered throughout the district.

The scenic waterfront parks of St. Pete offer stunning views of Tampa Bay and are perfect for a leisurely stroll or outdoor events. With a mix of historic charm and modern flair, downtown St. Petersburg is a must-visit destination for dining, entertainment, and relaxation.

~~~> Read all about a day exploring downtown St. Petersburg here: “St. Pete: Make Sure to Visit These 4 Fabulous Museums”. Lots of goodness to see in this little downtown area!

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Tarpon Springs: It’s All Greek! 

Tarpon Springs, Florida is a unique coastal town celebrated for its rich Greek heritage and historic sponge-diving industry. Stroll along the Sponge Docks where you can watch fishermen bring in the fresh sponges from the surrounding water. You’ll find authentic Greek restaurants, bakeries, and shops selling natural sponges and unique gifts.

Visitors can take a boat tour to see sponge divers in action or explore the town’s history. The waterfront atmosphere, the delicious Greek cuisine, and Greek cultural events make Tarpon Springs a memorable small-town destination on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

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Crystal River – Kayaking and Springs

A day trip kayaking Crystal River, Florida is a serene adventure through unspoiled natural beauty. Surrounded by lush mangroves, crystal-clear springs, and abundant wildlife like manatees, otters, and colorful birds, you need to get out on the water to fully explore the hidden coves, spring-fed inlets, and the vibrant underwater scenery.

Only a few hours west from Orlando, a day trip exploring the water is a great escape from busy days at the amusement park. Read all the details of our trip on the Chaz here: “Explore Florida Springs with a Crystal River Kayak Trip”.

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Check Out These Florida Blog Posts

• “Explore Florida Springs with a Crystal River Kayak Trip” – A perfect way to break up the busy of Orlando with a Florida nature adventure. 
• “St. Pete: Make Sure to Visit These 4 Fabulous Museums” – Head west for a weekend exploring the very walkable downtown of St. Petersburg, Florida. It’s full of beautiful places and set right on the ocean.
• “Discovery Cove 101: How to Plan This Epic SeaWorld Adventure” – If you’re looking for the tropical all-inclusive attraction in Orlando, Florida.
• “The Everglades: How to Plan an Epic Florida Trip” – Keep going to the very southern tip of Florida to see a different side of native Florida.
• “Key West Warnings: Everything to Know Before You Go” – Don’t stop at the Everglades. Key West doesn’t compare to any other Florida destinations.
• “Crescent Fish Camp: Relax at the Best of Florida” – Follow along the east coast of Florida for the ultimate relaxing getaway at this fish campground complete with a rental house, RV sites, and tiny homes located right on the water of St. Mary’s.
• “St. Augustine, Florida: Best Free Attractions for Families” – Don’t let the many, many St. Augustine attractions be overwhelming as you plan your Florida travels. Here’s a list of more than 20 free things to do in St. Augustine that your kids will enjoy. It’s a good half-day walk to explore Florida’s oldest city.

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Florida Road Trip Ideas Wrap-Up

Hope this list helps you find new places around Florida that would have otherwise been overlooked. There’s so much to add to your best Florida road trip other than heading straight to Orlando and driving back home. Leave time to explore Florida springs, see some unique Florida historical sites, and just be at the beautiful beach.

Reach out in the comments and tell me which of these places to explore in Florida just moved onto your Florida family vacation list! Have fun exploring!

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