Looking for exciting, family-friendly things to do around Florida this weekend? Whether you’re local or visiting, the Sunshine State is bursting with weekend adventures that’ll keep everyone smiling—from toddlers to teens, and yes, even parents. With a mix of thrilling attractions, cultural gems, natural wonders, and beachside bliss, here’s your go-to guide for memorable weekend fun across Florida’s top cities.
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Orlando: Magic and Thrills
Orlando is a weekend playground for families—and not just because of the theme parks.
Walt Disney World: Four parks, endless magic. Perfect for all ages and a must-do for first-timers.
Universal Orlando: Explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and movie-themed thrills galore.
Gatorland: The “Alligator Capital of the World” lets your family zip-line over gators and meet exotic reptiles up close.
Miami: Culture Meets Nature
In Miami, you’ll find more than nightlife—think hands-on museums and Everglades adventures.
Miami Children’s Museum: Kids can play, learn, and explore hands-on exhibits in a colorful indoor setting.
Everglades Alligator Farm: Airboat tours, wildlife shows, and all the gators you can handle.
Flamingo Gardens: A 60-acre oasis filled with rescued wildlife, tropical plants, and—you guessed it—flamingos.
Tampa Bay: Wild Rides and Cool Science
Tampa blends theme park thrills with educational fun.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: A mashup of roller coasters and safari-style animal encounters.
The Florida Aquarium: Sea turtles, sharks, and hands-on aquatic exhibits for curious minds.
MOSI (Museum of Science & Industry): Science becomes a weekend adventure here, complete with planetarium shows and interactive exhibits.
Central Florida: Lakes, Gardens, and Wildlife
Escape the crowds and discover hidden gems in Central Florida.
Bok Tower Gardens: Peaceful trails and carillon bell concerts in a picture-perfect landscape.
Safari Wilderness Ranch: Ride through wide-open terrain filled with exotic animals like zebras and lemurs.
Florida Children’s Museum (Lakeland): A great spot for indoor fun and creativity for kids of all ages.
Florida Keys: Island-Style Fun
The Keys offer a slower pace and unforgettable family memories.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: Snorkel, kayak, or take a glass-bottom boat tour in the country’s first undersea park.
Rain Barrel Village: Local shops, giant lobster sculptures, and chill island vibes in Islamorada.
Jacksonville: Big Cats and Big Smiles
North Florida has a quieter charm—and plenty of wild encounters.
Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens: Explore animal habitats, gardens, and fun rides for younger kids.
Catty Shack Ranch: Home to rescued tigers, lions, and other big cats, with guided night feedings that wow kids and adults alike.
Florida’s Panhandle: Beaches and Boardwalks
Okaloosa Island: Quiet, family-friendly beaches perfect for building sandcastles and spotting dolphins.
Scenic 30A: Cruise through beach towns like Seaside and Rosemary Beach, ideal for biking and local eats.
St. Augustine: Where History Comes Alive
Castillo de San Marcos: Step into America’s oldest stone fort and experience living history.
St. Augustine Alligator Farm: A one-of-a-kind zoo with every known crocodilian species, plus birds, snakes, and zip lines.
Final Thought
No matter where you go, there’s no shortage of things to do around Florida with your family. Whether it’s magic in Orlando, nature in the Everglades, or beachside fun in the Panhandle, weekends in Florida are made for unforgettable memories.
An avid traveler, Kirk Grover has been to over 50 countries. He has an extensive background in tourism and hospitality management, along with a degree in Hospitality Management from the University of Nevada Las Vegas. Kirk is very knowledgeable about travel-related topics – they are always up to date on the latest deals for flights, hotels, and other adventures around the world.
