Florida Road Trips for Families with Kids – What Not to Miss?

Car packed for Florida road trips for families with kids

The Sunshine State is home to various theme parks, gorgeous beaches, and citrus orchards which makes it a paradise for a family vacation. And while Florida road trips for families with kids will create unforgettable memories no matter where you go, everyone will enjoy it even more if you plan the trip properly. Still, it’s never easy to organize a vacation for a big family, especially for members with a significant age difference. Hence, drafting a plan for a fun road trip is usually challenging. However, you are in luck because it is not the case when it comes to Alligator State.  From a variety of fantastic destinations, we will recommend the ones you should not miss!

Making the best route

When it comes to family vacations, you need to include everyone in the process of planning because it’s all about creating happy memories with your kids. Exploring the options in advance will help you map the route and estimate the travel expenses. Still, adding everyone’s desired destination on the list while compromising is the only guaranteed way for a successful vacation. 

Once you experience the glorious weather and learn that there is no income tax in Sunshine State, you will realize why Florida is one of the most popular moving destinations for young families. According to moving professionals Miami Movers for Less, most of their clients have come here searching for a better quality of life.

Castle from the Walt Disney World in Orlando
Walt Disney World is one of the most popular family trip destinations in the US

The fun in Orlando

There is a world-famous tourist attraction in Orlando no one should miss – the Walt Disney World. Now, you might think that’s just for kids but remember, we were all kids once. Perhaps seeing heroes that shaped our childhoods will remind you of some lovely memories while your children enjoy countless fun activities.

Still, that’s not all Orlando has to offer. The city is filled with entertainment complexes, from Kennedy Space Centre to SeaWorld to ICON park. And if your children are more into magic than princes and princesses, taking them to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Universal Studio Park might be just the right thing.

Kids in the aquarium at SeaWorld
Visiting SeaWorld with your kids is an unforgettable experience

Florida Keys exotic vacation

Between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, in the southernmost parts of the US, stretches the magnificent Florida Keys. It is a tropical paradise that provides an exotic experience for tourists. And even though there are a lot of amazing beaches in the Aligator State, what can compete with Florida Keys beaches where you can swim with the dolphins? The area is sustaining on tourism, fishing, and eco-tourism. Still, even though it’s close to Miami, it’s one of the few remaining places without the light-polluted sky.

Sunset in the Florida Keys
If your family is into snorkeling and scuba diving, Florida Keys should be on your checklist

Frost Science in Miami Park district

Frost Science Museum is a must-see location on Florida road trips for families with kids. It’s impossible not to develop a love for exploring and science after visiting this complex that features a planetarium, aquarium, science laboratories, and rotating exhibitions. And the best part of this museum is, everything is interactive. There are no “don’t touch” signs, which can be a blessing for inquisitive kids.

Museum anatomy exhibition
Family road trips for families with kids can be fun and educational at the same time if they include museum visits

Orange picking in southern Florida

There is nothing like eating the fruit you’ve picked by yourself. Add some family fun into the mix, and you’ll make great memories. If southern Florida is on your trip itinerary, you can’t miss seeing the ocean of orange orchards spreading through the scenery. But when you decide to visit, plan your trip in the first part of the year. Even though orange picking is available all year round, the season is particularly blooming between December and May.

Girl picking oranges from a tree
Tasting freshly picked fruit gives us particular pleasure, especially if you did it yourself

The fun in Florida’s West Coast

When experiencing Florida’s west coast locations, Tampa is the place to see. Known for its rich historical sites, museums, amusement parks, and zoos, Tampa also has some of the best beaches in the US. Naturally, the Busch Gardens is something no one will skip visiting while here. Because where else can we have first-class African-themed family entertainment without having to travel to another continent? Safari trips, water rides, and rollercoasters are some of the activities your family can enjoy. But, adding some education to the fun time can benefit your kids a lot. Tampa has excellent museums worth the visit, like the Glazer Children’s Museum, Museum of Science and Industry, Henry B. Plant Museum, and Tampa Bay History Center.

Rollercoaster in Tampa amusement park
Tampa is the most exotic and exciting place on Florida’s west coast

Tour along Crystal River and Kings Bay

For nature-loving families, there is no greater experience than visiting Crystal River amenities. Picnicking in the Fort Island Gulf Beach, swimming with manatees, hiking through the Wildlife refuge, exploring Archaeological State Park, and kayaking on Kings Bay… The possibilities are endless. This place is a natureal gem, and if the road takes you near Miami, you mustn’t miss it.

Family kayaking in Crystal River
Crystal River is famous for its water sport activities

Traveling is half the fun!

In today’s modern age of technology, making routes, maps and finding things we’re looking for is easy. Still, being surrounded by all that pressure of modernization can be a burden sometimes. Many would argue that old-fashioned vacations are the best because that’s how you learn to get around. Engaging kids in finding the routes on paper maps could make the trip a more fun experience. But also, such interactive activities will be teaching your kids resourcefulness through gaining new skills.

Florida road trips for families with kids should, first of all, be fun. Therefore, while traveling, don’t hold onto schedule and itineraries too much! It’s essential to enjoy the coincidental magical instances on your way. Whether they are cute little diners along the way or the best sunset scenery, stop and learn to seize the moment. Such little detours could make the vacation memorable by creating valuable family moments. As R.W. Emerson wisely said, “It’s not the destination, it’s the journey.”

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Best Beaches to Visit in America

sea shells on a sandy beach

Image Credit: Pixabay

When it comes to vacations, beach visits are among the most popular with Americans. There’s just something so soothing about sitting on the beach, feeling the sand between your toes, and listening to the sound of the waves crash. Although beach vacations are extremely popular, not all beaches are created equally. There certainly are some beaches that stand out from the pack and have asserted themselves as premier destinations. So what exactly are these great beaches? Here are the best beaches to visit in America.

Malibu

Out of all of the popular beaches in the United States, Malibu is probably one of the most famous and well known. The beach attracts all sorts of celebrities, ranging from movie stars to superstar athletes. Malibu has some beautiful sights and weather, making it the perfect place to kick back and relax. In addition, the area is known for its great waves and perfect surfing conditions. As a result, surfers from all over the world come to the area in order to experience these perfect waves. Being in Malibu will have you feeling like an absolute star, which is just one of the many reasons why it is one of the best beaches to visit in America

Fort Lauderdale

Florida has some great beaches, but some of them rise above the competition and are truly amazing places to visit. One of these great Floridian beaches is Fort Lauderdale, an absolutely classic option for a beach vacation. Here you can experience everything that Florida has to offer, the classic Florida palm trees, the beautiful white sandy beaches, and the crisp warm weather. The area has some great restaurants and shops to go along with its great beaches, making Fort Lauderdale one of the best beach spots on the East Coast. Fort Lauderdale houses for sale are some of the most in-demand real estate in the entire state, and it’s mostly because of the area’s great beaches. If you’re looking to visit a great Florida beach, then Fort Lauderdale should be at the top of your list.

Ocean City

When people think of beaches in the United States, they commonly think of Florida beaches in the southeast and the great beaches on the West Coast. However, one of the nation’s most popular beaches is actually Ocean City, Maryland. Ocean City has around ten miles of beach for visitors to enjoy, as well as several miles of boardwalk. Ocean City is also an extremely family-friendly beach, making it the perfect beach to bring the whole family to. If you live in the Northeast and are looking for a great beach getaway, then you can’t go wrong with picking Ocean City.

Maui

Hawaii is known for its absolutely gorgeous beaches and perfect weather. One of the state’s most famous beaches in Maui, a beach that draws thousands of visitors every year. Of course, the beautiful sandy beaches are the main attraction for visitors, but that is not the only great quality that Maui has. Maui has some great attractions as well as some breathtaking views. The geography around the beaches is absolutely stunning, and makes relaxing on the beach absolutely blissful. If you want to see some amazing beaches, then visiting Maui would be the perfect place for you.

Vacation Escape to Marathon and the Florida Keys

The odds are very good that you’ve never heard of Marathon, Florida. Located in the middle of the Florida Keys (90 miles south of Miami and 45 miles north of Key West), Marathon is a collection of seven islands in a 10-mile long community. Marathon is known for its tropical climate and laid back lifestyle and is the boating and family destination of the Florida Keys.

If you are looking for your next beach getaway this is it. Sandy beaches, seaside restaurants and a host of water activities including sailing, fishing, boating, wreck and reef diving, and more. And there are galleries, museums, parks, golf, shopping, and theaters for your time on dry land. The Florida Keys are unique and Marathon blends the laid back “Keys” lifestyle with lots of activities for vacationers.

Sunset in Marathon

Photo by Gillian Kniveton via Trover.com

Top Hotel Choices in Marathon, Florida

Like most beach destinations, there’s no shortage of motels and hotels in Marathon. But given how special vacation time is, it’s a good idea to take a close look at your hotel options and select the one that most suits you and your family. Here are some of the best family resorts in Marathon:

–          Tranquility Bay Beach House Resort: Perhaps the best resort in Marathon because of its all-Florida experience. This is a small resort with beach houses, award-winning cuisine and a private sandy beach on the Gulf of Mexico.

An oceanfront view in Marathon, Florida

Photo by Ting Teng via Trover.com

–          Hawks Cay Florida Keys Resort: This resort has garnered a number of Oyster Awards including Best Value, Luxury and Kid-Friendly Hotel in the Florida Keys. With its calm beach and family-friendly features, it’s hard to go wrong staying here.

–          Hyatt Place Marathon Florida Keys: With a historic lighthouse on site, this property is centrally located and walking distance from attractions. It of course features Hyatt amenities and outstanding guest service.

Top Things to do in Marathon, Florida

On the “must do and try” list in Marathon is:

–          Fish Tales Market & Eatery: If you like to eat fish, this is the place. Freshly caught fish of all kinds, homemade soups and perhaps the best Key Lime Pie in the Keys!

–          Pigeon Key Helicopter Tour: Get a bird’s eye view of Marathon, the Florida Keys, and the area’s crystal clear waters and beaches. You’ll also see the historic Sombrero Lighthouse and marine wildlife which may include bull sharks, sea turtles, manatees, tarpon and dolphins.

–          Marathon Diving & Snorkeling: Marathon’s reefs offer coral and fish life plus modern and historical shipwrecks for an incredible underwater experience. There are five different dive areas including the traditional favorite – Sombrero Reef.

–          The Turtle Hospital: Since its opening in 1986, the Turtle Hospital has treated and released over 1500 sea turtles back to the ocean. Guided Educational Experiences are offered to the public seven days a week.

A sea turtle in Florida
Photo by Turtles Travel via Trover.com

–          Crane Point Museum and Nature Center:  Crane Point Museum contains historic area artifacts dating back to prehistoric Indians. Crane Point sits on 64 acres of trees and vegetation and has walking trails that will take you on a hike through Florida’s nature and history.

It’s time to get back to Florida and discover Marathon and the Florida Keys!