Local attractions and parks offer a variety of interactive experiences, live shows, and beautiful settings—many located right along the water. Spend the day exploring lush botanical gardens, discovering marine life at hands-on aquariums, or simply relaxing beneath shaded banyan trees. Children will love the chance to see animals up close, enjoy outdoor play spaces, and wander scenic nature areas. These coastal attractions provide a more intimate, enriching experience compared to the large theme parks Florida is known for.
A beautifully restored 32-acre coastal preserve featuring wetlands, boardwalks, shaded nature trails, and one of the region’s last remaining dune forests. This conservation project protects native vegetation—including live oaks, sabal palms, banyans, and mangroves—and offers peaceful views, birdwatching, and quiet pathways ideal for families and nature lovers.
A scenic preserve with winding trails, mangrove boardwalks, a kayak launch, and an observation tower offering panoramic views of the marshlands. Perfect for hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, and taking in serene coastal landscapes.
A tranquil waterfront park with shaded walking trails, historical exhibits, seasonal reenactments, and beautiful views of the Manatee River. A wonderful place for picnics, easy nature walks, and learning about early Florida history.
A compact but stunning nature preserve featuring elevated walkways, viewing platforms, and lush native vegetation. Its hilltop lookout provides sweeping views of Sarasota Bay and abundant birdlife.
One of Florida’s oldest and most expansive state parks. Guests can explore wetlands, prairies, rivers, and forests via hiking trails, scenic drives, airboat tours, and the famous canopy walkway. Wildlife sightings may include alligators, wild boar, eagles, spoonbills, deer, and more. A perfect destination for outdoor adventurers.
A world-class rowing and recreation venue surrounding a 400-acre lake. Enjoy walking and biking paths, kayaking, paddleboarding, playgrounds, and year-round sporting events and festivals. Ideal for an active family outing.
A leading marine research and rehabilitation center home to sharks, sea turtles, manatees, otters, rays, jellyfish, and more than 100 species of marine life. Children enjoy the touch tanks and interactive exhibits, while adults appreciate the conservation-focused mission.
A premier aquarium showcasing Florida’s aquatic ecosystems. Visitors walk through immersive habitats featuring stingrays, reef fish, sharks, otters, bird aviaries, and interactive touch experiences.
A rescue and rehabilitation facility for injured marine animals. Meet dolphins, sea turtles, pelicans, and otters while learning about marine conservation and participating in educational programs.
An indoor aquarium featuring a 360-degree ocean tunnel, thousands of sea creatures, and hands-on marine experiences. A great weather-proof option for day trips inland.
An Old Florida attraction where guests can hand-feed flamingos, talk to parrots, pet reptiles, and enjoy interactive wildlife shows. Shaded walking paths make it ideal for families with young children.
A respected rescue sanctuary providing a safe home for big cats, primates, birds, and other wildlife. Visitors can observe Siberian tigers, African lions, rare white tigers, bears, and more while enjoying educational demonstrations and a petting zoo.
A magnificent cultural campus featuring an internationally recognized Museum of Art, the Circus Museum, the historic Ca’ d’Zan mansion, and acres of bayfront gardens. Wander through banyan groves, rose gardens, and waterfront pathways while exploring world-renowned art and architecture.
A botanical sanctuary known for its exceptional orchid collection, tropical greenhouses, butterfly gardens, and peaceful bayfront walkways. Seasonal displays, art installations, and special events make every visit unique.
A hands-on science and natural history museum featuring Florida wildlife exhibits, fossils, rotating galleries, and an advanced planetarium with daily shows.
A collection of preserved historical buildings—including a schoolhouse, church, courthouse, and blacksmith shop—offering visitors a glimpse into pioneer-era Florida life.
An outdoor aerial adventure park featuring rope courses, zip lines, climbing challenges, and swinging bridges. Designed for all skill levels and great for families with teens or adventurous adults.
A family-friendly destination offering citrus tastings, a wildlife rescue tram tour, seasonal events, and a behind-the-scenes look at Florida’s agricultural roots.
