By Keith Evans
The Sunshine State is renowned for its vacation destinations, and many of locations have worked hard to ensure a safe, family-friendly atmosphere. From serene, scenic
beaches to wild roller coasters and water parks, Florida is an ideal vacation destination for families with kids of any age.
Fort Walton Beach
Located along the peaceful Gulf Coast of the Florida Panhandle, Fort Walton beach offers peaceful settings, family-friendly dining--be sure to check out the fresh seafood catches--and gorgeous sunsets. The sleepy, little town has grown somewhat over the years, but the slow pace of the deep South is still evident in this community.
Tallahassee
The state's capital and home to one of the largest colleges in the region, Florida State University, Tallahassee is a great destination for families, especially those with teenagers. Lodging is relatively inexpensive, and the abundance of publicly accessible state buildings and parks make for free entertainment.
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL 32306
(850) 644-2525
St. Augustine
Famous for being the oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine is perfect for lovers and students of U.S. history. A plethora of historic attractions abound, and the close proximity to both Jacksonville, where sports lovers can take in a Jacksonville Jaguars game, and Daytona Beach makes the small town an excellent destination for a quick trip or a weeklong excursion.
Daytona Beach
Once renowned for its party atmosphere, racing heritage and spring break festivities, the "World's Most Famous Beach" has made valiant efforts to shed its torrid past and become more family oriented. The beach town of about 300,000 residents offers year-round fun in the sun and a carnival-like atmosphere on its boardwalk. Sunshine Park, directly adjacent to the beach and just south of the International Speedway Boulevard causeway, is a great (and free) way to while away an afternoon with young children. In addition, two world-class universities, Bethune Cookman and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical, an enormous community college, and exciting midway rides make Daytona Beach ideal for families with teens. As an added incentive to visit, Daytona boasts a modern and friendly, but little known, international airport (airport code DAB) that is far less crowded than those in neighboring cities.
Sunshine Park
2400 S. Ridgewood Ave. #34
South Daytona, FL 32119
(386) 756-8700
Bethune Cookman College
640 Dr. Mary Mcleod Bethune Blvd.
Daytona Beach, FL 32114
(386) 481-2000
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
600 S. Clyde Morris Blvd.
Daytona Beach, FL 32114
(386) 226-6000
Clearwater Beach
On the opposite end of Interstate 4 from Daytona, Clearwater is like Daytona Beach's west-coast cousin. The town offers mainly tourist attractions, making it suitable for families with young children and teens. Like Daytona, Clearwater boasts year-round beach access and mild temperatures, and young children can be seen playing on the beach alongside teens, parents and the elderly. Unlike Daytona, Clearwater is only a quick drive from the bustling Tampa Bay metropolis, where adults and teens can find exciting nightlife.
Cocoa Beach
For a beach getaway that is a little different, consider driving about an hour south from Daytona Beach to another famous seashore town. Prominently featured in the 1960s sitcom "I Dream of Jeannie," Cocoa Beach is renowned for its laid-back atmosphere, cocoa-colored sand and 24-hour surf shops. Young children will be enamored with the neon lights and colorful assortment of goods inside Ron Jon Surf Shop, and older children may enjoy a tour of nearby Kennedy Space Center. For a truly spectacular sight, try to be on the beach during a rocket or space shuttle launch; the aural and visual stimulation of such an exhibit will not be soon forgotten.
Ron Jon Surf Shop
4151 N. Atlantic Ave.
Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
(321) 799-8888
John F. Kennedy Space Center
Kennedy Space Center, FL 32899
(321) 867-5000
Orlando
Of course, no family trip to Florida would be complete without stopping in Orlando. Famous around the world for its theme parks and tourist attractions, Orlando is the penultimate family-friendly destination. Walt Disney World, of course, welcomes kids of all ages, but Universal Studios, SeaWorld and even Gatorland can spice up an ordinary, Disney-centered visit. The numerous attractions along International Drive all receive family approval, and the club scene, though somewhat removed from the tourist district, is accessible enough for older teens and adults to have a night out.
Walt Disney World
3111 World Drive
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
(407) 939-6244
Universal Studios Orlando
6000 Universal Blvd.
Orlando, FL 32819
(407) 363-8000
SeaWorld Orlando
7007 Sea World Drive
Orlando, FL 32821
(407) 363-2280
Gatorland
14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail
Orlando, FL 32837
(407) 855-5496
About the Author:
Keith Evans has been writing professionally since 1994 and now works from his office outside of Orlando. He has written for various print and online publications and wrote the book, "Appearances: The Art of Class." Evans holds a Bachelor of Arts in organizational communication from Rollins College and is pursuing a Master of Business Administration in strategic leadership from Andrew Jackson University.
