Central Florida is known as a family vacation destination for good reason. From LEGOLAND to Safari Wilderness, elaborate playgrounds, museums and educational experiences, this area of the state has plenty to offer. Here are the best family attractions in Central Florida not to miss.
1/5 LEGOLAND® FLORIDA RESORT
At 150-acres, LEGOLAND® Florida is the largest interactive LEGOLAND® Park in the world. It features more than 50 rides, shows and attractions, restaurants, shopping, a breathtaking botanical garden and the LEGOLAND® Water Park, which are all geared to families with children ages 2 to 12.
It’s Florida and that means sometimes you just need to beat the heat. That’s why it’s awesome that LEGOLAND® Florida is home to its very own water park. Your kids will “ooh” and “ahh” over the water-themed LEGO® models created from more than four million LEGO® bricks.
2/5 Safari Wilderness
Looking for a natural attraction in Central Florida? Safari Wilderness is a 260-acre ranch where you’ll get close-up encounters with eland, red lechwe, sitatunga, waterbuck, Grant’s zebra and more.
If you’ve always dreamed of taking the family on an African safari, but just couldn’t find room in the budget, here’s your chance. Safari Wilderness is conveniently located just six miles north of I-4 between Orlando and Tampa, and was recently voted one of the “10 Best Safaris in the U.S.” You’ll see wildlife herds in huge, immersive natural landscapes, and witness the inner working of a genuine farm operation. It’s not a theatrical production for visitors – it’s the real thing!
3/5 Bok Tower Gardens
Bok Tower Gardens has something for everyone and is truly a place of historic beauty and serenity. Among the rolling hills of citrus in Lake Wales, Bok Tower Gardens continues to be one of the most remarkable and awe-inspiring landmarks in Central Florida.
Hammock Hollow is a place for kids to jump, climb and scamper during physical and creative play; to find themselves getting lost in the wonder of plants, animals and art. Featuring almost three acres of nature play, Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden teaches conservation and the vital connection between animals, plants, and people.
What makes The Gardens so unique is its ability to produce a different experience for people each time they visit Central Florida. No two days at Bok Tower Gardens are the same due to the ever-changing environment and the seasonal blooms for each special plant. From Giant Victoria Water Lilies spreading up to eight feet in diameter, to the stunning Japanese stone peace lantern, Bok Tower Gardens really knows how to steal the show in Central Florida.
4/5 Explorations V Children’s Museum
Your family’s Central Florida vacation must include a visit to Downtown Lakeland’s Explorations V Children’s Museum. Exhibits are geared toward children who have begun walking, all the way up to age 12.
Wondering what that Roman numeral “V” represents in the museum’s name? It symbolizes the five senses, which this fun-filled museum appeals to with hands-on art and science exhibits, and programs. Offering three floors of hands-on learning and entertainment, this museum encourages kids to use all five senses to explore and learn through art, history, math and science.
5/5 Mulberry Phosphate Museum
Do you have a miniature Indiana Jones in your family? The Mulberry Phosphate Museum will spark your child’s interest in history and science. Journey to the past during a visit to Mulberry Phosphate Museum, a historical attraction designed for kids, that offers free admission.
The Mulberry Phosphate Museum is a great place for year-round family-friendly fun. It’s also a popular destination for field trips. The museum also offers fun events throughout the year that include Shark Week activities, fossil celebrations and S.T.E.A.M. Saturdays.