Florida is filled with family-friendly activities and events year-round, but it is especially energized during the summer; so, we compiled just a sample of the amazing experiences that the region has to offer.

Every day in Florida feels like a getaway, so deciding to stay local this summer is hardly a difficult decision. Ultimately, it’s the perfect place for a staycation, with its picturesque beaches and endless opportunities for adventure, exploration and relaxation. After all, an entire hub of theme parks, wildlife and nature, and aquatic activities are essentially in Central Florida residents’ backyards or within a day’s drive.

“It has all the fun and adventure of summertime built into it everywhere you go. Families would have a wonderful time visiting Orlando’s world-famous theme parks, as well as spending time taking in art, history, culture and outdoor adventures,” says Jennifer D’hollander, executive director of Harry P. Leu Gardens.

Functioning as a tourist in your own home state is easier than it sounds, especially with so many hidden gems, rotating line-ups and new businesses popping up. Intertwined with all of the fun are opportunities to learn, to engage in new experiences, to immerse oneself in culture and to stay active.

“It truly has so much to offer. You can take an adventure at the theme parks or sit back and relax poolside at one of Orlando’s resorts,” says Allison Dabour, Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate’s marketing manager. “There’s always something new to discover right at our fingertips. Living life as a local here is like having a constant vacation right in our own backyard.”

While there are lots of things to do that are perfect for a romantic outing, for groups of friends or for solo participants, a focus on family is a highlight of the region. There are events and activities designed especially for kids, but there are also adult-friendly things to do that provide accommodations for children. Of course, many attractions simply appeal to the whole family due to diverse offerings and an emphasis on merriment.

The atmosphere alone exudes a vibrancy and thrill like no other, and utilizing the sense of enthusiasm elicited from kids as an opportunity to learn keeps them engaged all summer long. These summer destinations not only create lifelong memories, but provide essential and meaningful interactions with the local environment and culture.

Here we take a look at some popular spots, near and far, perfect for a leisurely afternoon or perhaps a weekend getaway. With so much to do and see, it’s sure to be one busy summer.

TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

Orlando Sanford International Airport
Fly in your long-distance family and friends with ease to enjoy all of the amazing experiences Orlando has to offer. Orlando Sanford International Airport is centrally located to popular destinations like the theme parks, and provides simplicity and convenience. And if opting to travel out of state this summer, the airport has several dining and drinking options with even more set to open soon.

Florida’s Sports Coast
Out-of-state visitors travel to Florida for outdoor adventures and activities, especially with the state’s unique landscape and wildlife. Florida’s Sports Coast helps connect tourists and residents to activities, shopping and dining. Some experiences include kayaking, viewing exotic animals, wakeboarding, golfing, events, fishing and scalloping—and that’s only scratching the surface.

I-Drive
If a big city atmosphere is a dream destination, look no further than the heart of International Drive. Glimmering lights with something to do on every corner and trolleys passing by would make one think they’ve been whisked away elsewhere—except I-Drive has an undeniable Orlando twist. The amusement rides, water parks and overall aquatic flair are perfect for kids, but they also encompass Orlando’s distinct uniqueness.

Old Town
With no shortage of family fun, shopping and dining, this popular entertainment district is a frequent hotspot for live music and car shows. Old Town’s characteristic Ferris wheel provides an exhilarating view of everything the area has to offer, such as specialty shops, other amusement rides and a vast selection of restaurants with even more to come as businesses continue to open. There’s always something going on, as the district is a source of arts, culture and excitement.

SeaWorld
SeaWorld is always adding something new, and with their 60th anniversary celebration, there are all-new shows and character parades. Ignite Fireworks returns this summer from now until August, and the Viva La Música concert series is also underway, as a part of the festive Viva La Música event celebrating Latin culture.

RESORTS

Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate
If asked to imagine the perfect getaway, Omni Orlando Resort may just be the place. With pools and cabanas that feel like an island retreat, a spa and state-of-the-art golf courses, it offers a little something for everyone. The extra incentive, however, are all of the amenities and experiences catered to children like the on-site waterpark, mini golf and arcade that will keep them entertained and active. There’s even a program called Camp Omni Kids Escape with kid-friendly activities, food and entertainment if adults want to take a break to visit the resort’s beer garden.

Reunion Resort & Golf
This resort has everything to the extent that guests would never have to (or want to) leave: three signature golf courses, a water park, seven restaurants and bars, seven pools and more. There is a perfect balance of relaxation and activity, so there is always something new to do. This ensures that new experiences are available to try that cater to any guest and limited experiences. Some experiences this summer include “Island Getaways,” “Summers at the Waterpark,” along with superhero- and pirate-themed events.

ARTS & CULTURE

Orange County Library System
Keeping up with summer reading is exciting when children and teens can choose what they are passionate about—and the library is the best place to start. Exploring material and having the resources available to discover similar content can spark a lifelong love for reading, but the Orange County Library System maintains engagement with events all summer long. Stay cool, stay busy and learn while doing so with different classes like yoga, line dancing, crafts, history and more.

Harry P. Leu Gardens
Experience ith Harry P. Leu Gardens’ “Summer of the Fairies” event, taking place until Aug. 28. The gardens and displays that highlight Florida native species while educating visitors while they interact with the environment are continuous. However, this summer, fairy-themed decor, activities, art, live music and costumes have been added for the event. There are also free days and story time indoor events once a month in July and August for babies to preschool-aged children.

McKee Botanical Gardens
Located in Vero Beach, McKee Botanical Gardens emphasizes discovery and a connection to nature starting at an early age. The Camp McKee program this summer is already sold out, but children and families can learn from and explore the gardens with themed “Garden Discovery Backpacks” during the visit. There are frequent events like the annual water lily celebration, as well as presentations from biologists so visitors can learn in depth from the experts.

Garden Theatre
The Garden Theatre has a diverse season ahead filled with Broadway blockbusters and cult fan-favorite musicals alike. The dark comedy that originated in Canada nearly two decades ago and has recently become a TikTok sensation—Ride the Cyclone (High School Edition)—is the first of the shows lined up this June, and is perfect for teenagers and adults. It is followed by Little Shop of Horrors in July, another camp horror-comedy but better suited for younger audiences. Pippin, premiering in August, is a unique experience visually and musically that captures the auras of both modern and classical musical theater. Each of the summer shows appeal to different preferences that inspire practiced and new arts enthusiasts by demonstrating that musicals can come in all varieties.

Orlando Family Stage
This theater provides educational performances designed to appeal to children and to provoke a connection to the arts. Their specialization is young audiences, but the productions are engaging and interactive for anyone. The Spongebob Musical: Youth Edition premieres July 19, and is the perfect summer musical for the whole family. Camps, classes and workshops are also available year-round with different themes for a range of performing and technical arts, skill levels and age groups.

Orlando Shakes
Orlando Shakes is celebrating their 35th anniversary season starring professional actors, beginning with Million Dollar Quartet in August. There are plenty of opportunities for youth to participate this summer with performing arts summer camps for grades 3-12. These workshops are themed to fit children’s interests while teaching them theatrical skills, promoting confidence and helping build friendships. Though high in demand, there are still some spots open as well as waitlist sign-ups.

Theatre Winter Haven
The Wedding Singer is onstage from July 11 to Aug. 4, and is an excellent way to inspire kids and teens to get involved in Theatre Winter Haven camps and classes. Although the All Shook Up camp is already underway, there’s still time to enroll in the We Will Rock You camp, where ages 8-17 will practice musical theater on weekdays, culminating with a performance for which each camp attendee will have a part.

Kia Center
There are a lot of shows to get excited about this summer: From Blink-182 in June to Janet Jackson in July, and Monster Jam in August, there are multiple experiences each month to suit a myriad range of preferences. In theme with the Orlando atmosphere and giving kids something to look forward to, Disney on Ice is set for the end of the summer. Experiencing a live event with loved ones creates valuable memories to last a lifetime.

Lightner Museum
The museum building itself is from the Gilded Age with Spanish Renaissance Revival architecture, with an enchanting courtyard. The history, culture and beauty of the Lightner Museum go in accordance with the art inside, with rotating exhibits in addition to the regular collection. This summer, current exhibitions include “Mike Taylor: First of the Last Beach Days,” “The Hague School: The Second Golden Age of Dutch Painting,” “The Gilded Age: Treasures from the Lightner Museum,” and “St. Augustine Through the Lens of William Henry Jackson.”