Best Family-Friendly Things to Do Near Bradenton, Sarasota, Tampa & Orlando

Families can keep things local and easy or go bigger with water parks, amusement parks, and full-day attractions.

Best Easy Family Activities

Beach days

Bradenton Riverwalk

Mini golf

Dolphin tours

Bishop Museum of Science and Nature

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Best Outdoor Family Activities

Robinson Preserve

Beach days

Fort De Soto

Nature walks

Boat tours

Best Indoor / Rainy Day Activities

Bishop Museum of Science and Nature

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Shopping areas

Best Theme Park Day Trips

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Adventure Island

Walt Disney World

Universal Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando

Universals Volcano Bay

Aquatica Orlando

Best for Younger Kids

Beach mornings

Aquarium visits

Mini golf

Riverwalk

Museum stops 

GT Bray Recreational Park

Best for Older Kids and Teens

Busch Gardens

Adventure Island

Universal

Disney

Dolphin tours

Full beach days