It’s that time of year where Summer nostalgia begins to set in…a longing for those reliably warm days, an itch for outdoor exploration and adventure, along with fond memories of mesmerizing sunsets overlooking the ocean.
The good news is, Florida offers all of these experiences (and more) year round. No matter the type of escape you and your family are craving, you can find it in Florida.
From beaches, ecological activities and national parks to museums, theme parks, nightlife, culture and more, we’ve gathered six destinations for you to explore across Florida, from top to bottom.
In any location you choose, Marriott Bonvoy makes planning and booking your getaway a breeze, so you can check that off your list.
For a Mix of Sun & Adventure, Explore Jacksonville:
Jacksonville is the gem of North Florida. You’re sure to find a peaceful place along its 22 miles of sun-kissed beaches. Kids can fill their beach days building sand castles and playing in the water while you catch up on some uninterrupted sun-time, or join right in! The city also delivers endless opportunities for family fun - you can spend hours exploring the Jacksonville Zoo, home to over 2000 rare and exotic animals. The Zoo also boasts gardens, a wild-life carousel and a play park. If your family is up for some active adventure, rent bikes and cruise through town to find eclectic shopping and to-die-for dining.
For All-Day Outdoor Options, Explore the Florida Panhandle:
There’s something for everyone across the Panhandle. If your family loves golf, you’ll find more incredible golf courses than you can ever hope to play. If you love watersports, you’ll be in paradise. If you just need beach time, you won’t find a place more gorgeous than the picturesque white sand beaches and emerald waters of the Florida Panhandle. It’s your vacation–you truly can do it all.
For Days Filled with Action-Packed Fun, Explore Orlando:
Orlando is a place where you can fill your heart with wonder, no matter your age. Families with kids young and old can pack in so much adventure - from visiting one of the many theme parks, to Gatorland, to the Aquarium, to the green oasis of Kelly Park - you won’t find yourself without options, or unforgettable memories.
For White Sands and Window Shopping, Explore Tampa Bay:
Discover the perfect mix of upscale, urban entertainment and laid-back beach days in Tampa Bay. Your family has the opportunity to plan a variety of itineraries from strolling the nation’s best beach at Clearwater Beach, to the 2.6 miles of riverwalk in Tampa. For arts & culture, explore one of many museums including Glazer Children’s Museum, the Chihuly Collection, or the Marine Aquarium. Last but not least, your family will love sampling the delicious fare throughout St. Petersburg and Sarasota.
For Sunny Days that Turn Into Memorable Nights, Explore South Florida:
From Miami to Fort Lauderdale to Palm Beach, start your day by soaking up the sun, end it under the stars. South Florida boasts incredible food, art and natural beauty, creating endless opportunities for adventure for you and your loved ones. Itinerary inspiration includes exploring the Everglades, the largest wetlands in the world. Take your adventurous ones on an Alligator airboat ride they won’t forget. Also on the list, the Flamingo Gardens of Fort Lauderdale. Explore on your own, or hop on the guided tram tour through the tropical rainforest and natural jungle.
For a Tropical-Meets-Artsy Retreat, Explore the Florida Keys:
Keep heading south because the Florida Keys offer something for every sun-starved heart and beach lover. Islamorada is a tiny arts mecca. Key West has always been a destination for celebrations of all kinds. In between, you’ll find opportunities for outdoor recreation, epic fishing, swimming with dolphins and miles upon miles of tropical beaches.
No matter the region, you can’t go wrong. Let Marriot Bonvoy kick-off your vacation exploration with their full offering of hotels for every kind of traveler. Click here to start planning your family’s sunny winter getaway.
