The Real Florida Keys

Florida Keys Vacation - Where the locals go

Childrens’ Activities in the Florida Keys

Bringing the kids on your Florida Keys vacation?

If you are bringing the younger members of your family on your Florida Keys vacation you will want to plan accordingly. While when many people think of a Keys vacation as being a Key West event you may find not quite enough in Key West “proper” to keep them happy without spending a fortune.

If this is a family vacation I would like to share a few places and things to do starting at the top of the Keys that both you and your little ones will enjoy.

First think about visiting during our “off” season which is June through October. Yes, I know that is also hurricane season but if you are really concerned buy vacation insurance.. the odds are you wont need it, and in case there is an evacuation Disney is a few hours drive away in Orlando, what kid wouldn’t love that?.

The air-fares are less expensive and many of the “tourist” attractions have summer specials for the locals, not to mention hotel rates are at their lowest. If you simply cant get away and are really looking forward to your winter escape there is something for you here as well.

The Keys are known for our pristine waters and everything that has to do with them. So, with that some of the best activities have to do with our waters and wildlife. Most of the Keys is considered “rural”, so kayaking, snorkeling, exploring the parks and learning about the history of the Keys are popular.

Islamorada Key

At mm (mile marker) 84.5 in Islamorada is The Theater of the Sea. It just keeps getting better every year. I took my children there several times and as a birthday gift when my daughter turned 18 she swam with the dolphins . The park will even produce a video for you take with you. (Which of course I HAD to do and I am so glad I did!) For the little ones, they are able to get up close and personal with the wildlife as well. You can spend an entire day here learning, touching and seeing shows. They also have a mini-lagoon beach when its just time to relax.

The History of Diving Museum located at mm 83 has wonderful exhibits and stories to share. While this museum wont be a full day event it is a nice break from the outside temperatures and great to unwind before dinner. The museum closes at 5pm daily and is open 7 days a week.

Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park is located at mm 78.5. My favorite time to visit is in the summer but if you do come later in the year.. well here are a few words from the park manager, Melba Nezbed…

“Fall in the Florida Keys can be unsettled weather-wise; but with moderating temperatures, tours of Lignumvitae Key can be quite enjoyable. Just remember to bring some protection from the mosquitoes because we have not yet entered our dry season. In this secluded island setting, featuring the historic Matheson House and grounds, visitors can experience the feeling of stepping back in time. Visitors also get to experience an earlier Keys’ lifestyle, in a natural pristine setting, on an off-shore island in the Florida Keys.”
- Melba Nezbed, Park Manager

There is so much to do here and it is all getting back to nature. It is a wonderful way to explore how the undeveloped Keys looked and felt many years ago.

Grassy Key

The Dolphin Research Center located in Grassy Key Florida (mm 59 bayside) is a favorite of mine. They are a non-profit organization whose goal is to teach and inspire love for these animals and the environment they inhabit. They also offer discount coupons for admission.

Tell them Candace at TheRealFloridaKeys.com sent you

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