Day Trips

Everyone knows about the major theme parks such as Busch Gardens, Disney, Universal Studios, Sea World, and Legoland.  Here is a list of unique fun day trips for you and the kids.

Nature Day Trips

Parks are great for hiking, kayaking, picnics, and exploring nature. Here are some great parks to get the kids outdoors.

• Bell Creek Nature Preserve
• Blackwater Creek Nature Preserve
• Cockroach Bay Nature Preserve
• Edward Medard Conservation Park
• FishHawk Creek Nature Preserve North
• Fort De Soto Park
• Myakka River State Park
• Desoto Kayak Tours

Beach Day Trips

What kid doesn’t love a day at the beach? While we have great beaches on Anna Maria Island, be adventurous and experience some of the other beaches in the area.

• Fort De Soto Park
• Clearwater Beach
• Pass-a-Grille Beach
• Siesta Key Beach
• Venice Beach
• Honeymoon Island State Park

Museum Day Trips

Children’s museums were designed specifically for kids. These museums are generally hands-on, entertaining, and educational.

• Great Explorations
• Glazer Children’s Museum
• Explorations V Children’s Museum
• Dunedin Fine Art Center Children’s Museum
• Golisano Children’s Museum
• Cracker Country
• Florida Rail Road Museum

Farm Day Trips

Farms are a great place to learn about growing and harvesting fruits and vegetables. Many of them even allow the kids to pick fruits and vegetables. Some have petting areas to get up close to the animals.

• Hunsader Farms
• Hydro Harvest Farms
• Southern Hill Farms
• HorsePower for Kids & Animal Sanctuary
• Old McMicky’s Farm
• BF Petting Farm

Water Park Day Trips

Cool off at a water park on a hot summer day. Water parks generally have rides and activities for all ages and are a great alternative to the beach.

• Adventure Island
• Splash Harbour
• Tarpon Springs Splash Park
• The Lift Adventure Park
• Island H2O Water Park

Zoos/Aquariums

Many kids have only experienced animals through pictures or television. Zoos and aquariums are great places to observe and learn about animals and marine life.

• Mote Marine
• Big Cat Rescue
• The Florida Aquarium
• Clearwater Marine Aquarium
• Lowry Park Zoo
• Croc Encounters

These are just a few day trips you can take to explore other locations and activities. Just remember when outdoors, wear light clothing and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Apply sunscreen to any exposed skin. If your child does experience a severe sunburn or any other heat-related illness, please contact your pediatrician immediately.