Day Trips from Fort Lauderdale
← All Fort Lauderdale day tripsDay Trips from Fort Lauderdale: Family Activities & Kid-Friendly Fun
The best family-friendly activities and kid-approved destinations within driving distance of Fort Lauderdale, FL. Zoos, amusement parks, interactive museums, and outdoor fun the whole family will enjoy. Drive times, ratings, and budget estimates included.
12 family activities near Fort Lauderdale
Candy Wonderland - Port St. Lucie
Port St. Lucie, FL 34952
Just 1 hr 41 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.9 stars by 659 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Iguanaland Inc.
Punta Gorda, FL 33982
Just 2 hrs 27 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.9 stars by 669 visitors, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Boca Aquarium
Boca Raton, FL 33431
Just 32 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.8 stars by 1,530 visitors, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Gumbo Limbo Nature Center
Boca Raton, FL 33432
Just 35 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.8 stars by 1,667 visitors, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Candy Wonderland - Delray Beach
Delray Beach, FL 33484
Just 38 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.8 stars by 688 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters
Marathon, FL 33050
Just 2 hrs 37 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.7 stars by 2,799 visitors, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Wonder Gardens
Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Just 1 hr 48 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.5 stars by 2,191 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Cypress Landing
Miami, FL 33177
Just 53 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.4 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Cox Science Center and Aquarium
West Palm Beach, FL 33405
Just 47 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.4 stars, rich in history and well worth exploring.
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Adventure Kids USA at Miami International Mall
Doral, FL 33172
Just 44 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.2 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Dezerland Action Park Miami
North Miami, FL 33181
Just 34 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.1 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Jungle Island
Miami, FL 33132
Just 38 min from Fort Lauderdale, rated 4.1 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Activities Day Trips from Fort Lauderdale
What are the best family activities near Fort Lauderdale, FL?
The best family activities near Fort Lauderdale include zoos, children's museums, amusement parks, state parks with easy trails, and interactive science centers. Check the cards above for top-rated spots with real drive times.
What are cheap things to do with kids near Fort Lauderdale?
State parks, nature preserves, and many community attractions near Fort Lauderdale are free or under $15 per person. Pack a picnic and make a day of it. Check the budget estimates on each card above.
Are there indoor family activities near Fort Lauderdale for rainy days?
Yes. Children's museums, aquariums, indoor water parks, and science centers near Fort Lauderdale are all great rainy-day options. Look for "Family" tagged destinations above.
How far should I drive for a family day trip from Fort Lauderdale?
For families with young kids, 1-2 hours is the sweet spot. Longer drives (2-3 hours) work well with older kids and are worth it for standout destinations like major zoos or amusement parks.
Don't know where to go?
Tell us your interests, budget, and how far you want to drive. We'll find the perfect trip for you.
Surprise me