50 Florida Homeschool Daytrips for Fun Learning Adventures
50 Florida Homeschool Day Trips for Fun Learning Adventures
Florida is filled with plenty of family educational vacations, and it’s one of the best states to teach your kids about the world. Being homeschooled means that you can shape your children’s education in an infinite amount of unique, personal ways. And as one of the best family travel blogs, we’re here to offer all the inspiration you need.
Homeschool Day Trips for Fun Learning
Whether it’s learning about animal adventures or Native American history, these 50 destinations offer exciting opportunities for kids to learn all sorts of amazing facts. While these may be designed to boost kids’ knowledge, you’ll likely learn a lot, too!
By taking your kids on these homeschool trips, you can bring science and history to life and nurture their natural curiosity and imagination. Adventure awaits!
1 | Westgate River Ranch | Saddle up and get ready to give your kids a one-of-a-kind Western experience! At Westgate River Ranch, they can become a bonafide cowboy or cowgirl and have a blast watching the rodeo, seeing farm animals, and exploring the grounds.
There are plenty of fun lessons to learn here, like cowboy history and the Kissimmee River ecosystem. Kids can get hands-on learning as they play at the Cowboy Adventure Park. On Saturday night, it’s time to show them a real-life rodeo. Yeehaw!
WHERE: 3200 River Ranch Blvd, River Ranch, FL 33867 | WHO: (863) 692-1321
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2 | Everglades National Park | Children will be fascinated by the largest subtropical wilderness zone in the entire United States. The Everglades are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve.
There are plenty of animals to see, including 13 endangered species. Have kids bring a journal and write down all the different birds and creatures they spot among the towering trees and lush, tropical fauna.
WHERE: 40001 State Road 9336 Homestead, FL 33034 | WHO: (305) 242-7700
3 | St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum | In St. Augustine, a historic lighthouse rests 165 feet above sea level. Children are not permitted to be carried to the top, so they have to be big enough to tackle the 219 stair trek themselves.
The St. Augustine Lighthouse was built between 1871 and 1874 to protect Anastasia Island from being seized by enemy forces. It stood as a watchtower, and eventually, it became the Maritime Museum we know today.
WHERE: 100 Red Cox Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32080 | WHO: (904) 829-0745
4 | Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex | Is there anything more fascinating than space? Kids will be amazed as they uncover the wonders of our galaxy and beyond at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
Interactive exhibits and real-life astronaut encounters make this a space-loving child’s dream destination. In the firing room, you can watch Apollo 8 take off, or blast off with the Peanuts® at the All Systems Are Go! exhibit.
WHERE: Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL 32953 | WHO: (855) 433-4210
5 | Florida Keys | The Florida Keys is one of the best places to learn about marine biology. Kids can snorkel, explore the gorgeous coral reefs, and see marine life up close and personal.
Of course, there are plenty of opportunities to see manatees. The Cow Key Marina features adorable manatees that locals know by name.
WHERE: Key West, FL | WHO: (800) FLA-KEYS
6 | Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium | Teach kids about the amazing marine life that thrives in Florida and around the world. The Mote Marine Laboratory is an inspiring, science-driven adventure that gets you up close and personal with species like otters, the Florida manatee, sea turtles, sharks, and fish from the world’s oceans.
WHERE: 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34236 | WHO: (941) 388-4441
7 | Orlando Science Center | Orlando Science Center has homeschooling down to a science! Have fun with physics in KineticZone, try some cool chemistry experiments in Dr. Dare’s Lab, or join one of their dedicated monthly Homeschool Days for an out-of-this-world experience that includes a unique STEM-themed lesson, hands-on experiment, giant-screen film, and more!
WHERE: 777 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803 | WHO: (407) 514-2000
8 | Tampa Bay History Center | This interactive museum will take kids through 12,000 years of Floridian history. From a 60-foot-tall, 18th-century pirate ship to canons and Key West history, this is a great destination with exhibits that cater to all ages.
There is an online learning center you can take advantage of to prep for your trip and introduce key concepts at home! There are also field trips, summer camps, and a teen council to make homeschooling even more fun.
WHERE: 801 Water St, Tampa, FL 33602 | WHO: (813) 228-0097
9 | Manatee Spring State Park | Manatees are magnificent creatures, and it’s truly a life-changing experience to see them at Manatee Spring State Park.
Surrounded by a sparkling cypress forest, you’ll be instantly enchanted by the lagoon home to these curious creatures. There are plenty of nature trails for various skill levels and age ranges to enjoy. Just be sure to bring your camera!
WHERE: 11650 NW 115th St, Chiefland, FL 32626 | WHO: (352) 493-6072
10 | Beaches Museum | Fine art, dinosaurs and plenty of live events await homeschoolers in Jacksonville. It opens every day at 10:00 a.m., so don’t worry if you can’t make it here until the weekend because they are open then as well!
Self-guided and guided tours are available, so feel free to take your time and have fun discovering the exhibits together in your own way.
WHERE: 381 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 | WHO: (904) 241-5657
11 | Fort Lauderdale Museum of Discovery and Science | Brace yourselves as you experience hurricane winds in The Storm Center, then learn all about airplanes in the Hangar. These are just two of the 19 permanent science-themed exhibits you’ll find at the museum.
You can visit any time as the museum is open 365 days a year. There’s even an IMAX theater to catch exciting science flicks!
WHERE: 401 SW 2nd St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 | WHO: (954) 467-6637
12 | Naples Zoo | There are about 70 species on display at the Naples Zoo. Learn about animals from around the world, as well as more local species, such as alligators and the Florida panther.
Be sure to hop aboard the Primate Exhibition Cruise (included with your ticket) and learn about the funky monkeys that inhabit the forest surrounding Lake Victoria.
WHERE: 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd, Naples, FL 34102 | WHO: (239) 262-5409
13 | Bok Tower Gardens | Enjoy encountering nature at this tranquil bird sanctuary and beautiful garden set upon 265 aces. The historic landmark is a great place to teach kids about nature by letting them identify flowers and trees. Little ones can focus on basic plant identification, colors, and counting!
WHERE: 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853 | WHO: (863) 676-1408
14 | Sweet Milton Farms | Located in Milton, Florida, Sweet Milton Farms is a great place to spend the day learning about agriculture and harvesting fruits and vegetables. Kids can also make their way through a corn maze, visit the breed barn or enjoy the afternoon at the petting zoo.
WHERE: 2260 Horn Road, Milton, FL 32570 | WHO: (850) 686-9917
15 | Amelia Island | In addition to beach playtime and coastal experiences, kids can learn interesting facts at the many historic sites. Take a trip to the American Beach Museum, the famous lighthouse, or Fort Clinch State Park. From nature trails to guided tours, there’s plenty for families with students of all ages to enjoy.
WHERE: 102 Centre Street, Amelia Island, FL 32034 | WHO: (904) 277-0717
16 | Mel Fisher Maritime Museum | From maritime archeology to visiting the conservation lab, you can make it a full day of learning while having fun at the same time.
WHERE: 200 Greene Street, Key West, FL, 33040 | WHO: (305) 294-2633
17 | Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park | This Fort Walton Beach attraction features dazzling dolphin encounters, fascinating shark exhibits, and up-close manta ray aquariums. Catch a live show, watch a seal harbor feeding, and even glimpse gators in their ponds.
WHERE: 1010 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 | WHO: (850) 243-9046
18 | Florida Museum of Natural History | There’s always something exciting happening at the Florida Museum of Natural History! The new Antarctic Dinosaurs exhibit runs through April 24, 2024, and features incredible exhibits and lifelike replicas of the creatures that once roamed the vast continent.
Be sure to check the museum events, and take the kids to the Discovery Zone to get hands-on interaction with a variety of science-themed exhibits.
WHERE: 3215 Hull Rd, Gainesville, FL 32611 | WHO: (352) 846-2000
19 | Theatre of the Sea | We can’t imagine a better science lesson than swimming with dolphins! Kids will absolutely FLIP over this experience at the famous marine park, built in 1946.
In addition to Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, you can also see sea lions, sharks, and some adorable sting rays.
WHERE: 84721 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036 | WHO: (305) 664-2431
20 | Homosassa Springs Wildlife Refuge | At this wildlife refuge, parents have the chance to teach their homeschooled kiddos about conservation by exploring exhibits featuring rescued animals.
There are plenty of alligators, a red wolf, an endangered Florida panther, a black bear, and more. Each animal has its own story to discover.
WHERE: 4150 S Suncoast Blvd, Homosassa, FL 34446 | WHO: (352) 628-5343
21 | St. Petersburg Museum of History | This museum is best for middle and high schoolers who can follow along with the exciting history of St. Petersburg. They’ll be able to see the world’s first-ever commercial plane and the largest collection of autographed baseballs.
This is a hodge-podge museum that features all sorts of interesting artifacts, so it’s a great day trip that offers lots of potential talking points for future lessons.
WHERE: 335 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | WHO: (727) 894-1052
22 | Dinosaur World | Get ready to go back in them and walk with the dinos! Okay, so you won’t find any real dinosaurs here, just life-like sculptures and exhibits. Don’t miss a Cave Talk, where knowledgeable dino wranglers will give you a prehistory lesson! And of course, there’s a massive dino-themed gift shop where you can pick up a keepsake souvenir.
WHERE: 5145 Harvey Tew Rd, Plant City, FL 33565 | WHO: (813) 717-9865
23 | Discovery Cove | Run by SeaWorld, Discovery Cove is home to a sprawling marine sanctuary that features adorable dolphins, beautiful tropical fish, exotic birds, and more. There are even beaches and attractions like a lazy river that you can float down upon as you take in the sounds and sights of the rainforest.
There are many encounters you can pay for in addition to general admission, like a dolphin meet-and-greet and manta ray feeding.
WHERE: 6000 Discovery Cove Way, Orlando, FL 32821 | WHO: (407) 513-4600
24 | Florida Caverns State Park | The Caverns are an incredible natural masterpiece that date back 38 million years! The park itself opened in 1942, and now, you can take a tour of the caves and be amazed by the stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones. This is a great earth science lesson come to life!
WHERE: 3345 Caverns Rd, Marianna, FL 32446 | WHO: (850) 482-1228
25 | Fort Jefferson in Dry Tortugas National Park | This former military fortress from the Civil War-era was made with more than 16 million bricks. You can explore it on your own or sign up for one of the guided tours.
Getting there is a real expedition, so it’s best to save this trip for older kids who are excited about the trip and the history it holds.
WHERE: Key West, FL 33040 | WHO: (305) 242-7700
26 | Sanibel Island | Considered to be one of the Gulf Coast’s gems, Sanibel Island is known for its beautiful beaches and top-notch resorts. Once you’re done basking in the sun and finding the perfect seashells, stop by one of many seafood restaurants, like Sanibel Grill and Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grill. Sanibel is also home to a wide variety of exotic animals such as river otters, lizards, bobcats, manatees, armadillos, and flamingos, which makes it an ideal location for animal lovers.
WHERE: 800 Dunlop Road, Sanibel, FL 33957 | WHO: (239) 472-4135
27 | The Hemingway Home and Museum | This one-of-a-kind property was once home to the famous, Nobel Prize winning author Ernest Hemingway. Hemingway lived in this house until 1939 and is where he wrote some of his most memorable novels and poems.
People of all ages can enjoy a three-and-a-half hour tour throughout this historic home and then stop by the souvenir shop to pick up one of Hemingway’s famous stories: The Sun Also Rises.
WHERE: 907 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040 | WHO: (305) 294-1136
28 | Florida Air Museum | The Florida Air Museum is where you can learn just about everything relating to planes. It has plenty of exhibits ranging from touring warbirds to the NOAA. If you visit during a certain day, you may be able to catch an event, like Wings ‘n Waffles.
WHERE: 4075 James C Ray Dr. Lakeland, FL 33811 | WHO: (863) 904-6833
29 | Weeki Wachee Springs State Park | Ever wondered what it was like to see a real-life mermaid? You can at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park! From 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily, you can catch a live mermaid show and see this whimsical creature in action.
Once the show is over, relax at one of the park’s local restaurants such as the Captain’s Quarters and the Mermaid Galley.
WHERE: 6131 Commercial Way, Spring Hill, FL 34606 | WHO: 352-597-8484
30 | John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art | Got a knack for history and art? Then, visiting the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art is an absolute must! This museum is home to a wide array of different arts such as ancient Indian sculptures and Baroque masterpieces. You can also stroll around the Bayfront Gardens and tour the historic Asolo Theater.
WHERE: 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243 | WHO: (941) 359-5700
31 | Marie Selby Botanical Gardens | The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is the ideal location for anyone who is interested in gardening and botany. It’s solely dedicated to the study and showcasing of various exotic fauna such as the epiphytic orchid, ferns, and bromeliads. You can experience true greenery for just $25 a person.
WHERE: 1534 Mound St, Sarasota, FL 34236 | WHO: (946) 366-5731
32 | Venice Beach | Venice Beach is one of America’s most famous beaches. Known as the “Shark Tooth Capital of the World,” you are bound to find an abundance of fossilized shark teeth as you peruse the sandy dunes of Venice Beach. While you’re here, let the sun melt away your stress as you suntan and enjoy a nice, cool drink.
Plan some fun shark and fossil-themed lessons before taking the kids for a day of fun in the sun. And for sensory development in younger kids, be sure to pack a pale, fork, and sand castle molds!
WHERE: 401 West Venice Avenue, Venice, FL 34285 | WHO: (941) 486-2626
33 | Brevard Zoo | Brevard zoo has 75 acres of fun for all ages and home to over 900 different animal species! Encounter rhinos, and hand-feed giraffes, chat with the local birds, and go on a kayaking tour to see what life is like in the tropical rainforest. You might see giraffes, ring-tailed lemurs, impalas, and ostriches throughout your tour.
WHERE: 8225 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL 32940 | WHO: 321-254-9453
34 | Panhandle Butterfly House | Over the span of 20 years, the Panhandle Butterfly House has been dedicated to educate and raise awareness about butterflies. Florida alone houses 160 butterfly species out of 17,500. Visitors can expect to learn more about the life cycle of butterflies, their impact on the environment and the different species you may encounter in your backyard.
WHERE: 4966 Henry St, Milton, FL 32570 | WHO: (850) 741-9077
35 | Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park | Fort Zachary Taylor is one of Florida’s historic landmarks and was once used as a first line defense from Confederate ships during the Civil War. It was named after President Zachary Taylor after his death in 1850.
These days, it’s a popular hotspot for both locals and tourists alike. Once you’re done immersing yourself in history, take a swim or go bird watching in a breathtaking natural environment.
WHERE: 601 Howard England Way, Key West, FL 33040 | WHO: (305) 292-6713
36 | Manatee Lagoon | Have you ever wanted to swim with an exotic sea creature? At Manatee Lagoon, you can do just that! Manatees are large, herbivorous creatures that are often referred to as sea cows for their gentle, docile nature. If you’re lucky, a manatee may swim its way up to you and give you a nuzzle. And as per park rules, you’ll be allowed to return the kind gesture.
WHERE: 6000 N Flagler Dr, West Palm Beach, FL 33407 | WHO: (561) 626-2833
37 | The Florida Aquarium | There are many educational exhibits at the famous Florida Aquarium that turn any trip into an unforgettable school day!
From sharks and sea turtles to river otters, lemurs, and tortoises, there are dozens of amazing animals on display. Stingray Beach is an amazing interactive exhibit within the museum, where you can not only pet one of these creatures but also see various fish and a Florida horse conch!
WHERE: 701 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602 | WHO: (813) 273-4000
38 | Koreshan State Historic Site | Located between Naples and Sr. Myers, the Koreshan State Park is where you can visit 11 unique structures that were built by the Koreshan Unity Settlement more than 100 years ago. You and your kiddos can also visit the Art Shop and Machine Shop where you will also get an inside look into the lives of these interesting people.
WHERE: 3800 Corkscrew Rd, Estero, FL 33928 | WHO: (239) 992-0311
39 | Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge | In glimmering King’s Bay, this manatee sanctuary allows the sea cows to live their lives in peace. Three Sisters Springs is the last untouched spring habitat in the bay, so it’s a privilege and wonder to experience.
Tour the nature trails, enjoy boating/paddling, learn about the wildlife through a guided tour, and have fun taking pictures.
WHERE: 1502 SE Kings Bay Drive, Crystal River, FL 34429 | WHO: (352) 563-2088
40 | Lummus Park Historic District | Have you ever wondered where that beach city backdrop was in movies and TV shows? It’s actually Lummus Park! Bike, hike, and tour your way through Miami Beach’s most notable district.
There are plenty of volleyball courts, picnic spots, and a playground to enjoy. For a lesson plan, offer fun facts and consider a photo scavenger hunt.
WHERE: 404 NW 3rd St, Miami, FL 33128 | WHO: (305) 960-2920
41 | Fort Zachary in Key West | Have you ever visited a real Civil War National Historic Monument? Make your history lessons even more exciting by taking kids to this natural beauty. Once you’ve gotten your fill of history for the day, spend the rest of the afternoon birdwatching, or take a refreshing swim.
WHERE: 601 Howard England Way, Key West, FL 33040 | WHO: (305) 292-6713
42 | Glazer Children’s Museum | It’s all fun and games (and learning, of course) at the Glazer Children’s Museum. Along the Tampa Riverwalk, this museum offers interactive exhibits that teach kids about science using the five senses.
This is an autism-affirming museum that is suitable for every child, and it is the ideal space for families that need more accessible activities for their homeschool day trips.
WHERE: 110 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602 | WHO: (813) 443-3861
43 | Lion County Safari | Founded in 1967, the Lion County Safari houses 600 acres of land where hordes of exortic animals roam around in a naturalistic environment. Once you’re finished getting your fill of the wildlife, get yourself a snack or coffee at Cafe Roar.
WHERE: 2003 Lion Country Safari Rd, Loxahatchee, FL 33470 | WHO: (561) 793-1084
44 | Morikami Museum | Tour authentic Japanese gardens, and see with the culture and artistry at the beautiful Morikami Museum. Morikami is a surname that means “forest” or “woods.”
Discover the surprising connection between Japan and South Florida at the museum, and experience tranquility among the breathtaking Roji-en gardens.
WHERE: 4000 Morikami Park Rd, Delray Beach, FL 33446 | WHO: (561) 495-0233
45 | Great Explorations Children’s Museum | Housing 23,000 feet of history, children can learn in a safe, fun and interactive environment! Here, children can learn about various topics such as dental health and you can even host a birthday party!
WHERE: 1925 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704 | WHO: (727) 821-8992
46 | Everglades Alligator Farm | Did you know alligators are some of the oldest creatures on the planet? They can also survive freezing temperatures by entering a sleep state called brumation.
They may be unwanted visitors in some parts of Florida, but these fascinating reptiles are a spectacle to behold. At the Everglades Alligator Farm, you can see over 2,000 of them. Catch an airboat ride, take a tour, and live on the wild side for an afternoon.
WHERE: 40351 SW 192nd Ave, Homestead, FL 33034 | WHO: (305) 247-2628
47 | Wynwood District | Art lovers of all ages need to head over to the Wynwood District in Miami. There are plenty of murals to admire for free, simply by taking a stroll down the street. In addition, budding artists can visit local art shops to scoop up some art supplies to take home.
WHERE: 701 Brickell Avenue, Miami, FL 33131 | WHO: (305) 539-3000
48 | The Dali Museum in St. Petersburg | For an exciting art lesson, take a trip the Dali museum. Experience the works of the famed painter Salvador Dali come to life through breathtaking displays and otherworldly exhibits. The captivatingly daring work of the surrealist’s work are even more mind-boggling when seen like this.
WHERE: 1 Dali Blvd, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | WHO: (727) 823-3767
49 | Blowing Rocks Reserve | The Blowing Rocks Reserve is one of the best places to teach your children about sustainability and conservation. Located in Jupiter, Florida, you can learn about endangered plants, animals, and sea turtles, all of which are located in the reserve.
WHERE: 574 S Beach Rd, Hobe Sound, FL 33455 | WHO: (561) 744-6668
50 | Ann Norton Sculpture Garden | Exhibits, gardens, and oodles of history to be had at the Ann Norton Sculpture Garden. It’s here where you can admire one-of-a-kind sculptures while you learn about the history of Ann Norton and her artistic talent.
WHERE: 253 Barcelona Rd. West Palm Beach, FL 33401 | WHO: (561) 832-5328
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Turn Homeschool Into an Adventure
While textbooks and lesson plans are an essential part of receiving a good education, but when your little ones get to learn something new by experiencing it first-hand, those lessons will stay with them for life! Whether learning about the expansion of our solar system or about Florida’s natural history, who says you can’t have a little fun while you learn a lot?
To discover more educational and entertaining day trip destinations, visit the Westgate Travel Blog!
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*Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.
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