Florida, USA 15-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive at Miami Airport

Arrive at Miami International Airport (MIA).

Collect your luggage, clear customs if international, and head to the car rental counter to pick up your pre-booked vehicle. Then, drive to your accommodation in Miami.

Ensure you have a car rental reservation as a vehicle will be essential for this trip. Consider a larger vehicle for comfort with luggage and two kids.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your chosen hotel in Miami.

Settle in and prepare for your Florida adventure.

Recommendations for family-friendly hotels in Miami include those near South Beach or downtown for easy access to attractions.

Late Dinner in Miami

Enjoy a relaxed late dinner at a family-friendly restaurant near your hotel, recovering from your journey.

Many restaurants in Miami offer late-night dining options. Look for casual eateries with outdoor seating if the weather is pleasant.

Everglades Airboat Ride

Embark on a private airboat adventure into the Everglades.

Witness alligators, diverse bird species, and unique plant life in Florida's iconic wetlands with an experienced guide.

Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The private tour ensures a personalized experience for your family.

Everglades Nature Walk

After your airboat ride, take a short walk on one of the Everglades' boardwalks or trails to further explore the unique ecosystem and spot more wildlife at a slower pace.

Check for ranger-led programs or educational visitor centers at the park entrance.

Lunch in Miami

Drive back towards Miami and have lunch at a casual restaurant.

Art Deco Walking Tour

Discover the vibrant Art Deco Historic District in Miami Beach.

Learn about the architecture, history, and hidden gems with an award-winning tour.

This is a walking tour, so wear comfortable shoes. It's a great way to see the iconic pastel buildings. Kids might enjoy the stories of old Miami.

South Beach Relaxation

Enjoy some relaxing time on South Beach, letting the kids play in the sand or dip their toes in the ocean after the walking tour.

Dinner on South Beach

Have dinner at a lively restaurant along Ocean Drive or a quieter spot nearby.

Breakfast & Check-out

Enjoy breakfast in Miami and then check out from your hotel.

Drive to Orlando

Embark on a scenic drive from Miami to Orlando, heading north on the Florida Turnpike.

The drive is approximately 3.5-4 hours without significant stops.

Plan for rest stops and snacks along the way, especially with children. Tolls are common on the Turnpike; consider getting a SunPass or using toll-by-plate.

Lunch on the Road

Stop for lunch at a casual eatery or service plaza during your drive to Orlando.

Hotel Check-in Orlando

Check into your hotel near Walt Disney World in Orlando.

Settle in and prepare for your magical days ahead.

Choose a hotel with good amenities for families, potentially with a pool and shuttle services to Disney parks.

Disney Springs Evening

Spend a relaxed evening at Disney Springs, a vibrant outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment complex.

Enjoy dinner, explore unique shops, and soak in the Disney atmosphere before your park days.

Disney Springs offers a wide array of dining options suitable for families. No park tickets are required to enter Disney Springs.

Walt Disney World Park Day

Immerse yourselves in the magic of Walt Disney World!

Spend the day enjoying the rides, shows, and character experiences at one of the parks (e.g., Magic Kingdom for classic Disney fun).

Ensure you have your park tickets and any necessary reservations. Use the My Disney Experience app for wait times, mobile food ordering, and show schedules. Stay hydrated and take breaks.

Disney Themed Dinner

Enjoy dinner at a themed restaurant within the park or at a Disney resort nearby.

Reservations for popular restaurants are highly recommended and can be made in advance.

Evening Fireworks Show

Conclude your magical day with the spectacular fireworks display over Cinderella Castle.

Walt Disney World Park Day

Explore another fantastic Disney park, such as Epcot for a mix of future-world innovation and cultural experiences, or Animal Kingdom for unique wildlife encounters and thrilling rides.

Consider park hopper tickets if you wish to visit multiple parks in one day, though focusing on one park per day allows for a more relaxed pace. Plan your park choice based on your family's interests.

Dinner at Disney Resort

Enjoy dinner at one of Disney's many resort restaurants, offering diverse cuisine and ambiance.

Relax at Hotel

Head back to your hotel for a relaxing evening after two full days of theme park excitement.

Last Disney Moments

Enjoy a final half-day at your favorite Disney World park, soaking in the last bits of magic and excitement before heading to your next adventure.

Pick up any last-minute souvenirs and capture some final family photos.

Drive to Space Coast

Begin your scenic drive from Orlando towards the Space Coast, heading to the Cocoa Beach/Titusville area.

Check into your accommodation upon arrival.

Dinner & Relax

Enjoy a relaxed family dinner at a local restaurant in Cocoa Beach, perhaps with views of the ocean.

Settle into your new surroundings.

Kennedy Space Center Exploration (Part 1)

Immerse your family in the wonders of space exploration at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.

Start with the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit and the Rocket Garden.

Arrive early to maximize your time. Check the daily schedule for shuttle launch simulations or astronaut encounters.

Lunch at KSC

Grab lunch at one of the dining options available within the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.

Kennedy Space Center Exploration (Part 2)

Continue your journey through space history.

Take the bus tour to the Apollo/Saturn V Center and explore other exhibits like the Journey to Mars.

Dinner in Cocoa Beach

Enjoy a well-deserved dinner back in Cocoa Beach after a full day of space adventures.

Manatee Watch at Blue Spring State Park

Visit Blue Spring State Park, a designated manatee refuge, to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Enjoy the elevated boardwalk, nature trails, and the beautiful spring. Even if manatees are fewer in April, the spring itself is stunning for nature walks.

Manatee viewing is best in cooler months, but the park is beautiful year-round for hiking and enjoying the spring. Check park website for current conditions. Swimming in the spring run may be restricted if manatees are present.

Picnic Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty of Blue Spring State Park, or find a local eatery in Orange City.

Scenic Drive South

Embark on a picturesque drive south along Florida's Atlantic coast (e.

g., A1A), making your way towards the Jupiter/Palm Beach Gardens area. Enjoy the coastal views.

Dinner in Jupiter

Dine at a family-friendly restaurant in Jupiter or Palm Beach Gardens, getting ready for more natural beauty tomorrow.

McKee Botanical Garden

Explore the beautiful McKee Botanical Garden, known for its lush tropical plants, historic structures, and charming water features.

A serene and educational experience for all ages.

Check for any special exhibits or children's programs. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

Lunch in Vero Beach

Enjoy lunch in Vero Beach after your garden visit, perhaps a casual spot near the ocean.

Blowing Rocks Preserve

Visit the unique Blowing Rocks Preserve on Jupiter Island.

Witness the ocean water 'blow' through eroded limestone formations during high tide, creating impressive geyser-like plumes. Enjoy the barrier island beach and nature trails.

Check tide times for the best chance to see the 'blowing rocks' effect. Parking is limited.

Relax at Jensen Beach

Wind down your day with some relaxed time on the beautiful Jensen Beach, enjoying the sun, sand, and ocean breeze.

Dinner in Jupiter

Have dinner back in Jupiter, enjoying another evening in this pleasant coastal town.

Paddle Boarding Eco Adventure Tour

Embark on a paddleboarding eco-adventure tour with a master naturalist along mangroves and waterways, looking for marine life. Suitable for the family and a great way to experience Florida's waters.

All equipment provided. Guides will assist beginners. A fun way to explore the local ecosystem. Booking required.

Lunch in Jupiter

Enjoy a casual lunch in Jupiter before beginning your journey further south.

Drive to Homestead/Florida City

Start your drive south towards Homestead or Florida City, strategically positioning yourselves for the next leg of your trip to the Florida Keys.

This drive takes you past Miami.

Dinner & Relaxation in Homestead

Have dinner in Homestead and prepare for your adventure into the Florida Keys tomorrow!

Drive to Key Largo

Begin your scenic drive south to Key Largo, the 'Diving Capital of the World'.

Enjoy the views as you enter the beautiful Florida Keys.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch

Check into your Key Largo accommodation and grab a quick lunch before your afternoon adventure.

Key Largo Snorkeling & Sandbar Tour

Enjoy a private, personalized snorkeling trip and sandbar tour.

Perfect for families, you'll explore the vibrant reefs and relax at a shallow sandbar, encountering marine wildlife in their natural habitat.

Captain Stewys Charters offers private charters for up to 6 guests, ensuring a personalized experience.

Dinner in Key Largo

Savor fresh seafood and local flavors at a family-friendly restaurant in Key Largo.

Drive to Bahia Honda State Park

Enjoy a picturesque drive further south from Key Largo towards Marathon, heading to the acclaimed Bahia Honda State Park.

Explore Bahia Honda State Park

Spend the morning at Bahia Honda State Park, famous for its stunning beaches, snorkeling, and the historic Overseas Highway bridge.

Enjoy swimming and exploring.

Known for having some of the best beaches in Florida. Entry fee applies.

Lunch in Marathon

Head into Marathon for a casual lunch, perhaps at a local spot known for its fresh fish.

Kayaking Adventure

Rent kayaks and explore the calm, clear waters around Marathon, spotting marine life from above the water. A great family activity!

Several local outfitters offer kayak rentals for individuals and families. Expect to pay around USD 25-40 per hour per kayak.

Dinner & Relaxation

Enjoy dinner in Marathon and unwind after a day of water activities.

Scenic Drive to Key West

Embark on the iconic drive down to Key West, enjoying the breathtaking views of the Overseas Highway and its many bridges.

Explore Key West Landmarks

Discover Key West's charm.

Visit the Southernmost Point Buoy for a photo opportunity and stroll along Duval Street, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Lunch in Key West

Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of Key West's many eclectic restaurants.

Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory

Immerse yourselves in a magical glass-enclosed habitat with hundreds of colorful butterflies and exotic birds.

A tranquil and educational experience for all ages.

Family-friendly attraction, a great break from the sun.

Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square

Experience the famous nightly sunset celebration at Mallory Square, featuring street performers, artists, and food vendors as the sun dips below the horizon.

Arrive early for a good spot. Free to attend.

Dinner and Drive Back North

Enjoy a farewell dinner in Key West, then begin the drive back north towards your accommodation in the Marathon/Key Largo area.

Breakfast & Check-out

Enjoy a final Keys breakfast and check out from your hotel.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Visit the first underwater park in the U.

S. Opt for a glass-bottom boat tour to view the coral reefs without getting wet, or explore the visitor center and nature trails.

Glass-bottom boat tours require tickets and advance booking is recommended. Park entry fee applies.

Lunch Break

Grab lunch at a casual spot as you continue your drive north towards Miami.

Drive to Miami Area

Complete your drive back to the Miami area.

Check into your hotel, ideally near the airport for convenience.

Farewell Dinner in Miami

Enjoy a final dinner in Miami, reflecting on your incredible Florida vacation.

Leisurely Breakfast

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café before heading to the airport.

Last Minute Souvenirs (Optional)

If time permits, pick up any last-minute souvenirs or gifts.

Travel to Miami Airport

Head to Miami International Airport (MIA) for your departure.

Depart from Miami

Check in for your flight and depart from Miami, concluding your Florida adventure.