Family Friendly Resorts in Florida
Florida, the Sunshine State, is a perennial favorite for family vacations. With its stunning beaches, world-renowned theme parks, and diverse attractions, it offers something for everyone. Choosing the right resort can significantly enhance your family’s experience, providing not just a place to sleep, but a hub for fun, relaxation, and memorable moments. This comprehensive guide explores some of the best family-friendly resorts in Florida, detailing their amenities, activities, and overall appeal to families.
Why Choose Florida for Your Family Vacation?
Florida’s allure as a family vacation destination is multifaceted. Beyond the obvious attractions like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, the state boasts a wealth of natural beauty, from the Everglades National Park to the pristine beaches of the Gulf Coast. The climate is generally warm and sunny year-round, making it an ideal escape from colder climates. Furthermore, Florida’s infrastructure is well-developed for tourism, with numerous airports, well-maintained highways, and a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences.
Year-Round Appeal
Unlike some seasonal destinations, Florida offers appeal year-round. Summer months are ideal for beachgoers and those seeking water-based adventures. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, making them excellent times to visit theme parks and explore natural attractions. Even winter in Florida is mild compared to much of the country, making it a popular destination for snowbirds and families looking for a warm escape.
Variety of Attractions
From the magic of Disney to the thrill of Universal, Florida’s theme parks are a major draw for families. However, the state offers much more than just theme parks. Visitors can explore Kennedy Space Center, go snorkeling or diving in the Florida Keys, visit art museums in Miami, or simply relax on one of Florida’s many beautiful beaches. The diversity of attractions ensures that every member of the family will find something to enjoy.
Accessibility and Convenience
Florida is easily accessible by air, with numerous international and domestic airports throughout the state. The state’s highway system is also well-maintained, making it easy to travel between different destinations. Furthermore, Florida offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts, ensuring that families can find something that fits their budget and preferences.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Family-Friendly Resort
Selecting the perfect family-friendly resort requires careful consideration of several factors. These include the resort’s location, amenities, activities, dining options, and overall atmosphere. It’s also important to consider your family’s specific needs and preferences. Do you have young children who require a dedicated kids’ club? Are you looking for a resort with a variety of dining options to cater to picky eaters? By considering these factors, you can narrow down your options and choose a resort that will provide an unforgettable vacation experience.
Location, Location, Location
The location of your resort is a crucial factor to consider. If you plan to spend most of your time at theme parks, choosing a resort near Walt Disney World or Universal Studios may be the most convenient option. If you prefer a beach vacation, consider resorts located along the coast. The proximity to other attractions and amenities, such as restaurants, shops, and grocery stores, should also be taken into account.
Amenities and Activities
Family-friendly resorts typically offer a wide range of amenities and activities to keep guests of all ages entertained. These may include swimming pools, water parks, kids’ clubs, playgrounds, arcades, and organized activities. Consider what amenities and activities are most important to your family and choose a resort that offers them. For example, if your children love swimming, look for a resort with multiple pools, water slides, and splash pads.
Dining Options
Dining options are another important factor to consider, especially if you have picky eaters. Look for resorts that offer a variety of restaurants, including casual dining options, buffets, and fine dining establishments. Some resorts also offer meal plans, which can be a convenient and cost-effective way to manage your food expenses. Be sure to check if the resort offers options for dietary restrictions or allergies.
Room Size and Configuration
When traveling with a family, room size and configuration are important considerations. Look for resorts that offer spacious rooms or suites that can comfortably accommodate your family. Some resorts also offer connecting rooms, which can be a convenient option for larger families. Consider whether you need a kitchenette or a separate living area.
Budget
Your budget is an obvious but important factor to consider. Family-friendly resorts in Florida range from budget-friendly to luxurious, so it’s important to set a budget before you start your search. Keep in mind that the cost of your resort is just one part of your overall vacation expenses. You also need to factor in the cost of transportation, food, activities, and souvenirs.
Top Family-Friendly Resorts in Florida
Now, let’s delve into some of the top family-friendly resorts in Florida, offering a range of experiences and amenities to suit different tastes and budgets.
Walt Disney World Resorts
No discussion of family-friendly resorts in Florida would be complete without mentioning Walt Disney World. Disney offers a vast array of resorts, each with its own unique theme, amenities, and price point. From value resorts like All-Star Movies Resort to deluxe resorts like the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, there’s a Disney resort to suit every family.
Value Resorts
Disney’s value resorts are the most budget-friendly option, offering basic accommodations and amenities. These resorts are a great choice for families who plan to spend most of their time at the theme parks and just need a place to sleep. Popular value resorts include All-Star Movies Resort, All-Star Music Resort, All-Star Sports Resort, Art of Animation Resort, and Pop Century Resort. Art of Animation and Pop Century offer the Disney Skyliner, a gondola system providing convenient access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.
All-Star Movies Resort: This resort features larger-than-life icons from classic Disney films like Toy Story, 101 Dalmatians, and The Mighty Ducks. It offers two themed pools, a food court, and a playground.
All-Star Music Resort: This resort celebrates various genres of music, with themed areas dedicated to country, jazz, rock ‘n’ roll, calypso, and Broadway. It offers two pools, a food court, and a playground.
All-Star Sports Resort: This resort is themed around sports, with areas dedicated to baseball, basketball, football, tennis, and surfing. It offers two pools, a food court, and a playground.
Art of Animation Resort: This resort is themed around four popular Disney animated films: Finding Nemo, Cars, The Lion King, and The Little Mermaid. It features the largest pool in Walt Disney World, as well as a food court, a playground, and the Disney Skyliner.
Pop Century Resort: This resort celebrates the pop culture of the 20th century, with themed areas dedicated to each decade from the 1950s to the 1990s. It offers three pools, a food court, a playground, and the Disney Skyliner.
Moderate Resorts
Disney’s moderate resorts offer a step up in terms of amenities and theming, without breaking the bank. These resorts are a good choice for families who want a more immersive experience but don’t want to pay the high prices of the deluxe resorts. Popular moderate resorts include Caribbean Beach Resort, Coronado Springs Resort, Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, and Port Orleans Resort – Riverside.
Caribbean Beach Resort: This resort is themed around the Caribbean islands, with colorful buildings and tropical landscaping. It features six pools, including the Fuentes del Morro Pool with water cannons and slides, a variety of dining options, a pirate-themed playground, and the Disney Skyliner.
Coronado Springs Resort: This resort is themed around Spanish colonial Mexico, with hacienda-style buildings and courtyards. It features four pools, including the Lost City of Cibola Pool with a Mayan pyramid and a waterslide, a variety of dining options, and a playground.
Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter: This resort is themed around the French Quarter of New Orleans, with wrought-iron balconies and cobblestone streets. It features one main pool, a food court, and a playground. It is smaller and more intimate than Riverside.
Port Orleans Resort – Riverside: This resort is themed around the rural South, with plantation-style buildings and bayous. It features six pools, including Ol’ Man Island with a waterslide and a fishing hole, a variety of dining options, and a playground. Guests can take a boat to Disney Springs.
Deluxe Resorts
Disney’s deluxe resorts offer the ultimate in luxury and convenience, with premium amenities and unparalleled theming. These resorts are the most expensive option, but they provide a truly unforgettable vacation experience. Popular deluxe resorts include Animal Kingdom Lodge, Beach Club Resort, Boardwalk Inn, Contemporary Resort, Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Polynesian Village Resort, Wilderness Lodge, and Yacht Club Resort.
Animal Kingdom Lodge: This resort is themed around African wildlife, with views of animals roaming the savanna from many of the rooms. It features two pools, a variety of dining options, animal viewing areas, and cultural activities.
Beach Club Resort: This resort is themed around a New England seaside resort, with a nautical theme and a sand-bottomed pool called Stormalong Bay. It offers access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios via the International Gateway.
Boardwalk Inn: This resort is themed around the boardwalks of the early 20th century, with a lively atmosphere and evening entertainment. It offers access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios via the International Gateway.
Contemporary Resort: This iconic resort is known for its modern architecture and its monorail station, which provides direct access to Magic Kingdom. It features three pools, a variety of dining options, and views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks.
Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: This resort is the flagship of Walt Disney World, offering Victorian elegance and luxurious amenities. It features multiple pools, a variety of dining options, a spa, and views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks.
Polynesian Village Resort: This resort is themed around the South Pacific islands, with tropical landscaping and overwater bungalows. It features two pools, a variety of dining options, a luau show, and views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks.
Wilderness Lodge: This resort is themed around the national parks of the American West, with rustic architecture and a towering geyser. It features two pools, a variety of dining options, and views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks from select locations.
Yacht Club Resort: This resort is themed around a New England yacht club, with a nautical theme and access to Stormalong Bay, a sand-bottomed pool shared with the Beach Club Resort. It offers access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios via the International Gateway.
Universal Orlando Resort Hotels
Universal Orlando Resort offers a range of hotels, from value to premier, each with its own unique theme and benefits. Staying at a Universal Orlando Resort hotel provides benefits such as Early Park Admission and complimentary transportation to the parks.
Value Hotels
Universal’s value hotels offer budget-friendly accommodations and basic amenities. These hotels are a good choice for families who plan to spend most of their time at the theme parks and are looking for an affordable option. Popular value hotels include Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites and Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites.
Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites: This resort is themed around a relaxing beach getaway, with spacious family suites that can accommodate up to six guests. It features two pools, a food court, and complimentary transportation to the parks.
Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites: This resort is also themed around a beach getaway, with a more vibrant and energetic atmosphere. It features two pools, a food court, and complimentary transportation to the parks.
Prime Value Hotels
These hotels offer a step up in amenities and theming compared to the Value hotels. They provide a good balance between affordability and comfort. Popular Prime Value hotels include Cabana Bay Beach Resort and Aventura Hotel.
Cabana Bay Beach Resort: This retro-themed resort is reminiscent of the classic Florida beach resorts of the 1950s and 1960s. It features two large pools, a lazy river, a bowling alley, a game room, and a variety of dining options. It also offers family suites that can accommodate up to six guests.
Aventura Hotel: This modern and sleek hotel offers stunning views of the Universal Orlando Resort. It features a rooftop bar and grill, a virtual reality game room, a pool, and a fitness center. It is also conveniently located near Volcano Bay water park.
Preferred Hotels
These hotels offer enhanced amenities and a more luxurious experience. They are a good choice for families who want a more comfortable and convenient stay. A popular Preferred hotel is Sapphire Falls Resort.
Sapphire Falls Resort: This resort is themed around a Caribbean island oasis, with lush landscaping and a cascading waterfall. It features a large pool with a waterslide, a sandy beach, a variety of dining options, and complimentary water taxi transportation to the parks.
Premier Hotels
Universal’s premier hotels offer the ultimate in luxury and convenience, with premium amenities and exclusive benefits such as Universal Express Unlimited access to skip the regular lines at participating attractions. Popular premier hotels include Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, and Loews Royal Pacific Resort.
Hard Rock Hotel: This hotel is themed around rock and roll, with a lively atmosphere and a collection of music memorabilia. It features a large pool with an underwater sound system, a variety of dining options, and live music performances. It also offers Universal Express Unlimited access.
Loews Portofino Bay Hotel: This hotel is themed around an Italian seaside village, with cobblestone streets and charming architecture. It features three pools, a variety of dining options, and gondola rides. It also offers Universal Express Unlimited access.
Loews Royal Pacific Resort: This hotel is themed around the South Pacific islands, with lush landscaping and a tropical atmosphere. It features a large pool with a sandy beach, a variety of dining options, and a luau show. It also offers Universal Express Unlimited access.
Other Family-Friendly Resorts in Florida
Beyond the theme park giants, Florida boasts a plethora of other excellent family-friendly resorts, offering a diverse range of experiences. These resorts often provide a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, with a focus on outdoor activities and natural beauty.
Beaches Resorts
While predominantly known for their Caribbean locations, Beaches Resorts offer an unparalleled all-inclusive experience tailored specifically for families. Although there isn’t a Beaches Resort *in* Florida, it’s worth mentioning them as a comparable option for families looking for that all-inclusive experience, and families *do* often fly from Florida to Beaches locations. Beaches offer a wide array of activities and amenities included in the price.
Consider flying from Florida to Beaches Turks & Caicos. It has a sprawling water park, multiple pools, supervised kids’ clubs, and a wide variety of dining options. It’s ideal for families looking for a hassle-free vacation where everything is taken care of.
Legoland Beach Retreat and Legoland Hotel
For families with Lego enthusiasts, Legoland Beach Retreat and Legoland Hotel in Winter Haven are a must-visit. These resorts are located adjacent to Legoland Florida Theme Park and offer a fully immersive Lego experience.
Legoland Beach Retreat: This resort features colorful Lego-themed bungalows clustered around themed playgrounds and a large swimming pool. It offers complimentary breakfast and transportation to the theme park.
Legoland Hotel: This hotel is located right at the entrance to Legoland Florida Theme Park and features themed rooms based on popular Lego lines like Pirate, Kingdom, and Adventure. It offers a variety of activities and entertainment, including Lego building workshops and character meet-and-greets.
Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center
Located in Kissimmee, Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center is a sprawling resort with multiple themed atriums, including Everglades, St. Augustine, and Key West. It features several restaurants, pools, a water park, and a variety of activities and entertainment.
Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center: This resort offers a unique experience with its themed atriums, each showcasing different aspects of Florida’s history and culture. It’s a great choice for families who want a resort with a wide range of amenities and activities.
TradeWinds Island Grand Beach Resort and RumFish Beach Resort
Located on St. Pete Beach, TradeWinds Island Grand Beach Resort and RumFish Beach Resort offer a combined resort experience with access to both properties’ amenities. These resorts feature multiple pools, waterslides, a kids’ club, and a variety of dining options.
TradeWinds Island Grand Beach Resort and RumFish Beach Resort: These resorts offer a beachfront location with plenty of activities and amenities for families. They’re a great choice for families who want a beach vacation with lots of options for entertainment and relaxation.
Ponte Vedra Inn & Club
Located in Ponte Vedra Beach, Ponte Vedra Inn & Club is a historic resort with a focus on luxury and relaxation. It features multiple pools, a spa, a golf course, and a variety of dining options. It also offers a kids’ club and a variety of activities for families.
Ponte Vedra Inn & Club: This resort offers a more upscale experience with a focus on relaxation and recreation. It’s a great choice for families who want a luxurious vacation with plenty of opportunities for pampering and enjoying the outdoors.
The Breakers Palm Beach
Located in Palm Beach, The Breakers Palm Beach is a grand oceanfront resort with a rich history and luxurious amenities. It features multiple pools, a spa, a golf course, a tennis center, and a variety of dining options. It also offers a kids’ club and a variety of activities for families.
The Breakers Palm Beach: This resort offers a luxurious and historic experience with a focus on elegance and impeccable service. It’s a great choice for families who want a sophisticated vacation with plenty of opportunities for relaxation and recreation.
Tips for Planning Your Family Vacation to Florida
Planning a family vacation to Florida can be overwhelming, but with careful planning, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are some tips to help you plan your dream vacation.
Book in Advance
Florida is a popular tourist destination, so it’s important to book your accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak season. This will help you secure the best rates and ensure that you get the rooms and tickets you want. Theme park reservations are now often required, so book as soon as possible.
Consider Travel Insurance
Travel insurance can protect you from unexpected events, such as flight delays, medical emergencies, and trip cancellations. It’s a good idea to purchase travel insurance, especially if you’re traveling with children.
Pack Appropriately
Florida’s climate can be hot and humid, so it’s important to pack lightweight, breathable clothing. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time at the theme parks.
Plan Your Itinerary
While spontaneity can be fun, having a basic itinerary can help you make the most of your vacation. Research the attractions and activities you want to experience and create a schedule that allows you to see everything you want to see without feeling rushed. Factor in travel time between destinations.
Budget Wisely
Florida can be an expensive destination, so it’s important to budget wisely. Set a budget for your accommodations, food, activities, and transportation. Look for deals and discounts to help you save money. Consider purchasing a park hopper ticket to maximize your time at the theme parks.
Stay Hydrated
It’s easy to get dehydrated in Florida’s hot climate, so it’s important to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it often.
Take Breaks
Don’t try to do too much in one day. Schedule breaks throughout the day to relax and recharge. This will help you avoid burnout and ensure that everyone in your family enjoys the vacation.
Utilize Resort Amenities
Take advantage of the amenities offered by your resort, such as swimming pools, kids’ clubs, and organized activities. These amenities can provide hours of entertainment and help you save money on external activities.
Be Prepared for Crowds
Florida’s theme parks and attractions can be crowded, especially during peak season. Be prepared for long lines and large crowds. Consider purchasing a fast pass or utilizing the park’s mobile app to minimize your wait times.
Have Fun!
Most importantly, remember to have fun! A family vacation to Florida is a chance to create lasting memories and bond with your loved ones. Relax, enjoy the sunshine, and make the most of your time together.
Conclusion
Florida offers a wealth of options for family-friendly vacations, from the magic of Disney to the thrill of Universal, and beyond. By carefully considering your family’s needs and preferences, and by following the tips outlined in this guide, you can choose the perfect resort and create an unforgettable vacation experience. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious beachfront getaway or a budget-friendly theme park adventure, Florida has something to offer every family. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to experience the Sunshine State!
