Published: December 30, 2025
Discover beaches, museums, wildlife encounters, and family hotels along Florida’s Gulf Coast, from the Dalí Museum to Busch Gardens
A family road trip is one of childhood’s quiet rites of passage. Jetting off to far-flung destinations has its thrills, of course, but there’s something irreplaceable about piling into the car with an oversized bag of pretzels and a couple of bottles of water, everyone a little cramped and a little excited. My mother-in-law once told me that when she was a young single mom and big vacations weren’t in the budget, she’d take her two kids to a nearby motel for the weekend. A pool, a fresh set of sheets, and a change of scenery were all they needed to feel transported.
Here in the Sunshine State, we’re lucky to have countless locales that offer that same simple magic. So grab the snacks, cue up your favorite playlist, and head west to St. Pete for an easy getaway that’s sure to become a family memory. — Susan Rosser
Places to Stay
The Don Cesar
Set along the shoreline of St. Pete Beach, The Don CeSar pairs its storied pink façade with a relaxed, modern feel. The guest rooms and public spaces pay homage to a seaside art deco era, while wide gulf views remind you why this stretch of coast has long been a favorite escape. Visitors can choose from several on-site dining spots, spend an afternoon at the spa, or simply wander down to the beach to watch the waves roll in. It’s an easy place to settle in, slow down, and enjoy the rhythm of the sun and sea. The resort also offers day passes based on availability. The Don Cesar Hotel is located at 3400 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. Visit http://www.doncesar.com for more information.
The Birchwood Hotel (for more of a Mom and Dad getaway)
Situated along historic Beach Drive, The Birchwood Inn offers a convenient base for exploring downtown St. Petersburg. Many of the city’s highlights from museums and live music to the waterfront paths leading to the St. Pete Pier are an easy walk away. Guests can begin the morning with the inn’s complimentary breakfast, then return in the evening for a drink at the rooftop lounge, which offers a bird’s-eye view of the neighborhood. It’s a comfortable spot for travelers who want to stay close to the city’s energy. The Birchwood is located at 340 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg. Visit http://www.thebirchwood.com/birchwood-inn for more information.
St. Pete
St. Pete Pier
The St. Pete Pier offers something for everyone, blending play, dining, and scenic walks over Tampa Bay. Kids love the Glazer Family Playground, splash pad, and shaded green space, while older kids enjoy the fishing deck and bike rentals. The Tampa Bay Discovery Center provides hands-on marine learning, and regular festivals add to the fun. Parents can relax in Adirondack chairs and enjoy the views. The pier is especially beautiful at sunset. Located at 600 Second Ave. NE, St. Petersburg.
More info: http://www.stpetepier.org.
Fort De Soto Park
Fort De Soto Park is perfect for families seeking natural beauty and easy adventure. North Beach features calm, shallow waters and soft sand, ideal for young kids, while older children enjoy swimming and beachcombing. Kayak rentals take adventurers through mangrove tunnels, and the old fort adds a fun historic element. The park offers paved bike trails, shaded picnic areas, and great views. Located at 3500 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde.
More info: http://www.pinellas.gov/parks/fort-de-soto-park.
Great Explorations Children’s Museum
Great Explorations Children’s Museum offers hands-on discovery for young families, with exhibits for climbing, building, pretending, and creating. Features include a child-sized grocery store, art studio, construction zone, and indoor playground. Toddlers have a safe play area, while older kids enjoy STEM activities. Located next to Sunken Gardens. Ideal for families with kids under 10. Find it at 1925 Fourth St. N., St. Petersburg.
More info: http://www.greatex.org.
Sunken Gardens
Sunken Gardens is a 100-year-old botanical garden located about 15 feet below street level in St. Petersburg. Families enjoy tropical plants, waterfalls, winding paths, and seeing flamingos, parrots, and koi ponds. Educational signs introduce plant species and conservation. The compact size is great for younger kids. Located at 1825 Fourth St. N., St. Petersburg.
More info: http://www.sunkengardens.org.
Murals in the Central Arts District
The Central Arts District is home to dozens of murals throughout the 300–700 blocks of Central Avenue. Explore by foot, bike, or scooter. Many murals feature Pixelstix plaques for learning more via an app. Some murals are on sides or back walls of buildings.
You’ll also find studios, cafés, and shops reflecting the area’s creative spirit. The district is a great starting point for exploring St. Pete/Clearwater’s wider mural scene.
Capybara Cafe
Capybara Café offers hands-on wildlife experiences benefiting Noah’s Ark Sanctuary. Reserve a session in the Capybara Lounge (30 minutes with capybaras) or the Lemur Lounge (25 minutes with lemurs). Sessions are supervised and animal-centered. Book early and wear closed-toe shoes. Located at 4703 Park St. N., St. Petersburg.
More Info: http://www.capybaracafestpete.com.
Dali Museum
The Dalí Museum has been a cultural anchor in St. Petersburg since 1982, showcasing one of the world’s most significant collections of Salvador Dalí’s work. Housed in a striking, modern building on the downtown waterfront, the museum offers a window into Dalí’s surreal vision through rotating exhibitions, educational programs and community events that draw visitors from near and far. The current building, designed by architect Yann Weymouth, is noteworthy for its blend of clean geometry and imaginative flair. The Dali Museum is located at One Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg.
More Info: http://www.thedali.org for more information.
The Dali Museum in St. Petersburg, Florida
Over in Tampa
The Florida Aquarium Families who enjoy fun and learning will love the Florida Aquarium, where exhibits take you from Florida’s wetlands to coral reefs and the open ocean. Kids gravitate to the playful otters, Waves of Wonder, and touch experiences with stingrays and other creatures. Located at 701 Channelside Dr., Tampa. More info at http://www.flaquarium.org.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay This theme park offers thrill rides, kid-friendly play areas, shows, and one of North America’s largest zoos with more than 200 species. Located at 10165 McKinley Drive, Tampa. More info at http://www.buschgardens.com/tampa.
Tampa Riverwalk The 2.6-mile Tampa Riverwalk stretches along the Hillsborough River, connecting parks, museums, restaurants and public art. It’s stroller-friendly and perfect for exploring at your own pace. At night, it glows with colorful lights and a festive atmosphere.
Glazer Children’s Museum A hands-on museum where kids can build, climb, design and pretend through imaginative, skill-building exhibits. Located next to Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, it’s easy to pair a visit with outdoor play or a picnic. Story hours, crafts, and special programs are offered regularly. Located at 110 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa. More info at http://www.glazermuseum.org
ZooTampa at Lowry Park Known for shaded paths and up-close encounters, ZooTampa features giraffes, orangutans, penguins, rhinos and native Florida species. A highlight is the Manatee Critical Care Center, where families learn how rescued manatees are rehabilitated. Kids can feed giraffes, touch stingrays, enjoy small rides, and cool off in and splash zones. More info at http://www.zootampa.org.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium A working rescue facility dedicated to injured dolphins, manatees and other coastal wildlife. Families can see dolphins and sea turtles in specialized habitats and learn how caregivers support their recovery. More info at http://www.cmaquarium.org