When it comes to sun-soaked adventures, Florida reigns supreme. It was the most popular U.S. state among international visitors in 2022, according to the latest report from the International Trade Administration. Beyond its famed theme parks, the vacation destination offers plenty of exciting excursions for thrill-seekers of all ages.
Here’s where to go to discover exhilarating activities, lavish accommodations and endless opportunities for family bonding.
Thrill-Seeking in Tampa
Tampa is home to numerous of family-friendly adventures, including a pirate-themed water taxi and Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park, which offers an impressive array of up-close encounters with giraffes, rhinos and penguins.
To really get your adrenaline pumping, Vertical Ventures provides state-of-the-art climbing wall facilities and a supportive staff for everyone from novices to advanced climbers looking for their next challenge. And if you want to take your vacation even higher, Empower Adventures’ ziplining fun provides a bird’s-eye view of Tampa Bay and Mobbly Bayou Wilderness Preserve.
And just minutes from downtown Tampa lies a breathtaking oasis at Hillsborough River State Park, where thrill-seekers can canoe or kayak down Class II river rapids (not easy to find in Florida).
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When you’re ready to relax, head to The Tampa EDITION, where you can continue to enjoy verdant greenery, albeit in a luxury hotel. Nestled on the shores of Tampa Bay in the trendy Water Street district, the hotel has established itself as the upscale hot spot to see and be seen. Its art-deco-meets-modern vibe brings South Beach sophistication to Central Florida.
Renowned chef John Fraser helms three restaurants at the property. Lilac is the most formal of the trio, yet its Mediterranean-flavored, vegetable-forward menu remains family friendly. As a reward for all the steps you’ve taken during the day, order a champagne co*cktail served tableside or the heavenly chocolate soufflé.
If you’re able to sneak away from the kiddos during your stay at the EDITION, get to the swanky co*cktail lounge Arts Club (designed by Ian Schrager) or the Punch Room, an intimate co*cktail bar that serves up specialty punches inspired by Tampa’s history. And for the ultimate relaxation, be sure to book a treatment at the hotel’s spa. We recommend getting a signature massage and upgrading it to add CBD oil to relieve tired muscles.
Unlock Adventure in Sarasota
For the ultimate rush, experience the thrill of skydiving over the beautiful landscapes of Sarasota with Skydive Southwest Florida. If free-falling at 120 mph is a cause for pause, tandem skydiving packages are available for beginners.
A bit closer to the ground (but no less astounding) is The Ringling Circus Museum. The 66-acre attraction not only tells an entertaining story about the big top’s evolution, but it shines light on state history, architecture and more through exhibits and a historic theater. And if you’re feeling inspired by all the juggling and tumbling, try the flying trapeze or aerial hammock for yourself in a class at the nearby Circus Arts Conservatory.
At Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, take a deep dive into marine biology. Young ones can participate in interactive encounters with sharks or join the experts for breakfast with the sharks, where you can sink your teeth into Mote’s breakthrough underwater research while getting up close and personal with the incredible creatures during a private feeding.
After you’ve dried off, check into The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, renowned for its impeccable service and luxurious amenities. Upgrade to the Club Level, where you’ll be spoiled from dawn until dusk with indulgent snacks (including a rotating selection of freshly baked cookies and fine wines). Additionally, the Forbes Travel Guide Recommended hotel boasts world-class dining, a Tom Fazio-designed championship golf course and a serene spa, which recently completed phase one of renovations. The newly refreshed relaxation terrace overlooking Sarasota Bay is the perfect place to enjoy a light bite and revitalizing infusions.
Just a short shuttle ride away lies exclusive access to The Beach Club on Lido Key, where you’ll find white sands, chairs, umbrellas and full-service food and beverage offerings. There is also a heated pool, an oversized whirlpool and a children’s swimming area.
Adventurous Pursuits in Palm Beach
Awaken your spirit of adventure at Lion Country Safari. Drive through natural habitats that mimic the African plains where lions, giraffes, rhinos and zebras roam freely. After your immersive safari, park your vehicle and head toward the kid-friendly rides and waterpark.
To further explore the wonders of the deep, book a day trip to snorkel at Peanut Island, where families can marvel at vibrant coral reefs filled with colorful fish, rays and even an occasional sea turtle. The clear and calm waters surrounding the island make it an accessible adventure for everyone in your group.
Stay nearby at the oceanfront Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa. Luxury permeates every aspect of this blissful Five-Star escape. While the property is deservedly showered in praise for its stellar service and Five-Star Eau Spa, it also delivers a Virtual Playground Zone (a high-tech way to play traditional games like hopscotch and whack-a-mole), a mini theater, a robust activities calendar and much more to keep tykes entertained.
For epicurean delights, don’t miss a meal at Breeze Ocean Kitchen. Here, traditional favorites are given an elevated spin. The wagyu footlong hot dog, for example, sits in a brioche bun and is topped with beer mustard while the Breeze’s burger is done with brisket and accentuated with house-made pickles and a secret sauce.
If the tweens want some time to themselves in the room, have a quiet dinner at Angle, the hotel’s signature supper club and steak restaurant. Savor prime cuts of beef, fresh seafood and expertly prepared seasonal specialties. From Thursday to Saturday, live piano music adds to the elegant ambiance. Seal the action-packed vacation by ordering a smoked co*cktail poured tableside and toasting to the fact that everyone had a blast.
Orlando’s Adventure Oasis
For those seeking excitement, Orlando’s Universal Studios and its Islands of Adventures is an obvious choice. Brace yourself for a day of heart-pounding attractions like The Incredible Hulk Coaster and the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit and unforgettable immersive worlds inspired by beloved films like Harry Potter and Jurassic Park.
When you’ve had your fill of adventure, Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando Resort is steps away from the parks. Guests receive perks such as complimentary early park admission and Universal Express Unlimited ride access to skip the lines at both Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure. Consider upgrading to a VIP Tour experience for even more exclusive bonuses.
Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes is but a 15-minute drive from the park’s entrance, yet somehow, the sophisticated, 500-acre property feels a world away from the crowd. Little ones will love the sunrise safaris and onsite waterpark while anyone who’s outgrown the Minions will appreciate what the Four-Star spa has to offer.
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