The end of Summer is approaching and the new school year is just around the corner. Fortunately, there is still time to mark some activities off of your bucket list. South Florida is perfect for families looking to have some fun in the sun.
With year-round tropical climate vibes and a vibrant array of exhilarating attractions – South Florida has a ton of outdoor adventures and postcard-worthy scenery to explore. From exotic underwater ventures to educational, kid-friendly activities – here are the best end of summer activities to do with the kids in South Florida.
Get Wild at Lion Country Safari
2003 Lion Country Safari Rd, Loxahatchee | 561-793-1084
Lion Country Safari is an infamous South Florida favorite – no matter how old you are. Offering one of the best exotic animal encounters in the state – Lion Country Safari is located in the heart of Loxahatchee.
This safari is best known for its boasting 900+ animals on the property. What better way to spend quality time with the kids than driving through the five-mile drive through the amusement park while gawking at large herds of zebras, waterbucks, rhinos, while spotting lion prides, wild chimps, and giraffes roaming free next to your car.
Lion Country Safari also has a beautiful walk through display of fish, birds, and reptiles as well. Gain your “best parents ever” award by topping the trip off with kid-friendly rides and interactive water activities.
Admire the beauty of Butterfly World
3600 West Sample Road, Tradewinds Park, Coconut Creek | 954-977-4434
This 31-year-old magical garden – Butterfly World – is home to more than 20,000 gorgeous winged creatures. Located in Coconut Creek, this is the perfect place to let the kids walk around in a maze of mystical gardens and lush aviaries while surrounded by over 50 different species of butterflies, exotic plants, and beautiful flowers.
Butterfly World is also home to hummingbirds, lorikeets, and a 30-foot Tropical Rainforest Aviary. Grab your little ones and climb up the observation tower as you overlook the cascading waterfalls and captivating beauty of Butterfly World!
Splash around at Rapids Water Park
6566 N Military Trl, Riviera Beach | 561-848-6272
It’s no secret that the Florida summer heat is absolutely relentless. There is nothing more refreshing than splashing around at an adventurous water park. Rapids Water Park in Riviera Beach has 30 acres of exhilarating water-filled fun.
From a variety of 35 slides to two seven-story drop slides – this water park is full of surprises. Worried about bringing the little one? Don’t worry, Barefootin’ Bay is full of interactive sprayers and plenty of toddler-friendly entertainment. Also, there’s plenty of relaxation found in the park’s Lazy River and Splish Splash Lagoon. This South Florida water park has plenty of activities perfect to cool off the whole family.
Observe the Everglade’s wildlife at Billie Swamp Safari
30000 Gator Tail Trl., Clewiston | 863-983-6101
Located only 60 minutes from Ft. Lauderdale – Billie Swamp Safari gives you and your kids a chance to observe some of Florida’s wildest creatures from a distance. This family-friendly adventure includes four different eco-systems preserved in their pristine state by the Seminole Tribe of Florida.
From classic airboat rides, swamp buggy tours, petting zoo attractions, and the open-aired grounds of this wildlife park. Billie Swamp Safari combines all the beauty and wonder of the Florida Everglades into one family fun experience. Through exciting shows, tours, and exhibits, this kid-friendly adventure is sure to end your summer in the best way!
Retreat to Gumbo Limbo Nature Center
1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton | 561-544-8605
Founded in 1984, Gumbo Limbo Nature Center is one of the South Florida local’s favorites. This cooperative project has been a longstanding retreat for visitors to enjoy rehabilitated sea turtles, thousands of fish, and beautiful butterflies in the garden.
Gumbo Limbo is a beacon for environmental education, research, and conservation – protected on a 20-acre refuge full of many plants and animals. Gumbo Limbo features a Butterfly Garden, which is in full bloom during the months of May and June, an outdoor amphitheater, interactive fish and sea turtle rehabilitation, the Ashley Trail nature walk, and Seminole Chiki which overlooks the Intracoastal Waterway. Don’t forget to grab the Scavenger Hunt print off for you and the kids to complete as you tour the preserve.
Experience the larger than life Dinosaur exhibit at Jurassic Quest
Expo Center at South Florida Fairgrounds (August 16 – 18)
9067 Southern Boulevard, West Palm Beach | Facebook Event
Jurassic Quest is America’s largest and most realistic Dinosaur event. This event lands in West Palm Beach for a weekend of extraordinary family fun. Jurassic Quest has over 80 true-to-life size dinosaurs – each replicated in collaboration with leading paleontologists. From scaly skins, feathers, and furs – Jurassic Quest spared no realistic details in this exhibit.
Guests will have the opportunity to dig up fossils, ride on the back of a 24ft. T. Rex, inflatable mazes, themed rides, Dino Bungee Pull, crafts, science stations, and even a mini Dinosaur Petting Zoo. The exhibit also features actual dinosaur fossils dating back to over 60 million years ago. This event is only in town for a weekend – don’t miss out on this amazing experience!
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