Summer is a great time for a family vacation, but it is always summer in southern Florida, so take a long weekend and head south to make some great memories. Great food, beautiful beaches and hands-on fun await.

Culinary Musts

No doubt you have heard of Key lime pie; it’s sweet-tart goodness is irresistible and south Florida is where it got its start. Try Conch fritters, Florida Stone crab and Apalachicola Oysters for a taste of classic Florida seafood. The Cuban sandwich is a popular choice as well. For a real treat, check out the fun and enjoy the menu on one of the murder mystery shows in south Florida – you’ll have your fun and eat it too!

Cultural Offerings

At the Wolfsonian Museum, you may see many interesting relics and exhibits from the time of the Industrial Revolution through the post World War II era. The Perèz Art Museum Miami contains a collection of modern and international works of art. Enjoy a visit to the Old Fort Lauderdale Village and Museum – a historic 1907 house where exhibits showing railroad, pioneer and Seminole Indians items are displayed.

For the Love of Outdoors

Don’t miss a drive through the Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park. You may see any of 80 different species of animals and plants including crocodiles, wild cotton and the beautiful white ibis. The Kampong is a garden of unmatched glory where fruited and flowering plants thrive and you can see more than 50 species of mango trees and a 50-ton baobab tree. You can visit Busch gardens Tampa. For family get tickets for Busch gardens Tampa.

Family Fun

Families will enjoy the Imaginarium Hands-On Museum and Aquarium near Fort Myers – a great ways for kids to learn by doing. They can experience the Touch Tank, the Dino Dig Fossil lab and over 60 other interactive activities. They might also enjoy the Miami Seaquarium, where they can see animals such as penguins, dolphins and sea turtles in their own environments.

Toes in the Sand

No trip to southern Florida would be complete without a visit to a beach or two. The incredible fine white sands and irresistible sapphire surf make for an unforgettable beach experience. Sanibel Island on the southern Gulf Coast is well-known for its plentiful seashells and swimming areas. Pensacola Beach has very white sands and the gulf waters are ideal for swimming.

Pack a bag and plan on having some fun as you head to south Florida. From seashells to train rides, an unforgettable experience awaits.