science field trips in florida

Central Florida STEM trips will create lifelong memories for your students. Educational Destinations offers a variety of Central Florida STEM trip opportunities. If your students are ready to train like an astronaut at the Kennedy Space Center, engage in hands-on STEM learning through Discovery Labs at Orlando Science Center or learn about Clearwater Bay and all of its inhabitants by conducting field activities aboard a boat with Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Educational Destinations will make your Central Florida STEM trip rewarding and memorable.

Educational destinations is the 1st choice for central florida stem trips and central florida education travel..

Find out why Educational Destinations is the 1st choice in educational Central Florida group tours

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One of our most popular destinations for STEM trips, the Orlando area boasts numerous unique attractions. From Kennedy Space Center to WonderWorks Orlando, the Orlando Science Center to SeaWorld, your students will learn in interactive environments. Save time to experience great weather, the thrills of theme parks, the serenity of nature, the satisfaction of quality family-friendly time and the rejuvenation of a quiet retreat. You can find all of this in Central Florida. Alongside the magic of Disney and the thrills of Universal Orlando, Central Florida has so much to offer your students that are ready to open their minds to STEM!

 Below are some popular options for your educational STEM trip. You can also click on the PDF icon for a download of these features.

Educational STEM Opportunities

• State Standards-Based Lab Workshops
• Future World
• Race to the Moon with Apollo/Saturn V Center
• Animal Close Encounters
• Disney Youth Education Series
• Energy and Waves Physics Lab
• The Science of Disney Imagineering with Gravity
• The Evolution of Technology Attractions
• Properties of Motion Physics Lab
• Everyday Chemistry Hands-On Experiments
• Properties of Motion®
• Spaceship Earth Experience
• Discovering Marine Life Conservation
• Exploring Careers in the Marine Sciences
• Exploring Careers in the Zoological Sciences
• Principles of Animal Behavior
• Sustainable Practices in Wildlife Conservation
• The Science Behind the Seeds
• Exhibit Hall Explorations
• Celebrate Science Nights
• Adventures in Engineering Labs
• Flight Lab Experiences
• Observatory Experiences
• Planetarium Shows
• Floating Classrooms
• Kayak and Snorkeling Explorations
• Campus Tours
• Prehistoric Interactive Exhibits
• Lego Robotics Workshops
• NeuroExplorers
• 3D Printing Workshops
• STEM Studio Jupiter
• SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Hands-On Workshops
• Mission: SPACE
• Snorkel with the Manatees

STEM Attractions

• STEM Discovery Center
• Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo
• Kennedy Space Center
• Rainbow Springs State Park
• The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature
• Florida Air Museum
• Orlando Science Center
• Island Dolphin Care
• MOSI - Museum of Science and Industry
• South Florida Science Center and Aquarium
• Exotic Animal Experience
• Clearwater Marine Aquarium
• Fort DeSoto State Park
• The Turtle Hospital
• Dinosaur World Florida
• Crystal Springs Preserve
• Clinics at University of Central Florida
• Florida Marine Science Educators Association
• WonderWorks
• Discovery Cove

Other Attractions

• Walt Disney World
• Universal Studios Florida
• Blue Man Group
• Cirque du Soleil
• Medieval Times
• Outlet Mall Shopping
• Silver Springs
• Wet ‘N Wild
• Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
• Skeletons: Museum of Osteology

Reach out to one of our ED Travel Designers

Let's plan your educational and memorable trip for your students.

The Trip Account app is offered to our groups as they travel.

Included in your trip, group leaders, staff, chaperones and travelers will use the information packed, versatile Trip Account App during their travels.

Powerful Director Tools

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Everything you need for your next trip .

The Trip Account app is available for iPhone and Android.

See our difference

It’s no surprise that Educational Destinations sets and exceeds student travel standards. We aim to provide the best service, communication, experience and safety for all of our groups. When researching for your travel provider, please download this PDF checklist HERE to ensure that your group is taking advantage of all of the essential building blocks of a successful, safe, and FUN trip! If you have questions or are ready to get started on your next trip, please call 800.616.1112 or request your customized quote .

Custom Designed Trips

ED will create a custom designed trip for your group that is shaped by your priorities, goals and wishes, and powered by your passions. ED is committed to listening and working one-on-one with you to build the perfect trip for your students. There are no stock trips here - just your trip.

Group Travel Specialists

Led by award-winning teachers, ED exceeds the needs and expectations of students, teaching staff, parents and administrators. ED anticipates group needs and delivers group wishes, without surprises or hidden costs. Our experience and expertise enable us to bring the best quality trips, events, experiences and opportunities to your group.

All-Inclusive Price

ED’s custom trips are cost-effective and inclusive, without hidden costs – a great value for your travelers. Charter coaches, flights, hotels, meals, sightseeing, events, taxes and gratuities are covered for each traveler. A 24/7 Emergency Contact System is included for each traveling group.

Cutting Edge Technology

Through ED's parent company, ED is the only student travel company providing Trip Account , an internet-based program that provides you a complete trip resource center 24 hours a day. Also included in your trip is the Trip Account App: Music Directors, group leaders, staff, chaperones and travelers will use the information packed, versatile Trip Account App during their travels.

Personal Tour Director

A signature feature of every trip is the ED Tour Director , always right by the teacher’s side, managing all travel aspects of your trip: transportation, events, meals, lodging, tickets and more. Our TD’s training and management skills let the teacher focus on the students and education.

Safety is Priority #1

ED is pro-active on safety, sending the Tour Director World Aware® alerts, sharing best practices in travel safety, emergency procedures and travel hints with chaperones and staff, ensuring traveler accountability, monitoring vendor service/performance and tellng travelers of changes or emergencies with the Trip Account App .

Trusted Leader in Travel

ED is an active member of these respected travel suppliers and organizations: Walt Disney World & Disneyland, Universal Orlando, American Bus Association, National Band Association, National Tour Association, Student Youth Travel Association and more. View all ED’s partners and awards here .

Doing the right thing

ED is deeply committed to high quality educational group travel. We love what we do, and we work hard to do it better than everyone. Creating memorable performance trips that leave positive, life-changing impressions on your students and community is a privilege that we don’t take lightly. Please talk to us about your next trip.

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Hear from our valued clients throughout the world.

Since 1987, Educational Destinations, led by passionate, award-winning teachers, has become the first choice for educational student group travel. By listening to teachers, providing cutting edge technology and unmatched service, and having dedicated ED Tour Directors conduct trips, Educational Destinations has built an unmatched reputation. Focused on designing custom trips that provide educational, memorable, and rewarding student travel experiences, Educational Destinations successfully partners with customers to do just that, in destinations within the United States and worldwide. Decades of combined travel expertise, earned in dozens of countries, enables Educational Destinations to anticipate performance needs and deliver group wishes, without surprises or hidden costs.

I wanted to write and tell you what a terrific job you did with our trip. I’ve been traveling since 1980 and this was the easiest trip ever for me. I simply had to do nothing but teach! It’s hard to believe it’s taken me this long to get it right, slow learner! The students and parents have had nothing to say but wonderful things…

Nan Moore Male High School

You have been so wonderful with our parents and students throughout the entire course of this tour. I am so glad we signed on with Music Travel Consultants/Educational Destinations as you gave our group the red carpet treatment every step of the way.

Janis Stackhouse Bloomington High School North

Music Travel Consultants/Educational Destinations is top-notch. The professionalism of the staff and their attention to detail is a director’s dream come true. My students and I have traveled with them four times over the past several years and I can say that “I won’t leave home without them!

Jena Adrianson Lawrence Central High School

I can’t say enough good things about Educational Destinations. They had everything covered and it was a relaxing and fun trip. My students and parents commented that it was the best trip we have ever taken. I’m ready to plan another trip with this company.

Brenda Bergman Jay County School Corporation

I recently had the pleasure of going on a Disney Trip with our band from Eastern High School in Greentown, IN. I was skeptical about going but am so glad I did. My Grandson and I came in rather late and had no problems whatsoever in getting onto your site, paying for our trip, and having confirmation that we were good to go.

Dianna Workinger Greentown, IN

Being able to trust implicitly the people who are planning what we will see, the timing of the itinerary, and the traveling arrangements is comforting not only to our staff but also to our parents. For our parents to know that this is a company that we use year after year with great results gives them the peace of mind that their children will experience the safest trip possible.

Mrs. Kathy Schubel Principal, St. Bartholomew Catholic School

I wanted to thank you so much for such a great trip! Our kids had a wonderful time and I could not imagine how we would have seen all that we were able to see without having you organize this trip for us.

Angie Remington Madison-Grant Elementary Students

I have worked with Educational Destinations on a yearly basis since 2001 and ED is the best educational travel group our school has ever worked with. It is refreshing to know that during the course of a trip that if any questions or problems arise, we have the consultant, whom we have worked with all year, right there with us to answer all questions and take care of the tickets and timing. It makes the trip very relaxing and enjoyable and a trip our kids never forget.

Darrin Russell 8th Grade U.S. History, Mitchell High School

I have been coordinating educational field trips for my school for the past 10 years and could not be happier with Educational Destinations. From the very first brainstorming session to the moment we return home from our trip, Educational Destinations works tirelessly to make sure our trips are memorable and successful. They are always quick to answer my questions, which I truly appreciate. Michael, Robin, and Ryan have been fantastic to work with over the years and I highly recommend them!

Kris Samick Spencer-Owen Community School Corporation

Educational Destinations has taken the stress out of planning and traveling with a large group. As a teacher, I am now able to actually enjoy the time I have with my students instead of worrying about all of the necessary details. From the very first contact made to the last moment of the trip and beyond, each and every person we have interacted with from Educational Destinations has been professional, concerned about fulfilling our needs, and exceptionally conscientious.

Linda Crady History Teacher, Sycamore School

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Educational field trips for the family, all across florida.

By Saundra Amrhein

Like many homeschooling moms, Janne LoFaro of Holly Springs, N.C., never misses an opportunity to turn an excursion into an educational adventure for her 9-year-old daughter. For instance, picking strawberries is a chance to learn about bees and pollination; road trips in the car include educational DVDs.

So when Janne was planning a family vacation , she considered her daughter’s ongoing fascination for LEGOs, and knew just the place to take her for an educational field trip in Florida - LEGOLAND .

Among the nearly two million home-educated children and their families in the United States, Florida proves to be not only a vacation destination, but also a virtual classroom – where parents combine leisure time with learning opportunities at museums, aquariums, wildlife refuges, historic sites and theme parks.

Imagination Zone is a place to build and test and expand your mind.

- Julie Fletcher for VISIT FLORIDA

LEGOLAND is a 150-acre interactive theme park with more than 50 rides, shows and attractions. This is Safari Trek at Land of Adventure.

There are many places for educational field trips in Florida that cater to homeschooling families through elaborate educational materials and programs that give students behind-the-scenes, hands-on experience, self-guided tours, and special rates on admission tickets.

“I heard they had great discounts,” LoFaro said about LEGOLAND. That’s a big bonus, she added, for homeschooling families who carry their own costs for curriculum materials at home. LoFaro started a homeschooling group five years in her home county for homeschooling families to share information on events, tours and classes. It quickly grew to 135 families.

She and her husband plan to surprise their daughter with the trip to LEGOLAND, an interactive theme park with educational programs that have a strong focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (or STEM).

“She’s all into the LEGO Friends,” Janne said.

During the Florida vacation, they also plan to seek out museums and possibly an aquarium to add to their daughter’s learning experience. Meanwhile, given her daughter’s current study of space and science, Janne was already planning their next vacation destination: the Kennedy Space Center.

“You gravitate to what their interests are,” she said.

Home-schoolers Janne and Joe LoFaro let their daughter, Sienna, 9, lead the way as they begin to explore LEGOLAND.

In the Imagination Zone, participants can build and test computers or robots and more.

Many Florida attractions cater to homeschooling families through elaborate educational materials and programs, hands-on experience, or interacting with nature itself.

The fun at LEGOLAND includes interacting with robots.

Here’s a list of some opportunities for educational field trips in Florida, organized by region of the state:

Northwest Florida

• National Naval Aviation Museum , Pensacola: This military and aerospace museum features a Flight to Excellence (FTE) educational field trip that incorporates educational IMAX movies and Teachers’ Walking Tour guides. The National Flight Academy also brings students aboard its simulated aircraft carrier to plan and carry out missions. For more information, visit: http://www.navalaviationmuseum.org/    
• Apalachicola Maritime Museum , Apalachicola: This museum, providing a gateway into the rich and diverse history of the three rivers forming Florida’s largest, the Apalachicola River, offers hands-on educational programs, from sailing to boat-building and restoration to historical tours and eco-tours. For more information, visit: http://ammfl.org/

Northeast Florida

• The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park , St. Augustine: This 15-acre waterfront park sits at the heart of the area explored by Juan Ponce de Leon in 1513 and is the original site of the settlement of explorer Pedro Menendez de Aviles in 1565 – making St. Augustine the oldest European settlement in the United States.  Visitors can explore a replica of a Timucua village and a reconstruction of the First Mission Church of Nombre de Dios, originally built in 1587 on the grounds. For more information, visit: http://www.fountainofyouthflorida.com/  
• Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park, Flagler Beach : This 150-acre park is a relic of the former prominence of sugar plantations in East Florida. Destroyed in 1836 during the Second Seminole War, the once thriving Bulow Family plantation had grown sugar cane, cotton, rice and indigo. The park holds remnants and ruins of the former plantation, spring house, wells, the crumbling foundations of the plantation house, slave cabins and sugar mill ruins, which are listed on the National Register of Historic Sites. For more information, visit: https://www.floridastateparks.org/park/Bulow-Plantation .

Central Florida

• LEGOLAND Florida , Winter Haven: With more than 50 rides, shows, attractions and a water park, this interactive theme park on 150 acres has STEM-focused educational programs – from building solar-powered cars to programing LEGO robots to rescue the rover on a mission to Mars – and also offers discounted tickets for designated “Home School Days” as well as educational resource guides for self-guided tours. For more information, visit: http://florida.legoland.com/
• Walt Disney World , Orlando: The Disney parks provide a broad spectrum of educational programs and guided field studies, from Applied Sciences to Liberal Arts, Environmental Studies and Leadership Development. Students get a chance to help solve conservation challenges; explore physics through thrilling attractions; meet marine biology professionals; or participate in dancing, acting and other performance arts workshops. For more information, visit: http://www.disneyyouth.com/our-programs/
• Gatorland , Orlando: With thousands of alligators and crocodiles, a petting zoo, zip line and free-flight aviary, this park offers a bevy of hands-on educational field trip opportunities, as well as close-up encounters with alligators, snakes, tarantulas and more. For more information, visit: http://www.gatorland.com/  
• Kennedy Space Center: In addition to Camp Kennedy Space Center with its strong STEM emphasis, the center also has ongoing educational programs where students can explore the Apollo/Saturn V Center, meet astronauts, watch 3D IMAX films, strap into a Shuttle Launch Experience and see historic rockets. What’s more, the center also offers a special day for homeschooling families one day a year. For more information, visit:   https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/
• Clearwater Marine Aquarium: The mission here is rescue, rehab and release. There are educational programs, from workshops on animal training; to science camps on ecosystems; to camps and field trips that include snorkeling in sea grass beds, kayaking through estuaries, SCUBA, and meeting the aquarium’s rescued residents. For more information, visit: http://www.seewinter.com/
• MOSI (Museum of Science and Industry) , Tampa: With its more than 450 interactive exhibits on space and astronomy, technology, robotics and gaming, MOSI lets families explore everything from the night sky in Saunders Planetarium; to what it feels like to live on the moon in Kids in Charge! – the largest children’s science center in the nation – to building anything from robots to cities in Imagination Playground, to hands-on 3D printing, and riding a bicycle on a cable 30 feet in the air. For more information, visit:   http://www.mosi.org/

Southwest Florida

• Sanibel Island : About 20 miles southwest of Ft. Myers, this island of white-sand beaches and crystal blue waters is a nature lover’s dream and a natural classroom to learn about wildlife. It is home to both the “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge and the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife, or CROW, which is a teaching hospital and visitor education center focused on saving wildlife through state-of-the-art veterinary care, research, conservation medicine and education. For more information, visit: http://www.sanibelisland.com/
• Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve , Naples: On 110,000 acres of pristine mangrove forest, uplands and protected waters, visitors can learn about some of the 150 species of birds, threatened and endangered animals that thrive in this estuarine environment. Among educational programs and opportunities are field trips that are geared to classes and students focused on marine biology, chemistry, environmental science, oceanography and general biology. For more information, visit: https://rookerybay.org/
• Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples : At this two-story, 30,000-square-foot cultural institution and hands-on learning center, children can become a weather forecaster, chef, farmer, architect, artist, and veterinarian; explore the cold of an igloo, and the sound of the sea. Educational programs include workshops for homeschooling families, on past topics such as the science of snow; investigating the brain and the science of emotion; and an entertaining look at Newton’s Laws of Motion. For more information, visit: http://www.cmon.org/

Southeast Florida

• Deering Estate at Cutler , near Miami: This 444-acre preserve and historic site holds a prehistoric burial mound, a three-story wooden house dating to 1900 known as the Richmond Cottage and a three-story stone mansion. Home to what is considered the largest virgin coastal tropical hardwood hammock in the continental United States, Deering Estate is known as an environmental, archeological and historical preserve offering everything from canoe tours, butterfly walks and guided nature hikes. For more information, visit: http://www.deeringestate.com/
• Miramar Cultural Center, Miramar: Revolving around an 800-seat theater, this complex includes two art galleries, banquet facilities, rehearsal halls, botanical gardens, classrooms and more. Educational programming includes behind-the-scenes tours, performances, summer camps, and past master classes on everything from dance techniques to the fusion of Afro-Peruvian music and jazz. For more information, visit: http://www.miramarculturalcenter.org/
• Big Cypress Seminole Reservation, Florida Everglades near Miami: Visitors can learn the history of the Florida Seminoles’ resistance of U.S. government displacement and survival in the Everglades; take in the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum; follow nature trails throughout the 60-acre cypress dome to a living village; explore 2,200 acres of untamed Everglades on airboat and swamp buggy rides during the Billie Swamp Safari; or attend rodeos and reenactments of the Second Seminole War. For more information, visit: http://www.floridaseminoletourism.com/

PLACES TO REMEMBER

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Clearwater Marine Aquarium

• 249 Windward Passage
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STRATEGIC ALLIANCE PARTNERS

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Field trips 

Florida Oceanographic Society offers a variety of standards-based field trip and virtual field trip options for your students. These fun, interactive field trips make use of the Coastal Center property and our “Conservation Ambassador” animals to teach children from pre-K through grade 12 about marine biology and the environment. All K-5 field trips are designed to address Next Generation Sunshine State Standards for Science.

If you are looking to book a Coastal Center visit for your summer camp or summer school group, please visit our  Group Visits webpage . 

Field trips are offered Wednesday through Friday during the school year only. All field trip programs begin at 9:00 a.m.

To request information about field trip availability, please fill out the form at the bottom of this page, or contact Director of Education & Exhibits, Dr. Zack Jud at (772)225-0505 ext. 113 or  [email protected] .

Pre-K & K Programs

Preschool & Kindergarten Programs

• 90-minute program (9:00-10:30 a.m., Wed.-Fri.)
• Guided field trip includes: grade-specific interactive lessons at various Coastal Center exhibits (group size will dictate which exhibits are visited).
• Student limit: 15 min./ 30 max.
• Program fee: $15.00 per student

One teacher per 15 students is admitted free of charge (limit 2 per trip). Additional teachers and all adult chaperones pay the designated program fee. Please limit total adult chaperone count to no more than 6 per trip.

Title I Schools

If you teach at a Title I school, please email us about discounts and scholarship opportunities.

Kindergarten Field Trip Information Sheet 

• Kindergarten Standards Information Sheet 

Elementary (1-5) Level Programs

Elementary (1-5th) Level Programs

• Student limit: 15 min./ 35 max.

 1-5th Grade Field Trip Information Sheets  

• 1st Grade Standards Information Sheet
• 2nd Grade Standards Information Sheet 
• 3rd Grade Standards Information Sheet 
• 4th Grade Standards Information Sheet
• 5th Grade Standards Information Sheet 

Secondary (6-12) Level Programs

Secondary (6-12th) Level Programs

• 3-hour program
• Guided field trip includes: Lesson in the Florida Oceanographic Society classroom, followed by an interactive activity designed to further emphasize the lesson’s focus.
• Oyster Reefs as Habitat: Identify the organisms that use oyster reefs as a home.
• Mingling with Mangroves: Explore the mangrove swamp to dig deeper into food webs.
• Focusing on Fishes: Identify how the characteristics of fishes influence their life history.
• Student limit: 15 min./ 25 max.
• Program fee: $20.00 per student

Coastal Center Experience Secondary Level Field Trip

A guided educational tour through various exhibits and the nature trail at the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center.

• Secondary level (6th-12th) program ;
• Price: $15.00 per student/adult

Seining Adventure

Seining Adventure 

A classroom lesson about fish morphology and adaptations, followed by seine netting in the Indian River Lagoon (this is an in-water field trip).

• 3-hour water-based program
• Appropriate for 5-12th grade classes
• We do not hold seining field trips January through March as water temperatures are uncomfortably cold
• Requires a signed Seining Program Waiver from each student and chaperone (waiver link below)
• Program fee: $24.00 per student

Virtual Field Trip Program

Virtual Field Trip Program 

Visit Florida Oceanographic without leaving your school. Stream a live, interactive lesson directly into your classroom using Zoom, Skype, or your school district's required platform.

For more information about our virtual field trips please visit our virtual field trip page . 

Homeschool Groups

Florida Oceanographic Society does not offer specific field trip programming for homeschool families and groups. However, if you lead a single-grade homeschool group (i.e., all students in the group are at the same grade level) that meets the above requirements for group size, you can book a regular grade-specific field trip for your students. If your homeschool group consists of more than one grade level, please visit our Self-Guided Group page to book a self-guided visit for your students.

field trip details and policies 

• Field Trip Registration and Policies
• Seining Program Waiver  
• Secondary Oyster Programs Waiver

REQUEST A FIELD TRIP

Please fill out the below form to initiate the field trip booking process. Field trip availability is not guaranteed. You will receive scheduling confirmation from Florida Oceanographic Society if a field trip is available on your requested date. If your group is larger than the size limits outlined above and you cannot split the field trip across multiple days, please make note below. We will try our best to accommodate your needs.

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Orlando/Kissimmee Metro Field Trips

The FieldTripDirectory.com is a resource of Orlando, Florida field trips for elementary school students thru high school students, camp groups, homeschool groups and scout troops for day field trips, overnight field trips and youth retreats. Learn about Orlando’s museums, zoos and aquariums, botanic gardens, nature centers, historic sites, amusement parks, recreation, performing arts and more, CLICK on the ACTIVITY FILTER below for further field trip information. For those unable to travel to these locations, check out our  Virtual Field Trips  section or  Outreach Field Trips & School Assembly Programs  section.  

• Financial Support
• Archaeology/Paleontology
• History Museums, Exhibits & Sites
• Living History
• Multicultural & Heritage
• Bowling & Bocce
• Indoor Amusement & Recreation Centers
• Group-Friendly Restaurants
• Botanical Gardens & Arboreta
• Environmental Studies, Outdoor Education, Conservation, Sustainability
• Mineral & Gemstone Panning
• Planetariums & Astronomy
• Science Boat Excursions
• Science Museums & Exhibits
• STEM/STEAM Enrichment
• Zoos, Wildlife, Safari Tours, Reptiles, Animal Shows, Vertebrates
• Art Museums, Design, Exhibits, Architecture, Photography & Films
• Literature, Poetry & Shakespeare
• Theater, Dance, Music, Movies, Shows
• Early Childhood
• Elementary School
• Middle School
• High School

Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures

Escape to Nature! Discover territory that remains unaltered as our expert airboat captains take you into the breathtaking beauty of nature, including wetlands and wildlife. There’s so many ways to learn, visit our Butterfly Exhibit, Native American Village, gator pond or mine for rare gems/fossils.

Orange County Regional History Center

Explore 14,000 years of Central Florida History at the Orange County Regional History Center! Programming includes field trips, homeschool, Scout merit badge workshops, and more!

Orlando Science Center

The Orlando Science Center has four floors of interactive exhibit halls, labs, workshops, theaters. and a STEM Discovery Center.

Pinstripes Orlando

Dine, Play, Celebrate! The best field trips happen at Pinstripes, an esteemed dining and entertainment destination that offers a kids-friendly Italian-American menu and a modern spin on bocce and bowling. OPENS IN MARCH!

SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando is your student, camper, scout and family destination for discovery as they have the once-in-a lifetime experience to explore our world’s oceans!

Arboretum of the University of Central Florida

Arboretum of the University of Central Florida, is an outdoor living laboratory, that enables visitors to engage in experience-based learning of the plant life and other natural wonders on campus.

Central Florida Ballet

Central Florida Ballet is a professional ballet company offering performances throughout the year including the annual “Nutcracker” performed in the state-of-the-art Linda Chapin Theater.

Crosby Observatory

The Crosby Observatory at the Orlando Science Center is home to Florida’s largest publicly accessible refractor telescope and other astronomical tools.

Harry P. Leu Gardens

The Harry P. Leu Gardens, on 50-acre botanical oasis, where visitors discover palms, cycads and flowering trees. Enjoy azaleas, vines, bromeliads and tropical philodendrons.

Orlando Fire Museum

See a restored 1926 American LaFrance fire engine at the Orlando Fire Museum in Orlando’s Loch Haven Cultural Park. Learn about the Orlando Fire Department’s history on a tour.

Orlando Museum of Art

The Orlando Museum of Art connects people with art and new ideas. Its collection includes African Art, American Art, Art of the Ancient Americas, and Contemporary Art and Graphics.

Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra

The Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra is Central Florida’s resident professional orchestra, comprised of accomplished musicians recruited from around the world.

FieldTripDirectory.com offers field trip ideas for class trips, scout group trips, camp group field trips, and homeschool group field trips in Orlando—for early childhood through college. Search for class trips in Orlando by group type, cost, activity/curriculum type, grade level, distance, and venue name or keyword. Day class trips are divided by curriculum and subject area:

• ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Find Orlando art museums, theater, dance, and music concert field trips.
• EARLY CHILDHOOD Find class trips to Orlando children’s museums, petting zoos, and kids’ shows.
• HISTORY/SOCIAL STUDIES View Orlando history museums, government & civics, historic sites, living history museums, and multicultural field trip ideas.
• LIFE SKILLS Find Orlando team building field trips, health & safety exhibits, and character education experiences.
• SCIENCE & NATURE Find Orlando aquariums, botanical gardens, environmental studies & nature centers, farms & mazes, planetariums, science museums, STEAM & STEM field trips, dinosaur exhibits, and zoos.
• RECREATION Find Orlando field trip ideas for adventure parks, ropes courses, ziplines, boat excursions, amusement parks, waterparks, kayaking, rafting, tubing, laser tag paintball, roller skating rinks, ice-skating rinks, mini-golf attractions, indoor amusement & recreation centers, and outdoor amusement & recreation centers.

Overnight field trips & retreats are available for environmental education, team building, and recreation. We created field trip lesson plans to help teachers, scout leaders, camp counselors, and homeschool parents provide an enriching experience for their groups. We know funds for class trips are limited, so we’ve included grants for field trips that cover admission, transportation, and more. It’s important that students and youth explore new environments, learn about other cultures, and develop an understanding of inclusivity as part of the educational process. People learn in different ways—through hearing, seeing, touching, talking, or doing. Class trips can provide a multi-dimensional learning experience. FieldTripDirectory.com can help you find the right trip for your group. A world of experiences is just a click away at FieldTripDirectory.com.

THE MUSEUM WILL BE CLOSED ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3.

In an abundance of caution, the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science has decided to suspend museum operations starting Tuesday, September 3 , in order ensure the safety of our visitors, staff and animals. Please monitor our website and social channels for all updates regarding the museum.

Field Trips

Bring classroom science lessons to life by exploring the many exhibitions Frost Science has to offer!

Students and chaperones will be able to explore the museum on their own, in a self-guided experience.

Admission Costs

Field trip admission ranges from $14.95-$16.95 depending on the day of the week and season. Please review our 2024-2025 Field Trip Admission Calendar to check the field trip admission cost for the day you’re interested in visiting us.

Learning Labs (weekdays only) and Frost Planetarium Shows are available as an add-on from August 19 – May 16. Learning Labs are $5 per student. Frost Planetarium shows are $2 per student.

For further questions, please view our Field Trip FAQs and Reservations Guide here .

*All prices are per student. Please note that the museum requires a ratio of 1 chaperone per every 10 students. These chaperones are free of charge. Additional chaperones pay the same rate as the students . Frost Science Museum membership or other discounts may not be used in conjunction with field trip and group rates. For questions regarding special needs groups, please email [email protected] .

Journey to Space Special Exhibition

Summer groups will be allowed entry to the Journey to Space special exhibition. However, groups will not be allowed admittance to the rotating Destiny Lab inside the exhibition due to the sensitivity of the experience.

Due to limited capacity, school year field trips are permitted entry at a rate of one chaperone and ten students at a time. Please note that there may be a waiting period before entry is allowed.

Summer field trips (May 16 – Aug 19) will not be permitted entry to this exhibition.

Science Store Add-On

Students can now bring science home with surprise science boxes from the Science Store! Each box contains a mini-STEM experiment to do at home.

To purchase, indicate that you would like the surprise science box add-on while filling out the Field Trip Request Form.

Planetarium Shows

Informed by leading edge science, the Frost Planetarium shows carry you to the far reaches of known existence, and spark the wonderment at the core of scientific exploration.

Learning Labs

You and your students can dive deeper into science with a 45-minute facilitated, hands-on learning experience in our Knight Learning Center.

Educator Resources

Educators can explore free, standards-aligned curriculum resources and exhibition guides to connect your visit to the classroom.

Bring hands-on, STEM-focused learning directly to your school, library, or community center!

Frost Science STEM Challenge

A new challenge-based STEM program for M-DCPS high school students.

Title I Opportunities

During the 2023 – 2024 academic year, Frost Science is providing opportunities for Title I schools to visit the museum and participate in Learning Labs at no cost.

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Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers education focused learning specializing in STEM at its best, as only NASA can. Through exciting and educational adventures, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex invites students to experience field trips, private educational programs, Overnight Adventures, Camp KSC ® , and so much more.

Your group can come nose to nose with the space shuttle Atlantis, tour areas of NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, and meet a veteran astronaut to discover firsthand how a trip to the visitor complex can enrich every student’s education. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex encourages teachers and students to check out the vast resources made available by NASA for continued study, as we seek to nurture and train the next generation of space explorers.

For information on your group visit, please call 1.855.433.4210.

Please Note: Special launches and events may require a separately priced ticket. Group visits and educational programs scheduled on that day are subject to change or may be cancelled. Terms and conditions are subject to change.

Camp Kennedy Space Center ®

Camp Kennedy Space Center

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Just want to share that our presentation today was amazing. Antonio was wonderful with the kids. We will be calling again for next year. Thank you!

THANK YOU for sending out 2 AMAZING  Instructors-who provided EXCEPTIONAL presentations to 7 different Pre-K and Kindergarten Classes! The students LOVED your hands-on approach to learning about Bugs (and other unique animals). And, the teachers LOVED how enthusiastic the presenters were in presenting the information in an age-appropriate way!

My students loved all of the STEAM presentations that STEAM City Kids have brought to our school. The presentations are educational and engaging for all children. both neuro-typical and those with special needs.

Andrea was a fabulous presenter. I was amazed at her classroom management skills and knowledge of the content. She was energetic and kept the children engaged. The hands on activities were terrific!

I just wanted to thank you all for an amazing experience yesterday at my son’s communion.  The kids were all engaged and they learned so much and had so much fun.  Andrea was incredible.  She was so patient and so sweet.  I really will recommend you to everyone.  Thank you again.

Andrea is an awesome educator. Her program was well paced and very lively. She was patient with the students and their questions. Great hands on experience for the students. They were all engaged and really enjoyed the programs. Thank you.

Thank you so much for a fantastic, interactive, hands-on learning experience you gave our third graders. The kids and teachers LOVED your presentation. We all learned something new. I have been watching your shows with my students for years and have never been disappointed!!! Thank you for your dedication to our students.

You were really great! You kept the kids attention with your humor and enthusiasm.

I’d like to take a moment to thank you for providing such a fun and innovative approach to learning science. My students had a terrific time. Your presenter was funny, lively, and had excellent classroom management. She kept all the students engaged and in awe. We’ll hopefully be seeing her again later on in the school year.

Talk about some one who can hold the attention of little kids! Andrea was EXCELLENT! And what energy! We are thrilled with what we saw today. We will definitely schedule Wacky Wild to come out again!

Wowwww is an understatement! This was such a great program and all of the children enjoyed themselves and learned so much. The adults were also engaged and impressed with how awesome the presenter was. Would definitely recommend this company and I can’t wait to have them visit our school this coming school year. My students would definitely love this!!! :-). Thanks again!

They were freaking amazing with my kids! They were friendly and so accommodating to the time schedule. This program should be part of the MDCPS Science Curriculum. Any teacher that passes up on this opportunity is a fool.

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130+ Amazing Florida Field Trip Ideas

Going on field trips is the highlight of any family’s life, especially if you homeschool your kids. There aren’t a lot of crowds, during the school year, and it’s just plain fun for the whole family. You can consider the day family time, but also know that they’re learning at the same time. Here are a few Florida field trip ideas the whole family will love also keep in mind Disney makes a great field trip option.

Table of Contents

Everyone always thinks of Disney and Universal Theme Parks when they think of Florida. But Florida is such a big state (trust me when you are driving north to south you will understand!).

Florida has so much more to offer than just theme parks! 

Related: 10 Ways to Take a Disney Vacation on a Budget  

Field Trip Ideas Tampa Bay Area

Orlando tour passes.

There are so many options for bundling attractions at a fraction of the cost to get more bang for your buck. In the Orlando area, these are your best options:

Orlando City Pass – Save on tickets to famous theme parks

Orlando GoCity Explorer Pass – Choose from 2-5 attractions. You will have 60 days to use the pass.

Orlando Sightseeing Pass – Entry to 2-5 attractions. Over 25 attractions to choose from.

Orlando Tours – 25+ tours and excursions to choose from.

Visiting Winter and Hope at Clearwater Marine Aquarium – If you have seen the Dolphin Tale movies then you know all bout the story of Winter and Hope and you can see them in person. 

You can also learn all about their journey and the recovery efforts at CMA. Get discount admission with the Tampa Bay CityPASS .

Related:  Top 28 Free Things to do in Tampa Florida

Dinosaur World – Do your kids love dinosaurs? Taking them to Dinosaur World is going to open up their world. The interactive shows, prehistoric museum, and the dino activities are going to have everyone excited. 

Busch Gardens Tampa – Come on, if you haven’t visited Busch Gardens, then you’re missing out. This is the perfect family-friendly place to visit, plus a great way to spend time as a family learning.

Busch Gardens has a lot of history, so make sure you check it out! Get discount admission with the Tampa Bay CityPASS .

Related: Top 8 Reasons to Visit Busch Gardens Tampa Florida

Raymond James Stadium Tour – Your tour will include a luxury suite, the Hall of Fame Club, the famous pirate ship, the ALL-NEW West Club, the University of South Florida Home Team locker room, the field, and more!

Tour of the Pinellas County Heritage Village Largo Florida – This is a free open-air museum of buildings from all over Pinellas County and it brings the history of the area to life. 

From a sponge company to an old firehouse, and an old grocery store. Around the property, there are a lot of hands-on activities for kids to learn how things used to be done. Things like laundry and how they put out a fire. 

Related:  Ultimate Guide to the Bay Area Renaissance Festival

MOSI (Museum of Science and Industry) –  Located in Tampa, I remember several field trips here as a child. It's a hands-on science museum for kids that they will love. Get discount admission with the Tampa Bay CityPASS .

Manatee Viewing Center – Apollo Beach Florida – Just south of Tampa is one of my favorite places to spot Manatees in the winter. They are there from January until April and it's a free activity!

Make sure to go on a sunny day. The more daylight the easier they are to see! 

Related:  The Florida State Fair – Tampa Florida

11 of the Absolute Best Places to View Manatees in Florida – If manatees are your thing then make sure to check out the top spots across the state to spot them in the wild! 

Weeki Wachee State Park – The Home of the Mermaids – This is a state park just north of Tampa and it was one of the first roadside attractions in Florida in the 1940s. These women train and swim underwater for the 30-minute show.

There is also a water park, animal attractions, and a boat ride down the river. 

Related:  21 Weeki Wachee Mermaids Facts You Never Knew!

Florida State Parks – You already know how much my family enjoys state parks. Visiting Florida State Parks as a special field trip is always so much fun.

Utilizing the park as an outdoor classroom, the exploring opportunities are endless. You may even be able to get into the park for free if you can prove the park trip is related to educational purposes. 

Historic Sunken Gardens St Petersburg Florida – This is such a great relaxing getaway in the city. Not only can you take in the gardens but they make a great place for family photos too! 

Related:  St Armands Circle – Sarasota Florida

Mote Marine Aquarium – Just south of Tampa right on the water of the Gulf of Mexico is Mote Marine Aquarium. They do a lot of animal rescue but also have a fun interactive aquarium to visit as well. 

Fort De Soto Park, Historic Fort, and Museum  St. Petersburg Florida – This is a historic park right on the water with an old fort and museum along with camping, fishing, hiking, beaches, and more. 

Related:  Venice Florida Shopping – Venice Ave Shops

Florida Botanical Gardens – Another free activity you can explore is the gardens full of local plants and beautiful relaxing settings. YOu never know what you might see from alligators to beautiful butterflies. 

Guide to Hunsader Farms Pumpkin Festival and Events – Hunsaders Farms is just east of Tampa and they have a great Pumpkin Festival and Christmas lights show. But all year long they have petting zoos events and Upick fruits and veggies. 

Related:  Legoland Resort – 6 Reasons Why the Legoland Hotel is Totally Worth Your Stay

The Florida Aquarium – With their 500,000-gallon coral reef tank you can see over 2,000 different animals who call the coral reef home. They also have a rainforest-themed splash pad and a 2-acre outdoor water play area. Get discount admission with the Tampa Bay CityPASS .

LEGOLAND Amusement Park, Winter Haven Florida – An entire amusement park and waterpark based on Legos. Everything that can be made out of legos and you can find anything lego-related here.

This is built on the old Cypress gardens grounds so it's just as beautiful as it is fun. Get discount admission with the Orlando GoCity Explorer Pass . 

Related:  7 Little-Known Legoland Secrets

ZooTampa at Lowry Park – They have a manatee hospital and lots of animals and plants native to Florida. They have a safari and a down under section as well. Get discount admission with the Tampa Bay CityPASS .

Field Trips in Orlando and Central Florida

There is so much to do in the Orlando area outside of Disney and the theme parks. The Orlando GoCity Explorer Pass can save you up to 20% on admission. 

Gaylord Palms Resort  Check out this destination hotel in Kissimmee with a four-acre glass-enclosed atrium, home to a microcosm of Florida habitats including an alligator-filled swamp, Spanish style fort, 60-foot sailboat, and more.

Related:  25 Free Things To Do in Orlando Fl

Bok Tower Gardens  – Take an educational spin on your visit to Florida by checking out Bok Tower Gardens. The gardens are a beautiful ode to Frederick Law Olmsted Jr.

You can consider this place a historic landmark. Make sure you check out the Singing Tower while here. Located in Lake Wales Florida. 

Gatorland  – Located in the Orlando area this is an Alligator rescue. They had their own TV show for a while and this is where now they do alligator wrestling and educational shows here daily. Get discount admission with the Go Orlando® Card . 

Related:  What to do at Epcot – 25 Bucket List Items

Chocolate Kingdom Factory Tour   – If anyone is going to talk about spending time with chocolate, I’m going to be there. The kids are going to love a Florida field trip to the Chocolate Kingdom. This factory tour will show you an amazing time! Located in Orlando. 

Kennedy Space Center – This is where they launch the space shuttles into space. Growing up in Florida we lived close enough (still hundreds of miles away) that I could sit on my grandpa's back porch and see the shuttles being launched.

They offer tours and other great info now. Get discount admission with the Go Orlando® Card . 

Related:  The New Disney World Pandora at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Regal Marine Industries Boat Factory Tour – Learn how boats are made in this fun factory tour. You can then visit their showroom floor to see the finished products. You do need to make reservations for this tour. 

Davidson of Dundee Factory Tour – Learn about Florida's produce and how it is processed from the grove and even get some free samples to taste. They not only have jams but also citrus chocolate! 

Titanic Orlando Museum – See thousands of Titanic artifacts and walk through replicas of rooms from the ship including the grand staircase. Get discount admission with the Go Orlando® Card . 

Field Trips in South Florida

A large part of southern Florida is covered in the Everglades but southern Florida also has the Florida Keys! 

Edison Ford Winter Estates – Thomas Edison and Henry Ford had winter estates on the water in Fort Myers Florida. They were also neighbors now you can tour not only their homes and the grounds but also Thomas Edison Florida laboratory. 

Related:  Planning a Trip to Key West on a Budget

Barrier Island Sanctuary – Located down near Miami you can experience Brevard’s barrier island ecosystem firsthand. Topics include sea turtles and soil and water analysis. 

Biscayne National Park – This National Park is located just off the coast of Miami . It's really an underwater National Park that protects coral reefs, pirate ships, and other shipwrecks. 

Related:  The Ultimate Guide to The National Park Service Junior Ranger Program

Big Cypress Seminole Reservation –  Located in the Everglades near Miami is this Native American Reservation. It's a great place to see a lot of the untamed parts of the Everglades and learn how the Natives adapted to survive in the area. 

Everglades National Park – The Everglades is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. This National Park is home to several endangered animals all of which can be quite deadly so make sure to listen to the rangers! 

Related:  15 Must-See Free Things to do in Key West Florida

AH-TAH-THI-KI Museum – This museum includes a Seminole Village. The Seminole Indians are native to Florida and so much of the heritage is still found in the state. The museum offers tours, crafts, demonstrations, and more. 

Dry Tortugas National Park – located off the coast of Key West, this is the home to Fort Jefferson and it's only accessible by boat or seaplane. But once there the beauty is unmatched! Make sure to go snorkeling off the island too! 

Related:  24 Free Things to do in Naples, Florida

The Children’s Museum in Naples – If you and the kids love spending time together and exploring, then this may be a good field trip option.

This museum allows kids to play, learn, and dream. There are hands-on exhibit galleries that the kids can enjoy for hours.   

Florida Field Trip Ideas for the Rest of the State

As you head to the northern part of the state you hit the panhandle to the west and the historic shore of St Augustine to your east and all have so much to offer! 

Must-Sees When Visiting Amelia Island, Florida With Your Homeschoolers – Amelia Island is a great vacation beach town but a small town that has so much history being to close to St Augustine. 

Related:  What to Expect When Visiting Amelia Island, Florida

Fort Menendez at Old Florida Museum – What if you could see history as it once was? Fort Menendez is such a fun way for kids to have a field trip and a history lesson at the same time. 

National Naval Aviation Museum – With Pensacola being the home of the Navy's Blue Angels there is a lot of aviation history here and the kids will love being able to see some of the planes up close. 

Related: What to do While in Panama City Beach

Ancient City Tours – If you’ve ever wanted to see the historical part of Florida, then you’ll want to head to St. Augustine for Ancient City Tours.

This company will take you on a historical guide, showing you things you didn’t even know! You can take tours in other cities too. 

Daytona International Speedway – Do your kids have a need for speed? If so, they may just love a field trip to the Daytona International Speedway! The kids get a first-hand experience with the world of racing.

They’ll love everything this field trip has to offer from visiting the start/finish line to having their picture taken with a Champion DAYTONA 500 car. 

So now I want to know what are some of your favorite Florida Field Trips ?

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10 best Educational field trips in Florida for families

School has resumed — at least for Orange County children — and many students are continuing to study from home because to COVID-19’s presence in the Sunshine State. While some Central Florida students may return to school, many parents have chosen to keep their children at home to continue their education via virtual learning. In Orange County, just 29% of students have signed up for face-to-face classes for the first semester of the 2020-2021 school year. If you want to have a quality family time with loved ones, you need to take a look at educational field trips Florida. Continue to read and we will share details with you on the best educational field trips that you can go on while you are in Florida.

Why should you go on educational field trips?

While some families in the Orlando region continue to homeschool, mothers and fathers are undoubtedly asking how to keep their children motivated while remote learning continues.

An educational field excursion is an option on a day when virtual homework and classes are completed.

There are a variety of methods to get out of the home while still studying in Central Florida.

Here are a few ideas to get you started.

Read: Is Traveling A Hobby? The Ultimate Guide To An Exciting Way Of Life Learn about the Downsides Of Traveling As A Hobby

1. The Enchanted Fairy Doors

The Enchanted Fairy Doors have returned to Leu Gardens for the enjoyment of children and their parents.

The 50-acre Leu Gardens in Orlando is teeming with biodiverse plant, insect, and animal life.

While touring the grounds, teach the youngsters about azaleas or learn about dwarf powder puff plants.

Discuss where food originates from in the vegetable garden, or watch butterflies fly while explaining how the bug was once a caterpillar and chrysalis.

Leu Gardens also provides Zoom homeschool sessions with hands-on activities for kids to learn from home in an engaging manner ($20 per family, $15 per member household).

Pollinators, botany, birds, and dinosaurs are just a few of the themes covered .

Two free access permits to the gardens are included in each lesson.

Alternatively, visit Bok Tower Gardens near Lake Wales for comparable plant offers as well as the opportunity to view the 205-foot Singing Tower and learn more about Central Florida history.

Take a stroll through Mead Botanical Garden or stop to paint flowers and fauna for a free , local choice.

This is one of the best places available in Florida to spend a quality time with your loved ones while enjoying nature.

Therefore, we strongly recommend it to all people who are looking for a great place to spend time in Florida.

Read: When Is Jellyfish Season In Florida Keys?

2. Loch Haven Cultural Park

Face covers, temperature checks, and social separation are now needed at the Orlando Science Center.

Inside, children of all ages may learn about animals , STEM subjects, aviation, dinosaurs, the Earth, and other themes.

Some of the center’s areas are temporarily closed in order to adhere to social distancing requirements.

For grades K-8, OSC’s STEM Discovery Center offers homeschool programs.

Those interested may learn more by calling 407-514-2112 or emailing [email protected] .

Visiting Loch Haven Cultural Park is not all about having a quality family time.

Apart from having a quality family time, you will get the opportunity to learn a lot along with your kids .

Lessons learnt can surely contribute positively towards the knowledge enhancement of kids.

Hence, we encourage anyone interested to take a look at Loch Haven Cultural Park tours.

Read: 4 Best Waterfalls In Florida That You Can Swim In

3. Exploring time at the gardens in Florida

For families that like spending time in the sun, the outdoors may provide a variety of nature-based learning possibilities.

Go for a spring run in Blue Spring State Park, but don’t forget to talk about the manatees, turtles, fish, and alligators that live in the area.

Visit De Leon Springs for a history lesson about the Mayaca Indians and early explorers in Florida.

Alternatively, visit Orlando Wetlands Park or one of Seminole County’s hiking destinations, like as Black Bear Wilderness Area or Little Big Econ State Forest.

Read: Where To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators

4. Wildlife exploration in Florida

Emus, giraffes, camels, antelopes, water buffalo, and other exotic species may be seen at the Wild Florida Drive-thru Safari, which is located approximately an hour south of Orlando.

Unless they want to feed the giraffes, visitors stay in their automobiles during the encounter.

This may be converted into a zebra or cattle lesson, or an opportunity to discuss how some of those species aren’t native to Florida but can still thrive here.

Alternatively, go to Gatorland, a renowned Central Florida destination.

There are alligator-related teaching possibilities there, as well as an off-road swamp buggy experience.

Read: 9 Fun Things To Do In Siesta Key For Families

5. Visiting museums in Florida

There are several museums dedicated to art and history in the City Beautiful.

Visit the Orlando Museum of Art to see the Highwaymen show before it closes or visit the neighboring Mennello Museum of American Art to see work by Miami artist Mira Lehr.

The Morse Museum of American Art and the Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens are two of Winter Park’s attractions .

This is one of the best options that we can recommend for the people who are looking for educational field trips Florida.

You can get an enjoyable experience with it, and you don’t have to worry too much about the results.

Visit the Orange County Regional History Center for a history-themed field trip, which features 12,000 years of Central Florida history .

Homeschool days for K-5 students are also available at the facility.

Read: Best Mammoth Cave Tours For Families 2024 Learn about the Tour of Discovery

6. Wildlife Drive on Lake Apopka

Take the youngsters for a journey on the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive on a Friday or Saturday.

There are many birds other Florida creatures to see and discuss on the lake’s north coast.

What is the diet of a swallow-tailed kite?

What are the effects of phosphorus and pesticides on water quality and algal blooms?

To convert the journey into an educational excursion, a self-guided audio tour accessible online may assist give knowledge about the lake, its history, and current restoration works.

7. Cafe for Cats

While a trip to one of Orlando’s cat cafés is likely to be more entertaining than instructive, it may help to break up the monotony of being stuck indoors all day.

Play with adoptable cats while enjoying cocktails and light nibbles at The Kitty Beautiful in downtown Orlando.

Alternatively, visit the Orlando Cat Café in Clermont, which offers comparable services .

A journey like this may be used to teach about pet ownership or feline behavior.

There are a variety of activities that might help make distance learning exciting for homeschooling families that are particularly concerned about coronaviruses and want to remain indoors.

Allow the children to take the initiative and come up with their own ideas .

Alternatively, recommend activities like as backyard science classes, producing homemade slime to teach chemistry, or cooking together in the kitchen.

Make a daily project to take your mind off of math or language arts.

8. State Park John Gorrie Museum

John Gorrie was a physician who also happened to be an inventor.

He invented a refrigeration equipment that was used to keep yellow fever sufferers’ rooms cold.

The foundation for refrigeration and air conditioning was laid by his equipment.

He is the inventor of the first ice machine and retains the patent for it.

The museum honors his innovations while also providing insight into the culture and history of the Apalachicola region.

There is an interactive center and picnic spaces at the museum.

9. House of Orman

The Orman House is an antebellum residence constructed in the federal and Greek revival styles.

It was completed in 1838.

Wooden mantelpieces, molded plaster cornices, and broad heart-pine flooring are all features of these designs .

When the park is open, guided tours are available, as well as ranger programs for children.

Gardens, informational displays, excursions, and picnics are available at the park.

10. State Park of Cayo Costa

Cayo Costa can only be reached by private boat or ferry.

Manatees and dolphin pods draw crowds to this spot.

Educational events about the island’s environment and history are held in an amphitheater.

Beaches, biking, boating, cabins, camping, canoeing and kayaking, concessions and restaurants, fishing, hiking and nature paths, interpretive displays, pets, picnicking, scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, and wildlife watching are just a few of the activities available at the park .

Final words

Like many other homeschooling parents, never misses a chance to turn an outing into an educational experience for her 9-year-old daughter. Picking strawberries, for example, is an opportunity to learn about bees and pollination, while road trips in the vehicle include instructional DVDs. Florida proves to be a virtual classroom for the almost two million home-educated children and their families in the United States, where parents mix leisure time with learning opportunities at museums, aquariums, wildlife refuges, historic sites, and amusement parks. You can take a look at the educational field trips in Florida and make your plans to go ahead with getting an enjoyable experience.

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Day & Overnight Marine Science Field Trips

Education Programs

PKFMSC offers a variety of marine programs, giving your students a solid and multi-faceted understanding of the marine world around them. Our programs provide everyone with a unique learning experience, captivating not only the students but teachers as well!

Each trip includes a snorkel adventure aboard a 35-foot catamaran to the third-largest barrier coral reef system in the world, Sombrero Reef. Through creative programs and activities, all participants experience an environment that works for their individual learning styles making a stay on Pigeon Key a lifetime memory! Our most popular all-inclusive 3 days, 2-night marine science field trips start at just $540 per person.

Nestled in the heart of the Florida Keys, accessible by boat and the Pigeon Key train, Pigeon Key operates a Marine Science Center (PKFMSC) on its private five-acre island. The center gravitates towards hands-on learning, turning the island and surrounding ecosystem into the classroom.

Students are provided with a pivotal, one-of-a-kind experience that is invaluable to them for the rest of their lives. PKFMSC only hosts one group at a time, allowing for an individualized experience targeted at your specific curriculum requirements.

For over 20 years, PKFMSC has provided private, customized programs to more than 30,000 participants from more than 1,000 schools throughout the United States. Programs are tailored for all ages—elementary school to postgraduate—and are designed and endorsed by some of the most respected marine scientists in the United States.

Have Questions?

Sarah Humphrey

330-703-2136

Information Documents

Education Flyer Core Education Programs Secondary Education Programs Sample 3-day/2-night Itinerary Off-Island Excursions

• INJURED TURTLE OR BIRD DROP-OFF
• STAFF INFORMATION
• BIRD HOSPITAL
• SEA TURTLE HOSPITAL
• DAILY PRESENTATIONS
• ENRICHMENT EPISODES
• FIELD TRIPS
• FLORIDA MASTER NATURALIST PROGRAM
• TURTLE TOTS
• CLASSROOM LAB
• MARY KELLER SEABIRD SANCTUARY
• MEET OUR RESIDENTS
• NATURE TRAIL
• TURTLE TERRACE
• CALENDAR OF EVENTS
• MEDIA CENTER
• CORPORATE GIVING
• DIRECTIONS AND PARKING
• EXPLORE THE AREA
• HOURS AND ADMISSION
• CONSERVATION
• EXPLORE MSC
• NEWS AND EVENTS

Plan a field trip to the MSC and provivde your students with a unique opportunity to learn about and protect their environment.

Our Mission

To provide an innovative learning experience where visitors can discover, enjoy and appreciate the many wonders that embody the world of marine science in Volusia County.

Our Programs

Our school field trips offer five programs that can accommodate students in grades K-12 and are coordinated with Next Generation Standards.  Field trips are not offered June 1st through August 14th when Summer Camp is in session.  Our school field trip programs are listed below.

Marine Science Center Exhibit Tour

Students and Groups will be guided on a tour of the Marine Science Center (MSC) focusing on Volusia County's ecosystems and MSC’s rehabilitation efforts. Your field trip will be led by educators to explore and learn about the reptiles in the classroom.  You will also journey through the Florida ecosystems in the gallery and have an interactive hands on experience at the touch tank. You will then venture onto the turtle terrace and get an insight into how we rescue, rehabilitate, and release the sick and injured sea turtles who come into our hospital.  Finally, you will meet the raptors and walk through our bird sanctuary to learn the many fascinating facts about birds of prey. You can have gift shop time, if your group picks that option, to take home a keepsake and memory of your visit.

Marine Science Center Exhibit Tour plus Eco Walk

Your students or group will enjoy the Exhibit Tour outlined above. Then your group can choose to have lunch (not provided) on our side deck, in the amphitheater, or in the park next to the lighthouse (size of group and weather are determining factors for location). If your school has a parking fee waiver for Lighthouse Point Park (LPP) or chooses to pay to go into the park for their eco walk then your group can have lunch at the pavilion overlooking the inlet. After lunch our educator’s will meet your group and take them on an interpretive journey to explore the Coastal Hammock, Dune, and Beach Ecosystems, walking over raised wooden boardwalks for amazing views in hopes of spying some native animals and plants. Groups in LPP will experience the Jetty.

Raptors Live

This interpretive program offers inspiring ways to learn about birds of prey and the MSC Rehabilitation Hospital. A live Raptor presentation will be given to your group showcasing one of the MSC’s live non releasable raptors. With this up-close and personal experience, the group will learn about the birds’   unique attributes and ways they have adapted to hunting prey and surviving in their natural habitats. Students will also learn about habit loss and other environmental issues affecting birds. Afterwards, your group will complete a hands-on owl pellet dissection lab on the side deck. Students will see if they have all the bones to re-construct a complete skeleton of the owls prey. Then students will explore the MSC gallery, stingray touch tank, and sea turtle rehabilitation hospital from the viewing platform and visit the gift shop (optional).

Marine Cephalopod Encounter/Squid Dissection

Squid dissection allows students to examine structural adaptations and observe the relationship between form and function. Squid are complex, intelligent invertebrates that allow comparison to higher and lower-level animals. Students will work in pairs to dissect a freshly thawed squid while investigating the squid's external and internal anatomy, exploring the many adaptations needed for survival in the marine environment. Students are introduced to laboratory skills and even get to write with the squid's pen and ink! Students will then explore the MSC gallery, Octopus Exhibit (dependent on animal availability), and the Stingray Touch Tank. They will then view and learn about our sea turtle rehabilitation hospital on the turtle terrace and an optional visit to the gift shop.

                                    estuary program (including seine netting).

With outdoor hands-on and in water activities in the estuary, students will study and learn about the fish, animals, and plants that live in this habitat. They will gain an understanding of their important role in our environment. Your students will practice the ancient art of seine netting, a technique used by the Native American Indians, and pull seine nets to collect and study the inhabitants of this brackish water system. Students will learn the definition of an ecosystem, including the abiotic and biotic components and processes. They will understand that ecosystems have no specific scale and can change when biotic or abiotic components, or processes within the ecosystem change.  They will even discover the wonders of things they can’t see, microscopic plankton exploration, and may also conduct some water quality tests to help assess the health of the water they are immersed in. Students are welcome to explore the MSC after the outdoor program and visit the gift shop, time permitting. 

• Location and directions   [PDF]
• School Trip Frequently Asked Questions [PDF]

Field Trip questions can be addressed to Shell Webster: [email protected] .

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Complete the form below and we’ll send you your quote as soon as possible. Should you wish to discuss any part of your proposed trip, do give us a call on 01935 816920 .

Florida Biology & Science School Trip

Our tours to Florida can be tailored to place an emphasis on biology or science depending on your thematic requirements and can include diverse visits including the Everglades National Park and the NASA Space Centre, along with famous theme parks such as Universal Studios, and Miami's famous beaches.

School Biology & Science Trip to Florida

A tour to Florida provides the perfect blend of biology and science study with the option to combine your tour with some of the State's most famous theme parks and beaches. Florida is famous for the Everglades National Park, for its population of alligators and manatees and for the wonderful marine life of the Florida Keys.  It is also the home of NASA and a variety of excellent museums dedicated to the pursuit of science. Our tours can be tailored to place emphasis on biology or science depending on your thematic requirements, or can be devised to provide a broad recreational experience encompassing many strands.

Suggested Itinerary

The itinerary featured here is intended to give you inspiration and an idea of what you could do on your tour. Your trip will be created individually by one of our travel advisors to match your requirements and budget.

Flight to Orlando

Flight to Orlando: On arrival you are met by a private coach and transfer to a hotel in the International Drive area. Dinner can be arranged either at the hotel or at a nearby city restaurant, depending on the flight arrival time.

Orlando Science Centre

Orlando Science Centre: This morning you have a 30-minute transfer to the Orlando Science Centre. The centre has four floors of exciting exhibits, amazing giant screen movies and engaging science-based activities. There are hands-on exhibits & planetarium shows, plus giant-screen & 3-D films. They also have an excellent education programme, and we will organize a structured full day learning experience in consultation with you. The programme will be educator-led and will include lunch and a film.

In the evening your private coach will transfer you back to your hotel and dinner will be at a city restaurant.

Full day at the Kennedy Space Centre, home of NASA and the SpaceX Launch Site

Kennedy Space Center: This morning you travel to the Kennedy Space Center on the Florida coast at Cape Canaveral. You visit the permanent indoor exhibits and Rocket Garden where various parts of the Space Programme of the past 50 years are on display. You see the Astronaut Hall of Fame and the Space Shuttle Atlantis.

Launch Pad 39A: If permitted, you may also be able to see the launch pad 39A from where the Saturn V rockets were launched during the Apollo missions which put the first men on the moon. The tour follows the same route as the astronauts would have taken to the launch pad and as you approach the tower you can imagine what being an astronaut must have felt like with the anticipation of the launch. Subject to scheduling, if there is likely to be an opportunity to view a SpaceX launch during the tour, we may be able to adjust your visit accordingly.

In the late afternoon you return to the hotel in Orlando and dinner will be at a city restaurant.

Full Day at Universal Studios

Universal Studios:   In the morning you transfer to Universal Studios, a huge theme park based on famous films and TV shows. There are numerous attractions and rides including many virtual reality experiences. One of the highlights of the Park is probably the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, while others include The Incredible Hulk, Simpson’s Ride, Spider Man and Transformers. You have a full day at Universal Studios and in the afternoon or early evening your private coach will transfer you back to your hotel for dinner.

Morning at Gatorland then travel to Miami

Gatorland: This morning you visit Gatorland where an expert guide will escort you on a tour which introduces you to these fearsome creatures which are native to Florida. There are up-close encounters with baby alligators and periodic shows where the experienced handlers give a ‘hands-on’ feeding show with some of the alligators. There is also other varied wildlife in the park including giant Galapagos Tortoise that are over 100 years old.

Travel to Miami: After lunch we make the 3-hour journey south to Miami. We stay at a hotel in the South Beach area and after dinner can enjoy a walk along Ocean Drive with its iconic art deco buildings. Make sure you stop for a cappuccino at the legendary News Café.

Full Days in the Everglades

The Everglades:  Today you explore the Everglades, a unique area of wetland and lakes and home to a wide range of wildlife, including numerous alligators, for which the region is famous. You are accompanied throughout the day by an experienced naturalist guide and begin with an amazing airboat ride in the marshes and pond apple swamps of the Western Everglades where there are more alligators per acre than anywhere in the world. The air boats reach speeds of over 45 miles per hour! There is also a boat cruise into the Ten Thousand Islands mangrove forest, and a walk through an ancient forest of cypress trees. The day includes lunch in Everglades City.

You return to Miami in the evening and dinner will be at a restaurant local to your hotel.

Florida Keys Marine Lab

Florida Keys Marine Lab: This morning you travel to Key Largo where you visit the Marine Lab, a dedicated educational establishment which introduces students to the wonderful diversity of marine life and the ecology of the region. The programme includes two field trips to the mangroves and to a coral reef. The programme is a full day, commencing at 8.30 am and finishing at 8pm, with lunch and evening meal included. At the conclusion, you return to your hotel in Miami.

Frost Science Museum and Miami Harbour Cruise

Frost Science Museum: Today you visit the new Frost Science Museum, opened in 2017, which incorporates a planetarium, aquarium and interactive science exhibitions. Situated in Museum Park on the Biscayne Bay waterfront, the futuristic modern building provides a state-of-the-art experience and offers a series of interactive exhibits. There is sufficient to see to occupy most of the day.

Miami Harbour Boat Cruise: In the afternoon you go to the harbour at Biscayne Bay and do a 90-minute boat cruise on which you see the sights of Miami from the water, including the homes of many millionaires and celebrities. You then have some free time at the Bayside Market Place, an open-air shopping and restaurant area before transferring to the airport for your homeward flight.

Flight Home:  In the evening you transfer to the airport for your flight back home.

Arrive Home

Arrive Home:  Your flight arrives back home today

Florida Science Gallery

Other Tours You May Be Interested In

Educational Trips

Madagascar Wildlife & Biology School Trip

Madagascar is a unique destination for the study of biology. Situated in the Indian Ocean, Geologists believe the island separated from mainland Africa around 160 million years ago. This has enabled the lemur and other unique species to evolve unchallenged and today there are over 100 species of lemur found only in Madagascar and nowhere else. 

Costa Rica Wildlife & Biology School Trip

Costa Rica is in so many ways the perfect destination for a school biology tour. Its luxuriant cloud forests provide the perfect habitat for so many unique species and its coasts are rich in marine life including the unique species of sea turtles that come ashore to nest and lay their eggs

South Africa Wildlife & Biology School Trip

South Africa's wildlife parks are famous throughout the world and at the Kruger you can see large populations of lion and elephant as well as the other 'Big Five' of leopard, buffalo and black rhinoceros.  There are also excellent opportunities to see Hippo and Crocodile at St. Lucia and to visit Durban's marine world aquarium.

Plan Your Tour With Confidence

Your financial security.

Our tours are financially protected by our ATOL Licence and your payments are held in our trust account with the Travel Trust Association

Inspection Trips

If you are planning a tour with us, we can arrange an inspection trip so you are able to familiarise yourself with the destination and conduct any risk assessments your school may require.

Support on Tour

Many tours travel with a full-time guide who will look after your group in the destination, and you will always be able to contact our UK office which is manned 24/7.

Request a brochure

Our specialist subject brochures feature a wide range of our varied educational and thematic tours intended to give you helpful ideas and inspiration when planning your school’s next tour.

Start Planning Your School Tour Now

All our tours are individually designed to your precise requirements. Contact us for a tailor-made quote.

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Science Fun

We provide In-school and Virtual (NEW) science field trips that allow kids to become a “Scientist For the Day” and learn by doing REAL experiments. Programs are engaging, fun and meet the Science Standards.  Please call (919) 460-5800 for more information about our new programming options.

We will deliver your Science Supplies to you (FREE SHIPPING)!

Our true passion is to provide teachers and students with FUN, educational, and convenient science programs. 

We will transform your experience into a Living Laboratory!

Quick questions:.

WHAT IS INCLUDED?

How do i reserve a program & what info should i have ready.

Eclipse as education: Volusia students use in-school field trip to see science firsthand

PORT ORANGE − The study of Earth and space invites big questions and is one of the highlights of eighth-grade science.

But getting to experience a celestial event, even if it's only a partial solar eclipse, engages students on a whole different level.

So say the students and teachers who went on an "in-school field trip," outside the classroom to the playground, where high above the chain-link fences the moon's orbit passed directly between Earth and the sun. The eighth-graders at several Volusia County schools, including Creekside Middle, who got parental permission slips were handed safety glasses and allowed to gaze upward.

Other participating schools included Ormond Beach, Galaxy, River Springs, Heritage and Hinson middle schools.

At Creekside, more than 150 students went to the school's playground to watch the greatest amount of coverage, about 63%, just after 3 p.m. The students were all handed ISO 12312-2:2015 certified glasses, safe for viewing the eclipse.

"Something is happening and they are excited," science teacher Mona Chopra said.

She earned her master's degree in chemistry, but said the astronomy unit seems to be the one that generates the most discussion.

"Now I love this unit because most of the questions, the interaction is during this unit," she said.

Another teacher, Rachel Bogdanoff, said the Earth and space effort includes phases of the moon, the tides and eclipses. They covered the material in February, but the Creekside teachers reviewed the material after spring break.

"Most of us tried to carry it over a little bit," Bogdanoff said. "And when we came back from spring break last week, we all made a point to revisit it."

Teachers spent part of Friday and Monday allowing students to research questions about the eclipse, so even though Florida was not in the path of totality, it still engaged many students, she said.

"A lot of kids want to know: When will it happen again? How frequently? We had a partial and annular eclipse in October, so some of them were aware that something similar had happened. We had discussions about the differences between annular and total. So they have been pretty engaged all day, which is nice," she said.

What students were saying as they gazed skyward

While there was scholarly inquiry, the conversations during the field trip were also very ... eighth grade.

One group of girls were asked about the partial solar eclipse in 2017, when they were in first grade.

Emily Rule said: "We were so young, it's hard to remember."

Amelia Woodward also didn't remember, deadpanning: "I was playing with Barbies."

Next to her, Maysiena Marrs said she did remember that eclipse.

"I guess it's, like, another 'wow' factor," she said.

But it's not every day the curriculum plays out before students' own eyes.

"We learned about it in class and it's kind of cool to experience it," Amelia said.

Emily added: "And astronomy in general is just really fun to learn about it, so it's cool that right around the time we learned about it we get to see a solar eclipse."

Looking ahead to next time

After peak coverage, as the moon's orbit began to carry it past the sun, student Antonio Fuster said he thought it was going to get a bit darker, but still found it interesting.

"It's definitely fun to be with all your friends and you get to see something cool like this," he said.

He, like a lot of students, thought about the next solar eclipse in Florida, in 2045 when he will be thirtysomething.

"I am looking forward to it because it will be a total eclipse," he said, "and it will be much better than this and I think I will remember it better."

Animal Kingdom's Eclipse Experience: In total solar eclipses, many creatures react as if it were nighttime, UF researcher says

9 Best Road Trips To Take In Florida

Florida offers an array of diversity with its natural wonders, wildlife, and attractions. For those looking to get the most out of a road trip in the Sunshine State, follow along to embark on our list of top nine road trips. Whether you're interested in learning the State's history through a day trip to St. Augustine or planning an extended stay driving the Overseas Highway from the Florida Keys to Key West, these road trip routes highlight the best sights Florida has to offer. From sandy beaches to swampy marshlands, we've got you covered with nine of the best and most unique drives across the southeastern beauty. Play your favorite tunes and get your maps out - it's time to explore Florida.

Florida Springs Route

Florida has one of the most productive aquifer systems in the world, spanning nearly 100,000 square miles beneath the state's surface. One plus side of sitting atop an aquifer is the unique landscape it creates in freshwater springs. Springs are natural bodies of water that flow from the pressure of the underground aquifer. The peninsula has more than 1,000 recognized springs, attracting millions of locals and tourists to escape the heat in the cool spring water. While it may be tricky to reach all the springs in a single go, there is a road trip that highlights seven different unique springs.

Begin by heading northwest of Orlando on US Hwy 19 to reach the beloved historical spot of Weeki Wachee. The landmark attraction dates back to 1947 and is known for its mesmerizing underwater live mermaid show. Just 35 minutes north is Crystal River and Three Sisters Springs . Both places are great spots to enjoy the quiet nature or take a dip in the cool spring water. Over the next two hours of your journey, you can stop at springs offering tubing like Rainbow River, Manatee Springs State Park, Ginnie Springs, and Ichetucknee State Park. While this trip only takes three hours to complete, we recommend splitting it up over a few days to make the most out of each spring.

Miami To Key West Route

Embrace the vibrancy of South Florida with a road trip from Miami to Key West . Just over 170 miles and nearing a four-hour drive, an ideal road trip would include at least a weekend stay. Start at the iconic Miami Beach, known for its beachfront vibes and exciting nightlife. Once you're back in mainland Miami, make sure to stop at the Wynwood Wall to admire one of Florida's most talented art neighborhoods.

Head across Overseas Highway (US 1) to see a spectacular view of the tropical islands that make up the Florida Keys. An hour south of Miami is where the Keys begin. Key Largo is a great stop off point to explore the "Diving Capital of the World." Over the next hour and a half, drive through important landmarks like Islamorada, the Seven Mile Bridge, and Bahia Honda State Park . Take a break at Robbie's to feed massive tarpon off a dock. Another hour of driving through the Lower Keys will eventually lead to the final stop on the road trip in Key West. Make the most of your time in the nation's southernmost point by checking out Duval Street, Mallory Square, and the Hemingway House. While the drive can be completed in four hours, it's best to take your time and fully take in what makes each Key unique.

Beach Scenes And History Route To St. Augustine

Go from the modern twists and turns of Central Florida's theme park paradise back in time to the grounds of St. Augustine on this historic day trip. Begin in Orlando , with 18 theme parks and countless entertaining attractions to choose from. Head northeast along I-4 to New Smyrna, where you can make a pit stop at the New Smyrna Sugar Mills Ruins dating back to the 1800s.

Driving on I-95 will take you straight to the Ormond Scenic Loop and Trail. Considered one of Florida's official scenic highways, the 34-mile loop includes scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean , along with protected wildlife among the marshes, dunes, and beaches. Stop for a break to hike, fish, or bicycle in one of the nearby parks like Bulow Creek or Tomaka State Park. Another 50 minutes north of Ormond Beach is the final stop in St. Augustine. Stay at the beach or head into the Historic Downtown, known as the first land found by Spanish explorer Ponce De Leon. Make sure to visit the Castillo de San Marcos , the oldest fort in the US!

Space Coast Best Coast Route

A road trip across Florida's east coast is as educational as it is stunning. Dubbed the " Space Coast " due to Florida becoming the home to the national space program, this road trip will take you along AIA from Cocoa Beach to Daytona Beach. The two-and-a-half-hour drive begins just an hour east of Orlando. Cocoa Beach is known for its laid-back beach culture and Ron John Surf Shop, the World's Largest Surf Shop. Slightly north is Cape Canaveral , where you can drive past the Air Force Station and Launch Control Center. It's worth a stop to spend a few hours at Kennedy Space Center. The Visitor Center offers encounters with an astronaut, views of the Rocket Garden, and a bus tour to the restricted space center area.

Drive forty minutes to reach one of Florida's beach gems: Playalinda Beach. The national park located in the Canaveral National Seashore shows off an underdeveloped beach with incredible views and thirteen different beach access points. The last stop on the journey is the famous Daytona Beach . Referred to as the "Spring Break Capital of the World," Daytona is the perfect ending point to explore the boardwalk, watch a NASCAR event, or enjoy food and drinks with the exciting nightlife.

Gulf Course Route To St. Petersburg

There's nothing quite like the pristine beaches and cultural hotspots along Florida's West Coast. Surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico, the coastal region is known for its blue-green water which is calmer compared to the waves on the Atlantic Ocean. Take a road trip from Tampa to St. Petersburg that lasts under two and a half hours. However, you can add time by making pit stops along the way. Start at the up-and-coming Tampa Bay area and drive 45 minutes northwest until reaching Tarpon Springs. Known as the "Natural Sponge Capital" of the world, the town offers scenic waterfront views, impressive Greek-inspired architecture, and white sand beaches perfect for fishing. Drive 35 minutes south to Clearwater Beach , spanning more than 2.5 miles with soft sand and clear, teal ocean water. It's worth visiting the famous legacy of Winter the Dolphin at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.

Continue your journey south along the west coast to find the ultimate treasure, Treasure Island . Go wildlife spotting with Dolphin Quest tours, find family-friendly activities on the boardwalk, or get active on the Treasure Island Beach Trail. From this location, you're just a short drive from St. Pete Beach and the downtown area of St. Petersburg. Walk along the beach to iconic spots like The Don CeSar or head inland to embrace the buzzing art district and pedestrian-friendly St. Pete neighborhoods with wild nightlife. A final stop in "Florida's Sunshine City" is the perfect end to an incredible road trip.

Tamiami Trail Route From Naples To Miami

Embark on Florida's wildlife sightseeing trip with the Tamiami Trail. The road trip extends from Naples to Miami , with tons of places to stop and gawk at the passing wildlife in between. While a straight-through drive takes three hours to complete, it is highly recommended to take your time. The Everglades themselves can take several days to explore! Taking US 41 is a slower route than other options, but the pace is perfect to take in the State's most mesmerizing natural beauties.

The road trip will guide you through swampy wetlands with alligators and birds unique to Florida. Make extra time to stop at the Miccosukee Indian Village to learn about the unique, native trip that adapted to the Everglades region. Stop to camp or go on a ranger-led swamp tour at Big Cypress National Preserve. Make sure to save time for exploring the Everglades National Park before ending the drive in Miami. If you want to see gators while visiting Florida, this road trip is your best chance.

Panhandle And Emerald Coast Route

A drive through Florida's Scenic Highway 30A captures the beauty of the Panhandle Region. Situated along the Gulf of Mexico and surrounded by Georgia and Alabama , the Emerald Coast hosts a plethora of stunning views and turquoise water. Under four hours, this road trip takes you through the region idealized for its friendly beach towns. Start the journey in Fort Walton, known as a tourist town with year-long fishing.

Continue driving for fifteen minutes to reach the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village" in Destin, home to the annual Destin Fishing Rodeo. Next up is Panama City Beach, another picture-perfect beach town along the Emerald Coast . Make sure to check out the Panama City Beach Conservation Park for hiking and cycling. The last stop is Port St. Joe, which you can reach through the scenic Highway 30A, the 24-mile stretch of road trip-worthy views of white sand beaches and a perfect ocean view.

North Central Florida's Forest and Spring Route

Make the most of North Central Florida on a road trip that explores forests, wildlife, and natural springs. The Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway was established in 2008, expanding more than 120 miles. Start your journey at Silver Springs State Park, just an hour and a half north of Orlando. Take your time traversing America's largest spring, ideally with a glass-bottom boat tour. Right outside of Silver Springs begins Florida's National Scenic Trail, a long distance hiking trail that spans 1,500 miles.

After stopping to hike, it is only a short drive to the Ocala National Forest . What makes this area so unique is the vast difference from the rest of the state. Instead of beaches and palm trees, you'll drive past lush, green trees and more than 600 lakes and rivers. Within the National Forest lies Silver Glen Springs, Salt Springs, and Alexander Springs. Take your pick or visit all three, each with fun activities like canoeing, swimming, scuba diving, and volleyball. The last stop on the road trip is Lake George , where you can witness one of Florida's largest lakes.

Southwestern Gulf Route

With so many incredible spots along Florida's Gulf Coast, it's impossible not to add another West Coast route to the list of best Florida road trips. A drive from Bradenton to Fort Myers is a worthwhile drive to discover charming beach towns with clear ocean views. Start in Bradenton, referred to as "Florida's Friendliest City," so make sure to stop and say hello! It's also worth a visit to the National Memorial Park in honor of De Soto or the Robinson Nature Preserve for wildlife spotting.

A thirty-minute drive south will get you to Sarasota, a charming city dedicated to the arts with galleries, museums, and concerts. After Sarasota is Siesta Key , an 8-mile barrier island home to beloved Siesta Key Beach, voted as one of the best beaches in Florida and the entire world! Continue driving south for another half hour to reach Venice Beach. Check out the 700-foot Venice Pier or go snorkeling to search for buried treasure. Venice is known as the "Shark Tooth Capital of the World!" The final stop on the road trip is Fort Myers . Explore the beach or witness the impressive makings of the Edison Ford Museum.

With all the incredible nature, wildlife, and entertaining attractions to choose from, Florida makes for the perfect road trip state. Whether you want to drive solo or bring the entire family along, the Sunshine State has so many idealistic driving routes that you're bound to have a memorable journey. Within 2-4 hours, you can immerse yourself in quaint beachy towns, the thick of the forest, or even deep in the swamps. Make your next road trip the best one with this list of best road trip options around sunny Florida!

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