kcr426

I'll be traveling to family in Daytona area in July with two children(4years and 8 mos). We typically try to take an additional mini-trip while in Florida and stay for a few days. In the past, we have been to St.Augusine, Amelia Island,St.Pete area. Any ideas for other destinations within 5 hour drive? We are considering Miami,but I have some concerns regarding the kids. Small towns are fine too, we love St Augustine. Thanks in advance.

iamlynn98

Hello kcr,

Are you looking to stay in Florida? I love going to Savannah, Georgia. I love the historic district and its also close to Tybee Island (which has a lighthouse). There is also Fort Pulaski on the way from Savannah to Tybee (its only a short drive from Savannah). From Daytona its a straight shot up to Savannah (about 4 hours travel time).

When I lead trips up there we stay for one or two nights. We spend one day in the historic district and another day going to the fort, the lighthouse and the beaches. Its great fun and not too far to go!

If you need more information just write back and I will try to help!

Jerilyn

Tandoori_Girl

Hi kcr. I would not rule out Miami if you want to go there. Miami is like no other city in the world. And parts of Miami are very family-oriented. You will see lots of families in South Beach even though it is a decidedly younger crowd. When my son was about 4 or 5, we went to a wedding in Miami. We stayed at a smaller hotel that was in Coral Gables. There was a European woman who was swimming topless in the pool. My son never noticed. So this might be the best time for you to go. Now my son is 16 and I would still take him because let's face it -- it's only nature.

In Miami, the Venetian pool is wonderful. It was built in the early part of the 1900s and looks sort of like Venice but it's a swimming pool with waterfalls and fountains. It's in Coral Gables, your children will enjoy it. Mathison Hammock in south miami is also a nice spot for a day at the beach. It is a natural lagoon. And you could always make a trip to the Everglades but I'm not sure your 4-year-old would appreciate it.

Another thing to investigate is the turtle nesting that occurs in Melbourne during the summer. YOu will be visiting at the height of the season and so it will be likely that you could easily witness one of the nighttime nestings. This was so memorable for my son when he was that age that we did it for a few years. Melbourne is one of the best places to see this as there are so many nestings here in this one spot. Get yourself a beachfront room near the Archie Carr waterfront park.

Lisa2403

There is park in DeLand http://www.floridastateparks.org/bluespring/default.cfm (about half way to Orlando an easy day trip) called Blue Springs State Park. It is very nice esp with kids. The have an old grist mill that has been converted into a Pancake House, you cook your own pancakes on a big built in griddle. Then there are the springs and boat rides where you will see lots of FL wild life.
Homassa Springs just north of Tampa is another fun quiet place. Have fun !

LindyE

The park near Deland that has the Grist Mill is DeLeon Springs State Park. Blue Springs State Park in about 10 miles south in Orange City. Both are beautiful and would be enjoyable in July!