Think of the Florida Keys as a mile island chain of family fun. From beach camping and snorkeling to gentle animal encounters with dolphins and native Key deer, there are so many one-of-a-kind experiences in the Florida Keys that every day can be filled with epic memory-making moments with the kids. Snorkeling tours that depart from the park daily are best for advanced swimmers, but there are also glass-bottom boat tours for small children and non-swimmers.
The square-mile park, accessible only by boat or seaplane, is home to the 19 th century Fort Jefferson and remote campgrounds. Small children can join dockside encounters and older kids can participate in dolphin trainer programs. Purchase a bucket of bait fish to hand feed the school of tarpon that hang out here. Found only in the lower Florida Keys, endangered Key deer are about the size of a big dog. The Key West Sunset Celebration happens every evening at Mallory Square , where the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico meet for a sundown festival featuring carnival-like acts and entertainers.
The glowing pink-and-orange sunset is the perfect backdrop for a memorable snapshot. On the other side of the island, the Southernmost Point iconic landmark on Whitehead Street is a must-do photo opportunity for a southernmost family selfie.
The red, black and yellow marker overlooking the Atlantic Ocean on Whitehead Street is the southernmost spot in the United States, just 90 miles from Cuba. Kids ages 12 and under ride free, and tickets include free admission to the Overseas Railroad Museum. A favorite sandy spot for locals, Sombrero Beach in Marathon Key is a small, manmade retreat off Mile Marker 50 in the Middle Keys, with a gentle surf, restrooms and accessibility for beach goers with disabilities.
Roosevelt Blvd. A drive across the Seven Mile Bridge, the longest segmental bridge in the world should include a stop at Pigeon Key , accessible from a visitor center at the west end of Marathon Key. Traveling to other Florida destinations with your gang? Here are more ideas for family fun around the Sunshine State.
