Florida in December

Question

We’re planning a family trip to Florida next December. Our idea is to do a road trip — from Miami to Orlando, from Orlando to Tampa, and then continue further south before returning to Miami. What smaller towns along the way would you recommend? We prefer staying overnight in smaller towns. Are there any hidden gem cities? Our travel budget is sufficient, but we’d prefer to avoid the most expensive places. We really enjoy swimming pools, museums, attractions, nature, etc. Last time we visited Key West and liked it a lot, but this time we’d like to see some new places. I truly appreciate any tips or suggestions.

Answer

Florida in December offers milder weather, making it ideal for a family road trip that includes both city stops and charming smaller towns. Traveling from Miami to Orlando, then to Tampa, and heading south again provides a mix of attractions, nature, and unique local experiences. Staying in smaller towns overnight will give a more relaxed pace and a chance to explore lesser-known Florida gems.

Here are some recommended smaller towns and stops along your route:

West Palm Beach / Lake Worth: Just north of Miami, these towns offer beautiful waterfronts, small museums like the Norton Museum of Art, and boutique shops. Consider an overnight here to break up the drive north.
Vero Beach: A quiet coastal town with beautiful beaches, parks, and some family-friendly attractions. Great for swimming pool hotels and a relaxing evening away from the hustle of big cities.
Melbourne / Cocoa Beach Area: Along the Space Coast, you can visit the Kennedy Space Center or enjoy the beach. Cocoa Beach has a laid-back vibe and mid-range hotels with pools.
Mount Dora: Near Orlando, this charming town features lakeside scenery, antique shops, and a relaxed historic downtown. Perfect for a quiet overnight stop before hitting Orlando’s attractions.
Homosassa Springs / Crystal River: On the way to Tampa, these towns are great for nature lovers. Swim with manatees in Crystal River or visit wildlife parks in Homosassa Springs for unique experiences that the kids will enjoy.
Tarpon Springs: Just north of Tampa, known for its Greek heritage, sponge docks, and waterfront dining. Small-town charm, museums, and good food make it a lovely overnight spot.
Sarasota / Siesta Key (optional detour): Famous for its white sand beaches and artsy downtown. Offers museums like the Ringling Museum of Art and family-friendly attractions.

Additional tips for your trip:

Book accommodations with swimming pools since your family enjoys them; smaller boutique hotels often have excellent pool areas.
Consider balancing bigger city stops with these small towns to avoid feeling rushed. For example, 1–2 nights in Orlando for museums and attractions, then overnight in a small town like Mount Dora or Vero Beach for rest.
Hidden gem activities: kayaking in the Indian River Lagoon, nature walks in state parks like Myakka River State Park near Sarasota, or a quiet beach picnic in Cape Canaveral.
Road trip pace: aim for 2–3 hours between overnight stops to avoid long drives, and make spontaneous stops at roadside towns or small parks for exploration.

This itinerary gives you the opportunity to explore a mix of Florida’s cultural, historical, and natural highlights while enjoying small-town charm and family-friendly amenities.

Florida in December

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