Suggestions on where to visit with kids

Question

We've got a family trip booked for 24th Aug - 2nd Sept, 2 children, 6 & 10 years old. We're flying into Orlando and have a house in Kissimmee until 29th to do Universal (fixed) then possibly Volcano Bay and Gatorland, with a little mooching around and evening meals in between, that part is arranged, although open to and small diversions.

The problem is deciding what to do after. We've always wanted to drive down to the Keys, so that was the original plan, stopping off for an airboat tour on the way, and then back to Miami beach for a day before the flight back.

The more I'm reading, the more unsure I am. It's a long drive and not sure how relaxed it will be for the kids. I'm starting to think about giving up on the dream to head to the Keys and possible do Sarasota/Siesta Key or even just head straight to Miami Beach.

We like eating out, walking around a bit (6yr old isn't so keen on the walking!), few small shops, chilling on the beach, few drinks, hitting the water for a swim, etc. Kids love splashing around in the water.

Also the odd excursion/day trip as well. Don't want anything too full on after Orlando, but don't want to be glued to one spot entirely. Don't mind a bit of drive.

Pretty wide ranging I know, but just looking for some thoughts and suggestions.

Answer

After your Orlando/Universal week, you have a few options that balance relaxation, kid-friendly activities, and manageable driving distances. Considering the ages of your children, long drives might be tiring, so splitting up the trip into shorter segments can help.

Option 1: Florida Keys route

The Keys are beautiful, but driving all the way from Orlando to Key West is around 7-8 hours non-stop. With two kids, plus stops for meals, bathrooms, and stretching, it can easily turn into a full-day drive. You could break it up with an overnight stop around the Everglades or Islamorada.

Stop for an airboat tour in the Everglades—kids usually love this.
Consider Islamorada or Marathon for a night or two. Both have family-friendly beaches, pools, and kid-focused attractions like the Theater of the Sea (marine animal shows).
Key West could be limited to a day or two, mostly walking around the waterfront, checking out the shops, and perhaps a boat trip or snorkeling excursion.

Pros: You get to tick off the dream of visiting the Keys. Cons: Long drives and potentially tiring for kids.

Option 2: Sarasota / Siesta Key

This is around a 2.5-3 hour drive from Orlando, much easier for kids. Siesta Key is known for soft, white sand beaches and calm water—great for splashing and building sandcastles.

Siesta Key Beach—shallow water, perfect for kids.
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium in Sarasota—a fun, educational stop for the children.
St. Armands Circle for a relaxed walk, shopping, and dining with kid-friendly options.
Optional day trip to Venice Beach to see sharks’ teeth, a small adventure the kids will enjoy.

Pros: Shorter drives, relaxed pace, plenty of beach and kid activities. Cons: Doesn’t fulfill the Keys dream, but you get great beaches and family-friendly options.

Option 3: Miami / Miami Beach

Driving straight to Miami is about 3.5-4 hours from Orlando. Miami offers beaches, city vibes, and day excursions without the multi-stop stress of the Keys.

South Beach or Mid-Beach for sun, sand, and water play—many beaches have kid-friendly areas.
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens—a quick cultural excursion with beautiful grounds.
Jungle Island or Miami Seaquarium—a full day of kid-friendly activities.
Little Havana for a short walk, Cuban pastries, and casual food options for the family.

Pros: Single destination, easier logistics, plenty to do. Cons: Less scenic than the Keys or Sarasota beaches.

General advice:

Consider your kids’ tolerance for long drives—break up the trip if necessary.
Keep a mix of beach time, light excursions, and rest to avoid burnout.
Plan meals and snacks along the route, especially if driving long stretches.
Water activities and easy, short walks are ideal for the 6-year-old.

Given your priorities—kids splashing, beach relaxation, some light sightseeing—Sarasota/Siesta Key or Miami may be more manageable and enjoyable than driving straight to the Keys, but if seeing the Keys is a must-do, splitting the drive over a couple of days is essential.

Suggestions on where to visit with kids

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