Summer in Central Florida is all about sunshine, adventure, and making unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a local looking for new experiences or a visitor planning the perfect getaway, Central Florida has something for everyone. From thrilling theme parks and outdoor adventures to cultural attractions and delicious summer eats, there’s no shortage of fun in the sun. Here is our ultimate Central Florida summer bucket list!
Make your summer travel into Central Florida a breeze by flying Avelo Airlines directly into Lakeland International Airport (LAL)!
Ultimate Central Florida Summer Bucket List
To help you make the most of your summer, we’ve put together the ultimate Central Florida bucket list. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly attractions, exciting outdoor activities, or ways to stay cool, this guide has you covered. Let’s dive into the best summer experiences Central Florida has to offer and start checking off your bucket list today!
1. Experience Florida’s Best Theme Parks For Kids
LEGOLAND® Florida Resort
A trip to Central Florida isn’t complete without visiting LEGOLAND® Florida Resort, a paradise for kids and LEGO® enthusiasts. This interactive park features thrilling rides, themed lands, and creative play areas designed for families. Highlights include rides, shows, and water park fun designed for kids and families.
Don’t miss the Pirate River Quest and LEGO® NINJAGO® World as well as the ALL-NEW SEA LIFE Florida which opens May 23!
Peppa Pig Theme Park
Perfect for younger kids, Peppa Pig Theme Park is packed with adorable rides and interactive attractions. Families can enjoy the Muddy Puddles Splash Pad, which is a great way to cool off on a hot day, or Daddy Pig’s Roller Coaster, a gentle ride for little thrill-seekers.
Safari Wilderness Ranch
Get up close and personal with exotic animals at Safari Wilderness Ranch, where you can take a drive-through safari and spot zebras, antelopes, and water buffalo. Or feed lemurs or ride a camel for a unique wildlife experience.
2. Explore Central Florida’s Natural Beauty
Hike at Circle B Bar Reserve
A favorite for nature lovers, Circle B Bar Reserve offers some of the best wildlife viewing in the region. Alligator Alley Trail is one of the top spots to see gators in the wild.
Stroll Through Bonnet Springs Park
One of the newest and most exciting parks in Central Florida, Bonnet Springs Park is a must-visit.
Visit the Historic Bok Tower Gardens
A true Florida treasure, Bok Tower Gardens is a peaceful escape with a 205–foot singing carillon tower, a history 1930s Mediterranean-style mansion at Pinewood Estate, and many nature trails and breathtaking gardens featuring vibrant summer blooms.
3. Cool Off with Water Adventures
Splash Around at a Water Park
For the ultimate way to beat the heat, head to one of Central Florida’s best water parks. LEGOLAND® Water Park has a perfect mix of water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. Or you can check out Camp Margaritaville Auburndale and purchase a day pass to enjoy one of their resort style pools or splash pads.
Rent a Boat for a Lake Day
For a more relaxed summer experience, spend a day on one of the area’s 550 lakes with a pontoon rental on:
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Winter Haven’s Chain of Lakes – Perfect for tubing, wakeboarding, or just cruising.
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Lake Kissimmee – A great spot for fishing, swimming, and wildlife watching.
Try an Airboat Tour
Speed through Florida’s wetlands on an airboat and spot alligators and birds along the way. Here’s a list of the top airboat tours in Polk County.
Kayak Through Shady Waterways
One of the best ways to experience Florida’s natural beauty is by paddling through scenic lakes and rivers.
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Winter Haven Chain of Lakes – Kayak between 16 interconnected lakes, passing historic sites and beautiful waterfront homes.
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Lake Kissimmee State Park – Explore winding waterways while spotting alligators, turtles, and native birds.
4. Attend a Summer Event or Festival
Fourth of July Fireworks Shows
Celebrate Independence Day with fireworks over the water at:
- Red, White, and BOOM at LEGOLAND Florida
- Lakeland’s Red, White & Kaboom
- Thunder on the Ridge in Haines City
- Winter Haven’s Rockin’ Freedom Fest
Summer Concerts & Night Markets
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Bonnet Springs Park hosts seasonal events throughout the summer.
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Camp Margaritaville Auburndale hosts live music with local artists.
5. Discover Indoor Attractions & Museums
Florida Children’s Museum
A perfect stop for families, featuring interactive exhibits that encourage learning through play. You can also find creative spaces for building, exploring, and experimenting.
Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art
For art lovers, this museum offers adiverse collection of artwork spanning multiple styles and time periods as well as rotating exhibits showcasing local and international artists.
Florida Air Museum
A must-visit for aviation enthusiasts, featuring historic aircraft displays and interactive aviation exhibits. You can also try out flight simulators for an immersive experience.
6. Savor the Flavors of Summer
Try the best local flavors like BBQ or seafood right here in Central Florida. Check out our A-Z Dining Guide to find some of the best spots in town!
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The post Ultimate Central Florida Summer Bucket List: Must-Do Activities for 2025 appeared first on Visit Central Florida.
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