37 Fun Things to Do in Clearwater Florida with Kids & Family [2025 Ultimate Guide]
As a marine biologist and lifelong beachcomber living along Florida’s sunny coast, I love sharing my passion for marine life with fellow ocean enthusiasts through MarineLivings.
Today, I have something special for families—especially those raising curious little explorers. If you’re planning a beach day or vacation in Florida, you’ll love this list of the 37 best things to do in Clearwater Florida with kids and family.
Clearwater is one of my favorite places to explore, thanks to its kid-friendly atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and treasure-filled shorelines. With a population of about 117,000—and nearly 18% under the age of 18—it’s no surprise that Clearwater is a beloved destination for families eager to connect with nature and create lasting memories.
I know how magical these adventures can be for children and parents alike. That’s why I’ve gathered this list of top spots we loved to explore—places perfect for learning, laughing, and making unforgettable beach memories together.
1. Pier 60 at Clearwater Beach: A Family Favorite with Sunsets, Sand, and Spectacle
📍 1 Causeway Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33767, United States
If you’re heading to Clearwater Beach, Pier 60 (1 Causeway Blvd) should be at the top of your list especially if you’ve got kids in tow. Located in beautiful Pinellas County, which draws over 14 million visitors annually, this pier is one of the area’s most beloved beach hangouts—and for good reason.
We’ve been lucky enough to visit Pier 60 Clearwater twice this year, and both times were unforgettable. May 21, 2025: I attended the Family Equality event at Pier 60—this one was in Manhattan. It was an incredible evening filled with heart and talent. The highlight? Nicole Scherzinger performing “With One Look” from Sunset Boulevard, where she stars as Norma Desmond. Her voice, the setting, the emotion—it was truly a moment to remember.
June 6, 2025: Back at Pier 60 in Manhattan again, we joined the crowd for a breathtaking fireworks show at 9:45 PM, part of the Lighthouse / Gift of Life event. I went with my family, and wow—the sky exploded with color. The atmosphere was electric with cheering, laughter, and amazement. One of those nights you never forget.
Why Visit Pier 60 in Clearwater Beach?
The beach here is stunning soft white sand, clear, calm waters, and gentle waves. Perfect for building sandcastles, splashing around, or hunting seashells early in the morning, check out 8 Best Beaches for Shell Collecting (By Region) – Find Rare & Beautiful Shells! for some great spots.
Just off the pier, you’ll find two large shaded playgrounds for the little ones and an epic inflatable waterslide called “The Hippo”—a hit with kids every time.
Feeling hungry? Don’t miss the bait/snack hut on the pier, or pop over to one of the nearby stands for ice cream, funnel cakes, fresh lemonade, and fun souvenirs.
If you’re looking for family-friendly things to do in Clearwater Florida, Pier 60 should be at the top of your list.
Sunsets & Shows: The Magic of Sunsets at Pier 60
One of Pier 60’s biggest draws is its nightly celebration—“Sunsets at Pier 60”. It’s free, starts two hours before sunset, and features live musicians, jugglers, fire performers, local artists, and more. The energy is vibrant and family-friendly.
As one mom wrote on Reddit:
“Pier 60 has a great playground and a kiosk to get ice cream. If you are there at sunset, it’s beautiful and there is a sunset ‘show.’”
Repairs Coming Soon?
After Hurricane Helene hit in September 2024, part of the pier—including the bait shop and its far end—had to close. Now, a $313,000 repair plan is awaiting final approval from the city council. Locals and visitors alike are hopeful it’ll be restored soon, making the experience even better.
Whether you’re visiting for the beach, the festivals, or the food, Pier 60 is a true gem on Florida’s Gulf Coast—safe, easy, and packed with fun. Don’t forget your camera… and maybe a bucket for all those shells!
Suggested Read: Kice Island Florida Shelling Adventure: What the Beach Taught Me About 15 Types of Seashells and Letting Go
2. Sand Key Park: A Peaceful Paradise for Families, Right Near Clearwater Beach
Just 5 minutes south of the hustle and bustle of Clearwater Beach lies a hidden treasure: Sand Key Park at 📍1060 Gulf Blvd, Clearwater, FL. This 95-acre coastal escape is quieter, more relaxed, and perfect for families looking to unwind by the Gulf.
With soft white sand, calm waters averaging 76°F, and fewer crowds, it’s easy to see why this place holds a special spot in our hearts. In fact, we got married here 12 years ago—right at Boardwalk 7, where our story began. On our latest visit, the kids loved seeing the place that started it all. We had warm weather, no crowds, and capped the day off with authentic Italian pizza at Villa Italia, a charming spot run by a lovely couple living their dream.
Why Families Love Sand Key Park
There’s a pirate-ship style playground that sparks every kid’s imagination, plus big open lawns ideal for games of tag, frisbee, or a picnic under the sun.
Picnic shelters and grills are ready for your beachside BBQ, and nearby food trucks and concession stands serve up ice cream, hot dogs, and more—no need to pack everything from home.
Want to try something new? Kids (and adults) can enjoy gentle kayaking, or watch local anglers reel in pompano and sheepshead from the fishing spots nearby.
Bringing your dog? You’re in luck—there’s a fenced dog park just off the beach where pups can run free while the rest of the family relaxes or plays nearby.
What You Need to Know
- 🕖 Open daily from 7 a.m. to sunset (closed only on Thanksgiving afternoon and Christmas Day)
- 🅿️ $5/day parking, paid at credit card stations
- 🚻 Clean restrooms, outdoor showers, and shaded changing rooms
- ♿ Two beach wheelchairs available for accessibility
- 🛟 Lifeguards on duty mid-March to mid-September—a big relief for parents like me
And if you’re planning to visit this summer, don’t miss the UTE Open Water & Multisport Festival happening Sunday, June 29, 2025, right here at Sand Key Park.
Event Highlights
- Open Water Swims: 1 km, 1.5 km, 2.5 km, 5 km
- Beach Run: 5 km
- Aquathlons: Kids (12 & under) and Teens (13+)
- Kiddie Swims: 100–200 m and kickboard races
- DJ music, T-shirts, awards, giveaways
- Park opens: 7:00 AM | First race: ~7:45 AM
- Fees: $27.50–$91.10 | Register by June 28
Visit “UTE Open Water Festival 2025 Sand Key Park” on TriSignup to register.
Tips for families
- Arrive early to grab a good parking spot near playgrounds or shelters.
- Bring beach shelling bags toys and snorkels . Kids love spotting fish and collecting shells in the clear water.
- Pack snacks or plan a picnic; seagulls are quick, so watch your food!
- Check tide times and lifeguard hours, especially if boating or fishing.
- You can Enjo a wonderful cuban sandwich, black beans and rice, and the famous 1905 salad at the Columbia restaurant on Sand Key.
3. New Coachman Park
📍300 Cleveland St, Clearwater, FL
New Coachman Park is a bright, fun place for families right in downtown Clearwater. It’s super clean, safe, and just a few minutes from the beach—making it one of the most convenient things to do in Clearwater Florida with kids. Children love the pirate ship-style playground, the big splash pad with 60+ water jets, and the wide grassy areas to run and play. There are clean restrooms, free outdoor showers, shaded seating, and food trucks on weekends. I often visit with my kids after beachcombing—it’s the perfect spot to cool off and explore.
You can walk along the waterfront, spot birds, and even watch boats go by. Parking is easy (about $2/hour), and there’s a public library next door. On weekends, live music and small markets add even more charm to this family-friendly destination.
4. Clearwater Main Library: Where Stories, Play, & Waterfront Views Meet
📍100 N Osceola Ave, Downtown Clearwater, FL
Tucked beside beautiful Coachman Park and overlooking the water, the Clearwater Main Library is more than just books—it’s a family favorite and a cozy place to relax, play, and learn. With around 90,000 square feet of space, it’s one of the coolest indoor spots in the city—perfect for hot days or a quiet break after the beach.
Inside, you’ll find a huge kids’ area filled with puzzles, toys, beanbags, art supplies, and even a mini play ship that little ones love to climb and imagine on. There are regular story times, creative activities like “Preschool Picture Book Playtime”, and fun toddler music sessions—all designed to help kids listen, explore, and grow.
For parents, the quiet reading spots with giant windows offer a peaceful vibe and stunning views—ideal for unwinding while the kids play or read nearby.
Exciting Future Ahead
Big news: Clearwater is reimagining its Main Library into a dynamic cultural hub! The city is inviting museums, arts organizations, and community groups to submit proposals to redesign at least 10,000 sq. ft. of the library space. Think interactive exhibits, live performances, cultural events, and more—all with incredible waterfront views and access to a rooftop terrace.
Proposal window: May 21 – June 20, 2025
This transformation will make the library an even more exciting destination for families, locals, and visitors alike.
5. Clearwater Ferry
Clearwater Ferry is an easy boat ride for families. It takes you from downtown (near Coachman Park) to Clearwater Beach. No traffic or parking stress.
Why kids love it? It feels like a mini boat adventure. You ride across the water, see birds, and feel the breeze. My kids love waving at other boats.
Sadly , On Sunday night, April 27, 2025, a private 37-foot boat collided with the Clearwater Ferry near the Memorial Causeway Bridge around 8:40 p.m. The ferry was returning from the Sugar Sand Festival with 45 passengers and 2 crew members on board. One life was lost, and 12 others were injured, including six trauma
Our hearts go out to all those affected. Visitors, please stay safe while enjoying Clearwater’s water.
Things to know:
- Kids 8 & under ride free
- Runs every 30 mins (Thu–Sun)
- No bathrooms on board. Use before boarding
- Great way to reach Pier 60, beach playgrounds & shops.
Boat Ride – Clearwater
Take a boat ride and make your beach day even more exciting. Clearwater has dolphin tours, pirate cruises, and calm boat rides kids totally love. If you take a boat ride you will see wild dolphins jump and swim next to the boat
I will recommend to stop at sandbars to play, snorkel, or collect shells
- Be sure it is Safe ride with life jackets and shaded seats.
- Choose licensed ferries and tour boats only
- Avoid private boat rides unless you’re sure about the operator’s experience
- Never go boating at night unless it’s with a trusted service
- Always wear a life jacket—even on short rides
- Stay alert near bridges and busy water routes
6. Putt-Putt Golf – A Classic Family Favorite & One of the Top Things to Do in Clearwater Florida
Clearwater has two awesome mini-golf spots that kids and families love.
1. Congo River Golf (US-19 N)
This place feels like a jungle adventure. You play through waterfalls, caves, and tropical plants. Kids can even feed live baby alligators and search for gems. There is also a fun arcade. It’s super safe and exciting for ages 4 and up. My kids always want to stay longer.
2. Captain Bligh’s Landing (Near Clearwater Beach)
This one’s perfect after a beach day. It has a pirate theme, with a cool ship, caves, and waterfalls. There is also an arcade next door. It is right near the beach, so you don’t have to drive far.
7. Crest Lake Park & Splash Pad
📍201 S Glenwood Ave, Clearwater, FL
Crest Lake Park is a peaceful neighborhood oasis with awesome fun for kids. After a big $5.7 million makeover in 2021, the park added a splash pad, playgrounds, boardwalks, picnic pavilions, volleyball courts, and a fishing dock.
Kids and families enjoy the rocky splash pad. It just the right size, quieter and easier for younger kids not to feel overwhelmed . Nearby is a nature-themed playground, big grassy areas, a lake trail, and lots of shaded pavilions great for picnics and relaxing. There are free restrooms, plenty of free parking, and a dog park too . It open daily 9 a.m.–sunset, free entry, and great for toddlers to pre-teens.
8. Bounce City – Indoor Fun for Kids
📍27001 US‑19 N, Countryside Mall, Clearwater, FL
Bounce City is a bright, indoor bounce-house playground just for kids under 10. It’s full of giant inflatables, slides, obstacle courses, ride-on toys, and interactive games—all in a safe, air‑conditioned space . Parents can easily watch their children from every spot thanks to the open layout and gated area .
Kids wear grip-socks and jump around for hours perfect for burning energy when it’s too hot or rainy outside. Reviews say staff sometimes make bubbles and help kids explore — “very nice place for kids to have fun” . It’s a great little escape for ages 2–10, open daily, with party packages too.
9. Sky Zone Trampoline Park – Indoor Jump Fun
Sky Zone in Largo (near Clearwater) is the perfect indoor playground for kids who love to jump and move. It has wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, ninja courses, giant slides, and even slam dunk basketball and dodgeball courts. It’s best for kids ages 3 and up, and there’s even a special toddler zone for the little ones.
Parents love it too because it’s clean, safe, and full of energy-burning fun great for rainy days or when it’s too hot outside. Your kids will leave with red cheeks and big smiles after racing across the ninja track and bouncing into the foam pit. You can go on weekdays during “Hoppy Hour” for cheaper rates just $10 to $13 per hour!
There’s seating for parents to relax and watch, and staff are friendly and helpful. Sky socks are required and cost around $8. If you’re visiting Clearwater with your family, Sky Zone is a great stop for indoor fun and happy, tired kids at the end of the day.
10. Countryside Mall – A Family Break from the Beach
Countryside Mall (27001 US‑19 N) is a good spot when you want indoor fun and a break from the sun. It’s got over 150 stores, a big food court, a 12‑screen CMX cinema, and even an indoor ice rink .
For kids, there’s a neat toddler playground near JCPenney and a small ride-on train that runs through the mall for just $3, little ones love it . The mall is clean, the layout is easy to explore, and there’s plenty of seating for parents.
You can catch a family movie at CMX, check out cool shops, and enjoy adult meals or kid-friendly bites at restaurants nearby. On rainy or ultra-hot days, this place is a lifesaver fun, safe, and relaxed.
11. Clearwater Florida Ice Arena
Clearwater Ice Arena has two big rinks, public skate sessions, skate rentals, and fun classes for all ages. It costs about $16 to skate and $6 to rent skates . There are clean locker rooms, a snack bar, wheelchair‑friendly paths, and even figure skating or hockey lessons. Kids love slipping on skates after a beach trip.
12. Tampa Bay Skating Academy at Countryside Mall Clearwater Florida (27001 US‑19 N)
Tampa Bay Skating Academy is a smaller rink right inside the mall. It’s perfect after shopping or movies, with convenient parking and food court snacks. Though it was closed for repairs recently, it’s set to reopen for the holidays just in time for some icy family fun.
Both places are clean, safe, and perfect for kids aged 3 and up. Parents can relax nearby while helping little ones gain balance. Skating together is a blast especially when we all hold hands and try a group spin. It’s a great rainy day backup or a cool way to end a sun-filled.
13. Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Florida
📍249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL
Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a heartwarming and educational place perfect for families and kids.
It’s home to rescued dolphins like Winter (from Dolphin Tale) on June 4, 2025 Clearwater Marine Aquarium welcomed four non-releasable female rough-toothed dolphins: Doris (28), Kitana (18), Dagny (10), and Wren (5). If you’re curious about tank sizes or want to calculate your own aquarium’s volume, check out this handy Fish Tank Aquarium Volume Calculator – Find the Exact Fish Tank Size In 4 Seconds
They were transferred from Gulf World due to CMA’s expertise and will now receive lifelong care. CMA is the only U.S. aquarium housing this species. Hope, plus otters, turtles, rays, and more over 59 species in a real marine hospital.
After the movies came out, visitors jumped from 75,000 to around 750,000+ a year
Your ticket (around $33 for kids, $42 for adults) lets you explore 5 dolphin pools through giant windows, meet turtles and otters, watch touch‑tank moments, and enjoy fun talks about feeding and rescues. The special Kids Zone has games, coloring sheets, interactive quizzes, and science projects even beachcombers can learn while they play.
Kids taking the CMA boat tour in Clearwater Bay afterward, they spot dolphins, learn about rescue work from marine biologists, and hear cool facts about adorable sea creatures. It’s a full day of discovery and cute flippered friends.
14. Arcade & Pizza Fun in Clearwater
Looking for a tasty, fun break? Try one of Clearwater’s arcade-and-pizza spots perfect for families with kids after a beach day.
CiCi’s Pizza (1560 McMullen Booth Rd)
Go for the unlimited pizza buffet fresh dough, salad, pasta, desserts and let the kids loose in their HUGE game room with bowling lanes and 60+ arcade games. One $20 arcade card can little explorers busy for hours, and the buffet keeps everyone happy.
Infinity Pizza (2481 McMullen Booth Rd)
A comic-book themed arcade with free console games, pinball and classic arcade machines plus pizzas named after heroes like “Groot” or “Moon Knight.”
Recent Past Event:
Good news is May 20, 2025 Join Clearwater Marine Aquarium for a special evening with legendary ocean explorer Dr. Sylvia Earle, part of Echoes of the Ocean: A Marine Life Speaker Series.
With roots in nearby Dunedin, Dr. Earle—National Geographic Explorer at Large and founder of Mission Blue—will share stories from over 60 years of ocean exploration and conservation.
15. Celebration Station – All-in-One Fun
📍 24546 US‑19 N, Clearwater, FL
Celebration Station is a family playground where kids (and parents) can go-kart, play laser tag, ride bumper boats, try euro‑bungy, hit batting cages, take mini-golf challenges, and enjoy a huge two-story arcade not to mention delicious pizza and burgers on site . One TripAdvisor review says it “wasn’t overly crowded… we didn’t feel a need to rush” perfect for relaxed family time .
Packages start around $30–40 for unlimited rides plus game cards, and there are great combo deals like pizza with attractions and arcade credits .
16. BayCare Ballpark – Family Baseball Fun
BayCare Ballpark (601 Old Coachman Rd) is a lively, family-friendly baseball stadium in Clearwater. It hosts Spring Training for the Phillies and the Clearwater Threshers minor league team. With 7,300 fixed seats plus a grassy berm for about 1,500 more, families can choose benches or spread picnic blankets to watch the game together.
Kids love the Kids Zone playground behind the left-field area perfect for running and skipping between innings . You’ll also find fun spots like the Tiki Pavilion, themed food stands (think cheesesteaks, pizza, wings, ice cream), and sunscreen stations to keep everyone comfortable in the Florida sun .
Parking is affordable (~$15/car), and there are wheelchair-friendly ramps, strollers ok, and free tickets for children ages 4 and under . Plus, the Lil’ Anglers Kids Club invites kids to special Thursdays .They get free entry, a hot dog, and even a chance to run the bases after the game .
17. Moccasin Lake Nature Park – Nature, Play & Discovery
Moccasin Lake Nature Park is a magical 51‑acre nature preserve just 8 miles from Clearwater Beach my go-to spot when we need a quiet, outdoorsy change of pace . It has easy walking trails and boardwalks winding through oaks, creeks, butterfly gardens, and a lake where you might spot turtles, herons, even alligators from a distance.
There is a neat playground near the visitor center, so after a gentle nature walk (about a mile loop), kids can climb, slide, and release some energy . Inside the environmental center, we’ve seen rescued turtles, snakes, and fascinating raptors (like owls and hawks) the kind of live nature show that really grabs kids’ attention .
Some Perks for families
- Open Wed–Sun, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., free admission and parking
- Clean restrooms, picnic tables, pavilions for snacks
- Benches and little piers perfect for stopping and spotting wildlife
18. Kid-Friendly Hiking in Clearwater
Clearwater has some great, easy trails that even young kids can enjoy and most are stroller-friendly, too. One of the best ones starts right outside Moccasin Lake Nature Park. It’s called the Ream Wilson Trail, and it’s a calm, shady path where kids can walk, ride scooters, or just enjoy spotting squirrels and birds along the way.
Another family favorite is the Pinellas Trail, a long, smooth trail that stretches for over 45 miles! If you’re near Dunedin, this part of the trail is especially fun you’ll find cute snack spots, parks, and even a few family-friendly breweries if grown-ups need a break.
Best for:
- Kids who love scooters or bikes
- Families with strollers
- Nature-loving walkers who want safe, traffic-free paths
Whether you’re walking for 10 minutes or a full afternoon, these trails offer fun stops, safe paths, and a mix of sun and shade just right for a relaxing day outdoors with the whole family.
19. Walk a Causeway – Big Views & Bigger Fun for Little Kids
Clearwater is one of those cool places where you can walk across the water literally. Two amazing causeway trails make it fun and easy for families to take a walk with big views, fresh air, and lots to see.
Courtney Campbell Causeway
(to Tampa) is a favorite especially for toddlers. The path is wide and stroller-friendly, and the views of the bay are amazing. My friend’s toddler wore a green dinosaur costume last time and ran up and down the trail roaring at trucks because yes, you can watch tons of trucks and cars zoom by right next to you. It’s like a parade for kids who love wheels.
Memorial Causeway Trail takes you out to Clearwater Beach. It’s a little shorter and gives great views of boats, dolphins (if you’re lucky), and the beach skyline. Great spot for a family sunset walk or scootering with kids.
Why families love it?
- Free activity
- Clean, paved, and stroller safe
- Great breeze, shade spots, and water views
- Parking is easy near trail entrances.
20. The Long Center – Play, Splash, and Fun!
📍1501 N Belcher Rd, Clearwater, FL 33765
The Long Center has been a top playground spot for families since it opened in 1990 a beloved local favorite . The colorful Sunshine Limitless Playground next to it is super fun and inclusive, with ramps, butterfly gardens, and play towers that keep kids entertained for hours.
Right now, the indoor Olympic-size pool is closed for renovations until Spring 2026, but that means it’s going to be even better when it reopens . Meanwhile, families can still enjoy the playground, gym courts, fitness center, walking trails, soccer fields, and clean restrooms all with easy parking and stroller access .
Why it is great for kids and families:
- A playground with slides, swings, ramps perfect for ages 2+
- Walk or scooter on the nearby Ream Wilson Trail
- Drop-in basketball or volleyball when the pool is closed
- Picnic-friendly lawn and shaded benches
21. Morningside Recreation Center
📍 2400 Harn Blvd., Clearwater, FL 33764
Morningside Recreation Center is one of Clearwater’s hidden gems for families. It boasts an awesome outdoor pool that kids love especially the kiddie pool/splash pad hybrid, which is perfect for little ones looking to splash and play in a safe space.
If your kids prefer to stay dry, no worries there’s also a modern playground right next to the pool area where they can climb, slide, and explore.
Note: The pools are seasonal and typically close around November, so be sure to check the city’s schedule before heading out.
22. The Jolly Trolley
It is a colorful bus that looks like a train and drives along Clearwater Beach and nearby towns. It’s fun to ride, and it’s a great way to get around without needing to drive or find parking. According to Mike Helmstetter Jolly Trolley is runing for the last 42 yeras.
Kids love watching the trolley go by especially when it’s decorated with things like dolphins wearing Santa hats.Grown-ups like it too because it’s easy and relaxing.
- It’s budget-friendly!
- Adults pay just a few dollars
- Kids under 8 ride for free
- You can use the Jolly Trolley to go to the beach, visit cool places, or just enjoy the ride.
Did you know? Someone even used the Jolly Trolley for their wedding guests.
23. Palmetto Museum
📍 2116 Palmetto St, Clearwater, FL 33765
The Palmetto Museum in Clearwater is a great place for families with kids.
It is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am to 3 pm, and has free parking. Kids love the mini train ride (Tues & Sat), old cars, and real steam engines. The place is calm, safe, and fun.
Tickets cost $10 for kids 6+, and younger kids are free. Outside, there’s a turtle pond, grass to play, and picnic tables under trees.
You can bring your own snacks or visit nearby cafés. It’s not a sports park, but kids can run around and explore.
24. Munchkin Town (ages 6 & under)
📍 14100 US-19 Suite 130, Clearwater, FL 33764, USA
The Munchkin Town indoor playground at 14100 US‑19 Suite 130 in Clearwater is a perfect spot for families with little ones aged 6 and under. It’s open Monday–Friday from 9 am to 7:30 pm, and Saturday until 2:30 pm (closed Sundays). This colorful, cozy space is one of the best things to do in Clearwater Florida for toddlers on a hot or rainy day.
There’s free parking right in front and a safe, engaging play area filled with bright slides, bounce houses, sensory bins, crafts, and STEM toys—perfect for curious young minds. Kids (and their grown-ups) must wear socks, so don’t forget those!
Admission is $15.95 for the first child, $10.95 for siblings, and $4.95 per adult. Infants under 6 months come free. Parents can join in or relax while the kids play; there’s even a baby-only area for the tiniest explorers. You can bring your own snacks or buy treats and drinks onsite—and everything is clean and well cared-for.
25. Clearwater Hispanic Farmer’s Market
The Clearwater Hispanic Farmers Market is held every 3rd Saturday and Sunday, 9 am to 3 pm, at 710 Court Street. It’s a fun, free place for families with kids. There’s live music, dancing, face painting, games, and lots of yummy food like churros and tacos. Kids can play on the grassy area while parents shop for fruits, crafts, and snacks. The vibe is colorful and friendly, with free parking nearby.
Kid-friendly things to do near Clearwater
26. ZooTampa
ZooTampa is a great spot for kids. Open daily 9:30 am–5 pm, with free parking. Tickets are around $35 for kids.
There’s a turtle pond at the entrance, fun animal shows, a splash zone, playground, and even giraffe feeding.
In 2024 ZooTampa was a magical day for our family.
My kids were thrilled to see the snakes wide-eyed and amazed! They looked so colorful and calm, it felt like watching a nature show come to life.
Then came the marine creaturesbright corals, graceful fishes my little ones smiled and said, “These are your favorites, Dad!!
One of the coolest things to do in tampa was seeing marine animals that looked like dolphins, slowly gliding through the water. They weren’t dolphins, but they moved so gently, it felt like watching an underwater dance.
And look at the picture my daughter Jessica feeding a parrot. The parrot chirped happily and started munching right from her hand. Such a sweet moment.
Later, we tried the high-flying swing ride that zooms like a train from above, then dips down and glides near water. It felt like flying through a rainforest!
ZooTampa is full of fun surprises. if you visit, be ready to smile nonstop.
27. Great Explorations Near Clearwater Florida: A Fun Place Where Kids Learn and Explore
Great Explorations in St. Pete is a fun indoor museum for kids under 10. It’s open Mon–Sat 10:30 am–4 pm, Sun 12–4 pm, with free parking. Tickets are $15 for kids, $12 for adults.
This museum is a place where kids learn by playing, creating, and exploring. it is over 18,000 square feet filled with hands-on exhibits and fun workshops designed just for children.
Kids can shop at a kid-sized Publix, slide down a fire pole, or sit in a real fire truck. They can report the weather in the Bay News 9 studio, visit a doctor’s clinic, or dig for fossils in the discovery zone.
For little ones under 5, the museum has a special area called Great Beginnings made just for them. It’s one of the most engaging things to do in Clearwater Florida for families with curious, hands-on learners.
They also offer educational programs, summer camps, and even a preschool. Don’t forget to stop by our gift shop before you leave—every toy is fun and educational.
IN 2024 I met Angeline Howell, the CEO of Great Explorations Children’s Museum As CEO, she is nice and dedicated soul. What I love most is giving families a place where creativity comes alive and every child feels like they can turn something ordinary into something amazing.
Come visit soon—make a mess, make a discovery, or maybe even make a new best friend!
28. The Heritage Village
The Heritage Village in Largo is a free, family-friendly park and living history museum set on 21 wooded acres with 25+ historic buildings dating from the 1850s to early 1900s . It’s open Wednesday–Saturday, 10 am–4 pm, and Sunday, 1–4 pm, with free parking at the entrance .
Kids love exploring the old log cabin (built 1852!), general store, church, farmhouses, and even the Turner Bungalow added recently . Walking the shady brick paths, families enjoy hands-on demos like blacksmithing, syrup-making, and garden life .
There’s no playground or sports field, but lots of open grass, picnic tables, and stroller-friendly trails perfect for running, nature watching, or bringing a ball. You can bring snacks or picnic here, stroll next door through the Florida Botanical Gardens, and soak in the peaceful, historical vibes.
29. Tarpon Aquarium or Florida Aquarium
Tarpon Springs Aquarium is a small, hands-on place where kids can pet stingrays, hold baby gators, and feed animals. It’s open daily 10 am–5 pm, with free parking. Tickets are about $19 for kids. Great for toddlers and curious little ones!
The Florida Aquarium in Tampa is bigger, with sharks, sea turtles, and coral reefs. Open 9:30 am–5 pm daily. Tickets are around $30 for kids, and parking costs extra. It’s perfect for a full day of learning and ocean fun!
30. Dunedin Children’s Art Museum
Dunedin Children’s Art Museum is a fun indoor play spot for kids ages 2–12. It’s open most days with $4 entry and free parking. Kids can draw, build, play with a giant Lite-Brite, green screen, and more! It’s colorful, creative, and perfect for rainy or hot days. My niece loved it especially the dress-up and animation zones!
31. Tarpon Sponge Docks
Tarpon Sponge Docks in Tarpon Springs is a fun waterfront spot for families. Open all day (most shops 10 am–6 pm), with free and paid parking nearby, it’s known for its Greek food, sponge shops, boat tours, and sea life. Kids love seeing real sponges, feeding fish at the dock, and eating ice cream by the water.
32. Alligator Discovery Center at Johns Pass
Alligator Discovery Center at John’s Pass is a cool indoor spot where kids can see live alligators, snakes, lizards, and turtles.
It’s open daily, costs around $10 for kids, and has free parking. Kids love holding baby gators and feeding reptiles.
33. Honeymoon & Caladesi Islands
Honeymoon & Caladesi Islands are perfect for families who want to find seashells and love nature. Honeymoon Island has soft sand, a fun playground, nature trails, and dolphins to spot. It’s open 8 am to sunset with $8/vehicle entry and free parking.
From there, take a short ferry ride to Caladesi Island, where kids enjoy shelling, calm water, boardwalk walks, and shaded picnic spots.
34. Visit a farm
If you’re near Clearwater and want a fun farm day with kids, HorsePower for Kids is a great pick.
It’s the closest, and once a month they offer a $5 entry deal. Kids can pet animals, ride ponies, play on swings, and explore mini barns. There’s a shaded picnic area too.
For a more learning-focused trip, Old McMicky’s Farm offers guided tours where kids learn how animals live and help on the farm. It’s best for school-age kids—not toddlers. Both farms are fun and safe, and I’ve gone with family—kids love feeding goats and riding the hay wagon!
35. Seaside Seabird Sanctuary
Seaside Seabird Sanctuary in Indian Shores, Florida, is a peaceful and fun spot for kids and families. It’s free to visit, open daily from 8 am to 4 pm, and has free parking. You’ll see rescued birds like pelicans, owls, hawks, and even parrots! Kids love the pelican feeding at 2:30 pm, and there’s a tall lookout tower with beach views.
36. Florida Botanical Gardens
Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo, FL is a calm and fun place for families. It’s free to visit, open every day from 7 am to 5 pm, and has free parking.
There are beautiful flower gardens, shady walking trails, little bridges, and ponds with turtles and ducks.
The best part for kids is the Majeed Discovery Garden! It has a bamboo bridge, music play area, sensory path, and garden games made just for ages 3–10.
37.Whimzeyland & SHAMC
Whimzeyland in Safety Harbor is a fun, funky art house kids will love.
The yard is full of bright colors, giant pink animals, mirrors, and even bowling balls turned into art. It’s totally free to walk around, take pictures, and explore.
Right nearby is SHAMC (Safety Harbor Art & Music Center) made by the same artists. It often has kid-friendly art shows, live music, and fun workshops.
FAQs
Conclusion
In the above article I have have explained so many fun and easy things to do in Clearwater Florida. You can relax on the beach, watch the sunset at Pier 60, see dolphins, visit parks, or enjoy a fun boat ride. Clearwater has lots of family-friendly places that are safe, fun, and even budget-friendly. Whether your family likes adventure or just wants to relax, Clearwater is a great place for a fun trip together.
