This post is sponsored by Visit Florida. All opinions and experiences shared here are entirely my own, and I’m so excited to share the incredible family-friendly adventures we discovered in Northwest Florida!
Hidden Gems, Manatees and Unique Family Adventures in NW Florida
My mom and I recently took my two young kids (ages 3 and 6) on an unforgettable trip to Northwest Florida in partnership with Visit Florida. Over the course of five days, we explored Wakulla and Franklin Counties. This itinerary is such a unique alternative to your traditional Florida trip with kids! It's full of Southern charm, Old Florida vibes, absolutely stunning scenery, and really cool off-the-beaten path adventure and quirky experiences that are easy for families of all ages to do! Here's a detailed guide to our trip, filled with tips to help you plan your own visit.
NW Florida: Getting There
Flying into Northwest Florida is simple. We landed at Tallahassee International Airport, which is the closest hub to both Wakulla and Franklin Counties. Tallahassee is a manageable airport for families, with short lines and easy navigation. From the airport, it’s just a short drive to the heart of these destinations, making it an easy and convenient trip for families. Renting a car is essential to explore the area’s scenic routes and hidden gems.
WAKULLA COUNTY, NW Florida
Just south of Tallahassee, Wakulla County was truly one of the coolest hidden gems we've ever explore with kids! It's a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers - home to the Apalachicola National Forest, the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, and Wakulla Springs State Park, which has one of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world. Wakulla County is the perfect first stop on a Northwest Florida itinerary for families looking to immerse themselves in outdoor adventures, historic charm and off-the-beaten path experiences.
Where to Stay in Wakulla County, Florida
We checked into the The Lodge at Wakulla Springs, one of the most incredible historic hotels we've ever stayed at! This charming 1930s retreat is surrounded by 6,000 acres of pristine forest right on one of the largest springs in the country. The moment you step inside, it feels like stepping back in time. The architecture of this place is stunning - there are so many amazing details like a hand-painted ceiling filled with wildlife and nature scenes. With just 27 rooms overlooking the spring, the lodge feels cozy and intimate, perfect for families looking to unwind.
The lodge has all the glamour and style of Florida’s golden age, with a rich cinematic history to match. It was a filming location for iconic movies like "Creature from the Black Lagoon" (1954) and "Tarzan's Secret Treasure" (1941). Movie posters and memorabilia from these films are displayed throughout the lodge, adding to its vibrant and nostalgic charm.
Another fascinating feature is Old Joe, the 11-foot stuffed alligator who greets visitors in the lobby. Once a beloved local resident of Wakulla Springs, Old Joe was mysteriously killed, and while a reward was offered to catch the culprit, no one ever came forward. In the lobby is the hotel's original 1937 Otis elevator. It’s the only known Art Deco elevator of its kind still in use, complete with the original scissor gate door inside. Riding this vintage elevator was such a cool experience for the kids—they kept fighting over who was going to pull open the gate and push the buttons.
The lodge also showcases prehistoric artifacts like a mastodon tooth and bone, which added an extra layer of wonder to our stay. For families with children, there’s also small playground just across the street, perfect for letting kids burn off some energy after exploring the springs.
The lodge’s unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and charming decor makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic "Old Florida" experience. Best part though? Waking up to dozens of manatees in the springs! It was a magical bucket-list moment for all of us!
Exploring Wakulla County, NW Florida
Breakfast at The Lodge
We started the day with breakfast at The Lodge’s Edward Ball Dining Room, where we enjoyed hearty Southern dishes in a historic setting. We were recommended their biscuits and gravy, and WOW—they did not disappoint! Highly recommend. They also have a kids menu and colouring sheets, along with large windows with beautiful views of the springs.
Wakulla Springs State Park
We arrived at Wakulla Springs at night, so we didn’t get to see much of the surroundings right away. But in the morning, we woke up to a breathtaking sight! The springs were not only gorgeous at first sight, but we climbed up the diving tower and saw manatees everywhere! These gentle giants migrate to the springs in winter, drawn by the year-round 68°F (20°C) water temperature that provides a warm refuge. Wakulla Springs is one of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world.
Jungle Cruise Boat Tour, NW Florida
Next, we boarded the Jungle Cruise Boat Tour. This 45-minute guided tour takes you along the Wakulla River, where you can spot manatees, alligators, turtles, and a variety of birds. The knowledgeable guide shared fascinating information about the area’s ecology and history, which kept both the adults and kids engaged. The moss-covered trees and crystal-clear waters made it feel like we were floating through a nature documentary. We saw lots of gators and so many manatees up close! My mom said this was the best boat tour she had ever been on.
Lunch and Sodas at The Lodge
After the tour, we returned to The Lodge for lunch. The standout dishes were definitely the southern fried chicken and the fried green tomatoes! Afterwards, head to the Soda Fountain on the other side of the lobby, which is an old-school soda parlour with a long marble counter where you can get legit Root Beer Floats, Cherry Phosphates, Ginger Yips, and Sundaes. Not sure who loved it more - me or the kids?!
St. Mark's Wildlife Refuge, NW Florida
In the afternoon, we visited St. Marks Wildlife Refuge, one of Florida’s most beautiful natural areas. The refuge is home to scenic trails, boardwalks, and off-the-beaten-path beaches, making it ideal for families. The kids spent an hour wading in the water by the historic St. Marks Lighthouse, catching all sorts of little hermit crabs and exploring the shoreline. The beach path behind the lighthouse is also stunning. Birdwatching enthusiasts will love the chance to spot migratory birds, especially during December when roseate spoonbills and sometimes even resident flamingos stop by!
Dinner in Wakulla County
We ended the day at Angelo’s Seafood Restaurant. Located on the edge of the Ochlockonee Bay, this spot offers fresh seafood with unreal sunset views of the water. Alternatively, head to Myra Jean’s Restaurant in Crawfordville. Super casual locals-only spot with a great casual atmosphere and giant cheesy pizzas, along with Southern faves like fried chicken and sweet tea. This is the perfect place to take the kids after a long day. There's also a model trains that run along the ceiling around the restaurant that kids can push a button on a wall to operate.
Gulf Specimen Marine Lab
The next day we visited my favorite aquarium of all time! The Gulf Specimen Marine Lab is small but quirky and packed with so much to see and do. It’s filled with an astounding number of touch tanks featuring starfish, crabs, sea urchins, and more. The kids were obsessed with holding hermit crabs and petting sea cucumbers, and we even got to learn about sea turtles in their rehabilitation tanks. One of the highlights was the cool specimen room—it’s like a treasure trove of marine oddities that fascinated all of us! The staff here are amazing, eager to share fun facts and answer questions, making the whole experience incredibly interactive and educational. This place is such a hidden gem for families, and we all LOVED it!
Lunch at The Salty Donkey
For lunch, we headed to The Salty Donkey, a local waterfront restaurant in Panacea with Old Florida vibes and some of the best shrimp baskets around! The laid-back atmosphere and waterfront views were a hit with the whole family.
FRANKLIN COUNTY
Franklin County, Florida, also known as the Forgotten Coast, earned its nickname because it’s one of the last remaining stretches of unspoiled, pristine Gulf Coast beaches. With its charm towns, natural beauty, and family-friendly vibe, Franklin County is an amazing next stop on your Northwest Florida itinerary.
Travel to Apalachicola
From Panacea, it was a short one-hour drive to Apalachicola in Franklin County. The scenic route along the Gulf Coast is absolutely breathtaking, with plenty of opportunities to stop for photos. Apalachicola is one of the cutest towns you’ll ever visit—hip, charming, and effortlessly cool. I am so obsessed with this place - it's such a hidden gem that everyone should visit! Known affectionately as "Apalach" by locals, this town has a rich history tied to the Gulf’s seafood industry. Apalachicola was renowned for its oysters and sponges, which were harvested and traded here for decades. Today it is the coolest little town packed with boutique shops, local art galleries, hip watering holes and restaurants, and a historic waterfront. Apalachicola is has a vibe that perfectly blends old Florida charm with a modern twist.
Where to Stay in Apalachicola
We checked into the Water Street Hotel & Marina, a luxurious all-suite property located along the Apalachicola River. Our spacious suite included two bedrooms and two bathrooms—perfect for traveling with my mom, who loved having her own space to relax away from my wildlings. The full kitchen, sitting area, and private veranda overlooking the water offered all the comforts of home. The rooms facing the water provide some of the most epic sunrises and sunsets ever, which will make your mornings and evenings extra special. The ensuite washer/dryer was also amazing to have, since travelling with kids is messy and there is always a lot of dirty clothing.
Exploring Franklin County
Historic Apalachicola
Apalachicola, or "Apalach" as the locals call it, is one of the most charming and unique towns we’ve ever visited. The historic streets are filled with treasures waiting to be explored. It's small and very walkable, which we appreciated with the little ones (although you'll also find lots of folks riding around in golf carts).
There are so many adorable boutiques, shops and hang outs! Here are some of the higlights:
- Definitely stop by Riverside Mercantile which has a large curated selection of gifts, home goods, and local products that reflect the town’s quirky charm.
- We loved the coffee and impressive selection of baked goods at Apalachicola Chocolate & Coffee Co (they even had a little "library" corner with kids books).
- One place you cannot miss with the kids is The Old Time Soda Fountain for classic sodas, phosphates, milkshakes and ice cream floats! This place offers such a nostalgic experience with marble counters, swivel stools, and checkered floors.
- Another fun experience is Watercraft Brewing Co. that spills out onto the sidewalk and has a chill and family-friendly vibe, making it a great place to stop by for a beer!
- Swing by Downtown Books & Purl - it's such an adorable bookshop with an great selection, including children's books and games
Oysters for Dinner
For dinner, we ate at The Station, a remodeled service station turned oyster bar. This place is incredibly unique—a former gas station covered in license plates, dollar bills, and all kinds of quirky memorabilia. The TVs playing sports games and the lively atmosphere give it a really fun vibe that’s perfect for families. I even got to go behind the bar and try my hand at shucking oysters, which is much harder than it looks! It’s the best place to experience fresh Apalachicola oysters during Florida’s oyster season. The laid-back atmosphere and delicious seafood made it a memorable meal, and the kids loved soaking in the vibrant setting and learning about oyster shucking.
Breakfast at The Franklin Cafe
Before heading to St. George Island, we started our day with breakfast at the Franklin Cafe, located in the heart of the historic Gibson Inn. The inn itself is a beautiful piece of history, dating back to 1907, with its classic Victorian architecture, wraparound porches, and charming ambiance. The lobby of the hotel is absolutely stunning - think hardwood floors, antique details, brass lamps, and quirky decor pieces like a peacock on the wall. The breakfast at the Franklin Cafe was also really delicious!
St. George Island
In the morning, we drove over the bridge to St. George Island, one of the most pristine and beautiful barrier islands along Florida’s Forgotten Coast. Known for its uncrowded beaches and laid-back charm, the island offers plenty of outdoor activities for families.
We climbed the Cape St. George Lighthouse, a historic structure that provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Gulf Coast. The kids loved counting the steps and were so proud of themselves for making it to the top. Note: Little ones need to meet a specific height requirement to climb, so check ahead if you have younger kids.
Right next to the lighthouse is a brand new and AMAZING playground that kept the kids entertained for over an hour. On the beach, we found a big container full of used beach toys that kids can borrow and return, which was such a handy feature—I’ve never seen anything like it before!
Lunch Options
We had planned to visit The Blue Parrot Oceanfront Cafe after our lighthouse and beach adventures on St. George Island, but it was closed for renovations during our trip. This spot is famous for its beachside dining, offering a laid-back vibe and stunning ocean views. It’s a fantastic place to grab fresh seafood or tropical drinks while enjoying the sea breeze. Definitely add it to your itinerary if it’s open during your visit!
Instead we headed back to Apalachicola and grabbed lunch at Half Shell Dockside, a casual spot located right on the river. Sitting outdoors on the deck gave us beautiful views of the water and surrounding nature. The kids enjoyed coloring sheets and watching boats glide by while we waited for our food. The fresh shrimp baskets were a highlight—simple, delicious, and perfect for the setting. It’s a great place for a relaxed family-friendly meal with a unique riverfront vibe.
Airboat Tour in Apalachicola
In the afternoon, we took a private tour with Apalachicola Airboat Excursions, and it was a VERY fun activity for all ages. The kids were outfitted with lifejackets and were super excited to get their own noise-canceling headphones, which are essential because it gets pretty loud on the boat. The ride itself was a total thrill—the boat goes super fast, weaving through tall grass. It's such an adrenaline rush!
We spotted a bunch of alligators, and one even came right up to the boat, which was such a huge thrill for the kids. This activity is an absolute must if you’re looking for something unique and adventurous. An airboat tour is an absolute must do! It's such a unique and adventurous way to experience the beauty of the Apalachicola Bay, River and Estuary system.
NORTHWEST FLORIDA WITH KIDS
Northwest Florida offers a refreshing alternative to the usual family vacation spots, with its blend of hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Whether it’s spotting manatees at Wakulla Springs, exploring pristine Gulf Coast beaches, or discovering the rich history and charm of Franklin County, this region has something for everyone. It’s the perfect destination for families looking to try something new and create unforgettable memories. Plan your own visit and experience the magic of Northwest Florida—a place where you’ll feel like a traveler, not a tourist.
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