A 2-Week NYC to Miami Itinerary For Families

Two Buys running on the Beach in Miami.

Set off on the ultimate family adventure with this 2-week NYC to Miami itinerary for families! From the bright lights of the Big Apple to the beautiful beaches of Florida and everywhere in between, there are plenty of places along the East Coast to stop on your trip. Take kids for a day around Hershey Park, explore the charming city of Savannah, or spend a day at the beach on Amelia Island. While this itinerary is longer than a usual road trip, we’ve included alternative options, and you can also feel free to split it up into multiple trips or only use part of this itinerary for inspiration. Either way, we’ve included things to do, where to stay with kids, and more tips for taking an epic road trip from NYC to Miami. Keep reading to plan your next adventure on the road! 

Day 1: Hershey, Pennsylvania

Distance From NYC to Hershey: 3 Hours

A mom and three young boys sit inside a tea-cup while enjoying the rides at Hershey Park, one of the best places to stop on an NYC to Miami itinerary!
Photo Courtesy: Megan Tucker

Nestled in the heart of Hershey, Pennsylvania lies a chocolate lover’s paradise – Hershey Park. Around 3 hours from NYC, this amusement park is perfect for families who want to indulge in some fun and sugar-filled activities during their East Coast road trip itinerary for families.

Take a spin on classic carnival rides like the Whip and Tilt-A-Whirl or roller coasters like Fahrenheit and Skyrush. Kids can also explore water rides at The Boardwalk. Around mid-morning, take a break from the thrills and head to Hershey’s Chocolate World for the free chocolate tour ride, an educational and tasty experience for the whole family.

Afternoon/Evening Activity: Zoo America or Create Your Own Candy Bar

The chocolate kiss drop on New Year's Eve at Hershey Park.
Photo Courtesy: Hershey Park

Once you’re done soaking up some sun on the lazy river, head over to ZooAmerica for an up-close and personal encounter with wildlife. And of course, no visit to Hershey Park would be complete without indulging in some of their famous chocolate treats. Families can even create their own custom candy bars at the Create Your Own Candy Bar attraction! For dinner, dine at one of the park’s eateries before enjoying evening entertainment, such as shows or fireworks displays. 

Where to Stay in Hershey with Kids

There are three official Hersheypark resorts – The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge, and Hersheypark Camping Resort. Each offers benefits, such as reduced-price tickets, free parking, and extended hours. 

In the Hershey-Harrisburg area, check out Homewood Suites by Hilton Harrisburg East-Hershey AreaResidence Inn by Marriott Harrisburg Hershey, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Harrisburg Northeast, and Hilton Garden Inn Hershey.

Day 2: Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Distance From Hershey to Lancaster: 45 Minutes

An aerial view of downtown Lancaster, PA, in the spring. Lancaster is one of the best places to stop on an NYC to Miami itinerary!

Whether you’re looking for history, arts, or just some good old-fashioned fun, Lancaster has something for everyone in the family! Plus, it’s less than an hour from Hershey and on the way to Philadelphia. 

The Amish Farm and House is a great place to start your visit to Lancaster in the morning. Families can take a wagon ride, milk a cow, or even churn their own butter! Lancaster is also home to several family-friendly museums you can spend the morning exploring, including the Lancaster Science Factory and the Lancaster History Center. Art & Glassworks is another must-see, featuring whimsical pieces of glass from all over the world. 

Afternoon Activity: North Queen Street, Railroad Museum

In the afternoon, families can visit Dutch Wonderland, an amusement park with fun rides and entertainment. Or, explore the shops and boutiques along historic streets like North Queen Street, where you can find unique souvenirs and gifts. The Lancaster Central Market is another great place to take kids. 

Lancaster also has a number of parks and playgrounds, as well as a variety of shops and restaurants that are perfect for families. Nearby, families will also find the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania in Strasburg. 

Day 3: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (Please Touch Museum, Historic Philadelphia)

Distance From Lancaster to Philadelphia: 45 Minutes

Child playing with toy fruit at the Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia

Known as the “City of Brotherly Love,” Philly boasts an array of fun-filled attractions that are sure to keep both adults and children entertained. It’s also renowned for its historical significance and diverse cultural offerings! 

Kickstart your family’s adventure in Philadelphia with a visit to the interactive Please Touch Museum in Fairmount Park. Let the kids explore the Storybook House, play in the Imagination Playground, and discover the wonders of the River Adventures exhibit. After, head to Reading Terminal Market for lunch, which has everything from cheesesteaks to Pennsylvania Dutch treats. 

Afternoon Activity: Walking Tour Of Historic Philadelphia

A family of three walks down a historic street in Philadelphia together.

In the afternoon, take a family-friendly walking tour of Historic Philadelphia. You could do this with a tour company or choose to explore on your own. Start at Independence Hall, where you can learn about the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the drafting of the U.S. Constitution. 

Next, make your way to the Liberty Bell Center to see the iconic symbol of American independence up close. Finish up in Franklin Square, where the kids can play in the playground or take a ride on the carousel. 

Day 4: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (Philadelphia Zoo, Franklin Institute, Dinner Cruise)

Father and child look at mosaic tiles in the Magic Gardens of Philadelphia
Photo Courtesy: Antonia Grant

Your second day should start with a trip to the Philadelphia Zoo, located in Fairmount Park. Don’t miss the chance to feed the giraffes or visit the award-winning Big Cat Falls exhibit!

After a busy morning at the zoo, refuel with brunch at Sabrina’s Cafe (prepare for a wait if it’s the weekend). Then, visit the Franklin Institute, which has hands-on exhibits, including the Giant Heart, the Space Command exhibit, and the SportsZone. Catch a show at the Fels Planetarium or challenge the family to a game of virtual reality mini-golf.

Evening Activity: Dinner Cruise 

Burt and Ernie, wearing winter gear, stand arm and arm in front of blue and green Christmas lights.
Photo Courtesy: Sesame Place

End your day with a dinner cruise along the Delaware River. Or, check out other things to do in Philadelphia with kids, like visiting Shane Confectionery, America’s oldest candy store, The Magic Gardens, and Fireman’s Hall Museum. For young kids, Philadelphia also puts families close to other destinations like Sesame Place.

Where to Stay in Philadelphia with Kids

Philadelphia has plenty of places to stay with kids! Families love The Sonesta Philadelphia because it has the largest heated outdoor pool in the city. Meanwhile, the Four Seasons Philadelphia has the highest pool – on the 57th floor. In the Old City, stay at the conveniently located Wyndham Philadelphia Historic District. Check out our list of where to stay in Philadelphia with kids for more options!

Day 5: Washington DC (National Mall, Smithsonian Museums, Botanic Garden)

Distance From Philadelphia to DC: 2 hours and 45 Minutes

A family of four stands holding hands facing the Washington Monument in the background.
Photo Courtesy: Samantha D’Onofrio

Less than three hours away from Philadelphia, Washington DC is home to iconic American landmarks, a variety of kid-friendly museums, and so much more. No wonder it’s a stop on our NYC to Miami itinerary for families! 

Visit the National Mall, showcasing monuments like the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Families can also head over to the free Smithsonian Institution museums. There are 19 in total, ranging from the National Museum of American History to the National Postal Museum. Kids will especially love the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, and all the historic aircraft and spacecraft, including the Wright brothers’ plane and the Apollo 11 command module. 

Afternoon Activity: Botanic Garden, U.S. Capitol Building

Four kids sit among a sign reading "ZOO" at the Smithsonian Zoo.
Photo Courtesy: Steph Yu

In the afternoon, visit the National Zoo, located in the city’s Woodley Park neighborhood. Don’t miss the Giant Pandas and Asian elephants! Families also can take a stroll through one of D.C.’s many parks or gardens, such as Rock Creek Park or the United States Botanic Garden. Or, rent a paddleboat and explore the Tidal Basin in Washington’s Southwest Waterfront neighborhood – you’ll get great views of the city from the water! You can also tour the U.S. Capitol Building or the White House

Where to Stay in DC with Kids

For an indoor pool for little ones to splash in, visit The Watergate Hotel. Meanwhile, The Ritz-Carlton Washington DC offers a special welcome package for little ones, plus fun activities like a scavenger hunt. For more hotel suggestions, check out our list of kid-friendly hotels in DC. Or, if you want a home and apartment rental, check out our Airbnb, Vrbo, and our recommendations for the best neighborhoods to stay in while in DC.

Day 6: Outer Banks, North Carolina

Distance From DC to the Outer Banks: 5.5 Hours

Left Image: A girl wearing a unicorn hoodie poses on a beach in the Outer Banks. Right Image: A young boy wanders a beach in the Outer Banks at sunset.
Photo Courtesy: Rebecca Rotem

Once you’re done exploring Washington DC, continue for around 5 and a half hours to reach The Outer Banks in North Carolina! This string of barrier islands features miles of pretty coastline dotted with charming towns and plenty of kid-friendly activities. 

At Jockey’s Ridge State Park, you can spend the morning exploring the towering sand dunes and flying kites. Or, relax on the beach and enjoy some sunbathing and swimming. Or, you can start your trip with a visit to Roanoke Island. Explore the historic sites such as the Roanoke Island Festival Park to experience life in 16th-century America and visit the North Carolina Aquarium. 

Afternoon Activity: Wright Brothers National Memorial

A view of the Paradise Golf Arcade at night, featuring a few of the mini-golf holes.
Photo Courtesy: The Outer Banks of North Carolina

For lunch, indulge in fresh seafood at a local restaurant. Afterward, visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial to learn about the history of flight and see replicas of the Wright brothers’ first airplanes.

As the day winds down, head to Kill Devil Hills Beach to watch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. You can also book a sunset cruise on the Roanoke Sound for a relaxing evening on the water. Or, try activities such as mini-golf, go-karting at Paradise Golf & Arcade, or visiting local lighthouses.

Where To Stay Near The Outer Banks With Kids

Provided by agencies such as Twiddy and OBX Lodging, rental homes are usually more popular than resorts. There are also more than 50 local agencies in addition to sites like Airbnb and VRBO. However, if you’re really craving a resort experience, we recommend the Sanderling Resort, Oasis Suites Hotel, TownPlace Suites Kill Devil Hills, and Hilton Garden Inn Kitty Hawk. All feature a more traditional hotel setting, with rooms near the beach. 

Optional Detour: Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina

Distance From The Outer Banks to the Smoky Mountains: 5.5 Hours

A mom with her child in front of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park Entrance.

Though it’s a bit out of the way from the coast, if you have extra time on your East Coast road trip itinerary for families, you can take a detour to the Smoky Mountains.

Straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, Great Smoky Mountains National Park has many activities for families to enjoy. Take a short hike to scenic overlooks like Juney Whank Falls. Or, ​​check out areas like Cataloochee and Cades Cove to spot white-tailed deer, black bears, raccoons, and Wild Turkeys. In nearby Gatlinburg, families can visit the Gatlinburg Skylift Park, enjoy mountaintop views from Ober Gatlinburg Amusement and Activity Park, and see various sea creatures up close at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Day 7: Charleston, South Carolina (Historic Charleston, City Market, Boat Tour

Distance From The Smoky Mountains To Charleston: 5 Hours

A young child standing in front of colorful buildings in historic Charleston, Less than three hours away from Philadelphia, Washington DC is home to iconic American landmarks, a variety of kid-friendly museums, and so much more. No wonder it’s a stop on our NYC to Miami itinerary for families! 
Photo Courtesy: Alyssa Holyfield Groeteke

Charleston is a South Carolina city rich in history and culture, offering plenty of activities for families with children. It makes a great stop before you continue into Georgia and Florida on your NYC to Miami itinerary for families! 

Visit the historic Charleston City Market to browse the vendors selling local goods, crafts, and souvenirs. Be sure to stop by the Gullah Geechee exhibit to learn about the culture and heritage of the Lowcountry. Don’t miss ice cream from Kilwins, a local favorite (offering pecan pralines too!). Or, you can start your day with a visit to Charleston’s historic district to appreciate the lavish southern homes on foot or explore by horse-drawn carriage.

Enjoy lunch at one of Charleston’s famous restaurants for traditional Lowcountry cuisine, such as shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, or a classic Charleston rice dish. Nearby Shem Creek Crab House is popular for its seafood, including crispy calamari that kids will love. 

Afternoon Activity: Explore Historic Plantations Or Take A Boat Tour

Little girl and dad fishing among the reeds near Charleston.
Photo Courtesy: Odilia Noone

Spend the afternoon exploring the historic plantations along the Ashley River. Visit Middleton Place to stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens and learn about the history of the plantation. Be sure to take a guided tour of the house museum to gain insight into plantation life in the 18th century. To learn more about Charleston’s history, visit Patriots Point or The Charleston Tea Garden. 

Or, take a boat tour of Charleston Harbor to see landmarks such as Fort Sumter, the USS Yorktown, and the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge while learning about the city’s maritime history.

Day 8: Charleston, South Carolina (Magnolia Plantation, Charleston Museum, Ghost Tour)

A mom holds her toddler in front of the Children's Museum in Charleston, one of the best places to stop on an NYC to Miami itinerary for families!
Photo Courtesy: Megan Tucker

On your second day in Charleston, visit the historic Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. Explore the lush gardens, which feature azaleas, camellias, and ancient oak trees draped in Spanish moss. Families can take a guided tour of the plantation house to learn about its history and the lives of the people who lived there.

Alternatively, spend the morning exploring the Charleston Museum to learn about the city’s rich history, showcasing artifacts from the colonial era, Civil War memorabilia, and Charleston’s role in the slave trade.

Afternoon/Evening Activity: Charleston Waterfront Park, Ghost Tour

Two young girls stand in a field of flowers.
Photo Courtesy: Anne Anoia

In the afternoon, families can stroll along Charleston’s waterfront park. Admire views of the Charleston Harbor and the Ravenel Bridge while enjoying the sea breeze and letting kids run around. For your final evening in Charleston, consider taking a ghost tour to learn about the city’s haunted history. Kids will love walking through the cobblestone streets and hearing tales of ghostly encounters and paranormal activity!

Where to Stay in Charleston with Kids

If you want family-friendly accommodations in Charleston, we recommend Charleston Place, a Belmond Hotel, located in historic Charleston. There’s also Wild Dunes Resort – Sweetgrass Inn and Boardwalk Inn, The Restoration, and The Mills House Charleston. For more hotels in Charleston, check out our article on the best hotels in Charleston for families. Or, get a bigger place by searching Airbnb and Vrbo.

Day 9: Savannah, Georgia (Forsyth Park, Old Town Trolley Tour, Historic Savannah)

Distance From Charleston to Savannah: 2 Hours

Savannah's River Street, featuring the iconic cobblestones and historic shop fronts.

Savannah, Georgia is another city filled with southern charm that families love visiting. It’s around 2 hours south of Charleston, and offers a scenic place to rest on your way to Florida. 

Start your day with a visit to Forsyth Park, one of Savannah’s most iconic green spaces. If you’re lucky, you might catch a local event or farmers’ market! Then, take a walking tour of Savannah’s historic district to explore the cobblestone streets lined with moss-draped oak trees and marvel at the well-preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture. Highlights may include the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Colonial Park Cemetery, and the Owens-Thomas House. Instead of a walking tour, active families can also consider renting bicycles.

Afternoon Activity: River Street, Savannah History Museum

Indulge in a Southern-style lunch at Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room and feast on fried chicken, collard greens, cornbread, and other classic Southern dishes. After lunch, head down to River Street, Savannah’s bustling waterfront area. Don’t forget to get a sweet treat from Leopold’s Ice Cream or River Sweet Treats

You can also spend the afternoon exploring Savannah’s wonderful museums, from Savannah’s History Museum to the Children’s Museum. Then, walk through Chippewa Square, one of Savannah’s charming public squares. An Old Town Trolley Tour is a great way to see the city with young kids. 

Evening Activity: Ghost Tour and Dinner At The Olde Pink House

A view of a ghostly building at night in Savannah on the Grave Tales Ghost Tour. Savannah is one of the best places to stop on an NYC to Miami itinerary for families!
Photo Courtesy: Grave Tales Ghost Tour

In the evening, families can experience Savannah’s spooky side with a ghost tour. Then, grab dinner at The Olde Pink House. It’s housed in a historic mansion and known for its Southern-inspired cuisine and elegant atmosphere.

Check out our list of the best things to do in Savannah with kids for more suggestions! 

Where To Stay In Savannah With Kids

Many people who travel in larger groups also rent homes from Airbnb or Vrbo in Savannah’s surrounding areas for more space. You can also select from more affordable boutique options like the Olde Harbour Inn or the Kimpton Brice Hotel for a hotel stay. Or, for more suggestions, check out our list of the best hotels in Savannah for families

Day: 10: Atlanta, Georgia (Georgia Aquarium, Center For Puppetry Arts, Piedmont Park)

Distance From Savannah to Atlanta: 4 Hours

Three kids work their way across a large rope-style bridge at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, one of the best places to stop on an NYC to Miami itinerary for families!
Photo Courtesy: Atlanta Botanical Garden

Though it would be a detour from the coast, those who want to add another major city to their NYC to Miami itinerary for families can also make a stop in Atlanta, Georgia, which is around 4 hours away from Savannah. From world-class museums and historic attractions to outdoor activities and lots of fantastic food, your family is sure to have a memorable vacation here!

Visit the Atlanta Botanical Garden to explore the lush gardens, featuring a variety of plant collections, including tropical rainforests, desert plants, and a children’s garden with interactive exhibits and play areas. After the botanical garden, head to the Georgia Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in the world. Kids will love the diverse marine life, including whale sharks, beluga whales, and playful otters!

Afternoon Activity: Lunch & Center For Puppetry Arts

Inside an exhibit at the Center for Puppetry Arts, featuring Sesame Street characters like Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch.
Photo Courtesy: Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau

For lunch, head to The Varsity, an iconic fast-food restaurant known for its chili dogs, onion rings, and frosted orange shakes. Kids will love the nostalgic atmosphere and the chance to sample some Southern comfort food.

After lunch, visit the Center for Puppetry Arts, where you can enjoy puppet shows, workshops, and exhibits exploring the art of puppetry. Check the schedule for performances, and they also have a giant puppet store on site where you can purchase your very own puppet!

Evening Activity: Piedmont Park & Ponce City Market

A flower statue installation at Piedmont Park in Atlanta with the sun shining down on it and the Atlanta skyline in the distance.
Photo Courtesy: Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau

In the evening, you can head to Piedmont Park, Atlanta’s largest public park. Let the kids burn off some energy at the playgrounds or splash around in the Noguchi Playscape. It’s a great place to enjoy views of the skyline. For dinner, don’t miss Ponce City Market, a vibrant food hall housed in a historic building. After dinner, explore the market’s shops and entertainment offerings, including arcade games, mini-golf, and rooftop views.

Day: 11: Atlanta, Georgia (Zoo Atlanta, World of Coca-Cola, Grant Park)

Three kids stand looking over the railing on the upper level of the Fernbank Natural History Museum at several dinosaur skeletons.
Photo Courtesy: Rebecca Czerw

If your little ones love history, you can start your second day at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History. The exhibits showcase dinosaurs, fossils, and artifacts from around the world! 

After the museum, head to Zoo Atlanta to see giant pandas, gorillas, elephants, and more as you wander through the zoo. Then, enjoy a picnic lunch at Grant Park and find a shady spot under the trees while the kids play on the playground! 

Afternoon Activity: Visit A Museum

A mom and two kids enjoy the Coca-Cola inspired art inside World of Coca-Cola.
Photo Courtesy: World of Coca-Cola

After lunch, visit one of Atlanta’s kid-friendly museums. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta has interactive exhibits and hands-on learning experiences for young kids. Little ones also love one of the most popular tourist attractions in Atlanta, the World of Coca-Cola. They can find interactive exhibits all about their favorite beverage! 

Evening Activity: Atlanta BeltLine

In the evening, families can explore the Atlanta BeltLine, a network of multi-use trails and parks. Rent bikes or go for a leisurely walk along the Eastside Trail, stopping to admire murals, sculptures, and public art installations along the way.

Where To Stay In Atlanta With Kids

Need a kid-friendly hotel in Atlanta during your NYC to Miami itinerary for families? Check out The Hyatt Regency AtlantaAtlanta Marriott Marquis, and The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta, which all have convenient options downtown. Or, check out our list of the best hotels in Atlanta for families!

Day 12: Amelia Island, Florida

Distance From Savannah to Amelia Island: 2 Hours

Mother and daughter walking a horse on the beach at sunset on Amelia Island, one of the best places to stop on an NYC to Miami itinerary for families!

Once you reach Florida, spend at least a day or two on Amelia Island. Located near major cities such as Jacksonville, this picturesque island off the coast of Florida offers everything a family could want, from an NYC to Miami itinerary for families.

Enjoy a relaxing beach day at Main Beach Park. For older kids, there’s plenty of room to run around and a nearby skate park to make friends. Alternatively, begin your day with a visit to the Amelia Island Museum of History to learn about the island’s rich history, including its Native American heritage, Spanish colonial period, and Victorian era.

For lunch, enjoy a beachside picnic at Main Beach Park. Pack sandwiches, snacks, and refreshing drinks, and take advantage of the park’s picnic tables and grills. After lunch, let the kids play on the playground or take a stroll along the boardwalk. Or, head to downtown Fernandina Beach for lunch at one of the charming restaurants or cafes. Plus, there’s a pirate-themed playground nearby! 

Afternoon Activity: Kayaking Or Fort Clinch State Park

Person in red kayak in blue water in Amelia Island, Florida, one of the best places to stop on an NYC to Miami itinerary for families!
Photo Courtesy: TimothyJ

Spend the afternoon exploring the island’s waterways with a kayaking or paddleboarding adventure. Rent equipment from a local outfitter and paddle along the tranquil marshes and tidal creeks. Kids can keep an eye out for wildlife such as dolphins, manatees, and shorebirds. Seaside Park is located at the end of a long boardwalk, an excellent spot for fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching.

You could also visit Fort Clinch State Park for an afternoon of outdoor exploration. Explore the historic fort, which dates back to the Civil War era, and learn about its role in protecting the coast. 

Evening Activity: Sunset Beach Walk and Dinner

End your day with a sunset beach walk at Main Beach Park. Then, head back to downtown Fernandina Beach for dinner at one of the local restaurants. Afterward, treat the kids to ice cream from one of the charming ice cream parlors or dessert shops in the area. You’ll love strolling along Centre Street and enjoying the lively atmosphere.

Where To Stay On Amelia Island With Kids

If you need somewhere to stay on Amelia Island with kids on your NYC to Miami itinerary for families, we recommend The Ritz Carlton, Amelia Island. Families can also stay at Omni Amelia Island. Or, rent your perfect home from VBRO now.

Day 13: Orlando, Florida (Magic Kingdom Or Universal)

Distance From Amelia Island to Orlando: 3 Hours

A young girl wearing a princess dress poses with Anna and Elsa of Frozen abroad a Disney Cruise.
Photo Courtesy: Marz Olda

Driving through Florida with kids definitely necessitates a visit to Orlando! This central Florida gem boasts a location near some of the country’s best theme parks, making it a must-visit on any East Coast road trip itinerary for families. 

Get an early start to beat the crowds at Disney World, which are inevitable no matter which time of year you visit. There are four parks here: Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, Magic Kingdom, and Animal Kingdom. You can grab breakfast at your hotel or something quick at a nearby restaurant. Then, kids can spend the morning in Magic Kingdom, which has classic rides like Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, and It’s a Small World. Don’t forget to snap a photo in front of Cinderella Castle! Consider making a reservation at a character dining experience for a magical meal.

Instead of Magic Kingdom, families can also head to Universal Orlando Florida. Harry Potter fans will love iconic areas like Diagon Alley! 

Afternoon Activity: Fantasyland and Adventureland

Continue your NYC to Miami itinerary for families in Magic Kingdom by exploring Fantasyland and Adventureland, which have family-friendly attractions like Peter Pan’s Flight, The Haunted Mansion, and Jungle Cruise. Make sure to catch the Festival of Fantasy Parade for a colorful and musical spectacle! 

At Universal, you can hop over to Islands of Adventure to explore themed islands like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, Marvel Super Hero Island, and Jurassic Park. 

Evening: Disney Springs or CityWalk

A father and son standing on a bridge wave to Santa and Mrs. Clause as they pass by on a holiday float near Disney Springs.
Photo Courtesy: Disney

For dinner, you can head to Disney Springs for dinner and entertainment. Explore the shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. At Universal, CityWalk also has dinner and entertainment. 

Day 14: Orlando, Florida (Animal Kingdom or SeaWorld)

Over a balcony at Disney's Animal Kingdom, looking out onto a grassy field with giraffes walking around.
Photo Courtesy: Disney

On the seventeenth day of your NYC to Miami itinerary for families, kids will get the chance to see all kinds of wildlife! Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before heading out to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, where you can explore the various habitats of the animal kingdom. 

Little ones will love a safari adventure on Kilimanjaro Safaris because they can see African wildlife up close. Then, check out Pandora – The World of Avatar for an epic experience on Avatar Flight of Passage and the Na’vi River Journey. Animal lovers can also spend the morning at SeaWorld Orlando instead. Enjoy rides like Mako and Manta, and catch entertaining shows featuring dolphins, sea lions, and orcas.

Afternoon Activity: Discovery Island and Asia or Aquatica

If you want to continue your afternoon at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, explore Discovery Island and Asia. On Discovery Island, there’s the Tree of Life. Meanwhile, Asia has rides like Expedition Everest and the Maharajah Jungle Trek.

Families who want to continue their afternoon at SeaWorld can cool down with a visit to Aquatica, the on-site water park. 

Evening Activity: Epcot

A family posing in Epcot, Disney.

In the evening, families can visit Epcot to experience the cultural and culinary delights of the World Showcase. Kids will have a lot of fun exploring the pavilions representing different countries, sampling international cuisine, and enjoying the live entertainment. Don’t forget to stay for the fireworks around the lagoon, featuring music and special effects! 

Where To Stay In Orlando With Kids

There are plenty of deluxe hotels in Orlando during your NYC to Miami itinerary for families, like Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. Families who want to save on accommodations can check out Disney’s moderate hotels such as Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, and Disney’s Port Orleans, Riverside. Read our list of the Best Disney Deluxe Hotels For Families, Best Disney Moderate Resorts For Families, or Best Disney Value Resorts For Families here!

Day 15: Miami, Florida (South Beach, Jungle Island, Bayside Marketplace)

Distance From Orlando to Miami: 4 Hours

Two Buys running on the Beach in Miami.

What better place to end your epic family road trip than Miami? Known for its gorgeous beaches, great food, and ritzy atmosphere, this vibrant city has plenty to offer kids of all ages. 

For a fun-filled day in the sun, South Beach is one of the most popular places in Miami. This dynamic stretch of beach has beautiful white sand, clear blue water, and plenty of restaurants and shops to keep you busy nearby on Ocean Drive. You can grab lunch here, as there’s everything from seafood to pizza and Cuban. 

Afternoon Activity: Jungle Island

After lunch, visit Jungle Island, an eco-park located between downtown Miami and South Beach. Kids can explore the tropical jungle environment and see animals like lemurs, kangaroos, and parrots! 

Or, check out Zoo Miami, the largest zoo in Florida. There are animals worldwide, including elephants, giraffes, and rhinoceroses. 

Evening Activity: Bayside Marketplace

End your day exploring the shops of the Bayside Marketplace. You can even take a scenic boat tour of Biscayne Bay! 

Day 16: Miami (Pérez Art Museum Miami, Wynwood Walls, Miami Children’s Museum)

Four teenage girls pose in front of an art installment of the Beatles at Wynwood Walls.
Photo Courtesy: Dixie Ross

Spend your morning exploring the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM), which has a collection of modern and contemporary art. Enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants near PAMM or head to nearby Wynwood for a variety of dining options. Wynwood is known for its vibrant street art and eclectic culinary scene. Kids will love the stuffed arepas at Arepa.Bar! 

Instead of PAMM, science and technology lovers can visit the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science to learn about astronomy and biology and visit the aquarium to see marine life up close.

Afternoon Activity: Wynwood Walls & Miami Children’s Museum

Two small girls play on a large replica of the kid's game 'Operation' at the Miami Children's Museum.
Photo Courtesy: Melissa Roman

After lunch, explore Wynwood Walls, an outdoor art gallery featuring colorful murals and street art by artists worldwide. Then, you can wander through the streets of Wynwood and see more murals for free. 

End your day with a visit to the Miami Children’s Museum, where kids can learn and play in interactive exhibits covering topics like art, science, and culture.

Day 17: Miami (Everglades National Park, Shark Valley)

An alligator rests in a small pond in the Evergaldes National Park, one of the best places to stop on an NYC to Miami itinerary for families!
Photo Courtesy: Jaroen Hamers

On the last day of your NYC to Miami itinerary for families, take a day trip to Everglades National Park. Take an airboat tour to see alligators, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Don’t forget to visit the park’s visitor center to learn about the unique ecosystem of the Everglades! 

Instead of the Everglades, you can also spend the morning at Oleta River State Park, Florida’s largest urban park. Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, or mountain biking through scenic trails and mangrove forests.

Afternoon Activity: Shark Valley Visitor Center

Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the picnic areas in Everglades National Park or grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants nearby. After lunch, visit the Shark Valley Visitor Center for more outdoor exploration. Take a tram tour or rent bikes to explore the park’s scenic trails and see more wildlife.

Evening Activity: Miami Beach Boardwalk, Little Havana, or Little Haiti

Instead of Shark Valley, you can also rent bikes and ride along the Miami Beach boardwalk. Enjoy views of the ocean and iconic Art Deco architecture at sunset as you pedal along the beach! Or, check out the foodie scene in ethnic enclaves like Little Havana or Little Haiti, which feature a mix of great restaurants, art, and culture. 

Where To Stay In Miami With Kids

Need somewhere to stay in Miami with kids on your NYC to Miami itinerary for families? Most of the luxury hotels are located in South Beach. Book your next vacation at The Fountainbleu, The W Hotel, or 1 Hotel Miami Beach. For more options, check out our list of the best hotels in Miami for families! 

Happy Travels!

We hope you liked this 2-Week NYC to Miami Itinerary For Families! From iconic landmarks to beautiful beaches, there are plenty of unique ways to enjoy a family vacation. Have fun on your next family road trip!

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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Parents stand near a safari jeep, while their kids sit inside, during a safari in Tanzania.
Exciting 6-Day Safari Itinerary In Tanzania For Families

If you’re searching for a 6-day safari itinerary in Tanzania for families, you’re in the right place! From pristine valleys Read more

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A One-Week Multi-Generational Family Itinerary In Costa Rica

Planning a one-week multi-generational family itinerary in Costa Rica isn’t as difficult as it sounds! While this Central American country Read more

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5-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary for Badlands National Park

Gather your family together for a memorable meander through the jetting, dusty rock formations sprawled across Badlands National Park! Located Read more

A man with his back turned stands in front of an Icelandic waterfall.
An Exciting Two-Week Iceland Itinerary For Families

If you're looking for a memorable family adventure, be sure to consult this Iceland itinerary for families! This stunningly picturesque Read more

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Families Love Travel Team

The Families Love Travel Team has a zest for life and an even bigger passion for globetrotting! Comprised of real-life travel professionals, we work hard behind the scenes to provide dynamic solutions for adventuring with children. Our enthusiastic team understands the challenges that often accompany traveling with kids and is committed to making Families Love Travel an inclusive space to convey these experiences.