Though sometimes you’d like to forget your responsibilities, chances are you have a couple little ones in tow. Let’s face it. Long gone are the days when Destin travel meant waking up as late as you want, sipping cocktails on the beach or dancing the night away in a club on some remote Caribbean island. These days, keeping the offspring entertained is what’s important, like budgeting or getting a full night’s rest. (Where did the years go?) Luckily, a Destin vacation has enough to keep your kids’ attention and your sanity! Check out these family-friendly activities. Who knows? You may even have as much fun as your little ones – or more!
Fudpucker’s
It’s a bar and restaurant on one of several Destin beaches, so yes, there will be plenty of other adults there. But the kids will score big with this Destin dining establishment's huge playground and video game room. They may also paint their own wood chips to be displayed or get a henna tattoo (it’s temporary, parents, so don’t worry). However, the best part is that Fudpucker’s overlooks Gator Beach, home of several live alligators! Yikes! If you end up scoring a babysitter, come back to Fudpucker’s Key West Club after dark for some live music.
Pelican Adventures
Take the kids on one of Destin's attractions -a guided deep sea fishing or gulf fishing tour! Or introduce them to the colorful world under the sea with a snorkeling excursion. Pelican Adventures also gives dolphin tours where you can get a chance to hang out with those friendly sea mammals up close and personal. (You know all those photographs you see of people swimming and laughing with dolphins? This is where you get them). You can even bring along food and drinks to stave of mid afternoon “I’m hungry” whines.
The Gulfarium
Fifteen minutes west of Destin, the Gulfarium puts on a good show – three, in fact. The Gulfarium’s repertoire consists of a dolphin show, a sea lion show, and a show where they perform together! There are other animals to see, as well, like sharks, whales, and penguins. Take the kids around to the Animal Exhibits. It’s also fun to watch the trainers feed the animals! Coordinate it so you watch the animals eat around lunchtime for an even more fun experience. If you’re traveling to Destin with a group, consider asking about group rates.
Air Force Armament Museum
Sure, it’s not every kid's cup of tea, but a visit to the Air Force Armament Museum is an educational experience for kids of all ages. Not only that, but it’s an opportunity to learn about Destin’s rich military history. Kick off your tour with a viewing of “Arming the Air Force” a thirty minute film that will put the rest of the museum into perspective and make you appreciate the exhibits that much more.
Track Family Recreation Center
Where can you find miniature golf, go carts, carnival rides, and an arcade all under the same roof? At the Track Family Recreation Center in Destin! The kids will go crazy at this one-stop entertainment center – and kids at heart mght,too. There’s also stuff to satisfy even the most adventurous travelers: Try the 65 foot bungee jump or the skydiving crane!
Destin Fishing Museum
Ok, so it may not be the most exciting daytrip in the world, but, hey! A lot of fishing is just sitting around, waiting for a bite. At the Destin Fishing Museum you won’t have to wait at all to hear about Destin’s early 20th century history as a thriving fishing village. Look through old photographs and artifacts to get a better feel for Destin years ago. The kids will enjoy learning about life in the Gulf through the interactive plant and animal exhibit.
