Things To Do With Kids in Lakeland, FL

Discover family fun in Lakeland, FL with kid-friendly adventures like mini golf, trampoline parks, zoo visits, and more right now!
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Discover a World of Fun with Kids Activities in Lakeland, FL

Fun and Engaging Family Activities in Lakeland FL

Planning a day of family activities in Lakeland FL? Whether you're a local or just visiting, this Central Florida city offers plenty of family-friendly attractions and kid-approved adventures. From hands-on museums to outdoor adventures and interactive play spaces, there are countless things to do in Lakeland FL with kids that will keep everyone entertained.

Explore Nature and the Outdoors

Lakeland is known for its scenic parks and beautiful lakes, making it a great place for families to explore the outdoors together.

  • Hollis Garden – A botanical retreat located in downtown Lakeland, perfect for a relaxing walk with kids while enjoying flowers and fountains.
  • Lake Mirror Park – This family-friendly area features paved walking paths, playgrounds, and seasonal events perfect for young children.
  • Circle B Bar Reserve – A top destination for nature lovers. Families can spot alligators, birds, and other local wildlife along the scenic trails.

Indoor Fun for Rainy Days or Hot Weather

When it’s too hot or rainy, there are still plenty of family things to do in Lakeland FL today without missing out on the fun.

  • Explorations V Children’s Museum – A hands-on museum offering interactive exhibits tailored for younger kids to learn, play, and discover.
  • Urban Air Adventure Park – A massive indoor recreation center with trampolines, obstacle courses, and climbing walls suitable for kids of all ages.
  • Family Fun Center – Featuring arcade games, laser tag, mini golf, and a kid-friendly play zone, this is a hit with school-age children.

Animal Encounters and Educational Tours

Kids who love animals or are naturally curious will enjoy these memorable stops:

  • Safari Wilderness – Families can take a guided tour in an open-air vehicle or by kayak to see zebra, lemurs, water buffalo, and other exotic animals.
  • Lakeland Critter Trail – A great budget-friendly stop for young animal lovers to meet goats, chickens, and even reptiles in a petting environment.

From relaxing strolls in lush gardens to interactive museum exhibits, there are countless things to do in Lakeland FL with kids. No matter your child’s age or interests, parents can find enjoyable and memory-making family things to do in Lakeland FL today. Check Groupon for local offers that can help stretch your family entertainment budget while exploring the best of what Lakeland has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lakeland offers many exciting activities for kids including the Explorations V Children’s Museum which provides hands-on, fun-filled adventure. You can also visit the Florida Air Museum or the Barnett Family Park. For nature enthusiasts, Lake Parker and Lake Hollingsworth offers outdoor activities.

Yes, there are several free activities for kids in Lakeland, FL. The Common Ground Park is a large, inclusive play area that's free for the public to use. Hollis Garden, a beautiful botanical garden, also offers free entry.

Apart from the Explorations V Children’s Museum, other indoor fun activities for kids include the Family Fun Center with lots of arcade games, virtual reality games and laser tag. Another spot is the Urban Air Adventure Park.

Lakeland has several educational centers attractive for kids. The Explorations V Children’s Museum offers educational exhibits. The Florida Air Museum provides historical displays of aircrafts. Moreover, Polk Museum of Art also provides art education opportunities for kids.

Lakeland is home to beautiful parks such as the Barnett Family Park and Lake Parker, which are great for picnicking, fishing, and bird watching. Circle B Bar Reserve is a perfect spot for hiking and spotting wildlife. The Common Ground Park is another great location with creative play areas.

What others are saying

Angelique
21, Oct
Slaughterhouse Admission for 2 Person
Best place ever!
Slaughterhouse Admission For One, Two, or Four People
Kelle
24, Oct
1-Day LEGOLAND Admission
Very clean, very friendly, perfect size park for younger kids! Can’t wait to go back!
LEGOLAND Florida - Save Up to 56%
Debbie
30, Aug
Through 12/14/2025; Daily Admission Ticket - Adult at Kids' Rate!
This was a great experience. Amazing to see all the space equipment up close.
Kennedy Space Center 1 or 2-Day Admission with Optional Guided Tour
Michelle
27, Oct
$61 for 4 people to bowl 2 hours + includes free shoe rental
Good, quick service. Very clean.
Up to 73% Off Bowling with Shoe Rental Included at Bowlero
Guest
24, Oct
Drive-Thru Safari Park Admission for One with One BBQ Lunch and One Digital Photo
Second time visiting this place; 100% worth the price. Kids loved it and us adults as well.
Drive-Thru Safari Adventure w/ BBQ Lunch for 1, 2, or 4, or a Family
Octavia
24, Oct
Epperson Lagoon All Day Ticket & Splash Pass (Weekday)
I had a fun and safe experience love it.
All Day Ticket + Splash Pass at Epperson Lagoon