Spending Easter in Florida with kids is one of the best family travel ideas for spring in the entire United States. Warm sunshine, world-famous theme parks, pristine sandy beaches, Easter egg hunts, and a packed calendar of family-friendly Easter events in Florida make the Sunshine State an almost perfect destination for a spring family holiday in 2026.
Whether you’re planning a relaxed beach break on Clearwater Beach or Naples, an action-packed adventure at Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando Resort, or a mix of both, this guide covers the best things to do in Florida during Easter with kids – including the top Easter egg hunts, spring markets, theme park events, nature experiences, and essential practical tips for families visiting Florida in 2026.
Pro tip: Easter is one of the busiest travel periods in Florida. Book flights, hotels, and theme park tickets as early as possible – accommodation prices rise sharply in the weeks before Easter weekend, and the most popular events sell out well in advance.
Why Spend Easter in Florida with Kids?
Florida is one of the best family Easter destinations in the United States for a straightforward reason: it gets almost everything right for travelling with children. The weather is warm and sunny without the oppressive heat of summer, the range of activities is unmatched, and the sheer variety of experiences – from wildlife encounters and outdoor adventures to world-class theme parks and beautiful beaches – means there is genuinely something for every age group and every type of family.
Top reasons to spend Easter in Florida with kids:
Warm, sunny spring weather – average temperatures of 24–30°C (75–86°F) across the state during Easter, ideal for outdoor activities and beach days
An enormous range of Easter-specific events – egg hunts, Easter Bunny meet-and-greets, Easter brunch events, and spring festivals in every major city
World-class theme parks with special Easter programming – Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort put on their best seasonal experiences during the Easter holiday
Safe, clean, family-friendly beaches – Clearwater Beach, Naples, and several other Gulf Coast beaches are ideal for young children with calm, shallow water
Outstanding wildlife and nature experiences – Everglades airboat tours, dolphin encounters, and Florida’s extraordinary zoo and aquarium scene are perfect for curious kids
Excellent value options alongside luxury – Florida caters to every family budget, from affordable motels near theme parks to all-inclusive beach resorts
Easy internal travel – Florida’s well-maintained highway network and domestic airport connections make getting around the state straightforward with children
Easter in Florida also coincides with the final weeks of spring break season, meaning the atmosphere across the state is lively and festive – beach towns, restaurants, and attractions are all operating at their most vibrant and engaging.
Easter Events and Egg Hunts in Florida 2026
During Easter weekend 2026, almost every city, town, and resort in Florida hosts family-friendly Easter events – from large-scale egg hunts in public parks to Easter Bunny meet-and-greets at shopping centres and special seasonal programming at major attractions. Here is a guide to the best Easter events in Florida for families.
Easter Egg Hunts in Florida
The Easter egg hunt is the centrepiece of Easter weekend for children across Florida. Events are held in public parks, resort grounds, community centres, and at special Easter-themed attractions throughout the state. Most egg hunts are free or very low cost, and many are divided into age groups to ensure a fair and enjoyable experience for younger children.
Public park egg hunts – most Florida cities and counties organise large-scale Easter egg hunts in public parks during the weekend leading up to Easter Sunday. Orlando, Miami, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale, and Jacksonville all host multiple events. Check local city and county websites for confirmed 2026 dates and locations.
Resort and hotel egg hunts – many of Florida’s family resort hotels organise private Easter egg hunts on their grounds for guests, often with additional Easter activities, face painting, and Easter Bunny appearances. If you’re staying at a resort, check what’s planned for Easter weekend.
Theme park egg hunts – Walt Disney World and several other Florida theme parks incorporate Easter egg hunts into their Easter holiday programming. See the theme parks section below for full details.
Community centre and neighbourhood events – smaller, more intimate egg hunts organised by local communities are often the most child-friendly option for younger children, with less crowding and a more relaxed pace.
Top cities for Easter egg hunts in Florida 2026:
Orlando – the theme park capital hosts dozens of Easter egg hunt events across the city and at all major attractions
Miami – Bayfront Park, Crandon Park, and several Miami Beach locations host Easter events
Tampa – multiple Easter events at public parks, the Tampa Riverwalk, and family attractions
Fort Lauderdale – beach and park Easter events along the Broward County coastline
St. Augustine – Easter weekend street festival atmosphere with family-friendly events in the historic old town
Meet the Easter Bunny in Florida
Every child’s Easter highlight – meeting the Easter Bunny – is available at dozens of locations across Florida during the holiday weekend. Photo opportunities, games, gift-giving, and Easter-themed activities are typically offered alongside the meet-and-greet.
Shopping centres and malls – major Florida shopping malls host the Easter Bunny throughout the Easter period, typically from mid-March through Easter Sunday, with professional photo packages available
Theme parks and major attractions – Walt Disney World, LEGOLAND Florida, and several other attractions include Easter Bunny appearances as part of their Easter event programming
Easter markets and spring festivals – many of the Easter markets listed below include an Easter Bunny visit as part of their family activities
Resort hotels – many family-oriented resort hotels bring the Easter Bunny to their properties on Easter Sunday, often as part of a special Easter brunch experience
Theme Parks During Easter in Florida 2026
Florida’s world-famous theme parks are at their absolute best during Easter. Special seasonal programming, Easter parades, themed decorations, character meet-and-greets, and limited-edition food create experiences that are unique to the holiday period. Easter is also one of the busiest times of year at Florida’s theme parks – book tickets and make dining reservations well in advance, and consider arriving at park opening time to beat the crowds.
Walt Disney World – The Ultimate Easter Theme Park Experience
Walt Disney World near Orlando is the most popular Easter destination in Florida for families – and the Easter programming across its four theme parks is genuinely outstanding. From Magic Kingdom Easter parades to special EPCOT seasonal experiences, Disney creates a holiday atmosphere that is hard to replicate anywhere else in the world.
Easter parades through Magic Kingdom – festive seasonal parades featuring beloved Disney characters in Easter costumes, special holiday floats, and live musical performances. Times vary – check the My Disney Experience app for 2026 parade schedules.
Easter character meet-and-greets – Disney characters appear in seasonal Easter outfits at various park locations throughout the holiday period, giving children unique photo opportunities not available at other times of year
Easter-themed decorations – Magic Kingdom and EPCOT are beautifully decorated for the Easter season with floral displays, Easter eggs, and springtime theming throughout
EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival – running throughout spring, this spectacular annual event transforms EPCOT into one of the most beautiful seasonal experiences at any theme park in the world, with extraordinary floral sculptures of Disney characters, themed gardens, outdoor kitchens, and live concerts
Limited-edition Easter food and desserts – Disney’s park restaurants and quick-service locations offer special Easter menus and seasonal treats only available during the holiday period
Extended park hours – Disney World typically operates extended hours during Easter weekend, giving families more time to experience the parks
Pro tip: Easter week is one of the busiest periods at Walt Disney World. The parks can reach maximum capacity on Easter Sunday and the surrounding days. Purchase park tickets and make dining reservations 60 days in advance, arrive at park opening, and use the Genie+ Lightning Lane service to minimise waiting times.
Universal Orlando Resort — Thrills for the Whole Family
Universal Orlando Resort offers a fantastic Easter experience for families – particularly those with older children and teenagers who enjoy more intense attractions. The resort encompasses Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and the new Epic Universe (opening 2025), providing an enormous range of rides and experiences for every age group.
Rides and attractions for all ages – Universal’s lineup spans everything from gentle character rides ideal for toddlers to major thrill attractions for teens and adults. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter remains one of the most popular family experiences in Florida.
Spring events and seasonal shows – Universal typically offers special spring programming during Easter, including live entertainment, seasonal food offerings, and character appearances
Epic Universe – the newest and most ambitious theme park addition to Universal Orlando, with entirely new themed lands and attractions that will be a major draw for families visiting in 2026
CityWalk – Universal’s entertainment district is free to enter and offers dining, shopping, and entertainment options perfect for families on the evening before or after park days
Other Theme Parks Worth Visiting at Easter
SeaWorld Orlando – runs the Seven Seas Food Festival through spring, with live music, international food and beverage options, and marine animal experiences that are outstanding for children interested in ocean life. Easter weekend includes special programming.
LEGOLAND Florida (Winter Haven) – specifically designed for children aged 2–12, LEGOLAND is one of the most family-friendly theme parks in the state and runs special Easter events including egg hunts and LEGO Easter building activities
Busch Gardens Tampa – a fantastic combination of wildlife encounters and theme park thrills, Busch Gardens runs spring events and Easter programming that appeal to families with children of different ages
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex – not a traditional theme park but one of the most educational and inspiring family experiences in Florida, particularly for older children interested in science and space exploration
Easter Markets and Spring Festivals in Florida 2026
While Florida is not known for traditional European-style Easter markets, the state hosts a wide range of spring markets and Easter-themed festivals that are perfect for families – combining food, local crafts, live entertainment, and Easter activities for children. Here are some of the best Easter markets in Florida 2026:
Spring Market with the Easter Bunny
Date: March 29, 2026. A family-friendly spring market featuring local vendors, handmade products, fresh food stalls, and Easter-themed activities for children. The Easter Bunny is in attendance for photos and meet-and-greets. Perfect for combining shopping with kids entertainment. Free or low-cost entry.
Saturday Market – Easter Weekend (Tampa Area)
Date: April 4, 2026. A farmers market format combining fresh local produce, artisan food stalls, and family-friendly activities. The relaxed market atmosphere is ideal for families who want a break from theme park intensity. Great food options for children and adults alike.
Easter Craft and Vendor Markets
Easter craft markets and artisan vendor events take place across Florida during the holiday weekend, featuring handmade gifts, Easter decorations, local food producers, and spring-themed crafts. Many events are free to enter and include dedicated children’s activity areas. Check local event listings for 2026 dates in your area.
The Berry Farm Easter Market (Miami Area)
Dates: March 28–29 and April 4–5, 2026. One of the most family-friendly Easter events in the Miami area, combining a traditional farm market with a full Easter festival experience. Activities include fresh food stalls, a petting zoo, Easter egg hunts, and spring seasonal produce. An excellent choice for families with young children who enjoy an outdoor, nature-based Easter experience.
St. Augustine Easter Festival
Easter weekend. The historic city of St. Augustine – the oldest city in the United States – hosts a wonderful Easter weekend festival with a street festival atmosphere, local vendors, live entertainment, and excellent food options throughout the beautifully preserved colonial Old Town. Highly recommended for families who want to combine Easter celebrations with a genuinely unique and historically rich Florida experience.
Pro tip: Easter markets and spring festivals in Florida are perfect for combining family shopping, food, and entertainment in one location. Most events are free or low-cost to enter, making them one of the best-value Easter activities for families on a budget.
Beaches and Outdoor Easter Fun in Florida
If your ideal Easter holiday in Florida with kids involves more sun, sand, and sea than theme parks, Florida’s beaches deliver an outstanding experience. The Sunshine State’s coastline offers everything from calm, shallow Gulf Coast waters ideal for young children to Atlantic beaches with a more active, energetic atmosphere.
Best Florida Beaches for Families at Easter
Clearwater Beach (Gulf Coast, near Tampa) – consistently rated one of the best beaches in the United States and widely regarded as the finest family beach in Florida. The Gulf water is shallow, calm, and warm – ideal for young children and non-swimmers. Excellent facilities including beach chair rentals, lifeguards, and a good range of family restaurants along the beachfront. Highly recommended as a family base for Easter.
Naples Beach (Gulf Coast) – a quieter, more upscale Gulf Coast beach with exceptionally clear water and a relaxed, uncrowded atmosphere. Ideal for families who prefer a calmer, less commercialised beach experience. Beautiful sunsets and excellent local seafood restaurants.
Miami Beach / South Beach (Atlantic Coast) – a more lively, energetic beach with a vibrant spring break atmosphere during Easter. Better suited to families with older children and teenagers than those with very young children. Excellent lifeguard coverage and facilities.
Key Biscayne (Miami area) – a peaceful barrier island just south of Miami with beautiful calm beaches, Crandon Park (ideal for families with young children), and a relaxed local atmosphere very different from South Beach.
Fort Lauderdale Beach – a beautiful Atlantic coast beach with excellent facilities, a family-friendly promenade, and a more relaxed atmosphere than Miami Beach. Ideal for families wanting an Atlantic coast experience with good infrastructure.
Canaveral National Seashore (near Orlando) – for families based near Orlando who want a beach day, the Canaveral National Seashore offers one of the most unspoiled stretches of Florida coastline, with excellent wildlife spotting (sea turtles, manatees, dolphins) along with swimming.
Beach Activities for Kids at Easter
Swimming and bodyboarding – Florida’s Gulf Coast beaches offer some of the safest and most child-friendly swimming conditions in the USA
Sandcastle building – the fine white sand of Gulf Coast beaches is ideal for ambitious sandcastle construction
Dolphin watching – boat tours and kayak rental operators along most Florida beaches offer dolphin-spotting excursions that are outstanding for children
Shell collecting – particularly on Sanibel Island and along the Gulf Coast, shell collecting is a favorite family beach activity
Snorkelling – around the Florida Keys and at some Gulf Coast beaches, snorkelling gear rental gives children a first glimpse of Florida’s extraordinary marine life
Nature and Wildlife Experiences for Kids at Easter in Florida
Florida’s extraordinary natural environment is one of the state’s most underrated family attractions – and Easter week is an ideal time to explore it. From the otherworldly ecosystem of the Everglades to world-class zoos and aquariums, Florida offers nature experiences for children that are genuinely unlike anything available in mainland Europe or most of North America.
Everglades National Park
A visit to Everglades National Park is one of the most educational and memorable family experiences in Florida. The largest subtropical wilderness in the United States, the Everglades is home to American alligators, West Indian manatees, Florida panthers, over 360 species of birds, and extraordinary plant life found nowhere else in the world. Children of all ages are captivated by it.
Airboat tours – the fastest, most thrilling, and most child-friendly way to experience the Everglades. Tours typically last 30 to 90 minutes and pass through the vast sawgrass prairies with near-guaranteed alligator sightings. Tours from approximately €25–€40 per adult, less for children.
Anhinga Trail and Gumbo Limbo Trail – short, accessible boardwalk trails that bring families within extraordinary close range of herons, anhingas, turtles, and alligators. Among the best wildlife-spotting experiences accessible to young children anywhere in Florida.
Shark Valley Tram Tour – a 15-mile guided tram journey through the heart of the Everglades, with an observation tower at the midpoint offering panoramic views over the river of grass
Everglades City boat tours – mangrove tunnel boat tours through the Ten Thousand Islands section of the Everglades are fantastic for families and provide excellent chances to see dolphins, manatees, and bald eagles
Zoos and Aquariums in Florida
Florida has some of the finest zoos and aquariums in the United States, many of which offer special Easter programming and spring seasonal events.
Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park – one of the top-rated zoos in the United States and one of the most child-friendly attractions in Tampa. Excellent range of animals including Florida manatees in a dedicated rehabilitation centre. Spring events and Easter programming.
Zoo Miami – the largest and most species-diverse zoo in Florida, covering 750 acres of natural habitat. Particularly impressive for its collection of tropical and subtropical species. Easter and spring programming for families.
Florida Aquarium (Tampa) – an outstanding aquarium particularly recommended for families with younger children, with excellent coral reef exhibits and daily dive shows
Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium (Sarasota) – a working marine research laboratory with public aquarium exhibits, particularly impressive for its manatee, shark, and sea turtle exhibits. Educational and engaging for older children.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach (if road tripping north) – for families extending their Florida trip, this is one of the finest aquariums on the East Coast
Family-Friendly Easter Experiences in Florida
Easter Brunch in Florida
A special Easter brunch is one of the most enjoyable family Easter traditions – and Florida’s restaurants and hotels deliver outstanding options across the state. Hotels in particular put on elaborate Easter brunch spreads with themed decorations, children’s menus, Easter Bunny appearances, and special family-oriented activities alongside exceptional food.
Resort hotel Easter brunches – many of Florida’s family resort hotels offer lavish Easter Sunday brunch buffets with children’s activity areas, Easter Bunny meet-and-greets, egg decorating stations, and live entertainment. Prices typically range from $40–$80 per adult and $15–$30 per child.
Restaurant Easter Sunday menus – across Florida’s major cities, restaurants offer special Easter Sunday prix-fixe menus featuring seasonal ingredients, fresh seafood, and Florida-inspired dishes. Book well in advance – the most popular restaurants sell out for Easter Sunday.
Beachfront Easter brunch – some of the most memorable Easter brunches in Florida are at beachfront restaurants, where children can move between the table and the beach. Particularly popular in Miami Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Clearwater.
Spring Festivals and Local Events for Families
Beyond the major Easter events, Florida’s spring festival scene offers a wide range of family-friendly local events throughout the Easter period:
Street performances and live music – outdoor entertainment is a feature of Easter weekend across Florida’s beach towns, city centres, and resort areas
Spring fairs and carnivals – travelling fairs and carnivals set up in many Florida communities during Easter weekend, with rides, games, and food stalls ideal for families
Easter parade events – several Florida cities host Easter parade events, with decorated floats, marching bands, and community celebrations that are perfect viewing for children
Family-friendly live shows – Easter weekend theatre performances, puppet shows, and children’s entertainment events take place at venues across the state
Practical Tips for Visiting Florida with Kids at Easter
Book Everything Early
Easter is one of the busiest travel periods in Florida – one of the highest-demand weeks of the entire year. Flights, hotels, theme park tickets, restaurant reservations, and popular event tickets all sell out or become significantly more expensive as Easter approaches. Book flights and accommodation at least 3 to 6 months in advance, and purchase theme park tickets as soon as they are available. The most popular Walt Disney World restaurants should be reserved 60 days before your visit.
Budget for Higher Easter Prices
Expect to pay a significant Easter season premium on accommodation and flights compared to other times of year. A hotel room that costs $120 per night in February may cost $220–$280 during Easter week. Budget accordingly, and consider staying slightly outside the most popular areas (just outside the Disney resort area, or in a nearby beach town rather than on the main beach strip) for better value while remaining within easy reach of all activities.
Sun Protection is Essential
Florida’s spring sun is significantly stronger than most European visitors expect, and UV levels are high even on partly cloudy days. Apply high-SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+) to children generously and reapply every 2 hours, especially after swimming. Wide-brimmed hats, UV-protective swimwear, and regular shade breaks are important for younger children. Children burn faster than adults in Florida’s spring sun – do not underestimate it.
Rent a Car
Florida is a large state and distances between destinations are significant. A rental car is essential for most Florida family holidays, particularly if you plan to visit beaches, national parks, and attractions outside major cities. Theme park resort areas (particularly Walt Disney World) are possible without a car, but a car gives you far greater flexibility to explore beaches, the Everglades, and multiple cities during your trip. Book your Florida car rental well in advance during Easter – demand is extremely high and prices increase sharply as the holiday approaches.
Theme Park Strategy for Easter
Florida’s theme parks are extremely busy during Easter week – particularly Walt Disney World, which can reach capacity on Easter Sunday. To make the most of your theme park days: arrive at park opening, start with the most popular rides immediately, use the Lightning Lane or Virtual Queue systems where available, take a midday break back at your hotel during the hottest and most crowded hours (12pm–3pm), and return to the park for the evening shows and parades. Pre-purchasing Genie+ or Lightning Lane is strongly recommended during Easter week.
Weather and Packing
Easter weather in Florida is generally warm and sunny, with temperatures of 24–30°C (75–86°F) across the state. Pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sun hats, and comfortable walking shoes. A light rain jacket or umbrella is worth including – brief afternoon showers are possible during Easter, particularly in central and south Florida. Mosquito repellent is recommended if you plan to visit the Everglades or any wooded areas.
Frequently Asked Questions: Easter in Florida with Kids
Is Florida Good for Easter with Kids?
Absolutely — Florida is one of the best family Easter destinations in the United States. The combination of warm weather, world-class theme parks, beautiful beaches, excellent wildlife experiences, and a packed calendar of Easter events makes it an outstanding choice for families with children of all ages.
What Is the Weather Like in Florida During Easter?
Easter weather in Florida is warm and sunny throughout the state, with average daytime temperatures of 24–30°C (75–86°F). Miami and the southern Florida coast are slightly warmer. The Gulf Coast (Clearwater, Naples) offers the calmest beach conditions. Brief afternoon showers are possible but rare. Overall, Easter is one of the most reliably pleasant times of year to visit Florida.
Are Theme Parks Crowded During Easter?
Yes – Easter is one of the busiest periods at Florida’s theme parks, particularly at Walt Disney World. Parks can reach capacity on Easter Sunday. Purchase tickets in advance, arrive at opening time, use Genie+ Lightning Lane, and be prepared for queues. Despite the crowds, the special Easter programming and seasonal atmosphere make it a worthwhile experience.
What Are the Best Easter Activities for Kids in Florida?
The best Easter activities for kids in Florida include: Easter egg hunts at public parks and resorts, Walt Disney World Easter parades and character meet-and-greets, Everglades airboat tours, beach days at Clearwater or Naples, visits to Zoo Tampa or Zoo Miami, Easter Bunny meet-and-greets at theme parks and shopping centres, spring markets, and special Easter brunch events at resort hotels.
Why Easter in Florida is Perfect for Families
Spending Easter in Florida with kids offers one of the most complete and rewarding family spring holiday experiences in the world. From the magic of Walt Disney World’s Easter parades and the thrill of Universal Studios to the natural wonder of the Everglades, the beauty of Clearwater Beach, and the charm of Florida’s Easter markets and spring festivals, the Sunshine State delivers an extraordinary variety of experiences for every type of family.
The key to a perfect Florida family Easter holiday is planning early – book flights, accommodation, theme park tickets, and restaurant reservations as far in advance as possible. Easter is peak season, and the best experiences fill up fast. With the right preparation, Florida in spring is one of the most enjoyable family travel experiences available anywhere.
