Cape Canaveral: Day Trips

Sea World Orlando Kids love the amusement park rides and the aquarium, home to Shamu, dolphins, sea lions and orcas; dads love the beer garden. 60 miles northwest of Cocoa Beach, 7007 Sea World Drive; 407-351-3600; www.seaworld.com
family | aquarium | wildlife | amusement park rides

St. Augustine Explore the city’s 443-year-old historic district. Close by is Fort Matanzas where shipwrecked French soldiers were executed by the Spanish, and Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest Spanish fort in the States. 124 miles north of Cocoa Beach; www.getaway4florida.com
family | architecture | culture | history

Universal Orlando Resort Come for a variety of attractions: Nickelodeon Studios, Sound Stage 54, Jimmy Neutron’s Nicktoon Blast, Terminator 2, Revenge of the Mummy, The Blues Brothers, and Woody Woodpecker’s roller coaster. 57 miles northwest of Cocoa Beach, 6000 Universal Blvd.; 407-363-8000; www.universalorlando.com
family | theme park | amusement park rides

Walt Disney World Bring the kids to meet Mickey Mouse, dine with Cinderella, rocket through Space Mountain, and spin in the Mad Hatter’s teacups. Hit the park during weekdays to avoid crowds. 65 miles west of Cocoa Beach; 407-824-2222; www.disneyworld.com
family | theme park | amusement park rides

Wekiwa Springs State Park Check out the natural, 72-degree hot springs, hike pretty wooded trails, rent a canoe or camp under the stars at this stellar state park. 78 miles from Cocoa Beach, Apopka, 1800 Wekiwa Circle; 407-884-2008; www.floridastateparks.org/wekiwasprings
family | hiking | outdoors | camping | canoeing | springs