Family-Friendly Activities This Summer in Volusia County
Table of Contents
School’s out, the sun is shining, and it’s time to make unforgettable memories with your favorite people. If you’re looking for fun, affordable, and meaningful ways to spend time with your family this summer, Volusia County, Florida, has you covered! From splash zones and science centers to nature trails and beach days, there’s something for everyone: toddlers to teens (and even tired parents).
Here’s your go-to guide for family-friendly summer fun in Volusia County. 🌴☀️
Hit the Beach (with Built-In Family Perks)
Volusia County is home to some of Florida’s best beaches—and they’re incredibly family-friendly.
🏖 Best Beaches for Families:
-
Daytona Beach – Splash pad at Sun Splash Park, nearby arcades & boardwalk
-
Ormond Beach (Andy Romano Park) – Playground, shaded pavilions, and no driving zone
-
New Smyrna Beach – Soft sand and beachside dining with kid menus
📌 Family Tip: Arrive early, pack snacks, and bring a shade tent. Check tide schedules and parking rules before you go.
Catch a Local Festival or Event
🎆 4th of July Celebrations
Volusia is bursting with community pride during Independence Day week. Enjoy parades, bounce houses, live music, and epic fireworks.
🔗 Where to Watch Fireworks in Volusia County
🎨 DeLand Art Walk – First Fridays
Explore art galleries, enjoy live music, and meet artists in a relaxed, open-air setting. A stroller-friendly cultural experience!
📍 Downtown DeLand – First Friday each month
🔗 Event Details
Explore Indoors (A/C + Education = Parent Win)
Museum of Arts & Sciences (MOAS)
Located in Daytona Beach, MOAS is a kid favorite. From a full planetarium to dinosaur fossils and a children’s discovery center—it’s educational and fun.
📍 352 S Nova Rd, Daytona Beach
🎫 Family pass available
🔗 MOAS Website
🐢 Marine Science Center
Touch tanks, rescued sea turtles, and bird rehabilitation—this hands-on center in Ponce Inlet is perfect for curious little minds.
📍 100 Lighthouse Dr, Ponce Inlet
🔗 Marine Science Center
🧸 Children’s Museum at the Hub on Canal
A fun, arts-focused play space where kids can create their own masterpieces.
📍 132 Canal St, New Smyrna Beach
🔗 The Hub on Canal
Get Outside & Explore Nature
Home to the Florida scrub jay, this interactive preserve offers short trails and a nature center with air-conditioned exhibits.
📍 2150 Eustace Ave, Deltona
🔗 Lyonia Preserve Info
🌿 Blue Spring State Park
Float down the spring run, picnic in the shade, or rent a kayak. It’s one of the most beloved summer spots for families!
📍 2100 W French Ave, Orange City
🎫 Entry Fee: $6/vehicle
🔗 Park Website
🚶♀️ Lake Beresford Park
Great for stroller walks, biking, and bird watching with paved trails and restrooms.
Ride the Train at Gemini Springs Park
A hidden gem in DeBary! On select weekends, families can ride a miniature train for free thanks to the Central Florida Railway Historical Society.
📍 37 Dirksen Dr, DeBary
🎟️ Rides usually run the 2nd Saturday of each month
🔗 Gemini Springs Info
Cool Off with a Sweet Treat
🍧 Jeremiah’s Italian Ice – Multiple locations
Layered gelati (soft serve + Italian ice = 😍)
🍦 Cow Lick’s Homemade Ice Cream – Daytona Beach
A local favorite with arcade games
🍪 Treats & Sweets – Downtown DeLand
Fresh-baked cookies, hand-dipped ice cream, and a cute gift shop
Summer Movie Nights (Cheap & Chill!)
🎬 Cinematique Theater of Daytona
Watch independent films or family-friendly classics in a cozy setting.
📍 242 S Beach St, Daytona Beach
🔗 Cinematique Info
🧺 Movies on the Halifax – Ormond Beach
Outdoor movie nights on select Fridays—bring blankets, chairs, and popcorn!
📍 The Casements, 25 Riverside Dr, Ormond Beach
🔗 Event Schedule
Step Back in Time: Educational Day Trips
🏰 DeBary Hall Historic Site
Interactive kid tours and hands-on exhibits introduce little ones to Florida’s pioneer history.
📍 198 Sunrise Blvd, DeBary
🎟️ Very affordable family admission
🔗 DeBary Hall
🌾 Barberville Pioneer Settlement
Learn blacksmithing, feed farm animals, and experience life in early Florida.
📍 1776 Lightfoot Ln, Barberville
🔗 Visit Site
Bonus Ideas: Little Gems Worth Trying
🎳 GameTime Daytona – Arcade, bowling, and family meals in one place
🚗 Drive-in Movie at Epic Theatres Deltona – Some locations host summer drive-ins
🎨 Kids Summer Art Camp – Check local museums and art centers for drop-ins
📚 Volusia County Libraries – Free storytimes, STEM kits, and summer reading rewards
Plan Like a Pro: Family-Friendly Tips
✔️ What to Bring:
Water bottles (it gets HOT)
Sunscreen & hats
Bug spray for outdoor trails
Changes of clothes for beach or splash zones
A local events calendar or download the “Volusia County Events” app
👩👧 Make a Summer Bucket List:
Let each family member pick one must-do activity from this guide. It turns planning into a game and gives everyone something to look forward to!
💬 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re cooling off at the beach, exploring a museum, or enjoying a sweet treat after a nature hike, Volusia County is packed with ways for families to stay active, curious, and connected all summer long.
✨ So go make those memories—you don’t have to travel far to find big fun.
