The Best Family Activities Before School Starts

As the summer winds down and the new school year approaches, it’s the perfect time to squeeze in some last-minute family fun.

Here are the best family-friendly activities to enjoy before the kids return to school:

San Diego

For a perfect family day in the sun, head to Belmont Park, an iconic beachside amusement park offering rides, attractions, and games for all ages. Experience the thrill together on the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster, or end the summer with a bang by battling it out in the Overdrive Bumper Cars.

If you prefer quality time among sea creatures, visit Birch Aquarium at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Feed the Little Blue Penguins together before exploring the dark exhibits to see illuminating jellyfish.

Finally, ignite your child’s imagination at The New Children’s Museum in downtown San Diego. This arts-based museum encourages kids to “think, play, create” with engaging family experiences centered around art. Babies can join for free.

Charleston

Explore the exciting history of Charleston at Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie, located at 40 Patriots Point Rd., Mt. Pleasant. These forts stand proudly at the entrance of Charleston Harbor and have played a big part in our country’s story. Kids will love the ferry ride and the exciting stories they’ll hear during the visit.

For an extraordinary adventure, visit History on Horseback at 4280 Ashley River Rd., Charleston. Kids eight and up can ride horses along a trail and learn about history while enjoying the ride. It’s a super fun way to make history come alive!

Check out Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, where you can explore history hands-on. Climb aboard the USS Yorktown, a ship from World War II, and see what life was like for sailors. It’s a fantastic way for kids to learn about America’s past.

Tampa

Discover the latest attractions at Glazer Children’s Museum in Tampa’s Curtis Hixon Park, featuring a new Pop Art exhibit running until Aug. 13. Children can enjoy hands-on activities, experimenting with techniques like silkscreen and rubber stamping, while contributing their self-portraits to a collaborative gallery adorned with giant bananas and vibrant screen prints reminiscent of Roy Lichtenstein’s iconic style.

Additionally, the museum introduces Free Play, an indoor climbing playground on the second floor and Forts, where kids can construct their pillow forts.

You can also explore the world of intricate Lego sculptures at The Art of the Brick exhibit, featuring over 100 captivating pieces by artist Nathan Sawaya, including a striking depiction of a man tearing open his chest and a towering T-Rex skeleton. Admission is free, and the exhibit runs Wednesdays through Sundays.

Make the Most of Family Time Before School Starts

With summer drawing to a close and the school year looming ahead, now is the perfect opportunity to make the most of precious family time. Whether you’re soaking up the sun in San Diego, delving into history in Charleston, or exploring the vibrant attractions of Tampa, there’s an abundance of exciting moments to enjoy together. With these activities, don’t forget to hop aboard Speed Boat Adventures to make your vacation even more memorable.