My kids and I recently spent an afternoon at The Florida Mall, and it quickly reminded me why this spot remains a favorite for Orlando families. Between hands-on attractions, interactive stores, and delicious treat stops, the mall hits that sweet spot of “getting things done” while keeping kids genuinely entertained.
Visiting in December adds an extra layer of sparkle, with holiday décor, festive photo ops, and Santa sightings, creating an easy, low-stress way to celebrate the season without the theme park crowds. But even outside the holidays, The Florida Mall is packed with family-friendly experiences year-round. Whether you’re escaping the heat, avoiding a rainy afternoon, shopping for back-to-school essentials, or squeezing in fun between theme parks, The Florida Mall delivers plenty of entertainment for kids of all ages.
With attractions like Crayola Experience, RideMakerz, Fun Factory, pop-up experiences, and kid-focused stores,The Florida Mall makes a perfect destination for both younger children and older tweens. And as a parent, it’s a relief knowing you can check off your shopping list while actually enjoying the day together.
Create your own custom car at RideMakerz and drive out with fun.
Best Things to Do with Kids at The Florida Mall
1. RideMakerz
One of the biggest hits of our visit was RideMakerz, where my kids each built their own custom RC car. The experience is wonderfully interactive: Kids select their car body, personalize every detail, and assemble it with help of staff. They can even race their cars in-store! The result is a high-quality keepsake and experience rolled into one.
Check out our trip to RideMakerz and relive all the fun!
2. Crayola Experience
Crayola Experience is a creative wonderland where kids can color, craft, paint, melt, mold, and explore hands-on exhibits. During the holidays, guests can experience Colorful Christmas at Crayola Experience, featuring themed crafts, a seasonal scavenger hunt, festive photo ops, and more.
3. Fun Factory
Need a little break from shopping chaos? Fun Factory is the perfect pit stop! Packed with arcade games, claw machines, and ticket-winning excitement, it’s a kiddo paradise. My daughter couldn’t stop smiling when her brother won her a Labubu from the claw machine. It was definitely a highlight of our trip!
4. Game Over Escape Room
For families with older kids or teens, Game Over Escape Room features eight unique scenarios, from a whimsical Alice in Wonderland adventure to clever mystery challenges. It’s a great way to mix teamwork, problem-solving, and a little bit of friendly competition into your day.
5. Game Park
This modern gaming zone features redemption games, air hockey, claw machines, and more. It’s another fun stop for gamers in the family.
6. Gatcha
Part arcade, part playarea! Kids can win plushies, figurines, and more at the claw machines, then burn off energy on slides, trampolines, kids ninja course, and ball pit.
7. Glow or Go
This attraction blends obstacle-course action with clever puzzle-solving as teams of 2–8 players work their way through five colorful challenge zones, then celebrate with a paint-blast finish. My boys, ages 12 and 14, had a blast here!
8. Play Park
Let kids climb and explore at this FREE indoor play area. Inspired by Alice in Wonderland and Dr. Seuss, it’s full of imaginative fun for little ones.
Enjoy the Titanic without that terrible ending at The Florida Mall’s VR experience.
9. Titanic: A Voyage Through Time
Step into history with this immersive VR adventure! Explore the Titanic in 1912, walk the grand staircase, meet real-life passengers, and even dive to the wreckage as it rests today. My boys were all about the high-tech aspect, and it was such a fun way for me to join them in their gaming universe. Note: Minimum age to participate is 10.
Santa hangs out at The Florida Mall during winter AND summer so capture photos all year long!
10. Santa Photos
No December trip to the mall is complete without a visit to Santa! The Florida Mall makes it easy and festive with a beautiful photo backdrop and shorter lines than many local spots. Reservations are available, but walk-ups are welcome too! For families with special needs, the annual Caring Santa event provides a sensory-friendly experience. Other seasonal events include Holiday Craft Day and Cookies with Mrs. Claus. Fun fact: The magic isn’t just for December! The mall hosts summer Santa photos and holiday activities during its Christmas in July event.
Fun Stores for Kids at The Florida Mall
11. Primark
Primark is a must-visit for families looking for affordable fashion, accessories, and home goods. The Florida Mall location is extra special for Disney fans — the entire second floor is filled with Disney merchandise, from clothing and accessories to fun collectibles.
12. American Girl
From Easter Bunny teatime to getting her and her doll’s ears pierced, my daughter and I have loved visiting American Girl! Full of cute doll clothes, accessories, and gifts, it’s a must for any American Girl fan.
13. Build-A-Bear Workshop
Kids can create their own stuffed animal or pick out fun outfits and accessories. It’s a sweet way to make a personalized gift or keepsake.
14. Pop Mart
If your kids love collectible blind boxes and trendy figurines (did someone say Labubu?!), Pop Mart is a treasure trove. It’s perfect for stocking stuffers or gifting to tween collectors.
RELATED: The Labubu Obsession: A Parent’s Guide to the Trendy Toy
Where to Eat and Grab Treats
15. Sip Fresh
Bright, fruity drinks made fresh daily are perfect for refreshing kids (and parents!) during a long shopping day. The fun colors and bold flavor combinations make this a favorite stop between attractions. The seasonal Strawberry Hot Chocolate was a hit with my kiddos!
Crunchy Tanghulu’s viral sweet treat is taking over social media AND hungry kiddos.
16. Crunchy Tanghulu
A kid-approved treat that feels extra festive, Crunchy Tanghulu serves candied fruit with a shiny, glassy sugar shell. It’s crunchy, sweet, and totally photo-worthy!
17. Fortuna Bakery
This Colombian bakery is a hidden gem inside the mall, and my favorite spot to grab a coffee! With pastries, empanadas, and sweet treats as well, it’s a great place for breakfast, snacks, or an afternoon pick-me-up.
18. Cantina Catrina
If your family wants a sit-down meal with tons of personality, Cantina Catrina delivers. This Day of the Dead–themed Mexican restaurant features bold décor, delicious dishes, and great kid-friendly options.
19. Sushi Yummy
Kids who are adventurous eaters love this spot! Sushi Yummy features a conveyor belt system with colorful plates circling the restaurant. It’s a fun, interactive dining experience where families can grab what they want as it goes by.
20. Dining Pavilion
The Dining Pavilion boasts more than 20 restaurants and eateries, including pizza, chicken, noodles, wraps, and more. This provides easy, reliable choices when you’re with kids who want something familiar fast.
You could spend hours at the Crayola Experience before even entering the mall!
FAQs About Visiting The Florida Mall with Kids
Q: Is parking free?
A: Yes! Parking is free, even during the December rush. The lots are large and plentiful, and arriving earlier in the day usually means snagging a closer spot. Valet parking is available as well.
Q: Is there a hotel near the mall?
A: There’s actually a hotel INSIDE the mall! The Florida Hotel & Conference Center is directly attached to the mall. It’s incredibly convenient for visiting families or anyone planning an overnight holiday shopping getaway.
Q: Are there family amenities?
A: The mall offers family restrooms, a nursing lounge, and stroller rentals, all of which make holiday shopping with young children much easier.
Q: Is The Florida Mall a good indoor activity?
A: Definitely! With attractions like Crayola Experience, RideMakerz, Fun Factory, Game Over Escape Room, and plenty of stores and dining, you can easily spend several hours indoors away from the weather.
Q: Do Santa photos require reservations?
A: Walk-ups are welcome, but during busy holiday weekends, reservations are recommended. Check the mall’s website for up-to-date details.
Q: Is there free Wi-Fi?
A: Yes! The Florida Mall offers complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property.
Q: How long should I plan to spend at the mall with kids?
A: Depending on your schedule, attractions, and shopping plans, families should plan to spend 3–5 hours to enjoy play areas, stores, and dining.
Photos by author
