9 experiences to make the most of your study break in Florida
The break is here, and after a stretch of studying, classes, and commitments, a few days off can be the perfect chance to do something different from your usual routine.
Making the most of the break does not have to mean traveling or spending a lot of money, so we put together a few ideas for you.
Florida has something for every style: a day at the beach, a family picnic, an afternoon of fun with the kids, a special café in Miami, a theme park, or even a night at a professional game.
More than filling a few days on the calendar, the break can be a chance to spend quality time with family and friends, discover new places, and make memories during your time in the United States. Life here is full of commitments, after all. So Antares News put together a selection of experiences for different styles and budgets.
1. A day at the beach
One of the best options — and no ticket required.
You do not need a big plan to enjoy one of Florida’s most characteristic and beautiful experiences: a day at the beach. For anyone with family and friends, it can be a great way to step out of the routine, let the kids play in the sand, get in the water, and simply spend a few hours together.
Pack some snacks, fruit, sandwiches, and drinks, bring towels and toys, and turn a simple trip to the beach into a true family day packed with good memories.
Break idea:
- Lovers Key State Park, Fort Myers Beach. For anyone looking for nature and quiet.
- Bonita Beach. Great for a family day.
- Lowdermilk Beach, Naples. For combining a stroll and the beach.
- Bowman’s Beach, Sanibel Island. A more natural, secluded beach.
2. Slick City Fort Myers
For anyone with kids who need to burn energy.
If the idea is to do something different with the children, Slick City can make the list. The indoor park in Fort Myers has a range of slides and action attractions, with options for different ages — adults have fun too. Sessions of 90 or 120 minutes, from $28.99 to $33.99.
Break idea: pair this outing with lunch or dinner with family and friends and turn a few hours of fun into an all-day plan.
3. Picnic at Lakes Park, Fort Myers
A simple outing to enjoy together. Not every plan has to cost a lot.
Lakes Regional Park, in Fort Myers, is a good option if you want to spend a few hours outdoors, have a picnic, play with the kids, and enjoy nature. The park is at 7330 Gladiolus Drive and has picnic areas, a playground, open spaces, and other facilities for outdoor activities. It is open from 7 a.m. until dusk. There are bike rentals on site and courts for soccer and volleyball. There is also a trail to walk and a mini-train ride, with tickets sold on site.
Break idea: you can pack food at home, bring a blanket, a few games and toys, and simply enjoy time as a family.
Now, for anyone who wants something different
If you want to use the break to see new places, get out of the routine, or try something you would not usually do during the school term, these are a few options to put on your calendar.
4. Bon Bouquet Café in Miami Beach
A Miami day starts with a good brunch.
How about turning a trip to Miami into a full outing? Bon Bouquet Café, in Miami Beach, is known for its French-inspired brunch and a pastry tradition with Turkish roots. The café is open daily from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is located on Indian Creek Drive.
Break idea: set aside a full day for Miami instead of making just one stop. Visiting this café can be the start of an itinerary.
5. Busch Gardens Tampa
A full day of adventure.
For anyone who likes rides, roller coasters, and a plan that fills almost the entire day, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a classic option. The park brings together attractions, animals, and experiences for different ages, and it offers several kinds of tickets.
Break idea: check the park’s schedule and hours before you go.
6. Bruno Mars: The Romantic Tour
A special night in Miami.
If you want to turn the break into an unforgettable experience, Bruno Mars will be in Miami during the pause. The Romantic Tour has shows scheduled for September 19 and 20, 2026, at 7 p.m., at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.
Break idea: consider turning the concert into a short weekend trip.
7. Orlando Pride vs. Portland Thorns
An experience for soccer fans.
The break can also be a chance to sample a little more of American sports culture. Orlando Pride hosts the Portland Thorns on September 19, 2026, at 4 p.m., at Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando.
Break idea: if you live in the Fort Myers area, consider making it a day trip or pairing the game with other things to do in Orlando.
8. Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Washington Capitals
See hockey live.
If you have never watched an ice hockey game, the break might be a good time to try it. The Tampa Bay Lightning host the Washington Capitals on October 3, 2026, at 7 p.m., at Benchmark International Arena in Tampa. The game will be the home opener of the 2026–27 season.
Break idea: arrive early and enjoy the pregame program to get the full experience.
9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Green Bay Packers
Football Sunday.
To close the break with a typically American experience, how about watching an NFL game? The Tampa Bay Buccaneers host the Green Bay Packers at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa on Sunday, October 4, 2026, at 1 p.m. ET.
Break idea: invite your friends, plan lunch before the game, and turn the match into a full day of fun.
More than a break
The break can be a pause from the study routine, but it can also be a chance to live more of your experience in the United States. You can choose a big event, visit a new city, watch a professional game, or simply spend an afternoon at the beach with your children.
It can be an expensive outing or a picnic packed at home. It can be with your friends, your partner, or your family. What matters most is using the pause to step a little outside the routine, explore, try new things, and make memories with the people who are part of your story here.
Because studying in the United States is also about living new experiences. Enjoy your break!
Editor’s note: dates, times, prices, entry rules, and ticket availability may change. Check the official websites of venues and events before you plan your visit. Check the weather before you go as well. Our recommendations are programming suggestions only; we have no responsibility for, and no partnership with, any of them.