From outdoor adventures and hands-on museums to beloved festivals and seasonal traditions, Vero Beach offers family-friendly experiences all year long. This month-by-month bucket list highlights some of the best things to do with kids in Indian River County in 2026—making it easy to plan meaningful outings without leaving town. Whether you’re a longtime local or new to the area, these experiences showcase what makes Vero Beach such a special place to raise a family.
January
Celebrate nature at Environmental Learning Center's free annual Lagoonapaloza. Kids will love the hands-on activities, nature play areas, scenic trails, and the aquarium and touch tank. This festival is a great way to start the year outdoors.
📍 255 Live Oak Drive, Vero Beach, FL
February
Take advantage of cooler winter weather with a visit to Round Island Beach & Riverside Park. There are two sides to this park— beach and lagoon. On one side, families can enjoy beach time and play on the newly renovated playground. On the other, families can explore nature trails, spot wildlife from the observation tower (hello, manatees!), and try out some kayaking or paddle-boarding. It's a great spot for kids to explore outdoors during one of the best weather months of the year.
📍 2200 South A1A, Vero Beach, FL
March
No year would be complete without a visit to the fair! The Indian River County Firefighter's Fair delivers classic fair fun with rides, games, live entertainment, animal exhibits, and all your favorite fair foods.
📍7955 58th Avenue, Vero Beach, FL
April
Celebrate creativity at Vero Beach Museum of Art's Children's Art Festival, a free annual event featuring art projects, live performances, art hunts, and docent-led gallery tours designed just for kids.
📍3001 Riverside Park Drive, Vero Beach, FL
May
Witness power, precision and patriotism at the Vero Beach Air Show. This exciting event returns with thrilling aerial performances, including the highly anticipated appearance of the U.S. Navy Blue Angels.
📍3400 Cherokee Drive, Vero Beach, FL
June
Kick off summer at Sebastian Inlet State Park. Families can relax on the calm lagoon-side beach—perfect for younger kids—or opt for more adventurous activities like surfing and mountain biking.
📍9700 South Highway A1A, Melbourne Beach, FL
July
Celebrate Independence Day at Riverside Park during the City of Vero Beach’s Fourth of July festivities. Enjoy live music, food vendors, family activities, and a dazzling fireworks display over the lagoon.
📍3200 Riverside Park Drive, Vero Beach, FL 32963
August
Beat the heat at the North County Aquatic Center. With a zero depth entry activity pool, water slides, diving well, and competition pool, this popular spot offers fun for kids of all ages during the hottest month of the year.
📍9450 County Road 512, Sebastian, FL
September
Stay cool while staying active at Cannon's Cove. This new indoor playground with ball pits, slides, tunnels, and soft play equipment lets kids ages 0–10 burn off energy — rain or shine!
📍1748 94th Drive, Vero Beach, FL
October
Enjoy a live performance at Riverside Theatre, the Treasure Coast’s professional theatre. With shows running October through May, families can choose from a variety of productions, including kid-friendly performances performed by kids and teens.
📍3250 Riverside Park Drive, Vero Beach, FL
November
Pick fresh Florida citrus straight from the trees at Schacht Groves. Kids will love the sand play area and citrus slingshot, while parents can browse the market filled with local foods and artisan goods. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on property and save room for dessert — the citrus ice cream is a must!
📍6200 12th Street, Vero Beach, FL
December
End the year with some holiday magic at McKee Botanical Garden's Jungle Lights. Families will be wowed by glowing light displays throughout the gardens. Visit during the day to to play in beautiful Children's Garden before returning for the festive nighttime experience.
📍350 US-1, Vero Beach, FL
Vero Beach offers something special for families every month of the year. This bucket list is a reminder that unforgettable memories don’t require long drives, just a little planning and a love for local fun. Be sure to explore our event calendar and sign up for our free weekly e-newsletter for even more family-friendly things to do in Vero Beach and Indian River County in 2026.
