Explore Florida’s Pirate History: Top Family-Friendly Destinations

Florida’s rich maritime history wouldn't be complete without mentioning the pirates who once sailed its coastline. From fascinating museums filled with ancient artifacts to thrilling pirate cruises, Florida offers a treasure trove of adventures for the whole family.

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1. Pirate & Treasure Museum – St. Augustine

St. Augustine, one of America’s oldest cities, was once a haven for pirates. Today, it houses the Pirate & Treasure Museum, a fantastic place to kick off your pirate adventure. Founded by pirate enthusiast Pat Croce, the museum boasts one of the world’s largest collections of pirate artifacts. Visitors can step into life-sized replicas of a ship’s cannon deck, steer a captain’s wheel, and play interactive games.

Among the highlights are Blackbeard’s blunderbuss (a type of firearm), gold pieces from his ship, a real Jolly Roger flag from 1850, and the world’s only surviving treasure chest, once owned by the infamous pirate Thomas Tew. With over 800 artifacts on display, the museum offers a perfect blend of history and imagination.

2. Captain Memo’s Original Pirate Cruise – Clearwater Beach

Since 1977, Captain Memo’s Original Pirate Cruise has been giving families an unforgettable swashbuckling adventure in Clearwater Beach. Once you set sail on this pirate-themed ship, kids can dive into the fun with face painting, water gun battles, and treasure hunts throughout the ship.

While the little pirates enjoy themselves, parents can sneak away to the adults-only third deck for a drink from the captain’s bar. The whole family can groove to tropical pirate music playing on the modern sound system.

The two-hour cruise offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, and the lively crew will help you spot playful dolphins swimming nearby. This cruise is an exciting experience for all ages!

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3. Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf – Orlando

For a fun family competition, Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf in Orlando offers a thrilling pirate-themed miniature golf experience. With two 18-hole courses named after legendary pirates Captain Blackbeard and Captain Kidd, there’s plenty of excitement for everyone.

Players can enjoy navigating through a replica pirate village filled with moving obstacles, making each hole a new challenge. Families will putt their way through a giant pirate ship, complete with cannons and treasure barrels, cross rope bridges, and pass under waterfalls, all while aiming for the winning shot!

Share Your Thoughts!

What do you think of these pirate-themed adventures in Florida? Have you visited any of these places or similar attractions? Share your thoughts and experiences

Source: https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/pirate-treasure-museum

https://www.visitflorida.com/listing/captain-memos-original-pirate-cruise/30190/

https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/pirate-paradise-florida