Looking for more small-town charm? Don’t miss our guide to visiting Mount Dora, FL with Kids. And for even more family adventures across the Sunshine State, check out our Florida Family Travel Guide!

Celebration, FL: Disney Roots and History

Celebration was envisioned by Disney as a master-planned community that combined nostalgia, innovation, and family life. The name “Celebration” was picked to capture the town’s cheerful vibe. Though Disney no longer owns it, the town still reflects many of the ideals it was built on: neatly manicured streets, pastel homes with front porches, unique architecture, and a walkable downtown with Disney-esque charm.

Many visitors enjoy strolling Celebration Town Center, where the lakeside promenade and classic-style buildings feel straight out of a Disney film. It’s also not uncommon to hear Disney music playing in the background during special events, or to spot Mickey-shaped decor during the holidays.

Visitors can enjoy the scenery with a bike ride along Lake Rianhard. Photo courtesy Emergent Media

Fun Things to Do with Kids in Celebration, Florida

1. Bike Rentals

Along the lake behind The Inn at Celebration, you’ll find a self-service bike rental station offering adult and child-size bikes, plus trailers for the littlest riders. It’s an easy and fun way to explore the beautiful trails and tree-lined streets of Celebration as a family.

2. Founders Park

This shady green space offers a peaceful spot for kids to run, play, or enjoy a family picnic. The open lawn is perfect for impromptu games or simply relaxing in the sun.

3. Holiday Lights and Decorations

If visiting during the holidays, take an evening stroll to admire the neighborhood’s festive lights, holiday wreaths, and themed decorations. From spooky Halloween setups to magical Christmas wonderlands, residents go all out!

Cool off at a splash pad in Celebration, a fun and safe water play area perfect for kids.

4. Lakeside Splash Pad

A local favorite, this splash pad is perfect for cooling off on a warm Florida day. Located right in the heart of downtown, it’s free, fun, and surrounded by benches for grown-ups to relax.

5. Misty Blue Acres Carriage Company

Take a magical horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of Celebration. Rides are available seasonally and make the town feel even more like a fairytale, especially during holidays and festivals.

6. Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt

Create your own adventure by turning your walk through downtown and the scenic trails into a scavenger hunt! Look for hidden Mickeys, spot colorful bikes, or count how many porch swings you can find!

7. U Can Cook Culinary School

Little chefs can get hands-on in the kitchen with themed cooking classes designed just for kids. This family-friendly experience is both educational and delicious.

Celebration is known for its walkable trails. 

8. Walking Trails

Celebration is home to miles of scenic walking and biking trails. Stroll the waterfront boardwalks and shady paths through conservation areas where you might spot turtles, herons, or even a gator sunning itself.

Note about pools & playgrounds: While Celebration is full of welcoming charm, community pools and residential playgrounds are reserved for Celebration residents. Visitors can still enjoy the public splash pad, scenic trails, and open green spaces downtown.

Le Macaron, a boutique patisserie, is a must-visit destination for those seeking the finest French pastries.

Celebration, Florida Shopping & Restaurants

9. Celebration Town Tavern

This New England-style tavern is known for its seafood and family-friendly atmosphere. There’s even a kids' menu, and the outdoor patio offers great people-watching downtown. We especially enjoyed the conversation starters provided at the table, which sparked fun family chats during our meal!

10. Downtown Diner

A classic American diner with comfy booths, kid-approved menu items like pancakes and grilled cheese, and a retro vibe that adds to the fun.

11. Fortuna Bakery

Pick up Colombian pastries, savory empanadas, and sweet treats at this colorful and welcoming bakery. It’s a great spot for a quick snack or coffee break!

12. Kilwins Chocolate & Ice Cream Shop

Located just across from the splash pad, Kilwins is a must-stop for ice cream, fudge, and caramel apples. The sweet scent alone will draw you in!

13. Lakeside Kitchen and Bar

Celebration’s only waterfront restaurant, Lakeside Kitchen (located inside The Inn at Celebration) is the perfect place to enjoy a sunset meal.

14. Le Macaron

Introduce kids to these delicate French cookies in a rainbow of flavors. With its colorful interior and tasty treats, Le Macaron is as photogenic as it is delicious. The shop also offers an assortment of gourmet chocolates—my daughter was thrilled to discover a Dubai chocolate shaped like a Labubu! 

15. Reggiano’s

If your family loves Italian food, this upscale-yet-casual spot offers scrumptious wood-fired pizza, house-made pasta, and kid-friendly portions of their classic dishes.

16. Shops & Boutiques

Celebration Town Center has several charming boutiques worth browsing, including Market Street Gallery for whimsical gifts, Gypsy Moon for boho fashion, The Soap Tree for handmade bath products, and more.

Spend a Sunday exploring local variety of produce, food, and crafts at the Celebration Farmers Market.

Seasonal Events & Family Festivals in Celebration

17. Celebration Farmers Market

Held every Sunday, this family-friendly market features local produce, live music, handmade goods, and tasty snacks.

18. Food Truck Friday

On the second Friday of the month, Celebration Town Center transforms into a food truck haven. Families can try new flavors, enjoy live music, and hang out lakeside.

19. Fourth of July Spectacular

Celebrate Independence Day in true Disney-town style, with a vibrant parade, family games, food vendors, and an impressive fireworks show over the lake.

20. "Now Snowing" Winter Celebration

Every holiday season, Celebration turns into a winter wonderland. Enjoy nightly “snow” on Market Street, train rides, horse-drawn carriages, and carolers. It's pure magic, without the cold!

21. Rocktoberfest

This fall festival features live music, hayrides, and seasonal treats. It’s a great time to visit when the weather starts to cool.

The Inn at Celebration offers a hidden boutique escape surrounded by walking and biking trails and quaint shops outside of Walt Disney World theme parks.

Hotels in Celebration, Florida

22. The Inn at Celebration

If you're looking to spend the night in town, The Inn at Celebration makes an excellent home base. This boutique lakeside hotel is just steps from the Town Center, splash pad, and bike rentals. Families will appreciate the spacious, beautifully decorated rooms—some with balconies and lake views—plus modern amenities and a peaceful atmosphere that perfectly complements the charm of the town.

We were lucky enough to enjoy a hosted one-night stay here, and it made our visit even more special. From the friendly staff and comfy beds to the walkable location and peaceful morning coffee by the lake, we truly felt like we were part of the community, even if just for the night.

23. Meliá Orlando Celebration

Located about a five-minute drive from downtown Celebration, Meliá Orlando offers resort-style accommodations with family-friendly amenities. Families can enjoy spacious suites with full kitchens, an outdoor pool area, and a complimentary shuttle to theme parks. The hotel also features a relaxing atmosphere and on-site dining, making it a great choice for families looking to unwind after a day of adventures.

Unless noted, photos by the author