Top Thanksgiving Day Activities In South Florida

Thanksgiving Day is a day when families gather together to give thanks for all that they have. However, once the Thanksgiving Day meal is over, the day can become just like any other day: boring. Take Thanksgiving Day to the next level: take in a parade, go to the beach, watch a 3D film on Africa or enjoy a relaxing cruise on the river.

Annual North Miami Winternational Thanksgiving Parade

Starts at NE 6 Ave. running along 125 St. to NE 12 Ave.
North Miami, FL 33161
(305) 893-6511
www.northmiamifl.gov

Ever wanted to go to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade but didn't like the idea of the long drive, or plane ride, and the crowds? Then check out the Annual North Miami Winternational Thanksgiving Parade. While this one may not be as big as Macy's, it will still have lots of floats, bands, dance groups and more. But get there early as the good seats fill up fast!

Boomers

3100 Airport Road
Boca Raton, FL 33431
(561) 347-1888
www.boomersparks.com

Thanksgiving Day fun for the whole family can be found at Boomers. This establishment has a huge game room with the latest games and some old classics. There are even some games that give tickets that can be turned in for prizes at the in-store redemption center. Mini golf, a climbing wall, bumper cars and laser tag are also available at Boomers. They even have an adult and older kids go-Kart section, as well as a small children go-kart section. prices vary depending on the activity. What a great way to spend Thanksgiving Day with the family.

Oleta River State Park

3400 N.E. 163rd St.
North Miami Beach, FL 33160
(305) 919-1844
www.floridastateparks.org/park/Oleta-River

Oleta River State Park is open year round and has enough activities that every member of the family can enjoy Thanksgiving Day afternoon with a day in the sun. There are bike trails, hiking trails, a mangrove forest for wildlife viewing and a lengthy beach walk. Rent a kayak, a canoe or a paddle board to explore the river that goes through the park. There are even pavilions and covered benches so visitors can bring their dinner to the park. Cabins are also available for rent with a two night minimum required.

Related:  Top Activities For Kids in South Florida Over Thanksgiving Weekend

(Source: junglequeen.com)

Jungle Queen Riverboat Cruise

Bahia Mar Yachting Center
801 Seabreeze Blvd
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
(954) 462-5596
www.junglequeen.com

Since 1935, the Jungle Queen Riverboat has been taking guests on a relaxing 90 minute cruise along New River in Fort Lauderdale. This Old-Fashioned Sternwheeler is an open-seating vessel that can hold up to 410 passengers. Visitors cruising on the Jungle Queen can enjoy an alligator show during the sightseeing cruise. Guests can also book a dinner cruise, which lasts about 4 hours and includes a visit to Jungle Queen's small, tropical island situated along New River.

Wild Africa 3D

Museum of Discovery & Science & Autonation IMX
401 SW 2nd Street
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
(954) 713-0930
www.mods.org

Take a spectacular 3D ride through, across, over and within Africa. Learn about the water cycles that relate to Africa, its wildlife and its plant life. During this magical journey across Africa, visitors will see gorillas, flamingoes that seem to be dancing to an unheard song and a herd of elephants swimming in the water. This is an experience that visitors will remember for years to come.

Related: 5 New Thanksgiving Traditions To Start With Your Family

Katherine Bostick is a freelance writer covering all things Tampa Bay. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.