So, you’re heading to Miami with the family? Awesome choice! While Miami’s got a reputation for wild nightlife and bustling beaches there’s actually a ton of kid-friendly fun to be had.
If you plan your trip to Miami correctly, your little ones (and you) will have a blast. Here’s a rundown of the best family activities that’ll have everyone grinning from ear to ear.
Monkey Jungle
Imagine a place where humans are caged, and monkeys run free (almost). No, it’s not a Planet of the Apes movie set – it’s Monkey Jungle!
The kids will go bananas watching primates swing overhead. Just watch out for falling ‘gifts’ from above.
Miami Children’s Museum
This place is like Disneyland for curious minds. With interactive exhibits on everything from banking to supermarkets, it’s sneaky education disguised as pure fun.
Adults may also learn a thing or two!
Jungle Island
Lions, tigers, and… flamingos, oh my! Jungle Island is home to all sorts of cool critters. The parrot show is a hoot, and the petting zoo is perfect for little animal lovers.
Miami Seaquarium
You’ll find dolphins, seals, and manatees here. The Miami Seaquarium is like SeaWorld’s cool cousin.
Don’t miss the killer whale show – it’s…killer (pun intended). Just be prepared for the inevitable ‘Can we get a pet dolphin?’ question afterward.
Frost Science Museum
Got a budding scientist on your hands? Frost Science Museum is the place to be. From a planetarium to a three-story aquarium, it’s packed with mind-blowing exhibits.
Fair warning: you might leave feeling like you need to go back to school.
Venetian Pool
This isn’t your average public pool. Built from a coral rock quarry, the Venetian Pool is like swimming in a movie set.
With waterfalls, caves, and crystal-clear water, it’s the perfect spot to cool off. Bonus: it’s so pretty that even teens won’t mind being seen there.
Zoo Miami
Zoo Miami is huge, so wear comfy shoes. The Amazon and Beyond exhibit is a hit, and the wildlife shows are always a crowd-pleaser.
Just don’t blame us if your kid starts asking for a pet giraffe.
Everglades Alligator Farm
Alligators might not be cuddly, but they sure are cool. At the Everglades Alligator Farm, you can take an airboat ride, watch a gator show, and even hold a baby alligator.
It’s the closest you’ll get to Jurassic Park without the danger.
The Bass Museum of Art
Art museums aren’t boring – certainly not this one! The Bass is like a playground for your eyes. With its wild contemporary art installations, your kids might actually forget about their phones for a minute.
The best part? They’ve got tons of family programs and interactive exhibits.
Oleta River State Park
For outdoorsy families, Oleta River State Park is a gem. Kayaking, biking, fishing – you name it, they’ve got it. It’s like a nature playground right in the city.
Just remember the bug spray or the mosquitos will feast on you.
Crandon Park Beach
This beach is like the Goldilocks of Miami shores – not too crowded, not too quiet, just right. With calm waters and plenty of shade, it’s perfect for families.
There’s even a restored carousel nearby. Because nothing says ‘beach day’ like a merry-go-round, right?
Bayside Marketplace
Shopping might not scream ‘kid-friendly,’ but Bayside Marketplace isn’t your average mall. With street performers, boat tours, and plenty of food options, it’s an experience. Plus, the views of Biscayne Bay are awesome.
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
I know what you’re thinking – a garden? Really? But Fairchild is gorgeous, with plenty of space for kids to run around. The butterfly garden is magical, and they often have cool events.
Wynwood Walls
Who says art has to be boring? Wynwood Walls is an outdoor museum of street art that’ll blow your kids’ minds. It’s colorful, funky, and best of all, no one will shush you for being too loud.
Matheson Hammock Park
Your kids will love it here! There is a diverse range of fun outdoor activities for families. The park features a beach, a marina, and a unique man-made atoll pool, providing multiple options for aquatic enjoyment.
Plus, the shallow waters of the atoll pool are particularly suitable for younger children, ensuring a safe environment for water play.
Deering Estate
History doesn’t have to be a snooze-fest, and Deering Estate proves it. With beautiful grounds, a butterfly garden, and even fossil pits, it’s a unique spot.
Who knows? You might inspire a future paleontologist.
Gold Coast Railroad Museum
Choo-choo! The Gold Coast Railroad Museum is a hit with train enthusiasts of all ages. You can climb aboard vintage trains and even ride a few.
It’s like stepping back in time, minus the whole Oregon Trail dysentery thing.
Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science
Another science museum? You bet! This place is hands-on heaven. From a planetarium to a massive aquarium, it’s packed with cool stuff.
The best part? It’s educational enough that you can totally count it as a school day. Win-win!
Pinecrest Gardens
Once upon a time, this was the original Parrot Jungle. Now, it’s a beautiful botanical garden with a petting zoo, splash pad, and playground.
It’s like a choose-your-own-adventure book, but in real life.
Miami Beach Botanical Garden
This little oasis in the heart of Miami Beach is a great place to chill out. With beautiful plants, cool water features, and often some art exhibits, it’s a nice change of pace.
Plus, admission is free. Score!
Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)
Art museums and kids don’t always mix, but PAMM gets it right. With hands-on workshops and plenty of space to move around, it’s surprisingly kid-friendly. The building itself is pretty cool, too – it’s like a giant, artsy treehouse.
Tidal Cove Waterpark
Water slides, lazy rivers, and a FlowRider surf simulator – Tidal Cove has it all. It’s like all the best parts of a beach day, minus the sand in uncomfortable places. Just be prepared; your kids may struggle to leave.
Miami Children’s Theater
For the drama kings and queens in your family, Miami Children’s Theater is a treat. With shows performed by kids, for kids, it’s always a fun time.
Who knows? You might have a future Broadway star on your hands.
Pelican Harbor Seabird Station
This place is for the bird nerds. You can see rescued pelicans and other seabirds up close. It’s educational, fun, and a great way to teach kids about wildlife conservation.
Knaus Berry Farm
Okay, so this one’s a bit of a drive, but it’s worth it. Knaus Berry Farm is famous for their cinnamon rolls (they’re like happiness in pastry form), but they also have a u-pick strawberry field and a maze.
It’s like stepping into a Norman Rockwell painting, but with better food.
Fun, Family & Miami
So there you have it, folks – 25 family-friendly activities that will make your Miami trip one for the books. From monkey business to science adventures, there’s something here for every kind of kid (and kid-at-heart).
Just remember to pack the sunscreen, stay hydrated, and be prepared for the inevitable ‘When can we come back?’ questions on the way home.
Happy exploring, and may the odds of avoiding temper tantrums be ever in your favor!