Miami’s Top 17 Family Activities

Dreaming of beautiful, white sandy beaches, delicious food, exciting culture, and plenty of sunshine? Miami has all of this and more.

You may think that Miami is an adult-only destination, but in fact it’s an ideal spot for a family vacation. There’s plenty to see and do, whether your family prefers a more relaxed vibe or loves to be a part of the action.

Get ready to pick your favorites from our list of 17 things to do with kids in Miami!

Travel Considerations

Before you begin planning your trip, you’ll want to take into consideration some important travel tips:

• • Plan to stay for at least three nights in order to explore Miami properly and take advantage of all the activities it has to offer. More time means more opportunities to explore not only Miami, but other must-see attractions.
  • Look for hotels that cater specifically to families and have amenities such as kids clubs and pools with waterslides. If Miami hotels are a little out of your price range, you can find plenty of places just outside the city that are both budget and family friendly.
  • Since so many airlines fly in and out of Miami everyday, there are always plenty of great deals on flights, whether you’re planning your trip months ahead or last minute. Miami has two major airports, which makes it convenient no matter where you’re staying. Miami International Airport is your best choice if you prefer to utilize public transportation. If you choose Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport you will need to rent a car or use the Tri-Rail.
  • Unless you are only going to spend your days lounging on the beach, you’ll want to rent a car to get around. If you need other options for transportation, the Metrobus offers affordable fares and the Metro Mover will help you get around the shopping districts. The Metro Rail is a good option whether you need to get around town or you want to go beyond the city limits. There are plenty of taxis, but be aware that younger kiddos must have a car seat or booster.

• Miami offers plenty of sunshine and warm days perfect for playing on the beach. However, despite what seems like endless days of good weather, Miami can experience some heavy downpours, so pack those umbrellas and ponchos. Visiting anytime between March and May will provide pleasant Spring weather with average temperatures in the 70s and 80s. It’s best to avoid Miami during hurricane season which runs from June through November.

What to Pack

Packing for a trip to Miami with the whole family doesn’t have to be stressful. Knowing what to pack will keep everyone happy and comfortable. Here’s what you need to bring:

• Plenty of sunscreen. Thinkbaby SPF 50 is our go-to pick!
• Spring/summer clothing – preferably cotton and breathable materials
• Comfy footwear that works for the beach and the city streets
• Rash guards to protect your family from sand, sun, and seawater
• Sun gear like hats and sunglasses
• Hydrocortisone cream for the things that bite and sting
• Bug spray to keep the things that bite and sting away
• Waterproof phone pouch
• Wet Bags for wet and sandy swimsuits
• Water shoes to protect feet from hot sand and sharp shells
• Popup beach tent – forget bringing or renting an umbrella!

4 Kid-Pleasing Dining Options

When it’s time to eat, the last thing you want to be doing is searching for a restaurant that will please everyone in the family! Look no further than these 4 dining spots that will please kids and grown ups alike.

1. Ms. Cheezious – Located in the Mimo District, this spot is a favorite of tourists as well as locals. They serve grilled cheese – the ultimate comfort food! And not just any grilled cheese. Besides the traditional cheese and bread, you can find versions with pulled pork, buffalo chicken, short ribs, and even chicken and waffles! You can also enjoy s’mores and handspun milkshakes.
2. Ironside Pizza – This restaurant, located in the heart of Miami, offers fun, authentic Italian-style dining. Enjoy a meal on their large, outdoor patio and garden. Family-friendly, Ironside offers something for everyone, including a breakfast menu, lunch and dinner, as well as coffee and desserts.
3. Knaus Berry Farm – This seasonal spot in Homestead is open from November through mid-April. You won’t want to miss their delicious cinnamon rolls and baked goods. Plus, you can pick your own strawberries and tomatoes!
4. Flanigan’s –  With 8 different locations, you’re sure to find one close by. The laid-back atmosphere is perfect for families, and your kiddos can choose from their very own menu. Adults can enjoy rib rolls, chicken wings, shrimp, or a bowl of chowder or gumbo.

Miami’s Top 17 Family Activities

Miami offers plenty of activities, both indoors and out, to keep kids of all ages entertained for hours on end. Make sure to check out each location’s website for hours, pricing, and up-to-date attraction info.

1. 1. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park – The beaches at this popular park are always in the national top 10 list. Enjoy history, wildlife, and plenty of activities, while catching some rays. Explore the 65-foot tall lighthouse, go kayaking or cycling, or simply play on the beach and take advantage of the calm waters.
   2. Miami Seaquarium – This premier facility offers everyone a chance to learn about and engage with sea life. The Seaquarium offers shows and exhibits with marine life including dolphins, manatees, sting rays, penguins, and sea lions. And you don’t want to miss the opportunity to get in the water and swim with dolphins at Dolphin Harbor!

1. 1. Miami Children’s Museum – This is definitely not a boring old museum. Your kids will feel like grown ups when they explore child-sized replicas, including a grocery store and a bank. They’ll also love the two-story sandcastle and interactive playground. Parents will appreciate all the learning opportunities as well as the futuristic-style architecture.
   2. Wynwood Walls – Teach your kids about art and take advantage of some amazing photo ops at this outdoor museum. There’s plenty of green space to run around on, and you can grab a delicious lunch at nearby restaurants.
   3. Tidal Cove – Get ready to rethink the traditional hotel pool! This sprawling water park, located at the JW Marriott Turnberry Resort & Spa, features seven waterslides, a lazy river and splash pad, and a 4000 square foot kids pool! Parents can relax at one of two eateries, or indulge in delicious cocktails that rival the best spots on South Beach.
   4. Everglades Alligator Farm – Immerse yourself in the Everglades at the Everglades Alligator Farm. You’ll enjoy airboat rides, alligator shows and encounters, as well as local and exotic snakes. Take a photo with a baby alligator, or head to the observation deck for a sweeping view of the local landscape.
   5. Miccosukee Indian Village – This educational facility makes learning about Native American culture fun and engaging. Explore the museum, watch an alligator demonstration, sample tribal cuisine, or take an airboat ride to see Indian camps.
   6. Zoo Miami – Who doesn’t love the zoo? Everyone can visit with animals, splash at the Fiesta Fountain and in the waterplay areas, or peddle around on a Safari Cycle. Parents will love that the zoo offers multiple eateries, which means there’s no need to pack snacks!
   7. Frost Science Museum – This museum offers plenty of hands-on opportunities to explore and understand science as well as the underwater world. It’s also a great place to escape from the heat.
   8. Zoological Wildlife Foundation – This private facility houses animals that have been donated or rescued from large zoos. It is the only place that allows kids to hold primates as well as interact with wildlife. Parents and kids will enjoy learning about predatory birds and mammals, primates, and other exotic species.
   9. FunDimension – This massive warehouse has been turned into an indoor arcade complete with laser tag, video games, bumper cars, and a 7-D theater. Kids will love the four-story playground and the climbing wall. Parents can enjoy the wi-fi, coffee, wine, and beer.
   10. Miami Children’s Theater – Do your kids have dreams of performing on stage? This children’s theater combines live experiences with educational opportunities. Everyone will love the fact that all the performances are produced, choreographed, and performed by kids!

1. 1. The Poppet Project – If you’re looking for a place to relax and cool off from the Miami heat, this place is perfect. It’s a crafter’s paradise where kids will find an endless selection of materials at various craft stations. You can drop in any time and pay by the hour. Parents will love that their kids can make a mess without having to clean up after them!
   2. Oleta River State Park – This incredible park offers plenty of activities both in the water and on land. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy one of their many pavilions, ride bikes, or go paddle boarding. And you’ll want to be sure to take advantage of the full moon kayak tours once a month. You’ll kayak in calm waters through a peaceful mangrove trail and into Biscayne Bay.
   3. Venetian Pool – This could possibly be the most beautiful pool in the world, with a lush, tropical setting, Italian architectural touches, and freshwater pools that are replenished daily from a subterranean aquifer. Best enjoyed on weekdays, there are hours of fun to be had by water-loving kiddos. Parents will love the on-site cafe, free parking, and clean showers.
   4. Gold Coast Railroad Museum – This is a must-visit museum for train lovers big and small. Explore model train displays, and over 40 different railcars, including passenger cars, hospital cars, freight cars, and steam locomotives. If you visit on a weekend you can take the whole family on a train ride!
   5. Sporting Events – If your family loves sports, Miami offers plenty of opportunities to take in a live game! Teams include the Miami Dolphins, Miami Heat, Miami Marlins, and the Florida Panthers. You can also catch a game at the University of Miami.

Bookmark this list of 17 things to do with kids in Miami and you’re ready to go!