Miami is a vibrant city filled with diverse culture, stunning beaches, and an array of family-friendly activities. Planning your family's first trip to Miami can be overwhelming, but we've got you covered! In this blog post, we will take you through the must-see attractions, tips for keeping the kids entertained, and suggestions for the best family-friendly accommodations.
Must-See Stops for Your Family in Miami
1. Miami Seaquarium
Kick off your Miami adventure with a visit to the Miami Seaquarium. This oceanarium offers a fun and educational experience, featuring marine life exhibits, interactive encounters, and captivating shows. Watch dolphins perform incredible acrobatics, get up close with sea turtles, and even have a chance to touch and feed stingrays.
2. Jungle Island
Next, venture to Jungle Island, an eco-adventure park that combines the excitement of a theme park with the beauty of a botanical garden. Discover rare and exotic animals, watch thrilling animal shows, and engage in various outdoor activities such as zip-lining and an aerial adventure course. Don't miss the immersive water play area, perfect for cooling off on a hot Miami day.
3. Miami Children's Museum
Keep the fun and learning going with a visit to the Miami Children's Museum. This interactive museum offers exhibits and programs designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning in children of all ages. Explore hands-on exhibits like the Construction Zone, Ocean Odyssey, and Everglades Adventure, and participate in daily educational programs and workshops.
4. Zoo Miami
Get up close and personal with over 3,000 animals at Zoo Miami, Florida's largest and oldest zoological garden. Wander through the park's exhibits, showcasing animals from around the world, and enjoy unique experiences like giraffe feeding and camel rides. The zoo also offers a splash pad and playground to keep the little ones entertained throughout the day.
5. Crandon Park
Take a break from the bustling city and head to Crandon Park for a family beach day. This tranquil park features a beautiful beach with calm waters, making it perfect for young swimmers. Enjoy the park's picnic areas, playgrounds, and nature center, where you can learn about the local flora and fauna.
6. Little Havana
Immerse your family in Miami's rich Cuban culture with a visit to Little Havana. Stroll down Calle Ocho, the neighborhood's main street, where you'll find colorful murals, lively music, and delicious Cuban cuisine. Stop by Domino Park to watch locals playing dominoes, and be sure to try some authentic Cuban dishes at one of the many nearby restaurants.
7. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Step back in time at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, a stunning historic estate that once belonged to businessman James Deering. Tour the lavish mansion filled with European antiques, and wander through the beautifully manicured gardens that surround it. The picturesque setting is perfect for a family picnic or a leisurely afternoon exploring the grounds.
8. Wynwood Walls
Lastly, be sure to visit the Wynwood Walls, an outdoor museum showcasing large-scale murals and street art by renowned artists from around the world. This colorful and creative destination offers a fantastic opportunity for family photos and an introduction to the world of contemporary art.
9. Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science
Expand your family's understanding of science with a visit to the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science. This state-of-the-art facility features interactive exhibits, live animal encounters, and a planetarium. Explore the fascinating world of underwater ecosystems at the three-level aquarium, and embark on a journey through space in the museum's immersive planetarium shows.
10. Everglades National Park
Experience the unique natural beauty of South Florida with a trip to Everglades National Park. This vast wilderness offers numerous opportunities for family-friendly outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, and airboat tours. Observe alligators, manatees, and a variety of bird species as you explore the park's diverse ecosystems.
11. Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)
Introduce your family to the world of contemporary art with a visit to the Pérez Art Museum Miami. This striking waterfront museum showcases a diverse collection of modern and contemporary artwork from around the world. With engaging programs and activities designed for children, PAMM offers a welcoming and educational environment for art enthusiasts of all ages.
12. Bayside Marketplace
For a fun-filled shopping and dining experience, head to Bayside Marketplace. This open-air shopping center overlooks the beautiful Biscayne Bay and offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Enjoy live music, street performers, and picturesque views as you browse for souvenirs and indulge in local flavors.
13. Coral Castle
Embark on a mysterious adventure by visiting Coral Castle, a unique stone structure built by Edward Leedskalnin in the early 20th century. Wander through the hand-carved coral rock sculptures and marvel at the story behind this intriguing attraction. The guided tours offer insights into the creation and history of Coral Castle, capturing the imagination of visitors of all ages.
14. Oleta River State Park
Escape the city and immerse your family in nature at Oleta River State Park. This urban oasis offers a variety of recreational activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, biking, and hiking. The park also features a calm, shallow beach perfect for families with young children. Enjoy a day of outdoor fun and exploration in this beautiful natural setting.
15. Matheson Hammock Park
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Matheson Hammock Park, a picturesque park nestled along the coast of Biscayne Bay. This family-friendly destination features a man-made atoll pool, which offers calm, shallow waters perfect for young children. Enjoy picnicking, kayaking, and nature walks among the lush tropical landscape that surrounds the park.
16. Miami Trolley
Hop on the Miami Trolley for a convenient and budget-friendly way to explore the city. With several routes covering popular neighborhoods and attractions, this free public transportation service is an excellent option for families. The open-air trolleys provide a unique sightseeing experience as you travel between Miami's must-see destinations.
17. Grapeland Water Park
Cool off on a hot Miami day with a visit to Grapeland Water Park, a family-friendly water park with attractions suitable for all ages. Enjoy exhilarating water slides, a lazy river, and splash zones for younger children. This refreshing destination offers a fun-filled day of water activities and relaxation for the entire family.
18. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
Immerse your family in the breathtaking beauty of nature at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. This 83-acre garden features an impressive collection of tropical plants, rare palms, and flowering trees. Wander through the serene pathways, participate in educational programs, and admire the stunning art installations that are scattered throughout the property.
19. Deering Estate
Discover a slice of Miami's history with a visit to the Deering Estate, a historic mansion and cultural center. Tour the well-preserved estate, which once belonged to Charles Deering, and explore the beautiful grounds that include natural areas, mangroves, and a fossil site. The estate also hosts regular family-friendly events and educational programs.
20. Dolphin Mall
For a family shopping spree, head to Dolphin Mall, a massive shopping center with over 240 retail outlets, dining options, and entertainment venues. Enjoy shopping for your favorite brands, savoring delicious meals, and taking part in family-friendly entertainment, such as the bowling alley and movie theater.
21. Fruit and Spice Park
Treat your family to a unique and flavorful adventure at Fruit and Spice Park, a 37-acre botanical garden featuring over 500 varieties of fruit, nut, and spice trees. Take a guided tour to learn about the park's exotic plants, sample fresh fruits, and explore the beautiful grounds. This one-of-a-kind attraction offers a delightful sensory experience for visitors of all ages.
22. The Ancient Spanish Monastery
Step back in time with a visit to The Ancient Spanish Monastery, a stunning 12th-century European monastery that was dismantled, shipped to the United States, and reassembled in Miami. Discover the fascinating history behind this architectural gem, and explore the tranquil gardens that surround the monastery, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
23. Miami-Dade County EcoAdventures
Embark on an unforgettable outdoor adventure with Miami-Dade County EcoAdventures, a program that offers guided eco-tours and outdoor activities throughout the county's parks and natural areas. Choose from activities like snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, and bird-watching, all designed to connect your family with Miami's beautiful natural environment.
24. Miccosukee Indian Village
Experience the rich cultural heritage of the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida with a visit to Miccosukee Indian Village. Learn about the tribe's history, traditions, and lifestyle through demonstrations, museum exhibits, and guided tours. Don't miss the thrilling alligator wrestling shows, where you can witness the incredible skills of the tribe's alligator handlers.
25. Venetian Pool
For a unique and memorable swimming experience, take your family to the Venetian Pool, a historic public swimming pool created from a coral rock quarry in 1924. This beautiful pool, fed by spring water, features waterfalls, grottos, and a sandy beach area. Lounge under the shade of palm trees and enjoy a relaxing day by the water in this enchanting setting.
26. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
Discover the natural beauty and serenity of Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, located on the southern tip of Key Biscayne. This picturesque park offers pristine sandy beaches, calm waters for swimming, and a historic lighthouse dating back to 1825. Enjoy recreational activities like kayaking, biking, and fishing, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the Florida sun.
27, Miami Auto Museum
Fuel your family's passion for automobiles with a visit to the Miami Auto Museum, home to an impressive collection of vintage and classic cars, motorcycles, and even military vehicles. Explore the various exhibits showcasing iconic automobiles from different eras and admire the impressive collection of James Bond memorabilia, including vehicles and props from the famous film series.
28. Sky Zone Miami
Unleash your family's energy at Sky Zone Miami, an indoor trampoline park offering endless fun and excitement for all ages. Bounce on wall-to-wall trampolines, challenge each other on the Ninja Warrior Course, or engage in friendly competition during a game of trampoline dodgeball. This exhilarating destination is perfect for burning off energy and enjoying some active family fun.
29. Monkey Jungle
Get up close and personal with primates at Monkey Jungle, a unique wildlife park where the monkeys roam free, and the humans are caged. Embark on a guided tour through the park to observe and learn about various species of monkeys, and even have the opportunity to feed them. This fascinating attraction offers an unforgettable wildlife encounter for the entire family.
30. Miami Beach Botanical Garden
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a peaceful visit to the Miami Beach Botanical Garden, a 3-acre urban oasis showcasing a diverse collection of tropical and subtropical plants. Wander through the beautifully landscaped grounds, and enjoy the tranquility of the Japanese Garden, butterfly garden, and native plant displays.
31. Museum of Graffiti
Experience the colorful and dynamic world of graffiti art at the Museum of Graffiti, a one-of-a-kind museum dedicated to showcasing the history and evolution of this unique art form. Explore thought-provoking exhibits, participate in graffiti workshops, and learn about the artists who have shaped the graffiti scene in Miami and beyond.
32. Virginia Key Beach Park
Venture to Virginia Key Beach Park, a historic beach destination offering beautiful shoreline, nature trails, and recreational activities. Enjoy a relaxing beach day, explore the park's restored carousel and mini train, or rent bikes to explore the island's scenic trails. This hidden gem provides a tranquil retreat from the bustling city.
33. Gold Coast Railroad Museum
All aboard for a journey into the past at the Gold Coast Railroad Museum, where your family can explore an impressive collection of historic trains, railcars, and locomotives. Take a guided tour, enjoy a train ride, or participate in hands-on activities and special events. This fascinating museum is sure to delight train enthusiasts of all ages.
34. The Underline
Get active and enjoy Miami's urban art scene by exploring The Underline, a 10-mile linear park and urban trail running beneath the Metrorail. This innovative public space features art installations, exercise stations, playgrounds, and beautifully landscaped gardens, providing a unique recreational experience for the entire family.
35. Key Biscayne
Just a short drive from Miami, the island of Key Biscayne offers a peaceful escape from the city's fast-paced energy. Enjoy beautiful beaches, lush parks, and family-friendly attractions, such as the Miami Seaquarium and Crandon Park. Rent bikes to explore the island's scenic trails, or take part in water sports like paddleboarding and snorkeling.
Planning Your First Family Vacation to Miami
Planning your first family vacation to Miami doesn't have to be a daunting task. By following these steps and keeping an open mind, you can ensure a fun and memorable experience for the entire family. With its beautiful beaches, exciting attractions, and diverse culture, Miami is the perfect destination for a family getaway that will create lasting memories.