Miami is a vibrant city known for its sun-soaked beaches, lively nightlife, and diverse culture. However, it’s not just a playground for adults – there are countless family-friendly attractions and activities to enjoy as well. In this article, we’ll explore 15 fantastic things to do with your family in Miami that will make your vacation unforgettable. From thrilling adventures to educational experiences, there’s something for everyone in this exciting city.
1. Visit the Miami Seaquarium
Begin your family adventure with a trip to the Miami Seaquarium, a 38-acre marine park that features a variety of sea life, including dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees. Enjoy spectacular shows featuring dolphins and sea lions, and participate in interactive exhibits that offer a unique, hands-on experience. The park also offers the opportunity to swim with dolphins, providing an unforgettable encounter with these friendly marine mammals.
2. Explore Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Step back in time as you explore the enchanting Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. This Italian Renaissance-style villa, built in the early 20th century, showcases a vast collection of European art and antiques. The 10-acre formal gardens surrounding the museum are meticulously maintained and offer a serene escape from the bustling city. With its beautiful architecture and stunning gardens, Vizcaya is a must-see attraction for families who appreciate art and history.
3. Spend a day at Jungle Island
Jungle Island, located between downtown Miami and South Beach, is an interactive zoological park that offers an exciting adventure for the entire family. Get up close and personal with exotic animals such as lemurs, kangaroos, and sloths, and watch spectacular animal shows featuring parrots, reptiles, and more. Jungle Island also features a thrilling zip line, a climbing wall, and a water park, ensuring an action-packed day for everyone.
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4. Enjoy a picnic in South Pointe Park
Pack a picnic and head to South Pointe Park, a 17-acre urban park located at the southernmost tip of Miami Beach. The park features a playground, walking paths, and stunning views of the city skyline and Biscayne Bay. After your meal, take a stroll along the beach or enjoy the park’s interactive water features to cool off on a hot day. Its a perfect way to spend the day exploring the family friendly activities in Miami!
5. Take a boat tour of Biscayne Bay
Discover Miami’s beautiful coastline and the glittering waters of Biscayne Bay on a family-friendly boat tour. Choose from a variety of cruises, including pirate-themed adventures, sightseeing tours, or relaxing sunset cruises. Along the way, you’ll catch a glimpse of luxurious waterfront mansions, spot marine life, and take in the stunning skyline of downtown Miami.
6. Go on an airboat ride in the Everglades
Experience the wild side of Miami with an airboat ride through the Everglades, a vast and unique ecosystem teeming with wildlife. As you glide through the marshes and mangroves, keep an eye out for alligators, birds, and other native species. Many tours also offer educational presentations, giving your family the chance to learn about the importance of preserving this fragile environment. I promise you that when it comes to family friendly activities in Miami, this will be the one that your kids remember for the rest of their lives! It is one of the coolest experiences you can do in the area!
7. Visit the Miami Children’s Museum
Dedicated to enriching the lives of children through education and play, the Miami Children’s Museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits and programs designed to inspire creativity and curiosity. Explore the many themed galleries, including a cruise ship, a construction zone, and a music studio, where kids can engage in hands-on learning and imaginative play.
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8. Check out the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science
Located in downtown Miami, the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science offers a wealth of exhibits and experiences that will spark your family’s curiosity and love for science. Highlights include the three-level aquarium, the cutting-edge planetarium, and interactive exhibits on topics such as engineering, health, and the environment. With so much to explore, the Frost Museum is an excellent destination for families looking to blend fun with education.
9. Play mini-golf at Boomers! Miami
For a fun-filled outing, head to Boomers! Miami, a family entertainment center offering mini-golf, go-karts, bumper boats, and an arcade. The 18-hole mini-golf course is a hit with families, featuring challenging obstacles, lush landscaping, and engaging themes. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a busy day exploring the city’s many attractions.
10. Catch a Marlins game at Marlins Park
Experience America’s favorite pastime at Marlins Park, home of the Miami Marlins Major League Baseball team. The state-of-the-art stadium features a retractable roof, ensuring comfortable conditions for spectators regardless of the weather. With exciting games, delicious food, and family-friendly entertainment, a Marlins game is an enjoyable outing for all ages. This is one of our favorite family friendly activities in Miami because we are a baseball family through and through!
11. Relax at Crandon Park Beach
Escape the hustle and bustle of Miami Beach and head to the more tranquil Crandon Park Beach, located on Key Biscayne. This family-friendly beach offers shallow waters, gentle waves, and plenty of space for children to play. The park also features a playground, picnic areas, and tennis courts, making it an ideal spot for a day of relaxation and fun in the sun.
12. Discover the Miami Design District
Explore Miami’s creative side by visiting the Miami Design District, a neighborhood known for its unique architecture, public art installations, and high-end shopping. Wander through the pedestrian-friendly streets and take in the colorful murals and innovative sculptures, providing a perfect opportunity to introduce your family to the world of art and design.
13. Take a family bike ride along the Miami Beach Boardwalk
Rent bikes and cruise along the Miami Beach Boardwalk, a scenic, paved path that stretches for over four miles along the Atlantic Ocean. With gentle ocean breezes, stunning beach views, and plenty of places to stop for a bite to eat or a refreshing drink, a family bike ride along the boardwalk is a delightful way to explore the Miami Beach coastline.
14. Visit the Wynwood Walls
A trip to Miami wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Wynwood Walls, an outdoor museum showcasing large-scale murals created by some of the world’s most renowned street artists. Stroll through the vibrant, ever-changing canvas, and snap family photos in front of the colorful and imaginative artwork.
15. Learn about wildlife at the Zoological Wildlife Foundation
For a truly unique experience, visit the Zoological Wildlife Foundation, a private facility that offers intimate, guided wildlife tours. Your family will have the opportunity to interact with a variety of exotic animals, such as tigers, monkeys, and reptiles while learning about conservation and the importance of protecting these incredible creatures.
Miami is a city filled with endless possibilities for family fun and adventure. With so many diverse attractions and activities, there’s something to suit every interest and age group. From exploring the great outdoors to discovering the city’s rich history and culture, your family will create lasting memories on your unforgettable Miami vacation. While many think of the city as an adult getaway, as you can see there are a ton of family friendly activities in Miami for you and your family!