Best Things to Do in Miami with Kids

Miami offers a vibrant blend of sun, culture, and endless activities perfect for families. From pristine beaches to fascinating museums and unique neighborhoods, the Magic City promises an unforgettable adventure for all ages. This master guide will help you uncover both Miami’s iconic must-sees and its charming local secrets, ensuring a trip full of joy and discovery for your little ones as you explore all the wonderful things to do in Miami with kids.

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Must-See Landmarks & Attractions

South Beach & Art Deco Historic District

South Beach is more than just sand and surf; it’s an iconic destination for families. Kids will love building sandcastles, splashing in the gentle waves, and spotting colorful marine life. The vibrant Art Deco buildings provide a unique backdrop for strolls, offering a glimpse into Miami’s distinctive architecture. Spending a day here is one of the quintessential things to do in Miami with kids.

Good to Know: Access to the beach is free, though tours of the Art Deco district may incur varying costs. Strollers navigate well on boardwalks and sidewalks, but are less practical directly on the sand. Plan for a typical duration of 2-4 hours, combining beach time with a leisurely walk through the district.

• Prices: Free access to the beach; tours of the Art Deco district vary.
• Stroller access: Good on boardwalks and sidewalks; less ideal directly on sand.
• Typical duration: 2-4 hours for beach time and a quick walk.

Pro-Tip: Visit in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds and the intense afternoon sun. Look for public restrooms and changing facilities near Lummus Park. Remember to bring plenty of water and high-SPF sunscreen for the whole family, and consider a sand-proof blanket for comfortable lounging. For little feet sensitive to hot sand or shells, water shoes can be a great addition.

Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science

The Frost Science Museum is a state-of-the-art facility designed to ignite curiosity in kids of all ages. This is one of the best educational things to do in Miami with kids, where families can explore the impressive three-story Aquarium, marvel at captivating planetarium shows, and engage with countless interactive exhibits. The museum covers a vast array of topics, from the delicate Everglades ecosystem to the incredible power of the human body, offering a truly captivating educational experience.

Good to Know: Adult tickets typically range from $30-35, while children aged 4-11 are $20-25. Children under 3 enjoy free admission. Stroller access is excellent throughout the museum, with convenient elevators and ramps. Expect to spend 3-5 hours here.

• Prices: Adult tickets typically $30-35, children $20-25 (ages 4-11). Free for children under 3.
• Stroller access: Excellent throughout the museum, with elevators and ramps.
• Typical duration: 3-5 hours.

Pro-Tip: To save both time and potentially money, purchase your tickets online in advance. Upon opening, head straight for the Aquarium to enjoy its wonders before it becomes too crowded, ensuring a more relaxed experience for the whole family.

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

Step back in time at Vizcaya, a European-inspired estate boasting breathtaking gardens and a magnificent mansion. While the opulent interior might appeal more to older children with an appreciation for history and architecture, younger ones will delight in exploring the sprawling grounds. They can discover secret gardens, playful fountains, and whimsical sculptures, making it a tranquil and engaging escape from the city bustle and one of the more unique things to do in Miami with kids.

Good to Know: Adult tickets are typically around $25, with children aged 6-12 priced at $10. Admission is free for children under 5. The gardens are mostly stroller-friendly with paved paths, though some areas may present challenges. Stroller access inside the mansion is limited. Plan for a visit lasting 2-3 hours.

• Prices: Adult tickets around $25, children (6-12) $10, free for children under 5.
• Stroller access: Gardens are mostly stroller-friendly with paved paths, but some areas might be challenging. Limited stroller access inside the mansion.
• Typical duration: 2-3 hours.

Pro-Tip: Pack light snacks and drinks to enjoy amidst the beautiful gardens. You can also engage kids by transforming the visit into a fun scavenger hunt, challenging them to find specific statues, fountains, or unique plants throughout the estate.

Zoo Miami

As Florida’s largest and oldest zoo, Zoo Miami is home to over 3,000 animals from Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas, all housed in spacious, open-air exhibits that mimic their natural habitats. Kids will absolutely adore the up-close wildlife encounters, exciting feeding experiences, and the impressive children’s zoo. It’s an immersive experience for animal lovers and a truly engaging option when considering things to do in Miami with kids.

Good to Know: Adult tickets are approximately $23, and children aged 3-12 are $19, with free admission for children under 2. Stroller access is excellent, with wide, paved pathways throughout the expansive zoo. Wagons are also conveniently available for rent. Allocate 4-6 hours for your visit to fully enjoy everything.

• Prices: Adult tickets around $23, children (3-12) $19, free for children under 2.
• Stroller access: Excellent, with wide, paved pathways throughout. Wagons are also available for rent.
• Typical duration: 4-6 hours.

Pro-Tip: Given the zoo’s expansive nature, renting a safari cycle or wagon can make navigation much easier, especially with little ones. Remember to bring refillable water bottles and take advantage of the hydration stations located throughout the park to stay refreshed.

Everglades National Park

Just a short drive from Miami, Everglades National Park offers a unique opportunity to experience a diverse and wild ecosystem teeming with wildlife. Families can embark on an exhilarating airboat tour to spot alligators, various bird species, and other fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. Various visitor centers within the park offer ranger-led programs perfect for engaging young explorers, making this an unforgettable outdoor adventure among the things to do in Miami with kids.

Good to Know: The entrance fee is around $30 per vehicle, valid for 7 days. Airboat tours are a separate cost, typically ranging from $25-40 per person. Visitor centers and boardwalk trails are generally stroller-friendly, though airboats are not suitable for strollers. Plan for 3-5 hours for a partial visit, including an airboat ride.

• Prices: Entrance fee per vehicle around $30, valid for 7 days. Airboat tours are separate (approx. $25-40 per person).
• Stroller access: Visitor centers and boardwalk trails are generally stroller-friendly. Airboats are not.
• Typical duration: 3-5 hours for a partial visit, including an airboat ride.

Pro-Tip: Wear insect repellent, especially during the warmer months, as mosquitoes can be prevalent. It’s wise to book airboat tours in advance, and when choosing an operator, look for those with covered boats to provide much-needed shade from the Florida sun. Always carry a kids travel first aid kit for minor scrapes or bites.

Miami Seaquarium

Get up close with marine life at the Miami Seaquarium, home to amazing dolphins, playful sea lions, gentle manatees, and many other fascinating creatures. Kids will be thrilled by the entertaining animal shows and the chance to learn important lessons about ocean conservation. Interactive programs, such as swimming with dolphins (available at an extra cost), offer truly memorable experiences that make this a fantastic choice for things to do in Miami with kids.

Good to Know: Adult tickets typically cost $50-60, while children aged 3-9 are usually $40-50. The park offers good stroller access with paved pathways throughout. Most families spend 3-4 hours here enjoying the shows and exhibits.

• Prices: Adult tickets typically $50-60, children (3-9) $40-50.
• Stroller access: Good, with paved pathways throughout the park.
• Typical duration: 3-4 hours.

Pro-Tip: Upon arrival, grab a show schedule and plan your day around the performances to ensure you don’t miss your favorites. If your kids plan to enjoy the splash pad area, remember to bring a change of clothes and towels. For those interested in marine exploration, consider bringing kids snorkels and inflatable snorkel vests for future water adventures.

Bayside Marketplace

Bayside Marketplace is an open-air festival marketplace offering a vibrant mix of shops, diverse restaurants, and lively entertainment right on the picturesque waterfront. Families can enjoy scenic boat tours, grab a casual meal with a view, and watch talented street performers. It’s a lively spot perfect for an evening stroll, providing a fun and relaxed atmosphere that makes it one of the popular things to do in Miami with kids.

Good to Know: Entry to the marketplace is free, but activities, food, and shopping are additional costs. Stroller access is excellent, thanks to its wide, flat pathways. A typical visit lasts between 1-3 hours, depending on how much you explore and dine.

• Prices: Free to enter; activities, food, and shopping are extra.
• Stroller access: Excellent, with wide, flat pathways.
• Typical duration: 1-3 hours.

Pro-Tip: For older kids seeking a thrill, consider a speedboat tour like the Thriller Miami. For younger children, a slower sightseeing cruise offers a fantastic opportunity to see Miami’s impressive skyline from the water in a more relaxed setting.

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Hands-on Activities & Local Favorites

Wynwood Walls

Wynwood Walls is an outdoor street art museum showcasing vibrant murals by world-renowned artists. It’s a fantastic, free, and highly Instagrammable spot that consistently captivates kids with its larger-than-life, colorful creations. This unique destination sparks creativity and offers a cultural experience far removed from a traditional museum, making it a must-see for families looking for engaging things to do in Miami with kids.

Good to Know: Access to Wynwood Walls is free, though some private galleries in the vicinity may charge admission. Stroller access is excellent with paved pathways, but it can get quite crowded, especially on weekends. Plan for a typical duration of 1-2 hours to explore the murals.

• Prices: Free (some private galleries may charge).
• Stroller access: Excellent, paved pathways. Can get crowded.
• Typical duration: 1-2 hours.

Pro-Tip: To avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures, visit early in the morning or on a weekday. After exploring the art, look for kid-friendly ice cream shops and bakeries in the surrounding Wynwood neighborhood for a sweet treat.

Venetian Pool, Coral Gables

This historic public swimming pool, carved directly from a coral rock quarry, is a true hidden gem in Coral Gables. Featuring picturesque waterfalls, charming grottoes, and lush palm trees, it truly feels like a natural oasis. The shallow areas are perfectly suited for toddlers and younger children, while older kids will relish exploring the unique and beautiful landscape, making it a refreshing option for things to do in Miami with kids.

Good to Know: Adult tickets are approximately $16, and children aged 3-12 are $11. Prices can vary seasonally and may differ for residents. Stroller access is generally good in the main areas, but be aware that some steps and uneven surfaces exist near the grottoes. A typical visit lasts 2-3 hours.

• Prices: Adult tickets around $16, children (3-12) $11. Prices vary seasonally and for residents.
• Stroller access: Good in main areas, but some steps and uneven surfaces near grottoes.
• Typical duration: 2-3 hours.

Pro-Tip: Always check their official website for current opening hours, as they can be seasonal and the pool occasionally closes for private events. To secure a good spot and avoid the biggest crowds, it’s best to arrive early on weekends.

Crandon Park Beach & Family Amusement Center, Key Biscayne

Crandon Park on Key Biscayne offers a beautiful, calm beach that is perfect for families, boasting shallow, clear waters ideal for little swimmers. Beyond the serene beach, the adjacent Family Amusement Center provides even more entertainment with a classic carousel, a fun playground, and even a roller rink. It’s a comprehensive spot designed for a full day of family fun and ranks high among the delightful things to do in Miami with kids.

Good to Know: Entrance to the park requires a vehicle fee, typically around $7, while activities at the amusement center have separate costs. Stroller access is excellent on paved paths and boardwalks, though it is limited directly on the sand. Plan for a substantial visit of 4-6 hours to enjoy both the beach and the amusement park.

• Prices: Entrance to park is a vehicle fee (approx. $7); amusement center activities have separate costs.
• Stroller access: Excellent on paved paths and boardwalks; limited on sand.
• Typical duration: 4-6 hours (beach + amusement).

Pro-Tip: The lagoon-like conditions at Crandon Park make it exceptionally safe and enjoyable for young children. Be sure to look for the sandbars at low tide, which are perfect for wading and splashing safely.

Coconut Grove Organic Farmers Market

Every Saturday, the vibrant Coconut Grove Organic Farmers Market offers a feast for all the senses. Kids will love the experience of sampling fresh exotic fruits, discovering unique handmade crafts, and simply enjoying the lively, community atmosphere. It’s a wonderful way to immerse your family in local culture and introduce children to healthy eating in a fun, engaging environment, making it a lovely low-key option for things to do in Miami with kids.

Good to Know: Entry to the market is free, but naturally, any purchases will incur costs. Stroller access is generally good on the pathways, but be prepared for it to get crowded, especially during peak hours. You can typically enjoy the market for 1-2 hours.

• Prices: Free to enter; cost for purchases.
• Stroller access: Generally good, but can get crowded.
• Typical duration: 1-2 hours.

Pro-Tip: For the best selection of produce and to avoid the biggest crowds, arrive closer to the market’s opening time. Encourage your kids to pick out a new, unusual fruit or vegetable to try, turning the shopping experience into an adventurous taste test.

Pinecrest Gardens

Once a historic Parrot Jungle, Pinecrest Gardens has been beautifully transformed into a stunning botanical garden, complete with a charming petting zoo and a refreshing splash pad, all rolled into one family-friendly destination. Families can explore lush landscapes, visit the resident animals, and cool off in the playful splash zone. This venue often hosts kid-friendly events and concerts, making it a dynamic choice for things to do in Miami with kids.

Good to Know: Adult tickets are approximately $5, and children aged 2-12 are $3. Stroller access is excellent, with paved paths winding throughout the entire garden. Most families find 2-3 hours sufficient to enjoy all the attractions here.

• Prices: Adult tickets around $5, children (2-12) $3.
• Stroller access: Excellent, with paved paths throughout.
• Typical duration: 2-3 hours.

Pro-Tip: Don’t forget to bring swimsuits and towels for the splash pad, as it’s a popular spot for kids to cool down! Always check their calendar for special family-friendly events, which often include live music, engaging storytelling sessions, or educational workshops.

South Pointe Park Pier & Playground

Located at the southernmost tip of Miami Beach, South Pointe Park offers truly panoramic views of the sparkling ocean, exclusive Fisher Island, and the impressive downtown Miami skyline. Kids will adore the fantastic playground, which features engaging climbing structures and fun water features. The whole family can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the pier, perfect for fishing or watching majestic cruise ships sail by, making it a wonderful, free option for things to do in Miami with kids.

Good to Know: This attraction is entirely free to enjoy. Stroller access is excellent, with wide, paved paths throughout the park. A typical visit here lasts between 1-2 hours, allowing ample time to explore the playground and enjoy the views.

• Prices: Free.
• Stroller access: Excellent, with wide paved paths.
• Typical duration: 1-2 hours.

Pro-Tip: South Pointe Park is a prime location for catching breathtaking sunset views, so consider timing your visit accordingly. For a relaxed family meal, grab a casual bite at the nearby South Pointe Café, offering convenience and tasty options.

Deering Estate

The Deering Estate is an expansive 444-acre environmental, archaeological, and historical preserve that offers a rich blend of nature and history. Kids can explore the fascinating historical homes, wander through lush natural areas, and keep an eye out for local wildlife. The estate frequently offers various nature-based programs and events specifically tailored for families, making it an enriching experience among the many things to do in Miami with kids.

Good to Know: Adult tickets are approximately $15, and children aged 4-14 are $7. Stroller access is good on the main paved paths, but some of the nature trails are unpaved and might be a bit challenging for standard strollers. Plan for a visit duration of 2-4 hours.

• Prices: Adult tickets around $15, children (4-14) $7.
• Stroller access: Good on main paths, but some trails are unpaved.
• Typical duration: 2-4 hours.

Pro-Tip: Be sure to check their online calendar for special events such as guided nature walks, birdwatching tours, or historical reenactments. These often add an extra layer of engagement and educational value for children, enhancing their visit.

Shark Valley Observation Tower (Everglades National Park)

While part of the larger Everglades National Park, Shark Valley offers a distinct and highly family-friendly experience. Here, you can rent bicycles or take a comfortable tram tour along a 15-mile loop, getting incredibly close to alligators, turtles, and a variety of wading birds in their pristine natural habitat. The highlight is the observation tower, which provides truly panoramic views of the vast “River of Grass,” making this one of the most immersive things to do in Miami with kids.

Good to Know: There is a vehicle entrance fee of approximately $30. The tram tour costs $28 for adults and $15 for children under 12. Bike rentals are also available for those who prefer to cycle the loop. The tram is accessible for strollers, but personal bikes are not suitable for very young children unless they are in a trailer. A typical tram or bike ride lasts 2-3 hours.

• Prices: Vehicle entrance fee (approx. $30), tram tour $28 for adults, $15 for children (under 12). Bike rentals available.
• Stroller access: Tram is accessible. Bikes not suitable for very young children unless in a trailer.
• Typical duration: 2-3 hours (tram or bike ride).

Pro-Tip: To experience cooler temperatures and witness more active wildlife, go early in the morning. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks for your journey along the loop. If you are considering bringing a stroller, a compact, airline-friendly stroller can be useful for getting around the visitor center before boarding the tram.

Summary

Miami offers an incredible array of activities and attractions perfectly suited for families of all ages. From vibrant beaches and fascinating museums to unique cultural experiences and immersive wildlife encounters, there are countless things to do in Miami with kids that promise lasting memories. Each destination provides its own charm and adventure, ensuring that every day of your trip is filled with discovery and fun. You can easily find amazing experiences for the whole family, tailored to your interests and your children’s ages.

Want a custom plan? Use our personalized Itinerary Generator for Miami!

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Planning Smart: Logistics & Timing

Overview

Beat the Heat: Miami can be exceptionally hot and humid, particularly from May to October. To make outdoor activities enjoyable for the whole family, plan them for the cooler mornings or late afternoons. It is absolutely essential to always carry sunscreen with a high SPF, hats for everyone, and plenty of water to stay hydrated. Many indoor attractions, like the Frost Science Museum, offer a welcome and air-conditioned reprieve from the intense sun.

Transportation Savvy: While Miami does have public transportation options, renting a car often proves to be the most convenient choice for families, especially when you plan to visit attractions spread across different areas of the city. Be aware that parking can be quite expensive in popular spots such as South Beach. For shorter distances or evenings out, rideshares can be a practical and more cost-effective alternative to driving and parking.

Stroller Strategy: Miami is generally quite stroller-friendly, with many attractions offering paved paths, ramps, and elevators to ensure easy navigation. However, for beach days or exploring unpaved trails in natural parks like the Everglades, a robust all-terrain stroller or a comfortable baby carrier will be much more practical. Always check individual attraction websites for specific accessibility information to plan ahead, and consider a compact airline-friendly stroller for easy travel.

Dining for Families: Miami’s food scene is incredibly diverse, offering something for every palate. When dining with kids, look for restaurants with outdoor seating, as these are often more relaxed and accommodating. Many Cuban and Latin American eateries are inherently family-friendly, providing generous portions, flavorful dishes, and lively, welcoming atmospheres. You’ll also find that early bird dinners are a common and convenient option in some neighborhoods.

Seasonal Considerations: The high season in Miami typically runs from November to April, offering cooler, drier, and generally more pleasant weather. However, this also means larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations and flights. The summer months, from May to October, are hotter and wetter, but can offer better deals and fewer tourists, though afternoon thunderstorms are a frequent occurrence and should be factored into your daily plans.

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Final Thoughts on Your Miami Adventure

Overview

Miami truly shines as a premier family destination, offering an incredible mix of natural beauty, rich cultural experiences, and exciting activities that cater to every age. Whether your family dreams of spending days on pristine beaches, encountering exotic wildlife, marveling at vibrant street art, or diving into interactive museums, Miami delivers a diverse array of things to do in Miami with kids. Embrace the abundant sunshine, dive into the city’s unique culture, and create lasting, cherished memories with your loved ones in this dynamic and unforgettable city. For more family travel ideas, be sure to check out our other family travel guides.

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