Family-Friendly Miami Itinerary: 15 Fun Activities
Miami is considered an adult playground, but when I recently visited with my nieces and nephews, my view took a 180-degree turn.
This lively town is chock-full of family-friendly adventures that everyone, including toddlers and teens can enjoy.
I wrote this guide so families like yours can plan a trip that’s packed with excitement, relaxation and those unforgettable bonding moments.
From interactive museums to outdoor getaways, you’ll find 15 fun things to experience that make Miami the ideal destination for your next family trip.
Well, grab that sunscreen and get ready for a smiley, laughter-filled journey!
1. Spend the Day at Zoo Miami
Zoo Miami is no ordinary zoo: it’s the safari in your backyard.
The open-air exhibits make you feel as if you’re traveling through each corner of the world with animals from Asia, Africa and beyond.
Kids can feed giraffes, and meanwhile you can chill out knowing that the zoo is shaded, with lots of places to rest.
Pro tip: Hire a safari cycle to navigate the extensive grounds easily.
2. Visit the Frost Museum of Science
It’s a must-see for curious minds of all ages.
With its huge aquarium and interactive science exhibits, the Frost Museum is just plain fun, while still being educational.
Planetarium: It’s a must-do — immersive shows will leave everyone speechless about space.
It’s an ideal indoor activity if you need a respite from the Miami heat.
3. Make Sandcastles at Crandon Park Beach
For a more tranquil beach scenery, the unspoiled sands of Crandon Park Beach are where you should go.
It has shallow water and picnic areas, making it perfect for families with young children.
Bring a beach ball or a kite for added fun and don’t forget to bring snacks for a picnic at the brow.
4. Walk Through Jungle Island
Jungle Island is a wildlife park and an adventure playground rolled into one.
Your clan can encounter exotic creatures such as kangaroos and lemurs or conquer fun challenges such as ropes course and zip lines.
Kids will love the petting zoo and you will love the tropical scenery.
5. Go on a boat tour of Biscayne Bay
Climb aboard a family-friendly boat tour for a different perspective of Miami.
These tours sometimes also include sightings of dolphins, manatees and (even) celebrity homes.
Pack binoculars to make it more thrilling for the kids, and sit back to enjoy the ocean breeze together.
6. Wander Around Little Havana
Immerse your family in Miami’s Cuban culture in Little Havana.
Swing by Domino Park to catch locals playing, tour some churros, and hear live music.
Children will appreciate the bright murals and lively atmosphere, and their parents can enjoy Cuban coffee or mojitos.
7. Miami Children’s Museum
This museum offers hands-on learning experiences for kids of all ages, from interactive exhibits to art classes.
This museum is kids’ dreamland.
Interactive exhibits — from pretend grocery shopping to exploring a kid-sized cruise ship — encourage creativity and learning.
It’s also a really good way for kids to burn off some energy while you catch your breath.
8. A Picnic at Matheson Hammock Park
For some peace and quiet, head to Matheson Hammock Park.
Accompanying it is a quiet, man-made lagoon, well-suited to little swimmers, ringed by lush greenery.
Bring a picnic and let the kids run wild while you kick back with a view of Biscayne Bay.
9. Go to a Game at LoanDepot Park
Family into sports? Catch a Miami Marlins baseball game.
The retractable roof will keep you cool, and the stadium has kid’s zone and other family-friendly activities.
It’s even more fun if you teach the kids a little bit about baseball ahead of time.
10. Kayak at Oleta River State Park
Oleta River State Park is an amazing place for adventurous families to experience nature.
Rent kayaks or canoes to paddle through the mangroves or stick to the park’s bike trails for some exercise on land.
The serene surroundings and calm waters make it safe for even beginners.
11. Walk Through Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
For nature-loving families, Fairchild Garden is a treat.
Kids can check out butterfly exhibits, ogle rare plants or join in seasonal scavenger hunts.
There’s also a lot of photo ops in the lush gardens, for creating those cherished family memories.
12. Dive Into Venetian Pool
Venetian Pool in Coral Gables is a historic swimming hole that is a slice of paradise.
The lagoon-style pool, featuring waterfalls and grottos, is ideal for cooling off in style.
Open for swimming, but kids must be at least 3 years old.
13. Explore Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
For outdoor-loving families, this park is a hidden gem.
Scale the Cape Florida Lighthouse for sweeping views, then have a picnic or fish along the shore.
It is a good place to mix history with relaxation.
14. Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel
Get your family a bird’s-eye view of Miami from this iconic Ferris wheel.
The gondola is enclosed, making it a safe, fun activity for almost every age.
It’s particularly magical at sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle.
15. Close the Day with a Walk at Bayside Marketplace
Bayside Marketplace: High-energy dining with waterfront views.
Watch street performers, get some ice cream, and buy souvenir gifts to bring home.
It’s an ideal way to unwind after a busy day exploring Miami.
