Is Miami a good vacation destination for kids?
Miami is a superb kid-friendly destination. The sunny climate alone is ideal for kids — they can play all day long — and for parents, that keeps things simple and lets you pack light. Art museums, beaches, aquariums, wildlife and cultural districts provide countless immersive activities for the family.All-day kid-centric destinations
If you’re looking for a full day of fun things to do in Miami with kids, these family-friendly local spots will keep you going until dinnertime (and maybe even after).Indoors
Phillip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science (aka Frost Science) With a three-level aquarium, dome-screened planetarium, elaborate mirror maze and plenty of hands-on exhibits, Frost Science is both fun and educational for kids of all ages. Why kids approve: Almost every exhibit is interactive and includes a hands-on, sensorial activity.Why parents approve: Parents will get to see their kids learn science and enjoy time in the museum.Miami Children’s MuseumPlaying pretend is the name of the game at the Miami Children’s Museum. Your kids will have a blast exploring the kid-sized bank, cruise ship, grocery store, construction zone, firehouse and other interactive exhibitsWhy kids approve: Kids get to fuel their imagination with the museum’s mini replicas of real-life places.Why parents approve: The fun exhibits teach kids about everyday subjects like health, wellness and careers.Outdoors
Zoo MiamiMiami’s subtropical climate allows Zoo Miami to keep animals normally only seen south of the equator. The 750-acre zoo is home to more than 3,000 animals, plus several children’s play areas and rides for even more adventure.Why kids approve: Animals and play areas — need we say more?Why parents approve: The zoo has multiple cafes, restaurants and vending machines throughout to keep everyone fed and comfortable.
Requires a swimsuit
Venetian PoolIf the heat has you and your kids longing for a dip in some cool waters, the Venetian Pool in Coral Gables is a stunningly beautiful option for those over 3 years old. Its waterfalls and grottos make it extra fun for kids to explore.Why kids approve: The shallow pool is perfect for all-day play, and ice cream and pizza will keep the young ones going for hours.Why parents approve: Beyond packing a swimsuit, Venetian Pool provides everything you might need for a family outing.
If you’re in the neighborhood
If your grownup plans are taking priority but you want to keep the littles content, here are some no-prep, quick, fun things to do in Miami with kids.Indoors
The Poppet ProjectLocated in the El Portal neighborhood, The Poppet Project defines itself as a children’s drop-in art, craft and science studio where kids can have access to all the art and craft supplies they need to get creative.Why kids approve: From paint to molding sand, the possibilities for creativity are endless. Why parents approve: Kids can get creative and make a mess — and you don’t have to clean it up!Skyviews MiamiWant to see Miami from above? The huge observation Ferris wheel at Skyviews Miami offers 15- to 20-minute rides in climate-controlled gondola cars with epic views of the city from 200 feet in the air. Why kids approve: A Ferris wheel is one of those rides almost any kid will enjoy.Why parents approve: It’s a comfortable ride for the whole family, and kids under 4 ride for free.Outdoors
Lee & Tina Hills PlaygroundIf your kids just need to work out some wiggles, stop by this soft-surface playground with a huge play sculpture at Bayfront Park in downtown Miami. Why kids approve: The playground offers various play sculptures like a pirate ship, slides and waves along with sculptures of turtles, manatees and dolphins.Why parents approve: Bayfront Park’s open lawns, walkways and performance venues provide many options for relaxing, playing and exercising. Wynwood WallsThe colorful Wynwood arts district is home to more than 70 galleries and museums, with bright murals everywhere you look. Wynwood Walls is an outdoor museum/park with 35 larger-than-life murals, plenty of green space and free entry for ages 12 and under.Why kids approve: Kids have the freedom to roam and run around anywhere in the museum.Why parents approve: Neighboring restaurants make it easy to fuel up while watching kids do what they do best.
Last-minute fun
Here are our top picks for fun family-friendly things to do in Miami with kids when you only have a couple of hours – pair it with a meal or ice cream, and you’ll have a happy crew.Indoors
Launch Trampoline ParkLocated right next to Miami-Dade Airport, this park takes regular sports like basketball, dodgeball and gymnastics and amps them up with trampoline surfaces.Why kids approve: The ninja course and slack line with foam-filled crash pits below are perfect for kids who want to test their stunt skills. Why parents approve: Any activity that balances thrill and safety should be a win in your book. ArtechouseFor something fresh and different that will captivate curiosity-seekers of all ages, check out Artechouse, a digital interactive art gallery experience in Miami’s South Beach. Why kids approve: Curious kids love touching everything they see, and here it’s no exception. Every installation is tactile and interactive. Why parents approve: Kids aren’t the only ones who can have fun here — there’s plenty for adults to enjoy.FunDimensionFunDimension in Wynwood caters to kids and adults with laser tag, bumper cars, an indoor playground, arcade and a world-class restaurant and lounge. Why kids approve: There are options for kids of any age. Plus, bumper cars — who doesn’t like those?Why parents approve: You can watch the little ones have fun while sipping beer or coffee.Outdoors
Thriller Miami Speedboat AdventuresBring your kiddos over age 3 and hop in a speedboat for a 45-minute riding-the-waves tour around the Port of Miami. Check out multimillion-dollar waterfront mansions, the Miami skyline and more. Why kids approve: Adventurous youngsters will go nuts for the speed and thrill of the tour.Why parents approve: It’s a thrill for everyone in the family, especially parents who want to cruise the water “Miami Vice”-style.
Requires a swimsuit
Flamingo ParkA beach walk-in leads to a 36-acre park with playgrounds and swimming pools. You can swim in the larger pool area, head to the playground or enjoy one of the many sports courts at Flamingo Park.Why kids approve: Kids will love the aquatic play area, tire swings and swimming pools in this multi-use park.Why parents approve: Flamingo Park is a great last-minute option for families looking for a spot to cool off.Matheson Hammock ParkIf you want a beach experience without the risk of waves for little ones, the artificial bayfront "atoll pool" at Matheson Hammock Park is a great option. Nature trails and convenient canoe and kayak rentals are other reasons why locals love this park.Why kids approve: The park offers an open but safe place for kids to splash around, and a centrally located playground provides another option for fun. Why parents approve: This feels like a trip to the beach without the trouble, and parking is usually plentiful. It's a great place to relax for a few hours and enjoy a picnic.
