Miami is a vibrant city that offers a plethora of fun and exciting activities for families with kids. From exploring kid-friendly attractions to engaging in educational activities, there is something for everyone in this sunny paradise. Let’s dive into the top things to do in Miami with kids!
Exploring Miami’s Kid-Friendly Attractions
Visiting Miami’s Famous Zoos and Aquariums
One of the best ways to captivate your kids’ curiosity is by visiting Miami’s famous zoos and aquariums. Jungle Island, located on Watson Island, is a must-visit destination. Your children can marvel at exotic animals from around the world and enjoy thrilling animal shows. The park also offers unique experiences like lemur encounters and feeding sessions with parrots, providing a hands-on learning opportunity for young animal enthusiasts. Additionally, Jungle Island’s newly renovated playground and water park area ensure that kids have a blast both indoors and outdoors.
The Miami Seaquarium is another great option, where your little ones can get up close and personal with dolphins, sea turtles, and even killer whales. The park offers educational presentations on marine life conservation, allowing children to learn about the importance of protecting our oceans.
Discovering Miami’s Interactive Museums
Miami is home to several interactive museums that make learning fun for kids of all ages. The Miami Children’s Museum is a fantastic place for hands-on exploration, with exhibits ranging from a miniature grocery store to a bank where kids can learn about money. The museum also hosts daily art and science workshops, giving children the opportunity to unleash their creativity and curiosity. Furthermore, the museum’s outdoor play area features a climbing wall and a sandcastle building zone, ensuring that kids have a dynamic and engaging visit.
The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is another gem, hosting interactive exhibits about space, the human body, and the environment. Children can participate in simulated space missions, touch real meteorites, and explore a three-level aquarium showcasing Florida’s diverse marine ecosystems.
Enjoying Miami’s Beautiful Parks and Beaches
When it comes to outdoor fun, Miami’s parks and beaches are the perfect playgrounds for kids. Take a stroll along the iconic Miami Beach Boardwalk, where your family can enjoy the ocean breeze while admiring the picturesque views. Families can rent bikes or rollerblades to explore the boardwalk together, stopping for ice cream or fresh coconut water along the way. Crandon Park, on Key Biscayne, offers sandy shores, picnic areas, and a Nature Center where children can learn about the local wildlife and ecosystems. The park also features a Family Amusement Center with a carousel and splash fountain, providing hours of entertainment for kids of all ages.
Engaging in Fun and Educational Activities
Participating in Miami’s Children Workshops
Immerse your kids in a world of creativity and exploration by enrolling them in Miami’s children workshops. The Pérez Art Museum Miami offers engaging art classes for kids, where they can express themselves through paint, clay, and other mediums. The museum’s workshops are led by experienced artists who guide children in developing their artistic skills while encouraging their imagination to soar. Children not only learn about different art techniques but also gain a deeper appreciation for creativity and self-expression.
Moreover, the Miami Children’s Theater provides a platform for young aspiring actors to shine. Through interactive theater workshops, children are introduced to the magical world of storytelling and performance. They learn the importance of teamwork, communication, and stage presence, all while having a blast and boosting their self-confidence. The theater workshops culminate in lively productions where kids can showcase their talents and create lasting memories.
Joining Miami’s Kid-Friendly City Tours
Embark on a family adventure by joining one of Miami’s kid-friendly city tours. The Miami Duck Tours combine a land and water experience, taking your family on an amphibious vehicle to explore the city’s landmarks, such as the vibrant Art Deco District and bustling Bayside Marketplace. The knowledgeable tour guides provide fascinating insights into Miami’s history, architecture, and culture, making the tour both entertaining and educational for children and adults alike.
For a more flexible exploration, the Miami City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour is an excellent choice. This tour allows your family to discover Miami at your own pace, hopping on and off at various stops to visit attractions like museums, parks, and shopping districts. The open-top double-decker buses offer panoramic views of the city, giving children a unique perspective of Miami’s diverse neighborhoods and iconic landmarks.
Attending Miami’s Family-Friendly Festivals
Miami is renowned for its vibrant festivals, and many of them are family-friendly. The Calle Ocho Festival, held every March, celebrates Latin culture with lively music, dancing, and delicious food. Families can enjoy traditional performances, colorful parades, and authentic cuisine, immersing themselves in the rich heritage of Miami’s diverse community. Additionally, the Coconut Grove Arts Festival showcases stunning art pieces from local and international artists, providing a feast for the eyes and sparking creativity in young minds.
Furthermore, these festivals offer interactive art activities for kids, such as painting workshops, sculpture classes, and craft stations, allowing children to unleash their artistic talents and create their own masterpieces. By participating in Miami’s family-friendly festivals, families can bond over shared experiences, explore different cultures, and make cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Dining at Miami’s Family-Friendly Restaurants
Enjoying Miami’s Diverse Food Scene
Miami is a melting pot of cultures, and this is reflected in its diverse food scene. Treat your taste buds to a culinary adventure by visiting restaurants like Versailles, known for its mouthwatering Cuban cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. For a taste of authentic Colombian food, head to Rincon Paisa, where you can indulge in flavorful empanadas and traditional bandeja paisa. These family-friendly restaurants offer menus that cater to both kids and adults.
Another must-visit spot for families in Miami is La Carreta, a beloved Cuban restaurant that has been serving up delicious meals for over four decades. From their famous Cuban sandwiches to their savory picadillo, La Carreta offers a taste of traditional Cuban flavors in a welcoming setting perfect for families. The restaurant’s warm atmosphere and friendly staff make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Check the list of Miami’s family-friendly restaurants here.
Trying Miami’s Delicious Dessert Spots
No family outing is complete without satisfying your sweet tooth. Miami has a delightful array of dessert spots that will surely please the entire family. Azucar Ice Cream, located in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Havana, serves up unique and delicious ice cream flavors inspired by the city’s culture, including their famous Abuela Maria flavor. Serendipity Creamery, a charming ice cream shop in Wynwood, offers artisanal ice cream made from scratch with local ingredients.
For those craving something a bit different, Knaus Berry Farm is a hidden gem in Homestead, just a short drive from Miami. Known for their mouthwatering cinnamon rolls and fresh strawberry milkshakes, Knaus Berry Farm is a popular spot for families looking to indulge in homemade treats. The farm’s picturesque setting and friendly animals roaming the grounds make it a memorable destination for dessert lovers of all ages.
Shopping at Miami’s Kid-Friendly Stores
Exploring Miami’s Toy Shops
Take your kids on a shopping adventure at Miami’s toy shops, where they can discover a world of fun. Toynk Toys, located in the Dolphin Mall, offers a wide selection of toys, games, and collectibles that will capture the imagination of children of all ages. If you’re looking for educational toys, head to Learning Express Toys in Aventura Mall, where you’ll find a variety of toys that promote learning and creativity.
Visiting Miami’s Children’s Bookstores
Encourage a love for reading by visiting Miami’s children’s bookstores. Books & Books, located in Coral Gables, is not only Miami’s most iconic independent bookstore but also offers a fantastic children’s section filled with captivating books. Another great option is The Bookstore in the Grove, where your kids can browse through a selection of quality children’s literature while immersing themselves in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
Staying at Miami’s Family-Friendly Accommodations
Choosing Miami’s Best Family Hotels
After a day filled with adventures, it’s crucial to choose a family-friendly accommodation that caters to your needs. The Loews Miami Beach Hotel offers a range of amenities for families, including a kids’ club, a children’s menu, and easy access to the beach. Another option is the Newport Beachside Hotel and Resort, which features a fantastic water park with slides, a lazy river, and a splash playground that will surely keep the kids entertained.
Renting Miami’s Kid-Friendly Vacation Homes
If you prefer a more home-like setting, renting a kid-friendly vacation home in Miami is an excellent choice. Companies like Kid & Coe and Airbnb offer a wide range of family-friendly accommodations throughout the city, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay for your whole family. With spacious layouts, fully equipped kitchens, and often swimming pools or play areas, these vacation homes provide the perfect environment for a memorable family vacation.
Conclusion
There you have it – a comprehensive guide to the fun things to do in Miami with kids. From exploring zoos and interactive museums to dining at family-friendly restaurants and staying at comfortable accommodations, Miami offers endless possibilities for a fantastic family vacation. Start planning your trip to this vibrant city and create lifelong memories with your loved ones!
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