...
Miami Travel Tips Trending

30+ Amazing Things to Do in Miami with Kids

Planning a trip to Miami with the kiddos? You’re in for a treat! Miami isn’t just for beach parties and nightlife – it’s actually packed with amazing family-friendly activities that’ll have your kids talking about their vacation for months.

I’ve lived in Miami for years and explored every corner of this sunny paradise with my own little ones. Trust me when I say there’s something magical about watching your kids’ faces light up when they feed a giraffe at the zoo or splash in the warm ocean waves for the first time.

In this guide, I’ll share all my favorite spots, some hidden gems, and tons of helpful tips to make your family trip to Miami absolutely unforgettable. Let’s dive in!

Quick Navigation: Miami Family Attractions by Category

Outdoor Adventures: Miami’s Natural Wonders

Zoo Miami

1. Zoo Miami: Where Wild Memories Are Made

When it comes to things to do in Miami with kids, Zoo Miami tops just about every list – and for good reason! As Florida’s largest zoo, it’s home to over 3,000 animals from around the world.

My kids go crazy for the giraffe feeding station where you can actually hand-feed these gentle giants. The monorail gives little legs a break while providing awesome views of the animal habitats. And when the Florida heat kicks in, the splash pads scattered throughout the zoo are absolute lifesavers!

Age range: All ages, especially great for toddlers to pre-teens Cost: Adults $22.95, Children (3-12) $18.95, under 2 free Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM (last entry at 4 PM) Parking: $2 per vehicle Pro tip: Visit on weekdays if possible, and arrive right when they open at 10 AM to avoid the biggest crowds and the worst of the afternoon heat.

2. Jungle Island: More Than Just Birds

Jungle Island has really transformed over the years from a simple parrot park to an eco-adventure park that’ll thrill kids of all ages.

The zipline adventure lets older kids soar over the park with gorgeous views of the Miami skyline. My teenagers couldn’t stop talking about the “SuperFlight” wind tunnel where they got to experience indoor skydiving! Younger kids will love the close encounters with friendly animals and the interactive shows.

Age range: Best for ages 5+, with special areas for younger children Cost: General admission $49.99, children under 3 free Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM daily Cool fact: Jungle Island is home to some super rare animals, including twin orangutans and a liger (yes, that’s a lion-tiger mix)!

Parrot Jungle Island Miami
Jungle Island Miami

3. Everglades National Park: Alligator Spotting

Just a short drive from downtown Miami, you’ll find one of America’s most unique ecosystems: the Everglades. This isn’t just a swamp – it’s a “river of grass” filled with fascinating wildlife.

The Anhinga Trail is perfect for families – it’s a short, paved walkway where spotting alligators is practically guaranteed! My 7-year-old counted 12 alligators on our last visit. The ranger programs are super kid-friendly and teach them about this amazing ecosystem.

Age range: All ages (keep toddlers close!) Cost: $30 per vehicle (valid for 7 days) Hours: 24 hours, visitor centers open 9 AM – 5 PM Accessibility: The Anhinga Trail is wheelchair and stroller accessible Money-saving tip: Check the National Park Service website for annual fee-free days when admission is waived!

4. Matheson Hammock Park: Hidden Gem for Families

This beautiful urban oasis in Coral Gables is often overlooked by tourists but beloved by local families. The star attraction is the man-made atoll pool that fills with the tides of Biscayne Bay, creating a calm, shallow swimming area perfect for little ones.

The park also offers walking trails through tropical hardwood hammocks, a marina, and picnic areas under shady trees. Bring some bread to feed the fish from the little bridge – my kids could do this for hours!

Age range: Perfect for families with young children Cost: $7 weekday/$10 weekend parking fee Hours: Sunrise to sunset Local secret: The park has one of the best views of the Miami skyline at sunset!

Indoor Fun: Beat the Heat or Rain

5. Frost Science Museum: Hands-On Learning Adventures

The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is a mind-blowing, interactive wonderland that makes science super fun. My kids could spend hours here and still beg to stay longer!

The three-level aquarium is the star attraction, especially the Gulf Stream tank where you can stand in a clear tunnel while sharks and fish swim all around you. The planetarium shows are absolutely mesmerizing – my 4-year-old still talks about “flying through space.”

Age range: All ages, with dedicated areas for different age groups Cost: Adults $29.95, Children (3-11) $20.95, under 2 free Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM daily Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible with sensory-friendly days monthly Parent hack: Download the museum’s app before your visit for interactive exhibits and to plan your day.

6. Miami Children’s Museum: Play and Learn

Located on Watson Island, this colorful museum is designed specifically for kids with tons of hands-on exhibits that encourage play-based learning.

Kids can shop in a mini grocery store, be a banker for a day, crawl through a giant sand castle, or climb aboard a real fire truck. For the littlest visitors, the Under Construction zone is perfect for toddlers to build and explore.

Age range: Best for ages 0-10 Cost: $22 per person, under 1 free Hours: 10 AM – 6 PM daily Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible and sensory-friendly resources available Budget tip: Look for discounted tickets through Florida resident programs or consider a membership if you’ll be in town for a while.

7. SuperBlue Miami: Art They Can Touch

SuperBlue Miami With Kids
SuperBlue Miami

Looking for something unique? SuperBlue in the Allapattah neighborhood is an immersive art experience that even art-resistant kids will love.

Unlike traditional museums where “don’t touch” is the rule, SuperBlue encourages interaction. Kids can walk through rooms filled with floating bubbles, explore mirrored infinity rooms, and play in digital ecosystems that respond to their movements.

Age range: Best for ages 5+ Cost: Adults $36, Children (3-12) $24, under 3 free Hours: Varies by day, typically 10 AM – 7 PM Instagram alert: The light and mirror installations make for amazing family photos!

8. The Bass Museum: Art for Kids

Don’t skip The Bass because you think art museums aren’t kid-friendly! This Miami Beach institution offers fantastic children’s programming, including IDEA@thebass with hands-on activities designed for families.

The outdoor sculptures and installations are particularly engaging for kids, who love running around and interacting with the artwork in the surrounding Collins Park.

Age range: All ages, with specific programming for ages 2-12 Cost: Adults $15, under 18 free Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 12 PM – 5 PM Family perk: Free family days are offered on the last Sunday of each month

Water Fun Beyond the Beach

9. Venetian Pool: History Meets Splash Zone

This historic pool in Coral Gables is unlike any pool your kids have ever seen. Built from a coral rock quarry in 1923, the Venetian Pool features grottos, waterfalls, and cave-like swimming areas that make it feel like you’re swimming in an ancient lagoon.

It’s filled with fresh spring water daily and the two waterfalls are perfect for playing. Just note that children must be at least 3 years old to enter, and the water can be a bit chilly since it’s spring-fed!

Age range: Ages 3+ only (strictly enforced) Cost: Adults $15-$20, Children $10-$15 (varies by season) Hours: 10 AM – 4:30 PM, closed Mondays Worth noting: The pool is closed on Mondays and sometimes for winter maintenance, so check their website before planning your visit.

10. Miami Seaquarium: Marine Life Up Close

While not as large as some aquariums, the Miami Seaquarium offers close encounters with marine life that kids absolutely love. The dolphin and sea lion shows are crowd-pleasers, and the tropical reef aquarium lets kids see colorful fish up close.

The newer Penguin Isle exhibit is a hit with all ages, and the touch pools give kids a chance to interact with gentle marine creatures like stingrays.

Age range: All ages, especially good for elementary-aged kids Cost: Adults $41.99, Children (3-9) $31.99 if purchased online Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM daily Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with rentals available Important update: Check their website for the latest exhibits and shows, as the Seaquarium has been updating their offerings.

11. Tidal Cove Waterpark: Slides and Rides

Tidal Cove Waterpark at the JW Marriott Miami
Tidal Cove waterpark miami

If your kids are water slide enthusiasts, Tidal Cove Waterpark at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort is the place to be. With seven slides, a lazy river, and a FlowRider surf simulator, there’s something for every age.

The zero-entry pool and kids’ splash area make it great for families with varied ages, while teens will love the more thrilling slides and surf experiences.

Age range: All ages, with areas specifically for younger children Cost: Day passes $75-$95 depending on season Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM (extended in summer) Good to know: While the waterpark is part of the resort, day passes are available for non-hotel guests (though they can sell out in peak season).

Cultural Experiences Kids Will Actually Enjoy

12. Little Havana Food and Cultural Tour

Think guided tours are boring for kids? Not this one! A food tour through Little Havana is a feast for the senses that even picky eaters will enjoy.

Stop for fresh-squeezed sugar cane juice, watch cigar rollers practice their craft, and try the amazing ice cream at Azúcar (the guava flavor is my kids’ favorite). Many tours include stops at Domino Park where kids are fascinated by the intense domino games played by local seniors.

Age range: Better for ages 5+ who can walk for 1-2 hours Cost: Approximately $60 per person, sometimes discounted for children Duration: 2-3 hours Sweet treat: Don’t miss the churros at El Pub Restaurant – they’re crispy, warm, and dusted with just the right amount of cinnamon sugar!

13. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens: Treasure Hunt

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Turn a visit to this Renaissance-style villa into an adventure by creating a scavenger hunt for your kids. Have them look for stone sea creatures in the gardens, count the rooms with painted ceilings, or find the hidden grotto.

The elaborate gardens are perfect for burning off energy, and teens especially love taking photos in this Instagram-worthy setting. The views of Biscayne Bay from the stone barge are spectacular!

Age range: Best for ages 6+ Cost: Adults $25, Children (6-12) $10, under 5 free Hours: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM, closed Tuesdays Accessibility: First floor is wheelchair accessible; gardens have some accessible paths Timing tip: Visit on a weekday morning when it’s less crowded and the gardens aren’t too hot.

14. Wynwood Walls: Street Art Safari

The colorful murals at Wynwood Walls make art accessible and exciting for kids of all ages. Make it interactive by having them choose their favorite mural, guess what different artwork might represent, or even bring a sketchbook for artistic inspiration.

The surrounding neighborhood has kid-friendly eateries with outdoor seating where you can enjoy watching street performers while you eat.

Age range: All ages Cost: Free to walk around outside walls, $10 for inside garden Hours: Vary by season, typically 11 AM – 7 PM Photo op: The colorful walls make for amazing family photos – much more interesting than standard vacation shots!

Free and Budget-Friendly Fun

15. South Pointe Park: Views and Play

Located at the southern tip of Miami Beach, this beautiful park combines playgrounds, splash pads, and amazing views of cruise ships sailing past. The winding walkway along the water leads to South Pointe Pier where kids can watch fishermen and spot dolphins.

The playground has equipment for different age groups, and the splash pad is perfect for cooling off on hot days. Clean restrooms and shaded picnic areas make it easy to spend several hours here.

Age range: All ages Cost: Free (metered parking nearby) Hours: Sunrise to sunset Accessibility: Paved paths and beach wheelchairs available nearby Sunset spot: This is one of the best places in Miami to watch the sunset as a family!

16. Bayfront Park: Downtown Play Space

Right in the heart of downtown Miami, Bayfront Park offers a fantastic playground with water features and climbing structures – all with a stunning backdrop of the city skyline and cruise ships.

The park hosts many free events and concerts throughout the year, making it a good place to check when you’re looking for things to do in Miami with kids on a budget.

Age range: All ages, playground best for 2-10 Cost: Free Hours: 7 AM – 10 PM Easy access: The free Metromover stops right at Bayfront Park, making it easy to visit without parking hassles.

17. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park: Lighthouse Adventures

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
raccoon in Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
Bill Baggs Cape State Park

For the price of park admission ($8 per vehicle), you get access to beaches, nature trails, and the oldest standing structure in Miami-Dade County – the Cape Florida Lighthouse. Kids can climb to the top (if they’re at least 42 inches tall) for panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The beaches here are among the best beaches for families in Miami, with gentle waves and good facilities.

Age range: All ages Cost: $8 per vehicle (up to 8 people) Hours: 8 AM until sunset Accessibility: Beach wheelchairs available, lighthouse not accessible Nature bonus: Keep an eye out for dolphins, manatees, and all kinds of birds while exploring the park!

18. Coral Gables Museum: Kids Free Saturdays

This small but engaging museum offers free admission for kids 17 and under, plus accompanying adults on Family Day, the second Saturday of each month. The museum focuses on the history and architecture of Coral Gables, with interactive exhibits that kids enjoy.

Age range: Best for ages 5-12 Cost: Adults $10, under 17 free, Family Day free for everyone Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 12 PM – 5 PM Local tip: Combine with a visit to the nearby Venetian Pool for a full day in Coral Gables

Best Miami Beaches for Families

Best Miami Beaches for Families

19. Crandon Park Beach: Family Beach Paradise

Not all Miami beaches are created equal when it comes to kids. Crandon Park on Key Biscayne is the ultimate family beach with calm, shallow waters perfect for little swimmers.

What makes it special is the offshore sandbar that creates a natural kiddie pool effect. The beach also has clean restrooms, picnic areas with grills, and a nature center where kids can learn about sea turtles and other marine life.

Age range: Perfect for families with children of all ages Cost: $7 weekday/$10 weekend parking fee Facilities: Restrooms, showers, picnic areas, concessions Accessibility: Beach wheelchair rentals available Beach hack: Rent a cabana in advance for shade and a home base for your beach day – totally worth it with kids!

20. Haulover Beach Park: North End Family Section

While Haulover is known for its clothing-optional section, the northern end is a wonderful family beach with lifeguards, gentle waves, and excellent facilities. The wide beach never feels crowded, and the recently renovated playground gives kids a break from the water.

Age range: All ages Cost: $5-$7 parking fee Facilities: Restrooms, showers, concessions Important note: Stay at the north end of the beach with kids – the clothing-optional section is well-marked and separated.

21. Oleta River State Park Beach: Calm Waters for Beginners

This hidden gem offers a small beach with incredibly calm waters, perfect for toddlers and beginner swimmers. Located within Florida’s largest urban state park, you can combine beach time with nature exploration, kayaking, and biking.

Age range: All ages, especially good for younger kids Cost: $6 per vehicle Hours: 8 AM until sunset Bonus activity: Rent kayaks to explore the mangrove-lined waterways (kids can ride in tandem with adults)

Educational Spots for Children

22. HistoryMiami Museum: Interactive History

This downtown museum makes Miami’s fascinating history accessible and fun for kids. The permanent collection includes a replica of a Seminole chickee hut that kids can explore, and the “Tropical Dreams” exhibit lets them discover how Miami grew from a small settlement to a major city.

The museum regularly offers family-friendly tours and weekend workshops where kids can try historical crafts or activities.

Age range: Best for ages 5+ Cost: Adults $10, children under 6 free Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10 AM – 5 PM, Sunday 12 PM – 5 PM Educational value: Great connection to Florida history curriculum for school-aged kids

23. Deering Estate: Ecology and History

This historic site offers both cultural and natural experiences, with historic buildings to explore and nature preserves with walking trails. The guided tours are surprisingly kid-friendly, and they offer special family programs throughout the year.

The estate hosts monthly “Family Fun Days” with themed activities for children, and the butterfly garden is always a hit with kids.

Age range: Better for ages.5+ Cost: Adults $15, Children (4-14) $7 Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM daily Educational bonus: Nature walks with spotting sheets for birds and butterflies

24. Miami-Dade Public Library – Main Branch

Don’t overlook the library as a travel destination! The main branch downtown has an excellent children’s section with bilingual story times, crafts, and cultural events. It’s a perfect spot to cool off and recharge during a busy day of sightseeing.

Age range: All ages Cost: Free Hours: Monday-Saturday, hours vary Travel tip: Check their calendar online for special events during your visit

Sample 3-Day Miami Family Itineraries

3-Day Miami Family Itineraries

25. Itinerary #1: Classic Miami with Kids (Ages 4-12)

Day 1: South Beach and Beyond

  • Morning: South Pointe Park playground and beach
  • Lunch: Big Pink (kid-friendly diner)
  • Afternoon: Miami Children’s Museum
  • Dinner: Monty’s on South Beach (watch boats while you eat)

Day 2: Downtown Exploration

  • Morning: Frost Science Museum
  • Lunch: Bayside Marketplace
  • Afternoon: Jungle Island
  • Dinner: Shake Shack at Mary Brickell Village

Day 3: Natural Wonders

  • Morning: Zoo Miami (arrive at opening)
  • Late Lunch: Boater’s Grill at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
  • Afternoon: Beach and lighthouse at Bill Baggs
  • Dinner: Whisk (family-friendly southern food)

Estimated total cost for family of 4: $600-800 including admissions, food, and transportation (not including hotel)

26. Itinerary #2: Miami on a Budget (Any Age)

Day 1: Beach Day

  • Morning: Crandon Park Beach (bring picnic lunch)
  • Afternoon: Bill Baggs Cape Florida Lighthouse
  • Dinner: Simple Cuban food at Sergio’s (affordable and authentic)

Day 2: Cultural and Free Fun

  • Morning: Little Havana walk (free, just buy ice cream)
  • Lunch: Versailles (Cuban sandwiches)
  • Afternoon: Bayfront Park and free Metromover ride
  • Dinner: Food trucks at The Wharf (various prices)

Day 3: Nature Focus

  • Morning: Oleta River State Park (hiking and beach)
  • Lunch: Pack a picnic
  • Afternoon: Coconut Grove walking tour and Peacock Park
  • Dinner: Lokal in Coconut Grove (reasonable burger place)

Estimated total cost for family of 4: $250-350 including admissions, food, and transportation

Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Miami

kush coconut grove
Greenstreet Cafe
Frieze Ice Cream Factory

27. Kush Coconut Grove: Local Flavor and Fun

This neighborhood spot offers amazing burgers and a relaxed atmosphere where kids are welcome. The children’s menu has high-quality options (not just the usual chicken fingers), and the outdoor seating area is perfect for wiggly little ones.

Price range: $$ Best for: Lunch or dinner Kid-pleaser: The “Kush & Hash” breakfast burger is actually served all day and kids love it Parent-pleaser: Excellent craft beer selection

28. Greenstreet Cafe: Breakfast Champions

This Coconut Grove institution has outdoor seating where kids can people-watch while enjoying massive pancakes. The menu has plenty of options for both adventurous and picky eaters.

Price range: $$ Best for: Breakfast or brunch Kid-pleaser: Nutella-stuffed French toast Wait hack: Put your name on the list and then walk around the Grove if there’s a wait

29. Flanigan’s: Local Family Favorite

This local chain is beloved by Miami families for good reason. The casual atmosphere, huge menu with reasonable prices, and genuinely welcoming attitude toward children make it perfect for family dinners.

Price range: $$ Best for: Dinner Kid-pleaser: The baby back ribs fall off the bone Locations: Multiple throughout Miami area

30. The Frieze Ice Cream Factory: Legendary Scoops

This South Beach institution has been serving homemade ice cream since 1987. With unique flavors like Salty Caramel and Red Raspberry Chocolate Chip, plus dairy-free options, there’s something for everyone in the family.

Price range: $ Best for: Dessert Kid-pleaser: Rainbow sprinkles are free! Sweet deal: They offer mini scoops so kids can try more than one flavor!

Miami by Neighborhood: Family Edition

31. Coconut Grove with Kids

This pedestrian-friendly neighborhood is perfect for families with its village-like atmosphere, multiple parks, and kid-friendly restaurants. The CocoWalk mall has been redeveloped with an open-air design that’s perfect for stroller navigation.

Don’t miss: The playground at Peacock Park, Bookstore in the Grove for children’s books Family eats: Glass & Vine has a beautiful garden setting and kids’ menu Annual event: The Coconut Grove Arts Festival in February is surprisingly kid-friendly

32. Wynwood for Families

While known for its nightlife, Wynwood by day is actually great for families. Beyond the famous walls, there are kid-friendly spots like the Museum of Graffiti and The Salty Donut for treats.

Age appeal: Better for older kids and teens who can appreciate the art Activity idea: Create a photo scavenger hunt of different murals Kid-friendly spot: Zak the Baker for amazing pastries with outdoor seating

33. Key Biscayne: Family Paradise

This island community feels like a vacation from your vacation. Connected to the mainland by a scenic causeway, it offers beaches, parks, and a more relaxed pace that’s perfect for families.

Family activities: Crandon Park Beach, Miami Seaquarium, Bill Baggs State Park Local gem: The food court at The Square shopping center has kid-approved options Worth the splurge: Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne offers family programming even for non-guests

Accessibility Information for Families

34. Accessible Miami: Inclusive Attractions

Miami has made great strides in accessibility in recent years. These attractions go beyond basic compliance to offer truly inclusive experiences:

  • Frost Science Museum: Sensory bags available, quiet rooms, and wheelchair accessibility throughout
  • New World Symphony: Sensory-friendly concerts designed for children with autism and sensory sensitivities
  • Miami Beach Botanical Garden: Fully accessible pathways and sensory garden features
  • Miami-Dade Parks: Many parks have accessible playground equipment and beach wheelchairs

Stroller-friendly spots: Bayside Marketplace, Lincoln Road Mall, Miracle Mile in Coral Gables Sensory-friendly events: Check the Miami Children’s Museum calendar for monthly sensory-friendly playtimes

Seasonal Activities and Events

Holiday Season in Miami

35. Holiday Season in Miami (November-January)

Miami transforms during the holiday season with special events and displays that kids love:

  • Santa’s Enchanted Forest: This holiday theme park claims to be the world’s largest Christmas theme park, with rides, lights, shows, and of course, Santa himself. It’s a bit kitschy but kids absolutely love it!
  • Bayfront Holiday Village: Free to visit with a small ice skating rink and holiday displays
  • Zoo Lights: Zoo Miami transforms with millions of twinkling lights and festive displays

Local insight: Go to Santa’s Enchanted Forest on a weeknight to avoid the biggest crowds.

36. Spring in Miami (February-April)

Spring brings perfect weather and special events:

  • Coconut Grove Arts Festival (February): This annual event transforms Coconut Grove into an outdoor gallery with art, music, food, and kid-friendly activities. Children under 12 get in free, and there are usually hands-on art projects for kids to enjoy.
  • Miami-Dade County Fair (March-April): Known locally as “The Youth Fair,” this annual event features rides, games, agricultural exhibits, and every fried food imaginable. The student art and science exhibits are actually quite impressive!
  • Miami Open Tennis (March): Even non-tennis fans will enjoy the festival atmosphere of this tournament, which often has family days with special activities

Budget tip for the Fair: Look for discount days and online ticket specials.

Miami’s Top Kid Attractions Comparison

Attraction Best Age Range Cost (Family of 4) Time Needed Indoor/Outdoor Unique Feature
Zoo Miami All ages $80-90 Full day Mostly outdoor Feed giraffes, monorail ride
Frost Science Museum 3-15 $100 3-4 hours Indoor Planetarium, aquarium with underwater tunnel
Miami Children’s Museum 1-10 $88 2-3 hours Indoor Cruise ship exhibit, interactive play areas
Crandon Park Beach All ages $7-10 parking Half/full day Outdoor Natural lagoon, shallow water perfect for kids
Jungle Island 5+ $200 3-4 hours Mixed SuperFlight experience, animal encounters
Everglades National Park 4+ $30/vehicle Half day Outdoor Guaranteed alligator sightings, ranger programs
Venetian Pool 3+ only $50-70 2-3 hours Outdoor Historic spring-fed pool with caves and waterfalls
Bayfront Park All ages Free 1-2 hours Outdoor City views, playground, free events
SuperBlue Miami 5+ $120 1-2 hours Indoor Interactive art installations, immersive experiences
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens 6+ $70 2-3 hours Mixed Renaissance-style villa, elaborate gardens

Note: Prices and information are approximate and subject to change. Costs represent typical expenses for a family of 4 with 2 adults and 2 children. Always check official websites for the most current information before planning your visit.

Planning Your Trip: Tips from a Local Parent

37. Getting Around: Transportation Tips

Miami is spread out, so having a car is helpful, but not always necessary if you plan carefully. The free Metromover is perfect for downtown exploration, and rideshares are readily available.

If you do rent a car, be prepared for Miami traffic and expensive parking in certain areas like South Beach. Many hotels charge $25-40 per day for parking!

Stroller tip: If you’re flying in, consider a lightweight travel stroller for navigating busy areas like Bayside or South Beach. Car seat note: Florida law requires children under 5 to be in appropriate car seats, including in taxis and rideshares

38. Where to Stay: Family-Friendly Areas

The best areas for families to stay include:

  • Key Biscayne: Quiet, upscale area with great beaches and parks
  • Coral Gables: Safe, beautiful neighborhood with a central location
  • Sunny Isles: Family-oriented beach area with many condo rentals
  • Downtown/Brickell: Good for access to museums and attractions

Avoid South Beach if you want a family-focused environment, especially on weekends when it gets rowdy.

Hotel recommendation: The Confidante Miami Beach has a great family pool and is on a quieter stretch of Miami Beach. Budget option: The Hampton Inn near Dolphin Mall offers free breakfast and a pool

When to Visit Miami with Kids

The best time for a family trip to Miami is from November to April when the weather is mild and humidity is lower. December through February offers perfect temperatures but is also peak tourist season with higher prices.

Avoid hurricane season (June through November) if possible, though September and October are the most active months for storms.

Weather warning: Summer brings afternoon thunderstorms almost daily, so plan morning activities during these months and have indoor backup plans.

For more detailed planning tips, check out Miami travel tips for families.

Miami for Babies and Toddlers: Special Considerations

Miami for Babies and Toddlers
Miami with the Littlest Travelers

39. Miami with the Littlest Travelers

Traveling with babies and toddlers requires extra planning, but Miami has plenty to offer the tiniest tourists:

  • Baby-friendly beaches: Matheson Hammock’s atoll pool, North Beach’s quiet stretch
  • Indoor play spaces: Pinto’s Playhouse in Coral Gables, Kids Go Play in Doral
  • Nursing-friendly spots: Most museums have quiet areas; Nordstrom at Aventura Mall has dedicated nursing rooms

Diaper emergencies: Target stores are located throughout Miami for baby supplies Rental gear: Companies like BabyQuip can deliver cribs, high chairs, and beach toys to your hotel

FAQs: Your Top Questions Answered

Is Miami Beach kid-friendly? Parts of it definitely are! North Beach and Mid-Beach are more family-oriented than the party atmosphere of South Beach. Lummus Park on South Beach does have a nice playground if you do visit that area.

What should I pack for kids visiting Miami? Sunscreen (reef-safe if possible), hats, sunglasses, water shoes for rocky beaches, insect repellent for Everglades visits, and light, breathable clothing. Don’t forget swimsuits year-round!

Are there good educational activities in Miami? Absolutely! The Frost Science Museum, HistoryMiami Museum, and the Everglades ecosystems offer learning opportunities disguised as fun.

What’s the best beach for toddlers in Miami? Crandon Park and Matheson Hammock Park have calm, shallow waters perfect for the littlest beach-goers.

Is Miami expensive for families? It can be, but there are plenty of budget-friendly options. State parks, free beach access, the Metromover, and family-friendly eateries like La Sandwicherie can keep costs down.

What’s the best neighborhood to stay with kids? Key Biscayne, Coral Gables, and Coconut Grove are all excellent family-friendly neighborhoods with good safety records and amenities.

Final Thoughts: Making Miami Memories

Miami offers so much more for families than most people realize. From wildlife encounters and museum adventures to beach days and cultural experiences, the hardest part will be deciding what to fit into your trip!

Remember to schedule some downtime too – kids (and parents!) need breaks from non-stop activities, especially in Miami’s warm climate. Some of our favorite family memories are simply playing in the hotel pool or watching the sunset on the beach.

Whatever you choose to do in Miami with your kids, approach it with a sense of adventure and flexibility. Sometimes the unplanned moments become the most magical memories of all!

Have an amazing Miami adventure with your family!


Looking for more Miami travel inspiration? Check out our Ultimate South Florida Travel Guide for even more ideas to make your family vacation unforgettable!

Comments (3)

  1. Camala Haddon
    Camala Haddon

    Aenean auctor wisi et urna. Aliquam erat volutpat. Duis ac turpis. Donec sit amet eros.

    Reply
    • Gloria Mann
      Gloria Mann

      Amet facilisis magna etiam tempor orci. Pellentesque habitant morbi tristique senectus et netus et. Ac tortor dignissim convallis aenean et tortor. Tellus in metus vulputate eu. Mauris vitae ultricies leo integer malesuada nunc.

      Reply
  2. Camala Haddon
    Camala Haddon

    Lacus vestibulum sed arcu non odio. Ornare suspendisse sed nisi lacus sed. Fusce id velit ut tortor pretium viverra suspendisse. Pharetra pharetra massa massa ultricies mi.

    Reply

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *