Miami with Kids — Family Activities Guide
Whether you're visiting Miami with kids or a local parent looking for the next weekend adventure, The Miami has compiled the most family-friendly activities, attractions, and tips. Organized by age range and indoor/outdoor — and we mark the free options.
Parent tip: Miami beaches are family-friendly outside Spring Break season. Crandon Park has calmer water for younger kids than South Beach.
Top family activities
Frost Science Museum
Cost: $28-32
Time: 3-5 hours
All ages
Indoor
Aquarium, planetarium, hands-on science. Conrad N. Hilton Foundation Aquarium has 31-foot Gulf Stream tank. All-ages favorite.
Miami Children's Museum
Cost: $22-26
Time: 3-4 hours
1-10
Indoor
Interactive exhibits for younger kids — bank, supermarket, art studios, climbing structures. Air-conditioned.
Zoo Miami
Cost: $25-30
Time: 4-6 hours
All ages
Outdoor
3,000+ animals on 750+ acres. Cageless. Tram tours for older kids; smaller animals up-close. Bring sunscreen.
Crandon Park Beach (Key Biscayne)
Cost: $7 park fee
Time: 4-8 hours
All ages
Outdoor
Calmer water than South Beach. Family bathrooms, playground, picnic areas. Less party scene than mainland beaches.
Wynwood Walls
Cost: Free outside; $15 tour
Time: 1-2 hours
6+
Outdoor
FREE
World-class street art for tween/teen Instagram-lovers. Better in morning before heat. Bring water.
Jungle Island
Cost: $30-40
Time: 4-5 hours
All ages
Outdoor
Wildlife park with exotic animals, zip line, splash zone. Smaller than Zoo Miami but more interactive.
Everglades Safari Park (45 min)
Cost: $30-40
Time: 3-4 hours
5+
Outdoor
Airboat rides + alligator demonstrations. Kids love it; sensitive littles may find the noise overwhelming.
Best for different ages
Toddlers (1-3)
Look for splash pads, playgrounds, and short-attention-span venues. The local library often has free story-time programs for toddlers — check the schedule.
Preschoolers (3-5)
Children's museums, zoos, and farms work best at this age. Keep visits to 2-3 hours and have a backup activity ready.
Elementary (6-10)
Science museums, nature trails, and creative venues hit the sweet spot. This is when kids start absorbing local history and culture.
Tweens & Teens (11+)
Outdoor adventure (kayaking, biking, climbing), arts venues, and food tours work well. Let them help plan the day.
Rainy day activities
- Local museums
- Public library children's program
- Indoor play centers
- Bowling alleys
- Movie theaters
- Recreation center
Free things to do
- Public parks and playgrounds
- Public library programs
- Community pool (residents discount)
- Walking trails
- Free museum days (check schedule)
- Farmers' markets
Family-friendly restaurants
Many Miami restaurants welcome kids — look for those with kids menus, outdoor patios (for active toddlers), and play areas. Brunch spots are often more family-friendly than dinner-only places.
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