Things to do in Miami with Kids and Family

Magic City is a perfect place to visit with kids and family. This bustling city has so much to offer ranging from action-packed arcades and eco-adventure parks to science museums and petting zoos! You'll never find Miami short of tourist spots to spend some quality time with your family while having fun. Here are some of the must-visit tourist attractions and things to do in Miami with kids and family!

Venetian Pool

No kid will turn down a visit to the Venetian Pool. Nestled in the scenic Coral Gables, it is considered by some as the most gorgeous swimming pool in the world. Set against the picturesque blend of idyllic waterfalls, tropical foliage, and Italian architecture, this freshwater pool provides a one-of-a-kind swimming experience that everyone wants a piece of. The best time to visit this pool is during weekdays when it's not overcrowded, even though it's open every day. 

(Photo via @pesheaneventphotography / Instagram)

Unwind and relax against the lush backdrop of rich gardens and cool fountains while your kids have a splash in the shallow pool. There's even a grotto that your kids will love exploring for hours on end! After you and your kids are done swimming, grab a bite at Venetian Pool's on-site snack bar serving delicious ice cream, french fries, pizza, and more! 

Phillip And Patricia Frost Museum Of Science

The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is a must-visit for kids to learn about science in a fun and interactive way. Located in Downtown Miami, this museum has a variety of exhibits and displays that can help kids figure out scientific concepts and principles easily. One of the museum's highlights is the "MeLab" exhibit through which children can understand bodily wellness by experimenting on their own bodies, for example, running simulations and testing reflexes and sense responses to tune into their bodies.

(Photo via @frostscience / Instagram)

Another thing that kids love to see at the museum is the aquarium which houses all sorts of aquatic creatures to transport you and your kids to the depths of Miami's aquatic ecosystems. Another favorite is the planetarium with its dazzling space show which is a delight to behold if you're a space buff! This children's museum also features other hands-on exhibits where kids can learn about physics, engineering, and other subjects. Visiting the museum is one of the best things to do in Miami with kids and family since you can take a moment to yourself while your kids can learn all the while having fun!

Miami Children's Museum

The Miami Children's Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions for kids since once you visit this museum, you come back for more. Established in Watson Island to foster creativity and nurture the love for learning, this museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits that are designed to educate and entertain kids of all ages. Some of these exhibits include a cruise-ship display, marine tanks designed to illustrate South Florida's aquatic wildlife, and interactive piggy banks and grocery stores that give the little ones an idea of what it's like to be an adult.

(Photo via @arquitectonicaintl / Instagram)

Another highlight of the museum is the maker space where kids engage in arts and crafts. Parents love to frequent this museum to stimulate their kids' curiosity and encourage them to learn new things. Mothers looking to spend quality time with their kids are encouraged to attend the Mommy and Me classes. Aside from being a preschool, the institute offers after-school and virtual programs as well to let your children play, learn, imagine, and create!

Zoo Miami 

Who doesn't love animals? Zoo Miami is the ultimate place to visit if you and your kids are wildlife aficionados. Situated in South Miami Heights, this zoo offers you an opportunity to see rare animals up close and personal which you won't find so easily in other American zoos. One of the reasons why visitors frequent this place is that this is considered the only subtropical menagerie in the continental US.

(photo by Ron Magill for @zoomiami / Instagram)

Spanning about 750 acres of land, this zoological park is home to over 3,000 animals ranging from rhinoceroses, elephants, gorillas, and hippos, to giraffes, lions, vipers, crocodiles, and more. Your kids will get to interact with the animals all the while learning about their habitat and feeding habits. There's a fun monorail ride that will carry you toward the exhibits! Little ones can also take a whirl on the carousel, have a blast getting drenched in the splash pad on hot days, and ride the Safari Cycle with their parents. If you're looking for a fun outing with the family, Zoo Miami is one of those places that everyone will enjoy!

JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa

Nestled in Aventura between Fort Lauderdale and Miami, JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa is a perfect retreat for adults and kids alike to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Here you can have a splash in the on-site Tidal Cove Waterpark which features seven thrilling slides, a water play area, a lazy river, a huge pool for kids, and the famous FlowRider surf ride. Kids love a stay in this resort for its water park alone. 

(Photo via @jwturnberry / Instagram)

Another highlight of this resort is its lush tropical gardens spanning over 300 acres of land with a bird reserve. There's a 100-year-old Banyan tree that gives the area its splendor. Surrounded by Mediterranean-style architecture, decadent marble walkways, and sparkling fountains, the ambiance alone will make you forget all your headaches and worries. This luxurious resort also offers a wide range of amenities and activities for guests to enjoy, including multiple pools, a world-class spa, and a championship golf course. Once you visit this resort, you'll keep coming back for more!

Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel

Referred to as "a Ferris wheel on steroids", climbing atop the Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel is one of the best things to do in Miami with kids and family! Towering about 200 feet above ground level, you'll be greeted by stunning views of Biscayne Bay, Bayfront Park, Port Miami, and the gorgeous Downtown Miami skyline, which look especially ethereal at nighttime. Most visitors take an impromptu ride when visiting the Bayside area and are always mesmerized by the beauty that this attraction holds. 

(photo via @skyviewsmiami / Instagram)

Among this tourist attraction's highlights, you'll find 42 fully enclosed Gondolas which are climate-controlled and air-conditioned so you enjoy the ride, come rain or shine. For an elite experience, consider booking a VIP Gondola with special leather bucket seats and a glass bottom that will take your adventure to new heights while making you feel perfectly comfortable! There's a special LED light show that you don't wanna miss out on if you visit during nighttime. If you and your kids love a perfect view, this ride is a must-visit attraction!

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

On the southern end of Key Biscayne sits the Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park.

Boasting wide beaches with pristine waters, this state park is adored by kids and adults alike. But there is more to this park than its coastal richness, and what better way to learn about its culture, history, and local flora and fauna, than by visiting this park?

(photo via @billbaggsstatepark / Instagram)

One of the best things to do in Miami with kids and family is to climb atop this park's famous Cape Florida Lighthouse. Offering marvelous views of the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay from above, this tourist spot will make you forget all the worries in the world! Visiting this state park is a perfect way for children to get away from screens and technology for a while and enjoy the outdoors. Some outdoor activities that the little ones can enjoy include hiking, biking, kayaking, and picnicking! For picnics, the state park offers covered pavilions with a scenic view. Grab a bite at the Lighthouse Café to round out your trip! Overall, visiting this attraction is one of the best things to do in Miami with kids and family.

Wynwood Walls

Wynwood Walls is a must-visit for kids to foster their creativity by observing and absorbing the stunning street art displayed on huge murals. Located just north of Downtown Miami in the Wynwood Art District, this outdoor museum will offer kids a fresh outlook on art exhibitions since most of them probably picture only indoor art institutes when thinking about museums. Boasting street art, murals, and sculptures from around the world, this place often captivates people of all ages.

(photo via @visuals.by.luis / Instagram)

A few hours in Wynwood Walls will enlighten you and your kids about different art styles that will surely awaken someone's inner artist! If you're looking to spend quality time with the little ones, watch a film screened against the vibrant street art and make sure to snap a photo or two to bring home as a token of love. The Wynwood Walls Shop is a perfect place to grab your favorite prints and gifts afterward. Stop by Morelia Gourmet Paletas located nearby for delicious ice pops to round out your day!

Oleta River State Park

No visit to Miami is complete without visiting Florida's biggest urban park. Take your kids to visit the gorgeous Oleta River State Park and watch them forget about every other tourist attraction while spending the day enjoying outdoor activities here! Located about 30 minutes from Downtown Miami in North Miami Beach, this state park offers over 1,000 acres of green richness that is referred to by most as a "natural Florida oasis". The lush tidal mangroves will surround you as you swim, kayak, or canoe in the waters.

(photo via @oletariverpark / Instagram)

Sightseers of all ages love the Oleta River State Park for its serenity to get a tranquil break from the noise of the bustling Downtown Miami. Little ones especially love to have a go at water sports here such as snorkeling, kayaking, pier fishing, and more! A boat ride in this park is one of the best things to do in Miami with kids and family! The full moon kayak tours are a family favorite. There are also 15 miles of trails for kids who love to hike or bike. If your kids are especially skilled at biking, let them have a go at dirt-bike riding on trails designed for tricks. To conclude your perfect day, set up a camp on the Bayfront Beach with a view of crystal-clear waters and a gorgeous nighttime sky!

FunDimension

Thrills await you at this perfect tourist attraction bustling with activity! Located in Wynwood, FunDimension is a must-visit indoor arcade that is both kid-friendly and family-friendly. Spanning over 15,000 square feet of entertainment, this three-story building offers lots of exhilarating activities and recreations ranging from video games and laser tag to a 7-D theater and bumper cars. No kid or adult will turn down a visit to this arcade!

(photo via @fundimension / Instagram)

Kids are offered combo game passes on prepaid games that allow them to have as many tries as they like! Many little ones are awestruck by the fact that the famous musical phenomenon Imagine Dragons shot the music video for their song "Zero" right in this entertainment center! This arcade has special adult events and games featuring cocktails, Panther Coffee, and free Wi-Fi! What's not to love?

Jungle Island

This eco-adventure park is a perfect place to be if you love wildlife and nature! Nestled in Watson Island, this park offers you a lush tropical landscape as you navigate your way to get up close with beautiful wildlife such as parrots, lemurs, sloths, orangutans, and kangaroos. Jungle Island offers you and your kids an opportunity to unleash your inner explorer and become one with nature!

The highlights of this park include a playground for kids, petting zoos, and family-friendly live shows that will keep you glued to your seats! Other attractions that entice tourists include an exciting jungle-cabin escape room, a 600-foot zip line, many pop-up waterslides, and more! Visiting this park is surely one of the best things to do in Miami with kids and family.

Little Havana

Little Havana is a must-visit place if you come down to Miami. Widely regarded as the Magic City's Cuban heart, this tourist spot entices sightseers and locals alike! Little Havana gets its name from the capital city of Cuba, Havana, and it's just as magical when it comes to Cuban roots and culture. It is the most famous Cuban exile neighborhood around the globe, and rightfully so. Its rich culture and history can be seen across the Latin American art galleries, delicious diners featuring Cuban cuisine, and cafés with famous walk-up windows, lining up its streets.

(photo via @jobyearle / Instagram)

You're missing out on a lot if you don't visit Little Havana. This is the tourist spot that people visit and revisit because they can't get enough of its magic! Sightseers flock to this place for its amazing nightlife, delicious eateries, live music, political passion, cultural buzz, and its many bustling small businesses. If you have a flair for arts and culture, you must see the Viernes Culturales on each month's last Friday! Featuring fine art exhibitions, live music, and cuisine tasting, this bustling event is a must-see! 

If your kids love tasting new flavors of ice cream, take them to the famous Azucar Ice Cream Company to try out a scoop or two. You must take a stroll down the Calle Ocho Walk of Fame to see your favorite Hispanic stars! Versailles is a famous stop to grab a bite during your trip. A day in this place isn't enough because there are so many tourist spots to explore which is only possible through a sightseeing tour!

South Pointe Park 

Nestled in South Pointe, just south of South Beach, this tourist spot features over 40 parks and recreational facilities to spend quality time with your family here. Adored by kids and adults alike, South Pointe Park should be on your bucket list if you feel like you've seen all of Miami. Offering lots and lots of family-friendly programs, this park is a perfect blend of scenic beauty and entertainment!

(photo via @gabrielfotosvideosmavic / Instagram)

One of the highlights that attract tourists to this park is its famous splash pad, perfect to cool off during summer. Another thing that kids love is the shaded playground where the little ones play, come rain or shine. If your kids love coastal adventures, take them to see massive cruise ships as they're leaving the port.

Conclusion

So there you have it: our best recommendations for tourist spots to visit and things to do in Miami with kids and family that are sure to make everyone happy! If you've enjoyed this guide, be sure to check out this guide on things to do in Miami for couples and adults if you're looking to escape to a romantic getaway in the Magic City!

Ammara Younas

I am a travel blogger with a passion for adventure and trying new things, whether it's relishing exotic foods or participating in thrilling activities! As a travel blogger, I am always on the lookout for new and exciting destinations to explore. With Tripshepherd, I've been fortunate enough to document my adventures and share them with the world. Through my travel guides, I aim to inspire and empower others to explore the world and challenge themselves to step outside their comfort zone!