10+ Things to Do in Miami with Kids to have a Fun South Florida Vacation

UPDATED JULY 2024
By Katie Sagal

Planning a vacation to Miami? Miami is a charming city that has a lot more to offer than nightclubs and high-end shopping. Your kids are sure to enjoy the diversity of activities available for families in Miami, from tours and cruises to aquariums and zoos. Encounter strange and exotic new wildlife, marvel at beautiful historic architecture, and explore all of the wonderful and wacky things at some of the best kids’ museums around. If you’re looking for things to do in Miami with kids, check out this list of our favorite kid-friendly activities, including...

  • Miami Seaquarium
  • Frost Musuem of Science
  • Duck Tours South Beach
  • Lion Country Safari
  • Zoo Miami
  • Miami Children’s Museum
  • Sawgrass Recreation Park
  • Pérez Art Museum and more...

Consider adding a few of these kid friendly attractions to your vacation itinerary.

Save on Admission to Kid Friendly Attractions

Many of these great kid friendly attractions are available on the Go Miami® Card. Choose as you go from dozens of top Miami attractions and save up to 55% off combined admission vs paying at the gate. Or, build your own pass and save up to 20% off. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more.

Miami Seaquarium

Image of Animal, Mammal, Orca, Sea Life, Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Fish, Perched on the shores of beautiful Biscayne Bay, this exciting, kid-friendly institution is one-of-a-kind. Dedicated exclusively to marine creatures of the sea, this 38-acre tropical paradise is also known for its extensive rehabilitation efforts. A visit here is a great way to introduce children to the importance of animal conservation and environmental protection. Some of the many creatures you’ll encounter at the Miami Seaquarium include sharks, dolphins, killer whales, seals, manatees, and many more. Educational programs will introduce you to the details of their habitats, history, and current status in the world’s oceans. As a special bonus, you even get to meet TV’s famous dolphin Flipper! Getting In: Miami Seaquarium tickets are included with the Go Miami Card.

Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science

Image of Astronomy, Nebula, Outer Space, Nature, Night, Outdoors, Another great place the kids will love is the Frost Museum of Science. Located right on the waterfront in Miami's Museum Park (also shard with the Pérez Art Museum -- more on that below), this institution used to be known as the Miami Museum of Science. Renamed and with a whole new perspective on bringing scientific knowledge to the world, the Frost Museum of Science features a three-level aquarium, a planetarium, an interactive indoor/outdoor exhibit on the Everglades, and much more. It's the perfect destination to cultivate your children's curiosity for the world around them. Getting In: Frost Museum of Science tickets are included with the Go Miami Card.

Duck Tours South Beach

Image of Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Car, Vehicle, Duck Tours South Beach covers both land and sea and manages to pack a lot of entertainment and exclusive insight about Miami and South Beach into one, fun filled 90-minute guided tour. You'll see all the top sights in Miami, including: South Beach, the Art Deco District, Fisher Island, Millionaire's Row, Star Island, Biscayne Bay, and many more. It's a delightful activity for kids with its combination of street and water level explorations, and you'll all love how refreshing and informative the journey is. Getting In: Duck Tours South Beach tickets are included with the Go Miami Card.

Lion Country Safari

Image of Machine, Spoke, Car, Vehicle, Animal, Giraffe, Mammal, Wildlife, Outdoors, Alloy Wheel, Car Wheel, Tire, Wheel, Visit the African Savannah without ever leaving sunny Miami! You’ll encounter over 900 animals throughout your four-mile drive, including rhinos, lions, zebras, giraffes, and many more. It's a great educational opportunity for kids who love animals, and will truly make you revise your notion of what animal parks can look like! When you’ve finished your Safari, head to the adjacent Safari World Amusement Park, where you can witness animal demonstrations and performances, stop by the petting zoo, help to feed the birds, and enjoy a few classic rides. A visit to Lion Country Safari is a wonderful thing to do with your kids. Getting In: Lion Country Safari tickets are included with the Go Miami Card.

Zoo Miami

Image of Animal, Zoo, Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Photography, Face, Head, Portrait, Giraffe, Mammal, Wildlife, Zoo Miami is another great animal attraction and thing to do for the whole family. Spanning nearly 350 acres, this exotic animal park is home to more than 3,000 animals and over 1,200 plants distributed across stunning, state-of-the-art exhibit spaces. You’ll need several hours to really fully explore this exciting place! Meet many fascinating animals in carefully redesigned habitats, including creatures from Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Amazon. Your little ones will especially love Playworld Playground, designed to be half-jungle, half-waterpark. It's a great play to run around and burn off some excess energy! There are so many exciting things to see and do at this charming zoo, from feeding rhinos to riding a camel, that the kids will never want to leave. Getting In: Zoo Miami tickets are included with the Go Miami Card.

Miami Children’s Museum

Image of Office Building, Convention Center, City, Dedicated specifically to educating and entertaining kids in interactive ways, the Miami Children’s Museum is the perfect stop for families with younger kids. The goal of the museum is inspire a life-long love of learning in your kids, so the exhibits are both engaging and informative. It's the perfect way to develop their minds and social skills. Some of their most popular exhibits and things to do include the 2-story (Sand)Castle of Dreams, the interactive Health & Wellness Center, the fun and fuzzy Pet Center, and the Safety Zone, where kids can dress up as policemen, firefighters, and more. Getting In: Miami Children's Museum tickets are included with the Go Miami Card.

Sawgrass Recreation Park

Image of Person, Boat, Boating, Vehicle, Water, Water Sports, Watercraft, Shoe, Nestled in the Everglades, this exciting wildlife park and touring destination provides the perfect opportunity to explore one of Florida’s natural treasures. Interact with and even feed select animals at the Swampyard Island exhibit, or meet exciting new creatures introduced by the visiting Predators Unlimited folks. As a bonus thing to do, you’ll be able to hop aboard an exciting Airboat Adventure, which will zoom you through the Everglades at speeds of up to 40 mph. This 30-minute tour provides the perfect opportunity for you to capture an image of the famed Florida alligator! Getting In: Sawgrass Recreation Park tickets are included with the Go Miami Card.

Rent a Bike

Image of Head, Person, Face, Adult, Female, Woman, Glasses, Bicycle, Cycling, Vehicle, Get a full-day bike rental from Bike and Roll Miami and explore the city on two wheels. You'll be able to cover lots of ground and feel like you've gotten to know the city well when you map out your own routes and follow along (or try a suggested route provided by Bike and Roll). It's a fun way for the whole family to get some exercise, and for the kids to explore at their own pace without feeling rushed by a tour. Popular routes include:

  • Miami Design District: this area is a must-see for fans of the fine arts, this hip neighborhood is home to over 130 art galleries, showrooms, stores, antique dealers, restaurants, gardens, and more.
  • The Venetian Islands: this popular route covers six beautiful islands off the coast of Miami crossing over a series of scenic causeways with spectacular views of Biscayne Bay.
  • Little Havana: home to a large, concentrated population of Cuban immigrants, Little Havana is a bustling, epicenter of social, cultural, and political activity in Miami with unique Cuban-American culture. It's known for its vibrant street life, restaurants, music, and more. Insider tip: get a Cubano sandwich for lunch followed by a Cafecito (Cuban coffee)
  • Venetian Pool & Miracle Mile: bike out to the beautiful public pool known as the Venetian Pool, a quarry-turned-Venetian style pool that features vine covered loggias, shady porticos, a Spanish fountain, waterfalls, rock caves, and more. Then, go shopping (be sure to bring a backpack if you want to pick up any souvenirs!) in Coral Cabels at the Miracle Mile.
  • South Beach: ride along a beachfront trail and see the glamorous sights of South Beach, including pristine beaches, Art Deco architecture, Versace's Mediterranean mansion, Espanola Way, Collins Avenue shopping, the Holocaust Memorial, botanical gardens, and more, or, just enjoy a leisurely ride to the beach and relax.
  • Vizcaya, Coconut Grove, & Coral Gables: head out to the beautifully landscaped Vizcaya Museum and Gardens and see the lush tropical forest, mangrove swamps, and 10-acres of gardens (right next door to Madonna's house).
  • Key Biscayne Island: ride along the beautiful bike trails of Key Biscayne, home to some of the best beaches in the US. You'll get stunning ocean views, can stop at the Miami Seaquarium, and head out to see the Cape Florida Lighthouse.

Getting In: Miami Bike rentals by Bike and Roll are included with the Go Miami Card.

Jet Boat Miami

Image of Boat, Boating, Vehicle, Water, Water Sports, Lifejacket, Vest, Person, Yacht, A thrill ride with a guide. Jet Boat Miami is one of the best things to do in Miami with kids--they'll love getting out on the water and seeing the sights of Miami while reaching speeds of up to 45-mph. This cruise takes passengers on a thrill filled ride with 360-degree twists, side drifts, leaps, turns, pivots, and high speed bursts. Kids will feel like they're in one of their favorite action movies, all from the safety of this guided tour. Because it does go so fast, it's probably an attraction best saved for middle grade or older children. Getting In: Jet Boat Miami tickets are included with the Go Miami Card.

Pérez Art Museum

Image of Scissors, People, Person, Hat, Glasses, Boy, Male, Teen, Adult, Man, Female, Woman, Child, Girl, Food, Lunch, Meal, Indoors, Restaurant, Wristwatch, Get the kids excited about modern and contemporary art at the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM), Miami's flagship art museum. Exhibitions feature art from the 20th and 21st centuries and highlight the role Miami has played in the art world as a geographical crossroads between the Americas. Free tours, led by museum guides, are available Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 11:00 am, 12:00 pm, and 2:30 pm and Thursday evenings at 6:30 pm. Insider tip: Check their calendar of events to see if there are any kid-friendly activities happening during your visit. Getting In: Pérez Art Museum Miami tickets are included with the Go Miami Card.

Miami Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

Image of Bus, Vehicle, Car, Person, Tour Bus, Double Decker Bus, See the sights of Miami at your own pace and get around with a convenient, 1 day pass to Big Bus Miami Hop-On Hop-Off tour. On the open top double-deck bus, you'll get great views of major landmarks. Choose from 2 loops (Beach Loop and City Loop) which are 90-minutes each, or do them all depending on what you want to see, and get entertaining and informative live narration about everything you see. Stay on for the full loops to get acquainted with the city or use the bus as your transportation to all the sights you want to visit. It's an ideal option for families with small children because of its flexibility; you can hop off as soon as the kids get bored, and hop back on when they get tired of walking. This is one of the best things to do in Miami when trying to learn the area, too Getting In: Big Bus Miami tickets are included with the Go Miami Card.

Key Largo Glass Bottom Boat Cruise

Image of Hot Tub, Tub, Shoe, Child, Female, Girl, Person, Adult, Woman, Boy, Male, Pool, Water, Man, Get the best views of the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the only undersea park in the US, on a fully-guided glass bottom boat cruise. Aboard the Key Largo Princess you'll get panoramic offshore views of the Florida Keys on your way to the underwater park. At the reef, you'll see tons of sea life below the boat, including living coral, sea fans, sea plumes, colorful fish, and more. The kids will love the unique chance to see through the floor of the vessel and down into the clear blue depths below! Getting In: Key Largo Glass Bottom Boat Cruise tickets are included with the Go Miami Card.

Key West Day Trip

Image of Alcohol, Beer, Beverage, Bottle, Water, Waterfront, Take the kids across 42 bridges and through 32 islands to reach Key West, the Southernmost city in the continental US, on a full-day, guided trip. When you arrive in Key West you'll have about six hours to explore the sights you want to see. Visit the Hemingway House, take a trolley or train tour, rent a kayak, or poke around the boutique shops and grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants. It's a great way to spend the day on a unique adventure with the whole family. Round-trip transportation from Miami Beach and Downtown Miami hotels is included. Getting In: Key West Day Trip from Miami tickets are included with the Go Miami Card.

Let's Recap

There you have it. Our list of some of the top things to do in Miami with kids during your vacation. There are pristine beaches and clear waters to satisfy your desire for relaxation, and museums, tours, and cultural attractions to appeal to your intellectual side. Remember, many of these great ideas are included on the Go Miami Card, where you can save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. Consider adding a few of these kid friendly options to your upcoming itinerary. Enjoy!

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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Miami in April

Seated along the southeastern coastline, Miami has long served as one of America’s most popular tourist destinations. A quintessential Floridian beach city, the area is known for its sugar-sand shores, tropical climate and Latin-America influences. Still, Miami is much more than just a haven for seaside lovers. When visitors aren’t at the beach, you’ll find them enjoying the city’s fantastic cultural amenities, delicious cuisine, and non-stop nightlife. From classical architecture and botanical gardens to zoological parks and hidden gems, there’s so much to see and do here. Trust us when we say that the city has much to offer visitors of all persuasions. If you’re making your way to Miami and don’t quite know where to start, have a read through our comprehensive list of things to do in the area. However you choose to enjoy the Magic City, we’re sure it’ll be just wonderful! See the Sites Who doesn't love a zoo - are we right? The perfect stop for all animal lovers, Zoo Miami works to educate its visitors about conservation and cultivate curiosity in the natural world. First established in 1948, this place is well-recognized as the oldest and largest zoologist garden in Florida. Occupying a whopping 750 acres, the institute is home to over 3, 000 animals across 500 species. Highlights include jaguars, warthogs, spotted hyenas, hippos and more. And for those who can’t quite get enough of their favorite furry friends, this place also has live educational shows, guided zoo tours, and feedings. Additionally, there are dining options, picnic areas, kids’ playgrounds and great shopping opportunities to enhance your visit. There are endless amounts of fun to be had here, but keep in mind that a day at the zoo can be quite tiresome. We recommend wearing your comfiest walking shoes, and taking a lot of sunscreen with you. A total crowd-pleaser and classic Miami attraction, this place provides a fantastic educational experience for those of all ages. If you’re looking for fun day trips, look no further than Miami Seaquarium. Whether you’re just curious or looking to unlock that sense of childhood wonder, the institute works to provide the perfect environment for learning and adventure. Brimming with beautiful and intelligent sea creatures of all kinds, this place provides a comprehensive glimpse of what life looks like under the sea. No, really - trust us when we say that there’s plenty to do and see here. In fact, at 10, 000 specimens, the institute’s expansive repository stands as one of the largest collections of marine animals in the world. Enjoy the scenic wonders of some of your favorite aquatic and semi-aquatic creatures, including jellyfish, sharks, penguins, orcas, and much more. Get up-close encounters with dolphins and experience their mysterious intelligence firsthand. As fascinating as it is fun, we love this spot because it’s impossible to leave without having learned something new. Get to Know the Area The weather in April is sunny and warm without being too humid, making it a great time to enjoy the best of Miami’s outdoor attractions. For nature lovers, we highly recommend checking out Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. Established in 1936, this historic landscape showcases the rare and exotic plant collection of avid botanist and plant explorer David Fairchild. Throughout the first half of the twentieth century, Fairchild brought more than 200, 000 plants to the United States, many of which thrive on site. Walking through the gardens, you’ll be able to enjoy beautiful flower beds, vines, and many magnificent species of trees. In addition, the space is home to the largest palm collection in the United States. Meticulously planted and well-curated, the displays are a total sight to behold. Those looking to take some time away from the city couldn’t find anywhere better. Though you might know Miami for its white sandy beaches and warm weather, the city’s art scene is well worth checking out. The perfect stop for all creative types, Wynwood Walls is one of the best places in the city to view the work of some of the world's top urban artists. Bold murals dot the city’s walls, giving insight into the local community and art community. Spanning over 80, 000 square feet of wall space, this unique exhibit works to showcase original talent from America and around the globe. Featuring better-known artists like Shepard Fairey, as well as the work of new innovators in the graffiti world, the exhibit is widely appreciated for its craft and message. A total Instagrammer’s dream, this quirky and vibrant spot is great for a casual day trip. Take time to explore the surrounding area, since there are great eateries, bars and stores to be explored. Learn about the City Those looking to learn more about the background of the area might appreciate the next item on our list. Combining history, culture and architecture, the Ancient Spanish Monastery works to preserve and educate its visitors about the structure’s unique design. Billed as ‘’the biggest jigsaw puzzle in history’’ by Time Magazine, the building has seen a rather interesting past. Whilst construction began in 1133 AD near northern Spain, it wasn’t until the mid-twentieth century that pieces of the building were brought over to America to be made into a tourist attraction. Today, the structure stands as a fine example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Upon entrance, you’ll be able to enjoy hand-carved columns, sweeping arches and beautiful shrines. April is a great time to visit, since you’ll be able to stroll around the monastery’s beautiful gardens in comfort and admire their great beauty. With its exquisite presence and astonishing history, the monastery offers a one-of-a-kind visual experience to remember. Full disclosure: we love Miami! The best things to do in the city run the gamut – from seriously fun to highly educational, you’re sure to be spoilt for choice. If you’re an artsy type, Wynwood Walls would be your best bet. For animal lovers, Zoo Miami couldn’t be a finer choice. Or if you’re looking to see some stunning architecture, there’s no better place in the city than the Ancient Spanish Monastery. Trust us, with so many incredible things to do here you’ll never be bored. Explore Miami to its fullest with Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
Miami Beach
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Miami Family Vacation Ideas

From intriguing museums, bike rides and a side trip to Key West, there's plenty to keep the whole family entertained in Miami
Katie Sagal
Couple in Miami
Blog

Romantic Things to Do in Miami for Valentine's Day

Miami is an incredibly romantic city. Warm weather, breezy beaches, great nightclubs, delicious food – you name it, Miami’s got the perfect date night in store. If you’re going to be spending Valentine’s Day in sunny South Beach, or on another romantic occasion, then you’re probably searching for a few ideas. Fortunately for you, we've got a few suggestions in mind: Enjoy a day trip to Key West Tour the city's Art Deco district Peruse the Pérez Art Museum Tour Florida's Everglades Dine on world-class cuisine And more! Soak Up Artistic Inspiration Prefer paintings and sculptures? The Pérez Art Museum is a must-see for you. It’s filled with amazing, internationally and internationally-inspired artwork from predominantly modern and contemporary styles. They often have rotating special exhibits, too, like this year's "On the Horizon," featuring contemporary Cuban art. Or, if you love architecture and artwork, then you will not want to miss out on a visit to the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, one of the most magnificent buildings in the entire state and truly the most beautiful estate as a whole. Depending on when you take your romantic vacation to Miami, there are also likely to be a number of film or art festivals floating around – like the Coconut Grove Arts Festival that happens annually in February. Roam the Beaches It may seem like a no-brainer, but spend some time outside while you’re in Miami this February! The weather is going to be lovely (and possibly much warmer than where you’re used to), so take advantage of its temperate climate and enjoy a little beach time. South Pointe Beach and Key Biscayne are typically recommended as having the best views, but there are a ton of other options, too. If you want to be out but the beaches sound too touristy for you, try a walk along the very romantic pedestrian walkway on Lincoln Road. Or, opt for something more active with a bike ride around South Beach. Take a Nighttime Tour of the City If you're new to Miami and want to see a bit of the city, but hope to do so in a more romantic way, then a night tour seems like a good fit. This option from Big Bus will highlight the sexy and sultry aspects of Miami at night - including the evening illuminations that distinguish Miami's skyline. Of course, it's also a smart sightseeing opportunity, too, because the tour will showcase Miami's best landmarks and hotspots. It will give you some ideas for what to do the next day, too! Remember to Save on Attraction Admission So there you have it. Our list of some romantic things to do in Miami, just in time for Valentine's Day. Remember, some of these great options are included on the pass for Miami by Go City®, where you can save on combined admission vs paying at the gate. Please note, the special events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed and not included with your pass.
Katie Sagal

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