Family Things to Do in Miami, Florida

Family Things to Do in Miami, Florida
South Florida's year-round warm temperatures, beaches, expanses of national park, and native species to see, including dolphins, alligators and crocodiles, make Miami a surprisingly family-friendly city. From museums created especially for kids to a number of outdoor activities and watersports, Miami can be fun for the whole family.

Don't-Miss Museums

Exploring areas dedicated to Miami's cultural history to walking through a six-foot piggy bank to help kids learn about savings are among activities that can be found at the Miami Children's Museum. If science and stars capture your child's interests, visit the Miami Museum of Science, which features a planetarium where kids can explore more about planets and stars. Featuring more than 175 reptiles at the Wildlife Center and robotic dinosaurs that give a view into the Earth's history, the museum also features changing exhibits, meaning that kids rarely see the same things twice.

A Walk on the Wild Side

The Miami Seaquarium is a place for kids to swim with dolphins, see killer whales and even play on a pirate ship while viewing a shark-filled moat. A wide variety of animal shows and other programs means you should check in advance for the shows you would especially like to see. Reservations are required for the dolphin adventure, so be sure to call in advance.

At the Miami MetroZoo, kids can take a ride on a camel or even go on an evening tour where they can get up close and personal with elephants and other creatures. With more than 740 acres of space, the zoo is also the only one in a subtropical climate in the United States.

Water Adventures

A member of the U.S. National Park Service, the Everglades National Park is a place for families to enjoy all aspects of Florida wildlife. From canoeing and kayaking to fishing or viewing alligators, the park service offers numerous ranger-led tours for the whole family. Because Miami has both wet and dry seasons, be sure to check which programs are offered for your family during your visit.

For kids ages 3 and up, the Coral Gables' Venetian Pool is a place where kids can swim among waterfalls, grottoes and rock caves. A member of the National Registry of Historic Places, the pool's Spanish-inspired influences give the warm water a cool Miami feel.

Article Written By Rachel Nall

Rachel Nall began writing in 2003. She is a former managing editor for custom health publications, including physician journals. She has written for The Associated Press and "Jezebel," "Charleston," "Chatter" and "Reach" magazines. Nall is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Tennessee.

Write for Trails.com
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