Miami with Kids

Miami, with its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and exciting attractions, is an ideal destination for families with kids. From interactive art installations and lush gardens to thrilling outdoor adventures and mouth-watering cuisine, Miami offers something for everyone. This expert guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to Miami with your kids, including top attractions, the best times to visit, where to stay, and where to eat. Plus, we’ve included a detailed 7-day travel route and essential tips to make the most of your family vacation.

What Makes Miami Great for Kids

Miami’s warm climate, diverse cultural offerings, and array of family-friendly activities make it a perfect destination for kids. The city boasts a mix of educational and recreational attractions that cater to kids of all ages, ensuring that they stay entertained while also learning about the world around them. Whether your kids are budding artists, nature enthusiasts, or simply looking to have fun, Miami has it all.

Outdoor Adventures and Parks

Pinecrest Gardens

Formerly known as Parrot Jungle Island, Pinecrest Gardens is now a beautiful municipal park filled with thousands of plants and flowers.

Why Kids Love It: The Splash ‘N Play area offers a refreshing break after exploring the flower-lined trails and feeding koi fish.

Why Parents Love It: It’s a cost-effective alternative to waterparks, with the splash pad costing only $5 in addition to park admission.

Fruit & Spice Park

Located in Homestead, this park is a haven for young horticulturists.

Why Kids Love It: They can sample exotic fruits and participate in fruit-centric events like the Asian Cultural Festival in March.

Why Parents Love It: Daily guided tours are included in the admission fee, providing educational value.

Cultural and Artistic Experiences

Wynwood Walls

An outdoor art museum featuring massive, colorful murals by artists from around the world.

Family Activity: Try your hand at graffiti with a complimentary experience or a full hour session for an immersive street art experience.

Little Havana and Calle Ocho

Immerse your family in Cuban culture in Miami’s vibrant Little Havana neighborhood.

Highlights: Enjoy live music, Cuban cuisine, and colorful murals. Visit Maximo Gomez Park and sample unique ice cream flavors at Azucar.

Unique Attractions

Robert Is Here Fruit Stand

A famous fruit stand in Homestead known for its exotic fruits, smoothies, and milkshakes.

Family Fun: Enjoy fresh fruit, unique milkshakes, and visit the farm animals and aviary.

Art Deco Historic District in South Beach

Renowned for its iconic 1920s and 1930s architecture.

Activities: Stroll down Ocean Drive to admire the pastel-hued buildings and enjoy the lively atmosphere, especially when lit up at night.

Best Time to Visit Miami

Winter (December to February): Mild temperatures, lower humidity, and less rainfall make this season ideal for outdoor activities. However, it is also the peak tourist season, which means higher accommodation prices and larger crowds.

Spring (March to May): During this season, the weather remains pleasant with warm temperatures, and there are fewer crowds after spring break. However, accommodation prices may still be relatively high.

Summer (June to August): This season offers hot and sunny weather, perfect for beachgoers, and there is a potential for better accommodation deals. On the downside, high humidity and occasional heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected.

Fall (September to November): Fall brings warm temperatures and lower prices, and it is the tail end of the hurricane season. However, there is a slight risk of hurricanes, and some attractions may close for maintenance.

Where to Stay

23 Palms Suites by RocketSTAY: This family-friendly apartment complex offers a pool and free parking, making it suitable for parents with two kids.

Crescent Resort by Diamond Resorts: Located close to the beach, this resort offers apartments with kitchen facilities and separate bedrooms for parents.

SBV Luxury Ocean Hotel Suites: The spacious rooms at this hotel provide views of the sea or pool, along with a large balcony.

Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel: This recently renovated hotel is in a great location, close to major attractions.

W South Beach: With a wide range of oceanfront accommodations, this hotel provides family-friendly amenities.

The Setai: This secluded, high-end hotel offers a unique blend of South Beach scene and refined hospitality.

Where to Eat

Sanguich de Miami: Famous for its Cuban sandwiches, such as the Cubano and pan de bistec.

GG’s Waterfront Restaurant: This restaurant is known for its excellent food, service, and ambiance.

Hoshi & Sushi Asian Cuisine: Try their Latino Roll, Godfather Roll, and Mango Mochi.

Baires Grill: Steaks and delicious desserts are the highlights here.

Cafe Prima Pasta: Penne Vodka, Shrimp Scampi, and Crab Ravioli are some of the must-try dishes.

7-Day Family Travel Route

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Day

• Morning: Arrive in Miami and check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Head to South Beach for a day of sun and sand.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at Sanguich de Miami.

Day 2: Explore Little Havana

• Morning: Visit Calle Ocho and indulge in some Cuban pastries.
• Afternoon: Explore Maximo Gomez Park and enjoy live music.
• Evening: Have dinner at Baires Grill.

Day 3: Pinecrest Gardens and Fruit & Spice Park

• Morning: Spend the morning at Pinecrest Gardens.
• Afternoon: Take a guided tour at Fruit & Spice Park.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at Cafe Prima Pasta.

Day 4: Wynwood Walls and Art District

• Morning: Explore Wynwood Walls and try your hand at graffiti.
• Afternoon: Visit nearby galleries and cafes.
• Evening: Have dinner at Hoshi & Sushi Asian Cuisine.

Day 5: Everglades National Park

• Morning: Drive to Everglades National Park.
• Afternoon: Take a tram tour and explore the park.
• Evening: Return to Miami and have dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 6: Biscayne Bay and Key Largo

• Morning: Start with a boat tour in Biscayne Bay National Park.
• Afternoon: Drive to Key Largo for snorkeling.
• Evening: Return to Miami and enjoy dinner at GG’s Waterfront Restaurant.

Day 7: South Beach and Departure

• Morning: Relax at the beach or explore the Art Deco Historic District.
• Afternoon: Finish up any last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
• Evening: Depart from Miami.

Travel Tips for Families

• Make sure to reserve accommodations and popular attractions ahead of time, especially during peak seasons.
• Miami’s heat can be intense, so keep the family well-hydrated.
• Take advantage of Miami’s public transportation options like the free Metromover to avoid parking issues.
• Remember to bring sunscreen, hats, and comfortable walking shoes for the whole family.
• Schedule regular breaks and downtime to avoid tiring out the kids.