Miami Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Miami
This weekend itinerary is designed for Miami families looking for a mix of engaging, kid-friendly activities, balancing free outdoor fun with worthwhile paid experiences. Families should check the official websites of ticketed attractions closer to the dates (late 2025) for specific event schedules, showtimes, and to confirm pricing and book tickets in advance for potential discounts. Many attractions offer family passes or group rates, and it's always wise to pack snacks and drinks to help manage the budget.
Friday Evening - Kids Adventure Kick-off
Friday, January 2Museum Exploration
Dive into an interactive world of learning and play at the Miami Children's Museum.
With 17 permanent galleries and rotating exhibits, children can explore arts, culture, community, and communication. Highlights often include the Castle of Dreams, the Construction Zone, and the World Music Studio, perfect for hands-on discovery.
Ideal for ages 3-12. Kids will love the interactive exhibits that encourage imaginative play and learning. The museum has family restrooms and is stroller-friendly. Expect to spend 2-3 hours. Check their website closer to the date for any specific evening programs or workshops.
On-site parking is available for a fee. The museum is easily accessible via the MacArthur Causeway. Public transportation (bus routes) also serves the area.
Family Dinner Fun
Enjoy a relaxed, kid-friendly dinner at The Big Cheese, a local favorite known for its casual atmosphere and delicious Italian-American fare.
They offer classic pizza, pasta, and subs, with options that appeal to even the pickiest eaters.
This spot is great for families looking for comfort food in a laid-back setting. Kids will enjoy the pizza and pasta options, and the relaxed ambiance means parents can unwind too. High chairs are available. Aim for an early dinner to ensure kids are home at a reasonable time for bed.
Ample free parking is available in the plaza. Located conveniently on South Dixie Highway.
Saturday - Wild Wonders & Science Surprises
Saturday, January 3Zoo Animal Encounters
Spend the morning exploring Zoo Miami, Florida's largest and only tropical zoo in the continental United States.
Home to over 2,000 animals, families can wander through natural habitats from Asia, Africa, and the Amazon, enjoying unique wildlife encounters, splash pads, and playgrounds.
Perfect for energetic kids who love animals. The zoo offers a tram tour, bike rentals, and plenty of shaded areas. Don't miss the children's zoo and water play areas. Restrooms and stroller rentals are available throughout. Plan for 3-4 hours, or a full day if kids are up for it.
Extensive free parking is available on-site. The zoo is a bit of a drive, so car travel is recommended.
Picnic & Play
After the zoo, head to Larry and Penny Thompson Memorial Park and Campground, located right next to Zoo Miami.
This expansive park offers beautiful shaded areas perfect for a family picnic. There are playgrounds and open spaces for kids to run around and burn off energy.
A fantastic, budget-friendly lunch option right after the zoo. Pack sandwiches, fruits, and snacks. Kids will appreciate the chance to stretch their legs and play on the playground. Restrooms are available in the park. Great for a casual, relaxing break.
Accessible by car with ample free parking. It's a very short drive from Zoo Miami.
Science Museum Fun
Experience the wonders of science at the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science.
Explore the aquarium, planetarium, and interactive exhibits covering topics from the Everglades to the principles of flight. The museum is designed to engage curious minds of all ages.
This museum offers a fantastic blend of education and entertainment. Kids will be mesmerized by the multi-level aquarium and the dazzling planetarium shows. Restrooms and stroller access are excellent. Plan for at least 2-3 hours. It's a great indoor option for a potentially hot or rainy afternoon.
On-site parking garage available for a fee. Also accessible via Metromover (Museum Park station) for a free and fun ride.
Bayside Stroll & Treat
After the museum, take a leisurely stroll through Bayside Marketplace, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and beautiful bay views. Treat the kids to ice cream or a refreshing smoothie as a reward for a day of adventure. You might catch some live music from local performers.
A relaxing way to wind down the day. Kids will enjoy picking out a treat and watching the boats. There are plenty of restrooms and easy stroller access. The early timing allows for a treat before heading home.
Parking garages are available at Bayside Marketplace for a fee. It's a short walk from the Frost Science Museum.
Sunday - Relaxed Family Day
Sunday, January 4Farmers Market Visit
Start your Sunday morning at the Pinecrest Gardens Farmers Market.
Browse a variety of local produce, artisanal foods, and unique crafts. Many vendors offer samples, and the lively atmosphere is enjoyable for all ages.
A relaxed pace for Sunday morning, offering fresh air and local delights. Kids can enjoy seeing different fruits and vegetables, and perhaps choose a healthy snack. Pinecrest Gardens itself is a beautiful park with a children's play area (separate admission may apply for the gardens beyond the market). Restrooms are available. This market typically runs year-round.
Free parking is available on-site at Pinecrest Gardens. Accessible by car.
Park Playground Fun
Head to Tropical Park for some classic playground fun and open-space recreation.
This large park features multiple playgrounds suitable for various ages, walking paths, and plenty of green space for kids to run, play sports, or fly a kite.
A great free option for active kids to enjoy the outdoors. The playgrounds are well-maintained, and there are shaded areas for parents. Restrooms are available. Pack a ball or frisbee for extra fun. It's a wonderful spot to let kids burn off their remaining weekend energy.
Ample free parking throughout the park. Easily accessible by car.
Library Story Time
Wind down the weekend with a relaxing story time at a local Miami-Dade Public Library branch.
Many branches offer free story times or family-friendly events designed for young children, encouraging a love for reading and quiet play.
A calm, educational, and completely free activity perfect for winding down before the school week. Check the Miami-Dade Public Library System's website closer to the date for specific story time schedules at your preferred branch. Suitable for younger children, but older siblings can enjoy browsing books. Restrooms and comfortable seating are available.
Parking varies by branch; downtown branches may have paid parking, suburban branches often have free lots. Easily accessible by car or public transport depending on the branch.
This weekend itinerary for Miami can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.