Weekend in Miami
This weekend itinerary for Miami families balances free outdoor fun with worthwhile ticketed attractions designed to spark curiosity and joy in children aged 3-12. We've included opportunities for active play, educational exploration, and relaxed family time, all while keeping budget in mind. Remember to check specific venue websites closer to the date for any last-minute schedule changes or special programming.
Friday Evening - Kids Discovery & Play
Friday, November 14Interactive Children's Museum
Dive into an afternoon of hands-on learning and imaginative play at the Miami Children's Museum.
With fourteen galleries filled with interactive exhibits focusing on arts, culture, community, and communication, kids can explore a two-story castle, a cruise ship, a health and wellness center, and more. It's a fantastic way to engage young minds and let them explore in a safe, stimulating environment.
Perfect for children aged 3-12. Exhibits are designed to be highly interactive and engaging. Facilities include family restrooms and stroller-friendly ramps and elevators. Plan for about 2-3 hours of exploration. Indoor activity, great for any weather.
Paid parking is available on-site. The museum is accessible via the S bus route to Watson Island. Stroller-friendly routes are available within the museum.
Biscayne Bay Sunset Walk
Enjoy a relaxed evening stroll along the scenic waterfront at Maurice A.
Ferré Park. Kids can run around on the open green spaces, and families can enjoy beautiful views of Biscayne Bay and the city skyline as the sun sets. It’s a calm way to wind down after an active afternoon, with plenty of space for children to move freely.
Suitable for all ages. The park offers open grassy areas perfect for kids to play and enjoy the evening breeze. Restrooms are available. Pack a light snack or consider one of the nearby casual eateries for dinner after the walk. Duration: 1-1.5 hours.
Paid parking garages are available in the surrounding Downtown Miami area. The park is easily accessible via the Metromover (Museum Park station) which is free and stroller-friendly. It's a short walk from the Miami Children's Museum if you choose to combine the activities.
Saturday - Wild Wonders & Science Fun
Saturday, November 15Zoo Animal Encounters
Spend the morning exploring Zoo Miami, Florida's largest and oldest zoo.
Home to over 3,000 animals from Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas, the zoo offers open-air exhibits designed to mimic natural habitats. Kids will love seeing giraffes, zebras, lions, tigers, and more. Don't miss the Wacky Barn for hands-on animal encounters and the Children's Zoo for playful activities.
Excellent for all ages, especially 3-12. Shaded areas, playgrounds, and misting stations are available. Stroller and wagon rentals are available, and the park is entirely stroller-accessible. Restrooms and changing facilities are throughout the park. Plan for 3-4 hours. Consider bringing refillable water bottles.
Ample free parking is available on-site. Public transportation is limited, so driving is recommended for families with young children.
Picnic & Playground Lunch
After your animal adventures, enjoy a relaxing and budget-friendly picnic lunch at one of Zoo Miami's designated picnic areas or find a shaded spot near a playground.
Pack your favorite sandwiches, snacks, and drinks, letting the kids enjoy some free play while you recharge. This saves money and offers flexibility for picky eaters. Alternatively, the zoo has several food courts if you prefer to buy lunch there.
Bring your own lunch to save money. Zoo playgrounds are suitable for various ages and provide a great energy outlet for kids. Plenty of restrooms are available throughout the zoo. Consider a cooler on wheels for easier transport.
Within Zoo Miami, easily accessible by walking or taking the internal tram (additional fee may apply for tram).
Frost Science Exploration
Immerse yourselves in the wonders of science and technology at the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science.
Explore interactive exhibits across six floors, including the stunning three-level Aquarium, the Planetarium, and various themed galleries like the Feathers to the Stars exhibit. Kids will be captivated by the dinosaur exhibits, live animal encounters, and hands-on experiments.
Engaging for ages 3 and up, with specific areas designed for younger children. The aquarium is a highlight for all. Facilities include family restrooms, nursing stations, and elevators for stroller access. Plan for 2-3 hours. Indoor activity, perfect for a break from the sun or in case of rain.
Paid parking garage available on-site. Accessible via Metromover (Museum Park station) which is free and stroller-friendly. Driving is also convenient.
Brickell City Centre Play
Conclude your busy Saturday with a visit to Brickell City Centre.
While primarily a shopping destination, it offers a large, open-air setting with interactive art installations and fountains that kids love to watch and sometimes play near (weather permitting). There are also numerous family-friendly casual dining options for an early dinner, like the various eateries in the La Centrale Food Hall, offering diverse choices for all tastes.
Great for winding down. The open common areas are suitable for kids to walk around and explore. Family restrooms are available throughout. Many dining options offer kids' menus. Duration: 1.5-2 hours, including dinner.
Paid parking garages are available at Brickell City Centre. Easily accessible via the Metromover (Brickell City Centre station) which is free and stroller-friendly.
Sunday - Relaxed Family Day
Sunday, November 16Outdoor Farmers Market
Start your Sunday morning with a visit to a local farmers market.
The Vizcaya Village Farmers Market, while smaller, offers a charming experience with local vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal crafts. Kids will enjoy sampling treats and seeing the colorful displays. It's a great opportunity to pick up some healthy snacks for the week or a unique souvenir.
Relaxed pace, suitable for all ages. Stroller-friendly paths. Restrooms available. Kids can enjoy browsing and trying samples. Duration: 1-1.5 hours. Check Vizcaya's website to confirm market operation for this specific date, as schedules can change seasonally.
Parking is available. It's also accessible via public transportation, though driving is often easier for families with purchases.
Beach Play & Sandcastles
Spend a quintessential Miami afternoon at South Pointe Park Beach.
This family-friendly beach offers calm waters, a fantastic playground with soft-surface climbing structures, and plenty of space for building sandcastles. The pier offers great views of cruise ships passing by, a treat for kids. It’s a perfect way to enjoy Miami's beautiful weather and let the kids burn off some energy.
Ideal for all ages, especially 3-12. Bring towels, sunscreen, hats, and beach toys. Public restrooms and outdoor showers are available. Lifeguards are on duty. The playground is excellent. Duration: 2-3 hours.
Paid parking lots are available nearby. The free Miami Beach Trolley also has stops near the park, which is stroller-accessible.
Waterfront Ice Cream Treat
Before heading home, treat the family to some delicious ice cream at a spot like Azucar Ice Cream Company in Little Havana, known for its unique Cuban-inspired flavors, or one of the many ice cream shops along Ocean Drive.
Enjoy your sweet treats with a view of the water or the vibrant street life, capping off a wonderful family weekend.
A perfect ending to the weekend, enjoyed by all ages. Restrooms available in the shop. A good way to experience a bit of local flavor. Duration: 30-45 minutes.
Street parking can be found in Little Havana, some paid, some free. It's a fun walk along Calle Ocho if you park a few blocks away.
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.