Free Things to Do in Miami for the Family

Miami is filled with great activities and attractions for the whole family, and some of Miami’s many charms can be enjoyed without spending a dime.

When some people think of Miami, they think of cocktails by the pool, late-night bar-hopping in South Beach, and spending up big in Miami’s boutiques. But Miami has many natural wonders, world-class museums, and fascinating areas to explore with children. With the help of this handy guide, parents can take advantage of a range of free activities and attractions with their children.

One way to get a feel for downtown Miami and introduce children to the size and feel of this dynamic city is to get on board the Metromover. This free, driverless sky train takes passengers to 20 stations on three loops. Trains arrive every 90 seconds in peak hours and every three minutes in off-peak periods.

Miami Museums Open Their Doors to Children for Free

Children who like to explore museums will love Miami. Not only does this Florida city have the usual art and history museums, but it’s also home to a Children’s Museum filled with interactive exhibits. Kids can see sand from around the world as they climb through a two-story sandcastle, design their own bank bills in a six-foot piggy bank, dress up as superheroes, steer a fire truck to an emergency, and much more.

Miami is a city with a diverse cultural landscape and a rich history. Miami’s free museums and cultural attractions are perfect for a family day out. The Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) offers free admission every first Thursday of the month, and it’s a great option for families who love contemporary art. It’s located in Museum Park, which has beautiful views of Biscayne Bay and plenty of space for kids to run around.

Miami Children’s Museum

Children who like to explore museums will love Miami. Not only does this Florida city have the usual art and history museums, but it’s also home to a Children’s Museum filled with interactive exhibits. Kids can see sand from around the world as they climb through a two-story sandcastle, design their own bank bills in a six-foot piggy bank, dress up as superheroes, steer a fire truck to an emergency, and much more.

The Miami Children’s Museum lets children explore hundreds of exhibits for free every month. To take advantage of this offer, visit the museum at 980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami, on the third Friday of the month between 3 and 9pm.

Wynwood Walls

Another great free attraction in Miami is the Wynwood Walls. This outdoor museum is an ever-changing display of street art and graffiti, and it’s a great place to take the kids for a walk and explore the colorful murals. It’s located in the Wynwood Arts District, also home to many galleries, restaurants, and shops.

Weintraub Observatory

The star show at the Weintraub Observatory will blow away stargazing children. On the first Friday of each month at 8pm, the Observatory puts on a free planetarium show, followed by an Observatory session where children can peer through telescopes and marvel at the planets, including the rings of Saturn and the moons of Jupiter.

Miami Art Museum

Kids who love art will enjoy a trip to the Miami Art Museum, which has a range of activities for children, including live music, storytelling, games, and guided tours. It’s housed in a beautiful building that was originally a public library, and it features exhibitions that showcase the history of Miami and its people.

The Museum is free for families with children between 1 and 4pm on the second Saturday of every month, so it’s perfect for families who want to learn more about the city without breaking the bank. The Miami Art Museum is found at 101 West Flagler Street.

Exploring Miami Parks and Beaches for free

While some may believe certain sights on Miami’s beaches are best suited for adults, families with young children can claim a patch of sand in the family-friendly stretches of beach between 53rd and 63rd Street. This is where big and small kids throw themselves into sandcastle buildings and search for buried treasure. Not to mention enjoying the local playground.

Biscayne National Park

The fun continues in the stunning natural areas surrounding Miami, including Biscayne National Park, where children can spot porpoises and manatees from the shore. Budding young fishermen can learn tips and tricks at the National Park’s free fishing classes, while those with kayaks and canoes can launch them for free into the mangrove-fringed waters and look out for sharks and rays amongst the schools of fish.

Biscayne National Park hosts a Free Family Fun Fest on the second Sunday of the month from December to April. Children are given free “passports,” which they can punch at each of the five hands-on activity stations around the park. Those who collect all five receive a special button as a souvenir.

Bayfront Park

One of the best parks in Miami is Bayfront Park. This park is located in downtown Miami and offers beautiful bay views. You can walk along the bay or enjoy a picnic with your kids. It also has a playground where your kids can play and have fun.

South Beach

South Beach is another great free attraction in Miami. It’s a popular tourist spot and a great place to take your kids. You can spend the day playing in the sand, swimming in the ocean, and soaking up the sun. The beach is wide and long, so there’s plenty of space for everyone.

Venetian Pool

If you’re looking for something a little different, head to the Venetian Pool. It’s a public swimming pool built in a coral rock quarry. The pool is filled with spring water, and waterfalls and caves surround it. There’s a small admission fee, but it’s worth it for a unique experience.

Walking & Bike Tours in Miami

Miami is a destination known for its sunny beaches and a great city for walking and biking. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the city and the beautiful weather. Several walking tours are free and open to the public. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who share interesting facts about the city’s history, architecture, and culture.

The Art Deco District is a popular walking tour that takes you through the South Beach neighborhood. You’ll see some of the city’s most colorful and unique buildings. You can also take a self-guided tour of the Wynwood Walls, an outdoor murals and street art collection. This tour is perfect for families who love art and culture.

If you prefer biking, Miami has several bike tours that are both fun and free. One of the most popular is the Venetian Causeway, a scenic ride that takes you over six bridges and offers stunning views of the city skyline and Biscayne Bay.

Walking and biking tours are a great way to explore Miami on a budget and entertain the kids. It’s a fun and healthy way to see the city, and you’ll experience some of Miami’s most unique and interesting neighborhoods.

Free events and festivals in Miami

Miami is a vibrant city full of life, always fun and free events and festivals. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, plenty of options exist.

Miami Beach Art Deco Weekend Festival

One of the most popular events is the annual Miami Beach Art Deco Weekend Festival, which takes place in January. The festival celebrates the city’s unique architecture and history with live music, art installations, food vendors, and more.

Bayfront Park Movies Under the Stars

Another free event for families is the Bayfront Park Movies Under the Stars program. Every Friday night during the summer, the park shows a different family-friendly movie on a huge outdoor screen. This is a great way to spend a relaxing evening with your kids and won’t cost you a dime.

Little Havana Art Walk

If you’re looking for something a bit more cultural, head to the Little Havana Art Walk. On the second Friday of every month, the streets of Little Havana come alive with live music, art installations, and food vendors. It’s a great way to experience the city’s vibrant Cuban culture and art scene.

Christmas Lights at the Falls

Finally, if you’re in Miami during the holiday season, check out the Christmas Lights at the Falls. This free event occurs every night in December and features a beautiful light display and live entertainment.

Cape Florida Lighthouse A Great Spot for a Family Picnic

Families can then check out the Cape Florida Lighthouse at Key Biscayne and enjoy a picnic by the oldest standing structure in Miami-Dade County. They may then consider joining one of the lighthouse tours conducted at 10am or 1pm each day by a ranger.

Tour spots are available on a first-come best-served basis and include a visit to the reproduction of the Keeper’s Cottage and then the chance to step into the lighthouse itself. Weather permitting, walking up to the top of the lighthouse, where the family can take in stunning views, may be possible. To join the tours, visitors must meet at the lighthouse entrance gate shortly before 10am and 1pm.

Then it’s back to the city to see what else takes a visiting family’s fancy. Miami has various annual special events, including free activities and festivals for the family. For more information about free events that may be on when they are in town, tourists can visit the City of Miami’s calendar of events and enter their travel dates.

Exploring Miami Street Art Scene

Exploring Miami’s street art scene is a fun and educational activity with your kids that won’t cost you a dime. Plus, it’s a great way to get some exercise and fresh air while enjoying the city’s colorful and unique culture. Plenty of outdoor murals and graffiti art are scattered throughout Wynwood and Little Havana neighborhoods that are free to view and enjoy.

Wynwood Walls

Wynwood Walls is a must-visit destination for street art enthusiasts. It’s a curated outdoor museum that features large-scale murals, graffiti art, and street installations by some of the world’s most famous artists. The best part is that admission to Wynwood Walls is free.

Wynwood Art District

For a more immersive experience, take a guided walking tour of the Wynwood Art District. Local guides will take you through the neighborhood to see the best street art and explain the history and significance behind each piece. Many tours are free, but some suggest a small donation to the guide.

Little Havana

Little Havana is another great neighborhood to explore Miami’s street art scene. Calle Ocho is the main street, lined with colorful murals and wall paintings celebrating Cuban culture. Take a stroll with your kids down the street, admire the art, and visit a local cafe for an authentic Cuban coffee or pastry.

Budget-friendly food options in Miami

There are plenty of options for budget-friendly food in Miami. You can enjoy delicious cuisine without breaking the bank by exploring the local food trucks, farmer’s markets, and restaurants.

Food Trucks

One option is to visit the many food trucks scattered throughout the city. These food trucks offer a variety of cuisines, from Latin American to Mediterranean, and prices are usually very reasonable. Plus, it’s a fun experience to try out new foods while enjoying the Miami sun.

Farmer’s Markets

Another option is to visit the local farmer’s markets in Miami. Fresh produce, baked goods, and other homemade treats are here. These markets are a great way to support local businesses and get a taste of Miami’s diverse culture.

Budget-friendly Restaurants

If you’re looking for a sit-down meal, several restaurants in Miami offer budget-friendly menus. Local favorites such as La Carreta and Taquerias el Mexicano offer delicious Latin American cuisine at affordable prices. Additionally, many restaurants offer happy hour specials and discounted menus during certain times of the day.

Making the most of Miami on a budget with children

Miami is a fabulous destination for families, with endless opportunities for fun and adventure. But, as with any vacation, costs can quickly mount up, leaving you feeling like you’ve blown your budget. However, there are plenty of ways to make the most of Miami on a budget with children.

Beaches

One of the best things about Miami is its beautiful beaches. Spending a day by the ocean doesn’t have to cost a fortune – simply pack a picnic, bring your own towels, and head to one of Miami’s many public beaches. South Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Miami, but it can get crowded and noisy. Instead, try quieter spots like Hobie Beach or Key Biscayne.

Miami-Dade Parks

Another great option for budget-friendly family fun is to explore Miami’s many parks. The Miami-Dade Parks system boasts over 270 parks, so there’s sure to be one close to where you’re staying. Many parks offer free entry and activities, like playgrounds, hiking trails, and sports fields. Some parks even have free events, like concerts or movie screenings.

Miami-Dade Zoological Park and Gardens

If your children love animals, visiting the Miami-Dade Zoological Park and Gardens is necessary. Admission is free, and the zoo is home to over 3,000 animals worldwide. You can spend hours exploring the exhibits, learning about different species, and watching live animal shows.

Finally, don’t forget about Miami’s vibrant art scene. The Wynwood Art District is a great place to take kids, with colorful murals and street art on every corner. It’s completely free to wander around and take in the sights, and plenty of cafes and restaurants are nearby if you need a break.

Money-saving Tips for Transportation & Accommodations

Transportation and accommodations can be some of the most expensive aspects of traveling. When planning a trip to Miami with kids, it’s important to consider your transportation and accommodation options to make the most of your budget.

One money-saving tip for transportation is to use public transportation. Miami has a great public transportation system, including buses and a metro rail. Purchasing a day pass for the whole family can be much cheaper than renting a car or taking taxis.

Another option is to use ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft, which can be more convenient than public transportation and cost-effective if used sparingly.

Regarding accommodations, consider staying in a vacation rental instead of a hotel. This can be a more budget-friendly option, providing more space for the whole family and a kitchen to prepare meals, saving money on dining out.

Additionally, consider booking accommodations further in advance to take advantage of early bird discounts or last-minute deals. Researching and comparing prices for different accommodations can also help you find the best deals. By implementing these money-saving tips for transportation and accommodations, you can enjoy a fun-filled trip to Miami with your family without breaking the bank.

Final tips for a budget-friendly Activities in Miami with Kids

Here are a few final tips to keep in mind while planning your budget-friendly trip to Miami with kids:

1. Be flexible with your travel dates: If you have some flexibility, consider traveling during the off-season, when prices tend to be lower.
2. Pack snacks and drinks: Bringing your own snacks and drinks can save you a lot of money, especially if you’re traveling with kids who tend to get hungry and thirsty frequently.
3. Use public transportation: Miami has an excellent public transportation system, which can help you save money on transportation costs.
4. Take advantage of free activities: Miami has plenty of free activities, from beaches and parks to museums and art galleries. Research before your trip to find out what free activities are available.
5. Look for deals and discounts: Check out websites like Groupon and LivingSocial for deals on activities and restaurants in Miami.

With stops including sites such as Freedom Tower, the art museum, and the city library at the Miami Dade Cultural Centre, the Miami Metromover is a great way to save on taxi fares and is easily accessible with prams and trolleys. Visitors can see a list of Metromover stops and plan their trip by visiting the official Metromover website.

 

We hope you enjoyed our blog post about a fun and free things to do with kids in Miami on a budget. We know that it can be challenging to find budget-friendly and entertaining activities for kids. That’s why we compiled this list of exciting places to explore with your little ones. We hope this list will inspire you to create your itinerary of affordable and family-friendly activities in Miami. So, pack your bags, grab your kids, and prepare for a memorable Miami adventure without breaking the bank!