Summer in Miami brings the heat — but it also brings the fun! When the sun’s blazing and the humidity’s rising, there’s no better time to dive into the city’s coolest, most kid-approved adventures. Whether you’re a local looking to shake up your routine or a visiting family ready to make the most of your trip, Miami is packed with ways to keep kids entertained, engaged, and — most importantly — cool.

From splash pads and shaded gardens to mind-blowing museums and wild animal encounters, here’s your go-to guide for things to do with kids in Miami this summer — and all the best spots to beat the heat while you’re at it!

🧠 COOL & EDUCATIONAL INDOOR ESCAPES

Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science

When the heat is on, head indoors for mind-blowing science fun! Frost Science has a three-level aquarium, a planetarium, and tons of interactive exhibits. It’s air-conditioned and endlessly fascinating — perfect for curious kids (and grown-ups too).

Miami Children’s Museum

Younger kids love this interactive wonderland, filled with mini-grocery stores, cruise ships, and art rooms. Bonus: It’s right by Jungle Island, so you can double up on fun in one day.

Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)

Yes, it’s family-friendly! Kids can join free art-making sessions, explore colorful installations, and enjoy the shaded outdoor sculpture garden. Keep cool and get creative.

HistoryMiami Museum

Take a journey through the city’s vibrant past — from Tequesta artifacts to vintage streetcars. It’s immersive, educational, and the perfect rainy-day adventure that still feels like an escape.

Superblue

Think: walk-through clouds, mirror mazes, and rooms that breathe light and sound. Superblue is an art playground for the senses, and kids love the interactivity. Parents, you’ll leave wowed too.

Paradox Museum

Let your mind get twisted (in the best way) at The Paradox Museum. This indoor attraction is packed with optical illusions and mind-bending photo ops. Ideal for older kids and teens — and yes, totally TikTok-worthy.

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

Starting May 9th through June 15th, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden transforms into a magical realm with the return of their popular “Fairies in the Garden” event. This six-week interactive experience invites visitors to discover an elaborate hidden Fairy Village through an engaging scavenger hunt woven throughout the garden’s stunning tropical landscape.

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

This historic mansion is pure elegance. On a cloudy or drizzly day, take a quiet walk through opulent interiors and lush gardens. While not a run-around spot, older kids will appreciate the grandeur and secret-garden vibes.

Zoo Miami

Zoo Miami one of the best zoos in the country, with shady paths, splash zones, and rentable Safari Cycles to cruise around. From elephants and rhinos to rainforest aviaries, it’s a full-day adventure you won’t forget. With almost 750 acres and 4 miles of walkways, Zoo Miami is home to more than 2,000 animals representing 375 different species. From jaguars in the Amazon and tigers in Asia, to koalas in Australia and crocodiles in The Florida Everglades, a trip to Zoo Miami will transport you around the globe. Don’t forget to visit the Conservation Action Center, a new indoor interactive exhibit.

Experience the Ultimate Escape Room

The Escape Game Miami offers an unforgettable adventure in the heart of downtown Miami! Located in Brickell City Centre, this hotspot is surrounded by top-notch dining and retail options, making it the perfect spot to add an escape room to a day or night out in the 305. Visitors can fuel up at Motek, Tacology, or Cafe Americano before taking on one of six original escape games, including the brand-new Cosmic Crisis and the challenging Prison Break. With family-friendly options for up to 8 players and large group capabilities for up to 48 people, The Escape Game Miami is the ultimate destination for a fun and thrilling experience.”

🌊 WHERE TO BEAT THE HEAT: WATER FUN & SPLASH ZONES

South Pointe Park Splash Pad

Kick things off at this oceanside gem in South Beach. Kids can cool down in the free splash pad while parents chill under shady palms with stunning water views. Pack a picnic or grab a bite at nearby Smith & Wollensky and make it a full day.

Matheson Hammock Park Lagoon

Looking for calm waters perfect for little swimmers? This scenic saltwater lagoon is ideal. Surrounded by palm trees and with gentle waves, it’s one of Miami’s most relaxing summer spots — and it’s great for paddleboarding too!

Venetian Pool (Coral Gables)

Treat the fam to a dip in this historic, spring-fed oasis with waterfalls, grottos, and a Mediterranean vibe. It’s refreshing, Instagram-worthy, and unlike any other pool in Miami.

Tidal Cove Waterpark (Aventura)

Want to splurge on a wow day? Tidal Cove at the JW Marriott Turnberry is luxury water park fun. Think: lazy rivers, a wave simulator, kid zones, and waterslides for all thrill levels. Pro tip: Go midweek for lighter crowds!

Jungle Splash at Jungle Island

Located at Miami’s celebrity-favorite Jungle Island, this inflatable water park brings serious adventure vibes. Kids can climb and slide across giant splash structures, race down huge inflatable water slides, or cool off in shaded wading pools while parents relax with food and  drinks at the onsite Flamingo beer garden. Private cabanas are available for rent, too. It’s the perfect way to cool off on a hot summer day. Plus, Jungle Splash is included in the price of general admission, which also features access to explore Jungle Island, from up-close wildlife encounters and lush trails to Treewalk Village and the Guardians of the Jungle animal show.  Bonus: Now through June 5, South Florida residents can buy one adult ticket, get one child ticket free (Mon-Fri only).

Splash ‘N Play at Pinecrest Gardens

Located at Pinecrest Gardens, one of Miami’s most beautiful botanical gardens, Splash ‘N Play is a colorful, whimsical water playground where families can cool off under giant dragon fountains, towering mushrooms, and flower-shaped showers. After splashing around, families can wander Pinecrest Gardens’ vibrant botanical trails, ADA-accessible playground, and mini-zoo making it a full-day tropical adventure and one of the coolest ways to escape the summer heat in Miami.

 

🎨 CULTURE + STREET ART + TREATS

Wynwood Walls & Kid-Friendly Art Walk

Turn a morning into an art scavenger hunt! Explore giant murals, pop into colorful shops, and snap family photos everywhere. Then, cool off with smoothies or street-side ice cream from local vendors.

Calle Ocho Family Walk

Bring on the music, murals, and history! Walk Little Havana’s vibrant strip, stop for Azucar Ice Cream (get the Abuela Maria!), and let the kids dance along with live Cuban beats on weekends.

🍦 BONUS COOL-OFF SPOTS (BECAUSE SUMMER = ICE CREAM)

  • Azucar Ice Cream – Little Havana’s most iconic ice cream shop. Tropical flavors and Latin flair.

  • Sweet Melody – Small-batch, homemade ice cream with rotating flavors like “Cookie Monster” and “Birthday Bash.” A local favorite.

  • La Michoacana Paletería – Mexican-style popsicles bursting with fruit, creamy fillings, and wild colors.

✨ FINAL TIP:

Don’t forget the sunscreen, water bottles, and backup swimsuits. With this list in your back pocket, you’ll never run out of ways to make memories — and stay cool — in the Magic City.