8 Kid-Friendly Spots in Miami

by Rick Munarriz - Citysearch Contributor - 334 Reviews - 131 Lists

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Updated: October 21, 2009

Don't let the city's reputation as a hotbed for retirees or European club-goers fool you. It's not all shuffleboard and DJ booths. Young families have plenty to do around town. So go ahead, strap Junior into the Maclaren and hit these kid-friendly spots in Miami.

On this page:Eat, Play.

Eat

  1. 1 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Jaxson's Ice Cream Parlor
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    128 S Federal Hwy, Dania, FL 33004 (map)

    This throwback scoop shop will take parents back to a whimsical time in their lives. Kids will be too busy choosing from the dozens of ice cream flavors that are available daily. If the tykes haven't had dinner, go for the burgers and hot dogs before allowing them to indulge in the sweet stuff.

  2. 2 Johnny Rockets
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    5701 Sunset Dr Ste 270, South Miami, FL 33143 (map)

    Toddlers are awestruck by the nickel jukeboxes, dancing waiters and fountain shop fare at this retro burger joint. The Sunset Place location is blessed to be within a few paces of a video game arcade and a 24-screen multiplex. If they ask nicely, they may walk away with a helium-filled balloon on the way out.

  3. 3 Benihana
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    8717 SW 136th Street, Miami, FL 33176 (map)

    Don't let the knife-wielding chefs of abundance of romance-seeking couples scare you away. This teppanyaki eatery is a hit with young children, who "ooh" and "ahh" over the culinary theatrics. Lighter kid meals are also available.

  4. 4 4 Star Rating: Recommended Shorty's Bar-B-Q
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    9200 S Dixie Hwy, Miami, FL 33156 (map)

    This log cabin has been serving up some of the city's most popular barbecue since the 1950s. Kids dig it because it's a place where everyone can get down and dirty. Whether it's gnawing on the ears of corn that wade in buttery pools or getting messy with the homemade sauce, everyone gets a wet napkin at the end to wash up. And if your family happens to be Brady Bunch-sized, don't worry. The long tables can accommodate even the biggest brood.

Play

  1. 5 Boomers Dania
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    1801 NW 1st St, Dania Beach, FL 33004 (map)

    Even kids who don't meet the height requirement to ride the signature wooden coaster can have a blast at this play palace. Between four courses of miniature golf, a few pint-sized carnival rides and one of the country's largest video game arcades, the leisurely pursuits are practically endless.

  2. 6 4 Star Rating: Recommended Matheson Hammock Park
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    9610 Old Cutler Rd, Coral Gables, FL 33156 (map)

    There are several reasons why this man-made lagoon is perfect for young families. Unlike the adjacent Atlantic Ocean, there are no waves or undertow to worry about. And when the kids need a break from the watery fun, they can hit the nature trails or refuel with a meal at one of the shady picnic tables.

  3. 7 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Miami Metrozoo
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    12400 SW 152nd St, Miami, FL 33177 (map)

    Kids don't need to walk through this massive zoo to see all of the animal exhibits. They can explore the attraction by air on an air-conditioned monorail. They can also pedal their way around on family-sized safari cycles with room for five.

  4. 8 3.5 Star Rating: Average Miami Seaquarium
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    4400 Rickenbacker Cswy, Key Biscayne, FL 33149 (map)

    Youngins' won't remember Flipper, the famous dolphin that became a television star at this Key Biscayne marine life park. They don't need to. Between the playful sea lions, meandering manatees and high-flying killer whales, they'll be mesmerized even before they hit the dolphin tank.