May 12 2009
Family-friendly Miami
Mention Miami and most people think trendy urban beaches, celebrity sightings and sizzling party action. But Miami’s spectacular natural setting and varied attractions also make it an appealing family destination for tykes to teens.
Natural Wonders
Grab the binoculars and climb the spiral staircase for a 360 view from historic Cape Florida Lighthouse on Key Biscayne. This barrier island, named by Ponce de Leon in 1513, is home to the Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park (www.floridastateparks.org/capeflorida), a wilderness retreat just 15 minutes from downtown but a world away in pace. Stoll alongside beach dunes or get active with a sea kayak rental.
Ever wondered what a sea sponge feels like? Nearby Biscayne Nature Center is worth a stop for its creative touch tanks. Tiny tykes will enjoy a ride on the restored carousel.
No trip to Miami is complete without a visit to South Beach. Toddlers to teens will revel in the 16 kilometre stretch of white sand, unlimited watersports and non-stop boardwalk action, while adults will appreciate the restored art deco architectural jewels. Older teens might enjoy a peek inside 305 Ink, the tattoo shop that inspired the reality TV show, Miami Ink. Formed from a coral rock quarry in 1923, Coral Gables’ Venetian Pool is another classic family stop that features natural spring water, waterfalls and caves.
Cool Attractions
Take to the skies in the newest waterfront attraction, the Miami Skylift amusement ride. This passenger-carrying helium balloon rises 150 metres in the air and offers a spectacular view of Miami and Biscayne Bay.
Prepare to get wet at Miami Seaquarium. This wet/dry playground is a two level pirate ship complete with water blasters, slides and popular dolphin, shark and manatee programs.
Spend time with the rest of the animal kingdom at Miami’s acclaimed Metrozoo where a Wild Earth Jeep Simulator transports visitors on a virtual African safari and a new exhibit, Tropical America features jaguars, anacondas, giant river otters and stingrays.
Tropical adventure also awaits at Monkey Jungle where a troop of Java monkeys run free in their own protected habitat. Watch them swim or perform impromptu acrobatic displays.
Another unique stop is Everglades Alligator farm home to 3,000 alligators of all sizes. Ramp up the action factor with an exhilarating air boat ride. 
Parrot Jungle Island on lush tropical Watson Island is a new theme park that is home to more than 3,000 exotic animals and 500 species of plants. A highlight is the new Serpentarium.
No Sunscreen Required
Looking for indoor fun? Jump on a locomotive at the Gold Coast Railroad Museum and explore historic railroad equipment. Wooden model train sets include toddler favourite Thomas the Tank Engine.
Tiny tots will also enjoy bouncing around the Miami Children Museum’s miniature supermarket, cruise ship and giant sandcastle slide.
Stargazers and budding naturalists will be inspired by a visit to the Miami Museum of Science and Space Transit Planetarium where hands-on exhibits encourage children to explore subjects from dinosaurs to physics
Pint-sized entrepreneurs will be inspired by a visit to the Robert is Here Fruit Stand. Launched by Robert at age 7 this market has been offering an extravaganza of exotic tropical fruit and specialities such as the Key Lime Milkshake for 38 years.
For other memorable eats, head to Little Havana for ethnic treats or stop by Dogma Grill where hot dog culture is celebrated in over 20 toppings ( burrito dogs anyone?) and served hot off the grill - proving that Miami sizzles for families too.
