Published: June 28, 2025
South Florida Family Life
Family Favorites 2025
Childhood passes in the blink of an eye, and as parents, we do our best to fill those fleeting years with unforgettable memories. Every day with our kids is a gift — and making the most of that time matters. To inspire more meaningful moments, we’re proud to share your 2025 Family Favorites: the local spots South Florida families love most.
Favorite Park or Playground
T.Y Park
Located just minutes from busy I-95, this park, named after a Seminole term for “meeting or gathering place,” attracts walkers, picnickers and athletes. It also features a campground and Castaway Island, which includes two water playgrounds and a swim lagoon. 3300 N. Park Rd., Hollywood, 954-357-8811, http://www.broward.org/Parks
Flamingo Park
In the heart of South Beach, Flamingo Park offers something for everyone – from competitive sports to family fun. The park features 17 tennis courts, fields for baseball, football, and soccer, a running track, playground, bark park and more, all set amid tropical greenery. Visitors can cool off in the aquatic center, with a heated lap pool, splash pad and water playground. Amenities include lounge chairs, locker rooms and showers for a comfortable day of play. 1000 12 St., Miami Beach, 305-673-7766, http://www.miamiandbeaches.com
Sugar Sand Park
Sugar Sand Park is home to the Children’s Science Explorium, the Carousel, the Field House, and Willow Theatre. The park provides the residents with quality cultural arts programs and events — not to mention a stand-out playground. 300 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton, 561-347-3900, http://www.myboca.us
Favorite Local Attraction
Flamingo Gardens
Experience the magic of Flamingo Gardens, South Florida’s premier botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary since 1927. Take a stroll through the stunning tropical gardens, see flamingos, alligators and other fascinating animals. A trip here is an educational and inspiring journey through the natural and cultural heritage of South Florida. 3750 S. Flamingo Rd., Davie, 954-473-2955, http://www.flamingogardens.org
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Discover the elegance of the Gilded Age at Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, a beautiful waterfront estate in Coconut Grove. Spanning over 10 acres, the gardens feature European-inspired landscaping, fountains and sculptures. Inside the Main House, you can explore 32 richly decorated rooms filled with original furnishings and artwork from the 15th to 19th centuries. The estate also has a café and gift shop for refreshments and souvenirs. 3251 S. Miami Ave., Miami, http://www.vizcaya.org
Lion Country Safari
Experience a thrilling 4-mile safari where giraffes, zebras and rhinos roam freely alongside lions and chimpanzees. If you crave more than just car views, explore Safari World Adventure Park for interactive encounters, rides and captivating animal displays. 2003 Lion Country Safari Rd., Loxahatchee, 561-793-1084, http://www.lioncountrysafari.com
Favorite Local Museum
Museum of Discovery and Science
This world of wonder in downtown Fort Lauderdale invites families to explore interactive exhibits that showcase the marvels of science and technology, space exploration and advanced robotics to the wonders of the natural world and the mysteries of the human body. And of course, let’s not forget about the dinosaurs! 401 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale, 954-467-6637, http://www.mods.org
Favorite Place to Swim & Splash
Castaway Island at T.Y. Park
Castaway Island at T.Y. (Topeekeegee Yugnee) Park is a family-friendly water park located within T.Y. Park. The Caribbean themed aquatic complex features a large swimming lagoon as well as two wading pools and interactive water play features. The first pool is for all ages and includes a multi-level water play structure with slides, water cannons, rain curtains, palm trees, birds, hose sprays and buckets that continuously spill water. The second pool is designed for toddlers. 3300 N. Park Rd., Hollywood, 954-357-8811, http://www.broward.org/Parks/ThingsToDo/pages/waterparks.aspx
Tidal Cove
Experience excitement at Tidal Cove – Aventura’s top waterpark! Enjoy thrilling water slides, a gravity-defying raft ride, a free fall loop and a lazy river. With seven slides, the FlowRider® Triple surf simulator, and 25 cabanas, there’s fun for everyone. Indulge in dining, shop for souvenirs, or relax in a cabana while kids explore. Located at JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort, 19999 W. Country Club Dr., Aventura, http://www.tidalcovemiami.com
Rapids Water Park
Rapids is a must for South Florida kids, offering a variety of thrill rides, family fun and kid-friendly options. Try the FlowRider, lazy river or wave pool. Little ones love Splish Splash Lagoon. And there are spots to refuel with food and drinks between splashes. 6566 N. Military Trail, Riviera Beach, 561-848-6272, http://www.rapidswaterpark.com
Favorite Beach
Fort Lauderdale Beach
Located in the heart of Broward County, Fort Lauderdale Beach has evolved far beyond its Beach Blanket Bingo days. Today, it’s a vibrant destination offering more than just sun and sand. The beach itself is wide, clean and beautifully maintained, perfect for lounging, swimming or strolling the scenic promenade. Visitors can enjoy a range of amenities including basketball courts, outdoor showers, picnic areas, restrooms, playgrounds and volleyball courts. Plus, A1A is lined with plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants, making it easy to grab a bite. http://www.parks.fortlauderdale.gov
South Beach
Famous around the world, South Beach is more than just a pretty stretch of sand – it’s a cultural icon. Located at the southern tip of Miami Beach, this bustling area offers a blend of natural beauty, Art Deco architecture and lively energy. Amenities include walking and biking paths, volleyball courts, outdoor showers and nearby playgrounds. Ocean Drive is just steps away, making it easy to turn a beach day into a full-blown adventure. Two city parks offer easy beach access: Lummus Park on Ocean Drive between Fifth and 15th Streets and South Pointe Park at One Washington Avenue.
Delray Beach
Imagine this: vast, sandy shores, a huge gazebo and chair and cabana rentals just steps from Atlantic Avenue. Anchor Park offers volleyball, sailboat rentals, surf lessons and snorkeling trips. For relaxation, Atlantic Dunes Park has shady areas, a wooden walkway and a covered observation platform. It’s like finding an oasis of calm. 561-243-7352, http://www.delraybeachfl.gov
Favorite Local Adventure
Water Taxi
Explore Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach and Hollywood across three interconnectable routes and more than 30 stops. A Water Taxi pass is valid for one full year from the date of purchase and includes access to exclusive discounts on food, drinks, and local shopping. For routes and stops call 954-467-6677 or visit http://www.watertaxi.com
Zoo Miami
Welcome to Zoo Miami, a 750-acre haven for animal enthusiasts. Encounter diverse wildlife from around the globe, including lions, monkeys, giraffes and tropical birds. The zoo is home to over 3,000 animals representing more than 500 species offering intimate experiences like animal feedings and a tortoise encounter. 12400 SW 152 St., Miami, 305-251-0400 http://www.zoomiami.org
Lion Country Safari
Experience a thrilling 4-mile safari where giraffes, zebras and rhinos roam freely alongside lions and chimpanzees. If you crave more than just car views, explore Safari World Adventure Park for interactive encounters, rides and captivating animal displays. 2003 Lion Country Safari Rd., Loxahatchee, 561-793-1084, http://www.lioncountrysafari.com
Miami Children’s Museum
The Miami Children’s Museum, located on Watson Island, is a vibrant and interactive destination designed to spark creativity and learning in children of all ages. With 14 themed galleries, the museum offers hands-on exhibits that cover topics from art and culture to science and community. The museum also hosts special events, educational programs and seasonal camps, making it a dynamic environment for family fun and learning. 980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami, 305-373-5437, http://www.miamichildrensmuseum.org
Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens
The Morikami Museum offers a captivating journey into Japanese culture with over 7,000 art pieces. Step into the tranquil gardens for a peaceful escape, perfect for the whole family. 4000 Morikami Park Rd., Delray Beach, 561-495-0233, http://www.morikami.org
