Published: April 24, 2024
Your Ultimate Family Itinerary
With summer break looming, parents are brainstorming ways to keep the kids entertained and stave off the inevitable cries of, “I’m bored. But don’t worry! We’ve got the situation under control. Here are a few epic adventures right in your backyard. Whether it’s hanging out with real-life sea turtles or strolling through lush botanical gardens, there’s no shortage of excitement to be found. Experience heart-pounding escapades in the Everglades or delve into captivating explorations in science and art museums; there’s a wide array of activities to suit everyone’s interests. So, grab your sunscreen and get ready to create unforgettable family memories!
Get Outside
Loggerhead Marinelife Center
Ever wanted to meet some real-life sea turtles? Well, these guys are the real deal. The folks atLoggerhead are all about saving sea turtles, which is pretty heroic. Plus, you might even get to see some turtle power in action.
Juno Beach, http://www.marinelife.org
Flamingo Gardens
Picture this — it’s 1927, South Florida’s just doing its thing, and along comes Flamingo Gardens, strutting onto the scene like it’s the bee’s knees. Now, what’s Flamingo Gardens all about? They’re all about depicting, preserving, and educating folks about the natural and cultural heritage of the area. It’s like a crash course in South Florida and Everglades 101, but way cooler. Stroll through those gardens, and it’s like stepping into a whole other world with greenery, vibrant flowers, and, flamingoes of course. And let’s not forget the wildlife sanctuary part – it’s like a mini safari with all sorts of cool critters roaming around.
Davie, http://www.flamingogardens.org
The Everglades
The Everglades are like nothing you’ve ever seen — so vast, so mysterious, so utterly magnificent…and you can’t really call yourself a Floridian until you’ve taken an airboat ride.
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
If you’re looking for an oasis amidst the chaos, Fairchild is like stepping into a tropical dreamscape. With a vast amount of winding pathways, it’s like wandering through a maze of palm fronds and orchids. It’s a wildly impressive place, with gorgeous orchids, towering palms a butterfly conservatory.
There’s a friendly charm to Fairchild Botanic Gardens. It’s like a microcosm of Miami itself – vibrant, slightly unpredictable, and always ready to surprise you when you least expect it.
Coral Gables, http://www.fairchildgarden.org
Everglades Holiday Park
An airboat ride through the Everglades is like a wild rollercoaster designed by Mother Nature herself. Insert some earplugs and zoom through those marshy waters. It’s tough to hear – or carry on a conversation with the roar of the fan, but who needs words when you’re flying through one of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth.
Fort Lauderdale, http://www.evergladesholidaypark.com
Sawgrass Recreation Park
Picture this: you’re cruising along, wind in your hair, sun on your face, and gators just chilling in the water. It’s like a wildlife safari, but without the pesky lions trying to eat your tour guide. And speaking of guides, these folks at Sawgrass are top-notch.
Weston, http://www.evergladestours.com
Talk to the Animals
Zoo Miami
Zoo Miami is an entire experience down in Miami. They’ve got over 2,500 animals from all corners of the globe, making it one of the largest zoos in the country. You name it, they’ve got it: lions, elephants, gorillas, and even komodo dragons in a lush, tropical setting. And they’re all about conservation and education too, spreading awareness about environmental issues. Plus, the zoo has a variety of hands-on experiences and animal encounters, and tram tours, too. Special events range from themed nights to seasonal festivals, with plenty of choices to keep the party going.
Miami, http://www.zoomiami.org
Lion Country Safari
Buckle up for a wild ride through Lion Country Safari. Cruise through the heart of Florida’s savannah to view safari animals by way of your very own vehicle. Lions? Check. Giraffes? Check. Rhinos? Double-check! Imagine looking out your car window and being greeted by a towering giraffe looking for a snack. And don’t be surprised if a curious ostrich decides to give your car a once-over. It’s like a real-life safari adventure right here in the Sunshine State.
Loxahatchee, http://www.lioncountrysafari.com/
Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society
The Palm Beach Zoo is a melting pot of over 550 animals from across the globe. The zoo is big on two things: wildlife conservation and education. Stroll in and come face to face with jaguars, tigers, koalas — and other showstoppers. But it’s not just a zoo; it’s an experience. There’s also interactive adventures, like feeding sessions and behind-the-scenes tours, where you can get up close and personal with resident animals.
West Palm Beach, http://www.palmbeachzoo.org
Art Museums
Norton Museum of Art
Stroll into this place, and it’s like stepping into a treasure trove of creativity with an impressive collection that spans many styles and contemporary pieces. The Norton is a crash course in culture, served up with a side of sophistication and a sprinkle of Palm Beach flair.
West Palm Beach, http://www.norton.org
Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)
The Perez Art Museum isn’t your typical museum. Oh no, it’s like a modern art playground, with funky architecture and bold, contemporary pieces. You’ve got everything from giant installations to paintings that will spark your imagination. Plus, there is the stunning backdrop of Biscayne Bay — a visual feast for the senses.
Miami, http://www.pamm.org
NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale
With its modern and hip vibe, this museum feels like a giant art gallery, but with even more variety. They’ve got everything from classic to the abstract and everything in between.
Fort Lauderdale, http://www.nsuartmuseum.org
Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens
Stroll through lush gardens adorned with flowers, streams, and tranquil ponds, all meticulously designed to evoke the peaceful landscapes of Japan. Every step is a journey into the heart of Japanese tradition and beauty. Inside the museum, you’ll discover a trove of Japanese art, history, and culture.
Delray Beach, http://www.Morikami.org
Children’s Museums
Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science
Prepare to have your scientific socks knocked off at a place where curiosity is not just encouraged, it’s mandatory. Journey through hands-on exhibits, where kids explore the wonder of science and adults can live out their childhood dream of becoming scientists. Next stop: the planetarium, where you can explore the universe. And finally, dive deep into the aquarium.
Miami, http://www.frostscience.org
Miami Children’s Museum
Get ready to dive into a world of interactive exhibits, exciting programs, and engaging learning materials that celebrate arts, culture, and the vibrant tapestry of our community. Miami Children’s Museum encourages the power of play, learning and imagination for all ages.
Miami, http://www.miamichildrensmuseum.org
Museum of Discovery and Science
Immerse yourself in mind-bending exhibits, interactive displays, and enough fun to keep you grinning from ear to ear. At MODS, science isn’t just about learning – it’s about having a blast while you do it. Step into a new world and prepare to be wowed by everything from the secrets of the deep to the thrilling world of aviation. And hey, who knows, maybe you’ll even discover your inner superhero — cape not included.
Fort Lauderdale, http://www.mods.com
Young at Art Museum
Welcome to the Young At Art Museum, where creativity knows no bounds and imagination takes center stage. From interactive exhibits to hands-on workshops, this museum is a playground for young and old alike. Kids and teens can unleash their inner artist in one of the many classes and camps offered.
Plantation, http://www.youngatartmuseum.org
Cox Science Center and Aquarium
Explore interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and an indoor aquarium at the South Florida Science Center. It’s a fun and educational way to escape the heat while having a blast.
West Palm Beach, http://www.coxsciencecenter.org
