Top End Of Summer Family Activities In South Florida
Zoo Miami
1 Zoo Blvd
12400 SW 152nd St.
Miami, Florida 33177
(305) 251-0400
www.zoomiami.org
Open all year round - Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and weekends from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Many people are not aware that Zoo Miami, formerly Miami Metrozoo, is the largest and oldest zoological garden in Florida along with being the only tropical zoo in all of the nation. Plan to spend an entire day because there are over 3,000 animals, 100 exhibits and over 324 acres of plants, animals and habitat to explore. The zoo is divided into sections which include African exhibits, Australian exhibits, Dr. Wilde's World of Discovery, Cloud Forest and even a Children's Zoo with theater. Besides being able to see traditional animals such as the lions, tigers and monkeys, a set of unique and exotic animals and reptiles will catch your attention. Zoo Miami gives families the ability to buy a 2016 Summer Savings Pass which is good until September 30, 2016 and allows entry into four South Florida attractions: Zoo Miami, Lion Country Safari in Palm Beach County, Miami Seaquarium and the Museum of Science & Discovery. The ticket is $31 for adults and $21 for children.
The Venetian Pool
Coral Gables attraction
2701 De Soto Boulevard
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
(305) 460-5306
www.venetianpool.com
Open Monday through Friday from 11:30 am. to 6:30 p.m. and weekends from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Note: Sale of admission tickets will cease once the pool is filled to capacity.
As the summer draws to a close, the heat seems to climb and humidity can be unbearable. One of the best activities for the family to enjoy together is a cool and refreshing day of swimming and taking in beautiful surroundings. For one of the most unique experiences that a family will ever encounter, head to the Venetian Pool. Located in Coral Gables, one of the most exquisite locations in South Florida, this pool is breathtaking and a historic public swimming pool, built in 1923. It is considered the largest freshwater pool in the United States. There is even a kids pool with lifeguard station. A grotto adds a touch of history and if you feel like getting out and relaxing, a sandy sunning area awaits. Swim amongst unforgettable scenery inclusive of loggias, porticos, palm trees and a signature bridge worth getting a picture of. It is best to arrive early to get a good parking spot and to beat the crowds as this pool has been given the Certificate of Excellence Award from Trip Advisor so it is a very popular South Florida attraction and a great way for the family to spend the day.
HistoryMiami
101 W. Flagler St.
Miami, Florida 33130
(305) 375-1492
www.historymiami.org
Open seven days. Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday from noon until 5:00 p.m.
HistoryMiami is the perfect end of summer activity to get the kids excited about school. This history museum all about Florida and founded in 1940, is the largest of its kind in the entire state of Florida. HistoryMiami is also a Smithsonian affiliate. Learn all about the place in which you live, work and play. Every month there is a family fun day. On July 16, 2016, the museum will celebrate family fun day with the opening of their newest exhibition, "Beyond the Game: Sports and the Evolution of South Florida." There will be plenty of games and activities available for all to take part in. The museum includes both permanent and traveling exhibitions to keep your visit fresh and exciting and desiring to come back for more.
(Source: baysidemarketplace.com)
Bayside Marketplace
401 Biscayne Blvd.
Miami, Florida 33132
(305) 577-3344
www.baysidemarketplace.com
Open seven days. Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Considered a huge tourist attraction, Bayside Marketplace is one of those outings that has something for every member of your family. The marketplace offers every type of retail shopping item that anyone could possibly want, from fashions, shoes, accessories to electronics, health & beauty, home & housewares and sports & fitness, along with so much more. Take in the panoramic view of the City of Miami and Biscayne Bay as lunch or dinner is served outside on the patio overlooking the marina. Bayside Marketplace is home to just about any kind of restaurant that you can think of to satisfy every hearty appetite. The sun setting across Biscayne Bay and Island Queen Cruises offers a 1 1/2 to 2 hour cruise at sunset, taking you all across the bay for some sightseeing. Included in the price is unlimited soda and water, champagne and beer. Choosing Bayside Marketplace as your family activity to wind down the summer is a great idea which gives you an assortment of activities to do all in one place in one day.
Florida Keys
Monroe County Tourist Development Council
1100 Simonton Street
Key West, Florida 33040
(800) 352-5397
www.fla-keys.com
One of the most enjoyable activities for the family for a weekend or a week is to travel by car down the Florida Keys, stopping along the way to enjoy what each Key is most known for. It is a great way to relax and spend quality time together. Try snorkeling at John Pennekamp State Park in Key Largo. Dive some amazing wrecks and see some miraculous coral at any one of the various Keys. Take the kids for an afternoon at the Dolphin Research Center located on Grassy Key and learn all about the intelligence of this wonderful creature as well as being up close and personal with them. Do some fishing and take your fish to select local restaurants to see if the chef can grill and serve for dinner. There are even museums to keep the kids occupied and a History of Diving Museum for the avid divers in the family. Lastly, come dine in the Keys and have some of its world-famous Key Lime pie or any of the famous fresh fish dishes available.
Related: Top Zoo Exhibits In South Florida
A longtime resident of Palm Beach County in South Florida, Hope Wilkos divides her passions between writing, fashion and scuba diving. With the gift of self-expression, Hope has used her writing skills to cover memorable events over the last five years and share that thrill and accomplishment with her readers. To achieve your goals, Hope strongly believes that you must "Follow Your Dream."
