Miami Amusement Parks
Florida is known as the amusement park capital of the world. You might be surprised to learn that while Orlando is better recognized, Miami has several delightful amusement parks of its own. While not as large as the theme parks to the north, your kids and teens are sure to relish these playful destinations, each with their own South Florida charm. From dodging snapping alligators and squawking parrots to designing your own virtual roller coaster, a day spent at a Miami amusement park will enchant your family.
Jungle Island
Jungle Island is for kids of all ages, but is probably best suited for those with youngsters. It has two shows, each of which runs several times a day. Winged Wonders showcases unusual birds performing breathtaking feats – like swallowing an apple whole, or riding a high wire bicycle. Tale of the Tiger allows visitors to interact with an alternating cast of uncaged giant cats as well as other endangered animals. Afterward, take a refreshing plunge down the Hippo Slide, ending up on a private beach. Be aware, photo ops with parrots do not come free.
Miami Seaquarium
Swimming with the dolphins is so much more fun than swimming with the sharks. Don’t believe it? Head out to the Miami Seaquarium and find out for yourself! Plan your visit around the two best shows offered, the Top Deck Dolphin Show, where those amusing and loving bottlenose dolphins play, swim and roll thrilling kids and adults alike with their acrobatics. Save time, too, to see the Killer Whale Show as Lolita the Killer Whale and her trainer “walk on water.” Be prepared to get wet – the days are warm, so you might enjoy the relief! There are a dozen or so other shows, including some with interaction, such as feeding sharks or swimming with dolphins. Contact the park in advance for those adventures. There is a café with decent food. Park and parking prices are high enough to warrant budgeting in advance.
Everglades Safari Park
It can be difficult to find something to engage cynical teens, but a thrilling Safari airboat ride through the Miami everglades is sure to do it. By combining two teen loves – speed and ecology – on a spectacular 30 minute ride, the professional tour guides both entertain and educate at the same time. A photo of Mom or Dad holding Snappy, the alligator, is sure to inspire laughter for years to come.
Thriller Miami
Do like Shaq did – take your friends on the high speed ride of a lifetime. A destination more than a park, this 45 minute ride lives up to its name, thrilling riders with a high octane boat tour past the Miami skyline. Cruise around Millionaire Island, jump the wakes the slower boats leave behind, keep your eyes open for frequently sighted dolphin pods. When you’re ready for an adrenaline buzz, board the boat by the Bayside Marketplace on Biscayne Boulevard.
Gameworks Miami
The Miami outpost of this franchise offers virtual driving games and roller coasters, Jurassic lost world, billiards, and a huge, multilevel arcade to engage families wanting to escape a hot, humid day. Full service restaurant available. For a more family-friendly environment, it’s best to come during the daytime hours.
Blue Lagoon
Everyone’s got their own ideas of what an amusement park should offer, and the Doral Golf Resort and Spa offers something pint-sized, too. Its 85,000 gallon zero-entry pool has a cascading waterfall, Blue Monster water slide, and soft sand beaches. With lunch packages and on-the-spot supervision for kids aged 5-12 it’s a terrific way to keep the whole family amused.