Top 5 Family Friendly Attractions in Miami, Florida

Miami may be best known as a party destination for the young and beautiful, but the Top 5 Family Friendly Attractions offer fun for visitors of all ages. You can swim with dolphins, commune with parrots, pet a baby alligator and explore the natural world of south Florida on your vacation. Theme parks and boat tours await families in Miami, Florida.

1- Seaquarium

The interacyive aquarium shows, mammal encounters and exhibits make earn the Seaquarium the top spot on the Miami family vacation agenda. Although you can book a dolphin swim or shallow water encounter at a growing number of places in south Florida, you would be hard pressed to a more economical opportunity. Wear comfortable walking shoes to traverse the 38 acre complex and arrive at least five minutes early to the whale show to get a front row seat. Attraction offerings also include a dolphin show, sea lion show, the original television set from the "Flipper" show, manatee poolside exhibit, tropical reef tank, shark channel and a touch tank.

2- Jungle Island

Unwind in a tropical environment surrounded by over 1,000 parrots, macaws and native reptiles. Jungle Island encompasses 18 acres filled with nearly 500 varieties of plants and animals. Four animal programs allow the creatures to express their own unique personalities and skills. Don't forget to pack your camera and take photos of a colorful parrot riding a miniature bicycle across the stage. The animal habitats include alligator, tiger, crocodile, snake,monkey and tiger enclosures. Pack your swimsuit so the children can swim on the man-made beach while you enjoy a cocktail from the waterfront lounge.

3- Everglades Safari Park

Discover the natural wonders of the Everglades and take in an alligator show during the visit. A working alligator farm allows you to experience the massive reptiles in their native habitat. If you are not traveling with children under age five, purchase a ticket for a guided airboat tour of the swamp or hike the jungle trail. An interpretive nature center, gift shop and restaurant round out the offerings of the outdoor adventure attraction.

4- Grapeland Water Park

Cool off in one of the four swimming pools with interactive water features or cascading water slides. Shipwreck Island and Captain's Lagoon offer shallow water play areas appropriate for younger children. The Buccanneer River Ride offers a relaxing float around the water park for the entire family. Children age three and younger can enjoy the park for free with a paying adult.

5- Amelia Earhart Park

Spend a slow-paced day at a farm inside or urban Miami. Amelia Earhart Park features pony rides around manicured pathways, a petting zoo and five fishing lakes. Pack a lunch and enjoy both the serenity and the views near the picnic area and playgrounds. Tour an old-fashioned country store and spend a few dimes on a licorice stick or rustic souvenir. A bicycle path with obstacles was designed as a tribute to the brave and adventurous spirit of the famous female pilot.