Freedom Tower
Updated November 2026
It’s an iconic part of our skyline, instantly recognizable and deeply woven into Miami’s history! But did you know the Freedom Tower is also home to an incredible museum?
This Downtown Miami landmark gives families the opportunity to explore the stories, culture, and history behind the city they call home. Inside, you’ll find interactive displays, historic artifacts, contemporary art, and even a soccer exhibition! It’s a wonderful way for families to connect with Miami’s past and present. Following a major restoration, the Freedom Tower reopened in 2025 for its centennial, featuring reimagined galleries overseen by Miami Dade College’s Museum of Art and Design.
This is a must-visit for families, locals, and visitors alike. And honestly, I only wish I’d discovered it sooner! So scroll down and see why the Freedom Tower needs to be on your list for things to do with the kids!
The history behind the Freedom Tower
The building opened in 1925 as the headquarters of The Miami Daily News. Its distinctive design was inspired by the Giralda tower in Seville, Spain, making it an opportunity to introduce kids to the architecture of early Miami. It’s most significant chapter began in 1962, when it became the Cuban Refugee Center. Until 1974, the building helped Cuban refugees begin new lives in the United States, providing services that included medical care, food, and financial assistance. Known to many as El Refugio, it became a symbol of hope for families fleeing political persecution and earned the nickname “Ellis Island of the South.”
The tower was donated to Miami Dade College in 2005 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 2008. Today, its galleries preserve that history while exploring the experiences of the communities that have shaped Miami.
New and reimagined exhibits to explore
Libertad: Stories of Cuban Exile
One of the most meaningful exhibits at the Freedom Tower, Libertad tells the powerful story of Cuban refugees who came to the United States in search of freedom and a new beginning. Through historic photographs, personal stories, artifacts, and immersive displays, visitors can learn about the Cuban exodus and its lasting impact on Miami’s history and identity.The exhibit also features a groundbreaking resource: the only database dedicated to the Peter Pan children, the thousands of Cuban children who arrived in the United States unaccompanied through Operation Pedro Pan between 1960 and 1962. It’s a powerful way to preserve their stories and help future generations understand an important chapter of Miami’s history.
Languages of Migration
This exhibit is a beautiful exploration of how people communicate, share traditions, and preserve their cultural identities across places and generations. You’ll find historic maps, books, prints, and fascinating cultural objects alongside contemporary art, with opportunities to get up close and even interact with some of the displays.
I especially loved seeing the artifacts from the Ancient Americas! It’s a stunning exhibit that brings history, culture, and storytelling together in such a meaningful way.
Unidad: The World’s Game
Created by the FIFA Museum, this incredible exhibition celebrates the global history and cultural impact of soccer through historic artifacts, interactive stations, and immersive installations. From Pelé’s iconic gear to a stunning collection of soccer jerseys representing countries from around the world, there’s so much to discover! Whether you’re a lifelong soccer fan or simply love exploring sports and culture, this is a must-see exhibit for soccer and football fans of all ages.
Reflections
A beautiful love letter to the city of Miami, this exhibit celebrates the people, places, and stories that make our city so special. Inside the Knight Skylight Gallery, you’ll discover familiar faces, local icons, and stories from Miami residents brought to life through digital screens, archival photographs, and commissioned photography. Be sure to look up, too! Artist Sharon Louden’s Windows of Freedom Tower, a stunning reflective aluminum installation, transforms the light and space around you. It’s a beautiful tribute to the city we call home and the people who make it what it is.
Beyond Time: Antonia Eiriz
A fascinating new exhibition opening Nov.1 that challenges the way you think, see, and interpret the world around you! Featuring works by Antonia Eiriz, Juan Sánchez, and Pedro Vizcaino, this collection of paintings, works on paper, and artistic assemblages explores identity, memory, and the human experience beyond time and place.
Located on the second floor in the Wolfson Art Gallery, this exhibit invites visitors to look closer, question what they see, and experience art from different perspectives.
Why the Freedom Tower is Mom Approved
What makes the Freedom Tower such a meaningful family outing is the opportunity to connect a museum visit with your own family’s story. This is a historic place that holds so much significance for our community and for many Miami families.
Whether your family has a personal connection to the tower or you’re a local who has always wondered what’s inside this iconic building, the exhibits offer wonderful opportunities to learn, reflect, and spark conversations about history, immigration, starting over somewhere new, helping others, and finding a sense of belonging.
My recommendation? Let the kids help choose where to begin! There is so much to see, explore, and take in, so giving them a say can make the experience even more engaging.
The museum also hosts Freedom Family Days, featuring free family-friendly programming, including art activities and live music. Be sure to check their website for upcoming dates and events before your visit!
Plan your family visit
Location and Hours:
Freedom Tower is at 600 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, FL 33132.
Regular hours are Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Holiday and college event closures may affect the schedule.
Admission :
$18 for general admission
$12 for ages 7 to 18 and students with ID
$14 for adults 62 and older
Free Admission:
- MDC students and employees with MDC ID
- Children 6 & under
- Active U.S. military
- Veterans
- Visitors identifying as disabled and their accompanying caregiver
Miami-Dade Public Library Museum Pass: Check out a museum pass through your local library for complimentary admission.
Bank of America Museums on Us: Enjoy free general admission during the first full weekend of every month with an eligible Bank of America, Merrill, or Bank of America Private Bank card.
Parking & Transport:
Getting to the Freedom Tower is easy! Visitors can park for free in the Miami Dade College garage at 500 NE Second Avenue. Just keep in mind that the garage is closed on Sundays. On Sundays, visitors are directed to MDC Parking Lot 1, located on the south side of the tower.
You can also take the free Metromover! The Freedom Tower station is literally right next to the museum, making it a convenient option if you’re exploring Downtown Miami.
Parent essentials:
Strollers and diaper bags are welcome, the facility is wheelchair accessible, and each floor has restrooms and seating.
Food and drinks are not permitted in the galleries, so plan snack breaks around your visit.
Audio tours are available in English, Spanish, and Kreyòl through Bloomberg Connects.
Now go explore this incredible landmark and discover a meaningful piece of Miami history!
