Ultimate Family Guide to Museums In Miami

Looking for a fun day out with the kids? You’re in luck. Miami is packed with museums perfect for family adventures, many offering free or reduced entry, family days, and special events for everyone! Check out this comprehensive guide that includes all the helpful info you need to plan your museum day.

Lowe Art Museum

Located on the University of Miami campus, the Lowe Art Museum is Miami’s oldest art museum and features an impressive collection spanning thousands of years and cultures. With FREE general admission, it’s a great affordable museum option for families, students, and art lovers.
Location: 1301 Stanford Drive, Coral Gables, FL 33124
Hours:

• Sunday–Tuesday: Closed
• Wednesday–Saturday: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
• Closed on University holidays and select major holidays.

• Admission:FREE general admission thanks to the generosity of Beaux Arts!
  • Advance tickets can be reserved online and are highly recommended for guaranteed entry.
  • Guests arriving without tickets may be unable to enter if the museum reaches capacity.
• Parking: Pay-by-phone parking is available on the University of Miami campus.
• Public Transportation: Take the Metrorail to University Station. From there, you can take the free University of Miami shuttle directly to the Lowe Art Museum or walk approximately 8 minutes.
• Family Tip: Since admission is FREE, this is an easy museum to add to your Miami family activity list without having to plan around admission costs.
• Website: Lowe Art Museum

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Step back in time at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens! Explore James Deering’s stunning 1916 winter estate, beautiful gardens, and waterfront grounds while learning about Miami’s history and Gilded Age architecture. It’s also a beautiful spot for families who want to enjoy some time outdoors.
Location: 3251 South Miami Avenue, Miami, FL 33129
Parking: FREE parking is available onsite.
Public Transportation: Vizcaya is easily accessible by Metrorail. Get off at the Vizcaya Station, which is about a 10-minute walk from the museum.
Website: Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Admission Prices:
Adults (13+): $20
Children (ages 6–12): $10
Children 5 and under: FREE
FREE Access Programs: Free tickets are available through these programs and must be purchased onsite at the admissions booth:
Persons with a disability protected under the ADA + one accompanying caregiver: FREE
U.S. military veterans and active-duty military personnel with ID: FREE
Museums for All: SNAP EBT cardholders + up to 3 guests: FREE
Family Tips:
Strollers are allowed, but they can be tricky to navigate indoors because of the historic spaces, steps, and uneven floors.
Be prepared for steps, uneven floors, and uneven terrain throughout the Main House, gardens, and grounds.
Comfortable, closed-toe, low-heeled shoes are recommended.
The gardens and outdoor areas are beautiful for exploring with kids.

Miami Children’s Museum

Miami Children’s Museum is filled with interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences designed to encourage learning, creativity, and imaginative play.
Location: 980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami, FL 33132
Hours: Open daily, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve: Closes at 4 p.m.
New Year’s Day: Opens at 1 p.m.
Parking: The Miami Parking Authority operates a 343-space parking lot on the east side of the museum. Parking is $2 per hour, seven days a week.
Public Transportation: Routes C, K, M, and S provide bus service to the museum.
Website: Miami Children’s Museum
Admission Prices:
General Admission: $26
Florida Residents: $20 with valid Florida ID
Children under 12 months: FREE
Special Offers:
FREE 3rd Friday: Free admission on the third Friday of each month.
Museum on Us: Bank of America cardholders receive one FREE museum admission on the first weekend of each month.
Sensory Saturdays: On the second Saturday of every month, the museum offers a FREE sensory-friendly experience for children with disabilities and their families with RSVP.

Gold Coast Railroad Museum

The Gold Coast Railroad Museum is dedicated to preserving, exhibiting, and operating historic railroad equipment. The museum is home to more than 40 historic rail cars, including the Presidential Rail Car “Ferdinand Magellan” and Florida East Coast Steam Locomotive #153.
Founded in 1957, the museum was built on the former Naval Air Station Richmond (NASR), once the second-largest WWII airship base in the United States. With more than three miles of historic tracks, it’s a fun and unique experience for train-loving families.
Location: 12450 SW 152nd Street, Miami, FL 33177
Parking: FREE parking available onsite.
Hours:

• Wednesday–Friday: 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
• Saturday–Sunday: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
• Monday–Tuesday: Closed

• Admission Prices:
  • Adults: $12
  • Children (ages 3–12): $10
  • Children 2 and under: FREE
  • Seniors (65+): $8
• Special Offers:
  • FREE admission on the first Saturday of each month.
  • Military: FREE
  • Museums4All: $3 admission for up to 4 people with EBT/WIC.
  • AAA Members: Buy One, Get One FREE.
• Website: Gold Coast Railroad Museum

Museum of Miami

Discover Miami’s vibrant past, present and future! Museum of Miami is a great place to learn about the people, places and stories that have shaped our city.
Location: 101 West Flagler Street, Miami, FL 33130
Parking: On-street parking and nearby garage parking are available. Easily accessible by public transportation — use the Government Center stop.
Hours: Monday–Wednesday: Closed
Thursday–Sunday: 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

• Admission Prices: Kids under 6 FREE, $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and students with ID.
• Special Offers:
  • Free Family Fun Days on the second Saturday of each month.
  • Sensory Sundays.
  • Walking tours of historic neighborhoods.
  • Admission is always FREE for active-duty military personnel and their families from Memorial Day through Labor Day as part of the Blue Star Museums Initiative.
  • Admission is always FREE for Miami-Dade County employees.
  • Admission is always FREE for teachers with a registered free membership.
  • Admission is always FREE for SNAP EBT participants. Each SNAP EBT card allows up to four people.
• Website: Museum of Miami

Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)

A beautiful waterfront art museum featuring modern and contemporary art from around the world. The outdoor spaces and Biscayne Bay views are worth the visit too!
Location: 1103 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, FL 33132
Parking: Parking is available in the museum lot for around $18, or you can find street parking nearby. PAMM is also easily accessible by public transportation — Metro mover, Take the Full Loop train to Museum Park Station.
Hours:

• Monday: 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
• Tuesday–Wednesday: Closed
• Thursday: 11 a.m.–9 p.m.
• Friday–Sunday: 11 a.m.–6 p.m.

• Admission Prices:
  • Members: FREE
  • Adults: $18
  • Seniors (62+ with ID): $14
  • Students (with ID): $14
  • Youth (ages 7–18): $14
  • Children 6 and under: FREE
• Special Offers:
  • FREE admission Thursdays after 5 p.m.
  • Family Day: Held once a month on the second Saturday of the month, featuring family-friendly activities and programming.
  • Active U.S. military and veterans with ID: FREE
  • Health care professionals and first responders with ID: FREE
  • Florida educators with ID: FREE
  • Visitors identifying as disabled and their accompanying caregiver: FREE
  • Family-friendly programs and activities are offered throughout the year.
• Website: Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)

Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami (ICA Miami)

Explore cutting-edge contemporary art at the Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami. Located in the Miami Design District, ICA Miami showcases innovative exhibitions and provides a platform for local, emerging, and internationally recognized artists.
And the best part for families? Admission is FREE year-round!
Location: 61 NE 41st Street, Miami, FL 33137
Museum Hours:

• Wednesday–Sunday: 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
• Monday–Tuesday: Closed
• Admission:FREE
  • Advance tickets are highly recommended to guarantee entry.
• Parking:
  • Valet parking is available throughout the neighborhood for approximately $5.
  • Street parking is also available throughout the area.
• Strollers are welcome in most areas, although access may occasionally be limited in certain galleries. Oversized and jogging strollers are not permitted. Standard strollers can be checked FREE at the front desk.
• Website: Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami

Phillip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science

Explore the wonders of science, the ocean, space, and the human body all in one place! Frost Science features interactive museum exhibits, a massive aquarium, and a planetarium, making it a great family-friendly destination.
Location: 1101 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, FL 33132
Hours: Open every day of the year, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Parking: Limited paid self-parking is available in the museum garage during regular museum hours. The garage can fill up quickly during peak hours and weekends. Onsite parking is $18 flat rate.
Public Transportation: Frost Science is directly adjacent to the Miami-Dade Metromover at Museum Park Station. Take the Full Loop train to Museum Park Station, just steps from the museum entrance.

• Explorer Ticket: Includes museum exhibitions, aquarium, and one Frost Planetarium show based on availability. Planetarium show tickets are booked onsite.
  • Adults: Starting at $29.95
  • Youth (ages 4–11): Starting at $24.95
  • Children 3 and under: FREE
  • Museum members: FREE
• Special Offers:
  • Blue Star Museums: From May 16 through September 7, 2026, active-duty military personnel and up to five family members receive FREE admission with valid military ID. This offer is for currently serving members and eligible family members and does not extend to veterans or retirees.
  • First Responders: FREE admission with proper identification.
  • U.S. Military & Veterans: FREE admission with proper identification.
  • Seniors (62+): Receive $5 off Explorer Tickets with proper identification.
  • Downtown Miami Summer Score Savings: Guests who visit Frost Science, Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM), or the Freedom Tower can receive discounted admission at participating institutions when they show proof of admission from another participating location during the promotional period. The offer is for onsite purchases and cannot be combined with other discounts.
• Website: Frost Science

The Bass

Located in the heart of Miami Beach, The Bass is a contemporary art museum featuring thought-provoking exhibitions and creative programming for the whole family.
Location: 2100 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Hours:

• Monday–Tuesday: Closed
• Wednesday–Sunday: Open
• Third Thursdays: Open late until 9 p.m. with FREE admission from 6–9 p.m.
• Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
  Parking: The Collins Park Parking Garage is located at 340 23rd Street, one block north of The Bass. Metered public parking is also available around Collins Park. The museum does not have designated parking.
  Public Transportation: Bus routes 14, 36, 79, 100, and 150. The Miami Beach Trolley also stops nearby.
• Admission Prices:
  • General: $15
  • Seniors (65+): $8
  • Students with valid college/university ID: $8
  • Youth (ages 7–18): $8
  • Children 6 and under: FREE
  • Members: FREE
• FREE Admission & Special Offers:
  • Miami Beach & Surfside Residents: FREE with valid ID/proof of residence.
  • Family Day: FREE admission plus art activities for kids and caregivers on the last Sunday of every month.
  • Third Thursdays: FREE admission from 6–9 p.m. on the third Thursday of every month.
  • Active-duty and retired military personnel + one guest: FREE
  • SNAP EBT cardholders + up to 3 guests: FREE
  • Visitors with a disability protected under the ADA + one caregiver: FREE
  • The Bass also participates in the Blue Star Museums program.
• Website: The Bass

Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum – FIU

Discover world-class art at the Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum, FIU’s premier on-campus museum. The museum features exhibitions spanning cultures and time periods and offers educational programming for families, students, and the South Florida community.
Located on FIU’s Avenue of the Arts, the museum is a great FREE museum option for families exploring West Miami-Dade.
Location:
Florida International University
Modesto A. Maidique Campus
10975 SW 17th Street, Miami, FL 33199
Hours:

• Tuesday–Sunday: 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
• Monday: Closed

• Admission:FREE
  • Advance RSVP is required.
• Parking: Museum visitors can park in metered parking spaces in the FIU Blue or Gold garages or in Lots 3 or 4.
  • Parking can be paid through the PayByPhone app or at the meters located in the Blue and Gold garages.
  • When entering FIU from SW 107th Avenue, enter the roundabout and continue straight toward the Gold Garage on the right or Blue Garage on the left.
• Family Tip: The museum offers free educational programming designed for K–12 schools and families, making it a great option for homeschool and family outings.
• Website: Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum – FIU

Coral Gables Museum

Discover the history, architecture, and culture of Coral Gables at the Coral Gables Museum. Located in the heart of the “City Beautiful,” the museum offers exhibitions, educational programs, and family-friendly activities throughout the year.
Location: 285 Aragon Avenue, Coral Gables, FL 33134
Museum Hours:

• Monday: Closed
• Tuesday–Friday & Sunday: 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
• Saturday: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
• Gallery Night (First Fridays): 6–10 p.m.
• Family Day (Third Saturdays): 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
  Visitor Center Hours:
• Monday–Friday & Sunday: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
• Saturday: 9 a.m.–6 p.m.

• Admission Prices:
  • Members: FREE
  • Adults: $15
  • Students/Seniors: $10
  • Children (ages 7–12): $8
  • Children 6 and under: FREE
  • Military: FREE
• FREE Family Day:
  • Second Saturday of each month: FREE admission.
  • Family Day offers interactive exhibitions, creative workshops, and activities for children and adults.
  • Note: The museum’s schedule also lists Family Day programming on the third Saturday, so check the museum’s calendar before visiting to confirm the current month’s date.
• Family Tip: Baby strollers are permitted inside the museum, but the museum cannot store them during your visit.
• Website: Coral Gables Museum

Deering Estate

Step into more than 10,000 years of Miami history at The Deering Estate! This historic landmark, museum, and cultural and ecological field station sits on beautiful waterfront grounds with diverse ecosystems, walking trails, gardens, and historic buildings to explore.
Location: 16701 SW 72nd Avenue, Palmetto Bay, FL 33157
Hours: Open daily, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
No admission after 4 p.m. and the gate closes at 4 p.m.
Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas.

• Admission Prices:
  • Adults (15+): $18 + tax
  • Youth (ages 4–14): $10 + tax
  • Children 3 and under: FREE
  • Seniors (62+): $16 + tax
  • Active-duty military: $16 + tax
  • Honorably discharged veterans: $16 + tax
  • Foundation Members: FREE
• FREE & Discounted Admission:
  • Museums for All: SNAP EBT cardholder + up to 3 guests: FREE
  • Miami-Dade Public Library Museum Pass: During June–August, participating library branches offer passes for 2 adults and 2 children (ages 4–14) for FREE admission.
  • Blue Star Museums: Active-duty military and up to 5 family members receive FREE admission during the eligible period.
  • Veterans with service-connected disabilities: FREE for the veteran and up to 8 family members.
  • Seniors, Miami-Dade County employees, and Miami-Dade Transit EASY Card/Ticket holders receive $2 offgeneral admission.
  • Memorial Day Weekend: $8 admission
  • 4th of July Weekend: $8 admission
  • Labor Day Weekend: $8 admission
  • Explore Miami/Miami Attraction & Museum Months: Buy One, Get One FREE adult admission during eligible April and May dates.
• Family Tip: Wear comfortable shoes! The estate includes historic buildings, trails, gardens, and natural areas, so you’ll want to be prepared for outdoor exploration.
• Website: Deering Estate

Superblue Miami: Immersive Art Experiences

Step into the extraordinary! At Superblue Miami, you’ll roam through mind-bending worlds of light, movement, and immersive art that feels alive all around you. It’s a fun and unique experience for the whole family, with interactive installations that make you feel like you’re part of the artwork.
Location: 1101 NW 23rd Street, Miami, FL 33127
Duration: Approximately 90–120 minutes
Age: All ages are welcome!
Accessibility: ADA compliant
Parking: Street parking is available nearby.
Hours:

• Monday–Thursday: 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
• Friday–Saturday: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
• Sunday: 10 a.m.–7 p.m.

Website/Tickets: Select your preferred date and time directly through the ticket selector.
Buy tickets Use code MOMAPPROVED10 for a discount.
Admission Prices:
Adults: $32 Monday–Thursday | $32 Friday–Sunday
Florida Residents: $29 Monday–Thursday | $36 Friday
Florida Resident rate is available online only for Monday–Friday visits.
Students, Seniors (65+), Military & Frontline Healthcare Workers: $29 Monday–Thursday | $36 Friday–Sunday
Children (ages 3–12): $17
Children under 3: FREE

Paradox Museum Miami

Step into a world where nothing makes sense yet everything feels real! Paradox Museum Miami is an interactive experience filled with mind-bending illusions, optical tricks, and immersive exhibits that challenge the way you see reality. It’s a fun visit for kids and adults alike.
Location: 2301 N Miami Avenue, Miami, FL 33127 — in Wynwood, next to The Oasis and Mister 01 Pizza on N. Miami Ave.
Hours:

• Monday–Friday: 12 p.m.–7 p.m.
• Saturday: 10 a.m.–9 p.m.
• Sunday: 10 a.m.–7 p.m.
• Last session is one hour before closing.
• Hours are subject to change on special days, so check the ticketing app before visiting.
• Duration: Approximately 75 minutes
• Age: All ages are welcome!
• Admission Prices:
  • Adults: Starting at $26
  • Children: Starting at $21
  • Children 3 and under: FREE
  • Prices may vary depending on date and time.
• Parking: Paid street parking is available within walking distance. Partial reimbursement is available for the Strata parking garage next door.
• Tickets: Select your preferred date and time directly through the ticket selector.
• Website/Tickets: Buy Tickets  Use code MOMAPPROVED10 for a discount.

Museum of Graffiti

Located in the heart of Wynwood, the Museum of Graffiti is Wynwood’s only art museum and the world’s first museum dedicated to graffiti. Explore indoor and outdoor exhibitions featuring top local and global graffiti artists while learning about the history and evolution of this influential art movement.
Location: 276 NW 26th Street, Miami, FL 33127
Hours:

• Monday: 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
• Tuesday: Closed
• Wednesday–Thursday: 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
• Friday–Sunday: 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
• Parking: A public parking garage is located at 321 NW 26th Street, just a short walk from the museum.
• Admission Prices:
  • Adults: $19.72
  • Children 13 and under: FREE
• Family Activities:
  • Kids’ Graffiti Drawing Class: Held every Sunday at 10 a.m. and led by local artists.
• Website: Museum of Graffiti

Museum of Ice Cream

The Museum of Ice Cream is a self-guided, interactive experience where you can eat unlimited ice cream, explore colorful installations, create unforgettable memories, and play in magical spaces. It’s a fun and immersive Miami attraction for families, couples, and friends.
The experience typically takes around 90 minutes, but you can stay longer if you want to take your time exploring and enjoying the installations.
Location: 851 NE 1st Ave, Miami, FL 33132
Located inside Paramount Miami Worldcenter.
Parking: Paid parking is available in the garage adjacent
Public Transportation: Take the Metromover to the Miami Worldcenter Station.
Hours:

• Sunday: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
• Monday: 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
• Tuesday: Closed
• Wednesday: 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
• Thursday: 11 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
• Friday: 11 a.m.–8 p.m.
• Saturday: 10 a.m.–8:30 p.m.
• Admission Prices:
  • General Admission: Starting at $24
    • Timed entry
    • Unlimited ice cream
    • Full immersive experience
    • Access to photo moments
  • Flex Ticket: Starting at $32
    • 90-minute flexible entry
    • 10% off retail
    • 10% off cocktails
    • All general admission inclusions
  • VIP Ticket: Starting at $49
    • Anytime entry + skip-the-line access
    • Complimentary cocktail
    • MOIC gift
    • All general admission inclusions
  • Children 2 and under: FREE
  • Prices vary by date and time, so booking early is recommended.
• Website: Museum of Ice Cream Miami

Not in Miami but worth the drive:

Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS)

Explore, discover, and get hands-on with science at the Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale! For more than 40 years, MODS has been a trusted source for science education in South Florida, featuring interactive exhibits, live science demonstrations, animals, a HoloTheater experience, and IMAX documentary films.
Location: 401 SW 2nd Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
Located in downtown Fort Lauderdale’s Arts & Science District across from Riverwalk’s Esplanade Park along the New River.
Hours:

• Monday–Saturday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
• Sunday: 12–5 p.m.
• Open 363 days a year.
• Closed on Thanksgiving and during the annual Bank of America Wine, Spirits and Culinary Celebration in October.
  Parking: Several nearby garages are available, generally ranging from $5–$15. Prices are subject to change.
• South Florida Resident Admission:
  • Adults: $26.50
  • Children (ages 1–12): $20
  • Seniors (65+): $24.50
  • Military: $23.50
  • Infants (0–12 months): FREE
  • Members: FREE
  • Includes museum exhibitions, live science demonstrations, one HoloTheater experience, and one IMAX documentary film.
• General Admission:
  • Adults: $29.50
  • Children (ages 1–12): $24
  • Seniors (65+): $27.50
  • Military: $26.50
  • Infants (0–12 months): FREE
• Museums for All:
  • $4 per person for up to 4 people per EBT or WIC card.
  • Present a valid photo ID and EBT/WIC card at the Box Office.
  • Both adults and children are eligible.
  • Children under 1 are FREE.
• FREE Admission Days: MODS offers select FREE general admission days throughout the year. On select FREE admission days, guests can upgrade to an IMAX documentary for $5 per ticket.
• Late Afternoon Admission: Guests arriving after 4 p.m. pay the full admission price, but their tickets are stamped so they can return within 30 days for a full day of museum exploration.
• Family Tip: This is a great option for families looking for an interactive, hands-on museum experience rather than just traditional exhibits.
• Website: Museum of Discovery and Science

Mom Approved Tips:

• Check for Updates: Admission prices and offers may change. Visit the museum’s official website or contact them directly before your visit.
• Plan Ahead: Some museums require advance ticket purchases, especially during peak times or special events.
• Explore Memberships: If you plan to visit multiple museums, consider membership options for savings and extra benefits.
• Family Programs: Many museums offer special programs and workshops for kids. Check event calendars to enhance your experience.
• Don’t Miss Out: Be sure to check out my post on the Museum Pass from the Miami-Dade Public Library that offers free tickets to select museums!

FREE Museum Passes Through Miami-Dade Public Library

Did you know your Miami-Dade Public Library card can get you FREE admission to local museums? This is one of my favorite ways to explore Miami with the kids without spending a fortune!

Through the program, participating library branches offer passes that provide FREE admission to select museums and cultural attractions.

• Who can use it: Miami-Dade Public Library cardholders
• Cost: FREE
• How it works: Visit a participating library branch and ask about available museum passes.
• Passes: Each participating museum has its own rules for how many people the pass admits and how often you can use it.
• Availability: Passes are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis, so check with your library before heading out.

Museums That Participate

Some of the museums featured in this guide along with other participating cultural attractions throughout Miami-Dade!
This is especially worth checking during summer! Some passes can provide admission for 2 adults and 2 children, making it an amazing family freebie.

Check the Miami-Dade Public Library Museum Pass Program

Bank of America’s FREE Museum Days

Have a Bank of America, Merrill, or Bank of America Private Bank card? You can get FREE general admission to participating museums during the first full weekend of every month through the Museums on Us® program. 

See the official Bank of America Museums on Us list