Miami during the holidays hits different. Warm breezes, glowing gardens, outdoor nights that don’t require five layers of clothing… it’s basically the dream holiday season for kids and parents alike.
If you’re looking to make December magical (without hopping on a plane or melting down in a crowded mall), here are some of our favorite family-friendly places to experience the holidays, Miami style.
1. Zoo Lights at Zoo Miami
Think: thousands of lights, animal-shaped displays, themed nights, Santa sightings, and hot chocolate that somehow tastes better when it’s 72 degrees outside. Kids LOVE it.
2. The Berry Farms Winter Festival
Celebrate the season with festive cheer, family fun, and country charm at The Berry Farm’s for their 6th annual Winter Festival. From towering Christmas trees to holiday hayrides, this beloved South Florida tradition is the perfect way to step into a winter wonderland- Miami-style
3. Fairchild Garden’s NightGarden
A Miami must-do. Magical pathways, glowing sculptures, talking trees, misty tunnels, and interactive light shows. This one is at the top of our list year round because they always host the coolest events.
4. Bayfront Holiday Village
Ferris wheel, food trucks, ice skating, shopping, and holiday shows with Biscayne Bay as the backdrop. It feels like downtown Miami turns into one big festive block party and the views are unbeatable.
And Here Are 4 More Family-Friendly Miami Holiday Spots to Add to Your List:
5. Pinecrest Gardens’ Nights of Lights
Holiday lights wrapped around towering tropical trees = MIAMI
Plus, live music, storytelling, and sometimes even Santa stops by. It’s cozy, colorful, and perfect for little kids.
6. The Deering Estate Holiday Stroll
Historic houses dressed for the holidays, twinkle lights on the bay, and peaceful paths for a family walk.
It’s the perfect “calm holiday moment” between the chaos of December.
7. The Frost Museum of Science – Winter Programming
Think indoor snow-themed science activities, special exhibits, planetarium shows, and hands-on learning.
Perfect for rainy days, overstimulated kids, and parents who like their holiday magic with a side of science.
8. Aventura Mall Holiday Village + Giant Slide Experience
Aventura goes all out for the holidays: massive decorations, the 93-foot-tall indoor slide (kids lose their minds), photo ops, light displays, and festive pop-ups.
It’s a great half-day activity where you can mix holiday fun with a little shopping… or at least good snacks.
Miami may not have snowflakes, but it has something better: warm nights, glowing gardens, waterfront magic, and endless ways to make December feel special with your kids.
Whether you’re gliding across a dock-turned-ice-rink, walking through a glowing garden, or sipping hot chocolate in 80-degree weather (iconic), these moments become the memories kids remember forever.
Save this list, share it with your Miami mom crew, and go make a little magic this season.
