3 Days in Miami with Family, Food, Beaches, and Events

  • Day 1: Family Activities at Jungle Island
    10 minutes (3 miles) from Downtown Miami

    Explore Jungle Island, a zoo and botanical garden home to exotic birds, mammals, and reptiles. See the animals up close and personal with interactive experiences like feeding the animals, zip-lining, and a fearsome encounter with alligators.

  • Day 2: Beach Day at South Beach
    15 minutes (5 miles) from Jungle Island

    Experience the world-renowned South Beach. Enjoy the soft sand, clear water, and people watching. Snap a photo with the pastel-colored Art Deco buildings in the background, rent a cabana or an umbrella, and grab some snacks and beverages from the many beachfront cafés.

  • Day 3: Special Event at Perez Art Museum Miami
    13 minutes (4 miles) from South Beach

    Visit the Perez Art Museum Miami, a stunning waterfront museum showcasing modern and contemporary art. Check out the museum's event calendar and attend an exhibit, concert, lecture, or film screening. Enjoy the riverside terrace and the breathtaking view of the Biscayne Bay.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Jungle Island (2-3 hours, $55/adult, $47/child)
  • South Beach (whole day, free admission, $20/day for beach accessories rental)
  • Perez Art Museum Miami (2-3 hours, $16/adult, $12/senior/student, free for ages 18 and under)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $194-$216

Transportation

Miami has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and the Metromover, a free monorail that covers the downtown core. Taxis, ride-sharing services, and rental cars are also available, but keep in mind that parking can be expensive near popular attractions. Expect to spend around $40-$60 for a taxi from the airport to downtown.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Miami Seaquarium, the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens or taking a boat tour around the Biscayne Bay. For foodies, don't miss the chance to taste Miami's signature dishes like Cuban sandwiches, stone crabs, or key lime pie. If you have less time, you can combine Jungle Island and South Beach on the same day.

Airports

Miami International Airport (MIA) is the primary airport serving the Miami area. It is located 8 miles northwest of downtown Miami and is a major hub for flights to and from Latin America and the Caribbean. Popular airlines serving MIA include American Airlines, Delta, and United. It takes around 15-20 minutes by car to go from the airport to downtown Miami. Another airport option is Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), located 28 miles north of Miami. It is mainly served by low-cost airlines and serves as an alternative to MIA.

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