Things to Do Near PortMiami

Let them run around here before a week on a ship. The exhibits are hands-on and built for kids.

Best for: Families with kids under 10

Pro tip: Perfect for burning off energy before boarding. Interactive exhibits keep kids engaged. Gift shop at the end has cruise-appropriate toys. Go early before crowds.

Education disguised as fun, with interactive science exhibits and a three-story aquarium

Best for: Families with kids who like animals and hands-on learning

Pro tip: The aquarium is the star — kids love seeing fish from multiple levels. Planetarium has kid-friendly shows. Touch tanks are a hit. Plan for at least 2 hours. The Gulf Stream Aquarium is the highlight — you can see it from multiple levels. The planetarium shows are legit. Good for a few hours if you have time.

A waterfront plaza with room to run, ice cream, boat-watching, and live music

Best for: All ages — easy, no-stress option

Pro tip: Kids love watching the cruise ships and tour boats. Ice cream shops and easy food options. Wide open spaces for strollers. Bathrooms readily available. Teens can browse shops while parents relax by the water. Live music often playing. Good phone charging spots at the food court. Views of cruise ships coming and going.

Playground with bay views — free place to let kids run

Best for: Quick energy burn before getting back in the car

Pro tip: Walk here from Bayside Marketplace. Playground equipment plus open grass. Shaded areas available. Clean bathrooms nearby. Good Wi-Fi in the area. Nice views for photos. Not a destination itself, but a good add-on.

Kids think this free elevated train is a ride. Circle downtown as long as you like.

Best for: Train-loving kids, tired parents

Pro tip: Runs in a loop — stay on as long as you want. Air conditioned. Kids love sitting up front. Great views of the city. Perfect when you need a break but can't stop moving. Runs frequently. Great views from the elevated track. Connects Brickell, downtown, and Bayside. Perfect activity when you're killing time.

Modern mall with good stores, food court, and AC — teen-approved time killer

Best for: Teens who want to shop, anyone escaping the heat

Pro tip: Good mix of stores. Food court has decent options. Architecture is cool. Connected to Metromover so you can combine activities. Great option if it's raining or too hot. The architecture is impressive. Good dining options on-site. Connected to Metromover for easy access.

A contemporary art museum in a striking waterfront building, where the outdoor sculptures are free

Best for: Art lovers, couples, anyone who appreciates architecture

Pro tip: Even if you skip the galleries, the outdoor sculpture garden and hanging gardens are free. Verde restaurant is on-site for lunch. The building itself is worth seeing.

Open-air dining and shopping enclave in Miami's most walkable neighborhood

Best for: Couples, foodies, anyone wanting a local vibe

Pro tip: Take the free Metromover from downtown — the ride itself is a mini tour. Blue Martini and Fadó Irish Pub are great for a pre-cruise drink. Restaurants include Novecento and Rosa Mexicano.

Walk off some pre-cruise restlessness in a waterfront green space with skyline views

Best for: Anyone wanting fresh air and views without a big commitment

Pro tip: Walk here from Bayside Marketplace. Great for stretching your legs before a week on a ship. The views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline are postcard-worthy.

Upscale outdoor shopping with public art installations and designer boutiques

Best for: Design enthusiasts, shoppers, Instagram fans

Pro tip: The public art and architecture are free to enjoy. Great for photos. Multiple high-end restaurants if you want a special pre-cruise meal. Only go if you have 2+ hours to spare.