Top Rated Attractions in Key Biscayne

Built in 1825, this 95-foot (28.95-meter) lighthouse is one of the oldest buildings in south Florida. It originally guided sailors through the dangerous waters along the Straits of Florida. Although it was removed from service several times during various wars, it has weathered the years extraordinarily well. The lighthouse is part of Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. Guests can take guided or self-guided tours or explore the lighthouse. The Cape Florida Lighthouse makes for a historic and natural treasure, offering a blend of maritime history, scenic beauty, and outdoor recreation.

Crandon Park features two miles (3.21 kilometers) of sandy beach, a park area with a golf course, a nature center and a marina. The beach is named one of the best in the United States. The park also includes picnic areas and an amusement area. The amusement area is home to an antique carousel, a splash fountain, an outdoor roller rink and a beach-front playground. You can also take a guided tour of the park and explore everything that it has to offer.

Located in downtown Miami, Olympia Theater at the Gusman Center for the Performing Arts has served as a stage for cultural performances since 1926. Designed in the Spanish style with an old world charm, the building maintains a certain air of sophistication. The center once housed the Miami Philharmonic Orchestra. After undergoing a two-year renovation project in the 1970s, the historic structure became one of the city's main performing arts venues. Today, the center continues to feature an exciting array of theater, music and dance.

Zoo Miami is one of the oldest and largest zoos in the entire state of Florida. Called a "free-range zoo," none of the animals are caged here. Due to its tropical climate, it is an ideal menagerie for observing animals from warmer areas of the world, like Australia and Africa. Visit all kinds of animals, from Cuban crocodiles to those from the Southern Hemisphere like the Tree Kangaroos. The zoo also has several cafes and concession stands scattered throughout so visitors are refreshed.

Unlike many of South Florida's state parks, Barnacle State Historic Park is centrally located and easily accessible by automobile. Just off the main street in trendy Coconut Grove, this five-acre (2.02-hectare) historic site offers visitors a glimpse into a past full of beauty and luxury. This stately structure was originally the home of Ralph Middleton Munroe, a landowner and yacht enthusiast who hailed from New York. Before and after Munroe's passing, measures were taken to ensure that the property reflected South Florida's culture and blossoming heritage. Guests can tour Munroe's home or explore the lush land outside. The park also offers ample amenities for wildlife watching and picnicking.

Designed especially keeping children's interests in mind, the Miami Children's Museum assists in channeling effective learning through fun activities. Here, children can usually be found immersed in workshops, interactive exhibits, lecture series, plays, and films. Kids can also join classes and clubs and actively participate in enthralling activities. This place addresses vital issues, such as education, childcare and safety, family health care, and parenting, in an easily graspable and magical way. Visiting the Miami Children's Museum is an educative experience for kids and adults.