Look, we love living in the Sunshine State and having easy access to all the theme parks it has to offer. Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Busch Gardens — you name it. But what about the theme parks within our city? If you love a good amusement park as much as we do and don’t want to make the drive far from Miami, let alone South Florida, there’s plenty of fun to be had at the following attractions offering exciting rides, water slides, ziplines and more.
1. Jungle Island
This charming attraction has long been delighting visitors since 1936. Immersing guests into a real-life jungle adventure, you can wander through tropical foliage, learn about extraordinary animals from around the globe and enjoy private VIP animal tours and encounters. Oh yes, you can come face-to-face with cool critters like lemurs, sloths, large capybaras and nearly century-old Aldabra tortoises!
If you’re looking for more of a challenge, make your way over to the ziplines and Tarzan swings at Treetop Trekking, a six-acre aerial adventure park located within Jungle Island. Not only is it a great way to experience Miami from above, you’ll be treated to mesmerizing views of the city and Biscayne Bay.
Where: 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami, FL 33132
2. Dezerland Action Park
This fun adventure park in North Miami is known as South Florida’s largest indoor attraction at 250,000 square feet and it literally has something for everyone! You can expect go karts and a racing track, a trampoline room, arcade games, VR experiences, roller skating, climbing wall, ropes course and more. Plus, the youngest members of the family can learn new skills and techniques for climbing, swinging, agility and strength in the Mini Ninja course.
Where: 14401 NE 19th Ave, North Miami, FL 33181
3. Santa’s Enchanted Forest
Touted as the world’s largest holiday theme park, Santa’s Enchanted Forest is an absolute must when it comes to Miami holidays and features festive fun for the whole family. It’s opened every fall and winter since 1982 and features hundreds of carnival rides, scrumptious food, competitive games and incredible shows featuring acrobats and magicians. In addition to scream-inducing rides and more family-friendly thrills, the park is known for its millions of holiday lights and 90-foot musical Christmas tree.
Where: 7400 NW 87th Ave, Miami, FL 33166
4. Rapids Water Park
In the mood for a water park? Then head to Rapids Water Park in Riviera Beach. Although it is nearly a two-hour drive from Miami, it’s worth the trek for those extra sunny weekends. This 35-acre aquatic oasis has enough attractions to satisfy most thrill seekers or anyone simply looking to relax in a lazy river. It’s also the biggest water park in all of South Florida. So whether you’re looking to go down a towering water slide, splash around kids-friendly areas or race down the newest dueling coaster, this is the place to be.
Where: 6566 N Military Trl, West Palm Beach, FL 33407