Museum of Science and Space Transit Planetarium
3280 S. Miami Ave
305-854-4247
The exhibits describing coral reefs and the Everglades are especially enlightening. There is also a participatory science arcade, a wildlife center housing more than 150 live animals, and a natural history collection with cases of fossils and butterflies. Kids love the hands on exhibits and mini-shows. The Planetarium has several daily shows, explaining what's new in the heavens.

Fairchild Tropical Garden
10901 Old Cutler Road, Miami.
305-667-1651
Admission Charged.
An extensive botanical garden with a vast collection of rare tropical plants, a rain forest display, and sunken garden.

Monkey Jungle
4805 SW 216 Street, Miami.
Admission Charged.
See a colony of monkeys living in a topical jungle. Shows are held throughout the day. Shows include Wild Monkey Swimming Pool, Ape Encounter, and Hangin' Wild Orangs.

Historical Museum of South Florida
305-375-1492
The excellent exhibits here chronicle the histories of the various groups that have settled in the region. Numerous displays including a chickee hut, depict Native American Life, while the Spanish exploration period comes alive through the 17th-century maps and a mock fort that kids can climb.