Pinecrest Gardens: Family-Friendly Tropical Escape in Miami

If you’re searching for a family-friendly activity in Miami that is NOT the beach, head over to Pinecrest Gardens and explore this tropical wonderland.

Most people think of the beaches, art deco and neon party scenes filled with celebrities in Miami. However, there is also a lush hidden treasure just a few miles away in Pinecrest, and it’s filled with families and children’s laughter.

Planning Your Visit to Pinecrest Gardens:

• Best Time to Visit: early mornings and late afternoons are cooler, quieter and less crowded. Pinecrest Gardens are open daily, so avoid weekend crowds by visiting during the week.
• What to Bring: It’s Florida-bring sunscreen and water. Wear comfortable walking shoes, water shoes if you plan to partake in the Splash pad area with small children. A light towel/blanket for drying off and picnic time is suggested.
• Hours: Open daily, year-round 9am-5pm. Splash Zone and Mini-Zoo 10am-4pm.
• Admission: at the time of writing this post, tickets are $5 for general admission, $3 for seniors (65+), children under 2 are free, and active military and family (with ID) are also free. Check for the most up to date info on their official website: Admission at Pinecrest Gardens

Accessibility at Pinecrest Gardens

Popular with all generations, Pinecrest Gardens is handicap accessible, stroller friendly and easy to navigate with small children. The concrete paths are wide and clear of debris with beautiful ‘fossil’ impressions and stone curbing.

Check before your arrival to see if wheelchairs are available on-site.

There is ample free parking on site.

Family-Friendly Features of Pinecrest Gardens

Pinecrest Gardens is one of the most family-friendly gardens I have ever visited! My girls are all grown, but I would have loved to taken them here when they were little.

• Splash ‘N Play Water Area: Colorful fountains and sprayers keep little ones laughing and cool in the hot Florida sun.
• Petting Zoo and Playground: I was completely surprised by the adorable farm animals at the petting zoo.
• Picnic Spaces: shady areas and open lawns are perfect for resting and enjoying a snack.
• Family Events and Learning Opportunities: If you’re lucky enough to be a local resident, explore the numerous educational and kid-friendly events available at Pinecrest Gardens. From homeschool co-op sessions to summer camps, there’s plenty of hands-on activities for little ones. As a former classroom and homeschool teacher, I am impressed by the resources here.

Tropical Oasis in Miami

I have visited multiple gardens around the world and am always impressed by the rare and historical plants on display. While Pinecrest Gardens is a family-friendly garden featuring playgrounds and farm animals, don’t ignore the incredibly well designed horticultural experience. There are exotic plants and intriguing botanical displays throughout the gardens.

Exotic Features of Pinecrest Gardens

These 14 acres were once the historic Parrot Jungle, but now are an exotic paradise filled with towering palms, ferns, and vibrant flower blossoms.

With a city just outside the gardens, it’s hard to imagine this magical place even exists.

Tucked amongst the shady prehistoric looking gardens, there are plenty of art sculptures that blend creatively with nature.

Tropical Hardwood Hammock and Lower Gardens

Follow the winding paths through indigenous trees and tropical understory plants. Kids and adults alike will marvel at the Strangler Fig tree. Sounds murderous? It kinda is! Beginning as an epiphyte, the fig seed attaches and develops on a host tree until its roots grow long enough to touch the ground. The strangler fig slowly takes over the host tree, ‘strangles’ it and takes over when it dies.

Discover small streams and ponds filled with turtles and koi fish.

The Cypress Tree Slough

If you are fascinated by the historical presence of certain trees and plants like I am, take note of the cypress trees at Pinecrest Gardens. According to their website, once plentiful water from the Everglades disappeared with modern development. Combined with cypress lumber demands, local bald cypress tree swamps declined. Enjoy the cypress trees and ‘knees’ at Pinecrest Gardens. Trees dating back to the Spanish colonial period? Yes, please!

Banyan Tree

Similar to the Strangler Fig, the Banyan tree develops and establishes itself by overtaking its host tree. Stop and take in the magic of this incredible tree at the center of Pinecrest Gardens. It’s massive! Children will delight in the shade and size of this ancient tree.

Dry Gardens

Step outside of the tropical paradise and step into the Dry Gardens to experience a unique botanical wonderland. Be amazed by the cycads, cacti and succulents. Keep your eyes open for little critters!

Kids will love seeing the free roaming peacocks.

Where to Eat:

Bring a Picnic: Enjoy dining at the Pinecrest Gardens in one of their many picnic locations. Keep in mind that there are no lockers available to store food items while touring the garden. I find using a Cooler Backpack is perfect for bringing along bag lunches/drinks.

Bohemian Spark Cafe: This restaurant is on site, although technically separate from Pinecrest Gardens, and features a wide array of tasty items with a culinary flair. Check out their menu here.

Are Dogs Allowed?

• Service dogs with proper paperwork are allowed daily.
• Non-service dogs are allowed Wednesdays and Sundays.

Where to Stay:

I’ve toured several gardens in the Miami area and am very fond of the following accommodations that feature a botanical ambience. What can I say-I love to be surrounded by plants!

My first choice is the Palms Hotel and Spa. I’ve stayed here twice and love the lush landscaping, its proximity to the beach, the amazing spa and delicious food.

I can’t wait to try the Mayfair House Hotel and Garden next time I visit Miami. I explored the lobby and courtyard, and they are filled with greenery-gorgeous!

Pinecrest Gardens is one of the most family-friendly gardens I’ve ever experienced. Bring the family or travel solo like I did! You will not be disappointed.

Looking for more botanical adventures in the Miami area?

Read my post: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden: Exotic and Captivating.

My post, Miami Beach Botanical Garden: Charming and Tropical, is also helpful if you are looking to explore another garden in Miami.