A Guide to a Fun-Filled Day in the Miami Design District—Kids Included
Modern architecture, inventive art galleries, exceptional cuisine, and endless shopping opportunities characterize the Miami Design District. However, when it comes to finding kid-friendly activities and dining options, the challenges begin to mount. Navigating the numerous options the district offers—especially those that appeal to picky kids—can be tricky, but fortunately, we’ve compiled a list of kid-approved places to keep the little ones happy. From restaurants and art exhibits to shopping, the Miami Design District caters to everyone, so keep reading for the ultimate itinerary for your next family outing.
Where to Eat
Pura Vida Miami
3818 NE 1st Ave, Miami, FL 33137
For feel-good food, a diverse menu, and tasty, satisfying fare, head to Pura Vida Miami. As South Florida’s leading wellness and lifestyle brand, this chain is known for its commitment to using high-quality ingredients and focusing on vibrant plates filled with the freshest fruits, vegetables, and proteins.
These balanced plates will keep kids full and satisfied for a full day of adventure, and parents can smile knowing their children have enjoyed a nutritious meal. The kids’ menu features curated options, such as a turkey and cheese sandwich, a cheese quesadilla, a chicken and rice bowl, and a mini acai bowl, all accompanied by a side of mandarin oranges and a cold-pressed juice.
As for the regular menu, standout items include an all-day breakfast section featuring eggs, bagels, and oats, as well as a selection of artisanal sandwiches and wraps for those craving lunch. A menu worth checking out, both for the kiddos and adults, Pura Vida Miami offers the perfect atmosphere for families to share a meal.
Sadelle’s at Kith
69 NE 41st St, Miami, FL 33137
Sadelle’s by Major Food Group is an iconic destination with locations in New York City, Las Vegas, Dallas, Paris, Riyadh, Boca Raton, Toronto, and, of course, Miami. The Miami location is special because it is situated right within the Kith Store, offering a luxurious dining and shopping experience.
With an Instagrammable menu including golden pancakes, towering triple-decker sandwiches, and indulgent French toast, there is no shortage of options, even for the pickiest of eaters. For an upscale yet kid-friendly breakfast or lunch spot, choose Sadelle’s at Kith for a memorable and delicious meal.
What To Do
Museum Garage
90 NE 41st St, Miami, FL 33137
After fueling up at one of the two eateries, be sure to check out Museum Garage, a seven-story parking structure that houses retail stores and a jungle gym for the kiddos. A tunnel slide and net structures to climb make this destination thrilling for the kids.
The architecture reflects the adventurous and innovative spirit of the Miami Design District, and with five different facades designed by various international architects, it is wonderful to admire. Even the outside of the building is decorated, painted with bold designs, encouraging little minds to imagine.
Designed in 2015 by Craig Robins, the inspiration was drawn from the surrealist parlor game, Exquisite Corpse. The different aspects of the building create a thoughtful composition marked by color, creative spaces, and introduce an element of childhood wonder. Visually engaging is the exact way to describe this structure, and with elements reminiscent of video games and Japanese animation, Museum Garage appeals to kids and adults alike; it is surely a sight worth visiting.
Dozie Kanu: Support System
Located throughout the Miami Design District
To release all the pent-up energy, Support System by Portugal-based artist and designer Dozie Kanu is the perfect blend of an art exhibit and climbing structure. Kanu’s work emphasizes “the importance of curiosity, specifically geared towards children,” and it is as visually stunning as it is exercise-inducing.
Constructed from rebar and automotive equipment, the repurposed nature of the structure is both admirable and inspiring. It’s coated in sparkling paint and engraved with serial numbers from decommissioned guns and bullets provided by The Caliber Foundation. The structure is meant to inspire childhood curiosity and highlight innocence while supporting an important cause— it remembers victims of gun violence.
Where to Shop
State of Kid
Palm Court, 140 NE 39th Street, Suite 239, Miami, FL 33137
To escape the summer heat, State of Kid offers air-conditioned spaces beaming with imaginative and creative classes. From beginner’s ballet, crafting, cooking, and tumbling classes, there is an option for both active kids and art-inclined kids.
Families can also explore a curated retail selection between classes featuring children’s clothing, gifts, and décor. If this doesn’t sound like something that interests you on a daily basis, State of Kid also offers exceptional birthday parties with a variety of themes, top-notch entertainment, and full-service party planning for an effortless day.
Kids Atelier
140 NE 39th St, Suite 207, Miami, FL 33137
To round out the day, Kids Atelier is a top-tier shopping destination for little and not-so-little fashionistas. Premium children’s clothing lines the walls of this boutique, featuring luxury brand labels such as Givenchy, Balmain, Mayoral, and Fendi.
From miniature heels and occasion dresses to casual t-shirts and shorts, Kids Atelier allows fashion-forward parents to coordinate their style with their children. This lavish shopping experience brings designer fashion to the tiniest of trendsetters, like newborns, to fashionistas coming into their own at age sixteen.
With this curated guide, you now have the itinerary for a perfect day filled with food, shopping, and fun. Family outings can become repetitive and dull when you frequent the same destinations, but be sure to try these spots to break your routine.
