24hour layover in Miami with 2 year old- hotel? activities?

Question

Hi I have just over 24 hours layover in Miami with a two year old. We arrive Saturday at 8.30 pm and leave Monday for a flight at 10.30 am. My 2 year old loves trains and i see there is gold cost rail train museum so was thinking of checking it out and i love beaches and wanted a hotel near or on a beach. i want to rest. i dont want to be late for my flight at 10.30am so dont want to be too far from the airport. I also recognise my experience will be unique as i will be walking around with my 2 year old in a buggy/stroller so we need somewhere walking distance- that we can walk around unless taxis are too expensive. Can you recommend family friendly hotel to meet both our needs- 2 nights. By the way my 2 year old hasn't insisted on seeing trains but i wanted to do something 2 year old friendly and enjoyable - maybe the zoo but i am conscious of the weather/heat as we are coming first week in August. I also have to find somewhere to eat that is BOTH diary and gluten intolerant. Thanks in advance for your help peoples.

Answer

With just over 24 hours in Miami and a 2-year-old, you’ll want a relaxing but fun itinerary, ensuring you have time to enjoy some family-friendly activities without being too far from the airport. Here are some hotel and activity suggestions tailored to your needs, keeping in mind that you'll want something close to both the beach and the airport:

1. Hotel Recommendations:

For a short layover, staying near the beach with easy access to restaurants and attractions is key, but you’ll also want to be close to Miami International Airport (MIA) to ensure you don’t risk missing your morning flight. Here are some family-friendly hotels that meet these criteria:

Loews Miami Beach Hotel: This beachfront hotel is perfect for families, offering a kids' club, a family-friendly pool, and easy access to the beach. It’s located on South Beach, which is lively but still relaxing. The hotel is about a 20-25 minute drive from the airport, making it a convenient option for a quick departure. The location is ideal for walking to restaurants and shops, and it’s stroller-friendly.
The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne: This luxury hotel is located on a quieter beach, providing a more peaceful environment for both you and your toddler. It’s about a 20-minute drive from the airport and offers a calm atmosphere with pools and beachfront access. It's a great spot to unwind, and while it’s not as centrally located as South Beach, it’s family-oriented and provides excellent service.
1 Hotel South Beach: Known for its eco-friendly design, this hotel is also family-friendly, offering spacious rooms and a relaxing vibe. It's located right on the beach, and its proximity to South Beach means you can easily walk around the area. It’s about 25 minutes from the airport, so it's a good option if you want beach access and family-friendly amenities.

2. Activities with Your Toddler:

Miami offers several activities that are great for toddlers, even in the heat of August. While the Gold Coast Rail Museum is an option for train lovers, there are other fun activities your 2-year-old may enjoy without the risk of being out in the sun too much:

Miami Children’s Museum: This museum is a perfect choice for toddlers. It’s filled with interactive exhibits designed for young children, and it’s air-conditioned, which will be a relief during the hot August weather. Your little one can enjoy art, music, and educational activities, all while staying cool inside.
Jungle Island: Located on Watson Island, Jungle Island is a small zoo and interactive wildlife park where your toddler can enjoy seeing animals up close. It's an easy, family-friendly outing, and they have shaded areas and indoor exhibits, so you’ll be comfortable in the heat.
South Pointe Park: This park is located at the southern tip of South Beach and is perfect for a stroll with a stroller. It has scenic views, a playground, and plenty of open space for your child to run around. It’s right by the beach, so you can relax and enjoy the ocean breeze without being too far from the hotel.
Miami Seaquarium: If your toddler loves animals, the Miami Seaquarium is another option. While it’s outdoors, much of the venue is shaded, and there are indoor shows, so you can still enjoy the experience without being in the sun too much.

3. Dining Options for Dairy and Gluten Intolerant Diets:

Miami has plenty of restaurants that cater to both dairy and gluten intolerances, so you’ll have options for family-friendly meals. Here are some restaurants that can accommodate your dietary needs:

Pure Verde: Located in South Beach, Pure Verde offers fresh, organic meals and can accommodate both gluten-free and dairy-free dietary needs. The relaxed atmosphere is great for families, and the food is delicious and nutritious.
Green Bar & Kitchen: This restaurant focuses on organic, plant-based meals and offers both gluten-free and dairy-free options. It’s located in the Sunset Harbour area, which is a short drive from South Beach. They offer a casual vibe with healthy, family-friendly meals.
Gluten-Free Bakery & Cafe: If you’re looking for a quick meal or snack, this cafe specializes in gluten-free and dairy-free baked goods. It’s perfect for grabbing a sandwich or snack for your little one while ensuring the food meets your dietary needs.
The Sacred Space Miami: Located in Wynwood, this is another health-focused restaurant offering gluten-free and dairy-free meals. The atmosphere is peaceful, and it’s a great spot for families looking for healthy food options.

4. Suggested Itinerary for 24 Hours:

Here’s a simple itinerary to make the most of your short layover:

Saturday Evening: Arrive around 8:30 PM and check into your hotel (Loews Miami Beach or The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne). Enjoy a light dinner at the hotel or nearby restaurant that accommodates your dietary restrictions, such as Pure Verde or Green Bar & Kitchen.
Sunday Morning: After breakfast, head to the Miami Children’s Museum or South Pointe Park for a relaxing, toddler-friendly morning. Both are close to South Beach and easy to access with a stroller.
Sunday Afternoon: Visit Jungle Island or the Miami Seaquarium for a fun and shaded activity that your 2-year-old will enjoy. Afterward, relax at your hotel or take a walk along the beach if you feel like stretching your legs.
Sunday Evening: Have dinner at one of the gluten-free and dairy-free-friendly restaurants, like The Sacred Space Miami or a local cafe with good options.
Monday Morning: After breakfast, take a leisurely walk along the beach or visit a nearby park before heading back to the hotel and making your way to the airport for your 10:30 AM flight.

With this itinerary, you'll have time to relax, enjoy some fun activities with your toddler, and still be close to the airport when it’s time to leave. Enjoy your layover in Miami!

24hour layover in Miami with 2 year old- hotel? activities?

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