Spend a day, or just a couple hours, exploring educational exhibits, looking at injured wildlife at a rehabilitation center, and even attending astronomy shows. The Science Museum has been a Miami classic for generations, inspiring an interest in science for the young, while providing entertaining shows and events for adults. With exhibits ranging from massive, ancient Megalodon (shark) skeletons you can walk in, to discussion of heart health, hurricanes, forests, and green science, there is something for every member of the family to enjoy here. The highlight of the museum, however, is the planetarium. It holds both educational and laser shows frequently, and was home to the famous Jack Horkheimer’s weekly astronomy TV show, Star Gazer. Kids love the giant bear, reptiles, insects and magic shows. You can also pet sting rays.

Four of the immensely popular laser shows play on the First Friday of every month, with classic rock music (like Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here, the Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, Jimi Hendrix, Bob Marley and more) accompanied by dancing lights. Other special Fabulous First Friday events include free star shows and free telescopic observing. In addition, the museum hosts free days the first weekend of every month, as well as other special events, like summer camps, hurricane safety events, and even Spanish language workshops. The Miami Science Museum is open every day from 10am-6pm, and the Weintraub Observatory is open on First Fridays from 8:30-10:00pm. Standard ticket prices are $14.95 for adults and $11.95 for seniors, students and children aged 3-12. Ticket price includes admission to all exhibits, planetarium shows, and the wildlife center. Locals get a $2 discount.