Miami With Children

There's far more to do in Miami with children than go to the beach. At the top of any kid's list, Parrot Jungle Island offers free-flying entertainment and lots of hands-on stuff -- you can hand-feed the birds, let parrots perch on your shoulders, and even stroke a tarantula. Across the MacArthur Causeway from Parrot Jungle Island is the Miami Children's Museum, which offers a range of interactive exhibits for curious young ones. In addition to seeing the usual and unusual suspects at the Miami Seaquarium, families can now lswim with dolphins. (But you must be willing to spend a fair amount of money for the privilege.) The landmark Venetian Pool in Coral Gables is as much fun as it is historic. Aptly named, with secret caves and stone bridges, it has probably the most aesthetically pleasing wading pool you'll ever see. At Miami Metrozoo, one of the largest cageless zoos in the country, younger kids can be steered to PAWS (the children's petting zoo). It's a pretty big place though, and shade is at a premium, so little ones might get tired. Not to worry; just hop on the monorail or try the tram tour. An airboat ride at the Everglades Alligator Farm is sure to please young and old alike. You'll zip and spin across the shallow grassy water, and the reptile shows are a big hit with children, too.