At a glance
- Free picks: South Pointe Park, Bayfront Park, Biscayne National Park
- Best for nature: Everglades, Oleta River, Fairchild
- Cost: state parks $6 to $8 per car; Everglades $35 per car for 7 days
- Heads-up: go early in summer and carry water
The best parks in Miami range from free bayfront lawns downtown to two national parks on the city's doorstep. For a quick city break, South Pointe Park and Bayfront Park cost nothing and sit close to most hotels; for nature, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, Oleta River State Park and the Everglades are worth the drive.
Here is how the main parks compare on location, cost and what they are best at, so you can pick the ones that fit your days.
What are the best parks in Miami?
Our short list: South Pointe Park for sunsets in South Beach, Bayfront Park for downtown views, Fairchild for tropical plants, Crandon and Bill Baggs for beach parks on Key Biscayne, Oleta River for kayaking, and Everglades and Biscayne national parks for wildlife and open water. Most charge a small parking or entry fee.
| Park | Area | Best for | Cost (checked Oct 2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Pointe Park | South Beach | Sunset walks, kids' splash zone, ships entering the port | Free entry; paid parking |
| Bayfront Park | Downtown | Bay views, concerts, playground, dog park | Free; open 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. |
| Maurice A. Ferré Park | Downtown (next to PAMM) | Lawns by the water, combining with museums | Free; open 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. |
| Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden | Coral Gables | Palms, orchids, gardens | Adults $24.95 to $32.95 (cheaper online and on weekdays) |
| Matheson Hammock Park | Coral Gables | Calm atoll pool beside the bay | Parking $7 weekdays, $10 weekends (plus tax) |
| Crandon Park | Key Biscayne | Family beach day, nature center | Parking $7 Mon to Thu, $10 Fri to Sun (plus tax) |
| Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park | Key Biscayne | Lighthouse, beach, cycling | $8 per vehicle; $2 on foot or bike |
| Oleta River State Park | North Miami, near Haulover | Kayaking, paddling, bike trails | $6 per vehicle; $2 on foot or bike |
| Everglades National Park | Everglades | Alligators, birds, sawgrass trails | $35 per vehicle for 7 days |
| Biscayne National Park | South of Miami, Homestead | Snorkeling, paddling, island trips | No entrance fee; boat needed for islands |
Which Miami parks are free?
South Pointe Park, Bayfront Park and Maurice A. Ferré Park are free to enter, and Biscayne National Park has no entrance fee. The beach parks on Key Biscayne and the county parks charge for parking rather than entry, and the state parks charge a small per-vehicle fee.
Is the Everglades worth visiting from Miami?
Yes, if you want to see alligators and wading birds in the wild. Allow at least half a day. The vehicle pass is $35 and covers everyone in the car for seven days; visitors arriving on foot or by bike pay $20.
The park now lists an extra $100 nonresident fee for visitors aged 16 and over who are not US citizens or residents, unless they hold an annual or America the Beautiful pass. If you would rather not drive, our nature and wildlife tours include guided Everglades trips with hotel pickup.
When is the best time to visit Miami's parks?
November to April is the most comfortable season, with lower humidity and fewer mosquitoes in the Everglades. In summer, go early in the morning, carry water and expect short afternoon thunderstorms. Most state parks open at 8 a.m. and close at sundown, and Fairchild opens 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
For more ideas, see our beach guide or browse tours.
Tours worth booking nearby
60 Minute Small Group Semi Private Everglades River Of Grass Airboat Charter
A small airboat that goes deeper into the Everglades, with a certified captain, headsets, rain gear and drinks. Rated 5.0.
Best of Miami: Everglades, Bay Cruise, & Open-top Bus Tour
Three tours in one ticket: an Everglades airboat trip, a 90-minute Millionaire's Row cruise and a 2-hour open-top bus tour. Can be…
Everglades Airboat Wildlife Refuge with Roundtrip Bus from Miami
A covered airboat ride, a live gator presentation and time to explore, with round-trip transport from set points in Miami.
Questions
What is the most famous park in Miami?
Bayfront Park downtown and South Pointe Park in South Beach are the best known city parks. For nature, Everglades National Park is the big draw.
How much does it cost to enter Everglades National Park?
$35 per private vehicle, valid for seven days. Non-US residents aged 16 and over also pay a $100 nonresident fee unless they hold an annual or America the Beautiful pass.
Is Fairchild Garden worth it?
Yes, for anyone who enjoys plants or photography. Adult tickets run $24.95 to $32.95, with the lowest price for weekday tickets bought online.
Can you visit Biscayne National Park without a boat?
Partly. There is no entrance fee and you can visit the mainland visitor area, but the islands and reefs need a boat, either your own or a concession trip.
Sources we checked
- NPS: Everglades National Park fees
- NPS: Biscayne National Park fees
- Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden: Hours & Admission
- Florida State Parks: Oleta River hours and fees
- Bayfront Park Management Trust
- Miami-Dade Parks: Matheson Hammock
Hours, prices and rules change. Check the official site before you go, and tell us if something here is out of date.
