Prep for back to school with our Not Your Usual Back-to-School Supplies List: Actually Useful Ideas from a Teacher, and save on school clothes and supplies during Florida's Back to School Sales Tax Holiday from August 1-31, 2025.

Be sure to also visit our Miami Summer Activities Guide to find more family fun ideas, and subscribe to our email list to get stories just like this delivered to your inbox.

End of Summer Things to Do with Kids in South Florida

1. Disney's Tarzan: The Stage Musical

On select dates from July 17 through August 10, 2025, see the beloved Disney story come to life with music, dance, and high-flying jungle adventures in a family-friendly stage performance.

 
Delight in the colorful "residents" at Butterfly World. Photo by Jackie Jones for Mommy Poppins

2. Butterfly World

Walk through lush gardens filled with thousands of colorful butterflies, exotic birds, blooming tropical plants, and even an indoor Bug Museum.

3. Bugging Out at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

Kids can explore the fascinating world of bugs through towering robotic insects and live encounters set in beautiful botanical surroundings. This exhibit is open through September 28, 2025.

4. Indoor Playgrounds

Beat the heat while kids burn energy at South Florida’s air-conditioned indoor play zones, featuring slides, obstacle courses, and climbing fun.

5. Expedition: Dinosaur - Rise of the Mammals at Museum of Discovery and Science

Experience a hands-on science exhibit featuring animatronic dinosaurs and fascinating facts about prehistoric life. The exhibit runs through September 1, 2025.

6. Cheap and Free Movies

Catch family-friendly films at low or no cost—perfect for a budget-friendly treat.

7. Splash into Storytime

On Tuesdays through August 5, 2025, enjoy storytime sessions with a splashy twist at the Aquatic Complex Splash Zone in Palm Beach Gardens, blending reading with water fun.

8. Frost Science Museum

Explore interactive science exhibits, a planetarium, and aquarium experiences at this state-of-the-art Miami museum.

9. Summer at Tinez Farms

Visit Tinez Farms for animal encounters, photo-ops, and summer-themed activities that bring kids closer to nature.

10. Dinos Among Us at Zoo Miami

See life-size animatronic dinosaur displays as you stroll the zoo, blending animal encounters with prehistoric thrills. But hurry, they are going extinct September 14.

11. Water Parks

Cool off at South Florida’s best water parks, with thrilling slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones for all ages.

RELATED: 50 Things to Do with Kids in West Palm Beach 

 
Feel the energy with Grave Digger at Monster Jam. Photo courtesy of Feld Entertainment

12. Monster Jam at Amerant Bank Arena

On August 2-3, 2025, feel the roar of monster trucks at this action-packed live show featuring jumps, stunts, and roaring engines.

13.  Sugar Sand Park

Explore a gigantic playground, carousel, and indoor theater in Boca Raton designed for creative play and discovery.

14.  Search for Shark Teeth

Hunt for fossilized shark teeth along the shoreline at beaches throughout the Sunshine State.

15.  Splash Pads

Let little ones run wild in the refreshing water features of local splash pads, perfect for summer days.

16.  Go Camping

Spend a night under the stars at a South Florida campground. Roast marshmallows, tell stories, and unplug from screens.

17.  Visit a FREE Wildlife Center

See rescued birds, reptiles, and other native wildlife up close while learning about animal rehabilitation and conservation.

18.  Hialeah Back-to-School Bash & National Night Out

On August 5, 2025, celebrate the back-to-school season with FREE school supplies, bounce houses, and community fun.

19.  Take an Airboat Tour

Glide through the Everglades on an airboat ride. Spot gators, birds, and unique wetland habitats.

20.  Go on a Day Trip

Hit the road for a quick family getaway to nearby towns, springs, or coastal spots perfect for a change of scenery.

RELATED: The Best Fort Lauderdale and Miami Hotels for Families

 
Enjoy a final beach visit before school resumes. Photo courtesy of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau

21.  Head to the Beach

Build sandcastles, hunt seashells, and take a dip in the ocean at one of South Florida’s kid-friendly beaches.

22. Free Entrance Days in the National Parks

August 4, 2025 is the anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act. On this day, take advantage of fee-free admission to nearby national parks for a full day of outdoor family exploration.

23.  Public Pools

Swim and play at local public pools. Enjoy splash areas, lap lanes, and water slides.

24.  Lion Country Safari

Drive through a wild animal safari and get close to zebras, giraffes, and rhinos without leaving your car.

 
Great Wolf Lodge photo by Jackie Jones for Mommy Poppins

25.  Great Wolf Lodge - Naples

Visit Florida’s first and only Great Wolf Lodge, an indoor waterpark resort complete with slides, themed rooms, and fun family activities—all under one roof.