Kendall, Miami is a vibrant suburban hub just south of Downtown, known for its lush parks, upscale shopping, and laid-back dining scene. Far from the noise of South Beach, Kendall offers the perfect balance of relaxation and recreation. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or exploring solo, here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Kendall, Miami.
Top Attractions and Landmarks
- 🦒 Zoo Miami – One of the largest and most unique zoos in the United States, spanning 750 acres with more than 2,000 animals in open-air habitats. Visitors can walk or ride through themed sections representing Asia, Africa, and the Amazon, each meticulously designed to mirror natural ecosystems. Stop by the giraffe feeding station for an unforgettable experience, explore the Amazon and Beyond exhibit, or rent a safari cycle to cover more ground under the Miami sun. Families particularly enjoy the splash zones and monorail rides, while photography lovers find endless opportunities across its wildlife exhibits. (📍12400 SW 152nd St | ⏰ Daily 10 AM – 5 PM | 💲$22.95 adults / $18.95 kids)
- 🌊 The Falls – An open-air shopping and entertainment complex that doubles as a tropical escape. Stroll among lush gardens, koi ponds, and cascading waterfalls while exploring more than 100 stores including Macy’s, American Girl, and local boutiques. Visitors love its serene, family-friendly ambiance, ideal for evening walks or weekend outings. Whether you’re shopping, catching a movie, or dining al fresco at one of the many restaurants, The Falls blends natural beauty with urban comfort. It’s also pet-friendly and beautifully lit at night, making it one of Kendall’s most scenic hangout spots. (📍8888 SW 136th St | ⏰ Mon–Sat 10 AM – 9 PM, Sun 12 PM – 7 PM | 💲Free entry)
- 🛍️ Dadeland Mall – A Miami landmark and retail paradise that has served locals and visitors for decades. Home to Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy’s, Apple Store, and 150+ other retailers, it’s a one-stop destination for luxury shopping, dining, and entertainment. Inside, the modern design, natural light, and expansive dining pavilion create a relaxing experience even on busy weekends. Beyond fashion, guests can unwind at restaurants like The Cheesecake Factory, Texas de Brazil, or Earls Kitchen + Bar, all located conveniently within the mall complex. With free parking, valet service, and its own Metrorail station, Dadeland Mall offers both accessibility and an upscale vibe perfect for a full-day visit. (📍7535 N Kendall Dr | ⏰ Mon–Sat 11 AM – 9 PM, Sun 11 AM – 7 PM | 💲Free entry)
Outdoor Adventures and Parks
- 🌳 Kendall Indian Hammocks Park – This 32-acre oasis is one of Kendall’s most beloved natural spaces, home to native hardwood hammocks that shelter local birds and butterflies. Visitors can walk through shaded trails surrounded by tropical greenery or test their skills at the park’s two full 18-hole disc golf courses, which are considered some of the best in South Florida. The skate park features ramps, rails, and bowls suited for both beginners and advanced skaters, while children can enjoy modern playgrounds and open fields for picnics or games. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the outdoor exercise areas, and the park’s numerous pavilions make it a favorite spot for family gatherings and weekend barbecues. (📍11395 SW 79th St | ⏰ Sunrise to Sunset | 💲Free entry)
- 🌺 Pinecrest Gardens – Known as Miami’s Hidden Garden, this 20-acre botanical haven sits on the site of the former Parrot Jungle and features over 1,000 varieties of tropical plants. Meandering paths lead through lush landscapes, koi ponds, and tranquil streams, while families can stop by the petting zoo or the Splash ‘N Play area where children can cool off. Seasonal events such as art fairs, outdoor concerts, and the beloved “Garden Lights Festival” in winter add a cultural touch to its natural beauty. Art installations, butterfly gardens, and shaded sitting areas make this a relaxing escape from the city, ideal for photography, quiet reading, or an afternoon picnic. (📍11000 Red Rd | ⏰ Daily 9 AM – 5 PM | 💲$5 adults / $3 seniors)
- ⛳ Killian Greens Golf Club – A beautifully maintained 18-hole public golf course offering an enjoyable experience for golfers of all levels. The course’s layout features gentle rolling fairways lined with palms, water hazards that challenge even seasoned players, and wide greens ideal for practice or casual play. The atmosphere is laid-back yet professional, making it popular among locals for early morning tee times. Golfers can stop by the on-site pro shop for gear rentals and lessons or relax after a game at the small café overlooking the 9th hole. Affordable fees and friendly staff make Killian Greens one of the best-value golf courses in Miami’s suburban area. (📍9980 SW 104th St | ⏰ Daily 6:30 AM – 7:30 PM | 💲$30–$50 per round)
Museums and Culture
- 🚂 Gold Coast Railroad Museum – Train enthusiasts will love this museum’s expansive collection of over 40 historic railcars, including the iconic Presidential Ferdinand Magellan, which once carried Franklin D. Roosevelt and other U.S. presidents. Visitors can walk through restored locomotives, learn about the golden age of American rail travel, and browse exhibits detailing Florida’s early railroad expansion. The model train room delights kids and adults alike, featuring intricate miniature landscapes that recreate Miami’s early days. On weekends, the museum offers train rides on vintage cabooses—a highlight for families. Photography and history lovers will appreciate the detailed craftsmanship of each restored car and the stories behind them. (📍12450 SW 152nd St | ⏰ Wed–Sun 10 AM – 4 PM | 💲$12 adults / $10 kids)
- ✈️ Wings Over Miami Air Museum – Situated at the Miami Executive Airport, this museum celebrates aviation history and the pilots who made it. Inside, visitors will find beautifully preserved aircraft ranging from WWII fighters to Cold War-era jets and classic biplanes. Unlike most museums, many of these planes are kept in flying condition, and visitors might witness maintenance crews at work or even see a plane take off right outside the hangar. The exhibits include flight memorabilia, pilot uniforms, and artifacts honoring military and civilian aviators. Kids love the interactive elements, like cockpit sit-ins on select open-cockpit days, while aviation buffs can join guided tours that share fascinating insights about the evolution of flight. (📍14710 SW 128th St | ⏰ Wed–Sun 10 AM – 5 PM | 💲$10 adults / $6 kids)
- 🪖 Miami Military Museum & Memorial – A hidden gem dedicated to preserving Florida’s rich military history, from World War II to modern conflicts. The museum is housed in a restored 1940s Naval Air Station building, adding authenticity to the exhibits inside. Visitors can explore rooms filled with uniforms, medals, historical photos, and stories from local veterans who served around the world. Exhibits include a detailed look at the Cuban Missile Crisis, Cold War intelligence operations, and the base’s role in South Florida’s defense. Friendly volunteer veterans often act as guides, providing personal accounts and deeper historical context. The museum also hosts educational programs for schools and remembrance events for national holidays, making it not just a museum but a living tribute to those who served. (📍12460 SW 152nd St | ⏰ Tue–Sat 10 AM – 5 PM | 💲Free)
Best Restaurants in Kendall
- 🍷 Chef Adrianne’s Vineyard Restaurant & Bar – This upscale dining destination is one of Kendall’s culinary crown jewels. Renowned for its 24-hour braised short ribs, Chef Adrianne’s offers a menu inspired by California’s Napa Valley, featuring farm-to-table ingredients and creative plating that elevates each dish. The restaurant’s candlelit ambiance, complemented by warm wood accents and elegant wine displays, makes it ideal for romantic dinners or special celebrations. Guests can enjoy an extensive wine list curated by expert sommeliers and indulge in decadent desserts like the chocolate soufflé or crème brûlée cheesecake. Regulars praise the exceptional service and cozy atmosphere that make every visit memorable. (📍11715 Sherri Ln | ⏰ Mon–Sun 11 AM – 10 PM | 💲$$$)
- 🎨 Café Catula – A hidden gem that seamlessly blends fine dining with art, Café Catula doubles as a contemporary sculpture gallery. Each piece showcased throughout the restaurant is available for purchase, creating a one-of-a-kind cultural dining experience. The menu features a creative fusion of Latin and Mediterranean flavors—think tender filet mignon with chimichurri sauce, seafood risotto, and fresh-made pastas. The dim lighting and soft jazz music add to the sophisticated mood, while the attentive staff ensures every guest feels like family. On weekends, live piano performances further enhance the intimate ambiance, making it a favorite for date nights and anniversaries. (📍7190 SW 87th Ave | ⏰ Mon–Sat 12 PM – 10 PM | 💲$$$)
- 🐟 Pisco y Nazca Ceviche Gastrobar – Bursting with color, energy, and flavor, this Peruvian hotspot delivers modern twists on traditional dishes. Known for its vibrant ceviche bar, diners can choose from zesty combinations like the ceviche clásico with leche de tigre or the more adventurous ceviche mixto. The bar program is equally impressive, offering handcrafted cocktails such as the signature Pisco Sour and exotic infusions with passion fruit or chili. The open-kitchen design adds excitement to the dining experience, and communal tables encourage socializing. Brunch lovers can’t miss the weekend spread featuring empanadas, tostones, and Peruvian-style avocado toast. (📍8405 Mills Dr | ⏰ Daily 11 AM – 12 AM | 💲$$)
- 🍛 Ghee Indian Kitchen – A MICHELIN Bib Gourmand-awarded restaurant that redefines Indian cuisine in Miami. Helmed by Chef Niven Patel, Ghee emphasizes locally sourced ingredients—many from the chef’s own farm—to craft dishes that balance tradition with innovation. The menu evolves with the seasons but often includes favorites like Kerala-style fried chicken, slow-cooked dal, and butter chicken enhanced with fresh herbs and spices. The interior exudes a cozy, rustic charm, with earthy tones and soft lighting that reflect the restaurant’s farm-to-table philosophy. Diners frequently commend the friendly staff and welcoming energy that makes each meal feel like a shared experience among friends. (📍8965 SW 72nd Pl | ⏰ Tue–Sun 12 PM – 9 PM | 💲$$$)
- 🍖 Apocalypse BBQ – A local favorite redefining Miami’s barbecue scene with a signature blend of smoky Southern tradition and tropical flair. Guests line up early for brisket that melts in your mouth, guava-glazed ribs, and pulled pork sandwiches piled high with tangy slaw. The laid-back, counter-service setup keeps things casual while classic rock tunes set a fun tone. The menu rotates specials weekly, including creative items like mac-and-cheese empanadas and smoked chicken tacos. It’s the kind of place where the pitmasters greet you by name, and the smell of slow-cooked meat fills the air from blocks away. Perfect for casual lunches, hearty dinners, or takeout nights with friends. (📍8695 SW 124th Ave | ⏰ Wed–Sun 11 AM – 9 PM | 💲$$)
Nightlife and Entertainment
- 💃 Tu Candela Bar Kendall – A vibrant Latin nightclub that brings the electric energy of downtown Miami straight to the suburbs. Once the sun sets, the venue transforms into a lively hotspot with dazzling lights, live DJs spinning salsa, reggaeton, and tropical house music, and an enthusiastic crowd ready to dance the night away. The bar offers an extensive cocktail menu featuring mojitos, caipirinhas, and signature drinks served in colorful glassware. With themed nights like Ladies’ Night Thursdays and weekend parties that run until sunrise, Tu Candela captures Miami’s festive spirit without the long drive to Brickell. Arrive early to grab a table, and dress to impress—the vibe here is upscale, social, and undeniably fun. (📍8405 Mills Dr | ⏰ Wed–Sun 5 PM – 4 AM | 💲$10–$20 cover)
- 🎶 La Mesa Restaurant & Lounge – More than just a restaurant, La Mesa is a full sensory experience that merges Latin cuisine with Miami nightlife. By day, it’s an elegant dining space serving gourmet dishes and cocktails, but as evening falls, the lights dim and the live music takes over. Guests enjoy salsa and merengue bands followed by top Latin DJs spinning until midnight. The venue’s sleek décor, neon accents, and bottle service setup make it a go-to spot for celebrations and group gatherings. La Mesa’s energetic staff often encourages dancing between tables, creating a spontaneous party vibe. On weekends, expect a crowd of locals and influencers capturing the fun on camera. For a complete experience, reserve a dinner table before the nightlife rush to savor the food and transition smoothly into the dance scene. (📍8525 Mills Dr | ⏰ Wed–Sat 11:30 AM – 12 AM | 💲Free before 10 PM)
- 👾 Arcade Odyssey – A unique hybrid of nostalgia and modern entertainment, Arcade Odyssey is Miami’s go-to gaming lounge for both families and late-night gamers. Inside, rows of glowing arcade machines fill the space—ranging from 80s classics like Pac-Man and Street Fighter II to modern Japanese imports rarely found elsewhere in the U.S. Pinball enthusiasts can enjoy dozens of machines, while e-sports fans gather for weekend tournaments and casual competitions. As the night progresses, the atmosphere shifts into a relaxed adult hangout with craft beers, Japanese sodas, and themed nights like Retro Fridays. The owner frequently updates the game collection, ensuring there’s always something new to play. It’s not just about gaming—it’s a community hub where old-school gamers meet newcomers to relive the golden age of arcades. (📍12045 SW 117th Ave | ⏰ Daily 12 PM – 2 AM | 💲Free entry (pay per game))
Shopping and Local Markets
- 🛒 Dadeland Mall – Miami’s largest indoor shopping hub and one of the city’s most iconic malls. It boasts over 150 stores, ranging from high-end luxury brands like Saks Fifth Avenue and Michael Kors to mainstream favorites such as Zara, Apple, and Sephora. The sleek and modern interior design features wide walkways and bright natural light that make browsing a pleasure. Shoppers can also take advantage of the elegant dining pavilion, offering everything from quick bites to upscale dining experiences at The Cheesecake Factory or Earls Kitchen + Bar. With ample free parking, valet service, and direct access from the Metrorail, Dadeland Mall remains a convenient and stylish shopping destination for both locals and tourists alike. (📍7535 N Kendall Dr | ⏰ Mon–Sat 11 AM – 9 PM, Sun 11 AM – 7 PM)
- 🌴 The Falls – An outdoor shopping paradise that feels more like a tropical resort than a mall. The pathways wind through lush landscaping, koi ponds, and cascading waterfalls that create a serene shopping experience. Visitors can browse a mix of popular national retailers, unique local boutiques, and specialty stores selling everything from fashion to home décor. With more than 100 stores, plus dining options such as P.F. Chang’s, Haagen-Dazs, and fresh juice bars, it’s easy to spend a leisurely afternoon here. The Falls is also pet-friendly and often hosts community events, live music, and seasonal celebrations like the Nights of Lights holiday display, making it a true gathering place for families and friends. (📍8888 SW 136th St | ⏰ Mon–Sat 10 AM – 9 PM, Sun 12 PM – 7 PM)
- 🏞️ The Palms at Town & Country – A scenic open-air shopping and entertainment complex nestled around a peaceful lake. It combines big-box retailers like Nordstrom Rack and Total Wine with boutique shops, fitness studios, and a vibrant dining scene. The waterfront restaurants—such as La Mesa and Pisco y Nazca—offer sunset views perfect for an evening out. Shoppers can also explore the walking trails surrounding the lake or enjoy occasional live performances on the outdoor stage. The relaxed atmosphere and beautiful landscaping make it a popular weekend hangout, whether you’re meeting friends for drinks, shopping for home goods, or enjoying a family dinner by the water. (📍8268 Mills Dr | ⏰ Daily 10 AM – 9 PM)
- 🥭 Kendall Village Farmers Market – One of Miami’s best local markets, held every Sunday, where locals gather to buy fresh produce, artisan foods, and handcrafted goods. The aroma of baked pastries and roasted coffee fills the air as vendors sell everything from tropical fruits and organic vegetables to flowers, honey, and handmade jewelry. Food stalls serve Latin favorites such as empanadas, arepas, and ceviche, making it an ideal brunch spot for visitors. Families can enjoy the relaxed outdoor setup with shaded tents and live acoustic music. The market’s focus on supporting small local farmers and artists gives it an authentic community feel that reflects Kendall’s warm, neighborhood spirit. (📍8651 SW 124th Ave | ⏰ Sundays 10 AM – 3 PM | 💲Free entry)
Family-Friendly Fun
- 🦒 Zoo Miami – A must-visit attraction for families, Zoo Miami offers far more than animal exhibits. Kids can cool off in multiple splash pads, feed giraffes, and even take part in behind-the-scenes animal encounters. The zoo’s monorail makes it easy for families to explore the 750-acre grounds, and interactive experiences like the children’s zoo and wildlife shows keep little ones entertained for hours. Parents appreciate the shaded picnic areas, stroller rentals, and cafes spread throughout the park, while photographers and nature enthusiasts enjoy the lush landscaping and open habitats. Visiting early in the morning ensures cooler weather and active animals. (📍12400 SW 152nd St | ⏰ Daily 10 AM – 5 PM | 💲$22.95 adults / $18.95 kids)
- ⛸️ Kendall Ice Arena – The perfect escape from Miami’s heat, this rink provides an exciting, chilly adventure for all ages. It’s the only ice arena in suburban Miami, offering public skating sessions every day along with lessons in figure skating and hockey for kids and adults. Beginners can use skating aids like the popular “Bobby the Seal” support frames, while experienced skaters enjoy themed skate nights with live DJs and lights. Families can take breaks at the snack bar for hot chocolate or pizza between sessions. Birthday party packages and seasonal events like holiday ice shows add to the fun, making it a top family destination year-round. (📍10355 Hammocks Blvd | ⏰ Daily sessions, weekends feature late-night DJ skates | 💲$14–$17 including rentals)
- 🎮 Arcade Odyssey – A paradise for gamers of all ages, Arcade Odyssey blends nostalgia with cutting-edge entertainment. The arcade houses over 100 machines, from classic favorites like Donkey Kong and Street Fighter II to imported Japanese rhythm games and modern e-sports setups. During the day, families can play together in a bright, family-friendly setting, while evenings turn the arcade into a social hub with tournaments and special theme nights. Drinks and snacks are available, including unique Japanese sodas that kids love. Parents often join in on the fun, reliving their own childhood gaming memories while introducing them to a new generation. (📍12045 SW 117th Ave | ⏰ Daily 12 PM – 2 AM | 💲Free entry; pay per game)
- ⛳ Palmetto Mini Golf – This beautifully landscaped 18-hole mini golf course offers outdoor fun that’s both relaxing and engaging. Colorful obstacles, water features, and gentle hills provide just the right level of challenge for kids and adults alike. Families can play at their own pace while enjoying Miami’s warm weather and lush surroundings. It’s ideal for birthday parties or casual evening outings, especially with its well-lit night play area. After a game, visitors can stop by the nearby clubhouse café for ice cream or snacks, rounding out a simple yet joyful family experience. (📍9300 SW 152nd St | ⏰ Daily 10 AM – 8 PM | 💲$7–$8 per player)
Final Thoughts
Kendall may not be as famous as Miami Beach, but its charm lies in its mix of comfort, nature, and community. From lush gardens and outdoor adventures to world-class dining and entertainment, this suburban gem has something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring for a day or staying for a week, Kendall promises a relaxing, authentic Miami experience away from the crowds.
