David T. Kennedy Park

David T. Kennedy Park is a hidden gem in Coconut Grove — a serene, sprawling bayfront park that delivers a wilderness-like experience within Miami city limits. Unlike the more manicured parks of Miami Beach, Kennedy Park has a rugged, natural feel with mangrove edges, a working fishing pier, kayak launch access, and expansive lawns fronting Biscayne Bay.

The park is free and includes free parking on site — both genuine rarities in Miami — making it one of the best value outdoor experiences in the city. Families can spend an entire morning here without spending a dollar: fishing from the pier, watching manatees along the seawall, exploring the mangrove edges, or simply running across the wide-open lawns.

The fishing pier is a highlight for kids interested in fishing — Florida does not require a fishing license for children under 16, and the bay waters hold plenty of species including snook, snapper, and jacks. Early morning visits often reward patient observers with manatee sightings along the park's seawall, where the gentle giants come to rest in the calm shallow water.

The park is also one of Miami's dog-friendly green spaces, making it a natural stop for families traveling with pets. Kayakers and paddleboarders can launch directly from the park's water access points. The adjacent Coconut Grove neighborhood offers a full range of dining options a short drive away, though the park itself has no food vendors — come prepared with a full cooler for an all-day outing.