Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science

The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is Miami's premier science destination, combining a three-level aquarium, a state-of-the-art planetarium, and multiple floors of interactive science exhibits in a striking modern building on Biscayne Bay.

The aquarium is the museum's signature feature. A 500,000-gallon Gulf Stream tank runs vertically through the building, and visitors experience it from three levels: looking up from below through a massive oculus lens (watching sharks swim overhead is mesmerizing), viewing at eye level through floor-to-ceiling windows, and gazing down from the rooftop into the open-top tank. The design is architecturally innovative and makes kids feel immersed in the marine ecosystem rather than observing it from behind glass.

The Frost Planetarium uses a 67-foot-diameter dome with 16-million-color projection to create immersive visual experiences. Multiple shows run daily, ranging from preschool-appropriate introductions to space to advanced astronomical documentaries. The tilting seats let viewers lie back and feel surrounded by the projection.

The technology is genuinely impressive -- this is not your elementary school planetarium.

The exhibit floors are designed for hands-on learning. MiniMe (ages 0-5) features sensory play, water tables, soft play structures, and building areas specifically designed for early learners. The Power of Science floor covers physics, energy, and weather with interactive stations where kids generate electricity, create storms, and experiment with force and motion.

Feathers to the Stars explores the science of flight from bird biology to aerospace engineering.

The museum's location in Museum Park, directly on Biscayne Bay, adds to the experience. The rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of the bay, port, and downtown Miami skyline. The Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) is next door, making a combined art and science day possible. Bayside Marketplace is a 5-minute walk for additional dining and shopping.

Plan 3-5 hours for a thorough visit. The building is large, and rushing means missing significant portions. Start at the top (aquarium rooftop) and work down to avoid crowds that naturally flow upward. Check the planetarium schedule upon arrival and reserve seats for a show that fits your timing.