Pembroke Pines, located in the heart of Florida, has earned a reputation as a prime location for families seeking a welcoming community with plenty of recreational activities. Known for its excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and abundant parks, this city offers a quality of life that attracts families from all over. In 2024, the population of Pembroke Pines reached approximately 176,000, reflecting its growing appeal. Here, we will explore the top family-friendly places in Pembroke Pines that make it an ideal location for those looking to have fun with their loved ones. If you’re considering moving here, you’ll find plenty to keep everyone entertained and engaged. If you need help with your move, choose some of the best movers in Florida, who can ensure a worry-free relocation to this energetic community.
CB Smith Park
CB Smith Park stands out as one of the top highlights of Pembroke Pines. This expansive park offers a variety of activities that cater to all family members. The park spans 299 acres and features a water park, a large campground, fishing spots, bike paths, and numerous picnic areas. You can spend the day fishing in one of the park’s six lakes, biking along the trails, or enjoying a barbecue at one of the picnic pavilions. The campground provides an opportunity for a family weekend getaway, complete with amenities such as electric hookups and shower facilities. With over 2 million visitors annually, it’s clear why CB Smith Park remains a favorite. The best long distance movers in Pembroke Pines can make your move to this area stress-free.
Fishing and camping
Fishing at CB Smith Park is a popular activity, with several well-stocked lakes offering plenty of opportunities to catch bass, bluegill, and catfish. The park’s fishing areas are well-maintained, providing easy access to the water for both experienced anglers and beginners. Also, the campground at CB Smith Park includes 83 full-hookup sites, perfect for RV camping. Families can enjoy a night under the stars while taking advantage of the park’s modern facilities, including restrooms, showers, and laundry services.
Biking and picnicking
The bike paths at CB Smith Park cover several miles, winding through scenic areas and offering a safe, enjoyable ride for cyclists of all ages. Families can rent bikes or bring their own to explore the park’s extensive trails. Picnicking is another popular activity, with numerous picnic tables and shelters available on a first-come, first-served basis. For larger gatherings, the park offers rental pavilions that can accommodate groups, making it an ideal location for birthday parties or family reunions.
The Paradise Cove Water Park
Within CB Smith Park, Paradise Cove Water Park is especially popular among families with children. The water park features several fun water slides, a lazy river, and a kid-friendly splash pad. Open from March through October, it provides a perfect escape from the Florida heat. Last year, over 500,000 visitors enjoyed its attractions. Whether you’re navigating the 410-foot Crazy Creek or letting the little ones splash around at Parrot’s Point, there’s something for everyone. For families moving to the area, the best movers in Pembroke Pines can help you settle in quickly so you can start enjoying these attractions.
Water slides and lazy river
Paradise Cove has several thrilling water slides, including the 410-foot-long Crazy Creek, which offers twists and turns for an exciting ride. The lazy river provides a more relaxing experience, allowing visitors to float along a gentle current. These attractions cater to a wide range of ages, ensuring that both kids and adults have a blast. The park features multiple splash zones and shaded areas, too, making it an ideal spot for family outings during hot summer days.
Kid-friendly areas
For younger children, Paradise Cove offers Parrot’s Point, a splash pad with interactive water features designed to entertain and cool off even the smallest visitors. The shallow water and playful structures provide a safe environment for kids to explore and enjoy. Also, the park has multiple shaded areas where families can take a break from the sun and enjoy a picnic.
Pembroke Lakes Mall
For families that enjoy shopping and indoor activities, Pembroke Lakes Mall offers a variety of stores, dining options, and a play area for children. This mall, which spans over 1.1 million square feet, includes more than 150 stores ranging from popular retail chains to unique local boutiques. Dining options cater to every taste, from quick bites to sit-down restaurants. The children’s play area provides a safe space for kids to burn off energy while parents shop. Consider hiring best residential movers in Pembroke Pines, to make your move easier.
Shopping and dining
Pembroke Lakes Mall features a diverse selection of stores, including major department stores like Macy’s and JCPenney, as well as specialty shops offering clothing, electronics, and home goods. The mall’s food court includes a wide variety of dining options, from fast food to sit-down restaurants, ensuring that everyone can find something they enjoy. Popular eateries include The Cheesecake Factory, Red Robin, and a variety of quick-service options.
Entertainment for kids
The mall’s indoor play area provides a safe and fun environment for children to play while parents shop. The play area includes soft climbing structures, slides, and interactive elements that keep kids entertained. Also, the mall often hosts family-friendly events and activities, such as holiday celebrations, children’s performances, and craft workshops.
Chapel Trail Nature Preserve
Chapel Trail Nature Preserve is ideal for families who love nature and outdoor activities. The preserve covers 450 acres and features over 1,650 species of plants and animals. The trails are perfect for bird watching, relaxing walks, and teaching kids about the environment. The boardwalk trail stretches for 1,650 feet, offering a scenic route through wetlands teeming with wildlife. The preserve provides educational opportunities with guided tours and informational signs. Among the family-friendly places in Pembroke Pines, this preserve offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle and an excellent chance to connect with nature.
Bird watching and wildlife
Chapel Trail Nature Preserve is home to a diverse array of bird species, making it a prime spot for bird watching. Families can observe herons, egrets, and other native birds in their natural habitat. The preserve also supports various wildlife, including turtles, alligators, and fish, offering a unique educational experience for children.
Educational programs
The preserve offers guided tours led by knowledgeable staff who provide insights into the local ecosystem and its inhabitants. Informational signs along the trails highlight interesting facts about the flora and fauna, making it a great learning opportunity for kids. Schools and community groups frequently visit the preserve for educational field trips. For families moving from Hialeah to Pembroke Pines, Chapel Trail Nature Preserve is an excellent place to start exploring your new community. This preserve not only provides a tranquil escape but also serves as a hub for outdoor learning and family bonding.
Pines Ice Arena
For a fun and chilly day out, Pines Ice Arena offers public skating sessions, figure skating lessons, and hockey leagues for all ages. The arena features two full-sized ice rinks and operates year-round, providing a unique recreational option in Pembroke Pines. Public skating sessions are available daily, and the arena also offers birthday party packages and private rentals. With over 200,000 visitors annually, it’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. If you’re planning to move, best local movers from Pembroke Pines can assist you.
Skating sessions and lessons
Pines Ice Arena hosts public skating sessions every day, providing families with a fun and affordable way to enjoy ice skating. The arena also offers group and private figure skating lessons for beginners and advanced skaters alike. These lessons are taught by experienced instructors who help skaters develop their skills and confidence on the ice.
Hockey leagues and events
The arena supports a variety of hockey leagues for different age groups and skill levels, from youth leagues to adult leagues. Families can participate in or watch exciting hockey games and tournaments. The arena also hosts special events, such as holiday skating parties and themed skate nights, adding to the fun.
Pembroke Pines YMCA Family Center
The Pembroke Pines YMCA Family Center provides a wide range of activities, including swimming, sports leagues, and fitness classes. The facility spans over 100,000 square feet and includes an indoor pool, gymnasium, and various fitness studios. The YMCA offers programs for all ages, from toddlers to seniors, promoting health and wellness within the community. Membership provides access to a variety of classes and activities, ensuring something for everyone. When moving to Pembroke Pines, consider booking packing services FL to make your move as easy as possible.
Swimming and aquatics
The YMCA’s indoor pool offers swimming lessons for all ages, from infants to adults. Families can also participate in open swim sessions and aquatic fitness classes. The pool area includes a shallow section for young children and a deeper section for lap swimming, accommodating swimmers of all levels.
Sports and fitness
The YMCA provides numerous sports leagues and fitness classes, including basketball, soccer, and martial arts. These programs encourage physical activity and teamwork, helping children and adults stay active and healthy. The fitness studios offer classes such as yoga, Pilates, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT), catering to various interests and fitness goals. Visit the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition for more information on the benefits of physical activity
Monster Mini Golf
Monster Mini Golf features an indoor, glow-in-the-dark mini-golf course, arcade games, and a DJ playing music. This venue offers fun and entertainment for the whole family, making it a popular choice for a day out. The unique and energetic atmosphere ensures that everyone, from kids to adults, will have a great time. It’s another highlight among the family-friendly places in Pembroke Pines. With 18 holes of mini-golf, a variety of arcade games, and frequent events, Monster Mini Golf guarantees an exciting outing for the entire family. For your moving needs, consider the storage services FL to keep your items safe and secure.
Highlights of monster Mini Golf
- Glow-in-the-dark mini-golf: 18 unique holes in a vibrant setting
- Arcade games: Fun for all ages with classic and modern games
- Live DJ: Energetic music to enhance the atmosphere
- Family-friendly: Ideal for kids and adults alike
- Frequent events: Regular themed nights and special events
Glow-in-the-Dark Mini Golf
The 18-hole mini-golf course at Monster Mini Golf is entirely indoors and features glow-in-the-dark elements that create a fun and immersive experience. The course is designed with spooky and whimsical themes, providing a unique twist on traditional mini-golf. Each hole presents a different challenge, making it enjoyable for both children and adults.
Arcade games and events
In addition to mini-golf, Monster Mini Golf offers a variety of arcade games that appeal to all ages. From classic games like skeeball to modern video games, there’s something for everyone. The venue frequently hosts events, such as birthday parties, corporate outings, and themed nights, ensuring that every visit is memorable.
Family-friendly places in Pembroke Pines Offer a Lot of Fun!
Pembroke Pines is a wonderful city that offers a variety of family-friendly activities and places. From parks and nature preserves to shopping malls and entertainment venues, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. If you’re considering a move, these attractions make Pembroke Pines an excellent choice for families. By exploring these family-friendly places in Pembroke Pines, you’ll quickly see why it’s such a desirable place to live.
