The Miami Zoo is home to over 3,000 animals.
I walked past lions, flamingos, and playful monkeys—an experience I’ll never forget.
But here’s the thing… after hours of exploring, the real challenge began.
Where do you stay?
A hotel near Miami Zoo isn’t just convenient—it’s necessary. Nobody wants a long drive, stiff bed, or flat pillows after a full day. And if you’re traveling with kids? Comfort and closeness matter even more.
So, what’s the solution?
I tested different hotels in Miami—some luxury, some budget-friendly. A few delivered comfort, others offered convenience, and the best ones managed both.
The good news?
Most hotels near Zoo Miami are only 2–9 miles away, about 5–18 minutes by car.
That makes recharging easy—before your next big adventure.
Table of Content
5 Closest Hotels Near Miami Zoo
The Southwest Miami and Kendall areas are ideal for the best hotel near Zoo Miami, with options just 5–18 minutes away. Visitors can enjoy budget-friendly rooms as well as elegant luxury hotels near Miami zoo. Staying nearby makes it easy to spend a full day at the zoo without long drives, and the area also offers shopping, dining, and other attractions, making it a convenient base for exploring Miami and nearby attractions, including exciting airboat rides Florida is famous for in the Everglades.
1. WoodSpring Suites Miami Southwest
WoodSpring Suites Miami Southwest is a cozy hotel I stayed at near Zoo Miami, just a short 2-mile drive away and one of the closest hotels near Miami Zoo. I loved that it’s pet-friendly, so I could bring my dog along. The room had a small kitchen, which made it easy to prepare breakfast, and the free Wi-Fi kept me connected. It’s simple, clean, and perfect for a short getaway without breaking the bank.
Star Rating: 3 Star Hotel
Hotel Rating: 3.5 stars out of 5
Location: 16055 SW 117th Ave., Miami, FL 33177, United States
Distance from Zoo Miami: 2.4 miles / approx. 5 minutes by car
Price Range: Starts From 69 USD / NIGHT
Check-In/Check-Out: 3:00 PM – 2:00 AM / 11:00 AM
Amenities I Really Liked:
- Free Wi-Fi (worked perfectly)
- Free self-parking (super convenient)
- Pet-friendly (my dog loved it)
- Kitchen in the room (made meals easy)
- Elevator (nice for luggage)
- Laundry facilities
- Wheelchair accessible paths
- Smoke-free rooms
- Vending machine
Nearby Attractions
- The Gold Coast Railroad Museum – 2.3 mi
- Pine Lake Shopping Center – 2.5 mi
- The Falls Shopping Mall – 4.3 mi
2. Candlewood Suites Miami Exec Airport - Kendall by IHG
Candlewood Suites Miami Exec Airport – Kendall by IHG felt more like a comfortable apartment than a hotel. Each suite came with a full kitchen, which made cooking simple, and I really appreciated the free laundry facilities during my stay. The outdoor pool, fitness center, and gazebo with grills gave me space to relax. Clean, quiet, and flexible, it’s a great choice for longer stays near Zoo Miami.
Star Rating: 3 Star Hotel
Hotel Rating: 3.5 stars out of 5
Location: 16055 SW 117th Ave., Miami, FL 33177, United States
Distance from Zoo Miami: 2.4 miles / approx. 5 minutes by car
Price Range: Starts From 69 USD / NIGHT
Check-In/Check-Out: 3:00 PM – 2:00 AM / 11:00 AM
Amenities I Really Liked:
- Full kitchens in every suite
- Free Wi-Fi & wired internet
- Free self-parking
- Outdoor swimming pool with sun loungers
- Gazebo with barbecue grills
- 24-hour fitness center
- Complimentary guest laundry
- Business center & meeting rooms
- Pet-friendly (dogs & cats allowed)
- 24-hour front desk
Nearby Attractions:
- Everglades National Park – short drive
- Bayfront Park – 20 mi
- Venetian Pool (Coral Gables) – 17 mi
3. Hampton Inn & Suites Miami Kendall
I stayed at the Hampton Inn & Suites Miami Kendall and found it to be a really comfortable place, perfect for a relaxed trip. The rooms were clean and cozy, and I appreciated starting my day with their free hot breakfast. The outdoor pool was a nice spot to unwind in the evening, and the free parking made everything more convenient. The staff was friendly and helpful, which made the stay feel even more welcoming.
Star Rating: 3 Star Hotel
Hotel Rating: 4.4 stars out of 5
Location: 14060 SW 138th Ave., Miami, FL 33186, United States
Distance from Zoo Miami: 3.8 miles / approx. 8 minutes by car
Price Range: Starts From 110 USD / NIGHT
Check-In/Check-Out: 3:00 PM – 11:00 AM
Amenities I Really Liked:
- Free hot buffet breakfast
- Free Wi-Fi (reliable for work & streaming)
- Free self-parking
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Fitness center
- Pet-friendly rooms (up to 75 lbs, $75 fee)
- Connecting rooms available
- Digital Key access
- Non-smoking rooms
Nearby Attractions:
- City Center – 2.1 mi
- London Square Shopping – 2.1 mi
- zoological Wildlife Foundation – 5.1 mi
4. Motel 6 Cutler Bay, FL
I actually heard about Motel 6 Cutler Bay from a friend who stayed there with his family during their Miami trip. He told me it’s not a fancy place, but it was affordable and worked well for them since they just needed a clean, simple room close to Zoo Miami. His kids loved that they could stay for free, and he mentioned the free coffee in the lobby was a nice perk before heading out each morning. For families on a budget, he said it was convenient, with easy parking and quick access to nearby attractions.
Star Rating: 2 Star Hotel
Hotel Rating: 2.7 stars out of 5
Location: 10775 Caribbean Blvd., Cutler Bay, FL 33189, United States
Distance from Zoo Miami: 5.5 miles / approx. 7 minutes by car
Price Range: Starts From 60 USD / NIGHT
Check-In/Check-Out: 3:00 PM – 11:00 AM
Amenities :
- Free Wi-Fi
- Free coffee in the lobby
- Kids stay free (great for families)
- Free local calls
- Elevator access
- Accessible rooms available
- Vending machines on-site
- Coin laundry
- Smoke-free property
Nearby Attractions:
- Coral Castle Museum – 2.0 mi
- Biscayne National Park – 8.2 mi
- The Falls Shopping Mall – 8.5 mi
5. Best Western Plus Kendall Hotel & Suites
I stayed here with my sister and nieces on their summer vacation, and it was a really convenient spot for a short family getaway. The rooms were spacious enough for all of us, and the free deluxe breakfast made mornings stress-free. The kids loved the outdoor pool, and we appreciated having free parking. Its location was great for shopping and exploring nearby attractions, including zoo Miami.
Star Rating: 3 Star Hotel
Hotel Rating: 4.0 stars out of 5
Location: 8560 SW 124th Ave., Miami, FL 33183, United States
Distance from zoo Miami: 6.4 miles / approx. 11 minutes by car
Price Range: Starts From 110 USD / NIGHT
Check-In/Check-Out: 4:00 PM – 11:00 AM
Amenities we Really Liked:
- Free deluxe breakfast
- Free parking
- Spacious rooms for families
- Outdoor pool
- Refrigerator & microwave in the room
- 100% smoke-free property
- Electric car charging station
Nearby Attractions we visited:
- Miami Dade County Fair & Exposition – 5.8 mi
- Everglades National Park – 30 mi
- Gator Park – 17 mi
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park – 46 mi
Tips for Choosing a Hotel Near Zoo Miami
When visiting Zoo Miami, different travelers have different priorities. Here’s what to look for:
- Families with kids – Look for safe, clean rooms with pools, breakfast, and enough space for everyone. Convenient parking and short distances to attractions help.
- Pet owners – Choose hotels that allow pets, provide outdoor space, and have kitchen facilities for added convenience.
- Budget travelers – Affordable rooms with basic amenities, free Wi-Fi, and self-parking, ideally close to attractions to save on transport.
- Business or longer-stay travelers – Reliable Wi-Fi, quiet rooms, workspaces, and amenities like laundry or kitchen facilities are important.
All the hotels listed above meet these general needs in different ways, offering a balance of safety, comfort, and convenience depending on your travel style.
After exploring Miami and staying at several hotels near Zoo Miami, I realized that a good stay is more than just a bed. It is about feeling safe, comfortable, and truly relaxed after a full day of adventures.
Whether it is a simple, budget-friendly room or a fully equipped suite, every place has its own little touches that make your stay easier and more enjoyable.
For travelers planning to explore more of Florida, staying at hotels near SeaWorld Orlando can be a convenient option for visiting Orlando’s theme parks as part of their trip.
Picking the right hotel lets you focus on what really matters by having fun, making memories, and waking up ready to explore Miami all over again. A good hotel really shapes the whole experience.
FAQs
There are shopping centers, restaurants, parks, and a few family-friendly attractions all within a short drive, making it easy to combine your zoo visit with other activities.
It’s about a 20–25 minute drive from Miami International Airport, depending on traffic, so getting there is quick and convenient.
From my experience, budget-friendly hotels near the zoo start around $60–$70 per night, offering basic amenities without breaking the bank.
Early mornings or weekdays are ideal. It’s cooler, less crowded, and you can enjoy the animals without rushing.
Yes, I brought snacks and water—it’s allowed, which makes breaks easier, especially with kids
Yes, there’s ample free parking on-site, so you don’t have to worry about finding a spot or paying extra.
Southwest Miami and Kendall are the most convenient. You’re close to the zoo, plus nearby shopping, dining, and short drives to other attractions.
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