Zoo Miami, the only tropical zoo in the U.S., is about 20 miles southwest of downtown Miami but worth the drive. Begun in 1948 on Key Biscayne with six animals purchased from a down-on-its-luck circus, the zoo now has over 2,000 animals and over 100 exhibitions spread over 300 acres on a former naval air station. The Children's Zoo has a wildlife-themed carousel and camel rides. Admission is $17.95 for anyone 13 or older and $13.95 for children 3-13. Camel rides, the tram and the air-conditioned monorail are extra.