Try these four local adventures the next time you visit an independent boutique hotel in south Florida.
Sunshine. Straw hats. White beach. Fruity drinks. Palm trees. Blue water. Is that a description of paradise, or is that a description of Miami?
No one would blame you if you went to south Florida and never left the beach. But the next time you stay local in Miami, remember: There’s a whole spectrum of destinations and experiences beyond the end of your lawn chair.
Feel like one of the old-money vacationers who made Florida a true destination at the Venetian Pool. It’s actually a public pool, but without the white-nose lifeguards and harsh concrete you’re used to.
The Venetian Pool was built in 1923 from a coral rock quarry. The pool is spring-fed and surrounded by natural plants. “Unique” and “breathtaking” aren’t usually words used to describe a municipal swimming pool, but that’s all the more reason to add the Venetian Pool to your itinerary. Plus, it’s less than $10 for an all-day swim.
Miami has far more nature to offer than just the palm trees along the highway. For example, the Fairchild Tropic Botanic Garden is famous around the world for its variety of species showcasing the unique climate of Florida.
For a more self-driven nature experience, Matheson Hammock Park is a 600-acre state park with nature trails, hiking routes and even a lagoon. The park is great for families looking to teach their kids about local plants and animals, amateur naturalists hoping to catch a glimpse of some of the area’s rare birds or casual outdoorsmen hoping for a relaxing hike away from the hustle and bustle of greater Miami.
For a post-hike snack, check out Red Fish Grill at the very edge of the park in the original beach pavilion. The building was built from coral rock quarried right in the park.
Whether you have an extensive collection or are just starting out, Miami has one of the most active and innovative fine arts scenes in the U.S. The Wynwood Arts District is filled with galleries that attract major-name collectors and is home to the Rubell Family Collection, a noted and important collection of contemporary art.
If you’d rather browse than buy, take in the Museum of Contemporary Art or its offshoot, MOCA at Goldman Warehouse, which showcases art from the personal collection of South Beach visionary Tony Goldman. To get a sense of what it means to be truly Miami, pay a visit to the Miami Design District, a business area noted for its shopping, architecture and funky style.
Take advantage of Florida’s lack of hills and mountains with South Beach Bike Tours. The small local business leads tours through Miami Beach’s Art Deco Historic District as well as to famous movie locations, celebrity homes and historic sites. The best part? In addition to providing bikes and helmets, they also bring along a picnic of food and refreshments.
Stay local in sunny Miami!
The next time you’re looking to stay local in Miami, remember that there’s more to see than just the pristine beaches. Between local art, historic design and architecture and stunning natural beauty, Miami is a vacation destination offering more than meets the eye.
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