Explore

History of Diving Destination Keys Spring 26

Tennessee Williams Destination Keys Spring

Explore

If you’re ready to discover some cool things to do in Florida, you’ve come to the right place. The Florida Keys & Key West are one of the best destinations in the world to experience sunset sails, fishing, kayaking, snorkeling, deep water diving and back country adventures. The Keys are also a favorite Florida destination for unique attractions, historical sights, museums and theatrical productions that will captivate you from morning to night.

UPPER KEYS

Florida Keys History & Discovery Center
Islander Resort
MM82 Oceanside
Islamorada, Fl 33036
305-922-2237
keysdiscovery.com
Open W – Su 10am – 5pm
Where the “Old Keys” Come To Life
This engaging educational attraction encapsulates what living in the “Old Keys.” was really like through a series of fascinating exhibits that include the infamous Labor Day Hurricane of 1935, Henry Flagler’s Railroad, the Overseas Highway, legendary anglers and fishing guides and lots more. The Center also hosts a special Wednesday Night Lecture Series that starts at 6 pm on Nov 14, Nov 28 and Dec 12. Reservations strongly recommended.

History of Diving Museum
82990 Overseas Hwy (MM 83 Bayside)
Islamorada, Fl 33060
305-664-9737
divingmuseum.org
Daily 10am – 5pm
The Quest to Explore Under the Sea
Over a span of forty years, Drs Joe and Sally Bauer acquired one of the world’s largest collections of diving helmets, hand-operated air pumps, armored suits, lights and other accessory gear, plus memorabilia, prints, photographs, books, film and video. Their passion took them to virtually every corner of the world and their Museum’s collection now represents the contributions of more than 30 countries to diving history. The Museum also offers several special presentations and events throughout the year. These programs are often coordinated with a local dive shop for an optional dive or snorkel on a local reef or wreck. Check their website for upcoming events, programs, and pricing.

Hurricane Monument
MM 82, On The Median
Islamorada, FL 33036
305-664-4503
Open 24/7
National Historic Site
Created in 1937, this national historic site memorializes the hundreds of World War I veterans and civilians who lost their lives in the Florida Keys’ worst natural disaster – the infamous Labor Day Hurricane of 1935. As part of the National Register of Historic Places, the monument marks a crypt which contains the skeletal bones and cremated remains of more than 400 victims.

Indian Key Historic State Park
Offshore Island, MM 78.5 Oceanside
Islamorada, FL 33036
305-664-2540
floridastateparks.org
Open Daily 8 am – Sunset
Historic Indian Site
This tiny island once housed the largest population between St. Augustine and Key West and was also home to one of the Keys’ most lucrative ship wrecking empires. In 1840, Indian warriors burned all the structures andkilled most of the residents. Accessible only by boat, it’s a fantastic spot to swim, kayak and hike. Boat shuttle and kayak rentals available from Robbie’s Marina at MM 77.5, Gulfside.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef Park
MM 102.6, Oceanside
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-6300
pennekamppark.com
Open Daily 8 am – Sunset
America’s First Underwater Park
Approximately 21 miles long and four miles wide, this national treasure is famous for its spectacular coral gardens, 600+ species of exotic fish, turtle and old sailing wrecks. Plenty of activities throughout the park so there’s lots to do and see. There are also two beaches, campsites, picnic areas, a Visitors Center, Gift Shop, Dive Shop and Concession Stand.

Key Largo Princess
99701 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, Fl 33037
305-451-4655
keylargoprincess.com
Cruising Daily at 10am, 1pm & 4pm
Closed Tu
The Keys Favorite Glass Bottom Boat Cruise
Hop aboard this 75-foot luxury, coast guard certified, glass bottom boat for an eye-popping two-hour tour around the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park – the only undersea park in the United States. Not only will you be able to get an up close and personal view of the beautiful underwater world of the Key Largo National Marine Sanctuary, you’ll also be able to peer into the depths of Key Largo’s spectacular Molasses reef. Best of all, you can view it all from the comfortable air-conditioned cabin or outside on the spacious sun deck. With room for 140 passengers, you’ll have plenty of elbow room. FYI: Get a 20% discount when you book online and enter Promo Code “BIG20”! at “BOOK NOW.”

Lignumvitae Key Botanical Park
Offshore island, MM 78.5, Gulfside
Islamorada, FL 33036
305-664-2540
Open Th – M 8am – 5:30pm; Tours F-Su
With its thriving virgin tropical hardwood hammock, this nature preserve has been called “the last place that truly represents the Florida Keys.” In 1919, a wealthy Miami chemist bought the tiny island and built a caretaker’s home which is now a Visitor Center for the island forest. Ranger-guided tours. Accessible only by boat. Boat shuttle and kayak rentals available from Robbie’s Marina at MM 77.5, Gulfside, Islamorada

MIDDLE & LOWER KEYS AREA

Bahia Honda State Park
MM 37, Oceanside
Big Pine Key, FL 33043
305-872-2353
bahiahondapark.com
Open Daily8am – Sunset
One Of The Nation’s Top Beaches
Often cited as one of the nation’s “Top 10 Beaches,” this glorious palm studded beach, with its beautiful crystalline water, offers superb swimming and snorkeling close to shore. In addition to the beach, the Park’s 524 acres of subtropical flora and fauna, nature trails, cabins, campsites and boat ramps make it a nature lover’s dream. Snorkeling and windsurfing rentals available. Admission fee.

Boondocks Mini Golf
27205 Overseas Hwy
Ramrod Key, Fl 33042
Daily 10am – 10pm 305 – 872-4094;
boondocksus.com
The Keys Only Tropical Mini-Golf Course Wandering through the Boondocks 18-hole mini golf course is like traversing through a lush garden…with a putter in your hand. This kid-friendly course is a perfect family adventure with a fun Caveman theme, two giant waterfalls, four fountains, and a full bar. Fore!

Dolphin Research Center
MM 59, Gulfside
Grassy Key/Marathon, FL 33050
305-289-1121
dolphins.org
Open Daily 9am – 4:30pm
One Of The Keys Oldest Dolphin Facilities
Founded in 1984 as a non profit marine mammal education and research facility, the DRC is one of the oldest dolphin facilities in the Keys. There are several sensational opportunities here for up close introductions with many exciting interactive programs available daily, as well as educational narrated sessions. Advance reservations are usually required for dolphin swims.

Dolphin Research Center The Dolphins’ Tale

Marathon: Flashback to the mid 1950s when a Grassy Key fisherman named Milton Santini begins collecting bottlenose dolphins to sell to aquariums and attractions. Two years into it, Milton catches a dolphin who he names Mitzi but before he can transport her to one of his customer’s facilities, a back injury sidelines him. For the next several weeks, Milton hangs out recovering by the dolphin pool and soon he and Mitzi begin to bond.

And then one day Milton accidentally drops a small exercise ball into the pool. Mitzi immediately tosses the ball back to him. Milton can’t believe his eyes! He throws the ball far down the pool. Again, Mitzi, retrieves the ball and tosses it back to him. Intrigued, Milton begins training Mitzi using fish as a reward. When he tosses the fish too far behind her, Mitzi swims backwards on her tail to retrieve her reward. Thus begins the “Backward Tail Walk” and a star is born.

In 1958 Milton opens “Santini’s Porpoise School” where visitors can actually swim with the dolphins. Four years later Hollywood comes calling and Santini’s beloved Mitzi,along with five other of his dolphins, land starring roles in the pilot movie “Flipper.” Filmed on location at Santini’s Porpoise School, the movie puts sleepy Grassy Key on the map.

Santini’s Porpoise School continues until Mitzi’s death in 1972. Not long after, a heartbroken Santini sells his attraction. Eventually Jayne Shannon-Rodriguez and Mandy Rodriguez acquire the property and in 1984, open the not-for-profit Dolphin Research Center.

Today, the DRC is dedicated to dolphin research, education, conservation and manatee rescue. Currently, the DRC’s 90,000 square feet of pristine seawater lagoons are home to over two dozen dolphins, some of whom are direct descendants of Mitzi’s co-stars, as well as four California sea lions. In addition to the narrated shows, you can also register for all kinds of interactive programs that include Ultimate Trainer for a Day,

Dolphin Splash, Meet the Dolphin, Paint with a Dolphin and the popular Dolphin Encounter where you can actually experience the thrill of a dorsal pull.

If you want to take home an unforgettable memory while you’re here in the Keys, make sure you visit the incredibly special not-for-profit Dolphin Research Center. FYI: Make sure you visit the DRC’s courtyard where you’ll find a touching dolphin memorial that pays tribute to Mitzi Find it at 58901 Oversees Highway (MM 59 Gulfside) on Grassy Key in Marathon. Open daily from 9am — 4:30pm (except for certain holidays). Info and reservations: 305-289-002; dolphins.org.

Historic Pigeon Key
Offshore Island
Marathon, FL 33050
305-743-5999
pigeonkey.net
Open Daily 10am – 4pm
Step Back In Time
This tiny coral island was the original work camp for workers who built the Key West extension of the Flagler Railway and once housed a thriving village of more than 400 people until the railroad’s demise in 1935. Today you can tour the island’s historic buildings, picnic on the lawn or snorkel in the shallow bay. Ferry departs from Knight’s Key, MM 47, Oceanside on the north side of the 7 Mile Bridge at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Porky’s Bayside Mini Golf
Marathon, Fl 33050
1410 Overseas Hwy Marathon, Fl 33050
305-731-7592
porkysbaysidebbq.com
Daily 10 am – 10 pm (weather permitting)
Eighteen Holes of Fun for the Whole Family
The Keys’ newest and largest mini golf attraction is a full-size 18-hole course that challenges the best of the best. A fun tropical theme, lush landscaping, and an amazing local coral rock waterfall make it one of the Keys’ “Must See” destinations. Top it all off with a variety of snacks, slushies, frozen daiquiris, or cold beers, and you’ve got yourself a great day — not at the beach! Special event packages and tournaments, too!

Turtle Hospital
MM 48.5, Gulfside
Marathon, FL 33050
305-743-2552
turtlehospital.org
Open Daily 10am – 4pm
The World’s Only Certified Sea Turtle Hospital
The only state-certified veterinary hospital in the world for sea turtles, this unique non profit organization is also the only facility that rehabilitates injured sea turtles (up to 70 per year) and releases them back into the wild. You can engage in educational discussions, get a behind-the scenes look at the hospital and enjoy a fascinating guided tour through the turtle rehab area. Reservations required.

KEY WEST

Classic Harbor Line
Departs Schooner Wharf
292 William Street
Key West, FL 33040
305-293-7245
sail-keywest.com
Call For Sailing Schedule
“Best Romantic Schooner Sail”
This elegant, 105’ eco-friendly schooner with her cutting edge construction, fine teak decks and 3600 square feet of billowing white sails, sets a daily course for a Classic Day Sail, romantic Champagne Sunset Sail and brilliant Full Moon Sail. It also sets a stunning stage for Nautical Destination Weddings and special celebrations for up to 76 people. FYI: Climb aboard this beauty for Schooner Wharf Bar’s monthly Wrecker’s Race, a fast-paced and exciting nine mile race offshore to the famed Sandy Key Lighthouse and back. Such a blast!

East Martello Museum & Gallery
3301 South Roosevelt Blvd
Key West, FL 33040
305-296-3913
kwah.com
Open Daily 9:30am – 5pm
Home Of Robert The Haunted Doll
Built in 1862 by the U.S. Army to protect Key West’s Ft. Zachary Taylor from Confederate attack, this historic military fort is filled with unique artifacts and memorabilia. You can tour the grounds and see displays of Florida Keys’ history, meet Robert, the haunted doll, and view junkyard sculptures by Stanley Papio and the painted wooden carvings of acclaimed artist, Mario Sanchez.

Meet Robert –The Most Haunted Doll In The World

It’s the late 1800s in Key West when the Otto family moves into their elegant new Victorian on the corner of Simonton and Eaton Streets (now known as the “Artist House”). One of their servants (later fired for her “Black Magic”) gives their youngest 4 year old son, Robert Gene, a 3’ life-like doll that looks remarkably like him. Robert names his new best friend after himself and from then on simply goes by the name Gene. Robert and Gene become constant companions. Dressed in Gene’s own clothes, Robert The Doll, has a seat at the dinner table and sleeps with Gene every night.

And then things start to get strange. Robert appears to come to life. Household objects fly across the room. Gene’s toys are mutilated to the sound of giggles. Whenever Gene is reprimanded for the misdeeds, he always says: “Robert did it.” As the mischief grows, so does the servants’ departures. Finally, Gene’s parents put Robert in the attic where he resides for many years.

Gene grows up, moves away and becomes a celebrated painter. He meets pianist Annette Parker in Paris and the two move to New York. After the death of his father, he and Anne return to Key West and take up residence in his childhood home. Much to Anne’s dismay, Gene rescues Robert from the attic and takes the doll everywhere they go. Robert spends his days propped against a window in the upstairs turret room where Gene likes to paint. School children passing by claim to see Robert moving from one side of the window to the other. Visitors often hear mysterious giggling throughout the house and report changes in Robert’s facial expression when they converse.

For the next forty years, Gene, Anne and Robert share the beautiful colonial Queen Ann home. After Gene’s death in 1974, Anne, who despises the doll, relegates Robert to the attic where he stays imprisoned until her own death two years later. The house remains empty for a time, yet passerby claim to hear evil laughter coming from the old mansion. Some who enter are supposedly attacked by the doll and even locked up in the attic. As the story goes, when new owners eventually move in they are horrified to find Robert standing at the foot of their bed giggling with a knife in his hand. They flee for their lives.

Today, the Artist House is a highly acclaimed guest house and one of the most photographed and illustrated homes on the island. You can find Robert perched in a glass case at the East Martello Museum on South Roosevelt Blvd., clutching his stuffed teddy bear and menacing all who visit. On Thursday, October 26, Robert the Doll travels to the Keys History and Discovery Museum at MM 82 in Islamorada as part of a fascinating lecture about all of his hauntings. It’s one night you don’t want to miss! Info 305-922-2237; keysdiscovery.com.

Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum
907 Whitehead Street
Key West, FL 33040
305-294-1136
hemingwayhome.com
Open Daily 9am -5pm
Retrace The Footsteps Of Hemingway
A registered Historic Landmark and one of Key West’s most historic and unique legacies where the late Nobel Prize winner, Ernest Hemingway was motivated to write some of his best works including “To Have and Have Not,” a novel about Key West during the Great Depression. Take a leisurely stroll through his studio, home and gardens and meet some furry descendants of the Hemingway’s legendary six-toed cat.

Fort Zachary Taylor
End Of Southard Street Off Whitehead
Key West, FL 33040
305-295-0037
fortzacharytaylor.com
Open Daily 8am – Sundown;
Tours of The Fort Daily @ Noon
Home Of Key West’s Famous Civil War Fort
Designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1973, this popular 87-acre state park is anchored by a famous Civil War fort which plays host to several special events throughout the year. The beach here is shaded by several acres of Australian pine trees so it’s always a bit cooler than the rest of the island. Good deep water swimming, chair rentals, grills, restrooms and a concession stand.

Key West Custom House
281 Front Street
Key West, FL 33040
305-295-6616
kwahs.org
Open Daily 9:30am – 4:30pm
National Landmark & Museum
Originally home to the island’s customs office, postal service and district courts, this architectural marvel was built to keep pace with the increasing population and wealth generated by Key West’s lucrative trade routes and maritime industries. Today, this beautifully restored national landmark is home to an award-winning museum and the official headquarters of the Key West Art & Historical Society.

Key West Express
100 Grinnell Street
Key West, FL 33040
305-239-5733; keywestexpress.net
Hours Vary
Getting There Is Half The Fun!
Why fly or drive down to Key West when you can glide through the glistening Gulf waters to America’s favorite island paradise? More affordable than flying and faster than driving, these jet powered catamarans deliver you to the Southernmost Point of the United States so you can chill out and enjoy the ride. Boats depart year-round from Fort Meyers and seasonally from Marco Island and only take about 3.5 hours to Key West.

Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters
938 Whitehead Street
Key West, FL 33040
305-294-0012
kwahs.org
Open Daily 9:30am – 4:30pm
A Tribute To Key West’s Maritime Heritage
Originally “manned” by a woman keeper when it opened in 1848, the Key West Lighthouse is now one of the island’s most iconic attractions where you can walk up 88 steps to the top of the light for a birds-eye view of Key West and explore the belongings, photographs and words of the lighthouse keepers who bravely kept the light burning through threats of war and weather.

Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden
5210 College Road
Stock Island/Key West, FL 33040
305-296-1504
keywestbotanicalgarden.org
Open Daily 10am – 4pm
Not To Be Missed
The only frost-free botanical garden in the continental U.S. is home to many endangered flora and fauna and includes 200 species of tropical trees and plants, over 100 species of butterflies and rare birds and two of the Keys last remaining fresh water ponds. Four self-guided tours take you through a lush canopy of tropical palms and trees in a meandering 7-acre setting. Visitors Center and free parking.

Mallory Square Sunset Celebration
Historic Waterfront
Key West, FL 33040
305-294-2787
Nightly
World-Famous Happening
Each evening, about two hours before sunset, flocks of people gather at Key West’s Mallory Square to watch the sun slowly sink into the Gulf of Mexico and to revel in the colorful street performers, local artists, psychics and food vendors who have made Key West’s Sunset Celebration a world-famous, multicultural happening. If you’re really lucky you may even witness the rare “Green Flash”.

Mel Fisher Maritime Museum
200 Greene Street
Key West, FL 33040
305-294-2633
melfisher.org
Open M – Su 8:30am – 5pm; Sa & Su 9:30 am – 5 pm
A Bounty Of Shipwreck Treasures
The legendary Mel Fisher and his team of treasure hunters come to life at this fascinating maritime museum that displays a bounty of precious loot salvaged from the Spanish Galleon, Atocha, which sunk off of Key West over 400 years ago. Treasure coins, gold, emeralds, swords and more are all on display here along with special historical exhibits that explore maritime history.

Mel Fisher Treasures
200 Greene Street
613 Duval Street
Key West, FL 33040
305-296-6533
melfisher.com
Open Daily 8:30 am- 5:30 pm
The Source for Authentic Shipwreck Treasure
Here is where you can find genuine, one-of-a-kind shipwreck jewelry and artifacts from the $500 million dollar treasure cache of the 1622 shipwreck “Nuestra Senora de Atocha” which was discovered off of Key West in 1985 by the world’s most famous treasure hunter, Mel Fisher. The shop also carries a wide selection of authentic treasure coins from other wrecks as well as re-creation jewelry, memorabilia, apparel and literature.

Oldest House Museum
322 Duval St
Key West, FL 33040
305-294-9501
oldesthousemuseum.com
Open 10am – 4pm; Closed Weds & Sun
Built in 1829, Key West’s oldest house was home to the wrecker Captain Francis B. Watlington, his wife Emeline, and their nine daughters. The former estate includes three buildings: the main house, the kitchen house, and the exhibit pavilion. The property showcases a treasure trove of family portraits, original furnishings, many maritime artifacts and a gift shop, as well as works by Key West’s famous Cuban American Folk Artist, Mario Sanchez. In the rear of the house is the spacious, peaceful “Lily’s Garden,” where you can see the only surviving Cook House in South Florida.

Southernmost Point Monument
Corner of Whitehead & South Streets
Key West, FL 33040
305-294-2587
Open 24/7
A True “Kodak Moment”
“The most photographed icon in the Keys” does, indeed, provide a true “Kodak Moment” for virtually everyone who visits here. The larger-than-life buoy commemorates the southernmost spot in the continental U.S and stands next to a plaque memorializing the Cuban refugees who drowned in their attempts to reach America which lies just 90 miles from their native homeland.

Homestead/Florida City Area

Biscayne National Park
9700 SW 328th St
Sir Lancelot Jones Way
Homestead, Fl 33033
305-230-1144
nps.gov/bisc Park Grounds:
Daily 7 am – 5:30 pm
Visitors Center: Daily 9 am – 5 pm
A National Treasure
Regaled as the largest marine sanctuary in the National Park Service, ninety-five percent of the park’s 173,000 acres are actually underwater. You’ll see lots of abundant wildlife here, including more than 600 species of native fish and sea life, neotropical water birds, and over 30 threatened or endangered animal species. Bordered by thriving mangrove forests, the park also encompasses several islands, as well as the Florida Reef — the world’s third-largest coral reef system and the only living coral barrier reef in the US. If you like to dive or snorkel, the park’s Maritime Heritage Trail provides a fascinating underwater exploration of the reef. Divers can also journey deeper to visit six deep ship wrecks spanning nearly a century. There are plenty of adventures for all ages, including both land and sea guided tours.

Everglades Alligator Farm
40351 SW 192nd Ave
Homestead, FL 33034
305-247-2628
everglades.com
Daily 9 am – 5:30 pm
South Florida’s Oldest & Largest Alligator Farm
Home to more than 2,000 alligators and crocodiles, as well as an array of caimans and other exotic wildlife, this family-owned, no-kill Alligator Farm is renowned for its jaw-dropping Alligator shows and riveting Airboat Rides through the Everglades with 360 spins. Two “up close and personal” shows take place every two hours. During the Alligator Show, experts wrestle reptiles using Native American tactics while sharing fascinating facts about the alligators, crocodiles, and caimans. The Alligator Feeding Show takes place near the park’s Breeding Pond, where you can watch over 500 gators crawl over and bite one another in a frenzied food fight, unlike anything you have ever seen!

Everglades National Park
40001 State Rd 9336
Florida City, FL 33034
306-242-7700
nps.gov/ever
Open 24/7
The Largest Subtropical Wilderness in the US
There are just so many terrific ways to explore and experience this national treasure! The park’s diverse wildlife and pristine coastal ecosystems are simply awe-inspiring and should not be missed when you’re in the area. Stroll through a canopy of nature on the Boardwalk; take a leisurely boat tour in Florida Bay to see manatees and tropical birds; hop on a flying Airboat and enjoy a gator wildlife show or access remote areas with a guided boat, kayak, and walking Eco Tour. It’s one trip that you will never forget!

Fruit & Spice Park
24801 SW 187th Ave
Homestead, FL 33031
305-247-5727
miamidade.gov/fruitandspicepark
Open Daily 10 am – 5 pm
Finders Keepers!
Home to fabulous gardens, fun festivals, and tastefully exotic experiences, this 37-acre subtropical paradise is loaded with more than 500 varieties of exotic fruits, herbs, spices and nuts. Not only is the park absolutely gorgeous, it’s also a place where you can eat whatever varieties of fruit you find! The rule here is simple: any piece of fruit on the ground is fair game to eat! Come during mango season and you can feast on an all-you-can-eat buffet of fallen mangoes. The $15 admission fee nets you a halved mango with a plastic spoon for scooping. After that, it’s finders- keepers. FYI: Bring your own small knife for easy slicing.

Homestead-Miami Speedway
1 Speedway Blvd Homestead, Fl 33035
866-409-7223;
homesteadmiamispeedway.com
Hours Vary
Home of NASCAR Racing in South Florida
There’s always something going on at this action-packed 600-acre attraction. With an accessible location just north of the Florida Keys, the track has both a 1.5 mile oval course with 18 – 20 degree variable banking in the turns and a challenging 2.21 mile road course. It also boasts a premier go-kart track with a kart shop, rentals and races. In addition to thrilling NASCAR racing action, the Speedway hosts car shows, motorcycle events, concerts and special events throughout the year. You can also enjoy race cars rides, fan drag races and fishing in an18 acres lake stocked with rare Peacock Bass. Tent and RV camping facilitates, too!

Redland Market Village
24420 S Dixie Hwy
Redland, FL 33032
305-257-4335
redlandmarketvillage.com
Indoor Farmers Market: Th — Su 11 am — 6 pm; Outdoor Flea Market: Sa & Su 7 am — 6pm;
Farmers & Flea Market | Food Emporium
Spanning over 27 acres, this family-owned attraction is home to a massive Farmers Market with fresh, local produce, including natural organic fruits and vegetables; a local Fish Market; a Plant Nursery; an indoor/outdoor Flea Market; and over 22 international Food Trucks. There’s also live entertainment, dance performances, and festive celebrations throughout the year.

Robert Is Here Fruit Stand & Farm
19200 SW 344th St
Homestead, FL 33034
305-246-1592
robertishere.com
Open Daily, 9 am – 6 pm
A Mandatory Miami/Florida Keys Stop
This family-owned market has been a popular pitstop for over 60 years and is renowned for having “the best milkshakes in the universe.” Not only is it a fun place to shop for rare and exotic fruits, fresh local produce, homemade hot sauces, jams, and other goodies, it’s also home to a small Animal Farm right behind the store where you can mingle with goats, cows, pigs, and even some emus. There’s also a huge aviary for bird lovers.

Coral Gables Area

Venetian Pool
2701 De Soto Blvd
Coral Gables, FL 33134
305-460-5306
coralgables.com
Seasonal Hours Historic Coral Rock Swimming Pool
This is the only swimming pool in the nation to earn a coveted spot on the National Registry of Historic Places. And with good reason. Chiseled out of a limestone rock quarry in the 1920’s, it is an amazing work of art that emulates a natural rock formation. The 820,000-gallon pool ranges in depth from 4′ to over 8′ and is embellished with lavish Mediterranean-style fountains, whimsical waterfalls and a grotto where natural water-filled caves stretch back into the hillside. It’s truly one-of-a-kind!

SOUTH MIAMI-DADE

Jungle Island
1111 Parrot Jungle Trail
Miami, FL 33132
305-400-7000
jungleisland.com
Open Daily 9:30 am – 5 pm
Unleash Your Inner Explorer
With 18 acres of immersive, real-life jungle experiences, Miami’s iconic eco-adventure park is home to some of the world’s rarest and most exotic animals, as well as lots of exciting exhibits, interactive attractions, and sensational shows. There’s also 1.35 miles of winding, covered trails where you can stroll by streams and waterfalls under a lush canopy of tropical trees. Kids, especially, will be turned on by the Pop-Up Waterslides, Outdoor Wind Tunnel, Zip Lines, Escape Rooms, and Nerf Battle Stadium. General Admission includes several sensational shows, wildlife exhibits, the Jungle Splash Waterpark, Treewalk Village, Everglades Habitat, and Playground.

Zoo Miami
12400 SW 152nd St
Miami, FL 33177
305-251-0400
zoomiami.org
Daily 10 am – 5 pm
One of the Largest Zoos in the US
With almost 750 acres and 4 miles of walkways, Zoo Miami is the only sub-tropical zoo in the continental US and is also home to more than 2,000 animals and 375 different species. The lush, tropical open-air exhibits replicate natural habitats, which are designed to give you an up close and personal experience with some really exotic wildlife. The zoo also houses more than 750 species of trees, palms, and other plants, and over 100 special exhibits showcasing a broad number of species and scientific topics.