Last Updated on August 17, 2022 by Jassica Mendez
It is no secret that Miami is famous for its sandy beaches and glittering cityscapes. But if you think those are your only two options for outdoor activities, you couldn’t be more wrong. If you slow down and take a closer look, you’ll start to notice things hidden in plain sight. Besides modern, man-made attractions, there are plenty of unique outdoor activities in Miami for you to explore. For starters, you can swap out the city streets for Miami’s parks and nature reserves. And believe it or not, there are plenty of them. The good thing about Florida is that the summer is practically endless. This gives you ample time to explore all the great outdoor locations Miami can offer. So, stay a while and listen as we introduce you to some of the best adventures you can enjoy!
The Everglades offer many great outdoor activities in Miami
If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure in Miami, look no further than the Everglades National Park. It is by far the largest subtropical wetland in the US, and one of the biggest attractions in Florida, spreading over 1.5 million acres. The Everglades are a mix of mangroves, marshes, and flatwoods, which serve as homes for numerous rare and endangered animals. If you’re a fan of observing wildlife, you may be lucky to spot a manatee or the American crocodile. There are many other activities you can enjoy in the park as well. For example, one of the most popular attractions is airboat tours. But if you want something more active, you can cycle through Shark Valley. This trail is 15 miles long and allows you to soak in the sights and sounds of the mighty Everglades.
Make a splash at the Biscayne National Park
The Biscayne Bay in the northern Florida Keys is home to a large national park, perfect for water lovers. The park itself covers an area of 172.000 acres and is full of protected coral reefs, islands, and mangrove forests. While it certainly is a beautiful park, the unique thing is that 95% of the attractions are underwater. With that said, Biscayne National Park is full of opportunities for some water-based outdoor activities in Miami. If you love kayaking, you’ll be happy to know that the park offers many launch points. If you need a safe place to store your kayaks when they’re not in use, Miami storage is the best place for your belongings. The park is also a haven for divers, as it allows them to get a closer look at the beautiful coral reefs and even a few shipwrecks!
Marvel at the exotic plants of the Fairchild Tropical Garden
If you’re a nature lover, you must visit the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. It is located in Coral Gables and offers 83 acres of green goodness. Here, you can find an exclusive collection of rare tropical plants and trees, with a total of 3.400 unique species. The complex consists of separate exhibitions, such as the butterfly garden, tropical flower garden, and aquatic exhibits. Thanks to its size and content, it is perfect for everyone, from adventurers and couples, to families with young children. There are many ways to explore the garden in. You can explore the area on your own, join a guided tour, or hop on a streetcar. The streetcar ride lasts for 45 minutes and is narrated, telling you about the garden’s history and collection. The garden’s maps are available at the entrance if you want to enjoy the lush greenery at your own pace.
Take a break from outdoor activities in Miami at the Venetian Pool
Although the Venetian Pool isn’t an action-packed landmark, visiting it is an adventure of its own. What it is, is a spring water pool located in Coral Gables. Initially, the site was a rock quarry. Then, in 1924, it was converted into a Venetian pool, done in a Mediterranean style. The pool is a part of the tranquil neighborhood plan made by real estate developer George Merrick. The entirety of Coral Gables was designed and built by Mr. Merrick. Our friends at City Movers highly recommend this area and say that many of their clients decided to relocate there. The pool holds up to 3.1 million liters of spring water sourced from an underground aquifer. It features an oasis-like appearance with rock formations, waterfalls, and even a grotto for you to explore.
Enjoy the exciting seclusion of Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
Located on the very tip of Key Biscayne in Miami, the Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park offers many activities to its visitors. It is also the home of a historic lighthouse, the oldest standing building in Miami-Dade County. Built in 1825, it is still open to visitors and offers a beautiful panoramic view of Key Biscayne. Bill Baggs Park is a great place to familiarize yourself with Miami if you’re new in town. You can engage in various activities, such as lounging on the beach or walking and cycling down one of the many nature trails. Lastly, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can even rent out an ATV and explore the park that way. The vehicle seats up to 4 people, making it an ideal way for a group of people to get around and explore.
Satisfy your need for speed with Jet Boat Miami
Are you looking for a way to spice up your Florida experience? Well, you’re in luck. Ripping up and down Miami’s crystal-clear waters in a jet boat is one of the fastest outdoor activities in Miami. One of the longest-standing operators in the field is Jet Boat Miami, which offers classic 30-minute jet boat rides for passengers aged three and above. If you want to have some less speed-fueled fun, they provide many alternatives as well. Pontoon boats, personal watercraft rentals, and banana boat rides are all available to families and groups of friends. Undoubtedly, jet boating truly offers thrill-seeking adventurers an opportunity to experience Miami from a completely different angle.