Miami, the vibrant and diverse city in Florida, is known for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and mouth-watering cuisines. But beyond the glitz and glamour of Miami Beach lies a hidden gem that few tourists know about some of Miami’s best parks.
Yes, you read that right. Miami has some of the most stunning parks in the country that are worth exploring. From lush greenery to breathtaking views, these parks offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. So, without further ado, let’s explore the best parks in Miami.
David T. Kennedy Park
Located in the heart of Coconut Grove, David T. Kennedy Park offers stunning views of Biscayne Bay and is a popular spot for outdoor activities. With over 20 acres of green space, this Park has something for everyone. You can enjoy a picnic with friends and family, go for a bike ride, or play a game of basketball. The Park also has a dog-friendly area, perfect for spending quality time with your furry companion.
Matheson Hammock Park
Matheson Hammock Park is one of Miami’s hidden gems. Tucked away in Coral Gables, this Park features a man-made atoll beach, making it the perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing. The park also has walking trails, picnic areas, and a marina to rent kayaks or paddleboards. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike to the nearby historic Coral Castle, built entirely by hand in the early 1900s.
Amelia Earhart Park
Named after the famous aviator, Amelia Earhart Park is a must-visit for nature lovers. This 515-acre Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and horseback riding. It’s also home to an 18-hole disc golf course, making it a popular spot for enthusiasts. And if you want to cool off from the Miami heat, head to the water park within the park for some fun in the sun.
Oleta River State Park
For a more adventurous outdoor experience, head to Oleta River State Park. This 1,000-acre Park is the largest urban Park in Florida and offers a wide range of activities, such as kayaking, mountain biking, and camping. The Park also has a beautiful beach where you can relax and enjoy the stunning views of Biscayne Bay. And if you’re lucky, you may even spot some dolphins or manatees swimming by.
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
Located on the southern tip of Key Biscayne, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is a favorite among locals and tourists. The Park is home to the famous Cape Florida Lighthouse, which offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. You can also enjoy swimming, kayaking, and fishing at the nearby beach. And remember to try some delicious seafood at the Park’s renowned restaurant, Boater’s Grill.
Margaret Pace Park
In Miami’s bustling Edgewater neighborhood, Margaret Pace Park is a peaceful oasis amidst skyscrapers. This waterfront park offers stunning views of Biscayne Bay and has ample green space for picnics and outdoor activities. You can rent jet skis or take a scenic boat tour from the Park’s marina. And if you’re lucky, you may even catch an outdoor movie screening or yoga class in the park.
Museum Park
Located between the Perez Art Museum and the Frost Science Museum, this Park is a must-visit for art and science lovers. With stunning views of Biscayne Bay and its iconic sculpture, “The Freedom Tower,” this Park is a popular photo spot. You can also rent bikes or stroll along the waterfront promenade. And with its many events and concerts, Museum Park is a vibrant hub of activity year-round.
Crandon Park
A visit to Miami would only be complete with spending some time on the beach, and Crandon Park offers one of the best beaches in the city. Located on Key Biscayne, this Park has over 3 miles of white sandy beaches, making it the perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing. The park also has a beautiful nature center to learn about the local flora and fauna.
Bill Sadowski Park
Bill Sadowski Park is an ideal destination for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. This Park is home to the largest concentration of endangered plants in Miami-Dade County, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. You can also hike or bike along the Park’s trails and spot some wildlife. And to cool off from the Miami heat, head to the Park’s popular splash pad.
South Pointe Park
Located in South Beach, South Pointe Park offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and is perfect for a stroll or bike ride. This 17-acre Park has a beautiful waterfront promenade with restaurants and bars, making it ideal for a romantic evening. And if you’re lucky, you may even spot some cruise ships passing by as they leave the port of Miami.
Barnacle Historic State Park
For history buffs, Barnacle Historic State Park is a must-visit. This Park, located in the heart of Coconut Grove, is home to the oldest house in Miami-Dade County and offers guided tours to visitors. You can also stroll through the tropical hammock surrounding the house and enjoy a picnic by the bay. With its beautiful views and serene atmosphere, this Park is a favorite spot for weddings and events.
Biscayne National Park
Biscayne National Park is another true gem in Miami’s park system. This National Park is home to abundant marine life and offers opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and boat tours. You can also visit the iconic Boca Chita Lighthouse and take in the stunning views of the turquoise waters. With its diverse ecosystem, Biscayne National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Located in Key Largo, this Park is a paradise for nature lovers. It is known for its underwater adventures, like snorkeling and scuba diving, where visitors can explore the stunning coral reefs and marine life. The Park also offers kayak and boat tours for those who want a closer look at the diverse ecosystem. But if you’re not keen on getting wet, don’t worry; plenty of hiking trails offer scenic views of the park.
North Shore Open Space Park
If you’re looking for a park with breathtaking ocean views, North Shore Open Space Park is the place to be. This 36-acre Park boasts beautiful sandy beaches, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. It’s an ideal spot for a family day out with well-maintained walking paths and picnic areas. The Park also has beach volleyball courts, so remember to pack a ball and challenge your friends.
Tropical Park
Tropical Park, located just a short drive from downtown Miami, is an urban oasis spread across 275 acres. This Park offers various recreational activities, from tennis courts and golf courses to playgrounds and fitness trails. But the highlight of this park is its equestrian center, where visitors can go horseback riding through the tracks. A farmers’ market is held every Saturday, where you can pick up some fresh produce and homemade goodies.
Brickell Key Park
Located in the heart of Miami’s financial district, Brickell Key Park is a small but charming park offering stunning skyline views. With walking paths, picnic areas, and a playground, it’s a great relaxing spot to soak in the beautiful views. But what sets this Park apart is its location – Brickell Key is connected to the mainland via a pedestrian bridge, making it the perfect place for an evening stroll with your loved ones.
Bayfront Park
Situated in downtown Miami, Bayfront Park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. This 32-acre Park offers spectacular views of Biscayne Bay and a beautiful fountain, perfect for taking photos. The Park also hosts various events throughout the year, from concerts to food festivals. So, check their calendar beforehand and attend one of these exciting events during your visit.
Flamingo Garden Miami
Flamingo Gardens is a unique park that offers a glimpse into the natural and cultural history of South Florida. The gardens are home to over 3,000 species of plants and animals, including alligators, otters, and flamingos. Visitors can take a tram tour through the gardens or stroll along the various walking trails to explore the wildlife. Remember to visit the Wray Botanical Collection, which features some of Florida’s oldest and largest trees.
Maurice A Ferre Park
Formerly known as Bicentennial Park, this waterfront park was renamed in honor of Miami’s first Hispanic mayor. The Park is located on Biscayne Bay and offers stunning views of the bay and Miami Beach. With walking paths, picnic areas, and a dog park, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon with your furry friend. You can also rent kayaks and paddleboards to explore the bay or attend one of the many events held at the park throughout the year.
The Underline
The Underline is not just your average Park; it’s an urban trail that runs beneath Miami’s Metrorail. This 10-mile Park offers a unique experience for both locals and tourists. With bike paths, public art installations, and fitness stations along the way, it’s an excellent spot for an outdoor workout. The Underline also hosts various events like yoga classes and movie nights, making it a must-visit destination in Miami.
Simpson Park Hammock
Simpson Park is a hidden gem in the heart of Miami’s Brickell neighborhood. This 7-acre Park is a protected tropical hardwood hammock and offers a serene escape from the bustling city. Visitors can explore the various walking trails that lead to beautiful views of Biscayne Bay and see some of the native flora and fauna of South Florida.
Everglades National Park
The famous Everglades still need national parks and may need more time to complete a visit to Miami. This massive Park, spread over 1.5 million acres, is home to various ecosystems, including swamps, marshes, and forests. Visitors can take an airboat tour to see some of the unique wildlife, like alligators and manatees, or explore the hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the park. The Everglades is also an excellent spot for birdwatching, with over 350 species of birds found here.
Morningside Park
Located in the historic neighborhood of Morningside, this Park is a favorite among locals. With stunning views of Biscayne Bay and a playground for kids, it’s a popular spot for families. The Park has a public swimming pool, tennis and basketball courts, and picnic areas. For those who enjoy fishing, there’s a fishing pier where you can cast your line and try your luck.
Haulover Park Miami
Haulover Park is known for its beautiful beaches, but it also offers various recreational activities, making it a must-visit destination. With beach volleyball courts, a marina, and a kite flying area, there’s something for everyone here. But the highlight of this park is its nude beach, which attracts many visitors looking to sunbathe without tan lines.
Virginia Key Beach Park
Virginia Key Beach Park is not just your average beach; it’s also an important historical landmark. This was the only beach designated for African Americans during the segregation era, and it’s now a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying water sports. The Park also has nature trails that lead to beautiful views of Biscayne Bay, allowing visitors to learn about the area’s history through educational signs.
Miami is known for its stunning beaches, but these parks offer a unique experience for tourists exploring the city’s green spaces. These parks have everything from breathtaking views of the city skyline to wildlife encounters and outdoor activities. So, add them to your itinerary when planning your trip to Miami and discover the best parks this vibrant city offers.
