Due to COVID-19, this semester’s spring break was cut short to a three-day weekend. Just because we missed out on a few days of freedom from our textbooks and laptops, it doesn’t mean we can’t make the most of our free time that we do have. So, without further ado, here are some fun, Instagram-worthy “day-cations” or day trips in South Florida to make the most of your day off, free Saturday or even an unexpectedly boring afternoon.
All locations require adherence to proper mask-wearing protocols, six-foot social distancing measures and access to adequate hand sanitizing stations throughout their properties. These locations have ample space and access to outdoor experiences which can allow visitors to experience these locations to their comfort level.
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
$18 admission for adults, free for military and active duty
3251 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33129
If you want to learn a little history and architecture through the lens of The Gilded Age, look no further than the amazingly preserved Vizcaya estate, which sits on 10 acres of formal gardens with plenty of spaces to explore (and snap a few photos).
Wynwood Walls
$5 tickets for students and military
2520 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33127
In 2009, Tony Goldman, a renowned community revitalizer, transformed the Wynwood warehouse district into large canvases that welcome street artists from around the world to grace their art to this little place of artistic freedom. If you haven’t already heard of this place from the influencers and artistically savvy Instagram users, it’s definitely worth an afternoon stroll.
Butterfly World
$32.50 admission for adults
3600 W. Sample Road, Coconut Creek, FL 33073
https://www.butterflyworld.com/
Located on the southside of Tradewinds Park, Butterfly World is home to more than 20,000 butterflies with about 50 species represented at one time with over 150 different species over a year period. Here, guests have the ability to walk around the park with beautiful sceneries and quiet corners to watch and admire these fluttering beauties.
Preston P. Bird & Mary Heinlein Fruit and Spice Park
$10 admission for adults
24801 SW 187th Ave, Homestead, FL 33031
https://redlandfruitandspice.com/
This Miami-Dade County Park is a subtropical 37-acre property with over 500 exotic species of fruits, herbs, spices and nuts from around the world, making this public garden the only one of its kind in the country. Visitors to the park can walk around, take guided tours and taste the fallen fruit from these unique plants.
Morikami Museum & Gardens
$15 admission for adults
4000 Morikami Park Road Delray Beach, FL 33446
Honoring a century-old history between Japan and South Florida, the Morikami Museum & Gardens has two museum buildings with relevant historical artifacts and exhibits as well as a 16-acre garden with a world-class bonsai collection, koi lakes and other wildlife. Visitors can explore the rich history of the Yamato Colony and maybe capture a little zen in their day.
Pegasus and Dragon Sculpture at Gulfstream Park
Free Parking and Admission
901 S Federal Hwy, Hallandale Beach, FL 3300
This statue, which stands at 110 feet tall, is the third-largest statue in the U.S. It depicts a pegasus defeating a dragon and is definitely a sight to see during a day or afternoon in Gulfstream Park. Other than taking in the sights, this park features an open-air mall with sophisticated stores, art galleries, a bowling alley and other entertainment opportunities. It’s a great place to window shop and explore a little when you want to feel fancy.
Robert Is Here Fruit Stand & Farm
Free admission
19200 SW. 344th St. Homestead, FL 33034
This family-owned and operated fruit stand is a staple of South Florida culture. Historically, this place started out as just a fruit stand on the side of the road, but has since grown to a tourist destination for its rare and exotic produce, animal farm and live music, on some occasions.
