|
|
|
Boca Raton
US Hwy 1 or I-95 North, Boca Raton, FL · 561-393-7700
|
User Rating: (Rate It!)
My Suitcase: (Add to My Suitcase)
BOCA RATON. In the 1920s, Palm Beach architect Addison Mizner bought thousands of acres in present-day Boca Raton, intent on developing a new Venice. Shortly after he completed his first big projects, the real estate market went bust, taking most of his plans with it. Fortunately, the city survived, and Mizner's Mediterranean-inspired architecture was replicated, giving the town a unified aesthetic and a decidedly pink tint. Now home to various technology industries, Boca boasts an affluent population who enjoy elaborate shopping venues, stunning beachfront parks, innovative restaurants and an atmosphere of cultivated leisure.
|
Coral Castle
28655 Dixie Hwy, Homestead, FL 33033 · 305-248-6345
|
User Rating: (Rate It!)
My Suitcase: (Add to My Suitcase)
HOMESTEAD. Latvian immigrant Edward Leedskalnin spent 28 years using only native coral rock and homemade tools to create this amazing structure. Although many theories have sought to explain why he took on the seemingly impossible task, the most popular is unrequited love for his 16-year-old fiancee, Agnes Scuffs. Giving credence to that idea are the castle's recurring decorative motifs, which include celestial symbols and hearts. Even so, the mysterious, almost superhuman construction of the masterpiece is so incredible that it eclipses the story behind it.
User Rating: (Rate It!)
My Suitcase: (Add to My Suitcase)
BAL HARBOUR. Whether you're a seasoned pro or an enthusiastic tyro, you'll find the waters off greater Miami ideal for sport fishing. Many professional companies offer charters that depart from Miami for half- or full-day trips, and Haulover Marina's fleet of individual boats can accommodate groups of any size and budget. If you want to splash out a bit, head for Key Biscayne. Prices may be higher, but boats are bigger and more luxurious. Most charters from Key Biscayne also venture farther out, which means you can potentially catch bigger fish.
User Rating: (Rate It!)
My Suitcase: (Add to My Suitcase)
HOMESTEAD. The second largest national park in the contiguous US, the Everglades covers more than 1.5 million acres. It's a fantastic place to view different species in their natural habitats: tropical fish, colorful birds, giant tree snails, and an array of reptiles and amphibians. In fact, this preserve is the only place in the world where alligators and crocodiles share a habitat. You can also picnic, hike, boat and fish, so plan to spend at least a day taking advantage of the opportunities. Camping is permitted.
User Rating: (Rate It!)
My Suitcase: (Add to My Suitcase)
FORT LAUDERDALE. Commonly referred to as "The Venice of America," Fort Lauderdale is also considered the yachting capital of the East Coast and is home to the International Swimming Hall of Fame. While the wealthy city stands on the cutting edge of fashion and the arts, it's also a fun-loving beachside community awash in souvenirs and sunscreen-wearing beach-goers. Picturesque surroundings, historic sights, museums, sidewalk cafés and a 22-block waterfront walkway contribute to the city's captivating appeal.
User Rating: (Rate It!)
My Suitcase: (Add to My Suitcase)
KEY LARGO. If the constant urban buzz wears thin, this park makes an ideal escape. About two hours south of Miami, it was founded in 1963 as the country's first underwater preserve. At the visitor center, immerse yourself in the area's ecology and natural history, and check out the 30,000-gallon saltwater aquarium. For a closer look at the reef and its inhabitants, opt for snorkeling, scuba diving or glass-bottom boat tours. Other diversions include fishing, swimming and camping.
|
Key Biscayne
Crandon Blvd, Key Biscayne, FL 33149 · 305-361-5207
|
User Rating: (Rate It!)
My Suitcase: (Add to My Suitcase)
KEY BISCAYNE. Accessed via the Rickenbacker Causeway, this small island grants a rich taste of Miami's coastal charms. Crandon Park, on the northern end, is known for its marina, golf course, tennis center and beaches. The residential Village of Key Biscayne, in the center, offers exclusive boutiques, gourmet shops and art galleries. On the southern end, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Recreation Park boasts its own superb beaches and historic Cape Florida Lighthouse. If you've got time coming or going, catch the marine exhibits, porpoise shows and impressive killer whales at the Seaquarium on Virginia Key.
|
Key West
US Hwy 1 South, Key West, FL 33040
|
User Rating: (Rate It!)
My Suitcase: (Add to My Suitcase)
KEY WEST. The words "Key West" may conjure up images of Jimmy Buffett lazing on the beach with a margarita or Ernest Hemingway hunched over a typewriter or lounging in a bar. These impressions aren't far from the truth. The pace is decidedly relaxed, the margarita is a popular refresher, and the influence of the water is unmistakable. Sunset cruises, fishing charters, snorkeling and other watery activities are de rigueur, and a lively arts scene adds a punch of local color. Roughly 160 miles and 40-plus bridges from downtown Miami, Key West may be a bit far for a day trip, but it's certainly worth an overnighter!
User Rating: (Rate It!)
My Suitcase: (Add to My Suitcase)
BOYNTON BEACH. Although many people are familiar with the southern Everglades, not many realize that Loxahatchie is a much-diminished northern portion of the preserve. Complete with wet prairies, sawgrass marshes and swamps, the refuge harbors abundant wildlife – particularly birds but also snakes, turtles, lizards and bobcats. In addition, Loxahatchie works to maintain water levels for irrigation and emergency needs. Be sure to check out the visitor center and hiking, biking and canoeing trails.
User Rating: (Rate It!)
My Suitcase: (Add to My Suitcase)
PALM BEACH. Palm Beach gained its signature trees by happenstance, thanks to a 19th-century shipwreck that dispersed coconuts on the beach. Years later when tycoon Henry Morrison Flagler surveyed the area, he was inspired to transform the island into an exclusive resort. Now a haven for the wealthy and a popular cultural destination, the city offers plenty to do, from concerts at the Meyer Amphitheatre to exhibitions at the Norton Museum. Incredible galleries, amazing shopping and a host of fabulous restaurants lend yet more appeal. West Palm Beach, just across Lake Worth, also promises plenty of leisure-time opportunities.
You want quality attractions and activities for your lesiure time. To that end, we've researched a diverse list of options, ruled out the wastes of time, and delivered only the 10Best. We provide quality information about historical sites, theme parks, sporting events, and city parks that you won't want to miss. Peruse our lists, see what grabs your fancy, and then head out for some personal time!
|
Print this Page
Email this Page
Click here to share it »
