Best Nature and Wildlife Areas in Cutler Bay

"Situated in heart of what many call the “true Everglades”—a river of grass that stretches 100 miles (161 kilometers) from Lake Okeechobee to the Gulf of Mexico—Shark Valley is part of a freshwater ecosystem with incredible biodiversity. It’s one of the best places in Everglades National Park to spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife.More"

"At the heart of what many call the “true Everglades” is the gem that is Shark Valley, the center of the Everglades’ freshwater ecosystem and haven of wildlife."

"This is a short 0.4-mile (0.64 km) easy rated loop trail that is flat and boarded. The elevated boardwalk trail goes directly over waterways of the national park while also giving chances to see wildlife. This is just one more quick trip into a better understanding of what is known as the Everglades."

"As the name suggests the trail gives you a glimpse into the Mahogany trees in the park including the largest one in the US. The 0.5 mile round trip trail is a boardwalk trail traversing through a hammock of trees."

"The Mahogany Hammock Trail is a 0.5 mile loop on a boardwalk through one of the Everglades' unique ecosystems—the Mahogany Hammock. On this trail, you'll see the largest living mahogany tree in the United States."

"The American alligator is one of Florida’s most iconic symbols, and the state’s swamps, rivers, and lakes are full of these impressive creatures that can grow to over 15 feet and weight more than 1,000 pounds. Located on SW 192nd Avenue in nearby Florida City, Everglades Alligator Farm gives guests a fascinating, up-close look into the lives of these toothy reptiles. The farm is home to thousands of gators, and though it’s not the cheapest attraction you’ll visit on your trip, it’s well worth it, especially for those traveling with kids who are into animals."

"Everglades Alligator Farm is located next to Everglades National Park between Miami and Key Largo. South Florida’s oldest alligator farm is one cool place to visit. More than 2,000 of these unique reptiles – big and small – can be seen on the premises, from the baby alligators in the hatchery to the famous 14-foot “Grandpa” gator. Bonus: Admission includes an exciting airboat ride through the surrounding river of grass."

"The Everglades Outpost houses, feeds and cares for wild animals that have been seized from illegal traders, abused, neglected or donated by people who could not care for them. Residents of the outpost include a..."

"If you need to escape Miami’s madness, consider a green day in one of the country’s largest tropical botanical gardens. A butterfly grove, tropical plant conservatory and gentle vistas of marsh and keys habitats, plus frequent art installations from artists like Roy Lichtenstein, are all stunning. In addition to easy-to-follow, self-guided walking tours, a free 45-minute tram tours the entire park on the hour from 10am to 3pm (till 4pm weekends)."

"Option #2 – Miami Beach Botanical Garden This lovely oasis in the heart of South Beach showcases a variety of tropical blooms. Special events such as concerts, art exhibits and a green market take place at Miami Beach Botanical Garden throughout the year. Come see collections of orchids, palms, bromeliads, flowering trees and the lovely Japanese Garden."

"A fun and totally FREE activity to do while visiting Miami Beach is the Miami Beach Botanical Garden. Here you’ll find all the lush tropical vibes that will make you feel like you stepped right into a jungle. And of course you’ll find all sorts of instagrammable corners!"

"Few American parks can claim to front such a lovely stretch of turquoise as Biscayne Bay, but this fantastic green space is packed full of freebies too, including a great playground for the kids. The Tina Hills Pavilion has free concerts and yoga sessions, but Bayfront Park has some interesting public art worth discovering as well. The JFK Torch of Friendship recognizes the accomplishments of US congressman Claude Pepper, while Isamu Noguchi, who redesigned much of Bayfront Park in the 1980s, has three great sculptures: the Challenger Memorial, The Light Tower, and our favorite, the Slide Mantra."

"Few American parks can claim to front such a lovely stretch of turquoise (Biscayne Bay), but Miamians are lucky like that. Notable park features are two performance venues: the Klipsch Amphitheater, which boasts excellent views over Biscayne Bay and is a good spot for live-music shows, and the smaller 200-seat (lawn seating can accommodate 800 more) Tina Hills Pavilion, which hosts free springtime performances."

"It's hard to believe this tropical retreat with crystalline water is just minutes away from Miami’s bustling financial center, Brickell. Yet just over the Rickenbacker Causeway lies the Historic Virginia Key Beach Park. Its impressive network of coastal hammock trails; shaded pavilions; kayak, bike, and paddleboard rentals means you won't be hard-pressed to keep the whole family entertained and relaxed in this little slice of Miami paradise."

"Known for its killer craft cocktails and dishes made with seasonal and sustainable ingredients, Beaker & Gray is a Wynwood staple. The dishes are packed with flavor, and not-to-be-missed dinner items include cheeseburger croquettes with aji amarillo, a bubbling queso fundido and the whole fish. When it comes to brunch, go for the creamy shrimp polenta and the Cuban Benedict."

"The Beaker and Gray boast of an extensive wine and cocktail list, crafted to perfection. They have a good and solid selection of beers as well. The name of the restaurant is rather incentives and takes inspiration from two of the basic culinary tools – the Beaker, used by bartenders to mix drinks, and a Gray Kunz spoon, used by chefs to execute dishes."

"This eatery and bar in Wynwood with an inventive, playful, globally-inspired menu and vibrant bar scene. Brunch: Saturday & Sunday from 11-4 PM. Beaker & Gray is located at 2637 N Miami Ave, Miami, FL. For more information visit beakerandgray.com"