Best Nature and Wildlife Areas in Ives Estates

"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"

"In the Western part of the Everglades National Park, lies the Shark Valley Visitor Center. The area is rich in wildlife – alligators, herons, egrets, Key deer, turtles and snail kites. There are three trails from the Visitor Center."

"Shark Valley sounds like it should be the headquarters for the villain in a James Bond movie, but it is in fact a slice of National Park Service grounds heavy with informative signs and knowledgeable rangers...."

"With no gate fees, this sprawling urban park and conservation center spans more than 1,500 acres and is the perfect way to spend a free day immersed in South Florida's unique natural landscape. Visit the exhibit hall, walk along the mangrove-lined trails, check out the aquarium, or enjoy the incredible views of West Lake and the surrounding scenery from the observation tower. There are also traditional park amenities, including playgrounds, athletic courts, and picnic areas, plus kayak rentals and boat tours at affordable rates."

"This is one of the best things to do in Hollywood, Florida if you’re a total nature lover. You see, the Anne Kolb Nature Center is more than 1,500 acres of coastal mangrove wetlands where you will get to see many unique, endangered plants and animals. Once here, you’ll come across the four separate trails including South Trail, Mud Flat Trail, Fishing Pier Trail, and Lake Trail which are all relatively easy."

"One of the most popular destinations at the park, the Anne Kolb Nature Center is an educational complex centered on an nature center focused on the mangrove forest that surrounds it. Don’t miss the views from the 68-foot observation tower, which you can climb or take an elevator up to the top."

"Last but certainly not least is one of Fort Lauderdale’s best-kept secrets: The Secret Woods Nature Center. Document your experience as you explore walking paths made from recycled materials. You’ll be able to observe a wide variety of Florida wildlife including reptiles,seabirds, and insects."

"801 Johnson Street A delightful Intracoastal-front park with boat ramps, two pavilions, bicycle path, nature trails restrooms and a waterfront observation tower."

"If you’re feeling ambitious on your townie cruiser, you can ride north to Bal Harbour or Haulover beaches; natives know these as water-sports havens—and for Bal Harbour’s luxury shopping. Otherwise, drop off your bike along Ocean Drive and grab a spot on the beach, Lummus Beach, which runs from around 6th to 14th streets. This is a beach for locals and tourists alike, and the spread of humanity—supermodels, families and even topless tanners—make this a go-to spot for people-watching."

"Fort Lauderdale's rich history for African-Americans is presented in this inspiring museum. Many of the honors that are due to pioneers in the African-American community in Broward County are not recorded, but it is here through exhibits and lectures and special events that visitors and locals can learn more of this interesting and exciting chapter of local history. Built in 1924, this was the region's lone African-American school for children during segregation."

"Experience sunset at the quietly beautiful Holocaust Memorial. The memorial is a large arm, outstretched to the sky with over 100 smaller figures clinging to it and each other. In a city with one of the largest populations of Holocaust Survivors, since 1990 this memorial has served as a reminder of the suffering that occurred in Nazi concentration camps and hosts a number of community and educational events."

"1933-1945 Meridian AvenueMiami Beach, FL 33139(305) 538-1663. The Holocaust Memorial in Miami Beach was opened in 1990 with Nobel laureate and Holocaust survivor Elie Weisel as the guest speaker. The memorial is also built in the former home of Holocaust survivors who immigrated to the States."

"Grab the car and spend the afternoon in Coconut Grove strolling through the Tuscan-style pedestrian mall CocoWalk, which includes hundreds of shops, restaurants and bars. A hidden favorite down the road, Monty’s, is ideal for waterfront afternoon drinking and the occasional local band. Walk along the dock to admire boats of all shapes and sizes."

"Miccosukee Restaurant is a perfect Indian restaurant that offers unique tastes for Everglade adventures. The beautiful location of the park, along with generous portion-sized dishes, attracts many hungry visitors. If you come here with your children for breakfast, help them with a kids cheeseburger and Indian fried bread for yourself."

"The numbers flash with astonishing speed, and you've got ten boards to cover. The smoke in the room, as thick as alligators in the nearby canals, is getting in your eyes, making it difficult to see, and the hour drags on. You're simply too worn out to concentrate."

"A luxury hangout located right on the eastern edge of the Everglades, this resort offers 300-plus rooms with designer touches. Offers easy access to a golf course, a casino, airboat tours and more."

"With four stars out of 313 reviews on Yelp, this joint has proven to be a local favorite for those looking to indulge. Get ready for Lasagnette Angelo, fresh pasta layers, Bolognese sauce, béchamel and mozzarella; porcini mushrooms served with fresh tomato sauce, basil and truffle cremolata; and grilled jumbo prawns served with arugula and tomato salad."

"Casa D'Angelo is a traditional Italian restaurant and serves classic dishes served in a formal and elegant setting. Locals rave of this place and it is a good place for toasting the important moments in life. Chef Angelo Elia created the restaurant's menu with recipes handed down to me from generations of passionate Italian cooks."

"Our waiter, Sandro, was a lot of fun and helped us pick good food. He made great wine suggestions as well. They paired very will with …"