Best Nature and Wildlife Areas in Miami Lakes

"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."

"If you want to see the vast beauty of the Everglades and more alligators than you can count, then Shark Valley should be your #1 stop. This small section of the park packs in everything you need to see to make your vacation epic!"

"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."

"Midtown Creamery has some pretty intense ice cream creations, like a “giant” ice cream sandwich, brownie sundaes, and milkshakes that could last you three days. The Edgewater spot is currently delivering on most major delivery apps. You can also call (786) 536-2281 to order."

"Restaurants Bakeries Design District. Miami’s late-night purveyor of gooey, made-to-order, donut-sized cookies is holding strong as one of the city’s best dessert delivery. It used to be that only FIU college students and people living nearby had access to these dank treats but thanks to a second store in the Miami Design District, nearly everyone can get their hands on these."

"Nice to know that the more things change, then change again, then get downright effing surreal, some things stay the same. Like how Night Owl Cookies will still bring you a dozen cookies at almost any hour of the night. And, though you can still go into the store to pick them up for now, you’ll have to wait outside until you get a text saying they’re ready.Cost: $2.75 a cookie; order through Postmates"

"It’s business as usual at both locations with the entire menu available. Keeping it trendy, Night Owl will also feature specials like cookies inspired by Tiger King along with a Wake ‘n Bacon cookie, a chocolate chip cookie topped with creamy dulce de leche and dipped in candied bacon. View this post on Instagram"

"One of the area's most popular attractions is also free to visit!. Head to the Hollywood Beach Boardwalk to stroll along the 2.5-mile oceanfront promenade, consistently ranked one of the best in the country by visitors, for a unique beachside experience. In addition to restaurants and cafes, the boardwalk features boutiques and quaint shops, plus three parks, and is located adjacent to historic Garfield Street which features longstanding paddleboard courts and a fountain."

"As I’ve mentioned, Hollywood Beach is located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale in Florida, which means one epic thing. It’s got amazing beaches!. It’s almost a given in this area of Florida and Hollywood doesn’t disappoint."

"Spanish missionaries and treasure seekers first explored the Florida coast as far back as the 17th century, and the Spanish Monastery in North Miami Beach is a fascinating bit of local and international history that dates back centuries before that when it was originally constructed in Spain. Inhabited by monks for nearly seven centuries, in the early 1920s, it was bought by American newspaper mogul William Randolph Hearst, disassembled, shipped to Florida, and reassembled on its current site. It has been open to the public since the mid-’60s, and for those who don’t mind spending a few extra bucks, the best way to experience it is by guided tour."

"The Miami Children’s Museum is a non-profit institution that opened in 2003. Its 56,500-square foot facility has over 14 permanent exhibits, classrooms, and other amenities."

"While not shooting from the museum itself, head under the bridge and see why this is one of my favorite spots. Sunset and night are my favorite times at this awesome spot."

"The Young at Art Museum (youngatartmuseum.org) in nearby Davie offers a wealth of fun for kids of all ages, including changing exhibits, special shows and entertainment. Permanent exhibits include a global village that features various cultures and activities, including participating in an archeological dig, learning origami and discovering a Mayan pyramid. Another exhibit features a black light environment where kids create works of art that come to life under the special lights."