For when you feel like venturing out of the city and exploring!
The Magic City is full of awesome things to do, see and eat, but we all feel like venturing out into the world every now and then. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 10 awesome day trips from Miami. We’ve organized them from closest to furthest to make deciding where to go easier. Check them out!
1. Everglades (40 minutes)
You’ve probably been told to go hundreds of times already. With good reason too! And if you haven’t, what have you got against the Alligators, huh? Simply the emperor of all wildlife spots in Miami, watching over all that lies north of it as it sits in its south-Floridian throne. With over 40 species of mammal, 50 unique reptiles and 300 types of fish spread across 1,509,000 acres, it’s an understatement to say it’s hard to know where to start. Wander among swathes of exquisite greenery, sighting Alligators, Pythons and countless other beautiful species in this peerless utopia.
2. Fort Lauderdale (45 minutes)
You likely go on a weekly basis to Fort Lauderdale but why not make a day trip out of it and explore everything the city has to offer? From hidden literary nooks to magical sculptures and secret hotel speakeasies there’s plenty to discover and it’s just around the corner from the 305!
3. Islamorada, FL (1.5 hours)
At the dreamy island of Islamorada, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a free-spirited, coastal paradise. Just a short drive from Downtown Miami, this idyllic island is the perfect destination for fishing aficionados and those looking to explore the beauty of the Florida Keys. Check out the Village Square at the Trading Post to shop for some unique finds, stroll through its gorgeous beaches and hop on to an awesome motorized tiki bar to sail off into the sunset –It’ll be a magical day!
4. McKee Botanical Gardens (2 hours)
Ever wondered what a fairy village would look like? Well, we have…And honestly, it would look a lot like McKee Botanical Gardens. Filled with luscious greens, this magical oasis near Miami is home to some whimsical creations and botanical wonders that will make you feel like you’ve wandered into a fantastic fairytale land.
5. Bimini, Bahamas (2 hours)
The closest of the Bahamas Islands, Bimini is just a short ferry ride from Miami. Hop on the ferry service in the morning and arrive at this gorgeous island just in time for lunch. Head on over to one of their laidback seafood shacks to enjoy some of the best food the island has to offer while taking in the stunning panorama. After lunch just take a stroll through its white-sand beaches, swim in its crystal clear waters, and enjoy your best island life for the day!
6. Naples, FL ( 2 hours)
If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the 305 but still consider yourself more of a city person, why not check out Naples? This gulf-side, beach town is less touristy and usually quieter — especially during winter — than Miami. Plus, the Naples Grande Hotel is home to an awesome build-your-own bloody mary bar! Anyone up for a stroll on the beach sipping bloody marys?
7. Marathon, FL (2 hours)
Located in the Middle Keys, Marathon is a nature lover’s paradise. Home to the Dolphin Research Center, the Turtle Hospital, and Aquarium Encounters, this idyllic enclave halfway to Key West has plenty of local wildlife adventures to go on, because who doesn’t want to spend the day lounging in white sand beaches, playing around with Dolphins and snorkeling?!
8. Key West, FL (3.5 hours)
Another great option if you feel like exploring Florida’s famous keys. The furthermost one of the keys, Key West is a tropical paradise. The picturesque drive to the island and its gorgeous sprawling beaches are well worth the nearly 4 hours of driving. Must-see attractions include Duval Street for shopping, Ernest Hemingway’s home, the Key West Aquarium and sunset-watching at Mallory Square! Plus if you’re planning to stay for a bit longer than a day, you can plan your stay at a gorgeous floating tiki hut!
9. St. Augustine, FL ( 4.5 hours)
The oldest city in the U.S., St. Augustine is steeped in history. With plenty of museums, historic sites and gorgeous architecture, it’s the perfect destination for those looking to explore Florida’s historic past. Throw in St. Augustine’s excellent restaurants, art galleries, boutiques and shopping and you’ve got yourself a wonderful multicultural outing. Plus, if you choose to go during the holiday season you’ll get to check out their stunning holiday lights, which were recently voted as some of the best in the world!
10. Ginnie Springs ( 5 hours)
Hidden away in High Springs, FL, this stunning natural park of blue lagoons and wondrous underwater caves is waiting for you to explore its crystalline waters. Ginnie Springs is so surreally gorgeous it will have you dreaming of tropical oases for days!
See also: Dive Into A Mesmerizing Mermaid World At This Underwater Art Gallery in West Palm Beach
[Featured image: Unsplash]