Miami is always a great location for any vacation. There’s lots of beaches, Nightlife, and restaurants for any family to enjoy. This is a playground for the rich and famous but maybe your looking for somewhere a little more quaint for this weekend. But what if you’re looking to explore outside of Miami. There are lots of other towns in close proximity to Miami that is great for exploring. Towns such as Fort Lauderdale, Delray Beach, and West Palm Beach. In this article, I’ll be discussing some of the best places you can visit that are in close proximity to Miami. All the places you and your family can visit for a weekend getaway.
Things To Do In Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale Antique Car Museum
This is a great place if you’ve got any car enthusiast among your family. Or if you just love museums of any kind in general. This Museum has a 4.5-star rating on trip advisor and is very highly spoken about. The Antique Car Museum contents used to belong to a Packard Showroom that dates back to as far as the 1920s. Currently, there are 22 Packard motor cars from the time period of the 1900s to the 1940s. Each 22 Packard motor car is fully working as well. Three of the cars in that showroom include a Roadster that contains compartments for his golf clubs, A couple belonging to a doctor that also has a compartment for his medical bag and also a 1929 645 Dual Cowl Phaeton that is able to self-lubricate its chassis.
Their opening hours are 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Monday to Friday. They are located on 1527 SW 1st Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315-1710. It is recommended that you call before going to the museum as they may be closed for private events. The museum is, of course, a non-profit and so it runs off of donations from the public. Their minimum contribution is $10.00, children between the age group of 5-12 are $5 and any children under the age of 5 are free. Their website is www.antiquecarmuseum.net if you’re looking for more information. Check out – billlentis.com/famous-people-from-miami.
The Stranahan House
This is a historic home for the city. One of the oldest structures still standing today. It has a 4.5-star rating on trip advisor. Its story is rich and plentiful and is as old as the city itself. The house was built in 1901 by the Frank Stranahan and his wife Ivy Cromartie Stranahan themselves. Frank Stranahan is the founding father of Fort Lauderdale and his wife was the cities first school teacher. The home served many purposes. The home was a trading post, a post office, the community center, the town hall and also the home for the Stranahan’s. The home has played a significant role int he economic and social growth of the community and is why it still stand today as an important landmark.
The home is open daily for tours during the hours of 1-3 pm. They are located at 335 SE 6th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301-2256. Tickets are sold on a first come first serve basis. $12 for adults, $11 for seniors and $7 for students. Groups of 10 or more individuals will require an investigation. They require you contact them. Website – stranahanhouse.org
The Bonnet House Museum And Gardens
35-acres of land nestles this historic estate that is a blend of art, history, and nature. It is located on Fort Lauderdale Beach and is accredited by the American Association of Museum. The home was built in 1920 was the home of the artists known as Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett. The home unlike many from that era was very personal and only intended for use by family and close friends.
The Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday during the hours of 9:00 am – 4:00 pm. It is located at 900 N Birch Road, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304-3326. The last tour of the day begins at 3:30 pm. Website – bonnethouse.org
Places To Stay In Fort Lauderdale
Granada Inn
This Inn is just a walks away from the beaches of Fort Lauderdale. It is a small twelve guest room European style boutique resort. Each room is equipped with a private bathroom, thermostat, cable, beach towel and complimentary Wi-Fi. The inn also has a rooftop deck that is large enough for a large gathering of people but still private enough for it to remain intimate. There is also a private pool and sundeck with many tropical plants. Parking is also free at the inn. It is located at 3011 Granada Street, Fort Lauderdale, Fl 33304. Their contact number is 877-800-5552. Website – granadainn.net
Crowne Plaza Fort Lauderdale Airport / Cruise Port
This Hotel is located on 455 State Road 84, Fort Lauderdale, Fl 33316. This hotel is of course close to the airport and cruise port if you are looking for a place close by. The restaurant is nothing to talk about but there are surely lots of restaurants nearby. They offer free wifi and parking, breakfast buffet and is also a non-smoking hotel. Their contact number is 877-859-5095.
Website – ihg.com
Ocean Manor Beach Resort Hotel
4040 Galt Ocean Dr, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308-6501. The hotel has been said to be very old as it was built in 1959. The customer service has been said to be relatively good and is also in a great location being on the beach. The hotel boasts Free wifi, Beachfront rooms, Pool, Smoking and non-smoking rooms. There is even transportation available to the airport. Website – expedia.com
Things To Do In West Palm Beach
McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary
The McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary is about 8 acres of botanical gardens with a host of endangered wildlife. There are over 200 animals at the sanctuary that you can view from a minimum of 4 feet away. You are able to get close to parrots, snakes, and alligators and maybe even a few other animals. The Sanctuary brings in injured native wildlife, orphaned baby animals and a variety of unwanted exotic pets. The price for entry is $35 for adults and $25 for children. Their opening hours are Tuesday to Saturday 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Website – mccarthyswildlife.com
Henry Morrison Flagler Museum
This museum is a 73 room mansion that contains many of the original furnishes from long ago. It is also home to a very large art collection. It is located at 1 Whitehall Way, Palm Beach, Florida 33480-4065. Their opening hours are Tuesday to Saturday at 10:00 am – 5:00 pm and Sundays 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
The building completion was completed in 1902. Today it is a Historic Landmark and is open to the general public. Website – flaglermuseum.us
Okeeheelee Park
The Okeeheelee park is one of the largest parks in West Palm Beach. Their opening hours are sunrise to sunset but there are areas of the park that are open for many later hours. The court facilities are open up until 9:00 pm. Its athletic fields are also open but a permit is required to use it during these hours and it is open until 10:00 pm. They also have things like a baseball field, bicycle paths, a BMX track and facilities for various water activities to do on the lake. There is also a golf course, a dog park and make other facilities. Its located at 7715 Forest Hill Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33413-3337. Website – discover.pbcgov.org
Places To Stay In West Palm Beach
Hyatt Place West Palm Beach Downtown
This hotel is perfectly suited in the heart of all the nightlife and attraction. It is conveniently located downtown. This hotel also has a high rating for their customer service. Being located so close to all the restaurants is also great as food and beverage are easily accessible. They also boast free wifi, parking, a breakfast buffet. It is also a non-smoking hotel. They can be booked on various travel websites such as TripAdvisor.
Casa Grandview
The Casa Grandview is a little bed and breakfast located close to the shopping and many restaurants. This hotel is one of few that actually has an overall 5-star rating on trip advisor so it is surely one to stay at. It boasts free wifi, parking, and suites so you are able to make your own meals if you’d like to. They even have a pool and they are also a non-smoking hotel. Website – casagrandview.com
Palm Beach Hibiscus
Another quaint bed and breakfast located near shopping and restaurants as well. They also have an overall rating of 4.5 on trip advisor. They are located at 213 S Rosemary Ave, West Palm Beach, Fl 33401-5745. They also have free wifi, parking, breakfast and also they have non-smoking rooms. So they are not a completely smoking free hotel. Website – palmbeachhibiscus.com
Things To Do In Delray Beach
Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens
This museum is a Japanese cultural history museum. They are located at 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach, Fl 33446-2305. Opening hours are Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm. The property has 3 main attractions. The Roji-en or garden of the drops of dews. Here the beauty and regeneration that defines the world are all evoked by a single drop of dew. The gallery which features 16 total artists works of art that represent japans all-all-natural lacquer. Also, there are places to shop and dine on the premises. Admission is $15 for adults, $13 for seniors citizens and military personnel, $9 for children aged 6-17 and all children under 6 are free. Students may get a discount to $11 however only with a valid ID. Website – morikami.org
Delray Municipal Beach
Of course, you cant come to Delray Beach for the weekend and not visit a beach. The name speaks for itself. South Ocean Blvd, Delray Beach, Fl 33483 is the best place to be to enjoy the clear blur Oceana and relax under its sun rays. Downtown Delray is a hub for a variety of activities. Many outdoor festivals also happen here so be sure to check to see what is going on that weekend. Website – downtowndelraybeach.com/beaches
Putt’n Around
Looking for a fun little activity to do with your whole family. Putt’n Around may be exactly what you need for your next trip to Delray Beach. It is mini golf and sports bar. So perfect for kids and adults alike. They are located at 350 NE 5th Ave, Delray Beach, FL 33483. Their opening hours are Sunday to Thursday 10:00 am – 10:00 pm and Friday to Saturday 10:00 am – 11:00 pm. Website – puttnaround.net
Places To Stay In Delray Beach
Sundy House
The Sundy house has been reviewed as a quaint and unexpectedly great hotel. The food is highly recommended here and it is said to have a rather eclectic decoration. Located in the historic downtown Delray beach you can be assured that you are very close to all the attractions and restaurants for you to explore. The property is situated on an acre of land filled with exotic plants, ponds, and waterfalls that all add to the serene environment. They are located at 106 S Swinton Ave, Delray Beach, Fl 33444-3656. They offer amenities such as free wifi, parking, parking, room service and is a non-smoking hotel.
Crane’s Beach House Boutique Hotel and Luxury Villas
The Crane Beach House Properties offer a very key west experience. They are located one block away from the beach so guest can easily walk to all the action. The hotel’s rooms are all secluded and have the feeling of you being in the Caribbean. The hotel is close to any shopping and restaurants you may need during your stay. Some of the amenities that they offer include free wifi, free parking, breakfasting the hotel is a non-smoking hotel. Website – cranesbeachhouse.com
Atlantic Hideaway
The Atlantic Hideaway is a newly-renovated small hotel that is family-owned in Downtown Delray Beach. They are a walks away from any shopping and restaurants and also the beach and a tennis center. Amenities of the hotel include free wifi, parking, concierge service, and suites.
Other Place You Can Visit From Miami
The Florida Keys
One hour drive south of Miami is the beautiful Florida Keys. A palm tree paradise that takes you away from the hustle and bustle of the Miami life. Their beaches, fishing, and diving are said to be some of the best in the world.
The Cape Canaveral
Every been to the famous Kennedy Space Center. This weekend may be the best time to make the trip to Cape Canaveral. The space center serves as the launching point for every human spaceflight mission in U.S history. You and your family can enjoy an interactive tour through all the stages of America’s journey with the final frontier.
The Marco Islands
24 square miles of beaches, golfing, shopping, and restaurants. This island is only a few hours away from Miami and a few minutes away from the Tamiami Trail.
The Naples
If you keep traveling north on the Tamiami Trail you will come upon a quaint area known as the Naples, Florida. Approximately a 3-hour drive from Miami they are said to have some of the best shopping and dining.
Orlando
How could you visit somewhere outside of Miami and not visit Orlando? Home to numerous glorious theme parks Orlando is definitely not one to miss. Universal Studios, Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Hollywood Studios are just a few of the attractions found here. Orlando is great for adults and children alike. You can most definitely find something that everyone will enjoy here. There is even great shopping and many restaurants for you to enjoy on your visit.
Places To Stay When visiting Areas From Miami
The Southernmost Point Guest House
This Victorian building was built in 1894 and is found on the famous Duval Street. It is a walks away from Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservation and is a perfect getaway from the action of Key West. The house features a total of ten rooms that have been renovated to offer all the basic modern amenities that you may need for your trip. Breakfast is served every morning on the outside veranda. They are approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes away from Miami and are located at 1327 Duval St, Key West, Fl 33040. Website – southernmostpoint.com
The Palmetto Riverside Bed and Breakfast
Overlooking the Manatee River is a 1913 home. Minutes away from beaches and a drives away from many attractions this home could be a great location for your next weekend getaway. There is a private peer leading out onto the river and the home has a total of 6 rooms making it very quaint and private. All rooms are decorated with all the modern amenities that you may need. There is what is described as a gourmet breakfast served on the screened porch overlooking the Marina. They are located at 1102 Riverside Dr, Palmetto, Fl 34221. Website – palmettoriverside.com
The Marrero’s Guest Mansion
Located 3 hours and 30 minutes away from Miami is a home built in 1889 by a Francisco Marrero. This small guest house is located on Key Wests famous Duval Street. The property has been very well maintained and all the originality has been maintained and complemented by various modern amenities. There is a continental breakfast, Happy hour daily, heated swimming pool and outdoor showers. They are located at 410 Fleming Street, Key West, FL 33040. Website – marreros.com
Hoyt House Inn
Located the furthest out at 5 hours and 45 minutes away from Miami this house is 110 years old plantation style home. The inn is located close to many restaurants, shopping, and many antique shops. Each guest room has been decorated to maintain that 1900s character that the home has. Each room has been upgraded to offer all of the basic amenities that you may need. You will also be getting complimentary bottled water, fresh baked cookies, and much-needed toiletries. They are located at 804 Atlantic Ave, Fernandina Beach, Fl 32034. Website – hoythouse.com
The Cinnamon Inn
Located a mere 3 hours and 45 mins outside of Miami. This in looks more like a large home and an Inn. It has a lot of southern charm and is located on 4.5 acres of forest land. It is even 2.5 miles away from downtown Mount Dora. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of all of the tourist attractions and relax on the secluded land. It is a short drive away from Trimble park, shopping, and many restaurants. There are a total of 4 rooms here so if you had a moderately sized family you could very well book out the whole Inn. Every morning enjoy freshly baked cinnamon rolls and hot coffee. They are located on 7241 Lake Ola Dr, Mt Dora, Fl 32757. Website – thecinnamoninn.com
Enjoy All That The Neighboring Towns Have To Offer
No matter where you plan to visit this weekend be sure to enjoy the time with your family and friends. Each town offers great attractions, shopping, and amenities for everyone to enjoy. Take the time out to visit new and exciting places this weekend. There are even great small islands that you can visit to get the Caribbean feeling without having to go to the Caribbean. All just a short distance from Miami.
