Things to do in Coconut Grove Miami

By Sarah Harris

Florida is the southeasternmost US state, known for its perennial sunshine and clear blue skies. The Grove is a favorite for locals and visitors alike, well-recognized for its historical appeal and interesting and unique points of exploration. We recommend touring on foot since the area is known for its lush tropical greenery and wonderful architecture. With a laid-back village vibe, the area is easy to navigate and has a lot to offer for all types of travellers. Whether you’re looking to delve into the heritage of the city, indulge in some great food, or enjoy a fun shopping experience, you’re sure to love this charming historic district. Still not sure where to begin? Don’t worry, we’ve done a lot of the heavy lifting for you! If you’re planning to explore this free-spirited and eclectic district of Miami, have a read through our list of some of the best things to see and do in the area. Whatever you choose to do here, we’re sure you’ll have a blast!

Soak Up the Sun

Image of Grass, Nature, Outdoors, Park, Grove, Land, Tree, Vegetation, Woodland, Person, Walking, Lawn, Bicycle, Vehicle, People, Scenery, Summer,

If you’re looking for a place to kick back and spend some time with the fam, look no further than Peacock Park. Established way back in 1934, this peaceful little oasis has been a longtime favorite for locals and visitors alike. Throughout the 1960s, the park became a notable hub for hippie counterculture, hosting concerts throughout the latter part of the decade. Today, this lush green space serves as a fun communal spot for recreation and relaxation. Clean and well-maintained, this place is perfect for soaking up the sun and taking in those fresh ocean views. We recommend grabbing a bite to eat and having yourself a picnic. Or, for those who like to keep active, there are hiking trails and basketball and tennis courts to choose from. In addition, there’s a playground and swings, so everybody's happy. The perfect scenic spot for relaxing, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a hot day in the Sunshine State.

Image of Summer, Hotel, Resort, Vegetation, Grass, Nature, Outdoors, Scenery, Garden, Tree, Palm Tree, House, Housing, Villa, Tropical, Land, Rainforest, Park,

Miami is well-recognized for its lush tropical greenery, though perhaps no area is quite as visited for this as The Grove. For those looking to get in touch with nature, we highly recommend checking out The Kampong, a beautiful botanical garden brimming with exotic plants. Once home to David Fairchild, ‘’The Columbus of American Horticulture’’, this space is an enchanting encounter for anybody who takes an interest in the natural world. Though small, this peaceful reservation is popular with visitors to The Grove for all that it has to offer. There are six different facilities, all dedicated to different areas of botanical study. Visitors can expect to see everything from magnificent centuries-old oaks and trailing vines to exotic fruit plants and vibrant flowers of all kinds. A hidden gem of natural beauty, we love this spot because it provides a fantastic respite from the city.

Learn More About the Area

Image of Person, Boat,

Coconut Grove is home to many wonderful visitor attractions, though none quite as popular as Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Once home to businessman James Deering, this breathtaking villa and estate works to showcase how the wealthiest lived during the Progressive Era. The house itself is built in Mediterranean Revival style to reflect the strong Latino influences of the city. Upon entrance, visitors can enjoy taking a self-guided tour to view Deering’s well-preserved collection of rare artwork, furniture and other oddities. A stunning formal garden surrounds the villa, with meticulously well-kempt hedges and fountains. In addition, lush native forestry with expansive lagoons, swamps and grazing fields go on for miles. A thoroughly unique educational experience, this place is well worth the visit.

Another one of our favorite spots in The Grove has got to be The Barnacle Historic State Park. Anchored onto the beautiful shoreline of Biscayne Bay, this unique attraction is recognized as the oldest house in Miami-Dade County. The spot was built way back in 1891 and served as home to one of Coconut Grove’s founders, Ralph Middleton Munroe. Today, the house is beautifully restored and open to all visitors for guided tours. Walking through this humble home, you’ll be able to get a true sense of Old Florida. In addition, this serene spot is a favorite for birdwatching enthusiasts – so keep your eyes peeled for doves, woodpeckers, herons and pelicans as you explore. A small though fascinating piece of Miami history, this place is truly one of Miami’s best-hidden gems.

Relax!

If strolling down aisles of artisan cheeses, raw. honey and speciality pantry products just like your jam, you won’t want to skip out on the next item on our list. Running all throughout the day each and every Saturday, the Organic Farmers’ Market is the perfect place to be for those who consider food their religion Whilst this place is well-known for its extensive array of fresh produce, its main draw has got to be its fantastic food vendors, serving up some of the best that the city has to offer. Enjoy a raw vegan sushi roll as you browse. Cool off from the Miami heat with some speciality ice cream. And then wash it all down with a nice cold one. The perfect stop for all foodies, this stop has everything we could ever ask for, and more.

Image of Pants, Adult, Male, Man, Person, Advertisement, Shoe,

Coconut Grove has long been drawing visitors in with its unique history and undeniable natural beauty. The streets are flanked by chic stores and sidewalk cafes, which make for perfect scenic strolls. Still, if you’re looking to get some serious shopping done, we recommend heading over to Cocowalk Mall. Reflecting the neighborhood’s increasingly upscale vibe, the mall has a great mix of independent boutiques and popular favorites to offer. This place is also a great entertainment destination, with a fantastic movie theater to be enjoyed. For those who aren’t looking to shop, you can grab a bite to eat and take in the beautiful views of Biscayne Bay. Whether you're a total shopaholic or a casual browser, this place provides a sophisticated experience like no other.

Coconut Grove is one of the interesting areas of Miami to explore. From world-class shopping and dining to historic landmarks and hidden treasures, there’s so much to see here. Explore the area to its full potential with GoCity’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.

Continue reading

key-west-famous-duval-street
Blog

10+ Things to Do in Key West & the Florida Keys

Heading to Miami, but hoping to explore the lands and waters further south? You’re not alone – many people begin their journeys in South Beach but travel down the Florida Keys to Key West for some more excitement and adventure. There are plenty of great attractions and activities in these areas, too, from tours to watersports to cruises. And although the main emphasis is on outdoors activities, there are some indoor options as well. So, if you’re looking for things to do in Key West and the Florida Keys during your trip to South Florida, check out our list of the best local activities and attractions, including... Key West Trolley Tour Ripley’s Believe it or Not! Paddle Boarding Parasailing Everglades Alligator Farm And more! Save on Key West & Florida Keys Attraction Admission Admission to many of these top Miami attractions and activities and more are included on the Miami & The Keys Explorer Pass®. Choose as you go from dozens of top attractions and save up to 40% on combined admission vs. paying at the gate. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. Sunset Watersports Key West Snorkel Dip & Sip Head out to the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary for a snorkeling adventure you’ll never forget. This adult-friendly activity allows you to snorkel this beautiful coral reef and enjoy a relaxing draft beer (or a soft drink of your choice, if you prefer). If you’ve got kids in tow, they can enjoy pool noodles and swim along with the safety line behind the boat. Getting In: Key West Snorkel Dip & Sip tickets are available as an option on the Miami & The Keys Explorer Pass. Ripley’s Believe it or Not! Key West Kids and adults alike will love this quirky attraction. Ripley’s Believe or Not! has made an international name for itself, and this Key West location is no exception to their legacy of weird and wonderful fun. Be sure to check out the exhibits that are unique to Key West! Getting In: Ripley’s Believe it or Not! Key West tickets are available as an option on the Miami & The Keys Explorer Pass. Conch Tour Train A delightful option for families with kids, the Conch Tour Train provides informative and entertaining narration along a 90-minute tour of the city’s best landmarks. Some of the highlights of your tour include the Key West Lighthouse, the Hemingway Home & Museum, and the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory. Getting In: Conch Tour Train ride tickets are available as an option on the Miami & The Keys Explorer Pass. Mallory Square One of the most popular places in all of Key West to watch the sunset, Mallory Square is a delightful little neighborhood area filled with street performers, artists, and music. You can also enjoy fare from street vendors and explore the little local shops – just be aware many things close early. Getting In: Admission to Mallory Square is free. Things to Do in the Florida Keys on the Way Down to Key West Key Largo Glass Bottom Boat Cruise (Key Largo) Sail out to the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for the underwater views of a lifetime. The vessel is conveniently glass-bottomed (hence the name), so you can see straight down to the vibrant life that teems in the waters below. Along the way you can enjoy sweeping views of the Keys and the waters beyond. Another don’t-forget-your-camera experience. Getting In: Key Largo Glass Bottom Boat Cruise tickets are available as an option on the Miami & The Keys Explorer Pass. Remember to Save on Attraction Admission So there you have it: our top recommendations for things to do in Key West and the Florida Keys. Don’t forget - many of these great attraction options and more are available on the Miami & The Keys Explorer Pass® where you can save up to 40% on combined admission vs. paying at the gate. We hope you consider adding a few of these fun options to your South Florida vacation plans.
Katie Sagal
Best Beaches in Miami
Blog

Best Beaches in Miami

If you're looking for the best beaches in Miami, check out our picks and find the perfect place to get your sun, sand, and sea fix! Including: South Beach Bal Harbour Beach Mid-Beach Sunny Isles Beach Soho Beach House and more! Can you swim in Miami beaches? Yes, you can swim at any of Miami's beaches. Some may be cleaner than others, but you're free to frolic in any of them! What month can you swim in Miami? If you're hitting Miami's beach scene between April and October, you'll experience the warmest seas on offer, making it the perfect time to go for a dip. Even in the off-season, the further south you head, the warmer you'll find the water. What beach do Miami locals go to? Generally, South Beach is Miami's most popular beach for both tourists and locals alike. This is likely due to the sheer volume of hotels you'll find along the waterfront, coupled with the number of bars, clubs, and other hangouts that call it home. Best Beaches in Miami: South Beach We couldn't start anywhere else, really. In the vibrant realm of South Beach, you'll discover an array of immaculately chiseled people, luxurious automobiles, daring swimsuits, and captivating Art Deco architecture. This renowned two-mile expanse of pristine white sand constitutes Florida's most renowned beachfront. Additionally, this area encompasses Lummus Park, home to 18 volleyball courts and two open-air fitness facilities, making it the perfect beach for activity-seekers. Beyond this bustling hub, locals often prefer the tranquility of the beachfront south of Fifth Street, away from the myriad hotels and tourists, where ample space remains for anyone seeking to lay down their beach towel. Best Beaches in Miami: Bal Harbour Beach Bal Harbour is one of Miami's most upmarket neighborhoods, so you probably have some idea of what to expect from its accompanying beach: designer garb, expensive boats, and plenty of money being flashed about. If you feel like your current attire makes you stand out like a sore thumb, fear not. Bal Harbour Mall is a hop, skip, and jump from the beachfront, where you can burn hundreds if not thousands of dollars on swimwear, sunglasses, and other accessories that'll help you fit right in. Is it worth it? Only you can be the judge of that! Best Beaches in Miami: Mid-Beach Mid-Beach is the home of Miami's most chic and upscale hotels, attracting the city's fashionistas and more 'distinguished' travelers who want to avoid the crowds of South Beach. As such, expect hefty displays of wealth, a largely international audience, and plenty of people spending their time at exclusive hotel beach clubs instead of the sand itself, meaning you should get a tanning spot rather easily. Best Beaches in Miami: Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park At first, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park might seem a bit unassuming. However, look beneath the surface, and you'll find some of the best hiking trails in Miami. They'll take you along the nearby beach, through the park, and then emerge above the city, giving you some of the best views of Miami around. Regularly receiving plaudits as one of America's best beaches, it's the perfect city respite for active couples or families looking to beat the crowds. Best Beaches in Miami: Sunny Isles Beach Bordered by serene, sapphire waters and offering respite from the bustling crowds, this two-mile stretch of Miami beach is the epitome of chill. Here, you'll find predominantly residential condos of varying shapes and sizes, though the residents don't flood the sand like they do in South Beach. As such, Sunny Isles Beach is far enough away from the busier beaches that it's ideal for families and couples who just want a beautiful beach without the White Claws and EDM. Best Beaches in Miami: 12th Street Beach 12th Street Beach is your one-stop destination for LGBTQ+ fun, as it's the destination for gay beach revelers. If you're looking for a party vibe, you'll get it at 12th Street Beach. Bluetooth speakers, BBQs, and myriad six-packs supplement the fun, and after dark, the nearby Nathan's Beach Club comes to life with cocktails, smooth jams, and plenty of loungers. If you're looking for a laid-back time, it's best to head somewhere else. Best Beaches in Miami: Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club Miami's Four Seasons Hotel has hosted some of the most recognizable faces of the 20th Century, having put up the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra, and Winston Churchill over the years. The hotel is a mainstay of the Miami skyline, but it's the location's Surf Club, which only opened a few years ago, which takes center stage on this list. Found on the hotel's exclusive stretch of beach, it's a little slice of tropical paradise reserved for guests. Though, if you have the cash to splash, staying at the Four Seasons might be a treat in itself. The Surf Club is just the icing on the cake, allowing you that cocktail-sipping beach experience typically found in the Caribbean. Best Beaches in Miami: Haulover Naturist Beach If you're looking to let it all hang out in Miami, Haulover Naturist Beach is the one for you. And, as Florida's oldest official nudist beach, you'll be in good company. It might not be the place to take the kids, unless you're alright with bits and bobs free from the prison of clothing. Best Beaches in Miami: Soho Beach House If you've not heard of Soho House, it's a chain of exclusive 'resorts' found all over the world. Built for media personalities, it foregoes a dress code (and actively bans suits and ties) for a laid-back escape for people in and around show business to grab a drink, relax on a rooftop, and avoid the prying eyes of journos, and the macho bravado of finance bros. Miami has its very own location called Soho Beach House, where you can grab a drink, a bite to eat and beat the crowds in its exclusive surroundings. But don't worry; even if you're not a member, you get access if you stay over at Soho Beach House's hotel. And those are our picks of the best beaches in Miami! If you're looking to see the best experiences that Miami has to offer during your stay, check out Go City! With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see all of Miami's best bits for one low price!
Dom Bewley

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.

    Thick check Icon