The Stonehenge of Florida

By Go City Expert
Published: July 18, 2024
Image of House, Housing, Villa, Hacienda, Grass, Coral Castle entrance and tower.
From museums and aquariums to boat cruises and jungle tours, there are so many things to do in Miami that it is difficult to narrow down the list! Yet there is one lesser known destination that you should add to your itinerary. Most people have never heard of "The Stonehenge of Florida," also known as Coral Castle. Coral Castle, a sculpture garden made of stone, was built by a single man named Edward Leedskalnin. From 1923 to 1951, Edward secretly carved over 1,100 tons of coral rock. This feat is amazing in and of itself, but even more mind boggling is that the process he used is unknown. The website calls Coral Castle "one of the world's most mysterious accomplishments." Apparently, Edward was a small man, weighing just 100 pounds and standing a little over 5 feet tall. In 1940, he would have charged just ten cents in admission to introduce you to his fantasy realm. Interestingly, no one is reported to have ever seen Edward laboring over his stone carving, and Ed himself would say that he knew the secrets of the ancient pyramids. Since his death, scientists have debated his methods for years. For anyone who has visited Stonehenge in England, you know how mysterious and impressive that site is. How did the stones get there? Who moved them, and why? Likewise, if you add Coral Castle to your list of Things to do in Miami, you will leave with just as many questions. Why would a man spend sixty years carving his beloved coral? What inspired him? Was he insane, or just passionate? And where does one draw the line between the two? Today, you can tour the Coral Castle using excellent audio stands, with narration available in English, Spanish, French or German. The museum also offers knowledgeable human guides available to conduct tours. Other highlights of the Coral Castle Museum include a 9-ton gate that moves with just a touch of the finger, a Polaris telescope and functioning rocking chairs – all made entirely of stone. With a Miami Attractions pass, your admission to Coral Castle is free!
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Outdoor Activities Miami

Miami has very warm weather and a lot of sunshine, making it the perfect place for outdoor activity. In fact, even if you choose to visit in the wintertime, the temperatures should still be great for those who like to get out in the open air. Trust us when we say that there’s a lot to do here. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, something educational, or just to kick back with a book at the beach, you’re sure to find something for you. If you’re not quite sure where to begin, don’t worry – we've done all the heavy lifting for you! So, if you’re planning a visit to the Magic City, have a read through our list of the best outdoor activities in the area. See the Sites When travelling, visiting the zoo is a great idea for a day out. Honestly, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a sunny day in the city. Ranking high up on our itinerary, Zoo Miami is a total crowd-pleaser, merging the beautiful backdrop of the area with some wonderful wildlife. What makes this place a little different is that it’s the only tropical zoo in the continental United States. The park houses over 3, 000 animals and has over 100 exhibits in total – so if you’re an animal lover, this is the place to be. Prepare to see everything from river otters and ostriches to Asian elephants and Bengal tigers. The coolest part about this spot is probably its animal encounters, feedings and rides that it offers. In addition, the zoo has several spacious play areas for kids. A fantastic educational excursion, you won’t want to miss out on this one. For those who are looking for something a little different, we’ve got you covered! Merging history, architecture, and art, Coral Castle is a fantastic historical attraction that’s sure to keep you guessing. Carved out of over 1,100 tons of oolite limestone in a time where no modern construction advances were available, this one-of-a-kind outdoor exhibit stands as both a curious scientific anomaly and jaw-dropping testament to the artist’s handiwork. Because of its mind-bending backstory, the structure has been featured in countless books, magazines and television shows since its conception. In fact, the piece is so well-recognized that Billy Idol even wrote a song about the place, entitled ‘’Sweet Sixteen.’’ So, what can you expect? Well, upon entrance visitors can see awe-inspiring sculptures in a wide variety of shapes, as well as a stunning fountain and sundial. For history lovers and art enthusiasts alike, this world-famous structure is not to be missed. Get Some Fresh Air If you’re looking to spend some time in nature, look no further than Everglades National Park. An average of one million people visit the park each year – and with good reason! Covering over 2, 000 square miles of tropical wetlands and flatwoods, this place is the third largest national park in the United States. Characterized by its unusually rich biodiversity, the Everglades’ ecosystem is completely unique to this area of Florida. Walking through the park, visitors are sure to notice the area’s wonderful greenery and the protected species which thrive there. Amongst the many activities to do here, you’ll find that hiking, birdwatching, airboat tours, and kayaking are all popular choices. Quite possibly one of the most beautiful areas in America, this place is sure to blow you away. Seated along the southeastern coastline, Miami is well-recognized for its year-round tropical weather and all of the greenery that comes along with it. If you’re looking to discover the true natural beauty of the area, there’s no better place to be than Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. Founded and designed in 1936 by Robert H. Montgomery, this place works to house the expansive plant collection of avid botanist David Fairchild. Covering over 83 acres, this wonderful space has over 10, 000 species of exotic and native flora to show. Those looking to escape all the hustle and bustle of the city will find solace in this sensational space. Soak up the Sun Miami can get pretty hot and humid, especially around the summertime. If you’re looking for a place to cool off, we recommend checking out the Venetian Pool. An aquatic attraction unlike any other, this spot provides an idyllic escape from the hectic pace of city life. Built into an abandoned coral rock quarry in 1921, the pool’s unique Mediterranean Revival style sets it apart from other attractions of its kind. Filled with 820, 000 gallons of fresh water from artesian wells, this is the largest freshwater pool in the US of A. This place is great for a relaxing day with the family, with a kiddie pool for the little ones. For those who just want to soak up the sun, there’s an area with beach chairs where you can take some time for yourself uninterrupted. Fun, refreshing, and luxurious, too, we love this spot because it just has so much to offer. It goes without saying that one of the best things to do in Miami is hit the beach. The city is home to countless great seaside tourist hotspots, but our top pick has got to be South Beach. With its clear waters and pristine shores, this picturesque place is pretty much perfect for catching some rays. Visitors can rent out lounge chairs and umbrellas for a small fee for a great relaxing beach experience. Still, this stop is no one-trick pony. For those who like to stay active, there are a wide array of water sports, including surfing, paddleboarding, longboarding and sailing – it's just up to you to decide! We also recommend taking some time to explore the surrounding area. There’s a wonderful boardwalk, beautiful Art Deco architecture, and many cafes and stores to be enjoyed. Set aside a whole day for this to take some time away from the sprawling city. Boasting perennial warm weather and clear blue skies, Miami is the perfect place to take things outdoors. Explore the city 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.
Sarah Harris
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Things to do in Brickell Miami

Looking for things to do in Miami? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Miami is a wonderful tourism hub boasting incredible scenery and fun attractions for you and your loved ones. The Magic City is one of the most popular visitor hotspots in the United States, with many of its visitors choosing to stay in Brickell. Located just south of the Central Business District, the area is characterized by its modern high-rises, unique landmarks and great shopping destinations. Highlights include browsing the stores at Brickell City Centre, walking the Underline, and sipping cocktails high above the city at Sugar. With tourists only visiting for a week or two, this means you’ll have to choose how you want to spend your time wisely. So, if you’ve never made your way over to the Sunshine State before and aren’t quite sure where to start, have a read through our list of cool things to see and do in the area. Let’s get started! Explore the Area Though Miami is well-recognized for its pristine paradisial beaches and lush greenery, its modern urban center has something a little different to offer visitors. There are countless wonderful attractions to check out in Brickell, but one of our favorites has got to be Brickell City Centre, a sprawling open-air mall spanning over five blocks. Whether you’re looking to shop ‘til you drop or grab a bite to eat, this place has it all. For those who enjoy a vacation heavily focused on retail therapy, this place has a myriad of high-street stores and luxury brands to be enjoyed. If it’s entertainment that you’re after, check out the Cinemex. Or, if you’re looking for some great eats, the center has a wonderful Farmers’ Market which runs every Saturday, serving up a wide variety of delectable options from local artisans. We love this spot because it’s a total crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for something a little different, you might enjoy the next item on our list. Situated along the sparkling waters of Biscayne Bay, Brickell Key is a man-made island with calming vibes, refreshing breezes and breathtaking ocean views. Standing out amongst all other aquatic attractions in the city, this place is more than just a place to kick back and relax by the ocean; rather, you’ll find a lot of fun amenities to check out, making it a great place for a fun day trip. Exploring the island, visitors can enjoy everything from great shopping and entertainment to top-notch dining and bars. Combining the urban character of the area with the beachy feel that Miami is best known for, the island has a lot to see for all types of travellers. This place is best explored by foot, so we recommend bringing a lot of sunblock and water with you if you plan to spend most of the day here. Find Interesting Activities Whilst Brickell is known for its modern structures and towering skyscrapers, the area doesn’t disappoint for history lovers. For those who want to learn more about the background of Miami, we recommend the Miami Circle, a fascinating heritage site like no other. Discovered in 1998 and constructed primarily out of limestone bedrock, this architectural marvel is considered to be anywhere between 1, 700 and 2, 000 years old. Though the site doesn’t appear to be particularly impressive upon first glance, it is thought to be the only known evidence of prehistoric permanent structure cut into bedrock in Eastern United States. Areologists believe that the Tequesta Indians used the holes cut into it as support for some sort of structure. Since this is a quick stop, we recommend taking some time to explore the surrounding area – you'll find interesting stores, sidewalk cafes, and bars nearby. Relax! With its glittering skyscrapers and busy streets, Brickell can sometimes feel like a bit of a concrete jungle. For those looking to take a break from all of the hustle and bustle, we just might have the answer. Spanning underneath the southern half of Miami's Metrorail, the Underline is an urban trail offering a great respite from city life for those seeking some mobility in nature. Granting fantastic views of the Miami River, this 10-mile stretch is a great place to go for a casual stroll, a fun picnic, or just simply soak up the sun. Aside from its lush greenery, the park has also been utilized as a fantastic public art destination, with the exhibits constantly rotating to keep us on our toes. The spot is also host to a lot of fun events including outdoor yoga, dance, and storytelling for those who are interested. Whether you’re looking for the perfect place to spend some quality time with the family or just a quiet spot of contemplation, the Underline serves its purpose well. After a long day of touring, you might just be looking for a great spot to grab a drink and rest your weary feet. Brickell is filled with great bars and nightclubs, though none are quite as noteworthy as Sugar. Nestled in a secret rooftop garden high above the city, this chic cocktail bar brings a luxurious slice of Balinese flair to Brickell. Reflecting the unique tropical landscape of Miami, this place is decked with a hand-carved wooden bar and tiki lounges. If you’re wondering about food (and let’s face it, why wouldn’t you be?) Sugar is known for its incredible Asian tapas dishes, including sushi and dumplings, along with an impressive cocktail program of course. The space is forty floors up, making it one of the most elevated spots in the city and granting incredible 360-views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami cityscape. Sleek and lively, we couldn’t think of a better place to spend an evening in the Magic City. Indeed, Brickell’s to-do list is as plentiful as its sunny days. Fun things to do here run the gamut – whether you’re a serious shopping addict or just looking to explore the local bar scene, you’re sure to find something to suit you. Explore the area to its full potential with an 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.
Sarah Harris
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Miami in October

Miami is a great city to visit all year round, but we especially love it around autumn time, when the weather is a little more temperate and the crowds have thinned out from the summer months. Though the city is perhaps best known as a hub for relaxation, we urge you to get out there and try it all. If you’re looking for art and culture in the Magic City, we recommend checking out the Chocolate and Art Show. For foodies, the South Beach Seafood Festival is the perfect way to get a true taste of local culture and soak up the sun at the same time. And definitely don’t forget to check out all of the cool Halloween parties which will be taking place throughout the month! So you see, there’s something to delight everyone in this sprawling southeastern metropolis – it's all up to you to pick your jam! If you’re not quite sure where to start, have a read through our list below. Soak Up the Sun Though October isn’t quite as hot as peak season, temperatures can get up to around 80 degrees – meaning that you can still enjoy most of the outdoor activities you’d still usually travel to Miami for. So, for those who are looking to enjoy the exquisite natural beauty of the area, don’t worry – this is definitely still an option! One of our favorite spots in the city to visit has got to be Pinecrest Gardens known for its expansive array of native and exotic flora. Think towering palms, 20 acres of meticulously manicured lawns, and vibrant flowers of all kinds. This beautiful landscape is also home to a lot wildlife, including koi fish, turtles, peacocks and swans. In addition, there is a children's playground and splash area, making this a great place for a family day trip. No doubt one of the most beautiful spots in the city, we couldn’t think of a better place to spend a sunny day in Miami. Foodies – pay attention! If you’re looking to try out some of the local cuisine, we highly recommend checking out South Beach Seafood Festival. Whilst there are plenty of great dining spots in the city, this festival only rocks around in the autumn time – so don’t skip it! Taking place towards the end of the month, this incredible culinary event merges great food with the beautiful backdrop of Miami to bring you something truly special. Savor the taste of king crab legs under the sun. Enjoy fried lobster tails whilst taking in the stunning beach views. And then, wash it all down with a nice cold one. Celebrating the fine ocean destination and a wide array of regional culinary artists, this event is a total must-do for any visitor who considers food their religion. Get Creative Or, if you’re looking to beat the heat, why not check out one of the city’s incredible cultural institutions? There are countless wonderful museums in the Magic City, but our favorite has got to be the Rubell Museum for its impressive collection of contemporary art. The museum is built into six former industrial buildings and features 40 small galleries and a library inside. The institute is home to one of the biggest collections of its kind, and features some of the most proficient and revered modern artists of the 20th- and 21st-centuries. Amongst its unique collection, visitors can enjoy works by Damien Hirst, Keith Haring, Cindy Sherman and Jean-Michel Basquiat. A thoroughly delightful endeavor, this cultural gem is perfect for art lovers of all ages. When travelling, it’s always a great idea to check out the local art scene. Taking place towards the end of the month in the trendy Wynwood Art District, the Chocolate and Art Show is well worth the visit. Held annually, this fun cultural event works to shine a spotlight on regional up-and-coming talent across a wide assortment of creative disciplines. No, really - trust us when we say that there’s a lot to see here. This underground art show features everything from conventional paintings and sculptures to modern installations and videography. All of the creatives should be at the event, for those who like to talk art. Alongside the shown pieces, guests can enjoy body painting, vendors, live music, and of course, free chocolate! Whether you’re a fine art enthusiast or casual crafter, you’re sure to have a blast browsing the pieces and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy the Festivities! Of course, it wouldn’t be autumn in Miami without celebrating Oktoberfest. Our favorite celebration for this has to be Oktoberfest Miami, which is held at the German American Social Club. This event gains much traction, with over 40, 000 guests passing through its doors during its six-day run. This party is also the longest continuously running event of its kind in the continental United States. At the festival, visitors can enjoy a divisive array of beer and traditional Bavarian food unlike no other. For entertainment, you've got parades, folk dancing and bands direct from Germany. There are also bounce houses, slides and play areas for the kids, so there’s a little something for everybody here. With its incredible atmosphere and true dedication to the real thing, you won’t want to miss out on this one. If you’re anything like us, you love a good Halloween party. Luckily, Miami knows how to do it right, with many celebrations cropping up all across the city over the month of October. Still, our favorite event for this legendary spooky holiday has got to be Pirates of the Wharf, a waterside themed dress-up event complete with its own real pirate ship! Be sure to bring your best dress-up, since it’s pretty much mandatory. At the event, visitors can enjoy plenty of drink and Caribbean-style food throughout the night. For entertainment, there’s live music, dancing and a giant costume contest to spice things up. A little bit scary and a whole lot of fun, this fantastic annual event is perfect for any visitors with a penchant for the weird and the wonderful. October is an excellent time to book your Miami vacation if you’re looking for smaller crowds, lower accommodation rates, and festive events. Explore the city 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.
Sarah Harris

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