Doral Travel Guide

Explore the culturally important attractions, natural wonders, food scene, and transportation logistics of Doral, Florida.


Introduction to Doral

Located in Miami-Dade County, in Greater Miami, Florida, Doral is a vibrant city that attracts travelers with its diverse culture, lush greenery, and tourist-friendly offerings. Named after a successful real estate developer, Doris and Alfred Kaskel, this city is an ideal destination for anyone seeking a serene yet adventurous vacation. In this travel guide, we will explore Doral’s famous tourist spots, natural wonders, food scene, local culture, and other essential information to help you plan your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Doral

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Uptown/Downtown Doral area is an upscale shopping and dining area where you can find exquisite restaurants, specialty shops, and bars. The area also includes an art museum that showcases both local and international talent.
  • The Cubaocho Museum and Performing Arts Center is a museum that focuses on the cultural heritage of Cuba. In addition to exquisitely painted artwork, they also host traditional dance performances on weekends.
  • Doral Central Park, is a massive outdoor recreational area that features playgrounds, basketball courts, and picnic areas. The park is an ideal place for families with children.

Natural Attractions of Doral: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Trails at Downtown Doral Park, a hiking and biking trail guaranteed to give you a glimpse of Florida’s natural beauty and wildlife.
  • Doral Meadow Park is a tranquil park that features a lake where visitors can go fishing and enjoy the scenery. There are also bike trails, walking paths, and gardens.
  • The Doral Glades Park is a former golf course area that has been turned into a 33-acre nature preserve. The park contains hiking trails, natural habitats, and bike paths that help you explore the diverse wildlife of Florida.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Doral

  • The Downtown Doral Park Trail offers a smooth and easy path suited for bicycling and hiking. The entire trail is around 1 km loop, and if you are lucky, you may see some gorgeous wildlife.
  • The King Trail is a popular biking and hiking trail that takes you through scenic views of Florida. It is 3 miles long and is perfect for hikers and for all skill levels.

Best Things to Do in Doral: Activities and Tours

  • Relax on the beach and enjoy the beautiful Florida sunshine. Grab some sunscreen and a beach towel and enjoy some peaceful moments on the sandy beaches of Miami! Nothing beats living your best life on the beach during a vacation.
  • Take an airboat ride for an adventure-packed tour through the Florida Everglades. Airboat tours are a must-do activity in Florida. You can observe alligators, exotic birds, and many other breathtaking animals native to the Everglades.
  • Go on a food tour by visiting the city’s famous and eclectic restaurants. From delightful breakfast joints to exotic bistros and brunch spots, Doral’s food scene has something for everyone!

Week-Long Itinerary for Doral

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Doral Central Park and indulge in the recreational facilities such as basketball courts, walking paths, and picnic areas.
Day 2 Explore The Uptown/Downtown Doral area, consisting of various restaurants, specialty stores, and art museums.
Day 3 Head to Cubaocho Museum and Performing Arts Center in Little Havana to explore exhibits and watch traditional Cuban dance performances.
Day 4 Go biking and hiking on The King Trail and explore the natural beauty of Florida.
Day 5 Spend a day at the beach. Either lounge with a book or take a swim in the waters of Miami.
Day 6 Visit Doral Glades Park, a 33-acre nature preserve that provides a unique wildlife experience.
Day 7 Enjoy a food tour, trying out Doral’s eclectic range of restaurants. Try different cuisines, unique dishes and be amazed by the city’s culinary scene.

Food and Drink Scene of Doral

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish tacos: A popular seafood dish infused with a variety of ethnic ingredients, bursting with flavorful spices. Try them at Cilantro’s Mexican Grill, near Downtown Doral Park.
  • Chimichurri steak: Try the juicy and marinated steak served with the traditional Argentinean sauce at Baires Grill.
  • Ceviche: A seafood delicacy that is always a crowd-pleaser. Indulge in the best of Peruvian cuisine at Dragonfly Izakaya & Fish Market.

Local Beverages

  • Cuban Coffee: Indulge in the bold taste of Cuban coffee while enjoying the cultural vibe of Miami.
  • Mojito: Miami is famous for its mojitos. Sip on a fresh and cool drink, specially made in many bars and bistros around the city.

Where to Stay in Doral: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • InterContinental at Doral Miami: A luxurious five-star hotel situated in the buzzing business district of Doral Miami. The hotel consists of modern accommodations, fine dining, and excellent amenities, including a lavish spa and outdoor pool.
  • Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Miami Doral Dolphin Mall: A family-friendly hotel that’s pet-friendly, too! The hotel offers a complimentary breakfast, pool, fitness centre, and many other amenities that make your stay relaxing and fun.

What to Buy in Doral: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cigars: Miami Cigar factory is the place to go for purchasing unique and home-grown tobacco varieties.
  • Peruvian Alpaca Products: The Andean textile art is renowned for its beauty, softness, and durability. Shop the local markets to take home some of the best alpaca products.
  • Souvenir T-Shirts: There is no better way to showcase your Doral pride than with a souvenir shirt.

Local Culture and Customs of Doral

The following are customs and traditions that will give you a better understanding of Doral’s local culture.

  • Latin American Influences: Miami culture is well-known for its Latin-American influences. It is common to hear Spanish and enjoy culturally-rich dishes, art, and music.
  • Dress Code: Keep it casual and laid-back as Doral is primarily a tourist destination. Shorts, flip flops, and sunglasses are a staple during the summer seasons.
  • Cultural Festivals: Doral hosts several festivals throughout the year, such as the Miami International Jazzfest and the Doral Food and Wine Festival.

Best Time to Visit Doral

The Best Time to visit Doral is during the spring or fall seasons when the climate is milder. You can enjoy Floridian beaches, National parks, and cultural attractions without the poor weather and high humidity that Miami summers are known for.

Do’s and Don’ts of Doral

Do:

  • Do explore the rich and diverse culture of Miami, including food, music, and art.
  • Do visit the locally-owned boutiques, shops, and restaurants to enjoy the authentic flavors and products in the area.
  • Do take care of the natural beauty and the environment and leave minimal impact during outdoor adventures.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter. Always dispose of trash in designated receptacles.
  • Don’t leave your valuables unattended at the beach or in your car.
  • Don’t forget to wear sunscreen and adequate eye protection during outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Doral

Doral is generally considered a safe city with a low crime rate. However, always be aware of your surroundings, stay in well-lit public areas, and use common sense when it comes to personal safety.

Health in Doral

The health system in Doral is reliable and accessible, with several top-rated hospitals and clinics in the region. Ensure you have travel insurance and your vaccinations are up to date before embarking on the trip. In case of any emergency, dial 911.

Getting to Doral: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Doral

  • Miami International Airport: Located within 12 miles (20 km) from Doral, MIA is one of the busiest airports in the world and easily connected to other major airports.
  • Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport: The airport serves the Greater Miami area and is about 30 miles (48 km) from Doral.

Bus Stations Near Doral

  • Miami Bus Terminal: Located in the heart of downtown Miami, Miami Bus terminal is a hub for dozens of regional bus lines running throughout Florida.

Other Options

  • Car rentals: Renting a car is a popular option in Doral. Many rental operators, including major brands and local agencies, provide convenient rental services with a range of vehicles to meet your travel needs.
  • Ride-sharing services: Uber and Lyft are familiar ride-sharing services in Doral. The services are quality-assured, reliable, and primary modes of transport in the city.

How to Get Around in Doral

The following are the transportation options available in Doral:

  • Public Transport: Doral is well-connected through its public transport system which includes buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services.
  • Rental Cars: Rental cars are readily available and are a popular choice for those looking to explore Doral and neighboring areas at their own pace.
  • Biking and Walking Trails: Exploring the city on bike and foot is pleasurable with Doral’s well-maintained bike paths and hiking trails.

Where to Go Next from Doral: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Everglades National Park: Located less than an hour away from Doral, the Everglades National Park offers several hiking trails, airboat tours, and ecosystem tours.
  • Miami Beach: No trip to Miami is complete without visiting the famous Miami Beaches. Luxuriate in the sun, enjoy the nightlife and explore the stunning art-deco architecture of South Beach.
  • Key West: This scenic island is a popular destination, offering visitors the chance to relax, snorkel and stroll around the serene beaches and colorful neighborhoods.

Conclusion

Doral is a picturesque destination for those seeking a relaxing yet adventurous holiday. With diverse attractions, rich cultural experience, delicious food, and accessible transportation, Doral offers something for everyone. Explore the city’s exquisite museums and parks, indulge in the tasty food scene, and enjoy the scenic beauty of Florida. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be sure to make the most out of your Doral adventure!