Miami Gardens Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gems and top attractions of Miami Gardens with our comprehensive travel guide. From museums to outdoor adventures, we've got you covered.


Introduction to Miami Gardens

Located in Miami-Dade County in Greater Miami, Miami Gardens is a vibrant and diverse city in Florida, United States of America. This sprawling city offers a rich blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination when exploring Florida.

List of Places to Visit in Miami Gardens

Miami Gardens boasts a plethora of exciting attractions that cater to all types of travelers. Here are some of the top places you should visit in Miami Gardens:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Antioch Mission Baptist Church: This historic church is an iconic landmark that played a significant role in the civil rights movement. It is a must-visit for those interested in African American history.
  • Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex: This cultural center offers a glimpse into the African-American heritage and features an art gallery, theater, and museum.
  • NW 57th Avenue - Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard Historic District: This district is steeped in history and is home to several historic landmarks and buildings, including the Masjid Miami Gardens, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Natural Attractions of Miami Gardens: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Amelia Earhart Park: This expansive park offers a range of outdoor activities such as cycling, kayaking, and fishing, making it a perfect family-friendly spot.
  • Myra L. Farr Green Park: This beautiful park features a scenic lake, walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds. It is ideal for those who want to relax and enjoy nature.
  • Oleta River State Park: This park is the perfect place for adventure enthusiasts, with its range of outdoor activities like kayaking, biking, and hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Miami Gardens

Miami Gardens offers some of the best hiking and biking routes in Florida. Here are some of the most popular trails to explore:

  • Oleta River State Park: This park features over 10 miles of trails, catering to all difficulty levels, from beginners to advanced riders.
  • Amelia Earhart Park: This park has over 5 miles of scenic trails perfect for road biking, mountain biking, and leisurely cycling.
  • Florida Trail: This trail spans over 1,000 miles and passes through Miami Gardens. It is ideal for hikers and backpackers looking for an extended adventure.

Best Things to Do in Miami Gardens: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re looking for leisurely activities or adventure tours, Miami Gardens has something for everyone. Here are some of our favorite things to do in Miami Gardens:

  • Miami Jet Helicopters: Experience Miami from a bird’s eye view with this exciting helicopter tour.
  • Miami Sunsets Segway Tour: Check out the stunning Miami sunset, and learn about the city’s history on this fun Segway tour.
  • Anhinga Trail and Shark Valley Tram Tour: This tour offers an opportunity to explore the Everglades and spot exotic wildlife like alligators and panthers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Miami Gardens

If you’re looking to spend a week in Miami Gardens, here is an itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
1 Explore the local culture and history at Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex and NW 57th Avenue - Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard Historic District
2 Enjoy the scenic views and outdoor activities at Amelia Earhart Park and Oleta River State Park
3 Take an excursion to the Everglades National Park and spot some exotic wildlife
4 Visit the iconic Antioch Mission Baptist Church and learn about its significant role in the civil rights movement
5 Embark on a Miami Sunset Segway Tour and enjoy the stunning views
6 Take a Miami Jet Helicopter Tour for a unique perspective of Miami Gardens
7 Relish the local cuisine and buy souvenirs to take back home.

Food and Drink Scene of Miami Gardens

Miami Gardens offers a diverse range of cuisine, from authentic Cuban delights to fresh seafood. Here are some must-try dishes that you cannot afford to miss:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cuban Sandwich: This iconic sandwich is a local favorite, made with roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard pressed in a crispy Cuban bread.
  • Grilled Octopus: This dish features marinated grilled octopus served with chimichurri sauce and roasted potatoes.
  • Key Lime Pie: This refreshing and tangy dessert is a Florida staple and made with fresh key lime juice, sweet condensed milk, and a graham cracker crust.

Local Beverages

  • Cafecito: This strong Cuban coffee is an essential morning fix for the locals.
  • The Miami Vice: This refreshing cocktail is a mix of Pina colada and strawberry daiquiri.

Where to Stay in Miami Gardens: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Miami Gardens offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly to luxury hotels. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Stadium Hotel: This hotel offers convenient access to the Hard Rock Stadium and other attractions of Miami Gardens.
  • Courtyard by Marriott Miami North/Aventura Mall: This hotel is in proximity to the Aventura Mall and offers modern amenities and comfortable rooms.
  • Palace Suites: This budget-friendly option offers spacious suites with a kitchenette and is a perfect choice for families.

What to Buy in Miami Gardens: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Miami Gardens has a vibrant culture, and several local products are unique to this region. Here are some of the best souvenirs to take back home:

  • Cuban Cigars: Miami Gardens is renowned for its hand-rolled Cuban cigars, and you cannot leave without experiencing them.
  • Mangoes: Be sure to try the fresh mangoes from Miami Gardens, which are one of the most flavorful in the world.
  • Local Art: Miami Gardens has a thriving art scene, and you can find several local artists selling their work in galleries and markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Miami Gardens

Miami Gardens is a melting pot of diverse cultures, with a significant influence from the Cuban diaspora. Its vibrant music, art, and food scene are reflective of its rich heritage, making Miami Gardens a unique and exciting destination to explore.

Best Time to Visit Miami Gardens

The best time to visit Miami Gardens is from December to May when the weather is pleasant, and the humidity is low. Summers can be humid and rainy, while winters can be chilly, making it ideal for beach and outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Miami Gardens

Here are some essential do’s and don’ts to follow when exploring Miami Gardens:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local cuisine and explore the vibrant art and music scene.
  • Practice safe habits, such as wearing sunscreen and staying hydrated.

Don’t:

  • Use drugs or participate in any illegal activities.
  • Leave valuables unattended or unsecured.
  • Disrespect local monuments and landmarks.

Safety and Health

Miami Gardens is generally a safe destination. Here are some tips to ensure your safety and health during your visit:

Safety in Miami Gardens

  • Avoid carrying large sums of cash and valuables when exploring the city.
  • Take necessary precautions when using public transport.
  • Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Health in Miami Gardens

  • Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated, especially during the summer months.
  • Use sunscreen and protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.
  • If you have any underlying health conditions, consult your doctor before traveling to Miami Gardens.

Getting to Miami Gardens: Transportation Options and Logistics

Miami Gardens is easily accessible by air, road, and water. Here are some of the best transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Miami Gardens

  • Miami International Airport (MIA)
  • Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)

Bus Stations Near Miami Gardens

  • Greyhound Station
  • Miami Central Station

Other Options

  • Car rental services are widely available in Miami Gardens.
  • Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are popular and convenient.

How to Get Around in Miami Gardens

Miami Gardens offers several transportation options, including public transport, car rentals, ride-sharing, and cycling.

Public Transport:

  • Miami Gardens bus service, which has several routes throughout the city.

Car Rentals:

  • Several car rental services are available at the airports and throughout the city.

Ride-Sharing:

  • Popular ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in Miami Gardens.

Cycling:

  • Several bike rental services are available in Miami Gardens, and the city has several cycling trails.

Where to Go Next from Miami Gardens: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Miami Gardens is an excellent base to explore the nearby destinations and attractions. Here are some of the popular destinations to explore:

  • Miami Beach
  • Key West
  • Fort Lauderdale

Conclusion

Miami Gardens is a must-visit destination in Florida, offering a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. From museums and outdoor adventures to delicious cuisine and scenic views, Miami Gardens has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the best of Florida!