South Florida Adventures

Heidi_Siefkas_Slogging_everglades_national_park_florida

Who says an adventure has to be far away?

When I advise that others add adventure to their lives to shift their perspective and energize their lives, I sometimes get push back. Whether it is time, money, the kids, other obligations, or the Covid-19 virus, there is a workaround to add adventure into your life. Your mind and body need a break from the routine. If not, eventually you will crash just like a Smartphone or computer without software updates.

I always suggest that you can easily squeeze in a little adventure that is close to home. It could be a new activity, a familiar event but with new people, or discovering a hidden gem in your backyard. Need a reason why? Watch this TEDx talk.

South Florida Adventures

I have called South Florida my home (where I hang my hat) for nearly fifteen years. I have written about adventures in Fort Lauderdale, the West Coast, and even Central Florida, but I wanted to add a new list of suggestions for Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach County adventures.

Miami-Dade

Slogging Everglades National Park

Slogging_Everglades_National_ParkMany people have heard of the Everglades, but not many people experience the largest wetlands up close and personal. Of course, one of my favorite ways to experience the Everglades is via boat either kayak or airboat, but this year with the help of my peer pilgrims from the Camino de Santiago, we went slogging. As I’m originally from Wisconsin, it sounds like bogging. Interestingly enough, it is like walking or tramping in a bog. We went knee-deep into the Everglades (aka endless river of grass) with a ranger to witness the Cypress, Spanish Moss, and many birds. If you too would like to do the Slough Slog, make a reservation. A good rule of thumb is to bring closed-toed shoes for the experience and a waterproof camera. Plus, pack extra shoes and pants/shorts to change into afterward. For a treat, stop at the Schnebly Winery for a tasting and/or a bite to eat.

Kayaking Oleta State Park

Oleta_State_Park_FloridaIf you are interested in picnicking, SUP/kayaking the mangroves, and/or fishing, Oleta State Park is a great option to escape the hustle and bustle of the 305. There is an entrance fee per car, bike, or pedestrian as well as a concession area for rentals of kayaks, canoes, and SUPs. If you have your own vessel, you can put in at no charge. My recommendation would be to explore the mangroves and go out to the bay to explore the islands and/or enjoy the Sandbar, which has become the North Miami Beach club on the weekends and even some weekdays.

Broward

Jazz Brunch on the Riverwalk

Downtown_Fort_LauderdaleThe first Sunday of each month for thirty years, the City of Fort Lauderdale with help from sponsors such as Revolution Live puts on Sunday Jazz Brunch, a multiple-stage music and social event from 11 am-2 pm. You can bring a blanket, chairs, and perhaps a picnic or eat/drink from multiple vendors. The event is free, but of course, parking, shopping, and eats/drinks are additional.

Dalmar Hotel

Cocktails_at_SparrowA new hotel located downtown has a chic vibe, great views of downtown, savory bites and world-class mixologists. With a choice of bars and restaurants, go for the crème de la crème, Sparrow. This is a rooftop terrace, bar, restaurant, and club. It opens at 5 pm with Happy Hour from 5-7 pm. Be aware that there is a dress code. No flip flops gentlemen! For your convenience, the Dalmar Hotel has valet and will validate.

Find my other Fort Lauderdale adventure recommendations and seafood restaurants.

Palm Beach

Morikami Museum and Gardens

Heidi_Siefkas_Morikami_GardensFor a taste of Yamato (aka Japan) no need to hop on an all-day flight, but cruise up to Delray Beach for a tranquil experience at the Morikami Museum and Gardens. Learn about the early 1900s in the area, the Japanese farmers that settled here, and why nature is crucial to Japanese culture. Take a walk around the lake and multiple gardens recharging your batteries from the I-95 traffic or the daily 9-5 grind.

Cornell Café

Bento_Box_Cornell_Cafe_2020Rated one of the best museum cafes in the country, the Cornell Café is a wonderful place to enjoy lunch on a visit to the museum and gardens. With an outdoor, covered terrace, overlooking the gardens or air-conditioned area, the Cornell Café offers Pan-Asian inspired bites. My tip is to order a bento box. They are scrumptious. If you are interested in a green tea ice cream or an adult treat like a Sapporo or sake, they have those too. Kanpai!

What’s your next local adventure?

Find the time, wash your hands, and get out there. There is always a workaround to add adventure into your life. You need a break from the routine. Believe me or this TEDx talk. Don’t wait for summer! Don’t wait for a special occasion! Seek adventure soon, maybe even today!

Here’s to looking up!

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