10 Things to Do Off the Beaten Path in Miami

The Historic Venetian Pool is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is one of the most unique places to cool off in Miami. Located just 15 minutes west of downtown, in Coral Gables, this swimming pool features waterfalls, natural grotto caves, and a scenic bridge.

Holding almost 850,000 gallons of water, this massive pool feels like a luxurious resort. It was once a hot spot for celebrities in the early 1900s and is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. The pool can get crowded and they stop selling tickets once it’s reached capacity. If you’re trying to go on a hot day, make sure that you head there early or call ahead.

The Cloisters of the Ancient Spanish Monastery is one of the most unique places in Miami. Originally built in northern Spain in 1133, this ancient monastery was carefully taken apart piece by piece and shipped to the US, where it was then reconstructed in Miami. 

Located just off of Biscayne Blvd, a few miles north of downtown, the Cloisters of the Ancient Spanish Monastery is now home to an Episcopal church. The structure is also a popular destination for locals and tourists looking to explore medieval architecture. Parking is free and there’s a small admission fee, but once you’re in, photography is permitted throughout the beautiful cloisters.

The Miami Marine Stadium is situated on Virginia Key, just off Highway 913 as you head out to Key Biscayne. This abandoned water sports stadium is filled with graffiti and boasts some stunning views of downtown Miami. What once was a boat racing stadium with over 6,500 seats is now a deserted haven filled with murals, art, and graffiti.

This abandoned stadium has an apocalyptic feel and is not open to the public, but there are a few spots you can go to catch a glimpse inside. If walking around the exterior of the complex doesn’t sound like fun, one of the best ways to enjoy an exclusive look inside the stadium is by boat.

Monkey Jungle is an awesome park and discovery centre located on 216th Street, just a few miles southwest of Zoo Miami. Inside this 30-acre nature park, you can catch a close-up glimpse at over 400 primates running freely as you roam around in tunnel-like cages. Discover unique species like Java Macaques, Gorillas, Orangutans, Spider Monkeys, and more as you wander through the jungle.

Some of the top exhibits to see include the Wild Monkey Swimming Pool, Cameroon Gorilla Forest, Amazonian Rainforest, and Wings of Love. If you’re looking for a full day of fun, consider making a reservation in advance for their Rainforest Adventure Tour.

Coral Castle is a fascinating sculpture garden, built by a man in the early 20th century. Located off Highway 1, just south of downtown Miami, this museum is an interesting collection of sculptures built from coral rock and completely by hand as a tribute to his lost love.

Often referred to as Florida’s Stonehenge, the museum is open from Thursday to Sunday. You can either choose to wander on your own or join one of their guided tours. Make sure to stop by the gift shop on your way out for unique and unusual souvenirs.

The Gold Coast Railroad Museum is an indoor/outdoor attraction just north of Zoo Miami, featuring historic train cars and railroad memorabilia. With a collection of over 40 historic railcars, this museum is a family favourite for exploring the history of the American railroad.

While there are dozens of exciting exhibits, one car that stands out above the rest is the Presidential Pullman Car Ferdinand Magellan. This luxurious private car was once used by US presidents Roosevelt, Truman, Eisenhower, and Reagan. If you’re looking for a fun and unique experience, make sure to head to the museum on the weekends and catch one of their train rides which take you through the grounds.

Stiltsville is an old neighbourhood in Biscayne Bay, where you can take a peek at a few historic houses and buildings that hover just above the water. This neighbourhood was built during the age of prohibition in the early 20th century to house illegal alcohol and gambling shacks. The 7 remaining wooden stilt houses were once part of a community of almost 30 structures.

While these shacks are only visible by water, there are a few boat tours that will give you a closer look at these houses. If you’re looking to drive your boat there yourself, or looking for a long day of kayaking, head to the southern tip of Key Biscayne for the best views.

The Deering Estate is about 14 miles south of Miami and sprawls across 444 acres. This massive estate features tons of things to do for the whole family, from outdoor activities like butterfly hikes and canoe rides to guided tours of the historic houses.

Some of the most interesting historic houses to visit on the grounds include the Richmond Cottage and the Stone House, which are both a short walk east from the main entrance. If you’re looking to spend your day outside, make sure to bring comfortable shoes so you can get the full experience of exploring the many nature trails throughout the grounds.

The Coral Gables Museum is a one-of-a-kind museum featuring the history, cultural landscape, and vision for the planned neighbourhood. Located close to Coral Way, just west of the intersection of S Le Jeune Rd, this museum offers unique art and history exhibits, as well as popular guided tours of the town.

Coral Gables is a beautiful city known for its Mediterranean-style buildings and laidback lifestyle. The town features beautiful fountains, large plazas and lush landscaping, making the guided tours a hit for anyone visiting the town. Their exhibits are constantly shifting, so it’s easy to experience something new each time you visit.

The Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is a beautiful oasis located south of downtown Miami, just off Old Cutler Road. With almost 84 acres of pristine gardens, you’ll enjoy a tropical environment that features many different species of flowers, fruits, trees, and even some rare and endangered plants.

When you first arrive, make sure to head to the Allée and Overlook where you’ll find a beautiful panoramic view of the garden below. Another highlight is the Wings of the Tropics exhibition, which is home to over 40 species of butterflies. If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the botanic garden, join one of their 45-minute tram tours that run at the top of the hour, every hour.