"What are you doing Memorial Day Weekend?"
If you still don't have an answer to that question, you might think you're stuck toughing it out here at home. But fret not -- there are plenty of ways for you to get out of town this weekend -- none of which require plane tickets or hotel room bookings. The Magic City is bountiful with plenty of attractions within hours, even minutes, of its epicenter. You can hop aboard an airboat ride in the Everglades or take a day cruise to the Bahamas. These five local getaways get you the hell out of town -- without all the hassles of, y'know, actual travel.
A Foodie Voyage
Indulge in a food and wine experience just 40 minutes off the Turnpike in the city of Homestead. Make a pit stop at the famous family run fruit stand, Robert is Here, and enjoy a fruit milkshake while the kids, if you've got 'em, run around the Splash Park and feed the local farm animals. Owner and fruit enthusiast Robert is almost always on hand to lend some local produce expertise. (robertishere.com; 305-246-1592).
Next up, load up on authentic Mexican cuisine at La Cruzada Taqueria. Enjoy the affordable fare (tacos, fajitas, burritos, oh my!) in one of their outdoor tables. (305-242-6240).
In the mood for a glass of wine or a cold brewsky? Then check out Schnebly Redland's Winery and their one of a kind tropical fruit wines. Do a tasting or take a tour of their Caribbean themed- state-of-the-art facility. (schneblywinery.com 305-242-1224).
Everglades Adventure
If the outdoors are calling your name and you feel like channeling your inner Crocodile Dundee, then the Florida Everglades is your location du jour. The Everglades National Park is the largest wilderness preserve in the United States and boasts an array of activities for visitors of all ages. Visit Sawgrass Recreation Park and treat the family to a private airboat tour of exotic and native wildlife and animals. Adult tickets cost $19.50 and children 4-12 cost $10 (children under 4 get in free). (evergladestours.com; 954-389-0202)
Learn about the rich history and tradition of the local Miccosukee Indian Tribe through artifacts, paintings, and crafts at the Miccosukee Indian Museum and get up close and personal at an alligator wrestling demonstration (miccosukee.com/indianvillage).
Another adventurous way to explore the beauty and wonder of the Everglades is by kayak. Paddle down a river, through swamps and mangroves for only $124. Alligators not included (evergladesadventures.com).
Splash Down
A little further south, escape to the islands of the Florida Keys and enjoy a piece of paradise. Head to John Pennekamp Park and snorkel your way through some of the island's must see underwater attractions. For as little as $36.95 (an afternoon snorkel) you can explore the Christ Statue and the Dry Rocks (keysdiver.com; 305-451-1177).
And we can't talk about Miami without mentioning a boat of some sort. Board the Resorts World Casino ship and take the Bimini Superfast to spend the day frolicking in the white sands of the Bahamas. Catch some rays on shore or play some slots on the ship while you enjoy a day trip to the Caribbean for as low as $62. Memorial Day Weekend specials also available (rwbimini.com; 888-930-8688).
--Kathy Buccio
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