Sports & Recreation
Miller J. Dawkins Olympic Pool Complex
1300 NW 50th Street
Miami
305-634-5791 When you are looking for a public pool, you want it to be clean -- clean water, clean deck, and especially a clean locker room. The Dawkins Olympic Pool Complex sparkles, plus it has three pools and no charge for admission. With an Olympic-size swimming pool (that's 50 meters for you nonaquatic types), a 33-meter pool, and a wading pool for the toddlers, this swimming center is an amphibian's dream. There are six diving boards and a high-dive platform for the daring, designated times for adults and aqua-aerobics classes, a swim team, and swimming lessons for the kids. Parking is plentiful, the staff is friendly, and did we mention it's clean? The pool is open seven days a week, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Grab your (clean) trunks!
Old Cutler Road from Cocoplum/Le Jeune Circle to Ludlam Road
Readers´ Choice: South Beach
Old Cutler Road from Cocoplum/Le Jeune Circle to Ludlam Road
Readers´ Choice: South Beach
The Velodrome at Brian Piccolo Park
Cooper City
954-437-2626
www.broward.org/parks/velodrome.htm Ever watched the riders at the Olympics as they circled a velodrome -- each trying to reach the other's starting point fastest on the inclined loop -- during the Individual Pursuit event and thought it looked like fun? That's because it is. If you're lucky enough to live in South Florida, you can try it yourself in the Velodrome at Brian Piccolo Park. For the amazing price of three dollars per session during the day, you can strap yourself onto your fixed-gear bike with no brakes and pedal as fast as you can up the velodrome's 28-degree bank. Centrifugal force is the only thing preventing you from falling prey to gravity, so don't stop pedaling or you'll hit the concrete. Be sure to bring sneakers and a helmet. If you don't own a track bike, that's not a problem. The park's friendly staff will rent you one for just five dollars per hour. You'll have to earn the gold medal on your own.
The Velodrome at Brian Piccolo Park
Cooper City
954-437-2626
www.broward.org/parks/velodrome.htm Ever watched the riders at the Olympics as they circled a velodrome -- each trying to reach the other's starting point fastest on the inclined loop -- during the Individual Pursuit event and thought it looked like fun? That's because it is. If you're lucky enough to live in South Florida, you can try it yourself in the Velodrome at Brian Piccolo Park. For the amazing price of three dollars per session during the day, you can strap yourself onto your fixed-gear bike with no brakes and pedal as fast as you can up the velodrome's 28-degree bank. Centrifugal force is the only thing preventing you from falling prey to gravity, so don't stop pedaling or you'll hit the concrete. Be sure to bring sneakers and a helmet. If you don't own a track bike, that's not a problem. The park's friendly staff will rent you one for just five dollars per hour. You'll have to earn the gold medal on your own.
Miami-Dade Public Library System
Anime Addicts Club
6000 Sunset Drive
South Miami
305-667-6121 It's hard to keep anything anime out of the hands of young people. Savvy librarians are hip to that. "It's really been the best way so far to get the kids into the library," says programming librarian Samantha Haber. The South Miami branch hosts a weekly club for anime enthusiasts thirteen and older to watch films, discuss graphic novels, and practice drawing in the Japanese style. The downtown branch also hosts a club for younger fans (ages nine and older). From Akira to Cowboy Bebop and Peach Girl to Ranma, there's plenty to check out and discuss at the library.
Miami-Dade Public Library System
Anime Addicts Club
6000 Sunset Drive
South Miami
305-667-6121 It's hard to keep anything anime out of the hands of young people. Savvy librarians are hip to that. "It's really been the best way so far to get the kids into the library," says programming librarian Samantha Haber. The South Miami branch hosts a weekly club for anime enthusiasts thirteen and older to watch films, discuss graphic novels, and practice drawing in the Japanese style. The downtown branch also hosts a club for younger fans (ages nine and older). From Akira to Cowboy Bebop and Peach Girl to Ranma, there's plenty to check out and discuss at the library.
South Miami-Dade
305-232-1049 Two words: water slides. Six Flags Atlantis has been gone for more than a decade, and it's a long haul from Miami to West Palm Beach for a steep slide-induced wedgie and a close-to-drowning experience in the wave pool at Rapids Water Park. For an aqua-inspired good time that won't leave your wallet dry (five dollars for adults, four for children), drop into Larry and Penny Thompson Park and then drop down the slides a few times, or a few dozen times. In addition to the rapid hydro descents, you can take advantage of the campground and nature trails. The park, named after a long-ago Miami Herald columnist and his wife, boasts three water slides and other ways to get all wet: a beach, a freshwater lake, paddleboats. There's a snack stand with ice cream, hot dogs, and other fun food you'd expect, and a picnic area. This is a summer classic, the ice cream melting down your chin and the seriously soaking slips down the chutes washing away the steamy heat and the layabout doldrums.
South Miami-Dade
305-232-1049 Two words: water slides. Six Flags Atlantis has been gone for more than a decade, and it's a long haul from Miami to West Palm Beach for a steep slide-induced wedgie and a close-to-drowning experience in the wave pool at Rapids Water Park. For an aqua-inspired good time that won't leave your wallet dry (five dollars for adults, four for children), drop into Larry and Penny Thompson Park and then drop down the slides a few times, or a few dozen times. In addition to the rapid hydro descents, you can take advantage of the campground and nature trails. The park, named after a long-ago Miami Herald columnist and his wife, boasts three water slides and other ways to get all wet: a beach, a freshwater lake, paddleboats. There's a snack stand with ice cream, hot dogs, and other fun food you'd expect, and a picnic area. This is a summer classic, the ice cream melting down your chin and the seriously soaking slips down the chutes washing away the steamy heat and the layabout doldrums.
Miami
305-535-6000 Boris Becker lived and played here; so did Jim Courier. Andy Roddick and Mark Philippoussis drop by to hit a few as well. And when Andre Agassi lands in Miami for the NASDAQ-100 Open during March, there's one place you can be sure to find him -- practicing his famous base-line returns on the courts at Fisher Island. Rated among the top 50 tennis centers in the U.S. by Tennis Magazine, the eighteen courts come in three flavors -- two grass, two hard, and fourteen clay. Each is so well maintained you'd swear the staff used tweezers to keep everything in shape. Tennis center director and resident pro Jon Hainline teaches the nuances of the game, but not to just anybody. For a chance to charge the nets at the private club you first have to buddy up with a member or resident who will deign to offer you an invite. That, or pony up the $4500 initiation fee and the $6500 annual dues (plus taxes). Either way, there are no better lines, nets, or surfaces in town.
Readers´ Choice: Sans Souci Tennis Center
Miami
305-535-6000 Boris Becker lived and played here; so did Jim Courier. Andy Roddick and Mark Philippoussis drop by to hit a few as well. And when Andre Agassi lands in Miami for the NASDAQ-100 Open during March, there's one place you can be sure to find him -- practicing his famous base-line returns on the courts at Fisher Island. Rated among the top 50 tennis centers in the U.S. by Tennis Magazine, the eighteen courts come in three flavors -- two grass, two hard, and fourteen clay. Each is so well maintained you'd swear the staff used tweezers to keep everything in shape. Tennis center director and resident pro Jon Hainline teaches the nuances of the game, but not to just anybody. For a chance to charge the nets at the private club you first have to buddy up with a member or resident who will deign to offer you an invite. That, or pony up the $4500 initiation fee and the $6500 annual dues (plus taxes). Either way, there are no better lines, nets, or surfaces in town.
Readers´ Choice: Sans Souci Tennis Center
Sunrise
954-389-2000 The words mountain and Florida rarely come up in the same sentence -- unless you're an upwardly mobile biker who has found the next best thing to an actual mountain range: Markham Park. It may not be the Rockies, but Markham provides intense trails for serious riders. Amateurs beware: If you're not the type who can find an upside to falling down, stick to Oleta River State Recreation Area. "I don't recommend Markham for beginning riders," says Carlos Yulee, who leads group treks at several South Florida parks. He says Oleta is great for a workout and is safer, but for a real challenge he'll take Markham. The park has long steep climbs and even better drops, the latter branded with names like Big Gulp and the oddly (mis)spelled Fred's Foly (which riders have also dubbed Fudge Brownie because it's all dirt the color of bittersweet chocolate). Rider John Sabatier says he likes Markham's variety, adding, "Oleta is technical, Markham is fast and technical."
Sunrise
954-389-2000 The words mountain and Florida rarely come up in the same sentence -- unless you're an upwardly mobile biker who has found the next best thing to an actual mountain range: Markham Park. It may not be the Rockies, but Markham provides intense trails for serious riders. Amateurs beware: If you're not the type who can find an upside to falling down, stick to Oleta River State Recreation Area. "I don't recommend Markham for beginning riders," says Carlos Yulee, who leads group treks at several South Florida parks. He says Oleta is great for a workout and is safer, but for a real challenge he'll take Markham. The park has long steep climbs and even better drops, the latter branded with names like Big Gulp and the oddly (mis)spelled Fred's Foly (which riders have also dubbed Fudge Brownie because it's all dirt the color of bittersweet chocolate). Rider John Sabatier says he likes Markham's variety, adding, "Oleta is technical, Markham is fast and technical."
Miami
305-633-4583 Challenging in every sense of the word, 17 is a 602-yard, par 5 dogleg sandwiched between an impressive lake guarding the left and a tee-side waste bunker and sand traps, looming the length of the fairway, to the right. If you manage to avoid a case of "the shanks," you'll end up on an elevated green -- the front of which greets you with more beach -- with all balls accounted for. Other challenges include low-flying airplanes landing at and taking off from nearby Miami International Airport, and resident raccoons that will gladly steal the hot dog you just bought from the snack cart. Melreese is a public course, and greens fees will run South Florida residents $58 on weekends, $48 on weekdays, and $32.10 after 3:00 p.m.
Readers´ Choice: Sixth at the Biltmore Golf Course
Miami
305-633-4583 Challenging in every sense of the word, 17 is a 602-yard, par 5 dogleg sandwiched between an impressive lake guarding the left and a tee-side waste bunker and sand traps, looming the length of the fairway, to the right. If you manage to avoid a case of "the shanks," you'll end up on an elevated green -- the front of which greets you with more beach -- with all balls accounted for. Other challenges include low-flying airplanes landing at and taking off from nearby Miami International Airport, and resident raccoons that will gladly steal the hot dog you just bought from the snack cart. Melreese is a public course, and greens fees will run South Florida residents $58 on weekends, $48 on weekdays, and $32.10 after 3:00 p.m.
Readers´ Choice: Sixth at the Biltmore Golf Course
Miami Beach
305-674-9300 This business (formerly Beach Boat Rental) has occupied the same spot for 40 years. From the little roadside stand near the pedestrian bridge over Indian Creek, you can rent an eighteen-footer for $99 (two hours) or a yacht for 30 grand daily (with captain and crew, of course). Proprietor Anthony Marzilli owns every boat in his eleven-strong fleet and claims they all have current-model-year motors. He can also hook you up with wake boarding, water-skiing, tubing, and marine tours.
Miami Beach
305-674-9300 This business (formerly Beach Boat Rental) has occupied the same spot for 40 years. From the little roadside stand near the pedestrian bridge over Indian Creek, you can rent an eighteen-footer for $99 (two hours) or a yacht for 30 grand daily (with captain and crew, of course). Proprietor Anthony Marzilli owns every boat in his eleven-strong fleet and claims they all have current-model-year motors. He can also hook you up with wake boarding, water-skiing, tubing, and marine tours.
North Miami-Dade
305-944-3040 Wandering around South Beach, the average tourist might think it's the place to go au naturel. The drunk women who parade along Ocean Drive while having deliberate "wardrobe malfunctions" sure make it seem that way. The bare-naked transients taking advantage of the free beach showers add to the effect. But it's a few miles up the coast at the north end of Haulover Beach where getting your privates sunburned is socially acceptable and legal. There's a marvelously diverse display of nature's bounty; some delightful days see thousands of disrobed sunbathers. It's easy to let those bikini-top strings loosen or trunks drop in this setting. Actually you sort of feel like a pervert if you keep the bathing suit on. Go ahead. Take it off. Nobody's looking. Just remember to dress before you drive away.
North Miami-Dade
305-944-3040 Wandering around South Beach, the average tourist might think it's the place to go au naturel. The drunk women who parade along Ocean Drive while having deliberate "wardrobe malfunctions" sure make it seem that way. The bare-naked transients taking advantage of the free beach showers add to the effect. But it's a few miles up the coast at the north end of Haulover Beach where getting your privates sunburned is socially acceptable and legal. There's a marvelously diverse display of nature's bounty; some delightful days see thousands of disrobed sunbathers. It's easy to let those bikini-top strings loosen or trunks drop in this setting. Actually you sort of feel like a pervert if you keep the bathing suit on. Go ahead. Take it off. Nobody's looking. Just remember to dress before you drive away.
Hialeah
305-769-2693
and
The City of Miami Beach There are a lot of good dog parks in the area, which, given the population density, may be surprising. Nonetheless, in a crowded, ruthless, and sometimes lonely city, dogs, aside from wanting to run your life and have you catch a delicious bass for them, don't ask much. Whether you share your recreation time snoozing on a bench with a drooling, pulmonarily incapacitated English bulldog or chasing Frisbees with an agile whippet, the time spent with a pooch is time spent in the company of somebody who loves you. So it's natural, even for a scofflaw, to want to show a canine a good time. Law-abiding citizens and their pets can find enjoyable, shady dog parks in Coconut Grove -- there's a little one on Virginia Street and a big one at Kennedy Park on Bayshore -- but the crme de la crme of Miami-Dade legal dog parkdom is at Amelia Earhart. The five-acre Bark Park is a puppy paradise, but humans love it too because it's completely fenced and thus safe for escape-minded, car-chasing beagles. There's even a special area for smaller dogs. Amenities include paved walkways, benches, shade trees, waste stations, and specially designed drinking and spray fountains for thirsty pooches and their owners. Better yet, Bark Park admission is free (after a four-dollar parking fee to Amelia Earhart). However, the Atlantic Ocean is nearby, and dogs love the sea. Though the law against dogs on the beach is in fact enforced when there are lots of humans there, Miami Beach is really the place to roam with a dog. Older dogs and dogs with joint problems can run on the sand without risking injury, and younger dogs can really zoom along the shore and sometimes even surf the waves or wade through the breakers. And there are lots of clumps of seaweed, the occasional dead fish, and many other interesting smelly things for dogs to unearth, bury in the sand, or just roll in. Lifeguards will not and cannot enforce the no-dogs law, but the cops will. A still beachy tried-and-true alternative is the informal "dog beach" on Virginia Key near the Seaquarium, a dog-friendly patch of sand for decades.
Hialeah
305-769-2693
and
The City of Miami Beach There are a lot of good dog parks in the area, which, given the population density, may be surprising. Nonetheless, in a crowded, ruthless, and sometimes lonely city, dogs, aside from wanting to run your life and have you catch a delicious bass for them, don't ask much. Whether you share your recreation time snoozing on a bench with a drooling, pulmonarily incapacitated English bulldog or chasing Frisbees with an agile whippet, the time spent with a pooch is time spent in the company of somebody who loves you. So it's natural, even for a scofflaw, to want to show a canine a good time. Law-abiding citizens and their pets can find enjoyable, shady dog parks in Coconut Grove -- there's a little one on Virginia Street and a big one at Kennedy Park on Bayshore -- but the crme de la crme of Miami-Dade legal dog parkdom is at Amelia Earhart. The five-acre Bark Park is a puppy paradise, but humans love it too because it's completely fenced and thus safe for escape-minded, car-chasing beagles. There's even a special area for smaller dogs. Amenities include paved walkways, benches, shade trees, waste stations, and specially designed drinking and spray fountains for thirsty pooches and their owners. Better yet, Bark Park admission is free (after a four-dollar parking fee to Amelia Earhart). However, the Atlantic Ocean is nearby, and dogs love the sea. Though the law against dogs on the beach is in fact enforced when there are lots of humans there, Miami Beach is really the place to roam with a dog. Older dogs and dogs with joint problems can run on the sand without risking injury, and younger dogs can really zoom along the shore and sometimes even surf the waves or wade through the breakers. And there are lots of clumps of seaweed, the occasional dead fish, and many other interesting smelly things for dogs to unearth, bury in the sand, or just roll in. Lifeguards will not and cannot enforce the no-dogs law, but the cops will. A still beachy tried-and-true alternative is the informal "dog beach" on Virginia Key near the Seaquarium, a dog-friendly patch of sand for decades.
West Miami-Dade
305-594-0200
www.strikemiami.com Let's face it, with the countless ways this city has to tempt the masses into unbridled debauchery, bowling ranks pretty low on the list. Maybe that's the reason many local bowling alleys tend to be in a state of dilapidation. There is, however, a silver lining at the end of that gutter ball. Strike Miami offers 34 lanes of new-and-improved black-light bowling madness. There's even a waterfall to soothe the approach toward the pins. That's just the beginning, though. The retro design mixes seamlessly into the futuristic environment. Above each lane is a giant high-definition big-screen TV that perpetually plays music videos or sporting events. So you won't miss Shaq breaking the backboard just because the kids want to knock down a few pins. The 37,000-square-foot building also serves as a sports bar and Latin restaurant. Bands amp up and jam out each Saturday. Remember to bring ID: After 9:00 p.m. the fun is a tad more adult-oriented. Oh yeah, even though crappy beer seems to be a constant of bowling alleys everywhere, the brew here tastes cold and fresh.
West Miami-Dade
305-594-0200
www.strikemiami.com Let's face it, with the countless ways this city has to tempt the masses into unbridled debauchery, bowling ranks pretty low on the list. Maybe that's the reason many local bowling alleys tend to be in a state of dilapidation. There is, however, a silver lining at the end of that gutter ball. Strike Miami offers 34 lanes of new-and-improved black-light bowling madness. There's even a waterfall to soothe the approach toward the pins. That's just the beginning, though. The retro design mixes seamlessly into the futuristic environment. Above each lane is a giant high-definition big-screen TV that perpetually plays music videos or sporting events. So you won't miss Shaq breaking the backboard just because the kids want to knock down a few pins. The 37,000-square-foot building also serves as a sports bar and Latin restaurant. Bands amp up and jam out each Saturday. Remember to bring ID: After 9:00 p.m. the fun is a tad more adult-oriented. Oh yeah, even though crappy beer seems to be a constant of bowling alleys everywhere, the brew here tastes cold and fresh.
10800 Collins Avenue
North Miami-Dade
305-893-0906 You know the place. Just north of Haulover Cut on the west side of Collins. What you may not know is that by arrangement with the county parks department, Skyward Kites, a commercial outfit devoted to (duh...), is there every day of the year -- barring bad weather. From 10:00 a.m. until sunset (or 7:00 p.m. during daylight-saving time) the good people at Skyward welcome you to simply sit back and enjoy their daily show of spectacular kites or to join in. Their on-site mobile store sells kites from five dollars on up; experts there can help you put them together and learn to fly them. And just a reminder: If it's been a while since you last flew a kite, you may have forgotten how much fun it can be -- soothing in the manner of pond fishing, or as exciting as having a fighting marlin on the end of your line.
10800 Collins Avenue
North Miami-Dade
305-893-0906 You know the place. Just north of Haulover Cut on the west side of Collins. What you may not know is that by arrangement with the county parks department, Skyward Kites, a commercial outfit devoted to (duh...), is there every day of the year -- barring bad weather. From 10:00 a.m. until sunset (or 7:00 p.m. during daylight-saving time) the good people at Skyward welcome you to simply sit back and enjoy their daily show of spectacular kites or to join in. Their on-site mobile store sells kites from five dollars on up; experts there can help you put them together and learn to fly them. And just a reminder: If it's been a while since you last flew a kite, you may have forgotten how much fun it can be -- soothing in the manner of pond fishing, or as exciting as having a fighting marlin on the end of your line.
North Shore Park and Youth Center
Miami Beach
305-861-3616 Hey, we thought shuffleboard was going the way of lawn darts and horseshoes, but new courts are still being built in the area. This outdoor activity was popular in fifteenth-century England, made its way across the pond on the decks of glorious transatlantic cruise ships, and was introduced to Daytona Beach in 1913. The modern rules of the game were defined in St. Petersburg, where the National Shuffleboard Association was founded in 1931. So now you know why shuffleboard is associated with Florida retirees and cruises. But if you're not planning a trip on a big ship or ready to chill with the senior set, you have other options. North Shore Park opened this past summer with three well-lighted shuffleboard courts that are free for you to use during park hours. Simply check in at the front desk, swap your ID for discs and cues, and you're good to go. The courts are open Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
North Shore Park and Youth Center
Miami Beach
305-861-3616 Hey, we thought shuffleboard was going the way of lawn darts and horseshoes, but new courts are still being built in the area. This outdoor activity was popular in fifteenth-century England, made its way across the pond on the decks of glorious transatlantic cruise ships, and was introduced to Daytona Beach in 1913. The modern rules of the game were defined in St. Petersburg, where the National Shuffleboard Association was founded in 1931. So now you know why shuffleboard is associated with Florida retirees and cruises. But if you're not planning a trip on a big ship or ready to chill with the senior set, you have other options. North Shore Park opened this past summer with three well-lighted shuffleboard courts that are free for you to use during park hours. Simply check in at the front desk, swap your ID for discs and cues, and you're good to go. The courts are open Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Coral Gables
305-667-1651
www.fairchildgarden.org If the kindly volunteers who take your admission tickets see your picnic gear and suggest that you enjoy your repast on the tables near the Garden Café, smile and nod pleasantly. Then head straight for one of many secluded lakeside spots, far from the café, where you can spread a blanket and partake of a peaceful and leisurely picnic in a secluded, gorgeous setting. It's a mystery why Fairchild administrators don't actively promote this appealing aspect of a visit to the gardens. On the other hand, it's probably just as well they don't. This way it'll remain our little secret.
Readers´ Choice: Matheson Hammock
Coral Gables
305-667-1651
www.fairchildgarden.org If the kindly volunteers who take your admission tickets see your picnic gear and suggest that you enjoy your repast on the tables near the Garden Café, smile and nod pleasantly. Then head straight for one of many secluded lakeside spots, far from the café, where you can spread a blanket and partake of a peaceful and leisurely picnic in a secluded, gorgeous setting. It's a mystery why Fairchild administrators don't actively promote this appealing aspect of a visit to the gardens. On the other hand, it's probably just as well they don't. This way it'll remain our little secret.
Readers´ Choice: Matheson Hammock
Kendale Lakes
305-382-3930 Planted deep in the suburban sprawl known as Kendale Lakes, somewhere between stucco housing development A and stucco housing development B, is the Miccosukee Golf and Country Club. Formerly the Miami National Golf Club, the land, just west of another holey spread at Calusa Country Club (shame on Miamians who say there's not enough green space) was purchased by the tribe in 2001. Don't have time between picking up the kids from soccer and CSI: Whatever to squeeze in a round on one of the three nine-holers? Not to worry. The MGCC driving range (open from sunup to sundown) boasts enough space for 50 Tiger or Annika wannabes, lights in the evening, large buckets of high-quality balls for five bucks, chipping and putting greens, a sports bar, and a restaurant -- all close enough to reach with a putter. If your putt is a bit off, resident pro Carlos Puerto might have a tip or two. And there's a pro shop staffed by friendly and helpful staffers. The only thing missing is a slot machine beside each mat.
Kendale Lakes
305-382-3930 Planted deep in the suburban sprawl known as Kendale Lakes, somewhere between stucco housing development A and stucco housing development B, is the Miccosukee Golf and Country Club. Formerly the Miami National Golf Club, the land, just west of another holey spread at Calusa Country Club (shame on Miamians who say there's not enough green space) was purchased by the tribe in 2001. Don't have time between picking up the kids from soccer and CSI: Whatever to squeeze in a round on one of the three nine-holers? Not to worry. The MGCC driving range (open from sunup to sundown) boasts enough space for 50 Tiger or Annika wannabes, lights in the evening, large buckets of high-quality balls for five bucks, chipping and putting greens, a sports bar, and a restaurant -- all close enough to reach with a putter. If your putt is a bit off, resident pro Carlos Puerto might have a tip or two. And there's a pro shop staffed by friendly and helpful staffers. The only thing missing is a slot machine beside each mat.
Everglades National Park
South Miami-Dade
305-242-7700 There are other trails where you're likely to see the full variety of South Florida's wading bird population, but none so accessible to the novice, and none with more of a certainty of close-up encounters with tricolored heron, great blue heron, anhinga, cormorant, egret (and egret rookeries), little blues, greens. It's touristy, sure, but even the wilder coastal trails, while offering a more pristine natural beauty, generally are less likely to have so many birds. This trail -- part paved path, part boardwalk -- snakes around and through a shallow-water saw-grass habitat, a hardwood hammock, deep ponds, and mangrove marshes where you will definitely see garfish, alligators, turtles, and maybe even an otter along with all the birds. The largest number of animals can be seen in winter, when parts of the Everglades dry up, leaving the available water and food (read: fish) supply concentrated in deeper channels like those at Anhinga Trail.
Everglades National Park
South Miami-Dade
305-242-7700 There are other trails where you're likely to see the full variety of South Florida's wading bird population, but none so accessible to the novice, and none with more of a certainty of close-up encounters with tricolored heron, great blue heron, anhinga, cormorant, egret (and egret rookeries), little blues, greens. It's touristy, sure, but even the wilder coastal trails, while offering a more pristine natural beauty, generally are less likely to have so many birds. This trail -- part paved path, part boardwalk -- snakes around and through a shallow-water saw-grass habitat, a hardwood hammock, deep ponds, and mangrove marshes where you will definitely see garfish, alligators, turtles, and maybe even an otter along with all the birds. The largest number of animals can be seen in winter, when parts of the Everglades dry up, leaving the available water and food (read: fish) supply concentrated in deeper channels like those at Anhinga Trail.
West Miami-Dade
305-223-8710 No place else in Miami-Dade County offers an array of activities and amenities to compete with 275-acre Tropical Park. Among them: baseball/softball fields (fields can be reserved; batting cages temporarily closed), lighted tennis courts, a fully equipped equestrian center (including several show rings and competition courses, covered seating, and more than 250 stalls), lakes, fishing for kids, canoes and paddle boats, basketball and racquetball courts, tot lots, hiking and biking paths, and food concessions. That doesn't include picnic areas with tables, barbecues, and pavilions that can be reserved. Plus there's Tropical Park Stadium, which has hosted everything from track-and-field meets to concerts to semi-pro football.
Readers´ Choice: Tropical Park
West Miami-Dade
305-223-8710 No place else in Miami-Dade County offers an array of activities and amenities to compete with 275-acre Tropical Park. Among them: baseball/softball fields (fields can be reserved; batting cages temporarily closed), lighted tennis courts, a fully equipped equestrian center (including several show rings and competition courses, covered seating, and more than 250 stalls), lakes, fishing for kids, canoes and paddle boats, basketball and racquetball courts, tot lots, hiking and biking paths, and food concessions. That doesn't include picnic areas with tables, barbecues, and pavilions that can be reserved. Plus there's Tropical Park Stadium, which has hosted everything from track-and-field meets to concerts to semi-pro football.
Readers´ Choice: Tropical Park
Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) approximately 35 miles west of downtown Miami
305-221-8776
www.nps.gov/ever/visit/tramroad If you've never biked the fifteen-mile loop road at Shark Valley, you have a treat in store. But we're guessing you have. You may even have done it early in the morning, before the park officially opens and when wildlife activity is at its best (having left your car on the swale near Tamiami Trail). But it's less likely you've done what we're recommending: at night, after the park officially closes, when the moon is near full. In the interest of not spoiling a truly exhilarating experience, we'll say only this: In addition to insect repellent and drinking water, bring headlamps or flashlights, watch carefully where you're going, and be prepared to see some very interesting things.
Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) approximately 35 miles west of downtown Miami
305-221-8776
www.nps.gov/ever/visit/tramroad If you've never biked the fifteen-mile loop road at Shark Valley, you have a treat in store. But we're guessing you have. You may even have done it early in the morning, before the park officially opens and when wildlife activity is at its best (having left your car on the swale near Tamiami Trail). But it's less likely you've done what we're recommending: at night, after the park officially closes, when the moon is near full. In the interest of not spoiling a truly exhilarating experience, we'll say only this: In addition to insect repellent and drinking water, bring headlamps or flashlights, watch carefully where you're going, and be prepared to see some very interesting things.
South Miami-Dade
305-230-1144 Perennial winner and favorite of locals who want to avoid the famously crowded place next door, Biscayne National Park isn't the easiest spot to get to -- unless you have your own watercraft. Fortunately the concessionaire has a wide range of tours, boat and equipment rentals, and trips, including jaunts to the mere five percent of the park that sits above the high-tide line. (Yes, this park is almost completely submarine.) Especially intrepid divers should consider visiting the archaeological wrecks on the eastern flank. Reservations are highly recommended because access to the park is limited, a fact that contributes to its continued vitality.
Readers´ Choice: John Pennekamp Coral Reef and State Park
South Miami-Dade
305-230-1144 Perennial winner and favorite of locals who want to avoid the famously crowded place next door, Biscayne National Park isn't the easiest spot to get to -- unless you have your own watercraft. Fortunately the concessionaire has a wide range of tours, boat and equipment rentals, and trips, including jaunts to the mere five percent of the park that sits above the high-tide line. (Yes, this park is almost completely submarine.) Especially intrepid divers should consider visiting the archaeological wrecks on the eastern flank. Reservations are highly recommended because access to the park is limited, a fact that contributes to its continued vitality.
Readers´ Choice: John Pennekamp Coral Reef and State Park
Samantha Haber of the South Miami Branch Library
This cool, stereotype-busting individual loves the kids but knows how to parse the contents of the shelves as well. "A library is a place where everyone has equal and free access to books, music, maps, movies, and all types of information," Haber says. "But what drew me to librarianship is the fact that a library is the place where people and books often connect for the first time. It is often where imagination is first experienced. I always wanted to be the facilitator of that experience."
Best comic-book shop: Am I allowed to say your local library? I mean, c'mon, I am a librarian here.
Best cheap thrill (either for teens or adults): Lincoln Road on South Beach, without a doubt. There's no cost to check out the art galleries, clothing shops, bookstores (Books & Books is amazing!) and unbelievably freaky street performers. It's the best people-watching in town. If it's too hot to stroll, try the Museum of Contemporary Art in North Miami. Only three dollars for students and five for grownups.
Best reason to stay in Miami for the summer: I guess answering the beach would be much too obvious, huh? In that case, I would say, the music. I don't know what it is about Miami in the summer, but every indie band and their mom seems to end up on tour down here. Specifically, check out clubs like I/O, Churchill's, and Soho Lounge. The shows aren't that expensive either.
Best used bookstore: Fifteenth Street Books in Coral Gables. But again, libraries have lots of used books (I know, I know -- I couldn't resist).
Best local writer (for youngsters and adults): There are so many of them. For children, Joanne Hyppolite and Ana Veciana-Suarez top the list. For teenagers, I'd say Edwidge Danticat and Alex Sanchez (a part-time Miamian). For adults, poet Campbell McGrath and nonfiction writer Jim DeFede take my literary cake.
What will public libraries be like in 2035? Libraries must adapt to meet the needs of the community. When books on tape became popular, we bought them. When books on CD became the new thing, we bought those. Whatever the latest thing in 2035 is, you can bet we'll have it.
Samantha Haber of the South Miami Branch Library
This cool, stereotype-busting individual loves the kids but knows how to parse the contents of the shelves as well. "A library is a place where everyone has equal and free access to books, music, maps, movies, and all types of information," Haber says. "But what drew me to librarianship is the fact that a library is the place where people and books often connect for the first time. It is often where imagination is first experienced. I always wanted to be the facilitator of that experience."
Best comic-book shop: Am I allowed to say your local library? I mean, c'mon, I am a librarian here.
Best cheap thrill (either for teens or adults): Lincoln Road on South Beach, without a doubt. There's no cost to check out the art galleries, clothing shops, bookstores (Books & Books is amazing!) and unbelievably freaky street performers. It's the best people-watching in town. If it's too hot to stroll, try the Museum of Contemporary Art in North Miami. Only three dollars for students and five for grownups.
Best reason to stay in Miami for the summer: I guess answering the beach would be much too obvious, huh? In that case, I would say, the music. I don't know what it is about Miami in the summer, but every indie band and their mom seems to end up on tour down here. Specifically, check out clubs like I/O, Churchill's, and Soho Lounge. The shows aren't that expensive either.
Best used bookstore: Fifteenth Street Books in Coral Gables. But again, libraries have lots of used books (I know, I know -- I couldn't resist).
Best local writer (for youngsters and adults): There are so many of them. For children, Joanne Hyppolite and Ana Veciana-Suarez top the list. For teenagers, I'd say Edwidge Danticat and Alex Sanchez (a part-time Miamian). For adults, poet Campbell McGrath and nonfiction writer Jim DeFede take my literary cake.
What will public libraries be like in 2035? Libraries must adapt to meet the needs of the community. When books on tape became popular, we bought them. When books on CD became the new thing, we bought those. Whatever the latest thing in 2035 is, you can bet we'll have it.
Readers´ Choice: South Beach
Readers´ Choice: South Beach
239-695-1201
www.nps.gov/bicy/sandytrail Why drive more than an hour just to find a place to hike? Because the drive across the Everglades is itself engrossing, and because Big Cypress boasts far more hiking trails, and a greater variety of trails, than anywhere else in South Florida. The Website address above will take you directly to the preserve's hiking page. You'll be surprised what you find, not least of which are the warnings: difficult terrain, waist-deep water, disorientation. There are a number of trail options for light hikers, including some that stay high and dry all year. But you know you're in marvelously challenging territory when park service experts practically scream at you to carry a GPS unit with extra batteries -- and you'd better know how to use it!
239-695-1201
www.nps.gov/bicy/sandytrail Why drive more than an hour just to find a place to hike? Because the drive across the Everglades is itself engrossing, and because Big Cypress boasts far more hiking trails, and a greater variety of trails, than anywhere else in South Florida. The Website address above will take you directly to the preserve's hiking page. You'll be surprised what you find, not least of which are the warnings: difficult terrain, waist-deep water, disorientation. There are a number of trail options for light hikers, including some that stay high and dry all year. But you know you're in marvelously challenging territory when park service experts practically scream at you to carry a GPS unit with extra batteries -- and you'd better know how to use it!
Miller J. Dawkins Olympic Pool Complex
1300 NW 50th Street
Miami
305-634-5791 When you are looking for a public pool, you want it to be clean -- clean water, clean deck, and especially a clean locker room. The Dawkins Olympic Pool Complex sparkles, plus it has three pools and no charge for admission. With an Olympic-size swimming pool (that's 50 meters for you nonaquatic types), a 33-meter pool, and a wading pool for the toddlers, this swimming center is an amphibian's dream. There are six diving boards and a high-dive platform for the daring, designated times for adults and aqua-aerobics classes, a swim team, and swimming lessons for the kids. Parking is plentiful, the staff is friendly, and did we mention it's clean? The pool is open seven days a week, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Grab your (clean) trunks!
Miami Beach
305-673-7760 Kendall and Pinecrest; Hialeah and Overtown; West, North, and South Miami. Wonderful basketball courts can be found all over, but for sweaty street hustle in a well-appointed setting, Flamingo Park is hard to beat. This Miami Beach gem attracts a dazzling variety of players: awkward teenagers, trash-talking gangstas, and out-of-shape regular Joes with memories of high school glory dancing in their heads all mingle freely on the asphalt surface. If you want to play, it isn't difficult to find yourself a fast, friendly game out here. There are occasions when it can be a challenge to get in one. Sometimes -- when the park's lighted up at night, all of the benches are taken, and a crowd is cheering around the perimeter -- the only option is to cheer on the players already out there. Simply watching can make for a good time, like when the OG steps onto the court with his Michael Jordan kicks and his baggy shorts and meets up with an enigmatic, energetic gentleman. The older guy might look to be approaching 70, but he has no problem taking some time to school the young baller on the finer points of the game.
Miami Beach
305-673-7760 Kendall and Pinecrest; Hialeah and Overtown; West, North, and South Miami. Wonderful basketball courts can be found all over, but for sweaty street hustle in a well-appointed setting, Flamingo Park is hard to beat. This Miami Beach gem attracts a dazzling variety of players: awkward teenagers, trash-talking gangstas, and out-of-shape regular Joes with memories of high school glory dancing in their heads all mingle freely on the asphalt surface. If you want to play, it isn't difficult to find yourself a fast, friendly game out here. There are occasions when it can be a challenge to get in one. Sometimes -- when the park's lighted up at night, all of the benches are taken, and a crowd is cheering around the perimeter -- the only option is to cheer on the players already out there. Simply watching can make for a good time, like when the OG steps onto the court with his Michael Jordan kicks and his baggy shorts and meets up with an enigmatic, energetic gentleman. The older guy might look to be approaching 70, but he has no problem taking some time to school the young baller on the finer points of the game.
Coconut Grove
305-858-5550
www.shakealegmiami.org You'd rather be sailing, but you don't own a boat, so you must either suck up to someone who does or rent. You can make your money work harder by renting a sloop from Shake-a-Leg, easily the coolest sailing program in the county. Founded in 1990 by Harry Horgan, the organization concentrates on providing opportunities for the physically and financially challenged to spend time at sea. (About a dozen of the sailboats are designed for disabled sailors.) The organization also hosts a summer camp, after-school programs, and outings for children. To rent a sailboat you must first become a member of Shake-a-Leg. Rates range from $50 for a "crew" membership to $1200 for the "admiral" level. Anyone may qualify for the "captain" level after volunteering a certain number of hours per month. Rental rates depend on the size of the boat, ranging from $95 for four hours to $195 for a full day. If you want to learn to sail, there are several programs available for that, including one aimed at singles. For $150 and up trainees receive sixteen hours of instruction. If you just want to get out on a boat without piloting it yourself, Shake-a-Leg also offers trips, such as the three-hour Miami by Moonlight, which costs $16, a meager sum for an oceanic trip in lunar light.
Coconut Grove
305-858-5550
www.shakealegmiami.org You'd rather be sailing, but you don't own a boat, so you must either suck up to someone who does or rent. You can make your money work harder by renting a sloop from Shake-a-Leg, easily the coolest sailing program in the county. Founded in 1990 by Harry Horgan, the organization concentrates on providing opportunities for the physically and financially challenged to spend time at sea. (About a dozen of the sailboats are designed for disabled sailors.) The organization also hosts a summer camp, after-school programs, and outings for children. To rent a sailboat you must first become a member of Shake-a-Leg. Rates range from $50 for a "crew" membership to $1200 for the "admiral" level. Anyone may qualify for the "captain" level after volunteering a certain number of hours per month. Rental rates depend on the size of the boat, ranging from $95 for four hours to $195 for a full day. If you want to learn to sail, there are several programs available for that, including one aimed at singles. For $150 and up trainees receive sixteen hours of instruction. If you just want to get out on a boat without piloting it yourself, Shake-a-Leg also offers trips, such as the three-hour Miami by Moonlight, which costs $16, a meager sum for an oceanic trip in lunar light.
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