Sports & Recreation

Sure, there’s a bounty of beautiful beaches in Miami, but Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park has more to offer than just powdery white-sand shores. It’s got history! That’s right. Find out more when you climb the 109 steps to the top of its recently remodeled Cape Florida Light, a landmark on the National Register of Historic Places. Erected in 1825, it’s the oldest structure in Miami-Dade County, and this marks its bicentennial this year. The park is also part of the Great Florida Birding Trail, and birders have spotted more than 260 species within its boundaries. When it’s time to refuel, you can use onsite barbecue grills or try out one of the restaurant options — Lighthouse Cafe, Boater’s Grill, and the Cleat — that make beach life so easy-breezy.

With its throwback charm and toes-in-the-sand ease, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is Broward’s ultimate beach beauty. This coastal village punches way above its size with a picture-perfect beachscape lined with sea oats, pastel lifeguard stands, and just enough space to actually hear the ocean. Locals and visitors alike love to lounge at El Prado Park or sway with the breeze at the Beach Pavilion, where Adirondack chairs and boat benches invite you to sit, sip, and people-watch. Anglin’s Square, just a sandy shuffle away, has something for everyone — ice cream, tiki cocktails, and boutiques with small-town soul. And here’s the kicker: this is “Florida’s Beach Diving Capital.” Just 100 yards offshore lies a living reef system you can snorkel to from the sand, no boat required.

Open every single day from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. — yes, even on holidays — this Miami Beach gem is a hub for early birds and water babies alike. Just before sunrise, you’ll spot fit seniors stretching and socializing at the gate, ready to snag one of the pool’s eight lanes before the clock hits six. That giant Red Bull vending machine? Not just for show. This spot attracts serious swimmers, including Ocean Rescue pros doing dawn drills — it’s Baywatch meets boot camp. Around 9 a.m., the vibe shifts. Out go the lifeguard drills, in come the casual splashers and weekend warriors. There’s a shallow kiddie pool, comfy lounge chairs, hot-water showers, and lockers to stash your stuff. When you’re done swimming, the fun’s not over — the 36-acre park has a running track, outdoor fitness zone (hello, pull-ups), and even a dog park if your furry friend’s tagging along. Miami Beach residents swim free. Everyone else? It’s just $20 to soak the day away.

When thinking about Florida’s endangered species, the iconic Florida panther or the gentle manatee usually come to mind — and for good reason. But how about giving some love (and perhaps a specialty license plate!) to the smalltooth sawfish? Once found all the way from Texas to North Carolina, the ancient-looking fish is now mostly seen around Florida waters. On the U.S. endangered species list since 2003, this lil’ bugger is named for its bladelike snout lined with sharp transverse teeth. The critically endangered species is often mistaken for a shark, though it actually belongs to the ray family, making it more closely related to stingrays and skates. Like the panther and manatee, things aren’t going so great for the sawfish right now. Recently, they started turning up dead around South Florida’s waters, raising fears that a months-long die-off that killed dozens of sawfish last year could happen again. Time to rally around saving the smalltooth sawfish.

It might not have an Instagram-ready name like Manatee Bend Park or Manatee Lagoon, but if you want to see some sea cows in South Florida, the Little River Dam might just be Miami’s best-kept secret. Situated near NE 82nd Street and NE Fourth Place in the Little River neighborhood, the unassuming spot has quietly become a well-known gathering place for manatees (and the humans who love them). While the mammals roam Florida’s waterways throughout much of the year, they typically seek out warmer waters — such as natural springs and power-plant discharge basins — when temperatures drop. This usually occurs between November and March. “We have seen 50 manatees during a cold snap in Little River!” Amalia Fernandez, an executive assistant at Miami Waterkeeper, previously told New Times.

If a diminutive theme park for dogs existed, Trails & Tails Park in Doral would certainly fit the bill. It’s tucked away in a quiet corner of the West Miami neighborhood, but don’t let that fool you. On any weekend, it’s bustling with furry friends roaming free in the two fields — one for big dogs and one for small dogs. Both are gated and there’s plenty of bench room for humans to pop a squat. Muddy little paws can be refreshed at the wash station and pups and kids will want to hydrate at one of the plentiful water fountains. If your dog’s happiness typically comes at the expense of your own, Trails & Tails has you covered. There’s also a kids’ playground, bike or walking trail, vending machines, outdoor fitness equipment, and a Starbucks just two minutes down the road. Your dog knows this means a pup cup is right around the corner!

While a trip to Japan from Miami certainly requires more than a single day, you can zip up I-95 to Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens for a quick taste of the culture of the land of the rising sun. And you’ll have time to get home before that sun even sets! Since 1977, Morikami has been a showcase for Japanese arts and culture with a museum featuring more than 7,000 Japanese artifacts, from architecture to art to wrappers of atypical Japanese KitKat flavors. The real star of this day trip is a leisurely walk through the 16-acre landscape with six distinct gardens and a bonsai collection for the ages. Cornell Café offers bento boxes and sushi along with sake and teas once you’ve worked up an appetite. Morikami is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and closed Mondays.

The Breakers Palm Beach is quintessential Old Florida luxury made especially famous by the presence of previous, less egregious generations of Kennedys. Less than a two-hour drive from metro Miami-Dade, the sprawling oceanside resort, which was built by the iconic Henry M. Flagler in 1896, sits on 140 pristine acres and exudes a distinct “we’re not in the 305 anymore” vibe. Once you’ve traversed the palm-lined entry, the Italian Renaissance-style resort is packed with activities and eateries. There are eight on-site (and two off-site) restaurants, four pools, a private beach with watersports, an 18-hole golf course, a world-class spa, and 13 boutiques. For any Sperry-clad offspring, there’s the Family Entertainment Center with an arcade, family programming (like stuffed animal-making), and a playground. Following a $12 million renovation, racquet lovers can now enjoy the reopened open-air courts for tennis, pickleball, or padel. It’s a splurge, but take comfort in knowing that the Breakers takes care of its employees. For the third consecutive year, it was named one of the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For®.

Miami isn’t just skyscrapers, urban sprawl, and questionable politics. Our city is also the only in the nation that’s bordered by two national parks: the Everglades and Biscayne National Park. What makes them stand out is that they’re largely made up of water. Biscayne National Park is nearly 95 percent H2O, providing school kids and scuba divers with a whole aquatic world to explore. The Florida Reef is the only living coral barrier reef in the continental U.S., and the Biscayne Maritime Heritage Trail, accessible by boat only, comprises six of the many historic shipwrecks hidden beneath crystal-blue waters. If you prefer not to get wet, book a boat tour and marvel at the one-of-a-kind Stiltsville homes or the 1930s lighthouse on uninhabited Boca Chita Key.

We don’t know if those anti-Spring Break Miami Beach ads worked on us or what, but right now, the best place to staycation feels like the heart of Coconut Grove. Renovated in 2022, Mayfair House Hotel & Garden’s lush interior garden and majestic design serve as the perfect weekend retreat. You can splash the day away in the rooftop pool and sip-sip at Sipsip, the hotel’s rooftop bar. If you want to explore Grove culture, Michelin-starred or classic Miami eateries, hop on a complimentary bike at your leisure and pedal away. You can even give your pet a staycation here, where walks with four-legged friends are always part of the scene.

Just a quick hop east from Biscayne Boulevard on NE 69th Street, and you’ll land in Baywood Park — a hidden gem tucked into the laid-back Bayside Historic District. Grab a coffee at Starbucks or Panther, then pick your vibe: park yourself on a bench or stay cozy in your car. Either way, you’re in for some seriously dreamy views of downtown Miami with the beach stretched out in the distance. The soundtrack? Just the soft whisper of wind, waves lapping lazily at the rocks, maybe a jogger’s playlist drifting by, and the occasional distant vrrrooom of a jet ski living its best life. Don’t be shocked if it’s just you and the breeze. And if you’re chasing that perfect Instagram moment, swing by at sunset — golden hour here is pure magic.

Nestled between a marina packed with yachts and restaurant-lined Purdy Avenue, there’s a Sunset Harbour park that’s named for the beloved Bee Gee and former South Florida resident Maurice Gibb. Picnic-goers can head there for west-facing views of the Venetian Islands, sailboats moored in Biscayne Bay, and the iconic Miami skyline. Maurice Gibb Memorial Park got a recent glow-up thanks to the construction of a massive playground-but-also-art-installation. The two-storey acoustic guitar neck and synth play space is a rock ‘n’ rollin’ pre-picnic photo opp (before you get mustard on your shirt). Eat in the shadow of the gigantic instruments after strolling to a nearby grocery store or restaurant for takeout. Publix subs never disappoint or go upscale with cured meats to-go from Barceloneta Miami or pizza from Lucali. You can set up shop on one of the picnic tables and benches or enjoy the glow of the fading sun from a blanket on the ground.

Got the munchies and a sense of wonder? Blast off to the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science’s planetarium — the ultimate trip when you’re, well, on a trip. Float through swirling stars, drift past cosmic jellyfish made of light, and melt right into a 67-foot dome of pure space magic. Tilted at a trippy 23.5 degrees, it’s engineered for full-blown, mind-melting awe. With an 8K projector shooting 16 million colors, it’s like everything in the history of the universe came together to create this moment for you. And when the laser shows start? It’s time to blast off. Whether you’re vibing to Led Zeppelin, Bad Bunny, the Stones, or even Taylor Swift, it’s a full-sensory ride you won’t forget — even if your short-term memory taps out halfway through.

It seems impossible, but there’s still a spot in South Florida that offers $4 beers. And on the prime real estate of Lincoln Road no less! On and off for the last few decades, Zeke’s Roadhouse, under various name changes, has offered locals and tourists sidewalk seating for premium people watching while getting sloshed at actually affordable prices. Everything at Zeke’s is somewhat random and unpredictable from the selection of bottled and tap beers to which bags of chips they’ll sell for $1 to what hours they’re open (officially it’s 3-9 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, 12-7 p.m. on Fridays, 7:30-10 p.m. on Saturday, 12-6 p.m. on Sundays, and closed on Tuesdays). What is consistent is it’s a cash only bar where beers always cost 4 bucks even during these inflationary times.

When it comes to stargazing, light pollution is a real downer. And it turns out that more than six million people in the Miami metropolitan area can really drown out our view of the heavens. But if you have a little Jack Horkheimer: Star Hustler in ya, head out to the Fox Observatory in Sunrise’s Markham Park on a cloudless Saturday night. Follow the red-lit LED pathway to look at celestial sightings through two telescopes with the guidance of volunteers from the South Florida Amateur Astronomers Association, which owns and operates the observatory. Make sure to visit with the amateur astronomers on the platform outside the observatory, too — they set up their own telescopes and are happy to chat about the stunning visuals from light years away.

Formula 1 is the pinnacle of motorsports, and its Miami round brings the Magic City a new level of prestige. Though tickets for the race have come down significantly in price since its debut, the Miami Grand Prix remains unattainably expensive to attend in earnest. In fact, it’s one of the priciest grands prix on the Formula 1 calendar, with a spot in the swankiest sections climbing into the four and five figures. Still, for all that dough, you get one hell of a race day packed with celebrities, really fast cars, and incredible entertainment on and off the track.

South Miami’s Sunset Place isn’t a historic monument, but with plans to raze the mall in favor of a new retail village, the structure is about to be history. Less than two blocks away and visible from its 57th Avenue entrance is another landmark that has withstood the test of time (so far). The Doc Thomas House, completed nearly a century ago in 1932, was once home to pioneering pharmacist Arden Hayes “Doc” Thomas. A lifelong nature lover, he deeded the home to Tropical Audubon Society upon his death. Today, the former estate serves as the nonprofit conservation organization’s headquarters. Its grounds, known as the Steinberg Nature Center, offer 2.2 acres of green space, including pine rockland and tropical hardwood hammock — both increasingly rare, with the latter considered critically endangered. Whether you’re there for a tour of the wood cottage or its surrounding gardens and trails, this haven is a portal into Miami’s earliest days.

We’ve all been there: Your out-of-town friend is visiting for the first time, and they want to get turnt. Indulge them for a night or two, then rehydrate and heal them in the Everglades. The River of Grass may look like a mass expanse of stillness. But if you take a closer look at the gently swaying grasslands, you’ll find a biodiverse treasure trove of wildlife, from gators to manatees, roseate spoonbills, wood storks, and — if you’re really lucky — Florida panthers. If you haven’t been on an airboat since your fourth-grade class field trip, pass by Miccosukee Indian Village and Airboat Rides where you can also get a glimpse of Indigenous culture. Daredevils can alley-oop at the Miccosukee Skatepark off Old Tamiami Trail (which won Best Mural in 2024) or zig-zag around lazy, sunbathing gators on the paved 15-mile bike route to the Shark Valley Observation Tower.

After a long gestation period, this southern branch of the kinky, kitschy Museum of Sex in New York opened up in Allapattah last year. Prudes will want to avoid, as this provocative attraction features wild art sexhibits from the likes of Japanese illustrator Hajime Sorayama, educational displays on sexuality throughout the ages, and an entire floor dedicated to erotic carnival games where, on certain evenings, you may encounter mermaid burlesque dancers diving into a giant tank and spinning on poles. Not to be confused with Miami Beach’s World Erotic Art Museum, the Museum of Sex is kind of a tourist trap. But it’s the kind where you might actually learn something. Don’t forget to pick up a souvenir vibrator from the museum shop – it’s the gift that keeps on giving!

You know the familiar refrain from the Joni Mitchell classic, “Big Yellow Taxi”: “They paved paradise and put up a parking lot.” That’s often the case in overdeveloped Miami, but not at Patch of Heaven Sanctuary. Deep south in Miami-Dade County near the Redland, this 20-acre nature preserve is the result of a massive, nearly two-decade rewilding project. Today, it’s home to a Zen garden with a giant Buddha statue, a koi pond, a furnished joglo, and other spaces ideal for silent meditation or forest bathing. The park regularly hosts retreats and public events that will let you unplug from the web and plug into your higher consciousness in the least obnoxious way possible.

Unless you’re capable of staying out until the wee hours, Miami’s intellectual and social scene revolves largely around art. And right now there’s no better place to dive into the art scene and socialize with a future man-date than in Allapattah. The Rubell Museum, Superblue, and a row of art galleries throughout the neighborhood — especially on NW 22nd Street between NW Seventh and NW Tenth avenues — provide plenty of opportunity to hobnob with artists, collectors, and other culturally relevant dudes. The Rubell Museum also offers events for members, and galleries such as KDR and Baker–Hall have even been known to turn their openings into sick parties that make flirting that much easier. Follow galleries for opening days and check the next Progressive Art Brunch to see when the single, be-toted bros are hitting the streets of Allapattah for a dose of culture and maybe you.

There’s just something sexy about Barry’s Bootcamp, and the clientele is no different. Maybe it’s the signature red lighting that highlights all the toned bodies or maybe it’s the adrenaline rush of completing a nearly impossible workout. The half running, half strength-training classes are stomping grounds for some of Miami’s most fit and available women. Word to the wise, though, wait to shoot your shot until after the workout. No one wants to be hit on while trying to break their last personal best on the treadmill. Worst case scenario if it doesn’t go your way? You’ll leave a little bit fitter than when you came in.

What better way to gauge compatibility with a potential mate than to challenge them to an intense game of air hockey? Located in the Pine Lake Shopping Center, Arcade Odyssey is just the place to test your date. If you have nothing to talk about, you can explore more than 200 games at this barcade, including rare and classic consoles that’ll have your inner child drooling with delight. Once you earn “perfects” in Dance Dance Revolution, you can refuel with craft beers or tipsy teas, bubble tea, and Japanese snacks. Owner Rick Medina has been collecting for about 35 years and has created plenty of conversation pieces to propel your date to the next level, from the neon lights to the pop culture decor.

Kids love kids’ museums. It’s a fact. And they really love our very own Miami Children’s Museum, which is up there in quality with the buzziest children’s museums in the country. Since moving from its Bakery Centre location in South Miami to its current spot on Watson Island in 2003, the two-story museum has welcomed more than 5 million guests. It has both popular traveling exhibitions and regular interactive ones that children go wild over. “Take Care With Peanuts: The Exhibit” marked 75 years of Charles Shulz’s gang and was even written up in the New York Times. Let the kids loose and put them to work in the construction zone and vet’s office, and then make them buy you groceries and give you healthcare at the collabs with Publix and Baptist Health. The museum also offers camps, classes, arts and crafts, and sensory-friendly hours for peak inclusivity.

When it comes to camping in South Florida, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is the G.O.A.T. Set in scenic Key Largo, this generationally beloved park has 42 reservable campsites outfitted with full hookups, grills, picnic tables, and enough space to roll in with an RV up to 40 feet long. Prefer sleeping under the stars? There’s a primitive group camp for that, perfect for scout troops or late-night ghost stories. Beyond the tent flap, Pennekamp’s confines offer endless adventure: snorkel tours, glass-bottom boat rides, paddle trails through mangroves and some of the best reef diving in the U.S. Boaters can even dock or moor for the night and call the ocean their doorstep. A laid-back weekend escape or a nature-packed family outing, Pennekamp always has tropical beauty, next-level camping, and it’s all within a 60-mile drive of downtown.

Pompano Beach is known as the Wreck Capital of Florida, precisely because of Shipwreck Park, an underwater art exhibition about a mile from the Fisher Family Pier. It’s an established snorkeling site that continues to grow. In 2016, a 324-foot New York City sludge tanker vessel renamed Lady Luck, was sunk as an artificial reef, surrounded by 16 other wrecks teeming with marine life. In 2023, a 500-pound steel sculpture, Mechan H20, which was on display for a year near the Fisher Family Pier, went to its final resting place on the stern of the Lady Luck. “He” became an Instagram star for all the selfies he appeared in after joining other art pieces on board, including three “card sharks,” an octopus playing pool, a mermaid cocktail waitress, and a treasure chest. Take your own selfie with Mechan H20 and the others underwater for a follower boost. The best way to get to them is to hook up with one of the many local charter and boat tours. Then let the adventure and selfies begin!

Just south of Coral Gables, Matheson Hammock Park is a splendidly chill way to paddle the day away in the blazing Miami sun. Abandon the land and hop on your kayak (either your own or rented from a vendor) and row through Biscayne Bay for a leisurely afternoon. With a simple push, you’re on the cool blue water. Palm trees surround and million-dollar homes dot the bay. The city’s hustle is in the distance, with horns and fear-for-your-living-life driving mere memories. There may be some melancholy when reapproaching land, but you remember that you live in Miami and Matheson Hammock Park will be there tomorrow.

With recently opened sleek, modern climbing gyms around North Miami, it’s easy to think that rock climbing is the new sport in only one part of town. But in the heart of West Kendall, a tried-and-true climbing spot exists. The Edge Rock Gym has been beefing up people’s fingers and forearms for nearly three decades with its inclined walls and roof climbing. Forget about steep initiation fees and finger-breaking monthly membership, the Edge Rock Gym offers reasonable prices on day passes and memberships so you can climb to your heart’s content. There’s a full gym upstairs and new climbing walls to perfect your footwork. Does the Edge Rock Climbing offer saunas and juice bars? No, but neither does El Capitan. Instead, The climbing gym offers a unique community to build friendships and crush plastic rocks.

No field trip to the Everglades was complete without a jaunt down the paved Anhinga Trail. This classic trot starts at Royal Palm Visitor Center and branches off to a walkable wooden boardwalk. The whole trail up and back is less than a mile, but in that mile, you’ll see a dramatic array of wildlife: plenty of turtles, an occasional snake, herons, ibis, egrets, and, of course, the eponymous anhinga, also known as the snakebird. Many other species of fish, birds, and even the rare otter have been spotted. The big draw is the alligators lazily lounging in the sun. The Anhinga Trail has no tree cover, so wear your shades and sunscreen and head out early. The neighboring Gumbo Limbo Trail, however, has an additional half-mile paved trail completely in the shade to keep you exploring all day.

Even though the idea of “getting your steps in” is obnoxious, it’s still an action that’s vital for your health. And, sure, you could saunter around your neighborhood or hop on the treadmill at the gym, but where’s the romance in that? A jaunt along the Miami Beach Boardwalk knocks all other walks out of the running. You’ve got a gorgeous backdrop of waves, sky, and sand, as well as all that Art Deco architecture (while it still stands). There’s a paved sidewalk so you can take it easy on your paws — and top-grade people-watching, too. Take in the salty ocean air and track your progress by the street markers embedded in the path. The boardwalk spans the full length of Miami Beach, from Surfside all the way to South Pointe Park, providing a total of nine miles to hoof it in style.

Every day for the past 50-plus years, Robert “Raven” Kraft has jogged the sands of South Beach. Whether in extreme heat, thunderstorm, or hurricane, he’s out there getting in his steps. At some point, his daily jog became a communal event with people joining him at the Fifth Street Lifeguard Station at 5:30 in the afternoon (5:30 during Daylight Savings) for a combination of camaraderie and physical fitness. The jog swings back and forth between the South Pointe Pier and the Lincoln Road entrance of the beach until Raven completes his five miles. If you want to get credit for a full Raven Run, which earns you a flattering nickname from the legend himself, you’ll have to go overtime and complete a full eight miles. Then on your next Raven Run, you’ll get that nickname called out during roll call in Raven’s distinctive drawl before you set out on another jog that’s the only of its kind on this planet.

Only in Miami can your Sunday sweat session come with ocean views, cold brew, and a full-on wellness vibe — and Coffee & Chill has perfected this formula. The roving wellness crew turns iconic South Florida backdrops like Joia Beach and Strawberry Moon into morning fitness sanctuaries with a fun pop. Think cold plunges, healthy food samplings, coffee from partners like Raccoon Coffee, and more. It’s not just a healthy gathering — it’s a whole aesthetic. The events fuse fitness, community, and curated sounds, pulling in local DJs, mental health components, and, sure, matcha tastings. Whether you’re a Lulu-clad regular or just there for the people-watching and a caffeine fix, Coffee & Chill has become the quintessentially Miami way to sweat, sip and socialize.

Yoga preaches mindfulness and being in the moment. Where else would you rather be reminded that you’re alive right now than on the beach? Every morning and evening, 365 days a year, locals can take in our pristine coastline from a downward dog position, staring through their legs at the sunrise over the Atlantic at Third Street Beach Yoga. Area yogis host one class first thing in the morning at 7 a.m. with a second evening session at 6 p.m. in the summer and 5 p.m. in winter. People of all experience levels are invited to join. Just remember to bring a towel as sand can be a yoga mat’s worst enemy. The class is completely free, though the rotating cast of volunteer teachers will all be eternally grateful if you remember to tip them.

If you want to sweat in Miami, go outside. If you want to sweat in a room that looks like a mix of a Malibu mansion, Tulum spa, and Marie Kondo’s bedroom, go to Fuze House. Surrounded by neutral-colored Bala weights, you can plank to the sweet sounds of a Bad Bunny/Adele mashup with group classes tailored to all levels. Founder Eli Kaylin pulled a reverse pandemic move, starting Fuze House in Miami after lockdown and then expanding to New York City. The mat-based Pilates studio mixes Pilates and sculpt to offer low-impact, high-intensity workouts warmed by infrared heat. The chic, spa-like studios are designed with the planet in mind, featuring all-natural and organic products and sustainably sourced water bottles.

There are outdoor basketball courts all over our fair city. And real hoopers all have their favorite spots. Their rationales vary from the quality of the rims and backboards to how much the court is protected from the wind. But one court (or technically two) distinctly stands out from the rest. The recently renovated full courts at Legion Memorial Park reopened this past December with a completely different hue. Designed by local artist Najja Moon, they’re splayed in a wide palette of technicolor that make them selfie magnets even for those who can’t maintain a dribble. In a sea of courts that are all green, blue, or gray, the purples, oranges, and yellows of Legion add color and visual variety to an afternoon pick-up game.

Game, set, match — Crandon Park Tennis Center is still the crown jewel of South Florida courts. Once the stomping ground of the Miami Open, this Key Biscayne classic blends Grand Slam energy with everyday accessibility. The 27 courts (21 Laykold hard and six Har-Tru clay) include 13 lighted beauties for under-the-lights action and a stadium court that still echoes with the grunts of Federer and Serena. From casual rally-seekers to tournament grinders, there’s a space — and pace — for everyone. Lessons? Check. Reservations? Easy. Wheelchair accessible? Absolutely. With a pro shop that strings rackets in a flash and stocks the goods and a clubhouse that hosts team socials and trophy toasts, Crandon serves up more than just tennis. Add in Crandon Beach and a top-ranked public golf course next door, and you’ve got a full-on recreation paradise.

Pickleball has officially gone pro in Fort Lauderdale — and the Fort is the crown jewel of the craze. Opened in late 2024, this 10-acre, game-changing complex is home to the APP (that’s the Association of Pickleball Players, for the uninitiated) and feels equally as much as a pickleball-driven social club as a world-class, still-growing sports facility. Players come for the 43 pristine courts now. But, as the complex is set to grow, they’ll stay for lakeside cocktails, scratch-made bites, and an après-match scene that promises to rival any SoBe rooftop. Whether you’re leveling up in skill-rated play or just flirting between dinks, there’s a vibe for every type of pickler. With open play, private rentals, corporate events and tournaments that draw serious heat, the Fort has truly cemented South Florida as the pickleball capital.

It’s probably not the edgiest place to shred, but Doral Central Park’s all-new skatepark is certainly impressive enough to merit a spot on this list. If you’re passing by after school, you’ll see teens hanging out and professional skater-types grinding on the rails. It’s truly the stuff out of a Disney Channel original movie. What makes the skatepark even more impressive (besides its many mini-ramps and brand-newness) is where it’s situated. Doral’s Central Park, a multi-million-dollar project spanning 78 acres, opened last year with kayaking, beach volleyball, and an outdoor amphitheater with more to come this year.

Wynwood Skate has single-handedly made roller-skating cool again in the 305. Launched by event planning start-up Bucket Listers this past September, this outdoor roller rink is perfect for the Gen Z-fluencers looking to show Miami off for plenty of engagement. It’s open from Thursday to Sunday every week, and it’s affordable at $16.60 per person with 50 percent off on themed skate days. There’s usually a DJ bumping old-school hip-hop and Bad Bunny to get skaters flying over colorful tiles. And for those who like to live on the edge, there’s a bar for bevs. Our only word of advice is: please don’t forget your socks. Like, seriously.

Leave it to Miami to turn what was once concrete purgatory into the city’s buzziest outdoor playground. The Underline — a 10-mile linear park snaking beneath the Metrorail — is the future of urban recreation, and it’s already redefining what it means to play, sweat, stroll, and vibe in the Magic City. The Brickell Backyard section is live with basketball courts, bike paths, fitness zones, art installations, and enough shaded hangouts to cool off mid-run or mid-stroll. Newer sections like the Hammock Trail stretch north with native landscaping, hydration stations, and an eco-conscious glow-up that feels like Wynwood meets the Everglades. Expect more gardens, stages, and gathering spots as the project rolls toward full completion in 2026. But here in 2025? It’s already the best.

When the rain starts pouring, you could stay inside and retreat into your various screens. Or you could head across the county line to this unique, interactive museum in Dania Beach to engage in the digital world in a whole new way. Mad Arts specializes in art installations that are immersive, experimental, and technological. Past shows have included a digital ikebana show, an indoor forest, and shadow puppet dioramas. The museum even screens cult movies and hosts events such as the SPF Small Press Fair. The future is now, and it’s on display at Mad Arts.

While the disbanding of the Miami Sol 23 years ago left a hole in Miami women’s basketball, Unrivaled swooped in this year to fill it. The 3-on-3 league, which played from January to March, featured some of the WNBA’s biggest stars. Players like Breanna Stewart, Napheesa Collier, and Angel Reese brought fans out in droves and sold out every game at Medley’s Wayfair Arena. The league provided an option for players to earn money domestically in the off-season, breaking records by providing the highest annual salaries in professional women’s sports. And Unrivaled already announced a season two here next year.

Miami Hurricanes superstar quarterback Cam Ward was so good this college football season that NFL players were hitting his “Zombieland” touchdown celebration on any given Sunday. After transferring to the University of Miami, he raised his draft stock from a potential fifth-round pick to a Heisman Trophy finalist and first-overall pick in this year’s NFL Draft. Ward lit up Hard Rock Stadium and college football, throwing for 4,313 yards and 39 touchdowns and breaking the single-season record for most passing touchdowns in NCAA history. His record-breaking year and epic playmaking abilities earned him ACC Player of the Year, the Davey O’Brien Award for the nation’s top quarterback, and a consensus first-team All-American. New Times is still bitter that the lackluster Hurricanes defense cost Canes fans and the rest of the country the chance of witnessing Ward’s greatness and the country’s top-rated offense in the College Football Playoff. Dillon Gabriel had no business finishing ahead of Ward in the Heisman ranking.

University of Miami senior Matthew Cleveland is a whirlwind on the basketball court. Leading in points per game, the seasoned shooting guard and small forward truly showcased his versatility this year. With fellow guard Nijel Pack suffering from a foot injury, Cleveland stepped up as a leader and continued to stretch the floor. From his first season in the NCAA, his original 11.5-point average shot up to 17.6 for the 2024-25 season. Notable games for Cleveland were against NC State University and Syracuse, with him scoring 32 points at each. With a nearly doubled three-point shooting average, it’s no wonder why this Hurricane is rumored to be a second-round steal for the 2025 NBA draft, which transpires mere days after this issue goes to press.

When the Panthers needed him most, Sergei Bobrovsky delivered a playoff performance for the ages. That’s what the Florida Panthers had in mind when they signed Bobrovsky in 2019 to a seven-year, $70 million contract. And that’s what he brought them — a Stanley Cup caliber performance that will live in the rafters for decades to come. The veteran goaltender was a wall in the crease for the entire Stanley Cup pursuit, making save after impossible save to keep Florida alive. Bob’s redemption arc — from questioned contract to Conn Smythe contender — was one of the great South Florida sports stories of the decade. You not only love to see it, you live to see it. Bob is South Florida sports royalty. At the very least, we can award him the Best Panthers Player of the Year.

We know what you’re thinking. But trust us — there is a method to our madness. While Leo Messi gets all the Inter Miami love — and rightly so — Luis Suarez immediately became a vital cog to the Inter FC machine upon his arrival in South Florida, wasting no time making himself at home. Teaming up with his old pal Messi, Suarez brought grit, creativity, and veteran savvy that immediately lifted Inter Miami CF. The Uruguayan legend scored 20 goals in 2024, most in big moments, and consistently showed why he’s still one of the most feared forwards in the world. Suarez not only complemented Messi well, he kept him happy and engaged. That may come in handy over the next few months when it’s time for Messi to decide if Miami is where he will end his career.

Every few years, the Dolphins produce a breakout star who electrifies the fanbase, and in 2024, that star was De’Von Achane. Gone are the days when a running back is judged on achieving 1,000 yards. The new meta is versatile, all-purpose backs, such as Achane, who rushed for 900-plus yards in 2024 and more than 500 receiving. Tack on a combined 12 touchdowns, and you have a player that Fins fans aren’t only excited about, but all the fantasy football fans covet. With jaw-dropping speed, elite field vision, and a nose for the end zone, Achane is a player every defense must game-plan for. He’s got the tools, the swag, and the motor to be a franchise face for years to come. And if there’s one thing the Miami Dolphins need, it’s players they can count on to perform. Achane has proven to be just that and more in his first two seasons in the 305.

Along with his teammate Bam Adebayo, Tyler Herro is lovingly referred to as one of the Last Mohicans — part of a dying breed of Heat players left over from multiple yesteryears. The only difference between then and now is that 2025 has been Herro’s time to shine, and it has shown. The sharp-shooting guard continues to prove he’s more than a sixth man — he’s a franchise cornerstone. Whether draining clutch threes or carving up defenses with slick swag-filled drives, Herro has stepped right into the role of the All-Star guard the Miami Heat desperately needed in the wake of Jimmy Butler’s midseason departure. If we’re being honest, this season has felt much like Herro’s rookie season, in which Heat fans fell in love with a fearless 19-year-old kid from Kentucky who plays with confidence, flair, and just the right amount of recklessness. Herro, a first-time All-Star this season, has proven that he is no longer someone to plug into trade rumors — he is the future.

In a season where the Marlins struggled to find consistency, Jesús Sánchez emerged as a bright spot and fan favorite. And we don’t need to tell you that Miami Marlins fans are searching for as many favorites as they can discover. Sánchez is a throwback, bringing raw power at the plate and a cannon of an arm in the outfield. With double-digit home runs in Miami every season since 2021, even in years when he saw 200 to 300 at-bats, Sánchez upped the ante in 2024 with 18 dingers and 64 RBIs in under 500 at-bats — not too shabby for a player that is still in his mid-20s and finally getting more looks at the plate. Sometimes, Sánchez can remind Marlins fans of a prime Gary Sheffield, even when the scoreboard doesn’t meet Sheffield-era expectations. Beyond the stats, Sánchez’s energy resonates most with the team, a trait sorely needed in seasons that can look bleak with miles to go. He plays with joy, hustle, and a positivity that fans can’t help but root for. While the Fish may still be figuring out their future, Sánchez gives hope that the next generation of Marlins stars is already here.

When you win a championship, you win the Miami New Times Coach of the Year. That’s just science. Paul Maurice took the Florida Panthers from playoff hopefuls to Stanley Cup champions in just a couple of years. His steady — if even, at times unconventional — leadership and calm confidence were precisely what the Panthers needed to break through and bring a title to Sunrise. Beloved by players and fans alike, Maurice managed to get the best out of his team when it mattered most, guiding them through the chaos of must-win playoff games on the way to the Panthers’ 2024 Stanley Cup win over the Edmonton Oilers, even after nearly blowing a 3-1 series lead. His poise and purpose were enough to keep the boat steady in choppy waters. South Florida may not be a traditional hockey town, but it’s now a champion one thanks to Maurice. And you know the entire NHL is big mad about it.

A decade ago, few could have imagined the Florida Panthers as a Stanley Cup champion. But under Vincent J. Viola’s leadership, that dream became reality in 2024. And when you win a championship in South Florida, you get all the accolades. Specifically, if you’re an owner who can turn an ice hockey team in steamy South Florida, of all places, into the model the rest of the NHL is currently working to emulate. Viola’s commitment to building a sustainable, respected organization, from smart front-office hires like bringing in General Manager Bill Zito and Head Coach Paul Maurice, to ensuring the team has the funds to trade and, eventually, pay for players like Matthew Tkachuk and Sam Bennett, has turned the Panthers into the pride of South Florida. He’s not a loud owner — and you probably couldn’t spot him in a CVS picking up his medication — but he’s an effective one, proving that vision and patience can win in professional sports. Viola brought a Cup to Sunrise, and from the looks of things, under his leadership, it will become an annual tradition rooting on the Panthers to secure the title each season.

What started as a slow uptick in women’s sports this year turned into a full-on glow-up. Fort Lauderdale United kicked off its inaugural season, becoming the first pro women’s soccer team in the area. Unrivaled, which already signed on for a second season in Miami, also launched a historic first season featuring some of the WNBA’s biggest stars. Local athletes like UM’s Cavinder twins, water polo phenom Ashleigh Johnson, and hometown tennis hero Coco Gauff have been making their marks both on and off their respective sporting areas. With investors and media outlets finally catching on, we anticipate this glow-up is far from complete.

Can we make this a lifetime achievement award already? Barry Jackson, who’s been covering South Florida sports for nearly four decades, deserves all the accolades, some of which have yet to be invented. When Barry Jackson reports something, you listen. And, most importantly, you take it to the bank because he does it the old way — be right, not first. With decades of experience covering the local teams for the Miami Herald, Jackson remains the gold standard of local reporting. From behind-the-scenes Heat updates to detailed Dolphins coverage, his scoops are legendary, and his credibility is unmatched. Chances are, if you see a player in a picture or video giving an interview, Jackson is either the person off-camera asking the question or in the picture patiently waiting to get something off his chest. He’s everywhere, all the time, all at once. Jackson doesn’t just break news; he builds trust. Barry Jackson is essential reading for fans who crave a throwback to the way media used to be. And Miami can’t begin to understand how lucky we’ve been to have his eyes and ears on its local teams since the ’90s.

Nobody embodies #HEATCulture quite like Jason Jackson. Whether he’s calling games, hosting postgame interviews, or dropping one-liners that go viral among fans, “Jax” is the voice — and face — of Miami Heat basketball. After a long stint as the team’s on-the-court familiar face as a sideline reporter, Jax has since moved to the radio booth where his voice has become the warm hug Heat fans have become accustomed to as they drive home from work or head to the game. His deep knowledge of the game — and the Heat organization — is only matched by his charisma, warmth, and genuine love for the city and team he represents. Jackson has made it his career goal to narrate the story of a franchise with passion and pride. There’s a reason Heat Nation sees him as family, regardless of whether he’s on their television or their radio.

In just a few short years, Giselle Espinales has made a mark in South Florida’s sports media landscape. Since joining NBC 6 in March 2021, Giselle has quickly become an energetic and, more importantly, trusted reporter that viewers trust to capture the essence of every sports moment. Whether she’s reporting from the studio or right where the action unfolds, Espinales has quickly become a familiar voice — one that doesn’t just sound like she supports the local teams, but, as longtime followers know, genuinely does. A proud Miami native, Giselle’s journey from Miami Springs Senior High to the University of Miami and, eventually, NBC, is the model example for younger journalism students of what dedication to climbing the local ranks the traditional way — with hard work and patience — can produce. Espinales, who has openly shared that the Marlins winning the World Series in 2003 and Dwyane Wade getting drafted to the Miami Heat the same year inspired her interest in sports journalism, is simply the best.

Miami may be a sticky, hot oven every summer, but even so, the Miami Beach Classical Music Festival (MMF) makes those steamy days and nights a time to hunker down and start hydrating. MMF transforms the city into a vibrant stage for more than 70 performances, including concerts, full opera productions, Zarzuela, musical theater and more. Set against the backdrop of iconic venues like the Faena Forum and Lummus Park, you get to explore the city in ways you maybe haven’t before. The festival offers immersive experiences that blend classical masterpieces with cutting-edge technology, and you can revel in the talents of some of the world’s most gifted young classical musicians. Around 200 are chosen each year from a pool of 1,500 applicants from 25 countries to perform. This year, the cultural deluge begins July 4 and runs through August 3.

Driving in South Florida can feel like you’re in a video game; on some days it’s like Mario Kart and others Grand Theft Auto. The latter is how you drive down the mile of I-95 between I-595 and State Road 84. In 2022, it was named the deadliest mile in the U.S. by the Seattle personal injury law firm Elk and Elk and the data analysis agency 1Point21. To make this decision, they scoured 20 years of data on highway accidents and found that, nationwide, this dangerous section of I-95 is about 50 times more deadly than any other highway mile. There were 24 highway-related deaths there from 2000 to 2019. Factors such as constant construction rerouting, impaired driving, speeding, and the sharp right-angle turn onto Marina Boulevard played a major role in the volume of crashes. The mile’s proximity to the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport invites a slew of drivers from all over the world — most of whom have little to no experience with the lawless attitudes of Miami drivers or navigating South Florida’s network of senseless highways.

From the Coppertone Girl to the Seven Seas Motel, MiMo is the most iconic Miami mile. MiMo is “Miami Modern,” the Magic City’s tropical interpretation of postwar international architectural style. The MiMo Biscayne Boulevard Historic District, which runs along Biscayne Boulevard a few miles north of downtown, has well-preserved and newly renovated examples of this style. In the past decade or so, hoteliers, restaurateurs, and other small business owners breathed new life into this strip with spots that celebrate local flair, with Blue Collar and the Vagabond Hotel leading the way. At night, the many midcentury hotels and retro restaurants are lit with the beautiful glow of neon signs, creating an atmosphere that is uniquely Miami.