Unique Eco-Adventures in Miami

Admire the beautiful south Florida coastline as you fly into Miami International Airport. Notice how the city runs right up to the shore, and marvel at the beauty of Biscayne Bay. Before you leave the airport, check out at least one of the several art galleries on site. Miami has a vibrant art scene, and the city is proud to show off work from its local artists.

After checking into your hotel, be sure to check out the local cuisine. Miami has some of the best Cuban food in the U.S., and is a go-to destination if you’re in the mood for Peruvian food, especially ceviche.

Shortly after sunrise, head west to see the wonder of the Everglades. Enter through the north entrance, and explore the numerous biking and hiking trails. Make time to pause for pictures. Experience the serenity of the largest tropical wilderness in the United States, and keep an eye out for the wildlife.

Later in the day, help preserve this unique ecosystem by rooting out invasive plant species. There are over 130 species of plants classified as invasive, and they disrupt the delicate balance at Everglades National Park.

The largest marine park in the United States National Park System is Biscayne National Park. Experience its beauty with a glass-bottom boat tour. Take note of the coral reef systems and the abundant, colorful wildlife that depend on the reef. 

Biscayne Bay is one of the few places in the world that is home to all seven species of seagrass. The development of Miami and pollution have taken their toll on this area though, and studies show that Biscayne Bay has lost around 80 percent of its formerly abundant seagrass meadows over the last decade. Consider a donation to help restore the seagrass meadows or volunteer with a local grou

Wynwood Walls is the focal point of Miami’s vibrant art scene. Explore the sprawling park and all of its exhibits. Most of the artists featured here are local, but other artists from around the world have contributed pieces to make this place really stand out.

The Wynwood neighborhood has been revitalized by the art district. This area used to have one of the highest poverty rates in Miami, but tourism as a result of the burgeoning art scene has helped this area grow economically.

Miami is world-renowned for its incredible beaches, so spend today soaking in the atmosphere. Walk up and down the shore and gaze at the ocean. Experience the warmth of Miami’s waters, and spend some time in South Beach. Take some time out of the water to wander through South Beach’s streets to see its historic Art Deco architecture.

Wake up early in the morning to start your long drive down the Florida Keys. Don’t sleep through the drive or else you’ll miss some of the most spectacular views you’ll experience on this trip. Take a little bit of time to enjoy Key West before boarding a seaplane to see the Dry Tortugas.

The Dry Tortugas islands are the westernmost islands of the Florida Keys. During your descent, you will see crystal clear water and the massive, but unfinished, Fort Jefferson. Take a tour of the fort to discover its history before diving in the water. 

You’ll be enchanted by the diversity of what you can explore just off the coast of the island. Take pictures of the coral reefs that are scattered along the seabed, and see what remains of the Avanti after it sank here more than a century ago. 

After seeing all there is to see at Dry Tortugas, head back to Key West and take in its unique nightlife.

Before heading to Miami, enjoy a gorgeous sunrise in Key West. Eat breakfast in one of the popular local establishments, and then start driving up US1 to Miami. Stop at either Marathon or Islamorada to experience life in the Florida Keys one last time before making your way to the airport for your flight home.