15 Best Things to Do in Miramar (Florida)

Welcome to Miramar, Florida – a vibrant gem nestled in the heart of Broward County, offering an incredible blend of urban convenience and lush natural beauty! Often overshadowed by its flashier coastal neighbors, Miramar holds its own as a fantastic destination, brimming with diverse activities that cater to every type of traveler. Imagine waking up to the Florida sunshine, then choosing between a thrilling airboat ride through the Everglades, a relaxing round of golf, or an adrenaline-pumping indoor karting session. This city is a gateway to South Florida’s best, providing easy access to pristine parks, world-class entertainment venues, and unique cultural experiences, all while maintaining a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere. What makes Miramar truly special is its ability to surprise and delight, revealing hidden adventures around every corner.

You will discover a destination where family fun, outdoor exploration, and exciting entertainment seamlessly intertwine. To make the most of your visit, plan your trip between October and May. This period offers cooler, drier weather, perfect for outdoor activities, and avoids the peak humidity and hurricane season of summer. Get ready to dive into the ultimate Miramar adventure!

Flamingo Lakes Golf Course

Prepare to tee off at Flamingo Lakes Golf Course, a beloved local spot that offers a fantastic golfing experience for players of all skill levels. This 18-hole championship course is meticulously maintained, featuring lush fairways, strategic water hazards, and challenging greens that will test your precision and short game. What makes Flamingo Lakes unique is its serene setting, surrounded by native Florida flora and fauna, providing a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle. You can expect a well-paced game, often spotting local wildlife like herons and egrets along the course.

Beyond the greens, the course boasts a well-stocked pro shop and a friendly clubhouse where you can grab a bite or a refreshing drink after your round. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely morning game or an afternoon challenge with friends. Golfers will appreciate the course’s design, which offers a fair challenge without being overly punishing, making it enjoyable for both seasoned pros and those just starting out. The best time to visit is during the cooler morning hours to avoid the intense Florida heat, especially from late fall through spring.

Monster Mini Golf

Step into a world of glowing fun at Monster Mini Golf, an indoor, monster-themed, glow-in-the-dark miniature golf course that promises a uniquely entertaining experience for all ages. This isn’t your average putt-putt; the entire course is illuminated by black lights, making the vibrant monster murals, animated props, and glow-in-the-dark obstacles come alive. Each hole presents a new, whimsical challenge, often accompanied by spooky yet playful sound effects and music that enhance the immersive atmosphere.

Beyond the 18 holes of mini golf, Monster Mini Golf also features an exciting arcade packed with classic and modern games, a laser maze, and even a gift shop where you can grab monster-themed souvenirs. It’s the perfect destination for a rainy day, a birthday party, or just a spontaneous outing with family and friends. You’ll find yourself laughing, competing, and marveling at the creative designs. The lively environment and friendly staff ensure a memorable visit, making it a highly recommended stop for anyone looking for lighthearted fun.

C.B. Smith Park

C.B. Smith Park is a sprawling recreational paradise that truly offers something for everyone, making it a cornerstone of outdoor fun in Miramar. This massive Broward County park boasts an incredible array of amenities, including a fantastic water park known as Paradise Cove, complete with waterslides, a lazy river, and a children’s play area – perfect for cooling off on a hot Florida day. Beyond the aquatic thrills, you’ll find vast open spaces for picnics, multiple playgrounds, a challenging disc golf course, and paved paths ideal for walking, jogging, or biking.

The park also features a well-stocked fishing pier, batting cages, and even a popular concert venue. What makes C.B. Smith Park so special is its sheer versatility; you can spend an entire day here without running out of things to do. Families will particularly love the safe and varied activities, while individuals can enjoy a peaceful stroll or an active workout. Its lush landscapes and diverse offerings create an inviting atmosphere for relaxation and adventure.

Big Cypress National Preserve

While not directly in Miramar, Big Cypress National Preserve is an essential day trip for anyone wanting to truly experience Florida’s wild heart. This vast, protected area, bordering Everglades National Park, offers a more rugged and immersive encounter with the unique Everglades ecosystem. You will discover a diverse landscape of cypress swamps, pine forests, and prairies, teeming with incredible wildlife, including alligators, panthers, black bears, and a myriad of bird species.

What makes Big Cypress special is its emphasis on preservation and its less-developed nature compared to some parts of the Everglades. You can explore scenic drives like Loop Road, embark on ranger-led swamp walks (seasonal), or take a thrilling airboat tour to glide over the sawgrass. It’s a photographer’s dream and a nature lover’s paradise, offering a profound sense of wilderness. This preserve provides an authentic glimpse into what makes South Florida’s natural environment so globally significant, fostering a deep appreciation for its delicate balance.

Young Art Museum

The Young At Art Museum, located just a short drive from Miramar in Davie, is a vibrant and imaginative space dedicated to fostering creativity and learning through art, primarily aimed at children and families. This isn’t a traditional quiet museum; it’s an interactive wonderland where kids are encouraged to touch, create, and explore. What makes Young At Art unique is its hands-on approach, with numerous themed galleries that invite visitors to engage directly with art concepts.

You can expect to see children building sculptures, painting murals, experimenting with digital art, and even performing on a small stage. The exhibits are designed to spark curiosity and encourage self-expression, making art accessible and fun for young minds. It’s a dynamic environment that champions the idea that everyone is an artist. Parents will appreciate the thoughtfully designed spaces that promote both individual discovery and collaborative play, making it a perfect indoor retreat for a family day out.

Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an iconic natural wonder and an absolute must-visit when you’re in the Miramar area. As one of the largest wetlands in the world, it’s a critical ecosystem supporting an incredible diversity of life, most famously its alligators and various bird species. What makes the Everglades truly special is its unique “River of Grass” landscape, a slow-moving sheet of water that creates a mosaic of habitats.

You can explore the park via scenic drives, walk along boardwalk trails like Anhinga Trail (famous for alligator sightings), or embark on an exhilarating airboat tour that glides over the sawgrass marshes. Ranger-led programs offer deeper insights into the park’s ecology and history. It’s an unparalleled opportunity to connect with raw nature, witness incredible wildlife in their natural habitat, and learn about the delicate balance of this vital wetland. This immersive experience will leave you with a profound appreciation for Florida’s wild side.

K1 Speed

For an adrenaline rush that will get your heart pumping, head to K1 Speed, an indoor electric go-kart racing facility that offers a high-octane experience unlike any other. What makes K1 Speed truly stand out is their fleet of all-electric karts, which deliver instant torque and impressive speeds, providing a consistently thrilling and emission-free race. You can expect to race against friends, family, or other patrons on a professionally designed track, navigating challenging turns and straightaways.

The experience begins with a safety briefing, followed by donning a helmet and getting strapped into your powerful kart. Each race is timed, and your results are displayed on large screens, adding a competitive edge as you strive for the fastest lap. It’s an exhilarating activity perfect for thrill-seekers, competitive groups, or anyone looking for a unique and fast-paced adventure, regardless of the weather outside. K1 Speed offers a fantastic way to unleash your inner racer in a safe and controlled environment.

Oleta River State Park

Oleta River State Park, Florida’s largest urban park, offers a stunning natural escape just a stone’s throw from Miramar’s urban sprawl. Tucked away on the Intracoastal Waterway, this park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly known for its extensive network of off-road bicycling trails that cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced mountain bikers. What makes Oleta River truly special is its diverse landscape, featuring mangrove forests, a beautiful calm-water paddling area, and a lovely sandy beach on Biscayne Bay.

You can rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the winding Oleta River, spotting manatees and various bird species, or simply relax on the beach. Fishing is also popular, and there are cabins available for overnight stays. It’s a perfect spot for those seeking active recreation in a serene, natural setting, providing a refreshing contrast to the bustling city life. Whether you’re pedaling through trails or paddling through mangroves, Oleta offers a fantastic dose of Florida’s natural beauty.

Hard Rock Stadium

Hard Rock Stadium is more than just a sports venue; it’s an entertainment powerhouse and an iconic landmark in South Florida, home to the NFL’s Miami Dolphins and the Miami Hurricanes college football team. What makes this stadium special is its state-of-the-art facilities and its ability to host a wide array of world-class events, from Super Bowls and international soccer matches to the Miami Open tennis tournament and major concerts by global superstars. You can expect an electrifying atmosphere during game days, with passionate fans and exciting action on the field.

Beyond events, the stadium often offers tours that allow you to explore behind-the-scenes, giving you a glimpse into the locker rooms, press box, and even the field itself. It’s a must-visit for sports enthusiasts and concert-goers, providing an unforgettable experience whether you’re cheering on your favorite team or singing along to a live performance. The sheer scale and modern design of the stadium are impressive in themselves.

Everglades Holiday Park

Everglades Holiday Park offers an authentic and thrilling way to experience the legendary Florida Everglades, making it a perfect day trip from Miramar. What makes this park truly special is its combination of exciting airboat tours and the unique “Gator Boys Alligator Rescue” show, made famous by the TV series. You will embark on a high-speed airboat ride that glides effortlessly over the shallow waters of the Everglades, taking you deep into the “River of Grass” where you’ll have incredible opportunities to spot alligators, wading birds, and other native wildlife in their natural habitat.

After your tour, the live alligator show provides an educational and entertaining look at these fascinating reptiles, often featuring the famous “Gator Boys” themselves. It’s an immersive adventure that combines education with entertainment, appealing to families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone eager to witness the raw beauty of the Everglades up close. The guides are knowledgeable, passionate, and dedicated to providing a memorable and safe experience.

Extreme Rage Paintball Park

For an action-packed day filled with strategy and excitement, Extreme Rage Paintball Park is the ultimate destination. This premier outdoor paintball facility offers multiple themed fields, each designed to provide a unique tactical challenge, from urban combat zones to dense jungle environments. What makes Extreme Rage special is its commitment to providing a safe yet exhilarating experience for players of all skill levels, from first-timers to seasoned pros.

You can expect to gear up with rental equipment, receive a safety briefing, and then dive into thrilling games of capture the flag, team elimination, and more. The diverse fields ensure that every game feels fresh and engaging, pushing you to strategize with your teammates and outmaneuver your opponents. It’s an ideal activity for groups of friends, corporate team-building events, or families looking for a high-energy adventure that fosters teamwork and friendly competition. Be prepared to get a little messy and have a lot of fun!

Flamingo Gardens

Flamingo Gardens is a captivating botanical garden and Everglades wildlife sanctuary that offers a beautiful and educational experience for all ages, just a short drive from Miramar. What makes Flamingo Gardens truly special is its dual focus: stunning botanical collections and dedicated wildlife rescue and rehabilitation. You will wander through lush tropical gardens, admiring diverse plant species, including towering champion trees, while also encountering a wide array of Florida’s native wildlife, many of which are rescued and non-releasable.

Expect to see majestic flamingos, alligators, panthers, bears, and a variety of birds in spacious habitats. A tram tour provides a relaxing way to see the highlights, and daily animal encounters and presentations offer insights into the fascinating creatures. It’s a peaceful yet engaging destination where you can connect with nature, learn about conservation, and witness the beauty of Florida’s natural heritage. The historic Wray Home, the oldest residence in Broward County, also offers a glimpse into the region’s past.

Amelia Earhart Park

Amelia Earhart Park, located in Hialeah just north of Miramar, is a sprawling urban oasis that offers an astonishing variety of recreational activities spread across hundreds of acres. What makes this park truly unique is its diverse offerings, from a charming petting zoo and pony rides to a challenging disc golf course and even a cable wakeboarding facility.

You can expect to find vast open spaces perfect for picnics and family gatherings, multiple playgrounds for children, and scenic paths for walking, jogging, or cycling around the park’s five lakes. The park is also home to the Miami Watersports Complex, where you can try wakeboarding, waterskiing, or kneeboarding on a cable system – no boat needed! It’s an ideal destination for active families and individuals looking to enjoy the outdoors, offering everything from serene nature walks to exhilarating water sports. The wide range of activities ensures that every visit can be a new adventure, making it a beloved local favorite.

Pembroke Pines YMCA

The Pembroke Pines YMCA, while primarily a community fitness center, offers a fantastic array of facilities and programs that can be a valuable resource for visitors to Miramar, especially families. What makes this YMCA appealing to travelers is its extensive range of amenities, including a large indoor swimming pool, a well-equipped fitness center, basketball courts, and various group exercise classes. You can expect a welcoming and family-friendly environment where you can maintain your fitness routine, enjoy a refreshing swim, or even participate in a drop-in class.

It’s an excellent option for those looking for a healthy break from sightseeing, a place for kids to burn off some energy in a safe environment, or simply a convenient spot for a workout. The YMCA often offers day passes, making it accessible for short-term visitors. It embodies a community spirit and provides modern, clean facilities for health and wellness.

Bar-B-Ranch

Bar-B-Ranch offers a unique equestrian experience, allowing you to explore Florida’s natural beauty from a different perspective – on horseback. Located just a short drive from Miramar, this family-owned ranch provides guided trail rides through scenic landscapes, making it an ideal activity for both experienced riders and complete beginners. What makes Bar-B-Ranch special is its emphasis on creating a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all, with well-trained horses and friendly, knowledgeable guides who ensure your safety and provide interesting insights into the local environment.

You can expect a peaceful and picturesque journey through wooded trails, often spotting local wildlife and enjoying the tranquility of nature. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with these magnificent animals and immerse yourself in the serene Florida countryside. Whether you’re looking for a romantic outing, a memorable family activity, or a solo adventure, horseback riding at Bar-B-Ranch offers a refreshing escape from the usual.

Plan Your Visit

Miramar, Florida, truly is a destination that defies expectations, offering a vibrant tapestry of experiences that cater to every taste and interest. From the thrilling outdoor adventures of Everglades National Park and Oleta River State Park to the engaging family fun at Monster Mini Golf and the Young At Art Museum, you will discover that this city serves as an ideal base for exploring South Florida’s hidden gems and iconic attractions. Whether you’re seeking the tranquility of a golf course, the adrenaline of go-karting, or the unique charm of a horseback ride, Miramar delivers.

Its strategic location provides easy access to a diverse array of activities, ensuring that your itinerary is as packed or as relaxed as you desire. So, pack your bags, prepare for adventure, and dive into the boundless possibilities that await you in Miramar. With careful planning and our comprehensive cost guide, you can craft an unforgettable South Florida journey that fits your budget and leaves you inspired to return again and again!