Historic Redland Tropical Trail

If you’re seeking history, natural beauty, culinary treasures and wild adventures, you’ll find it all on the Historic Redland Tropical Trail in South Dade, tucked between the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S. and the marine sanctuary of Biscayne National Park.

Spend an entire day hopping among the various unique attractions, or create a bucket list of things to do along the trail over time. Many of these spots are also family-owned, so you know you’re experiencing a truly authentic slice of Miami.

Cauley Square Historic Village

If you want to catch a glimpse of what Florida used to look and feel like, spend a day wandering the 10-acre Cauley Square Historic Village, which dates back to 1903, when it was a railroad village. Meander down landscaped paths dotted with fountains and flowering gardens to explore 19 historic cottages. The buildings are home to everything from antiques and collectibles to art galleries, restaurants and wellness spas.

A popular stop is The Tea Room, a Victorian tea house fit for afternoon high tea, brunch or sampling delicious desserts. Another must-visit is Therapia by Aroma, which resembles an apothecary you’d find in France and features natural fragrances and skincare. Looking for a unique experience? Go for an invigorating stint in a salt cave at Angels Universe 8.

Coral Castle

Immerse yourself in a tale of mystery, romance and a bit of archaeology at Coral Castle in Homestead, a fascinating structure fashioned out of more than 1,000 tons of coral rock. Part of the intrigue is that it was built by one man, Edward Leedskalnin, who secretly carved the sculpture garden between 1923 and 1951, a time when modern construction tools didn’t exist. It’s said that Leedskalnin moved to the area after his fiancée left him the day before their wedding, and the Coral Castle was a monument to his lost love.

There are tours with a professional guide that run throughout the day, with highlights including a nine-ton gate that moves with a touch of a finger and rocking chairs made of stone. Perhaps most amazing is a stone pillar with a hole and crosshairs that, when viewed from a hole carved in nearby rock, lines up perfectly with the North Star, also known as Polaris. Ponder how he did it all over a bite at the cafe.

Everglades Alligator Farm

There are many fun things to do in Miami that showcase its wild side, but Everglades Alligator Farm is a top-tier adventure. Hop on an airboat ride through the River of Grass to witness alligators and birds in their natural habitat. When you’re done, tour Miami’s oldest alligator farm, which is home to more than 2,000 alligators.

Catch an alligator show, where you’ll learn about how Native Americans once captured these fascinating reptiles with their bare hands. For something just as heart-pumping, watch the hungry gators as they feed. Visitors can even hold a baby alligator for a perfect photo op at the end of the show. Or try the cute new capybara experience.

Robert Is Here Fruit Stand And Farm

Locals make a bee-line for Robert Is Here Fruit Stand and Farm any time they’re in the countryside of Homestead. This beloved business started as a small fruit stand in 1959, when Robert Moehling was just 6 years old. Today, the flourishing farm sells exotic fruits and veggies and invites families with petting zoo, artisan vendors, food trucks and picnic tables.

Members of the community frequent the farm for its delectable milkshakes, fruit smoothies and sugarcane drinks. You can’t go wrong with the strawberry milkshake, or choose something tropical, like tamarind or papaya flavors. You can also pick up organic eggs, artisanal jams, honey, hot sauces and more.

Schnebly Redland’s Winery

Sipping wine and beer in a tropical setting? We’re in. On the eastern edge of the Everglades, a couple of miles from the nearest highways, you’ll find the lushly landscaped Schnebly Redland’s Winery, known for its exotic fruit wines. Stop by for a tasting that includes sparkling, dessert and table wines. On the weekends, take a guided tour of the sprawling property, which is filled with waterfalls and palm-frond-thatched chickee huts.

Enjoy a locally sourced meal under the grand tiki, which overlooks the natural coral waterfalls. Live music and other activities like a cowboy-core country night are frequently on tap. Speaking of on tap, you’ll find the Miami Brewing Co. on the property, where you’ll have a chance to sample its many beers and ciders.

Monkey Jungle

For a unique animal encounter, head to Monkey Jungle, where you can watch the daily antics and habits of wild monkeys unfold. Established in 1935 in a natural subtropical forest, it’s an eco-park where hundreds of monkeys run free on the 30-acre preserve.

There are three shows repeated throughout the day, where you can watch the team feed the tortoises and spy on monkeys wading or diving into pools of water. Call ahead to make a reservation for the Guided Rainforest Adventure Tour, where you’ll have the chance to get up close and personal with the monkeys.

RF Orchids

Orchid lovers will be in awe of the exquisite flowers at RF Orchids, located in Homestead. The family-owned nursery and lush tropical garden is filled with a dazzling selection of rare and colorful orchids. Visitors are welcome to see a diverse array of exotic species from all over the world, along with new hybrids and fine mericlones.

The nursery has won nearly 2,000 awards from the American Orchid Society over the last 50 years, as well as other accolades for its orchids. Walk past flowing waterfalls, koi ponds and picturesque arbors to see imported art works.