Sports and recreation

Set your sights for an adventure in the South Florida wilderness. Perhaps you’ll navigate a shady path through a lush forest. Or perch yourself on a riverbank where herons are wading in the water and turtles are poking their heads out. Tune in to the visual displays, scents and sounds of the outdoor environment. Some …

The South Florida Amateur Astronomy Association offers telescopes at Fox Observatory in Sunrise for peering into the night sky. Fox Observatory is in Markham Park, 16001 W. State Road 84, Sunrise 33326.  The facility is usually open Saturdays from about dusk until about 11 p.m, weather permitting, and representatives of South Florida Amateur Astronomers Association …

Topeekeegee-Yugnee Park in Hollywood – or TY Park, as it’s known – is popular for a variety of outdoor activities. South Floridians love it because it’s a great venue for walking, running or skating on a shady path around a lake lined with oaks. It’s a venue for occasional festivals and live  entertainment. T.Y. Park …

The Tropical Audubon Society organizes a free bird-friendly gardening day the third Saturday of every month. Join other volunteers to help keep the organization’s bird-friendly demonstration garden and near-native Steinberg Nature Center grounds in good shape. WHEN: Third Saturday of every month, 9 a.m.-noon through June, 8:30 to 11 a.m. in July and August. WHERE: …

Have you ever fed a shark or a stingray? Wouldn’t it be great if there were a place you could take the kids that would be educational and fun for an entire afternoon for only $10? Well, there is. Sandoway Discovery Center in Delray Beach offers the following activities all for the cost of admission: …

Whether it’s an emphasis on romance, hanging out with friends, family and your pet, or treating yourself, Valentine’s Day is a perfect occasion to do something special. South Florida offers plenty of things to do, including lots of free live performances and art events.  Some of the Valentine events and date ideas are offered before …

Manatee Lagoon counted 230 manatees on a chilly morning recently – the highest number in the site’s history. Sightings are expected to remain strong leading into ManateeFest on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, celebrating Manatee Lagoon’s 10-year anniversary with a free, family-friendly event honoring Florida’s iconic manatees and local waterways. Those unable to visit in person …

Enhance a walk in the park with a story along the way. Waters Edge Park in Tamarac features a story trail. Story trails, also referred to as story walks, are outdoor exhibits featuring pages from a storybook displayed along a path. It’s a free activity for families with kids — and a great way to …

For an interesting twist on nightlife activities, register for evening nature walks at Broward parks.  Some parks occasionally offer night hikes in forests, prairies, on shorelines and other intriguing outdoor spaces. On the tour, you’ll savor distinctive nocturnal sights, scents and sounds of evenings in the wild. It’s a nice idea for a romantic date, …

Fix flat tires, adjust brakes and do other simple repairs on your bike at DIY repair stations at 7 parks in Weston. The fixit bike repair stations, which are free to access, include an air pump, select tools and a place to suspend the bike so the wheels spin freely. A QR label leads smart phone …

If you’re looking to soak  in the outdoors in South Florida, Fern Forest in north Broward is a lush oasis for nature walks and occasional free astronomy programs with telescopes. Delight in the scenic setting on your own or register for a guided hike. Most events are free or relatively inexpensive. Entry into the natural …