Broward parks

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 …

If you’re thinking about going out for dinner, perhaps you’ll venture to a park.  Food truck fare is featured at Volunteer Park in Plantation. Food trucks are at the park 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesdays, and usually include live entertainment or a DJ, activities and local artisan vendors if you’d like to do some …

Welleby Park in Sunrise is sporting fun features. For kids, amenities include a nature-theme splash pad for wet fun, a playground with a rubberized safety surface, and a Safety Town play area.  For a stroll, a boardwalk runs along a lake. Dogs are welcome to nose around Pawgrass Dog Park. Welleby Park, 954-747-4600, is at …

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, …

For frugal entertainment, Weston offers occasional outdoor movies that are free for kids and adults.  Outdoor films in Weston Regional Park in 2025 include: 7:30 p.m. January 11 “Inside Out 2” 7:30 p.m. February 7 “IF” 8 p.m. March 7 “The Marvels” 8 p.m. April 5 Weather occasionally postpones plans for outdoor activities, so it’s …

Dine out at woodsy Tree Tops Park in Davie, which is enhancing its amenities with food truck events. Work up an appetite with a walk along a shady path. Or swing and slide on the playground. Food truck events are offered occasionally, including  6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday, February 6, and Wednesday, March 6, …

It’s free to play outdoor Bingo at a park in Sunrise. Participants receive a game packet for about nine games, while supplies last.  The events in 2025 are usually third Sundays, and entry is free. Games are at 6 p.m. and participation is limited. The event includes entertainment and prizes. The park is at 6600 …

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 …

Sports enthusiasts and families are drawn to Weston Regional Park for its array of features and free events. The park amenities include shaded playground roller hockey rinks beach tennis pickle ball sand volleyball picnic shelters lighted walking path bike DIY repair station EV vehicle station basketball team athletic  fields The park offers free occasional events …

T-Y Park in Hollywood presents free outdoor concerts featuring regional musical groups. T-Y Park entry fees on weekends and holidays are $3 per vehicle for up to 8 people and $20 per vehicle with at least  9 people. Parking is free. Performances in 2025 include: 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, January 11. Cachi y …

Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk offers a delightful stretch along the New River for sightseeing, photography and romantic walks.  Riverwalk runs along the river from about Southwest Fifth Street east toward Federal Highway, incorporating Esplanade Park. It also serves as a scenic venue for food festivals and live jazz.   Riverwalk Photography Tips Jason Leidy, who’s with Middle …