Parks

For a fun, unique and inexpensive activity in north Broward, hop aboard a little railroad.  The teeny train runs on tracks around a pond at Tradewinds Park in Coconut Creek. Train rides offered third weekends Functioning model locomotives offer rides 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. the third full weekend of each month, weather permitting. It’s …

For an easy nature excursion, Deerfield Arboretum features about 200 trees from different parts of the world. The nickname for the venue is “Tree Zoo.” Entry is free.  The arboretum is on about nine acres with a walking path. The route includes flowering tropical fruit trees, exotics, palms, wetlands, bamboo, natives, butterfly garden, and tropical …

Woofing Waters Dog Park within Quiet Waters Park in Deerfield Beach offers water-spritzing features for dogs. It’s a fun venue for water-loving pets and people who adore their dogs. Entry fees are $5 per day for up to 3 dogs in a family. On weekends and holidays, fees for Quiet Waters Park apply. Entry fees …

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 2024 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 …

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 2 “IF” 8 p.m. March 7 “The Marvels” Weather occasionally postpones plans for outdoor activities, so it’s wise to verify events …

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 …

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, …

All U.S. national parks offer free entry on certain holidays every year – and we’ve got the schedule for 2024. This offer includes entry at Everglades National Park and Dry Tortugas National Park, off Key West.  Schedule for 2024 These are the fee-free days at U.S. National Parks for this year: Jan. 15: Birthday of Martin …

Fans of Food Trucks, point your vehicles to ArtsPark in Hollywood. ArtsPark Food Truck events are usually offered 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. the first Monday of the month at the park on Hollywood Boulevard and Federal Highway, Hollywood 33020.   Entry is free. Food and beverages are offered for purchase. Other amenities and interesting features …

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 …