Parks

Walking in nature has been shown to have a wide range of health benefits, both physical and mental. Experts say it can not only help reduce stress, but it also may improve one’s mood, boost creativity, and even improve cognitive function. So, grab the sunscreen and bug repellant, your comfy walking shoes, and if you …

For an easy nature excursion, the Deerfield Beach 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, …

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 frugal entertainment, Weston offers occasional outdoor movies that are free.  Outdoor films in 2026 include 7:30 p.m. January 24 “Superman”  8 p.m. March 6 “Smurfs”  Weather occasionally postpones plans for outdoor activities, so it’s wise to verify events are still scheduled before you go. For information, 954-389-4321 or refer to the Weston website. Other …

The treasures of our national parks have a lot to offer, including hiking, biking, boating, canoeing, hunting, fishing, wildlife photography, birding, plus exploring native flora and fauna, and hopefully also finding peace of mind. So, if you’re a fan of wide, open spaces, where you only hear the sounds of nature, then the National Park …

Ask yourself: Are you interested in a naturalist-led group night hike to search for the superstars of the night like nocturnal animals?  How does a guided walk through a pine flatwood forest to encounter wildlife along with a red-shouldered hawk sound? Are you interested in learning more about and seeing up close an American alligator …

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 also a venue for festivals and entertainment. TY Park is  …

T-Y Park in Hollywood, featuring a lake and lots of shady trees, presents free live performances. Often food trucks are on site for the music events. Entry to T-Y Park is free on week days. Entry fees on weekends and holidays are $3 per vehicle for up to 8 people and $20 per vehicle with …

The Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach was founded more than 40 years ago, but the challenges it faces today have not only been compounded by the effects of recent climate change but also by the increase of red tide and toxic blue-green algae on sea creatures and ocean ecology. Situated on one of the …

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 …

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 …