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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Florida

Museums and parks

Walking through quiet galleries and open green spaces offers a necessary break from the pace of the day.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Childrens Science Explorium image 1
Childrens Science Explorium image 2
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Children's museum offers free admission with interactive science exhibits and a huge wooden playground featuring a three-story climbing structure. The space feels open and welcoming, with a butterfly garden and water play area outside. Kids explore at their own pace amid engaging tactile activities and live shows in a small theatre.

Completely free admission and interactive exhibits make this museum stand out. Kids can touch everything, with hands-on learning that feels fun, not like school.

A massive playground offers activities for all abilities and ages. The space is free and includes educational features for kids and adults.

People are saying

"It's a fun, educational, and engaging place for kids."

"This children's museum and park is a great place for families."

"This children's museum has engaging, hands-on exhibits that kids love."

Good to know

1

The entrance is completely free for all visitors.

2

The Children's Science Explorium is a great place for kids up to 12 years old.

3

Interactive exhibits are available for hands-on learning experiences.

02
George C. McGough Nature Park image 1

Nature park offers lush greenery and meandering boardwalks that create a peaceful, serene atmosphere. Families gather around a playground with a zip line and a turtle pond where turtles can be fed. Outdoor coops house large birds of prey, and walking paths lead to water views, blending natural beauty with educational features.

Indoor and outdoor exhibits focus on Florida wildlife with turtles, small owls, and other animals. Interactive displays and knowledgeable volunteers provide an educational experience for families.

A peaceful nature park with a boardwalk overlook, playground with a zip line, and a dock to the intracoastal. It hosts rescued birds of prey, turtles, fish, and alligators, making it great for birdwatching and family outings.

People are saying

"You can feed the turtles at the park's pond."

"The playground here is great for kids, especially the zip line!"

"You can see rescued owls, hawks, and a bald eagle up close."

Good to know

1

The park is free to visit, with a suggested voluntary contribution.

2

Walking paths are made from rubber, providing a comfortable experience.

3

The park offers a raptor show on Sundays and Tuesdays at 11am.

03
John D. MacArthur Beach State Park image 1

Long boardwalks stretch over estuaries and mangroves, leading to a secluded beach with clean, unspoiled sand. The atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, with few people around and a relaxing natural vibe. Golf cart shuttles and tram services help visitors cross the lagoon and reach the beach easily.

Educational exhibits focus on sea turtles and local species. Displays highlight the park's ecosystem and conservation efforts.

Offers 1.6 miles of pristine beach perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The park features a serene atmosphere and natural beauty that appeals to families and nature lovers alike.

People are saying

"The beach here is beautiful, clean, and undeveloped."

"This park's beach is beautiful, quiet, and undeveloped."

"I found the park's natural beauty and serene atmosphere captivating."

Good to know

1

The entrance fee is $5 per car for the whole day.

2

There is plenty of parking available at the park.

3

The bathrooms are located near the beach.

04
Long Key Natural Area & Nature Center image 1

Concrete paths wind through big oaks and native plants beneath a natural canopy. Quiet, peaceful energy fills the space, with sounds of calm waters and seagulls. Rocking chairs and gazebos invite rest along shaded trails and near a relaxing fountain.

Exhibits focus on indigenous cultures and local wildlife with detailed, educational displays. A small museum offers hands-on interactive exhibits and insights into native tribes and the area's natural history.

Huge trees and a majestic Live Oak canopy create a pleasant outdoor area. Concrete walking trails with benches run through marsh and woods, plus a small exhibition center offers learning for kids.

People are saying

"This meditation spot is so peaceful and beautiful."

"It's a beautiful park with scenic walking trails."

"I loved the beautiful, peaceful nature trail."

Good to know

1

Restroom facilities are available in the visitor center.

2

Plenty of parking is available for visitors.

3

Dogs are not allowed in the Long Key Natural Area.

05
Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens image 1

Art museum with meticulously maintained gardens offers peaceful walking paths, lush greenery, and curated sculptures. Atmosphere stays serene and calming, inviting meditation and reflection. Visitors often engage with live tea ceremony demonstrations and enjoy cafes serving Japanese fare.

Serene beauty and tranquility define the museum and gardens, offering a peaceful setting for visitors. Exhibitions like the Mariko Kusumoro showcase thoughtful art within this beautiful space.

Beautiful design and well-maintained grounds create a stunning park experience. The park includes an open-air museum that honors Georges Morikami thoughtfully.

People are saying

"The gardens here are beautiful, peaceful, and meticulously maintained."

"I found the gardens to be beautiful and peaceful."

"The park is visually stunning and beautifully maintained."

Good to know

1

Adult entry is $16 per person, children under 5 are free.

2

Traditional tea ceremonies need to be scheduled in advance.

3

The gardens host events and exhibitions throughout the year.

06
Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens image 1

Museum combines sculpture gardens with lakefront views and shaded walkways. Atmosphere feels peaceful and inspiring, blending art and nature seamlessly. Visitors explore human form sculptures amid lush, beautiful grounds.

Sculpture takes center stage with unique exhibits and a well-organized indoor gallery. The museum offers interactive activities like a sculpture scavenger hunt and a pose challenge, plus beautiful gardens to explore.

Sculpture gardens offer a peaceful walk surrounded by art and nature. The grounds combine artistic displays with beautiful scenery for a unique outdoor experience.

People are saying

"The sculpture garden is stunning, right by the lake."

"The museum and sculpture garden are lovely."

"The sculpture gardens are stunning with beautiful lake views."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Admission is free with a BOFA debit card.

3

The guided tour of Polasek's house offers insights into his life and work.

07
Ponce Circle Park image 1

Small park with abundant shade and green areas offers a serene escape in an urban setting. It hosts a celestial art experience and attracts families, dogs, and event crowds. Surrounding plaza provides plenty of dining options and accessible parking.

An art exhibit features a Museum of the Moon installation that stands out for its originality and beauty. The exhibition draws attention with its unique presentation and visual appeal.

Offers a serene escape with abundant shade and clean green spaces for kids to relax or play. Hosts celestial art experiences like the moon exhibition and has plenty of nearby options to eat and drink.

People are saying

"The park was transformed into a magical celestial art experience."

"I loved the moon exhibition; it was spectacular."

"It's a natural, serene escape for a leisurely stroll."

Good to know

1

Public parking is available nearby, but arrive early as it fills up quickly.

2

No public restrooms are available at the park, so plan accordingly.

3

The park hosts various family-friendly events with food vendors and activities.

08
Hillsboro Lighthouse Museum image 1

Historic lighthouse anchors a beautiful waterfront park with gorgeous views of the waterway and boats. The atmosphere stays peaceful and quiet, ideal for fishing and photography. Families gather around a small playground and picnic areas, creating a cozy, well-kept space.

Small and quirky museum focused on the history of the lighthouse with exhibits featuring historic aircrafts and treasures. Friendly and knowledgeable staff enhance the experience in a cute setting with a nice park to walk around.

Beautiful views of the lighthouse and waterway stand out. The park offers a clean, cozy space with a playground for children and well-maintained facilities.

People are saying

"I learned so much about the lighthouse's history from the museum exhibits."

"The park here is stunning with beautiful lighthouse views."

"The museum staff are so helpful and knowledgeable."

Good to know

1

Download the Passport app to pay for parking at the museum.

2

The lighthouse is accessible by boat only once a month.

3

Tours of the lighthouse require a fee and are conducted monthly.

09
Grassy Waters Preserve image 1
Nature preserve

Wooden boardwalks wind through vast wetlands and lush vegetation, offering scenic wildlife viewing and peaceful strolls. Quiet atmosphere invites relaxation with rocking chairs and shaded benches overlooking water. Educational nature center provides interactive exhibits and opportunities for kayaking and canoe rentals.

Exhibits focus on eco education and the natural environment. Staff spend time explaining details, making the experience informative and engaging.

Big and beautiful, this park offers a wooden boardwalk and plenty of seating areas for relaxation. Groups of all ages enjoy the serene nature and open spaces.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful and peaceful escape into nature."

"You'll love the park's long boardwalks through nature and over water."

"I found the museum exhibits here very interesting."

Good to know

1

The preserve closes at 4:30 PM on most days and at 5:00 PM on Sundays.

2

There are no dogs allowed in the preserve.

3

There was plenty of parking available at Grassy Waters Preserve.

10
Heritage Village image 1

Open-air museum with restored historic buildings and period furnishings creates a peaceful, small-town atmosphere. Shaded, walkable grounds support a tranquil, educational experience suitable for all ages. Live demonstrations add interactive historical insights to the setting.

Open-air setup features restored historic buildings that preserve regional history. The museum is well maintained and includes a gift shop alongside several interesting structures.

Restored 1800s buildings sit within a large park featuring paved walkways for easy access. Botanical gardens and authentic furnishings add to the historical atmosphere in this volunteer-run, free park.

People are saying

"It's a great historical site because admission and parking are free."

"This historical park has amazing restored 1800s buildings and furnishings."

"You can explore this free outdoor museum without any admission charge."

Good to know

1

Heritage Village is free to visit.

2

Live demonstrations occur on weekends.

3

Docent-led tours provide valuable context and stories.

11
Fern Forest Nature Center image 1

Wooden boardwalks weave through a shaded forest with lantern-lit trails and natural obstacles like tree trunks and stones. The atmosphere stays peaceful and serene, inviting quiet walks and relaxation. Facilities include picnic areas and an educational indoor space with exhibits and puzzles for children.

A small museum inside the nature center offers educational exhibits and interactive puzzles for kids. It features a local history display and even a 7-foot snake, making it a cool spot to learn and explore.

Boardwalk and trails run through a large, wet nature park that stays very clean and well maintained. The park offers a relaxing atmosphere and is wheelchair friendly, making it accessible for all visitors.

People are saying

"This peaceful, quiet nature spot is perfect for unwinding."

"It's a beautiful park with nice boardwalks and trails."

"The nature center's trails are well-marked with descriptions."

Good to know

1

The entrance and activities at Fern Forest Nature Center are free.

2

The center is wheelchair accessible.

3

Expect wet ground trails and bring bug spray for mosquitoes.

12
Sugar Sand Park image 1

Massive playground includes a three-story wooden maze and science-themed play area with zones for all ages. Spacious park divides into sections with carousel, splash pad, and basketball courts. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful with plenty of room to run even when crowded.

Displays and activities change regularly, keeping the experience fresh. The museum offers interactive exhibits and is free to enter with free parking nearby.

Offers innovative playgrounds with sections for toddlers, young kids, and older children. Features sports fields, barbecues, gazebos, and short walking trails through pine scrub.

People are saying

"It's a great Kid Friendly place to play and burn energy for hours."

"This park has so many fun activities for kids to explore."

"It's a great place with a small museum for kids."

Good to know

1

The science building hosts various activities and special events on weekends.

2

Outdoor movie nights feature a big screen, popcorn machine, and seating for 60 people.

3

Visitors should bring cash for the carousel, which requires coins for rides.

13
Maurice A. Ferrรฉ Park image 1

Park offers breathtaking bay views and well-maintained lawns ideal for picnics and strolling. Atmosphere feels quiet and formal, with diverse exhibits including sculptures and a pet-friendly area featuring a dog park and walking paths.

Science exhibits and an interactive aquarium offer learning opportunities for all ages. The museum features animal exhibitions and monumental sculptures that engage both adults and children.

A serene waterfront park with stunning views of Biscayne Bay and the city skyline. It features beautiful landscaping, open green spaces, art installations, and a dedicated pet-friendly area.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful waterfront views of the bay and skyline."

"This park is beautiful with amazing waterfront views."

"The museums here have beautiful vegetation and stunning bay views."

Good to know

1

Admission is free for all visitors.

2

The park is pet friendly, but dogs must be leashed.

3

Parking can be challenging; arrive early to secure a spot.

14
36th Street Park image 1

Park offers lush green spaces and picturesque walking paths with plenty of benches. Atmosphere is peaceful and relaxing, attracting joggers, walkers, bicyclists, and families. Nearby beach and a unique elephant sculpture exhibit add distinctive features to the setting.

Exhibits focus on unique themes like the elephant migration. Events happen during Miami Art Week and at 36th Street Park.

Lush green spaces and vibrant flowers create a picturesque setting with walking paths and benches for relaxing. The park features a playground and picnic area for families and welcomes dog walkers, all in a clean, well-maintained environment.

People are saying

"I found the beach to be beautiful and well kept."

"Parking available, but you'll need the Park Mobile app to pay."

"The parks here are picturesque, perfect for photos."

Good to know

1

Parking costs approximately $5-$6 for 3 hours.

2

There is limited parking available, especially during peak times.

3

The park prohibits electric vehicles but allows e-bikes.

15
Daggerwing Nature Center image 1

Huge park with an elevated boardwalk through wetlands offers peaceful nature views and wildlife spotting like turtles and birds. Indoor center features educational exhibits and a three-story observation tower popular with kids. Atmosphere stays quiet and family-friendly, suitable for all ages.

Exhibits focus on local wildlife and offer educational content. The center is small and cute with critters to see inside.

Large and well-maintained grounds offer beautiful views and a massive county park setting. A nature center provides a quiet spot to explore, while a water park features slides and a lazy river, though it may not always be open.

People are saying

"It's a really fun and educational place for kids to explore nature."

"I saw fascinating turtles and learned nature facts at the museum."

"You can see turtles and alligators from the boardwalk."

Good to know

1

Admission to the Daggerwing Nature Center is free for all visitors.

2

Tortoise feeding occurs daily at 2:45 pm, offering a fun experience for kids.

3

The center hosts an annual Halloween celebration called Hoot & Howl.

16
Walter Jones Historic Park image 1

Historic cottages and a long boardwalk extend along the riverbank, offering waterfront views and a peaceful atmosphere. Trees and gardens create a scenic, quiet setting where fishing and nature walks are common. Amenities include picnic tables, benches, and a boat ramp for hand-launched boats.

Mini museum offers real interesting facts about local history. Exhibits cover citrus plantations, Harriet Beecher Stowe, the black experience, and a Union ship excavation. Friendly volunteers provide private tours when closed.

Shaded pathways wind through a small, well-kept park featuring historic buildings and sites. Visitors enjoy great views of water, boats, and wildlife while walking or relaxing in a calm, clean setting.

People are saying

"I loved the park's peaceful riverfront views and shaded trails."

"You'll love the riverfront views from the historical sites' deck."

"I learned so much about the area's history at the museum."

Good to know

1

On the first Saturday of the month, all the buildings are open with docents.

2

There are only two handicapped parking spaces available at the park.

3

The museum covers the history of citrus plantations and the black experience.

17
Veterans Memorial Park image 1

Park features memorial statues, including military vehicles, and a museum dedicated to veterans. Atmosphere is peaceful and solemn, inviting quiet reflection and remembrance. Paths accommodate walking, running, and exercise, with a pet-friendly environment and accessible walkways.

A small museum sits inside the park, filled with interesting exhibits about veterans. It is staffed by volunteers and stays open whenever the park is open.

The park features detailed military memorials honoring every branch and major wars, with handicap accessible walkways for easy viewing. It offers a peaceful setting with nature and wildlife, ideal for exercise, family time, or reflection.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park with amazing military memorials."

"It's a peaceful Meditation Spot for quiet reflection."

"I learned a lot at this memorial park and museum."

Good to know

1

The park closes early at 4:30 pm.

2

The park has handicap accessible walkways to view the various monuments.

3

Restrooms, tables, and a picnic area are available in the park.

18
Downtown Winter Park image 1

Park setting surrounded by boutiques and restaurants creates a pedestrian-friendly and inviting atmosphere. The area feels peaceful and cozy with plenty of seating for relaxing or socializing. Seasonal decorations and lighting add a festive and charming vibe, especially during holidays.

A museum showcases a world-famous Tiffany glass collection and displays beautiful stained glass windows lit up at night in the park. Other museums include a train museum and various exhibits in the downtown area.

A beautiful park setting sits at the heart of a lively downtown area filled with shops and restaurants. The park offers lots of seating and a play area for kids, making it peaceful and family-friendly.

People are saying

"Downtown Winter Park's streets are lively and inviting, especially during the holidays."

"I found lots of great boutiques and cafรฉs."

"I saw the Morse Museum's stained glass windows lit up at night."

Good to know

1

The Saturday Farmer's Market runs every Saturday morning, featuring local produce and crafts.

2

The Morse Museum showcases Tiffany glass and is open until 8pm on Fridays.

3

Parking is available in free lots around Downtown Winter Park.

19
Loggerhead Park image 1

Park offers quiet beach access with beautiful outdoor aquariums showcasing marine life. Visitors find it relaxing and warm, with interactive areas for children and shaded spaces near turtle tanks. The atmosphere stays peaceful, making it suitable for special outings and family visits.

Exhibits offer close-up views of creatures and include an interactive section for children. The lower exhibit at Loggerhead Park provides additional displays, and guided tours help explore each exhibit fully.

Sea turtle rehabilitation and wildlife tanks with jellyfish, seahorses, and sharks stand out here. The park offers a clean playground, a lifeguarded beach, and spaces for BBQs and fishing, making it great for families and small gatherings.

People are saying

"It's so kid friendly, my children loved seeing all the turtles."

"You can see rehabilitated sea turtles and many other sea life at this park."

"Seeing the sea turtles up close at the museum was unforgettable."

Good to know

1

Loggerhead Park is free to enter, with a suggested donation of $10.

2

Free parking is available at Loggerhead Park.

3

The park hosts events like birthday parties and weddings.

20
Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge image 1

Wildlife refuge offers peaceful nature trails and boardwalks through Cypress swamps with views of alligators, birds, and fish. Atmosphere stays serene and quiet, ideal for sunset watching and photography. Facilities include an interactive visitor center with exhibits, kayak rentals, and a butterfly sanctuary.

Interactive exhibits fill the visitor center, including a 360-degree room with story narration and an airboat tour simulator that rumbles and blows wind. Exhibits explain the refuge's ecology and history, with scenes lighting up to show flora and fauna.

Huge park with multiple sections offers a chance to explore a piece of the Everglades without crowds. Features include an amazing boardwalk, hiking and biking trails, and a gorgeous kayaking water trail that attract various bird species during migration seasons.

People are saying

"I saw so much wildlife at these parks, like alligators and birds."

"I enjoyed watching the sunset; it was gorgeous."

"The visitor center's interactive exhibits are a blast for kids."

Good to know

1

A National Park pass or a $10 entry fee is required to access the refuge.

2

Bring your own kayak or rent one on-site; a 10-foot pole and red flag are needed.

3

Dogs are not allowed in all areas of the park.

21
Anne Kolb Nature Center image 1

Wide open spaces with well maintained boardwalks create a serene and peaceful atmosphere. A four-story observation tower with elevator offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Trails are accessible and the setting feels like a quiet natural retreat.

Beautiful visitor center features many exhibits on local wildlife and area history. The exhibition center offers informative displays and indoor educational exhibits focused on nature.

Free entry and parking make access easy. Trails and boardwalks over water offer scenic walks. Kayaking through mangrove canopies is available with free launch. The nature center provides informative exhibits.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park with well-maintained trails for peaceful walks."

"You'll find gorgeous views from the observation tower."

"I loved walking the trails and seeing the mangroves."

Good to know

1

Entry and parking are free at the nature center.

2

Bring bug spray to protect against biting midges.

3

The Exhibit Hall is currently closed for renovations.

22
Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum image 1

Historic lighthouse offers breathtaking views from a complete walk-around platform deck and surrounding park. Grounds include old military hospital, walking trails, and restful zones that create a peaceful atmosphere. Informative museum and guides add cultural depth to the experience.

Exhibits focus on maritime history and Native American heritage with artifacts and engaging displays. Visitors explore the lighthouse, an observation point, and historic buildings, offering educational and scenic experiences.

Surrounding grounds feature an old military hospital, walking trails, and parks with natural beauty. Views from the park and lighthouse top are beautiful, and wildlife like manatees can be seen from the dock.

People are saying

"The view from the top is breathtaking."

"The views from the lighthouse are stunning and worth the climb."

"The park grounds surrounding the lighthouse are beautiful and great for strolls."

Good to know

1

Admission prices are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, and $8 for ages 6-18.

2

Children under 48 inches cannot climb the lighthouse.

3

Special events and guided tours enhance the visitor experience.

23
Lighthouse Park image 1

Spiral staircase lighthouse offers breathtaking panoramic views of coastline and ocean. Park combines well-maintained recreational facilities like tennis and pickleball courts with natural beauty. Visitors experience a relaxing atmosphere enriched by rich maritime history shared by volunteers.

Climbing tours of the 1860 lighthouse offer panoramic views. The museum displays artifacts from Native American tribes, early settlers, and military personnel.

Well-maintained amenities include tennis and pickleball courts, soccer fields, and a playground. Clear water and a nature trail add to the natural beauty, while the lighthouse offers a big view and a spot for climbing.

People are saying

"The panoramic views from the lighthouse climb are breathtaking."

"Climbing the lighthouse offers wonderful panoramic views."

"Climbing the lighthouse museum offered breathtaking panoramic views."

Good to know

1

The lighthouse admission fee is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and veterans, and $6 for children aged 6-18.

2

Children 5 and under, lighthouse members, and active-duty US military with ID enter for free.

3

There are 149 steps to reach the top of the lighthouse.

24
Green Cay Nature Center & Wetlands image 1

Boardwalks stretch over wetlands dense with duckweed and pickerelweed, offering quiet, peaceful walks through natural habitat. The area feels like an urban nature escape with beautiful views and diverse wildlife visible along well-maintained paths.

Interactive exhibits and educational programs focus on local wildlife and wetland ecosystems. The exhibit hall highlights the family who donated their farm to create the wetlands, complemented by nature trails and aquariums.

Over 2 miles of walkways wind through a wildlife preserve featuring aquatic plants, small fish, and alligators. Frequent bird sightings include the painted bunting at feeders, and the park offers educational activities for children with knowledgeable staff and volunteers.

People are saying

"It's a great relaxing spot for a peaceful walk in nature."

"I saw so many birds and alligators at this park."

"The elevated boardwalks wind through lush wetlands and wooded hammocks."

Good to know

1

The boardwalk is free to access.

2

Parking is free and available.

3

Entrance to the center is free.

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