City: Key Biscayne, FL

Category: Parks & Recreation

Telephone: (305) 960-4600

Address: 4020 Virginia Beach Dr.

Description: It’s hard to believe that this now culturally diverse beach was the product of segregation. In 1945, the City of Miami designated Virginia Key as a “colored-only” beach, which it remained until the early 1960s. After desegregation, the park underwent a state of decline and was closed in 1982 and finally re-opened in 2008. While the park is publicly owned, the Virginia Key Beach Trust oversees the park’s historical preservation and development. Take a ride on the park’s antique carousel or just revel in the verdant beachscape. A 15-acre hammock provides visitors the opportunity to observe rare Miami flora and fauna. Those who have been looking for an excuse to wear a bodice or carry a chalice should be sure not to miss the annual renaissance fair, which takes place at the beach in Jan. There’s a $3 entry fee per vehicle and it’s open from 7 a.m. to sunset daily.