City: South Miami, FL

Category: Parks & Recreation

Telephone: (305) 666-5883

Address: 3401 SW 72nd Ave.

Description: The 65-acre park’s unique location within the remaining Pine Rocklands makes it a haven for migrating birds. Since opening in the late 1970s, the park regularly hosts a variety of cultural activities. The National Audubon Society decreed that the park was “one of the best places to see birds in Miami.” Lovers of scalier creatures may want to visit the Sense of Wonder Nature Center, which houses the Miami-Dade Fire Department Anti-Venom Unit’s reptile collection. The center also offers EcoAdventure tours, including expeditions out into the Everglades. An airboat (and local guide) glides visitors out to the Everglades where they can chose to hike through a swamp, bicycle along a 15-mile trail, or just sit back and take in the sights along the 26-mile Loop Road. Call (305) 365-3018 for more information. The nature center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Mon and Tues. Additionally, A.D. Barnes Park also has a heated pool (open year- round) along with a main pool and splash park playground for kids. There are locker rooms with showers as well as a paved picnic area.