When passing the Las Olas apartment building on 1st Avenue, you will come across an unmissable sculpture that will make you whip out your camera and capture its enchanting beauty right away. Thrive is a skillful work of art created by multidisciplinary artist and sculptor, Daniel Popper. Standing 30 feet (9.1 meters) tall, the sculpture depicts a woman, her eyes shut in a near-meditative state, opening her heart to reveal a patch of verdant fern. Given the theme of the artist’s past works, it is believed that the woman represents Mother Earth. This deep, thought-provoking sculpture is a must-visit for all.
If cracking complicated puzzles is your thing, enter the world of Escapology – a themed escape room filled with clues and trick questions to work your way toward freedom before the time runs out. Immerse yourself in a thrilling 60-minute activity, put your mind to work, and play alongside like-minded people. A separate room catered to young children is also found inside so that your little ones can enjoy as well. Perfect for a private group, this real-life adventure does not require special skills; all you need is the ability to have fun.
Unlike many of South Florida's state parks, Barnacle State Historic Park is centrally located and easily accessible by automobile. Just off the main street in trendy Coconut Grove, this five-acre (2.02-hectare) historic site offers visitors a glimpse into a past full of beauty and luxury. This stately structure was originally the home of Ralph Middleton Munroe, a landowner and yacht enthusiast who hailed from New York. Before and after Munroe's passing, measures were taken to ensure that the property reflected South Florida's culture and blossoming heritage. Guests can tour Munroe's home or explore the lush land outside. The park also offers ample amenities for wildlife watching and picnicking.
Located south of Las Olas Boulevard, this complex is home to several unique destinations for aquatic sports enthusiasts. The museum houses a large collection of aquatic Olympic memorabilia, including Mark Spitz's starting block (used in the 1972 Olympics) and Johnny Weissmuller's medals. The Tripp Family Art Gallery and Henning Library and Archives are dedicated to chronicling and memorializing great performances in swimming, diving, water polo and synchronized swimming. No matter whether you’re a swimming enthusiast, when in the city, do consider visiting the International Swimming Hall of Fame Museum for a deep insight into the inspiring world of aquatic sports.
For more than 50 years, visitors have sailed on the stately Jungle Queen Riverboat. Touted as the city’s “longest running tourist attraction”, this majestic boat ride has been alluring locals and tourists alike. Tours sail past estates while an entertaining monologue by the captain points out the homes of the famous and the infamous. On three-hour day tours or four-hour dinner voyages, you can sail to an island where you will dine amid tropical foliage. Evening cruises feature a dinner of barbecued ribs and shrimp, with a variety revue and sing-a-long cruising back. The preferred destination for offbeat, yet entertaining, family parties and corporate outings, the Jungle Queen Riverboat is a must visit.
Crandon Park features two miles (3.21 kilometers) of sandy beach, a park area with a golf course, a nature center and a marina. The beach is named one of the best in the United States. The park also includes picnic areas and an amusement area. The amusement area is home to an antique carousel, a splash fountain, an outdoor roller rink and a beach-front playground. You can also take a guided tour of the park and explore everything that it has to offer.