Broward parks

While lots of parks in South Florida are relatively flat, Vista View Park in Davie is distinctive for its relatively tall terrain, with parts about 65 feet above sea level. Entry to Vista View  is free on weekdays. On weekends and holidays, the fee is $3 per vehicle for up to 8 people or $20 …

For an easy nature excursion, Deerfield 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, and …

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 …

Parks in South Florida offer watercraft rentals for folks who adore an excursion on the water. Watercraft for rent include stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, paddleboats & others.  Prior to venturing out, phone first. Some parks require pre-payment for watercraft rentals, and occasionally rentals are not available for other reasons. Broward Parks offering boat rentals include Quiet …

Tradewinds Park in northwest Broward features an educational farm with sheep, a pig, and other animals. Farm tours are usually offered on weekends for $3 a person. Entry for Tradewinds Park on weekends and holidays is a separate fee, $3 per vehicle for up to 8 people. On tour, depending on the day, participants likely …

Enhance a walk in the park with a story along the way. Waters Edge Park in Tamarac features a story trail. Story trails, also referred to as story walks, are outdoor exhibits featuring pages from a storybook displayed along a path. It’s a free activity for families with kids — and a great way to …

Pools, water parks and water playgrounds in Broward offer refreshing fun. Some venues, especially municipal pools, offer entry without spending a wad of money.    You can find splash pads with free entry, pools and water parks that don’t cost much, and even some water parks that offer discounts in the afternoons. If you’re looking …

Set your sights for an adventure in the South Florida wilderness. Perhaps you’ll navigate a shady path through a lush forest. Or perch yourself on a riverbank where herons are wading in the water. Tune in to the visual displays, scents and sounds of the outdoor environment. Some parks, botanical gardens and protected natural areas …

For an interesting twist on nightlife activities, register for evening nature walks.  Some parks occasionally offer night hikes in forests, prairies, on shorelines and other intriguing outdoor spaces. You’ll savor distinctive sights, scents and sounds of evenings in the wild. It’s a nice idea for a romantic date, fun with family and friends, or a …

If you’re looking to soak  in the outdoors in South Florida, Fern Forest in north Broward is a lush oasis for nature walks and occasional free astronomy programs with telescopes. Delight in the scenic setting on your own or register for a guided hike. Most events are free or relatively inexpensive. Entry into the natural …

The South Florida Amateur Astronomy Association offers telescopes at Fox Observatory in Sunrise for peering into the night sky. Fox Observatory is in Markham Park, 16001 W. State Road 84, Sunrise 33326.  The facility is usually open Saturdays from about dusk until about 11 p.m, weather permitting, and representatives of South Florida Amateur Astronomers Association …