Miami Shoot

Key West

MSM Online, Traveler

7 Unique Things to do in the Florida Keys

1. John Pennenkamp Coral Reef State Park Made up of 70 nautical square miles, there are many ways locals and tourists can enjoy a day at this national state park. Take a glass-bottom boat tour to see the reef from a dry place or get up close and personal with a snorkeling or scuba diving adventure. Speaking of boats, canoes and kayaks are available for those who wish to get some exercise in while having fun. Inland adventures also await you with relaxing tropical hammocks and mangrove swamps waiting to be explored. We can’t help but mention the extraordinary 30,000-gallon saltwater aquarium made up of several species of fish. 2. Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Pie Shoppe You can’t visit the Florida Keys without indulging on some delicious homemade key lime pie. What better place than one of Key West’s famous key lime pie shops? The Food Network and Paula Deen have raved about this spot; we think it’s safe to say this is one of the best places to get the tastiest treat. The historical background of this pie dates back to the 1800s when the first key lime pie was made just south of Miami. 3. Vandenberg Artificial Reef If you’ve always wondered what it’s like to explore a sunken shipwreck, you’ve come to the right place. At 520-feet long and 100-feet tall, this vessel is one of the largest artificial reefs in the world. It is still fairly new, as it sank in 2009 and therefore is still developing its complete formation. However, the sight of the wreck is definitely one to behold and one you won’t forget. 4. Key West National Wildlife Refuge Created to protect and preserve the natural wilderness of the Florida Keys, the Key West National Wildlife Refuge includes several endangered native species of birds and sea animals. It was established by President Roosevelt in 1908 and has been successful in the preservation of land and animals. 5. Robert The Haunted Doll Halloween is just around the corner, so why not include a doll enchanted with spirits. Ever heard of Chucky the doll from Child’s Play? Robert the haunted doll was the inspiration behind this horror movie classic. You can “play” with this doll and learn about its history and how it became haunted at the East Martello Museum. 6. Duval Street Now for some food, drinks, and lots of laughs at Duval Street. From Ernest Hemingway’s favorite spot Sloppy Joe’s to Ripley’s Believe it or Not! Museum, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 7. Ernest Hemingway’s Key West Home Just a few streets down from his favorite bar, Ernest Hemmingway lived in a cozy two-story house. Learn how he lived in his Key West days and about the infamous cats living here. The cats are said to be descendants of the cats that lived with him, as many of them were born with extra toes. Inside the house, you’ll find paintings his wife collected from Paris, and outside you’ll experience the lovely garden with plenty of different species of flora.

LIFESTYLE, MSM Online, Traveler

South Florida: Be a Tourist in Your Own City

Written & Photographed by Alyse Mier Day after day of living in a place that is absolute paradise you may forget just how beautiful the place is or even everything it has to offer. You begin to take for granted that a car ride to the beach is only 20 minutes away, or that you never get to experience a true winter. Well it’s time to stop and truly notice your surroundings. Rather than traveling out of town this summer take advantage of some of the best summer destinations being closer to home than you might think. Fort Lauderdale A city known for its miles of beaches, boating channels and for once being the overly popular spring break destination. However, now Fort Lauderdale is becoming quite the up and coming staycation destination for many locals. Some are even beginning to refer to this city as the “Venice of America.” You can experience the city by foot or consider taking a cycle tour of the city that will stop off at some of the best local breweries and bars. If you’re looking to witness some of Fort Lauderdale’s nightlife then definitely visit downtown and head over to Las Olas Boulevard. Las Olas has become home to some of South Florida’s best dining, shopping and entertaining experiences. Last, but most certainly not least, since you will be on vacation make sure to spend a few days relaxing and soaking up the sun on the beautiful beaches this city has to offer. Hollywood Beach A quiet little area nestled between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, which makes it perfect for a quiet and relaxing weekend getaway. Stay at one of the oceanfront hotels, and enjoy some of the beachfront restaurants, bars and shops that are located along the Hollywood Boardwalk. Downtown Hollywood offers a growing arts and cultural scene, which houses murals, galleries, art installations and Arts Park at Young Circle. Convenient trolley services are offered to make it easier for you to experience everything the city has to offer. For those of you interested in taking part in unique adventures you can play a game of life-sized chess or march to the beat of your own drum at the full moon festival, Drum Circle. The wide array of relaxing activities makes this little city the perfect match for a staycation. Miami Beach This insanely popular city has become best known for its weather, beaches and most importantly its party like atmosphere. Act like a tourist by visiting some of the widely popular beaches the city has to offer. Later, visit museums and soak in some of the city’s rich history by visiting the Art Deco Historic district or taking a stroll down Española Way. Take a food tour and indulge your taste buds in some of the best and most exotic flavors. And of course experience some of the best nightlife by dancing the night away at some of the best nightclubs or visiting some of the city’s award winning bars like the Broken Shaker. Miami Beach is a true picturesque vacation location. Key Largo The northernmost island of the Florida Keys offers an array of outdoor activities that are perfect for the whole family. Take in all the natural beauty Florida has to offer and learn about our coral reefs while snorkeling, kayaking or diving at the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. You can even paddle board through the key or swim with the dolphins. For those of you looking to stay on land enjoy a beautiful garden tour at the Botanic Gardens at Kona Kai Resort. Enjoy the vast green land, which is perfect for golfing and go carting. Key Largo also offers an array of activities for the little ones too such as: fishing for fossils, jet pack adventures, aquariums and much more. This little island has proven to be the perfect place to disconnect while staying local. Key West This southernmost point of the United States is perfect for taking in a vast amount of history and having your bit of fun. Charter a boat or rent a jet ski and travel the key in style. Enjoy some snorkeling, diving and whale watching from the same boat you chartered. Be sure to take a drive down the historic 7 Mile bridge and visit the Southernmost Point. As soon as the sun begins to set make sure to visit Mallory Square to witness the absolute most stunning sunset. Then make your way over to Duval Street for a night filled with drinks, dancing, live performances and even a bit of shopping. Key West is perfect way to unwind in the presence of natural beauty and create some lasting memories.

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