Exploring Key Biscayne and Alternative Sites with Miami Native Tours

Hidden Gems

At Miami Native Tours, we believe that your visit to Miami should be filled with more than just the usual sights. While the bustling streets of South Beach and the vibrant neighborhoods of Little Havana are certainly worth experiencing, there are other equally compelling stops that can add a unique and enriching layer to your visit. One of our favorite destinations is Key Biscayne, but we also offer alternative site options, each with its own guided tours to enhance your experience. Let us introduce you to these gems, all of which offer something special for every kind of traveler.

Key Biscayne Lighthouse
One of the highlights of the Key Biscayne area is the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse, located within the Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. This iconic lighthouse has been guiding sailors and explorers since 1825 and stands as Miami-Dade County's oldest standing structure. Guided tours are available daily at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., making it a must-see stop for history buffs and casual visitors alike.

The tour provides an insightful look into the rich maritime history of Florida, including the lighthouse's role during the Seminole Wars and the Underground Railroad. For those who can handle a few stairs, the view from the top is nothing short of breathtaking, offering panoramic sights of the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay. It’s a stop we highly recommend for those who want to mix a bit of adventure with a history lesson.

Kampong Gardens
For nature lovers, Kampong Gardens is a true treasure. Located just off the coast in Coconut Grove, the Kampong is a beautiful historic garden that was once the private home and botanical collection of Dr. David Fairchild, a renowned horticulturist. Today, the garden is part of the National Tropical Botanical Garden and offers guided tours that immerse visitors in a lush landscape of rare and exotic plants.

The cost for a visit is $15 per person, but the experience is well worth it. You'll encounter everything from tropical fruit trees to fragrant flowering plants, and the peaceful, serene atmosphere makes this one of our top-rated stops. Whether you're a botany enthusiast or simply looking for a quiet retreat from the city’s hustle, Kampong Gardens offers an experience unlike any other.

Barnacle State Park
Nestled along the shores of Biscayne Bay in Coconut Grove, Barnacle State Park is a delightful stop for those interested in Florida’s early history. The park is named after “The Barnacle,” the oldest house in Miami-Dade County, built in 1891 by pioneer Ralph Middleton Munroe. Munroe was a sailor, and his home is designed to look like an inverted boat, reflecting his passion for maritime culture.

The guided tours offered here delve deep into the life of early settlers and the role Munroe played in developing Coconut Grove. The park itself offers a picturesque view of Biscayne Bay and is perfect for leisurely walks through lush mangroves and tropical hardwood forests. History enthusiasts and nature lovers alike will find Barnacle State Park an engaging experience.

Deering Estate
Located along the edge of Biscayne Bay, the Deering Estate offers a captivating blend of history, archaeology, and environmental preservation. Once the winter home of Charles Deering, a Chicago industrialist, the estate spans 450 acres of protected coastal ecosystems, including mangroves and seagrass beds. The estate’s tours provide visitors with insights into the life of the Deering family while also showcasing the estate’s stunning natural beauty and prehistoric archaeological sites.

From the historic homes on the property to the surrounding landscapes, Deering Estate offers a journey through time. The estate frequently hosts cultural events and workshops, making it a dynamic spot for both locals and tourists.

De La Cruz Art Collection
For those with an interest in contemporary art, the De la Cruz Art Collection is a must-visit. This privately owned collection, housed in a stunning modern building, features works by renowned international and local artists. Located in the Miami Design District, the collection emphasizes education, and admission is free, making it an accessible cultural experience for all.

The De la Cruz Art Collection's rotating exhibitions offer a fresh perspective on contemporary art, and the space itself is as much a masterpiece as the works it houses. Guided tours are available, providing visitors with deeper insights into the collection's significance and the artists' creative processes.

Choose Your Adventure with Miami Native Tours
At Miami Native Tours, we believe in offering more than just the typical tourist experience. Our carefully curated stops, including the Key Biscayne Lighthouse, Kampong Gardens, Barnacle State Park, Deering Estate, and the De la Cruz Art Collection, provide you with a unique glimpse into Miami’s diverse history, culture, and natural beauty. Each of these locations has its own guides who enrich the experience, giving you a deeper understanding of what makes Miami such a special destination.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or art aficionado, our tours can be customized to suit your interests. Contact us today to book your private tour and explore the best that Miami has to offer!