Classic Old South Florida Attractions

7.  Vizcaya, Miami Dade

Coconut Grove's historic gem is this Italian style Villa and gardens.  Gorgeous paths through the garden allow for vistas out across Biscayne Bay as well as several vignettes that serve as backdrops for that perfect photo.  Most popular now for wedding, sweet 16 and Quincinera photos, this historic building was originally the home to James Deering (half-brother to the owner of the Deering Estate at Cutler).  Local South Florida materials and native plants were used to create this masterpiece of gardens and 34-room Mansion.  Enjoy touring the home and then pick up a cafecito and pastels in the Cafe.

8. Flagler Museum, Palm Beach

The Henry Morrison Flagler Museum is a wonderful place to visit with the family and step back in time to the 1900s.  The kids LOVE that there is an actual train car inside and enjoy the soaring ceilings in the entry with the big fancy stairs.  Learn about Florida history through the exhibits on the 2nd floor and see how one of South Florida's most famous man lived. Explore the ornate 100,000 square foot home and take a moment to stroll along the Intracoastal waterway.  Henry M. Flagler was a key figure in the development of South Florida and is known as the Father of Miami as well as the founder of Palm Beach.  Wonderful family-friendly events take place at the museum including a tree ligting at Christmastime and an Egg Hunt at Easter.   Every June 5th the admission to the Museum is gratis for their Founder's Day event.

9. The Venetian Pool, Miami Dade

Pretend you are in the Roaring 20s enjoying your tropical vacation to beautiful Coral Gables.  While you fancy playing a role in the Great Gatsby, the kids will enjoy some good ole fashioned water play in this spring fed magnificent landmark. Grottoes and waterfalls as well as other archetectural features help to give the place an almost other-worldly feel.  This spot is best for older children as there are age and height minimums for entry.  Drive around Coral Gables and see modern day tropical oasises as well as historic homes.  Snap some photos in front of the stunning Biltmore Hotel. 

10. School House Children's Museum, Palm Beach

Milk a cow, take a barge downriver, buy tickets for the train and so much more!  Young children get to run the local store, cook in a kitchen, or practice being the postmaster inside a schoolhouse that dates back to the early 1900s in Boynton Beach.  Learn about the Barefoot Mailman, Pierce the Lighthouse tender or Dr. Weems.  Early settlers and families are showcased in the museum's exhibits.  Families can enjoy hours of fun exploring and interacting with history.  Afterwards, take the kids thru the adjacent Butterfly Garden or the Kids' Kingdom playground.  Many seasonal and monthly events take place in the amphitheater right next door.  Take home some library books from the new library just across the street.

Old South Florida is a wonderful place to go for adventures into the past. You'll be able to learn all sorts of things that you didn't know before about life in the old days, all the while seeing the places where historic and important events took place. Hop in the car and head down to a few of these sites around Old Florida for a day of fun you and your family won't soon forget!