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The Best Rainy Day Attractions in the South Florida Area

We might not get typical winter weather in South Florida, but we’re not immune to a chilly rainy day here and there. Luckily, even when the weather doesn’t reflect our reputation as the Sunshine State, you’ll still find plenty of things to do!

Here are the top rainy day attractions around the South Florida area to check out during the next cold snap or downpour.

Dezerland Park

Arcade games to play on a rainy day.

An arcade, virtual reality games, mini bowling, trampolines, a bar and lounge—Dezerland Park is a one-stop shop for all things entertainment. With over 250,000 sq. ft. of indoor space, there’s plenty of room to burn off that rainy day energy.

Perez Art Museum Miami

An art museum.

Miami’s flagship art museum, the Perez Art Museum offers stunning displays of modern and contemporary art from the 20th and 21st centuries. The building itself is quite the sight—designed by Pritzker Prize winning architects Herzog & de Meuron—with sleek and sharp lines jutting out to the waterfront. You could spend a whole day listening to the rain gently fall on the rooftop as your browse the latest exhibits.

Museum of Contemporary Art

A modern art museum.

If you want to make the art museum rounds, the the Museum of Contemporary Art in North Miami should be next on your list! The 25,000 sq. ft. building houses a rich collection of sculptures, paintings, and more created by local, national, and international artists. Keep in mind, the main gallery of the museum is closed until November 26th, but will reopen after the installation of two new exhibitions—Cecilia Vicuña’s About to Happen and Alice Rahon’s Poetic Invocations

Frost Museum of Science

A woman standing in front of the glass at an aquarium.

A beautiful new addition Miami’s Museum Park, the Frost Museum of Science stretches across four acres of land, offering a state-of-the-art planetarium and aquarium, as well as six floors of interactive exhibits.

The three-level aquarium mimics the Gulf Stream, with the top floor reserved for creatures of the open water like hammerhead sharks and mahi-mahi, the second floor for colorful parrotfish and damselfish, and the bottom level for fish of the deep—showcased through the breathtaking 30-foot oculus.

Not to be outdone, the planetarium offers an 8K visual system, which is twice what you’d find in a typical planetarium, as well as six 3D-capable projectors and 250 seats. If you haven’t visited the Frost Museum yet, it should be at the top of your list!

Pines Ice Arena

Two girls ice skating at an indoor ink.

Want to get in the holiday spirit? Spend the day hitting the ice at Pines Ice Arena! The indoor rink hosts public skates sessions every day of the week and offers skate and helmet rentals.

HistoryMiami

Books on display at a museum.

HistoryMiami is a Smithsonian Affiliate in heart of downtown that’s committed to sharing and remembering Miami’s past. The museum houses over 37,000 artifacts, dating all the way back to the prehistoric ages, detailing over 10,000 years worth of local history. The current rotating exhibit is all about the highlights of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and you’ll also find collections on the Miami International Airport, the Whitman Family, and the history of our unique local culture.

Boxroom Escape Games

Old keys hanging up in an escape room.

If you’ve never done an escape room before, it’s definitely worth a try—and Boxroom Escape Games was voted #1 in South Florida! Teams can be comprised of 2 – 8 people, and there are six rooms of varying difficulty to choose from. See if you can solve the puzzles and escape in 60 minutes!

Explore Life in South Florida

No matter the season or the weather, you’ll always find something new to explore around South Florida. If you need a few more suggestions for rainy day attractions, check out my top picks for local spots!

Thinking of making South Florida your new home? I can help with that, too! With years of local experience, a wide variety of helpful resources, and a commitment to achieving your goals, I’m here to make sure your real estate experience is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Ready to take the next steps? Just give me a call.

The Top South Florida Fall Events You Can’t Miss

As we gear up for the holiday season, fall is still in full swing in South Florida. It might not seem to be getting much colder, but that doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate with a little autumn spirit. Ready to get out and enjoy some of the best South Florida fall events? We’ve got a list of activities you won’t want to miss, and they’re fun for the entire family!

South Dade Seafood Festival

Seafood and wine at South Florida fall events

Living so close to the coast means that Floridians get access to some of the country’s best seafood. The South Dade Seafood Festival is a celebration of the area’s finest cuisine, and you’re invited to join in on the fun!

Wondering what’s in store? On November 2nd, BrandsMart USA will be hosting one of the most mouthwatering seafood events in the Miami area. Now is the time to try some delicious fish, conch, crab, shrimp, and more. There will also be plenty of live music and drinks to go around!

Camelot Days Medieval Festival

Knight and squire on horse

Hear ye, hear ye! Calling all fair Floridians! The Camelot Days Medieval Festival is heading to Hollywood, and it’s going to be a jolly good time! All jokes aside, this festival is going to be one you won’t want to miss, especially if you love some knights, jousting, and checking out local artisans.

From November 3rd to the 17th, TY Park will come alive with medieval spirit. Come enjoy live combat, magic, and all kinds of family fun. Locals love cheering on their favorite side during the live chess game and feasting like a king at traditional-style eateries.

Fall Art on the Square 2019

Artisan painting pots

Want to support local artisans while taking in the lovely landscape of West Palm Beach? Mark your calendars for November 9th! Fall Art on the Square is just a short drive from Miami, and it’s perfect for a day trip. It’s also the great opportunity to get a head start on your holiday shopping!

Curious about what you’ll find? This combination market and competition features some of the best artisans from around the country. Come browse the entries and pick up some one-of-a-kind finds, all while enjoying gourmet bites and a good drink.

Don’t Miss Out on These Top South Florida Fall Events!

Think it’s too late to enjoy some of the best South Florida fall events? Believe it or not, autumn is the perfect time to buy a home, and I’m here to make the process easy.

Trust the Scott Patterson Group to get the job done right. We’ll be there with you every step of the way, from setting up showings to handing you the keys to your dream home. Our buyer resources and handy search tool will keep you in tune with the South Florida market, too. Ready to get started? We’re just a phone call away!

Stock Up at South Florida’s Top Farmer’s Markets!

Although it’s getting chillier, one of the perks of living in South Florida is having year-round access to fresh produce! Here, you’ll find plenty of farmers markets all along the coast that are fully stocked with some of the best organic fruits and veggies. Here’s my list of South Florida’s top farmers markets—I know you’ll find a spot you’ll love!

Yellow Green Farmers Market

Woman looking at art

Want to check out South Florida’s largest farmers market? Yellow Green is the top spot for locals looking for fresh produce and artisanal goods. This 100,000 square foot warehouse is home to over 300 vendors, and it’s open all year round.

One of the best parts about this market is its open-air atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to enjoy Florida’s stunning weather while also shopping for locally sourced products. Be sure to check out the Amish butter and organic pet treats for your furry friends—they’re some of my favorite products.

Laurenzo’s Farmers Market

Peaches at Florida's top farmer's markets

Looking for a market with a unique Italian twist? Laurenzo’s is the place to go. This local hotspot has all the delicious eats you’ve been searching for, along with some one-of-a-kind imports you won’t find anywhere else. This family-owned business has been serving North Miami Beach for over 45 years, so you can trust their quality and expertise.

You can enjoy Laurenzo’s market 7 days a week, and you’ll always find something new and exciting to try. You can’t miss out on their tomato sauce and homestyle meals—they’re just like how grandma used to make them!

The Aventura Market

Interior of Florida's top farmer's markets

Do you have an appreciation for organic produce, Miami-based artisans, and top-notch quality goods? Then the Aventura Market is the place for you! This small-scale farmers market features over 35 vendors, and you can’t beat its convenient Aventura Mall location.

Wondering what you’ll find at the Aventura Market? The options are endless! Be sure to stop by—the market is open every weekend and features a wide variety of locally-sourced goods. I personally love their custom tea blends, fresh cut flowers and succulents, and international cuisine.

Coconut Grove Organic Market

Vendors at Florida's top farmer's markets

Whether you’ve been eating organic for years or are looking to start, the Coconut Grove Organic Market should be your go-to spot for Miami’s freshest produce. Every Saturday, Grand Avenue comes alive with farmers and fans of this decades-old market.

There’s something truly special about meeting the person who grew your food. Here, farmers are always on hand to talk about the growing process, and they’d love to give you some recommendations! It’s also a great place to grab some pre-made goodies, including picks for vegans and vegetarians.

Florida’s Top farmers Markets Are Waiting for You!

Ready to explore Florida’s top farmers markets for yourself? Then it’s time to consider making your move to South Florida! Whether you’re relocating from across the country or down the street, we’ve got you covered. The Scott Patterson Group is ready to go the extra mile to find your South Florida dream home. Feel free to reach out to us—we’re excited to team up and help you take your next steps.

Scott’s Picks for 5 Great Restaurants

When it comes to delicious dining, South Florida has pretty much cornered the market. Not only is it home to some of the country’s finest seafood and Spanish cuisine, it’s bursting with all kinds of award-winning flavors and innovative dishes.

In fact, here are our five favorite restaurants throughout the South Florida area.

Casa Tua

Eggplant parmesan on a flatbread topped with basil.

Lavish meals. Authentic Italian atmosphere. An unbelievable ambience.

Those are three ways to describe the impeccable Casa Tua restaurant in Miami Beach. Featuring gourmet Italian food and an amazing wine list of hard-to-find treasures, this is one meal you won’t soon forget.

When you visit, we highly recommend trying the Veal Milanese. At the end of the night, say goodnight with some delicious handmade gelato or some tiramisu.

Zuma

Friends sharing sushi.

Prepare for the meal of a lifetime at Zuma. Start the night off with a phenomenal cocktail like the Rikka and Tonic before sampling some of their appetizers. Ask your server for a recommendation, you won’t be disappointed.

The sushi rolls are deliciously fresh and everything is prepared to the highest standards imaginable. The soothing ambiance perfectly complements the amazing good. Some highlights include the seared beef with pickled daikon and fresh truffle dressing, as well as daily maki.

Nobu

Friends enjoying wine over dinner.

Critically acclaimed for its world-class sushi and innovative Japanese-Peruvian fusion, Nobu is a must-try in beautiful Miami Beach. Located in the Eden Roc Resort off of Collins Avenue, this is the perfect place for a celebration, an anniversary dinner, or a quintessential “treat yourself” kind of meal.

The breakfast buffet in particular is legendary. Specially designed by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa himself, it offers something sweet, something savory, and just about everything in between.

Some must tries are the Black Miso Cod, the Yellowtail Sashimi, and the Green Tea Chicken and Waffles for breakfast!

Komodo

A plate of decadent Asian food.

It’s not just dinner, it’s a destination. Komodo is a delightful Asian-fusion restaurant with amazing ambience and incredible food. Try to get a seat at the two-story outdoor patio area, complete with giant birds nest hovering over the first floor.

For the appetizer, enjoy the crispy rice hamachi and grilled avocado. Next, the Korean fried chicken is to die for, as is the miso salmon. The duck bahn mi is another worthy contender. My recommendation? Bring some friends and share everything!

Valentino’s

A plate of steak and asparagus.

There’s just something about Italian cuisine—and Valentino’s does it just right. Authentic, delicious, and always flavorful, Valentino’s Cucina Italiana in Fort Lauderdale is perfect for date night or every night.

Start with the foie gras panzotti starter and end with vanilla Panna Cotta. For everything that comes in between, ask your server for their recommendation. The service here is almost as impeccable as the food!

Want to Spend the Summer in South Florida?

Allow our team to help you find the home of your dreams in South Florida! Just give us a call today to get started, or peruse our free home-buying resources.

Record Breaking Sale For Home Country Club Estates Home in Aventura

Front of Home

Record Sale Price for Aventura Home, Another Record Sale By Scott!

The home at 3683 NE 199 Street in Country Club Estates, also know as Aventura Estates closed on October 24, 2016 for a record selling price of $1,650,000. This price will mark the highest sales price ever in the 80 home gated community along Country Club Drive.

Home Quick Facts

The home was not on the golf course nor did it grant water views, it was an inside lot surrounded by foliage. The two-story home featured 4 Bedrooms, 4 Baths and a one-car garage.

Country Club Estates Community Info!

Country Club Estates is the only single family home community located directly on world renowned Turnberry Isles Resort & Golf Club in the heart of the City of Aventura.  Homes range in size from 2,600 to 5,500 square feet, popular for families and all about location with walking distance to Aventura Mall or a close by synagogue.  The homes offer luxury, elegance and space for entertaining your entire family and all your friends year round.

Watch HD Video of Country Club Estates!

Looking to Buyer or Sell a Home in Aventura or South Florida, I would be happy to assist.

Until next time,

Scott

The Aventura Mall Expansion Is Underway

Aventura, FL – The beautiful city of Aventura is not only a great place to live in the many communities such as Porto Vita, Island Estates, Aventura Estates and also play golf at The Turnberry Isle Resort & Golf Club but the city is known for one of the nations largest and highest grossing luxury shopping malls in the US., “The Aventura Mall”. To many of us, it has become not only a convenience but staple of our Lifestyle.

The Aventura Mall not only has some of the best shopping around, its also has great restaurants, a movie theater, and an Equinox Gym. Well, if anyone is wondering what all the construction is on the east side of the mall, you can bet it’s going to be big. The new expansion of the mall includes a 315,000 sq. ft. retail wing and parking garage along with a host of destination restaurants and a new state of the art food court.QE5oWH2 Starting to sound good to you isn’t it? To top it all off, renderings have revealed plans for a new Tesla store to be included in the expansion. Let me know what stores you would want to see be included in the expansion in your comments below!

– Scott

THIS WEEKS FEATURED LISTING

342757635_5513 Palm Dr. Hallandale Beach, Fl. 33009

 

Golden Isles waterfront estate listed for $3.249 million. This new contemporary home was built on an large Intracoastal 100′ x 150′ lot and its many features include: five bedrooms, five bathrooms and two half baths with over 5,500 sq. ft. living area and over 7,200 total sq. ft.. Lavish landscaping on this tropical modern setting, large beautiful backyard with an over sized pool, jacuzzi and beach pad.

 

 

 

 

This waterfront home has a large chefs kitchen, formal dining room, down stairs master suite, tray ceilings, custom light fixtures, motorized shades, and lots of natural light adds sheer beauty to this home. Golden Isles is a boaters paradise with the Atlantic inlet nearby!   Call me today for a private showing: 954-661-8871

-Scott

Hassan Whiteside Possibly Buying A New Home In South Florida This Year

South Florida luxury real estate

Miami, Florida- Basketball season is out and the news is in. According to Bleacher Reports article and various other news sources, major basketball star Hassan Whiteside signed a four-year maximum deal with our very own Miami Heat. His new contract will be cashing in a whopping 98 million. WOW. You heard right, 98 million! That is a total of one hundred times more than his current Heat contract. With that being said, Whiteside is expected to put that money to good use and what’s better than real estate, right? There is a plethora of pricey real estate options for him to purchase here in South Florida. Currently, he resides in a two bedroom at 900 Biscayne but will he opt for a more lavish waterfront home? Or chose to stick to the high-rise lifestyle? Heat fans, I want to hear how well you know Whiteside!

Long Awaited Demolition Day is Here! 1010 S. Northlake Drive in Hollywood


The residents in Hollywood are all rejoicing in the demolition at 1010 S. Northlake Drive. This property was dangerous, a nuisance, and above all a detractor from property values in the area. The developer and builder have arduously advocated for this demolition for quite some time and it will free up a waterfront lot, permitting a new home to be built. This land is coveted and the plot is large enough to accommodate a home of considerable size. For more information on this land and for information on vacant land in Hollywood, contact me today.

EWM Ranks #1 in Overall Sales of Luxury Homes in Miami-Dade County

South Florida home salesI am thrilled to report to you that EWM Realty,  has won another accolade here on the South Florida real estate market.

Evidently, EWM ranks #1 in total overall sales of million-dollar plus homes in Miami-Dade County.

This is an incredible honor, especially given how competitive the luxury home market can be here in South Florida!

For Quality South Florida Real Estate Services, Contact EWM

Here’s what else you should know about EWM’s success on the South Florida real estate market, according to data from the Southeast Florida Regional Multiple Listing Service:

  • As of the period ending August 31, EWM had 41 transactions in excess of one million dollars, compared with 31 and 18 respectively for the second and third ranked brokerage.
  • EWM was #1 for the fiscal year August 2012-August 2013, with 429 sales in excess of one million dollars, compared to 336 and 283 for the second-and third-ranked brokerages.
  • EWM has been a leading Realtor this year in the pre-sale of Miami-Dade’s newest luxury condos, most of which will be completed over the next 12 to 24 months.
  • EWM associates have closed an average of more than one single-family home or condominium residence every 24 hours during this past year.”

“It is an astounding figure,” said EWM President & CEO Ron Shuffield. “We are extremely proud of our associates and management and congratulate each one for the high-level of service that they are providing to our clients.”

Your Dedicated South Florida REALTOR®

As you may know, EWM Realty is the exclusive affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate for Miami-Dade and Broward counties, as well as a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, which provides EWM access to thousands of real estate professionals across the globe.

Because of these important connections, EWM offers unbeatable service to home buyers and home sellers navigating the South Florida real estate market.

Contact me, Scott Patterson, today to see how I can help you!

Until next time,

Scott