Tag Archives: things to do in miami

6 New Year’s Eve Parties & Celebrations Around South Florida

access_timeDecember 13, 2019personScott Patterson

Every time we cross into a new year, it’s a special occasion, but this year, we won’t just be entering into a new year—we’ll also be kicking off a new decade.

As we say goodbye to the 2010s, it’s a great time to reflect on the changes and growth that this decade brought…but it’s also the time to celebrate what the 2020s have in store! Wondering what sort of New Year’s Eve celebrations are happening around the communities of South Florida? Here’s your quick guide.

Fontainebleau’s New Year’s Eve with the Jonas Brothers

The Jonas Brothers, this year's headliner for Fontainebleau Miami Beach's New Year's Eve event. — Photo courtesty of hollywoodreporter.com

When: December 31st, 9pm

Where: Fontainebleau Miami Beach

What: Every year, Fontainebleau Miami Beach brings in a big name artist for 21-and-over New Year’s Eve celebration. This year, the Jonas Brothers will be hitting the stage and playing poolside all night long! There are a variety of ticket packages available, including reserved tables right by the action, and a family experience area for guests under 21. The base ticket for premium admission also includes access to an open bar!

A Night of Elegance

A man wearing a tux for a New Year's Eve event.

When: December 31st, 8:00pm

Where: Leona’s Palace, Hollywood

What: If you’re looking to ring in the New Year in style, then A Night of Elegance is the red carpet event you’ve been waiting for. Live music will be provided by Gairy Sweetness, DJ Squeeze & DJ Capone, and complementary glasses of champagne will be distributed before the midnight countdown.

Bayfront Park New Year’s Eve

When: December 31st, 8pm

Where: Bayfront Park, Miami

What: One of the largest free dance parties in the city and home of the “Big Orange” drop, the Bayfront Park New Year’s Eve event consistently tops lists as one of the best celebrations in the country of its kind. In addition to the free celebration, Miami local Pitbull will be hosting a VIP event at the park, filled with gourmet food, craft cocktails, and live music from Mr. Worldwide himself.

New Year’s Eve at GG’s Waterfront

Four glasses of champagne served for a New Year's Eve event.

When: December 31st, 4pm

Where: GG’s Waterfront

What: This year, Hollywood’s popular GG’s Waterfront restaurant will be serving up their five-star seafood and waterfront views all day long. Early dinner kicks off at 4pm with a chef’s prix fix, and a Gala party will be held at 9pm, where guests can also enjoy live music, dancing, an open bar, and party favors.

Miami Beach New Year’s Eve Cruise 2020

When: December 31st, 9pm

Where: Anticipation Sternwheeler, 1200 N. Ocean Dr.

What: Celebrate the new year from one of three decks right on the water, as you cruise from Hollywood Beach to Miami Beach on the Anticipation Sternwheeler. Not only will you have prime views of the fireworks all around the area, but you can also enjoy bouncing from deck to deck to enjoy the festivities. On the first deck, you’ll find a DJ and casino games, the second offers dancing and live music, and the third slows things down with fresh air and scenic views.

New Year’s Eve Party at Miami Shores Country Club

A man wearing a suit for a New Year's Eve event.

When: December 31st, 8pm

Where: Miami Shores Country Club

What: Bottomless bubbles, an open bar, fresh seafood, delicious desserts, party favors, live music—Miami Shores Country Club is pulling out all the stops for their New Year’s Eve bash. It’s sure to be equal parts elegant and exciting!

Ring in the New Year in South Florida

New years are for new beginnings…and what better way to start anew than by finding a home in South Florida? If you’re thinking of relocating to the area, I’m here to help. Take some time to explore my in-depth guides to the area, browse my resources for buyers, and narrow down your options with my specialized search tool. Once you’re ready to take the next steps, I’m just a phone call away!

The Best Rainy Day Attractions in the South Florida Area

access_timeNovember 22, 2019personScott Patterson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

access_timeNovember 5, 2019personScott Patterson

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

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

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!

Scott’s Picks: Your Exclusive Guide to South Florida’s Best Parks

access_timeSeptember 17, 2019personScott Patterson

Did you know that Florida has some of the most unique flora and fauna in the world? It’s true! When you call the Sunshine State home, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to explore the stunning serenity of nature.

These are my top picks for South Florida’s best parks — they’re the perfect spots to unwind in the great outdoors.

Biscayne National Park

Light house at one of South Florida's best parks.

Get ready to explore Florida’s most interesting ecosystems. From coral reefs to islands, you’ll find it all at Biscayne National Park. This coastal preserve features its own mangrove forest, a campground, four marinas, and so much more.

Planning a visit? Don’t miss out on the amazing snorkeling opportunities. Here, you’ll be able to see dolphins, sharks, manatees, and even tropical fish. If you’re lucky, you can even schedule a private tour of the park, which includes access to the bay and keys. Another can’t-miss spot is the Boca Chita Lighthouse, which features stunning waterfront views.

C.B. Smith Park

Water park at one of South Florida's best parks.

If you’re looking for a spot that’s fun for the entire family, there’s a reason why C.B. Smith Park was rated as one of South Florida’s best parks. Hidden away in Pembroke Pines, it’s hard to believe that this park is less than a half-hour from Miami’s city center!

Here, you’ll find a plethora of fun activities for everyone to enjoy. Kids will love the water park, batting cages, and more. Don’t worry, though—there’s plenty of fun for the adults, too. This park also has a driving range, tennis courts, and fishing spots. Full RV hookups are also available for camping year-round, so come and enjoy what C.B. Smith Park has to offer.

Everglades National Park

The Everglades at one of South Florida's best parks.

We’ve all heard of the Florida Everglades—it’s a kind of place you won’t find anywhere else in the country. Luckily, you can enjoy this unique part of the state just a stone’s throw away from Miami.

The Everglades National Park offers plenty of activities for visitors. Whether you want to explore nearly 30 miles of trails or enjoy the starry sky with a telescope, you’re bound to find something you’ll love. This is also a fantastic spot to learn about conservation, as park rangers are eager to educate visitors on the area’s one-of-a-kind features.

John U. Lloyd Beach State Park

Beach at one of South Florida's best parks.

Everyone knows about Florida’s stunning beaches, but if you want to get away from the crowds, this is the spot. You’ll find John U. Lloyd Park in secluded Dania Beach, and there’s no shortage of fun things to enjoy.

This park is the perfect spot to enjoy a dip in the ocean and collect shells on the shore. Best of all, you can enjoy all your favorite activities without large high-rises or tourists. I recommend the kayaking or sailboating—it’s a great way to take in the Florida coast, and you can rent all of the equipment you’ll need.

Ready to Call South Florida Home?

It’s not too late to come enjoy South Florida’s best parks. If you’re considering a move to the Miami area, I’ve got the resources you need to make the right decision.

Want info from an area expert? Just call me, Scott Patterson. I’m a Miami local and have years of experience in South Florida real estate. I’d love to answer any questions you might have. Just give me a call so we can chat—I can’t wait to help jumpstart your real estate journey!

Sun, Sand, and Serenity: South Florida’s Top Beaches

access_timeAugust 26, 2019personScott Patterson

Florida’s expansive coastline makes it perfect for ocean-lovers looking to live near the sun and sand. With so many different spots to choose from, it may seem overwhelming, but one part of the state stands out from the rest—right here in South Florida.

In our opinion, you can find some of Florida’s best beaches on the southern coast. Next time you’re planning a beach day, here are some of the top spots to check out!

South Beach

People enjoying one of South Florida's top beaches.

Sometimes it’s hard to choose between a beach that’s buzzing with things to do or one that’s more private. In South Beach, you get the best of both worlds! With crystal-clear waters and bright sand, you’ll never want to leave South Beach’s gorgeous shores. Well, maybe you will when you discover the awesome dining and shopping options that are right nearby in Miami!

This beach is perhaps one of the most popular Miami spots for both locals and tourists. After spending the day on the shore, we recommend exploring Yardbird Southern Table & Bar, a farm-to-table favorite. Looking to shop? Hit up Fifth and Alton, a cool indoor shopping mall that has all your favorite stores.

Hallandale Beach

Just south of Fort Lauderdale, Hallandale Beach is a fantastic community with gorgeous shorelines for you to explore. If you ask locals, the best way to experience this beach is on a high-rise condo right next to the shore. Take some time to soak up the sun and relax, and enjoy some of the most pristine water in South Florida.

When you’re ready for more fun, why not test your luck at one of the local casinos? Gulfstream Park Racing and Casino features both games and a horse racing venue that hosts the Florida Derby and Pegasus World Cup. The Big Easy Casino is another fun spot to check out—let’s hope the odds are in your favor!

Hollywood Beach

If you’re looking for more than just sun and sand, you’ll find it here—one of Hollywood Beach’s coolest features is a 2.5 mile boardwalk! Stroll along the boardwalk and explore some of the coolest shops and restaurants just a stone’s throw away from the shore. Want to try your hand at some sports? The historic Garfield Street paddleball courts are open to all who want to give it a shot!

Of course, don’t forget to actually check out the beach. One of Florida’s highest-rated beaches, Hollywood Beach features both a charming town and a well-kept coastline that’s kept visitors coming back for one hundred years! With plenty of events going on year-round, you’ll want to become a Hollywood local!

Sunny Isles Beach

Coastline at one of South Florida's top beaches.

Located on a barrier island, Sunny Isles Beach allows you to enjoy the Atlantic Ocean on the east and the Intercoastal Waterway on the west. With plenty of beach access, you could spend all day relaxing in the sun or taking a dip in the sea. However, there are plenty of other things to do, too!

The newly built Newport Fishing Pier is just off the beach and is the perfect spot to take in the water or go fishing. If you’re more into shopping, there are plenty of spots to explore nearby. The Aventura Mall is only a short drive away and has a movie theater, over 50 restaurants, and countless luxury shops for your perusal. The mall also has a free guided art tour, which showcases the mall’s private contemporary art collection.

Ready to Become a South Florida Native?

With so many gorgeous beaches to explore, it’s no wonder so many people want to call South Florida home. Now that you’ve read about South Florida’s top beaches, are you ready to call this phenomenal place home?

If it’s time for you to make your move, contact the Scott Patterson Group today. We’d love to help you find your dream home on the Florida coast! Looking for info on buying or selling your home in South Florida? Explore our website and give us a call—we’d love to chat about the real estate process!

Dive into Local History with These Top Historical Sites in South Florida

access_timeMarch 4, 2019personScott Patterson

Although the Miami area wasn’t officially established as a city until 1896, the history of the area dates back to 1566. First inhabited by the Tequesta Indians before being claimed by the Spanish, the city was known as one of the best building sites in the state.

From its discovery until present day, Miami has gone through a number of historical events and major happenings. Looking to learn a little more about local history? Check out a few of the landmarks leftover from Miami’s rich past.

The Kampong

The only part of the National Tropical Botanical Gardens that isn’t located in Miami, the Kampong is a small, 9-acre botanical garden. The grounds were owned by Dr. David Fairchild, a renowned botanist and plant explorer, who was responsible for introducing over 200,000 plants and crops to the United States.

The gardens are located in Coconut Grove, the oldest neighborhood in the city, and house some of the plants that Fairchild introduced. Today, it’s listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

The Barnacle Historic State Park

Constructed in the late 19th century, the Barnacle Historic State Park is another historic stop located in Coconut Grove. Previously the home of local pioneer Ralph Middleton Munroe, the grounds have been kept largely the same as they were when Munroe inhabited them.

When you visit the park today, you’ll find towering trees, Munroe’s old home, and beautiful natural beauty. The state park has also been outfitted with replicas of Munroe’s boats, the Egret and the Flying Proa.

Bill Baggs Cape

Just a short distance away from Downtown Miami sits the Bill Baggs Cape State Park. Home to the oldest standing structure in the Miami area—the Cape Florida Lighthouse—the park is perfect for a little history and natural beauty.

In the 19th century, the cape was a landmark for Seminole Indians and runaway slaves looking for freedom and safe passage. The park offers guided tours on foot, bike, or kayak for visitors to take in all of the historic landmarks.

Ancient Spanish Monastery

Originally built in 1133 AD in Spain, the Monastery of St. Bernard de Clairvaux was sold to newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst in 1925, broken down brick by brick, and moved to Brooklyn. After sitting in storage for years, the remnants of the building were bought Colonel Robert Pentland, Jr and gifted to the Bishop of Florida.

Today, the Ancient Spanish Monastery offers guided tours, weddings, photo shoots, and church services. With one of the most interesting histories of any building in the country, it’s worth visiting in person.

Venetian Pool

The only pool on the National Register of Historic Places, the Venetian Pool dates back to the 1920s. Formed from a coral rock quarry, architects used the natural features of the pool to accentuate its beauty.

With spring water sourced from an underground aquifer, two waterfalls, a grotto, and stunning accents, the Venetian Pool is one of the most popular stops in the city—and totally open to the public.

Find Your Home in Miami

Not only does Miami have a rich history, but it also boasts a bright future. Come discover all that the city has to offer, and find your new home here today.

Any questions? Don’t hesitate to give the Scott Patterson Group a call today.

Arts, Culture, & More: Your Guide to the Wynwood Art District’s Highlights

access_timeFebruary 28, 2019personScott Patterson

The Miami area is full of diverse cultures, lifestyles, and influences, making it one of the most vibrant cities in the whole world. Within the city, the Wynwood Arts District is known as one of the premier creative neighborhoods, and it’s easy to see why.

With art galleries, local eateries, unique shopping, and creativity galore, don’t miss out on the highlights of Wynwood—check out our guide to all of the must-see stops.

Street Art

You don’t even have to head to an art gallery or museums to see the best art that Wynwood has to offer. When you walk through the streets of the neighborhood, almost every building is decked out with dazzling murals and unique designs, transforming a regular stroll into an artistic journey.

Did you know that Wynwood is home to the highest concentration of street art in the country? There are literally hundreds of murals from artists all over the world to check out as you stroll the streets, and the Wynwood neighborhood page offers a helpful guide to all of the current creations.

Galleries + Museums

In addition to all of the street art, Wynwood is also filled with a wide variety of art galleries and museums. It can be a little overwhelming to take it all in, which is why we’ve got the lowdown on what you can’t miss.

First, be sure to stop by the Oliver Cole Gallery. With over 50 artists from all over the world featured, the Oliver Cole Gallery is home to the latest in modern, cutting-edge trends.

Next, the Rubell Family Collection and its 7,300 privately owned works bring in over 40,000 visitors a year, making it one of the most popular museums in the area.

For something a little different, finish up your rounds with a visit to the automobile collection Miami Supercar Rooms.

Food + Shops

Wynwood residents’ passion for the community doesn’t just stop with arts—the neighborhood also boasts a wide variety of locally owned and operated restaurants and shops. Here are the best local flavors and retailers to check out around the area!

One of the hottest new restaurants in the city, head to Alter for locally sourced and seasonal dishes including tzatziki ice cream, beef tartare, and stuffed quail. For an experience as unique as the neighborhood, check out 1-800 Lucky, an Asian-market style food hall that covers 10,000-square-feet of space—and a karaoke lounge. Other local favorites include Kyu, R House, and Joey’s.

With Wynwood’s strong roots in art and design, it should come as no surprise that the shops also reflect those values. Head to Frangipani for handmade and sustainable art pieces, Antidote for eco-conscious clothing, or Ligne Atelier for all of your contemporary interior design needs.

Explore Wynwood & Find Your Home in Miami

While we hit the highlights of Wynwood, there’s still so much more to discover. The neighborhood is packed with hidden gems on every block, so don’t miss the chance to explore it all for yourself, and find your new home here today.

If you have any questions about the area, would like more information, or are ready to get started on your real estate journey, don’t hesitate to contact the Scott Patterson Group today.