“I thought I was just taking a walk. Then the heron landed.” That moment happened in Tall Cypress Natural Area, where the sun filtered through sawgrass and cypress knees poked up like forest punctuation marks. Coral Springs surprised me—not just with its green spaces tucked behind suburban calm, but with how it made me feel like I had time again. Time to walk, breathe, look. This wasn’t a beach town. It was something quieter. Something grounded.
Best Things to Do in Coral Springs, FL
Explore Tall Cypress National Area
I started my day at the Tall Cypress Natural Area, a shaded trail system wrapped in stillness. The path weaved through wetlands and native trees, birds flitting overhead, the air humid but fresh. I stopped when a great blue heron landed in a patch of sunlight just feet ahead. It stood perfectly still—so still it felt like I was the one intruding. "This place protects something older than us," I thought. And I meant it.
Sawgrass Nature Center and Wildlife Hospital
From there, I visited the Sawgrass Nature Center and Wildlife Hospital, a nonprofit facility that rescues and rehabilitates native animals. I met a hawk recovering from wing surgery, turtles sunning on a log, and a gopher tortoise who ambled along a fenced path like he ran the place. The volunteers were kind and passionate, eager to share animal stories and conservation tips. It wasn’t flashy—it was honest and hopeful.
Admire art at the Coral Springs Museum of Art
Later, I wandered into the Coral Springs Museum of Art, where contemporary exhibits met regional voices. The building was bright, open, and quiet in the best way. A mixed media collage caught my eye—layers of family photos and torn fabric that made me pause longer than I expected. In one gallery, a group of students was sketching sculptures, their pencils scratching lightly in shared silence. “Art grows differently here,” I thought, “but it grows strong.”
Head to Coral Springs Center for the Arts
Just next door, the Coral Springs Center for the Arts added another layer—performance. I didn’t catch a show this time, but I peeked into the venue and scanned the upcoming schedule: theater, comedy, live music. The kind of place where the community shows up in person, on purpose. A friendly usher smiled and told me, “You should come back next weekend. There’s a jazz trio that’ll blow your mind.”
Go for a swim at Coral Springs Cypress Park and Pool
Needing to cool off, I swung by Cypress Park and Pool. Families lounged under umbrellas, and kids splashed through the shallow end with absolute glee. The water was cool, the air smelled faintly of sunscreen and chlorine, and I found a shady bench to sit with my feet in. Even if you don’t swim, this is the kind of place that reminds you summer still lives here year-round.
Play at Monster Mini Golf
For something playful, I ducked into Monster Mini Golf—a glow-in-the-dark indoor course lit with neon monsters, pop music, and that campy-but-fun arcade energy. I played a quick round (yes, I lost) and laughed more than I expected. It was goofy and loud and didn’t try to be anything else. Which honestly made it kind of perfect.
Downtown Shops
Later in the afternoon, I strolled the Downtown Coral Springs shops, where small businesses lined landscaped streets. I browsed a boutique full of minimalist home goods, bought a soy candle scented like citrus and sea salt, and sipped an iced lavender latte from a coffee shop that felt plucked from a Pinterest board. It was calm, easy, and sunny—the kind of downtown that doesn’t overwhelm you. It just lets you enjoy it.
Pick up a picnic lunch from Doris Italian Market
Before heading out, I stopped at Doris Italian Market—equal parts grocery store, bakery, deli, and slice of heaven. I picked up a fresh mozzarella sandwich on focaccia and a chocolate cannoli for the road. The sandwich was salty and soft with basil and balsamic, and the cannoli had a filling that was sweet, smooth, and just the right kind of indulgent. I ate it on a park bench near the fountain and felt exactly where I was.
Coral Springs At a Glance
- Drive Time from Miami: ~45 minutes northwest
- Vibe: Calm, leafy, unexpectedly artistic
- Highlights: Wildlife centers, art exhibits, shaded trails, glowing mini golf
- Best Time to Visit: Fall through spring for cooler weather and outdoor time
- Cost: Mostly free or moderate; museum and park entry often free, food and mini golf ~$10–$20
- Hours: Most attractions 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; mini golf and dining open later
- Address Base: Start at the Coral Springs Museum of Art (2855 Coral Springs Dr) and explore from there
Travel Tips: How to Get to Coral Springs, FL
- If you are traveling by car: I usually drive in via the Sawgrass Expressway (SR 869)—it’s a smooth ride and you’ll be just 30 minutes from Fort Lauderdale or 40 from Miami. You’ll find it easy to reach and easy to navigate once you're there.
- By Air: I fly into Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FLL). You’ll be in Coral Springs in about 30 minutes, depending on traffic—it’s a convenient and stress-free arrival.
- By Train: I’ve used Tri-Rail from time to time—stations in Deerfield Beach and Cypress Creek connect you to the region, and you can catch a quick rideshare to get into town. It’s a great option if you’d rather not drive.
Where to Stay in Coral Springs, FL
- Recommended for Families: Courtyard by Marriott Coral Springs – I like this one for its comfortable rooms and easy access to nearby parks and shops. You’ll enjoy the pool and relaxed atmosphere, especially after a day of exploring.
- For Couples: Fort Lauderdale Marriott Coral Springs Hotel & Convention Center – I’ve stayed here for a more resort-style experience. You’ll love the golf course views, the pool, and the on-site dining—it’s a perfect base for a romantic getaway.
- For a Boutique Hotel Stay: Hampton Inn & Suites Coconut Creek – Just outside Coral Springs, I’ve found this modern hotel to be both stylish and convenient. You’ll get great amenities and a short drive into all the Coral Springs highlights.
Best Time to Visit Coral Springs, FL
From my experience, the best time to visit is November through April. You’ll enjoy warm, dry days that are perfect for festivals, nature walks, or just soaking up the sun without the sticky summer humidity. I always try to visit during this window—everything feels bright, breezy, and just right.
Final Thoughts
Coral Springs doesn’t show off—it just shows up. In its nature preserves and rescue animals, in its galleries and glowing mini golf, in its lovingly stacked sandwiches and quiet park benches, it reminded me that a place doesn’t have to be loud to be meaningful. You just have to be willing to listen.
Jump to a Spot...
- • Explore Tall Cypress National Area
- • Admire art at the Coral Springs Museum of Art
- • Visit the Sawgrass Nature Center and Wildlife Hospital
- • Head to Coral Springs Center for the Arts
- • Go for a swim at Coral Springs Cypress Park and Pool
- • Play at Monster Mini Golf
- • Pick up a picnic lunch from Doris Italian Market