Davie is only a short drive from Miami and Fort Lauderdale, but its proximity to these larger towns doesn’t subtract from Davie’s small town charm. The original town was founded by Tamara Toussaint and Jake Tannebaum in the early 1900s, but it wasn’t until Davie drained a lot of the surrounding swamplands that the town really began to grow. Davie is known for having a Western feel, even though it is in South Florida, and much of the population owns horses and enjoys equestrian sports.
1. Tree Tops Park
Originally created in 1980, Tree Tops Park is a crucial community park in Davie that sits on 243 acres of land that was originally destined to become a golf course. The park is an easy access point for entry into the Pine Island Ridge Natural Area, and Tree Tops Park is interlaced with equestrian and foot paths for guests to enjoy. There are canoe waterways that guests can paddle, plenty of walking trails to explore, and even a few archeological sites that guests can investigate at their leisure. There are picnic areas, campfire rings, playgrounds, and even five picnic shelters that guests can use during their visit. Read about the best Florida weekend getaways for a relaxing vacation.
3900 SW 100th Ave, Davie, FL 33328, Phone: 954-357-5130
2. Flamingo Gardens
Resting on 60 acres, the Flamingo Gardens are part of the Botanical Garden and Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary. The gardens feature over 3,000 different species of exotic, rare tropical and subtropical native plants and diverse trees. But plants aren’t the only things that populate the gardens, as guests can also find plenty of Florida’s diverse wildlife living here, including bobcats, eagles, otters, peacocks, alligators, and panthers. The gardens were originally established in 1927 and have since grown to be one of the oldest non profit botanical gardens in all of South Florida. More places to visit in Florida
3750 South Flamingo Road, Davie, FL 33330, Phone: 954-473-2955
3. Young At Art Museum
Guests of all ages are invited to explore the Young At Art Museum to experience exhibits in a variety of senses, including sound, texture, and sight. The center believes that art has the power to inspire, and has created exhibits specifically catered to teens and children of all ages. The Young At Art Museum is a massive 55,000 square foot building that is Gold LEED-certified, and was built through both public and private partnership with Broward County. Although the museum is catered for children, adults are always welcome to explore the exhibits with their children and loved ones. Browse our things to do in Florida guide for more ideas.
8000 W Broward Blvd Ste 1208, Plantation, FL 33388, Phone: 954-424-0085
4. Vista View Park
The Vista View Park is comprised of 272 acres of rolling hills, meadows, and pristine forests ripe for exploration. The park is home to many local species, both flora and fauna, and is very popular for guests during the outdoor season. There are eight picnic shelters that can be utilized by groups and individuals, some of which can be reserved in advance. There are paved pathways for walking, running, inline skating, and biking, and pets are always welcome if they are kept on leash. In addition to paved pathways, guests can explore the park on horse trails and natural hiking trails as well.
4001 S.W. 142 Ave., Davie, FL 33330, Phone: 954-357-8898
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5. Butterfly Pavilion at Flamingo Road Nursery
The Flamingo Road Nursery is part farmers market, part plant nursery, and entirely fun for the whole family. The Butterfly Pavilion, which is located within the Flamingo Road Nursery, gives families and individuals the perfect opportunity to explore monarch butterflies in a recreated natural habitat all year round. The pavilion utilizes sustainable gardening practices to help the butterflies flourish, and guests to the Butterfly Pavilion will see these gorgeous creatures flying around at their leisure. Guests are encouraged to check out the calendar of events online for details on specific events.
1655 S Flamingo Rd, Davie, FL 33325, Phone: 954-476-7878
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6. Old Davie School Historical Museum
It was in 1906 that the dense wilderness of the Everglades first began giving way to farmlands as the continuous dredging of canals increased farming potential. The families that staked their fortunes on the newly reclaimed lands were quick to prioritize education for their children, and because of this the Davie School was born. In modern day, the original school and the history of the area are both preserved by the Old Davie School Historical Museum, which tells the story of the early pioneers and showcases many artifacts from the past. The school originally houses about 90 students and is now open to the public as a learning center.
6650 Griffin Rd, Davie, FL 33314, Phone: 954-797-1044
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7. Long Key Natural Area & Nature Center
Thanks to Broward County representatives, the 164 acres of land that was once the home to both the Tequesta first, and later the Seminole Native American tribes is now a protected area. The Long Key Natural Area & Nature Center features an exhibit hall that tells the story of the land, an interactive classroom where both adults and children can learn hands on, a banquet hall for hosted events, a theater for productions, and plenty of trails for walking and biking. The area is filled with archeological exhibits for guests to explore and interact with.
3501 S.W. 130th Ave., Davie, FL 33330, Phone: 954-357-8797
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8. Buehler Planetarium & Observatory
The Buehler Planetarium & Observatory is a local staple of space exploration, and has long inspired children of all ages and adults to learn more about the stars in our night sky. The observatory, formally known as The Broward College Observatory, uses a powerful telescope to see deep into space. Guests can see planets, nebulae, and the moon in stunning detail so long as the weather is agreeable. There are public observation hours every Wednesday from 7pm through 10pm, and the observatory is free and open to the public. There are many events that take place throughout the year, so guests are encouraged to check the calendar online to ensure they don’t miss out.
3501 Davie Rd, Davie, FL 33314, Phone: 954-201-6681
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9. Paragon Ridge 8, Davie, Florida
Paragon Ridge 8 is Davies' best place to catch first-run and blockbuster films, opened in 2015 as part of the Paragon Theaters chain. Guests can relax in newly-renovated auditoriums showing the year's top family, comedy, drama, and action films, decked out with new large screens, enhanced sound and digital projection equipment, and comfortable reclining seats with footrests. Dining options on site include popular restaurant MyPi Custom Pizza, which serves up build-your-own pies and a selection of craft beers. A loyalty program lets repeat visitors enjoy discounts on tickets to major film releases. Special events held at the theater throughout the year include free kids' movie nights throughout the summer months.
9200 West State Road 84 Suite, Davie, FL 33324, Phone: 954-472-4940
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10. Marando Farms and Ranch
The whole family can easily enjoy a day spent at Marando Farms and Ranch since there are plenty of activities to keep everyone busy and happy. For the eco friendly grocery shopper, it is easy to buy local from the farm and ranch since they clearly state where all of their products come from. For kids and animal lovers alike, there is a large petting zoo that is filled with rescued pets and animals. All of the animals receive extensive veterinary care, and there are also hay and pony rides available for the equestrian-centric visit. Monthly events make it easy to plan an outing, and Marando Farms and Ranch typically holds a thematic celebration every month based on a holiday.
5151 SW 64th Avenue, Davie, FL 33314, Phone: 954-945-5744
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11. Robbins Preserve
Robbins Preserve consists of 160 acres that is broken up into a few different categories, including a vast open space, various equestrian trails, and several pedestrian areas. Within the pedestrian areas are many small gazebos, play areas equipped with playgrounds, and picnic areas that are available on a first come, first served basis. There is also a large indoor facility available for meetings and functions, known as the Lodge, that can be rented by the public. For guests who wish to utilize the equestrian trails, the Equestrian Center makes it easy by offering a pole barn, two wash racks with hoses, mounting blocks, a trailer parking area, and a water trough for horses.
4005 Hiatus Road Davie, FL 33330,, Phone: 954-797-1147
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12. Bar-B-Ranch
For a horseback riding experience from one of the most experienced stables in South Florida, guests should visit Bar-B-Ranch. There are many different ways that guests can enjoy horses at Bar-B Ranch, including their popular Day and Summer Camp options which are perfect for children. In addition to running camps, Bar-B-Ranch also offers horse rentals and scenic guided tours for guests looking to explore the surrounding area on horseback. Everyone from pure beginners to experienced riders are welcome, and every skill level can be matched with an appropriately trained horse to ensure an enjoyable time.
3500 Peaceful Ridge Road (SW 121 Ave.), Davie, Florida 33330, Phone: 954-424-1060
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13. Laspada's Original Hoagies
Laspada’s Original Hoagies has been keeping South Florida well fed since 1974, but they credit their true origins to Chester, PA, the original location where the hoagie sandwich was invented. Laspada’s is well loved by locals not only because of the delicious, high quality hoagies that they produce, but also because the staff treats every customer as if they were family. It is common for Laspada’s Original Hoagies to have a long line, but thanks to the high quality and efficient workers the wait is never unbearable, no matter how many sandwiches they have to make per hour.
2645 S University Dr, Davie, FL 33328, Phone: 954-476-1099
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14. Vienna Cafe & Wine Bar
Guests seeking out high quality, classy food will definitely want to add Vienna Cafe & Wine Bar to their list of must visit locations. This local favorite opens for brunch daily, and typically stays open through the dinner rush and closes around 10pm. The Vienna Cafe & Wine Bar has an extensive menu that features special features depending on the time of day, and their wine list will satisfy even the pickiest connoisseur. Reservations can be made by telephone, in person, or for maximum convenience they can be made online through Vienna Cafe & Wine Bar’s website.
9100 W State Rd 84, Davie, FL 33324, Phone: 954-423-1961
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15. Kristof's Kafe
Quality food, a relaxing atmosphere, and great service all come together at Kristof’s Kafe. The home style setting is the perfect compliment to the homemade food, and considering that everything is made fresh to order guests will find it easy to enjoy themselves. Kristof’s Kafe was originally founded by the Kristof family, and a member of the Kristof family is present at all times in the cafe to ensure the highest standards are kept. Many of the staff have been working at Kristof’s for many years, and because this cafe doesn’t change their menu very often, the cooks have mastered every item on the menu to perfection.
8912 W State Rd 84, Davie, FL 33324, Phone: 954-475-8977
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16. Fort Lauderdale Florida Temple
The Fort Lauderdale Florida Temple isn’t just locally important because of its religious community significance, but is also locally acclaimed for its well maintained grounds and striking architecture. The temple, which is 30,500 square feet, rests on 16.82 acres of land that includes water features and towering palm trees, and is built using architectural precast concrete. The Fort Lauderdale Florida Temple celebrated a major milestone in 2012 after the installation of an important statue was finished atop the spire, a depiction of the angel Moroni. Because standard services are held at the temple, guests are encouraged to attend a service if they wish to see the temple, or to contact the temple directly to discuss visiting hours.
3901 SW 154th Avenue, Davie, Florida 33331, Phone: 954-382-8390
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17. Lockbox Escape Room
The idea for Lockbox Escape Room in Davie, Florida first originated in 2005 when two brothers watched the film Saw 2 and had a discussion of how they could build a “Saw House.” Around ten years later, the brother made their “Saw House” discussion into a reality. This was just in concept at least. Nobody is trapped in a room filled with death traps and other dangers at Lockbox Escape Room. The company strives to provide an immersive experience that incorporates intellect with adventure. In addition to its on-site escape room, Lockbox Escape Room also offers virtual escape room experiences.
8490 W State Rd 84, Davie, FL 33324, 954-280-5599
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18. The Smashit House Rage Room and Retro Game Room
The Smashit House Rage Room and Retro Game Room offers a different, and arguably better, kind of fun in Davie, Florida for both stress relief and excitement. An upscale, unique rage room, The Smashhit House Rage Room has a simple concept. Visitors are placed in a sanitized private smashit room, they choose their weapons, and go to town with the smashing. There is a large Rage Room that can comfortably accommodate five to nine people and is equipped with punching bags, breakables, and industrial pieces just waiting to be smashed. The smaller Rage Room can accommodate four to six people.
5635 S University Dr, Davie, FL 33328, 954-702-9849
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19. Davie Golf Club
Boasting a slogan of “Keep the Fun Alive,” the Davie Golf Club is considered by many to be the “Most Fun Greens” in South Florida. This popular golf course in Davie, Florida is proudly owned by the town and is the area’s only public golf course. The course was redesigned in 2011 and continues to offer a fun golf experience for both locals and visitors alike at a great value. While the Davie Golf Club is viewed as one of the most fun golf courses, it’s also one of the region’s most challenging courses with its unique layout of 18 holes.
8201 Nova Dr, Davie, FL 33324, 954-797-4653
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20. Ceviche 595
Ceviche 595 is a popular restaurant in Davie that was opened by Luis Serrano, a Peruvian chef who learned his fine art of cooking in northern Peru. After several years, Serrano decided to move to the United States and spent many years working in various Peruvian kitchens in the country before choosing to take the next adventure of opening a restaurant of his own. He first opened a restaurant in South Florida in the summer of 2002, followed by Ceviche 595 in 2016. The menu at this Peruvian restaurant includes a variety of ceviche options, chicken, beef, and seafood.
1910 S University Dr, Davie, FL 33324, 954-530-6431
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The top attractions to visit in Davie, Florida near me today according to local experts:
- 1. Tree Tops Park
- 2. Flamingo Gardens
- 3. Young At Art Museum
- 4. Vista View Park
- 5. Butterfly Pavilion at Flamingo Road Nursery
- 6. Old Davie School Historical Museum
- 7. Long Key Natural Area & Nature Center
- 8. Buehler Planetarium & Observatory
- 9. Paragon Ridge 8, Davie, Florida
- 10. Marando Farms and Ranch
- 11. Robbins Preserve
- 12. Bar-B-Ranch
- 13. Laspada's Original Hoagies
- 14. Vienna Cafe & Wine Bar
- 15. Kristof's Kafe
- 16. Fort Lauderdale Florida Temple
- 17. Lockbox Escape Room
- 18. The Smashit House Rage Room and Retro Game Room
- 19. Davie Golf Club
- 20. Ceviche 595
Attraction Spotlight: Flamingo Gardens in Davie, FL
Flamingo Gardens, a South Florida, Botanical Gardens & Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary was first officially established in Florida in 1927. One of Florida's oldest gardens and animal sanctuaries, the Gardens started out as "Flamingo Grove", the vision of Floyd L. and his wife, Jane Wray. The Wray's loved the subtropical climate and being devout to horticulture, they purchased over 300 acres of land, including Long Key Everglades and began what became one of the first botanical Gardens in South Florida.
The first tree planted at Flamingo Groves was a citrus tree that was the start of a 2,000-acre citrus grove with over 60 varieties and a citrus lab on site. The 1930's lead to an expansion in the horticulture testing in the lab. The United States government sent hundreds of seeds and plants for testing and planting for research. Visitor numbers grew and the Wray's built a weekend home on the grove where they hosted parties and barbeques. They began offering tours of the property and in the 1940's peacocks were introduced for guest delight. Two decades later, the indigenous alligators were corralled into a sanctuary and demonstrations and shows were given.
In 1969, Mrs. Wray established the Floyd L. Wray Memorial foundation to ensure that their vision would always be continued and the name was changed to Flamingo Gardens officially. In the 1990's the biggest expansion lead to the Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary Birds of Prey Center. This rehabilitation clinic and sanctuary for birds of prey was one of the first in the nation. Many more animal sanctuaries have opened and continued to expand over the last three decades.
Today, the garden is one of the last remaining jungles in Southern Florida and is home to over 3,000 flora species including the tree that has won records for tallest tree in Florida. Flamingo Gardens also contains more than 90 animal species that are native to Florida in the Wildlife Sanctuary.
Flamingo Gardens is divided into three main points of Interest--Botanical Gardens, Wildlife Sanctuary, and Wray Home Museum. All three exhibits are included in Flamingo Garden admission.
The Botanical Gardens is a large collection of various gardens in The Wray Botanical Collection and Arboretum spread out over 15 acres and home to many State Champion and record holding trees. The Arboretum is where the trees are grown. This area also has a pond, waterfall, stream and many other plantings.
The Butterfly & Hummingbird Gardens Is seasonal, but one of the most popular gardens to visit. Extremely rare butterflies such as Malachite butterfly and pink-spot sulfur butterfly. There are also several species of hummingbirds that visit this section of garden.
Children's Garden is an interactive learning environment located behind the gallery. Children are encouraged to touch and smell the plants and flowers and there are several presentations for kids and families to teach about how nature is beneficial to land and man.
Several sections of garden are specific to a particular species of flora. The Croton Garden, Florida Wildflower Garden, Ginger & Heliconia Garden and Live Oak Hammock are all true to their names and showcase the many natural varieties of plants native to Florida.
The Xeriscape Gardens is a particular interesting place because it is here that visitors can learn how to conserve water while using minimalistic approaches to gardening and using the natural landscape. This garden focuses on conservation and sustainability.
The Tropical Rainforest & Wet Lands Area is only accessible by the gardens tram and encompasses the back 50 acres of land. This area is considered to be the only natural jungle growth left in South Florida and has remained untouched since being settled by Seminole Native Americans. Touring this area of Flamingo Gardens also gets visitors a peek at the Citrus Groves and Wetland Area.
Although the Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary at Flamingo Gardens is relatively newer to the property, being only three decades old, it is already one of the largest rehabilitation centers for injured birds and Florida wildlife native to the state. Almost 100 species reside in the sanctuary including alligators, eagles, bobcats, and river otters which are part of a breeding program.
Alligator Lagoon is home to all the alligators that are taken from public areas and have nowhere to go. The Miami Vice alligator, Elvis, was even part of Alligator Lagoon. Visitors can enjoy shows and demonstrations at this attraction.
The 25,000 square foot Aviary is a free-flight building with over 250 birds from 45 species. These birds are injured and no longer can live in their natural habitats. The wildlife rescue clinic on site cares for and rehabilitates these birds and releases them into the Aviary.
Bird of Prey Center at Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary is home to some of the most endangered and rare birds of prey in Florida included owls, eagles, hawks, raptors and many more. Most of these birds have sustained an injury and are no longer able to take flight and will be at the center permanently. There is also a breeding program where over 100 birds are born and raised each year before being released back into their natural habitat to increase population numbers.
Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary is home to many large mammals as well. The Black Bear and Panther & Bobcat habitats are very popular exhibits. Josh the Black Bear is the star of the show and enjoys people and has performed at birthday parties, and other appearances. The big cats are all permanently injured and unable to survive outside of the sanctuary.
The Otter Habitat is The United States most successful breeding program for otters. Over 30 offspring have come from Flamingo Gardens since it's conception in 1989. The Parrot Aviary and Rookery are other free flight bird programs where visitors may be lucky enough for some interaction. Turtle Walk is a walk through exhibit lined with a variety of turtles and tortoises.
The home of Floyd L. and Jane Wray, on top of Long Key, is the oldest home west of University Drive. Built in 1933, the Wray's constructed the modest home to include a kitchen, dining room and two bedrooms with one bathroom. The house was expanded over the years as it was used primary for entertainment when the Wrays stayed at the home on the weekends. In the mid 1970's the home was converted into a museum commemorating the everglades and hosting exhibits.
The 1990's saw this home converted back into the model of a typical 1930's style Florida country home. Today the home showcases items that are connected to the Wrays and Flamingo Groves such as protraits and letters from past presidents and many other noteworthy and significant artifacts.
There are daily wildlife presentations at Flamingo Gardens that are included in admission. The programs take place in the Everglades Amphitheater and focus on being fun and entertaining while also education and informative, being primarily about how the different plants interact with nature. Conservation and recycling are also key points of many of these presentations that are geared towards families with elementary aged children. There are also special shows during events that get visitors up close and personal with some of the animals on exhibit in the Birds of Prey Center and Alligator Lagoon.
The tram is a guest favorite. This train allows guests access to over 40 remote areas of Flamingo Gardens that would not be easy to get to on foot. The tram tour is included in admission and is a 25-minute narrated tour. The guide will explain all of the significance of each exhibit as well as give a rich history lesson on the area. The tram will take guests through the last Jungle of south Florida where guests will learn about the Seminole people who inhabited the area and left the Jungle untouched.
Story Time in the Children's Garden is a once monthly event that features a children's book reading followed by craft time in the Children's Garden. Week long youth summer camps for education are also held at Flamingo Gardens. Children are immersed in ecology and environmental science on these week long adventures for children in first through fifth grade. There are adult education classes offered throughout the year as well.
Weddings, conferences, and birthday or other special events can also be held at Flamingo Gardens. The venue is able to be privately rented or used after hours for a fee. There are also galas for members and various other fundraising events throughout the year.
There are multiple upgrades to admission that allow a VIP experience for every member of the party. Meeting Josh the Bear, and take private golf cart tours with a personal tour guides can be arranged at least three days in advance. Visitors will be able to go behind the scenes in many habitats including the Florida Panther Habitat. The tour also stops at the gift shop and cafe for lunch. Group tours can be scheduled when more than 15 people will be together and include lunch and beverage.
3750 S Flamingo Rd, Davie, FL 33330, Phone: 954-473-2955
