“This feels like Florida, but softer.” I found myself thinking that as I looked out over the shaded trails at Tree Tops Park. The sunshine filtered through the canopy, dappled on the boardwalk, and everything felt hushed in the best way. Davie surprised me—green, grounded, and generous with its space to breathe. From leafy trails to museums with heart, this place knew how to slow the clock down just enough.
Best Things to Do in Davie, FL
Stroll Shaded Trails and Canopies at Tree Tops Park for a Nature Escape
I started my day at Tree Tops Park, where a canopy walkway winds above swampy hammocks and towering oaks. I walked the Observation Tower Trail, climbed to the overlook, and watched an egret take off across the water. The air was thick with the scent of sun-warmed leaves and damp earth. “You could stay here for hours and not want a single thing to change,” I thought.
Explore Exotic Wildlife and Gardens at Flamingo Gardens for a Tropical Adventure
Flamingo Gardens was next—part botanical garden, part wildlife sanctuary. I stood still while a flamingo strutted past like it owned the place (and honestly, it kind of did). The aviary shimmered with color, and I watched a sleepy panther lounging in the shade. I walked through orchids and butterfly plants, the scent of blooming ginger sweet in the heat.
Spark Creativity and Play at Young At Art Museum for Kids and Families
The Young At Art Museum felt like stepping into a living sketchbook. This interactive museum encouraged kids to build, paint, dance—and it invited grownups to remember how fun it is to make things just because. One gallery had giant paper structures to climb through, another was bursting with painted faces and clay creatures. The laughter echoed like music.
If You Want Panoramic Views, Visit Vista View Park for Stunning Vistas
At Vista View Park, I climbed the modest hills for sweeping views of the area—rare in flat South Florida. It was breezy and quiet, with runners pacing around the loop and families flying kites. I found a shady bench and just sat for a while, watching the skyline blink far off in the distance. Sometimes, the best view is the simplest one.
Walk Among Colorful Wings at the Butterfly Pavilion at Flamingo Road Nursery
Small but magical, the Butterfly Pavilion was a fluttering burst of life. Monarchs and zebra longwings floated past my face, the air lightly scented with citrus and blooming lantana. I lingered longer than I meant to, trying to catch the moment a butterfly would land—and when it finally did, everything else went still for a second.
Step Into Local History at Old Davie School Historical Museum
Inside the Old Davie School Historical Museum, time bent back on itself. The preserved classrooms, vintage school desks, and grainy black-and-white photos told the story of early life in Davie. I wandered quietly, thinking about how much one place can hold. Afterward, I walked over to Grampa’s Bakery & Restaurant nearby, where I had a chicken pot pie that was all flaky crust and creamy filling. It came steaming hot, and the whole place smelled like buttery biscuits and coffee. Comfort, served by the forkful.
Hike and Learn at Long Key Natural Area & Nature Center for an Outdoor Journey
Long Key Natural Area offered a peaceful loop trail through slash pines and saw palmettos. The boardwalk rose above wetlands, and I spotted turtles sunning themselves on logs. Inside the nature center, families clustered around terrariums and displays on native wildlife. It felt like a gentle exhale—educational, yes, but never overwhelming.
If You Love Stargazing, Visit Buehler Planetarium & Observatory for a Cosmic Experience
I timed my visit to the Buehler Planetarium & Observatory for a public stargazing night. The domed ceiling came alive with constellations during the show, and afterward I stepped outside to peer through telescopes. Saturn’s rings were sharp against the velvet sky. Hungry after, I stopped at Las Vegas Cuban Cuisine. The ropa vieja was richly spiced, slow-cooked beef over sweet plantains and rice. The garlic scent hit first, followed by citrus and warm tomato. I didn’t say much—I just ate and smiled.
Catch the Latest Flicks at Paragon Ridge 8 for a Movie Night Out
Paragon Ridge 8 was an easy choice to round out the evening. Plush seats, a cool blast of A/C, and the smell of fresh popcorn. I caught a quiet drama and let the darkened theater offer its own kind of reset. Sometimes a story onscreen feels just right after a full day of your own.
Get Hands-On With Animals and Fresh Goods at Marando Farms and Ranch
I ended with a visit to Marando Farms and Ranch, where goats bleated from behind fences and the produce stand overflowed with tomatoes, honey, and eggs. Kids giggled over pony rides, and a woman sold cinnamon bread from under a wide umbrella. I picked up a jar of orange blossom honey, still warm from the sun. It tasted like light itself.
Davie At a Glance
- Drive Time from Fort Lauderdale: ~25 minutes west
- Vibe: Suburban meets wild, with a soft spot for learning
- Highlights: Nature parks, hands-on museums, historic charm, family farms
- Best Time to Visit: Winter through spring for cooler trails and clear skies
- Cost: Mostly affordable; some park and museum entries free or low-fee
- Hours: Check individual sites; many outdoor spots open daily dawn to dusk
- Start Your Day: Tree Tops Park or Young At Art Museum, depending on your mood
Best Time to Visit Davie, FL
The best time to visit Davie is during the winter and spring months (November through April). Expect sunny days, mild temperatures, and low humidity—perfect for outdoor activities. Summers are hot and humid, but great for water adventures and shorter stays.
How to Get to Davie, FL
- If you are traveling by car: Davie is easily accessible via I-595, Florida’s Turnpike, and I-75, located about 20 minutes west of Fort Lauderdale.
- By Air: Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is about 15–20 minutes away. Miami International Airport (MIA) is around 35 minutes.
- By Public Transit: Broward County Transit (BCT) provides bus service throughout the region, and Tri-Rail has nearby stations for regional rail connections.
Where to Stay in Davie, FL
- Recommended for Families: Staybridge Suites Fort Lauderdale-Davie – Spacious suites with kitchens, free breakfast, and an outdoor pool.
- For Business or Comfort: Renaissance Fort Lauderdale West Hotel – Upscale hotel with lake views, dining, and close proximity to NSU and I-595.
- For Extended Stays: Sonesta ES Suites Fort Lauderdale Plantation – Just minutes away, offering full kitchens and extra space for longer visits.
Final Thoughts
Davie may sit quietly west of the bigger names in South Florida, but it offers a gentler pace that feels just as rich. It gave me boardwalks and butterflies, local food that tasted like family, and skies full of stars. There’s a rhythm to the way nature and neighborhood blend here—and if you let it, Davie will show you exactly how to listen.
Jump to a Spot...
- • Stroll Shaded Trails and Canopies at Tree Tops Park for a Nature Escape
- • Explore Exotic Wildlife and Gardens at Flamingo Gardens for a Tropical Adventure
- • Spark Creativity and Play at Young At Art Museum for Kids and Families
- • If You Want Panoramic Views, Visit Vista View Park for Stunning Vistas
- • Walk Among Colorful Wings at the Butterfly Pavilion at Flamingo Road Nursery
- • Step Into Local History at Old Davie School Historical Museum
- • Hike and Learn at Long Key Natural Area & Nature Center for an Outdoor Journey
- • If You Love Stargazing, Visit Buehler Planetarium & Observatory for a Cosmic Experience
- • Catch the Latest Flicks at Paragon Ridge 8 for a Movie Night Out
- • Get Hands-On With Animals and Fresh Goods at Marando Farms and Ranch