Due to COVID-19, people have had to cancel or delay their summer plans, forcing  them to stay  home for summer break. Although staying at home for two months may seem like a bore, Miami has many new experiences available for residents. As restaurants and offices begin to open up, many hope to get back to their normal routines within weeks. Below are some unique, fun and local ideas for an exciting staycation.

Places to go: 

Design District: People recognize the Design District as an upscale neighborhood filled with modern architecture, designer stores, art galleries and delicious restaurants. The creative neighborhood features shops like Cartier, Dior and Sephora; restaurants such as Harry’s Pizzeria and the trendy Dior pop-up cafe, reflecting great options to get a bite to eat in between shopping. Currently, the Design District offers online amenities such as virtual workouts and tours of the ICA museum. 

National Parks: South Florida has many unique national parks which allow visitors to experience the flora, fauna and wildlife of the state. Parks such as the Everglades National Park and Biscayne National Park remain only a short drive away from Pinecrest. The Everglades National park features activities such as birdwatching, biking and kayak trails, while the Biscayne National Park has kayak rentals, fishing and snorkeling. Both parks recently opened on a limited basis, allowing access for visitors.

Things to do:

Bike around the city: Renting bikes in the center of Miami allows people to explore their city while also receiving a small workout, and could not be easier to get. The city offers many bike stations such as City Bike Miami, which has multiple stations throughout neighborhoods like Brickell, Miami Beach and Coconut Grove. One can rent a bike for an hourly fee and return it at any time.

Spend Fourth of July at home: While Miami provides many opportunities for entertainment, spending summer at home remains equally as exciting. Due to the uncertainty of a fourth-of-July celebration in Miami, one can host their own celebration at home. Set up decorations, buy sparklers and have a picnic outside for lunch with delectable red, white and blue recipe ideas.

Places to eat: 

Pinecrest Farmer’s Market: The Pinecrest Farmer’s Market has recently opened up as a drive-through market, offering visitors the chance to purchase local products while continuing to practice social distancing. The Market occurs every Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at PInecrest Gardens, and sells products like fresh groceries, smoothies and local cuisine.

Enjoy Miami Spice: Beginning in August, the Miami Spice culinary festival reflects the community’s diverse culture by highlighting some of the city’s finest restaurants. Participating restaurants offer guests a prix fixe menu, which includes an appetizer, entree and dessert. This year, the event begins Aug. 1 and lasts until the end of September.

While others will eventually enjoy these activities soon enough, it is equally important to take the current precautions to make them possible. For now, continue to practice social distancing, wear masks when going outside, wash your hands and avoid going outside unless necessary to reduce the risk of catching or transmitting COVID-19.