HyperLocal News for Miami, Florida

Miami Beach Botanical Garden: art in the gardenThis 4.5 acre urban green space, located right in the heart of Miami Beach, showcases a plethora of tropical plants and trees, orchids, a Japanese Garden and a new “living wall” vertical landscape. Admission is free, so stop on by and take a stroll through the gardens. The gardens offer more than just horticulture, various art pieces and sculptures also take their turns in the garden. Several enviormental and ecological classes are offered throughout the year. Sign up to brush up on your horti

Barnacle Historic State ParkCome and visit the oldest residence in Miami-Dade County that still stands on its original foundation. This oasis, tucked into the urban landscape, brings you back to the pioneer days of Coconut Grove. Guided tours through the house museum leave Friday – Monday at 10 and 11:30 am and at 1 and 2:30 pm. Visitors can see period furniture and artifacts in the home and listen to a informative talk on Coconut Grove and Miami’s history.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: Out of this world beautyYou've never been to a state park like this. The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, in the Florida Keys, seems like another world entirely.

Duck Tours South Beach: A 90-minute land and sea adventureCome enjoy a wild and quirky ride aboard a 39’ amphibious vehicle that will take you from the glittery streets of South Beach straight into the glistening waters of Biscayne Bay. Duck Tours South Beach offers 90-minute narrated tours in and around South Beach, the Art Deco District, Fisher Island and Millionaire’s row.

Shark Valley: Experience the EvergladesEverglades National Park is the third largest National Park in the continental U.S. – stretching over 1.5 million acres. Shark Valley is a small section of the national park, with a paved loop that winds through the wide expansions of the Everglades’ saw grass prairies. Located just 30 miles west of Miami, Shark Valley is an easy-to-do day trip, offering many ways for enjoying the wilderness of South Florida.

Grove Scuba: Diving in South FloridaGet eyeball to eyeball with Goliath Groupers and Morey eels. Well, perhaps a little further away from the latter. Grove Scuba in Miami offers daily scuba diving and snorkeling trips out of Miami and Key Largo. They also offer certification and instructor courses.

Freedom Tower: The southern Ellis IslandFormerly a newspaper headquarters, this cream and mustard colored building played an important role for Cuban American citizens. Today the Freedom Tower serves as a monument to Cuban refugees during Castro's regime.

Monkey Jungle: Caged humans, free animalsWatch monkeys swim, play and eat in their natural habitat. Here, humans are in cages and the animals rule. Come experience the interesting flip that Monkey Jungle brings compared to a normal wildlife reserve.

Museum of Discovery and Science: a fun-filled day of learningLearn about space exploration, gravity, ecosystems and health at Fort Lauderdale's Museum of Discovery and Science. There's even an IMAX movie theater where you can learn about nature on the big screen.

Bakehouse Art Complex: A nonprofit for local artistsAt Bakehouse you can support local artists and get a glimpse inside their studios. Artists at Bakehouse work in variety of mediums, including sculpture, ceramics, photography, oils, acrylics, fabric design and metal.

Brix46: Brickell neighborhood loungeGrab your coworkers, friends or a date and head to this new neighborhood lounge in Brickell. Happy hour specials are offered everyday from 5 – 7 pm and include $5 mojitos and martinis and 2x1 beers. During happy hour, you can also enjoy the entire menu at a 25% discount! This hotspot calls all fun-loving locals for a mid-week pick-me-up. Nightly events include comedy shows, salsa lessons and hookah deals. Numerous board games are also available for patron use.

The Irish Times: Fun-loving pub and eateryWalk by and this charming Irish pub and eatery will beckon you inside for a pint of Guinness and some traditional Irish fare. They offer great lunch specials and late night bites. The dark wood bar, stone pillars and festively dressed waiters and bartenders give this place a warm and inviting vibe. They have a great selection of Irish beers on tap, including the popular Irish stout, Guinness. Smithwicks (pronounced ‘Smid-icks’), also made by the makers of Guinness, is a toasty, caramel-like ale.

Bougainvillea's: Old Florida TavernIf you haven’t heard of it or aren’t looking for it, you might miss it. But, across the street from Sunset Place, is an old Florida tavern, tucked in behind the lush bougainvillea plants, from which the bar got its’ name. Bougainvillea's offers live music five nights a week, making it a hot spot on the South Florida live music circuit where you can hear Jazz, R&B, Latin, Funk, Reggae and Rock.

The Rathskeller: $5 pitchers of cold beerThe Rathskeller, or, "The Rat", at University of Miami is a staple lunch spot and watering hole for the UM community. Come enjoy tasty appetizers, juicy chicken sandwiches, $5 pitchers of beer and a great lakeside view.

Waxy O'Connor's Irish Pub: Beer drinking and boat watchingThis Irish Pub in Brickell has a beautiful setting overlooking the Miami River and downtown. Located on the northern edge of the Neo Vertika building, this bar has beer, bites and a cool view.

GreenStreet Cafe: Where locals have brunchBrunch and lunch are popular at Miami's GreenStreet. Patrons can bring their puppies and people watch in Coconut Grove.

Sandbar Sports Grill: where jeans, t-shirts and beer are welcomeThis spot in the grove is usually packed with a lively college crowd. Sandbar is a great place to go to watch a game with friends and enjoy cheap beer in an unpretentious setting.

Vagabond: local tunes and a cool crowdVagabond's tagline "You are no one. You are everyone" sums up the vibe sufficiently here. Local artists, musicians and music lovers come here to be themselves and bust a move.

Transit Lounge has local Miami flavorIf you're tired of "the scene" and want a bar where you can be yourself, come to Transit. They've got board games, video games, karaoke, and no attitude - and of course, drinks!

Elbo Room: cheap beer and dive bar charmWhen you walk into Elbo Room, you'll be greeted with a smile and a beer. This is a laid back bar with lots of history, and without a bad attitude.

Miami Seaplane Tours: A birds-eye view of the cityCome get a birds-eye view of the “magic city” aboard a Cessna 172 Seahawk seaplane. Miami Seaplane Tours offers breathtaking journeys above South Florida’s dramatic and ever-changing coastal skyline. Tour choices range in length and price and can take you over Miami, Fort Lauderdale and the Everglades National Park. It’s easy to see how Fort Lauderdale earned its nickname as the “Venice of America” after flying over the cities’ canals, which are lined with multi-million dollar mega yachts.

Everglades Hummer Adventures: An off-road heart-pumping experienceRelish in your celebrity-like status as a Hummer arrives for your personal pick-up. Climb in, buckle-up and then hold on tight! This is one Everglades tour that will have your heart pumping hard -- even before you see the alligators.

Salsa Mia at Yuca Lounge: Come learn sizzling salsa moves!If you’re going to be spending some time in Miami, you should consider putting on your dancing shoes and taking some salsa lessons. Miami has numerous street festivals, clubs and restaurants at which this style of dance is prominent. Two left feet? Lack rhythm? Wonder what to do with your hands? No problem! The professional salsa instructors at Salsa Mia are experienced dancers and talented teachers.

Friday Cruise Nights: classic, custom and collectable carsThe great year-round weather draws many classic and custom car lovers to the Sunshine State. Some car hobbyists love to build and restore, others love to tinker and refine. Due to the popularity of the hobby in South Florida, there are several places that offer cruise nights, where owners of classic, custom, collectable and “cool” cars can show off their wheels. Florida Street Rods hosts the largest and longest running cruise night in South Florida every Friday, from 6 pm to 10 pm.

Bridal Show at the Ritz-Carlton: the destination for brides-to-beYou've said, "Yes," but you haven't said, "I do" — Eek! What now?!

Redland Summer Fruit Fest: exotic, deliciousCome down to the Fruit and Spice Park in Homestead June 20–21 for some sweet treats and family fun. Rain or shine, this event will go on.

Miami International Book Fair: November 8-15Attention all bookworms: You won't want to miss this literary extravaganza November 8-15 in downtown Miami. Gather some friends and head to Miami Dade's downtown campus for books, food and fun.

SoBe Comedy Festival will tickle your funny boneThe festival lasts from January 21-23, 2010 and brings Rob Riggle, Joe Rogan, Aziz Ansari, Kevin Hart and more. You'll get big laughs for a few well-spent bucks.

Free New Year's Eve Party at Bayfront ParkRing in the New Year at Bayfront Park with live music and cool fireworks. And you won't have to spend a dime!

Free sunset concerts at Bayfront ParkLiving in Miami can get expensive. Taking advantage of free events like the monthly concert series at Bayfront Park is a must for Miamians.

Art Basel 2009: art explosion on SoBeCome witness Miami's largest art exhibition December 3-6, 2009. Events take place at the Miami Beach Convention Center and all around town. There's so much to do and see, you may want to come everyday.

Champagne Fridays cure work-week bluesIf you're looking to start your weekend off right, head to the Ritz-Carlton in Coconut Grove on Fridays for live music, champagne and occasional shopping.

Matheson Hammock: county park, beach, and boat rampThis county recreation area is considered a local treasure by native Miamians. It is a perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a slice of nature. The park boasts a distinctive feature, a man-made atoll pool, which is kept fresh naturally by the tidal action of nearby Biscayne Bay. This circular lagoon offers a safe swimming area for children of all ages. Sandy stretches of beach and palm trees surround the atoll, so pack a picnic and come spend an afternoon!

Little Havana: A taste of Cuba in MiamiJust two miles west of the high rises in downtown Miami is the well-known neighborhood of Little Havana. Named after the capital of Cuba, Little Havana is an area brimming with Cuban culture. Here, you can witness a myriad of Cuban traditions, including: games of chess or dominos in Domino Park, cigar rolling, men sporting linen guayaberas - a traditional Cuban, button-up shirt, and locals gathering outside Cuban coffee cafeterias to discuss politics.

Coconut Grove: Where you can show your artsy sideThis neighborhood, known to locals simply as "The Grove", offers a weekly Farmers Market, trendy local shops and restaurants, an open-air mall called CocoWalk and a monthly art walk.

Coral Gables: The City BeautifulCoral Gables is home to the University of Miami, the stunning Venetian Pool, fabulous shopping at Miracle Mile and Merrick Park, cool restaurants like Ortanique on the Mile, and the breathtaking gardens at Fairchild.

Lulu's in the Grove: come connect with tapas, cocktails and conversationThis funky, yet sophisticated, new addition to the Grove has all the makings to become a local hotspot contender. Lulu's is an outdoor, sidewalk restaurant with urbanity and spunk that really make a night out feel like an event. The globally inspired cuisine doesn't fit into any particular genre or type - and that's the way they want it. Lulu serves dishes around drinks, offering an array of delectable tapas and an extensive wine and drink menu.

Mr. Moe's: A bit of the wild West in tropical MiamiThis log cabin restaurant and bar, decorated with numerous animal heads that line the walls, may seem a bit out of place in Miami’s tropical climate. However, locals and visitors alike continually fill this place, appreciating the cozy atmosphere, drink specials and great American cooking!

La Brioche Doree: French fashion lounge bakeryThis adorable French bakery in Miami Beach offers café-style breakfast and lunch along with a great selection of homemade pastries, sweets and croissants. Feather pink boas wrap support beams, and sheer petal pink drapes dim the bright, Miami sun. Zebra print accents pop out at you in this lacy jungle. Find your way to a seating nook and get ready to enjoy a great meal!

LA Sweets: cupcake and dessert loungeStop by LA Sweets to satisfy your sweet tooth. This dessert and cupcake lounge offers coffee drinks and an array of decadent desserts in a fun, mod space. The cupcake menu is up to a startling 58 flavors and counting. Current hot sellers are the guava cupcake with cream cheese frosting, triple chocolate, white chocolate chip and Oreo. Every Friday, LA Sweets celebrates the end of the work week with an edible version of happy hour. Come unwind with a Bacardi rum or pina colada flavored cupcake.

The Rusty Pelican: Waterfront dining on Key BiscayneThe Rusty Pelican on Key Biscayne is a great place in Miami to enjoy fine dining, with a waterfront view. The restaurant’s picture windows and outdoor patios offer panoramic views of the Miami skyline, making this place a perfect spot for a romantic interlude or special occasion. The all-star meal here is definitely the Sunday morning brunch, complete with all you can drink orange juice, champaign and mimosas.

Jaguar: Cerviche spoon bar and Latin American grillTraditional dishes from Mexico, Peru, Chile and Argentina are given modern twists at Jaguar in Coconut Grove. This Latin American grill is widely known for its’ flavorful cerviche, presented in oversized spoons. Every weekday from 4-7pm is happy hour. Enjoy a complimentary cerviche spoon and Latin American drink specialties like pisco sour and caiprinha for $5.45 a glass.

The Last Carrot: Healthy eats in the GroveThe Last Carrot in Coconut Grove is a perfect spot for Miamians seeking a healthy brunch, lunch or dinner. Their whole wheat pita sandwiches, juices, drinks and smoothies are made with seasonal, fresh and pure ingredients. Dine in, call for delivery, or email in your order for a speedy take-out option.

Yogurbella: fresh take on an old treatIf it is possible for yogurt to be “posh”, then Yogurbella has done it. It's even hard to decide what is better, the yogurt or the shop décor? Somehow, Yogurbella came up with a creation that is tangy, tart, creamy and sweet – all in the same bite. Walking into the store, you will be cheered by the bright, clean space and invigorated by the lime green accents.

Cafe Versailles: Experience Cuban coffeeYou simply cannot live in or visit Miami without trying this daily Cuban ritual. Miamians are fueled by this high octane, ultra sweet, espresso-type form of coffee. There is more to enjoying a Cuban coffee than getting your daily caffeine fix. The tradition of Cuban coffee is meant to be a social event, one to be shared with friends and family, and occasionally, whoever happens to be next to you in line!

First&First Southern Baking Company: Southern charm in downtown MiamiNestled in on the corner of Northeast First Avenue and Northeast First Street in downtown Miami, First&First Southern Baking Company offers good, ole’ fashioned comfort food in a fun, mod space. Whether you are stepping in for a breakfast of biscuits and gravy or craving some hearty chicken and dumplings for lunch or dinner, this place is your new southern spot.

University of Miami: Show your Hurricane pride!This private university in Coral Gables, Fla., covers 260 gorgeous acres and teaches 15,000 students. The green and orange pride is strong at UM.

Nova Southeastern University: Where the Sharks ruleNSU in Fort Lauderdale has undergraduate, graduate, professional degrees and certificates. This not-for-profit, private university has many programs to offer to fit varying lifestyles.

Florida International University breeds golden panthersFIU is a public research university that has more than 40,000 students. The university has a school of law and a school of medicine, and it is ranked #1 in awarding bachelor's and master's degrees to Hispanic students.