Any traveler to Miami should visit Pinecrest Gardens, the original site for "Parrot Jungle." It's well preserved with great atmosphere and the amphitheater is a great venue for concerts. A South Florid a landmark.

Worth a nice drive to spend a few hours to walk the gardens here and explore the old parrot jungle, very nice in the fall when the temperatures are cooler and more comfortable.

Make it a picnic day.

This is Definately a hidden treasure in the Greater Miami area. Recently added to the National Registry of Historic Places, Pinecrest Gardens evokes the feeling of walking through the Garden of Eden. Filled with winding paths that meander through a tropical forest with waterways full of coi, turtles and other fish that can be fed and offer a wonderful pass time for your little one. Stop at the petting zoo, playground and splash n play area with your children or bring a picnic basket and sit with your significant other while you watch the swan swim by.... Truly beautiful and unique. Super cheap when compared to some of the other area attractions... Just $3.
Can't beat that!

This is the grounds of the old Parrot Jungle. It is a beautiful garden to walk around. There's plenty to do! There are lots of tables for a picnic, a big lake with beautiful water fowl, a playground, and a little water area for kids to play in (water sprays up from the ground). There are ponds with fish and turtles, tons of beautiful flowers, and plenty of shade and always a nice breeze. This is a fantastic place to visit - if you want to just walk around and admire the greenery, or if you want to let kids run around and enjoy themselves - there's something for everyone. There is a little petting zoo also, but I didn't go in it. I am not fond of petting zoos.

There's plenty of free parking. The cost to get in is only $3 - but, if you are a Pinecrest, Florida resident, entrance is free. I love the place - you get a lot for your 3-bucks!

p.s. I went on a weekday and saw a couple food stands; however, none of them were open. I would imagine those are open on the weekends.