Top 10 Must-Visit Attractions in Aventura, Miami

Aventura, a vibrant city in Miami, is packed with exciting attractions for everyone. Whether you're into shopping, outdoor adventures, or cultural experiences, Aventura has something special to offer. Here are the top 10 must-visit spots you shouldn't miss.

Key Takeaways

• Aventura Mall is the largest mall in Florida, offering over 300 retailers and 50+ dining options.

• JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa features luxurious amenities, including two championship golf courses and a world-class waterpark.

• Tidal Cove Waterpark, located at the JW Marriott, boasts thrilling water slides, a lazy river, and a surf simulator.

• Aventura Arts and Cultural Center hosts a variety of performances, from Broadway musicals to classical concerts.

• Oleta River State Park is the largest urban park in Florida, perfect for outdoor activities like kayaking, biking, and hiking.

Aventura Mall

Aventura Mall is the largest mall in Florida and one of the top things to do in Aventura. With over 300 retailers, it offers a mix of high-end luxury brands like Fendi, Hermes, and Gucci, as well as popular mid-market stores such as Zara, H&M, and Nike. The mall also features more than 50 dining options, making it a great place to spend the day.

One of the mall's unique attractions is the Aventura Slide Tower, an outdoor slide designed by artist Carsten Höller. This slide is not only a piece of art but also a fun activity for visitors. Inside the mall, you'll find the Rainbow Valley Playground and Gorillas in the Mist, both of which are perfect for families with kids.

On weekends, the Aventura Market takes over the upper and lower levels, offering fresh produce, exotic foods, and unique fashion accessories. This market is the largest indoor market in South Florida and is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience local culture.

Whether you're looking for high-end fashion, delicious food, or a fun day out with the family, Aventura Mall has something for everyone. It's a key highlight among the things to do in Miami and a must-visit attraction in Aventura.

JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa

The JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa is a luxurious retreat in Aventura, Miami. This expansive resort offers a wide range of amenities and activities for guests of all ages. The resort features 685 rooms, including the exclusive Yacht Club Miami Suite, five restaurants, a high-end spa, and the exciting Tidal Cove Waterpark.

Guests can enjoy two 18-hole championship golf courses that have hosted numerous PGA and LPGA events. The resort's lush tropical grounds provide a serene backdrop for relaxation and recreation.

• Rooms and Suites: The resort offers a variety of accommodations, including the luxurious Yacht Club Miami Suite.

• Dining: With five on-site restaurants, guests can enjoy a range of culinary delights.

• Spa: The full-service spa offers a wide array of treatments, including facials, massages, and non-traditional therapies.

• Waterpark: Tidal Cove Waterpark features a surf simulator, lazy river, and seven water slides.

• Golf: Two 18-hole championship golf courses are available for golf enthusiasts.

Tidal Cove Waterpark

Tidal Cove Waterpark, located at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa, is a top-notch family destination. This park is exceptional! It features a 60-foot tower with seven thrilling waterslides. For those seeking high-speed excitement, the Aqua Drop offers a freefall drop, while the Boomerango provides a group raft ride with sudden drops.

If you're into bodyboarding, the FlowRider Triple machine is perfect for honing your skills. Alternatively, you can relax and float down the Lazy River, which winds through lush tropical scenery. For a more private experience, consider renting one of the luxury private cabanas.

Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Tidal Cove Waterpark has something for everyone.

Aventura Arts and Cultural Center

Opened in 2010, the Aventura Arts and Cultural Center is a modern gem in Aventura. Located at 3385 NE 188th St., this center offers a beautiful waterfront setting with a 330-seat auditorium, a glass-paneled lobby, and a promenade plaza. The center hosts a variety of shows, including classical soloists, Broadway musicals, rock and pop tribute acts, and children's entertainment.

One of the highlights is the Miami International Piano Festival, featuring performances by celebrated pianists throughout the season. The center is a must-visit for anyone interested in the arts and culture scene in Aventura.

Oleta River State Park

Just a few miles south of Aventura, Oleta River State Park offers over 1,000 acres of natural beauty right in the middle of an urban area. The park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring 15 miles of trails for hiking and biking. The real highlight, however, is the opportunity to explore the park's mangrove tunnels by kayak or canoe.

You can rent mountain bikes, kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards from the Oleta River Outdoor Center. They even offer guided tours, including unique experiences like kayaking under a full moon. If you're interested in learning more about South Florida's ecosystems, these tours are a great option.

One of the park's hidden gems is a sandy cove on Biscayne Bay, a true slice of paradise. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach or embark on an adventure, Oleta River State Park has something for everyone.

Gulfstream Park

Gulfstream Park is a premier destination for horse racing enthusiasts in South Florida. Hosting over 60 graded thoroughbred races each year, it is renowned for its exciting events, including the Florida Derby in late March and the Pegasus World Cup in January.

One of the park's unique features is the colossal statue of Pegasus and Dragon, which stands 100 feet tall and is claimed to be the third-tallest statue in the United States. This impressive sight is located in the parking lot and never fails to catch visitors' attention.

In addition to horse racing, Gulfstream Park offers a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The Village at Gulfstream Park, which opened in 2010, features Mediterranean Revival architecture and includes fashion boutiques, art galleries, and a range of dining, restaurants, bars & night spots such as Ten Palms, Carousel Club, Breezeway Bar, Texas de Brazil, Christine Lee's, Char #3, Tito's Raw Bar, and Derby Grill.

Founders Park

Founders Park is a public park dedicated to the people behind Aventura’s incorporation in 1995. This park is open to both city residents and visitors. There’s a variety of amenities and activity options at Founders Park. You’ve got athletic fields, outdoor trails with built-in exercise stations, tennis courts, picnic areas, and a playground.

For families, the main draw is the excellent splash pad, helping keep little ones cool and entertained in spring and summer. Across Hidden Bay Drive, the park’s southern portion features a scenic bay walk, with benches and tropical landscape overlooking a large sweep of the Intracoastal Waterway.

Greynolds Park

Greynolds Park is a 249-acre urban oasis in North Miami Beach. This park was once a commercial limestone quarry, but it was donated to the county in 1933 and developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Now, it features native habitats like hardwood and coastal mangrove forests.

Visitors can explore a variety of well-marked trails on foot or by bike. The park is home to many animals, and you might see iguanas and raccoons during your visit. The Oleta River runs along the park’s eastern border, and you can rent canoes and kayaks from the boathouse.

St. Bernard de Clairvaux Monastery

The St. Bernard de Clairvaux Monastery is one of the most unique historic sites in Florida. Originally built in Spain nearly 900 years ago, this Romanesque structure was purchased by American newspaper mogul William Randolph Hearst in the 1930s. The monastery was then disassembled, shipped to Florida, and reassembled in the 1960s.

Visitors can explore the finely sculpted capitals and reliefs, making it a surreal experience to wander through a piece of Medieval European architecture nestled among tropical gardens. The monastery, now part of an Episcopal church, is composed of more than 35,000 pieces and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Highlights of the visit include:

• Romanesque cloisters

• Finely sculpted capitals and reliefs

• Tropical gardens surrounding the monastery

This site is a must-see for anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply looking for a serene place to visit.

AMC Aventura 24

AMC Aventura 24 is a must-visit for movie lovers in Aventura, Miami. Located at 19501 Biscayne Blvd #3001, this theater offers a top-notch cinematic experience. The facility is massive, featuring spacious auditoriums with stadium seating throughout. One of the highlights is the Coca-Cola Freestyle machine, allowing you to customize your drink just the way you like it.

For those who love special effects, the Dolby Cinema and IMAX with Laser screens are a treat. These screens also come with luxury recliners, making your movie experience even more comfortable. Whether you're catching the latest blockbuster or an indie film, AMC Aventura 24 has something for everyone.

Looking for a fun movie night? Check out AMC Aventura 24! This theater offers a great selection of the latest movies, comfy seats, and tasty snacks. It's the perfect spot for a family outing or a date night.

Conclusion

Aventura, Miami, is a treasure trove of attractions that cater to all kinds of interests. Whether you're a shopaholic, a nature enthusiast, or a culture buff, there's something here for you. From the sprawling Aventura Mall to the serene Oleta River State Park, and from the luxurious JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa to the vibrant Aventura Arts and Cultural Center, the city offers a diverse range of experiences. Don't miss out on the family-friendly Tidal Cove Waterpark or the scenic Aventura Circle for a bit of outdoor fun. With so much to see and do, Aventura is a must-visit destination that promises unforgettable memories for everyone.

Don't miss out on the fun! Visit our website to learn more and book your tickets today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main attractions at Aventura Mall?

Aventura Mall is the largest mall in Florida and one of the biggest in the country. It features over 300 stores, including luxury brands like Gucci and Chanel, as well as popular mid-market stores like Zara and Apple. The mall also has more than 50 dining options and a variety of contemporary sculptures.

What can I do at JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa?

The JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa offers a range of amenities, including two 18-hole championship golf courses, a luxurious spa, and several restaurants. The resort also features Tidal Cove Waterpark, which has a surf simulator, lazy river, and multiple water slides.

Is Tidal Cove Waterpark suitable for all ages?

Yes, Tidal Cove Waterpark has attractions for all ages. There are thrilling water slides for older kids and adults, a lazy river for those who want to relax, and a kid-friendly area for younger children.

What kind of events are held at Aventura Arts and Cultural Center?

The Aventura Arts and Cultural Center hosts a variety of events, including Broadway musicals, classical music performances, rock and pop tribute acts, and children's shows. The center also features the Miami International Piano Festival.

What outdoor activities can I do at Oleta River State Park?

Oleta River State Park offers a range of outdoor activities, including kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, and fishing. It's the largest urban park in Florida and provides plenty of opportunities to explore nature.

Is Gulfstream Park just for horse racing?

No, Gulfstream Park is more than just a horse racing venue. It also has a casino, a variety of restaurants, and retail shops. The park offers a full entertainment experience for visitors.