The prospect of having a long winter break away from school and responsibilities seems fun- that is until you’ve spent your 3rd day couch locked with a bag of chips watching Family Guy reruns and wondering what day it is. It can be quite difficult to find things to do during winter break that don’t involve a Netflix and snack binge because most fun places in Miami cost an arm and a leg, which is something college students don’t have an extra supply of. So what can you do this winter break to avoid becoming a Cheeto crusted Netflix zombie? Below i’ve compiled a list of 5 places that are fun, affordable and will get you off the couch this winter break!
1. Zoo Lights
Each year during the month of December, Zoo Miami fills their park up with over a thousand different lights and Christmas decorations. For only $9.95, visitors can walk the entire park and admire the unique animal shaped lights, take a free “Snowman’s River Boat Ride,” enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and cookies, as well as taking a picture with Santa Clause! This fun event will take place every Friday and Saturday of December from 7-10pm.
2. Pincrest Gardens
Pinecrest Gardens is a beautiful botanic garden nestled right off of Old Cutler Rd that features exotic plants, gorgeous ponds that brim with life, a petting zoo, a cafe and also several lovely picnic spots. Admission into Pinecrest Gardens is always $5 and you can bring outside food along with a blanket and enjoy a nice breezy picnic. Also, from December 15th-24th, starting at 6pm, they will begin “Nights of Lights” where you can experience thousands of spectacular holiday lights, as well as pictures with Santa, mechanical rides, Christmas music, storytelling, pony rides and more. Yummy snacks will also be served and admission for the event is $5.
3. PAMM
If you live in Miami i’m sure you’ve heard of the Perez Art Museum of Miami, which features gorgeous art, installations and presentations that are beyond comparison. Normally admission is $16, but if you bring your student ID, you can get in for only $12. Sitting beautifully in front of the ocean, this museum will provide you with hours of fine art while not breaking the bank.
4. Knaus Berry Farm
The Knaus Berry farm is one of Miami’s most famous farm. The Amish operated farm has been running since 1956 and they have been made famous by their classic sticky cinnamon rolls that are warm, sweet and gooey. They also have a huge strawberry farm where customers can pick their strawberries right from the ground. The prices are great, with a dozen rolls being only $10. They are notorious for their long lines so make sure to get their early!
5. 3rd ST Beach Yoga
If you’re more of the active type then this is perfect for you! Every day (yes, every single day!) people gather at the beach behind the lighthouse on 3rd st and enjoy a 6am or 7am yoga class while the sun rises. These classes are free and are kept alive by donations of the participants. No donation is too big or small. The classes require no registration, no contracts and no previous experience. Just show up with your towel, yoga mat and a small donation!
sources: http://www.zoomiami.org/default.aspx?p=156331&evtid=662079:12/15/2017, https://www.pinecrestgardens.org/venue/calendar, http://www.knausberryfarm.com/menu.html, http://www.pamm.org/, http://3rdstreetbeachyoga.com/faq/