Pembroke Pines, Florida: 10 Best Short Day Trips
10 Easy Road Trips from Pembroke Pines, Florida for a Fun Day Out
|
| Trade an ordinary day for South Beach sunshine, Vizcaya elegance, safari wildlife, and lighthouse views on these easy road trips from Pembroke Pines. |
If you’re in Pembroke Pines, Florida and feeling the itch to get out of town, you’re in a great spot for a quick escape. One of the best things about living in or visiting Broward County is how many short road trips and day trips you can take without turning the day into a marathon drive.
This guide is all about things to do near Pembroke Pines that are outside Broward County. That means no local repeats here. Instead, we’re heading into Miami-Dade County, Palm Beach County, Hendry County, and Collier County for a mix of beaches, wildlife, small-town charm, arts, and classic South Florida fun.
Sometimes the best nearby getaway is the one that only takes an hour or two. Pack some snacks, charge your phone, and let’s hit the road.
1. Walk the Sand at South Beach in Miami-Dade County
If you want a classic Florida day trip from Pembroke Pines, South Beach is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s lively, colorful, and full of that postcard-style Miami energy people travel across the country to feel.
You can stroll the beach, dip your toes in the water, and people-watch along Ocean Drive. The Art Deco buildings make the whole area feel like a movie set. I’ve always thought South Beach is a little like opening a snow globe and stepping inside it—everything is bright, busy, and full of motion.
- Why go: Iconic beach vibes and easy sightseeing
- Best for: Couples, solo travelers, and friend groups
- Drive time: About 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic
2. Explore Vizcaya Museum & Gardens in Miami-Dade County
Looking for a road trip that feels a little more peaceful? Head to Vizcaya Museum & Gardens in Miami. This historic estate is one of the prettiest spots in South Florida, with waterfront views, elegant rooms, and gardens that seem made for slow wandering.
If your usual weekend trip includes beaches and shopping, this is a nice change of pace. It feels old-world without being stuffy, and it’s great if you enjoy taking photos or just want somewhere calm to reset.
- Why go: Beautiful gardens, history, and bay views
- Best for: Couples, photographers, and anyone wanting a quieter escape
- Drive time: Around 1 hour
3. Spend the Day at Zoo Miami in Miami-Dade County
For families, Zoo Miami is one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips near Pembroke Pines, FL. It’s large, well-kept, and easy to enjoy at your own pace. You can walk it, rent a bike, or use the tram if you want to save energy.
This is the kind of trip that works well when you want a full day without too much planning. Kids stay busy, adults enjoy it too, and there’s enough variety to keep everyone interested.
- Why go: Big animal exhibits and family-friendly fun
- Best for: Families with kids
- Drive time: About 1 hour
4. See the Street Art at Wynwood Walls in Miami-Dade County
If you like creative spaces, bright colors, and trendy food stops, Wynwood Walls makes a fun short road trip. The area is known for giant murals, cool shops, and a laid-back artsy feel.
Even if you’re not usually the “let’s go look at art” type, this place is easy to enjoy. It’s outdoors, casual, and full of energy. Plus, it’s a good reminder that a nearby getaway doesn’t have to mean nature trails or beaches every time.
- Why go: Outdoor murals, fun atmosphere, and great photo spots
- Best for: Friends, couples, and creative travelers
- Drive time: Around 45 minutes to 1 hour
5. Relax at Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Palm Beach County
Want a totally different vibe? Head north to the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach. This is one of those places that can turn a normal day into something memorable.
The gardens are peaceful and beautifully designed. Walking through them feels like taking your brain off airplane mode. If life has been loud lately, this is a wonderful pick for a gentle weekend trip or a calm day out.
- Why go: Stunning gardens and a relaxing setting
- Best for: Quiet travelers, couples, and garden lovers
- Drive time: About 1 hour
6. Visit Lion Country Safari in Palm Beach County
Lion Country Safari is one of the most iconic attractions in Palm Beach County, and it makes a fantastic road trip from Pembroke Pines. You drive through animal areas and see wildlife from your own car, which always makes the trip feel a little more exciting.
It’s part safari, part theme park, and fully family-friendly. If you’ve ever wanted a day out that feels a bit different from the usual South Florida routine, this is a strong pick.
- Why go: Drive-through animal adventure
- Best for: Families and animal lovers
- Drive time: Around 1 hour 15 minutes
7. Take in the Views at Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum in Palm Beach County
For a scenic and slightly historic day trip near Pembroke Pines, head to the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse. The red lighthouse is one of the most recognizable sights in the area, and the waterfront setting makes the whole trip feel special.
If you’re up for climbing the stairs, the view at the top is worth it. On a clear day, it feels like the coastline stretches forever. Not a bad reward for a short drive, right?
- Why go: Coastal views, history, and a true Florida landmark
- Best for: Sightseers, couples, and history fans
- Drive time: Around 1 hour 30 minutes
8. Experience Swamp Life at Billie Swamp Safari in Hendry County
If you want something more rugged and off the usual tourist path, consider Billie Swamp Safari in Hendry County. This is a very different kind of getaway, with wetlands, wildlife, and a deeper look at the natural side of inland South Florida.
It’s the kind of place that reminds you Florida is more than beaches and palm trees. You get that wide-open feeling out here, where the skies seem bigger and the pace slows down.
- Why go: Unique wildlife experience and outdoor adventure
- Best for: Nature lovers and curious travelers
- Drive time: About 2 hours
9. Discover Small-Town Charm in LaBelle, Hendry County
Not every road trip has to be built around one giant attraction. Sometimes the fun is in the change of scenery. LaBelle offers a quieter, slower-paced day out with old Florida charm, local shops, river views, and a more relaxed feel than the coast.
This is a great idea when you want to unplug a little. Grab lunch, walk around town, and enjoy a day that doesn’t feel rushed. Think of it like taking a deep breath in road trip form.
- Why go: Cozy small-town atmosphere and scenic river setting
- Best for: Couples and travelers who like hidden gems
- Drive time: About 2 hours
10. Visit Naples Pier and Downtown Naples in Collier County
If you’re willing to drive a bit farther for a polished beach-town experience, Naples Pier and Downtown Naples are worth the trip. This area feels upscale but easygoing, with pretty streets, shopping, dining, and classic Gulf Coast scenery.
The pier is perfect for a walk, especially around sunset. If you’ve had one of those weeks where you just want a clean, simple, beautiful outing, Naples delivers. It’s a lovely weekend trip idea or a full day trip if you leave early.
- Why go: Gulf views, charming downtown, and a relaxing beach-town feel
- Best for: Couples, families, and anyone wanting a polished getaway
- Drive time: Around 2 hours
Quick Tips for Planning Day Trips from Pembroke Pines, Florida
Before heading out, here are a few simple tips to make your trip smoother:
- Leave early if you’re driving into Miami-Dade or Palm Beach County.
- Bring water, sunscreen, and a light jacket for indoor stops.
- Check attraction hours before you go.
- Have a backup plan in case of rain.
- Don’t overpack your schedule. One or two main stops are usually enough for a fun day.
That’s the beauty of these things to do near Pembroke Pines, FL. You don’t need a huge vacation budget or a long week off work. A simple road trip can do the trick.
Final Thoughts on Nearby Getaways from Pembroke Pines
From Miami’s buzz to Naples’ calm shoreline, there’s no shortage of great day trips from Pembroke Pines, Florida. Whether you want beaches, art, wildlife, gardens, or a small-town escape, you’ve got solid options in every direction.
So, which trip sounds best to you? Are you in the mood for a quick road trip, a fun family day, or a relaxing nearby getaway?
If you found this list helpful, share it with friends and help them plan their next Florida adventure too. And if you’ve taken any of these day trips, leave a comment with your favorite stop or your best travel tip.
Comments
Post a Comment