Our two national parks, Everglades and Biscayne, get the most attention from a tourism perspective, especially the Everglades. On the County side though we – as in Homestead – also have Biscayne Bay which is next to the national park and another large one which is unique. The Fruit and Spice Park is in Redland; “37 acres of more than 500 varieties of exotic fruits, herbs, spices and nuts from around the world; 180 varieties of mangos; 70 varieties of bamboo; 40 varieties of bananas; 15 varieties of jackfruit trees and numerous other exotic edibles.” (https://redlandfruitandspice.com/) Although we have been to many botanical gardens, this one is allegedly the only one in the world set up like it is. One of the unique aspects is visitors are allowed to take fallen fruit. (https://www.miamidade.gov/parks/fruit-spice.asp)

There are 3 daily tram tours which is good considering the size of the park, but meandering around is great as well. They have such a variety that you can spend hours if you’re so inclined. Although things were disrupted with COVID closures, they are getting back on track. The new superintendent, who has been in place for six months, has a background in biology and education and is very much into research. Among her other goals is to create additional STEM sessions for children. Right now they have Nutrition and Bees and Trees for younger children and various monthly workshops for older teens and adults. They also have periodic “Stargazing Nights” as a family activity. They hold several annual big events like the Asian Festival, the International Orchid Show, Heritage Festival, Blues, Brews, and BBQ. We haven’t done that one for a while and will probably try for this year. There is a $10 park fee, but it does go to a good cause.

Hubby and I were out earlier this afternoon to interview the superintendent and he shot lots of photos plus used the drone. This is another of those situations where we have more than enough material so I’ll have to decide what to trim.