Barnacle Historic State Park

It’s easy to be convinced that Miami [1]’s history only reaches back as far as the art deco buildings of South Beach [2], but the mansion at the heart of Barnacle Historic State Park (3485 Main Hwy., 305/442-6866, 8 a.m.–sunset daily, $5) provides a different sort of perspective on the area’s growth.

Built in 1891 by yacht builder Ralph Munroe as one of the first homes in the Coconut Grove [3] area, the house is highly unique, crafted from timber collected from wrecked sea vessels and designed in a way that can only be described as “whimsical.” Opening out onto Biscayne Bay, the grounds are equally gorgeous, spreading out over five acres of hardwood hammocks and sea breezes.