Five Reasons To Visit South Florida In The Fall
South Beach
Ocean Drive from 5th St. to 15th St.
Miami Beach, FL 33139
(305) 673-7714
www.miamibeachfl.gov
The first thing that people think of when picturing South Florida in autumn is palm tree-lined beaches, warm waters and 70 degree weather. That's why South Beach is the perfect fall destination, because while your friends to the north are freezing, you will be in a bikini basking in the South Florida sun. Once you're done, you can spend the day browsing the neon strip, shop at designer stores or take advantage of the lively nightlife. While there, sample some of the world famous South Florida cuisine and truly feel like a native, even if it is just for a couple of days.
Art Basel
Miami Beach Convention Center
1901 Convention Center Drive
Miami Beach, FL 33139
(305) 674-1292
www.artbasel.com
Date: Dec. 4-7, 2014
Art Basel is an artistic explosion that occurs in three countries internationally and only one location stateside. That's why a trip to the one of the world's most infamous modern and contemporary art exhibitions is a must for your fall hit list. It has been a staple in South Florida since 2002 and is a favorite with locals, tourists and regular art walkers alike. Attendees can view art pieces from renown artists, stroll through intricate exhibits and sit in on panel discussions with art experts. It's basically the amateur art critic's Comic Con with tickets costing approximately $40 and up.
33rd Annual International Reggae & World Music Awards (IRAWMA)
Coral Springs Center For The Arts
2855 Coral Springs Drive
Coral Springs, FL 33065
(954) 344-5999
www.irawma.com
Date: Oct. 4, 2014
The International Reggae & World Music Awards honors the best and brightest in reggae and Caribbean rhythms, and this year it's returning to South Florida for the sixth time since 1987. The event is broadcast worldwide and kicks off the night with a star-studded red carpet event followed by an awards ceremony paying tribute to stars like Sean Paul, Snoop Lion and more. Admission is relatively inexpensive with discount tickets available online and packages including hotel and transportation. General admission tickets start at $37.10 and can be purchased in advance or at the door. So get ready to sway your hips and groove to the best Caribbean party this side of the islands.
NASCAR Ford Championship Weekend
Homestead Miami Speedway
1 Ralph Sanchez Speedway Blvd.
Homestead, FL 33035
(305) 230-5000
www.homesteadmiamispeedway.com
Date: Nov. 14-16, 2014
NASCAR is a source of southern pride and Homestead is just about as far south as you can get. So it makes sense that NASCAR would hold its annual Ford Championship Weekend in this quiet suburban Florida community. The Homestead Miami Speedway is the last stop on the nationwide, 11-race road to the 2014 Sprint Cup Championship. Witness the final lap and even meet and greet your favorite drivers like Ryan Newman with your special event ticket purchase for the Champions Club, Pit Box or the Speedway Club. General admission tickets start at $55 and packages are available for multiple days, races and Coke Zero Fan Zone activities
Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show
Broward Convention Center
1950 Einsenhower Blvd.
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
(954) 764-7642
www.showmanagement.com
Date: Oct. 30 – Nov. 3, 2014
South Florida is more than luscious beaches and sand. Several times a year, its highway-like intracoastal waterways take center stage for the International Boat Show. Fort Lauderdale has its show in October and it's an opportunity for yacht brokers of the world to meet boat seekers and admirers. The cost is $22 per day and if you're in the market, you might find yourself coming home with a speedboat, a luxury yacht or a behemoth of a boat. There are no test drives unless you're buying but it is one nautical adventure that will have you exploring the high seas in no time.