Blake Walsh

15 Free Things to Do in Plantation, FL

  • Published 2023/03/31

The Plantation is a charming city in the heart of Broward County, southeast Florida.

Known for its lush greenery, beautiful parks, and vibrant community, Plantation offers a unique and diverse experience for visitors of all ages.

Whether a relaxing vacation or an action-packed adventure, this city has something for everyone.

One of the main attractions of Plantation is its stunning natural beauty, with over 40 parks and recreational areas that each have a unique charm and reasons to visit.

With so much to offer, Plantation is a must-see destination for any traveler looking to experience the beauty, culture, and history of South Florida.

Here’s a list of free things to do in Plantation, Florida:

Learn Local History at the Plantation Historical Museum

Exterior of the Plantation Historical Museum

Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Plantation Historical Museum, located at 511 North Fig Tree Lane, is a must-see for anyone interested in learning about local history and culture.

The museum is in a historic building built in the 1940s and is part of the Plantation Historic District.

Inside, you can see many artifacts, documents, photographs, and other displayed items that tell the story of Plantation’s agricultural past and the community’s growth.

Entrance door of the Plantation Historical Museum

Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The museum also hosts various special events, including lectures, workshops, and historic re-enactments designed to educate visitors about the city’s history in a fun and exciting way.

If you’re looking for a place rich in history, don’t miss a trip to the Plantation Historical Museum.

Plaque of the Plantation Historical Museum

Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

See Butterflies at Volunteer Park

Volunteer Park is popular with nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

This 35-acre park offers various recreational facilities, including walking trails, basketball courts, and picnic areas.

The park’s main attraction is its stunning lake, home to various wildlife such as ducks, geese, and turtles.

Enjoy the scenic views of the lake while taking a stroll on the walking trail or fishing from the pier.

You can also visit the Butterfly Garden, a tranquil oasis that showcases Florida’s native plants and butterfly species.

If you want to stay in touch with nature, visit Volunteer Park.

Walk by a Beautiful Lake at Jacaranda Lakes Park

Jacaranda Lakes Park is in a beautiful residential community in Plantation.

The park spans over 20 acres, with a 25-acre lake in the middle.

You can find lush greenery around the lake, an ideal spot for picnicking, fishing, and relaxing.

Enjoy a walk or a bike ride on the trail circling the lake, providing stunning views of the lake and wildlife.

Besides its natural beauty, Jacaranda Lakes Park features two shaded playgrounds, volleyball and basketball courts, and a pavilion for events.

The park is also dog-friendly, with a spacious area for dogs to run around.

Whether looking for a peaceful afternoon by the lake or a fun day out with family and friends, Jacaranda Lakes Park is a great place to visit in Plantation.

Take a Walk at the Historic Plantation Heritage Park

Plantation Heritage Park is a beautiful and peaceful park with various attractions that offer something for everyone.

The Plantation Heritage Park has a variety of activities, including a 1.5-mile walking trail, a playground, a large lake, a boardwalk, and a butterfly garden.

Here you can enjoy a picnic in one of the many picnic areas, take advantage of the fishing and boat rentals, or explore the various historical sites within the park.

The Plantation Heritage Park is a great place to spend the day with family and friends as it has something for everyone, from the nature lover to the sports enthusiast to the history buff.

If you want to visit Plantation Heritage Park, you can find it at 1100 South Fig Tree Lane.

Chill at the Helen B. Hoffman Plantation Library

The Helen B. Hoffman Plantation Library is an excellent destination for anyone looking for a place to find knowledge and relaxation.

This library has been around since the 1950s and houses various collections and resources.

The library’s primary collection includes books and other materials related to the history and culture of Plantation and the surrounding areas.

They also have a variety of unique collections of local authors, newspapers, and other materials related to Plantation and its history.

The library also has many DVDs, CDs, and audio and videotapes.

If you’re looking for a quiet place indoors, stop by the Helen B. Hoffman Plantation Library at 501 North Fig Tree Lane.

Cool Off at the Splash Pad in Plantation Woods

Plantation Woods is a 2.5-acre park found here at 5555 Palm Tree Road.

This whimsical woodland-themed park is one of the most unique parks in the area, offering a variety of play areas, including slides, swings, splash pads, art, and more.

The park features several interactive elements designed to engage visitors of all ages.

There are multiple play structures for kids to explore, including slides, swings, monkey bars, and various interactive elements.

The park has several art installations, including a giant treehouse and an interactive sculpture garden.

Additionally, there is a large splash pad with various water features, perfect for cooling off on hot days.

Plantation Woods is a great place to visit with family; stop by on your next visit!

Take the Kids to the Plantation Central Park

Plantation Central Park is an impressive and sprawling park that covers over 44 acres of lush green space and features a variety of attractions for the whole family to enjoy.

The park has a swimming pool, sports fields, a playground, a multipurpose center, a fishing lake, picnic areas, and a dog park.

The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset and offers a variety of activities and entertainment options.

On Saturdays, the park hosts a farmers market and live music events you can catch.

The park also has a playground that children will enjoy, with various equipment, including swings, slides, and a climbing wall.

With its many amenities and activities, Plantation Central Park is a great place to spend your afternoon.

Ride a Bike at Plantation Preserve Linear Trail

A heron at Plantation Preserve Linear Trail

Russ, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Plantation Preserve Linear Trail is a beautiful 2.8-mile trail at 1100 South Fig Tree Lane in Plantation, Florida.

This trail is perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling while enjoying the nature and scenery of the area.

The trail has gorgeous gardens and vibrant wildflowers lining the paths and is shaded by tall trees, making it a great spot to escape the heat of the Florida sun.

Along the trail, you will find benches, fitness stations, and a bridge crossing the lake.

The trail has separate paths for cyclists and pedestrians, making it a safe route for any activities you plan to do.

The Plantation Preserve Linear Trail is a great way to get outside and experience the area’s natural beauty, so stop by on your next trip.

Relax in the Shade at Rae Carole Armstrong Liberty Tree Park

Rae Carole Armstrong Liberty Tree Park is a popular green park at 7421 Northwest 5th Street in Plantation.

With over 500 trees, it offers plenty of shade and a peaceful atmosphere.

You can use the park’s pathways and play equipment, including a playground and swings.

There is also an area designed for picnics where you can enjoy a picnic or relax and enjoy the scenery.

The park also features a memorial to the Liberty Tree, a symbol of freedom planted in the 1760s by the Sons of Liberty.

The park is also home to various wildlife, including birds and reptiles, making it an exciting place to watch for wildlife.

Rae Carole Armstrong Liberty Tree Park is the perfect place to visit for a peaceful day, watching the wildlife and nature.

Catch Fish at Fig Tree Park

The Fig Tree Park, found at 620 South Fig Tree Lane, is a 33-acre green space providing visitors with a peaceful oasis.

The park features a small pond, playground, pavilion, basketball courts, and baseball fields.

It is a perfect destination for those looking to spend a day outdoors and enjoy the beauty of nature.

The pond is great for relaxing and watching local wildlife or fish.

The playground provides fun for the whole family, with plenty of slides, swings, and other activities for kids of all ages.

The pavilion is great for barbecues and parties and is surrounded by lush green grass and plenty of trees for shade.

If you want to go to a nice park to go fishing, head to Fig Tree Park.

Take Your Pup to the Happy Tails Dog Park

Happy Tails Dog Park, located at 6600 Southwest 16th Street, is the perfect spot for dog lovers to spend time with their pets.

The park offers ample open space and various amenities, offering a fun and safe environment for dogs to socialize and play.

The park features three separate areas: an area for small pups, an open area where all dogs can run around, and an exercise area with agility equipment for training dogs.

In addition, the park offers plenty of shade, walking paths, and benches for pet owners to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

With fantastic facilities and beautiful scenery, Happy Tails Dog Park is excellent for dog lovers to enjoy quality time with their pets.

Catch a Game at Pop Travers Park

Pop Travers Park is a popular destination for residents and tourists of Plantation who are looking for a fun and active outdoor experience.

Located at 6250 Southwest 16th Street, the park offers a range of facilities, making it an ideal spot for sports enthusiasts, families, and friends.

The four lighted softball fields are the park’s main attraction.

Combined with the concession stands and restrooms, the park provides visitors with complete and convenient amenities.

The park also has a well-equipped playground, a hit among families with young children.

They can sit at the nearby picnic pavilions that make it easy for families to enjoy a day out, with plenty of space to relax and enjoy a meal or snacks.

Pop Travers Park is also a popular spot for community events ranging from concerts to food festivals; the park hosts various events throughout the year.

Work up a Sweat at Deicke Park

Deicke Park is a popular destination park at 1200 Northwest 106th Avenue.

This 22-acre park opened on October 10, 1993.

It was named after Plantation pioneer Edwin F. Deicke, featuring a range of facilities that make it an excellent place for outdoor recreation.

One of the highlights of Deicke Park is the half-mile jogging trail with exercise equipment.

This trail is a favorite among fitness enthusiasts and provides a safe and scenic environment for jogging, walking, or running.

Exercise equipment also lines the path, making it an excellent spot for a full-body workout.

In addition to the jogging trail, Deicke Park also offers facilities for basketball, tennis, and beach volleyball, and they are all open to the public.

If you’re looking for a workout, Deicke Park is the perfect spot to visit in Plantation.

Other Free Things to Do Nearby

Discover Fabulous Art at Coral Springs Museum of Art

Art pieces at Coral Springs Museum of Art's garden

Richard Mc Neil, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Coral Springs Museum of Art is a premier art museum in Coral Springs, Florida, just 21 minutes from Plantation.

It is dedicated to showcasing and promoting the work of both established and emerging artists.

The museum’s collection includes various works in various media, including painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media.

The museum’s permanent collection features the work of many notable artists and pieces by local artists and art students.

You can join various educational programs and workshops at the Coral Springs Museum of Art.

They provide insight into the creative process and inspire a lifelong love of art.

If you love art, visit the Coral Springs Museum of Art.

Spot Wildlife at the Secret Woods Nature Center

Butterly on a flower at Secret Woods Nature Center

Korall, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Secret Woods Nature Center in Dania Beach, Florida, is a hidden gem of natural beauty and ecological diversity.

Take a 14-minute drive from Plantation to reach this Nature Center.

It sits on 57 acres of land and is home to various habitats, including wetlands, hammocks, and cypress forests.

The Secret Woods Nature Center is a popular destination for birdwatchers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts looking for a peaceful retreat from the bustle of city life.

One of the highlights of the Secret Woods Nature Center is the boardwalk that winds through the wetlands, providing visitors with an up-close view of the plants and animals living there.

Along the way, you can observe alligators, turtles, and various bird species, including the colorful painted bunting.

Visit the Secret Woods Nature Center to see Florida’s beautiful nature and wildlife.

Final Thoughts

Plantation truly does live up to its name; it has plenty of spaces filled with nature and wildlife, a city filled with green oases.

There are also lots of historical places to visit and enjoy for free.

This unique mix of nature and history creates a memorable experience for visiting families.

Check out the free things to do in Plantation, Florida!

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