Your Homestead Day Trip: Quick Facts for 2025
Get the most important information at a glance before you dive into the details of your perfect day trip from Miami.
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Miami | Approx. 35 miles (56 km) south of Downtown Miami |
| Driving Time | 45 minutes to 1.5 hours (highly dependent on traffic) |
| Estimated Day Cost | $70 – $150 per person (see budget breakdown below) |
| Best Time to Visit | November – April (Dry Season) |
How to Get From Miami to Homestead
While there are a few options to get to Homestead, driving is by far the most practical choice. The area’s best attractions are spread out, and having a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Here’s a breakdown of your choices.
By Car (Highly Recommended)
Your own car or a rental offers the ultimate flexibility for a multi-stop day trip. You have two main routes from Miami:
- Florida’s Turnpike (Toll Road): This is generally the faster option, helping you bypass some of the local traffic. Be prepared for tolls, which can be paid with a SunPass or Toll-by-Plate.
- US-1 (South Dixie Highway): This route is toll-free but significantly slower due to numerous traffic lights and heavier local congestion. It’s a good option if you aren’t in a hurry and want to see more of the local suburbs.
By Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Using a rideshare service is convenient but can be quite expensive for this distance. An Uber or Lyft from Miami to Homestead can cost between $50 and $80+ each way, and that’s before any surge pricing. You might also experience longer wait times for a return trip from more rural spots in Homestead.
By Public Transportation
For the budget-conscious traveler, public transport is an option, but it’s not recommended for a day trip. The Miami-Dade Transit Route 38 (Busway MAX) costs only about $2.25 one-way but takes nearly two hours to reach Homestead. This leaves very little time for sightseeing and makes hopping between attractions nearly impossible.
| Mode | Avg. Time (One-Way) | Avg. Cost (One-Way) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rental Car | 45-90 min | $40-60/day + gas | Total flexibility, best value for a day | Miami traffic, potential parking costs in the city |
| Rideshare | 45-90 min | $50 – $80+ | Convenient, no parking stress | Very expensive, potential wait for return trip |
| Public Transit | ~2 hours | ~$2.25 | Extremely cheap | Very slow, impractical for sightseeing |
Top 5 Must-Visit Attractions in Homestead
Homestead is packed with unique gems you won’t find anywhere else in Florida. Here are the top five spots that should be on every day tripper’s list.
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Explore the Mysteries of Coral Castle Museum
Prepare to be amazed by this bizarre and fascinating sculpture garden. It was single-handedly carved from over 1,100 tons of coral rock by one man, Edward Leedskalnin, as a monument to his lost love. To this day, no one is quite sure how he did it.
- Why Visit: An eccentric “Old Florida” marvel shrouded in mystery and a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
- Cost: Approximately $20 per adult.
- Hours: Typically open from 9 am to 6 pm.
- Insider Tip: Don’t just wander around on your own. Take the guided tour to hear the full, strange, and unbelievable story behind its creation.
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Experience Nature at Everglades National Park
Homestead is the main gateway to the world-famous “River of Grass.” The Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center entrance provides easy access to some of the park’s most popular and accessible trails, offering an immediate immersion into this unique ecosystem.
- Why Visit: Unforgettable wildlife viewing opportunities, especially for spotting alligators and a vast array of wading birds in their natural habitat.
- Cost: $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass.
- Must-Do: The Anhinga Trail is a must. This boardwalk path over a sawgrass marsh guarantees incredible, up-close (but safe!) gator sightings.
- Insider Tip: Arrive early in the morning. The wildlife is most active, the temperatures are cooler, and you’ll beat the crowds that arrive later in the day.
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Taste Tropical Heaven at Robert Is Here Fruit Stand
This is no ordinary fruit stand. Robert Is Here is a world-famous, family-owned institution that has become a landmark destination. It features an incredible array of exotic and tropical fruits, a small animal farm, a play area for kids, and most importantly, legendary fresh fruit milkshakes.
- Why Visit: To try rare tropical fruits you’ve never heard of and to taste what might be the best milkshake of your life.
- Cost: Free to enter. Milkshakes are around $8.
- Hours: Generally open from 9 am to 6 pm daily.
- Insider Tip: The lines can get long, especially on weekends. Be adventurous and try a milkshake made from Guanabana, Mamey Sapote, or Canistel for a truly unique taste of South Florida.
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Indulge at Knaus Berry Farm (Seasonal)
A beloved local institution, Knaus Berry Farm is run by the Knaus family of the German Baptist tradition. For generations, they have been serving up the gooiest, warmest cinnamon rolls, amazing baked goods, and U-pick strawberries to lines of adoring fans.
- Why Visit: It’s a local tradition for a reason. The cinnamon rolls are absolutely legendary and worth the wait.
- Cost: Free to enter. Cinnamon rolls are a steal at ~$1.50 each.
- CRITICAL NOTE: This farm is SEASONAL, typically open only from November through mid-April. They are always CLOSED ON SUNDAYS.
- Insider Tip: The line for baked goods can easily stretch to over an hour. Go on a weekday morning if possible. If you’re with someone, send one person to the separate (and usually shorter) line for milkshakes while the other waits for the rolls. BRING CASH, as they often do not accept credit cards.
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Wander Through the Fruit & Spice Park
Discover a 37-acre tropical paradise! This unique botanical garden showcases over 500 varieties of fruits, vegetables, spices, herbs, and nuts from around the globe. It’s a beautiful and peaceful place to explore.
- Why Visit: It’s the only park of its kind in the United States where you are encouraged to eat any fruit that has naturally fallen from the trees.
- Cost: Around $10 per adult.
- Hours: Typically open 10 am to 5 pm.
- Insider Tip: Upon arrival, check the schedule for the guided tram tour. It’s included with admission and is the best way to learn about the incredible diversity of exotic plants in the park.
Sample Homestead Day Trip Itinerary
Want a foolproof plan for your day? Here’s a suggested itinerary that balances iconic treats, nature, and quirky culture for an unforgettable trip.
| Time | Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 8:30 AM | Depart from Miami | Leave early to beat the worst of the traffic and maximize your day. |
| 9:30 AM | Knaus Berry Farm | Arrive right when they open to get in line for those famous cinnamon rolls. (Skip this if visiting outside of Nov-April). |
| 11:00 AM | Everglades National Park | Drive to the Ernest F. Coe entrance. Walk the Anhinga Trail for gators and the shorter, shaded Gumbo Limbo Trail. |
| 1:30 PM | Lunch at Shiver’s BBQ or a local taqueria | Refuel with some authentic local flavor after your morning adventures. |
| 3:00 PM | Coral Castle Museum | Spend about an hour to an hour and a half exploring this mind-bending landmark. |
| 4:30 PM | Robert Is Here Fruit Stand | The perfect afternoon stop for a refreshing milkshake and to buy some exotic fruit snacks for the ride home. |
| 6:00 PM | Drive back to Miami | Head back north before the evening rush hour gets too heavy. |
Where to Eat: Best Restaurants in Homestead
From legendary treats to savory meals, Homestead’s food scene reflects its agricultural roots and diverse culture.
Unforgettable Treats ($)
- Robert Is Here: The absolute best place for fresh fruit milkshakes. Don’t leave without trying one.
- Knaus Berry Farm: Home of the legendary cinnamon rolls and delicious strawberry shakes (seasonal).
- Taqueria Morelia: For authentic, no-frills, and incredibly tasty Mexican food like tacos and tortas.
Casual & Delicious ($$)
- Shiver’s BBQ: A classic Southern BBQ joint with rustic picnic table seating and mouth-watering smoked meats.
- Chefs on the Run: An award-winning local favorite known for its creative burgers and vibrant Latin-fusion dishes.
- White Lion Cafe: A quaint and quirky spot that feels like a British pub met a tropical garden, serving delicious American fare.
Insider Tips for the Perfect Trip
A little planning goes a long way. Keep these tips in mind to make your Homestead day trip smooth and enjoyable.
- Go on a weekday if possible. You’ll avoid the significant weekend crowds, especially at Knaus Berry Farm and Robert Is Here.
- Bring cash. Smaller, family-run spots like Knaus Berry Farm are often cash-only.
- Pack bug spray. This is non-negotiable, especially if you’re visiting the Everglades. Mosquitoes can be fierce.
- Protect yourself from the sun. A hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential year-round in South Florida.
- Always check hours before you go. Many attractions are seasonal or have unique hours. A quick Google search can save you from a disappointing drive.
- Be adventurous at Robert Is Here! Don’t be afraid to try exotic fruits. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and happy to offer samples and recommendations.
What to Pack Checklist
Pack light, but pack smart. Here’s a checklist of essentials for your day trip.
- ☐ Comfortable walking shoes
- ☐ Sunscreen
- ☐ Hat and sunglasses
- ☐ Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
- ☐ Insect repellent
- ☐ Camera and/or portable phone charger
- ☐ A light jacket or sweater (for strong A/C in restaurants)
- ☐ Cash for small purchases
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person) for 2025
Curious about what a day trip to Homestead might cost? Here is a sample budget to help you plan.
| Expense Category | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range Traveler |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation (Gas/Tolls) | $15 | $20 |
| Attractions (1-2 stops) | $20 (e.g., Fruit & Spice Park) | $55 (e.g., Everglades + Coral Castle) |
| Food & Drink | $25 | $50 |
| Souvenirs/Snacks | $10 | $25 |
| TOTAL ESTIMATE | ~$70 | ~$150 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Homestead, Florida worth visiting?
Absolutely! Homestead offers a unique slice of “Old Florida” that serves as the perfect contrast to Miami’s urban glitz. If you love incredible nature (Everglades National Park), quirky roadside attractions (Coral Castle), and world-famous fresh food (Robert Is Here, Knaus Berry Farm), it’s one of the best and most memorable day trips you can take from the city.
How much is an Uber from Homestead to Miami?
The cost varies significantly based on demand, traffic, and the time of day. You should budget between $50 and $80+ each way. For a round trip with multiple stops, renting a car for the day is almost always the more economical and practical option.
Is the drive from Miami to Key West worth it?
While the drive to Key West is an iconic American road trip with stunning ocean views, it is far too long for a day trip from Miami (averaging 3.5-4 hours one-way without traffic). A day trip to Homestead gives you a “taste” of that journey, as it’s the gateway to the Florida Keys. From Homestead, you’re only about 30 minutes from Key Largo, where you can see the start of the famous Overseas Highway.
How much money do you need for a 3 day trip to Miami?
This depends heavily on your travel style. Using our day trip budget as a reference, a day exploring Homestead can cost around $100-$150. For a broader 3-day trip in Miami itself, a mid-range traveler might budget around $200-$300 per day to cover lodging, food, and activities. Therefore, a complete 3-day trip could range from $600 to $900+ per person, not including flights.
TLDR: Your Perfect Homestead Day Trip
Short on time? Here’s the essential info: Drive yourself from Miami (45-90 mins). Go between November and April. Your top priorities are the Everglades National Park (Anhinga Trail for gators), the mysterious Coral Castle, and getting a milkshake at Robert Is Here. If it’s the right season, brave the line for a cinnamon roll at Knaus Berry Farm (bring cash!). Expect to spend a full day and budget around $70-$150 per person. It’s a fantastic escape from the city!
