Classes only started two weeks ago, but this Labor Day weekend is still very much appreciated.

While sleeping until lunch and watching Netflix all day is a perfectly acceptable way to spend your time, this long weekend also provides the perfect opportunity to do something you’ve never done before.

Even you Miami natives can find a part of the city you have never explored.

If you are in town this Labor Day Weekend, here are a few places that you should definitely think about visiting.

 1) Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) (20 minute drive from campus)

If you haven’t already checked out this Miami museum in its new location on Biscayne Blvd, consider stopping by this Labor Day.

The Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) will be having a Labor Day Picnic from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m with live music by “Magic City Hippies,” a local Miami indie band.

While the food and the view from their waterfront terrace are enough reason to go, the art exhibits are absolutely stunning making the view from the inside of the building just as breathtaking as the outside.

 2) Miami Beach for Floatopia (35 minute drive from campus)

If you’re among the crowds of sun worshipers who are heading to the beach this Labor Day, you might want to check out Floatopia on Miami Beach. Floatopia brings together people who just want to relax and enjoy some waves. All you need is a floatation device and some sunblock to join the party.

3) Key Biscayne for Water Sports (30 minute drive from campus)

If you are looking for a more active way to spend your Labor Day Weekend, consider Stand Up Paddle (SUP) boarding at Miami Kite-Boarding in Key Biscayne. You can also rent equipment for kayaking and kite boarding. Not only will you have the time of your life, you will also be able to get an amazing full-body workout at the same time.

 4) Robert is Here (35 minute drive from campus)

Every milkshake and fresh produce lover in Miami knows that Robert is Here is one of the greatest places to sample the best Florida has to offer. Opened in 1959, Robert is Here is a family-owned fruit stand located in Homestead.

From September until October, Robert is Here is usually closed for the season, but this Labor Day, Robert will be there so customers can get their one day Labor Day fix before they close again for the season.

5) Key West (Four hours from campus)

If you’re itching to get away from Miami for a bit, a road trip to Key West with a few of your favorite people is the perfect escape. It’s a bit of drive, but completely worth it.

While you’re there, check out the tourist locations such as the Southernmost Point, a concrete buoy marking the “Southernmost Point in the Continental United States” and the historic and ever bustling Duval Street. If you’re lucky, you might even find a boutique that sells t-shirts that change color in the sun.

For the best blueberry pancakes you will ever eat, stop by Blue Heaven. Lastly, watch the sunset on Mallory Square surrounded by local artists and live entertainment.

Thalia Garcia is a sophomore majoring in Software Engineering. She’s from Miami and wants to eventually start her own software engineering business (or work for Pixar)! She loves pastelitos and café con leche.

words_ thalia garcia . photo_ laura thornton.