The Barnacle Historic State Park

The Barnacle Historic State Park is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Miami that offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. As soon as you enter, you’re transported back in time to the late 19th century, when Ralph Middleton Munroe built his charming home overlooking Biscayne Bay. The park’s rich history, combined with its peaceful natural setting, makes it a must-visit destination. One of the highlights is the historic house itself, beautifully preserved and full of fascinating artifacts. The knowledgeable staff and volunteers are eager to share stories about Munroe’s life and the early days of Coconut Grove, adding depth to the experience. The guided tours are engaging and provide a glimpse into South Florida’s past. The park’s grounds are equally impressive, with lush greenery, towering trees, and a picturesque view of the bay. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a quiet picnic, or simply sitting by the water and enjoying the tranquility. The walking paths are well-maintained and easy to navigate, making it accessible for visitors of all ages. What makes The Barnacle truly special is its ability to combine history, nature, and relaxation in one place. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone looking for a peaceful retreat, this park has something to offer. I highly recommend visiting if you’re in the Miami area—you won’t be disappointed!

Beautiful tiny jewel in the middle of the busy district. Perfect for a break, short walk or picnic. Waterfront view and clean restrooms

Such a neat place to visit. Built in 1891, it is the oldest house in its original location in Miami-Dade County. The Barnacle was the home of Ralph Middleton Munroe, one of Coconut Grove's founders, as well as founder and Commodore of the Biscayne Bay Yacht Club. Unfortunately I missed the touring the home itself, but I did get a great history lesson from a park ranger who walked the property with me.

What a great hidden jewel... The entrance is small and easily missed Only $2 a person, great place to picnic as a family or grab Togo breakfast at El bagel or other easy spot and find a picnic table , many to choose from. Special music & theater events on many nights

Very peaceful rocking on the back porch of South Florida's oldest home...thanks for preserving the history!

There is a $2 entry fee per person that can be paid with cash upon walk-in or with a card at the small gift shop. This place is picnic friendly, has a nice view of the water, and if you catch a free tour of the home, you can also enjoy learning a little bit of history.

Historic house sitting on a large lot with nice water views. To view the interior of the house a guided tour has to be booked. Unfortunately the house was closed due to some renovations. It will reopen on the 1 of September.

Absolutely lovely park! Would recommend! We had a great picknic at one of their picknic tables. Definitely worth the fee. Some squirrels and lizards to watch as well.

Flamenco on a Friday night under the nice clear sky and wind with a few mosquitoes so bring your repellent. I love the events and service the park has to offer for members and non-members. I'm all about supporting local businesses and national parks and I think you should too. The barnacle also offers yoga during the week in addition to other activities and events. It's also a nice spot for a wedding. It's beautiful. Enjoy!

The Barnacle State Park is nestled along the picturesque shores of Biscayne Bay in Coconut Grove. Stepping into this historic site feels like taking a step back in time, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. The centerpiece, the Barnacle Historic State Park, is a beautifully preserved slice of Florida's past, featuring the charming home of pioneer Ralph Middleton Munroe. Exploring the grounds, visitors can admire the lush tropical gardens, stroll along scenic nature trails, or enjoy a picnic with breathtaking waterfront views. The park also hosts a variety of events and programs, from outdoor concerts to guided tours, providing enriching experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a tranquil retreat, the Barnacle State Park is a must-visit destination that captures the essence of Old Florida's charm.

It's nice for a short, quick walk around. It's historic and a nice way to see Biscayne Bay while in downtown Coconut Grove. I wish there was little more to this park but alas.

We attended their Holiday Barkzaar event for dogs and it was pretty cool! We had a lot of fun and shopped a lot of fun goodies for both our furbabies and ourselves. The entrance was only $2 which was completely worth it.... if we didnt have to pay 40 dollars for parking. I deducted a star because there is no parking on site. I dont understand how a park can host an event of this magnitude and not state that there will be no even parking on site. We had to park somewhere super far and because it was Saturday in the middle of coconut grove, we ended up paying a lot for parking. Its weird to see a historic park not have on site parking. This was a really huge bummer. Other than that it was quite a nice event so I will still give it 4 stars!

Beautiful park with a historic house and water views. There are house tours 4 times a day.

This small and romantic park hidden away in Coconut Grove is not something I was expecting to find. Had it not been because of the Cars & Coffee type of event, I would have probably never found it! As you walk by coconut grove, there's a small entrance, and you're welcome by tons of shade by a row of shrubs that looks super cool! At the end of the walking trail you find the bay and a very sunny marina! There's a historic house as well but I didn't look much into it. Entrance is typically only a few dollars, so won't be afraid to come! Perfect for a date when it's not a melting 93F outside.

What an awesome event for dogs! I had the pleasure of attending this weekend to the Holiday Barkazzar event here at the historic Barnacle. For $2 entrance you are given a goodie bag with treats inside and once inside dogs had some off leash play, unlimited treats from vendors and a chance to chase a plastic bag on rope! Nello's pizza was giving away sample slices and were delicious! Cafe Vidita was also there sharing some coffee luv. My favorite doggie treats from the farmer's market was there too! Santa showed up in a red Tesla too! Needless to say, this was a great event for both dogs and dog owners! I hope they do it again soon!

A nice meander and walk around the grounds of this state park. It is only 2 dollars to enter. they also allow dogs on leashes. A little slice of Miami history and another chance to see how pioneers lived in their time. worthy of a stroll

The Barnacle is a quiet historic park located in coral gables. Great location for a quiet walk and relaxing by the water. Great water views, the property is super nice and full of beautiful flowers and trees. Amazing location for pictures. Parking is available across the street, two dollar entrance fee per person. Daily tours available of the historic house.

This place is neat. It is located in the heart of Coconut Grove. It is the oldest house still standing in Miami-Dade. It was built in 1891. The house was closed for tours, but is scheduled to be opening back up very soon. The staff there is very friendly. It is a picturesque park that offers a great view of Biscayne Bay. There was some having a pregnancy photo shot while I was there. It costs $2 bucks to get in. They prefer cash, but would can also pay using a QR code. They do not have private parking and there is only metered street parking or paid lots available. Parking can be horrendous to find and a bit pricey during weekends or other busy times. You will also more than likely have a bit of a walk. Once you get into the gate, there is about a quarter mile walk to the house on a paved path through a heavy wooded area. It is very shaded. Behind the house is an open field with some benches to sit on and a boat house right off of the water. In front of the house is where you the find the bathroom facilities. They were very clean. They have water fountains, but they are turned off, due to COVID, so BYOW. There is a large empty pavilion on the grounds with a plywood floor. The grounds were well maintained and the lawn was nicely groomed. There is not much shade on the grounds area. You get some around the perimeter, but not much. The park has been known to host weddings, birdwatchers, photo shoots, tours, concerts, dog walkers and picnic'ers. This is a decent low key park, be it with limited operation days and being difficult to get to on weekends. The park was not packed though. I did not find much utility in the house, especially since it was closed to the public. Outside of that it is a beautiful and peaceful area that is worth a visit.

A hidden gem in the grove. I love stopping by here whenever I'm in the area and just enjoying nature. Lots of people come out here to read and enjoy the view of the water. I definitely suggest stopping by.

We really did not get to go in the park. There is a volunteer that collects the donations. We did not have change for a $20 and neither did he (our total was $10) so we had to leave. Disappointing!

$2 a person over 5 years old. Quick hit of good natural beauty. Peacocks seen. Clean restrooms.

My new favorite park in Dade county. When you walk through the entrance you are stepping back in time to a pre-metropolis Miami. The walkway takes you out of the city and into a native vegetated forest. Coming across the tropical cottage of Ralph makes one wish to have a country home in the forest. The fun facts spread throughout the park share how he lived, what a day in the life was like back then, pre iPhone. A man was meditating by the water, yes it is that peaceful and quiet that you can escape from the city less than a half mile away to just take a second and breathe. It's not a matter of when I'm going back, it's a matter of when I'll be a part of the Barnacle Park society club.

I grew with this place being a backdrop to my Coconut Grove hangouts. It was always there, as I rode my bike past on the way to Dinner Key or when I would go to the Coconut Grove Playhouse, or Greenstreets, or Ranis. You know all these places remember? I felt it there as I would drive past this little swath of land known as The Barnacle for it's quirky looking home built by Munro back in the early days of this city. I finally walked in to this little bit of paradise and wonder why I never took the time to drop in before. It's a lovely walk to the sea side along a tree filled path dripping with Spanish moss and hiding the ubiquitous developments on either side that remind one that we are squeezing the life out of our magic city. But this little piece of paradise found still stands as one of a dozen or so homes that were first built in this area - pioneers and rugged fun people indeed. It's a best kept secret and hope it stays that way. It's a $2 entry with an honor system. Don't you Love that?

My cousins and I came here on a Sunday. It was a nice day outside and not too hot. I recommend getting a tour because you learn a lot about the history behind the Barnacle.

What a pleasant surprise in the midst of a busy Main Hwy and trendy bars. You can easily miss it driving around this curve. But, on a Sunday afternoon, we found a parking spot across the street. A brave run across this busy street brought us to a tranquil, shaded walkway through thick woods. A donation box sits near the entrance to encourage donations. I was told we would see Biscayne Bay at the end of the walk. Seeing that it was almost 90 degrees on this Sunday, I was concerned about the distance. However, it was not far at all and mostly in the shade. Unfortunately, due to the Covid situation, the historical house was not opened for tours. It required state approval, the Park Ranger informed us. By the end of the walk, I saw the bay with an old wooden boat launch and a boat in the water that resembled the one in their picture. I can see how this could easily be a regular walk if I lived in the area. It was a nice stroll after enjoying a beer across the street. If my camera didn't die, I would've had pictures. But, when you are in the area, take a few minutes and enjoy the moment and wander in.

Located on Biscayne Bay and built in 1891, The Barnacle is oldest house in its original location in Miami. It was home of yacht designer and builder and Miami pioneer Ralph Middleton Munroe. He was also the Commodore and founder of the Biscayne Bay Yacht Club. He first traveled to Miami in 1877. On his second trip he brought his wife Eva who suffered from tuberculosis which she contracted shortly after giving birth. The couple left the baby in the care of it's grandmother and headed to South Florida in the hope that the warmer climate would help Eva's health. They settled at the mouth of the Miami River. The child died shortly after their departure and Eva passed away on April 2, 1882. Her grave is at the Coconut Grove library on land her husband donated for the library on the condition that her grave was not disturbed. Mr. Munroe returned to New York to grieve his wife but then came back to Miami and purchased 40 acres of bay front property where he built the house he named The Barnacle in 1921 which was where he lived with his second wife Jessie Wirth, who he met on a sailing trip and married in 1895. In 1973, the house was added to the National Register of Historic Houses and the estate became a state park. The Barnacle and property looks like it did when Mr. Munroe lived there. Many of the old trees remain shading the walkway up to the house. The Barnacle was able to survive the 1926 Hurricane and Hurricane Andrew in 1992. Today you can tour the house which has been turned into a museum and in the boat house see two replicas of his boats, the Egret, a 28 foot sharpie ketch, designed in 1886, and the Flying Proa, designed in 1898. You can picnic here and they also hold weddings. Every January Florida Shakespeare Theater stages a production on the huge lawn, this year it is Macbeth. They also hold Earth First Fridays, concert, and movies. This is a great place to experience the history first hand that shaped Coconut Grove.

This small park is a beautiful, quiet spot in the CocoWalk area, located right across from Greenstreet. It is a perfect place for scenic pictures, an afternoon walk, or some social-distance picnicking. Even when I visited during "prime time" weekend afternoon recently, there were only a few people who passed through. There is also a pavilion in the center of the grassy area if you are looking for some shade. Having visited both pre and post covid, it is nice to see not much has changed and continues to be a pocket of serenity amidst the hubbub of surrounding restaurants and stores. The park is clean and well maintained, and the staff have all been very friendly. Restrooms are available near the park entrance, also well maintained.

A great place to spend a relaxing Sunday. The park is water front and beautiful view to watch the sailboats go by as you relax on the lawn. There is also is large porch with rocking chairs that I love to sit and just take in the view. The staff is also very informative and Helpful. The well is a must check out and the garden is adorable

Barnacles state park wasn't very exciting. It was space that took you away from the city in a sense, but why not just go for a real hike. It's a linear stroll to the ocean. The view of the ocean is nice...but a lot of pieces (like the dock) need to be restored. At the time of my visit, it appears they were setting up for an event, but didn't provide information - so I'll guess it's private. A few other "couples" were there (like high school couples). I guess it could be romantic, but as a tourist it was really whatever and not the effort to visit.

First off, praise be that we have been able to keep and preserve little green spaces like Barnacle Historic State Park. I'm sure the greed of the developers have long lusted for it. As parks go, Barnacle provides a pleasant space, a nice walk, a view of local history but overall doesn't amount to much. It does, however, harken back to days of the past in an area with the reputation of being the "least productive area of the United States." Why anyone would want to live here year around at that time with the heat, no conveniences or facilities, mosquitoes, snakes and other vermin is a mystery to me However, Ralph Munroe, who built the Barnacle House of which the State Park Service offers regular tours, was an accomplished yacht designer, author, and photographer who seemed to enjoy it. The name, Barnacle House, is supposed to come from the fact that when you are at sea, the house looks like a big barnacle. Maybe to a drunken sailor, possible the same one who mistook our manatees for mermaids, but I've seen it from the bay and no way does it look even remotely like some king sized barnacle. Besides taking a tour of the house, you can also view the boat house where Munroe constructed several small boats. I think the largest was 28 feet, and today they have and are building several scaled down models of Munroe's designs. Then there is what they call "Miami's Oldest Mystery" which is nothing but a hole in the ground with steps leading down into it. It's really nothing at all, was obviously intended to be a root cellar, well or combination thereof. However, true to South Florida, all sorts of crazy rumors abound about from it having been a dungeon to having been dug by Ponce de Leon while looking for the fountain of youth.

Hurricane Irma was not kind to the Barnacle. Their dock and boathouse were badly damaged as a hulking fishing boat and a small sailboat, adrift in the storm, slammed into shore on this property. Although, for now they make amazing yard ornaments! I attended the Mad Hatter art fair here recently... a nice, small event that also spills out to the street. Fortunately, the pavilion and the house itself came through the storm better ... a neat old Florida house. Florida State Parks runs the facility, tours, and gift shop. The property is also dog friendly.

After enjoying Sunday brunch nearby decided to take our dog for a short walk through The Barnacle Historic State Park. Quality In between two private communities in Coconut Grove sits The Barnacle. A small, but long park that begins with a small trail which leads to an decent sized open space. Two small historical houses, a covered patio, and a dock can be found in the park on the way to the water. It is a small park that occasionally holds concerts and plays, but one we were using on this day to give our dog a chance to run around a bit. Quantity It is not a large park, but it also is not as popular as other parks in the area. There was plenty of space for our dog to run around without bothering other people, but he still found a way to do so. Value They have a donation box that asks for $2 from visitors on an honor system, which is quite reasonable. I think they are more strict during evenings with events. Ambiance The Barnacle Historic State Park is a small park that is located right in the heart of Coconut Grove. It is a very skinny, but decently long. You enter from the street and then walk through a wooded pathway until you reach the main house. They have several rocking chairs and benches on the porch of the house, and I do believe on occasions they allow you to explore inside. Below the house is a small sloping hill that leads all the way down to the water. A small dock and a tiny house sit at the very end of the park. In the middle of the open space they have a covered concrete area for picnics and events. Benches are sporadically located throughout the park, but it is pretty much open space. Crowd There were a few families and a couple of people who brought dogs with them. It definitely is a place set up for children and animals to run around. It also would potentially work for a romantic picnic. Service The park and the pathways were pretty clean, which is impressive since they likely don't have much staff. Parking There is no designated parking for the park itself, so you have to fight for street parking or lot parking in Coconut Grove. There is plenty of parking to be found, but it would make it much less likely for someone to come just for a visit to the park. Extra The Barnacle is a decent park, but definitely lacks the appeal of other parks in the area. The water view leaves much to be desired and the costs of parking and entrance make it a less popular choice. I would not hesitate to come back for an event, but I would prefer to use other parks for walking my dog.

With so many people walking around Coconut Grove, it's pretty cool to think there is a park just tucked away seconds from the restaurants that many frequent. The park starts with a nice walk short walk under a canopy of foliage until you get to a fork in the path with a donation box for a $2 admission fee that is based on the honor system... after you continue on the path, you come up to a small house that we couldn't enter, not sure if that was because of the time of day or if it is just not open to guests... we continued down a field in the back of the house to a body of water... nothing really spectacular here... just a pretty small park hidden in Coconut Grove.

The barnacle is a nice spot very relaxing great place to get your mind right. Green grass. Water views. Old ass house. Every time I walk to the Barnacle I'm faced with an incredible mounting fear that I am about to be attacked by a jaguar or some other vicious creature. Each rustle of a lizard makes me jolt and wish I'd brought a hatchet for my personal safety against irrational and confused wildlife that cannot speak English. But just as I am about to turn back in a panic and run for my life I take a sweet breath, enjoy the woodsy greenery and continue further down the entry path to where I come upon the peaceful scene that is the barnacle. Here a wave of calm soothes over me as I settle somewhere in the shade in a wonderfully cushy chair.

Ive been coming to The Barnacle for years and still love that its Miami's/Coconut Grove's best kept secret. I would encourage anyone and everyone to come explore the grounds. There is parking lot in front of the hidden park and the fee is a $2 donation. Bring a picnic basket or just a great attitude and escape the city for an hr or two. Lots of greenery, gorgeous light to get sun kissed and enjoy great conversation with friends and family.

I had this place bookmarked and this weekend they were having the Mad Hatter festival so it was great. We got to go to this beautiful place, enjoy the walking trail, breath in the pure air and get amazed by the bay view at the end. The festival was great with all kind of artistic wonderful vendors, vintage and new stuff. Live music at the entrance and inside too. Art and hat contest, kids activities and delicious food was sold in here too. Honestly for $2 entry was the perfect way to spend our Sunday, plus my daughter got to wear her original make up and dress up as the Mad Hatter and I had the opportunity to take pictures in this cute place. Thank you!! Tenía este lugar marcado en mi lista y este fin de semana tenían el festival Mad Hatter, así que fue genial. Pudimos ir a este hermoso lugar, disfrutar del sendero, respirar en el aire puro y quedar maravillados con la vista de la bahía. El festival fue genial con todo tipo de vendedores artísticos maravillosos,cosas antiguas y nuevas. Música en vivo en la entrada y en el interior también. Concurso de arte y sombreros, actividades para niños y deliciosa comida que vendía aquí también. Honestamente, la entrada de $ 2 fue la manera perfecta de pasar el Domingo, además, mi hija se puso su maquillaje original y se disfrazó como Mad Hatter y tuve la oportunidad de tomar fotos en este lindo lugar. Gracias!!

I have been a Miami resident since 1978 and yet today was the first time that I have visited Mr. Ralph Munro's home. We found parking for a flat rate of $5.00 nearby but if you are lucky you might be able to find parking on the street. The grounds are serene and great to excercise. $2.00 fee which you place inside an envelope yourself and insert it inside a concrete pole with a slot. Basically the honor system as there is mo one there taking your money. Remember that funds collected go to the preservation of the park. Beautiful place to take outdoor pictures. You can also due a guided tour of the home for $3.00. Very interesting if you enjoy history. Its not a whole day visit but very nice for sure.

When we got to the park, they had actives for movies. There were bunch of families and pop corn served as well. It's the historical place, you still can read the history of the building . We will come back during the daytime.

I worked here for about a year while employed with this state agency and I must say I love this park. It is truly a hidden a gem. From the street you would never know what this place has to offer. As you are driving/walking into the venue you are surrounded by trees and possible think that it's more a nature walk park until it opens up. The house on the property has so much history! Take a tour and learn all about it. The massive lawn area is home to a lot of events. Definitely stay abreast of those. They even have kid friendly events. They host weddings and can host many special events with some vendor restrictions. But the good thing is they have a list of vendors that meet their requirements. So if you are in the coral gables area, check them out. Even if it's just for a stroll through the park! You won't be sorry!

Small state park in the area that seems good enough to stroll after lunch. I read there was a $2 admission so I figured it must be a nice state park in the area. Decided to go for a hike since it was such a nice day out and I saw the trail. The park itself isn't much a park specially since they have construction going on. You'll walk 100 feet on the trail until you hit a division and the donation box with envelopes. I noticed many people would walk by it and ignore it but I happen to bring change for that reason and donated my $2. The left side of the trail looked like it hit a dead end with workers and a house so we went to the right side which lead us to the very old historical house which was locked anyways.. The park is pretty much a big open field which ends in by the water. They have a couple of chairs to lounge in and a boat house towards the end. Not sure if the hurricane knocked everything down or if it's just renovations but it does need improvements. Nothing much to do but to sit around and relax. I would love to visit the park when there's a festival going on because I do hear those are fun.

Come for a stroll after brunch. This small state park is right across from Green Street Cafe and Lulu's in the Grove. Bring $2 cash for admission, which is based on an honors system. There isn't much going on or much to see but it is charming and you get a nice view of the bay. We didn't get to do the tour but we did walk around, took pictures, and relaxed on the rocking chairs while enjoying the ocean breeze.

This park is cute, It has a walking trail, there is one of the path that u get to pay some fee to great to see what used to be like a work shop with palm trees, a wide open space of the ocean, & that wide open space near the work shop smells like fish.

The park is nice. We thought the signage, if you're interested in the unusual trees in Florida, were informative and excellent. The outside alone may not be alluring enough for those who may find Coconut Grove parking frustrating. But: A we lucked out with App-paid parking across the street, and B we timed arrival for the 10am house tour. The house is very interesting, see what people built 100 years ago with their own talents and those of neighbors & friends. Our guide today was OUTSTANDING. Thank you.

Great park hidden in the Grove - opens to a spectacular view of the Bay. The park is perfect for a stroll they have chair spread out on the property and rocking chairs on the porch of the old house to lounge. Also a great place to watch Shakespeare in the Park.

This is a very special place. Anyone with a knowledge of yachting history would recognize Ralph Monroe, known more affectionately as "The Commodore" whose theories of the shallow draft sharpies are still widely discussed. Many years ago, there were no highways to get here and the ocean was the primary route. Monroe was one of the early settlers of old Dade county. Anyone interested in the history and settlement of this area, I highly recommend the book "The Commodore's Story". Monroe was a very worldly man with an engineer's mind. The boathouse he built after the great hurricane was re-built using great engineering principles and was designed to let the front and back walls blow out during a storm but leave the structure standing. Monroe never lived to see that design work, but it did work, in recent times. One of Florida's most important historical sites, in my opinion.

This is certainly one of my favorite parts of Coconut Grove. Once you enter through the lushly vegetated area bustling with breathtaking greenery, you'll find the walking path to be a relaxing and restorative activity as you stroll by a wildly natural state of the true Florida. With densely lined aisles of trees all pivotal to Miami's history, any history buff is glad to come relish in visiting the oldest house in Miami. With the deep curvy walk to access the open rear of the property comes a feeling that only nature can provide. You'll even notice a small gift shop with plenty of trinkets. The entrance is only $2.00 making it one of the most inexpensive activities to partake in while in Miami. Having a seat on the benches located throughout the garden offer a nice and quiet time to reflect and enjoy the climate we often take for granted. Of course the summer months are much less attractive than our pseudo winter months but the park is so pristinely maintained that bugs aren't a dire issue here in any way regardless of the climate. It's the best demonstration of what $2.00 can do to feed the soul. Plus, it's a great way to walk off the brunch you just scoured across the street.

Nice place to take some cute pictures ! I highly recommend going on a weekday because it is practically empty. Not saying the weekend is really packed, but if you want to go during a more peaceful time, I recommend the weekday.

This is our second time coming to the Barnacle. I highly recommend coming here for some of the history but especially when there is a concert. Local and traveling musicians come from all around to play right here. Acoustically the venue is perfect. When the artists are playing you wouldn't even know it standing at Main Highway, and that's because of a thicket of trees and vegetation about a quarter mile thick that you'll make your way through to the opening near the water. We came here to watch the final 30 minutes of a local artist, Deblois, and enjoyed her last 5 or six songs.

So much information about such a small spot. I loved learning the history of how the Barnacle came about. It was definately worth the price for the inside of the house tour.

If you're a history buff or just like exploring the natural wonders of Miami, the Barnacle is definitely worth a visit. Built in 1891 and located on Biscayne Bay, the Barnacle, a waterfront property, was the home of Ralph Middleton Munroe, one of Coconut Grove's pioneers. Because Commodore Munroe loved designing yachts, there is a boathouse (built in 1887 and actually his initial home, before building the large bungalow that one now associates with The Barnacle), where you can see the materials used in building boats, and even a small boat inside. There is also a marine railway on the grounds (aka a boat launch) where the property touches Biscayne Bay. The Barnacle, one of the oldest houses in Miami-Dade County, sits on about 40 acres, and survived the disastrous 1926 hurricane and Hurricane Andrew in 1992 with only minimal damage. This may be because it was built at 18 feet above sea level, which prevented wood rot, thanks to the pilings that lifted the house, allowing air to circulate. Two-story porches shielded the home's walls from the sun's direct rays. Much of the interior was built with the much-coveted Dade County Pine. The family lived at The Barnacle until 1973 when it became a state park. Many people come here after strolling through the grove to meditate, sit around and chat, have picnics, or just walk the grounds, while enjoying the bay views and breezes. The road into this historic site from busy Main Highway passes through a forest of tropical hardwood hammock. In the 1920's it was an example of the original landscape within the limits of Miami. Today, it is one of the last remnants of the once vast "Miami Hammock." It remains very much untouched since Commodore Munroe's era. Admission to this park consists of the honor system: there is an envelope in which you put in $2 and drop it into a small box with a slot. You can tour the inside of the home as well, though self-guided tours of the inside are not permitted. Guided tours of The Barnacle are available Friday to Monday at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., and 2 p.m. The park is closed on Tuesdays. The tour fee is $3.00 for adults; $1.00 for children ages 6-12; free for 5 years and under. Tickets may be purchased at the park office. In addition to being a historic attraction, it is home to many events, such as movie nights for kids during the school year, and moonlight concerts for families or adults (http://www.thebarnacle.org/moonlight_concerts.aspx). They also hold Yoga by the Sea on certain weekday evenings, which is $15 per class - a great way for locals to stay in shape. Their events calendar, for those interested, can be found on this link: http://www.thebarnacle.org/event_calendar.aspx. Volunteering opportunities are always available as well.

After a Sunday brunch at Greenstreet, I couldn't help but notice that I've passed by this park nearly a gazilion times but had never gone in. Putting jokes aside, I feel like The Barnacle is Miami's own Narnia. True, there are no talking animals or battles but this park is magical! Whenever you want to get away, this is the place to go and get a glimpse of Old Florida. Time is not of the essence when you visit here. Come and enjoy the breeze, bring your camera for some beautiful photos and embrace the history that I will not entertain you with. It might just be one of my favorite spots. :)

This park is easily becoming one of my favorites because of its prime location and events! It's located right in Coconut Grove with a view of the bay - it's a hidden gem. They have a $2 dollar donation entrance fee per person. Sometimes there's just a box but the last times there's been an actual ranger. I think it's worth it to just relax and enjoy the view of the weather is nice. It's across the street from Greenstreet Cafe (park in the same lot) so it's perfect to walk off the cinnamon roll pancakes! There is plenty of walking between the entrance and the actual park - but it's beautiful with gorgeous plant life all around. I'm always checking what's going on at the park now! Their jazz nights are wonderful and recently they hosted Shakespeare in the Park. Great venue for events and weddings, it's gorgeous.

Miami's oldest originally placed standing home. A great place to see what Miami looked like before all the Chicos and Chongas took over. Some nights they open up for jazz nights and cock fights (one of those is a lie) Pro tip - when it starts to cool down, the large open front yard facing the bay is ideal for a picnic.

Charming little historical park by awesome bars restaurants and shops in the grove. Park says it's the real Miami, lots of cute historical references of native flora. It's nice to pop in here on a hot summer day as the pathways are cool and shaded. It opens up into large lawn for picnics or perfect if you have a dog to let him/her run here. It ends up at an old marina. So in one tiny park you have history, shaded walks, open fields and water. When you leave you can head over to green street for drinks and a bite, it's right across the street. We just stumbled in here looking for a place to walk our dog while we waited for a table and we were pleasantly surprised. Highly recommend this as a after meal stroll or to pass time while waiting for a table.

The park has small trail at the entrance there $2.00 to enter the park and $3.00 to do the tour. beautiful relaxing area with vie to the marina. The tree are beautiful great place to take a few picture.

Came here for the Mad Hatter Festival, not really what I expected because it was on a rainy weekend. Still had a blast. Very beautiful. The path going towards the back was amazing. The water view was great. Played jumbo chess on the grass. Tried my first hungarian cinnamon roll. Saw one of the babe old friends. Took a whole lot of pictures. Saw a lady draw on the sidewalk path. Laughed at the jokes. All in all I had fun. Sadly, we didn't do the tour because it was close.

What a lovely find in Coconut Grove! I took my Niece & Nephew here for a picnic! It was pretty hot but we managed to sit under shade and enjoy the property! Afterwards we sat on the chairs set up on the porch and enjoyed the view of the water! Great for nature & history lovers.

My husband and I found this place after having brunch on Sunday. We were walking around the Grove window shopping and such and we happened to see the entrance so we wondered inside to check it out. I'm really happy we did. It is a smaller park but once you follow the path to the back its so beautiful. It ends right on the water and you can see the beautiful sailboats float on by. Its a great spot to pack a picnic and just chill out watching the afternoon pass you by. There is an old house from the 1890's there also. Everything was closed when we got there but from what we read on the information booklets there is a tour available and there are several events that take place here as well. I took an events calendar and will likely come back, if not for an event, then definitely with my husband, our bikes, and a packed picnic. Its absolutely lovely.