Things To Do
in Doral
Doral is a modern, master-planned city in northwestern Miami-Dade County known for its golf courses, parks, and growing dining scene. The city acts as a convenient base for exploring greater Miami with easy access to highways and the Atlantic coast. Doral's diverse community brings a mix of Cuban, Latin American, and American flavors to its eateries and cultural events.
With family-friendly parks, shopping, and business clusters, it's a dynamic stop for both short breaks and longer stays.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk at Doral Central Park, where the lush greenery and serene lake provide a perfect backdrop for morning meditation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee while people-watching. After breakfast, rent a bike and explore the park's scenic trails, soaking in the beauty of the early morning sun.
Head to the Doral Legacy Park for a picnic lunch under the shade of towering trees, allowing the kids to enjoy the playground while you relax. After lunch, take part in a friendly game of volleyball or basketball at the park's facilities, engaging with locals and fellow travelers. Wrap up your afternoon by visiting the nearby CityPlace Doral, where you can shop at trendy boutiques and enjoy a refreshing smoothie.
As the sun sets, dine at a vibrant restaurant in CityPlace Doral, where you can indulge in delicious Latin cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the lively area, enjoying the atmosphere filled with music and laughter. End your evening with a sweet treat from one of the local ice cream parlors, watching the stars twinkle above.
Begin your morning with a visit to the Doral Contemporary Art Museum, where you can explore thought-provoking exhibits by local artists. Spend some time discussing the artwork with fellow visitors or the knowledgeable staff, gaining insights into the local art scene. Afterward, grab a coffee at a nearby café and reflect on the inspiring pieces you've seen.
In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Miami International Mall, where you can not only shop but also learn about the cultural influences that shape this vibrant community. Enjoy lunch at one of the mall's international eateries, tasting flavors from around the world. After lunch, spend some time in the mall’s entertainment area, catching a live performance or movie screening.
As evening approaches, consider attending a local cultural event or live performance at a nearby venue, where you can immerse yourself in Doral's artistic offerings. Enjoy the lively atmosphere while mingling with locals and fellow enthusiasts. Conclude your day with a late-night dessert at a local bakery, savoring the rich flavors of a classic treat.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-6 |
| 🚕Taxi or rideshare (short trip) | $8-20 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $120-180 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to Miami and beaches
- Diverse cuisine and growing dining scene
- Strong golf and outdoor recreation
- Family-friendly neighborhoods and parks
- Traffic and driving can be challenging
- Heat and humidity, especially summer
- Less nightlife density compared to central Miami areas
- Hurricane season brings weather uncertainties
Places to Visit in Doral
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic greens, palm-lined fairways, and water features provide dramatic golf-course photography, especially at sunrise.
Colorful storefronts, modern architecture, and water features create great street photography opportunities.
Lakes, fountains, and sculpture settings ideal for landscape and reflection shots.
Bayfront views, mangroves, and wildlife-friendly scenery near Biscayne Bay.
Food in Doral
Doral Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard pressed on Cuban bread; a staple at casual eateries.
Must-Try!
Roasted pork with crispy skin, typically served with yuca or rice and beans.
Shredded beef stewed with peppers and onions, usually paired with rice and plantains.
Cornmeal cakes or stuffed pastries filled with cheese, meats, or beans.
Mashed plantains with garlic and pork cracklings, often served with seafood or meat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal weekend market offering fresh produce, Latin snacks, and local crafts.
Vibrant stalls and eateries along Calle Ocho offering empanadas, croquetas, and cafecitos.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A brief handshake and polite small talk are common; greetings in Spanish are appreciated in many local spots.
English is widely spoken; many residents and staff also speak Spanish or Creole; a few phrases in Spanish can be helpful.
Ask permission in sensitive areas and be mindful of private property. Public spaces typically permit photography.
Safety
Tipping in Doral
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants: 15-20% of the pre-tax bill; Taxi/rideshare: 10-15%; Hotel staff: $1-3 per bag for porters and a smaller amount for housekeeping.
Most places accept credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, AmEx), contactless payments, and cash; tips are usually given in cash or added to card charges where allowed.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activity for mornings or evenings.
Warm days with milder evenings; hurricane season runs June–Nov and weather can be unsettled during September and October.
Pleasantly warm days and cool nights; ideal for outdoor dining and park visits.
Warm but comfortable; occasional showers; perfect for outdoor events and photography.
Doral at Night
Hiking in Doral
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Miami-Dade’s largest urban waterfront park with bayside trails, bike paths, and wildlife viewing.
Historic park in North Miami Beach with nature trails, picnic areas, and shaded paths.
Grandest wetlands ecosystem within driving distance, offering wildlife-rich hiking and boardwalk trails.
Airports
How to reach Doral by plane.
Major international gateway about 12-15 miles from central Doral; accessible by car or rideshare.
Another major airport about 25-40 miles from Doral; good for domestic and international flights.
Smaller general aviation airport located closer to South Florida business districts; limited commercial service.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large share of residents identify as Cuban, Colombian, Venezuelan, Colombian, and Puerto Rican. Multilingual signage and services are common.
Doral hosts many families and professionals due to business parks, residential communities, and schools.
Doral mirrors the broader South Florida mosaic with diverse cultures and languages.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Doral is famed for its world-class golf courses and pro tournaments; open to visitors.
Strong local and youth soccer culture; casual play and leagues around parks.
Courts and pickup games common in parks and community centers.
Public and private courts available; clubs host lessons and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Doral.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Doral restaurants offer plant-based options or customizable dishes; ask for veggie substitutes, sides like arroz con verduras, and salads to build a vegetarian-friendly meal.