Learn about the history of Homestead in Miami Dade

The city of Homestead, the second oldest city in Miami Dade County was incorporated in 1913, it’s located south of the city of Miami, and approximately 25 miles (40 km) northwest of Key Largo. The name originated when the Florida East Coast Railway extension to Key West was being built. The rail line was passing through an area opened for homesteading, and as the construction camp at the end of the line did not have a specific name, construction materials and supplies for the workers were consigned to "Homestead Country", shortened to "Homestead" by the engineers who mapped the zone. With the new railroad, Farmers in the area could transport their fruits and vegetables to Miami and other parts of the state. Many of the workers who helped build the railroad stayed and founded the City of Homestead in 1913.

Devastated by hurricane Andrew in 1992, the city has rebuilt itself stronger. Visit Miami Zoo with 3,000 animals representing 500 species on display; Deering Estate at Cutler Bay showcasing rare native plants like orchids, bromeliads and more than 40 species of trees; Monkey Jungle with more than 300 primates; the Fruit & Spice Park, the only botanical garden of its kind in The U.S.; Coral Castle Museum built entirely with carved coral between 1923 and 1951; Schnebly Redland’s Winery & Brewery with unique wines and beers from fruits like mango, lychee and guava; or take a walk down the Homestead Historic Downtown District filled with boutiques, antique stores, art galleries and eateries; and Everglades National Park and Biscayne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

If you like adventure, then try an airboat ride through the Everglades where you can see alligators and wild life; visit the Miccosukee Indian Village, Coopertown Airboat Rides, or Everglades Safari Park; the Everglades Alligator Farm, or the Homestead Race Track, home of the annual finale of the NASCAR Sprint Cup as well as the two minor championships of NASCAR.