Locals are flocking to Redland for barbecue and family fun. Here’s where to go
Redland in the southwest of Miami-Dade County offers locals and tourists an escape from Miami’s concrete jungle.
And now, anyone looking for some time in the countryside has more reasons to head south.
A 2024 ordinance sponsored by Miami-Dade District 9 Commissioner Kionne McGhee created the Miami Redland Agritourism District, a rebrand that allows agricultural businesses to convert up to 5 percent of their parcel into venues to cater to tourists with restaurants, petting zoos, ranches and other attractions.
Since Krome Avenue expanded to four lanes, Redland residents have seen an influx of new residents and development, which has been creeping closer to protected farmland. McGhee says the district is meant to keep farmland out of the hands of developers.
Some business owners celebrated the new district, which created new revenue streams for struggling farmers during the off-season. Royd and Maribel Lemus, co-owners of Royd’s at Gateway Farms and Nursery, expanded their farm to offer home-style Cuban food, juices, a mechanical bull, petting zoos, and gathering a space after noticing people were eager to spend time outside after the pandemic.
Now, they sell out of their specials every weekend. Their farming remains seasonal, but they can benefit from a steadier source of income.
The rebrand is still finding its footing as businesses learn how to balance a peaceful escape into farmland with a bustling tourism industry.
If you find yourself drawn to fresh air and fruit away from the city, here are a handful of venues in the Miami Redland Agritourism District.
Royd’s at Gateway Farms and Nursery
20800 Southwest 177th Ave.
Open Wednesday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 8:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
At Royd’s Gateway Farms and Nursery, visitors can purchase an array of plants from succulents to towering houseplants. With three food trucks to choose from, guests can enjoy the popular lime juice with a ginger shot, fresh seafood and authentic Cuban food and the signature oxtail. The western-style venue also offers mechanical bull rides, a dog park and farm animals.
By Brothers Family Park
15515 SW 177th Ave.
Open Saturday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
An outdoor amusement park built on farmland, By Brothers is a family-friendly recreational complex that offers Cuban food, a large aviary of exotic birds, camel rides, a fish farm and a petting zoo. Kids can take a train ride around the park, play in corn pits or cool down at the waterpark.
Knaus Berry Farm
16790 SW 177th Ave
Closed for the summer, reopens Oct. 11
Arguably Miami-Dade County’s most iconic farm, Knaus Berry is known for its cinnamon rolls, shakes and fresh strawberries. During season, visitors line up for hours for a chance to purchase their famous cinnamon rolls or spend a few hours picking fresh strawberries.
Wanek Farms
20520 SW 190th St.
By Appointment
A more traditional farming experience, Wanek Farms offers guests a chance to pick their own fresh fruits. The farm has pink and Thai guavas year-round, while lychee trees are in season around May until the end of June.
El Toro Loco Ranch
16901 SW 177th Ave.
Open Friday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
At El Toro Loco Ranch, customers are met with an open restaurant space where the menu promises perfectly cooked steak, refreshing cocktails and huge platters of grilled and roasted food.
El Rey Del Lechon
23601 SW 177th Ave.
Open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
El Rey Del Lechon offers a variety of pork dishes from cochinillo to chicharrónes to chorizo. The space also has a stage where they host live music events outdoors.
Rancho la Catrina 232
17480 SW 232nd St.
Open Friday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
At Rancho la Catrina 232, customers can enjoy tacos and a selection of craft beers in a ranch-esque environment. The space also has a stage where visitors can watch live music and dance performances or feed some of the animals on the property.