Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

If you want to immerse yourself in nature, Hugh Taylor's legacy is the place to do it. Fort Lauderdale's Hugh Taylor Birch Park features a humid maze of tropical hammocks -- the perfect throwback to what once was. There are all kinds of options for exploring this oasis, from canoeing the freshwater lagoon to hiking the two on-site trails to biking the paved road. There's also beach access, if you need a little sandy love in your life. And it's all just a quick jaunt from city living.