Located on the Dade-Broward County border in Hallandale (just north of North Miami Beach/Aventura) is Gulfstream Park, at U.S. 1 and Hallandale Beach Boulevard (tel. 305/931-7223; www.gulfstreampark.com), South Florida's very own version of the Kentucky Derby, albeit not as sceney. This horse track is a haven for serious gamblers and voyeurs alike. Large purses and important races are commonplace at this sprawling suburban course, and the track is typically crowded, especially during its amusing and entertaining concert series from January to April featuring has-beens and one-hit wonders such as Cindy Lauper, REO Speedwagon, and Bryan Adams on the front lawn for just $5. Call for schedules. Admission is $3 to the grandstand and $5 to the clubhouse; parking is free. From January through March, post times are Wednesday to Monday at 1pm.

You might remember the pink flamingos at Hialeah Park, 2200 E. 4th Ave., Hialeah (tel. 305/885-8000; www.hialeahpark.com), from Miami Vice. This famous flamingo colony is the largest of its kind. The track, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is one of the most beautiful in the world, featuring old-fashioned stands and acres of immaculately manicured grounds. It is open to the public, for free, to tour around and see the spectacular grounds.