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Three Lakes, FL

Three Lakes is a planned suburban community and census-designated place in Miami-Dade County, part of the vibrant Miami metropolitan area in South Florida.

About the City

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

The community's full official name is Three Lakes. It is a census-designated place (CDP), a defined statistical area that is not an incorporated municipality . It is located in Miami-Dade County, in the state of Florida, USA. The county is the most populous in Florida and is the core of the Miami metropolitan area, a global hub for finance, commerce, culture, and international trade .

Historical Names and Nicknames

While the CDP was officially named after its three main residential neighborhoods—Deerwood, Bonita Lakes, and the namesake Three Lakes area—the name itself is relatively new, dating to the community's development as a planned suburb in the late 20th century . It does not have widely known historical names or nicknames.

Date of Foundation and Age

Three Lakes is a modern, planned community. Its development began in the late 20th century. The area saw significant growth after being designated a CDP for the 2000 U.S. Census, with its population more than doubling between 2000 and 2010 . The development was spurred by the Florida Land and Mortgage Company, which purchased the Kendall and Three Lakes regions in 1883, though major construction didn't begin until the late 1900s .

Geographical Position and Coordinates

Three Lakes is located at the coordinates 25°38′7″N 80°23′57″W (25.635372, -80.399031) . It is situated approximately 16 miles (26 km) southwest of downtown Miami in the southeastern part of the state . The community lies on the Atlantic Coastal Plain at a low elevation of just 7 feet (2 meters) above sea level . This positions it as a typical suburban residential area within a flat, low-lying coastal landscape.

City Type and Economic Specialization

Three Lakes is primarily a residential suburb and a planned community within the Miami metropolitan area . Its economy is intrinsically linked to the greater Miami area, with most residents commuting to work in surrounding cities . The local economy is supported by retail, services, and schools scattered throughout the community and its immediate neighbors . It functions as a "bedroom community" offering a suburban lifestyle with amenities like parks, gated communities, and access to the larger job markets of Miami-Dade County .

Population and Demographics

According to the 2020 United States Census, the population of Three Lakes was 16,540 . This makes it a moderately sized community within Miami-Dade County. A significant demographic feature is its large Hispanic population, which makes up 72.35% of residents as of 2020, reflecting the broader cultural makeup of the region . It is a diverse and densely populated area with a mix of families and individuals .

City's "Business Card" (Briefly)

Three Lakes is a quiet, upscale suburban enclave in the heart of Kendall, offering a resort-style living experience centered around its namesake lakes. It is best known as a family-oriented, master-planned community providing a peaceful retreat with luxurious amenities, all within a short drive of Miami's world-famous beaches, Zoo Miami, and the Everglades .

Geography

Water Bodies (Rivers, Lakes, Waterfalls)

The community's name, Three Lakes, derives from the man-made lakes that form the centerpiece of its master plan, covering 121 acres and providing scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere . While these are the primary water features within the CDP, the area is located in a region with many man-made lakes common to South Florida suburban developments.

National and Nature Parks

While there are no national parks within the CDP boundaries, Zoo Miami is located immediately to the south, offering a major wildlife attraction . For natural areas, residents have access to several nearby parks and preserves, including:

Islands and Archipelagos

As a mainland community, Three Lakes has no islands of its own. However, it is located within 25-45 minutes of the Florida Keys, a famous archipelago of tropical islands, and the barrier islands of Miami Beach, including South Beach .

Climate and Weather

Climate Type and General Characteristics

Three Lakes has a classic tropical monsoon climate (Am) , characteristic of South Florida. It features long, very hot, humid, and oppressive summers with frequent thunderstorms, and short, warm, and dry winters. The city is known for its abundant sunshine, particularly from fall through spring .

Average Temperatures by Month

Temperatures are warm year-round, with little variation. The hottest months are July and August, with average high temperatures reaching 32°C (90°F) and average lows around 25°C (77°F) . The coolest month is January, with average highs of 24°C (75°F) and average lows of 15°C (59°F) . Summer temperatures often feel much hotter due to the high humidity.

Precipitation and Humidity

The region has a distinct wet and dry season. The wet season runs from late May to mid-October, with June being the wettest month, averaging 162 mm of rainfall . The chance of a rainy day peaks in August at over 60% . The dry season spans from mid-October to late May, with December being the driest month, averaging just 33 mm of rain . Humidity is extremely high during the summer, with "oppressive" or "miserable" conditions from June through September .

Sunny Days and UV Index

Three Lakes enjoys a significant amount of sunshine, especially during the dry winter and spring months when skies are mostly clear. During the summer, the UV index is consistently extreme, necessitating sun protection for outdoor activities .

Seasonality and Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Three Lakes for warm-weather activities is from early November to late April . During this period, temperatures are comfortably warm, humidity is much lower, and rainfall is minimal.

Landmarks

[Zoo Miami]

Located just south of the Three Lakes CDP, Zoo Miami (also known as The Miami-Dade Zoological Park and Gardens) is the largest and oldest zoological garden in Florida . It is the only sub-tropical zoo in the continental United States, featuring animals in open-air, cageless exhibits that mimic their natural habitats. It's a major regional attraction for families and wildlife enthusiasts .

[Historic Gold Coast Railroad Museum]

Located near Zoo Miami, the Gold Coast Railroad Museum is a non-profit institution dedicated to preserving railroad history . It features over 40 pieces of historic railway equipment, including vintage diesel locomotives, Pullman cars, and the famous California Zephyr dome cars. The museum is well-known for its annual events like the Polar Express Train Ride, a beloved Christmas tradition for families .

Architectural and Community Features

The primary "landmark" of Three Lakes is its identity as a master-planned, gated community centered around its 121-acre lakes . The community itself, with its landscaped grounds, 24-hour fitness center, Olympic-sized pools, and tennis courts, is the main attraction for its residents, offering a resort-like atmosphere . Its suburban landscape of well-maintained homes and green spaces defines the area's character.

Parks and Recreation

For residents, local parks provide key recreational spaces:

Culinary and Shopping Destinations

While not traditional landmarks, several local establishments are focal points of community life:

Transportation

Main Airports of the City and Region

Three Lakes is conveniently located between two major international airports, making it easily accessible for travelers :

Public Transportation System

Three Lakes is primarily a car-dependent community, but public transit options are available :

Major Highways and Roads

Three Lakes is well-connected by a network of major highways :

Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

Dining Scene

While Three Lakes itself is a residential community, its convenient location places residents and visitors just steps away from a diverse culinary scene. Directly across the street from the community, there are at least 12 restaurants offering a variety of dining options . This provides easy access to different cuisines without having to travel far from home.

For a taste of local flavor, Jake's Bar & Grill is a noted spot for drinks, offering a rustic feel and a kitchen that is always open, making it a reliable option for a meal any time . Another nearby establishment is the White Stag Inn, known for its simple menu and relaxing, north woods rustic feel. A unique local recommendation is to order your food "Dave's Way" if you enjoy garlic .

For those looking to self-cater or gather supplies for a picnic, Trig's is a full-service supermarket where you can find everything from groceries and liquor to beauty products .

Museums

A Unique Local Collection

Three Lakes is home to a truly unique cultural attraction: the Northwoods Petroleum Museum . This museum houses an impressive collection of over 3,000 gas and oil items, gathered by a passionate owner. Admission is free, though donations are accepted to support this labor of love . It offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the petroleum industry through a vast array of memorabilia.

Cultural and Historical Sites

For those interested in local heritage, the area around Three Lakes offers several points of interest. You can explore the local history at the Three Lakes Historical Society and Museum . The community also has a cultural venue, the Three Lakes Center for the Arts, which is a great place to check for local performances and exhibits .

Museums in Nearby Miami

For a broader museum experience, the vibrant city of Miami is just 30 minutes away . Here, you can visit renowned institutions like the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science. This museum is highly recommended for its engaging exhibits, which include aquariums, a planetarium with shows like "Black Hole," and hands-on science displays. It's a place of nonstop exploration and wonder, conveniently located right next to the Pérez Art Museum, allowing visitors to easily experience both in one day .

Sport and Sports Legends

Active Recreation in Three Lakes

Three Lakes is designed as a waterfront, resort-style community with a strong emphasis on active living and water sports . The community's centerpiece is a pristine 100+ acre lake where motorized watercraft are permitted, making it a unique destination in South Florida . Residents and visitors can enjoy a variety of activities right in their own backyard, including:

For land-based recreation, the community offers a well-equipped recreation area featuring:

Family Fun at Elmer's Fun Park

For additional family-friendly entertainment, Elmer's Fun Park is a popular local destination. Here, you can enjoy fun activities like go-karts and horseback riding .

Universities and Educational Institutions

Nearby Educational Resources

While Three Lakes itself is a residential community, its prime location in the Kendall area of Miami-Dade County places it within easy reach of a wide range of educational institutions. The community is conveniently located near many local businesses and services, and while specific universities are not listed directly within its boundaries, the greater Miami area offers numerous colleges and universities for higher education .

Healthcare and Medical Facilities

Local Healthcare Access and Facilities

The health and well-being of the Three Lakes community is supported by a robust network of medical services. The area is served by several local hospitals and medical facilities, offering a variety of services from primary care to various specialties . The physician density in Three Lakes is slightly above the national average, with 228 physicians per 100,000 people compared to the US average of 210, indicating good access to medical professionals .

In addition to hospitals, residents have access to specialized care nearby. For example, numerous dermatologists are located in the surrounding areas of Miami, South Miami, and Coral Gables, many of whom accept new patients and offer services like video visits . Community outreach programs and wellness activities are also available to help residents stay healthy and access necessary health education .

Environmental Health Factors

Environmental factors contributing to the community's health are generally positive. The air quality index in Three Lakes is 61.2, which is better than the national average of 58.4 . The area also scores well for its low number of Superfund sites, with an index of 92.4, surpassing the US average of 86.9 and indicating a lower environmental risk from contaminated land . The water quality index for the area is 50, compared to the US average of 55 . The annual BestPlaces Health Cost Index for the Three Lakes area is 99.2, which is slightly better (lower) than the US average of 100 .

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