Photo by Logan Isbell via Unsplash
Graduation season is here, and success is in the air. The latest cohorts of high school and college scholars are one step closer to making the world a better place. After years of academic dedication, these newly minted graduates deserve a moment of recognition and an opportunity to bask in the brightness of their futures.
All that being said, make Aventura Mall your graduation destination! Take a commemorative photo in front of world-class art, share stories and laughter over a delectable dinner, and toast to an exciting journey ahead! We’ve rounded up the best photo and dining spots at Aventura Mall to kick off your festivities.
Make the memory of graduation day last with a commemorative picture. Aventura Mall is home to an array of contemporary art from renowned global and local talents. From sculptures to murals, each Instagram-worthy piece will make a stunning backdrop for your graduation photos. Snap a solo selfie or grab the entire family for a portrait to mark an indelible achievement:
Aventura Slide Tower
When it comes to the future, the sky’s the limit! Nothing signifies reaching for the stars like the landmark Aventura Slide Tower, a nearly 93-foot-tall spiral structure by Belgian artist Carsten Höller. Located in the Outdoor Courtyard, the larger-than-life design blends artistry with exhilaration for the ride of your life.
Love
Gather those closest to you for a heartfelt graduation photo in front of Robert Indiana’s LOVE sculpture. Signifying the pop movement, the 1998 sculpture is a recognizable piece of art history. Other things to love? New beginnings and bright futures.
Gorillas in the Mist
Gone are the days of term papers and final exams. There’s nothing like the peace of walking across the graduation stage and leaving late-night study sessions in the past. Lean into the serenity by marveling at Gorillas in the Mist, created by Nikolai and Simon Haas. Marrying the tranquility of water with the playfulness of wildlife, the brothers created the statue to signify “the roles that certain people can play: a partner, a good friend, and a child.” Now add graduate to that list!
Tree of Knowledge
Symbolize your education by taking a photo in front of Tom Otterness’s Tree of Knowledge sculpture. The bronze work of art features biblical images of the serpent of knowledge alongside an owl judge, a law-studying possum, and a beaver lawyer. We can’t say for certain that they’ve passed the Florida Bar, but they are qualified for a photo opp!
Serafina
What’s a celebration without a toast? Gather around the table to celebrate your milestone at one of Aventura Mall’s culinary gems. Whether dining al fresco on a chic patio at CVI.CHE 105 or raising your glass of South Florida-made craft beer at Tap 42 Craft Kitchen & Bar, you’re in the right place:
Pubbelly
Post-grad life is an exciting journey, so why not indulge in some adventurous cuisine? Pubbelly Sushi’s Asian fusion menu is anything but boring. Crafted by five-time James Beard Foundation Award nominee, Chef Jose Mendín, the menu features showstoppers like Pork Belly Kimchee Fried Rice, Steak Anticucho, sashimi and unique twists on foodie staples.
Serafina
You know what they say about New York — if you can make it there, you can make it anywhere. Whether you’re venturing off to the Big Apple to kickstart your career or setting down roots in the 305, you can still have a slice of the city right here. Famed New York Italian eatery, Serafina, offers delicious pizzas, pastas and cocktails that are celebrity-approved.
CVI.CHE 105
Experience the perfect ambiance at CVI.CHE 105. Accentuated by tranquil fountains, our sculptural slide tower and lush greenery, the outdoor dining experience is unparalleled. The stellar menu and relaxing atmosphere make it the perfect grad party locale.
Pani
Pani is a perfect outing for the sweetest of celebrations. Not only does the chic restaurant feel like an escape, but it also creates some of the most decadent cakes and pastries in the area. The whimsical restaurant purveys the most photo-worthy treats in a setting that feels like a Parisian pâtisserie. Trust us; you’ll want to capture this for ’Gram.
Tap 42 Craft Kitchen & Bar
Cheers! For grads age 21 and up, Tap 42 Craft Kitchen & Bar is the ideal place for a celebratory drink. With a contemporary American menu and a fully stocked bar, Tap 42 fits the vibe check for a lively event. Enjoy craft cocktails, craft beer flights, and wine any day of the week. Pro tip: the customizable beer flights are a great way to sample the overwhelming craft beer options!
Hats off to the graduates of 2021! Remember to share your special moments with us by tagging @AventuraMall and #AventuraMall for a chance to be featured on our social channels!
For more information, call 305-935-1110.
