1. Miami Beach: Known for its white sand beaches and turquoise waters, it offers a wide variety of activities and attractions. Visitors can relax on the beach, take advantage of the shopping, dining, and nightlife options on Ocean Drive, or explore attractions like the Miami Seaquarium or Jungle Island. Families visiting Miami Beach can also enjoy water sports such as snorkelling and windsurfing lessons or rent fishing charters at Haulover Marina.
2. Art Deco District: The Art Deco District in Miami lies along Ocean Drive from 5th to 23rd streets and showcases some of the finest examples of art deco architecture in existence. Tourists can stroll along pathways lined with pastel-coloured buildings that represent a unique combination of Spanish, Cuban and Miami's own unique style. The district also features outdoor sculptures, murals, neon signs and contemporary public art installations.
3. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens: It is a beautiful Italian Renaissance villa located on the shores of Biscayne Bay in Miami, Florida. Visitors can explore the formal gardens, intricate sculptures, and formidable art collection while learning more about the many ways this remarkable estate has shaped Miami's history over its 100-year lifespan. Visitors can explore the lush grounds with their own audio guide if desired or check out special guided tours inside the museum with knowledgeable guides who can provide even more background and insight on all of Vizcaya’s beautiful artwork, furniture sets, sculptures, basins and fountains throughout the grounds.
4. Wynwood Walls: One of the most popular attractions in Miami is Wynwood Walls, a collection of outdoor murals created by renowned local and international street artists. Located in the heart of Wynwood, the mural park walls are constantly changing. With new artwork being added on a regular basis—visitors may catch up with new creations installed since their last visit. In addition to its stunning artwork, Wynwood Walls also offers an interactive digital experience that allows visitors to explore the creative side of Miami's art scene through virtual tours and multimedia displays.
5. Zoo Miami: Located on the outskirts of South Dade County in the Miami area, it is an award-winning zoological park established in 1948. It is one of the oldest and largest zoological parks in the United States. With more than 3,000 animals from over 500 different species it is one of the few places where you can experience animals from all over the world while exploring "The World" of Zoo Miami.
6. Everglades National Park: As the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States, it encompasses millions of acres of wetlands, prairies, and forests. It is home to a wide variety of plants and animals, including the Florida panther, alligators, and several endangered species. Visitors can participate in camping and backpacking trips, birdwatching excursions, boating activities such as fishing and canoeing, photography guided hikes and more.
7. Little Havana: It is located southwest of Downtown Miami and is one of the most vibrant and exciting places to visit in Miami. It is a predominantly Cuban-American neighbourhood, full of colourful characters and lively culture. Bordered by the Miami River, Little Havana is home to many traditional Cuban cafecitos, eateries, cigar shops, and lively music and dance venues that transport you back to Cuba. Enjoy traditional Cuban coffee at Versailles Café or sample some fresh tropical fruit juice from one of the many juice bars. Visit local markets offering handmade cigars, cohibas and other Cuban delicacies such as pastelitos or tequeños for an interactive experience.
8. Miami Seaquarium: It is located on the island of Virginia Key in South Florida, just minutes from downtown Miami. Visitors of all ages will enjoy exploring this tropical paradise packed with a variety of sea creatures. From bottlenose dolphins playing in their stadium show pool to exhibits featuring sharks, fish, birds and reptiles, the Seaquarium offers a unique and interactive experience for everyone. The educational fun extends into the evening with shows that include killer whale performances and spectacular fountains lighting up to live music as well as a relaxing summer movie night near the lake every Saturday night.
9. Miami Beach Botanical Garden: Situated in the heart of Miami Beach, the Miami Beach Botanical Garden is a great place to explore and appreciate nature. The garden features a rainforest, an extensive collection of rare palms, tropical fruit trees, exotic flowering plants, a native plant garden and a tropical flower garden. There are also plenty of interactive activities for visitors to engage in including educational programs and classes, workshops on the conservation of endangered species and visiting scientists who study the plants and other life forms in the Gardens. Visitors can also take guided walks through the gardens with knowledgeable staff members and experts to learn more about its flora and fauna.
10. The Freedom Tower: This is a historic and iconic building located in Downtown Miami. It was originally an office building, built in 1925 and designed by Schultze & Weaver. The tallest building in Florida until 1974, the Freedom Tower was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1979. The Cuban Exile History Museum and Archives are housed within the tower, commemorating the important role that Cuban exiles have played in restoring democracy to Cuba since 1959. This fascinating museum includes audio/visual presentations, artefacts and interactive exhibits about Cuban life before and after the revolution.
11. Ocean Drive and Beaches: The beautiful beaches of Miami are a key attraction for locals and visitors alike. One of the top destinations for beachgoers is Ocean Drive, spanning from South Pointe Park to North Beach. With white sands and crystal blue waters, it’s easy to see why this section of the city is so popular with sunbathers, swimmers and surfers. You can even take a romantic stroll during sundown as the palm trees sway in the gentle breeze along the shoreline.
12. Coral Gables Venetian Pool: Located in the heart of Coral Gables, the Venetian Pool is an historic 1920’s "lagoon style" swimming pool, complete with beach surroundings, lush tropical gardens and ancient stone grottos. Designed by architect Phineas Paist, the swimming pool is fed with natural spring water from a 80-foot well beneath it. Guests can relax in comfortable lounge chairs while enjoying views of Biscayne Bay or just take a dip in the refreshing spring water while admiring century old coral rock formations.
