We’re Going to Miami – What to Know Before Visiting Florida’s Beach City
Miami is one of the world’s most famous beach cities. Yet, it has so much more to offer than lying on the sand. Here’s what you should know before packing your suitcase and heading to this marvelous place.
Going to Miami can be the adventure of a lifetime. There are so many things to do and see in the southern Florida destination. To begin with, spectacular sand beaches, parks, theme districts, and urban areas await. You may even feel like you’re in a European metropolis.
While Miami may not be Florida’s capital, it’s easily the financial and cultural center. It should definitely be at or near the top of your traveling bucket list.
The following list will provide you with what’s good to know before you actually head over to Miami.
1. The Luxurious Miami Beach
Miami Beach has it all – from morning until night. Maybe you’re in the mood for some quiet time and a cup of coffee. Perhaps you want to run into the ocean right away for a swim. Or, you’re looking for fun and live music.
You’ll find it all on this barrier island, what with its plenty of attractive restaurants, uniquely southern Florida buildings, hotels, and shopping areas. It may sound and look a bit expensive, but rest assured that there are plenty of options for different budgets.
2. South Beach
You can’t leave Miami without visiting one of the most popular beaches in the whole of the USA.
South Beach is the neighborhood and beach in the southern part of Miami Beach that’s right next to the famous Ocean Drive. This drive, of course, has been prominently featured in many movies and known for its pastel-colored buildings, palm trees, and lively atmosphere.
There’s a paved promenade where you can take a walk in the evening. South Beach is great for the nightlife, soaking up the sun, and swimming in the ocean where the shallow waters are ideal if you’re visiting with young children.
3. Vizcaya Museum & Garden
Here’s what to do in Miami if you’re longing for a dose of culture: visit the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. The remarkable architecture and gardens will blow your mind. You’ll soon understand why Miami is so proud of this building.
The museum is actually a villa of 34 rooms built in the Renaissance style. The rooms contain some of the finest furniture and European art pieces, mostly from the 15th to 19th century period. To testify to the villa’s authenticity, know that European craftsmen participated in its design.
4. Bayside Marketplace
How do you make a mall more attractive? The people of Miami know the answer – place it along a waterfront.
The outdoor Bayside Marketplace has over 150 shops, cafés, and restaurants. These include both tourist and specialty stores, local businesses, and larger chain stores.
The place is ideal for experiencing the authentic Miami atmosphere or catching a tour boat to visit Biscayne Bay. Have you ever taken a water taxi? You can do it here.
5. Art Deco Historic District
If you’re an architecture enthusiast, you’re going to want to visit Miami’s Art Deco District. The pastel colors and neon lights make this district unique. Don’t forget to check out the restored buildings that will remind you of the 1930s and 40s.
The aforementioned Ocean Drive is part of this district, so there are plenty of places for fine dining and enjoying the sunset. Taking an evening walk in the district may just make you feel like you’re in a Hollywood movie.
6. Miami Science Museum
To add an educational note to your trip, stop by the Miami Science Museum. The impressive building hides a spectacular adventure inside the walls. And its highlights include hands-on displays and interactive exhibits.
The museum’s displays are continually changing, so you might want to visit it more than once. Don’t forget to compare notes about how the museum changes and expands year after year.
7. Little Havana & Calle Ocho
You don’t have to fly all the way to Cuba to experience a slice of Havana. It’s right here in Miami, which has the largest Cuban population in the United States. And it’s here where you can add salsa dancing to your list of all the things to do in Miami.
Calle Ocho is the center of this exciting district. It’s where you can try Cuban specialties and perhaps even take home a few. There’s also a variety of entertainment worth seeing.
8. Jungle Island
Located on Watson Island, this spectacular park is very popular with tourists. In fact, even Churchill visited it once! If you’re staying in South Beach, you’re only a few minutes away from this adventure park.
Jungle Island includes a wildlife habitat with large animals, like tigers and alligators and more. It’s also home to a bird sanctuary and a botanical garden.
9. Bayfront Park Yoga
Here’s a perfect way to start your mornings if you’re looking to stay active during your visit. Centrally located in downtown Miami, Bayfront Park is the favorite of many locals. It’s the place to be to enjoy the view and perform all kinds of sporting activities.
Among those activities are free yoga lessons every day. Just bring a yoga mat and a bunch of positive energy.
10. Go Miami Card
While this isn’t a sight, but it’s a useful tip that will allow you to see as much as you can when visiting Miami. And affordably too.
The Go Miami card comes with many discounts at a slew of tourist attractions in town. You won’t need to pick one or another, but see them all if you so desire. The card is not free, but your savings can exceed it’s cost many times over. It even includes an unlimited pass to more than 25 Miami tourist locations.
The Ultimate Adventure
Planning a vacation can be overwhelming, but you can experience everything in one place in Miami.
The beautiful sandy beaches will allow you to get that much-needed rest. There are great cultural offers, places where you can take your kids, and romantic spots for watching the sunset in the arms of your loved one.
Are you already hooked on the idea of walking down Ocean Drive? It’s time to grab your bag and start packing.
