Overview
On the Atlantic coast of southeast Florida is Miami, a city bursting with culture, sun and entertainment. Famous for its warm beaches and vibrant nightlife, Miami is also an economic powerhouse, thriving financial center and the busiest cruise passenger port in the world. Heavily influenced by its Cuban roots, Miami is also a celebrity-studded destination.
What to Do
Most visitors to the city come for the beaches, and for good reason. From soaking up the sun on the sands of South Beach to canoeing and scuba diving in Jupiter Beach, Miami provides plenty of shoreline for visitors to enjoy. Miami ramps it up at night, with plenty of nightclubs, restaurants and bars to enjoy. From feeling the pulse of Latin music on Española Way to enjoying ritzy cocktails in the Design District, there is plenty to do in Miami at night. With plenty of Cuban culture to absorb, the best way to start is through the food. Miami is home to some of the best Cuban sandwiches and espresso. Being on the Atlantic coast means Miami also has delicious seafood options. For those who enjoy spicy cuisine, Floribbean dishes that mix traditional Latin American foods with spicy Caribbean flavor is a must-try. Miami also offers plenty of shopping spots for visitors. Head to Little Havana for a Cuban souvenir or Bal Harbour to check out local boutiques. For serious shopping check out Aventura Mall, the largest shopping mall in Florida. Everglades National Park is worth the road trip to see alligators and other wildlife that calls Florida home. Miami is also home to a few museums, including the Bass Museum of Art and the Historical Museum of Southern Florida.
Where to Stay
Miami is home to trendy resorts, historic art deco hotels and restored boutique hotels. Staying in the South Beach area will likely mean a big price tag, but hostels and other budget accommodations are available for a stay in Miami that doesn’t break the bank.
Getting There
Near the southern tip of Florida, Miami is off of Interstate 95. Miami International Airport serves the city, but flights to this airport tend to be more expensive than to the neighboring Ft. Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, just 30 minutes outside the city.