Miami at a glance
As the capital of Florida located on the southeastern tip of the United States, Miami is famous for its 930 miles of palm-fringed beaches, the Everglades national park, and the Keys archipelago, a paradise of turquoise waters. Exuberant and sun-drenched, Magic City promises high-energy nights. As a major cruise port and a focal point of the American dream, you will be surprised by its artistic buzz and its lively Cuban neighborhood, home to a third of its population. You might also spot pink flamingos, a local icon, or catch a football game featuring the Dolphins, a team to which Miamians are fiercely loyal.
The climate is subtropical. Expect heat and humidity year-round, with temperatures ranging from 54°F in the winter to 95°F in the summer.
South Beach, the trendsetter
Explore South Beach, with its historic Art Deco buildings, pastel facades, and flashing neon lights. Cosmopolitan and extravagant, the city's heart beats in SoBe, the nickname for South Beach, which encompasses the famous Miami Beach. Wander by car or on foot through the Art Deco District and marvel at the colorful buildings that house original contemporary art galleries. Ocean Drive, between 5th and 14th Street, is the most scenic stretch. Do not miss Casa Casuarina at 1114 Ocean Drive. It is the former home of Gianni Versace, built according to the plans of the house belonging to the son of Christopher Columbus in the Dominican Republic. If you have time, the Art Deco District Welcome Center organizes informative guided walking tours.
Head toward Washington Avenue to see the post office and its lovely rotunda. Nearby, Espanola Way, with its wrought-iron balconies and Mediterranean aesthetic, is particularly pleasant. Shopaholics will be satisfied on Lincoln Road, where you can also spot the Colony Theater and Lincoln Theater, two striking Art Deco buildings. Finally, do not miss the Holocaust Memorial, recognizable by Kenneth Treister's statue of a giant hand. Contemporary art lovers should head to the Museum of Contemporary Art North Miami, or MoCA to locals. An alternative is the charming Wynwood neighborhood, filled with colorful murals and 70 galleries.
If you want to enjoy the water, there is a wide range of settings and activities. Families and outdoor sports enthusiasts head to South of Fifth or Crandon Park Beach. Those looking for quiet will prefer Lummus Park Beach. As for South Pointe Park, it is the favorite playground for windsurfers. Note that the section around 17th Street is a popular gay beach.
To see a musical or a classic American show, check the programming at the New World Center and the Gleason Theater.
Miami, a bridge between the US and South America
Recharge in the beautiful cloister and gardens of the Ancient Spanish Monastery. If you have time, head down to Downtown to ascend the Miami Tower and visit HistoryMiami, the city's museum. You will learn how Julia Tuttle and John Collins contributed to the construction and influence of the city. On Brickell Avenue, the most famous monuments are the Atlantis, the Palace, and the Imperial. For shopping, head to Bayside Marketplace.
Little Havana, located on both sides of Calle Ocho (8th Street), is the most prominent Latin neighborhood. Do not miss Brigade 2506, which chronicles the history of Cuban fighters killed in 1961 after Fidel Castro took power. At Maximo Gomez Park, the atmosphere is friendly and competitive. Do not hesitate to sit down for a game of dominoes. It is a free, welcoming, and unique experience.
Finally, head to Coral Gables, a planned community that houses the impressive Biltmore hotel and the stunning public Venetian Pool. Afterward, relax at the magnificent Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.
If you are traveling with children, take them to Zoo Miami, Jungle Island, the Miami Seaquarium, or Monkey Jungle.
When to go?
Winter is the best time to visit Miami. If you want to avoid the crowds, skip early December and mid-March, when popular events like Art Basel and the Miami Music Week (formerly Winter Music Conference) take place. If you do not mind the hustle, a festive atmosphere is guaranteed during the Carnival.
Getting there
Major carriers provide daily direct flights to Miami from international hubs. Connecting flights are also widely available through major US airlines via hubs like New York, Houston, Washington, Philadelphia, Charlotte, or Chicago.
Getting around
In Downtown, use the Metromover, a free elevated people-mover system. Otherwise, renting a car is essential. It is often better to book through specialized agencies rather than directly at rental counters or hotels. Vouchers, which provide discounted rates, can save you about 35% on costs.
A city where you can swim, party, and hit up attractions, but it is not a "cultural" city, so fans of art, museums, and history risk getting bored pretty quickly.