Why Is Miami So Popular?
One of the reasons for the popularity of Miami is the vibrant lifestyle. For beachgoers, there is the world’s famed South Beach. For sports lovers, Miami has Formula 1 auto race, Football, Baseball, and basketball teams. These are all major teams playing major events and all in one city. If NYC boasts about its China Town, Miami has the most unique Little Havana. The port of Miami plays an important role in the transportation of goods and people. Did you know that the Port of Miami is the busiest port in the world when it comes to cruise lines?
Explore Miami’s Diverse Culture, Art Scene, Beaches, and Shopping
Miami should not be considered only as a tourist destination. This is a city that needs exploring to be dazzled with its incredible art scene, diverse culture, shopping, sports, and yes the wonderful beaches. It is no wonder why most visitors keep coming back to Miami year after year. Each trip they learn more about the Magic City and diverse cultures making Miami a fascinating city to come back to.
South Beach
Famous South Beach Is A Must See
The world0renowned South Beach and its Art-Deco District is a must-see destination. South Beach’s ambiance makes the city the most popular beach in South Florida. If you are not into swimming, try one of the many other water sports available on the beach. Rent a Paddleboard, SUP, and paddle your way through the waterways. If you like more adventurous sports, don’t skip an opportunity to go parasailing.
Have Fun In The Glitter and Flashy Art Deco District
Miami’s Art-Deco District is one of the most unique places to enjoy ethnic cuisine and exotic drinks while enjoying the cultural scene. For night-owls, you have arrived in one of the most vibrant cities in the nation. Unique one-of-a-kind nightclubs in Miami Beach will surpass your expectations. Lincoln Road is the place to stroll, shop, and dine in South Beach. The outdoor restaurants are perhaps the most unique dining experience in Florida. Walk to the popular Lincoln Mall to find a collection of unique shops and restaurants. Enjoy this wonderfully walkable city where an automobile is not necessary to get around SOBE.
Little Havana in Miami
No Passport Necessary To Visit Little Havana FL
No passport is necessary to visit Cuba while in Call Ocho, the heart of Little Havana. The area is one of the most authentic Cuban neighborhoods you will ever see anywhere in the US. Calle Ocho, or 8th Street, is a vibrant neighborhood with many Cuban-style shops and restaurants. If you are visiting Miami in March check out the dates for Calle Ocho Music Festival. This is one event you can’t afford to miss. Just imagine over a million attendees gathered within a few short blocks to go wild and dance to live music.
Insider Tip: The last time we attended, there were around 8 stages set up for live performances. Add street performers and live music everywhere. Enjoy Cuban street food and you’ll have the biggest block party ever. One word of advice, some of the main areas get very crowded. Be careful becoming stuck in a sea of people. This is especially true if you are traveling with elderly or young children. They offer transportation to and from parking areas.
Bayside Marketplace Miami
The Bayside Marketplace is A Shoppers Destination
Overlooking the Biscayne Bay, this waterfront shopping center provides a fun outdoor shopping experience. The Greater Miami Convention & Visitor’s Bureau has recognized the Bayside Marketplace as the most popular destination in the City. The famous Miami Marina known as Miamarina is located right next to Bayside Marketplace. Bayside is the home to many wonderful shops and boutiques. The great shopping is complemented by many superb restaurants. There are over 150 unique and famous brand shops alongside the 17 restaurants. Most restaurants are waterfront offering an incredible view. Watching the sunset over Biscayne Bay in one of these restaurants is an unforgettable experience for any visitor.
The Port Of Miami Next Door
If you are taking a cruise the port is a short distance away. Enjoy a day at Bayside Marketplace before or after your cruise. There, you will enjoy beautiful views along with fabulous souvenirs and a memorable meal.
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
The History of Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
This Museum is perhaps one of the most extravagant European-inspired structures in Florida. Previously known as Villa Vizcaya, the idea of creating such a masterpiece belongs to James Deering. Deering was an ambitious industrialist and prolific art lover. He was an admirer of European architecture. His combination of European themes with the modern amenities, available at that time, have created this one-of-a-kind structure.
After his passing, the Villa Vizcaya was eventually donated to Miami/Dade to be utilized as a museum and cultural center. Subsequently, the name changed to Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.
What Makes Vizcaya Museum So Special?
Vizcaya Museum has over 70 rooms. There is an incredible collection of the 15th-century arts and furniture decorating 34 of the rooms. All the paintings and antiques in these 34 rooms alone will be enough to create the finest museums dedicated to 15th-century Europe. Vizcaya Garden is a truly magical place to visit. Stately gardens were inspired by Deering’s vision of the Versailles Gardens in France. To bring his vision to life Deering employed the master gardener of the famed landscape architect Diego Suarez.
A personal note:
We have visited the Vizcaya Museum a few times and even attended a wedding there. These few visits have convinced us that there are not enough words to convey the majestic beauty of this structure. There is no way to capture, in photographs or words, what has been a mesmerizing experience for human eyes for decades. An actual visit captures the grandeur of the property and the magnificence of the structure’s details.
Where is Viscaya Museum and Gardens?
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is located in the Coconut Grove area of Miami at:
3251 South Miami Ave
Miami, Fl 33129
What Days are Museum and Gardens Open?
The Museum is open to the public every day but Tuesdays.
The hours of operation are: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm with the main floor till 5:00 pm and the Gardens till 5:30 pm.
Miami Museums and Cultural Centers
Miami History Museum
As an affiliate of the Smithsonian, the Miami History Museum has been around since 1940. The amazing permanent exhibits of this museum attract thousands of visitors every year. The main exhibit called Tropical Dreams is dedicated to exploring the history of South Florida. It details the thousands of immigrants who have helped shaped the city. The museum also hosts many temporary exhibits. Spending a day exploring the museum’s unique collection and diverse exhibits are just some of many things to do in Miami. If you’re enthusiastic about research and science, don’t miss out on the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science.
Olympia Theater Miami
The Olympia Theater is a true gem of a landmark in South Florida. Founded in 1926 the theater was initially opened in the Flagler Neighborhood as a silent movie theater. An exterior built with ornamental structures and golden balconies enhances the majestic Mediterranean architecture. For over 40 years the Olympia Theater has remained the main entertainment hub in Miami. In 1975 The theater experienced its lowest point when it was scheduled for demolition.
Maurice Grossman Saved Olympia Theater
It was Maurice Grossman, a local businessman, who saved the Olympia Theater from destruction. He purchased the building and adjacent office building to donate them back to the City of Miami. After a series of restorations in 1984, the Olympia Theater was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The famous architect Morris Lapidos was instrumental in renovating the theater. World-renowned performers like B.B. King, Pavarotti, and even Elvis have been part of this magnificent facility’s history. Today’s Olympia Theater hosts a wide selection of venues. Visitors can enjoy live shows, movies, and corporate events.
Olympia Theater is located in the Downtown Miami area at 174 Flagler St. Miami, FL
Wynwood Walls
One other popular place to go for vacationers visiting Miami, Fl is the Wynwood Walls. It is also known as The Walls or Wynwood. The graffiti or street art of this warehouse district have become among the most popular places to visit in Miami. Tony Goldman created the idea of Wynwood Walls. He was a developer committed to revitalizing the Wynwood community. Mr. Goldman saw the rows of large warehouse walls as a canvas for locals and other artists.
Graffiti Art On Full Display In Murals
Goldman’s vision and unparalleled commitment to graffiti art created the largest display of street art and murals in the world. Without a doubt, his dedication has attracted some of the most internationally renowned graffiti artists to Miami. The revitalization of the Wynwood area has resulted in the establishment of over 70 restaurants and art galleries. All this became reality because of one man’s vision and relentless efforts, the late Tony Goldman.
Wynwood Walls is located between 25th and 26th Street Miami, FL 33127
Sports in Miami
Miami Loves Their Sports Teams!
There are many places to enjoy professional sports in Miami. The Miami Heat and NFL’s Dolphins have been established in the area for years. If you’re visiting Miami come enjoy a day and root for our teams. You just could become a new fan!
Miami Dolphins – Dolphins are the winner of 2 Superbowl championship games. They’re also the only team in the NFL history to have a perfect season in 1972.
Miami Heat Basketball Team – Miami Heat has brought 3 championship rings to the city, in 2006, 2012, and 2013.
The Miami Marlins – are the City’s baseball team that performs within the nearby Miami Bay. Marlins hold two World Series titles in 1997 and 2003.
Inter Miami CF- There’s a soccer team in Southern Florida known as the Inter Miami CF. Club International De Futbol Miami was founded in 2918 and joined the MLS in 2020.
Miami Hurricanes – The University of Miami’s Hurricanes are the most popular college football team in the region. With 5 national championship wins, the Miami Hurricanes are one of the most important teams in NCAA history.
Don’t Forget The Grand Prix
Miami Grand Prix – In 2022 the Miami Grand Prix has become a part of the Formula 1 auto race. The Miami Grand Prix is held around May each year at the Hard Rock Stadium. Like anything in Miami, there are parties and celebrities everywhere in this grand venue. Even Miami Beach is participating by hosting a 3 days event in collaboration with Mercedes Formula 1.
Monkey Jungle Miami
Spend A Day at Monkey Jungle
During your trip to Miami, don’t forget to visit the Monkey Jungle. What a great place to spend the day especially if you are traveling with children. In 1933, Monkey Jungle launched as an animal eco-park in Miami. The 30 acres of Monkey Jungle hosts more than 90 Java monkeys and 300 primates. It is a wildlife center that was designed to help save vulnerable species of monkeys. Guided tours provide first-hand experience for a close-up encounter with monkeys in their habitats.
One of the main attractions is a Rainforest tour exploring the Squirrel Monkeys and Capuchin Monkeys in a subtropical setting. Afterward, an accompanying guide takes visitors to the Wild Monkey Pool Show, entertainment for the whole family. With 500 various types of wildlife and 3,000 individual creatures, Monkey Jungle is a must-see destination while in Miami.
Monkey Jungle is located at: 14805 SW 216 Street Miami, FL 33170
Miami Seaquarium
Miami Seaquarium Fun For The Whole Family
The Miami Seaquarium opened in 1995 making it the oldest of its kind in the United States. Covering over 40 acres, the Seaquarium attracts over a half million visitors every year. Guests can swim with dolphins, feed stingrays, and have fun with the seals in the Seal Pool area. Along with sharks and dolphins, the sea turtles, manatees, and alligators also call the Seaquarium home.
Swim With The Dolphins
One of the most popular attractions is the Seaquarium. Touching, feeding, and even swimming with dolphins make a lifelong memory for children. The Seal Pool area also offers swimming opportunities with seals in shallow waters. The ticket prices are reasonable for the amount of joy and entertainment offered by the park. There are special prices and group discounts available on the Miami Seaquarium website. You may find tourist guides and booklets in the hotels or at the Miami Beach Welcome Center Address: 100 16th St Suite 6, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Miami Seaquarium is located at:
4400 Rickenbacker Causeway Miami, FL 33149 Phone# (305) 361-5705 Miami Seaquarium is open everyday from 10: am to 5:00 pm
Everglades National Park
The Everglades National Park Is a Great Place To Explore Wildlife
The Everglades National Park is ranked as the third-largest park in the nation. Everglades National Park is a great spot to explore rare and endangered species of wildlife. There are numerous destinations around the Park offering an interesting and unforgettable getaway. Enjoy endless fun and educational activities at the national park. You will find the visit worth every minute whether you’re exploring nature or seeking adventure. Preserving Wildlife is a primary focus at the Everglades National Park and bears significant importance in our future. The park is a one-of-a-kind subtropical wilderness in the entire USA.
USA National Park Is Recognized Worldwide
The 1.5 million acres Everglades National Park is a national and international treasure recognized worldwide through:
- World Heritage Site
- International Biosphere Reserve
- Wetland of International Importance
- A protected area under Cartagena Agreement
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