Miami Travel Guide

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Top Attractions

Cheap Flying Tips

Where to Stay

Things to Do

Your Guide to Miami

Miami is a bustling city in the Sunshine State with a tropical climate, thunderstorms, plentiful rains during the summer months. August is usually the hottest month of the year with an average temperature of 82.6 degrees Fahrenheit, and January is the coldest month at 67.6 degrees.

With a population of 467,963 as of July 1st, 2019, Miami is the 40th most populous city in the US and the second-largest in Florida. It’s well worth a visit.

Top Attractions In Miami

Miami is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. According to the South Florida Business Journal, in 2018, over 23 million people visited Miami, 54% of that were international visitors. With such a diverse culture, Miami has so much to offer. Let’s explore some places that entice people to visit Miami.

Miami Beach

One of the first things you think about when you plan for a trip to Miami is the beach. With over seven miles of beaches, three golf courses, and twenty parks, Miami Beach will take up an entire day or more of your trip. One of its most famous beaches is South Beach with its clear blue waters and white sands. You can soak up the sun or lie on the sand, or walk along the beach.

Once you tire of the beach, take an Art Deco tour and appreciate the architecture. The South Beach Art Deco District has over 800 architecturally protected buildings constructed between 1923 and 1943. Walk over to Ocean Drive, where many movies have been filmed. People-watching is one of the favorite diversions in this locale.

Once nighttime comes around, the party begins! South Beach is the place to be for those who enjoy the nightlife. Nightclubs, cocktail bars, live jazz performances are just some of the entertainment to choose from. If you’re hoping to see someone famous, dance your night away at LIV where well-known personalities perform AND hang-out.

Vizcaya Museums and Gardens

Constructed between 1914 and 1925 by industrialist James Deering, Vizcaya is found in the Coconut Grove district of Miami. Well known for its beautiful and extensive gardens, Vizcaya was considered one of the eleven most endangered historic places in 2008 by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Vizcaya Museums and Gardens has been the site for several state functions. In 1987, then-President Ronald Reagan received Pope John Paul II on his first visit to Miami. Then, in 1994, it was the venue for the First Summit of the Americas assembled by President Bill Clinton.

Today, weddings and quinceaneras are held there often, and a favorite of photographers and filmmakers, having been used as a backdrop for several movies.

Zoo Miami

The largest zoo in Miami and the fifth largest in the US, Zoo Miami is home to over 3,000 animals of over 500 species. The zoo’s animals are grouped by region: Florida: Mission Everglades, Asia, Africa, Amazon and Beyond, and Australia. Different species of alligators, orangutans, crocodiles, meerkats, and so many other species in their natural habitat can be seen in the different regions.

Other activities held in the zoo include animal feedings, presentations, meet and greets, and rides. A kid zone is also available for the children to play in. If you’ve ever wanted to feed a giraffe, a camel, or a rhino, you and your kids can experience it at Zoo Miami.

If you intend to stay the whole day, there are several dining options available. At the end of the day, pass by the gift shop to get souvenirs, toys, and clothing.

The Experience Flying Into Miami Airport

Miami Airport is the third busiest airport in the US for international passengers. It offers the most flights to Latin America and the Caribbean, and with over eighty airlines with approximately 150 destinations all over the world, makes it one of the busiest airports.

The airport offers many amenities for its passengers passing through or who have to stay longer due to flight delays. With your comfort and convenience in mind, here are some amenities and services offered:

Animal/Pet Relief Areas
Yoga Room
Chapel
Nursing Suites
Miami Hotel
Currency Exchange
Wifi and internet access
Food and Dining
VIP Clubs and Lounges
A lot more

Top 3 Tips To Fly Cheap To Miami

Flying can be expensive, but if you plan your travel well, you might find some cheap options to get to your destination.

1. Book Your Flight In Advance

Most airlines offer special fare tickets when you book in advance of your preferred dates. The nearer to your departure date you purchase your ticket, the higher the fare will be. Most airlines have different tier levels on their economy fare tickets with varying degrees of restrictions.

The lower the price, the more restricted the ticket will be. Nonrefundable, dates cannot be changed, no advance seating are some restrictions imposed on the cheaper fares.

2. Fly During Low Season

The cheapest month to fly to Miami is in August, so plan on going during that month. Be prepared though for the rains and the occasional hurricane. November through February are usually the busiest times to fly to Miami due to the cooler climate.

3. Travel on Less Popular Days and Times

Tuesdays and Wednesdays are unpopular days to fly, and if you pick a red-eye flight, then this may help get you to Miami at a cheaper price.

Popular Areas of the City to Stay

Where you stay in Miami depends on the reason for your visit. Whether you’re in Miami as a tourist or to work, here are some popular places to stay in the city.

1. South Beach

The Miami Architectural District or the Art Deco District, famous not only for the avant-garde architecture but for its nightlife, varied dining options, and attractions. Staying near the beach is also an advantage.

2. Downtown Miami

Although Downtown Miami has a more business district vibe, this is the place to be if you’re going on a cruise since it’s near the Miami Cruise Port. Planning to watch a concert or see the Miami Heat team play basketball? Then staying near the American Airlines Arena is a good idea.

3. Coconut Grove

Diverse restaurants and boutiques make this a popular place to stay. A popular destination, CocoWalk, an enormous multilevel shopping complex, is popular with both tourists and locals. With its restaurants and entertainment, nightlife, and vibrant atmosphere, this is one of the more luxurious areas to stay in.

Popular Hotels In Those Areas

Depending on your budget and the amenities you’re looking for in a hotel, Miami has a lot to choose from.

South Beach Hotels

The Carlyle Hotel – Featured in several Hollywood movies like Bad Boys 2, The Birdcage, and Scarface, this hotel was built in 1939.

Cardozo Hotel – Owned by singer Gloria Estefan and her husband, and located on Ocean Drive right by the beach.

Ritz-Carlton South Beach – renowned for its excellent service and amenities, has Latin influence all over its resort.

Downtown Miami

East Miami – luxury shopping and private balconies along with four pools make this one of the most popular hotels in downtown Miami.

Fortune House Hotel Suites – a four-star hotel with exceptional service and an eight-minute drive to the Downtown Miami shopping center.

Eurostars Langford – located in the city center and near a metro station, the hotel is in the shopping district.

Coconut Grove

The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove – the Ritz-Carlton name speaks for itself – with its five-star rating and well-known service, this hotel is one of the best.

The Mutiny Hotel – A three-minute walk from the famous CocoWalk, this hotel is known for its spacious rooms and accommodating staff.

Hotel Aria, BW Collection – A luxurious bayfront hotel remembered for its exceptionally friendly staff.

Popular VRBO Places in Those Areas

Waterfront Villa Oasis

Relax in luxury at this spectacular waterfront villa. Complete with a private pool, outdoor kitchen, and panoramic ocean views, this stunning rental is the ultimate Miami retreat.

Art Deco Dream

Experience the glamour of South Beach in this iconic Art Deco condo. Located steps from the beach, this vibrant rental boasts colorful interiors, a rooftop terrace, and modern amenities for an unforgettable Miami vacation.

Coconut Grove Bungalow

Unwind in this charming bungalow located in the lush Coconut Grove neighborhood. With a tropical garden, cozy interiors, and easy access to local attractions, this delightful rental offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city.

Chic Downtown Loft

Explore Miami’s dynamic downtown scene from this stylish loft. With floor-to-ceiling windows, contemporary design, and a prime location near top dining and entertainment options, this rental is perfect for urban adventurers.

Top Things To Do In Miami

There are so many things to do in Miami that it may be difficult to choose which one to do first. One that would top the list is just lazing on the beach and people-watching.

Next on your list should be to take a day tour. With so much to see, you don’t want to miss one of the more important places to see. Check with a local travel agent or even just browse through online travel agent sites for ideas. Sometimes having a tour guide is the best way to learn the history and culture of the place.

Visit Little Havana, the center of Cuban culture, in Miami. Have some Cuban food, visit the Cubaocho Museum & Performing Arts Center or try some Cuban ice cream while you’re strolling down Calle Ocho.

If the Miami Heat is playing at the Arena, watching them play is always an exciting experience. Otherwise, there’s usually a concert show that you can catch.

How about some shopping? Lincoln Road Mall is a mile-long pedestrian mall with over 100 stores, restaurants, and bars. The restaurant and bars stay open long after the shops have closed, so there’s no pressure to leave.

Coolest Airbnb Experiences in Miami

While most people would prefer to stay in traditional accommodations, others look for an experience they can brag about when they get back home.

TreeHouse Canopy Room – this will make you feel like Tarzan and Jane in the jungle, or as if you were living in a rainforest. Located in Little Haiti, surrounded by animals and greenery, this will be something you won’t forget.
Frida’s Casita Azul in sunny Miami– An adorable little cottage that has its own kitchen and surrounded by fruit trees. Activities are held on the property like yoga but without encroaching on the guests’ privacy.

With so many things to do and see in Miami, a week isn’t enough to take in everything. Plan your stay and you’ll enjoy the experience that’s Miami.