Miami is one of Florida’s most popular vacation spots, and rightly so – it’s where the pretty people go!
The city allows individuals to depart the realities of life for the length of their stay and beckons to visitors with the promise of luxury and decadence. From the trendy nightlife of South Beach to the dazzling architecture of the Art Deco district, Miami offers a seemingly endless selection of high-fashion shops, luxurious hotels, and plenty of sunshine.
Because Miami is a sprawling, fabulous town, it is virtually impossible to experience everything it has to offer in just one visit. With a dizzying array of manmade and natural attractions, beaches, shopping, nightlife, art, and culture, it can be difficult deciding what to do, so, get ready to leave the real world behind and start with these ideas.
Art Deco delights
The Art Deco Historic District is a must-see for anyone visiting Miami and definitely allows one to step out of today and into another time. Take a self-guided tour among the gorgeous pastel buildings all hailing from the 1930s. Porthole windows, nautical motifs, and breezy front porches greet guests as they make their way down Ocean Drive. Don’t miss the chance to stop for lunch at one of the many outdoor cafes along the way.
Miles of museums
In Miami, there is certainly no shortage of culture. From the ballet, opera, and symphony concerts to art galleries and museums, there really is something for everyone. Stop in and see a show at the Arsht Center, or check out one of the smaller art house venues for something a little different. History buffs will appreciate the Jewish Museum of Florida and History Miami. Art museums such as the Miami Art Museum, Lowe Art Museum, and Bass Museum of Art (among others) all offer a dazzling collection of art and design, sure to please the eye.
Shopping galore
Miami is well known for its fabulous shopping – it is a place to splurge after all! In Miami, the shopping is as chic as the nightclubbing. Thanks to year-round sunshine and warm weather, there are plenty of outdoor malls featuring top designer boutiques as well an eclectic mix of off-the-wall trends. Fashionistas may travel the world over, but Miami has the best of the best. And, one shouldn’t be surprised to spot a few celebrities, too!
Where to stay
With a wide range of quaint boutique hotels and sprawling resorts, the selection of Miami hotels is unlike any other vacation destination in Florida. For those looking to lap up the luxury of the area the choice is huge, however, there is enough variety to meet anyone’s travel style and budget. Consider the Hilton Bentley, a beautiful all-suite hotel right on Ocean Drive conveniently nestled in the heart of it all. For those looking for a little celebrity action, check out the W South Beach, where the fashion jet set can be found. There are also hotels conducive to family getaways, like the Tides South Beach, just steps away from the Atlantic Ocean.