SOUTH FLORIDA
Miami is a vibrant, modern metropolis where Latin culture meets tropical flair, all set against a stunning ocean backdrop. It is the gateway to a chain of islands famous for art, nightlife, and some of the best diving in the world.
This region is defined by its sun-soaked beaches, world-renowned architecture, and the incredible Overseas Highway drive. It is a land of unique ecosystems, from coral reefs to the Everglades’ wild expanse.
Most Popular Attractions
Miami City Core & Historic Sites:
Art Deco Historic District: An iconic collection of over 800 preserved Art Deco buildings in South Beach.
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens: A magnificent National Historic Landmark, featuring a European-style villa and elaborate gardens on Biscayne Bay.
Little Havana (Calle Ocho): The vibrant heart of Cuban culture in Miami, famous for cigars, domino players, and authentic food.
Bayside Marketplace: An open-air waterfront shopping and entertainment center in Downtown Miami.
Freedom Tower: A historic landmark known as the “Ellis Island of the South” for its role in processing Cuban refugees.
Coral Gables (The City Beautiful): A planned city famed for its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and the historic Venetian Pool.
Miami Modern & Art Attractions:
Wynwood Walls: A massive outdoor gallery showcasing dynamic, world-class street art and murals.
Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM): A modern and contemporary art museum with stunning architecture overlooking Biscayne Bay.
Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science: A state-of-the-art museum featuring an aquarium, planetarium, and interactive exhibits.
Miami Design District: A luxury neighborhood dedicated to innovative fashion, design, architecture, and dining.
Superblue Miami: A cutting-edge immersive art experience featuring large-scale digital installations.
Miami Nature & Outdoors:
South Beach: Miami’s most famous beach, known for its vibrant atmosphere, white sand, and celebrity sightings.
Everglades National Park: A vast tropical wetland ecosystem, accessible via airboat tours for alligator and wildlife viewing.
Biscayne National Park: Over 95% underwater, offering excellent opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and boating on the bay.
Zoo Miami: A cageless zoo with animals from Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas.
The Florida Keys (Key Largo to Key West):
The Overseas Highway (US 1): The spectacular 113-mile drive connecting the keys, featuring the famous Seven Mile Bridge.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (Key Largo): The first undersea park in the U.S., famous for diving and snorkeling, including the Christ of the Abyss statue.
Theater of the Sea (Islamorada): A marine animal park offering interaction programs with dolphins, sea lions, and more.
The Turtle Hospital (Marathon): A unique non-profit facility dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of sea turtles.
Bahia Honda State Park: Widely considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Keys, with stunning views of the old railroad bridge.
Southernmost Point Buoy (Key West): An iconic, brightly painted marker indicating the southernmost point in the continental U.S.
Mallory Square (Key West): Home of the nightly Sunset Celebration featuring street performers and artists.
The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum (Key West): The former residence of the famous author, also known for its population of six-toed cats.
Duval Street (Key West): The main thoroughfare known for its lively bars, shops, and unique atmosphere, stretching from the Gulf to the Atlantic.
Dry Tortugas National Park: A remote park accessible by boat or seaplane, home to the 19th-century Fort Jefferson.
Activities & Experiences
Dive or Snorkel in Key Largo’s Coral Reefs: Explore the underwater world of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first underwater park in the US, known for its vibrant coral and the Christ of the Abyss statue.
Stroll through Art Deco South Beach: Take a walking tour of the Art Deco Historic District in Miami Beach, admiring the pastel-colored architecture and iconic Ocean Drive strip.
Drive the Overseas Highway to Key West: Experience the “highway that runs on water,” driving across the 42 bridges, including the Seven Mile Bridge, with stunning ocean views.
Go Airboating in the Everglades: Take an exhilarating airboat ride through the Everglades National Park to spot alligators, wading birds, and other unique Florida wildlife.
Visit the Venetian Pool in Coral Gables: Swim in this historic, spring-fed public pool created from a coral rock quarry, complete with waterfalls and grottoes.
Experience the Nightlife of Little Havana: Join a Viernes Culturales (Cultural Friday) event or simply walk along Calle Ocho, stopping for Cuban coffee, live music, and a game of dominoes at Maximo Gomez Park.
Learn to Fish or Deep-Sea Fish: Book a charter for sport fishing off the coast of Miami, Islamorada (the “Sport Fishing Capital of the World”), or Key West to catch snapper, mahi-mahi, or sailfish.
Explore the Murals of Wynwood Walls: Wander through the Wynwood Art District in Miami, an outdoor museum known globally for its massive, colorful street art installations.
Take a Sunset Cruise from Key West: Sail on a schooner or catamaran into the Gulf of Mexico for a famous Key West sunset, often accompanied by live music and drinks.
Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum: Tour the former residence of the famous author in Key West, now home to dozens of polydactyl (six-toed) cats, descendants of Hemingway’s original pet.
Go Paddleboarding or Kayaking in Mangrove Tunnels: Explore the tranquil, sheltered waterways around the Keys, paddling through thick mangrove forests.
Shop and Dine in the Design District: Experience Miami’s high-end fashion, contemporary art galleries, and acclaimed restaurants in the architecturally stunning Design District.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Essential for the Keys: The Overseas Highway (US-1) is the only road connecting the mainland to the Keys. A car is necessary for the iconic drive and for island hopping. Traffic, particularly on weekends or holidays, can be heavy.
Tolls: Be prepared for electronic tolls (SunPass or E-PASS) on Miami’s highways and causeways. Rental cars usually offer a pass program.
Parking: Parking in South Beach and Key West is expensive and often scarce. Use public garages or rideshares when possible in these dense areas.
Miami Public Transport: Miami has several options, though they are not as comprehensive as in other major cities.
Metromover: A free, elevated automated people mover that circles the downtown and Brickell areas. Excellent for city exploration.
Metrorail: An elevated rail line that connects the northern and southern parts of the county to downtown.
Trolleys: Free trolleys operate on fixed routes in popular neighborhoods like Miami Beach, Coral Gables, and Coconut Grove.
Key West Transportation:
Duval Loop: A free bus route that runs from Key West’s most famous street to Mallory Square and the waterfront.
Walking & Biking: The island is very walkable and bike-friendly. Renting a bicycle or electric cart is a popular and fun way to get around.
Weather and Hurricanes:
The Heat: Summers (June-September) are hot and extremely humid, with daily thunderstorms. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Hurricane Season: Runs from June 1st to November 30th. Be aware of the weather forecast, especially during peak season (August-October).
Embrace the Cuban-American Culture: Miami’s culture is heavily influenced by its Latin American population.
Cafecito Culture: Stop at a ventanita (walk-up window) for a Cuban coffee (cafecito, colada, or cortadito). This is a fast, social, and essential Miami experience.
Language: While English is widely spoken, you will hear a lot of Spanish, particularly in Miami. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases will be helpful and appreciated.
Dining and Tipping:
Late Dining: Dining in Miami is generally later than in the rest of the US. Dinner reservations around 8 PM or 9 PM are common.
Service Charge: Check your bill in tourist areas (especially Miami Beach). Some restaurants automatically add a service charge (gratuity), often 18-20%, for convenience.
Hidden Gems
The Biltmore Hotel, Coral Gables: A National Historic Landmark with stunning architecture, but the massive pool (once the world’s largest) is a must-see, even if you’re not staying there.
No Name Key Deer: In the Lower Keys, specifically on No Name Key, you can spot the endangered, miniature Key Deer. Remember: observe from a distance; feeding them is illegal.
Islamorada’s Theater of the Sea: Unlike large commercial parks, this is a smaller, charming marine mammal facility built on a former quarry, offering unique, up-close interactions.
The Key West Cemetery: A surprisingly fascinating and quirky spot where epitaphs range from historic tributes to humorous, like “I told you I was sick.”
Top Restaurants
El Siboney Restaurant [$15-$25] – A classic, no-frills Cuban restaurant in Key West, popular with locals for its generous portions of traditional dishes like ropa vieja and roast pork at bargain prices.
5 Brothers Grocery and Sandwich Shop [$10-$15] – A Key West institution and local hub, serving what many consider the best, most authentic Cuban sandwich and strong cafecito.
Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop [$10-$15] – Located near Midtown Miami, this spot is a top contender for the best Cuban sandwich in Miami, famous for its juicy pork and signature “Double Cuban.”
El Mago de las Fritas [$10-$15] – The original and legendary spot for the Frita Cubana (a Cuban-style hamburger patty mixed with seasoned ground beef and chorizo on a Cuban roll) in Miami.
Versailles Restaurant [$15-$25] – A Little Havana icon since 1971 and an unofficial town square for the Cuban-American community, offering authentic Cuban cuisine.
Islas Canarias [$15-$25] – While it has multiple locations, this Doral and West Miami favorite is known by locals for having arguably the best, most delicious Cuban croquetas in all of Miami.
Chug’s Diner [$15-$25] – A modern, comfortable Cuban-American diner in Coconut Grove serving hearty, elevated versions of Cuban favorites for breakfast and lunch.
Naomi’s Garden Restaurant & Lounge [$10-$20] – A beloved, authentic Haitian/Caribbean spot in Little Haiti with a lush outdoor setting, known for its savory oxtail, jerk chicken, and island comfort food.
Hogfish Bar & Grill [$20-$35] – A true locals’ favorite on Stock Island (near Key West) known for its “Killer” Hogfish Sandwich and ultra-casual dockside atmosphere.
Keys Fisheries [$20-$35] – A casual, working waterfront spot in Marathon offering incredibly fresh seafood like stone crab, lobster reubens, and the daily catch.
Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen [$15-$25] – A longtime, unassuming favorite in Key Largo serving classic American comfort food with a tropical twist, famous for its conch fritters.
El Palacio de los Jugos [$10-$20] – Literally “The Palace of Juices,” this authentic, sprawling local Cuban market and food counter is an experience known for its fresh juices, roasted meats, and authentic street food.
B.O.’s Fish Wagon [$15-$25] – A funky, no-frills open-air shack in Key West run by a long-time local character, famous for its exceptional grouper sandwich.
The Conch Shack [$10-$15] – Highly popular in Key West for its conch fritters, a quintessential Keys appetizer, right on Duval Street.
Calusa Restaurant at The Islander Resort [$25-$45] – An Islamorada waterfront spot with a laid-back, modern vibe focusing on fresh, regionally-sourced Keys seafood.
The Original Daily Bread [$15-$25] – A long-standing local favorite in Miami for its authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, market, and excellent hummus, shawarma, and kibbe.
La Camaronera Seafood Joint and Fish Market [$20-$35] – A legendary Little Havana seafood spot specializing in fried fish sandwiches, Cuban-style seafood, and fresh fish-market offerings.
Tacos El Porky [$10-$15] – A highly-regarded, no-frills taqueria in Miami known for its truly authentic Mexican street tacos, particularly the al pastor.
L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon [$150+] – Miami’s only two-Michelin-starred restaurant in the Design District, offering exquisite, modern French cuisine in a dramatic, counter-style setting.
Ariete [$90-$150] – A Michelin-starred, progressive American restaurant in Coconut Grove known for its refined dishes, focus on local produce, and the famous Duck Press dinner.
Stubborn Seed [$80-$130] – A sophisticated, modern American spot in South Beach known for its chef-driven tasting menu and exquisite plating.
Cote Miami [$80-$130] – A Michelin-starred Korean Steakhouse in the Design District that combines the experience of a high-end steakhouse with the interactive tradition of Korean barbecue.
The Joyce [$70-$120] – A dark, exclusive steakhouse in South Beach with a tightly curated menu of perfectly executed steakhouse classics and inventive twists.
Le Sirenuse Miami at Four Seasons [$100-$180] – A highly-regarded, luxurious Italian restaurant with a focus on cuisine from the Amalfi Coast, located in Surfside.
The Rusty Pelican [$50-$80] – A Miami icon in Key Biscayne with stunning waterfront and downtown skyline views, known for its savory seafood and wine program. (Note: Touristy but locally recognized for the view and quality).
Sunny’s Steakhouse [$60-$100] – Located in Little River, this spot offers a creative take on the classic steakhouse, known for its elaborate presentations and high-quality cuts.
Hiden [$150+] – A truly hidden, exclusive eight-seat Omakase experience in Wynwood, offering an exquisite, multi-course Japanese tasting menu.
Latitudes [$80-$120] – Located on Sunset Key (near Key West, requiring a ferry ride), this spot offers a romantic, upscale waterfront dining experience with unbeatable sunset views and refined fresh seafood.
Chef Michael’s [$50-$90] – A renowned Islamorada restaurant with chefs who have experience at top global spots, specializing in high-end, locally sourced fresh seafood and filet mignon.
Moe’s Bagels [$10-$15] – A local-favorite, no-frills bagel shop with a few locations known for baking some of the best, authentic New York-style bagels in South Florida.
Taquiza [$5-$15] – Serving excellent, authentic beachside Mexican street tacos on homemade blue corn tortillas on Miami Beach and North Beach.
Zak the Baker [$10-$20] – A renowned, bustling Kosher bakery and cafe in Wynwood, famous for its artisanal bread, pastries, and sophisticated deli sandwiches.
Hometown Barbecue [$25-$45] – An Allapattah gem bringing authentic, slow-smoked, Texas-style barbecue meats to Miami, often cited as the best BBQ in the area.
Garbo’s Grill [$15-$25] – A highly-rated Key West food cart known for its incredible, fresh mahi fish tacos with mango and jalapeño, a must-try casual experience.
No Name Pub [$15-$25] – A legendary, cash-only dive bar secreted away on No Name Key (Big Pine Key) and surrounded by the Key Deer Refuge, famous for its pizza and interior covered in stapled dollar bills.
Yardbird Southern Table & Bar [$35-$60] – A popular spot for classic Southern comfort food with a modern, refined twist, including their famous fried chicken.
The Hungry Tarpon Restaurant [$20-$35] – Located within Robbie’s Marina in Islamorada, this laid-back spot is great for waterside dining and Keys favorites like conch fritters and blackened mahi.
Jaguar [$25-$45] – A popular, long-standing Coconut Grove spot for outstanding ceviche and Latin American cuisine in a vibrant setting.
Amara at Paraiso [$40-$70] – A stunning waterfront restaurant in Edgewater highlighting quintessential Miami flavors, with a menu inspired by Latin American and coastal ingredients cooked over a grill and spit-fire.
Sra. Martínez [$30-$50] – A Coral Gables spot with a focus on high-quality Spanish and Mediterranean small plates (tapas), highly regarded by locals.
Yellowfin Bar & Grill [$30-$50] – A casual, highly-regarded spot right on the marina on Stock Island with outdoor tables and a small, but excellent, menu of fresh seafood and tuna nachos.
Azúcar Ice Cream Company [$5-$10] – A Little Havana favorite for unique, Cuban-inspired ice cream flavors like the popular Abuela María (guava, cream cheese, and Goya Maria cookies).
Coral Bagels [$10-$15] – Consistently voted a top breakfast place in Miami, a no-frills spot known for its reliably good bagels and shmear.
Las Vegas Cuban Cuisine [$15-$25] – A family-owned, local favorite with multiple locations in the Miami suburbs, known for consistently great, classic Cuban food and friendly service.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Broken Shaker (Miami Beach): Located in a hip hostel garden in Miami Beach, this award-winning bar is famous for its artisanal cocktails crafted with housemade syrups, infusions, and garden herbs, offering a relaxed, backyard vibe.
The Sinking Ship (Miami Beach): A cozy, nautical-themed speakeasy tucked inside a popular South Beach hotel, offering expertly crafted classic and inventive cocktails in an intimate, low-lit setting.
Sweet Liberty Drinks & Supply Co. (Miami Beach): Known for its “advanced comfort” menu and commitment to hospitality, this South Beach favorite is lauded for its great cocktails, late-night food, and “laid-back luxe” atmosphere.
Better Days (Brickell): An unpretentious neighborhood bar in the Brickell area with a relaxed, dive-bar aesthetic, offering strong, classic cocktails and a variety of craft beers.
Blackbird Ordinary (Brickell): A lively cocktail bar and music venue in Brickell known for its spacious outdoor patio, rotating DJs, and inventive drinks menu.
Wynwood Walls Bar (Wynwood): Situated within the famous Wynwood Walls outdoor street art museum, this bar offers creative cocktails and an unparalleled atmosphere surrounded by world-class murals.
Gramps (Wynwood): A favorite local watering hole in Wynwood, this spot features an indoor bar, a spacious patio, and a rotating schedule of live music, comedy, and movie nights, serving excellent drinks.
Lost Boy Dry Goods (Downtown Miami): A rustic, saloon-style bar in the heart of Downtown Miami, offering a wide selection of whiskeys, craft beers, and well-made cocktails in a casual, vintage setting.
Mac’s Club Deuce (Miami Beach): A legendary, no-frills dive bar in South Beach, often hailed as one of the best dive bars in the US. It’s famous for its late-night crowd and strong, simple drinks.
Rooftop at E11EVEN (Downtown Miami): While part of a major club, this specific spot offers a sophisticated open-air experience with signature cocktails and panoramic views of the Downtown skyline, ideal for pre-club drinks.
The Rum Bar (Key West): Located on Key West’s legendary Duval Street, this bar is a haven for rum enthusiasts, offering a massive selection of rums and strong, classic tropical cocktails.
Sunset Pier Bar (Key West): Positioned at a Key West resort, this vibrant outdoor bar is the quintessential spot for enjoying tropical drinks and live music while watching the famous Key West sunset over the water.
Islamorada Brewery & Distillery (Islamorada): More than just a brewery, their distillery arm offers craft cocktails made with their own distilled spirits (like rum and vodka) in a relaxed, Keys-style atmosphere in the Upper Keys.
Green Parrot Bar (Key West): A Key West institution, this historic bar is known for its quirky local charm, strong drinks, cheap beer, and excellent live music.
Mangoes Restaurant & Bar (Key West): A prominent spot on Duval Street offering great outdoor seating for people-watching, with a focus on tropical cocktails and classic mixed drinks.
LIV (Miami Beach): Located inside the Fontainebleau Hotel on Miami Beach, LIV is one of the world’s most famous and highest-grossing nightclubs, known for its opulent design, top-tier international DJs, and celebrity clientele.
Story (Miami Beach): A high-energy mega-club in South Beach, offering a dramatic, circus-like atmosphere with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, and featuring major EDM and hip-hop artists.
E11EVEN Miami (Downtown Miami): The world’s first and only 24/7 club and show-club hybrid. Located Downtown, it offers non-stop entertainment, celebrity appearances, and an immersive experience.
Space (Downtown Miami): A legendary institution in Downtown Miami’s club scene, particularly famous for its Terrace and its focus on extended-hours house and techno music, often staying open well into the next afternoon.
Mokai Lounge (Miami Beach): An intimate, exclusive club in South Beach with a stylish, underground feel, often drawing a chic crowd with its mix of hip-hop and house music.
Do Not Sit On The Furniture (Miami Beach): A smaller, more sophisticated club in South Beach dedicated to underground dance music, offering a unique, bohemian-inspired atmosphere.
Basement Miami (Miami Beach): Located in the Miami Beach EDITION hotel, this club is unique for featuring a bowling alley and ice-skating rink alongside its dance floor, offering a multi-faceted nightlife experience.
Mango’s Tropical Cafe (Miami Beach): A large, iconic nightclub on Ocean Drive in South Beach known for its high-energy Latin and world music, flamboyant dance shows, and vibrant atmosphere.
Twisted Rooster (Key West): A popular nightlife venue on Key West’s Duval Street, offering a high-energy dance floor, strong drinks, and a mix of commercial and dance music for late-night revelers.
Aqua Nightclub (Key West): A lively nightclub and drag show venue on Duval Street in Key West, known for its energetic performances, friendly atmosphere, and music spanning pop, dance, and classics.