Miami Places of Interest
Coconut Grove
Located on the edge of Biscayne Bay, Coconut Grove is a not-to-be-missed, upscale Miami village with a bohemian appeal. Coconut Grove has a rich history that includes Bahamian settlers in the late 1800s, the status as a hippie hangout in the 1960s and the home and inspiration for such celebrated writers as Robert Frost and Tennessee Williams. Commonly referred to as “The Grove,” it is home to hotels, bars, restaurants, boutiques and art galleries, all nestled within a lush tropical setting. At night, it transforms into a bustling hotspot for young professionals and college students who frequent the plethora of bars and clubs. Visitors can take in the scenery as they stroll along one of two large open-air malls, Cocowalk and Streets of Mayfair, or grab a bite at one of many fabulous outdoor cafes. The abundance of restaurants in Coconut Grove has earned it the nickname “Miami’s Food Court.” Coconut Grove is also home to the popular Coconut Grove Playhouse Theater and host to the world-renowned Coconut Grove Arts Festival. More than 150,000 people visit the festival annually to view the works of over 330 artists and craftsmen.
Coral Gables
Aptly referred to as “The City Beautiful,” Coral Gables is a testament to its founder George Edgar Merrick’s vision for an idyllic community. Artistically inspired, this charming Miami suburb, complete with lavish Mediterranean- style homes, lush gardens and pristine parks, has more theater performances, art galleries and fine restaurants than any other city in South Florida. Visitors can ride one of Coral Gables’ new vintage-style hybrid trolleys for a free, environmentally-friendly and air-conditioned way to view the city. Along the way are several notable attractions including the Venetian Pool, an 820,000-gallon swimming hole built from a coral rock quarry; Fairchild Tropical Garden, an 83-acre natural preserve; and Matheson Hammock Park, a 600-acre park with world-renowned flora and fauna. After a day of sightseeing, Coral Gables is home to over 140 restaurants and gourmet shops and is famous for its exclusive boutique shopping district known as the “Miracle Mile.”
Miami Metro Zoo
Formed as a result of the devastation of Hurricane Betsey to the Crandon Park Zoo, Miami Metro Zoo's construction began in 1975. At its grand opening in 1981, it had a total of 38 exhibits covering 200 acres and has since grown to a total of 81 exhibits on 740 acres. Rated as one of the top 10 zoos in the United States, Miami Metro Zoo has created a cageless setting that closely approximates the natural habitat of the over 1,300 animals. Simulating the feel of a safari experience, guests can view the many species in the open-air configuration at a close but safe distance or through tram and behind-the-scenes tours. In addition to the exhibits, the zoo offers activities such as the Lake Side water playground, wildlife shows, carousel rides, water cycle rentals and a Pelican Feeding Encounter. In 2008, the new Amazon and Beyond exhibit opens as home to one of the world’s most extensive collections of tropical exhibits including jaguars, anacondas, giant river otters, harpy eagles and sting rays.
The Miami Metro Zoo is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM. General admission is $9.95 for children ages 3-12 and $13.95 for adults. For more information: 305-251-0400
Port of Miami
One of the largest ports in the United States, the Port of Miami has been the number 1 cruise and passenger port in the world for over a decade. Harboring the largest cruise ships of the most prominent cruise lines, the majestic port is appropriately dubbed the “Cruise Capital of the World.” In 2007, 3.75 million passengers passed through the Port of Miami on their way to the Caribbean, Mexico, South America and beyond. Visitors to Miami can stop by the port to see the behemoth ships docked in the bay, waiting to set off to the next fabulous destination.
South Beach
The 23 southern-most blocks of Miami Beach comprise what is arguably the most widely recognizable area in Miami: South Beach. Once farm land, South Beach began development in 1910 and has undergone numerous man-made and natural transformations over the years that led it to become the glittering oceanside retreat that it is today. The neon lights and pastel-colored architecture of the jazzy Art Deco District provide the perfect backdrop for the unprecedented blend of people from all over the world who converge on South Beach each year. The many outdoor cafes along Ocean Drive provide an excellent opportunity for people watching and celebrity sightings. Lincoln Road and Collins Avenue supply an open-air shopping district complete with trendy independent boutiques and high-end designer stores. Ripe with energy and pulsing Latin rhythms, South Beach nightlife is fueled by over 150 area bars and clubs, many of which stay open until 5 AM.
Miami Entertainment
Bal Harbour
There is plenty in store at Miami’s chic Bal Harbour shopping mall, located between the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay. Style mavens and window shoppers alike enjoy strolling the 500,000-square-foot outdoor mall surrounded by the very finest designer purveyors including Giorgio Armani, Bulgari, Chanel, Cartier, Dolce and Gabbana and Prada. Also known as a hotspot for celebrity sightings that rivals Rodeo Drive, the mall features several cafes for dining and people watching. Bal Harbour shops are open Monday to Saturday from 10 AM to 9 PM and Sunday from noon to 6 PM.For more information: 305-866-0311
Miami’s Mojito
No trip to Miami would be complete without savoring the famous mojito (pronounced mo-HEE-toe), whose name is derived from the Spanish word “mojo,” a sauce or marinade often containing lime juice. One of Cuba’s oldest cocktails, the mojito has made its way across the Florida Straits and is a signature choice in Miami for locals and tourists alike. The mojito is a tangy blend of rum, sugar, lime, club soda, ice and mint, served in an oversized glass. The perfect warm weather drink, mojitos are said to have been a favorite of Ernest Hemingway during his days in Havana and Key West. You can find some variation of the mojito in just about every restaurant or bar in Miami, but acclaimed restaurant Ortanique On The Mile in Coral Gables has been touted by The Miami Herald as having the best. Wherever it is served up, the mojito remains Miami’s drink du jour.
For more information about Ortanique On The Mile: 305-446-7710
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Built in 1910 by agricultural industrialist James Deering, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a Miami gem that attracts over 185,000 visitors annually with its rare combination of manmade and natural resources. Overlooking the Biscayne Bay, the museum, a palatial North Italian 16th century-style villa, and its 10 acres of formal gardens feature some of the finest examples of European art and antiques from the Italian Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassical periods. Vizcaya is an enlightening experience that affords visitors with a rare opportunity to learn about art, interior design, architecture, landscape design, horticulture and the environment in one spectacular setting, either on their own or with a volunteer guide. The grandiose estate has been host to some of the world’s most prominent dignitaries including Queen Elizabeth II, King Juan Carlos I and Queen Sophia of Spain, Pope John Paul II and President Ronald Reagan. Vizcaya’s facilities are available for group accommodations.
Vizcaya is open daily from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. It is closed Christmas. General admission is $5 for children ages 6-12, $12 for adults and $9 for Miami-Dade County residents with identification. Parking is complimentary. For more information: 305-866-0311
Miami Restaurants
Christabelle’s Quarter
This New Orleans
New Orleans Skyline-inspired restaurant brings a taste of the Bayou to Miami’s Coconut Grove. Offering an extraordinary dining experience, the three-story restaurant is stunningly decorated in classic French Louisiana grand style, including an elaborate stained glass ceiling dome, two-story stained glass windows and a majestic staircase leading to the upper decks. Executive Chef Rodion Chitikov serves up a delectable blend of Cajun and Creole delights with a touch of world fusion, such as sea scallops infused with the flavor of Andouille sausage, Black Angus beef ribs served with gravy, wild mushrooms and sliced brie in a puff pastry shell and New Orlean’s traditional crawfish etouffee. Christabelle’s Quarter features live performances in the New Orlean’s tradition of jazz, rhythm and blues, gospel and Cajun-style music. Group accommodations for up to 100 people are available on a separate floor the restaurant that boasts views of Coconut Grove.
For more information: 786-517-5299
Dolores But You Can Call Me Lolita
Dolores But You Can Call Me Lolita is a hit on the Miami restaurant scene. Its clever albeit long-winded name, a line from Vladmir Nabokov’s famous book, is tossed around Miami in rave reviews. Located in a former historic firehouse in the downtown area of Brickell, the restaurant is divided into two floors of sleek décor: one known as “Dolores”and the other as “Lolita.” With cuisine influenced by countries including Spain, Brazil and Peru, Delores But You Can Call Me Lolita dishes out sumptuous entrees such as grilled Brazilian Picanha steak with a cabernet sauvignon reduction and black and white sesame-crusted tuna in a hoisin plum sauce with caramelized rice. An affordable option for visitors, the restaurant’s entrees are divided into $18 and $23 categories. All entrees come with a choice of appetizer, and all desserts are only $2.50.
For more information: 305-403-3103
Devito South Beach
Famed actor Danny Devito, whose film credits include L.A. Confidential and The Rainmaker, brings a taste of old Hollywood to Ocean Drive with his lavish Italian chophouse Devito South Beach. From its red Venetian chandeliers to its high-backed white leather chairs, Devito’s restaurant blends classic 1940s Hollywood style with contemporary South Beach chic. Decadent signature dishes adorn the menu, including the two- to four-serving feast Kobe Flight, a trio of Japanese rib eye, Australian Wagyu steak and American Wagyu boneless rib eye. Other house specialties include wild salmon with a truffled honey mustard sauce, fennel and pomegranate, and veal chop parmesan on a Milanese bedding with melted Fontina cheese. With 10,000 square feet of indoor space, 1,000 square feet of outdoor space, state-of-the art audio visual equipment, semi-private dining rooms and stylish, unique décor, Devito South Beach is ideal for group accommodations of any size or type.
For more information: 305-531-0911
Grass Restaurant & Lounge
Fine dining reaches new heights in the Design District at Grass Restaurant & Lounge. Executive Chef Michael Jacobs showcases his epicurean artistry at this trendy and recently revitalized restaurant with delectable dishes that fuse American and Asian cuisines. Tantalizing entrees include miso-rubbed chicken salad and pan-seared yellowfin tuna with flavorful sushi rice. Perfect for eating outside in the warm evening air, the light fresh flavors combined with the romantic island décor are sure to put visitors in the Miami mood.
For more information: 305-573-3355
Joe’s Stone Crab
What began as a modest seafood stand in 1913 has over the years become an absolute must for visitors who come during stone crab season. Located on South Beach, Joe’s Stone Crab offers a full menu of delicious seafood, steaks, ribs and chicken. But what draws in the crowds and makes this restaurant a Miami institution is its signature stone crabs served chilled with Joe’s famous mustard sauce. Joe’s Stone Crab is available for group accommodations of up to 50 people. The restaurant is open during stone crab season from October 15 to May 15. Guests are encouraged to arrive early, as Joe’s does not accept reservations.
For more information: 305-673-0365
Versailles
The quintessential Cuban restaurant in Miami, Versailles offers visitors a taste of authentic Cuban cuisine. With sounds of salsa and talk of politics filling the air, guests will experience true Cuban culture. Located in the enclave known as Little Havana, Versailles is renowned for its excellent food, ornate décor and attentive staff. Versailles has an extensive and budget-friendly menu, with most entrees averaging $15. Even with no time to sit down for a meal, a cup of the restaurant’s ultra-strong Cuban coffee is worth a quick stop at its pick-up window.
For more information: 305-444-0240
Miami Nightlife
Biltmore Bar
Visitors looking for a sophisticated respite from the typical Miami nightclub scene should stop in for a drink at the Biltmore Bar in Coral Gables. Located in the famous Biltmore Hotel, one of Miami’s most prestigious landmarks, the Biltmore Bar’s romantic décor hearkens to another era, from its brocade settees to black and white photographs adorning the walls. Patrons can sample from an extensive list of liquors, mixed drinks and wines while lounging on plush furniture and listening to soft music.
For more information: 305-445-8066
D’Lounge
Past and present converge at this vintage-style champagne and cocktail bar located at the National Hotel in South Beach. With a modern spin on the glamour and style of the Art Deco era, D’Lounge succeeds in creating what it calls a timeless chic atmosphere with its original 1940s oak bar and antiques. Hip lounge and cabaret-style musical acts add to the mystique. D’Lounge’s popular happy hour Friday from 6 PM to 11 PM features two-for-one drink specials.
For more information: 305-532-2311
Mansion
Star gazers will not want to miss this South Beach celebrity favorite. Originally built in 1936 as a French casino, the expansive venue is 40,000 square feet of opulent design, including sweeping staircases, ornate fireplaces, Venetian glass mirrors, dramatic crystal chandeliers and exposed brick walls. Beyond the ultra-luxe décor, Mansion is host to some of the biggest concerts and celebrity parties in the area.
For more information: 305-531-5535
Skybar Miami Beach
The beautiful and trendy Skybar Miami Beach epitomizes South Beach chic. Located in the luxurious Shore Club Hotel on Collins Avenue, this celebrity hotspot is divided into four distinctly themed bars. Skybar’s Redroom projects a radiant red glow against a backdrop of modern European elegance. Redroom Garden is a 2,500-square-foot outdoor Edenic garden, complete with tropical flowers and eclectic Asian furnishings. The aptly named Rumbar, which serves 75 different types of rum, is enclosed by sheer white billowing curtains. For private events, Sandbar is a perfect hideaway where guests can walk barefoot on the sand amongst rattan furniture.
For more information: 305-695-3100
Family Activities in Miami
Jungle Island
Set on 18 acres of lush jungle, Jungle Island opened as a small roadside attraction called Parrot Jungle Island in 1936 and has since grown into a Miami institution. Centrally located on Watson Island between downtown Miami and South Beach, Jungle Island offers three shows, interactive safaris, a petting zoo and a playground. Families encounter rare and exotic animals such as Vulcan, a 12-foot tall liger, part lion, part tiger, and unique birds that soar above their heads at the Winged Wonders show. Children can also enjoy sliding down the park’s 168-foot-tall water slide.
Jungle Island is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM. General admission is $22.95 for children ages 3-10, $27.95 for adults and $25.95 for seniors. Parking is $7 per vehicle. For more information: 305-400-7223
Miami Children’s Museum
With two floors of interactive exhibits, a 200-seat auditorium and an educational gift shop, this museum has all the makings for kid-friendly fun. The museum boasts over 15 exhibits, including “Castle of Dreams,” a two-story sandcastle featuring sands from around the world; “Television Studio,” a set where kids can become a camera operator, news anchor or weather reporter; and “Everglades Park,” an Everglades exploration center where children can learn all about alligators. With so much to explore and uncover, the Miami Children’s Museum is a premier attraction for families. The 56,500-square-foot facility is available for group accommodations.
The museum is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM. Admission is $10 for adults and children over 12 months and $5 for city residents. Parking is $1 per hour. For more information: 305-373-5437
Miami Seaquarium
The Miami Seaquarium offers eight different marine animal shows, a dolphin encounter and several world-class exhibits set on a 38-acre tropical park. Television superstar Flipper and his friends perform jumps, flips, fin walks and other antics at the exciting Flipper Dolphin Show. The adventures continue at the Killer Whale and Dolphin Show where Lolita the killer whale demonstrates her intelligence and beauty alongside Pacific white-sided dolphins. In addition to the shows, guests can also explore the park’s many exhibits of tropical coral reefs, manatees, exotic birds, alligators and sharks. For an unforgettable experience, visitors can participate in one of the Dolphin Interaction programs, a hands-on opportunity to see, touch and learn about dolphins.
The Seaquarium is open daily from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM. General admission is $24.95 for children ages 3-9 and $31.95 for adults. Dolphin Interaction Programs range in price from $99 to $189. Parking is $7 per vehicle. Reservations are strongly recommended for Dolphin Interaction programs. For more information: 305-361-5705
Recreation and Outdoors in Miami
Doral Golf Resort & Spa
Referred to as the “Kingdom of Golf,” the Doral Golf Resort & Spa offers five world-renowned 18-hole courses. First-timers to pros have enjoyed this beautifully sculpted resort in northern Miami for the past 40 years. Home of the legendary Blue Monster, the Great White and three championship courses, Doral is a favored stop on the PGA tour. Non-golfers can enjoy the resort’s delicious dining options at one of its five restaurants or indulge in a decadent treatment at the award-winning spa. Golf courses are open from sunrise to sunset. Rates vary by course and season.
For more information: 305-592-2000
Everglades National Park
Guests to the Miami region can take time away from the bustling city by visiting Everglade National Park, the largest subtropical wilderness and 3rd largest national park in the United States. Home to a diverse mix of wildlife, including rare and endangered species such as American crocodile, Florida panther and West Indian manatee, this park is a 1.5 million-acre retreat from the city. The park offers numerous activities for visitors to take part in, including fishing, hiking, camping, bird-watching, canoeing, kayaking and biking. Visitors can also take one of numerous boat tours, which allow visitors to enter more remote areas of the park.
Everglades National Park is open daily. Hours vary by season. Entrance fees are $10 for private vehicles and $5 for pedestrians and cyclists. Fees are good for seven consecutive days at all entrances to the park. Guests are encouraged to visit the park during the dry season from December to April, when the temperatures are cooler, fewer mosquitoes are out and wildlife viewing is at its peak. Advanced reservations are recommended for tours during the dry season. For more information: 305-242-7700
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
Those who want to immerse themselves in the beauty of the tropics should pay a visit to the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables. Established in 1938, it is home to the only outdoor rainforest in the continental United States and is a leading center for palm research, horticulture and conservation. Voted a Top Florida Wonder, the garden contains 83 acres of tropical flowers and plants in stunning displays, as well as celebrated art exhibitions featuring the work of famous artists such as Fernando Botero, Dale Chihuly and Roy Lichtenstein. It also serves as host to noteworthy events including the International Palm and Cycad Festival, Afternoon Tea at Fairchild and Thursday Night at Fairchild, when the gardens are transformed with a dazzling light display.
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5 PM. It is closed Christmas. Thursday Night at Fairchild takes place from 6:00 to 9:30 PM. General admission is $10 for children ages 6-17, $20 for adults and $15 for seniors. For more information: 305-667-1651
Venetian Pool
For a delightful treat, visitors can take a dip in the coral rock lagoon known as the Venetian Pool. Located in Coral Gables, the Venetian Pool has been captivating visitors with its romantic beauty since its creation in 1922. The 820,000-gallon pool is a historic treasure where many Miami residents learn to swim. The pool is drained and refilled daily with cool spring water and boasts two waterfalls, coral caves and grottos.
Hours of operation vary based on time of year. The pool is closed Martin Luther King Day, President’s Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Admission from April to October is $6.75 for children ages 3-12 and $10 for adults. Admission from November to March is $5.50 for children ages 3-12 and $6.75 for adults. Children must be a minimum of 38 inches tall and 3 years old to enter the facility and the pool. For more information: 305-460-5306
Miami Tours
Coopertown Airboat Tours
Adventure-seekers can glide with the wind in their hair through an amazing expanse of saw grass in the Florida Everglades on a Coopertown Airboat tour. The tours offer an exciting voyage and chance to learn about the history and inhabitants of one of the world’s most unique ecosystems. Operating since 1945, the tour provides a first-hand look at exotic plants and flowers, as well as many species of animals including alligators, birds, otters, fish and turtles. Coopertown also features an alligator exhibit and its own restaurant serving some unusual fare such as gator tail and its famous frog legs. Coopertown Airboat Tours are open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM. Tickets cost $9 for children ages 7-11 and $19 for adults.
For more information: 305-226-6048
Island Queen Cruises
The two-level modern yachts of Island Queen Cruises offer 90-minute voyages on Miami’s brilliant Biscayne Bay. Passengers on this luxury sightseeing cruise will get a fully-narrated tour that features the downtown Miami skyline, the magnificent Port of Miami, Fisher Island and the ever-popular Millionaire’s Row, home to sprawling estates of celebrities such as Gloria Estefan, Julio Iglesias and Shaquille O'Neal. A selection of light snacks, beverages and cocktails are available for purchase. Island Queen Cruises depart hourly from Bayside Marketplace from 11 AM to 7 PM. Cruise rates are $16 for children ages 4-12 and $22 for adults.
For more information: 305-379-5119
Miami SkyLift
Visitors can sightsee from new heights aboard the Miami SkyLift, a tethered hot air balloon that lifts up to 30 passengers to an exhilarating 500 feet above the city. The 15-minute ride provides a bird’s eye view of Miami for as far as 30 miles on a clear day. Accompanied by a tour guide that operates the balloon, passengers will receive an unprecedented view of downtown Miami, its suburbs and surrounding beaches and islands. Located at Bayfront Park, SkyLift is open daily, weather permitting. Tickets cost $8.88 for children ages 3-9 and $15.89 for adults.
For more information: 305-444-0422
