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Home , Zoo Miami

Carol Matulonis [email protected] www.behappyvacations.com 772-461-2800

MIAMI, FL

OVERVIEW

Introduction

Miami, , has always billed itself as a travel destination. Warm weather, sandy beaches and bright sunshine were selling points more than 100 years ago, just as they are today. But Miami's allure extends beyond its shores. People from all over the Caribbean and Latin America have settled in Miami, giving the city its distinctive, lively international character.

The warm-weather fun is still a big attraction, but the biggest draw is the cosmopolitan flavor coupled with all the great restaurants, sports teams (Dolphins, Heat, Hurricanes and Marlins) and upscale sheen—plus a long list of TV shows that have "Miami" in their titles.

South Beach, with its cheerful, sherbet-colored art-deco buildings and palm-tree-lined avenues, is the center of Miami's trendy dining and nightlife scene. Other corners of Miami, including and Coral Gables, offer their own versions of fine living and colorful happenings.

And don't overlook the natural world—though you may have to drive to the to get a good view of it.

Sights—The breathtaking view of the city from the MacArthur Causeway at night; ; the palmy streets and posh estates of Coral Gables; Coconut Grove and CocoWalk; .

Museums—The Italianate gardens of Vizcaya Museum and Gardens; art-nouveau and art-deco objects at the Wolfsonian-FIU Museum on South Beach; first-rank traveling exhibits at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MoCA) in North Miami.

Memorable Meals—Eat stone crabs with the rich and famous at Joe's Stone Crab Restaurant; Euro-hip at The Forge; Cuban favorites in an upscale atmosphere at Versailles Restaurant & Bakery; Chinese at Hakkasan; dry-aged beef and truffled mac-and-cheese at Prime One Twelve.

Late Night—The street scene in South Beach; the sidewalk bars and bistros, shops and nightclubs along and elsewhere in Miami Beach; Coconut Grove; Southwest Eighth Street.

Walks—Strolling through the to admire the architecture and public art program; bicycling or in-line skating through Coconut Grove or South Beach; a walk on the beaches along the .

Especially for Kids—Performing dolphins at the ; tigers at Miami; ; boat and tram tours in Everglades National Park; hands-on activities at Miami Children's Museum; bananas and exotic fruits growing at the Fruit and Spice Park in Homestead.

Miami is a sparkler of a city set against the water. The downtown area hugs the junction of the and Biscayne Bay. A surge of development brought life to sleepy downtown neighborhoods, transforming them into urban vistas of galleries, cafes, nightlife, restored homes and high-rises. To the south, Coconut Grove is 3 mi/5 km along the water, and South Miami is about 6 mi/10 km away. Farther south, you'll find Homestead and, beyond that, the Florida Keys.

The neighborhood of Coral Gables is approximately 6 mi/10 km west of Miami. Beyond that is Kendall—a vast stretch of condos, homes, shopping malls and restaurants that reaches the edge of the Everglades. Miami Beach is a finger of land separating Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic, connected by five causeways to the mainland. At its southern tip is South Beach, also known as the Art Deco District.

Originally settled at the mouth of the Miami River by the Tequesta Indians, Miami wasn't much more than a trading post when real estate and railroad developer Henry Flagler extended his railroad to meet it in 1896 and then dredged the harbor to allow his fleet of steamships to dock. The land boom of the 1920s put the city on the map, thanks to the millionaires who built mansions along Biscayne Bay. The economic bust in 1929, combined with major destruction from a hurricane the previous year, reduced Miami to a depressed shadow of its former self, with few jobs and little development.

In the 1940s, the invention of air-conditioning and the return of ex-servicemen who had savored Miami's charms during World War II led to steady growth. In the 1950s, thousands more arrived—from New York, Chicago, Detroit and elsewhere—to start careers, raise families and become movers and shakers. Miami was transformed into a cosmopolitan hub.

Beginning in 1960, a flood of Cuban refugees turned Miami into a bilingual city within about five years. Succeeding decades brought many other Latinos, as well as Haitians, Asians, Israelis, Canadians and Europeans. Today the city is considered a melting pot of the Americas, with more than 60% of its citizens foreign-born. Miami's government, politics and businesses reflect its diversity.

Location

One of the busiest cruise-ship ports in the world is conveniently located on Dodge Island, which is connected by a five-lane bridge to downtown Miami. There's usually lots of traffic going back and forth—about 4 million passengers a year embark from the port, which serves 22 cruise lines and has eight passenger terminals. Taxis are plentiful. For those who drive to Miami, secured parking lots are adjacent to each terminal. There is a courtesy minibus to take passengers to cruise lines from the car park. Expect to pay US$20 per day.

Most cruise-ship passengers arrive in Miami by air. The trip from Miami International Airport to the port usually takes 20-30 minutes, except in rush hour, when it can be a lot longer. There is a flat US$27 rate from Miami International Airport to the Port of Miami. Most major cruise lines offer bus service from the airport to the port. (If you weren't provided ground transportation as part of a fly-cruise package, it can't hurt to ask if there's room on the bus to your terminal.) Port of Miami. Phone 305-371-7678. http://www.miamidade.gov/portmiami/cruise.asp.

Most cruise lines offer hotel add-on packages that include one, two or three nights in Miami (you usually have several hotels to choose from), along with sightseeing excursions in and around the city. Guided tours are also offered for passengers with late-afternoon or evening flights before or after their cruises.

Typical ship-sponsored tours in Miami include bus tours of the city's famous neighborhoods—Coral Gables, South Beach and Coconut Grove— and the mansions and art-deco architecture, as well as Everglades tours by bus and boat. Boat tours take in Miami's Biscayne Bay. Tours to , art museums, Miami Children's Museum, Miami Science Museum, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden and are also offered. Keep in mind that excursions—and their prices—vary from cruise line to cruise line. Check with your travel agent for additional information.

Big Bus Miami has an agreement with many cruise lines for "Ship to Shore" tours direct from the Port of Miami. The tours are designed specifically for guests disembarking a cruise ship who would like to explore Miami before going home. The tours include luggage storage service as well an airport transfer. These tours are available through your cruise line or by calling 800-336-8233.

Potpourri

Forty of Miami's buildings are permanently decorated in lights. The Bank of America Tower changes color 80-100 times a year. The , which circles downtown, stays lit by a rainbow of neon that rises over the city skyline at night.

South Beach is a mecca for buff bodies. One estimate put the number of models living there at 1,500.

Miami's residents come from more than 120 countries and speak nearly 70 languages.

The Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables was built in 1926 and is one of the most stunning hotels in the nation. It is reputed to have the longest swimming pool in the world. During World War II it was a veterans' hospital. The hotel offers guided tours of its facilities. Many former U.S. presidents, including Bill Clinton and George Bush, have stayed in its presidential suite.

The Cardozo Hotel, located in South Beach, is an art-deco hotel built in 1939 by Henry Hohauser, the most prominent architect in Miami at the time. It has beautifully rounded sides and racing stripes on the exterior beneath the windows and terrazzo floors. It's now owned by singer Gloria Estefan.

If you would like to mail a package from an art-deco landmark, visit the Miami Beach Post Office at 1300 Washington Ave. in South Beach. Check out the mural on the wall of Ponce de Leon and Native Americans.

Celebrities who own homes in Miami include Jennifer Lopez, Lenny Kravitz, Oprah Winfrey, Enrique Iglesias, Janet Reno and Sylvester Stallone.

A flock of flamingos arrived from Cuba in 1934 to inhabit the infield lake at Hialeah Park racetrack. They remain as a tourist attraction at the Park and a symbol of the state in the logo for the Florida lottery.

SEE & DO Sightseeing

Although Miami is scarcely more than a century old, it has architecturally significant public, commercial and residential buildings—including some designed by architects with international reputations. For visual treats, take a slow drive along side streets in historic neighborhoods such as , Miami Beach, South Beach, Coconut Grove and Coral Gables.

Downtown in the Miami-Dade Cultural Center you'll find both the Miami Art Museum and History Miami (which offers excellent walking tours). Southwest of the cultural center, around Southwest Eighth Street ("Calle Ocho"), is Little Havana—home not just to Cuban immigrants, but also to Nicaraguans, Hondurans, Guatemalans, and other Latin-American and Caribbean immigrants. If you're there in March, join more than a million revelers at Little Havana's Calle Ocho Festival, a one-day extravaganza billed as one of the biggest block parties in the world.

It will only seem as if a million people are on the streets of South Beach, the supertrendy section of Miami Beach between First and 23rd streets. The best way to see the sites there is on a walking tour offered by the Miami Design Preservation League. Also, Jungle Island's home on MacArthur Causeway is a quick trip from just about anywhere.

On the mainland in Coconut Grove, don't miss the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, an Italianate palace surrounded by formal gardens that are a great place to stroll.

For a look at early settlers' life in Florida, visit The Barnacle, a pioneer residence. Also worth a visit is the Ancient Spanish Monastery in North Miami Beach.

Casinos

Miami has several gaming options, ranging from megaresorts to small gaming rooms and horse-racing tracks. Florida gaming regulations prohibit roulette, but slot machines and card games are allowed. The only blackjack tables in the state are operated by the Seminole Tribe. You must be 18 years of age to enter the casino floor. Casino Miami Jai-Alai 3500 N.W. 37th Ave. This Jai-Alai has 1,050 slot machines, nine poker tables and eating Miami, Florida 33142 facilities. There is also daily simulcasting of Thoroughbred, harness and greyhound races. You must be 21 years of age to enter the casino floor. Phone: 305-633-6400 Monday-Friday 10 am-4 am, Saturday and Sunday 24 hours. Free http://www.playcasinomiami.com admission. 3500 N.W. 37th Ave., Airport Area, Miami. Phone 305-633- 6400. http://www.playcasinomiami.com.

Magic City Casino 450 N.W. 37th Ave. This US$54 million facility at Flagler Greyhound Racing has 800 slot machines and 19 poker tables. It also has a buffet restaurant. Live Miami, Florida 33125 greyhound racing Sunday and Thursday 7 pm and Tuesday, Friday and Phone: 305-649-3000 Saturday 11:45 am and 7 pm. Sunday-Thursday 10 am-4 am, Friday http://www.magiccitycasino.com and Saturday 10 am-5 am. Free admission and parking. Valet parking US$5. 450 N.W. 37th Ave., Miami. Phone 305-649-3000. http://www.magiccitycasino.com.

Miccosukee Resort and Gaming 500 S.W. 177th Ave. This massive casino and hotel, operated by the Miccosukee Indians on Miami, Florida 33194 one of their reservations west of downtown, features 32 poker tables, more than 1,700 video pull-tab machines, high-stakes bingo and Phone: 305-222-4600 lightning lotto. The complex includes a fine dining restaurant, 27-hole https://miccosukee.com golf course, Indian Village, rides, authentic arts and crafts gift shop and a Miccosukee Museum. 24 hours daily. 500 S.W. 177th Ave., Miami. Phone 305-222-4600. Toll-free 877-242-6464. https://miccosukee.com.

Deering Estate at Cutler 16701 S.W. 72nd Ave. Chicago industrialist Charles Deering, whose younger brother James Deering built Vizcaya in Coconut Grove, created his own estate farther Miami, Florida 33157 south in the town of Cutler (now part of Miami). He acquired more than Phone: 305-235-1668 440 acres/180 hectares on which stood the Richmond Cottage (built http://www.deeringestate.com 1896-1916), a wood-frame house that served as his first winter home. In 1922, Deering hired architect Phineas Phaist to design and build Stone House, a Mediterranean revival-style mansion. Deering died in 1947. His estate remained in his family until his youngest daughter died in 1982, when it was purchased by the state of Florida. Badly damaged by in 1992, the estate has been restored and is now an environmental, archaeological, historical and architectural preserve. It offers daily historical, mangrove and trail tours (each lasting 45-60 minutes), as well as day and moonlight canoe tours. Daily 10 am-5 pm. US$15 adults. 16701 S.W. 72nd Ave., Miami. Phone 305-235-1668. http://www.deeringestate.com.

MacArthur Causeway State Road 836 across Biscayne Bay One of five causeways leading to the beach, this one runs from downtown Miami to the south end of Miami Beach. To the north, Miami, Florida celebrities and the rich-and-famous have estates on Star Island, Hibiscus Island and other pricey patches of land in the middle of the bay. You're also likely to see the enormous hulls of cruise ships moored along Government Cut. Looking landward, you'll have a breathtaking view of the Miami skyline. The view is especially beautiful at night. State Road 836 across Biscayne Bay, Miami.

Old Cutler Road By bike or by car, ride along historic Old Cutler Road from Coral Gables south to the old town of Cutler. This road rivals any scenic route in the Miami, Florida U.S. for its beauty. While on this adventure, visit Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. Old Cutler Road, Miami.

The Kampong 4013 S. , Coconut Grove This historical property dating back to the 1870s was the home of David Grandson Fairchild, former head of the Office of Foreign Seed and Plant Miami, Florida Introduction for the USDA 1897-1928. Known as the "Columbus of Phone: 305-442-7169 American Horticulture," Fairchild brought 30,000 species to the U.S. The https://ntbg.org/garden/kampong name Kampong itself originates from the Malay word for "small village." Between the Balinese inspired decor of the Fairchild-Sweeney house, more than 65 varieties of mangos, Brazilian silk cotton trees, 23 avocado trees and numerous other exotic fruit trees, you may feel like you've entered another part of the world entirely. Tuesday-Friday 9:30 am-3 pm, Saturday 10:15 am-3 pm. US$20 adults. 4013 S. Douglas Road, Coconut Grove, Miami. Phone 305-442-7169. https://ntbg.org/garden/kampong.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens 3251 S. Miami Ave. This magnificent estate was the winter home of U.S. businessman James Deering. It provides a spectacular view of Miami's Biscayne Bay. Miami, Florida 33129-2831 Deering built the European-inspired estate in 1916, with every Phone: 305-250-9133 architectural detail finished to perfection. He then filled the home with art http://www.vizcaya.org and treasures spanning 2,000 years. The 34-room National Historic Landmark is surrounded by 10 acres/4 hectares of formal gardens and fountains. Guided tours are available most days and audio tours are available for US$5 in multiple languages. Wednesday-Monday 9:30 am- 4:30 pm. US$22 adults. 3251 S. Miami Ave., Miami. Phone 305-250- 9133. http://www.vizcaya.org.

Gold Coast Railroad Museum 12450 S.W. 152nd St. This is a must-see museum for model train collectors and locomotive lovers. It features 40 passenger cars, freight cars and other railway Miami, Florida 33177-1402 equipment. On display is Ferdinand Magellan, the private railway car of Phone: 305-253-0063 Franklin D. Roosevelt and the only rail car custom-built for a U.S. https://www.goldcoastrailroadmuseum.org president. A model train building has an array of model scales on display plus a room where kids can assemble their own wooden train sets, including Thomas the Tank Engine models. On weekends there are train rides for an additional fee. Monday-Friday 10 am-4 pm, Saturday and Sunday 11 am-4 pm. US$8 adults. 12450 S.W. 152nd St., Miami. Phone 305-253-0063. https://www.goldcoastrailroadmuseum.org.

HistoryMiami Downtown in the Miami-Dade Cultural Center, HistoryMiami offers 101 W. Flagler St. glimpses of Miami's past with hands-on displays and special exhibits. The museum offers history-oriented tours, but you must call in advance Miami, Florida 33130 to make reservations. Monday-Saturday 10 am-5 pm, Sunday noon-5 Phone: 305-375-1492 pm. US$10 adults. 101 W. Flagler St., Miami. Phone 305-375-1492. http://historymiami.org http://historymiami.org.

Jewish Museum of Florida-Florida International University 301 Washington Ave., South Beach Housed in two former synagogues, this museum contains a history of the Jews of Florida and is part of the Judaic Studies program at FIU. Miami, Florida 33139 There are several exhibits and memorabilia of the early Jewish Phone: 305-672-5044 community as well as present-day Jewish leaders. A short film about the http://jmof.fiu.edu history of Florida's Jewish community is shown throughout the day. Excellent gift shop. Tuesday-Sunday 10 am-5 pm. US$12 adults. 301 Washington Ave., South Beach, Miami. Phone 305-672-5044. http://jmof.fiu.edu.

Miami Center for Architecture & Design 111 N.E. First St. Located in the beautiful Old U.S. Post Office in downtown Miami, in the same building that hosts the Downtown Miami Welcome Center, this Miami, Florida 33132 exhibition and community center is geared toward Miami's built Phone: 305-448-7488 environment. It also hosts events and hands-on sketching and http://miamicad.org photography tours of the city's historic buildings. Temporary exhibitions run the gamut of design interests but tend to focus on sustainability and art-deco architecture. Monday-Friday 10 am-5 pm. Free. 111 N.E. First St., Miami. Phone 305-448-7488. http://miamicad.org.

Miami Children's Museum 980 MacArthur Causeway This museum, with 14 interactive galleries of permanent and temporary exhibits, is located on Watson Island across the road from Jungle Island. Miami, Florida 33132 There are lots of hands-on exhibits such as weighing produce in a Phone: 305-373-5437 pretend supermarket. Daily 10 am-6 pm. US$22. 980 MacArthur http://www.miamichildrensmuseum.org Causeway, Miami. Phone 305-373-5437. http://www.miamichildrensmuseum.org.

Perez Art Museum 1103 Biscayne Blvd. The museum exhibits, collects, preserves and interprets art of the . The focus is on works from the 1940s to the Miami, Florida 33132 present, complemented by art from other eras for historical perspective. Phone: 305-375-3000 Dine at Verde, the museum's restaurant, with locally inspired dishes. http://www.pamm.org Friday-Tuesday 10 am-6 pm, Thursday 10 am-9 pm. US$16 adults. 1103 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone 305-375-3000. http://www.pamm.org.

Rubbell Family Collection 1100 N.W. 23rd St. The contemporary art collection of the Rubbell family includes lights and massive murals along with moving mannequins and abstract sculptures Miami, Florida 33127 in 45,000 sq ft/4,180 sq m of rotating exhibit space. The Rubbells have Phone: 305-573-6090 been collecting contemporary art since the 1960s. The exhibits contain http://rfc.museum some nudity and pieces that may not be suitable for children. Major artists in the collection include Paul McCarthy, Charles Ray and David Salle. The building also houses a research library, sculpture garden, bookstore and gift shop. Doors close in the summer to prepare for new exhibitions. Wednesday-Sunday 10:30 am-5:30 pm. US$15 adults. 1100 N.W. 23rd St., Miami. Phone 305-573-6090. http://rfc.museum.

The Patricia and Philip 10975 S.W. 17th St. Featuring thought-provoking exhibitions that challenge established notions of politics, identity and our role within the environment. The work Miami, Florida 33199 of up-and-coming Caribbean and South American artists is highlighted, Phone: 305-348-2890 as well as Southeast notables such as Mike Kelley and Mark http://thefrost.fiu.edu Messersmith. The annual faculty exhibit is another must-see. Located at Florida International University. Tuesday-Saturday 10 am-5 pm, Sunday noon-5 pm. Free admission. 10975 S.W. 17th St., Miami. Phone 305- 348-2890. http://thefrost.fiu.edu.

Wings Over Miami Air Museum 14710 S.W. 128th St. This family-orientated tribute to veterans, aviators and aircraft history is located at the Miami Executive Airport. The museum hangar contains Miami, Florida 33196 military and vintage planes, including the B-59, 1942 Boeing Stearman, Phone: 305-233-5197 1957 Ikarus and the GNAT, used by the British Yellowjacks and Red http://www.wingsovermiami.com Arrows aerobatic teams. The gift shop includes photos and model planes, both pre-made and build-it-yourself kits. Wednesday-Sunday 10 am-5 pm. US$10 adults. 14710 S.W. 128th St., Miami. Phone 305-233- 5197. http://www.wingsovermiami.com.

Brickell Financial District Southeast 14th Street and Avenue High-rise office buildings, condos and high-end hotels are mushrooming in this neighborhood south of downtown, home to many international Miami, Florida 33130 banks and multinational companies. Many Brickell-area restaurants open and quickly close, and the food there tends to be expensive. Southeast 14th Street and , Miami.

Coconut Grove Miami, Florida 33133 "The Grove" was an independent municipality until the city of Miami annexed it in a summer referendum in 1925—an event still resented by http://www.coconutgrove.com Grove residents. Coconut Grove encompasses a historic neighborhood built by Bahamians who had come to work at Vizcaya. The narrow tree- shaded streets of North and South Grove are treasure troves of eclectic architecture and diverse tropical landscaping. http://www.coconutgrove.com.

Coral Gables 220 Miracle Mile In 1917, developer George Merrick turned his father's citrus groves into a planned community with architectural and height restrictions. His Miami, Florida 33134 Mediterranean vision survives in street names, the building styles of Phone: 305-695-8700 older homes and commercial structures, and to a lesser extent, in the http://www.shopcoralgables.com main shopping area along Miracle Mile and Ponce de Leon Boulevard. Restaurants and bars give downtown Gables a vibrant nightlife. Be prepared to pay for parking after 6 pm. 220 Miracle Mile, Miami. Phone 305-695-8700. http://www.shopcoralgables.com.

Little Havana Miami, Florida A trip to this neighborhood is like visiting Havana without ever leaving Miami. The heavily commercial district is a locus of Cuban (and other Latin-American) stores and restaurants. Jewelry, furniture, clothes, music, and odds and ends can be purchased there at fair prices. You'll find plenty of good eateries as well—and not just Cuban fare. At Calle Ocho and Memorial Boulevard (Southwest 13th Avenue) stands the Brigade 2506 Memorial, recalling the unsuccessful 1961 Bay of Pigs invasion of Cuba by an exile force. A tiny museum is adjacent, open Monday-Saturday 9 am-4 pm.

Miami Design District 3841 N.E. Second Ave. Once just a shopping district for interior designers, this area is becoming increasingly hip in its own right. Gallery walks are held once a month, Miami, Florida 33137 and a sprinkling of hipster hangouts attracts a young, artsy crowd as Phone: 305-572-0866 well as more sophisticated art collectors. A number of good restaurants http://www.miamidesigndistrict.net also have opened in the area. Just south of the Design District, is a revitalized residential, gallery and nightlife hot spot. 3841 N.E. Second Ave. (between North and Northeast Second Avenue, from Northeast 36th Street to Northeast 42nd Street), Miami. Phone 305-572-0866. http://www.miamidesigndistrict.net.

South Miami-Dade County Miami, Florida South of Coral Gables, several small communities and incorporated cities have grown steadily toward one another to form a solid suburban http://miamidade.gov strip, but each has distinctive characteristics. South Miami, the Old Cutler area and Pinecrest look a lot like Coral Gables. Kendall has newer homes on smaller lots, many apartments and a busy commercial district around the massive Mall. Agriculture still holds sway in the vicinity of Florida City, Homestead, the Redlands and Perrine. Many of Miami's best-known attractions are in these neighborhoods, including , Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, Zoo Miami, Monkey Jungle, and the Fruit and Spice Park. You'll need a car to explore these areas. http://miamidade.gov.

The Biscayne Corridor Miami, Florida The area surrounding Biscayne Boulevard, from Morningside near 57th Street, north of downtown, to 79th and beyond, is developing into an eclectic antiques and ethnic-restaurant district on the edge of .

Wynwood Miami, Florida Located just north of the historically black Overtown, Wynwood is home to a wide variety of hip clothing stores, galleries, restaurants and nightlife. Be sure to check out the street art at Wynwood Walls, featuring sprawling works by some of the world's biggest street artists such as David Choe, Shepard Fairey and Ron English.

Jungle Island 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail In addition to subtropical flowering trees and lush plants inhabited by some of the most beautiful birds in the world, the facility is home to Miami, Florida 33132 some very rare animals. Jungle Island opened as Parrot Jungle in 1936 Phone: 305-400-7000 and now includes a serpentarium, ape and monkey exhibits—with a set http://www.jungleisland.com of fraternal twin orangutans—and tigers. Daily 10 am-5 pm. US$52.96 adults. 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami. Phone 305-400-7000. http://www.jungleisland.com.

Monkey Jungle 14805 S.W. 216th St. The monkeys run free at this zoo, and the visitors are caged. It's home Miami, Florida 33170-2204 to more than 400 primates, more than 30 species in all, on a 30- acre/12-hectare reserve. Daily 9:30 am-5 pm. US$29.95 adults. 14805 Phone: 305-235-1611 S.W. 216th St., Miami. Phone 305-235-1611. http://www.monkeyjungle.com http://www.monkeyjungle.com.

Zoo Miami 12400 S.W. 152nd St. The zoo is home to 2,000 animals, including such rare species as the koala, the white tiger and the Komodo dragon. It's encircled by a Miami, Florida 33177-1402 monorail that has four hop-on, hop-off stops along its 2.5-mi/4-km route. Phone: 305-251-0400 Exhibits include Wings of Asia, the largest open-air Asian in the http://www.zoomiami.org Western Hemisphere, featuring 400 exotic, rare and endangered birds from 70 species. Tram tours are also offered. Three food courts and a are on the grounds. Wildlife and Theater of Ecology shows are held several times a day. Monday-Friday 10 am-5 pm, Saturday and Sunday 9:30 am-5:30 pm. US$22.95 adults. 12400 S.W. 152nd St. (southwest of Coral Gables), Miami. Phone 305-251-0400. http://www.zoomiami.org.

Recreation

If it doesn't involve snow, you can probably do it in Miami. Nearly every marina has fishing charters and sailboats available. For those who prefer to spend time in the water, snorkeling and diving opportunities abound.

If you like to blend with the locals, rent a bike or a pair of in-line skates and explore South Beach or Coconut Grove.

Beaches

There's no shortage of good beaches in Miami. Millions of dollars have gone into replenishing some of those that have suffered from erosion. Along the Rickenbacker Causeway, on the way to , the beach areas provide a knockout view of the Miami skyline. on Key Biscayne is a wide, beautiful public beach. and Beach 10800 Collins Ave. Haulover Park and Beach (a Miami-Dade County park between Bal Miami, Florida 33154 Harbour and Sunny Isles) is part of a 177-acre/70-hectare, 1-mi/1.6-km stretch free of high-rises. The northernmost 0.6 mi/1 km of the beach is Phone: 305-947-3525 clothing optional. Daily 8 am-5 pm. Visitors pay a US$5 parking fee http://www.miamidade.gov/parks/parks/haulover_park.asp Monday-Friday, US$7 Saturday and Sunday. 10800 Collins Ave., Miami. Phone 305-947-3525. http://www.miamidade.gov/parks/parks/haulover_park.asp.

Citi Bike 723 Washington Ave. The official City of Miami Beach bike-sharing and rental program is available to visitors. Pick up a bike from any of the network's bike- Miami, Florida 33139 sharing stations and simply return it at any of more than 100 locations. Phone: 305-532-9494 Daily 10 am-6 pm. 723 Washington Ave., Miami. Phone 305-532-9494. https://citibikemiami.com https://citibikemiami.com.

Fritz's Skate, Bike and Surf Shop 1014 Lincoln Road This skate shop carries more than 2,000 wheeled products including Rollerblades, skateboards and bicycles, as well as surf boards. Daily 11 Miami, Florida 33139 am-9 pm. Rent starts at US$10. 1014 Lincoln Road, Miami. Phone 305- Phone: 305-532-1954 532-1954. http://www.fritzsmiamibeach.com. http://www.fritzsmiamibeach.com

Thriller Miami Speedboat Rides 401 Biscayne Blvd. These 38-passenger speed boats depart from Bayside Marketplace for Miami, Florida 33132 a 45-minute ride that includes the Port of Miami, mansions of the rich and famous and Miami Beach. Daily 11 am-7 pm. US$38 adults. 401 Phone: 305-371-3278 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone 305-371-3278. http://www.thrillermiami.com http://www.thrillermiami.com.

Virginia Key Outdoor Center 3801 Rickenbacker Causeway This outfitter provides stand-up paddleboard, surf ski, and kayak Miami, Florida 33149 lessons and rentals, in addition to guided tours, all set on the beautiful maritime forest of . Monday-Friday 10 am-7 pm, Saturday Phone: 786-224-4777 and Sunday 8 am-7 pm. 3801 Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami. Phone http://www.vkoc.net 786-224-4777. http://www.vkoc.net.

Double Threat Fishing Charters 3400 Pan American Drive Offers inshore and deep-sea fishing tours. Tours leave from Marina. 3400 Pan American Drive, Miami. Phone 786-505-8950. Miami, Florida 33133 https://www.fishmiamicharters.com. Phone: 786-505-8950 https://www.fishmiamicharters.com

International Links Miami Melreese Country Club 1802 N.W. 37th Ave. This course boasts a notorious fourth hole; the monstrous par-5 will test Miami, Florida 33125 the very best. The club has a fully stocked pro shop and full-service restaurant and bar. 1802 N.W. 37th Ave., Miami. Phone 305-633-4583. Phone: 305-633-4583 http://www.internationallinksgolfclub.com. http://www.internationallinksgolfclub.com

Trump National Doral 4400 N.W. 87th Ave. The site of the World Golf Championship's Cadillac Championship and Miami, Florida 33178 many other national tournaments, this club boasts four 18-hole courses (with a fifth off-site) and one nine-hole, par-3 executive course. The Phone: 305-592-2000 finishing hole of the Blue Monster is considered one of the area's best. https://www.trumphotels.com/miami/golf 4400 N.W. 87th Ave., Miami. Phone 305-592-2000. Toll-free 800-713- 6725. https://www.trumphotels.com/miami/golf.

Walkers and joggers will find trails in Greynolds, Crandon and Haulover parks. Another possible route (during daylight hours only) is , downtown on the waterfront south of Bayside Marketplace.

A paved trail along Ingraham Highway in Coconut Grove and Historic Old Cutler Road in Coral Gables runs through some of Miami-Dade's most affluent and lushly landscaped residential areas. It's popular with locals for both jogging and biking.

July and August are Miami Spa Month, with treatments as low as US$99 at Greater Miami's premier spas. For participating spas, visit http://miamispamonth.com. Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Miami 500 Brickell Key Drive This luxurious spa has six suites overlooking Biscayne Bay. Relax and Miami, Florida 33131 have a massage as you watch the waves roll by. Treatments draw on Phone: 305-913-8332 both modern techniques and Asian traditions. The quintessence body scrub with ginger, sea salt and lemon oil will make your skin feel soft http://mandarinoriental.com/miami/spa and silky. Couples messages are also offered. Monday-Thursday 9:30 am-8:30 pm, Friday-Sunday 8:30 am-9:30 pm; fitness center daily 24 hours. 500 Brickell Key Drive, Miami. Phone 305-913-8332. http://mandarinoriental.com/miami/spa.

The Spa at Conrad Miami 1395 Brickell Ave. Enjoy a comprehensive wellness program with more than 60 therapies Miami, Florida 33131 at this spa offering facials, body scrubs and massages in a calm and luxurious setting. The collagen-infused facial awakens dead skin cells Phone: 305-503-6500 and looks great after a day in the sun. Saturday-Tuesday 10 am-6 pm, http://conradhotels3.hilton.com/en/hotels/florida/conrad- Wednesday-Friday 10 am-8 pm. 1395 Brickell Ave., Miami. Phone 305- miami-MIACICI/index.html 503-6500. http://conradhotels3.hilton.com/en/hotels/florida/conrad- miami-MIACICI/index.html.

The Flying Trapeze School at Bayfront Park 1075 N.E. Biscayne Blvd. Up for some adventure—literally? This school offers two-hour introductory sessions for US$70. Wednesday-Friday 7-9 pm, Saturday Miami, Florida 33132 and Sunday 4-6 and 7-9 pm. Reservations required. 1075 N.E. Biscayne Phone: 786-239-8775 Blvd., Miami. Phone 786-239-8775. http://www.theflyingtrapeze.net. http://www.theflyingtrapeze.net

Nightlife

Nightlife in Miami is hot and heavy. The Latin influence dominates the scene, with jazz and rock also popular. Electronic and hip-hop music are favorites of the younger crowd. The most recent club revival started in South Beach and has spread across the country.

Clubs open and close quickly and regularly change names, locations and themes; finding them is a challenge even for locals. Look in the Miami New Times, a free weekly publication, and on the Miami Herald's website. The Friday edition of the Miami Herald has a pull-out section containing activities, restaurants, clubs and entertainment currently taking place in Miami and adjacent areas.

If a particular kind of music interests you, call some clubs and ask when it's available. A club may start the night with rock and later switch to a Latin beat. Many clubgoers migrate from venue to venue through the night.

Many hotels have on-site clubs that change their names, concepts and music types as often as the stand-alone clubs. You must be 21 or older to drink in clubs. Expect to be carded even if you're in your 30s.

Many celebrities live in the Miami area, and others wander through to participate in Florida's billion-dollar-a-year entertainment industry or just to play. If you are interested in celebrity spotting, keep your eyes open, ask your hotel concierge what movies or television shows are being shot while you're there, and hope you get lucky.

Bars, Taverns & Pubs

Churchill's Pub 5501 N.E. Second Ave. This is the place for tasty English pub food and international cricket, Miami, Florida 33137 rugby and soccer matches beamed in via satellite. It also bills itself as the cradle of indie music, which is performed on indoor and outdoor Phone: 305-757-1807 stages. Daily 11 am-4 am. Cover generally US$7-$10, depending on http://www.churchillspub.com entertainment. Most major credit cards. 5501 N.E. Second Ave. (Little Haiti), Miami. Phone 305-757-1807. http://www.churchillspub.com.

Lost Boy 157 E. Flagler St. An eccentric neighborhood bar located in the heart of downtown Miami, this former denim factory now channels a traditional British pub with Miami, Florida more of an upscale saloon feel. Enjoy the excellent cocktail menu, or Phone: 305-372-7303 have the bartenders craft a bespoke classic. Monday-Saturday noon-2 https://www.lostboydrygoods.com am, Sunday noon-midnight. 157 E. Flagler St., Miami. Phone 305-372- 7303. https://www.lostboydrygoods.com.

Ball & Chain 1513 S.W. Eighth St. Located on the touristy stretch of Calle Ocho in Little Havana, Ball & Miami, Florida 33135 Chain is the go-to spot in Miami for salsa dancing and Latin jazz. Opened in 1935, this historic establishment has hosted acts as storied Phone: 305-643-7820 as Louie Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Chet Baker and https://ballandchainmiami.com Count Basie. A food menu features tapas as well as Caribbean and Cuban classics. 1513 S.W. Eighth St., Miami. Phone 305-643-7820. https://ballandchainmiami.com.

Blue Martini 900 S. Miami Ave., Suite 250 Great drinks, music and beautiful people. Try the namesake martini made with Van Gogh Blue Vodka, Cointreau, Blue Curacao, sour mix Miami, Florida 33130 and orange juice, and served in a snifter with a glow stick. Check out the Phone: 305-981-2583 list of Skinny Martinis (all less than 250 calories). Located in the heart of https://brickellmiami.bluemartini.com Brickell. Monday and Tuesday 4 pm-3 am, Wednesday-Saturday 6 pm-5 am, Sunday 7 pm-3 am. 900 S. Miami Ave., Suite 250, Miami. Phone 305-981-2583. https://brickellmiami.bluemartini.com.

Mango's Tropical Cafe 900 Ocean Drive The sounds of reggae, Latin and Caribbean music heat up the dance Miami, Florida 33139 floor in this South Beach club. There's a nightly cabaret dinner show with a cover charge that varies with the performance. Daily noon-5 am. Phone: 305-673-4422 Dinner shows begin at 8:15 pm. 900 Ocean Drive, Miami. Phone 305- http://mangos.com 673-4422. http://mangos.com.

Performing Arts

Miami embraces no fewer than five legitimate theaters, two orchestras, the world-class and an opera company.

Add to this the African Heritage Cultural Arts Center, the JVC Jazz Festival Miami Beach and a constant stream of visiting troupes, and you can see how the diversity of the city's population is matched by the breadth of its performing-arts scene.

Film

Tower Theater 1508 S.W. Eighth St. A Calle Ocho historical marker dating from 1926, Miami, Florida 33135 operates the theater with an emphasis on arts education for students and the community. Tower specializes in independent and foreign films. Phone: 305-237-2463 1508 S.W. Eighth St., Miami. Phone 305-237-2463. https://towertheatermiami.com https://towertheatermiami.com.

Miami Symphony Orchestra 10300 S.W. 72nd St., Suite 499 For 20 years, the Miami Symphony Orchestra has served an organic Miami, Florida 33176 and essential part in Miami's community. Under the direction of Eduardo Marturet, the symphony performs classical pieces from Bach to Wagner. Phone: 305-275-5666 Performances are typically on Friday and Sunday evening October-April. http://www.themiso.org Tickets from US$25. 10300 S.W. 72nd St., Suite 499, Miami. Phone 305-275-5666. http://www.themiso.org.

Florida Grand Opera 8390 N.W. 25th St. This company has drawn international artists to Miami for decades. Projected English translations are used. The season is November-April, Miami, Florida 33122 with five major productions at the Adrienne Arsht Center in the Ziff Ballet Phone: 305-854-1643 Opera House and at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. http://www.fgo.org Performances are Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday at 8 pm; Sunday at 2 pm. Tickets start at US$21. 8390 N.W. 25th St. (administrative office), Miami. Phone 305-854-1643 for tickets. Toll-free 800-741-1010. http://www.fgo.org.

MicroTheater Miami 1490 Biscayne Blvd. Inspired by a Madrid-based theatrical concept, MicroTheater Miami Miami, Florida 33132 offers 14 different plays per season, each never exceeding a length of 15 minutes, each for US$7, all set inside shipping containers. Plays are Phone: 305-814-6151 performed in English and Spanish; call ahead to make sure that the play https://microtheatermiami.com you want to see will be in a language you understand. Thursday- Saturday 8 pm-midnight, Sunday 7-11 pm. 1490 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone 305-814-6151. https://microtheatermiami.com.

The Miami Light Project 404 N.W. 26 St. For a taste of avant-garde Miami, check out a show sponsored by this Miami, Florida 33127 nonprofit cultural organization. Performances by dance, music and theater groups from all over the world include hip-hop artists and a Phone: 305-576-4350 punk-rock roller derby. 404 N.W. 26 St., Miami. Phone 305-576-4350. http://www.miamilightproject.com http://www.miamilightproject.com.

Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade 1300 Biscayne Blvd. County Miami, Florida 33132 This entertainment complex near downtown is the premier venue for the performing arts. It includes three state-of-the-art theaters—the Ziff Ballet Phone: 305-949-6722 Opera House, Knight Concert Hall and a studio theater—and a 1929 http://www.arshtcenter.org restored Art Deco Tower. Resident companies include Miami City Ballet and . It has a calendar that includes Broadway shows and classic theater, ballet and modern dance, symphony, opera and popular music concerts as well as family events. Box office Monday- Friday 10 am-6 pm, Saturday and Sunday until curtain. 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone 305-949-6722. http://www.arshtcenter.org.

American Airlines Arena 601 Biscayne Blvd. This sports and entertainment venue opened in December 1999. With a spectacular waterfront setting, the 19,600 seat arena has hosted many Miami, Florida 33132 musical superstars. It hosts championship wrestling and boxing, and is Phone: 786-777-1000 the home of the Miami Heat basketball team. Monday-Friday 10 am-5 http://www.aaarena.com pm. 601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone 786-777-1000. http://www.aaarena.com.

Klipsch Amphitheater at Bayfront Park 301 N. Biscayne Blvd. Located at Bayfront Park, the theater is known for its large outdoor Miami, Florida 33132 concert space that is ideal for music festivals and entertainment. There are 7,500 pavilion seats and open-air space for 24,000. The annual Phone: 305-358-7550 Miami Jazz fest entertains annually at the theater. The facility also has http://www.klipsch.com/Klipsch- VIP boxes and VIP parking. 301 N. Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone 305- Amphitheater-at-Bayfront-Park 358-7550. http://www.klipsch.com/Klipsch-Amphitheater-at-Bayfront- Park.

Miami-Dade County Auditorium 2901 W. Flagler St. This art deco revival 2,429-seat auditorium opened in 1951 and has been the center for the Hispanic arts community as well as the setting Miami, Florida 33135 for performances of chamber orchestras, ballets, operas, contemporary Phone: 305-547-5414 music and plays. Free parking. 2901 W. Flagler St., Miami. Phone 305- http://www.miamidadecountyauditorium.org 547-5414. http://www.miamidadecountyauditorium.org.

Olympia Theater 174 E. Flagler St. This venue hosts the Miami Film Festival and a wide variety of other events and performers. The grand 1,567-seat theater is listed on the Miami, Florida 33131 National Register of Historic Places. It has ceilings that soar over the Phone: 305-374-2444 huge pipe organ, balconies and boxes that overhang the orchestra. 174 http://www.olympiatheater.org E. Flagler St., Miami. Phone 305-374-2444 for information. Phone 305- 372-0925 for the box office. http://www.olympiatheater.org.

The Fillmore Miami Beach at the Jackie Gleason Theater 1700 Washington Ave. The historic Jackie Gleason Theater presents a variety of performances Miami, Florida 33139 in its 2,600-seat facility, including Cuban ballets, pop and rock concerts, and singing groups. Box office hours Monday-Friday 11 am-6 pm and Phone: 305-673-7300 on show weekends. 1700 Washington Ave., Miami. Phone 305-673- http://www.fillmoremb.com 7300. http://www.fillmoremb.com.

Spectator Sports

If you want to watch the sporting action in Miami, there are lots of options to choose from. Spring to fall, spend a few hours at the baseball diamond rooting for the Miami Marlins. At other times of the year, you can catch games with the NBA's Miami Heat, the NFL's Miami Dolphins or the NHL's Florida Panthers (based in Sunrise, Florida).

Among area colleges, the Hurricanes dominate in football, baseball and basketball. For information on all UM sports, call the box office at 800-462-2637 or visit http://www.hurricanesports.com.

Baseball

Miami Marlins 501 Marlins Way Tickets are always available for 's National League pro Miami, Florida 33125 team. The team plays in Marlins Park, a 37,000-seat air-conditioned stadium with a retractable roof that allows games to be held regardless Phone: 305-480-1300 of weather. Season runs April-September. 501 Marlins Way, Miami. https://www.mlb.com/marlins Phone 305-480-1300. Toll-free 877-627-5467. https://www.mlb.com/marlins.

Miami Heat 601 Biscayne Blvd. The NBA team plays home games at the American Airlines Arena on Miami, Florida 33132 Biscayne Bay. Season runs October-April. Purchase tickets at the box office or through Ticketmaster. 601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone 786- Phone: 786-777-1000 777-1000. Toll-free 800-462-2849 for tickets. http://www.nba.com/heat. http://www.nba.com/heat

Flagler Greyhound Racing 450 N.W. 37th Ave. Flagler Dog track has been hosting races for more than 50 years. Daily Miami, Florida 33125 simulcasting of greyhound, harness and Thoroughbred racing. Live greyhound racing takes place Sunday and Thursday at 7 pm; Tuesday, Phone: 305-649-3000 Friday and Saturday at 11:45 am and 7 pm. Free admission. 450 N.W. http://magiccitycasino.com/dogracing.html 37th Ave. (on the grounds of the Magic City Casino), Miami. Phone 305- 649-3000. http://magiccitycasino.com/dogracing.html.

Miami Dolphins 347 Don Shula Drive South Florida's NFL team plays August-December at Hard Rock Miami, Florida 33056 Stadium. Single tickets are available at the box office, through the Dolphins' website and through Ticketmaster. Tickets are US$22-$150. Phone: 305-943-8000 347 Don Shula Drive, Miami. Phone 305-943-8000. Toll-free 888-346- http://www.miamidolphins.com 7849 for group tickets. http://www.miamidolphins.com.

Florida Panthers 1 Panther Parkway The Florida Panthers host regular-season home games at the BB&T Miami, Florida Center in Sunrise (30 mi/48 km north of Miami). Season runs early October through mid-April. 1 Panther Parkway, Miami. Phone 954-835- Phone: 954-835-7000 7000. http://panthers.nhl.com. http://panthers.nhl.com

Casino Miami Jai-Alai 3500 N.W. 37th Ave. Jai-alai is a hard-driving game that originated in Spain's Basque country; Miami, Florida 33142 it is like a combination of lacrosse and racquetball. Games are played in a fronton, or stadium, where spectators wager on a team to win. There Phone: 305-633-6400 is also a casino on-site. You must be 21 years of age to enter the casino http://www.playcasinomiami.com floor. Live afternoon Jai-alai matches noon-5:30 pm Sunday-Friday. Simulcasting daily noon-10 pm of thoroughbred races. Casino is open Monday-Thursday 10 am-4 am, Friday-Sunday 24 hours. Free admission. 3500 N.W. 37th Ave., Airport Area, Miami. Phone 305-633- 6400. http://www.playcasinomiami.com.

Shopping

The shopping mall is king in Miami. is a water-oriented, lushly landscaped delight filled with upscale shops and restaurants. was the first and is the most successful mall, and , at the other end of the county, caters to the ultrarich.

Aventura is a mall that's been turned into an entire city, complete with condos and high-rises. , west of the airport, has its own Florida Turnpike exit. Smaller and very funky is CocoWalk in Coconut Grove, geared to the young and restless, and the Shops at Sunset Place wins the prize for size (at least in the vertical dimension). The Village of Merrick Park in Coral Gables, also serves a high-end clientele. Not everyone lives at the mall, however. In fact, there's been a backlash against them as people seek a small-town feeling and owner-operated shops. South Miami has typified this kind of atmosphere. In the southwest corner of Coral Gables, at (72nd Street) and (57th Avenue), the merchants have fought hard to preserve their special ambience. Shops and restaurants provide a charming mix—from children's clothes to antique jewelry.

Miracle Mile in Coral Gables ( between Douglas and LeJeune roads) is a blend of small shops and restaurants. The stores there have been improved with the aim of maintaining the small-town feel they've had since they were built in the 1920s.

The Lincoln Road Mall has a distinctly anti-mall feel to it—strictly a pedestrian space—but in the past decade, small, funky shops have been replaced by chains such as Gap and Victoria's Secret. Renovated from its art-deco glory days, the mall has become one of the most cosmopolitan places for a stroll, drinks, dinner and shopping.

Espanola Way between Washington and Pennsylvania Avenues and 14th and 15th Streets in South Beach is worth a stroll for its unique stores featuring jewelry, designer jeans, vintage clothing, collectibles and gifts.

Antique Stores

In North Miami, there's a concentration of antiques shops along West Dixie Highway running a few blocks north and south of 125th Street and along 123rd Street west of Biscayne Boulevard.

The Biscayne Corridor, from Morningside at about 57th Street North to 79th and beyond, offers interesting antiquing and funky ethnic restaurants.

Many first-class antiques shops are located in a warehouse complex along Southwest 72nd Avenue in the 4600 and 4700 blocks (west of Coral Gables). Across from the Coconut Grove Metrorail station, on the north side of Southwest 27th Avenue (Unity Boulevard), you'll find a row of antiques and curio shops.

Antique Mall Y'all 9845 E. Fern St. Open since 1997, this mall is located about 12 mi/19 km from downtown Miami. It has some 250 dealers and one of the largest collections of Miami, Florida 33157 antiques in Dade County. Monday-Saturday 10 am-5 pm, Sunday noon- Phone: 305-969-0696 5 pm. 9845 E. Fern St. (in Palmetto Bay), Miami. Phone 305-969-0696. https://www.antiquemallyall.co https://www.antiquemallyall.co.

Miami Twice 6562 S.W. 40th St. () This store specializes in vintage men's and women's clothing and accessories, antiques, decorative arts and collectibles. Monday- Miami, Florida 33155 Saturday 10 am-7 pm. 6562 S.W. 40th St. (Bird Road), Miami. Phone Phone: 305-666-0127 305-666-0127. http://www.miamitwice.com. http://www.miamitwice.com There are many small galleries to be found in Coral Gables, in South Beach, along Lincoln Road, in Wynwood and in the Design District. Check the "Weekend" section of the Miami Herald on Friday for gallery exhibition openings. Bakehouse Art Complex 561 N.W. 32nd St. Once a commercial bakery, this space has been transformed into more than 70 art studios, exhibition galleries, a dark room, a kiln and more. Miami, Florida 33127 Visitors can purchase the art on display. Daily noon-5 pm. 561 N.W. Phone: 305-576-2828 32nd St., Miami. Phone 305-576-2828. http://www.bacfl.org. http://www.bacfl.org

Britto Central 1102 Lincoln Road This place seems designed to make you happy. Just walk into the Miami, Florida 33139 colorful gallery on Lincoln Road and let your imagination roam free. Pop Artist Roberto Britto's work was featured in ad campaigns for Audi, Phone: 305-531-8821 Bentley, Disney, Evian and FIFA, and he even appeared in an Absolut http://www.britto.com vodka campaign. His original acrylics on canvas, framed art prints, posters, mugs and other souvenirs can be purchased in the spacious gift shop. Sunday-Wednesday 10 am-10 pm, Thursday-Saturday 10 am- 11 pm. 1102 Lincoln Road (South Beach), Miami. Phone 305-531-8821. http://www.britto.com.

Bayside Marketplace 401 Biscayne Blvd. This waterfront collection of unique shops, chain stores, eateries and kiosks represents the diverse cultures of Miami. The shopping center's Miami, Florida 33132 location near the Port of Miami offers spectacular views of Biscayne Phone: 305-577-3344 Bay. Street performers entertain at various times, and boats are for hire http://www.baysidemarketplace.com at the dock. Adjacent to Bayfront Park, it's a lively place for folks of all ages. Monday-Thursday 10 am-10 pm, Friday and Saturday 10 am-11 pm, Sunday 11 am-9 pm. 401 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone 305-577- 3344. http://www.baysidemarketplace.com.

Dolphin Mall 11401 N.W. 12th St. A single path loops throughout the entire mall, which is divided into eight walkways. There are more than 240 designer brand stores and 38 Miami, Florida 33172 restaurants. Cast-iron sculptures of dolphins are at the four entrances. Phone: 305-365-7446 Shuttle bus transportation is available to and from downtown Miami, http://www.shopdolphinmall.com Miami Beach and Miami International Airport. Monday-Saturday 10 am- 9:30 pm, Sunday 11 am-8 pm. 11401 N.W. 12th St. (about 5 mi/8 km from Miami International Airport-it has its own exit off Florida's Turnpike), Miami. Phone 305-365-7446. http://www.shopdolphinmall.com.

Miami Design District Between North Miami Avenue and An 18-square-block district filled with upscale showplaces—from art Northeast Second Avenue, from Northeast galleries, antiques stores and import shops to flooring, furniture, kitchen, lighting and tile stores. It's a pleasure to walk and browse through it. 36th Street to Northeast 42nd Street Plan to rest and eat lunch in the leafy courtyards of the district's cafes. Miami, Florida Between North Miami Avenue and Northeast Second Avenue, from Phone: 305-722-7100 Northeast 36th Street to Northeast 42nd Street, Miami. Phone 305-722- 7100. http://www.miamidesigndistrict.net. http://www.miamidesigndistrict.net

Base 2215 N.W. Second Ave. This cult shop sells designer clothes, CDs, art books and jewelry. Daily Miami, Florida 33139 11 am-7 pm. 2215 N.W. Second Ave., Miami. Phone 305-531-4982. http://www.baseworld.com. Phone: 305-531-4982 http://www.baseworld.com

Cuban Crafters 3604 N.W. Seventh St. Check out this cigar store and factory where the cigars are handmade Miami, Florida 33125 by Cuban cigar rollers in small batches. Billed as having the largest selection of cigar accessories in the state, it has cigar humidors, cases, Phone: 305-642-5850 cutters, candles, ashtrays and lighters. Monday-Saturday 9 am-9 pm, https://cubancrafters.com Sunday 9 am-6 pm. 3604 N.W. Seventh St., Miami. Phone 305-642- 5850. https://cubancrafters.com.

Seybold Building 36 N.E. First St. In the market for fine jewels? This is the place for you. The building Miami, Florida 33132 houses Miami's wholesale jewelry trade, with many shops open to the public that offer tremendous savings on high-quality stones and metal. Phone: 305-374-7922 There are several floors of shops. Monday-Friday 9:30 am-5:30 pm, http://www.seyboldjewelry.com Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm. 36 N.E. First St., Miami. Phone 305-374- 7922. http://www.seyboldjewelry.com.

Itinerary

Day Trips

Tamiami Trail, or Highway 41, crosses the Everglades. It takes you to several different sites of interest. You can choose to visit one or combine two or more in a long day trip.

To Miccosukee Indian Village. At this camplike location in the Everglades, Native Americans give visitors a look at their lifestyle, demonstrate and sell their crafts, wrestle and conduct airboat tours. The village includes a museum, restaurant and gift shop. Mile marker 70, about 25 mi/40 km west of the turnpike on (Southwest Eighth Street).

To Clyde Butcher's Big Cypress Gallery. Butcher's large-format black-and-white photos of the Everglades have helped make the swamp famous, and he and his wife have used the artwork to help promote preservation and restoration of the Everglades. The gallery offers a wildlife walk, two-hour customized swamp walks (reservations required), guest cottages, and photos on display and for sale. About 60 mi/100 km west of Miami in Ochopee. To the Florida Keys. The Keys are a fishing paradise, with snorkeling and diving opportunities unlike anywhere else in the continental U.S., thanks to the coral reef and clear blue waters. Restaurants and bars along the Overseas Highway provide a laid-back setting, seafood treats and entertainment. Consider John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo for boat trips to the reef, where you might see the famous Christ of the Deep, a submerged statue.

U.S. Highway 1 becomes the Overseas Highway, which leads to the Keys. Travel another one-and-a-half to two hours south to Bahia Honda State Park, which itself features more than 500 acres of beachfront and an island.

If you're interested in diving or snorkeling, consider the Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary, which is located five miles offshore Bahia Honda State Park and features an artificial reef.

Another 45 minutes south is Key West, the highlight of the Keys and its southernmost point. Home to legendary artists and writers, including Ernest Hemingway, it is famous for its restaurants and bars and well worth a sojourn of a few days. The Ernest Hemingway House is open to tour.

To and BB&T Center. About 30 mi/48 km from Miami, Sawgrass Mills in Sunrise is the largest outlet mall in Florida and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the state. There are more than 300 stores there.

Located across the street from Sawgrass Mills, the BB&T Center is the home of the Florida Panthers NHL hockey team and also hosts big- name entertainers.

Big Bus Miami 301 Biscayne Blvd. The double decker Big Bus tour is a great way to spend the day in Miami, Florida 33129 Miami. The Big Bus has a Beach Loop and City loop, with hop-on, hop- off stops at points of interest including South Beach, Bass Museum, Phone: 305-557-3798 Fontaninebleau Hilton, Miami Beach, Lincoln Road, Jungle Island, Coral http://www.bigbustours.com Gables, Coconut Grove and Little Havana. The City tour runs six hours, with three hours of sightseeing. Hotel pickups 8:30-9:45 am. Tickets start at US$50 adults. 301 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone 305-557-3798. Toll-free 800-336-8233. http://www.bigbustours.com.

Eco-Adventure Tours 26700 S.W. Eighth St. Expert guides take you through Everglades Safari Park and its many Miami, Florida 33194 nature trails. An show and reptile exhibits are included in the tour. Daily 9 am-5 pm. Reservations required. US$28 adults. 26700 Phone: 305-226-6923 S.W. Eighth St., Miami. Phone 305-226-6923. http://www.evergladessafaripark.com http://www.evergladessafaripark.com.

Gator Park Airboat Tours 24050 S.W. Eighth St. The Everglades is a marshy river of grass that moves about 100 ft/30 m per day. Because of its marine system, its waters are clear, and it Miami, Florida 33194 doesn't have that "swampy" odor. An airboat tour is a delightful way to Phone: 305-559-2255 see this beautiful, protected area—it's home to more than 200,000 http://www.gatorpark.com alligators, bass, snapper, catfish, snakes and other wildlife. Be sure to wave hi to Jumbo, the tour group's resident alligator, as you begin. Gator wrestling and wildlife show are included. Daily 9 am-5 pm. US$24.99 adults. 24050 S.W. Eighth St. (12 mi/19 km west of the Florida Turnpike), Miami. Phone 305-559-2255. Toll-free 800-559-2205. http://www.gatorpark.com.

HistoryMiami City Tours 101 W. Flagler St. This museum offers interesting walking tours, led by local history Miami, Florida 33130 experts and guides. Tours cover downtown Miami, street art in Wynwood, Little Havana, the Art Deco District, Stiltsville and the old Phone: 305-375-5792 Miami City Cemetery. Biking, bus, boat, Metrorail and Metromover tours http://www.historymiami.org are also available. Maps are also available for select self-guided tours. 101 W. Flagler St., Miami. Phone 305-375-5792. http://www.historymiami.org.

Island Queen Cruises 401 Biscayne Blvd. This company offers waterway tours of Miami and Miami Beach. It has Miami, Florida 33132 four conventional sightseeing boats—Bayside Blaster, Island Lady, Island Queen and Pink Lady—and a 30-ft/9-m gondola, Natalia. The 90- Phone: 844-215-6546 minute tours narrated in English and Spanish depart hourly from http://www.islandqueencruises.com Bayside Marketplace to explore around Biscayne Bay, downtown Miami, Miami Beach and residential islands of the rich and famous. Tours depart daily 10:30 am-8:30 pm. Arrive 30 minutes prior to scheduled departure. US$28 adults. Most major credit cards. 401 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone 844-215-6546. http://www.islandqueencruises.com.

Miami Beach Botanical Garden Tours 2000 Convention Center Drive A tropical oasis in the city, the Miami Beach Botanical Garden harbors Miami, Florida 33139 countless varieties of blooming orchids, creeping vines and palm trees. Don't miss the Japanese footbridge and the "living room" made out of Phone: 305-673-7256 ivy. Guides are knowledgeable on both the history of South Beach and http://www.mbgarden.org the area's flora. Call ahead to secure your spot. Tuesday-Sunday 9 am- 5 pm. US$5 recommended donation. 2000 Convention Center Drive, Miami. Phone 305-673-7256. http://www.mbgarden.org.

Miami Culinary Tours 1000 Fifth St., Suite 200 Choose from a variety of food-oriented walking tours departing from Miami, Florida 33139 breakfast to sundown. Experience the culture, history and culinary delights of South Beach with several tastings of "Floribbean," Cuban and Phone: 786-942-8856 Mediterranean cuisine. Tours start at US$39. 1000 Fifth St., Suite 200, http://www.miamiculinarytours.com Miami. Phone 786-942-8856. http://www.miamiculinarytours.com.

Shark Valley Tram Tours Loop Road This authorized concessioner of the National Park Service offers tram Miami, Florida 33194 tours of Everglades National Park. Tours run at intervals 9 am-4 pm late December-April; less frequently May-October, when there are about Phone: 305-221-8455 four tours per day unless high water makes the road impassible. Daily http://www.sharkvalleytramtours.com 8:30 am-6 pm. US$27 adults. Shark Valley Loop Road, Miami. Phone 305-221-8455. http://www.sharkvalleytramtours.com.

First-time visitors to Miami simply won't be able to see it all—unless they whirlwind their way through the city. Better to pick and choose, see some of the sights at a slower pace and enjoy yourself. To get a more complete picture of Miami, plan a return visit or a longer stay.

Day 1—Get an overview of Miami's core by taking a ride on one of the Island Queen Sightseeing Tours' boats, or take a full-circle ride on the Metromover—the single-car elevated train that circles downtown. When you're ready, stroll through Bayfront Park and browse through the Bayside Marketplace. After lunch, head for Miami Beach. Tour South Beach and take a break on the beach when you need it. After dinner, take in one or more of Miami Beach's nightclubs.

Day 2—Head for Coconut Grove to spend the morning at the Vizcaya Museum. Then visit Little Havana to absorb the atmosphere and have lunch. In the afternoon, drive through Coral Gables, taking time to go shopping on Miracle Mile. Then choose a dinner restaurant in Coral Gables or Coconut Grove. Afterward, it's off to a show—perhaps at the Actors' Playhouse.

Day 3—Visit Zoo Miami in the morning. In the afternoon, see some of the nearby Everglades National Park. Head back to Miami for dinner and the evening entertainment of your choice.

These three itineraries meet the time constraints of cruise-ship passengers but can be enjoyed by anyone visiting the area. PLAN A

The Full Picture

To get the best overview of Miami, get on one of the Metromovers, the elevated trains that circle downtown. If you have time, get off in the middle of downtown so you can walk around and hear the salsa music coming from the storefronts. The Miami-Dade Cultural Center on , with its Mediterranean-style piazza surrounded by the library and two museums, is a lovely place to stop and people-watch. While in the neighborhood, have a cup of cafe con leche (espresso with steamed milk and sugar), available from walk-up windows in storefront shops. Be sure to browse at Bayside Marketplace.

If time is short, at least drive through Miami Beach, Coconut Grove, Coral Gables and Little Havana, and spend some time at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. You'll probably want to return to your hotel to freshen up before heading to South Beach for dining and dancing.

PLAN B

Everglades Tour/Coconut Grove

There's no place quite like the Everglades, a vast expanse of flat water broken only by stretches of saw grass and islands of tropical hardwood forest called hammocks. There are two convenient ways to visit Everglades National Park from Miami. You can head southwest out of Miami to the main entrance (just outside Homestead) to see the short introductory film and to pick up maps. From the main entrance, it's 38 mi/60 km to Flamingo, near the southern tip of the park. Along the way you'll notice turnoffs leading to viewing areas where you can observe the swampy wilderness. The Gumbo Limbo Trail at Royal Palm Hammock is an especially worthwhile stop. You'll see the famous gumbo limbo tree, or "tourist tree" (its bark turns red and peels). Another way to experience the Everglades is to drive west out of Miami on the Tamiami Trail (U.S. Highway 41) to the Shark Valley Entrance and look out from the observation tower. Just outside Coopertown you can take an airboat ride: The trees are thick with rare, colorful birds and, at times, the canals undulate with alligators.

If you aren't too tired after your adventure in the swamp, change into evening attire for some nightlife in Coconut Grove.

PLAN C

Underwater Worlds

First, call Biscayne National Underwater Park to reserve your place on the 10 am glass-bottomed boat ride. Pack your car with snorkel gear (and plenty of insect repellent) and head south on Highway 1 to 328th Street, then east to the end of the street to the park entrance. Spend the day enjoying coral reefs, mangroves, a shallow bay and untouched islands, all delicately preserved amid a sprawling metropolitan area.

End the day watching the spectacular sunset and then—it will be hard to pull yourself away—return to Coconut Grove for a seafood dinner overlooking the boats moored along the waterfront.

DINING

Dining Overview

Dining in Miami is a multicultural smorgasbord, where you can sample Cuban arepas, Brazilian churrasco, alligator nuggets and the best of old- world cuisines. Miami-Dade County is covered with restaurants, from trendy tourist areas such as Coconut Grove, Coral Gables and Miami Beach to established neighborhoods such as South Miami and Kendall—where some of the best restaurants and values are found.

Latin-American cuisine is ubiquitous, with Italian, Japanese and Thai fare being close runners-up. "Floribbean" meals, which fuse Caribbean spices and fruits (papayas, oranges, plantains, mangos, avocados) with Florida classics, have gained popularity. The creation is both light and exotic.

Foodies will enjoy sampling the country's largest collection of home-grown tropical and subtropical fruits in the Homestead and Florida City farming communities. Fruit and Spice Park is the perfect place to sample fresh exotic fruit such as mamey and guava. Area farmers markets provide delicacies for guests to take with them.

The dress code varies greatly in Miami. If you're in doubt, call and ask before you go. Many restaurants and clubs are very specific about what is or isn't acceptable—and because many of-the-moment restaurants in South Beach and elsewhere double as lounges and late-night clubs, chic dressing there is de rigueur.

Many restaurants in Miami offer early-bird discounts for dinner before 6 pm, especially during the off season in the warmer months until October. Also, Miami has restaurant month in August every year with big discounts at many of the finer restaurants.

Typical dining times are 7-10 am for breakfast, 11:30 am-2 pm for lunch and 6-10 pm or later for dinner. These guidelines aren't firm in Miami- Dade, a round-the-clock community with a growing number of after-hours and 24-hour dining locations. Many restaurants cut back on their hours and days during summer.

Do make dinner reservations for restaurants in Miami Beach, and not at the last minute.

Expect to pay within these general guidelines, based on the cost of a dinner for one, excluding drinks, tax and tip: $ = less than US$20; $$ = US$20-$30; $$$ = US$31-$60; $$$$ = more than US$60.

American

Chef Adrianne's Vineyard Restaurant and Wine Bar 11510 S.W. 147th Ave. Napa Valley-inspired cuisine. Try the Vineyard Salad with maple Miami, Florida 33196 lardoons, goat cheese, dried cranberries and Dijon dressing. Other great choices include the wild Alaskan salmon with black-pepper honey, Phone: 305-408-8386 or the prime rib from Harris Ranch Five Diamond Reserve. Tuesday- http://www.chefadriannes.com Thursday 11 am-10 pm, Friday 11 am-11 pm, Saturday noon-11 pm, Sunday noon-9 pm. $$$-$$$$. 11510 S.W. 147th Ave. (Kendall), Miami. Phone 305-408-8386. http://www.chefadriannes.com.

Michael's Genuine Food & Drink 130 N.E. 40th St. This fashionable spot in the Design District is increasingly a magnet for Miami, Florida 33137 good dining, and chef Michael Schwartz offers portion options for his fine tastings, from savory bar snacks (try the crispy hominy) to duck Phone: 305-573-5550 confit to thin-crust pizzas. Monday-Thursday 11:30 am-11 pm, Friday http://www.michaelsgenuine.com 11:30 am-midnight, Saturday 5:30 pm-midnight, Sunday 11 am-10 pm. $$-$$$. Most major credit cards. 130 N.E. 40th St., Miami. Phone 305- 573-5550. http://www.michaelsgenuine.com.

Shorty's Bar-B-Q 9200 S. Dixie Highway This Miami tradition launched in 1951, when the original Shorty's was a Miami, Florida 33156 long drive from anywhere. Now it's in the heart of the Dadeland business district and a quick Metrorail ride from downtown Miami. Diners Phone: 305-670-7732 sit family-style. Expect to wait in line during peak hours. Several http://www.shortys.com additional locations in Miami and Broward County. Sunday-Thursday 11 am-10 pm, Friday and Saturday 11 am-11 pm. Reservations not accepted. $-$$. Most major credit cards. 9200 S. Dixie Highway, Miami. Phone 305-670-7732. http://www.shortys.com.

Lung Yai Thai Tapas 1731 S.W. Eighth St. Some of Miami's best Thai food can be found on Calle Ocho. The tiny restaurant, which used to be a Cuban coffee shop, serves delicious Miami, Florida 33135 Northern Thai specialties such as a khao soi gai (cut rice) coconut curry Phone: 786-334-6262 soup and Panang curry with chicken. Be prepared to wait in line. http://www.lung-yai-thai-tapas.com Tuesday-Thursday noon-midnight, Friday and Saturday noon-1 am, Sunday 5 pm-midnight. $-$$. Most major credit cards. 1731 S.W. Eighth St. (Little Havana), Miami. Phone 786-334-6262. http://www.lung-yai- thai-tapas.com.

NAOE 661 Brickell Key Drive Every sense is satisfied in this luxe sushi restaurant, where the fish in Miami, Florida 33131 front of you was flown in from Tokyo the night before. Watching Chef Kevin Cory handle his knife is like theater. The Bento Boxes are Phone: 305-947-6263 outstanding, as is the frozen sake. Be prepared for a meal to remember. http://www.naoemiami.com Reservations are a must; this restaurant only seats eight people at a time. Daily 6-9:30 pm. $$$$. Most major credit cards. 661 Brickell Key Drive, Miami. Phone 305-947-6263. http://www.naoemiami.com.

La Mar by Gaston Acurio 500 Brickell Key Drive A formal dining room in Miami's Mandarin Oriental hotel, the 160-seat Miami, Florida 33131 La Mar by Gaston Acurio serves a Peruvian-influenced menu for lunch and dinner in a restaurant wing overlooking Biscayne Bay. The hotel is Phone: 305-913 8358 on 44-acre/18-hectare Brickell Key in Miami's Brickell Financial District. https://www.mandarinoriental.com/miami/brickell- Daily noon-11 pm. $$-$$$. 500 Brickell Key Drive, Miami. Phone 305- key/fine-dining/restaurants/peruvian- 913 8358. https://www.mandarinoriental.com/miami/brickell-key/fine- dining/restaurants/peruvian-cuisine/la-mar-by-gaston-acurio. cuisine/la-mar-by-gaston-acurio

Sugarcane Raw Bar & Grill 3252 N.E. First Ave. From the creators of Sushi Samba comes this latest installment: a Midtown tapas bar and robata grill, which utilizes ancient Japanese Miami, Florida 33137 charcoal grilling methods. The result is a bright, social space that caters Phone: 786-369-0353 to the happy-hour crowd (think Wagyu sliders and beef short ribs). http://sugarcanerawbargrill.com There's also a sushi kitchen—but you'd expect as much from one of the city's most popular sushi restaurants. Try a beer cocktail. Monday- Wednesday 11:30 am-midnight, Thursday 11:30 am-1 am, Friday and Saturday 11:30 am-2 am and Sunday 10 am-midnight. $$-$$$. Most major credit cards. 3252 N.E. First Ave., Miami. Phone 786-369-0353. http://sugarcanerawbargrill.com.

Mykonos Greek Restaurant 1201 Coral Way This family-owned restaurant is located between Coral Gables and the Miami, Florida 33145 Brickell Financial District. It serves traditional, favorite Greek foods. Sunday-Thursday 10 am-10 pm, Friday and Saturday 10 am-11 pm. $$. Phone: 305-856-3140 Most major credit cards. 1201 Coral Way, Miami. Phone 305-856-3140. http://www.mykonosgreek.com http://www.mykonosgreek.com.

Il Gabbiano 335 S. Biscayne Blvd. A nice, formal Italian restaurant overlooking Biscayne Bay. Service is top Miami, Florida 33131 notch. Order the mushroom ravioli with black-truffle champagne sauce or the veal with Gorgonzola sauce. Monday-Friday noon-11:30 pm, Phone: 305-373-0063 Saturday 5-11:30 pm. $$$-$$$$. Most major credit cards. 335 S. http://www.ilgabbianomia.com Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone 305-373-0063. http://www.ilgabbianomia.com.

El Chalan Restaurant 7971 S.W. 40th St. This Peruvian restaurant serves outstanding seafood. Your server will ask how hot you want your ceviche (fish marinated in lemon and red Miami, Florida chili)—take it easy the first time. Some of the staff speak little English, Phone: 305-266-0212 but pictures of every dish on the menu are posted in the restaurant and https://www.facebook.com/elchalanmiami printed in its literature. Monday-Thursday 11 am-10 pm, Friday and Saturday 11 am-11 pm, Sunday 9 am-10 pm. Reservations recommended. $-$$. Most major credit cards. 7971 S.W. 40th St., Miami. Phone 305-266-0212. https://www.facebook.com/elchalanmiami.

El Palacio de los Jugos 5721 W. Flagler St. This small, well-established roadside Cuban restaurant and market Miami, Florida 33144 welcomes tourists and locals alike. If you don't speak Spanish, other patrons will assist you. Servings are large, the staff is friendly, and the Phone: 305-264-8662 menu is traditional family-style Cuban food. Limited picnic-style outdoor http://elpalaciodelosjugos.com seating. Daily 6 am-9 pm. $. No credit cards. 5721 W. Flagler St., Miami. Phone 305-264-8662. http://elpalaciodelosjugos.com.

La Camaronera 1952 W. Flagler Try the large tortilla stuffed with shrimp and topped with tomato sauce Miami, Florida 33135 and melted cheese, the sweet chili seafood or the tasty array of burritos at this Cuban fish fry. Locally owned by the Garcia brothers, fresh fish is Phone: 305-642-3322 the specialty along with tostones and conch fritters. Monday-Thursday http://www.lacamaronera.com 10:30 am-5:30 pm, Friday and Saturday 10:30 am-9 pm, Sunday 10:30 am-4 pm. $-$$$$. No credit cards. 1952 W. Flagler, Miami. Phone 305- 642-3322. http://www.lacamaronera.com.

La Rosa 4041 N.W. Seventh St. Serving an extensive menu of Cuban favorites since 1970. The ropa vieja and pork dishes are always succulent. Monday-Thursday 11:30 Miami, Florida 33126 am-10 pm, Friday-Sunday 11:30 am-11 pm. $$-$$$. Most major credit Phone: 305-541-1715 cards. 4041 N.W. Seventh St. (by the Miami International Airport), http://larosarestaurantmiami.com Miami. Phone 305-541-1715. http://larosarestaurantmiami.com.

Salsa Fiesta Urban Mexican Grill 2929 Biscayne Blvd. This is a tasty, fast casual-menu eatery. Tacos, burritos and fajitas are Miami, Florida 33137 served along with salads, soups and Caribbean sides such as tostones (twice-fried plantains). Sauces and dips are made fresh daily, and Phone: 305-400-8245 whole-wheat tortillas are available as well as gluten-free and vegetarian http://www.salsafiestagrill.com options. Sunday-Thursday 11 am-10 pm, Friday and Saturday 11 am-11 pm. $$. Most major credit cards. 2929 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone 305-400-8245. http://www.salsafiestagrill.com.

Versailles Restaurant & Bakery 3555 S.W. Eighth St. This is considered the best Cuban restaurant in Little Havana. It's Miami, Florida 33135 reasonably priced and the place for the local crowd. The cafe con leche is a revelation, as is traditional Cuban food such as ropa vieja, frijoles Phone: 305-444-0240 negros and platanos fritos. Monday-Thursday 8 am- 1 am, Friday and http://www.versaillesrestaurant.com Saturday 8 am-2:30 am, Sunday 9 am-1 am. $-$$. Most major credit cards. 3555 S.W. Eighth St., Miami. Phone 305-444-0240. http://www.versaillesrestaurant.com.

Cafes & Tearooms

SpecialTEA Lounge 10766 Coral Way More than 60 loose-leaf dark, black, Oolong, green and white teas to Miami, Florida 33165 choose from, served hot, iced, frozen or in lattes. Sweeteners range from vegan-friendly evaporated cane juice to local orange-blossom Phone: 305-554-8327 honey. It also serves espresso concoctions, fruit smoothies, organic http://www.specialtealounge.com paninis and salads. Monday-Friday 6 am-midnight, Saturday 11 am- midnight, Sunday 11 am-8 pm. $. Most major credit cards. 10766 Coral Way (near Florida International University), Miami. Phone 305-554- 8327. http://www.specialtealounge.com.

LT Steak & Seafood 1440 Ocean Drive Now run by Chef Laurent Tourondel, who adds a sophisticated touch to Miami, Florida 33139 meaty delights, such as Delmonico, prime cut, rib eye, porterhouse (big enough to split), New York strip, Wagyu skirt or the hanger steak—all Phone: 305-673-0044 served with a sauce of your choice. The seafood's also delicious: Try http://www.thebetsyhotel.com/dining the spicy tuna roll with sriracha, avocado and puffed rice. Desserts are light, as they should be. Sunday-Thursday 7 am-10 pm, Friday and Saturday 7 am-11 pm. $$-$$$$. Most major credit cards. 1440 Ocean Drive (in the Betsy Hotel, South Beach), Miami. Phone 305-673-0044. http://www.thebetsyhotel.com/dining.

SECURITY

Personal Safety

It's no secret that crime has been a major problem in Miami. A concerted campaign by local and state law-enforcement groups has made real progress in protecting tourists, and crime rates have dropped in recent years. Maps are distributed by car rental agencies to show the safest routes. Signs have been put up on the expressways to guide visitors more effectively. A booklet of tips and warnings is given to each visitor, and intensive police surveillance around the airport has made a difference.

The tourist areas themselves—Bayside, Miami Beach, Coconut Grove and Coral Gables—are no more dangerous than tourist areas in any other large city. The popularity of South Beach is such that it has extended the "safe" tourist area into streets that were marginal (or perilous) a few years ago. Still, it's best not to stray into areas where you don't see crowds on the sidewalks. Use your common sense and take notice of your surroundings. Avoid wearing expensive (or expensive-looking) jewelry or watches on the street, and don't flash cash.

Try to keep to the main streets when driving through certain areas of the city, especially the northwest section of town, east of the Palmetto Expressway and just west of South Miami. Ask your hotel's concierge or at the front desk for information about specific areas you'll be visiting.

General sanitation is excellent, and the food and water are safe to consume. Miami's heat can exceed 100 F/38 C in the summer, so drink plenty of fluids to avoid fatigue and dehydration. Apply sunscreen liberally when outdoors.

Mosquito-borne illnesses such as malaria, zika and West Nile virus are not a serious threat, but efforts should be made to prevent any exposure. The Everglades and beach areas at dusk and dawn will pose the highest risks of these illnesses; wear mosquito repellent.

Alligators aren't often found roaming free on main highways, but in the Everglades they're not an odd sight. Keep substantial distance and do not feed them. Everglades tours will give more specific guidelines on animal interaction safety.

Stinging jellyfish and stingrays are sometimes in the water. If you get stung and have a serious reaction, hospital emergency rooms are open 24 hours. Be careful when you are in the water and avoid swimming near schools of fish as they can attract larger predatory fish and sharks.

Excellent hospitals in the area include Baptist Hospital at 8950 N. (phone 786-596-1960; http://www.baptisthealth.net), Mount Sinai Medical Center at 4300 Alton Road (phone 305-676-6400; http://www.msmc.com), Miami Children's Hospital at 3100 S.W. 62nd Ave. (phone 305-666-6511; http://www.mch.com) and Mercy Hospital at 3663 S. Miami Ave. (phone 305-854-4400; https://mercymiami.com).

Air Ambulance offers travel oxygen and equipmental rentals (http://www.aeromedic.com). Miami-Dade Ambulance Service is at 2766 N.W. 62nd St. (phone 305-779-0505).

In the case of a medical emergency, dial 911.

Although there isn't one central source for information on disabled access, Florida, in general, has stringent accessibility standards. Many of Miami's attractions are accessible, as are most of its bus routes. Miami buses are equipped with a lift.

People with disabilities who are not able to use the regular transit system can apply for the County STS paratransit system. This should be done in advance of your trip. Phone 786-469-5000. http://www.miamidade.gov/transit/special-transportation-overview.asp.

Scoot Around offers scooter rentals in Miami and Miami Beach (toll-free 888-441-7575; https://scootaround.com). MobilityWorks offers accessible van rentals (phone 786-347-3040; https://www.mobilityworks.com/wheelchair-vans-for-rent/online-rental-reservation). Most rental car companies offer hand-controlled vehicle rentals. Miami-Dade Emergency Management has a special needs registry (phone 305-468-5400, TDD 305-468-5402; http://miamidade.gov/fire/emergency-management.asp).

Perez Art Museum Miami has special touch tours for the visually impaired. Crandon Park and Haulover Beach feature accessible ocean-bound pathways as well as special beach wheelchairs that can easily navigate the sand and even go in the water. The 10th and 72nd streets beaches have accessible matting.

There's even a sailing program for disabled people, Shake-a-Leg; call 48 hours in advance. Phone 305-858-5550. http://www.shakealegmiami.org.

Don't waste your time looking for a free parking spot in Miami Beach or Coconut Grove at night or on the weekend. Just use a parking garage or pay lot (or valet parking).

Do turn on your headlights if you drive in the rain—it's required by state law.

Do make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent if you plan on exploring South Florida's great outdoors.

Don't disturb sea turtles if you're lucky enough to see them nesting along Atlantic beaches. Undisturbed nesting and egg laying are crucial to the survival of this endangered species.

Do use caution on the road. There are lots of elderly and international drivers in Miami, and that often means creative interpretations of traffic laws.

Don't stay in the water if the waves turn rough and high—you could get carried out to sea. Lifeguards post warning flags when the sea is not safe.

Don't litter. There are fines for littering the streets.

Do move over one lane or reduce your speed to 20 mph/32 kph below the speed limit if you are driving on the highway and see a disabled vehicle, emergency vehicle or police car with flashing lights on the shoulder; it's the law.

Don't purchase tickets for tours or events from street peddlers. Consult your hotel concierge or cruise line.

Don't leave valuables or your cell phone on the beach when you go swimming; put them in the trunk of your car or leave them at your hotel.

FACTS

Geostats

Passport/Visa Requirements: All U.S. citizens must have a passport when traveling by air to or from Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean, Central and and Mexico. Citizens of Canada, Mexico and the British Overseas Territory of Bermuda also must have a passport or other designated secure document to enter the U.S. Passports are required for land crossings at the Canadian and Mexican borders with the U.S. and for cruise passengers returning to the U.S. from Mexico, the Caribbean, Canada or Bermuda. Reconfirm travel-document requirements with your carrier prior to departure.

Population: 470,914.

Languages: English and Spanish.

Predominant Religions: Christian (Roman Catholic, Protestant), Jewish, Islamic.

Time Zone: 5 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (-5 GMT). Daylight Saving Time is observed from the second Sunday in March to the first Sunday in November.

Voltage Requirements: 110 volts.

Telephone Codes: 305, and 786 area codes;

Currency Exchange

The best way to get money is at one of the many ATMs located around the city. Miami Beach has a bank on just about every corner, and almost every bank has an ATM. If you're downtown, head for the area around Brickell Avenue, one of Miami's major banking strips. Most ATMs accept major credit cards and bank cards if you have a PIN.

Exchanging foreign currency for U.S. dollars or vice versa is surprisingly difficult in Miami, considering the number of foreign visitors the city gets. Before visiting Miami from abroad, buy U.S. currency or U.S. dollar-denominated traveler's checks at home. Once you're in Miami, you'll find currency exchanges offering tolerable rates at the airport but not throughout the city. Combined city and state taxes on most purchases total 7%. An additional 3% tax is levied on some restaurant meals in Miami Beach, Bal Harbour, Surfside and unincorporated areas of Miami-Dade County. Taxes on accommodations can be as much as 13%, depending on the location of the hotel. In most restaurants, especially those in South Beach, you'll find that an 18% tip has already been added to the bill. Check first before adding a 15%-20% tip yourself.

Weather

Winter is the ideal time to go to Miami, when temperatures average 59-76 F/15-24 C. Days are warm, the humidity is reasonable, and nights are comfortably cool (take along a sweater). Visitors heading to Miami as early as November or as late as April will find comfortable temperatures (low 80s F/high 20s C) and bearable humidity. Summers tend to be hot and quite humid, with frequent rainfall and lightning. The heaviest rainfall is usually May-October. It rains in brief scattered showers most afternoons July-September. Hurricane season is June-November.

A mix of clothing styles has evolved in Miami—partly because of the weather, partly because of a prevailing casual atmosphere. It ranges from power suits in the immediate downtown area to stylish-yet-casual dress in all other parts of town. Clothing that would be somewhat showy in a business setting in New York City or Washington, D.C., is more kindly regarded in Miami.

Leisure travelers will find that relaxed attire is acceptable almost everywhere. Light, bright colors are worn year-round, though black is always in style. Wintertime visitors should be prepared for rare cold snaps that can send the temperature close to freezing at night. Men rarely need a jacket in restaurants.

Telephone

Cell phone coverage is generally decent throughout the city, though you may lose service crossing over bridges or on major highways.

If you are dialing a long-distance phone number within the U.S., simply dial 1, the area code and phone number.

Miami-Dade Public Library branches offer free internet access, but the equipment is limited, and the demand often is high. Internet access at some hotels may be very costly. Free Wi-Fi is available along Miracle Mile in Coral Gables and at most local cafes. The Miami Herald is a daily morning paper available at newsstands, vending machines and hotels (http://www.miamiherald.com). Its Friday edition has a pull-out section with dining and entertainment offerings in the community and is the best resource for what's happening in Miami. The Herald also publishes El Nuevo Herald, a Spanish-language daily (http://www.elnuevoherald.com). The major Spanish-language daily in Miami is Diario Las Americas (http://www.diariolasamericas.com); on Friday, it publishes the weekly entertainment guide La Revista del Diario (http://www.larevistadeldiario.com).

The Daily Business Review (https://www.law.com/dailybusinessreview) is published Monday-Friday. Miami New Times is a gold mine for tourists —it's a free weekly newspaper, available online and at shops, restaurants and nightspots, that contains a calendar of events and information on museums, galleries and restaurants. It comes out every Wednesday. http://www.miaminewtimes.com.

Ocean Drive magazine (http://oceandrive.com), the glossy bible of the chic South Beach set, is published monthly and is available in many South Beach hotels, cafes and boutiques.

Miami Magazine, published monthly by Modern Luxury Media, is a high-end glossy lifestyle magazine featuring nightlife, fashion, food, travel and design features.

Transportation

The city's public transportation probably serves residents better than visitors. Although it's possible to combine public transport with walking and taxis, we recommend renting a car for easy access to all the attractions. If your plans don't involve venturing far from South Beach, a car won't be necessary. Air

Miami Intl (MIA) 4200 NW 21 St Miami, Florida 33142 The Miami International Airport is located near the downtown and is spread over 3230 acres. It has a Central, South and North terminal with Phone: 305-876-7000 a total of 130 gates. It is America's third busiest airport that has over http://www.miami-airport.com 100 air carriers and connects to 164 non-stop destinations. This airport is owned by the Miami-Dade County and it accommodates commercial filming and still photography with a permit. Security The passenger's security and screening checkpoints in Miami International Airport is managed by the Transportation Security Administration. After completing the check-in formalities, it is mandatory for passengers to pass through the security screening. Passengers are expected to remove metal objects, laptops and pass it through the X- ray. Liquids are restricted to 3.4 ounces or less. When you arrive from other countries, you must clear passport control before entering the country. The Global Entry Trusted Traveler Program allows travelers to get expedited clearance post arrival. This program is available only for US citizens with a registration fee of $100 for five years. Once landed you can enter the country by using the automated kiosks and expedite the service of customs and proceed to the Passport Control Officer. It also offers an expedited security screening to Global Entry program holders. In this, you are not required to remove belts, laptops, shoes, and jackets. Miami International Airport, the safety of passengers is given utmost importance. In case of emergency, call 9-1-1. If you witness a crime, call the crime stoppers at 305-471-8477, in case of medical emergencies including fire accidents, call Miami-Dade Aviation Fire Rescue Division at 305-876-7575 and for overall safety call the Airport District Police at 305-876-7373.

Connecting Transportation Connecting Transport:

Once you land at the Miami International Airport, you can choose from taxis, limousine, shuttles, public transportation or even rent a car. You can also take the moving walkways or the Skytrain for commute within the airport.

Moving Walkways:

If you must go from north terminal to South or the vice versa, you can opt for the moving walkways. All the three terminals are connected with a moving walkway which can be found on the third level on every terminal and takes about 15 minutes to move between the terminals.

SkyTrain:

The Skytrain at MIA takes you from one end of the concourse to the other. It features its stations at four main areas and connects quickly to flights, baggage claim, restaurants, and passport control.

Rain Train:

Public Transport:

If you're looking at an affordable and convenient choice then you can choose from a Metrobus, tri-rail or Metrorail that are in the Miami Central Station. You require an Easy Card pass to ride on these and you can buy the tickets from the vending machines located at the station. You can also take the Metrobus. The public transportation is wheelchair accessible. The passengers using it holds the right to board and exit the bus first.

Rental Cars:

You can rent a car using the MIA move located between Dolphin and Flamingo garages on the third level. You can access this using the Skyride. Taxicabs:

Upon arrival, you can find the taxis on the ground level outside the baggage claim areas. There are metered and flat rates options available. In case you need wheelchair accessible taxis; you can request for the same.

SuperShuttle:

This is a door to door service to and from the Airport, round the clock. You can opt for a Private Sedan or SUV, a shared ride van, non-stop van. If the hotel you're staying with is providing you with a shuttle service, that's located on the upper departure level of the airport.

Greyhound 3801 N.W. 21st Greyhound has several terminals in the Greater Miami area. Miami West Station (4111 N.W. 27th St.) is nearest the airport and is the most Miami, Florida 33142 central and most heavily used. Daily 24 hours. 3801 N.W. 21st, Miami. https://locations.greyhound.com/bus- Toll-free 800-231-2222 for schedules and fares from out-of-town stations/us/florida/miami/bus-station- locations. https://locations.greyhound.com/bus- 472494 stations/us/florida/miami/bus-station-472494.

The legal driving age in Florida is 16 years (with restrictions until age 18), and 21 years old to rent a car (a surcharge is applied to drivers younger than 25). The state of Florida has a law that bans texting while driving.

If you plan on sightseeing in the area, you'll need a car. Use a GPS or a good, detailed map to find your way around. Miami-Dade County addresses are labeled according to their quadrants—Northwest, Southwest, Northeast and Southeast—which are based on their relation to where Flagler Street and Miami Avenue cross downtown. Courts, roads, avenues and places all run north and south. Streets run east and west (with exceptions in Coral Gables and Opa-locka, where streets have names rather than numbers).

Be aware that driving in Miami is not for the faint of heart. Left exits and unsignaled lane changes are a way of life, and you should expect gridlock 7-9 am and 4-6:30 pm. If you use the turnpike, be prepared to pay tolls. Part of Interstate 95 has a designated SunPass lane and you must have a SunPass to use them. Do not drive in this lane without the proper pass; you will get a ticket.

The public-transit system is made up of three separate systems—the Metrobus, the Metrorail and the Metromover. To get around town, you'll most likely have to hop from one to another. For route and schedule information, call 305-770-3131. https://www.miamidade.gov/global/transportation/home.page. Metrobus Miami, Florida This system serves 95 Miami-Dade County routes every day. The https://www.miamidade.gov/global/transportation/metrobus.page (A1A) bus runs the length of Miami Beach. Metrobus fareboxes still accept cash and you can pay using dollar bills, quarters, dimes and nickels. Fareboxes with smartcard technology are installed on buses and at fare gates at Metrorail stations. Buses operate from 4 or 5 am, depending on the route, until 10 or 11 pm, with some buses in service until 2:30 am—but service on most routes is infrequent. Some buses run 24 hours. Fare is US$2.25 in exact change or using a prepaid EASY Ticket. https://www.miamidade.gov/global/transportation/metrobus.page.

Metromover Miami, Florida This is an elevated transit system that makes stops along an inner and an outer loop around downtown Miami. Cars run every few minutes and https://www.miamidade.gov/global/transportation/metromover.page stop every few blocks. Daily 5 am-midnight. Free. https://www.miamidade.gov/global/transportation/metromover.page.

Metrorail Miami, Florida The 21-mi/34-km elevated rail system is useful for north and south transportation between Dadeland and Hialeah, with stops downtown. It https://www.miamidade.gov/global/transportation/metrorail.page connects to the other parts of the public-transit system. Getting off at stations between downtown and Hialeah is not advisable unless you have a specific destination in mind and you know how to get there. To ride the Metrorail you must use the EASY Ticket, as the fare gates do not accept cash. Fareboxes with smartcard technology are at Metrorail stations. Daily 5 am-midnight. Fare is US$2.25. https://www.miamidade.gov/global/transportation/metrorail.page.

All cab companies operate 24 hours a day. Taxis can be hailed on the street if they're not on their way to a radio-dispatched call. Fares apply to any individual or group of passengers hiring a taxi. Fares are regulated: US$2.95 when you enter the cab, US$0.85 for each additional mile/kilometer and US$0.40 per minute waiting time.

Reputable companies include Central Cab (phone 305-532-5555; http://www.centralcab.com), and Yellow Cab (phone 305-444-4444).

Tri-Rail 800 N.W. 33rd St. Tri-Rail transports passengers between Miami International Airport and Miami, Florida 33064 West Palm Beach (about two hours north, up the coast), stopping in Hialeah, Delray Beach, Boynton Beach and other towns along the route. Phone: 954-783-6030 Passengers are shuttled by bus to and from the Metrorail Transfer https://www.tri-rail.com Station, Hileah Market Station and the Miami International Airport. Purchase tickets at the station before boarding the train. Southbound trains board on Track 1 and northbound trains board on Track 2. The train is inexpensive with fares starting at US$2.50. 800 N.W. 33rd St. (administrative offices), Miami. Phone 954-783-6030. Toll-free 800-874- 7245 for schedules and information (from within Florida). https://www.tri- rail.com.

For More Information

Convention & Visitors Bureau

Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau 701 Brickell Ave., Suite 2700 This one-stop supermarket for travelers is located three blocks south of the Brickell Avenue Bridge across the Miami River. Monday-Friday 8:30 Miami, Florida 33131 am-6 pm. 701 Brickell Ave., Suite 2700, Miami. Phone 305-539-3000. Phone: 305-539-3000 Toll-free 800-933-8448. http://www.miamiandbeaches.com. http://www.miamiandbeaches.com

EVENTS

Calendar

In Miami, something besides beach life is always happening—there is a great profusion of festivals, fine opera, ballet and theater performances, and other spectacles (flotillas, fireworks, parades). Add to all this the vast array of sporting events, and you get a sense of this city's vitality.

For more information about upcoming events in Miami, contact the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau. Phone 305-539-3000. Toll- free 800-933-8448. http://www.miamiandbeaches.com.

To call any of the phone numbers listed in this calendar from outside the U.S. or Canada, you must first dial your country's international access code, followed by the U.S. country code, 1.

Information in this calendar is subject to change and should be confirmed.

February

15 Feb—Presidents Day Public holiday.

25 Nov—Thanksgiving Day Public holiday.