Judy Goodnow
- Sep 11, 2022

Miami, the Magic City

One of the most popular stops in Florida is the grand city of Miami, located on the southeast coast of the state. With vast beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich culture, Miami has something to offer everyone. If you are on your way to Miami to catch a cruise think about a pre- or post- stay and check out Miami. Here are five places to try out on your next trip to Miami.

1. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

Visit this gorgeous park on a sunny day and enjoy the vast array of exotic and rare plants and wildlife. Explore the rare plant house, which is home to 450 species of rare tropical plants such as palms, orchids, and fruit trees. The tropical fruit pavilion displays fruit species only found in exotic locations such as the Amazon. You can also visit the butterfly garden to enjoy rare species of these beautiful insects.

2. Bayfront Park

In the heart of downtown Miami sits Bayfront Park, which is host to a variety of events and gatherings. Enjoy outdoor movies preceded by live music, food, and craft beer and wine. Or bring a yoga mat and enjoy yoga classes with the Miami skyline around you. Bayfront Park is also home to the Flying Trapeze School, where you can experience what it's like to fly in the circus.

3. Villa Vizcaya

This museum, located on Biscayne Bay, has over 70 rooms filled with European art and antiques. The building itself, constructed in the European Renaissance style, was built initially as a place for plant and wildlife conservation. These conservation efforts can be seen in the beautiful gardens that surround the mansion with their gorgeous plants, ponds, and landscape architecture. The outdoors, both in the gardens and around the building, have countless places for perfect photo opportunities.

4. Art Deco Historic District

If architecture or history appeals to you, the Art Deco District of Miami is a place to visit. It includes over 900 historic buildings designed in the art deco style. Many of the structures throughout over 5,000 acres of land dates back to the 1930s and are considered some of the best examples of this architectural style in the world. The Art Deco Museum teaches visitors more about the history and preservation of architecture in Miami Beach.

5. Everglades National Park

Want to see an alligator, take a trip down to the Everglades. The Everglades is the 3rd largest national park in the lower 48 states and the largest subtropical wilderness in the US. It is not "swamp land" as some suppose, but a slow moving river, "River of Grass." This is for the nature enthusiasts. Enjoy the wildlife and nature whether canoeing, kayaking, hiking, biking, or touring with an expert or on your own. An airboat experience is fun also. If you are really adventurous, camping is also available in the Everglades.