Miami

Top 10 things to do in Miami

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  1. Fisher Island

  Home to superstars and the mega-rich, the most affluent corner of the US isn't open to just anyone, but you can get pretty close to Fisher Island on a boat tour of the bay.

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  2. Miami Seaquarium

  "Flipper" was filmed at the US' oldest oceanarium on Virginia Key, but there are more creatures at the Miami Seaquarium than just performing marine animals – aquatic and otherwise!

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  3. Gator Park

  Gator Park is the place to go if you want to see alligators, of course, but take an airboat tour of this Everglades attraction for snakes, turtles, and exotic birds too!

• 4. Miami Museum of Science

  2015 sees the grand reopening of Miami's leading science museum, but this is Miami so there are animals here too. Check out the bird of prey center!

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  5. South Beach

  Home to the famous Ocean Drive, the first part of Miami to be developed is arguably still the most... well, Miami-ish. South Beach remains one of the city's best beaches too.

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  6. Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

  Once known as Villa Vizcaya, this opulent estate is now open to the public to walk around and think about moving there upon winning the lottery.

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  7. Miami Children's Museum

  With exhibits catered to the young (and young at heart), this is a great place to take the family, especially if your children are averse to regular museums!

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  8. Zoo Miami

  Miami's climate makes it the ideal location for the only tropical zoo in the US. For a small fee you can even feed the giraffes!

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  9. Miami Beach Architectural District

  This historic district of Miami Beach is sometimes referred to as the Art Deco District. No prizes for guessing which style of architecture dominates its postcard-perfect streets!

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  10. Bass Museum of Art

  With art from the Renaissance to the present day, the city's leading gallery occupies Miami Beach's old public library building.

Frequently asked questions about Miami

Planning Your Visit

• When to go?

  The city's basketball team is called the Miami Heat for a reason. The tropical monsoon climate means it's always hot, although you can expect thunderstorms in summer and hurricane season runs for as long as June to November. Nevertheless, it's perfect for sunbathing in winter!

• How many days?

  Most of Miami Beach's best attractions can be covered in 3 or 4 days, but book at least a week if you want to see more of the city and/or go to the Everglades.

• How safe is it?

  Despite its depiction in movies, much of Miami is pretty safe. Like most cities though, it has parts tourists would be smart to avoid. High-crime areas include Biscayne Boulevard, Liberty City, Opa-Locka, and Overtown. Unlike the others, you might have reason to go to Miami's Downtown district, but stay alert, especially after dark.