Things to know BEFORE you go to Miami | Florida Travel Guide
Discover the vibrant mosaic of Miami, Florida, from the wild beauty of the Everglades to the iconic beaches and bustling streets. This guide covers everything from world-class art districts and cultural enclaves to serene parks and waterfront attractions, offering a comprehensive look at this dynamic South Florida destination.
Everglades
An enormous tropical wasteland located to the west of Miami.
Biscayne Bay
A bay located to the east of Miami, bordering Coconut Grove.
downtown Miami
Full of impressive modern Manhattan-like skyscrapers.
Miami Beach
A city situated on natural and artificial barrier islands known for beautiful beaches; most backpacker friendly hostels are located here.
South Beach
Includes the renowned Ocean Drive and is known for beaches and nightlife.
Ocean Drive
Home to the Art Deco district, the world's largest concentration of Art Deco architecture; it takes about 30 minutes to walk from one side to the other.
Art Deco district
The world's largest concentration of Art Deco architecture, located on Ocean Drive; an 11 mile car ride from Miami International Airport takes about 20 minutes.
Lincoln Road Mall
A promenade full of stores, restaurants, and galleries.
South Pointe Park Pier
Located right at the very tip of South Pointe Beach.
South Pointe Beach
South Pointe Park Pier is located right at the very tip.
Bayside Marketplace
A large waterfront shopping center filled with popular shops and restaurants, located close to Bayfront Park and the Freedom Tower.
Bayfront Park
Located close to Bayside Marketplace and the Freedom Tower.
Freedom Tower
Located close to Bayside Marketplace and Bayfront Park.
Little Havana
The Cuban District with famous Calle Ocho.
Cuban District
Little Havana, with famous Calle Ocho.
Calle Ocho
A famous street in Little Havana, the Cuban District.
Little Haiti
Known for its unique international restaurants and thriving art scenes; located south of Wynwood Walls.
Wynwood Walls
A one-of-a-kind outdoor gallery featuring large colorful street murals; located south of Little Haiti.
Coconut Grove
A charming old neighborhood where you'll find the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, bounded by the Biscayne Bay; may be the best option for families to stay.
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Located in Coconut Grove.
Coral Gables
Located here is the iconic Venetian port.
Venetian port
The iconic port is located in Coral Gables.
Key Biscayne
A paradise-like Island with amazing beaches and parks on the other side of a causeway south of downtown Miami; may be the best option for families to stay.
Fairchild tropical Botanic Garden
Located south of Key Biscayne, next to Matheson hammock Park.
Matheson hammock Park
Located next to Fairchild tropical Botanic Garden.
Zoo Miami
Located further south.
Key West
Florida's southernmost point.
Miami International Airport
Located only about six miles from downtown Miami; you can get to and from the airport by Metro Rail, Metro bus, Miami Beach bus, Tri-rail, Shuttle Bus or hotel shuttles, taxis, private transfers, Ubers and Lyfts and car rentals; an 11 mile car ride to the Art Deco district takes about 20 minutes.
Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport
Located about 25 miles from downtown; you can get to and from the airport by Tri-rail, shuttle bus, taxis, private transfers, Ubers and Lyfts or car rentals.
Miami station
Where you'll arrive if you're using the Amtrak.
Virgin MiamiCentral
Located in downtown Miami; where you will arrive if you use Tri Rail and Brightline.
Miami River
Ride a free Metro over promenade.
Miami River walk
Located on the opposite side of the Miami River.
Brickell Key
A place to enjoy free views of Miami.
MacArthur Causeway
A place to enjoy free views of Miami from the top.