Miami Vacation Highlights - Florida

Miami Vacation Highlights

228 miles (365 km) south east of Orlando

The Miami Beach Promenade has probably appeared in more films, and served as a photo shoot backdrop, than any other beach front location in existence. It's also the favored spot for skaters, bicyclists, skateboarders and joggers.

A walking tour of Miami is recommended to witness the spectacular rejuvenation of the 1920's buildings in the Art Deco Historic District. This precinct is the heart of South Beach and is one of the largest areas on the US National Register of Historic Places. 

Miami has several buildings with unique characteristics that make them stand out from their surroundings. Morbid curiosity draws visitors to Versace Mansion (aka Amsterdam Palace) because the famous designer was murdered on the front steps.  However the intricate Italian architecture makes this house a genuine attraction in its own right. 

The Miami Beach Post Office dates from 1937 and this historic post Depression building features a fabulous rotunda, coral steps up to the entrance, an intricate sun motif and a mural depicting parts of South Florida history.

The Estefan Enterprises' headquarters is located in a whimsical building with a facade carved with color-lined waves and fanciful shapes.The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a magnificent villa built in 1916 as the winter retreat for the industrialist James Deering.

This ornate mansion took 1,000 artisans 5 years to build.  The property is overflowing with antiques, relics and works of art starting from the 16th century. Most of the original furnishings and paintings are still intact and the magnificent gardens are a highlight.

Miami's most beautiful swimming pool is the Venetian Pool, dating from 1924 and listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Underground artesian waters feed the lagoon pool which is shaded by three-story Spanish porticos with fountains and waterfalls.

The Miami Metrozoo is a 290-acre complex with mono-rail located about 45 minutes away from central Miami. The enclosures are not caged and the animals are managed by carefully designed moats. This is a popular attraction for younger children as there is a petting zoo and play area. 

The Parrot Jungle and Gardens is a Miami favorite.  Along with the hundreds of parrots, macaws, peacocks, cockatoos and flamingos, the park features an Everglades exhibit, a petting zoo, and several theaters, trails and aviaries.

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, located at the southern tip of Key Biscayne, has some of the most secluded beaches in Miami. The reserve has been consistently rated in the top 10 beaches in the U.S. for its 1.25 miles of wide, sandy beaches. The historic 1825 lighthouse is the oldest in South Florida.

Rare and exotic plants are the attraction at Fairchild Tropical Garden.  At 83 acres, it is the largest rainforest environment of its kind anywhere in the continental USA. The 11 lakes and numerous meadows are home to palmettos, vine pergola, palm glades, and other unique species. Over 100 species of birds have been recorded at the garden.