The sub-tropical temperature and the miles of stunningly beautiful beaches give Miami true tourist appeal. The Art Deco District also seems to cast its magic on many tourists. But Miami has a lot more to offer.
You can shop 'til you drop, do sports to your heart’s content, or visit the popular Keys or the famous Everglades National Park.
Shop until you drop
Miami Beach is a paradise for people with a passion for shopping. Some tourists even see shopping as the most important reason to visit the city. Miami offers a broad spectrum of shops, boutiques, department stores and shopping malls. The true pinnacle of purchasing is Bal Harbour, a shopping mall where all the best fashion designers have their own personal boutique.
Fashion aficionados will also want to visit C. Madeleine’s Vintage Clothing, more than worth the while. Owner Madeleine Kirsch runs the world’s biggest store for secondhand design and high fashion, and her clientele includes such big names as Naomi Campbell, Gloria Estefan and Lenny Kravitz.
13702 Biscayne Blvd, Miami Beach
Sporty and challenging
Open-air fitness, roller-skating down the boulevard, yoga on the beach… for many people in Miami, these events are simply life as usual. And it’s not just about keeping yourself in shape; the main point is to look your very best. ‘See and be seen’ seems to be the motto for many Miami residents and tourists.
Seeking a more sporting challenge? Rent a canoe and paddle down the Wilderness Waterway between Everglades City and Flamingo. Or point your bow towards John Pennecamp Coral Reef State Park, Elkhorn Reef, Schooner Wreck Reef or Dome Reef and experience the glorious beauty of nature under the water, scuba diving or snorkeling. Serious daredevils go to Homestead General Aviation Airport and learn to skydive in just one day!
Events
The party town of Miami always has lots going on. The biggest event is the Miami Carnival, a nine-day street festival held every year in early March. The highlight of the Miami Carnival is the Calle Ocho Festival - visit Little Havana to see it at its best.
Music-lovers can feast their senses during the International Hispanic Theater Festival (late May to mid-June) and the annual Miami Reggae Festival in early August.