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Built on a foundation of historical settlements and nicknamed the “Capital of Latin America”, Miami is one of the most fascinating and unique cities in the United States. It is simultaneously larger and more intimate than a lot of first-time visitors would expect, and is home to a blend of cultures that make it feel entirely unique among American destinations.
As I wrote with respect to New Orleans in a previous article, the subtropical climate here makes for reliable, year-round warmth. This makes it a popular spot for winter travel, as well as for seasonal migration among some American retirees. The climate can make for wet summers and occasional storms, but that doesn’t stop visitors and residents alike from enjoying the city 12 months out of the year.
From a cultural standpoint, Miami is a fascinating blend of the excess of typical big American cities and the artistic, culinary, and recreational influence of a large Latin American population. As a result of this mix, there are almost endless attractions and activities to enjoy around Miami. I’ll point to some of the highlights below.
Little Havana, Miami
Little Havana
If you’re one to enjoy the cultural influences that can shape a city, the Cuban district known as Little Havana is not to be missed. The area isn’t packed with major attractions, but it’s known to be a very authentic approximation of a Cuban town, thanks to the large number of immigrants who have come to Miami from that particular country over the years. You’ll see Cuban-Americans socializing on front porches, eye-popping murals on buildings, have all the authentic Cuban food you can handle, and you may stumble on some excellent cigars!
SoFi
SoFi stands for “South of Fifth” and represents an exclusive but fascinating part of the city. Noted as one of the city’s best neighborhoods, it largely consists of amazing condo buildings and South Beach views. But it’s actually one of the more interesting corners of the city. Once a hub for criminal activity, it’s been reshaped over the years into an area of luxury and relaxation. It also happens to be home to South Pointe Park, which is one of the more beautiful areas in Miami to spend some time outside (aside from simply out on the beach).
Jungle Island
Jungle Island is more of a “tourist attraction” than any sort of cultural hub, but it should be noted that there’s something different about viewing exotic animals in a climate like Miami’s. This particular attraction includes hundreds of bird species, a dazzling array of plants, and creatures like tigers, alligators, and a variety kinds of monkeys. It’s not a natural habitat, but it more closely approximates one than a traditional zoo and it’s a wonderful way to examine wildlife up close.
Art Deco District
As one list of attractions in Miami put it, the Art Deco District brings back memories of an earlier time in Florida. A combination of 1930s Art Deco architecture and ’80s-style neon signs and fluorescent lighting make this area the perfect physical representation of Miami’s eclectic past. It also doesn’t hurt that there are plenty of great restaurants along the way as well, or that much of the district is situated just across Ocean Drive from South Beach.
South Beach
Finally. there’s South Beach itself. It’s one of the most vibrant beaches in the United States and a great place to see the different cultures that really make up Miami’s atmosphere. Known for a beach that can seem at times like a slice of the Caribbean, as well as for vibrantly colored lifeguard towers dotted along the sand, it’s a busy, beautiful, and one-of-a-kind beach.
noel
Monday 17th of April 2017
I've heard about Jungle Island but haven't been there, it sounds pretty cool but is it worth the visit/expense?