7 Things to do in Miami

With glorious, glamorous beaches, some of the best Art Deco architecture on the planet and a vibrant arts' scene, you'll find plenty of things to do in Miami. Throw in warm seas, those fabulous Floridian theme parks, and an average temperature of around 28 °C and you've got everything you need for holidays the whole family will enjoy.

Places to go

Most people tend to focus on South Beach, the glitz and the glamour of the main front, and the dazzling hotels. However, there's an earlier history underneath the glass and chrome, and nearby Ocean Drive is lined with stunning Art Deco buildings.

Walking tours of this part of South Beach is one of the most popular Miami things to do. By day, the beach is the place to be to top up your tan, and by night, the whole area is alive with neon-lit bars and clubs. The weekend markets are popular, particularly for those with a passion for fashion.

If you can tear yourself away from the beach for a while, you'll find some great places to visit in Miami. Covering almost 1,050 acres, the Oleta River State Park is a fantastic spot to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Just half an hour from downtown Miami, you'll find mysterious mangroves, mountain-biking trails, paddling trips, and an impressive variety of wildlife. It's perfect for fans of the Great Outdoors.

Attractions

For a full-on theme park experience that the kids will love, make your way to Jungle Island. You'll find a good selection of rides and slides, including zip wires, water slides, and even a skydiving simulator. If you'd prefer something quieter, the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens are always worth a visit. Overlooking Biscayne Bay, you'll find peaceful gardens full of fountains, bubbling pools, and even a mind-bending maze. Set in the centre is an Italianate villa packed with works of art that date between the 16th and 19th centuries.

Places to visit

If you're looking for days out for the whole family, you'll find plenty of places to visit in Miami. If you're stealing some time away with your better half without the kids in tow, there are plenty of options for you, too. From shopping and sunbathing to dining out and great nightlife, Miami has something for everyone.

Are you looking for some serious shopping? Head down to Biscayne Boulevard, where you'll find the famous Bayside Marketplace. With over 150 specialist and independent shops and stores, it's an easy way to spend a day (and quite a bit of cash). Between bargains, you can enjoy a light bite or a coffee at one of the many diners or, if you're feeling adventurous, catch a water taxi downtown.

To soak up the local culture, make your way to Little Havana. This is where the Cuban community has made its home, and you'll almost feel as though you've ended up in the streets of Holguin. The backstreets and alleys are lined with shops and perfumed by the smells of traditional Cuban cuisine. Take a break in a restaurant and enjoy authentic empanadas, spicy chicken or rice and fried yuca.

Take your Miami holidays in March and look out for the Calle Ocho Festival, when the whole of Little Havana hosts its annual carnival celebrations, complete with Latin music, colourful costumes, and Mojitos that taste just like they ought to.