The Miami Seaquarium is one of the oldest aquariums in the USA. A lot has happened since its humble beginnings in 1955. Today the Seaquarium is home to more than 10.000 species – from tropical fish and corals to penguins and Florida’s manatees. Dolphins, sea lions and an orca lady entertain guests every day, and if you want, you can even step into the pool with your favorite animals. More than 500.000 visitors a year do not lie: Miami Seaquarium is one of the best places for family-friendly animal encounters in Florida.

The aquarium is situated on Virgina Key in Miami-Dade County. The island is connected to the mainland by a bridge. You only have to drive 10 minutes from Downtown Miami to get there.

ANIMALS AT THE MIAMI SEAQUARIUM

Near the entrance flamingos are strutting in manmade wetlands, while a first highlight awaits little guests nearby: The Touch Pool houses aquatic inhabitants like cleaner fish, stingrays and bamboo sharks for the children to touch. All of them are harmless, of course.

The Tropical Fish Aquarium takes you on a journey through the coastal waters of the southern hemisphere, and the adjacent Reef Aquarium amazes with its gigantic, 750.000 gallon water tank – enough to fill 20.000 bathtubs. Here you can watch divers feed a variety of colorful fish. At Rescue a Reef, a project realized together with the University of Miami, a new man-made coral reef is being built under the eyes of visitors.

Situated at the heart of the Aquarium is the Dolphinarium. At the Dolphin Show, you can watch the playful animals perform their tricks – either from the ranks or through a glass window. Next door, the sea lions make for equally skilled entertainers, balancing balls in the Sea Lion and Seel Feeder Pool.

At the Manatee Exhibit, guests learn more about Florida’s iconic ocean grazers that are being treated medically at the Miami Seaquarium. The Aquarium also contains a sanctuary for injured sea turtles. Colorful parrots and other birds populate the Tropical Wings exhibit, while cute penguins from the Antarctic have found a home on Penguin Isle.

The Miami Seaquarium houses a true legend that is already 50 years old and weighs a whopping 3.5 tons: The Orca lady Lolita has been living here since the 1970s and still entertains visitors with her tricks twice a day.

MORE ATTRACTIONS AT THE MIAMI SEAQUARIUM

The Miami Seaquarium has many more attractions to offer, among them:

• Golden Dome Sea Lion: a child-friendly sea lion show with comedy elements. Here even the smallest guests learn a lot about protecting the oceans.

• Flipper Dolphin Show: dolphins performing tricks at the original location of the 60s TV show.

• Sharky´s Sky Trail: a rope course 32 feet above ground, with 18 obstacles for participants to tackle

• Salty´s Pirate Playground: child-friendly playground with a 30 feet long pirate ship, climbing nets and splash canons.

• Conservation Outpost: Here you learn how injured sea creatures are being rescued and cared for by the Miami Seaquarium.

ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS AT THE MIAMI SEAQUARIUM

Swimming with dolphins has a long tradition at the Miami Seaquarium – not only because the famous TV show Flipper was filmed here. For 219 USD you can climb into the pool with dolphins. The playful animals will let you pet them, give handshakes (or rather fin-shakes), smother you with kisses and always appreciate a treat in the form of delicious fish. Tailored to non-swimmers and small children is the Dolphin Encounter in shallow water for 159 USD. And if you want to dive deeper into the topic (quite literally), you should book the Trainer for a Day experience for 395 USD. Under watchful guidance you can train the dolphins for a whole day. Swimming with the animals is included, of course.

If cuddling with sea lions is on your bucket list, you should book the Seal Swim for 139 USD. Alternatively, greet your friends from the South Pole at the Penguin Encounter for 99 USD. Considerable money and effort went into the newest attraction Discovery Bay, a replica of Florida’s coast. For 70 USD you can wade through the shallow water and get close to stingrays and nurse sharks.

If you always wanted to go reef diving, why not fulfill this dream at the Star Trek Reef Encounter? Put on a diving bell and go for a walk among tropical corals and schools of colorful fish. This underwater activity will cost you 99 USD.

DINING AND SHOPPING AT THE MIAMI SEAQUARIUM

No visitor has to go hungry at the Miami Seaquarium. Culinary choices include a hotdog stand, a fast food restaurant serving French fries, wraps and chicken fingers, a snack bar with pretzels, a pizza place and a barbecue restaurant. If you want to satisfy your sweet tooth, there are shops selling ice cream, popcorn, cotton candy and slushies. For an ice cold cocktail you should visit the Parrot – Ice Cove.

Visitors who want to keep a memory of their perfect day at the Seaquarium can choose between 3 gift shops. The main one sells cute stuffed dolphins, t-shirts, mugs, sunglasses and home deco. More dolphin-themed souvenirs are available at the Dolphin Lobby Shop, and at the aptly named Penguin Shops everything revolves around penguin-themed gifts.

OPENING TIMES AND ENTRANCE FEES AT THE MIAMI SEAQUARIUM

The Miami Seaquarium is open 365 days a year from 10 am to 6 pm. Last entry is at 4.30 pm.

The ticket costs 40 USD for adults, and 30 USD for children between 3 and 9 years. You can save money with the Smart Day Ticket for 30 USD (27 USD for children) between Monday and Wednesday. Even bigger bargains can be struck with coupons. On websites like couponokay.net, dontpayfull.com or retailmenot.com you will find discounts of up to 50%.

EVENTS AT THE MIAMI SEAQUARIUM

On the spookiest day of the year, the Miami Seaquarium attracts visitors with the Splash Halloween Bash. The event includes special shows, trick or treating for children and ticket discounts. During the regular Mommy and Me program parents and their children interact with the animals of the Seaquarium, enjoy child-friendly infotainment and participate in arts and crafts workshops. If you want to learn more about Florida’s iconic “sea cows” and how they live, you should visit during Manatee Awareness Month in November.

Thanks to Sunset Cove, a large event space with spectacular views of Miami’s Skyline, the Seaquarium is a popular place for private parties, weddings and corporate events.

West of Miami’s Downtown, just a 15 minutes drive from the ocean, lies the Little Havana district. Many exiled Cubans settled here in the 1960s, bringing with them their culture, music and culinary treats. Most descendents of those immigrants have left now. Nonetheless, Little Havana with its scenic parks, authentic restaurants, street art and live music is still the perfect place to immerse yourself in the Cuban way of life.

SIGHTS IN LITTLE HAVANA

Every trip to Little Havana should start on Calle Ocho. The “8^th street” that runs through the district from east to west is lined with art galleries, bars and quaint little cigar shops. Calle Ocho also connects many sights – among them the Walkway of Stars, Little Havana’s answer to Hollywood’s Walk of Fame. Since 1988 the most famous Latin American celebrities have been immortalized here.

Domino Park is a popular place to meet and hang out. It is here that mostly older Cubans enjoy themselves playing domino, drinking espresso and chattering with their friends. The park is perfect if you want to soak up the Cuban flair – even though you will hardly understand a word if you do not speak Spanish.

Another institution of Little Havana is the Tower Theater, a historic cinema in the Art Deco style. Since the 1920s is has been the district’s top pick to watch movies in Spanish. Art lovers should visit the Cuban Memorial Boulevard with its statues by José Martí and Antonio Maceo. Nearby stands the Tall Ceiba Tree – a sacred place for Santeria worshippers who lay down offerings like chicken bones. In the nearby Santeria botanicas you can purchase all kinds of jewelry, talismans and ointments, and even have your future told.

If you are interested in Cuba’s most famous product (after Havana Rum) you should visit the Havana Cigar Factory. As we all know, it is illegal to buy Cuban cigars. However, connoisseurs confirm that the hand-rolled cigars at this Factory are second best to the original.

MORE ATTRACTIONS IN LITTLE HAVANA INCLUDE:

• Little Havana Welcome Center: visitor center offering brochures about the history and sights of the district
• Jose Marti Park: a shaded waterside park with playgrounds, picnic tables and basketball courts
• Bay of Pigs Museum: an exhibition about the failed invasion of Cuba planned by the US.
• Viventa Candles: a shop that sells handmade candles made from soy wax
• Havana to Go: a gift shop selling jewelry and Cuban garments

RESTAURANTS IN LITTLE HAVANA

One of the main reasons to visit Little Havana is the authentic Latin American cuisine.

Tourists and locals alike love Mi Rinconcito Mexicano, an old-school taqueria. Here, the tacos filled with minced meat, lamb, chicken, onions and hot sauce taste like in the motherland, and prices are more than fair.

A top spot to try Cuban Sandwiches, now a popular dish in Florida, is Sanguich de Miami. Only homemade ingredients like smoked bacon, tender pork and pickles are stuffed between to crispy breads in this traditional restaurant. And if you want to taste the “Cubano” in a truly glamorous atmosphere, you should visit the Versailles. Dubbed “the most famous Cuban restaurant in the world”, it is also perfect for having breakfast and coffee.

Known for its fish delicacies is La Camaronera – a seafood restaurant that even featured on the TV channel Food Network. Little Havana abounds with Old World specialties, too, which you can see and taste at the top-reviewed Spanish Restaurant El Rincon Asturiano.

The Cubaocho can best be described as a mix between bar, museum and performing arts center. Here guests sample Miami’s biggest rum collection before dancing Salsa to live music. Alternatively, you can always just grab a quick Mojito to go.

Located directly opposite the Tower Theater is the Azucar Ice Cream Company, a family business that creates ice cream out of fresh, regional ingredients. The variety is astonishing and even includes exotic choices like pumpkin, avocado and egg liqueur.

EVENTS IN LITTLE HAVANA

On the last Friday of every month, Little Havana hosts the Viernes Culturales. Then, the streets along Calle Ocho are filled with art exhibitions, live music, stages with Latin dancers and vendors selling handmade jewelry.

Calle Ocho Festival, one of the biggest carnivals worldwide, forms the highlight of the year. Not only Cubans, but dancers from all over Latin America proudly present their colorful costumes and make the crowd go wild with live music. Visitors might find themselves in a Conga Line, swept away by irresistible rhythms. This carnival is also perfect if you want to try a wide variety of Latin specialties.

Speaking of specialties: Little Havana houses so many restaurants that it can be hard to find the true gems. Therefore, it pays to join one of the food tours that bring you to the district’s well-kept culinary secrets – perfect if you want to taste them all.

ACCOMMODATION IN LITTLE HAVANA

If you want to spend more time soaking in the vibes of Little Havana, you can choose between many accommodation options for every taste and budget.

There is hardly a hotel in the heart of Little Miami that can match the Caribbean vibes of the Life House. Elegant furniture and traditional fabrics grace its interior, while the Parcela Café is ripe with nostalgic Havana flair. Ernest Hemmingway would have loved it here. The tropical lounge on the rooftop provides the perfect backdrop for some rest and relaxation.

Situated north of Jose Marti Park is the Casa Florida Hotel that attracts guests with its plantation style architecture, lush gardens, outdoor pool and cocktail bar. Visitors who also want to take a trip to the nearby beach feel right at home at the Aloft Miami, a laid-back 3 star hotel offering spacious rooms. And if you want to rent an apartment complete with living room, bedroom, kitchen, veranda and pool, look no further than the Little Havana Paradise.

The My Sweet Havana Hotel offers budget-friendly rooms just a few minutes away from Calle Ocho. This hostel features an extensive common area to hang out, a kitchen for guests to use, and clean dorms with 4 or 6 beds.

Sunrise City might only have 100.000 citizens, but it houses Florida’s second-largest mall. The shopping complex Sawgrass Mills takes up an area the size of 55 acres or 31 football fields, making it the 11^th biggest mall in the United States. However, size is not everything, and shoppers in the Miami metropolitan area are demanding. It takes more than just a few discounts to attract loyal customers and play in the big league of American malls.

The designers of Sawgrass Mills were aware of this: The architecture alone, with its Mediterranean flair and lush palm trees, provides the perfect backdrop for shopping trips. Everything here is geared towards a comfortable customer experience: Parking on the extensive parking lot is free, all information is written in multiple languages, and guests enjoy complementary WIFI in the whole complex. So if you ask: “Is one of America’s biggest outlet malls worth a shopping trip?”, the answer is a wholehearted “Yes”.

Sawgrass Mills Offers – Essential for Bargain Hunters!

Even though Sawgrass Mills is not an outlet in the strict sense, amazing bargains can be struck here. Almost every store promotes discounts of up to 70% off certain items, and many shops offer deals for customers who subscribe to the mall’s newsletter. Pay special attention to signs saying “clearance”: These indicate that everything has to go, which means products are amazingly cheap.

Coupon Book and Voucher for free

If you are looking for particular items or shops, you should get the Sawgrass Mills Coupon Book. This booklet normally costs 19 USD, but thanks to the Vacation-in-Florida.net Voucher, you have the opportunity to get the coupon book for free. Just print out our voucher and show it at the information desk.

By the way: Clicking on Deals & Offers will reveal more information on sales, deals, offers of the day, special opening times and additional discounts. Just save the page on your phone or print it out.

Events

“Black Friday” is a nation-wide shopping holiday that originated in the USA. Today, companies around the globe use this date to promote special discounts. The “Black” Friday after Thanksgiving marks the time when many stores start their Christmas sales, as well as the beginning of the number one shopping season for outlet centers. There are many other days with special sales at Sawgrass Mills, among them:

Sawgrass Mills Directions – Learn how to get the Mall the easy way

Sawgrass Mills is open daily from 10 am to 9.30 pm. On Sundays the mall opens at 11 am and closes at 8 pm. Visitors driving to Sawgrass Mills from Fort Lauderdale only need 15 minutes by car. Driving there from Miami and Palm Beach takes 35 minutes. If you are coming from Cape Coral, you will need approximately 2 hours, so staying overnight is a good option: The Sunrise Hotel is situated next to the mall, directly at the city’s beautiful canal. Read below how long it takes to get to the mall from different places in Florida:

Contact Informations

Route planner

Overview of travel times from other cities

• Cape Coral – 2 hours
• Captiva Island – 2,5 hours
• Daytona Beach – 3,5 hours
• Fisher Island – 0,75 hours
• Fort Lauderdale – 0,25 hours
• Fort Myers – 1,75 hours
• Key West – 3,5 hours
• Miami – 0,5 hours
• Naples – 1,5 hours
• Palm Beach – 1 hours
• Pine Island – 2,5 hours
• Sanibel Island – 2,25 hours
• Venice – 2,75 hours

Parking

Important advice on parking at the mall: There are more than enough free sparking spots available at the Sawgrass Mills Outlet. However, you should remember the entrance you are using. Due to thousands of parking spots taking the wrong exit can lead to a time-consuming search for your vehicle.

Sawgrass Mills closed for days after bad weather!

Shuttles

Note: Due to Covid-19 there are currently no shuttle transfers to and from Sawgrass Mills Mall. For current information on the shuttle offer, please click here.

Tip: If you don’t want to drive your own car or rental car from Miami, book the convenient and affordable Sawgrass Mills Shuttle!

Sawgrass Mills FAQ – Frequently asked questions

Since its opening in 2001, the Dolphin Mall has been a paradise for shoppers in Miami: A whopping 36 million people visit the mall every year. And rightfully so: Here you can go shopping in an area of 18 football fields, choose from a wide variety of restaurants and even go to the movies. A bowling alley, laser tag and a kids´ club make the Dolphin Mall perfect for families. Amazing discounts and exciting events further enhance the shopping experience. And even if you do not need anything, the mall’s enormous size is reason enough for visitors to stop by at least once.

Dolphin Mall Offers – Essential for Bargain Hunters!

The Dolphin Mall has amazing bargains in store for you – not only on Black Friday. Visit the official website https://www.shopdolphinmall.com/sales-offers to stay up to date on clearance sales, discounts of up to 70%, BOGOF-deals and restaurant happy hours. Tourists should ask for the “Passport to Shopping” at the information counter to get discounts at more than 100 shops. If you want to save even more money, you should arm yourself with coupons from websites like shopular, groupon and offers.com.

 Dolphin Mall Accomodations nearby

If you want to stay close to the Dolphin Mall, you can choose between 4 hotels.

Located right in front of the mall is the Courtyard by Marriott Miami Hotel. Thanks to its own business center, this 3-star-hotel is particularly popular with business travelers. More amenities include a gym, an outdoor pool and magnificent views of Miami’s skyline.

Also located nearby is the Hilton Garden Inn with its spacious rooms, excellent barbecue restaurant and free shuttle service to the Dolphin mall. And if you want to have your own kitchen, you should check out the Hollywood Suited by Hilton.

Just a 3 minute ride away, the modern Nuvo Suites Hotel features a rooftop pool and bar as well as huge breakfast buffets. All these hotels can also be reached quickly from Miami airport.

Dolphin Mall – Location, Directions, Parking and Hours

The Dolphin Mall is located in West Miami, just a 15 minute drive from the airport. Thanks to 8.500 free parking spots, arriving by car is no problem at all. Alternatively, guests can take the shuttle bus from Miami International Airport as well as selected hotels. However, a return ticket costs at least 10 USD – twice as much as Miami’s public buses.

The Dolphin Mall is open Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 9.30 pm (11 am to 8 pm on Sundays). On holidays, different opening times apply.

Contact Informations

Route planner

Calculate your Route to the Dolphin Mall

Overview of travel times from other cities

• Cape Coral – 2,25 hours
• Captiva Island – 3 hours
• Daytona Beach – 4 hours
• Fisher Island – 1 hours
• Fort Lauderdale – 0,75 hours
• Fort Myers – 2,25 hours
• Key West – 3 hours
• Naples – 1,75 hours
• Palm Beach – 1,25 hours
• Pine Island – 2,75 hours
• Sanibel Island – 2,5 hours
• Venice – 3 hours

Dolphin Mall FAQ – frequently asked Questions

At the shores of the Biscayne Bay, just 4 miles from Ocean Drive, stretches a gigantic shopping mall that even featured in the TV series Miami Vice. On two floors Bayside Marketplace houses a remarkable variety of stores, and thanks to the clever half-open design guests can shop here at any weather. Bayside Marketplace even has its own marina. From there, you can start your boat trip to exciting destinations. With so many things to do (and buy), it is no wonder that Bayside Marketplace is Miami’s most visited attraction.

Bayside Marketplace Offers – Essential for Bargain Hunters!

If you want to save money, you should arm yourself with coupons before you visit Bayside Marketplace. Websites like retailmenot.com or shopular.com inform you about discounts such as two items for the price of one, clearance sales with up to 70 % off or cheap offers at the mall’s restaurants.

Bayside Marketplace – boat trip to exciting destinations

Bayside Marketplace is not only a perfect place for bargain hunters, but also the starting point of your sightseeing tour in Miami. Many Hop-On-Hop-Off-Busses stop here. With your ticket you can enter and leave the bus to your heart’s content and take a closer look at sights you have seen on the way. If you want to explore Florida’s coolest city and keep fit at the same time, the bicycle tours of Bike & Roll Miami are your ideal choice.

Companies like Bayside Boat Tours and Island Queen Cruises offer many activities on the water. Gaze at Miami’s skyline on a boat tour, learn which celebrities populate the luxurious mansions, and take a look at Fisher Island, America’s most exclusive holiday resort. Trips to the Everglades and boozy party cruises also start at the Bayside Marketplace marina. Blue Water Fishing helps you make the catch of your life, and if you want to play captain yourself, Boat Rental Miami lets you do so.

But maybe you are looking for a little rest and relaxation nearby. In this case, you should visit Bayfront Park south of the mall – not only for its green spaces lined with palm trees, but also for the amazing view of Miami’s skyscrapers.

Bayside Marketplace – Location, Directions, Parking and Hours

Bayside Marketplace is open Monday to Thursday from 10 am to 10 pm. On Friday it is 10 am to 11 pm, and on Sunday you can go shopping between 11 am and 9 pm.

On-site parking costs 10 USD for 2 hours. However, if you do not need to carry a lot, you might as well leave your car at home. Guests in Downtown or Brickell can take the free Metromover, a self-driving train that also offers magnificent views of the city and the bay.

Route planner

Calculate your Route to Bayside Marketplace

Overview of travel times from other cities

• Cape Coral – 2,5 hours
• Captiva Island – 3 hours
• Daytona Beach – 4 hours
• Fisher Island – 0,5 hours
• Fort Lauderdale – 0,5 hours
• Fort Myers – 2,5 hours
• Key West – 3,25 hours
• Naples – 2 hours
• Palm Beach – 1,25 hours
• Pine Island – 2,75 hours
• Sanibel Island – 2,5 hours
• Venice – 3,25 hours

Bayside Marketplace FAQ – Frequently asked questions

Situated in Miami’s Brickell district, the Capital Grille Miami draws in guests with high-quality steaks, delicious seafood and a wine collection like no other in South Florida. Not only are the dishes aesthetically pleasing; they also combine freshest ingredients with innovative recipes. Excellent service and a truly elegant atmosphere are the icing on the cake. Whether you want to enjoy a romantic evening or invite all your friends to the spacious dining room – the Capital Grille is your top choice for haute cuisine in Miami.

CULINARY CHOICES AT THE CAPITAL GRILLE MIAMI

Meat connoisseurs have every reason to be happy: The Capital Grille only serves top-quality steaks and even has its own butchery. The meat is cooled and stored for several weeks. This process called Dry Aging makes it mouthwateringly tender and brings out its natural flavors.

Only the best parts are used for Sirloin Steaks. As a side dish the chef recommends sweet cipollini onions, wild mushrooms and fig essence. Or maybe you prefer the beautifully marbled Ribeye with 15 year old balsamic. Porterhouse Steaks come in truly epic proportions, and high-quality minced meat is served as Steak Tartare. Other popular meat dishes include grilled chicken breast with parmesan risotto and lamb rips with Italian mint gremolada. If you are looking for a filling lunch option, you should try the chicken sandwich with Hot Honey.

The menu also features fish and seafood dishes, for example:

• Clam Chowder New England Style
• broiled Maine Lobster
• seared citrus-glazed salmon with Spanish marcona almonds and brown butter
• Tuna Tartare with fresh mangos, avocados and Sriracha Sauce
• sea scallops with asparagus, shiitake mushrooms, parsnip purée and lobster bordelaise.

Before it is time for the main course, guests can choose from a dozen appetizers. How about fresh oysters, shrimp cocktail, grilled calamari or Italian prosciutto with mozzarella? Another delicacy is the smoked ham that gets its irresistible flavor from cherry wood. Or why not try the onion soup with molten cheese?

Besides all the meat and seafood options, the Capital Grille Miami also serves a great variety of vegetarian dishes. A classic, of course, is the Caesar Salad with croutons and Italian Grana Padano Cheese. The Gorgonzola Salad with pears, candied walnuts and cherries offers a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors. Creamy delight awaits cheese lovers in the form of Burrata with tomatoes and aged balsamic.

The Capital Grille’s desserts are almost too beautiful to eat. Choices include Crème Brûlée with fresh seasonal berries, Coconut Cream Pie with a touch of rum, and warm apple crostata. The double chocolate cake is reason enough to stop every diet plan, just like the homemade sorbet with almond biscotti.

The Capital Grille Miami is not only famous for its food, but also for the extensive wine menu: More than 350 sorts from all over the world have been carefully handpicked by the restaurant’s chef sommelier. If you are having seafood, a classic Chardonnay with refreshing citrus note is your perfect companion, while steaks go very well with Californian Chappellet aged in French oak. Many sorts are served “by the glass”, so you can try them first before ordering a bottle. Of course, the knowledgeable waiters are happy to recommend the right wine. For special occasions, the Capital Grille boasts a great selection of Champagnes.

OPENING TIMES AND OFFERS AT THE CAPITAL GRILLE MIAMI

The Capital Grille is open at the following times:

Monday to Thursday: 11.30 am – 10 pm

Friday: 11.30 am – 11 pm

Saturday: 6 pm – 11 pm

Sunday: 5 pm – 10 pm.

No matter the date – booking a table is advisable and can easily be done on the official website thecapitalgrille.com. If you want to really spoil your loved ones, buy them a gift card from the online shop. And in case you are looking for elegant surroundings to host an event – the Capital Grille rents out its private dining room. Included are individual menus as well as your own event coordinator and sommelier.

LOCATION & DIRECTIONS TO THE CAPITAL GRILLE MIAMI

The Capital Grille Miami is located in Downtown Miami and can quickly be reached from Little Havana and Port Miami.

The term Everglades describes an area that stretches from Lake Okeechobee in North Florida to the southern coast. Between these two the aptly named “River of Grass” flows through large stretches of prairie. During rainy season the river swells dramatically, turning the Everglades into a watery world with extensive canals and deltas.

This world is home to many animals, among them water birds like flamingos and herons, crocodiles, alligators, manatees and black bears. The state’s heraldic animal, the Florida Panther, also lives here, albeit in dwindling numbers. Coastal areas of the Everglades National Park are dominated by mangroves. These plants with their distinctive taproots filter ocean water and play a big role in Florida’s ecosystem. In the south, the meandering River of Grass empties into the Gulf of Mexico.

OPTIONS FOR YOUR TRIP TO THE EVERGLADES

There are many ways to explore the diverse natural wonders of the Everglades. Among them, airboats are the most popular option. These flat vessels with their iconic propellers have been immortalized by films and TV series like CSI Miami, and are perfect for navigating the waterways. Boat tours are available in many places such as the Everglades Safari Park situated between Shark Valley and Miami. Experienced captains will take you to the most beautiful spots, all the while sharing their knowledge about Everglades National Park.

Another well-established company is Captain Jack’s Airboat Tours. Guests can choose between labyrinthine mangrove forests and vast flooded grasslands. Captain Jack’s also offers Swamp Buggy Tours. The ride will take you through enchanted cypress forests and to a lake where you can spot Florida’s famous manatees. If you would rather paddle yourself, you can always book a kayak tour. Organizers like Everglades Area Tour transport guests to secluded spots in the National Park by motorboat, before it is time to launch the kayaks.

This silent, eco-friendly mode of transport is ideal for spotting shy animals like tortoises, snakes, eagles and even dolphins. Of course, you can also explore the National Park on your own. Boats and maps of the waterways can be rented in Flamingo or the Gulf Coast Visitor Center. One of the most popular routes is Nine Mile Pond – perfect if you want to experience the quiet atmosphere of the Everglades National Park and observe alligators in the brackish water.

Guests who wish to see yet another side of the Everglades should hike the National Park’s many trails. The Tamiami Trail is flanked by tall deciduous trees and runs along canals teeming with tortoises and alligators. The end of the trail is marked by the 66 feet tall Shark Valley Observation Tower that offers a perfect view over the River of Grass. The trail also features a curiosity amidst the undeveloped wilderness: Ochopee Post Office, the smallest of its kind in the USA. There is exactly enough space for one customer. Nonetheless, you can buy and send post cards here like you would in a regular post office. If you follow the Otter Trail, you might not only spot intriguing limestone caves but also the furry animals that gave the trail its name.

Shark Valley is also a perfect place for cycling, thanks to 15 miles of bike lanes overlooking the forested islands. If you want to explore the Everglades underwater, you should book a boat trip to the “Ten Thousand Islands” off the southwest coast of Florida. These islands are for the most part unpopulated and harbor more than 200 fish species. Baby fish in particular seek shelter between the mangrove roots. Situated at the National Park’s northern end is Okeechobee, Florida’s biggest lake and a favorite spot for perch fishers.

FLORIDA’S ALLIGATORS UP CLOSE

Alligators form an integral part of America’s pop culture, and the Everglades are the perfect spot to see them in the wild. The Everglades are also the only place on earth where the cold-blooded hunters share their habitat with crocodiles. Alligators mostly live in fresh water, hunting fish, tortoises and other aquatic species. They occasionally come ashore and are known to cross roads and hiking paths. While there is no need to be afraid of these prehistoric reptiles, a bit of caution is called for. Every year there are cases of alligator bites. The chances are minuscule – 1 to 2.4 million, to be precise. Nonetheless, you should heed the official warnings and never enter the water where you are not supposed to.

Baby alligators are a lot less imitating than their fully grown parents, and having your photo taken with a small gator is part and parcel of many airboat tours. Florida’s iconic reptiles not only live in the wild. They are also bred on special alligator farms. The biggest one is located in Homestead and houses 2.000 specimens. Here visitors can learn more about the reptiles and watch their feeding frenzy. The highlight, however, are the alligator shows, where trainers perform daredevil stunts with their 800 lbs pets. “Alligator Wrestling” not only looks nerve-wrecking, but also has a long tradition that dates back to Florida’s native inhabitants.

ENTRANCE FEES AND OPENING TIMES OF EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK

The national park is open every day from 8 am to 4.30 pm. The entrances are located in Shark Valley and Homestead. Tickets cost 8–25 USD, depending on whether you explore the park on foot, by bicycle or by car. Annual passes are available for 40 USD.

DIRECTIONS TO EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK

The part of the Everglades not used for agriculture belongs to the Everglades National Park, a 1.508.976 acres area that was put under protection in 1947. It takes about 1 hour by car to get to the park from Miami. Driving from Fort Myers to the western part of the park, you will need 1.5 hours, while guests based in Cape Coral should plan for a 2 hours drive.

Calculate the route to Everglades National Park – Shark Valley

Calculate the rout to the Everglades Alligator Farm

CLIMATE AND WEATHER IN THE EVERGLADES

The national park is open the whole year round, but the months of October to April are considered the best traveling time. Then, the water that floods most of the park in summer retreats. Animals are forced into small pockets and can be observed more easily. What is more, mosquitoes are less of a pest in the dry season. Thanks to moderate humidity and low chances of rain, the month of May is a good compromise. Compared to the winter months, fewer people visit the park at that time.

CLIMATE CHART EVERGLADES

All details on the climate chart of the Everglades.

Miami Information & Travel Tipps – learn what makes Miami the ideal place for your next vacation.

Best Sights and Attractions

Known as the “Magic City” during the construction boom in Prohibition times, Miami had a dubious reputation for a long time. During the 80s, the city was known as an epicenter of the drug trade between Latin America and the USA: Films and TV series immortalized this image in popular culture: Scarface, Miami Vice, high-rises, fast cars, pastel suits and sunglasses – Miami was the epitome of coolness. Today, the city that bears the Indian name for “big water” draws in guests with its futuristic skyline, boardwalks lined with palm trees and the laid-back atmosphere. Here, in the heart of the Sunshine State, life happens outdoors: at scenic beaches, well-maintained parks and numerous sport venues.

Needless to say, Miami boasts a wide variety of sights like zoos, waterparks, museums and historical buildings that keep visitors occupied for days on end. Miami’s food scene offers a unique blend of American and Caribbean flavors, and many upcoming artists are on display in the city’s galleries.

North Miami

Multi-cultural influences, a vibrating art scene and hip quarters characterize Miami’s north. Here you find the aptly named Designer District, known for its handcrafted furniture, exclusive boutiques and jewelry stores. Nearby Wynwood has made a remarkable transition from industrial area to trending district with thousands of shopping opportunities. Many of its inhabitants come from Puerto Rico, which is apparent in the restaurant scene. The district is also known for its murals that are still being painted today. Year after year the Art Basel Festivals draws in culture lovers from far and wide, and on the weekend Wynwood´s streets turn into one giant party with live music and street art.

The Little Haiti Community Garden is perfect for buying organic fruits and vegetables, while rapidly growing Midtown is known for the Biscayne Boulevard with its many shopping opportunities. An architectural highlight is the Bacardi Building, formerly used as the headquarters of the famous rum brand. The area is also a perfect gateway for Airboat tours into the Everglades or day trips to Key West.

Not many people know that Florida has its own Hollywood. The city between Miami and Fort Lauderdale might not match its California counterpart in size, but amazes with sandy beaches that have been awarded for outstanding cleanliness. The many joggers and rollerbladers in the car-free beach zone present a scene that is typical for Miami. International musicians perform at the Hollywood Beach Theater, and golfers can choose between seven courses.

Downtown Miami

Besides being the city’s economic and financial center, Downtown also houses Miami’s tallest buildings. On Bayside Promenade you can enjoy particularly nice views of the skyline against the backdrop of turquoise waters. The nearby marina is perfect for visitors who want to go on fishing trips.

Downtown also features extensive green areas like Bayfront Park, a popular venue for open air concerts. One of Downtown’s most important architectural sights is the Freedom Tower of 1925. Today the building serves as a museum with exhibitions about the history of Cuban immigrants in Florida.

You can see more houses from the Golden Twenties in the Historic District, among them the city’s oldest Catholic church. The Gusman Center for the Performing Arts is known for its operas, and if you like contemporary art, the Perez Art Museum is the perfect place for you – not only due to its futuristic, unconventional architecture. The colorful and interactive exhibitions even fascinate guests who do not usually care about the fine arts.

The same complex also houses the Patricia Frost Museum of Science. Here, visitors can learn a lot about Florida’s wildlife and gaze at the stars in the planetarium. Many exhibitions are tailored to a young audience, for example the aquarium where you can feed stingrays and other fish. You could easily spend a whole day in the Museum Park without feeling bored.

Cross the bridge, and you will reach Watson Island. Here you find the Miami Children’s Museum, a place full of exciting science experiments for young visitors. The island also features the Jungle Island Zoo with its colorful parrots, monkeys, flamingos and penguins. Jungle Island Zoo is one of the few places where you can see “ligers”, a crossing between lions and tigers.

West- und South Miami

No place in Miami harbours more people with Cuban roots than Little Havana – Miami’s version of New York’s Chinatown and Little Italy. You rarely hear English spoken in the famous Domino Park where long-established Cubans enjoy themselves with their favorite pastime – domino. Driving further west, you reach the Grapeland Water Park with its exciting slides, lazy river and child-friendly splash zones.

A true historical gem is situated on the south coast of the Coral Way district. Villa Vizcaya was built for the magnate James Deering in 1916. If it were not for the palm trees of this Renaissance Palace, you could imagine yourself in Italy. After a walk through the lush garden you should definitely take a peek into the villa’s opulent interior. Nearby, guests can watch entertaining sea lion and dolphin shows at the Miami Seaquarium, once home to the famous TV star Flipper. Families with children should also visit Monkey Jungle, where you can see primates like gorillas and feed cute monkeys.

Visiting the Coconut Grove district feels like stepping into a time capsule. Barnacle Historic State Park, for example, is home to a remarkable wooden house that was built by Ralph Middleton Munroe in 1891. The well-renowned yacht designer liked his land undeveloped, so guests can still walk under the shade of majestic trees today. Even more lush vegetation awaits you at the Botanic Garden Kampong, a green oasis in the middle of the city. The garden is maintained by an organization devoted to the protection of tropical plants. 1000 different species can be found in the 27 acres area.

Miami´s Best Beaches

White, sandy beaches, palm trees and luxurious sports cars – these things come to mind when people think of Miami Beach. Despite its name, Miami Beach is actually a city on its own, situated south of Miami. Even just driving there will reward you with astonishing ocean views. By far the most popular spot for sun worshippers is South Beach. Here you can watch Miami’s rich and famous relaxing. „See and be seen“ is the mantra here. Additionally, the district is home to many historical buildings in the Art Deco style – the latest trend in the 1920s. It was here along pastel-colored houses that Sunny Burnett and Ricardo Coopers chased the bad guys in the TV series Miami Vice.

One of the most iconic places in South Beach is Ocean Drive. This street is known for its Art Deco hotels and luxury mansions where the high society of Miami Beach resides. No photo tour would be complete without Versace Mansion, home to the fashion icon Gianni Versace until he was shot in front of it. Many cocktail bars make Ocean Drive perfect for an evening stroll. Granted, the prices are astronomical, but at least the cocktails come in jumbo size.

South Pointe Park amazes visitors with its fine sandy beach. Here you can watch the big ocean liners or ride the waves on a jet ski. Well-maintained green spaces are perfect for a walk in the shade. Fans of the TV series Miami Ink have another reason for visiting this part of the city: the Love Hate Tattoo Studio, where the series´ protagonists are still working – even though the studio moved to a bigger building nearby after shooting was done. A true haven for shopping fans is Lincoln Roads Mall, an extensive street laden with boutiques, cinemas, restaurants and cocktail bars by the sea. Miami Beach is also home to the Holocaust Memorial with its 42 feet bronze statue. The memorial serves as a grim reminder of atrocities during the Nazi regime.

Shopping Opportunities

If you are looking for a true retail haven, look no further than the Aventura Mall, Florida’s biggest shopping center. More than 300 stores on three floors sell the newest products, while the extensive food court serves a wide range of international dishes. Even if you do not need anything, you should visit Aventura Mall for its elegant design. A bit further from the city center stretches Sawgrass Mills, Florida´s second largest mall. 300 Shops fill an area the size of 30 football fields. Here you can go shopping all day without feeling bored – especially because of the rewarding discounts. Just take the shuttle bus from your hotel in Miami or Miami Beach directly to the mall. Tickets come with a coupon book and a map of the mall. For more shopping opportunities nearby, visit the Dolphin Mall or Bayside Marketplace.

Restaurants

North Miami’s Little Haiti welcomes guests with its laid-back Caribbean vibes and Creole cuisine. A relaxing bicycle ride brings you to the many cafés on the boardwalk. Little Havana in Southwest Miami is perfect for trying Cuban dishes and buying the famous Cuban cigars, not only because prices are significantly lower than in other parts of the city. High-quality steaks and exquisite wines await you at the Capital Grille in Downtown Miami. And of course, the city has no shortage of Fast Food joints as well as Italian, Chinese and many other restaurants.

Accommodation in Miami

Miami offers a wide range of accommodation options for every budget. The city is home to luxurious hotels like the Mandarin Oriental, The Palms and the Riu Hotel, as well as affordable hotel chains and charming vacation homes. Miami Beach is most known for its privately owned, creatively designed Boutique Hotels. But even in this hotspot, you can find cheap places to stay. As a rule of thumb, the further south you go, the higher the prices. Those looking for a discount should avoid the main season between November and April. The month of May is perfect if you are looking for a bargain but also want to enjoy endless sunshine.

Climate and Weather

Miami attracts visitors with its tropical climate and 250 sunny days a year. During October and March, temperatures can drop to 60.8° F for a short time, but it never really gets cold in this city. The dry season brings most pleasant conditions, making the months of March, April and May the best traveling time. However, even during rainy season the showers are predominantly short, so guests can still enjoy plenty of sunshine, as well as empty beaches.