DK Travel : Miami

At its best, Miami is all pastel hues and warm, velvety zephyrs – a tropical reverie. The culture is sensuous and physical, often spiked with Caribbean rhythms and accents. Outdoor activities hold sway throughout the area, at the world-famous beaches and in the turquoise waters; the vibrant nightlife, too, attracts pleasure-seekers, while significant historical sights are around every corner.

Miami Beach to Tip of Key Biscayne

From South Beach, drive west on 5th Street, which becomes the MacArthur Causeway, I-395. Great views to be had over the water and the posh artificial islands, notably Star, Palm, and Hibiscus. Soon you’ll be soaring over Downtown on the overpass that leads around to I-95, getting a bird’s-eye view of the many skyscrapers, which are particularly attractive at night. Just before I-95 ends, take the exit for Key Biscayne. Stop at the Rickenbacker Causeway tollbooth ($1). The high arching road offers more great views of the skyline and takes you to deserted Virginia Key and then to quiet Key Biscayne.
Miami Beach Travelers’ Hostel

One of the cheapest places right in the middle of the SoBe action, this hostel radiates a funloving atmosphere of camaraderie, even though it is a bit grotty. Amenities include Internet access, kitchen, and laundry.
Miami City Ballet

This is a world-class ballet company, under the direction of Edward Villella. The repertoire consists of some 85 ballets.
Miami International Orchid Show

Florida has become one of the world centers for the orchid industry. More than half a million blooms are displayed at this show.
Miami Metrozoo

The zoo works a great deal with endangered species. Zookeepers give talks at feeding times.
Miami Metrozoo

This zoo is an endless delight for children. At the children’s petting zoo, there are regularly scheduled “Ecology Theater” presentations, where children can touch all sorts of exotic species and learn about the local Florida environment as well. Also near the entrance is Dr. Wilde’s World, where, among other hands-on exhibits, you can explore “The Wonders of Tropical America.” Other experiences include sniff stations, animal puzzles, and a sensory game wall.
Miami Metrozoo

An extremely well-conceived and beautifully maintained animal park, divided into habitats that imitate Australasia, Asia, and Africa. It takes at least three hours to walk around it all (the time is well worth spending), or take the 45-minute tram tour or Zoofari monorail, the price of which is included in the entrance fee.
Miami Seaquarium

Lolita the killer whale, Flipper the movie-star dolphin, and Salty the sea lion are all on hand to thrill the kids.
Miami Seaquarium

This has been a Miami institution since the 1960s, when the hit TV series Flipper was filmed here. Trained dolphins still swim in the cove where Flipper once swam, and you can join them under a trainer’s watchful eye for a fee. There are live shows throughout the day, featuring sea lions and killer whales as well as dolphins. Other areas provide viewing stations to see manatees, sharks, a mangrove of pelicans, and a coral reef aquarium.
Miami to Key West

You can do this drive in about three-and-a-half hours, but why hurry? There are great sights along the way, like the fantastic giant lobster at Treasure Village artists’ colony. It’s also definitely worth a stop to have a great seafood lunch or dinner on the water. Other attractions include parks and nature preserves (see Parks, Gardens, and Zoos), and Perky’s Bat Tower (see Perky’s Bat Tower, Sugarloaf Key).

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Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under $100
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