Miami Attractions, Things to Do & Vacations

Introduction

Climb aboard and check out the different sides of Greater Miami. Miami on the mainland is south Florida's commercial hub, whereas its sultry sister, Miami Beach (America's Riviera), encompasses 17 islands in Biscayne Bay. Seducing winter refugees with its sunshine, beaches, palms, and nightlife, this is what most people envision when planning a trip to what they think of as Miami. These visitors fail to realize that there's more to Miami Beach than the bustle of South Beach and its Deco District.

Indeed, there are quieter areas to the north like Sunny Isles Beach, Surfside, and Bal Harbour. During the day downtown Miami has become the lively hub of the mainland city, relatively accessible thanks to the Metromover extension, a supplementary rail system linking many downtown sights that conveniently connects Metrorail's Government Center and Brickell stations. Other major attractions include Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, Little Havana, and, of course, the South Beach-Art Deco District (by the way -- only tourists use the term "Art Deco District").

Since these areas are spread out beyond the reach of public transportation, you'll have to drive. Rent a convertible if you can. There's nothing quite like wearing cool shades and feeling the wind in your hair as you drive across one of the causeways en route to Miami Beach. To find your way around Greater Miami, learn how the numbering system works. Miami is laid out on a grid with four quadrants -- northeast, northwest, southeast, and southwest -- which meet at Miami Avenue and Flagler Street. Miami Avenue separates east from west, and Flagler Street separates north from south. Avenues and courts run north-south; streets, terraces, and ways run east-west. Roads run diagonally, northwest-southeast. But other districts -- Miami Beach, Coral Gables, and Hialeah -- may or may not follow this system, and along the curve of Biscayne Bay, the symmetrical grid may shift diagonally. It's best to buy a detailed map, stick to the major roads, and ask directions early and often. However, make sure you're in a safe neighborhood or public place when you seek guidance; cab drivers and cops are good resources.

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