Florida is the southernmost state in the USA after Hawaii and has a reputation as a paradise for retirees. Wrongly. Because the state and especially the metropolis of Miami have so much more to offer. Cuban serenity meets American hustle and bustle, and whether you want to experience a little culture, party hard in the nightclubs, lie on the beach, or go shopping, Miami is the place for you.
The second-largest city in the state after Jacksonville is located in southern Florida on its east coast. The El Dorado for amusement park fans, Orlando, is 360 kilometres away. Miami Beach, on the other hand, lies offshore in the Atlantic Ocean and should not be confused with Miami itself.
Numbers, data, and facts about Miami
State: Florida
County: Miami-Dade
Population: 467,963 (July 1, 2019, estimated)
Area: 143.15 square kilometres (including 92.42 square kilometres of land)
Population density: 13,512 people per square mile
Year founded: 1896
Altitude: 2 metres
Time zone: Eastern (UTC -5/-4)
Miami Postal codes: 33109, 33122, 33125-38, 33140-47, 33149-50, 33154-58, 33160-62, 33165-70, 33172-87, 33189-90, 33193-94, 33196
Area code: +1 305, 786
Mayor: Francis Suarez (Republican)
Miami Nicknames: The Magic City, Gateway to the Americas, Capital of Latin America
Where does the name Miami come from?
In the past, the Mayaimi Indian tribe of the same name lived in the area around Lake Okeechobee, which was once called Lake Mayaimi. Miami was named after the Miami River, but its name goes back to Lake Mayaimi, so it can be said that the city indirectly owes its name to the Indian tribe, which has been extinct since around 1750.
Weather and climate in Miami
The local monsoon climate and the Gulf Stream of the Atlantic both have an impact on Miami’s tropical climate. The climate there is hot and humid in the summer, while it is warm and dry in the winter. Hurricanes are to be expected in the fall. The rainy season from May to October also sees the most rainfall, and thunderstorms occur more or less regularly. Miami is also one of the major cities in the USA with the most rainfall, with the most falling in September. Then there are the most rainy days.
The warmest months are July and August, with average temperatures around 30 degrees Celsius. The coolest month is January, with average temperatures even then being around 21 degrees Celsius. However, you have to expect cold fronts in this travel destination during the winter months or between October and March. However, the Gulf Stream in this area helps to prevent extreme heat periods and severe cold waves.
What is the best time to travel to Miami?
The highest temperature ever recorded in Miami was 40 degrees Celsius, and the lowest was -1 degrees Celsius. Snowfall is very rare in the metropolis, even during the winter months, and has only occurred twice in the history of weather records.
The best time to travel depends on your preferences. The months between February and April in Miami are all about spring break. At this time, there is a lot of hustle and bustle as many students travel to the seaside city. If you would like to explore Miami in greater peace, it is best to travel to Florida in May. The temperatures in Florida are pleasant, and there are relatively few tourists there.
Hurricane season in Miami
The hurricane season in the city of Biscayne Bay runs from approximately the beginning of June to the end of November. However, hurricanes can also occur again and again outside of the official hurricane season. Even in these times, you don’t necessarily have to be afraid of visiting the metropolis. It often happens that hurricanes flatten out over the sea and only thunderstorms, precipitation, and slightly lower temperatures occur.
Florida is also strictly monitored and has a reliable early warning system to protect residents and vacationers. In the event of a hurricane, be sure to follow the instructions given!
Miami Population
Miami is predominantly white, with the majority (over 70%) being of Hispanic descent with roots in Latin America. African Americans account for around 16 percent and people with Caucasian roots around 11 percent. Asians make up around one percent of Miami’s population. The 25 to 45-year-old age group represents the largest group.
When it comes to religious affiliation, Baptists are the most represented in Miami. Catholics make up 27 percent of the Miami metropolitan area. About 10 percent belong to the Jewish religion and 9 percent are Muslims. All in all, Miami is home to 500 churches from 32 denominations.
Economy and Infrastructure
Miami is a major commercial and financial center. Several large companies have their headquarters in Miami and, due to its proximity to Latin America, the place serves as the headquarters of the Latin American branches of more than 1,400 multinational companies such as American Airlines, FedEx, Visa, Microsoft, and Walmart. The Florida metropolis is also considered an important center for television production, especially when it comes to media in the Spanish language. For example, Telemundo and UniMás have their headquarters in Miami. Many well-known music studios are also located there.
However, the majority of residents earn relatively poorly; several people in a household usually work, but the unemployment rate is around one percent higher than in the rest of the USA. Miami ranks third among the poorest cities in the United States in terms of the percentage of people living on incomes below the poverty line.
Income tax is not paid in Miami and throughout the state of Florida. However, property taxes, sales taxes, and the cost of living are higher than in other parts of the United States of America.
One of the largest international airports in the world
Miami has one of the largest international airports in the world, Miami International Airport. In 2016 alone, 44.6 million (million) passengers were handled there in international air traffic and the airport is served by numerous international airlines. In mid-2019 it was announced that Miami would invest $5 billion in its airport.
The Port of Miami is at least as important. It is one of the largest ports in the world for cruise ships. Various cruise lines such as Carnival Cruise and others head to Miami or have their starting point here. The city is also essential as a freight transshipment point. In public transport, the Miami Airport Station is the most important transfer point. Not only the Amtrak long-distance trains from New York City end here, but also the regional trains and Tri-Rail commuter trains. If you want, you can change here to the elevated train or city and long-distance buses.
Metromover connects important facilities
The Miami-Dade Metromover connects many office buildings and public facilities in the city. The ride on the Metromover, which connects office buildings in downtown Miami, among other places, is free.
The most important road connection is Interstate 95, which is crossed by Interstate 195 and 395. In addition, Highways 1, 27, 41, and 441 as well as several state roads run through the urban area of the metropolis.
Miami for tourists
Warm climate, lots of beaches, nightclubs, the waters of the Atlantic and so much more than the TV series “Miami Vice”. The city in the Sunshine State of Florida has a lot to offer that you cannot find elsewhere in the USA. Tropical charm and Latin American flair, for example. The boutiques, the culinary specialties, the nightlife, and especially the nightclubs are also a real experience.
However, it is also important to remember that Miami is one of the more dangerous cities in the United States when it comes to crime rates and you would do well to avoid neighborhoods such as Liberty City, Little Haiti, Little Havana, parts of the waterfront and the Biscayne It is better to avoid the boulevard as a tourist, especially at night after dark. At least if you are traveling alone to this travel destination. If you stick to these guidelines, you can easily have a relaxed vacation in Miami and don’t have to worry about crime any more than anywhere else.
Tickets for attractions and activities
GetYourGuide and Tripadvisor are great ways to learn more about tourist destinations in Miami. AtGetyourguideYou can also book guided tours and tours according to your travel preferences in the city in South Florida. Or you can give one of your loved ones a gift voucher.
Cultural attractions in Miami
When you think of Miami, you probably first think of the sun, the beach, and the television series Miami Vice. And for understandable reasons. In addition to the sun and sea, don’t forget the cultural sights in the city area, such as the museums for young and old, which are worth seeing.
Museums worth seeing in Miami
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens:
The museum displays antique carpets and furniture, paintings, and decorative objects. The villa was James Deering’s winter residence from 1926 to 1925.
Perez Art Museum Miami:
The first museum on the square is the “Pérez Art Museum Miami”. The exhibitions focus on the different cultures and geographical conditions here at the intersection of North and South America. In addition to art, there is also a hanging garden to admire here.
Wolfsonian:
The Wolfsonian is affiliated with the Smithsonian Institute and exhibits nearly 180,000 works of art from around the world from the late 19th century to the end of World War II.
ICA:
The “ICA” shows local and undervalued artists and supports experimental and intellectual exchange on an international level. So there is always something new to see here.
The Bass:
“The Bass” in Collins Park is dedicated to modern art and recently acquired two important works of art to complement its existing exhibition: “Miami Mountain” by Udo Rondinone and “Eternity Now” by Sylvie Fleury, which adorns the museum facade.
HistoryMiami:
The “HistoryMiami” is one of the largest regional history museums and is also part of the Smithsonian Institute. More than 37,000 exhibits date back to pre-Columbian times. Tourism and technological developments in South Florida are other topics.
Lock & Load Miami:
A museum that is all about submachine guns and where you can even fire shots with fully automatic firearms? Lock & Load Miami offers all this and more. Numerous historical items are on display in the free museum.
Miami for Nature lovers
Miami-Dade Zoological Park and Gardens:
The “Miami-Dade Zoological Park and Gardens” is the largest and oldest zoo in Florida. Over 3000 animals live there. Many plants can also be admired here over three square kilometers.
Flamingo Gardens:
The “Flamingo Gardens” is not only a botanical garden for more than 3,000 species of rare, exotic plants but also a rescue center for wild animals that cannot be released into the wild due to injuries. Alligators, bears, eagles, otters, and panthers are some of the animals that can be seen here.
Everglades Outpost:
The “Everglades Outpost” has a similar theme. Here, too, animals from poor husbandry are nursed up and either released into the wild (if possible) or cared for until the end of their lives.
Oleta River State Park:
Oleta River State Park is located north of Miami. Here you can have a lot of outdoor fun on foot, by mountain bike, or on the waterways.
Miami’s cultural offerings
Miami also has a lot to offer for culture lovers. The classic here is “Arsht Center“, where various events are held. Among other things, the “Knight Concert Hall” and the “Ziff Ballet Opera House” are based here.
But anyone who loves Cuban culture will certainly get their money’s worth in Miami. “Little Havana“ West of the city center offers Cuban-inspired food and an atmosphere to match. There is even a “Walk of Fame” of Latin American artists along the main street.
Miami Beach is also a crucial part of the culture. The Art Deco buildings alone are worth a visit. And after a strenuous day, you can pamper yourself in one of the numerous spas here…
Wynwood Walls shows works by international street artists indoors and outdoors. What started in 2009 has now become one of the best places in the world to see street art.
It is also located in Miami BeachMiami Beach Holocaust Memorial, which commemorates the extermination of the Jewish population during the Nazi era in Europe. It is located at “1933-1945 Meridian Avenue.”
The most beautiful parks in Miami
Matheson Hammock Park:
Matheson Hammock Park has a man-made beach and marina. Here you can cycle, do water sports, explore the park on foot and have a picnic. Visitors can rent kayaks or paddle boats and travel along the mangroves.
Oleta River State Park:
The best place for cycling is the “Oleta River State Park” with several kilometers of route. Canoeing is also possible on the river. Nature here is relatively unaffected by human transformation.
South Pointe Park:
South Pointe Park in South Beach is all about the ocean. In contrast to Oleta Park, the nature here is very beautifully landscaped and you can stroll between manicured lawns and manicured palm trees. There is a playground, space for skateboarding, and a dog park.
Barnacle Historic State Park:
The oldest house in Miami is located in the ‘Barnacle Historic State Park’. It was built in 1891 and can be visited. At that time the city could only be reached by boat.
Margaret Pace Park:
The “Margaret Pace Park” stands out with an exciting range of sports and various sports fields for basketball and volleyball.
Bayfront Park:
“Bayfront Park” is very diverse and perhaps the most famous park in Miami. Located right next to Bayside Marketplace, there are many activities taking place here. These include yoga and rollerblading, but also an annual music festival.
Miami for children
Are you visiting the city in the Sunshine State of Florida with children? Then, in addition to the zoo and the beach, you should visit these two museums during your vacation.
Frost Science Museum:
The “Frost Science Museum” in Downtown Miami has many interactive exhibits and is therefore ideal for visiting the museum with children on vacation. Among the attractions are a planetarium and an aquarium with sea creatures. The “Frost Science Museum” is part of the Museum Park.
Children’s Museum:
In the “Children’s Museum” between Miami and Miami Beach, there are countless activities for the youngest museum visitors. There is a particular focus on communication, community, and creativity. A nine-meter-high climbing wall, a cruise ship, and a two-story sand castle complement the museum and make it a successful excursion destination for families with children.
Cuban joie de vivre in Little Havana
If you want to experience Miami’s unique atmosphere as authentically as possible, you should visit Little Havana during your trip. The residents of Little Havana, most of whom have their roots in Cuba, maintain their culture there, visiting an absolute experience. Because the influences of Cuban heritage can be felt everywhere.
The most famous street in Little Havana is by far Calle Ocho. There are many shops where you can buy cigars in Little Havana along the street and generally between SW 12th and 16th on Calle Ocho. The most popular shops and great for buying handmade cigars are the shops “Little Havana Cigar Factory & Lounge”, the “The Titan of Bronze” and the “La Tradition Cubana“.
Craving Cuban coffee? Then be sure to check out the “Versailles“ or the “Islas Canarias“and pay a visit.
A great way to get to know the Cuban way of life even better is Domino Park, where the residents meet on Sundays to play the game of the same name. You can also take great travel photos here from the old pictures of the park that date back to the 1970s.
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Other attractions in Little Havana
Tower Theater:
The cinema is located west of Dominos Park and only shows films in the original language. In particular, visitors whose native language is Spanish should get their money’s worth here.
Calle Ocho Walk of Fame:
Walk of Fame? Isn’t it in California? That’s right, but Florida’s Walk of Fame in Miami is dedicated to Cuban artists, who are also honored with a star there.
Memorial Boulevard:
Memorial Boulevard in Little Havana commemorates the victims of the Bay of Pigs invasion in the 1960s with a flame, the “eternal flame”. There is also a bronze map of Cuba, a statue of the Virgin Mary, and some monuments by José Martí and Antonio Maceo.
Ceiba tree:
For Santería, the ceiba is a sacred tree. It is the syncretic, African-American main religion in Cuba. You can find out more about this in the Botánicas shops. The perfect place to have your future predicted.
Bay of Pigs Museum:
Free museum dedicated to the failed 1961 Bay of Pigs invasion.
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Historic Overtown – on the trail of African-American history
Historic Overtown is one of Florida’s oldest African-American neighborhoods and is located west of downtown Miami. The neighborhood’s founding was a direct result of Jim Crow laws that enforced racial segregation. Over time, Historic Overtown became a center for the African-American cultural scene, music, and shops.
Especially in the 1950s, the district was known for its high-quality nightlife and even today the pulsating spirit that characterized the district can still be felt everywhere. The unique art and culture scene, excellent soul food, and several sights make the district west of the city center an absolute experience.
Some attractions in Historic Overtown
Black Police Precinct and Courthouse Museum:
The police station, with its attached jail and courthouse, is the first and only facility of its kind to be run exclusively by African-American police officers. Today you can take part in guided tours by former security guards.
Lyric Theater:
The entertainment center in the district west of downtown has been around for over 100 years. Celebrities of the African-American cultural scene such as Billie Holiday and Cab Calloway once graced the venue.
Jackson Soul Food:
Considered the best soul food restaurant in the city and the soul of the neighborhood, this venerable restaurant. Be sure to visit the family restaurant, which opened in 1946, during your stay.
Downtown Miami /Brickell – home of skyscrapers
Downtown Miami is a cross-section of the city and has a decisive influence on its skyline with its many skyscrapers. Here in Downtown you can visit important tourist destinations such as the Port of Miami, attend a Miami Heat game at the American Airlines Arena, or simply enjoy the unique view of the bay.
Little Haiti – colorful houses and more
Many Haitian immigrants have found a home in the Little Haiti neighborhood. The colorful houses, as we know them from the Caribbean, are characteristic of the district. Caribbean flair, a lively art scene, pubs, and many shops await you there. However, crime is also a big issue there.
People don’t earn very much in this place and tourists can easily become victims. Due to the high crime rate, it is best to only visit the area with someone accompanied, avoid visiting after dark, and carry valuables on your person.
Tip: The best way to visit the district is with a rental car from Avis or another car rental company.
Special Sights in Little Haiti
Carribean Marketplace: A replica of Haiti’s famous Iron Market, the Carribean Marketplace is an architectural marvel designed by famed architect Charles Pawley.
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Things to do in Miami
Shopping :
Miami is a shopping paradise – hands down. “Supply&Advise” in downtown Miami carries small labels. Although these are only available at high prices, you can be sure that not too many people will wear the same thing. If you are at “AndrewStop and find everything about skateboarding. The shop was named after the hurricane that devastated Miami in 1992.
Do you love unusual sneakers and limited editions? Then be sure to browse through the “Shoe Gallery“. And if you or your children like to do crafts, then this is “The Bead Bazaar“An absolute paradise. Here you can get everything you need to make bracelets, earrings, or necklaces.
In addition to Ocean Drive, Collins Avenue, which runs from South Beach (Sobe) to Fort Lauderdale, is probably one of the most famous streets in the city. Here too, there are many opportunities to experience the joys of shopping.
Art galleries, shops, boutiques, antique dealers and much more can be found in Miami Design District. Among other things, Gucci and Versace stores can also be found in this area. A Community Art & Design Night is held every other month in the Design District.
Over 200 stores are represented in the Dolphin Mall, the largest outlet store in the city. With a bit of luck, you can get bargains here at the best price. In the Dolphin events also take place regularly.
And if you just want to experience luxury for once, you should Pay a visit.
Enjoy :
Miami doesn’t fail when it comes to culinary specialties either. Naturally, there are many seafood restaurants here, including a Peruvian version of Japanese dishes called “Nikkei Cuisine”. The “Osaka Corinna Nikkei“ serves lots of fresh seafood, sushi rolls, and grilled meat that only tastes like it comes from a Robota grill.
A great place to start is also the “Novikov“, which is very expensive but worth every dollar. A fusion of Chinese and Japanese cuisine may sound like a lot to get used to at first, but it works brilliantly here in this restaurant. Timon Balloo’s kitchen is much cheaper but at least as adventurous. In his restaurant “Balloo creates something new every day and the prices are moderate.
Nightlife:
The nights in Miami are legendary and there are numerous ways to indulge in the nightlife while on vacation. The climate helps ensure that you don’t cool down here and party until the morning. If you want to explore the city’s nightlife, the best place to start is on Calle Ocho and enjoy some there, or go play bingo with Miss Toto, a drag queen at Miami’s most colorful cocktail bar, Gramps.
Afterwards perhaps another cocktail at the Terraces Hotel in the Bricknell district. Since Miami doesn’t have any hills, you have to go to artificial elevations to get a view. South Beach is home to the famous clubs “LIV” and “Story “, whereas a woman you don’t have to wait in line for long. For men, however, things can look different. You should plan a little more time for these attractions in Miami’s nightlife.
Entertainment of a different kind is offered in containers. Microtheater is the art of presenting short plays on pop-up stages. You walk from stage to stage and have a drink in the courtyards between the attractions. The plays here are mostly performed in Spanish.
Do you love salsa? Then you’ll get your money’s worth in Miami. Because salsa is simply part of the way of life here. South Beach and Little Havana are recommended neighborhoods if you want to dance.
Do sports:
The flat area is ideal for relaxed cycling. You can rent bikes in many places, best in Key Biscayne. 30 golf courses in the Miami area also provide more than enough choice for a game of golf. Sailing and boating are of course also very popular and boat rental companies are a dime a dozen. And if you want, you can also go to one of several outdoor gyms in Lummus Park free of charge and train there.
For the more leisurely tourists, various guided walks are offered. For example, the “Art Déco District Walking Tour”. It takes about 90 minutes to get there and marvel at the buildings on Ocean Drive. The tour departs daily at 10:30 a.m. from the Miami Design Preservation League Center on the corner of Ocean Drive and 10th Street. The walk “Little Havana Arts & Culture Walk“ is carried out by “HistoryMiami” and starts at 6:00 p.m. at the “Los Pinareños Fruteria” juice stand, but only once a month.
And if you prefer to do sports passively, you can also go to a Miami Heat game, for example. Or you can attend a Miami Dolphins game at Hard Rock Stadium, which has hosted the famous NFL Super Bowl several times. The stadium has a seating capacity of over 65,000 for football games.
Enjoy the sun, water, and sandy beaches :
Miami is located on the Atlantic and offers so much more than just an opportunity to enjoy a beautiful beach holiday and go swimming in the sea. The island of Key Biscayne offers an absolute paradise with palm tree-lined streets and sandy beaches. Here you can also visit, among other things, an aquarium with sea creatures. South Beach, Lummus Park Beach, and Mid Beach are also worth a visit.
Tip: If you drive on the Rickenbacker Causeway towards Key Biscayne, you will find a parking lot under the first high bridge, which offers a fantastic view of the Miami skyline, especially at night.
Events throughout the year in Miami
There is always something going on in Miami and you shouldn’t get bored. The following events represent special highlights of the year.
South Beach Jazz Festival:
The “South Beach Jazz Festival” takes place in January of each year. From traditional to modern to Latin and New Orleans jazz, you’ll get a lot on your ears here. The organizer, David New, suffers from an illness that left him immobile, blind, and deaf so this festival is particularly dedicated to disabled artists.
Coconut Grove Arts Festival:
360 artists are selected to participate in the Coconut Grove Arts Festival each year. They come from the fields of painting, photography, jewelry design, sculpture, and more. You walk from stand to stand and can also watch live performances. Concerts and food stalls enliven the picture.
Carnival in Miami :
Some festivals related to Carnival take place in March. The various events surrounding the carnival attract a million visitors every year.
American Black Film Festival:
The American Black Film Festival takes place every June. It is a film awards ceremony lasting several days where African-American films and filmmakers are honored.
Aqua Girl:
The “Aqua Girl” is a festival exclusively for women that takes place every August. Women from the LBT community have been meeting here and celebrating life for 20 years.
Miami International Auto Show:
The “Miami International Auto Show” took place for the 48th time in 2019 and lasted 10 days. Antique automobiles are the magnet of this show, which South Florida’s automobile dealers invite you to every year.
Ultra Music Festival:
The Ultra Music Festival can look back on quite a long history. The main stage with its impressive lighting effects is legendary.
Book accommodation in Miami
Miami is one of the most exciting holiday destinations in the USA and a place where books are not enough, but where you should experience life – including its residents. The city is geared towards tourism and offers many hotels and other options to spend the night.
For a pleasant user experience, compare individual hotels and other accommodations in locations that suit you based on your travel preferences. In our experience, the free provider is very suitable for thiswww.booking.com. There you can compare offers and book your accommodation for the nights in Miami directly.