Miami Beach - the hottest beach in the USA
Nicknamed after NYC's SoHo district, SoBe - or South Beach - has become a cultural magnet for both the chic and bohemian. With playful colors adorning reinvigorated Art Deco structures, no shortage colorful characters walking the streets, bathing on the beaches and living the life, Miami Beach is pure wonderland.
Oh, and the beach is pretty cool, too! Mile upon mile of beautiful sand and turquoise blue water.
Restaurants
The News Cafe
The food is average, overpriced and the service is deplorable. Location, location, location and a bit of morbid history is why it's often difficult to find a good seat. Probably the best view on Ocean Drive to feel the pulse of South Beach. 800 Ocean Drive.
Joe's Stone Crab Restaurant
Almost as famous as the Stone Crab itself. This iconic restaurant has been a Miami fixture for 99 years now - and counting. Delicious Key Lime Pie, too. 11 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach.
Places to Stay
The Tides
The Diva of the Art Deco District got way more than a face lift in 2008 and has made an impressive reappearance. All rooms and suites offer a dramatic view of Lummus Park and the beach beyond. The Tides is at the epicenter of South Beach, and shows off her grace and elegance at every turn. 1220 Ocean Drive.
Eden Roc
The Eden Roc Renaissance Miami Beach has always been a top choice for savvy vacationers, but after a complete makeover in 2010, the place - sorry - really rocs. Eden Roc has a lobby that is so well appointed and designed that it really is the epicenter of the hotel - a great place to see and be seen. Four restaurants, four heated outdoor pools, walk directly onto the sands of Miami Beach. While the 600+ available units make Eden Roc a huge property, it seems much more intimate and "boutique" due to some top-notch design work. Eden Roc is a class act.4525 Collins Avenue.
Avalon Hotel
Three story and 58 units of Art Deco Miami Beach boutique hotel on famed Ocean Drive in the heart of the Art Deco District. Pool privileges at sister property - the South Seas Hotel.700 Ocean Drive.
Attractions
Ocean Drive - Art Deco District
Consisting of about 800 buildings built in the 20s and 30s, this district was the first 20th Century district to be placed in the National Register of Historic Places. Created as an offshoot of the Art Deco movement, Miami took a unique twist with this art form and filled it with fun and cleverness. Running from 6th to 23rd streets and between Lenox Avenue and Ocean Drive.
The Charles Deering Estate
An impressive estate with over 450 acres and renowned gardens plus a Mediterranean Revival Mansion. As a haven for local wildlife, there are also rare plants and animals and exhibits. 16701 SW 72 Avenue in Miami.
Vizcaya
Once the winter residence of American Industrialist James Deering of International Harvester fame. Half-brother to Charles Deering. This estate features significant artworks and lavish 34 room mansion. Faces Biscayne Bay. 3251 South Miami Avenue in Miami.
Bass Museum of Art
Within this 1930 Art Deco art museum, you'll find an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures of mostly European origin. Running programs also include visiting exhibitions. 2100 Collins Avenue.
Carl Fisher Monument
Miami Beach owes its existence to this visionary. View the monument to the man at Fisher Park. Crossroads of Alton Road and Lake View Drive.
Jewish Museum of Florida
This cultural and religious museum complex spans two buildings in the Art Deco District that were once synagogues. The central theme of the museum is Jewish life in Florida since 1763. Other exhibits feature film and themed guest presentations. 301 Washington Avenue.
Local Resources
Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau
701 Brickell Ave in Miami.
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