1. Port Of Miami
City: Miami Beach, FL
Category: Tours & Attractions
Telephone: (305) 291-7678
Address: 1015 North American Way
Description: As the world’s largest cruise port it is worth a glance—in the 2009–2010 fiscal year it actually set a new cruise traffic world record of about 4.15 million passengers, which is attributed to the rise in cruise vacationing as a more budget-conscious getaway. Dodge Island and Lummus Island make up the port and visitors can admire it from afar or drive over from Biscayne Boulevard. One of the best times to view the port is at night, when ships are illuminated and traffic is less dense.
2. Miami Beach Botanical Garden
City: Miami Beach, FL
Category: Tours & Attractions
Telephone: (305) 673-7256
Address: 2000 Convention Center Dr.
Description: In the heart of South Beach, there’s a hidden garden, which even locals occasionally miss. Modeled in a Japanese garden style, the 4.5-acre botanical garden is home to orchids, tropical plants, and trees. It’s an ideal place to read, relax, or hold events, a pastime that frequently takes place in the space. Entrance is free and the space is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. except Mon.
City: Miami Beach, FL
Category: Tours & Attractions
Address: 1001 Ocean Dr.
4. Ocean Force Adventures
City: Miami Beach, FL
Category: Tours & Attractions
Telephone: (305) 372-3388
Address: 300 Alton Rd. at Miami Beach Marina
Description: Two hour tous are given in what Ocean Force calls “the only Zodiac RIV tour boat in Florida.” The 40-mile tour covers major Miami attractions including Stiltsville, Biscayne National Park, the Port of Miami, Cape Florida Lighthouse, and the shoreline of Miami Beach. Tours depart daily at 9:30 a.m., 11:45 a.m., and 3 p.m.; reservations are recommended at least 24 hours in advance.
5. The Wolfsonian Museum
City: Miami Beach, FL
Category: Tours & Attractions
Telephone: (305) 531-1001
Address: 1001 Washington Ave.
Insider Pick:
Description: Florida International University’s museum, located in the heart of historic Miami Beach, features a collection of objects showcasing art and design from the modern era during the 1885 to 1945 period. If possible, go Fri after 6 p.m. when admission is free. The museum is open from noon to 6 p.m. every day except Wednesday. Hours are extended until 9 p.m. on Fri.
6. World Erotic Art Museum
City: Miami Beach, FL
Category: Tours & Attractions
Telephone: (305) 532-9336
Address: 1205 Washington Ave.
Description: This museum’s name speaks for itself. This 20,000-square-foot space is dedicated to a variety of artistic erotica displayed in over 20 rooms, with plenty to ogle at. Open Mon through Thurs from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Fri through Sun from 11 a.m. to midnight.
7. The Bass Museum
City: Miami Beach, FL
Category: Tours & Attractions
Telephone: (305) 673-7530
Address: 2121 Park Ave.
Description: This museum houses a broad collection of antiquities as well as Renaissance and Baroque art, including a recently added Egyptian mummy gallery. Committed to educational and community outreach programming, a variety of events like concerts and talks are held year-round and are updated on the online calendar. Special admission rates may be available at certain times of the year: During Miami Museum Month, Bass participated in a buy-one, get-one-free deal. Check out the snack bar for munchies and free Wi-Fi. Open Wed through Sun from noon to 5 p.m. and closed Mon and Tues.
8. Jewish Museum Of Florida
City: Miami Beach, FL
Category: Tours & Attractions
Telephone: (305) 672-5044
Address: 301 Washington Ave.
Description: This museum chronicles the Florida Jewish experience, going as far back as 1763 and connecting to the present with exhibitions that explore aspects of American Jewish identity, history, and culture. Take advantage of free museum entrance on Sat. Otherwise, take advantage of the $1 discount coupon on the website. Open Tues through Sun from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed on Monday, civil, and Jewish Holidays.
9. Big Pink
City: Miami Beach, FL
Category: Tours & Attractions
Telephone: (305) 532-4700
Address: 157 Collins Ave.
Description: Big Pink is a favorite of the late-night nightlife crowd but its laid-back beach style; brightly colored decor, and generous portions cater to a kid-friendly environment during the daytime. A kid’s menu includes staples such as grilled cheese, spaghetti, macaroni and cheese, burgers and dogs, and chicken fingers. Regular portions are plenty to share, though, so splitting with kids is totally do-able.
10. Genius Jones
City: Miami Beach, FL
Category: Tours & Attractions
Telephone: (866) 436-4875
Address: 1661 Michigan Ave.
Description: Fun without sacrificing design, Genius Jones sells nontraditional children’s furnishings. Mod rocking chairs, fabric tepees, and pod-like high chairs are just some of the store’s unique offerings. There are also more conventional accessories such as colorful car seats, playful lunchboxes, and Bugaboo strollers. Even those without children may want to check out the store’s stylish seating and bedroom options. Check out the additional Miami location in the Design District at 49 NE 39th St.