What to do in Miami

Advice on what to do in Miami, including culture, relaxation, nightlife, sport and food.

Cultural attractions in Miami
To gaze upon what is allegedly the product of one man's unrequited love, Coral Castle is an impressive castle carved into the rock between Florida Keys and Miami. Known as America's Stonehenge, it is claimed that a Latvian immigrant spent 28 years carving it on his own after being spurned by a lover. Heart-warming, if a little fanciful, but nevertheless impressive.

The Miami Museum of Science and Space Transit is great day out for the family, thanks to its almost exclusively interactive array of exhibits and

Contemporary art lovers should not miss the Museum of Contemporary Art, which includes works by the likes of Roy Lichtenstein, or the hidden away private collection at the Rubell Family Art Collection in downtown Miami.

Get a feeling and an introduction to the art deco movement which dominates the Miami Beach area at the Art Deco Welcome Center, which provides a fine launch pad to learning about the controversial design.

Relaxation in Miami

The Everglades National Park is the only subtropical preserve in North America, and is a trove of wildlife. With its large bird population to admire, there are also crocodiles and alligators to watch with equal amounts of awe and alarm. Visitors can navigate the park either by canoe or air-boats.

Key West is the southern-most point of America, and is one of the must-see places for visitors to Miami. It can only be reached by the Overseas Highway, which takes travellers across 30 islands, over a series of bridges and causeways. The trip takes a while, but the coral reefs, diving and fascinating sitting to enjoy when you arrive makes it worthwhile.

One of the most popular tourist spots in Florida is the massive Miami Seaquarium, which has a host of marine attractions including killer whale displays as well as one of the world's most famous dolphins, the star of the TV series, Flipper.

Nightlife in Miami
Boasting a hedonistic night time scene unrivalled by most of America, Miami is one of the destinations to go where partying goes on well into the morning.

For an all-nighter, head to Clubspace, a massive warehouse for those who want to dance until the sun rises, with the added distraction of a 24 hour alcohol licence.

A visit to Miami would not be complete without soaking up some of its latino vibes, and Hoy Como Ayer is a good place to start, with proper Cuban music from a house band, proper Cuban cigars and a laid back atmosphere.

For something out of the ordinary, the Laundry Bar gives you the opportunity to drink, party and play billiards while you do the most debauched of activities – your washing.

Sport in Miami
Touch down with the Miami Dolphins at the Dolphins Stadium for some bruising American football.

The Miami Heat are the team to check out for some basketball at the AAA stadium.

Recommended restaurants in Miami
Authentic Spanish cuisine be found downtown at Mosaico Restaurant, which combines a lively drinking den with great food.

For fresh seafood, try Solo on the Bay at Miami Beach, which has delightful waterfront views and diners can enjoy fish that has been brought in out of the sea that very day.

Elsewhere in Miami Beach, Talula serves a value for money mix of Italian, Asian, Latin and French foods in an unintimidating yet sophisticated atmosphere.