Bus Charter and Leisure Blog Archive

Fun at the Miami Museum of Science and Space Transit Planetarium

The Miami Museum of Science and Space Transit Planetarium is located at 3280 South Miami Avenue in Miami Florida. It is geared to children but people of all ages can enjoy all that it has to offer. The Miami Museum of Science and Space Transit Planetarium had its grand opening in 1966 and it has been thrilling adults and children ever since.

The Miami Museum of Science and Space Transit Planetarium is home to the Jack Horkhemier Star Gazer. This is a weekly television series that is based on naked eye astronomy observation. The projection screen is 65 foot and it has 231 seats. The Miami Museum of Science and Space Transit Planetarium also is equipped to accurately recreate the paths of the stars and planets as they actually occur. This planetarium has breathtaking laser light shows with wonderful music from their unique sound system.

The Miami Museum of Science and Space Transit Planetarium also has a Wildlife Center. This is another great feature in helping both adults and children to learn more about the world around them. They have the ability to learn about Florida's unique wildlife including endangered birds of prey. There are quite a few other types of animals that are represented in different programs. Children can learn about snakes and alligators that are a mainstay of the wild resident population of Florida.

The Miami Museum of Science and Space Transit Planetarium is proof that learning and fun can definitely be synonymous. Be sure to make this fun venue a stop on your next visit to Miami. It's a great way to spend an afternoon or better yet an evening truly under the stars!

Rumi

Miami has a number of night clubs for the beautiful people to hang out and this is certainly one of them. Rumi is named after a 12th century Afghan poet and his poems are features around the nightclub.

Rumi is a great place to have a fantastic meal, then hit the upstairs lounge for some dancing and after dinner drinks. Reservations are highly recommended.

Miami has a number of warehouse-size nightclubs, but the new flavor for the restraurants and lounges, so named restro-lounges is fast becoming the number one places on the local nightlife scene.

Rumi's interior is a blend of 70s disco chic with a dash of Zen. The inside of this restro-lounge is done in browns, reds and oranges that gives an earthy feel to the inside. Everything about the venue is designed to the most intimate detail to be peaceful and low-key, including the employees' uniforms.

There is a special VIP room for individuals with the requisite celebrity status or those who are looking for that especially enchanting evening in South Beach. The VIP lounge features a fireplace and hundreds of candles creating an undeniably romantic ambiance. With screens dividing the room from the rest of the restaurant, only shadows can be seen.Famous shadows that have graced these screens include Lenny Kravitz, Christina Aguilera, Pink, Vince Vaughn and Jon Bon Jovi.

The cuisine is a big treat here as well. The cuisine is a singing blend of Caribbean based with French and Spanish influences that mix very well together. Whether you like chicken, fish or steaks - you will find something to rave about.

After dinner, be sure to stop by the lounge area and have an after dinner drink or two to cap off your night in this fabulous location. There's always something tasty and interesting at Rumi, much like its love-poet namesake, Rumi embodies the finer things in life.

Sunny Isles

Sunny Isles is an all inclusive vacation spot you and your family will love. The white sand beaches are great for sun and fun during the day and at night make sure you have someone to watch the kids, because the nights here just sizzle with Miami flavor.

Sunny Isles Beach lies between the flowing Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean. This tropical barrier island surrounds you with the best of everything.
There are family style fun destinations to 5-star restaurants to shopping and a red hot nightlife scene.

Something both young and old will love is the chance to swim with the dolphins. Other venues in the area you can visit include an ancient Spanish monastery that was rebuilt brick by brick as it was transported from Spain to the USA by William Randolph Heart, you can also see the Everglades National Park where you can take in all the wildness of the Everglades and learn about the plants and animals of the area. Most people come away amazed that alligators are not the ferocious creatures they are made out to be in the media. While definitely not friendly animals, they are actually very shy.

You can also visit the Fairchild Tropical Garden or the Florida Seminole Tour and learn about the indigineous native people of this area. The Miami Metro Zoo and Seaquarium are just a hop, skip and a splash away.

If the arts are your biggest love, you will find a lot to love here. Take in a theater, concert, and other performances are open year round. There are fine arts shows to attend and in the summer months, several art festivals.

From the excitement of meeting a porpoise to the peaceful walls of a Spanish monastery, Sunny Isles Beach puts all of these experiences readily within your grasp.

Doral Resort - Blue Monster Golf Course

If you love golf, really love golf. You will have to book a round of golf at the Doral Resort's Blue Monster Golf Course

The Blue Monster Course has been the host of the PGA tour for the past 40-years. Interestingly, every single big name in golf has had a moment of glory on this course.

Golfers won't find a more challenging golf course. At 7,125 yards, plan on spending a full day playing the Blue Monster Golf Course. This course features long fairways, undulating greens, a deep Bermuda rough that most golfers will find challenging no matter how much experience they have, and a unique assortment of water hazards. The 18th hole is well known with its famous signature fountain, was ranked by GOLF Magazine as one of the Top 100 Holes in the World.

This award winning course has continually won accolades throughout the years to signify the hard work and maintenance that makes this golf course one of the best in the world.

If you didn't bring your clubs or your golfing excursion was a spur of the moment thing, you can rent clubs and pretty much anything else your heart desires to play your golf game at their renowned Pro Shop. Also, Doral Resort has a great gift shop if you want to pick up some Blue Monster merchandise to take home as souvenirs of your trip.

If you're planning a golf tour of your own and you will be in the Miami area, make a stop by the Blue Monster Golf Course and you will have played one of the greatest golf courses in the world.

Putting Your Best Art Forward

A phenomenal place to visit in the Northern Miami area is the Museum of Contemporary Art. This place is full of all that is fascinating and educational in the world of art today. The building, which opened up in 1996, is a 23,000 square foot structure made to fill and enlighten the lives of many with its wonderful exhibits and displays.

With a noble goal of wishing to make contemporary art available to all in the general public, this museum strives to provide a stable platform for young and up and coming artists to hone their skills and broaden their horizons.

Museum hours are from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm Tuesday through Saturday, Noon to 5:00 pm on Sunday, closed on Mondays, and from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm on the last Friday of the month. Admission is only $5 for adults, $3 for seniors and students with a valid ID, and members, North Miami residents and children under 12 are all admitted for free.

If you are a person who love to shop and purchase unique items, the Museum of Contemporary Art Shop is a wonderful place to find some of the best artsy gifts and souvenirs you can imagine. You can find gorgeous jewelry designed by artists, as well as exhibition catalogues. There are even great gift items available for children as well as adults. This is a truly cool place to shop for all of the art enthusiasts on your holiday shopping list.

Are you in the mood to see a wonderful display of stunning paintings? How about some innovative and thought-provoking sculptures? Maybe you are looking to get some of your own insight on some well-displayed photographs mounted by local artists? You can find all that and more during your visit to the Museum of Contemporary Art in North Miami.

Parrot Jungle Island

Visitors to Miami should make sure that Parrot Jungle Island is a stop on their tour. There are over 3000 exotic animals and more than 500 species of plants. If you are adventurous, then this is indeed the place for you. Parrot Jungle Island is located at 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail. The island is between downtown Miami and South Beach just off the MacArthur Causeway. Located on over 18 lush acres, Parrot Jungle Island is indeed a wonderland for animal and jungle lovers.

There are so many things to see and do when you visit Parrot Jungle Island. Feature attractions include the animal stage shows, the one-of-a-kind aviaries, plant nurseries, and the jungle trails. There is also a petting farm and educational exhibits that are just wonderful for the little children and adults that are looking to be in touch with their inner child.

However the centerpiece of Parrot Jungle Island seems to be the Jungle theater. This is where the public can see wild animals perform in an open air arena. It is quite spectacular and one of Parrot Jungle Islands biggest draws. There is also the Manu Encounter which replicates the habitat of the clay cliffs of Manu, Peru which is home to many parrots and macaws.

Not to be overlooked of course is the Parrot bowl. This is where visitors can see the bird shows that Parrot Jungle Island is world famous for. The stadium seats over 1200 people. The Serpentarium houses the huge collection of reptiles and amphibians that Parrot Jungle Island is home to. Reptile lovers will want to make sure that they don't pass this experience up. Finally there is the Everglades Habitat which gives visitors the most realistic view of what the Everglades are like. All in all Parrot Jungle Island a place that all visitors should pencil into their must see calendar.

Bayside Marketplace - A Shopper's Paradise

If you love shopping, then while you are in Miami, you have to stop by Bayside Marketplace. You have never shopped until you have hit this shopper's paradise! Talk about being amazed, once you start walking around, you will begin indulging yourself in all that Bayside Marketplace has to offer. Some of the greatest fun, food and entertainment await you when you stop by this vibrant spot under the Miami sunshine!

For your shopping pleasure, you will find such famous stores as Claire's, Guess, Rue de France, G-Style, The Disney Store, Victoria's Secret, Sunglass Hut, Wilsons Leather and more. Besides these popular national brand stores, you will also find lots and lots of unique items in the gorgeous open-air market. There is something for everyone. Imagine how fun this could make all of your holiday shopping!

When you are hungry, you will have many different options to choose from at Bayside Marketplace. A true culinary event is waiting for you around ever turn. There are nine full-service restaurants to suit your personal tastes that overlook the stunning Biscayne Bay waterfront. If you are in the mood for steak, then you can get a nice and juicy steak made to order. If you are in the mood for seafood, then some of the freshest and delectable items from the ocean are just waiting for your order.

Depending on when you are visiting the exciting Bayside Marketplace, you will find many different events to entertain your entire family. You can listen to some wonderful music or view strolling street performers doing their best to get the biggest chuckles out of the patrons walking by.

The Bayside Marketplace is open every day of the year with the exception of some shops closing on certain holidays. There is plenty of parking available in the huge, covered Bayside parking garage. If additional parking is necessary, it is available behind the Hard Rock Cafe.

Opium Garden Nightclub

If you're looking for a place to go in Miami when the other clubs are starting the wind down. Check out the Opium Nightclub. The Opium Garden is open Wednesday through Sunday 11:30PM to 5AM. There is usually a long line if you show up right at opening.
The bouncers in the front of the club "pick" who gets to go in and who has to stay outside. Definitely dress to impress for this venue.

The atmosphere in this venue is pure Miami heat. There are a couple of different types of settings indoor with a thumping music and a huge dancefloor or outside at little tables under the starry Miami sky.

When celebrities visit the Miami area this is a venue they frequent. Big names such as Paris Hilton, Nicki Hilton, Lindsey Lohan, and Tara Reid are often spotted at this club when they are in the Miami Area. The party in this place doesn't wind down until 5AM and it's a thumping, loud affair until the break of dawn.

DJs spin out the tunes and keep the dancefloor jumping all night long into the wee morning hours. The bars are fully loaded and you won't find too many drink specials, but the drinks are rumored to be among the best in Miami. Standard cover charges range between from $20 to $30. Beer runs around $8 and cocktails running in the vicinity of $14. There is also valet parking available.

If you're looking for a place to party and you don't mind waiting in a line to get in, this is the place for you to come play. On your next visit to Miami, be sure to make the Opium Garden Nightclub a place that you put on your "must see" list of venues to visit.

Plaza De La Cubanidad

No tour of Miami's Little Havana would be complete without a stop at the Plaza de la Cubanidad. This corner of Little Havana is dedicated to the men, women, and children who reside in the six Cuban provinces. Also, the people who were drowned by Fidel Castro's forces while trying to escape from Cuba aboard a ship called "13 de Mayo." The ship was sunk on July 13, 1994 off the coast of Cuba.

You will walk upon the redbrick sidewalks that surround a fountain and monument with the words of Jose Marti, a leader in Cuba's struggle for independence from Spain and a hero to Cuban refugees and immigrants in Miami. The quotation, "las palmas son novias que esperan" which translates as "The palm trees are waiting brides", brought hope and strength to millions of Cubans.

The Plaza De La Cubanidad was recently used to honor the passing of Andres Nazario Sargen who was the leader of an anti-Castro group called Alpha 66 that fought for the majority of his life for democracy on the currently communist island.

This is a very pleasant place to spend a quiet afternoon walking the well maintained walk-ways and admiring the manicured grounds. The monument speaks for itself with its somber honoring of the people who have been fighting against the idea of communism within their homeland since Castro took over in 1959. With Miami's great climate, almost any time of year is a great time to visit, but early Spring will find the Plaza at its most lush and you will see an abundance of flowers throughout the park.

The next time you are in Miami, be sure to visit the Plaza De La Cubanidad and get a real taste of the Cuban flavor that Miami holds so near to its heart.

Gusman Center For The Performing Arts

The Gusman Center was formerly known as the Olympia Theater and has a long history of providing entertainment to generations of Miami theater-goers. The Olympia first opened in 1926 as a silent movie palace and was considered ahead of its time with its progressive architecture. The perfect acoustics and simulated night sky complete with rolling clouds and twinkling stars held most visitors to the theater in awe.

Then, theater achieved notoriety when it became the first air-conditioned building in the South. With the Miami heat that occurs in the summertime, this made The Olympia Theater an even more wonderful place to visit!

In its early years, almost every performer on the circuit played the Olympia for the next thirty years - The Marx Brothers, Gypsy Rose Lee, Paul Whiteman's Band, a variety of vaudeville animal acts, jugglers, singers, legitimate theater all graced this stage.

Even the Olympia couldn't live through the hard times that came to old style theaters when the huge mega-plex cinemas began appearing in shopping centers and more convenient venues. The theater fell into a state of disrepair and was saved from demolition by philanthropist Maurice Gusman. He purchased the theater and donated it to the City of Miami in 1975.

Extensive renovations were done and the Olympia Theater at Gusman Center for the Performing Arts is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Cultural icons such as Elvis Presley, Sarah Vaughan and Luciano Pavarotti have provided memorable evenings under the Gusman stars. Additionally, the Maximum Dance Company, Florida Philharmonic and the Miami International Film Festival call the theater their home.

Next time you are visiting the Miami area, be sure to schedule an evening at the Gusman center and take in a great show and enjoy the legend and classical atmosphere of this historical venue.

Aventura Mall - An Adventure In Shopping

The Aventura Mall located at 19501 Biscayne Boulevard is not only one of the biggest malls in the country, it is one of Florida's premier shopping experiences. Aventura Mall has more than 200 upscale shops for you to visit, along with the big names you know and trust such as Bloomingdale's, Lord and Taylor, Macy's, JCPenney, Sears and Abercrombie and Fitch.

Aventura Mall has everything to make your shopping excursion a good one. This facility was designed with the super shopper in mind. There are ATM's at four locations around the mall.

If you happen to be traveling with a group, Aventura Mall offers a complementary shuttle service for parties larger than 20 people, these shuttles stop at most hotels and airports. Another perk of the Mall is the addition of a car wash located in Macy's Men Home Furniture parking garage. Valet parking is available at the North and South entrances of Aventura Mall.

More great reasons to visit Aventura Mall are the choices in dining. If you just want to grab a snack and get back to shopping, Aventura has a huge selection of foods at the Treats Food Court. You can choose from Americana Cuisine, Che Pasta, Middle East Connection for some great treats like Gyros and Schwarma. If fine dining is more your speed after a day of shopping - Aventura Mall was designed with you in mind too. You can choose from Bella Luna with its fine Italian dishes, Johnny Rockets which is a 50s style diner with all American fare and the occasional song and dance on the bar by the servers. There are also great Mexican restaurants such as La Valentina and over 13 more venues to choose from.

After a great day spent shopping and a fantastic meal. You can take in a movie at the huge AMC Cinema located at Aventura Mall. This large 24 theater mega-plex shows all the latest releases and is a great way to relax.

Aventura Mall has something for everyone from great shopping, fine dining and even movies. Be sure to schedule a stop on your next visit to Miami.

Discovering The Arts In Miami

The Miami Art Museum has been gracing its visitors with some of the most innovative and vibrant art collections for years. Funded both privately and publicly, the museum looks forward to providing this same wonderful gift of the arts to visitors for many years to come. There are many great exhibitions on display to invoke the creativity and positive thinker in all of us.

When you visit the museum you are treated to a feast of cultural treats. Some of the wonderful things that you can view from time to time are wonderful sculpture displays, paintings, photography, and performance art. For teachers, a trip to the Miami Art Museum can also be a fascinating and educational experience for all of your students.

The museum is conveniently located at 101 West Flagler Street where there is plenty of parking available for patrons. Hours of operation are Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, every third Thursday from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday from Noon to 5:00 pm, with closings on Mondays and every major holiday. Admission is extremely affordable, with adults being $5, seniors being $2.50 and everyone else, meaning children under 12, students with proper ID, and members all getting in free of charge.

During your visit you may want to stop by the Miami Art Museum Store and Snack Bar. This is a great place to stop and take a break from your diligent viewing of the many exhibits in the galleries. You can snack on certain food items as well as purchase a cool, refreshing drink. There are also other items for sale such as some books and postcards.

No matter what time of year you stop by the Miami Art Museum, you are certain to be enlightened by all that you can take in and learn. This is a wonderful trip to plan for your entire family to teach your children all about the fine arts.

Fun At The Miami Seaquarium

For an interesting, educational and fun time for the entire family, you should visit the Miami Seaquarium. You can learn about all kinds of marine animals such as sharks, sea lions, seals, dolphins, manatees, and eels. It is easy to fill up an entire day with great exhibits and exhilarating shows.

There are so many fun shows here for your viewing pleasure, you may want to plan more than one trip so you can take your time to see everything. You can head over to Flipper Lagoon to catch the Dolphin Show. This lagoon was the film location for the popular 1960s television show Flipper. There is even the chance for audience participation where you can get your own personal experience with these beautiful creatures.

You can also stop by the Whale and Dolphin Stadium to get a peek at Lolita, the famous resident killer whale. You will be amazed to watch her and her trainer "walk on water". It is truly a must-see event for the entire family.

The Golden Dome hosts a fun Sea Lion Show that will keep you laughing even after you go home. These cute little sea lions love to perform all kinds of tricks and play for the audience. During certain times of the day, guests are also welcome to stop by to feed the creatures at the Seal Lion Exhibit. You will not believe what these mammals will do for at tasty fish or two at the Miami Seaquarium!

The Miami Seaquarium is located at 4400 Rickenbacker Causeway and is open daily from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm. Admission is $25.95, with cost for children ages 3 to 9 being $20.95. There are annual passes available for purchase. You paid admission includes the many marine-life show and exhibits located within the beautifully landscaped 38 acres of Miami land.

Running Wild At The Miami Metrozoo

If you are looking for a really cool place to visit or bring your entire family in the Miami area, you should check out the Miami Metrozoo. You will be absolutely amazed at all of the awesome stuff that there is for everyone to see and do here. By the way, if you are an animal lover, then you have definitely come to the right place!

At the Metrozoo you can see some of the most exotic and wonderful creatures that walk the face of the Earth. Witness gorgeous tigers, including rare white tigers in a beautifully landscaped setting. There is also a good deal of elephants that you can study, from the giant African elephant to the majestic Asian elephant. You can also see both American and Cuban alligators, leopards, and witness a fun display by diving ducks.

There are a couple of great gift shops that are open to browse around in. The Toucan Trader is located right near the Metrozoo gates so you can stop by either on your way in or on your way out. There are lots of novelty animal gift items here such as toys and t-shirts. The Aviary Store is a nice place where you can find animal related gift items as well as great gifts related to unique and exotic birds.

The educational Miami Metrozoo is open 365 days of the year for your visiting pleasure. Convenient park hours are from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm so you can get in to see everything that you wish. Admission prices are $11.50 for adults, $10.50 for seniors, $6.75 for children ages 3 through 12, and children 2 and under get in for free. There are also several mobility options that are available for rent for your convenience. You can rent wheelchairs as well as strollers and wagons for your kids.

I/O - Miami Sound Miami Style

Next time you're looking for a place to play in Miami, make the I/O Lounge a definite stop. This hot club has 3 huge areas. There is a large bar just as you walk in the front door and the main room where there is usually a live band playing and if the weather is nice, settle back and enjoy the music under the stars out on the patio.

The cover usually runs $5-$10 and that covers most live acts, even the larger names that choose to play this venue. The vibe is definitely funky and there are a lot of eclectic and artsy types that hang out here, the people watching is rumored to be as good as the drinks!

The bar area where you can quench your thirst will usually have Japanese anime playing. Nearby there is a huge dance area where live music will be thumping away and the best dancers will be singling each other out to serve up their best dance floor moves.

The outdoor bar area is a mellow place to unwind after getting your groove on out on the dance floor and if you can work your schedule, try to visit on a Thursday night when it's a heavy Latin flavored Fuacata!

Saturday night is also a great night to make a stop by as they play old school New Wave and the die hard New Wavers straight out of the 1980s show up.

The drink menu is impressive and there is a good number of beers available both in bottles and on tap. No slackers with the microbrews either, they have a great selection available of some local brews. If you get hungry you can munch on tapas (Spanish appetizers) and enjoy the music of the night. This is a great place to cut loose and enjoy the Miami sound!

Oleta River State Park

If you're looking for something a little different to do on your next outing in Miami, consider spending a day at Oleta River State Park where you can kayak, enjoy mountain biking, camping in air-conditioned cabins, swimming in the warmer months, fishing is great all year around, trail walking and picnicking. All of this is located around beautiful Biscayne Bay.

This river has a long history. As early as 500 BC, the river was home to the Tequesta Indians who camped along the river's shore. Remnants of the people who made their home here are still found today in the form of simple tools and arrowheads. When Spaniards first visited the area they encountered bear, deer, panthers, bobcats, wolves, alligators, manatees and numerous birds and small animals.

If you happen to be visiting during the cooler months biking and kayaking are the most popular activities and be sure to bring your camera, porpoises are frequent visitors to Biscayne Bay and are intently curious about anyone or anything that is in "their" water. Best of all, you can rent kayaks, canoes and bikes so you can travel light and arrive to have a great day out on the Bay.

Oleta River State Park is also a mainstay for several movies and television shows to film. Bad Boys II, CSI Miami and Showtime have all filmed at the park.

Oleta River Park is Florida's largest urban park and if you travel to the Northside of the park, you will be treated to a stand of beautiful mangrove forest. If you want to paddle a canoe or kayak in this area, it is allowed but you must not touch the mangroves as they are fiercely protected.

This Park is a great way to spend an afternoon and if you have porpoise lovers in your family, they will love the chance to see these fascinating creatures up close and personal!

United in Elian House

Elian Gonzalez was a little boy who made a huge impact on many people. His story is at the same time tragic and inspiring. In 1999, Elian's mother who was desperate for her son to have a better life, took to the high seas in a makeshift raft with her young son in tow.

Sadly, Elian's mother died on the journey, but little Elian beat the odds and somehow survived and made it to the shores of South Florida. He still wasn't safe. An enormous custody battle ensued over the young boy. His family in Miami fought long and hard to keep the boy in America instead of sending him back to his father in Cuba. Eventually, the courts ruled Elian must go home. The family refused to turn Elian over to his father and were raided by SWAT Teams with guns and the boy was ripped out of his bed at approximately 6 in the morning.

The home where Elian Gonzalez resided with family for five months after his arrival and during the international custody battle has now been converted into a museum. The museum honors the boy and his time spent in the small house in Little Havana. Visitors will see Elian's toys, photographs and thousands of tributes and poems from Cuban Americans which fill the Miami home.

The United In Elian House is open from 12pm to 6pm daily and there is no charge for touring the house. However, donations for upkeep on the home and maintenance are gladly accepted.

Elian now lives in Cuba and is said to be a happy,well adjusted boy. Despite the horrifying events that happened early on in his young life. The United in Elian house is a place or all people to gather and remember a brave young boy who beat the odds as many Cuban Americans have done, to have a better life.

Rok Bar Miami

If you're a fan of heavy metal and you love your rock and roll, this is the bar for you. The Rok Bar normally attracts a high end crowd. There is almost always a line out in front and the dress code is strictly enforced (dress to impress is the rule of the day here).

Once you're inside, the Rok Bar but makes up for that fact with it's huge number of drinks available, friendly waitstaff, never ending music played over a state of the art sound system and the people watching is pretty impressive too.

This bar is co-owned by ex-Motley Crue thumper Tommy Lee and it definitely knows how to get down and dirty with the rock and roll. The Rok Bar was built on the principle that rock and roll is one of the pillars upon which this great country was founded and the Rok Bar has been a big hit with the hip crowd in the Miami area.

The interior of the Rock Bar features a stunning glass and granite bar which is backed by amazing holographic art works of some of the best looking rock-babes around and the music covers runs the gamut from Motley Crue to Black Sabbath to Metallica and all bands that rock in between.

The bar is fully loaded and features several beers on tap as well as a great selection of imports and domestic in bottles. If mixed drinks are more your thing, they have all the top shelf whiskeys and liquors you could dream of.

One of the most amusing nights are the Tuesday night "Dead Rock Star" parties and a ask if the Jack Daniels is on special. If you want a hard rocking night in Miami, stop by the Rok Bar and be prepared to party hard.

Gameworks

What a unique idea! Gameworks is the brainchild of Steven Spielburg. Who else could have dreamed up an idea like this? This totally different attraction features dining, wining and games all in one place.

Located at 5701 Sunset Drive in Miami Florida this is a night out the likes of which you have never seen before. It is also one that you will never forget. Gameworks combines all of the ingredients that you need to have a great night out in one venue. It does this surprising feat with a lot of energy and imagination. Visitors to Miami should definitely make sure they put Gameworks on their list of places in Miami to experience and enjoy.

When it comes to having a terrific night out, GameWorks offers the ultimate in convenience. Featuring a full bar, a full-service restaurant and a plethora of high-tech games, Miami GameWorks is a one-stop entertainment extravaganza that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

GameWorks has games and attractions such as Vertical Reality, Max Flight, Indy 500, Ford Racing Zone and Jurassic Park - Lost World. The Miami GameWorks Grill menu includes burgers, pizzas, steaks, pastas and desserts. The sports bar serves a variety of mixed drinks, wines and beers while giant video screens are blaring out their fare.

Gameworks is a huge undertaking, both in venue size and in what it offers. The super charged fun atmosphere make it the perfect place to have a great night out. The 31,000-square-foot GameWorks is so large it can accommodate most any occasion you can think of. Gameworks would also be great to have host your next birthday party or special event. With all the activities that are available to you and your guests there shouldn't be an unhappy person in the group. It will be a party to remember.

Domino Park

Next time you're in the Miami area and you want to visit a place off the beaten path, make a stop by Maximo Gomez Park, or more popularly known as Domino Park. It is one of the most popular meeting places in Little Havana. If you stop by at anytime of day you will find a park filled with locals and retirees playing dominoes or chess.

The park itself is serene and well-maintained. Maximo Gomez Park is named after a famous Cuban revolutionary who fought against Spanish oppression in late nineteenth century Cuba.

This predominantly Cuban district is located on the corner of Calle Ocho and 15th-avenue in the heart of Little Havana. Most of the people you will see in Domino Park have been coming to this area for years and the heated political debates that take place are entertainment themselves. The feelings towards politics in Cuba are passionate and loudly expressed.

Chess is also played frequently in the park, however since the staple of play in the park is dominos. The park received its nickname, Domino Park, for that very reason. Before the park was completed in 1976, the locals that now play dominoes in the park used to play on the corner of 15th Avenue. Then the City of Miami allotted $115,000 to build the park's magnificent architecture.

THere is a lot to see in this small park. There are two barrel-tile-roofed pavilions, a matching storage shed which houses the bathroom facilities. There is also the mainstay of the park: tables set perfectly to an angle to the street corner. The arrangement of the tables and pavilions is the key to the park's architecture, and it serves two purposes here, both important: to open out onto the street corner is essentially Cuban, suggestive of Havana, and it is also an effective way to squeeze a lot of domino players into a tiny space.

Everyone is welcome in Domino Park, be sure to make it a stop on your next tour of Miami's fabulous Little Havana district.

Level Nightclub

Do you love hip-hop? Do you love to dance? If you're going to be visiting Miami, you don't have to do without your hip-hop in what seems like a land of never ending dance and disco bars.

Level is currently the largest nightclub in Miami's South Beach district and features a huge dance floor,along with two small dance floors playing hip-hop dance music. This very popular nightclub in Miami often attracts VIPs and celebrities and is open from Thursday to Saturday.

This huge venue features 40,000 square feet, four full dance floors, three levels of fun, five rooms, nine bars and a 30-foot tall glass enclosed waterfall. The atmosphere at the Level Nightclub is jaw-dropping.

The Level has been host to a myriad of live music shows, touring theater performances, boxing matches and even political rallies for Bill Clinton and Janet Reno. During all this, it is also one of the hottest nightclubs in the South Beach Area.

Level remains a solid bet for a great time. The state-of-the-art sound system delivers the beats in stomach-rumbling yet clear audio, while the pumping air conditioning ensures you'll never be too sweaty when you're getting your groovy on.

There are ample opportunities for people watching and if you want to get cozy, go up on the second level and there are some nice quiet spots to have some intimate conversation with an old friend or a new one you just made at The Level.

The drinks are strong and not overpriced and there is a great selection of not only cold beers on tap but also in bottles. If you like imports or domestics, you are sure to find what you like here.

Hoy Como Ayer

Cafe Hoy Como Ayer is located right in the heart of Little Havana and it encompasses all of the taste and heat of this area. Every night of the week, Hoy Como Ayer gives Cubans the sounds of hot Latin beats, the aroma of spicy Cuban style barbecues at tropical park, the block parties and noches buenas make up this cozy and elegant little club.

Enjoy some Cuban style tapas (appetizers) or a share a plate of tamales come with a side of plantains and a "Cuba Libre" is debated loudly among the locals.

The bar is fully loaded and comes with choices from fine Cuban Whiskey and Rums to Bacardi and Dewars. Champagnes and well drinks are available as well. If you get hungry order up a Tamal Platter with tamales made to order or if you're feeling like something light, there are ensaladas (salads) made with or without your favorite added flavors of beef or chicken.

If you want to dance, you are at the right spot. There is also a good beat playing at this club and on most nights the Spam Allstars regularly throw down a sweaty jam of funky turntable tunes and percussive Salsa beats that makes for a great night of dancing.

The crowd that attends this venue is definitely different than any you'll find on the South Beach circuit, anyone who comes to this club isn't coming to see or be seen. They come here for the food and the drinks and the fun.

Cafe Hoy Como Ayer is filled with Cuban flavors and it attracts locals as well as a good tourist crowd. If you're going to try to have dinner here, arrive early as it is usually packed to capacity as its reputation for great food and great service is known far and wide.

Arts Center South Florida

In 1984, a group of artists banded together to create a different kind of art center for the Miami area. This would focus on the bare and vacant Lincoln Road area. A grant was obtained and the group acquired properties to create an artist colony in 21 storefront spaces.

In 1986, the City of Miami recognized the success of this venture and designated the three-block area as the Lincoln Road Arts District. This area has become one of Miami's premier locations to see up and coming artists of the City and Region.

The nearly 60,000 square foot area encompasses 52 artists' studios, exhibition galleries, art education classrooms and administrative offices. Today over 7 million visitors to Miami/South Beach area annually, hundreds of thousands walk down Lincoln Road and view ArtCenter's display windows and exhibitions.

There are a number of touring exhibitions that rotate through the facility every year and another number of impressive permanent exhibitions. At 924 is the name of an ongoing series of screenings and art works at the Arts Center's 924 Lincoln Road building.

There are also special auctions held at the Arts Center to raise money for the upkeep and development of other artistic programs. Another interesting exhibit is by Artist-in-Residence, Susan Lee-Chun and her work is about attempts to move about without any notice, without drawing undue attention to her by assimilating and bringing to notice that unlike any animal or other life form, human beings have definite limitations to camouflage.

The Arts Center is a fantastic way to spend an afternoon when you're in the Miami area. This venue will open your eyes and mind through their diverse collection of uplifting art works.

Visiting Little Havana

If you want to get a taste of Cuba without having to leave the country, the next best thing is a trip to Little Havana. The sites and sounds of Cuba abound in this small area.

Nothing about Little Havana is low key or subtle. There is literally music in the air at every turn and as you walk down the street past the storefronts, you will be treated to the smells of Cuban coffee, ropa vieja (shredded beef), arroz con pollo (chicken and rice), picadillo (ground beef) are among the most common delectable aromas.

Make a stop by Maximo Gomez Park, more commonly known as Domino Park where large groups of locals from Little Havana gather to play Dominoes and Chess and there is always a heated political debate going on. Just a couple of blocks away down Memorial Drive is the Bay of Pigs Memorial where an eternal flame burns brightly.

If you get hungry during your tour of Little Havana, your taste buds will sing. Take a stop in at El Esquito to try some delicious and authentic Cuban foods. Located at Calle Ocho and 15th Avenue, you can try some yummy rice and chicken served up with black beans. To top of your meal you can try a delicious cup of Cuban coffee and maybe a sweet treat for dessert.

If you are in the mood for a little bit of partying in the pseudo-Cuban paradise, stop by for the fun flamenco dancing at Casa Panza. This festive nightspot is famous for their Tuesday and Thursday Flamenco Nights where you can dance your worries away while sipping a deliciously smooth, icy mojito. This place is located right in the center of all of the sizzling action on Calle Ocho and 16th Avenue.

Once you are done partying it up underneath the spectacular Miami skies, you may be looking for a place to lay your weary head for a while. If you are looking for a rustic feel complete with gardens and a swimming pool, then you are in luck. The Miami River Inn is a cute little place to stay when you are visiting Little Havana.

The Pawn Shop Lounge

Located at 1222 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, Florida, the Pawn Shop Lounge is the newest and hippest downtown spot to party in Miami. The opening night at the Pawn Shop Lounge featured Paris Hilton singing Karaoke. P. Diddy, J.Lo, and other well known faces have been known to party at this hot spot as well.

The history of this fun venue is an interesting one. The Pawn Shop Lounge was originally an actual pawn shop in the 1930's. Now it is considered a boutique nightclub in Miami's club scene. The decor is a post-modern art dreamland in the tradition of Andy Warhol. The nightclub has incorporated familiar everyday things such as dental chairs, a school bus, and an airstream trailer in new and different ways. The Pawn Shop Lounge really brought this to life when they used an original 727 fuselage with 70's style airplane seats in their seating area. Talk about something different!

The musical choices are as varied and unique as the rest of the club. The mix is eclectic and runs the gamut from rock to house music. There is also a plethora of live bands as well. This club likes to mix it up and that works. Keeping it fresh and new is what the Pawn Shop Lounge is all about.

The Pawn Shop Lounge is a must stop and party spot for the discriminating party animal. If you're looking for fresh and fun place to party, then the Pawn Shop Lounge is a venue that should be checked out. Locals and visitors alike rave about this Lounge. When you make a stop at the Pawn Shop Lounge, make sure you dress to impress as you never know what you are going to experience there!

The Deering Estate At Cutler

The Deering Estate at Cutler is located at 16701 S. W. 72nd Avenue Miami, Florida. It is a place that is dedicated to learning and educating both adults and children. The Deering Estate at Cutler is an environmental preserve that was founded by Charles Deering. It also is a small conference center for organizations that specializes in the things that the late Charles Deering liked and indulged in, such as the environment, fine arts, wine, and botany among many other things.

The Deering Estate at Cutler is housed on 440 acres that includes among others an endangered pine Rockland habitat. It also includes mangrove forests, salt marshes, and a coastal dune island. It has an abundance of natural habitats, some that are very rare and not found many other places in the United States.

The Deering Estate at Cutler is rich in is historical landmarks. There are some buildings on this preserve that date back to the 1800's and it's like a trip into the past to view them, both inside and out. The Deering Estate is also the site of an Indian Burial ground that is from the 1600's.

There are so many opportunities for learning at the Deering Estate at Cutler, it's easy to spend an entire day touring this site. Once of the best features of this fun tour is that it offers up so much information in a fun and exciting way that no one really realizes that they are learning. This makes the Deering Estate at Cutler a popular attraction with the children and parents alike. This facility is definitely one that no one who is visiting Miami should miss.

Laundry Bar

The Laundry Bar is one of the new trend of functional bars. You can really do your laundry, order up some drinks and make some new friends all in one place.

The Laundry Bar is located on Lincoln Lane in South Beach. Metered parking is available at the Meridian and Lincoln Lane parking lot, one block south of 17th street, for a rate of $1 per hour. There is no valet parking.

When you walk in the Laundry Bar, there are rows of washing machines and dryers in the back and the bar is in the front. This is a venue most definitely off the beaten track and you aren't likely to run into the likes of Paris Hilton, but you are assured of a very good time.

The decor is decidedly neo-industrial with a high-tech feel. If you didn't bring any laundry to do and you want to have a drink and a little activity, there are complimentary hors d'oeuvres to munch on while you play billiards and video games. If you can't stand to be away from your computer or you want to IM your friends and tell them where you are at, computer terminals for internet access provide one of the many ways to hook-up at the Laundry Bar.

Also, you might be lucky enough to take in one of the cabaret performances by local artists such as Maryel Epps and Bambi and the Boys highlight the hours after midnight, and Sunday's are Flip Night where you get to flip your bartender for drinks.

If you're looking for an unusual place to party, definitely make the Laundry Bar a stop along your next tour of Miami, you'll be glad you did!

Crobar - A Great Night Waiting For You

What's so great about Crobar Miami? Here's a better question; what's not great about Crobar Miami? This hopping club has tipped the scales offering top entertainment for every night you need it! Located at 1445 Washington Avenue between 14th and 15th street, Crobar Miami is the heartbeat of South Beach.

From their legendary fashion shows, private parties, events and live music; Crobar Miami has something for every taste and style. Reserve Crobar Miami for your next bash, it's a party your friends will never forget. No event is too big or too small.

Table reservations can be made ahead of time and it is a good idea. This place is always packed! Ticket purchases are available online or by phone as well. Get ready to move for Backdoor Bamby Monday's, The Show at Crobar Thursday's and As Good As A DJ Friday's. The action and fun is never ending at Crobar's.

Everywhere you look is an infusion of lights, sounds and motion, culminating in an unforgettable experience. Take a stroll on the Catwalk, strut your stuff in the VIP Lounge or drink and shake your rumps at the Dance Floor Bar. Crobar's newly designed interior is fresh and hip and unlike any other club around. Even the restroom termed VIP is hip and state of the art.

This is one hot spot you won't want to miss. When you're ready to cut loose, Crobar Miami is the only place to be. Get down with big names in the music and entertainment industry. Rock out with Crobar's Resident DJ's, Ani Phearce, Gus and Danny Boy, Ralph Falcon, Stephan Luke and Cue. Rub elbows with the stars, Crobar Miami is a popular hot spot for a lot of high profile celebrities. For something off the beaten path, make a stop by Crobar Miami and party your night away!

Calle Ocho - Cuba At Your Back Door

Did you know that there is a little piece of heaven in Miami that can make you feel like you are vacationing in Cuba? Also known as Little Havana, Calle Ocho is a wonderful place that looks and feels like you just stepped out of a cab in downtown Cuba. You will be amazed at all of the sights and smells that surround you which will make you feel like you have left the country for an exciting vacation.

Wait until you see all of the wonderful things that you can find during your visit to this unique area. You can get fresh herbs, flowers, fine hand-rolled cigars and some of the sweetest fruits available to the area. The food here is just incredible as well. If you have never dined at an authentic Cuban restaurant then now is definitely the time.

You can snack on delicious fish croquetas or shrimp tortillas. Even if you do not have anything to drink that is alcoholic in nature, you are sure to be intoxicated by all of the stunning Cuban artwork and memorabilia that covers the walls of many of the shops and restaurants in this area.

If you feel like dancing, there are a couple of great places that you can go to get your feet moving and your body grooving to some of the hottest Latin beats ever played. Depending on the time of year that you get a chance to visit this area, you may even be treated to a fun-filled street party. Cultural Friday, also known as Viernes Culturales, is a gigantic Latin street party that you will not soon forget.

You will be treated to an unbelievable amount of food, theater performances, music and dancing, street performer and more. A good time can be had by everyone in your entire family.

Cloisters Of The Monastery Of St. Bernard De Clairvaux

The Monastery of St. Bernard de Clairvaux was built in Sacramenia, Spain during the 10th century and was originally named the "Monastery of Our Lady, Queen of the Angels."

When Bernard of Clairvaux, a Cistine Monk and a leading influence in the Church during that period, the Monastery was renamed in his honor upon his canonization. This monastery was home to Cistercian monks for nearly 700 years. When Spain underwent a revolution in the early 1800s, the cloisters were seized, sold, and converted into a granary and stable.

Fast forward to 1925, when one Mr. William Randolph Hearst purchased the Cloisters and the Monastery's outbuildings. He then had the structures dismantled stone by stone, bound with protective hay, packed in some 11,000 wooden crates, numbered for identification and shipped to the United States to be reassembled.

Unfortunately, at the time the pieces were being shipped, hoof and mouth disease had broken out in Spain, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, fearing possible contagion since the facility had been used as a stable, quarantined the shipment upon its arrival, broke open the crates and burned the hay, a possible carrier of the disease. Unfortunately, the workmen failed to replace the stones in the same numbered boxes before moving them to a warehouse.

The entire shipment was in disarray and all the stones were literally in a pile. Soon after the shipment arrived, Hearst's financial problems forced most of his collection to be sold at auction. The stones remained in a warehouse in Brooklyn, New York, for another 26 years. After Hearst died in 1952, the stones were purchased by W. Edgemon and R. Moss for use as a tourist attraction. It took 19 months and almost $1.5 million dollars to put the Monastery back together. Some of the unmatched stones still remain in the back lot; others were used in the construction of the present Church's Parish Hall.

Cloisters of the Monastery of St. Bernard de Clairvaux is an unusual building with a very unusual past. Now that you know the history of this beautifully restored building, be sure to make it a stop on your next tour of Miami.

Bongos Cuban Cafe

Owned by the world reknowned musicians, Gloria and Emilio Estefan from the Miami Sound Machine, this fun venue is a perfect mix of Cuban cuisine and hot Havana attitude.

The Cuban culture is rich with spicy food and hot music and Bongos showcases both legacies nicely.

The pineapple is a traditional symbol of welcome. The Bongos Cuban Cafe uses the pineapple as their emblem (the giant pineapple on their sign is visible for miles in any direction) and this restaurant is well-known as wanting to make every single visitor feel welcome.

Since 2000, The Bongos Cuban Cafe has been serving lunch and dinner to millions of patrons that rave about not only the classically Cuban cuisine but the atmosphere that is pure hot Havana night. The ceviche, a classical fish stew that is made with tomatos, peppers, onions and fresh fish and lime is legendary. Interestingly, the fish is served uncooked as the lime does the "cooking".

This huge 16,000 square foot restaurant by day, disco by night has fast become a gathering spot for Miami's elite. In the past year, Bongos Cuban Cafe has hosted such events as the Billboard Music Awards after party and the Premio Lo Nuestro after party, star-gazing abounded at both events.

If you want to experience the real fun, come to the after hours party on Friday and Saturdays, where you can groove to the tasty Latin rhythms and be awed by their fascinating light show. Get there between 10:30PM and 11:00PM as by 11PM, large lines have formed outside Bongos and there will be quite a wait to get in otherwise.

Freedom Tower

Nestled in the heart of Miami is the Freedom Tower. Approximately four-hundred thousand Cuban refugees were processed at this facility. They walked through the halls of the Freedom Tower between the early 1960's and the late 1970's. Considered Miami's "Ellis Island," the Freedom Tower served the immigrants as a processing center in the city of Miami. These immigrants would eventually become the largest foreign-born minority in Miami-Dade County.

The Freedom Tower is aptly named as it is indeed a symbol of freedom for many immigrants and their descendants. Originally being the home of the Miami News and Metropolis it was taken over by the government when the paper went out of business. The US Government took over the tower as a place to take care of the influx of immigrants that emigrated to American during the Castro regime.

In the early 1980s, the building ceased being an immigration processing center and was abandoned and became a mainstay for the local homeless population to use as shelter. The Freedom Tower fell into complete disrepair and was declared structurally unsound.

Then in 1997, the tower was purchased by a local Miami Family with plans to have the Freedom Tower renovated and made into a monument to the trials of Cuban Americans in America. Today, the Freedom Tower is structurally sound as well as beautiful. It stands as a monument to Cuban Americans not only in Miami but all over the country. Thanks to the wonderful renovations this dynamic and historically rich structure will be around for many generations to enjoy and learn about the richness of the Cuban experience.

American Airlines Arena

If you happen to be in the Miami Area and there is a Miami Heat game or a concert, chances are great you'll be attending the event at the American Airlines Arena.
American Airlines Arena is fairly young as far as arenas go as it only opened in 1999. The inaugural event was Gloria Estefan's Millennium Concert Spectacular.

The Arena holds up to 19,600 when fully utilized for Miami HEAT basketball, but if the venue calls for a more intimate feel, the upper balconies can be closed.The arena is able to be configured in five separate ways for concerts and other events, seating as few as 5,000 and as many as almost 20,000 patrons.

A number of performances take place each year at the American Airlines Arena, such as NBA basketball action, ice shows, circus, musical concerts, and the WNBA's Miami SOL which also calls this arena home since August 2000.

If you are disabled or you have a special needs person with you, American Airlines Arena is fully ADA compliant and they make all the accommodations they can to make sure all patrons enjoy their time at American Airlines Arena. Please be advised there are no cameras or video cameras allowed inside the building.

If you are lucky enough to be taking in an NBA game or attending a concert during your trip to Miami, getting to see that show at American Airlines Arena will make your great night even better with their attention to detail and the design of this venue insure great views and sounds from any angle. There's no such thing as a bad seat at American Airlines Arena.

Have You Been To B.E.D. Lately?

B.E.D. (Beverage. Entertainment. Dining) is an all inclusive club that opened in Miami in 1999 and has been getting rave reviews for its atmosphere, decor and cuisine every since.

This is a hot spot for stars when they are in the Miami area and even though there is no sign out front or on the door, notables that are frequent guests of this restaurant and club include: George Clooney, Busta Rhymes, Janet Jackson, Will Smith, Jamie Foxx, Francis Ford Coppola, Gwen Stefani, Josh Beckett, Jennifer Lopez, Derek Jeter, Britney Spears, Shakira, Cameron Diaz, Sting, Paris Hilton, Shaquille O'Neal, Anna Kournikova, Mickey Rourke, Harrison Ford, Hugh Heffner, Ja Rule, and many more.

As a special service you can order your dinner at B.E.D. served in bed. You can also book a Party in B.E.D., which is available from midnight to 5am and reserve yourself a bed where bottles of your favorite bubbly will be served. This is a very popular service and should be scheduled well in advance.

The menu has award winning French Cuisine and every single entry on the menu from the appetizers to the entrees is made to be special, unique and very tasty. Some of the stars of the menu include Baby Spinach tossed with Orange Segments, Three Fish Ceviche with Balsamic Cider Reduction and Sweet Chili Sauce, Homemade Beef Carpaccio with White Truffle Oil-Assorted Vegetables-Parmesan, and their desserts are even more legend. Decadent treats such as the Love Stack which is Mamey Cheesecake over a Cinnamon Creme Brule with Chocolate and Honey-Vanilla sauces, or Fire and Ice which is a Molten Chocolate Cake filled with either Chocolate or Peanut Butter Cream and topped with Vanilla or Peanut Brittle Ice Cream.

If you've never been to B.E.D. or you'd like to experience dinner or drinks in bed, this is the place to do. Be sure to put this on your itinerary for your next visit to Miami.

Check out the Miami Children's Museum

One of the greatest ideas to come out of children's learning and education has to be the Miami Children's Museum. It is a wonderful and exciting facility in which children can not only learn but have fun as well. The Miami Children's Museum is indeed enriching the lives of all children by cultivating a love for learning. This goes a long way toward enabling children to realize their greatest potential.

The Miami Children's Museum is a non-profit educational institution, which meets and exceeds the needs of all children in Miami's multicultural community. The Miami Children's Museum encourages visitors of all ages to play together, learn, imagine and create. The museum is repleat with interactive exhibits and exciting programs. Included throughout are learning materials related to arts, culture, community and communication.

The Miami Children's Museum was founded in 1983. It is located on Watson Island and opened its new building to the public on September 7, 2003. The Miami Children's Museum is a dynamic learning center that welcomes visitors of all ages to come and learn, imagine and create. The 56,500 square-foot facility is huge! It includes 12 galleries with each having a different learning theme. There are also classrooms, a parent/teacher resource center, a Kid Smart educational gift shop. Don't forget the 200-seat auditorium and the Subway restaurant. The Miami Children's museum offers hundreds of bilingual and interactive exhibits as well. There are programs and classes and learning materials that are related to the arts, culture, community and communication.

With all of this to offer you can see why the Miami Children's Museum is a must stop for any visitors coming to Miami. It is a must for citizens of Miami as well. This is a great example of how learning can be made fun and exciting for children and adults alike.

Visiting The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

When you are in the Miami area, there is a wonderful place that you can visit for beautiful architecture, landscaping, interior design and more. The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a United States National Landmark, which is open to the viewing public 364 days per year. You can take tours of this amazing facility by guides in your choice of 13 different languages to best suit everyone and their individual needs.

If you have never been to the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, you are in for quite a treat. The entire place is just a mass of wonderful foliage and fountains. You will be able to view the spectacular Biscayne Bay as well as a huge gallery of exotic orchids. There is even a separate Orchidarium dedicated to these wonderful specimens.

During your visit, you should be sure to stop by the Vizcaya Cafe and Shop. You will find a wide array of delicious and satisfying items such as sandwiches, salads, deserts and more. For your shopping pleasure, you may purchase postcards, jewelry, books and other different gift and souvenir items. This is a great little place to sit and relax while enjoying some of the gorgeous landscaping and architecture as you peer out over the swimming pool.

Visitors are welcome to stop by every day with the exception of Christmas. The hours are from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. The Main House stays open until 5:00 pm, with the gardens closing at 5:30 pm. Admission prices are $12 for adults, $9 for Miami-Dade County Residents with a valid ID, $5 for children ages 6 through 12, and free for children ages 5 and under. There is also ample free parking available on site for visitors. The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens are also fully handicap accessible for patrons will special needs.

Miccosukee Indian Village A Unique Experience

If you are feeling the need to learn about some fascinating Indian culture, you must plan a visit to the Miccosukee Indian Village located in Miami, Florida. Once you arrive at this wonderful educational spot, you can learn about the vast history, culture and lifestyle of this Indian tribe. Located in the heart of the Everglades, you are in for a treat of wood carvings, beadwork, basket weaving and much, much more.

A nice way to start your visit is with a stop at the Museum of Tribal and Natural History. Here you can view lots of clothing, artifacts and paintings by the tribe as well as watch a film that explains their history.

There are a lot of nice little attractions that are nice to share with your entire
family. You can see some of the sewing and patchwork that is crafted by the Miccosukee women and also see demonstrations performed like the making of woodcrafts, basket weaving, doll making and more. If you are looking for a little bit of exhilaration while enjoying nature, you can also take an air boat tour to Native Island.

Have you ever wanted to wrestle an alligator? Well, probably not. But, if you have ever wanted to see it done live and in person, you can get your chance at the Miccosukee Indian Village. Some of the local tribesmen actually risk their lives on a regular basis in a pit that is loaded with live alligators to show visitors how the wrestling is done. Now, that is some great showmanship!

The Miccosukee Indian Village is open every day with hours of operation from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. For your shopping pleasure, you will find an assortment of wonderful Native American items in the gift shop. There are many different types of handcrafted gifts that make lovely souvenirs of your trip to the Miccosukee Indian Village.

Tropical Park

Tropical Park located in 7900 SW 40th Street (Bird Road) Miami, FL and is a sports lover's dream come true. Tropical Park has fields for softball, soccer and football as well as places to play basketball and volleyball. For the sports enthusiasts that are partial to racquet sports, Miami Tropical Park has a tennis center equipped with 12 wheelchair-accessible tennis courts. The park also has racquetball facilities available for even more variety.

Tropical Park is also a water sports lovers dream. Having four lakes and a beach makes Tropical Park an inviting venue for paddle boating, sunbathing, swimming and freshwater fishing. The park is frequented regularly by residents and visitors eager to enjoy these aquatic sports.

Joggers and cyclists will happily enjoy the paved pathways meandering through the 275-acre park. Tropical Park has a beautiful scenic splendor for everyone to enjoy. Visitors to Miami Tropical Park can also enjoy watching horse shows, rodeos and other special events that are at the Tropical Park Equestrian Center.

One of the biggest events for Tropical Park is the Enchanted Forest. It opens from early November through the beginning of January and Santa's Enchanted Forest takes over a sizeable chunk of Tropical Park. This annual holiday Miami Tropical Park event showcases five million lights, carnival rides and live entertainment, and most splendidly, a huge Christmas tree. Miami's Tropical Park becomes alive as a winter wonderland.

The parks trees are adorned with millions of twinkling lights. It is estimated that half a million families visit every year to enjoy the fun. This Tropical Park boasts to be the world's largest Christmas theme park, and as well as the enormous Christmas Tree it also has a multitude of shows, themed displays, pony rides, carnival rides and a petting zoo. There is a great time to be had for the whole family.

Tobacco Road

Tobacco Road is a very interesting stop when you're visiting the Miami area. It holds the oldest existing liquor license in the history of Dade County.

For over 87 years the happenings in this old venue have been written up in newspapers, magazines, and books. The "Road" is not just a bar, it is a cornerstone of Miami nightlife.

During Prohibition, Tobacco Road was a speakeasy and notorious hangout of one Mister AL Capone. During WWII Tobacco Road lost all of its licenses because of "lewd, wanton and lascivious" behavior. The bar was annually raided by police until the early 1980s. The "Road" has proven it has the spirit of a survivor by prospering through Prohibition, numerous hurricanes, the Great Depression, the revocation of its liquor license and attempts by the city of Miami to have it shut down on a number of occasions.

In 1982, Tobacco Road was given a future when the property was purchased and it was made over from a dive of a neighborhood bar into a place everyone wanted to be seen at. This reputation was furthered by booking acts such as B.B. King, Koko Taylor, Albert Collins and Jr. Washington which have helped Tobacco Road become one of the city's hottest spots for cozy live shows.

If you get hungry at Tobacco Road, never fear! Their sirloin burgers and hand cut French fries are legendary and there are always specials - just ask!

Tobacco Road is a great piece of history that is still available to be seen in the present. Stop in for a beer and great burger on your next visit to Miami.

Miami Design District

The Miami Design District is fast becoming the mecca of cultural and business exchange and is located on NE Second Avenue and NE 40th Street, Miami, FL. The Miami Design District is located just north of downtown in the center of the Buena Vista neighborhood. The district spans from NE Second Avenue on the east to North Miami Avenue on the west and then from NE 38th Street north to NE 42nd Street. The Miami Design District started out as a trade center for the design trades however in the early 1990s it started to attract artists looking for