Miami is a beautiful city with many tropical influences. The nightlife and the latino character give this young city a ‘sultry look’. The television serie ‘top residential architects in Miami Vice’ has undeniably contributed to the image of a city full of excitement and thrill. And, to be honest, many residents of Miami love to party. The many bars, discos and nightclubs in Miami and Miami Beach are – even on weekdays – open till the early hours. Yet, Miami has much more to offer than just partying and entertainment. In this article you will find some tips to discover the cultural highlights in Miami and Miami Beach.
Miami and the second world war are not often associated with each other. Yet, one of the most impressive monuments (the Holocaust Memorial) to commemorate the victims of this horrible war is located in Miami Beach. This breathtaking monument is dedicated to the six million Jews who were murdered during the second world war. Definitely worth a visit.
Coral Gables is apparently a quiet residential area in the south of Miami (near the university). Yet, you will find a few interesting highlights in this neighborhood. For example, the Lowe Art Museum which features paintings by Picasso, Monet and Gauguin. This museum is located on the grounds of the University of Miami and is definitely a ‘must-visit’ for art lovers. Another must-see is the Venetian Pool. This is a pool made in an old quarry. The pool is filled with water from a fresh water source. This makes the Venetian Pool the largest freshwater pool in the United States.
The luxury neighborhood Coconut Grove in the south of Miami is a paradise for art lovers. The famous Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is located in a beautiful villa. Visitors can enjoy unique paintings, furniture and carpets that where made between the fifteenth and the nineteenth century. For curious people, the Miami Museum of Science is definitely worth a visit.
The southern influences of Miami are most visible in the Little Havana district in downtown Miami. This is the living space of many Cuban immigrants and the place is full of characteristic Cuban shops and restaurants. Stay alert during a visit, because unfortunately there is pretty much crime in this district.
Coral Castle is a stone sculpture garden south of Miami. The beautiful statues are made of megalithic stones formed from coral. The creation of these huge sculptures obviously demands a legend. The founder Edward Leedskalnin formed the garden with his bare hands. Well, bare hands… he was also very proficient with the use of his magnetic superpowers.