What Is Miami Known For? [2024]
Most people are aware of Miami as a sun-drenched paradise nestled at the southeastern tip of Florida, though if you’re interested in moving there or visiting, you may be asking, “What is Miami known for?”
With its breathtaking beaches, eclectic culture, and stunning Art Deco architecture, this dynamic city offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and contemporary urban living.
Whether you're drawn to the soothing waves of South Beach, the cutting-edge art galleries of Wynwood, or the lush, tropical landscapes that dot the cityscape, Miami promises a lifestyle unlike any other. In this guide, we’re going to take a look at the best things to do in Miami, Florida, and why so many people are moving to the Magic City.
A Guide to What’s Unique About Miami
At the heart of what makes Miami unique is its incredible cultural diversity, a melting pot of influences from Latin America, the Caribbean, and beyond, which is reflected in the city's language, music, and culinary scene.
Walk down the street on any given day, and you’ll hear the sounds of salsa, merengue, and reggaeton, while the aromas of Cuban coffee and freshly baked pastelitos fill the air. Miami's Art Deco Historic District, with its pastel-colored buildings and neon signs, offers a glimpse into the city's glamorous 1930s beachfront heyday.
However, beyond its cultural flair, Miami is home to some of the country's most stunning beaches and unique ecosystems, such as the nearby Everglades National Park.
Of course, all of that is just the tip of the iceberg of the best things about Miami, as Miami has _so _many more extraordinary things to see and do, which is why so many people are moving there.
What Is Miami Best Known for?
- Little Havana
- Art Deco Architecture
- Nightlife
- Everglades National Park
- South Beach
- Coral Gables
- Climate and Weather
- Culinary Scene
- Music Festivals
- Cruises
Little Havana
Trying to figure out what to do in Miami? Head to Little Havan
Little Havana is the vibrant heart of Miami's Cuban diaspora. This bustling neighborhood, with its iconic Calle Ocho, offers an immersive experience into Cuban culture, from the rhythmic sounds of salsa music emanating from local venues to the enticing aromas of Cuban coffee and cuisine wafting through the air.
The historic Walk of Fame celebrates Latin American celebrities, while Domino Park offers the perfect spot for locals to gather for spirited games of dominoes. Beyond that, you’ll find a plethora of art galleries, traditional cigar factories, and family-owned restaurants, all of which exude that quintessential Cuban charm.
Art Deco Architecture
Miami Beach's Art Deco Historic District is a radiant emblem of the city's architectural and cultural identity, and is easily one of the top places to see in Miami. This architectural style was massive in the 1920s and 1930s, characterized by its use of geometric patterns, bold colors, and ornate detailing.
It’s hard not to snap pictures of the district's pastel-colored buildings and neon signs as you cruise past, particularly along Ocean Drive.
Nightlife
Miami's legendary nightlife scene has an energy like no other. As the sun sets, the city transforms into a kaleidoscope of neon lights, with world-renowned clubs, bars, and beachfront lounges.
You’ll find an eclectic mix of venues that cater to every taste, from Latin dance halls like Club Tipico Domino to cutting-edge nightclubs like Club Space, hosting top DJs from around the globe.
Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site located just a short drive from Miami. This vast subtropical wilderness is the largest of its kind in the United States and has long been renowned for its unique ecosystem. It is here that you’ll discover an array of wildlife, including alligators, Florida panthers, manatees, and a variety of bird species.
The Everglades' sprawling landscape of sawgrass marshes, mangrove forests, and freshwater sloughs offers visitors a rare glimpse into a largely untouched part of Florida's natural heritage, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
South Beach
South Beach is the quintessential Miami hotspot and one of the top attractions in Miami, Florida. The glamorous neighborhood is set against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, offering a mix of pristine sandy beaches, iconic Art Deco architecture, and vibrant nightlife.
The area attracts a diverse crowd, from celebrities and socialites to tourists and locals, all of whom like to enjoy its bustling promenade and daytime sunbathing. By night, it transforms into an electrifying scene of neon-lit clubs and world-class dining.
Beyond its surface allure, South Beach is also a cultural hub, hosting numerous events and festivals throughout the year, including Miami Beach Pride, Art Basel Miami Beach, and the South Beach Wine & Food Festival.
Coral Gables
Known as "The City Beautiful," Coral Gables is one of the most iconic places in Miami. Founded in the 1920s, it’s become celebrated for its Mediterranean Revival architecture, lush tree-lined boulevards, and historically significant landmarks, such as the public Venetian Pool and the opulent Biltmore Hotel.
Miracle Mile, which is the city's main thoroughfare, is a shopping and dining paradise, offering an array of international cuisines and high-end retail experiences.
Climate and Weather
Perhaps one of the main reasons people move to Miami is to enjoy sun-soaked paradise year-round. Miami is known for its warm, tropical climate, offering balmy temperatures, ample sunshine, and a gentle breeze from the Atlantic Ocean, creating the perfect setting for outdoor activities and leisure.
Of course, you’ll have to deal with the hot, humid summers and hurricane season, which runs from June through November. Even so, the city's preparedness and resilience in the face of such natural events are remarkable, so it’s something you’ll likely get used to right away.
Culinary Scene
Influenced by a rich medley of cultures, including Cuban, Haitian, Colombian, and others, Miami's food landscape is as eclectic as it gets. Of course, the city is particularly renowned for its authentic Cuban cuisine, found in the heart of Little Havana, where traditional dishes like ropa vieja, croquetas, and cafecito offer a taste of the island's rich culinary traditions.
Some of the best Cuban restaurants in Miami include Jama Benn Jama, Molina’s Ranch Restaurant, and Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop.
Music Festivals
Miami has a vibrant music festival scene, though among the most renowned festivals, it is home to Ultra Music Festival, an annual outdoor electronic music festival that transforms Bayfront Park into an arena of sound, light, and dance.
Beyond electronic music, Miami also hosts Calle Ocho Music Festival, part of the larger Carnaval Miami, which celebrates Latin music, culture, and cuisine.
Cruises
Miami holds the distinguished title of "Cruise Capital of the World," serving as a major hub for cruise ships and a gateway to the Caribbean and beyond. The Port of Miami, strategically located on Dodge Island, hosts some of the largest and most luxurious cruise liners in the world.
Whether you’re looking for a short weekend getaway to the Bahamas or an extended cruise exploring the depths of the Caribbean, you can be one of the many millions of passengers who set sail each year.
Renter Life in Miami
- Median OR Average 1 Bedroom Rent: $1,574
- Median OR Average 2 Bedroom Rent: $2,085
- Median Home Price: $387,000
- Population: 2,673,837
Miami's diverse neighborhoods offer something for every renter, from the bustling streets of Downtown and Brickell to the laid-back charm of Coconut Grove.
Despite its reputation for high living costs, Miami's rental market varies widely, providing options for different budgets and preferences.
Best Places to Live in Miami FAQs
What Is the Best Area of Miami to Live In?
If you’re looking for a vibrant, culturally rich environment with access to art galleries, dining, and lively entertainment, the Wynwood or the Design District might be two of the best neighborhoods in Miami for you.
Families, on the other hand, often gravitate towards the more suburban feel of Coral Gables or Pinecrest, which both offer excellent schools, spacious homes, and community parks.
Is Miami an Expensive City to Live In?
Miami is considered an expensive city to live in, as the cost of living is higher than the national average in the United States and greater Florida.
Economy and Job in Miami
- Median Household Income: $75,149
- Cost of Living
Miami has a diverse and dynamic economy, with strong sectors in tourism, finance, real estate, and international trade, perfect for job seekers and entrepreneurs alike.
The city serves as a gateway to Latin America, hosting numerous multinational corporations and the largest concentration of international banks in the United States.
Miami-Dade County's efforts to enhance local education and workforce training programs in technology, healthcare, and green industries aim to further diversify the job market and strengthen the economy.
Education in Miami
Education in Miami is just as diverse and extensive as its economy.
The Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) district is one of the largest in the United States, offering a variety of educational programs including magnet schools, charter schools, and specialized institutions focusing on arts, science, technology, and international studies.
Higher education in Miami is equally robust, including The University of Miami, Florida International University, and Miami Dade College, which also contribute to the local and regional workforce.
Transportation in Miami
Miami's transportation infrastructure is designed to support the city's bustling activity and connect its many neighborhoods. The Miami-Dade Transit system, one of the largest in the U.S., includes Metrorail, a 25-mile elevated rail system that links the city to key areas including downtown Miami, the University of Miami, and South Miami, alongside Metromover, a free automated people mover system that serves the downtown area and Brickell neighborhood.
For those traveling further afield, Miami International Airport serves as a major hub for international and domestic flights, linking the city with the rest of the world.
Tourist Attractions in Miami
Miami offers a vibrant mix of cultural, historical, and natural wonders that cater to every kind of visitor.
The world-famous South Beach draws sun-seekers and party-goers with its sparkling turquoise waters and lively oceanfront venues, while neighborhoods like Little Havana and Wynwood showcase Miami's rich culture and cuisine.
You’ll also find the Art Deco Historic District, which showcases beautifully preserved 1930s architecture, and the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens and the Deering Estate, which provides a look at the city's opulent early 20th-century estates.
Of course, nature enthusiasts can always head to the nearby Everglades National Park to explore one of the world's most unique ecosystems on airboat tours or hiking trails.
Natural Resources in Miami
Miami's natural resources include its stunning coastal environment, lush tropical landscapes, and unique ecosystems. The city's miles of sandy beaches and clear blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean are not just prime destinations for recreation and relaxation but also vital habitats for marine life.
Miami also lies adjacent to the Florida Everglades, which is one of the most remarkable wetland ecosystems in the world.
Beyond these, Miami is enveloped by the Biscayne Bay Aquatic Preserves, where mangrove forests and seagrass beds play essential roles in coastal protection, water filtration, and nurseries for fish and marine invertebrates.
Find Your Next Apartment in Miami
If you’re ready to soak up the sun and dive into Miami’s unique culture, let Apartment List help you find your perfect Miami apartment!
Whether you're searching for a beachfront oasis, a cozy nook in a bustling neighborhood, or a luxurious downtown high-rise, we've got you covered. Take our quiz today to get started!
More Questions about Miami, FL
What Is Most Famous About Miami?
Miami is most famous for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and iconic Art Deco architecture, particularly in the South Beach area, which together create a lively and visually striking atmosphere that attracts visitors from around the globe.
Why Is Miami Called the Magic City?
Miami is called the Magic City due to its rapid growth from a small settlement to a bustling metropolis in the early 20th century, seemingly happening as if by magic. This nickname also reflects the city's dynamic energy, picturesque beauty, and its remarkable ability to reinvent itself and thrive.
What Culture Is Miami Known For?
Miami is heavily influenced by Latin American and Caribbean heritage, which is reflected in its music, cuisine, festivals, and language.
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