Top 10 Interesting Places to Visit in Miami CheapOair Staff March 1, 2011 Miami So much to do in Miami What is it that makes Miami such a hot place to be? Cities with nice weather hold a name for itself, but Miami seems to pack a one-two punch for visitors who seem to always come back for more. Few places in the world have it all, but Miami has such a diverse appeal to many tourists. Little Havana: For a real taste of Latin flavor, Little Havana is the closest Americans can get to Cuba. This neighborhood within the city of Miami is home to many Cuban immigrants. It got the name in the 1960s when a concentration of Cuban immigration skyrocketed. Looking for cafe con leche (coffee with milk), traditional cuban sandwiches and sizzling salsa clubs? Little Havana is the Latin capital of Miami. Jungle Island: If you’re lucky enough to be an experienced traveler, visiting locations where tropical animals live is an exciting experience. Jungle Island offers visitors this opportunity within the Miami borders. Animals like Flamingos, Cranes and Condors call this island home. Visitors get an up close and personal view of the animals; for the real tropical rainforest effect. Biscayne National Park: Did you know you could snorkel and scuba dive in Miami? Tourists aren’t aware of a gorgeous U.S National Park providing this service and more. Since 95% of the park is water, one can enjoy fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking or simply sailing. Ancient Spanish Monastery: At over 800 years old, the Spanish Monastery is historically the oldest building in the Western Hemisphere. It’s origin geographically places it back to Spain where it was built. In the 20th century, William Randolph Hearst had it disassembled and brought to Miami where it stands today. Besides being a historic tourist attraction, it is highly popular for weddings. Venetian Pool: If a pool is just a place to swim then why would a Venetian Pool in Miami be such a tourist attraction. Built in 1924 out of coral rock, it was named after a Venetian Lagoon; designed in Italian style. It is the largest freshwater pool in the United States with a grand waterfall, a kiddy pool and even a bridge to complete the Venetian style. The pool is so precious it is protected by the U.S. Department of Historic Places. Art Deco Historic District: While Europe is known for cobblestone streets, Miami is architecturally known for its Art Deco style buildings. Take a trip back to the 1930s in awe of these impressive structures; over 800 buildings that capture the style of the era. Grapeland Water Park: Who would think Miami was home only to one water park? This brand new park which opened in 2008 brings family fun to the cosmopolitan city. Bright designs by local artist Romero Britto make this water park a wet and wild work of art. Skydiving Miami: Sometimes the best way to see a city is from the air. We’re not talking about from your flight in but instead skydiving over the pristine beaches of Miami. For years this thrilling way to view the city has been the opportunity of a lifetime to enjoy 4 minutes of flying like a bird. Duck Tour: Considering that the city of Miami is surrounded by a lot of water, imagine taking a tour not only of the city, but on water as well. May it be extremely touristy, but Duck Tours are a unique way to include both. Hydra Terra vehicles are used to ride not only the roadways but the waterways. Tours include the opportunity to see South Beach, Star Island, Millionaire’s Row and other famous tourist destinations. Miami Beach – South Beach: No trip to Miami is complete until you spend a day in relaxing South Beach. Spend the day enjoying the number one reason why tourists come back to Miami. Whether you call it “SoBe”, the American Riviera or the Hollywood of The East, the beaches have been a playground for tourists of all varieties for years and years to come.