Top Rated Attractions in Miami

Located in downtown Miami, Olympia Theater at the Gusman Center for the Performing Arts has served as a stage for cultural performances since 1926. Designed in the Spanish style with an old world charm, the building maintains a certain air of sophistication. The center once housed the Miami Philharmonic Orchestra. After undergoing a two-year renovation project in the 1970s, the historic structure became one of the city's main performing arts venues. Today, the center continues to feature an exciting array of theater, music and dance.

Zoo Miami is one of the oldest and largest zoos in the entire state of Florida. Called a "free-range zoo," none of the animals are caged here. Due to its tropical climate, it is an ideal menagerie for observing animals from warmer areas of the world, like Australia and Africa. Visit all kinds of animals, from Cuban crocodiles to those from the Southern Hemisphere like the Tree Kangaroos. The zoo also has several cafes and concession stands scattered throughout so visitors are refreshed.

Unlike many of South Florida's state parks, Barnacle State Historic Park is centrally located and easily accessible by automobile. Just off the main street in trendy Coconut Grove, this five-acre (2.02-hectare) historic site offers visitors a glimpse into a past full of beauty and luxury. This stately structure was originally the home of Ralph Middleton Munroe, a landowner and yacht enthusiast who hailed from New York. Before and after Munroe's passing, measures were taken to ensure that the property reflected South Florida's culture and blossoming heritage. Guests can tour Munroe's home or explore the lush land outside. The park also offers ample amenities for wildlife watching and picnicking.

Designed especially keeping children's interests in mind, the Miami Children's Museum assists in channeling effective learning through fun activities. Here, children can usually be found immersed in workshops, interactive exhibits, lecture series, plays, and films. Kids can also join classes and clubs and actively participate in enthralling activities. This place addresses vital issues, such as education, childcare and safety, family health care, and parenting, in an easily graspable and magical way. Visiting the Miami Children's Museum is an educative experience for kids and adults.

Located just south of Downtown Miami and northeast of the University of Miami, Coconut Grove is a charming neighborhood commonly called Village by locals. Surrounded by lush greenery and flanked by Biscayne Bay, 'The Grove' as it is also known, has been an enchanting spot for creative artists, eccentrics, travelers and wealthy entrepreneurs. Coconut Grove is brimming with quaint shops, tree-lined streets, nightclubs, and fabulous dining options. Some attractions include CocoWalk, Streets of Mayfair, Coconut Grove Playhouse and The Barnacle Historic State Park.

This landmark building located in the center of Miami is especially important to Cuban residents. During the 1960s, it was the processing center for nearly half a million Cuban refugees. Designed by George A Fuller, Schultze, & Weaver the Freedom Tower was established in 1925. Prior to its stint as a Cuban refugee center, the Freedom Tower housed the Miami News. The Freedom Tower is home to MDC Museum of Art + Design. Visitors to the landmark can peruse beautiful artworks exhibited at the museum.