There are many reasons that people visit Florida, among them the allure of beaches and sunshine. But it's the glitz, glamour and luxury of Miami that draw visitors down the coast. And, yes it is true that money doesn't buy happiness, but it can afford unforgettable luxurious travel experiences. 

There's little doubt that Miami is among one of the most expensive places in the United States. Look no further than ritzy enclaves like Star Island in Miami Beach, Coral Gables, Pinecrest and Key Biscayne and you'll find the finest things that money can afford.

If you are among the elite that can make it rain dollar bills and are looking to indulge in luxury destinations, here are a few ideas to satiate your wanderlust. From high-end shopping at Bal Harbour Shops or Miami's Design District, award-winning restaurants, awe-inspiring spas at top-rated resorts, exotic car rentals or private jet flights, you can experience Miami lavishly and live the lifestyle others dream about. 

You don't have to wait for Cinco de Mayo, the biggest drinking holiday of the year, to enjoy that refreshing and delicious tropical drink.

Whether it's tequila, mojitos or margaritas that get your tastebuds dancing, nothing compares to a good Miami cocktail. Be it straight-up, super spicy, fresh and fruity or intricately infused, there are as many drinks to imbibe in as preferences.

Let's toast to the local bars and restaurants stirring it up with libations that pay homage to Miami's weather, locally sourced ingredients and decadence. Plus, our top picks on where to celebrate the big Mexican fiesta—Cinco de Mayo.

Bleau Bar

Located in Miami’s iconic Fontainebleau Miami Beach hotel, this cocktail at Bleau Bar is as hot as the establishment that serves it. With “heat” being hot in current cocktail culture, Fire in the Hole delivers spicy goodness. Poblano pepper-infused Corralejo tequila, Chichicapa mezcal, and muddled Jalapeño raise the heat; tropical passion fruit vanilla syrup and lime juice take the edge off. 4441 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305.674.4760. 

Ball & Chain

History buffs, style mavens and cocktail connoisseurs unite at this 81-year-old bar and nightclub in Little Havana, Ball & Chain. Mixologists here take advantage of Miami’s bountiful harvest by mixing fresh-squeezed red grapefruit and lime juice with tequila blanco and topping it off with local brand, Jupiña pineapple soda. The result is a totally sweet-tart treat. 1513 SW 8th St., Miami, 305.643.7820.

The Bar at LVL 25

On Cinco de Mayo, The Bar at LvL 25 at Conrad Miami, features a happy hour complete with a Don Julio tequila bar. Guests can sip on traditional margaritas including the Açai-Rita, made with Don Julio tequila, Cedilla açai liquor and fresh berries from the bar’s regular menu, or sample the Mexican-inspired margarita’s ‘sister’ cocktail, Paloma, made with Don Julio tequila, grapefruit soda and fresh lime juice.  

The Local Craft Food & Drink

“Cocktail craftsman” Will Thompson at Coral Gables haunt, The Local Craft Food & Drink, uses fresh and unusual ingredients to create original recipes indicative of Miami. His newest, Remedio del Don, is a mixture of sweet, spicy, and tart ingredients including lemon and ginger juices, ginger liqueur, honey and Boy Drinks World Passion Fruit and Serrano bitters. To finish it off, a local beef jerky spice rub rims the glass. 150 Giralda Ave., Coral Gables, 305.648.5687. 

NaiYaRa

When you think of Miami, frozen fruity drinks often come to mind. The folks at NaiYaRa, a hip Thai eatery in Miami Beach, have taken a perennial favorite and added a new twist—spice. Introducing the Killer Bee—thick, slushy and made with organic ingredients including Kelvin lemon, Thai chili, lemongrass, ginger and Beefeater gin. “Bee” careful—it looks innocent, but packs a lip smacking finish. 1854 Bay Rd., Miami Beach, 786.275.6005.

Radio Bar

Head south to the South of Fifth neighborhood in Miami Beach to find a bar that makes it possible to party without pretense while sipping trendy craft cocktails. Back in the day, partiers on South Beach would sip Champagne. But Radio Bar has stepped it up a notch with their twist on the bubbly treat. Mix Veer acai spirit, lemon and mint to create their tasty new cocktail, Ze Pequeno. 814 1st St., Miami Beach, 305.397.8382. 

Sugarcane Raw Bar & Grill

When you think of the quintessential Miami cocktail, what comes to mind? If you thought “mojito” you are definitely not alone. It’s almost impossible to visit South Florida and not order one (or two or three) mojitos. Muddled mint, lime, soda water—so light and refreshing. Generally made with rum, Sugarcane in Midtown Miami, transforms the drink staple by infusing beets into Bacardi Superior rum, and voila, a delicious twist on a perennial favorite. 3252 NE 1st Ave., Miami, 786.369.0353. 

Where to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Miami

• Bodega Taqueria y Tequila begins celebrating on the third of May with a taco eating contest. On the 5th, their drink specials will include the Paloma, Michelada and the Mexican Shandi. Drink up Maestro Dobel Tequila shots and Coronas for $5. Enjoy a live Mariachi band, DJ Spiff, snow cones, churros and a photo booth. 3 pm-5 am. 
• Check out a special Cinco de Mayo edition of Thursday's de Travesura at the Craft Social Club. Dance to the music by DJ Jax. Try the ODB, a spicy margarita made with Fresno-infused Don Julio tequila. 
• The Cinco de Mayo Wynwood Yard Party promises to be one of the biggest bashes in town. Mariachi bands, local cover bands, DJs, mini luchadores, mechanical bull rides, tequila drinks and shots, and photo booths. General or VIP tickets available through Eventbrite. 4 pm - 2 am.
• Coyo Taco’s"Tacos, Lucha & Chelas" Mexican fiesta starts at 4 pm. Enjoy a live mariachi band, $5 tacos, margaritas, ceviche, beer and a cochinta pibil pig roast.  

Go on a zoo safari, explore the underwater world and marine life, discover how much fun science is or take a monorail through 280 acres with 900 animals. You'll find all this to do at South Florida's top attractions. And this summer just got a lot easier on the wallet to visit these must-see attractions.

For the sixth year in the row, Lion Country Safari, Miami Seaquarium, Zoo Miami and Museum of Discovery and Science have joined forces to offer discounts through the Summer Savings Pass. Summer Savings Pass holders will enjoy unlimited visits to all four attractions from May 13 to September 30, 2016, for the low price of $56 plus tax, per adult and $46 plus tax, per child (ages 3-12). 

Lion Country Safari

Located in West Palm Beach on Southern Boulevard (SR80), 15 miles west of I-95, 10 miles west of the Florida Turnpike, Lion Country Safari is a 4-mile drive-through safari with more than 900 animals roaming free within inches of your vehicle, including giraffes, zebras, rhinos, lions, wildebeests and more. 

Admission includes entry to Safari World Amusement Park with animal encounters (giraffe feeding, bird feeding and petting zoo) and demonstrations, free rides (Ferris wheel, kid’s train, carousel, paddle boats and water spray ground), games, shopping, food and thrills. The park is open daily. 

Miami Seaquarium

Discover one of South Florida’s favorite and oldest visitor attraction—the Miami Seaquarium, minutes from downtown Miami, on the Rickenbacker Causeway on the way to Key Biscayne. Enjoy amazing marine mammal shows with dolphins and sea lions that delight children of all ages. Make a feathered friend at the new "Penguin Isle" exhibit. See world-class sea life exhibits with manatees, sea turtles, sharks, rays and more. Learn about wildlife rescue and marine animal care at the Conservation Outpost. Plus, there is no greater thrill than getting in the water with the friendly, intelligent and graceful dolphins at Dolphin Harbor. 

Museum of Discovery and Science

Spend a day exploring hundreds of interactive exhibits, including the new EcoDiscovery Center at the Museum of Discovery and Science in downtown Fort Lauderdale. Visitors can take a ride on the Everglades Airboat Adventure, experience hurricane force winds in the Storm Center, dig for fossils alongside a giant prehistoric megalodon, get close to a confrontation between a saber-toothed cat and an Imperial mammoth, and enjoy the playful antics of North American river otters. See exciting science demonstrations and special exhibit "Wildlife Rescue."

Hang out with bats, turtles and sharks. Meet an alligator and be charmed by a 6-foot-long snake. Take a ride to Mars or soar through the skies in an FA-18 cockpit simulator.

Whether you’re 2 or 82 years old, visit the Museum of Discovery and Science and enjoy a full day of family fun. The Museum is open seven days a week, 365 days a year. Don't miss the just as amazing IMAX® experience in the 300-seat AutoNation IMAX 3D Theater that features the biggest screen in South Florida, with ongoing shows like "Island of Lemurs: Madagascar,""Journey to the South Pacific" and "Space Station 3D."

Zoo Miami

Discover what makes Zoo Miami a unique experience for visitors of all ages. Rated one of the top ten zoos in the U.S. by Tripadvisor.com, Zoo Miami houses more than 2,000 animals in natural habitats and provides visitors the feel of a safari.

Enjoy animals like okapis, giant river otters, elephants and rhinos in large open air exhibits; a giraffe-feeding station; camel rides; an Indian rhino encounter; Australian parrot feeding; meet and greets with new mascots, the Zoo Squad; tram tours; family cycles; water-play areas; a monorail and large exhibits such as Amazon & Beyond. Ticket booth closes at 4 pm. 

Travelers have been admiring the artistic haven of the Wynwood Walls since its inception. But the vibrant arts scene extends beyond Miami's trendy Wynwood neighborhood. Throughout Greater Miami and the beaches you'll find awe-inspiring architecture, great collections and must-see displays that celebrates our unique culture. 

The Perez Art Museum Miami, the Rubell Family Collection and the Margulies Warehouse are just a few of the art attractions the city has to offer. You'll also find fun, free events such as the Wynwood Art Walk which are making art accessible to the public by creating block party atmospheres. And if you happen to be traveling to Miami and passing through Miami International Airport, take time to view the more than 35 art projects that fill the walls, ceilings and other peculiar places in terminals, walkways and the concessions. Here are select venues—both large and small—where you can immerse yourself in the arts in the city.

Whether it's tequila, mojitos or margaritas that get your tastebuds dancing, nothing compares to a good Miami cocktail. Be it straight-up, super spicy, fresh and fruity or intricately infused, there are as many drinks to imbibe in as preferences.

Let's toast to the local bars and restaurants stirring it up with libations that pay homage to Miami's weather, locally sourced ingredients and decadence. 

Bleau Bar

Located in Miami’s iconic Fontainebleau Miami Beach hotel, this cocktail at Bleau Bar is as hot as the establishment that serves it. With “heat” being hot in current cocktail culture, Fire in the Hole delivers spicy goodness. Poblano pepper-infused Corralejo tequila, Chichicapa mezcal, and muddled Jalapeño raise the heat; tropical passion fruit vanilla syrup and lime juice take the edge off. 4441 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305.674.4760. 

Ball & Chain

History buffs, style mavens and cocktail connoisseurs unite at this 81-year-old bar and nightclub in Little Havana, Ball & Chain. Mixologists here take advantage of Miami’s bountiful harvest by mixing fresh-squeezed red grapefruit and lime juice with tequila blanco and topping it off with local brand, Jupiña pineapple soda. The result is a totally sweet-tart treat. 1513 SW 8th St., Miami, 305.643.7820.

The Bar at LVL 25

The Bar at LvL 25 at Conrad Miami features a decked out Don Julio tequila bar where guests can sip on traditional margaritas including the Açai-Rita, made with Don Julio tequila, Cedilla açai liquor and fresh berries  or sample the Mexican-inspired margarita’s ‘sister’ cocktail, Paloma, made with Don Julio tequila, grapefruit soda and fresh lime juice. 1395 Brickell Ave., Miami, 305.503.6500.  

The Local Craft Food & Drink

“Cocktail craftsman” Will Thompson at Coral Gables haunt, The Local Craft Food & Drink, uses fresh and unusual ingredients to create original recipes indicative of Miami. His newest, Remedio del Don, is a mixture of sweet, spicy, and tart ingredients including lemon and ginger juices, ginger liqueur, honey and Boy Drinks World Passion Fruit and Serrano bitters. To finish it off, a local beef jerky spice rub rims the glass. 150 Giralda Ave., Coral Gables, 305.648.5687. 

NaiYaRa

When you think of Miami, frozen fruity drinks often come to mind. The folks at NaiYaRa, a hip Thai eatery in Miami Beach, have taken a perennial favorite and added a new twist—spice. Introducing the Killer Bee—thick, slushy and made with organic ingredients including Kelvin lemon, Thai chili, lemongrass, ginger and Beefeater gin. “Bee” careful—it looks innocent, but packs a lip smacking finish. 1854 Bay Rd., Miami Beach, 786.275.6005.

Radio Bar

Head south to the South of Fifth neighborhood in Miami Beach to find a bar that makes it possible to party without pretense while sipping trendy craft cocktails. Back in the day, partiers on South Beach would sip Champagne. But Radio Bar has stepped it up a notch with their twist on the bubbly treat. Mix Veer acai spirit, lemon and mint to create their tasty new cocktail, Ze Pequeno. 814 1st St., Miami Beach, 305.397.8382. 

Sugarcane Raw Bar & Grill

When you think of the quintessential Miami cocktail, what comes to mind? If you thought “mojito” you are definitely not alone. It’s almost impossible to visit South Florida and not order one (or two or three) mojitos. Muddled mint, lime, soda water—so light and refreshing. Generally made with rum, Sugarcane in Midtown Miami, transforms the drink staple by infusing beets into Bacardi Superior rum, and voila, a delicious twist on a perennial favorite. 3252 NE 1st Ave., Miami, 786.369.0353. 

With the ever growing popularity of farmers’ markets around the country, you don’t have to leave your preference for fresh, less-processed, locally grown food behind while away from home.

Besides, where else can you taste the local culture than at a farmers' market? Whether you are a health-conscious traveler, an adventurous foodie or hunting for a snack, green markets offer a wonderful way to get to know the local delicacies. Let us help you find local, organic, farm-fresh food near you. 

Downtown Miami/Brickell

Miami’s newest mixed-use project in the Downtown Miami/Brickell neighborhood, Brickell City Centre from Swire Properties Inc., hosts a weekly farmers market every Sunday, 11 am-6 pm. The market features conventional and organically grown produce as well as a variety of cheeses, breads and prepared foods. Zak the Baker bread, local honey, orchids, fruit smoothies, Argentinian empanadas, artisanal olive oil and herb plants round out the growing list. 

“My hope is that the Brickell City Centre Farmers Market will help create a sense of community that Brickell has not yet seen; a place where neighbors can come together to enjoy the aromas of fresh basil, warm bread and ripe oranges,” said Stephen Owens, president of Swire Properties. Look for the market along the landscaped pathway that runs underneath the Metromover track between 7th and 8th streets.

If you are looking to kick start your week with a dose of healthy fare, head to the Adrienne Arsht Center Farmer's Market for "Keep it Healthy Mondays," between 4-8 pm in the Parker and Vann Thomson Plaza for the Arts. Besides the fruits and veggies, the market also organizes periodic talks with food writers, chefs, and music and cooking demonstrations. Parking with the PayByPhone app is available in Lot C on N.E. 2nd Avenue (between Northeast 12th and 13th streets).

Hollywood/Fort Lauderdale

South Florida’s largest market, Yellow Green Farmers Market, in Hollywood opened in October 2010. It is housed in a former airplane hangar and boasts 100,000 square-feet of space with 300 booths under one roof. Many locals do their weekly grocery shopping here and others just like to wander the market and relax with a cocktail at The Chillbar, fresh juice or local craft beer. The market provides plenty of organic food and products and offers convenient, extended weekday hours (Thursdays 7 pm–11 pm) and weekend hours (Saturday and Sundays 7 am–4 pm). Find them off Taft Street, next to Interstate 95. 

Amid bustling Fort Lauderdale, the Las Olas Sunday Market on Las Olas Boulevard and 3rd Street in downtown is a welcome oasis. Located in front of YOLO Restaurant, the Fort Lauderdale farmers' market takes place every Sunday and offers a high-quality mix of produce and non-food products. You're bound to find whatever you are looking for here. French pottery, African art, soy candles, orchids, gluten-free products, jewelry and fresh baked goods are some of the items available for purchase. Parking at Lot No. 50 Las Olas Place will cost $2 and $1 per hour parking is available near the Holiday Market.

Midtown Miami/Wynwood

A bit further north from Downtown Miami west of Biscayne Boulevard (US1), find two Saturday markets open year-round: Wynwood Farmers’ Market and The Market Company’s newest farmers’ market at the Shops at Midtown Miami. With themes such as art and jazz, the Wywnood market open 11 am to 6 pm at Mana Wynwood, offers delicious food and drinks plus, artisanal foods, handcrafted wares for the kitchen and home. Visit the Midtown Miami market near West Elm in the central outdoor plaza on Buena Vista Boulevard to stock up on local honey, olive oils, cheeses and much more.

Miami/Coconut Grove

South Florida's oldest farmer's market, the Coconut Grove Saturday Organic Market is a must-visit destination. Open every Saturday from 10 am to 7 pm, rain or shine, the market is known for its distinctive local and global produce. Find naan bread and Indian spices alongside jams, spinach stuffed pastries, a variety of sauces, organic raw honey. There are also loads of fresh fruits and veggies as well as a wide assortment of juices. Shoppers can stay and dine from the raw salad bar, nori rolls, pizza, fruit cakes and grab a seat at one of the wooden picnic tables.

Miami Beach/Lincoln Road 

When others have to shop indoors, in Miami Beach at the Lincoln Road Farmers’ Market you can still work on your tan, people-watch and shop for fresh cut flowers and plants, bread, tropical fruit smoothies, ceviche and more as you stroll along Lincoln Road Mall. This green market is open Sundays from 9 am to 6 pm, year-round.

South Miami/Pinecrest

Established in 2012, the Southwest Farmers' Market located at the popular Tropical Park near the Bird Road (SW 40th Street) entrance features fresh, seasonal, local fruit, vegetables, eggs, and herbs, mostly organic or sustainably grown. Vendors sell locally produced baked goods, pickles, sauces and juices in addition to ready-to-eat foods including Mexican, Indian, Jamaican and other specialties. Most vendors offers samples for tasting. Saturdays from 9 am to 3 pm. There's lots of free parking available onsite. 

If you happen to be visiting further south, on Sundays from 9 am to 2 pm, head over to the Pinecrest Gardens Farmers' Market. The market sources its produce from farmers and purveyors from Miami, Homestead, the Redlands, Clewiston and Ft. Pierce. Here, you'll find the season's best bounty of fruits, vegetables, honey, flowers, meats, cheeses and specialty products throughout the year.

The Best Farmers Markets Around Miami and Ft. Lauderdale

In town during the Memorial Day weekend and planning to hit the surf and sand on South Beach? Then, there are a few things you should know.  

Miami Beach is a coveted destination year-round, but during the holiday, it turns into the must-go destination for thousands of hip-hop fans fired up for what is referred to as "Urban Beach Week" (or Black Beach Week)—four days of fun, music and food starting Thursday, May 26. 

The weekend is notable for mega-parties, concerts and reveling on the sand and streets of South Beach. This year, the largest urban event in the nation will celebrate its 20th anniversary and is expected to draw record attendance—more than 250,000.

During the weekend, traffic on South Beach also gets an overhaul. If you are driving, arrive early to find parking in the nearby city garages. Only locals with appropriate zoned decals will be allowed to park in residential streets; visitors will be diverted along Fifth Street and Washington and Collins Avenues. East/west streets (100 and 200 blocks) will be restricted between Washington Avenue and Ocean Drive, Sixth to 15th streets. Ocean Drive will be pedestrian-only from 7 am Friday to 7 am Tuesday. 

If you are not into the hip-hop scene and are looking for other distractions, there's still lots to see and do on-and-off the beach. Here is our roundup of some of the area happenings:

May 27

How Can I Be Down International Hip Hop Business Conference: This conference at the Breakwater Hotel will include several workshops for music, fashion, sports and business professionals. One of the most anticipated panels this year is "Formation of a Star ... The Entertainment Industry. How Do I Get In?" featuring Mathew Knowles, Grammy Award-winning executive and manager of Destiny's Child, Beyonce and Solange Kowles. Knowles will share his industry knowledge with aspiring music entrepreneurs. Call 561.201.2234 for tickets or purchase on Eventbrite.

Clevelander Happy Hour: This South Beach hotspot has one of the most popular Friday happy hours (4-7 pm Mo.-Fr.). Listen to a mix of hip-hop jams, Top 40 hits and reggae tunes from the nightly DJ, people-watch poolside and satiate with a margarita or the frozen-drink specials.  

Vision Reggae: Mango's Tropical Cafe goes all-out with its nightly dance shows. Tuesday through Fridays, the restaurant plays host to reggae performances from 2 to 7:30 pm. There's also a Michael Jackson tribute show, salsa dancing and hip-hop show on the schedule, too. 

May 28

Afrobeat Miami 2.0: The Rubi Lounge plays host to the finest DJs from New York City and Atlanta: DJ Afoo and DJ YB and DJ D-ROCC from 10 pm-5 am.

Life and Grind USA Tour: The hit cable reality TV series, "Life and Grind" continues its U.S. tour with stops in South Beach's Ocean Drive on May 28 and Downtown Miami on May 29, looking for the hottest unsigned indie artists, bands and dancers. To perform in the showcase, email vipsquadent@gmail.com.

R. Kelly: Music fans will flock to the AmericanAirlines Arena to watch R&B crooner R. Kelly captivate the audience with his sultry hits and power ballads. Concert starts at 8 pm.

May 29

Amazing Sunday Brunch: Unwind, recharge and have fun at Nikki Beach's world famous brunch with international dishes and exciting entertainment. 11 am-4 pm.

Reggae Sundays: Now at The Wynwood Yard, this weekly event will feature a reggae festival with 5 bands: JahnLee (acoustic/island reggae); The FreeCoasters (Ska/Rocksteady/Reggae); Ellameno Beat (Reggae/Ska); Sweet Justice (Caribbean Reggae) and InnaSense (Reggae/dancehall/pop reggae) and 5 DJs: Lance-O, Bin Bin, ODM, Mello-D, Ricky D from noon till 1 am for $5 entry. 

Sangria Sundays: Enjoy a new Sunday ritual at the Mediterranean hotspot Cleo South Beach at The Redbury Hotel, with three different varieties of sangria to choose from: red, white and a specialty pink sangria prepared with the delectable sweet rosé. Whether enjoying a night out with friends or spending the evening with a special someone, this South Beach oasis will be the perfect way to end the weekend (sangria in hand). 6-11 pm.

Freedom Festival USA: For 12 hours (11 am-11 pm) this music festival on Virginia Key Beach will pay tribute to American soldiers with more than 50 musical acts. A portion of the proceeds benefit the Wounded Warrior Project. 

Memorial Weekend Comedy Festival: John Witherspoon, Lil Duval, Kym Whitley, Steve Brown, Michael Colyar and Earthquake headline the ninth annual comedy fest at downtown Miami's James L. Knight Center. Adult language and topical subject matter is expected—you have been warned.

The Best of the Best Concert: For 10 years, this musical experience in Downtown Miami has included the best performances in pop, R&B, soca, reggae, hip-hop and Caribbean music. Immerse yourself for a day into the sights, sounds and taste of the Caribbean. Past headliners have included Wyclef Jean, Diddy, Akon, Shaggy and more.

May 30

Sizzle Miami Grand Anniversary: Mix and mingle with the most energetic and fun-filled crowd at the Rooftop at E11even from 6 pm to midnight. Created in 2002, Sizzle is among the most celebrated urban gay events in the nation. Party-seekers converge in Miami to celebrate pride, life and liberty with a smorgasbord of exciting events. 

Memorial Weekend Day Party: Celebrate the holiday with a party from 2 pm-9 pm, hosted by The Majestic Group and radio DJs from 103.5 FM The Beat at Brick House in Wynwood Miami. Tickets $10.

This year, the National Park Service turns 100 on Aug. 25. In celebration of this important milestone of educating, preserving and inspiring people to see these special places, here are three of South Florida's most awe-inspiring parks that should be on your must-see list.

Everglades National Park

More than a million people visit Everglades National Park—the third-largest in the park system–each year. Although there is never a bad time to explore this majestic site, most travelers come in the dry season (Dec.-March).

But if you want to beat the crowds and have the park all to yourself, visit during the summer. An hour southwest of Downtown Miami, the Shark Valley entrance offers an array of activities for day-trippers.

Cycle past bellowing gators on a 15-mile loop trail or take the tram tour if you don’t want to break a sweat. Get your feet wet on a ranger-guided Shark River Slough, an off-trail hike through the “River of Grass.” There’s also the Shark Valley Visitor Center filled with educational exhibits and information on the current conditions of the trails.

By the main Homestead entrance, Royal Palm, you can take an easy stroll through sawgrass marsh on the relaxing Anhinga Trail boardwalk and spot all kinds of wildlife including alligators, turtles and birds. Learn all about these feathered creatures on a ranger-led naturalist tour.

At the southwest corner of the Everglades, in the Flamingo District, you’ll spy manatees and the only natural habitat in the park where alligators and crocodiles cohabitate. The area is a top-pick among birders, hikers, bikers and paddlers.

For campers, Everglades National Park has 48 designated backcountry campsites; choose from chickees, ground sites and beach sites. Make sure to make reservations during the busy winter months. 

Dry Tortugas

Explore the primal world of the 100-square-mile Dry Tortugas National Park and its seven-island archipelago in the remote waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

It is home to Fort Jefferson, the largest all-mason fortress in the United States, built in the 19th century. The site was heavily used during the Civil War and later became a prison and Naval base, refueling center and radio station.

Open year-round, the island preserve is only accessible by boat or seaplane, 70 miles west of Key West, so make sure to plan your trip well in advance.

Surrounded by cerulean seas, pristine coral reefs and a wide array of marine and bird life, is a beloved camping and snorkeling destination. Many ferries offer snorkeling gear aboard so visitors can explore the waters off the beach. Bring a dive light to snorkel the Moat Wall at night for a rare treat. Octopus, basket starfish and squid sightings are common.

Biscayne National Park

Spend a day on Biscayne Bay, home to Biscayne National Park, an oceanic "Garden of Eden," filled with crystal waters, verdant islands and vibrant coral reefs. At 173,000 acres, it is the longest stretch of mangrove forest in Florida’s east coast.

Many visitors enjoy snorkeling, diving, boating or picnicking by the park’s 65-foot lighthouse. Divers can visit six shipwrecks on the Maritime Heritage Trail—the oldest sank in 1878. Some sites, like Mandalay, are best suited for snorkelers especially during the summertime when the waters are calm.

Book a sailing trip, canoe or kayak to explore one of six different paddling trails. Go for the day or camp overnight at Elliot or Boca Chita Key. 

Free Admission Days

Mark your calendar! The National Park Service offers free admission to everyone on several dates throughout 2016 including the NPS birthday (Aug. 25-28), National Public Lands Day (Sept. 24) and Veterans Day (Nov. 11). 

Tropical and lively, South Florida attracts every kind of traveler throughout the year. With its near-perfect weather (or tropical climate?) and diverse activities, this massive area is a never-ending adventure. Bustling nightlife, breezy outdoor shopping spots, lazy days on the beach and almost anything else a visitor can imagine awaits in South Florida.

Try out the beaches on a jet ski tour, enjoy the salsa music pouring out of shops in Little Havana, stroll the day away at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens or shop at Mary Brickell Village or Bayside Marketplace (but be sure to “drop” by one of the many great restaurants). There are many places throughout Miami that over time have become icons of the city, from restaurants and dive-bars to everything in-between.  First-time visitors should stop by these unique places to get a feel for the area and to experience the real essence of Miami.

Whether it's tequila, mojitos or margaritas that get your tastebuds dancing, nothing compares to a good Miami cocktail. Be it straight-up, super spicy, fresh and fruity or intricately infused, there are as many drinks to imbibe in as preferences.

Let's toast to the local bars and restaurants stirring it up with libations that pay homage to Miami's weather, locally sourced ingredients and decadence. 

Bleau Bar

Located in Miami’s iconic Fontainebleau Miami Beach hotel, this cocktail at Bleau Bar is as hot as the establishment that serves it. With “heat” being hot in current cocktail culture, Fire in the Hole delivers spicy goodness. Poblano pepper-infused Corralejo tequila, Chichicapa mezcal, and muddled Jalapeño raise the heat; tropical passion fruit vanilla syrup and lime juice take the edge off. 4441 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305.674.4760. 

Ball & Chain

History buffs, style mavens and cocktail connoisseurs unite at this 81-year-old bar and nightclub in Little Havana, Ball & Chain. Mixologists here take advantage of Miami’s bountiful harvest by mixing fresh-squeezed red grapefruit and lime juice with tequila blanco and topping it off with local brand, Jupiña pineapple soda. The result is a totally sweet-tart treat. 1513 SW 8th St., Miami, 305.643.7820.

The Bar at LVL 25

The Bar at LvL 25 at Conrad Miami features a decked out Don Julio tequila bar where guests can sip on traditional margaritas including the Açai-Rita, made with Don Julio tequila, Cedilla açai liquor and fresh berries  or sample the Mexican-inspired margarita’s ‘sister’ cocktail, Paloma, made with Don Julio tequila, grapefruit soda and fresh lime juice. 1395 Brickell Ave., Miami, 305.503.6500.  

The Local Craft Food & Drink

“Cocktail craftsman” Will Thompson at Coral Gables haunt, The Local Craft Food & Drink, uses fresh and unusual ingredients to create original recipes indicative of Miami. His newest, Remedio del Don, is a mixture of sweet, spicy, and tart ingredients including lemon and ginger juices, ginger liqueur, honey and Boy Drinks World Passion Fruit and Serrano bitters. To finish it off, a local beef jerky spice rub rims the glass. 150 Giralda Ave., Coral Gables, 305.648.5687. 

NaiYaRa

When you think of Miami, frozen fruity drinks often come to mind. The folks at NaiYaRa, a hip Thai eatery in Miami Beach, have taken a perennial favorite and added a new twist—spice. Introducing the Killer Bee—thick, slushy and made with organic ingredients including Kelvin lemon, Thai chili, lemongrass, ginger and Beefeater gin. “Bee” careful—it looks innocent, but packs a lip smacking finish. 1854 Bay Rd., Miami Beach, 786.275.6005.

Radio Bar

Head south to the South of Fifth neighborhood in Miami Beach to find a bar that makes it possible to party without pretense while sipping trendy craft cocktails. Back in the day, partiers on South Beach would sip Champagne. But Radio Bar has stepped it up a notch with their twist on the bubbly treat. Mix Veer acai spirit, lemon and mint to create their tasty new cocktail, Ze Pequeno. 814 1st St., Miami Beach, 305.397.8382. 

Sugarcane Raw Bar & Grill

When you think of the quintessential Miami cocktail, what comes to mind? If you thought “mojito” you are definitely not alone. It’s almost impossible to visit South Florida and not order one (or two or three) mojitos. Muddled mint, lime, soda water—so light and refreshing. Generally made with rum, Sugarcane in Midtown Miami, transforms the drink staple by infusing beets into Bacardi Superior rum, and voila, a delicious twist on a perennial favorite. 3252 NE 1st Ave., Miami, 786.369.0353.