Miami City Guide
Overview
From white sandy beaches to colorful architecture and culture, Miami is a hoppin' city for family vacations. Whether you’re enjoying the beaches, checking out the art scene, or getting up close to over 900 animals at Lion Country Safari, the whole family is sure to have a frogtastic time in The Magic City!
Miami was officially incorporated as a city in 1896 and was named for the nearby Miami River, derived from Mayaimi, the historic name of Lake Okeechobee. Because of the prevalence of Spanish language and culture in the city, many refer to Miami as the capital of Latin America. Miami is also known as the Cruise Capital of the World, with over 2 million cruisers embarking from its ports annually.
Miami offers an eclectic mix of experiences, allowing you to get close to nature and enjoy the sunshine while also exploring the art and culture of the area.
February 11, 2025
Temperature:
HI 81° LO 69°
Best Time to Visit
The best months to visit Miami are March through May because of the spring sunshine and pleasant temps in the high 70s and low 80s. Hurricane season begins in June and lasts through the end of November.What We Love
- Pleasant temperatures nearly year-round (don’t forget sunscreen and an umbrella!)
- Hands-on experience with nature for tadpoles (your hotel, for example, may ask that you stay mindful of turning your light off at a particular time so as not to disrupt the sea turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs; tadpoles can see dolphins, turtles and other sea life during beach days, or alligators in the famed Everglades)
- Laid-back vibes with access to art museums, art deco architecture and aquariums
- Cuban everything – coffee, sandwiches, and of course, arroz con pollo
Fun Facts About Miami
- Miami became a city in 1896 after local businesswoman Julia Tuttle convinced a railroad tycoon to expand into the area — making Miami the only major U.S. city to be founded by a woman.
- Across Biscayne Bay from Miami proper is Miami Beach, which was incorporated in 1915. Because Miami Beach is largely man-made, its beaches often have to be replenished with new sand.
- Miami is home to more than 800 parks and is the only U.S. city surrounded by two national ones: Biscayne National Park and Everglades National Park.
- Downtown Miami has the largest concentration of international banks in the United States.
- There are over 50 shipwrecks in the waters near Miami, a treasure trove for divers.
For a beach practically made for tadpoles, visit Matheson Hammock Park. The beach is kid-friendly with no waves (it sits along a man-made reef).
Want even more tips? Check out our Frog Family Blog!