Top Tourist Attractions In South Florida Worth The Hype

Tourist traps abound across the country and around the world, but South Florida's most-talked-about tourist attractions are actually must-see locations. The beauty of South Florida amplifies the interest of these amazing locations such as Vizcaya Museum and Gardens and Miami Seaquarium. All of these attractions are appropriate for visitors of all ages and there are even special VIP packages available such as swimming with the dolphins and spending time with the attraction animals up close and personal. These are global destinations that will be talked about for years.

Miami Seaquarium
4400 Rickenbacker Causeway
Key Biscayne, FL 33149
(305) 361-5705
www.miamiseaquarium.com

Miami Seaquarium is an amazing park with wonderful sea animals, exhibits and entertainment appropriate for visitors of all ages. This water-filled wonder features local underwater creatures such as manatees as well as animals from around the world such as orca whales. For those who love to be splashed, the orca whale shows have the splash zone seats clearly identified to ensure a refreshing time. Miami Seaquarium offers plenty of unique experiences as well such as the opportunity to swim with the dolphins. In fact, Miami Seaquarium was home to the original Flipper of television fame.

Jungle Island
1111 Parrot Jungle Trail
Miami, FL 33132
(305) 400-7000
www.jungleisland.com

Jungle Island is one of the most beautiful locations in Miami and it's also a lot of fun. The island is home to dozens of species of animals including lemurs, gibbons, orangutans, parrots, macaws and a liger (yes, the cross between a lion and a tiger does exist). The atmosphere is amplified by stunning plant species in an awe-inspiring setting. Weekends are a time for incredible animal shows and there are great permanent exhibits on the island including a walk-through replica of the Florida Everglades. Visitors with a bit more money to spend can arrange for the Jungle Island VIP Safari Tour for a special package that includes getting up close and personal with the island's animals, park admission, lunch, a souvenir and a gift shop discount.

Museum of Discovery And Science
401 S.W. 2nd St.
Fort Lauderdale, FL
(954) 467-6637
www.mods.org

The Museum of Discovery and Science should be on the mandatory to-do list for families visiting South Florida. The museum is as popular with locals as it is for tourists and though it's geared towards children and teens, it's as fun for the adults as it is for the younger visitors. This is an interactive museum with sprawling exhibits on several floors exploring everything from kinetic science and zoology to space science and anatomy. The pilot cockpit simulator is an incredible experience to be noted as well as the group experience of a simulated ride to planet Mars. An awe-inspiring Imax movie theater is a part of the facilities to watch special editions of films in a larger-than-life and unforgettable experience.

Related: Top Historical Tours Of South Florida

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
3251 S. Miami Ave.
Miami, FL 33129
(305) 250-9133
www.vizcaya.org

This beautiful property on Biscayne Bay is probably the most popular spot for photo sessions for engaged couples and wedding parties. Retired millionaire James Deering had the property built as a winter home and the estate, that was modeled after an Italian countryside villa, was completed in 1922. The house itself is now a museum and its regal and opulent furnishings, art and interior design still have complete relevance and style to this day. The house is surrounded by gardens and visitors may enjoy the café and gift shop on the property.

Coral Castle
28655 S. Dixie Highway
Miami, FL 33033
(305) 248-6345
www.coralcastle.com

Near Homestead lies the unexpected and mysterious stone structures of Coral Castle. To this day, no one is sure how the eccentric Ed Leedskalnin created Coral Castle in the 1920s. He would mysteriously tell visitors that he simply knew the same technology that the builders of the pyramids used – he said it was simple for him to erect as he knew the technology himself. Many rumors abounded in his lifetime that he somehow possessed supernatural power. The museum is open daily and it's a great option for visitors of all ages.

Related: A Guide To Zoo Miami

Chanoa Chen is a well-published blogger and online journalist on topics ranging from luxury lifestyle living to fashion shows and trends. A self-proclaimed Miami Beach fashion expert, she is also working on launching her first jewelry line, Boki Love. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.