3-Day Vacation in Miami

Day 1 You'll See:

Miami Zoo Credit Miami Zoo

Miami Zoo Credit Miami Zoo

Day 2 You'll See:

Day 3 You'll See:

Three days. Sunshine, sand, shopping, and so much more, what else could you want in a grad trip? No really, call us and let us know what else you want in this three-day Miami vacation and we’ll make it happen!

Day
1

Jungle Island - Welcome to Jungle Island, Miami’s premier entertainment destination that combines the beauty of a tropical landscape with a jungle full of extraordinary animals. This interactive zoological park is located on Watson Island in Miami and was first opened in 1936. 75 years of successful history combined with the 22 acres of prime naturally beautiful land makes this contemporary theme park the brightest and most unique destination in Miami! Originally called Parrot Island, this piece of land is home to nearly 3,000 different animal, bird, and plant species, particularly beloved for its over 300 birds, one of which includes the world’s only trained Cassowary. Today Jungle Island is also highly loved for its extremely rare twin orangutans, Peanut and Pumpkin. You can also see Jake and Hanna the orangutans, red kangaroos, baboons, and even lions! Within the 135 miles of winding, covered trails your group will also see unusual flora, such as the African sausage Tree or several rare cycads as well!

Freedom Tower - Welcome to Freedom Tower, the Miami Dade College associated Museum of Art and Design AND Miami Cuban American Museum. Originally this building served as the Miami News headquarters, today is one of South Florida’s most distinctive historic buildings around. Besides being a newspaper office the Freedom Tower was also a reception center for Cuban refugees from 1962 to 1974, playing a highly important role in Cuban and American history. Inside you will see art exhibits of Cuban immigrants as well as learn the story of the resettlement of the Cubans during the Cold War. The tower itself is a cupola on a 255-foot tower that is itself contained in a decorative beacon.  If the striking architectural detail of this octagonal tower and richly ornamented facade doesn’t truly impress your group, the 40 foot New World Mural sure will!

Bayside Market - End your day at the 230,000 square foot festival marketplace in downtown Miami known as Bayside Marketplace. First established in 1987, Bayside Marketplace provides over 15 million visitors annually with ample shopping, food, live music, local culture, and fantastic seaside viewing opportunities, what more could you ask for in a shopping mall? Your group will find all the major retail stores inside, from 98 Coast Avenue to Wet Seal, and everything in between. Shop the best clothing, electronics, food, health and beauty, home and housewares, shoes, fashion, specialty shops, and sports and fitness stores within the spacious two floors of shopping center. Once you’ve worked up an appetite you can head to any of the many restaurant options, such as Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., Five Guys Burger and Fries, Auntie Anne's, or even Fat Tuesday Daiquiri Bar! There is so much to see here, from the always diverse crowd to the upbeat outdoor music and sightseeing atmosphere.

Day
2

Miami Zoo - Zoo Miami is South Florida’s premier zoo with all of your favorite animals plus a few new friends. Designed and devoted to the health and happiness of the animals, Zoo Miami is one of the top zoos in the United States. Set in the lush tropical greenery of Florida, Zoo Miami is the perfect destination for groups of all ages. Zoo Miami is also a very accommodating attraction with programs and encounters for all ages and interests. See a show at the Sami Family Amphitheater, visit the small and gentle creatures at the children’s zoo, or visit the Playworld Playground. On those really hot days, take your kids by one of the many waterplay areas to cool down. Unlike a lot of zoos, Zoo Miami gives you up-close encounters with the animals to give greater appreciation and education of these gentle beings.

Jaguar Miami - After all that zoo fun your group has surely worked up an appetite, which is a good reason to head over to one of Miami’s premier eateries, Jaguar Miami. This enticing eatery is located in the heart of Miami’s lush Coconut Grove, most popularly known as the Jaguar Ceviche Spoon Bar and Latin Grill. Here your group will find a unique selection of ceviches, each embodying perfectly the vibrant flavors of Latin America. Once here you will experience the highest quality of ingredients and unforgettable flavors mixed pleasantly with a truly inviting setting. Some of the most popular dishes that you may want to lay your hands on include the Patacon Pisao con Carne, Vitara de Mariscos, Asado Negro, or Chile Ancho Relleno. It is quite easy to see why Conde Nast Traveler has raved about this eatery, as well as why Fodor’s has named it the "best bet for Miami dining."

Everglades Airboat Ride - Tour one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems, the "river of grass," with Airboat in Everglades next. You and your group will have the chance to see some of the most impressive natural beauty as you explore the sawgrass mangroves and shallow wetlands. The luxury airboat will allow your group to roam and sightsee the natural beauty of the Everglades all while sitting in comfy waterproof seats, the entire boat itself powered by high tech jets. On this tour, your group and yourself will get to experience the natural wildlife of South Florida up close and personal, with ample opportunities to see such creatures as alligators, deer, snakes, bears, panthers, bobcats, raccoons, and over 300 different species of bird. It will be easy to see why people love Airboat in Everglades, a company true to their word of wanting to bring the public closer to a truly wondrous and endangered ecosystem.

Day
3

Art Deco Historic District -  What better way to start your final sunshine-filled Miami day than with a visit to Miami Beach's premier architectural district near South Beach, the Art Deco Historic District. This neighborhood is the nation’s largest 20th century nationally registered historic district and holds a total of over 800 historic buildings erected in the 1920s, '30s, and '40s. The neighborhood was reborn and built into what it is today after the 1926 hurricane, basing its overall design after the 1925 Paris Exposition Internationale des Artes Decoratifs et Industriels Modernes.  The district was dedicated in 1979 and has since then attracted thousands upon thousands of guests to come to gawk at the fine white sand and colorful buildings. The exuberant Deco architecture here is available to view by walking, biking, private, and self-guided tours, each starting at the Art Deco Welcome Center. Check out the work of Igor Polevitzky, Roy France, and Robert Collins as you make your way to Gianni Versace’s mansion on Ocean Drive!

Shark Valley Tram Tour - Last but not least your group will have the chance to embark on one of the Everglades best tourism experiences offered, the Shark Valley Tram Tour. Located on Highway 41 near the entrance of the Everglades National Park you will find the company that has been giving quality tours since 1983, providing the northern region of the Everglades with important environmental and educational information. The staff consists of a trained naturalist who will gladly give you an introduction into the wonders of this unique ecosystem, offering an experience into nature that may inspire a prompt return. The tram tour is a two-hour open-air tour that allows your group to see hidden aspects of the wetlands and sawgrass prairies surrounding you. Halfway through the tour, you will have the chance to stop at a 45-foot high observation deck that provides unimpeded 20-mile vistas in every direction!