The allure of laidback Miami-Dade
Miami-Dade encompasses a swath of south-east Florida, including the city of Miami. If you've scored a Miami-Dade County vacation rental in the city, you can immerse yourself in the Cuban roots found in Little Havana or admire the oceanfront Art Deco architecture. Miami's food scene is thriving, as is its vibrant nightlife. If you tire of Miami's water sports, deep-sea fishing or the long stretch of beautiful beach, you can escape to the vast Everglades National Park to glide around on airboats, looking for lurking 'gators and other impressive Floridan wildlife species.
Miami-Dade is ground zero for Art Deco fans
For culture and history, you don't have to look any further than Miami. Fans of architecture can take a walk along the Historic Art Deco District which passes 100s of classic 1920s buildings, many of which are on the National Register of Historic Places. Alternatively, you can immerse yourself in visual art at the ArtCenter/South Florida and help support local and national artists. More art along with interactive programs, theater performances and musical events can be found at the Perez Art Museum Miami. For something decidedly more poignant, the Holocaust Memorial has served as a reminder of the horrors of war.
Avoid the queues in Miami-Dade
Unlike much of the US, the summertime months aren't the best time to stay in a Miami-Dade County vacation rental. The temperature and humidity can skyrocket, along with the prices of rentals. Your best bet is visiting outside the school breaks during spring, when the climate can be wonderfully warm, the rainy season is yet to kick in and you can hop into the attractions or restaurants without having to join a long queue. Winters might not be so balmy, but the mild weather is a far cry from the flurries of snow further north.
Spot lurking 'gators in Miami-Dade
If you're a first-timer at a Miami-Dade County vacation rental, it would be criminal not to make some time to visit the mighty Everglades National Park, which are a short drive west of the city. The 1,500,000-acre wetlands are one of the country's most celebrated wildlife spotting destinations, best seen from the back of a thrilling airboat ride. As you glide around the marshes and mangroves, you won't have to look hard to spot lurking 'gators and turtles. Keep your eyes peeled though and you might very well catch a glimpse of giant West Indian manatees and even the odd Florida panther.
Transportation options to and around Miami-Dade County
The nearest airport is in Miami Intl. Airport (MIA), located 5.5 mi (8.8 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you can also fly into Miami, FL (MPB-Public Seaplane Base), which is 1.2 mi (1.9 km) away.
If you prefer to travel by train, Miami Airport Station, Hialeah Market Station and Miami Station are the main stations that serve the city. It's easy to get around Miami-Dade County by jumping on the metro at Miami Avenue Metromover Station, Third Street Metromover Station or Government Center Station.
