Miami Metrozoo
This 290-acre, sparsely landscaped complex (it was devastated by Hurricane Andrew) is quite a distance from Miami proper and the beaches -- about 45 minutes -- but worth the trip. Isolated and never really crowded, it's also completely cageless -- animals are kept at bay by cleverly designed moats. This is a fantastic spot to take younger kids (the older ones seem bored and unstimulated here); there's a wonderful petting zoo and play area, and the zoo offers several daily programs designed to educate and entertain. Mufasa and Simba (of Disney fame) were modeled on a couple of Metrozoo's lions. Other residents include two rare white Bengal tigers, a Komodo dragon, rare koala bears, a number of kangaroos, and an African meerkat. The air-conditioned Zoofari Monorail tour offers visitors a nice overview of the park. An Andean Condor exhibit opened in 2000, and the zoo is always upgrading its facilities, including the impressive aviary. Note: The distance between animal habitats can be great, so you'll be doing a lot of walking here. For this reason, there are benches and shaded gazebos strategically positioned throughout the zoo so you can rest when you need to. Also, because the zoo can be miserably hot during summer months, plan these visits in the early morning or late afternoon. Expect to spend about 3 hours here.

Eco-Adventure Tours
For the eco-conscious traveler, the Miami-Dade Parks and Recreation Department offers guided nature, adventure, and historic tours involving biking, canoeing, snorkeling, hiking, and bird-watching all over the city. Contact them for more information.

Barnacle State Historic Site
The former home of naval architect and early settler Ralph Middleton Munroe is now a museum in the heart of Coconut Grove. It's the oldest house in Miami and it rests on its original foundation, which sits on 5 acres of hardwood and landscaped lawns. The house's quiet surroundings, wide porches, and period furnishings illustrate how Miami's first snowbird lived in the days before condo-mania and luxury hotels. Enthusiastic and knowledgeable state park employees offer a wealth of historical information to those interested in quiet, low-tech attractions like this one. Call for details on the fabulous monthly moonlight concerts during which folk, blues, or classical music is presented and picnicking is encouraged.

Holiday Inn MIAMI-DORAL AREA
To see a virtual tour of this hotel: click here The Holiday Inn Miami-Doral Area is conveniently located just 5 miles West from Miami International Airport right in the center of Doral, Miami's fastest growing corporate, government and residential community. As the only moderately priced full service hotel in the area, we take pride in providing facilities and amenities to satisfy the growing number of visitors requiring services that they will not find anywhere else in the area. Our close ...

Marriott Biscayne Bay Hotel and Marina
Experience the casual elegance and refinement of Miami at the Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay. Located just minutes from the Port of Miami, our luxury hotel is situated in the heart of the downtown arts and entertainment district. Waterfront accommodations offer a gorgeous view and all guest rooms are equipped with luxury bedding and wired high speed Internet access. Enjoy fine dining and shopping at Bayside Marketplace or wander through the hip Art Deco District. Entertainment at the nearby ...

Best Western South Miami
Discover "The best kept secret in Town", The Best Western South Miami, is a Boutique / Mediterranean style hotel that offers a full service restaurant Bernie's Steakhouse, 2 bars, a state of the art fitness center, a breathtaking tropical landscaped courtyard and pool with a cascading waterfall, and is complemented by beautifully renovated rooms, reflecting a touch of class, comfort and sophistication.Situated in one of Miami's most pristine areas, the hotel is adjacent to Miami's historical ...