Miami is situated in southeastern Florida. This city, which lies along the Atlantic Coast, is an important centre for business, finance, multimedia, design, education and the arts. Tourists visit Miami for it’s beautiful beaches, great nightlife, various outdoor recreational activities, proximity to the Florida Everglades, sunny climate and its involvement with the arts.
A Brief History of Miami
Miami’s first inhabitants were the Tequestas, a Native American Tribe. From 1566 to 1821, the Spanish Empire ruled Miami. This city played a large part during the Second Seminole War, as Fort Dallas, the military base, was built here in 1836.
Miami’s potential to become a major city was conceived by Julia Tuttle, the only female to develop an American city. Tuttle owned land in Miami, on which she grew crops. She knew that the land here was some of the best in the country and tried to get Henry Flagler, who built railroads, to extend the railway lines to Miami. Tuttle knew that this small town could grow and develop successfully if more people made it their home. However, it wasn’t until the Great Freeze of 1894 – 1895, when the Miami crops were the only ones to survive in America, that the railroad was then built. With a population of 300 people, Miami officially became a city in 1896.
Since 1896 until now, Miami has developed into a city of nearly 5 and a half million people. The significant times for this population growth was during and after World War II and when many Cubans made their way to Miami after Fidel Castro took control of Cuba.
Attractions
Miami entertains all age groups. The following attractions are some of the ‘must-see’ in and around this city. South Beach, with its beaches and great amenities, is one of the most popular locations in Miami to visit. Make your trip to this city even more memorable by visiting the nearby Florida Everglades. Families traveling to Miami may be interested in visiting the Miami Metrozoo, an open-enclosure zoo with a great selection of animals. The Seaquarium is also a good attraction to make time for when traveling with kids. For some fun learning, check out the Miami Museum of Science. For more of Miami’s great sights and attractions, go to our ‘Things To Do’ page.
Transport
The Miami-Dade Transit operates most of Miami’s public transport network. This network includes the elevated people mover (Metromover), the bus service known as Metrobus and the heavy-rail rapid transit, Metrorail. Tri-Rail, the commuter rail service, is operated by SFRTA. Miami International Airport, West Palm Beach, Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach are served by the Tri-Rail.