Art Deco Historic District
The southern end of the 10-mile-long barrier island of Miami Beach is home to the Art Deco National Historic District, the only location in the United States to be so designated. It is comprised of a few dozen hotels and apartment buildings built primarily in the 1930's. These buildings are soaring examples of pre-war modernism with characteristic rounded corners and geometric ornamentation. The highlight of the district is the strip of hotels along Ocean Drive between 5th and 15th street.

While the area is thriving today, the southern region of Miami Beach has a less than perfect history. When the first buildings were completed in the 1920's during prohibition, South Beach soon became associated with liquor and gambling and attracted the likes of Al Capone. By the early 1980's, much of the Art Deco district had become a slum and a center for drug traffic. South Beach experienced an unprecedented revival in the late 80's which some partially attribute to the success of the TV show "Miami Vice." More likely, it was the result of the non-profit Miami Design Preservation League. Today, almost all of the original buildings have been meticulously restored and painted in a colorful array of pastels. Known familiarly as "SoBe" the area is now the chic-est place to be in all of Miami and Miami Beach and has been referred to as " America's Riviera."

Several tours explore the Art Deco District including the “Underworld Tour” that will take you to former hotspots of illegal activity like Al Capone’s office! The Art Deco District is a fun, interesting place that begs to be explored.

Bayside Marketplace
Miami Bayside is the best example of the "Miami Experience." Here the Latin party spirit runs rampant and urges you to go wild. Entertainment is easy to find at the Bayside Marketplace. There is always a great band on the central stage and street performers will dazzle you with their skills and illusions.

Miami Bayside's shopping is what attracts people, but with over 115 shops and restaurants, most people never get to see everything! Bayside Marketplace includes most major store branches like "Starbucks" and "Foot Locker" as well as smaller boutiques like "Exotic Aromas" and "Opera Pearl." With all the stores and booths there is nothing you can't find! Miami Bayside is the ultimate "urban safari" and can't be missed by anyone who wants to shop till they drop! <2> <3>