6 Unique Ways To Experience the Best of the USA’s South Coast

For all its modern tower blocks and sleek condos, Miami is in fact the city with the highest concentration of Art Deco buildings in the world. They’re all protected under the Miami Design Preservation League (MDPL) – founded in 1976 – and this tour showcases some of the best examples in the South Beach district, including Gianni Versace’s famously flashy mansion. Led by a local guide, you’ll learn all about these architectural gems as well as the history of the oceanfront neighborhood, from its origins as a tropical swamp to an era defined by mobs, casinos and Hollywood scandals. The tour begins and ends in the heart of South Beach, providing a great way to get to know one of Miami’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

Jazz music is the fuel that keeps the New Orleans engine running day and night. Walk into any bar and you’ll likely see a band strumming away on stage – including the one on board this authentic steamboat, which will take you on a romantic dinner cruise up the Mississippi. Whether you opt for the Creole-style dinner or not, seeing the city skyline sparkle at sunset as a local jazz band plays in the background makes for a special combination. There’s plenty of space for strolling around and taking pictures on the outer deck, so don’t forget your camera.

There’s only so much you can see of Miami at ground level – to see it all at once you’ll need to take to the skies. Taking off from the water, this seaplane tour lets you do just that. With a licensed pilot in the cockpit, you’ll glide over parts of the pristine coastline like Key Biscayne, Coconut Grove, Star Island and South Beach. It might be noisy, but you’ll still be able to hear your pilot’s in-flight commentary and storytelling throughout the ride. Keep your eyes peeled for Miami’s signature Art Deco architecture and the lavish mansions lined up along Millionaires Row.