This Dreamy East Coast Destination Is the Top City to Visit in North America — and No, It’s Not New York City

Miami Beach is home to more than seven miles of white sand beaches and has a wide selection of luxury hotels, the largest collection of art deco buildings in the world, and a thriving culinary scene. So, it comes as no surprise that for the fourth time in a row, Miami Beach was named North America's Leading City Destination by the World Travel Awards. But there's so much to do here than just party.

Sure, Miami Beach is a hot spot for those seeking sun, sand, and fun with South Beach, Mid-Beach, and North Beach within city limits. However, the city is also actively trying to reshape its party image with its "Miami Beach Is Breaking Up With Spring Break" campaign, which involves strict curfews, the prohibition of the public consumption of alcohol, and increased towing fees during spring break. And whether you're a party animal or art aficionado (or perhaps both), the city is a winning destination, no matter your interests.

If you're an architecture buff, head to South Beach's Art Deco Historic District, which is home to over 800 art deco buildings, some of which have been featured in iconic Hollywood productions such as "Scarface," "The Birdcage," and "Miami Vice." Also, make time to stroll through Española Way, which was the first commercial development in Miami when it was built in the 1920s. Modeled after Mediterranean villages in France and Spain, the area was revitalized in 2017 as a pedestrian-only street.

Additionally, there are a wealth of cultural offerings available in the city year-round. Each December, Art Basel (the largest art fair in the world) takes over Miami Beach to showcase the works of modern and contemporary artists sourced from five continents. But, if you happen to be in town during another time of year, both the Bass Museum of Art and the Wolfsonian offer world-class permanent collections and rotating exhibitions.

The Jewish Museum of Florida, located on the Florida International University campus, is the only place that collects, documents, and preserves Jewish Floridian history. To learn more about the tropical plants that dot the area, visit the Miami Beach Botanical Garden, a three-acre oasis in the heart of South Beach, and occasional events, like tropical fruit tastings, tai chi, and yoga — best of all, admission is free.

No trip to Miami Beach is complete without a good meal — and there’s no need to cross the bridge to Miami proper for fantastic dining (still, skip the tourist traps in South Beach). Don’t miss the Italian subs at the no-frills La Sandwicherie, blue corn totopo from laidback Taquiza, or seafood from Miami Beach's oldest restaurant Joe’s Stone Crabs.

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