One of the most popular holiday destinations in the United States, the city of Miami attracts scores of visitors every year.This is due to its tropical climate, cosmopolitan culture as well as plenty of things to see and do. From learning experiences to laid-back activities, nearly every type of holidaymaker is well catered for on a trip to Miami.

These highlights aren't just contained within Miami's metropolitan area either, as the surrounding region features equally interesting destinations and landscapes too.

South Beach, Miami. Flickr cc: Phillip Pessar 

Miami Beach

Situated on a barrier reef across Biscayne Bay, Miami Beach is comprised of various towns such as Surfside, Bal Harbour, and Golden Beach, each with their own unique characteristics.

You can stroll down the scenic boardwalk alongside local joggers, participate in some water sports such as windsurfing, sailing and jet skiing, or simply chill out on the extensive beach.

Here, you will also find the famous South Beach, which is where Miami's coolest inhabitants come to socialise. This is great for indulging in a spot of people watching or appreciating the art deco architecture.

Miami Seaquarium

Also located on Biscayne Bay, Miami Seaquarium is described as a "38-acre tropical paradise" and it is easy to see why. Here you'll find over 10,000 aquatic animals on display, which are sure to astonish and amaze in equal measure.

If witnessing these incredible creatures wasn't enough, visitors can learn about these animals' characteristics at entertaining marine-life shows or even swim with specially-trained dolphins, who can kiss, hug and give handshakes to tourists.

Miami Seaquarium is also in a prime location, and gives guests the chance to enjoy a magnificent view of the city's stunning skyline.

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

Featuring 83 acres of lakes, gardens and lots of diverse flora such as orchids, bellflowers, coral trees, and bougainvillea, Fairchild is well worth visiting on a sunny afternoon.

Start off with a narrated tram tour, which sheds light on South Florida's native greenery, before exploring this beautiful space on your own.

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is the largest tropical botanical garden in the continental United States, the two acre rainforest exhibit also features some of the world's most amazing plants too.

The Pérez Art Museum Miami

Culture vultures will be spoilt for choice on a trip to Miami, as there are several museums and galleries to visit. The Wynwood Arts District and Miami Design District are well worth visiting, but the Pérez Art Museum Miami is considered by many to be a world-class attraction.

Outside, you'll see gardens hanging from the roof and sculptures littering the courtyard, but step inside to witness multicultural art from the 20th and 21st centuries.

But seeing as the Pérez Art Museum Miami usually has temporary exhibitions, it's best to check what is on show before hand.

Know before you go

If you have the time, try and visit some of the city's well know neighbourhoods such as Little Havana, Coral Gables and Coconut Grove. You may even want to travel a little bit further afield to see the Everglades or Fort Lauderdale, as both of these are popular itinerary options among visitors to Florida.

Also think about purchasing the Go Miami Card, which provides admission to over 36 attractions, activities and tours as well as discounted prices at selected restaurants, too.