What's New In Greater Miami and Miami Beach In 2026

Greater Miami and Miami Beach has entered Q2 2026 with new openings, cultural experiences and marquee events. From standout dining concepts and hotel developments to major festivals, fashion shows and sporting events, the season highlights the destination's continued momentum and year-round appeal.

“Miami isn't just evolving; it's setting the pace,” said David Whitaker, president and CEO of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB). “The scale of investment, the strength of new development and the international attention continue to define our position at the forefront of travel and entertainment.”

Hotel Openings & Hospitality News

In April, Miami Beach welcomed UNFRAMED, Autograph Collection, the first premium lifestyle hotel in over a decade to open on Washington Avenue, just steps away from New World Symphony's SoundScape Park and The Fillmore. Designed by architect Rudy Ricciotti with interiors by Gulla Jónsdóttir, the property features 149 guest rooms and suites, all with private balconies or outdoor terraces, a tranquil open-air atrium and Vilebrequin La Plage, a Riviera-inspired restaurant and poolside destination on the rooftop.

Brickell Arch, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Miami, the newest addition to Marriott Bonvoy's prestigious Luxury Collection portfolio, also debuted in April as a reimagined 201-room property overlooking Biscayne Bay. Defined by its iconic architectural arch, the hotel features a rooftop sky lounge and pool terrace, wellness experiences at Leaf Spa by K'alma, and ADRIFT Mare, a Mediterranean dining concept by Michelin-starred Chef David Myers.

Following a $4 million renovation of a former multifamily property, Little Havana welcomed El Jardín Inn, an 18-key neighborhood-focused boutique hotel concept offering suite-style accommodations with kitchenettes, a lush central courtyard and flexible workspaces. Located steps from Calle Ocho, the property emphasizes cultural immersion through rotating local art installations, wellness programming and community-driven experiences.

Fontainebleau Miami Beach debuted two new Presidential Suites alongside the full renovation of all guest rooms and suites within the 17-story Versailles Tower, as well as upgrades to the existing Presidential Suites in the historic Château Tower.

The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami also completed a major renovation of its 30,000-square-foot spa and wellness sanctuary as part of the resort's $100 million transformation, introducing sound therapy experiences, daily renewal rituals, a tranquil sensory spa garden and bespoke treatments inspired by Key Biscayne's natural surroundings.

Miami's acclaimed five-star Acqualina Resort & Residences is marking its 20th anniversary with a series of dining, wellness and guest experiences. Highlights include a reimagined Il Mulino New York, new Seed to Skin Tuscany spa treatments, enhanced family programming and exclusive oceanfront Villa Suite offerings, alongside a celebratory anniversary weekend from May 15-17, featuring the debut of Acqualina Wellness Club and The Art of Motoring by Acqualina x Prestige Imports car showcase, among other activations.

Miami International Airport has expanded its hospitality offerings with Wait N' Rest, the airport's first in-terminal sleep rooms. Located in Concourse D near Gate D15, the facility features 45 private rooms with beds and access to showers, giving travelers a private space to recharge between flights. A second location is expected to open in Concourse H later this year, further expanding the service.

New Attractions & Experiences

During Miami Beach Pride, the city unveiled a relocated LGBTQIA+ crosswalk installation in Lummus Park. Reassembled using more than 3,600 colorful pavers just steps from its original Ocean Drive location, the installation stands as a renewed symbol of resilience, visibility and community support.

Meanwhile, Palace South Beach and Boucher Brothers, in coordination with the City of Miami Beach's LGBTQIA+ Advisory Committee, inaugurated the Gay Beach, reestablishing the dedicated space around 12th Street. The initiative introduces new food and beverage offerings alongside beach chair concierge services, reinforcing the city's commitment to inclusivity.

Beyond its cultural and community-driven initiatives, the destination is also expanding immersive entertainment and nightlife offerings. Faena Miami Beach's iconic Faena Theater premiered OBSESSION, a new high-energy resident production that transforms the theater into a multisensory performance space featuring live vocals, dynamic choreography and cinematic visuals. Shows run weekly from Thursday through Saturday evenings.

400 Vinyl Room opened on the ninth floor of Gale Miami Hotel & Residences, introducing an intimate listening lounge inspired by the original “400 Club” at Yamashiro Hollywood and Tokyo's vinyl bar culture. Conceived as a late-night counterpart to Yamashiro Miami, the 50-seat space by AMA Design centers on a vinyl-only music program spanning funk, soul, disco and '80s Latin, paired with a cocktail menu and champagne and caviar service.

Miami's museums and cultural institutions are also introducing major new exhibitions and interactive programming this season. The City of Miami Beach's newly reimagined Rotunda at The Bass debuted in Collins Park as an intimate arts space and satellite gallery following The Bass Museum's $5.79 million renovation. The historic structure now includes a new lobby, modernized facilities and enhanced public programming.

HistoryMiami Museum has officially reintroduced itself as the Museum of Miami, reflecting the evolving spirit, diversity and global influence of the city it has long celebrated. While the name has changed, the museum's mission remains the same: preserving and sharing the people, moments and movements that shape Miami's past, present and future.

The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science expands its lineup with two major exhibitions. Launched May 1, How to Die in Space: An Interactive Adventure Through the Cosmos is a Frost Planetarium experience blending humor, science and audience participation in a choose-your-own-adventure journey through black holes, supernovas and other cosmic phenomena. On May 16, the museum debuted Extreme Sports: Beyond Human Limits, which explores the science and psychology behind activities like wingsuit flying, rock climbing, parkour and freediving.

On May 7, the Museum of Sex Miami debuted Utopia: Three Centuries of Sexuality in American Cults and Communes, a two-story exhibition exploring how sexuality, spirituality and communal living have shaped broader cultural narratives. Curated by Jodi Wille, the experience brings together more than 300 artifacts, artworks and multimedia pieces to examine over 20 influential groups—from the Shakers to the Source Family.

Miami Children's Museum expands its lineup of interactive programming with Playful Putters, a new exhibit that takes guests of all ages through the history of mini golf with creatively designed holes reflecting different eras of the game. The museum will also debut Plant Soccer, an interactive play-based environment timed to global excitement around the sport, incorporating elements of science and education in a series of soccer-inspired challenges and games.

Superblue Miami celebrates its fifth anniversary this May. Since its debut, Superblue has brought large-scale experiential installations to Miami that combine art, technology and sensory exploration.

Miami Beach Classical Music Festival (MMF) returns from May through July, launching its annual summer concert series with a lineup of large-scale classical performances across multiple indoor and open-air settings in Miami Beach. The festival features a mix of symphonic concerts, opera productions and project-mapping experiences, including Memorial Day and Fourth of July concerts and the innovative Immersive Space Symphony, showcasing emerging talent alongside world-class musicians.

Miami International Airport continued its MIA LIVE ARTS series in celebration of America's 250th anniversary with live jazz by local nonprofit Jazz Music-in-Action (JAZZMIA). Part of a broader lineup of performances—from jazz and country to disco and rock—the series brings live cultural experiences directly to travelers while highlighting the diversity of American music traditions.

Through August 16, Doral's dining and entertainment hub CityPlace Doral presents “Summer Lovin',” a free seasonal art installation that transforms the open-air destination into an interactive, photo-friendly experience with 186 colorful overhead heart sculptures, love lock displays and a custom-built bridge activation in Fountain Plaza.

Outdoor recreation and experiential tourism are also expanding across Greater Miami and Miami Beach. Thriller Miami Speedboat Adventures is offering a new 45-minute slow-speed architectural boat tour on Miami's waterways and skyline. Cruising through the Miami River, Downtown, Brickell and Brickell Key, the guided experience highlights the city's historic and contemporary architecture while sharing cultural insights, including the legacy of the native Tequesta people.

Florida State Parks announces the return of its popular full moon guided kayak tours, inviting guests to explore scenic mangroves and waterways under moonlit skies at destinations such as Oleta River State Park.

New Restaurant Openings & Culinary Milestones

Greater Miami and Miami Beach's restaurant scene continues to evolve in Q2 with a diverse mix of global concepts, neighborhood favorites and experiential dining destinations.

Willie's Chicken Shack debuted in Miami Beach, introducing the New Orleans staple's approach to Southern comfort food. The concept offers a lively, grab-and-go dining experience with signature fried chicken, tenders, Cajun-inspired sides and daiquiris.

Also in Miami Beach, Leonardo opened on Collins Avenue, introducing a 4,500-square-foot Italian restaurant and late-night lounge inspired by the elegance and social dining traditions of 1930s through 1950s Italy. The concept blends handmade pastas, seafood-forward dishes, curated cocktails and tableside presentations with live music and cabaret-style entertainment.

Internationally acclaimed Greek-Mediterranean concept GAIA debuted its first U.S. location in Miami Beach. Known for its seafood-forward menu, the restaurant is complemented by NYX, its signature late-night lounge that has attracted a global celebrity following.

On May 16, the newly renovated Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel in Miami Beach introduces Solei Beach Club, inspired by the effortless spirit of coastal Spain and the Mediterranean Riviera. The 11,500-square-foot oceanfront destination features shareable cuisine by Executive Chef Gaston Javier Sanchez, handcrafted cocktails, luxury cabanas and a chic open-air setting designed for all-day lounging.

Celebrating a major milestone, Il Mulino New York at Acqualina Resort unveiled a comprehensive renovation ahead of its 20th anniversary, refreshing its oceanfront dining room, bar and private dining spaces.

Meanwhile, Wynwood welcomed the first U.S. outpost of Cotidiano, bringing the Guadalajara-born bistro and specialty market to the heart of the arts district. Designed as an all-day concept, the indoor-outdoor space operates as a daytime café serving specialty coffee, pastries, açaí bowls and tacos before transitioning into an evening destination for steaks, pasta and craft cocktails.

Also in Wynwood, Cervecería La Tropical marked its fifth anniversary with the return of acclaimed Miami Chef Cindy Hutson as consulting chef. Featuring more than 15 new dishes, the refreshed menu highlights Caribbean-inspired cuisine and seasonal ingredients. The milestone was celebrated with an all-day anniversary event on April 25, featuring live music and community programming.

Fooq's returns with a new chapter in Little River, marking the revival of the beloved concept originally founded in Downtown Miami in 2015 by restaurateur David Foulquier. Reimagined after a five-year hiatus, the restaurant serves wood-fired, Persian-influenced modern American cuisine under Chef Andrew Bazzini and Lion's Den, an upstairs late-night lounge.

Mottai, the first U.S. concept from Brazil's acclaimed Attivo Group, debuted at The Plaza Coral Gables, blending Japanese cuisine with French technique in a contemporary setting.

Meanwhile, The Wagyu Bar, the elevated steakhouse concept from Meat N' Bone, reopened in the former Café Vialetto space in Coral Gables, marking a new chapter for the brand. The restaurant delivers an expanded menu ranging from accessible cuts to exclusive global wagyu, alongside a vibrant bar program.

Takay will soon debut on Coral Way as an intimate 10-seat omakase counter, offering a chef-led Japanese dining experience. Designed by Japan-based firm KTX, the space blends traditional craftsmanship with subtle Miami influences.

In April, Slow Food Miami celebrated its 15th annual “Snail of Approval” Tasting Party at Carillon Miami Wellness Resort, bringing together top local chefs, artisans and purveyors for an evening honoring sustainable, locally sourced cuisine. Proceeds from the event supported the organization's Edible School & Community Garden Program, reinforcing its mission to promote good, clean and fair food for future generations.

New in Cruising

Norwegian Cruise Line expanded its fleet with the debut of Norwegian Luna, which began sailing from PortMiami in April. As part of the Prima Plus Class, the ship introduced enhanced outdoor areas, new dining venues and entertainment, and signature attractions like the Aqua Slidecoaster.

Margaritaville at Sea unveiled an expansive lineup of kid-friendly and family-focused experiences aboard Beachcomber, the line's newest flagship vessel set to debut from PortMiami in 2027. Designed with multigenerational travel in mind, the ship will feature interactive play spaces and entertainment tailored for younger cruisers.

Transportation & Getting Around

Freebee is continuing to scale its footprint in Downtown Miami with a major expansion aimed at improving mobility throughout the destination's urban core. In partnership with the Miami Downtown Development Authority, Freebee has introduced six new all-electric vehicles and expanded its service routes to seamlessly connect Brickell, the Central Business District and the Arts & Entertainment District.

Brightline announced its launch on the Amadeus Travel Platform, expanding access to its high-speed rail service for thousands of travel advisors and booking partners worldwide. The integration enables travel professionals to book Brightline alongside air travel and other transportation options, enhancing connectivity to Greater Miami and Miami Beach and making travel throughout South and Central Florida more convenient for visitors.

Upcoming Events in Greater Miami and Miami Beach

SweetHeat Miami at Various Locations | May 12-18

Magic City Miami Festival at Various Locations | May 14-17

Food, Wine and Fete at Historic Virginia Key Beach Park | May 16

Paws and Play Weekend at Miami Children's Museum | May 16-17

Florida Grand Opera at the Garden at Miami Beach Botanical Garden | May 21

Miami Sound Space at Miami Beach Bandshell | May 21

Miami Es Un Chiste at Miami Improv Comedy Theatre | May 21-31

Hyundai Air & Sea Show at Lummus Park | May 23-24

American Black Film Festival (ABFF) at Multiple Venues in Miami Beach | May 27-31

PARAISO Miami Swim Week at Collins Park | May 28-31

Asian Culture Festival at Tropical Park | May 30-31

Wynwood Pride at Wynwood Arts District | Various Dates in June

Vizcaya Late: Pride Edition at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens | June 5

CommuniTea Dance at Adrienne Arsht Center | June 7

The Book of Mormon at Adrienne Arsht Center | June 9-14

Mango Festival at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden | June 13-14

Miami FIFA World Cup 26™ Fan Festival at Bayfront Park | June 13 – July 5

FIFA World Cup 26™ Saudi Arabia vs. Uruguay at Hard Rock Stadium | June 15

Freedom Plane National Tour at Museum of Miami | June 20 – July 5

FIFA World Cup 26™ Uruguay vs. Cabo Verde at Hard Rock Stadium | June 21

FIFA World Cup 26™ Scotland vs. Brazil at Hard Rock Stadium | June 24

FIFA World Cup 26™ Colombia vs. Portugal at Hard Rock Stadium | June 27

To stay up to date on openings, announcements and timely news throughout the destination, visit MiamiandMiamiBeach.com

CDC Warns Pregnant Women To Avoid South Beach In Miami, Florida.

MIAMI BEACH, Fla. (AP) — The Latest on Zika infections in Florida (all times local):

1:45 p.m.

U.S. health officials are warning pregnant women to avoid Miami Beach, where Florida officials say mosquitoes have spread the Zika virus to five people.

In a statement Friday, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said pregnant women should avoid travel to the South Beach area, which has been identified as an infection zone.

The CDC said pregnant women also should continue to avoid travel to Miami's Wynwood arts district. That neighborhood was the first site on the U.S. mainland where health officials determined mosquitoes were transmitting Zika.

The CDC also said pregnant women and their partners may want to consider postponing nonessential travel to all of Miami-Dade County if they're concerned about potential exposure to the virus.

In the agency's statement, CDC Director Tom Frieden said it's "difficult to predict how long active transmission will continue."

___

12:45 p.m.

Florida Gov. Rick Scott says officials have identified a second area of Zika transmission on the U.S. mainland.

Scott told reporters Friday that five Zika infections have been linked to an area that encompasses most of tourist-friendly South Beach.

Florida Department of health spokeswoman Mara Gambineri says officials believe the cases were transmitted by mosquitoes.

Another infection zone was previously identified in Miami's Wynwood arts district.

Scott says two of the Miami Beach cases involved Miami-Dade County residents, and three involved tourists from New York, Texas and Taiwan.

Scott says the county has begun an aggressive mosquito-eradication plan in Miami Beach.

___

10:45 a.m.

The city manager of Miami Beach has told local officials that two Zika cases are linked to the community.

In an email Thursday morning to the mayor and city commissioners, Jimmy Morales said his office had been in "constant communication" with Florida's Department of Health, and he had been informed of two local Zika cases.

Morales said one case involved a tourist who visited Miami Beach about two weeks ago, while the other involved a resident who works in the city. He did not say whether mosquito bites caused the infections.

The Miami Herald first reported the email.

In a statement late Thursday, Morales said Florida's Department of Health was investigating Zika cases in Miami Beach but no infections were confirmed.

Florida Gov. Rick Scott scheduled a news conference Friday in Miami about the Zika investigations.

___

8:30 a.m.

A Miami Beach official says there's been no confirmation that mosquitoes have spread the Zika virus in the tourism-dependent city.

In a statement emailed late Thursday, City Manager Jimmy Morales said Florida's Department of Health is investigating Zika cases in Miami Beach, but none have been confirmed.

Morales said the city has been "proactively focused on the elimination of potential breeding sites for months." He said the city is working with Miami-Dade County on mosquito control efforts such as targeted pesticide spraying and cleaning up areas where the insects could breed.

In a separate statement Thursday, Florida health officials said they believe active Zika transmissions remain limited to a previously identified zone encompassing Miami's Wynwood neighborhood. However, the department also is investigating over six other infections outside that area.

Royal Caribbean Announces Agreement To Build World-Class Cruise Terminal At PortMiami

Cruise Line Plans to Sail an Oasis-Class Ship Out of the State-Of-The-Art Terminal

 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE: RCL) has announced an agreement with Miami-Dade County to construct and operate a dramatic new cruise terminal at PortMiami, on land leased from the County. The new terminal will be a striking addition to PortMiami, and will serve as homeport to Royal Caribbean International ships, including a 5,400-passenger Oasis-class ship, the world’s largest and most innovative cruise ships. The agreement will come before the Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners on July 6, 2016.                                                                                                              

“We are truly excited to be working with Miami-Dade County and PortMiami to create not just another cruise terminal, but a truly iconic building,” said Richard D. Fain, chairman and CEO for Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. “This new terminal is a symbol of our commitment to Miami, the city where our company first started almost 50 years ago. We can’t wait to bring an Oasis-class ship to PortMiami.”

“Miami-Dade County is happy to welcome Royal Caribbean’s expansion at PortMiami, and all the economic benefits that come along with it," said Carlos Gimenez, Miami-Dade County Mayor. “This public-private partnership will have an estimated economic impact of $500 million and generate approximately 4,000 jobs. Royal Caribbean has been an important part of our world-class community for almost 50 years, and this expansion will once again make PortMiami Royal Caribbean’s largest cruise port in the world. I thank them for their continued investment in and commitment to Miami-Dade.”

Broadway Malyan has been selected as the firm to design the new terminal, after a global competition was held between five of the world's leading architectural firms. The firm was selected because of their creative thinking and cutting-edge design.  
 
The 170,000-square-foot terminal is nicknamed the ‘Crown of Miami’ because of its distinct shape.   The design evokes the points of the symbolic headgear when viewed from the water; the ‘M’ of Miami when viewed from the east or western approaches; and a sense of waves rising or ships passing when viewed from the terminal side. At night, the terminal’s facade will be lit ensuring that the building makes a striking impression and providing a dynamic addition to the PortMiami landscape. 

The new terminal will not be the only addition for Royal Caribbean in the coming year. The company has committed to add a 20,000-square-foot Innovation Lab to its corporate headquarters located at PortMiami. The Innovation Lab will continue to generate Royal Caribbean’s industry-leading, innovative vessels. 

Currently, PortMiami welcomes approximately 750,000 Royal Caribbean passengers annually, representing about 15 percent of its overall passenger traffic. Once the new cruise terminal is completed, it is anticipated that Royal Caribbean will generate at least 1.8 million passengers at PortMiami – representing no less than 30 percent of the port’s projected passenger traffic.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE: RCL) is a global cruise vacation company that owns Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Pullmantur, Azamara Club Cruises and CDF Croisières de France, as well as TUI Cruises through a 50 percent joint venture. Together, these six brands operate a combined total of 47 ships with an additional twelve on order. They operate diverse itineraries around the world that call on approximately 490 destinations on all seven continents. Additional information can be found on, www.rclcorporate.com.  

Hilton Worldwide Adds Vintro Hotel South Beach To Curio – A Collection by Hilton

One Part Vintage, One Part Wine, and a Heavy Dose of Relaxation

in Iconic South Beach

 Hilton Worldwide (NYSE: HLT) today announced that Vintro Hotel South Beach will join Curio – A Collection by Hilton™, a global set of remarkable upscale and luxury hotels hand-picked for their distinctive character and personality, appealing to passionate travelers seeking local discovery. Vintro Hotel South Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton is expected to open in March.

A high-design update of a classic Art Deco building, the 50-room Vintro Hotel South Beach is in the heart of the "new" South Beach emerging cultural center just two blocks from the beach, and steps away from the Bass Museum, Miami City Ballet, The New World Symphony, and the Miami Beach Convention Center, home of Art Basel.

“It’s no coincidence that this will be our second property in South Florida in such short order since we launched the brand just over a year ago,” said Matt Wehling, senior vice president, development – North America, Hilton Worldwide. “Travelers are looking for new ways to experience their favorite destinations, and we’re more than happy to oblige by welcoming remarkable properties like Vintro Hotel South Beach to the Curio collection.”

At the heart of the Vintro Hotel South Beach is a mosaic wall in the lobby that embodies the relaxed vintage personality of the hotel and restaurant that has been rated among the Top 25 Hotels in TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards.

The Mediterranean and Latin-inspired Vintro Kitchen Restaurant and Scorpion Bar are committed to ingredient-based, craft food and drinks, and serve artisanal cheeses and charcuterie, tapas, small plates, salads, wild-caught fish, and responsibly-sourced meats. And, of course, a wine selection from across the globe that underscores Vintro’s personality.

“Every single project has its own character, its own life, its own style - which inevitably comes from its location,” said Enrique Colmenares, owner and president of Vintro Hotel. “We succeeded in capturing that Miami Beach essence in the Vintro Hotel South Beach, and Curio will allow us to reach the independent-minded travelers looking for just such an experience.”

Alongside the Collins Canal, the hotel’s terrace, rooftop lounge and pool are the perfect places for either a quiet nightcap or private events for up to 50 guests. Guest rooms are designed with contemplative comfort in mind, featuring a custom-designed citrus palette with king beds, rain showers, natural bath amenities, plush robes and towels, 50” LED monitors and complimentary Wi-Fi.

“This property offers an authentic Miami experience, and we look forward to giving guests exactly that when the hotel joins the Curio collection in a few short months,” said Dianna Vaughan, global head, Curio – A Collection by Hilton. “From its emphasis on fine wine to its artful design, the Vintro Hotel South Beach represents the allure of the South Beach neighborhood and reflects the individuality Curio is known for.”

As members of the Hilton Worldwide portfolio, all Curio hotels, including Vintro Hotel South Beach participate in Hilton HHonors®, the only hotel loyalty program that allows members to earn both Points and Miles on the same stay and no blackout dates on reward stays. In addition, HHonors members can use Points to purchase unique experience rewards, premium merchandise, make charitable contributions and more.

For more information on Vintro Hotel South Beach, visit curiocollection.com.   

About Curio – A Collection by Hilton

Curio – A Collection by Hilton™ (curio.com) is a global set of remarkable upscale and luxury hotels hand-picked for their unique character and personality; each one a part of the city they call home. Curio guests are passionate, independent-minded travelers seeking local and authentic experiences who value the added peace-of-mind that comes with the Hilton name and award-winning Hilton HHonors program. Curio joins a portfolio of world-class brands from Hilton Worldwide, a leading global hospitality company. Come discover the latest stories at news.curio.com, connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter or inquire about development opportunities at hiltonworldwide.com/development.

ABC Travel Guides for Kids Names Top 7 US Family Travel Destinations for 2016

Philly takes the top spot for best family destinations, 3 Florida cities are featured and Detroit's comeback continues. 

 1. Philadelphia, PA Time for an authentic Philly cheesesteak and a visit to the City of Brotherly Love as Franklin Square turns 10 and the National Constitution Center hosts Headed to the White House this election year. Kimpton, Omni and Loews Hotels love families. Best ice cream parlor is The Franklin Fountain.

2. Chicago, IL The Cubs are going to win the World Series in 2016 and Chicago's Museums, Lincoln Park Zoo and the Art Institute all remain among our nation's best.  Stay at Residence Inn's 700th hotel or the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel.

3. Orlando, FL More than just the theme park capital of the world, Disney Springs and nearby Kennedy Space Center's Heroes and Legends attraction features the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame.  Stay at The Hard Rock Hotel.

4. St. Petersburg, FL Take a "Bird Quest" through the areas museums, parks and hotels and let your senses go wild at the hands-on exhibits at Great Explorations, Sunken Gardens and Clearwater Marine Aquarium. The Vinoy Renaissance Resort & Golf Club is a great choice for families.

5. Detroit, MI  Only in Motor City can you visit the largest penguin facility in the world; stop at a LEGOLAND® Discovery Center and enjoy an afternoon of Beatles at The Magical History Tour at The Henry Ford.  For dinner kids will love the iconic Buddy's Pizza.  Hyatt Place Detroit/Auburn Hills or Hyatt Place Detroit/Utica are great options for families.

6. Miami, FL  A Miami Culinary Tour in Little Havana is life changing and GameTime Miami, Jungle Island, Coral Gables Venetian Pool and Lincoln Road provide unique experiences for everyone.  The Pizza Bar and Bodega are fun.  The Palms Hotel & Spa is incredible for families.

7. Hilton Head, SC Beaches, bike trails, kayaking and water sports, horseback riding and we're just getting warmed up. Families will think they are in the Caribbean at Omni's Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort.

For more details please visit: www.kidstravelguides.com

Travelore News: A New Orlando-To-Miami Express Train Is In The Works

Plans for MiamiCentral, which will include the Brightline train station.

The privately run rail line will connect Florida's top tourist hubs.

It's hard to believe this doesn't already exist, but All Aboard Florida—a new private inter-city train service—just unveiled plans for an express train connecting Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and Orlando along a 235-mile route. Expected to be complete by mid-2017, the Brightline will take passengers from Miami to Orlando in three hours—just under the three-and-a-half hours it takes to drive the same distance without traffic. The trains won’t be classified as high-speed, but express trips will travel up to 125 mph.

"Half of our business is international," William Talbert, president and CEO of the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, told USA Today. "To connect Miami and those other three communities by train makes it convenient, affordable, clean, and safe to travel. It gives the visitor options that we haven't had before."

Construction has already begun on stations in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach. The Orlando station is in the works next to the Orlando International Airport. Projected to cost $3 billion to build, the Brightline will be made up of flashy red, orange, green, blue, and pink train cars and pulled by a distinctive yellow engine car. The train will have free Wi-Fi, power outlets at every seat, and group ticket reservations for tables of four. Ticket prices have not been announced.

The All Aboard Florida service is just one of many inter-city lines in the works across the country. A $68-billion public high-speed train from Los Angeles to San Francisco is already under construction in California, while private groups are pushing for a railway in Texas (between Dallas and Houston) and between Las Vegas and Los Angeles.

Written by Meredith Carey, www.cntraveler.com

Miami Beach Is Buzzing With Deals And Activities For Gay Travelers

MIAMI BEACH, FL - Long the fun, high-end destination for gay travelers around the country and all over the world, this fall Miami Beach has lots of events, activities and deals for stimulating and exciting fall travel. From unique packages at several hotels to the one-of-a-kind White Party, one of the largest fundraisers in the country for HIV/AIDS, Miami Beach is buzzing with a calendar stuffed with experiences and happenings.

Global LGBT spending on travel is estimated to be more than $200 billion per year with millions of those dollars spent in South Florida. "Miami Beach has always been a haven for the LGBT community," notes Peggy Benua, Chair, Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority (MBVCA). "With each passing year, however, our hotels, cultural and social venues really turn up the heat on the quality of offerings available to this community. That's what makes our city so exciting to visit, the unpredictable but endless variety of lodging and entertainment that's accessible here."

The Gaythering, Miami Beach's only hotel exclusively built to accommodate the LGBT traveler, is a 3-minute walk from Lincoln Road and one mile from the beach. Gay travelers are treated to a steam room, a cedar sauna, a hot tub and a hammam and mud lounge. A low-key bar offers craft beers and cocktails made with locally sourced ingredients. There's also a library lounge and a coffee shop.

The Dream Hotel-South Beach on Miami Beach's Collins Avenue, directly behind the former Versace Mansion and two blocks from the beach, is offering a Same Sex in City package which includes complimentary "his & his" or "hers & hers" monogrammed beach towels, bottle of sparkling wine and chocolate-covered strawberries upon arrival. VIP entry and premium bottle service for one evening at Twist LGBT lounge; custom-curated itinerary of recommended cultural events, activities and experiences as well as personal concierge services; early check in/late check out and a waived resort fee.

"Miami Beach competes with Madrid, Prague and Amsterdam for the gay travel dollar, among other top-notch international destinations, and that's why our lodging, activity and event options are so superb and exceptional," says Grisette Roque, Executive Director, MBVCA. "Miami Beach strives to be a world-class LGBT city of choice at all times."

The city tries to make visitors feel comfortable in every way starting with the LGBT Visitor Center on Miami Beach, at 1130 Washington Avenue. Opening its doors to thousands of tourists from around the globe each year, the center is located in the historic Old City Hall building and provides information and resources as well as weekly support groups. The Gay & Lesbian Walking Tour of Miami Beach is offered by the Miami Design Preservation League. The tours, start at the Art Deco Welcome Center on Ocean Drive and take place the second Saturday of each month. The tour highlights the contributions of gays and lesbians to the history of Miami Beach.

One of the largest LGBT events of the year is White Party Week. It's an unparalleled week of fundraising parties and events culminating with the legendary White Party. Now more than 25 years old, White Party is the preeminent LGBT event of the season. More than 15,000 party-goers enjoy six days and nights of nonstop entertainment, all while raising awareness and money for the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Can't make White Party week? Then there's a host of LGBT focused and friendly places to hang out during a Miami Beach visit including the Palace Bar with its infamous Brunchic on Sundays. Each week this Drag Brunch showcases performances and bottomless mimosas for $39.95 per person. You can also enjoy their Saturday brunch, Sabado Gigantes. Twist lounge and bar is the longest running gay nightlife venue in South Florida. A South Beach "must-do", it has continuously redefined itself in the past 18 years. Visitors can also check out Score nightclub and relax and soak up some sun in the daytime at 12th Street Beach or Haulover Beach Park.