Miami is an energetic, lively, and glamorous city. The year-round warm weather of Miami makes it one of the best beach cities in the United States. Everyone comes to Miami for the beaches. But the endless adventures and opportunities for luxury are what make people want to stay there forever. If you love some heat and adventure, you will surely love Miami.
On the flip side, New York City, also known as the Big Apple, is a bustling cosmopolitan city. People who enjoy big cities will enjoy New York because it’s as big as a big city gets. Unlike many other cosmopolitan cities, New York has a unique vibe to it that the locals love and visitors will appreciate. It’s a historical place with endless activities and places to explore. A big city may not be your usual travel destination, but a trip to New York will be a remarkable one.
Miami
The luxury and calm, paired with the high energy and diversity of Miami make it one of the most favored vacation destinations in the United States. The first things that come to people’s minds when they think of Miami are the beaches and warm weather. Although these really are the highlights of a Miami trip, they’re not all there is to Miami.
Miami is also filled with vibrant colors, stunning art, and delicious food. If you have ever wanted to find a way to explore different cultures while still feeling like a celebrity, then Miami is the place for you. No one needs a lot of convincing to go to Miami because of the assortment of things to enjoy in this city.
What Makes Miami Unique?
The Unforgettable Beaches
Of course, the main draw of Miami is its beautiful and unforgettable beaches. The warm sun, soft sands, and clear blue waters of Miami are the main reason why people decide they want to go to the city in the first place. You cannot go to Miami and just skip the beaches. When you’re in Miami, you don’t decide whether or not to visit a beach – only which beach to visit first!
Going to a Miami beach can make you feel like you’re in the Caribbean! That’s how great the beaches are. It also doesn’t hurt that Miami has year-round warm weather that’s always ideal for beach days.
If you’re feeling like you want to stray away from the beaches that people usually visit, there are beaches in Miami that offer the “private island” vibe. Here are some of the underrated and secluded beaches in Miami:
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
The Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is a hidden gem in Miami. Not a lot of tourists come here, but it’s a location that’s loved by the locals. Although there is a minimal entrance fee to the beach, it’s still a must-visit place in Miami.
Once inside this peaceful park, there is an abundance of things to do. You can climb up a lighthouse, roam around and see wildlife, or simply lay down and enjoy nature.
Because of the secluded nature of this beach, the beach feels untouched and looks beautiful. The lighthouse and sand dunes in the background also help add personality to the overall look of the beach. The shallow waters in Bill Baggs State Park are great for families with kids who love to swim.
Matheson Hammock Park Beach
Here is another beach that’s not often visited by tourists. However, if you ask the locals, they will definitely say that this is one of the best beaches in Miami. The scenic view and tranquil atmosphere of this beach make it perfect for picnics and chill hangouts with family and friends.
Although Matheson Hammock Park Beach is a usually quiet and calm beach, there are still many activities other than swimming that you can do. Kite surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking are some of the water activities that you can enjoy here. The beach also has a lagoon pool, grill restaurants, and outdoor rinse showers, which means that there’s more to this beach than just lazing around.
If you want a beach that’s free of big crowds but is still eventful anyway, this is the best beach in Miami to visit.
Crandon Park
For sporty people, Crandon Park is a great place to be in. This beach has designated spots for many sports like volleyball and tennis. If you want to get your body moving, this place would be the right fit for you.
The lack of big crowds in Crandon Park is a breath of fresh air from the busy beaches of Miami. This place is a great option if you just want to relax by the beach. However, despite being untouristy, this place is not devoid of activities and amenities. You can find almost anything you need around the area, so staying here for a long time is not a problem.
Luxurious Experience
Have you ever dreamed of going on a grand and luxurious vacation as if you’re one of the most famous celebrities in the world? Well, Miami can offer you exactly that. It’s not a surprise that Miami is one of the most well-loved vacation destinations by the richest and most famous. Miami offers a lot of luxurious escapades!
Exotic yachts and premium champagne are some of the glamorous things you can try out in Miami. Miami is also filled with so many luxury hotels that you’ll never run out of options. Depending on what kind of amenities you’re looking for, there will be a hotel that can cater to your wants and needs. These hotels even showcase the work of some celebrity chefs!
Miami is also the kind of place where you can rent a Lamborghini to go around the city in style. That’s the one thing about the luxury of Miami that you may not be able to see elsewhere. Miami is definitely one of the most glamorous destination cities in the United States.
Appreciate Art
Beyond the beaches and the luxury that Miami offers, there is also so much art everywhere you go! You won’t be able to stop yourself from slowing down and admiring the art around the city. Whether they may be inside the galleries or around the streets, Miami is a world-class center for art. If you want your vacation to be filled with art, then Miami is a great place to visit.
All kinds of art always stand out in Miami, especially because they are given a platform in the city. In Miami, Miami Art Week is celebrated every year. This event is a way to pave the road for emerging artists and organizations to more opportunities in the industry. During this time, there are over 50 exhibitions and events happening.
Art is no doubt important to the overall appeal of the city of Miami. This means that it’s also important for tourists to get at least a glimpse of the stunning and phenomenal art that Miami has to offer.
Here are some of the places to visit to see the art of Miami:
Art Deco District
The Art Deco Historic District is a place around Miami Beach that houses hundreds of buildings following the Art Deco design style. This place is known as the Soul of Miami because you will not find anything quite like this place. Most of the buildings in the district are built between 1925 and 1940, but they are always maintained to keep the Art Deco design and the Miami feel.
Art Deco is an architectural design that is a more upbeat and livelier take on neoclassical. It became a big thing in Miami in the 1920s, but the people have kept it alive to this day.
Going into the Art Deco District is like walking into the early 1900s. There are many notable buildings in the Art Deco District that you should definitely see when you visit. Some of the most important buildings are the Park Central Hotel, Colony Hotel, and Waldorf Towers Hotel.
Miami Design District
If you want to see creativity, the Miami Design District is a good place to start. The district is a shopping neighborhood in Miami that showcases trailblazing fashion, art, design, and dining.
The Miami Design District is filled with art galleries, fine dining and trendy restaurants, and luxury boutiques. This place is exactly the kind of place that encapsulates the art and luxury that Miami offers. There’s a lot of art and culture to take in, so if that’s the kind of trip you will appreciate, Miami Design District will make you feel fulfilled.
For art, the Institute of Contemporary Art is an amazing place to visit. The place, which has free admission, features the works of both local and international contemporary artists. The De La Cruz Collection and Opera Gallery are more art galleries that have stunning collections.
For shopping, a simple stroll along the district will show you many luxury brands’ boutiques! However, some more affordable brands like Sephora, Andrew, and Lower East Coast can also be found in the Design District.
For dining, Harry’s and Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink are two of the most well-loved and iconic places in the area. Harry’s offers some of the best pizzas in the area. Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink offers a wide selection of food, from oysters to ribs.
Locust Projects
What started out as a warehouse in Miami is now known as an important spot for the Miami art community. Locust Projects is a popular nonprofit organization that encourages artists to become better. They want the artists to create work that sets them truly free.
The Locust Projects have a culture of learning, which they share for free with the public. The space also has an annual fundraiser that is always the talk of the town, so it’s a must-see if you can catch it.
So Much to Explore
Miami is so much more than just beaches and luxurious shopping districts. Not a lot of people know it, but in Miami, you can also be one with nature. There is a lot more to explore in Miami than what initially meets the eye.
Don’t be fooled by the glitz and glamour of Miami, because behind that luxurious front, is an even more beautiful and stunning version of Miami. One that you can explore and bask in for as long as you want.
Here are some places you should not miss in Miami:
Miami Everglades National Park
The Miami Everglades National Park is a remote, but easily accessible mangrove haven. It’s a wondrous place surrounded by water that showcases nature’s beauty. This is something you will not expect Miami to have, so stepping foot into this park will really astonish you.
The Everglades is the third largest national park in the United States. It has untouched ecosystems, swamps, and mangroves. Overall, this national park covers an area of 1.48 acres (6,000 square meters).
You can find rare plants in this national park, some of which are mahogany, sea grapes, and magnolias. Of course, since this national park is swampland, expect to see lots and lots of alligators.
Aside from being a natural haven, the reserve has campsites and shops.
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
For a refreshing and enjoyable experience, don’t skip on visiting the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. This place is named after one of the shorelines on the Spanish coast. It showcases stunning European lavishness and luxury in an American context. It’s a great fusion of European and American.
The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is an homage to the early days of Miami’s rise. It has a total of 34 well-decorated rooms. Inside the main grounds, you can find many gems. This museum is home to more than 2,000 antique furnishings. As for the gardens, it has 10 acres (40,470 square meters) of land solely for the garden. In the garden, you can find thousands of orchids among other plants.
New York
The city that never sleeps – this is the famous line that makes New York one of the most famous cities in the world. In New York, there is a diverse culture, a high-energy atmosphere, and endless options for fun and entertainment.
New York may not be a beach city that many people enjoy visiting during their vacation, but New York has enough personality on its own that it can stand out. It has a bustling energy that is best experienced in person. After all, it’s for good reasons that New York is always referenced in music and movies!
From nightclubs to art, to cuisine, and to culture, New York’s got it all. Everything is packed in this famous city where dreams are made of.
What Makes New York Unique?
Central Park
Despite being a cosmopolitan city, New York is not without green spaces. Being the most visited park in the United States makes Central Park a famous landmark.
However, its existence is much like a miracle. The park, the fifth largest park in the city, takes up a substantial amount of prime real estate. Despite this, the city hasn’t allowed any kind of development within its borders.
Central Park is maintained and managed by the Central Park Conservancy, a nonprofit organization. Central Park covers 843 acres (3.4 sq km) in New York. Because of how big this park is, there is not a shortage of things to do and explore.
Central Park is always buzzing with life because events happen regularly. If you want to find something to do in New York, chances are, there’s always something interesting in Central Park. There are all kinds of tours that you can take around Central Park. There are walking tours, carriage tours, and bike tours.
Other activities that you can do around the park are yoga and ice skating. There are also events every now and then that anyone can take part in. Central Park has hosted parades, scavenger hunts, and marathons. There is a lot of diversity in the kinds of activities that you can do in the park. Just this park is enough to prove that New York city is never a boring place.
The Most Delicious and Diverse Food
New York is a place that is built on diversity. Immigrants from all around the world have contributed to what New York is right now. Because of the diversity in the city, it’s hard to deny that it has a vibrant and colorful culture. Part of the colorful culture is the diverse set of cuisine that you can find in the city.
In New York City, you will find all kinds of cuisine. There’s European, Asian, American, Middle Eastern, and basically anything you can think of. There is also some fusion of food. If you want to stay safe with your food, there’s something in New York for you. If you’re feeling more adventurous, there are definitely plenty of restaurants in New York for that.
Some of the most notable diners or restaurants in New York are Joe’s Pizza, Malecon, Ruta Oaxaca Mexican Cuisine, and Bolivian Llama Party. These are all diners that have stood the test of time and are well-known in New York.
More Attractions Than You’d Expect
Being a cosmopolitan city, you won’t think that there’s a lot to explore in New York. You might think that it’s like any other big city in the world, but that’s where you’re wrong. Despite the modernized city feel of New York, there’s surprisingly so much to explore and learn.
Here are some of the best attractions in New York:
Roosevelt Island
This 2-mile-long (3.2-kilometer) island just around Manhattan may not be one of the most famous attractions in New York, but it’s still worthy of attention. Despite being such a small island, it is like a grand getaway from the cosmopolitan feel of New York.
New York is a buzzing city, but if you want to take it slow without leaving the city, Roosevelt Island is the perfect place for you.
Start an amazing journey on Roosevelt Island by taking the tram that glides over the Upper East Side. This commute will give you one of the best and most memorable views of the city.
Aside from being a beautiful island, Roosevelt Island is also historic. Take a trip through the rich history of the island by visiting the Four Freedoms State Park and the Blackwell Island Lighthouse.
The Broadway Theater
A New York experience just isn’t complete if you don’t go to the Broadway Theater. After all, New York is the theater capital of the world, so how else to best celebrate it than to go to the world-famous Broadway Theater?
The Broadway Theater is known for showing Walt Disney’s Steamboat Willie during its early years in 1928. It was that broadway show that introduced the American audience to the famous rodent named Mickey Mouse.
The Broadway Theater has fresh broadway shows every week, which means that when you’re visiting New York, you’ll most likely be able to catch one. This kind of experience is truly one that really encapsulates a New York vacation.
Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is another part of New York City that makes the whole trip complete. A New York City vacation is just not complete without you getting a photo of the building.
Hailed as the tallest structure in New York and one of the most memorable attractions of the United States, it’s bound to be a memorable part of the city. The World’s Most Famous Building has a lot to offer when it comes to its fascinating past and distinctive architecture. It’s more than just a building because it’s filled with rich history and stories.
Make sure to take a trip to the top of the Empire State Building and take in the stunning view of New York City’s skyline.
The Statue of Liberty
If there’s one thing that people think of when they hear New York City, it’s the Statue of Liberty. The statue is so iconic that it has become the thing that really represents New York City.
“The Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World” is revered across the world as a representation of liberty and democracy. This was a gift of goodwill from the French to the Americans. It’s iconic enough that it is the most visited attraction in New York City.
When you visit New York City, the best way to take in the beauty of the statue is not from afar. There are many guided tours that can give you a closer look at the stunning beauty and history of the Statue of Liberty.
There are also a lot of things about the Statue of Liberty that you can visit and admire. If you’re interested in visiting the crown, you may do so through a reservation. Visitors are also allowed to climb the pedestal of the statue.
For those interested to know more about the Statue of Liberty, there is a museum on Liberty Island. The museum gives an immersive experience to those who are looking for it.
The City That Never Sleeps
“The City That Never Sleeps” is a tagline that really suits New York. In New York, you can practically do anything 24/7. It’s not unknown for people to know that big cities are always buzzing with energy. However, New York City has a different kind of buzz. There is a different level of activity and you will understand it when you visit the city.
The nightlife of New York is something unmatched. The city values its nightlife, which is why no other place in the world can give an experience like New York City’s nightlife can. There is even an Office of Nightlife in the city which ensures a more efficient, livelier, and safe nightlife for both locals and visitors.
New York is home to many kinds of bars and restaurants that are open 24/7. If you enjoy drinking and dancing until the sun rises, then you’re in luck in New York. There are also many places that offer live music every night.
More than the partying, New York City also has night markets that you can enjoy. One notable night market is the family-friendly Bronx Night Market. This night market happens when the weather starts to become warm. In this night market, there are many foods, clothing, and craft options for everyone.
New York or Miami – Which Is Better to Visit?
Have you ever thought about which city is better to visit between New York and Miami? Knowing full well that both of these cities offer very different experiences, it’s hard to choose which one you should visit. New York and Miami have different strengths as vacation destinations, but is one better than the other?
New York is a place that’s buzzing with energy and life. It’s a big city, but the level of activity and energy is unlike any other big city. It’s not a surprise that New York is a destination that is known all over the world.
Although it’s a city, New York is diverse. It offers a lot of new and unique experiences that tourists will surely remember forever. People come to New York for its famous landmarks, but people fall in love with the smaller details like the food and atmosphere of the city. If you want to be filled with enthusiasm and passion, then New York is the better destination for you.
On the other hand, Miami is a serene but energetic beach city that’s perfect for people who can’t get enough of lazy days by the water. Miami is the perfect definition of extravagant and luxurious.
The main draw of Miami is its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and luxurious shopping options. These are all enough to make someone feel like the most important person when they’re having a vacation in Miami. It also doesn’t hurt that the beaches in Miami are known to be some of the best in the world.
Miami is the better destination for you if you prefer to slow down and strike a perfect balance between an energetic and calm atmosphere.
At the end of the day, it’s about choosing what kind of vibe you want to experience on your vacation. However, there’s nothing wrong with going with both destinations and immersing in the experience that each city can give you.
FAQ
Which City Is Safer – Miami or New York?
Both Miami and New York are relatively safe places for tourists to visit. However, between the two, New York is a far safer place to be in. There is significantly more crime in general happening in Miami than in New York. However, it’s not a big number that is targeted towards tourists.
It is important to remember, though, that when traveling, you should always be alert to ensure that you are safe. There’s nothing wrong with putting in extra precautions to ensure your safety when traveling. As they say, it is better to be safe than sorry. Your vacation can be enjoyed better if you know that you have put in place the proper measures to be safe.
Miami vs. New York Crime Rate
According to BestPlaces, there is more violent and property crime happening in Miami than in New York. The difference between the crime rates of these two cities is quite substantial. However, this does not mean that Miami should be avoided. It is still safe to travel to both cities.
Is Miami Cheaper or More Expensive Than New York?
It’s not surprising to know that Miami is more expensive than New York in general. Miami has always been the kind of place that you go to if you want to experience extravagance and luxury. This means that you will definitely be spending more in Miami.
Many attractions in New York can be visited for free, so you can cross off a lot on your itinerary without spending a lot. However, in Miami, there are a lot of experiences that can be expensive, especially since they are marketed as luxurious. Yachts, Lamborghinis, and tours in Miami can make you spend a lot of money.
However, it all boils down to how much you’re going to spend in each city. You can definitely spend more in New York if you plan to explore more.
New York vs. Miami for Nightlife
Both Miami and New York have vibrant and spirited nightlife. However, there’s no contest when it comes to nightlife. New York City’s nightlife is unmatched, even by the luxurious Miami.
The nightlife, street culture, and even night markets of New York are unbeatable. It is hailed as the city that never sleeps for a good reason. This just means that no other city in the United States can get to the level of energy and activity that happens in New York at night. The endless bars, restaurants, and markets that are alive even in the late hours of the night are enough. These are all a testament to show that New York has a buzzing nightlife scene.
Miami has great nightlife, too! There are bars and nightclubs that you can go to if you want to extend your day. However, New York has so much more activity than any other city in the United States.
Shopping in Miami vs. New York
Shopping is a fun and popular activity that cannot be missed both in New York and Miami. However, between the two cities, Miami shopping is just a notch better. This is because shopping in Miami is an attraction of its own.
There are many options when it comes to shopping in Miami, and most of the time, the options are luxurious. Many of the shopping options in Miami cannot be found in many other places, which means that you can find items that you may not find anywhere else.
Is Shopping Cheaper in Miami Than New York?
Shopping in Miami can be more expensive, but it’s definitely worth it.
Because the choices in Miami are more luxurious, it’s expected that you will spend more money if you plan to shop there. New York also has a wide selection, which means that you have more options, so prices are cheaper.
It is also more expensive to shop in Miami because of the sales tax. There are some items in New York that can be exempt from sales tax, especially clothing.
How Far Is Miami From New York?
New York is a little far from Miami. The total straight-line distance from New York to Miami is 1,090 miles (1,754 kilometers).
Are New York and Miami in the Same Time Zone?
Despite being a thousand miles (1609 km) apart, New York and Miami are in the same time zone. They follow the Eastern Time Zone.
Miami vs. New York Size
Miami is approximately 56 square miles (145 square kilometers). On the other hand, New York City is around 301 square miles (781 square kilometers). This means that New York is about 5 times bigger than Miami.
Miami vs. New York Population
According to BestPlaces, New York City has a population of approximately 8,253,213 people. This makes New York City the most densely populated city in the United States. On the other hand, Miami has a population of 471,525.
Compared to New York City, Miami has a very small population. New York is around 17 times more densely populated than Miami. It is expected, though, because New York is a cosmopolitan city.
How Far Is Miami From New York by Plane in Miles?
The air travel distance, or the distance that a plane travels, from New York to Miami is 1,089 miles (1,752 kilometers).
How Many Hours From New York to Miami by Plane?
A direct plane ride from New York to Miami will take anywhere from around 2 hours to 3 hours and 10 minutes.
How Many Hours From New York to Miami by Car?
A road trip from New York to Miami can take someone anywhere from 18 hours to 22 hours. This estimate does not include stops, only the driving time.
How Many Days Does It Take to Drive to Miami From New York?
The drive to Miami from New York can take someone a whole day. With stops, it can take up to a whole day and a half. This all depends on the route, stops, and driving speed.
How Much Does It Cost to Drive From New York to Miami?
A road trip from New York to Miami can cost anywhere from 300 USD to 550 USD. This includes gas and toll fees, as well as overnight accommodations since the road trip will take more than a day. The cost can still go up depending on the stops that you will take.
How to Plan a Road Trip From Miami to New York
Driving uninterrupted from Miami to New York will take you 18 hours. This isn’t an ideal situation so it’s best to have a solid road trip plan when traveling by car from Miami to New York.
When planning a road trip from Miami to New York, there are some important factors to consider. First of all, you should identify your route. There are two major routes you can take from Miami to New York: the Charleston Route and the Blue Ridge Parkway Detour. Your route will depend on many things, such as where your initial and final destination will be.
After you have identified your route, consider your vehicle and make sure that you’re going to use one that can handle long trips. Once you have chosen your vehicle, have it checked to ensure that there are no issues. You want your road trip to go as smoothly as possible, so your vehicle should be 100% ready.
Next, since you already have a route, you should also identify your stops. Ideally, you should have at least 1 or 2 overnight stops to make the most out of your road trip. Both routes from Miami to New York also have a lot of interesting places you can visit. This means that you need to be sure to add them to your list of stops and plan your road trip with these places in mind.
Lastly, don’t forget to bring entertainment. A road trip from Miami to New York is a long one, so you will definitely need something to keep your spirits up, especially if you’re the one driving.
Is There a Train From Miami to New York?
If you want to go from Miami to New York by train, it is possible. There is a direct train, Amtrak, that goes from Miami to New York and vice versa. The are 2 daily trains that go from Miami to New York.
How Far Is Miami From New York Train?
The Amtrak from New York to Miami covers a distance of approximately 1,094 miles (1,761 kilometers).
How Long Is the Amtrak From Miami to New York?
The direct Amtrak train journey that travels from Miami to New York takes anywhere around 26 hours to 30 hours. The travel time of the train ride varies, but on average, you can get from Miami to New York via Amtrak within 29 hours.
How Much Is a Train Ticket From New York to Miami?
The price of the train ticket from New York to Miami always varies. A one-way ticket from New York to Miami will range anywhere from 130 USD to 300 USD. However, the average price for a one-way ticket from New York to Miami is around 150 USD.
A round-trip train ticket from New York to Miami is, on average, 304 USD. However, some people get lucky because it can go as low as 250 USD.
