Welcome to Miami

Don't be fooled into thinking Miami is all about the party. From Art Deco architecture and local restaurants to beachfront yoga and Everglades adventures, Ellen Simpson discovers a different side to the Magic City.

If you're in Miami at the weekend, head to the quieter end of South Beach near 5th Street and the lifeguard station. Stay until early evening and you'll be treated to a lively beach scene of drumming circles, fitness groups and locals gathering to watch the sunset.

For a casual meal, try Norky's Rotisserie & Grill on Washington Avenue, where you'll find simple but tasty Peruvian dishes such as rotisserie chicken, rice, black beans and plantain. For Mediterranean flavours, Sultan on Collins Avenue serves delicious homemade hummus, warm fluffy bread and generous gyros filled with meat or falafel, tomato and onion.

News Cafe on Ocean Drive is an excellent spot for breakfast – or any time of day, for that matter. Grab a table outside, order a coffee or frozen cocktail and enjoy some of South Beach's finest people-watching. The atmosphere is as much a draw as the menu.

Shopping in Miami is brilliant, so be prepared to make room in your suitcase. Lincoln Road remains one of the best places to browse, with a lively mix of shops, restaurants and cafés lining the pedestrian-friendly boulevard.

For even more retail therapy, make the trip to Aventura Mall. One of South Florida's premier shopping destinations, it's home to hundreds of stores ranging from high-street favourites to luxury brands, alongside restaurants and contemporary art installations.

I'd also recommend taking an Art Deco walking tour from the Art Deco Welcome Center on Ocean Drive. It's a fantastic way to learn about Miami Beach's iconic architecture and the fascinating history behind the city's pastel-coloured façades and landmark hotels.

If you want to venture slightly further afield, the Everglades are well worth a visit. A half-day excursion will take you into this remarkable ecosystem by airboat, where you'll have the chance to spot alligators, birds and other native wildlife while learning about one of America's most unique natural landscapes.