BY Nascar

There's the shopping and restaurants and shopping and rollerblading and shopping and more shopping. And for first-time visitors to Miami, it's a must. But to spend every waking moment in a boutique or café along Ocean Drive up until the trophy is delivered on Sunday night would be a mistake.

MAP OF MIAMI, FLA.
Click here for directions and an aerial map.

DID YOU KNOW?
Miami is the only city in the United States to be planned by a woman, Julia Tuttle, who was a local citrus grower. Miami was incorporated on July 28, 1896.

WHAT THE AREA OFFERS
From the water: As one site puts it, you haven't been to Miami until you're on the water. Well, for this trip one can go on the water or below it to get one last look at nature's underbelly before the winter cold officially sets in.

From the air: The beach is one of those sections of land where its often best experienced up close, but provides some of the best views from far away. Why not do both?

From the land: Miami is the only city in the United States that borders two national parks.

Scuba Diving -- From classes to first-timers to water-logged veterans, wrecks and reefs can be seen off the shoreline from beneath the surface.
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Snorkel Trips -- Not so sure about going all the way under? Try the next best thing with a family snorkel trip or tour that can be located throughout the area.
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Parasailing -- Get a unique look at manta rays, manatees and a host of other sea life while cruising the shoreline all from 600 feet above water on a parasail.

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Airboat Tours -- While it's technically on water, you'll feel like you're flying across the Everglades as you scout gators and retrace the Seminoles' history.

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Biscayne National Park -- Known for its protection of waters, islands and coral reefs, Biscayne's island location is a history lesson and hands-on tour in one.

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Everglades National Park -- The largest subtropical wilderness in the United States, this park is known for its protection of endangered species such as crocodile, panthers and manatee.

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MUST-VISIT RESTAURANT
Puerto Sagua -- Trying to pick one restaurant in Miami is like numbering the sand grains on Miami Beach. In order. But if one is traveling to South Beach and plans to eat local cuisine, think Puerto Sagua. This authentic restaurant is a place that some reviewers have called the best Cuban restaurant in the area. And for the price, it may be a stop any visitor makes more than once.
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WEEKEND FORECAST
November in Miami and highs in the 80s. Tough to beat. It's expected to be partly sunny every day with some clouds on Saturday. Complete forecast

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