The name brings to mind gorgeous beaches, warm weather,

and Art Deco landmarks.

But at the intersection of North and South America,

Miami has exploded onto the international cultural scene

in recent decades.

Want to experience the best of Miami?

Venture beyond glitzy South Beach and swing

by these three hot spots on the mainland.

The first stop is Coconut Grove.

Situated southwest of Downtown Miami,

this upscale residential enclave is one of Miami's oldest

and most iconic neighborhoods.

The gem of Coconut Grove is Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.

Originally built at as a winter home

by business magnate James Deering.

The Vizcaya estate is nestled among dense mangrove swamps

and offers a spectacular view of Biscayne Bay.

The ornate main house features a blend

of Italian Renaissance Revival and Baroque architecture.

And inside you'll find an exquisite collection

of art and furnishings acquired by Deering

during his world travels.

The lush expansive gardens surrounding the main compound

are a welcome break from Miami's hot sun

and a prime backdrop for your Instagram feed.

If you've built up an appetite, head north

and you'll eventually reach SW 8th Street.,

better know as Calle Ocho.

The main thoroughfare of Little Havana.

Even though Americans can now fly to the real Havana

in less than an hour, Little Havana remains an enthralling

outpost for the Cuban expatriate community

and a vibrant setting for Cuban food, culture, and ambiance.

Drop by the walk-up window at the legendary Cafe Versailles

for a croquette, or a cortadito,

a super-charged Cuban version of an espresso.

Day or night you are bound to encounter old friends

catching up, or a heated debate about politics.

Right across the street is La Carreta, which serves

a variety of authentic Cuban specialties including

Ropa Vieja and rice with sweet plantains.

If you're feeling lucky after lunch, settle in

for a street sighting of dominoes.

If you can find a seat that is.

As evening approaches, the energy and buzz shifts

to a bustling art infused area

north of downtown called Wynwood.

No other neighborhood in Miami has undergone

as a dramatic transformation as this former

industrial district that has been reborn as a hub

for international art galleries, shops,

and a diverse restaurant scene.

The year round pleasant weather and seemingly endless

collection of vibrant street murals,

has made Wynwood into a giant outdoor art gallery.

For a unique dinner option drop by 1-800-Lucky,

an open food hall in the style of an Asian market.

Featuring a collection of vendors offering a variety

of dishes from fresh ramen to steamed dim sum

to hot peking duck.

Finish off the night with matcha ice cream served

in a fish shaped cone or an Asian inspired cocktail

at the bar.

Looking around, it's hard to believe you're still in Miami.

But when it's 80 degrees in the middle of winter,

you'll be glad you are.