Orlando vs. Miami - Which City Should I Visit?

Both Miami and Orlando are known for their animal attractions, with several zoos and aquariums located in each. Because of the proximity of the Everglades, you’ll also find gators aplenty in either city.
 

• Miami Seaquarium. This is an engaging aquatic park with a specific focus on sea creatures. the Miami Seaquarium features everything from playful dolphin shows to shark feedings to special animal encounters. They’re also known for their conservation efforts.
   
• Jungle Island. This modestly-sized zoological park is big on fun. See a variety of creatures from around the world at Jungle Island, where everything focuses on learning about the animal world through play and exploration. Check out our guide to Jungle Island before you go.
   
• Lion Country Safari. Actually, a decent distance north of Miami but closer than Orlando, Lion Country Safari brings the experience of the African savanna to southern Florida. It’s a drive-through safari with opportunities to photograph and feed the animals.

• Gatorland. Known as the Alligator Capital of the World, Gatorland is the only place in Florida where it’s all gators, all the time. Their 110-acre park features other native Florida critters, too, but the gators and their astonishing performances are the real draw. We have some top tips for visiting Gatorland.
   
• SEA LIFE Aquarium Orlando. Part of the SEA LIFE Aquarium family, this Orlando outpost offers a series of themed rooms that feature in total more than 5,000 sea creatures. Don’t miss the 360-degree ocean tunnel, where you can see the animals swim overhead. Check out our guide to SEA LIFE Aquarium Orlando before visiting.
   
• Florida Aquarium. Found in nearby Tampa, the Florida Aquarium is a massive attraction with over 7,000 aquatic plants and animals on display. Especially popular areas include the Wetlands Trail, Bays & Beaches, and Dragons Down Under.

Miami and Orlando boast a number of top museums, several of which are world-renowned. A few are free or inexpensive, making a multi-museum vacation a budget-friendly option. These are our favorite museums in each city.

• ARTECHOUSE Miami. One of the most distinctive museum-like experiences you’ll ever enjoy, ARTECHOUSE Miami is a dazzling interplay of light and sound, concept and execution, and ever-changing exhibits.
   
• Vizcaya Museum & Gardens. Immerse yourself in this gorgeous historic home and accompanying grounds, filled with lush flora and carefully tended displays. Inside the home is a curated collection of art and artifacts to peruse as you marvel at the architecture.
   
• Frost Museum of Science. One of the most interactive science museums in the region, the Frost Museum of Science is all about learning by doing. There are exhibits on weather and climate, wildlife, and natural phenomena, among others.

• Kennedy Space Center. Arguably one of the most historically significant sites in all of Florida, the Kennedy Space Center is today both a place for visitors to learn about the history of the American space program and a working facility.
   
• Madame Tussauds Orlando. A wax museum chain that’s beloved by millions across the globe, Madame Tussauds in Orlando is a must-visit attraction for any fan of celebrities, pop culture, or history.

• Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition. Fans of the film or those interested in seafaring history will appreciate the impressive collection of objects from the tragedy that has been collected in Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition.
   
• American Police Hall of Fame. Learn about the history and heritage of the United States police forces at the American Police Hall of Fame. A good place to visit for anyone interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement, too.
   
• Mennello Museum of American Art. Art lovers will want to check out this unique institution. The basis of its collections is a large body of work by Earl Cunningham. However, it also has broader holdings of painting and sculpture.

• Duck Tours South Beach. Combine land and sea with a ride on the unique Duck Tours South Beach vessels. On a voyage part aquatic, part terrestrial, you’ll see the city in a whole new light.
   
• Key West Day Trip. An all-day excursion down to the southernmost point of the Continental U.S., this Key West day trip is a rare opportunity to enjoy several hours on this delightful little island. Snorkel, sightsee, and snack at this tiny southern refuge.

• Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour. Located in the nearby suburb of Winter Park, this scenic boat tour is an excellent way to see a lot of the city and this charming little neighborhood, too.
   
• Dolphin Racer Speedboat Cruise. This exhilarating speedboat cruise is actually run out of St. Petersburg, a moderate drive from Orlando proper. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Gulf of Mexico on your way to meet playful pods of dolphins.