Blog

October 22, 2024
Grace and Beauty If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing one of Florida’s most iconic and gentle creatures in its natural habitat, then a manatee tour with Miami Native Tours is the perfect opportunity. These majestic creatures, often referred to as “sea cows,” glide gracefully through the waters of South Florida, offering a peaceful sight to behold. From now through March or April, the manatees are in full view, and Miami Native Tours provides the best way to experience them up close. The History of Manatee Preservation in Southern Florida Manatee preservation efforts have come a long way in Florida, thanks to decades of advocacy and environmental protection. Once threatened by boat collisions and habitat destruction, the manatee population has benefited from extensive conservation measures . In 1973, the West Indian manatee was listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act , and in 1978, the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act was passed, designating Florida as a safe haven for these gentle giants. Over time, stricter boating regulations, awareness campaigns, and habitat restoration projects, such as the protection of seagrass beds (a primary food source for manatees), have allowed the population to stabilize. Though challenges remain, especially in other parts of Florida where manatees struggle with environmental changes, Southern Florida’s manatee population is thriving. In Miami, specifically, manatees continue to enjoy healthy conditions, with plentiful food sources and growing families. It’s a true success story for wildlife preservation.
October 10, 2024
Explore the Striking Beauty Coral Gables, one of Miami’s most picturesque neighborhoods, offers visitors a blend of natural beauty, historic architecture, and cultural significance. Known for its tree-lined streets and Mediterranean-style buildings, this area exudes charm and sophistication, making it a must-see for anyone exploring Miami. At Miami Native Tours, we offer a unique and exciting tour of Coral Gables, taking visitors to some of the most iconic and beautiful spots in the area. Here’s a closer look at the highlights of our Coral Gables tour: 1. Biltmore Hotel The legendary Biltmore Hotel stands as a grand example of Miami’s glamorous past. Built in 1926, this stunning property has hosted royalty, celebrities, and even U.S. presidents. With its Spanish-style architecture, majestic tower, and luxurious grounds, the Biltmore is more than just a hotel—it’s a piece of history. Guests can marvel at its grandeur while learning about its fascinating past, including its role as a military hospital during World War II. Whether you’re a history buff or just love luxury, the Biltmore never fails to impress.
October 4, 2024
Hidden Gems At Miami Native Tours, we believe that your visit to Miami should be filled with more than just the usual sights. While the bustling streets of South Beach and the vibrant neighborhoods of Little Havana are certainly worth experiencing, there are other equally compelling stops that can add a unique and enriching layer to your visit. One of our favorite destinations is Key Biscayne, but we also offer alternative site options, each with its own guided tours to enhance your experience. Let us introduce you to these gems, all of which offer something special for every kind of traveler. Key Biscayne Lighthouse One of the highlights of the Key Biscayne area is the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse, located within the Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. This iconic lighthouse has been guiding sailors and explorers since 1825 and stands as Miami-Dade County's oldest standing structure. Guided tours are available daily at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., making it a must-see stop for history buffs and casual visitors alike. The tour provides an insightful look into the rich maritime history of Florida, including the lighthouse's role during the Seminole Wars and the Underground Railroad. For those who can handle a few stairs, the view from the top is nothing short of breathtaking, offering panoramic sights of the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay. It’s a stop we highly recommend for those who want to mix a bit of adventure with a history lesson.
September 27, 2024
Iconic Art Deco in South Florida South Beach, often celebrated as the “ Art Deco Capital of the World ,” is home to the largest concentration of Art Deco architecture anywhere on the planet. This unique architectural style, with its bold geometric shapes, pastel colors, and distinct ornamental features, captures the spirit of a bygone era. Walking through South Beach is like stepping back in time, offering visitors a glimpse of Miami’s glamorous past. However, the story of how South Beach became synonymous with Art Deco is as fascinating as the architecture itself.
September 20, 2024
A Pristine View of Nature Miami Native Tours offers an unforgettable experience with our Private Everglades Tours, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty and history of South Florida. Whether you want to explore the Everglades for a half-day or indulge in a full-day adventure, our tours offer a unique and personalized way to experience this iconic landscape. Half-Day Everglades Tour (5 hours) The Half-Day Everglades Tour is a five-hour journey into the heart of the Everglades, giving you a taste of the region’s rich wildlife and natural beauty. Airboat Ride to a Miccosukee Tree Island: Unlike the shorter, tourist-focused airboat rides, our tour includes a longer, more authentic airboat experience that takes you to a Miccosukee tree island . This is a historical and cultural highlight where generations of the Miccosukee tribe lived while fleeing from the U.S. Army. Stops in Big Cypress Preserve: As we venture into the Big Cypress Preserve , the wildlife viewing opportunities increase dramatically. Depending on the water levels and time of year, we may spot alligators, a variety of bird species, and other native wildlife. The cooler months are especially good for spotting migratory birds and alligators.
September 12, 2024
Experience the Culture Miami is known for its vibrant culture, diverse communities, and beautiful landscapes, but there’s a rich, often overlooked history that played a pivotal role in shaping the city we know today. The Black Miami Matters tour by Miami Native Tours is an unforgettable journey through the city’s historic Black neighborhoods and landmarks, highlighting the contributions of Black Americans and the long fight for civil rights. This immersive experience sheds light on Miami’s unique history, from its role in the Underground Railroad to its contributions during the 1950s and 60s Civil Rights Movement. A Journey Through Time The Black Miami Matters tour starts with a look at the deep historical roots of Black Miami, dating back to Spanish Florida, when the King of Spain declared Florida a “ Slave Sanctuary ” in 1693. At that time, escaped enslaved people could live freely in Florida as long as they converted to Catholicism, baptized their children, and helped defend the land from British attacks. This declaration made Florida a key destination on the Underground Railroad, long before it moved north. As you travel through Miami’s historic Black neighborhoods , the tour brings to life the struggles and victories of Black Americans who helped shape the region. This includes stops in Coconut Grove, Overtown, Liberty City, Little Haiti, and Brownsville—communities rich with history, resilience, and culture.
September 5, 2024
Experience Our Passion for Miami Welcome to Miami Native Tours, where your adventure through Miami’s vibrant neighborhoods, historic sites, and natural wonders is tailored just for you. The owner John is a Miami native with a deep love for this city, and for the past 13 years, he’s been sharing that passion with visitors from around the world. Nine years ago, he took the leap to start his own tour company with the goal of making your day with us the highlight of your Miami visit. A Customized Experience One of the things that sets Miami Native Tours apart is our commitment to personalization. No two tours are the same because no two visitors are the same. Whether you’re drawn to the rich history of Miami, the vibrant art scenes, or the stunning natural landscapes, we’ll craft a tour that reflects your interests. With a wide variety of stops to choose from, you can adjust the tour to fit your schedule and preferences. From the bustling streets of Miami Beach to the serene beauty of Key Biscayne Lighthouse, we cover it all.
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