Historical Museum of Southern Florida (HistoryMiami)
101 W. Flagler Street, Miami, 305-375-1492
The museum's permanent exhibit Tropical Dreams: A People's History of South Florida explores South Florida history from prehistoric times to the present. They also have several temporary exhibitions going on at any time, focusing on the history, cultures, folklife and archaeology of South Florida and the Caribbean.
Jewish Museum of Florida
301 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, 305-672-5044
This museum is comprised of two adjacent, restored, former historic synagogues, connected with a skylighted bistro. The core exhibit, MOSAIC: Jewish Life in Florida, 1763-Present, includes more than 600 photos and artifacts depicting the Florida Jewish experience since 1763.
Holocaust Memorial
1933-1945 Meridian Avenue, Miami Beach, 305-538-1663
This inspiring memorial is a tribute to the six million Jewish victims of Nazi terrorism before and during World War II. Around the monument, the walls of a tunnel-like passage chronicle the images of the death camps. Also features a photographic mural and a Memorial Wall with the names of the victims. Free to the public.
Haitian Heritage Museum
3940 N. Miami Avenue, Miami, 305-371-5988
This not-for-profit organization is committed to highlighting and preserving Haiti's rich culture and heritage. It offers a collection of beautiful Haitian art, historical artifacts, music, film and literary works.
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
3251 South Miami Avenue, Miami, 305-250-9133
Vizcaya was built as a winter vacation home by industrialist James Deering in 1916. The main house gives you a peek into the lives of the super-wealthy during the 1920's, and the gardens are among the most grand and beautiful you will ever see.
Gold Coast Railroad Museum
12450 S. W. 152 Street, Miami, 305-253-0063
The museum is home to several historic train cars, including the Ferdinand Magellan, built for President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Besides the history aspect, it is also just a great place to go if you like trains!
Merrick House
907 Coral Way, Coral Gables, 305-460-5361
You can take a tour of the childhood home of George Merrick, who founded and developed the City of Coral Gables. The home is now the site of a small museum about the history of the Merrick family, as well as the history of South Florida.
Munroe House at Barnacle State Park
3485 Main Highway, Coconut Grove, 305-442-6866
Completed in 1891, this house built by Commodore Ralph Munroe is Miami-Dade County’s oldest house still situated in its original location. It is preserved as a time capsule of Munroe’s life and times. And the tropical hardwood hammock surrounding it is one of the last examples left of Miami’s original landscape. Free tours.
