Louis - Lonely Planet Pocket Miami

Sun-kissed beaches and art-deco beauties make an alluring backdrop to Miamis many charms, starting with the city's burgeoning arts scene. Miami is a place where creativity reins supreme: in its open-air galleries of street art, globally inspired restaurants and packed festival calendar. Add in a healthy dose of Latin culture, steamy beach days and hedonistic nightlife, and you have one of America's most captivating cities.

On September 10, 2017, one of the largest hurricanes ever recorded barrelled over the state of Florida, leaving flooding and destruction in its wake. Hurricane Irma made landfall in the Florida Keys as a category 4 storm the width of Texas, with wind speeds in excess of 130 mph. Nearly 7 million people across the state evacuated, there were widespread power outages and storm surges were seen as far north as Jacksonville. But the Florida Keys and the Everglades bore the brunt of the storm. Homes and businesses in the tiny town of Everglades City were left battered and mud-soaked after an 8-foot storm surge receded. Meanwhile, in the Keys, a FEMA survey reported that 25% of buildings had been destroyed, with another 65% damaged.

The research for this book was conducted before the storm hit and the content was sent to print soon afterward, when Irma's long-term effects were still unknown. In a state so heavily reliant on tourism, most cities were already announcing intentions to be ready for visitors soon. Still, those planning travel to Florida, especially the Florida Keys (www.fla-keys.com) or the Everglades region (www.nps.gov/ever), should check official websites for the latest information.

MiamiTop Sights

America's most captivating art-deco district.

littleny / SHUTTERSTOCK

Miami Top Sights

A jaw-dropping collection of street art.

Image courtesy of Wynwood Walls / Martha Cooper

Miami Top Sights

Miami's epicenter of contemporary art.

Insider tips to help you find the real Miami
There's much more to Miami than just its beautiful beaches. This is a city of cutting-edge design, hallowed art galleries and lush islands just beyond the city center. Exploring Miami's diverse neighborhoods is one of the great rewards of a trip

Indie Shops of South Beach

Eye-catching boutiques

Decadent snacking and sipping

Gustavo Caballero / Getty Images

Art & High Design

Surreal public art

Jewel-box storefronts

Image courtesy of Wynwood Walls / Martha Cooper

Downtown & Brickell

Rooftop views

Urban exploring

Fotoluminate LLC / SHUTTERSTOCK

Wandering the Grove

Waterfront oases

Indie cafes and bars

Barry Winiker / Getty Images