SOUTH BEACH. This museum houses a collection of European art, including paintings and sculpture. Over 2000 works have been collected and preserved in the Bass Museum of Art. In addition to the European works, you will also find American, Asian, and contemporary art exhibits. Don't miss the clerical and architectural displays.

FORT LAUDERDALE. Commonly referred to as "The Venice of America," Fort Lauderdale is also considered the yachting capital of the East Coast and is home to the International Swimming Hall of Fame. While the wealthy city stands on the cutting edge of fashion and the arts, it's also a fun-loving beachside community awash in souvenirs and sunscreen-wearing beach-goers. Picturesque surroundings, historic sights, museums, sidewalk cafés and a 22-block waterfront walkway contribute to the city's captivating appeal.

DOWNTOWN. Fascinating collections of historical photography and Florida ephemera colorfully depict greater Miami's intriguing past at this museum. From the earliest inhabitants to the Spanish invasion, from the rise of the cigar industry to the Depression ­ informative displays foster newfound appreciation of South Florida. Don't miss the museum store, which carries an excellent selection of regional books and gifts.

CORAL GABLES. This well-rounded collection includes Italian Renaissance, Baroque, Greco-Roman, Spanish Old Masters, Native American, African, and Asian art and antiquities. The museum is located at the University of Miami and there is a gift shop on-site.

DOWNTOWN. The Miami Art Museum started in 1984 as the Center for Fine Arts, which hosted temporary exhibits. Today it houses collections of international modern art, with Western Hemisphere Art from the 1940s to the present being its central focus. Changing special exhibits present everything from photography to mixed-media to video installations and sculpture. On the third Thursday of each month, the museum presents JAM at MAM, which includes music, tours, free hors d'oeuvres, and a donation bar. The second Saturday of each month is free for families, with art-inspired activities offered from 1pm-4pm.