SOUTH BEACH. The streamlined buildings that comprise this district reflect the architecture of the '20s and '30s, when wealthy vacationers made Miami the resort destination of choice. The area, after its initial heyday, experienced a period of neglect, and tenants were largely retirees. Reinvigorated in recent decades, the pastel-hued neighborhood is again in vogue, mixing old and new with aplomb. The Art Deco Welcome Center provides a great introduction to the area and carries maps of notable structures. Tours of the district can be arranged through the Miami Design Preservation League.

HOMESTEAD. Latvian immigrant Edward Leedskalnin spent 28 years using only native coral rock and homemade tools to create this amazing structure. Although many theories have sought to explain why he took on the seemingly impossible task, the most popular is unrequited love for his 16-year-old fiancee, Agnes Scuffs. Giving credence to that idea are the castle's recurring decorative motifs, which include celestial symbols and hearts. Even so, the mysterious, almost superhuman construction of the masterpiece is so incredible that it eclipses the story behind it.

CUTLER. Teeming with natural, archaeological and historical appeal, the Deering Estate proves endlessly engaging. Excavations at the bayfront compound originally owned by Charles Deering (whose brother James built Vizcaya) have uncovered the remains of prehistoric animals, and evidence suggests that Paleo-Indians were here more than 10,000 years ago. Historic buildings also distinguish the 420-acre property ­ the 1922 Stone House, Richmond Cottage and 19th-century Richmond Hall. For an altogether different perspective of the estate, reserve a spot on the weekend canoe tour.

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.

CORAL GABLES. George E. Merrick founded the City of Coral Gables, and now the residents of the area pay homage to the developer at this lovely home. Built in the early 1900s and restored to its former glory, the home is still stocked with many of the personal effects of the Merrick family. The historic landmark is also surrounded by well-maintained gardens.