Art and design where you least expect it

Just blocks from the bustle of Ocean Drive and the tourist-filled beaches, The Wolfsonian is a sanctuary for lovers of 19th- and 20th-century design, propaganda and material culture. This museum-library, affiliated with Florida International University, houses an eclectic collection ranging from art deco furniture to Soviet war posters to curious industrial objects.

What makes this place special is its focus on how design influenced politics and society, something few museums explore in such depth. The temporary exhibitions are especially intriguing: one might look at fascist architecture, while another examines Cold War propaganda toys. The building itself, a mix of Mediterranean and modernist styles, is a work of art, with details such as its wrought-iron chandeliers and monumental staircase.

Unlike other museums in Miami, there are no lines or massive selfies here. The atmosphere is one of intellectual calm, and the café on the back terrace is perfect for a break with a book. If you're looking for something more stimulating than typical beach tourism, this is the place for you.