Pre-Trip Fun for Miami, Florida

"Hoot" -- Based on the young adult novel by Carl Hiassen, an entertaining but important look at the ecological struggle between critters and concrete. (Pre-Teens and Teens)

"Miami Rhapsody" -- Set in downtown Miami, this romantic comedy may appeal to older teens. (Teens)

"Miami Vice" TV series -- Despite the gritty subject matter, teens will find it fun to watch the crime series that put Miami on the map. (Teens)

Tropical Fruit Salad -- Get them in the mood for Miami's warm climate (the marshmallow helps, too).

Grandmother's Punch -- Citrus is in season most of the year. Throw a pre-trip party with this festive, juicy treat.

Fried Plantains -- Bring Miami's Cuban influences to the table with a sweet and simple classic.

"A Night in the Swamp" by Thacher Hurd -- Fireflies twinkle and frogs jump across the page in this pop-up about Florida's swamp-dwelling creatures. (Ages 2 to 6)

"It's Hot and Cold in Miami" by Nicole Rubel -- Twin sisters Rachel and Rebecca couldn't be more different on the inside, which makes life full of adventure for these fifth-graders. (Ages 9 to 12)

"Welcome to the River of Grass" by Jane Yolen -- A beautiful, environmentally-themed exploration of the Everglades, Florida marshes that hide all kinds of exotic plant and animal life

"Gathering the Sun: An Alphabet In Spanish and English" by Alma Flor Ada -- Vibrant illustrations help tell the story of Hispanic agricultural workers, who have had a huge influence on Miami and Florida culture.

"The Old Motel Mystery" (Boxcar Children Mysteries) by Gertrude Chandler Warner -- The Alden kids stumble on another caper, this time in Miami. (Ages 9 to 12)

"The Panther Mystery" (Boxcar Children Mysteries) by Gertrude Chandler Warner -- While visiting their uncle, the Alden kids find trouble in the Everglades. (Ages 9 to 12)

"Lost in the Everglades" (Nancy Drew Mystery Stories) by Carolyn Keene -- Alligators are just one of problems for the famous sleuth when she and the gang head to Florida. (Ages 9 to 12)

"Escape to the Everglades" by Edwina Raffa -- Rich in Native American culture and history, this adventure follows a 14-year-old boy's struggle to move from boy to man. (Ages 9 to 12)

"Secrets of a South Beach Princess" by Mary Kennedy -- Soapy teen drama captures the jetset lifestyle of a Miami it-girl. (Ages 13 and Up)

"The Everglades: River of Grass (50th Anniversary Edition)" by Marjory Stoneman Douglas -- For eco-enthusiasts; After being published in 1947, this book helped preserve the Everglades as a national park. (Ages 16 and Up)

Poolside T-Shirts -- Save money (and young skin) with homemade coverups to ward off the scorching sun.

Designer Flip-Flops -- Kids will be strutting their stuff on the beach with flip-flops they design themselves.

Beach Bag -- Put those old towels to good use. These fun totes are great for storing shoes, sunblock, and shells at the shore.