Looking for issues to do in Miami? You have chosen correctly. An enthralling weekend getaway, Miami is a sizzling spot to pause actuality and bask in some enjoyable within the solar. Combining world-class seashores, unique nightlife, and a mouthwatering meals scene, Miami gained’t disappoint.
Both new and returning vacationers will all the time discover one thing thrilling to do in Miami. From exploring the Miami Design District, embracing its historic structure, and experiencing conventional Cuban tradition in Little Havana there’s something for everybody in Miami.
Best Things to do in Miami
Ready to make the journey to South Florida? Find what you’re in search of with our information to the most effective issues to do in Miami. Do you need to know extra concerning the world round Miami? Read our information to the most effective locations to go to in Florida.
Miami is likely one of the most fun cities within the United States. So get able to take notes as a result of we’re going to point out you the most effective issues to do in Miami each on and off the seashore.
1. South Beach
When your thoughts drifts to Miami, it’s typically flooded with photos of sun-filled days and cocktail hours. For the quintessential Miami expertise, you could spend a while in South Beach.
The well-known stretch of white sand, with the delicate swell of the ocean caressing the sting, is the place to be proper till the solar goes down.
South Beach is the place to folks watch as lovely beachgoers take pleasure in out of doors actions and bask within the solar, health fanatics use the general public health club, and colourful rollerbladers glide alongside the footpath.
Bathe below the Florida solar, admiring the traditional lifeguard towers, and when it will get too sizzling, take a dip within the crystal clear waters. After a golden hour, clean up and return to South Beach for among the greatest nightlife on the town. Want to know extra concerning the Florida shoreline? Check out our information to the most effective seashores in Florida.
The Best Way to Save Money on Your Trip to Miami
Save as much as 55% on Miami’s Top Tours with the GoCity Miami Pass. You can select 1, 2 3, or 5-day passes relying on how lengthy you’re staying and what you need to do. All non-activated passes are eligible for a refund inside 90 days out of your buy date.
2. Art Deco District
Miami isn’t all sunshine and seashores. Its fascinating historical past is on full show due to the Art Deco structure that has been well-preserved by means of the many years within the Art Deco District.
Housing among the greatest examples of Miami artwork and tradition, the neighborhood was positioned on the National Register of Historic Places. Futuristic and classic all on the similar time, the Art Deco buildings are a vibrant glimpse into the early days of Miami.
To get the total image of Miami’s Art Deco historical past, discover the Art Deco Museum. Or higher but try the strolling excursions. This highly-rated tour consists of takes you thru the glitz and glamor of the Art Deco District to see historic landmarks similar to Versace’s decadent mansion and beloved Hollywood stops showcasing the likes of Miami Vice and extra. Or you possibly can be a part of The Miami Design Preservation League which affords every day strolling excursions.
3. See Millionaire’s Row
In a metropolis of extravagance, Millionaire’s Row showcases the peak of glamor in Miami. Along the fantastic Biscayne Bay, which separates the mainland from Miami Beach, is a collection of smaller islands. Many similar to Star, Hibiscus, and Fisher Island are solely accessible through boat.
Dotted with mansions and infrequently hidden from the world, the islands are a vacation vacation spot for the celebrities. Over the years, many massive names have purchased trip houses right here, from Shaq to Frank Sinatra. There’s a well-liked cruise that takes you by the estates, with nice return views of the Miami skyline.
4. Bayside Marketplace
On the sting of Biscayne Bay close to Millionaire’s Row, the Bayside Marketplace is a rousing waterfront complicated for buying, eating, and leisure.
Stroll from stall to stall on the hunt for eclectic ware and cherished mementos. With picturesque views round each nook, cease by one of many many elevated eating spots to take pleasure in lunch or dinner by the water.
- Address: 401 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132
5. Little Havana
Featuring counter-served croquetas and a robust cafecito, Little Havana is Miami’s cultural hub for the Cuban neighborhood. Walking by means of the district will carry pleasant aromas and an environment totally different from another within the metropolis.
Here you possibly can embark on a culinary expertise, having fun with genuine eats at locations like El Pub and browse its artwork galleries and outlets for just a little style of Cuba.
After getting your repair, discover Calle Ocho the place Cuban espresso is served to cigar-wielding patrons. Later wander all the way down to Domino Park to look at the locals collect and play dominoes.
Complete your expertise in Little Havana by visiting El Titan de Bronze to see how Cuban cigars are made out of begin to end. A good way to discover Cuban tradition is on a strolling tour. This extremely rated tour takes you to the most effective Cuban owned household eating places to pattern native delicacies and also you’ll browse artwork galleries the place you’ll meet native artists and see Cuban cigar rollers at work as you hearken to energetic Cuban music.
6. Versailles Restaurant
After immersing in Cuban tradition, chances are you’ll need to expertise just a little extra of Havana so make sure to write down Versailles Restaurant. The well-known Cuban restaurant started life again within the Seventies as a humble cafe slinging sandwiches and occasional. Thanks to their menu of genuine Cuban delicacies, the restaurant now has worldwide acclaim.
If you’re unsure what to strive, you possibly can’t go unsuitable with the normal vaca frita (shredded flank steak) and the Cuban sandwich. However, their most well-known dish is the Lechon Asado (roast pork).
- Address: 3555 SW eighth St, Miami, FL 33135
7. Ocean Drive
If you’re in search of some Miami enjoyable, make your solution to Ocean Drive to see the resorts lining the water representing the Miami Modern structure that sprung up after the Great Depression. No matter which manner you select to do it, venturing down Ocean Drive is a should. Ocean Drive is probably the most well-known stretch of street in Miami Beach and is a good way to soak within the ambiance.
Whether it’s on a strolling tour, on a motorcycle, or on a gradual cruise with the roof down, benefit from the palm-line avenue packed following the lengthy sandy seashore on one facet with eating places and bars ready to blow up after darkish.
Watch volleyballs going up and down and joggers run by earlier than taking a break within the many oceanside parks. Sit again and admire the surroundings, surrounded by blue skies and Art Deco Buildings with Latin music floating by means of the air.
8. Wynwood Art District
Once a group of deserted manufacturing facility buildings, Wynwood has flourished into one of many high spots to expertise Miami’s artwork scene.
After grabbing a tasty deal with from the Salty Donut, discover the colourful cafes, artwork galleries, small boutiques, and thrift shops with ample native expertise on show.
The spotlight of the Wynwood Art District is the Wynwood Walls. The coronary heart of the district is a choice of massive “street art” type work in a spacious out of doors space. Close to Little Havana, you possibly can mix the 2 for a memorable afternoon.
9. South Pointe Park
At the southern finish of South Beach, soak within the expansive views of the Atlantic, the glamorous Fisher Island, and the Meloy Channel of South Point Park.
Splitting high-rises and glowing water, the park is the proper spot for a picnic. Find a comfortable spot within the 17-acre park and let the ocean breeze float by as you benefit from the native ambiance.
The park is well-liked for out of doors recreation and anglers who could make use of the 450ft fishing pier. You’ll additionally discover a few of Miami’s patented white sand and a canine park in your furry good friend.
As the neon lights of South Beach start to flash, don’t depart the park earlier than experiencing among the best sundown spots in Miami.
10. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
Covering just below 85 acres, come to the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden for the proper escape from the intense lights of South Beach.
Meticulously designed, the gardens function a variety of tropical vegetation and bushes. As one of the vital lovely websites in Miami, you’ll additionally discover a choice of unique and uncommon vegetation, together with the petticoat palm.
While you’ll have a good time getting round on foot, you possibly can be a part of a narrated tram tour exploring each the character and historical past of the botanic backyard.
11. Lincoln Road Mall
Along Collins Avenue, you’ll uncover high-end designer boutiques in droves. Another block inland, on Washington Avenue, you possibly can store for classic ware. But to essentially scratch your buying itch, head to the Lincoln Road Mall.
Just a couple of blocks from the seashore, the colourful buying complicated includes over 100 outlets and eateries, inserting all the things you want within the palm of your hand. As you soar between high-end manufacturers and native boutiques, cease by the cocktail bars or try the meals vans parked alongside the walkway.
12. Bayfront Park
Among the concrete jungle of central Miami, Bayfront Park is an city escape full with a chilled waterfall. Improvements and expansions have occurred over the earlier many years to offer the park a extra outstanding function in native life.
Now state-of-the-art, Bayfront Park is the place to go for some gentle studying below shady bushes or to do some yoga on the plush lawns. Events are widespread within the park, from stay music to film nights and performances within the amphitheater.
13. The Venetian Pool
In Coral Gables, you possibly can swim within the greatest freshwater pool within the United States. As well-known as it’s attractive, the pool was in-built 1924 from an deserted rock quarry.
Using inspiration from outdated Venetian grottos with Mediterranean affect, the Venetian Pool can maintain over 800,000 gallons of underground spring water.
The pool is emptied and refilled every day by means of spring and summer time however contains a pure filtration system that helps maintain its electrical blue/inexperienced colour contemporary. The recognition of the swimming pool means you need to arrive early as there are limits to the variety of every day guests.
14. Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science
The Philip and Patricia Frost Museum of science explores quite a lot of matters which can be certain to maintain your consideration for hours on finish.
Begin on the massive spherical constructing, the place you’ll discover the planetarium. The round construction contains a 250-seat viewing space with expansive views.
Other highlights embody the multi-level aquarium with a give attention to the Atlantic Ocean, together with a bit devoted to Leonardo da Vinci. This is a good place for teenagers and oldsters, the museum is likely one of the greatest issues to do in Miami on a wet day.
15. Gold Coast Railroad Museum
With 30 historic (and restored) locomotives on-site, the Gold Coast Railroad Museum is likely one of the nice area of interest sights in Miami.
The museum was opened within the 50s by the Miami railroad historic society and is devoted to telling the story of rail transport in Florida.
Some of the favored locomotives you can discover embody the Ferdinand Magellan Presidential Railcar. A practice constructed particularly for President Roosevelt. The practice is made with nickel-steel armor and home windows immune to gunfire.
Just for the younger ones, you possibly can discover the picket toy practice units with replicas of outstanding locomotives by means of the eras.
16. Museum of Contemporary Art
Known merely as MOCA, the Museum of Contemporary Art homes quite a lot of halls displaying sculptures, portraits, images, and even video video games.
The museum, though small, affords a implausible assortment of recent and well-known artists, together with Nam June Paik and Louise Bourgeois. If you’re in Miami on the finish of the month, make your solution to the museum for a free out of doors jazz live performance held at 8 pm.
17. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Originally protecting 180 acres in Coconut Grove, the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is likely one of the most cherished estates in South Florida. The dwelling was constructed by the famend James Deering and was accomplished in 1916 and options 34 rooms.
In a daring try so as to add a slice of the Renaissance to his large villa, Deering introduced over 1000 craftsmen from Europe.
Today, you possibly can discover the large property, with the house stuffed with interval furnishings and the gorgeous courtyard on full show. Speaking of fascinating locations, peruse our information to enjoyable information about Florida.
18. Miami Children’s Museum
One of the most effective issues to do in Miami with children is to go to the Miami Children’s Museum. The expansive museum is as fascinating as it’s enjoyable, and a superb spot to take stressed children on a wet day. The Miami Children’s Museum includes 14 totally different halls together with 4 reveals exterior.
The younger ones can embark on an adventurous instructional expertise protecting matters from world tradition, arts, and communication. Jump from the “Kidscape Village” and “Sea and Me” for a busy however enjoyable afternoon.
19. Historical pastMiami Museum
Formerly often called the Historical Museum of Southern Florida. The Historical pastMiami Museum is a good place to be taught concerning the wealthy historical past of Miami.
Founded in 1940, the museum is likely one of the oldest establishments in Florida The museum is filled with beneficial historic artifacts and pictures that present how the town developed by means of the years.
20. Jungle Island
Want a photograph with a kangaroo or sloth? Jungle island is the place to get it. Once often called parrot jungle, the 20-acre park is dwelling to lots of of uncommon birds and animals.
Kids will love the up-close interplay with unique animals similar to kangaroos, flamingos, lemurs, sloths, and extra. While they provide free entry to the backyard, a VIP tour is one of the simplest ways to benefit from the park.
You get a educated information who will train you extra concerning the animals and make it easier to work together with them safely.
26. Catch a Pro Game
Thankfully, Miami is dwelling to a number of professional sports activities groups, together with the Miami Marlins (baseball) the Heat (basketball), and the Miami Dolphins (NFL).
Placed all through the town, you possibly can watch the Miami Heat shoot threes in downtown Miami American Airlines Arena or catch a fly ball at Marlins Park close to Little Havana. While the Dolphins play out of Hard Rock Stadium in North Miami.
If you’re a sports activities fanatic like me, then a stay sport all the time finally ends up on the itinerary.
27. New World Center
Located on Miami seashore, this world-famous live performance corridor must be in your checklist of issues to do in Miami. The constructing was designed by the gifted Frank Gehry and is understood for its cutting-edge media gear with the most important projection wall in North America.
It can also be the official dwelling of the New world symphony orchestra. Here you possibly can admire the gorgeous structure and iconic Miami seashore view or take pleasure in world-class live shows by the orchestra.
28. Cubaocho Museum & Performing Arts Center
At Cubaocho Museum & Performing Arts Center, drink, sing and dance as you study Cuba. Sip on a cocktail as you tour the museum studying the story of Cuba earlier than the revolution. Get entertained with the rotating performing arts as they inform of the Cuban historical past and tradition th track and dance. If you’re keen on stay music, that is the place to be. Enjoy some salsa, jazz, or Latin jam periods.
29. Perez Art Museum
Don’t neglect to pattern some rum – the middle enhance one of many largest assortment with about 420 totally different kinds of rum. The Perez Art Museum focuses on trendy items from the twentieth and 21t centuries.
It boasts over 3000 artworks from artists throughout the Americas, Europe, and Africa providing guests a worldwide view. Gaze in awe on the totally different items of artwork, portray, sculpture, and artwork installations.
30. Deering Estate at Cutler
This charming 440-acre property was constructed by philanthropist Charles Deering – brother to James and it options a formidable show of archeology and greenery. This South Miami Dade County Estate affords lovely views of Biscayne Bay from the Mediterranean palace, Vizcaya Villa.
Take a stroll by means of historical past. The park homes not noly the state, however acres of mangrove forests, a coastal sand dune and marshes. Don’t miss taking a tour to see the 350 12 months outdated tree that has grown atop the Tequesta Indian Burial Mound.
You ca e book this tour together with transportation that features spherical journey transporation and decide up out of your lodge. Entry into the gardens the place you’ll study twentieth century Miami.
21. Key Biscayne
Rent a ship and benefit from the views at sundown, hop on a jet ski for some water sports activities or take it gradual on a kayak. There are additionally loads of eating places close by for foods and drinks.
You don’t have to fret about lodging with loads of resorts to select from.
22. Crandon Park
Once a plantation for coconuts, Crandon Park turned a public area after being donated to the powers that be in Miami-Dade County.
With a spacious, sugar-sand seashore, room for picnics, and loads of shade, visiting Crandon Park is likely one of the high issues to do in Miami.
The native water usually options just a little swell, making it each a soothing hangout spot and ideal for households with lifeguards on patrol.
The seashore has extra to it than sunbathing and swimming. There’s an adjoining golf course, a marina for the boat buffs amongst us, and a big tennis heart that includes over 20 courts.
Despite its small dimension, this tiny island of Key Biscayne affords loads of actions for journey seekers. Its typically described as a paradise inside a paradise due to its sandy seashores, clear blue waters, and gorgeous views.
23. Everglades National Park
Just 30 miles west of Miami, the Everglades National park is a wetland oasis primed for an eco-adventure. One of the most effective issues to do in Miami is to discover the immense 1.5 million acres on a personal airboat tour.
The Everglades National Park is teeming with wildlife. The subtropical wetland is exclusive to America, with alligators hovering beneath the floor. Your knowledgeable information will take you thru the park, displaying off the most effective wildlife on provide. Before ending with the hair-raising expertise of seeing the alligators up shut.
The park can also be dwelling to an exhibit-filled customer heart, mountaineering trails, and bike paths. You may like: Best National Parks – USA Edition
24. Road Trip to The Florida Keys
A street journey to Key West is a ceremony of passage for a lot of vacationers making their solution to South Florida and driving south to the Florida Keys is likely one of the high enjoyable issues to do in Miami.
Taking roughly 4 hours to Key West, the drive goes from fairly to downright spectacular as quickly as you cross Manatee Bay for Key Largo. Key Largo is only one hour from Miami
From there, the drive is a collection of lengthy flat bridges over turquoise water that join the chain of tropical islands. From Key Largo to Islamorada this lovely day journey ought to actually be a weekend getaway from Miami. However, we’ve achieved the drive for enjoyable in a day and it’s superior. Rent a convertible and luxuriate in a day within the enjoyable and solar.
With the rooftop down (convertibles are a should!), benefit from the breeze because the flurry of colours rushes by. Continue on to achieve Key West by sundown, to see the solar fall under the horizon on the most southern level within the contiguous USA.
25. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park was the primary underwater state park within the United States and affords over 70 nautical miles of stay coral reef.
Located simply south of Miami, on Key Largo, the park supplies quite a lot of excursions to expertise the underwater world.
Try snorkeling or scuba diving alongside the colourful reef teeming with sea life or discover the crystal clear waters on a glass-bottom boat. After a day on the water, benefit from the calm and scenic Cannon Beach, full with Seventeenth-century cannons.
Thanks to its distinctive design, comprising 4 buildings on manicured grounds, the Museum of Science is a simple one to identify.
How to get to Downtown Miami
To get to Miami you fly into Miami International Airport or Fort Lauderdale Airport.
Congrats in your pending journey to Miami. If you’re flying into Miami International Airport, then you definitely’ll have a number of methods to get into city. The most cost-effective solution to get to Miami is on the Metrorail Orange Line, which prices $2.25 per particular person.
After arriving within the metropolis, you possibly can then hyperlink to quite a lot of public transport.
Other choices embody a non-public shuttle which ranges between $15 and $30 {dollars} relying in your vacation spot. You may hail a taxi for a flat charge of $22. Uber and Lyft are additionally accessible.
- You can e book transportation from Miami and Fort Lauderdale airports by means of Viator:
Best Time to Visit Miami
Miami has nice year-round climate spanning from delicate winters to sizzling summers. For this motive, should you’re keen to place up with stifling there’s no horrible time to go to. Summer’s may be sizzling and humid although.
Our favourite time of 12 months to expertise Miami is the spring, so long as you keep away from Spring Break.
Enjoy milder temperatures (between 75f and 85f) in comparison with summer time, with infinite blue skies and balmy evenings.
Where to Stay in Miami Beach
The greatest space to remain in Miami is Miami Beach. With prime entry to the seashores, Ocean Drive, nightlife, and the Art Deco District, you’ll have all of it in your doorstep. Here are three choices to swimsuit all budgets.
- Budget – Miami isn’t a haven for price range vacationers, however Hotel Shelley comes with cozy rooms with Art Deco appeal. Enjoy trendy facilities, free WiFi, near all of the motion. Check charges and evaluations on Booking.com
- Mid-Range – Right on the seashore and alongside Ocean Drive, Marriott Stanton is an excellent selection for touring households. Make probably the most of two on-site swimming pools, spas, saunas, and a health club with the seashore and eating places all inside strolling distance. Check charges and evaluations on Booking.com
- Luxury – Occupying a complete metropolis block, 1 Hotel South Beach is the epitome of Miami luxurious. Soak within the expansive floor-to-ceiling ocean views, with beautiful decor and the most important rooftop pool on the town. Check charges and evaluations on Booking.com