Looking for issues to do in Miami? You have chosen correctly. An enthralling weekend getaway, Miami is a scorching spot to pause actuality and indulge in some enjoyable in the solar. Combining world-class seashores, unique nightlife, and a mouthwatering meals scene, Miami received’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 on the lookout for with our information to the perfect issues to do in Miami. Do you need to know extra concerning the world round Miami? Read our information to the perfect locations to go to in Florida.
Miami is without doubt one of the most enjoyable cities in the United States. So prepare to take notes as a result of we’re going to present you the perfect issues to do in Miami each on and off the seaside.
1. South Beach
When your thoughts drifts to Miami, it’s usually flooded with photos of sun-filled days and cocktail hours. For the quintessential Miami expertise, you have to spend a while in South Beach.
The well-known stretch of white sand, with the comfortable swell of the ocean caressing the sting, is the place to be proper till the solar goes down.
South Beach is the place to individuals watch as lovely beachgoers get pleasure from out of doors actions and bask in the solar, health fanatics use the general public gymnasium, and colourful rollerbladers glide alongside the footpath.
Bathe below the Florida solar, admiring the traditional lifeguard towers, and when it will get too scorching, take a dip in the crystal clear waters. After a golden hour, clean up and return to South Beach for a few of the greatest nightlife in city. Want to know extra concerning the Florida shoreline? Check out our information to the perfect seashores in Florida.
The Best Way to Save Money on Your Trip to Miami
Save up to 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 might be 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 thanks to the Art Deco structure that has been well-preserved by way of the a long time in the Art Deco District.
Housing a few of 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 identical time, the Art Deco buildings are a vibrant glimpse into the early days of Miami.
To get the complete image of Miami’s Art Deco historical past, discover the Art Deco Museum. Or higher but take a look at the strolling excursions. This highly-rated tour contains takes you thru the glitz and glamor of the Art Deco District to see historic landmarks akin to Versace’s decadent mansion and beloved Hollywood stops showcasing the likes of Miami Vice and extra. Or you’ll be able to be 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 wonderful Biscayne Bay, which separates the mainland from Miami Beach, is a collection of smaller islands. Many akin to Star, Hibiscus, and Fisher Island are solely accessible by way of boat.
Dotted with mansions and sometimes hidden from the world, the islands are a vacation vacation spot for the celebrities. Over the years, many massive names have purchased trip properties 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 advanced for procuring, 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 get pleasure from 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 group. Walking by way of the district will carry pleasant aromas and an environment completely different from another in town.
Here you’ll be able to embark on a culinary expertise, having fun with genuine eats at locations like El Pub and browse its artwork galleries and outlets for a bit of style of Cuba.
After getting your repair, discover Calle Ocho the place Cuban espresso is served to cigar-wielding patrons. Later wander down to Domino Park to watch the locals collect and play dominoes.
Complete your expertise in Little Havana by visiting El Titan de Bronze to see how Cuban cigars are constituted of begin to end. An effective way to discover Cuban tradition is on a strolling tour. This extremely rated tour takes you to the perfect 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 pay attention to energetic Cuban music.
6. Versailles Restaurant
After immersing in Cuban tradition, it’s your decision to expertise a bit of extra of Havana so ensure to write down Versailles Restaurant. The well-known Cuban restaurant started life again in 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 undecided what to attempt, you’ll be able to’t go fallacious 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 might be on the lookout for some Miami enjoyable, make your means to Ocean Drive to see the accommodations lining the water representing the Miami Modern structure that sprung up after the Great Depression. No matter which means 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 an effective way to soak in the ambiance.
Whether it’s on a strolling tour, on a motorbike, or on a gradual cruise with the roof down, benefit from the palm-line avenue packed following the lengthy sandy seaside on one aspect with eating places and bars ready to explode after darkish.
Watch volleyballs going up and down and joggers run by earlier than taking a break in the numerous oceanside parks. Sit again and admire the surroundings, surrounded by blue skies and Art Deco Buildings with Latin music floating by way of the air.
8. Wynwood Art District
Once a group of deserted manufacturing facility buildings, Wynwood has flourished into one of many prime 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” model work in a spacious out of doors space. Close to Little Havana, you’ll be able to mix the 2 for a memorable afternoon.
9. South Pointe Park
At the southern finish of South Beach, soak in 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 in the 17-acre park and let the ocean breeze float by as you benefit from the native ambiance.
The park is fashionable 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 pal.
As the neon lights of South Beach start to flash, don’t go away the park earlier than experiencing probably the greatest sundown spots in Miami.
10. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
Covering slightly below 85 acres, come to the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden for the proper escape from the brilliant lights of South Beach.
Meticulously designed, the gardens function a variety of tropical crops and timber. As one of the lovely websites in Miami, you’ll additionally discover a choice of unique and uncommon crops, together with the petticoat palm.
While you’ll have a good time getting round on foot, you’ll be able to be 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’ll be able to store for classic ware. But to actually scratch your procuring itch, head to the Lincoln Road Mall.
Just just a few blocks from the seaside, the colourful procuring advanced includes over 100 outlets and eateries, putting all the pieces you want in the palm of your hand. As you soar between high-end manufacturers and native boutiques, cease by the cocktail bars or take a look at the meals vehicles parked alongside the walkway.
12. Bayfront Park
Among the concrete jungle of central Miami, Bayfront Park is an city escape full with a relaxing waterfall. Improvements and expansions have occurred over the earlier a long time to give the park a extra distinguished position in native life.
Now state-of-the-art, Bayfront Park is the place to go for some mild studying below shady timber or to do some yoga on the plush lawns. Events are widespread in the park, from dwell music to film nights and performances in the amphitheater.
13. The Venetian Pool
In Coral Gables, you’ll be able to swim in the most important freshwater pool in the United States. As well-known as it’s beautiful, the pool was constructed in 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 way of spring and summer time however incorporates a pure filtration system that helps maintain its electrical blue/inexperienced coloration contemporary. The reputation of the swimming pool means it is best 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 a wide range of matters which might be positive to maintain your consideration for hours on finish.
Begin on the massive spherical constructing, the place you’ll discover the planetarium. The round construction incorporates a 250-seat viewing space with expansive views.
Other highlights embrace the multi-level aquarium with a deal with the Atlantic Ocean, together with a bit devoted to Leonardo da Vinci. This is a superb place for youths and oldsters, the museum is without doubt 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 without doubt one of the nice area of interest points of interest in Miami.
The museum was opened in 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 that you may discover embrace the Ferdinand Magellan Presidential Railcar. A practice constructed particularly for President Roosevelt. The practice is made with nickel-steel armor and home windows resistant to gunfire.
Just for the younger ones, you’ll be able to discover the wood toy practice units with replicas of distinguished locomotives by way of the eras.
16. Museum of Contemporary Art
Known merely as MOCA, the Museum of Contemporary Art homes a wide range of halls displaying sculptures, portraits, images, and even video video games.
The museum, though small, affords a improbable assortment of latest 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 means 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 without doubt 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 to add a slice of the Renaissance to his large villa, Deering introduced over 1000 craftsmen from Europe.
Today, you’ll be able to discover the big property, with the house crammed with interval furnishings and the gorgeous courtyard on full show. Speaking of fascinating locations, peruse our information to enjoyable info about Florida.
18. Miami Children’s Museum
One of the perfect issues to do in Miami with children is to go to the Miami Children’s Museum. The expansive museum is as attention-grabbing as it’s enjoyable, and an excellent spot to take stressed children on a wet day. The Miami Children’s Museum includes 14 completely different halls together with 4 reveals exterior.
The younger ones can embark on an adventurous academic 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 known as the Historical Museum of Southern Florida. The Historical pastMiami Museum is a superb place to study concerning the wealthy historical past of Miami.
Founded in 1940, the museum is without doubt one of the oldest establishments in Florida The museum is stuffed with useful historic artifacts and pictures that present how town developed by way of the years.
20. Jungle Island
Want a photograph with a kangaroo or sloth? Jungle island is the place to get it. Once often known as parrot jungle, the 20-acre park is dwelling to a whole lot of uncommon birds and animals.
Kids will love the up-close interplay with unique animals akin 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 educate you extra concerning the animals and enable you 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 town, you’ll be able to 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 dwell recreation all the time finally ends up on the itinerary.
27. New World Center
Located on Miami seaside, 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 thought for its cutting-edge media tools with the biggest projection wall in North America.
It can be the official dwelling of the New world symphony orchestra. Here you’ll be able to admire the gorgeous structure and iconic Miami seaside view or get pleasure from 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 find out about 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 music and dance. If you’re keen on dwell music, that is the place to be. Enjoy some salsa, jazz, or Latin jam classes.
29. Perez Art Museum
Don’t overlook to pattern some rum – the middle increase one of many largest assortment with about 420 completely different styles of rum. The Perez Art Museum focuses on trendy items from the twentieth and 21t centuries.
It boasts over 3000 artistic endeavors from artists throughout the Americas, Europe, and Africa providing guests a worldwide view. Gaze in awe on the completely 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 way 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 yr outdated tree that has grown atop the Tequesta Indian Burial Mound.
You ca guide this tour together with transportation that features spherical journey transporation and choose up out of your resort. Entry into the gardens the place you’ll find out about 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 fear about lodging with loads of accommodations to select from.
22. Crandon Park
Once a plantation for coconuts, Crandon Park grew to become a public house after being donated to the powers that be in Miami-Dade County.
With a spacious, sugar-sand seaside, room for picnics, and loads of shade, visiting Crandon Park is without doubt one of the prime issues to do in Miami.
The native water typically options a bit of swell, making it each a calming hangout spot and ideal for households with lifeguards on patrol.
The seaside 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 middle that includes over 20 courts.
Despite its small measurement, this tiny island of Key Biscayne affords loads of actions for journey seekers. Its usually described as a paradise inside a paradise thanks 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 perfect 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 professional information will take you thru the park, displaying off the perfect natural world on provide. Before ending with the hair-raising expertise of seeing the alligators up shut.
The park can be dwelling to an exhibit-filled customer middle, mountain climbing trails, and bike paths. You might also 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 means to South Florida and driving south to the Florida Keys is without doubt one of the prime 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 completed the drive for enjoyable in a day and it’s superior. Rent a convertible and luxuriate in a day in 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 attain Key West by sundown, to see the solar fall under the horizon on the most southern level in the contiguous USA.
25. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park was the primary underwater state park in the United States and affords over 70 nautical miles of dwell coral reef.
Located simply south of Miami, on Key Largo, the park offers a wide range 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 straightforward one to spot.
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 definately’ll have a number of methods to get into city. The most cost-effective means to get to Miami is on the Metrorail Orange Line, which prices $2.25 per particular person.
After arriving in town, you’ll be able to then hyperlink to a wide range of public transport.
Other choices embrace a personal shuttle which ranges between $15 and $30 {dollars} relying in your vacation spot. You also can hail a taxi for a flat price of $22. Uber and Lyft are additionally accessible.
You can guide transportation from Miami and Fort Lauderdale airports by way of Viator:
Best Time to Visit Miami
Miami has nice year-round climate spanning from gentle winters to scorching summers. For this motive, should you’re keen to put up with stifling there’s no horrible time to go to. Summer’s will be scorching and humid although.
Our favourite time of yr to expertise Miami is the spring, so long as you keep away from Spring Break.
Enjoy milder temperatures (between 75f and 85f) in contrast to summer time, with infinite blue skies and balmy evenings.
Where to Stay in Miami Beach
The greatest space to keep 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 allure. Enjoy trendy facilities, free WiFi, shut to all of the motion. Check charges and critiques on Booking.com Mid-Range – Right on the seaside and alongside Ocean Drive, Marriott Stanton is an outstanding selection for touring households. Make probably the most of two on-site swimming pools, spas, saunas, and a gymnasium with the seaside and eating places all inside strolling distance. Check charges and critiques on Booking.com Luxury – Occupying a whole metropolis block, 1 Hotel South Beach is the epitome of Miami luxurious. Soak in the expansive floor-to-ceiling ocean views, with beautiful decor and the biggest rooftop pool in city. Check charges and critiques on Booking.com