Miami is a city known for its lively atmosphere, offering a wide range of activities that cater to all kinds of interests. From cruises, South Beach, Cuban cuisine, and beautiful people, to wild clubs and parties, Miami is a city that never sleeps. Despite its vibrant energy, Miami may not be everyone's cup of tea. Some may even say it's like a blend of the worst parts of NYC and Los Angeles combined. Regardless, it's a city that can be incredibly thrilling and entertaining for a few days. Enjoy soaking up the sun, trying out amazing food, and having an unforgettable nightlife experience.
This travel guide to Top Things to See and Do in Miami will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time here.
Top Things to See and Do in Miami
1. Exploring the Trendy and Vibrant South Beach in Miami
Miami Beach is an exciting destination renowned for its trendy fashion boutiques, high-end hotels, and chic cocktail bars. Walk down the picturesque Ocean Drive along the beach, and take in the stunning pastel-colored Art Deco architecture that the area is famous for. Although South Beach may be a little more expensive than other areas, it is undoubtedly worth visiting. It offers a quintessential Miami experience that should not be missed.
2. Discover Wynwood: Miami's Thriving Art and Culture Hotspot
Once a bustling industrial neighborhood, Wynwood has transformed into a haven for street art and trendy hotspots. Explore the vibrant streets filled with unique shops, hip restaurants, cozy cafes, artisan breweries, and art galleries. Don't forget to check out the renowned Wynwood Walls, which showcases 40 murals created by some of the world's most talented street artists. Admission to the Walls is $12 USD, or $17 USD for a one-hour guided tour. You can also visit the Museum of Graffiti, the world's first museum dedicated to this art form, for $16 USD.
3. Mysterious Coral Castle
Coral Castle, located in Homestead, was crafted by Ed Leedskalnin, a Latvian-born Miami resident, as a tribute to his lost love. After being jilted by his fiancé, Ed poured his heartbreak into hand-carving 1,100 tons of coral rock, constructing numerous sculptures and monuments over 28 years. Initially, he began building in Florida City, but when a subdivision was proposed nearby, he moved his work to Homestead, where Coral Castle now stands. Though it's a bit of a trek from downtown, the $18 USD admission fee is well worth the visit.
4. Exploring the Wonders of Everglades National Park
With 1.5 million acres of swamps, prairies, and sub-tropical jungles, Everglades National Park is one of the biggest and most distinctive public parks in the United States. As a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage site, it is home to 14 rare and endangered species, including the Florida Panther, American Crocodile, and West Indian Manatee, among others. In addition, over 350 species of birds, 300 species of fish, 40 species of mammals, and 50 species of reptiles thrive in this remarkable environment. Admission is $30 USD per vehicle, and visitors can enjoy a range of activities such as taking an airboat ride, which costs around $25 USD.
5. Discovering Little Havana: Miami's Cuban Neighborhood
In the 1960s, nearly 300,000 Cuban refugees fled Castro's regime and settled in Miami, creating Little Havana almost overnight. Today, more than 1.2 million Cuban-Americans call Miami home, with Little Havana centered around SW 8th Street, known as "Calle Ocho." Immerse yourself in the culture by visiting one of the small eateries or bakeries, strolling the bustling streets, savoring a Cuba Libre (rum and coke) or Café Cubano (espresso shot sweetened with brown sugar), or even trying out some salsa dancing. If you're a foodie, consider taking a food tour of Little Havana for around $69 USD.
Other Things to See and Do in Miami
1. Visit the Vizcaya Estate
No trip to Miami is complete without visiting this iconic 50-acre estate. This European-style mansion gives visitors a glimpse of life in turn-of-the-century South Florida. Originally built by industrialist James Deering to flaunt his riches, the mansion is abundant with Renaissance furniture, artwork, and tapestries. The Formal Gardens, which span 10 acres, are modeled after France's Versailles but boast palm trees, rare orchids, and Cuban limestone. Admission is $25 USD, and online advance tickets are required.
2. Lounge on the beach
Besides the famous South Beach, there are lots of pristine beaches around Miami. Other great beaches include Virginia South Beach, Haulover Beach (the only legal nude beach), and Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. Arrive early on the weekends to beat the crowds. And don’t forget your sunscreen!
3. Experience Miami's Lively Nightlife Scene
Miami is known for its vibrant nightlife, and if you love clubs, it's one of the best places in the world to go. Be ready to spend around $30-40 USD on the cover charge, and expect drinks to cost at least $15 USD. Some of the hottest clubs to check out include E11even, LIV Miami (the city's most famous), and Basement (featuring an ice-skating rink and bowling lanes).
4. Day trip to the Florida Keys
A Beautiful Haven of White-Sand Beaches and Ocean Real Estate located to the south of Florida, this archipelago is a true gem to behold. Admire stunning white-sand beaches, towering palm trees, and prime oceanfront real estate. Head to Key Biscayne, the northernmost island, which is just 15 minutes from the city. Here you'll find some great waterfront parks, a scenic bike path, and breathtaking views of Miami and its surroundings. If you're planning to spend the whole day, pack a picnic and head over to Crandon Park or swim in the east end of the Key. Keep in mind that you'll need
5. Wander Fruit and Spice Park
Discover a Lush Tropical Garden with 500 Species of Fruit Trees and Spice Plants
This botanical garden has been around since 1943 and boasts an impressive 37 acres of land. The park is beautifully landscaped with plenty of shaded paths. Take some time to explore and enjoy the natural surroundings, and breathe in the scents of the exotic fruits and plants. If you're in town, be sure to check out their events and festivals on their website. Admission is $10 USD, and guided tours are available daily at 11am, 1:30pm, and 3pm.
6. Check out the Lavish Coral Gables Neighborhood
Coral Gables is widely recognized as one of the wealthiest areas in the United States, with notable residents such as politician Jeb Bush and singer Marc Anthony owning property here. You'll be greeted by tree-lined boulevards and palatial mansions, all designed by George Merrick in the 1920s. Today, regulations ensure that all buildings maintain the same architectural style that Merrick had envisioned. Apart from admiring the stunning architecture, there are plenty of activities to enjoy, such as visiting the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden ($25 USD), exploring the Lowe Art Museum (free), and taking a dip in the luxurious, historic Venetian Pool ($21 USD).
7. Explore Miami Beach's Art Deco Historic District
The Art Deco Historic District in Miami Beach is a must-see attraction, featuring more than 800 Art Deco buildings within one square mile. Art Deco is a French architectural style that was prevalent from 1910 to 1939. Join a walking tour to get an in-depth experience of the area. The Miami Design Preservation League has done a fantastic job restoring the white and pastel-colored stucco buildings to their former grandeur. Tours of the district typically start around $30 USD and run for approximately two hours.
8. Visit the Largest State History Museum
Explore the largest history museum in the state and embark on a journey through the city's past. From its early days as a mosquito-filled swampland to the present-day bustling metropolis, this insightful museum offers a glimpse into the city's transformation. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits, from football to a dedicated folklore gallery. Admission to the museum is $10 USD.
9. Explore Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
If you're a nature enthusiast looking to explore new wonders, then this 84-acre garden is just for you. The property houses a wide variety of tropical plants, flowers, and trees – some of which are quite rare – like the petticoat palm. Stroll around on foot or take the 45-minute tram tour to get a closer look. Don't miss the “Wings of the Tropics” exhibit, which showcases 40 species of butterflies in their natural habitat. In addition to this, they also feature rotating exhibits, such as the Jurassic Garden, which features life-sized dinosaurs scattered throughout the lush garden. A visit to this magnificent place costs $24.95 USD.
10. Visit the Ancient Spanish Monastery
Constructed in Segovia, Spain in 1141, this monastery was purchased by businessman and newspaper publisher William Randolph Hearst in 1925, who intended to incorporate it into his California property as a personal "castle". After shipping the building to the US, an outbreak of the disease occurred, and the US government was concerned that it would spread through shipments from abroad. Consequently, Hearst was unable to unload his cargo. Unfortunately, the Great Depression occurred, and Hearst was forced to sell the property. The structure remained in New York until 1954 when it was bought by businessmen who eventually constructed it in Miami. Today, admission is $10 USD, and guided tours are available on weekends for those who want to learn more about the unique history of this Spanish monastery in the US.
11. Visit the Impressive Frost Science Museum
Since its upgrade in 2017, the Frost Science Museum has become a magnificent 250,000 square foot complex comprised of four distinct buildings dedicated to science. A state-of-the-art planetarium and a three-story aquarium are among its top attractions. The aquarium is a must-see, taking visitors through South Florida's aquatic world, from the surface to the deepest depths, featuring an array of marine life like sharks, tuna, and tropical fish. Additionally, exhibitions on the likes of dinosaurs, biology, and more are available for viewing. Admission to the museum costs $29.95 USD.
12. Browse the Pérez Art Museum Miami
One of the Largest Modern Art Museums in the City!
Explore a massive 200,000 square feet of exhibition space in the new PAMM building located on the Biscayne Bayfront. This museum boasts a rotating permanent collection of over 1,800 pieces, including paintings and kinetic sculptures, ensuring there's something for everyone. While you're there, don't forget to explore the intricate outdoor hanging sculpture garden, which took two months to construct! Admission costs $16 USD.
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