Miami's best tourist attractions
Miami is a city of contrasts and is easily one of the most dynamic American cities. If you’re visiting for the first-time, you will definitely want to check out the Art Deco buildings in South Beach.
Not only is South Beach home to these renowned buildings, but the area is also famous for its vibrant nightlife! If you’re into art and color, check out Wynwood, a neighborhood famous for its Wynwood Walls… but it really has so much more to offer.
You can find delicious food, cultural centers, and more there. And one of the best things to do in Miami is actually to take a day trip to the Everglades! This unique eco-system is home to alligators, snakes, crocodiles, birds, and more.
You can hike in the park, or even take an airboat ride just outside of the US National Park.
Unveiling Miami's Hidden Gems
Many people that visit Miami get stuck on the beautiful beaches of the city (not a bad thing at all) but there is so much more to explore, starting with the food scene of the city. Head to Little Havana and grab a coffee and sandwich at a small, family-owned business there.
Then find the best ceviche place near you on a map and check it out. The city has a remarkable food scene with its many Caribbean, Central American, and South American transplants to the place.
Another place that many people fail to visit when there is Key Biscayne National Park. This US National Park is mostly water and you can catch a boat out there and enjoy the unique place! While Key West is a popular day trip from Miami, the Florida Keys have a lot more to offer than just Key West.
Spend a morning at Bahia Honda State Park in the keys and you will quickly see for yourself.
How much time should I spend in Miami?
If you are not slotting aside time for the beach, you can see the main highlights of Miami in 3-4 days. However, a week will allow you to explore beyond the city limits and take advantage of some of the cool places nearby (like the Everglades!).
You can also take a day trip to Key West, or even the Bahamas. A full week in Miami will give you the flexibility to enjoy a lot of what the South Florida city has to offer.
What food is Miami known for?
You will find Cuban food ever-present in the city, but also be on the lookout for Haitian, Jamaican, Venezuelan, Peruvian, and more. Venezuelan arepas are a quick and easy eat for lunch and Peruvian ceviche makes for a nice, sit-down dinner.
The food truck culture is alive in Miami, as well, and you can find a variety of dishes at your fingertips. If you’re into fine dining, don’t worry, Miami has that as well.
Spend a night and head to Joe’s Stone Crab in South Beach where you can get local, seasonal stone crabs from October until May. It is one of the most famous places in the city.
Best way to get around Miami
Miami has remarkably good public transportation for a US city (in my opinion). The Miami Metrorail is a 25-mile rail system that runs from the Miami International Airport to downtown Miami (and further to Kendall).
This is a quick and easy way to get into the city where you will have additional options from there. Once you’re in Miami, you can use the Metromover, a free public transportation service that conects Downtown Miami and Brickell.
You can also hop onto a Metrobus which will take you to various other parts of the city. Other options for getting around are the trolley system and taxi apps.
Best months to visit Miami
Miami is located in the South of Florida and has a pretty desirable climate all year round! However, it is cooler and far less rainy during the winter months (after fall when the tropics are active).
You will experience fewer mosquitoes and evening storms during this time, making it easier to maximize your time without weather playing a factor. During the summer months, it is hotter and stickier as the air is more humid and you will experience more rain. Nevertheless, there is not a ‘bad’ time to visit Miami.
Best neighborhoods for food
Miami is full of exciting (and diverse) neighborhoods. One can’t-miss location is Little Havana. You can take a guided tour of the neighborhood to learn its history and see the best of Calle Ocho, the most well-known street in the area.
South Beach is iconic for its Art Deco and nightlife and it is worth a visit. Be sure to also check out Wynwood, which used to be a warehouse district. Today, you can find cool concept shops, delicious eateries, and a lot of vibrant street art (including the famous Wynwood Walls).
Miami’s Design District is famous for its art galleries and high-end fashion boutiques and is a great place to go shopping. Coconut Grove and Coral Gables are two other neighborhoods to put on your Miami itinerary.
Best neighborhoods for shopping
Miami is a shopping paradise and you will find some of the nation’s best shops and boutiques in the city. The Design District and Bal Harbour are great for those looking for designer pieces.
Lincoln Road Mall in South Beach is also a good place to explore for your standard finds, but it also is home to some art galleries and museums. If you’re an outlet shopper, check out Dolphin Mall where you’ll find the largest outlet mall in Miami.
What neighborhood should I stay in when I visit Miami?
Miami has a plethora of neighborhoods to stay in and while it is touristy, it really is fun to stay in Miami Beach on your first trip to the city. You will be near many historic hotels and things to do and it is what most people think of when they think of Miami in the first place.
Espanola Way is a pedestrian street in Miami Beach that is located between 14th and 15th Street and the area has some boutique hotels worth checking out. Not only will you be located near a lot of the nightlife and things to do, but you’re also only a stone’s throw from the beach.
MIAMI BEST HOTES
The best hotels in Miami, FL . Compare room rates, hotel reviews and availability. Most hotels are fully refundable.
Best place for a stay in Miami4 best tips for a person traveling to Miami
1) Plan your trip ahead if you’re not renting a car. Miami can be expensive to get around if you rely on taxis! Either rent a car or get familiar with the public transportation system and allow yourself enough time between activities and attractions to get there if you go this route!
Miami is a great place to take tours, as well. This helps maximize your time without having to ride around on transit too much.
2) Miami Beach can be expensive if you’re staying close to South Beach. So, if you’re on a budget, stay a little further north. You will still have beautiful beaches and delicious restaurants, but North Beach offers cheaper prices (and it is a pretty easy connection by bus to South Beach).
3) Plan more days than you think you’ll need! Especially if you’re renting a car or wanting to take tours. You can see so many amazing things from Miami on day trips – the Everglades, the Florida Keys, Fort Lauderdale, Key Biscayne National Park, and even the Bahamas.
4) Chat with the locals. Miami has a reputation for being flashy, but the city’s energetic vibes come from its residents. They are so friendly and hospitable and they all have a story to share.
What should people avoid doing in Miami?
Avoid going into areas of the city that are not deemed safe. Before your trip, do a little research to see which neighborhoods are currently unsafe or ask locals once you arrive.
Also avoid chain restaurants in Miami if you can help it. The food is fabulous and you can find a lot of unique spots, including many family-owned restaurants.
1) Everglades National Park: Airboat Tour and Wildlife Show
2) Miami: City Cruise to Millionaire’s Homes & Venetian Islands
3) Miami: South Beach Private 30-Minute Guided Flight Tour
4)From Miami: Key West Bus Tour
5) Miami: Sightseeing Speedboat Tour
One thing that surprised you about Miami
Miami seems so far south and like it kind of just hangs out by itself down there – but there is so much to do! While I discussed it above, the city has SO many amazing day trips and day tours that it is essential to plot a few extra days in the city to take advantage of this.
It actually surprises me every time I head down there as I discover something new near the city.
Miami Beach Holiday
If you want to escape the hectic rush of the city, a Miami holiday may be just what you need. There’s no shortage of gorgeous views to soak up on a trip to Miami.
Those who love being near the water are likely to be familiar with Lummus Park Beach (6 kilometres away) and will probably prefer to stay nearby. But there’s no need to worry if the closest accommodation are full. Many sightseers also book Miami packages near Surfside Beach and Haulover Park.
Miami is world-famous for its beaches and some of the top ones to add to your itinerary are South Beach, Surfside, Virginia Key Beach Park (super underrated!), Crandon Beach Park, North Beach, and Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park Beach.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Miami
PortMiami
Explore the waterfront in Miami Beach with a trip to PortMiami. Amble around this vibrant area’s beautiful beaches and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
Hard Rock Stadium
Catch an event at Hard Rock Stadium during your trip to Miami Gardens. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you’re in the area.
Ocean Drive
Miami’s famous strip is not only a gathering point for partiers but well worth the visit for lovers of 1920s art deco architecture.
Dolphin Mall
You can enjoy for souvenirs when you visit Dolphin Mall, a favorite shopping spot in Miami. Amble around this vibrant area’s picturesque gardens or attend a sporting event.
Collins Avenue Shopping Area
You can find the perfect gifts to bring home with a trip to Collins Avenue Shopping Area, a popular shopping spot in Miami Beach. Experience the area’s acclaimed art scene and great live music.
Aventura Mall
You can enjoy for souvenirs with a trip to Aventura Mall, a popular shopping spot in Aventura. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the lively bars while you’re in the area.
Bayside Marketplace
You can browse for souvenirs with a trip to Bayside Marketplace, a popular shopping spot in Miami. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in this vibrant area.
Fontainebleau
You can learn more about the history of Miami Beach during your trip to a well-known site like Fontainebleau. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in this vibrant area.
Brickell City Centre
You can enjoy some retail therapy with a trip to Brickell City Centre, a popular shopping spot in Miami. Discover the top-notch restaurants and acclaimed art scene in this vibrant area.
South Beach
Sunbathe, shop, people-watch, or party with the stars at one of Miami’s most famous beach promenades, also regarded as the art deco capital of the world.
Downtown Miami
There’s always something fun and interesting happening in the Sunshine State’s busiest city center, from shows and shopping to history and art.
Brickell
Known for its pristine beaches and ample dining options, there’s plenty to explore in Brickell. You can visit top attractions like Brickell City Centre and Mary Brickell Village, and jump on the metro at Brickell Metromover Station or Financial District Metromover Station to see more of the city.
Mid Beach
Are you interested in stunning beaches, fantastic nightlife, and popular shops? A visit to Mid Beach might be the perfect thing. You can also explore top sights like Miami Beach Boardwalk and Fontainebleau.
Coconut Grove
Immerse yourself in the arts culture of one of Miami’s quaintest towns. Step back in time on Charles Avenue or visit the finery of Villa Vizcaya.
Kendall
Get to know Kendall and its many features like its beaches and restaurants. You might want to explore sights like Dadeland Mall and The Falls, and you can jump on the metro at Dadeland South Station or Dadeland North Station to get around the city.
Navigating Miami’s Must-See Tourist Attractions
Miami is the land of sun and surf, often conjuring images of neon, beach umbrellas, and thoroughfares riddled with convertibles. While it’s true many people come to this Florida destination to bake in the sun and party at night, the reality is there are things to do in Miami for any type of traveler.
Fine dining, ballet, art deco museums, and indulgent spas also make up the landscape of this south Florida city. Whether you are on a couples’ getaway, family vacation, or jaunt with friends, you will find plenty of attractions in Miami that bring the heat.
Free Things to Do in Miami
Leave your wallet in the hotel room. It’s easy to have fun in Miami without spending a cent.
- Cisneros Fontanal Arts Foundation - Check to see if there are any special exhibitions or guided tours on at this respected museum.
- Wynwood Walls - This is a wonderful place to get your culture fix and explore the area's artistic side.
- Scott Rakow Youth Center - Let the kids have a good time or be a big kid again yourself — this place just screams fun.
- Miami Beach City Hall - Architecture lovers will no doubt love admiring the impressive modern design of this local landmark.
- Old US Post Office - Amble through this historic place and uncover a couple of secrets from long ago.
- Miami Beach Marina - Discover why tourists and locals alike gravitate toward the unique atmosphere of this place.
- Dade Cultural Center - Widely recognized among those who reside here, this place is worth a look.
- Gesu Catholic Church - Get an insight into local religious beliefs at this spiritual place.
- Rickenbacker Causeway Beach - Breathe in the fresh ocean air and watch the waves hit the shore at this popular coastal spot.
- Bayfront Park - Grab your picnic blanket, pack some snacks and find a comfortable spot to be at one with nature.
What should I not miss in Miami?
If you’d like to explore the best of this destination, add these sights to your schedule:
- Hard Rock Stadium
- Aventura Mall
- Zoo Miami
- Lincoln Road Mall
