miami travel blog

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » North America » Miami

MIAMI Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)

Well known for its beautiful beaches, sub-tropical climate, and Art Deco facades, Miami is the place to go to for a carefree vacation sipping cocktails by the pool! If you are the adventurous type and love to explore beyond the resort, there is so much to discover and plenty of options to consider while planning a Miami trip itinerary!

What used to be a predominantly winter retreat is now a thriving metropolis with year-round activities that offer something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the rich Latin American cultures and experience the growing arts scene, exotic cuisine, and lively nightlife!

If you are wondering what to do in Miami on your next visit, this Miami itinerary will help you make the most of your stay, regardless of if you are staying for the weekend or more than three days in Miami!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Best Time To Visit Miami

Where to stay in miami, miami itinerary, day 1 itinerary in miami, day 2 itinerary in miami, day 3 and beyond, staying safe in miami, day trips from miami, faq on miami itinerary.

Florida is hot and sunny for most of the year, so there’s not necessarily a bad time to vacation in Miami! However, the city’s atmosphere does change throughout the year depending on the season.

High season in Miami occurs from November through to April and is particularly busy around the holidays. Temperatures are usually in the high 70’s, the humidity is low and there is little chance of rain. For most people, this is the best time to travel to Miami, especially if you are escaping the snow.

In fall, the city becomes a hive of activity, especially around Art Basel in Miami Beach. Spring is great for outdoor activities and enjoying Miami Music Week. Summer can get really hot, and this is also hurricane season, but if you can take the heat it is a great time to beat the crowds!

Have a look at the table below to decide when to visit Miami for yourself.

With a Miami City Pass , you can experience the best of Miami at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

There are more than 25 neighborhoods in the Miami area. Each offers visitors a diverse selection of attractions and activities.

Downtown Miami is the commercial and financial center of the city. Staying downtown is a great idea if you want to be surrounded by historic Miami landmarks, museums, and art galleries! There are also some great Miami Beach hostels in this area.

Downtown Miami is also home to the trendy Design District. Bursting with creative flair and artistic highlights, the Design District is well-known for its restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. This is one of the coolest parts of the city to spend a day simply wandering the streets and taking it all in!

Key Biscayne is our recommendation for the best place to stay in Miami for families with kids. It is a tropical island south of Miami noted for its natural setting, pristine beaches, and its relaxed, laid-back attitude.

Not only is Key Biscayne close to two amazing golden sand beaches but there are also tropical forests, mangroves, and parks nearby!

There are lots of places to visit nearby to keep the kids busy, like Miami Seaquarium, where your little ones will have the time of their lives seeing these fantastic sea creatures up-close and in person. If you really want to step your vacation up a notch, you can even rent a boat in Key Biscayne for a really awesome day out.

There are cool Airbnbs in Miami situated across the city.

Best Hostel in Miami – Rock Hostel

Our top pick for a great hostel stay in is Rock Hostel in Miami Beach. It offers great value for money, tons of freebies, and a super-chill beach vibe. At night the hostel comes alive and takes on a party atmosphere, warming the guests up for a fun night out on the town! For more great hostels check out our guide on the best hostels in Miami .

Best Airbnb in Miami – One bedroom penthouse with a pool and gym

The 950 sqft apartment has everything you need for a comfortable stay, our guests will feel to be like home. The apt has 1 45 inches flat tv in the living room and 1 flat tv in the bedroom. One king-size bed, 1 sofa and air mattress if needed. This is one. of the best vacation rentals in Miami for its facilities.

Best Budget Hotel in Miami – Leamington Hotel

With a fantastic location at the heart of Miami’s shopping district, this charming hotel is the perfect budget accommodation choice. It’s a stone’s throw from great restaurants, clubs, and bars. This cozy hotel boasts a swimming pool, helpful staff, and convenient airport transfers. Free breakfast is also included in your stay!

Best Luxury Hotel in Miami – Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Miami Downtown/Brickell

This incredible hotel is located a short walk from Brickell’s trendiest spots. It comes complete with a fitness room, swimming pool, and a jacuzzi. The rooms are modern, stylish, and they are outfitted with a kitchenette, refrigerator, and coffee/tea facilities. If you have an abundance of money to spend, the Hampton Inn is our favorite hotel in Miami!

Taking the greater metropolitan areas into account, Miami is a large city, so getting around can be time-consuming! Miami has a large and diverse public transportation network that runs throughout the entire city.

Working out the public transport system can be tricky for first timers touring Miami, but by catching the Metrobus, Metrorail, or even the touristy Metromover, you can travel just about anywhere in Miami as you have time!

Outside of Miami’s tourism areas, public transport gets pretty scarce. This makes it difficult to visit multiple outer-neighborhoods in a single day and is something to consider when planning your Miami itinerary.

Renting a car will give you more freedom and expand the number of places to visit in Miami, especially if you have a jam-packed itinerary for Miami planned! This will also allow you to take day trips from Miami central to more outlying areas.

You can still vacation in Miami without a rental car and have a great time doing so! You can easily get around the more central suburbs on foot and even indulge in a Miami walking tour in Downtown Miami.

Miami Design District | Wynwood Walls | Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science | Perez Art Museum Miami | Miami Children’s Museum | Lummus Park Beach

The first day on our Miami itinerary combines a healthy dose of art, some impressive architecture, and a trip to the beach!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Miami Design District

• Why it’s awesome: Trendy neighborhood combining art, architecture, designer fashion label stores, and a multitude of chic restaurants.
• Cost: Free!
• Food Recommendation: Take your pick of elegant restaurants and culinary choices on offer.

The Miami Design District is a hip and funky neighborhood uniting design, fashion, art and architecture. It recently went through a period of rejuvenation that remodeled the area to comprise of a plethora of creative experiences.

The Design District is a hub for high fashion as it houses many luxury brand stores such as Gucci, Fight Club, and Prada. If you appreciate quality and are able to afford high-end labels, then you’ll love a visit to this glitzy neighborhood!

There is also an abundance of art and impressive architecture. Public art displays including murals and statues make this area a great place for amateur photographers and Instagrammers. If you don’t have the budget to shop, there are plenty of free galleries and museums like the Institute of Contemporary Art!

What’s more, there are also a healthy variety of upscale culinary options to be found in the Design District. The restaurant scene is fiercely competitive with new restaurants popping up and opening their doors to hungry patrons that appreciate good food in a creative setting!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Wynwood Walls

• Why it’s awesome: See the work of talented street artists from around the world at this outdoor art museum.
• Cost: USD $55, or $39 for a tour with a local guide
• Food Recommendation: Grab some gourmet home-baked pastries at Zac The Baker nearby.

The next stop on our Miami itinerary continues with the creative artsy theme with a visit to Wynwood Walls. Wynwood was formerly an industrial neighborhood that rose to prominence as a hot-spot for graffiti and street art!

Today it is a hive of trendy boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and bars all thanks to the Wynwood Walls, an outdoor museum and open-air street art installation featuring some of the world’s most prominent street artists! The art covers more than 80,000 square feet of abandoned warehouse walls.

Since its establishment in 2009, Wynwood Walls has become a phenomenon, spurring the creation of more murals and projects throughout the Wynwood district. The exhibition now features the decoration of roll-up storefront gates, known as the Wynwood Doors, and an open green space installation featuring five murals known as the Wynwood Walls Garden.

The whole area is now saturated with bright, bold street art and colorful graffiti. A stop here is sure to get your creative juices flowing and will provide for plenty of Instagram inspiration!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science

• Why it’s awesome: Discover the magic of science and get in touch with nature at this purpose-built science museum.
• Cost: USD $30.
• Food Recommendation: Have a healthy snack or smoothie bowl at Almalibre Açaí Bar within a few minutes walk.

For a fun stop that the whole family can enjoy, we’ve added the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science to the Miami itinerary. This world-class science museum, located in Downtown Miami’s Maurice A. Ferré Park, is dedicated to sharing the power of science, sparking wonder, and inspiring investigation!

The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science has an incredible array of interactive experiences on offer, including a planetarium, an aquarium, and an experimental science lab! There are also additional exhibits to immerse yourself in. They rotate throughout the year ensuring there is always something new and exciting to see on offer.

The 250-seat planetarium provides an ultra-immersive experience with its cutting-edge visual system, one of only thirteen in the world like it! Guests are treated to journeys across the cosmos, educational entertainment, and spell-binding light shows.

The museum’s aquarium covers three levels and showcases the aquatic ecosystems of South Florida. Discover the creatures that live in the Everglades and see the drifters catching the Gulf Stream.

Insider tip: It is best to arrive early and take your time to get the most out of your exploration of this massive museum.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Perez Art Museum Miami

• Why it’s awesome: One of Miami’s premium art museums showcasing international art of the 20th and 21st centuries.
• Cost: USD $16
• Food Recommendation: Enjoy sweeping views of Biscayne Bay at Verde Restaurant & Bar located at the museum.

Thankfully, the next stop on the Miami itinerary is a mere 300-ft walk away, and is a must-do for art lovers even if you are only spending one day in Miami. The Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) is one of the latest additions to Maurice A. Ferré Park, and has been referred to as Miami’s first true world-class museum!

The building itself is a masterpiece of architecture. It’s three levels high with elaborate hanging gardens and amazing views over Biscayne Bay. Large sculptures, steel frames, and gardens- inspired by countries across Asia- adorn the property, setting the scene for the wonderful art you are about to encounter.

Inside is equally beautiful and breath-taking with galleries of modern and contemporary artworks from all over the world. PAMM is a major contributor to Miami’s status as a global destination for contemporary art. It beautifully highlights the diverse community of the city and Miami’s connection with the Caribbean, Central, and South America.

Much of the interior is dedicated to temporary exhibitions, showcasing work of substance and high quality by new and relatively unknown artists. The artworks relate to Miami’s multicultural population, which is evident in the diversity of people it attracts on a daily basis.

Insider tip: Admission is free every first Thursday of the month and every second Saturday of the month! If you’re visiting on a different day, it’d be worth getting the Miami City Pass for discounted entry tickets at multiple attractions.

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Miami Children’s Museum

• Why it’s awesome: Keep the kids entertained and treat them to a fun, interactive learning experience that allows them to grow their understanding of the world around them.
• Cost: USD $20
• Food Recommendation: Bring a picnic and relax in the gardens, or dine in style at The Deck at Island Gardens only a short drive away.

The Miami Children’s Museum is a great stop on the itinerary for families with young kids! Housed in an ultra-modern building on Watson Island, the museum’s mission is to educate kids about the world around them and to foster curiosity and a love of learning.

The museum has fourteen galleries spread over two floors, with plenty of interactive exhibits to spark every type of tot’s imagination. One of the most popular attractions is the cruise ship, where kids can try their hand at navigating a carnival boat and explore the different areas within a ship. The Health and Wellness Center gives kids a chance to flex their muscles while learning about the biological mechanisms of the body.

The museum’s interactive nature makes it feel like one big playhouse, almost hiding the fact that kids are learning as they move along. It does a good job of incorporating life in Miami with lots of space dedicated to learning about Miami’s landscape and multi-cultural inhabitants.

Insider tip: As one of the more popular Miami attractions, expect it to be busy whenever you visit and make sure you have enough energy to enhance the fun experience for your kid(s).

Day 1 / Stop 6 – Lummus Park Beach

• Why it’s awesome: It’s the tropical beach that you’ve seen on TV, where you can take a dip in the sea to cool off or relax under a palm tree.
• Food Recommendation: Head to Larios on the Beach for Cuban cuisine in a chic, lively space.

What better way to end the first day than a visit to the beach! Lummus Park Beach in Miami Beach is a typical Miami beach you’ve seen in movies and on TV.

It’s a perfect destination for people-watching, volleyball, sunbathing and swimming in warm sub-tropical water. This park beach features grassy areas with palm trees for those seeking shade, as well as a playground for young children and an outdoor gym for the more active visitors.

Walk along the beautiful promenade that separates the grass from the beach and have dinner or a cocktail at one of the many restaurants on the boardwalk. Lummus Park Beach is also a popular place for photo shoots among the dozens of lifeguard stands or palm trees that line the promenade.

Rock Hostel

Our top pick for a great hostel stay in is Rock Hostel in Miami Beach. It offers great value for money, tons of freebies, and a super-chilled beach vibe.

• Free Breakfast

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Miami Seaquarium | Vizcaya Museum and Gardens | Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden | Deering Estate | Zoo Miami | Venetian Pool

The second day of our Miami itinerary is a whirlwind tour of the outdoors and the best wildlife this city has to offer. This will make for a fantastic couple of days in Miami for outdoor enthusiasts!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Miami Seaquarium

• Why it’s awesome: Get the chance to watch a killer whale show, swim with dolphins, or get kissed by a seal at the biggest aquarium in Miami!
• Cost: USD$45 for a skip-the-line ticket
• Food Recommendation: There are plenty of concession stands inside the aquarium for something quick and easy.

Day two of our Miami itinerary starts off with a splash at Miami Seaquarium! Filled with intriguing marine invertebrates and large mammals, the Seaquarium guarantees a fun-filled adventure for the whole family.

The great thing about visiting an aquarium is that there are always new and interesting things to see and learn about. Along with having the usual touch pools and tropical reef displays, Miami Seaquarium also offers a host of exciting shows and encounters with larger marine wildlife!

The dolphin and killer whale shows are an absolute hit with the public and possibly the biggest draw for the aquarium! Watch Flipper the bottle-nose dolphin and Lolita the killer whale show their aerial prowess as they perform amazing tricks and flips under the guidance of their trainers.

You can also swim with friendly seals, explore the tropical tank with a dive helmet, have a close encounter with dolphins and penguins, and learn about the great work the conservation team does rehabilitating vulnerable sea turtles and manatees. A stop here is sure to get you energized and put a smile on your face!

Insider tip: Check out Groupon for discounted admission prices and experience packages.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

• Why it’s awesome: As a small oasis in the city, a visit to the museum and gardens is a good way to slow down and ease some stress.
• Cost: USD $22
• Food Recommendation: Enjoy a soup or a sandwich at Au Bon Pain, just a 5-minute drive down the road.

The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, located just a mile southwest of Downtown Miami, is a lavish former mansion with picturesque grounds, sculptures and grottos. It was originally built as an Italian Renaissance-style winter villa in 1916!

The house is now a museum containing much of the original furnishings and artwork from the 15th to the 19th century. This gives a good sense of the historical atmosphere of the time and is a key part of the experience. Spend a little more and opt for an hour-long tour led by one of the guides. It’s well worth the money for the extra information and anecdotes.

The gardens are just wonderful, and for many visitors is the highlight of the trip! They are well kept and provide many photo opportunities.

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

• Why it’s awesome: Discover rare and exotic tropical plants, get closer to nature, and unwind in a beautiful natural setting.
• Cost: USD$25
• Food Recommendation: Gaze over the picturesque Pandanus Lake and enjoy a light meal at the Lakeside Café.

The next stop on the Miami itinerary is the lush, verdant landscapes of Fairchild Tropical Botanic Gardens in Coral Gables. Spread out across 83 acres, these botanical gardens are one of the largest in the United States and among the world’s best tropical gardens!

With plenty of open space to explore, a multitude of plant species to find, and a generous amount of semi-hidden nooks and crannies to find solitude in, the Fairchild can easily be the most relaxing place in Miami! Take advantage of the free tram tour for a quick 45-minute highlights reel of the gardens to get your bearings, then head off on your own to explore at your own pace.

There are tropical plants from all over the world at the Simons Rainforest. Mangroves and other marshy plants are found in the Keys Coastal Habitat, and rare flowering plants are found in the conservancy. Visitors with green thumbs will be pleased to know there is an excellent book shop with all the latest books on gardening and horticulture.

Insider tip: Come prepared for the heat with hats, sunscreen, and water. Bug spray is also a good idea to combat mosquitoes.

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Deering Estate

• Why it’s awesome: A great place to explore historic buildings, ancient excavation sites, and partake in outdoor activities.
• Cost: USD $15
• Food Recommendation: Stop by Alaine’s Osteria for an early dinner of Italian cuisine.

The Deering Estate is a massive 444-acre environmental and archaeological preserve in the South of Miami with historic houses from the 19th and 20th centuries. The property is even listed on the National Registry of Historic Places!

There are daily tours of the old buildings, including the Stone House and Richmond Cottage, where you’ll be able to get a good look at the estate’s famous al fresco features! Tours of the lush, natural areas are available seasonally.

There are plenty of family-friendly outdoor activities offered around the estate including nature hikes, paddling, mountain biking, and butterfly walks. Excavations carried out on the property have uncovered the remains of prehistoric animals dating as far back as 50,000 years and evidence of human inhabitants from over 10,000 years ago!

For a different perspective of the estate, take a canoe tour of the estate if you are there over a weekend. There are also many other regular events that take place on the property including concerts, theatre, food festivals, art exhibitions, and weddings.

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Zoo Miami

• Why it’s awesome: Visit the only subtropical zoo in the US and see over 500 species of animals from all over the world!
• Cost: USD $23 for an upgrade ticket
• Food Recommendation: Enjoy a pizza or something more healthy at Nourish 305 within the zoo grounds.

Situated on a beautiful 750-acre property in South Miami, you’ll find Zoo Miami, the largest and oldest zoological garden in the state of Florida. Zoo Miami is the only subtropical zoo in the United States, with the unique climate enabling the zoo to accommodate a wide variety of animals from Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas!

There are over 3,000 animals from more than 500 species on display, and of these over 50 are classified as endangered. Some of the more popular animals include clouded leopards, Komodo dragons, ring-tailed lemurs, and tree kangaroos!

The petting zoo and wildlife shows are great fun for kids, and the giraffe feeding station is something the whole family can enjoy. When it gets too hot outside, spend some time in the air-conditioned rainforest-themed refuge, Dr. Wilde’s World of Discovery.

The easiest way to visit is by car, with lots of free parking available. You can also visit the zoo by catching the Coral Reef Max bus from the Dadeland South Metro Station.

Day 2 / Stop 6 – Venetian Pool

• Why it’s awesome: Large outdoor fresh-water pool boasting waterfalls, grottos, and a tropical backdrop
• Cost: USD $12
• Food Recommendation: Stop in at Tap42 Gables for a selection of great craft beers and gourmet burgers just a short drive away.

The Venetian Pool is a great place to visit on an energy-sapping, hot day! It was sculpted from an abandoned rock quarry in 1923 and is fed 820,000 gallons of fresh spring water each day.

This municipal pool is the largest fresh-water pool in the United States, and the only pool listed on the National Register of Historic Places. If you are interested, there is a nice collection of vintage photographs depicting beauty pageants and parties starting from the 1920s.

Its history and architecture make it a Miami point of interest, but the cool water and ample lounging areas make it a good place to hang out too.

Jungle Island | Little Havana | The Bayside Marketplace | Marlins Park | Miami Beach Botanical Garden

If you plan on spending more time in the city, don’t worry, there is still lots more to see and do! For your convenience, we have included extra points of interests for traveling in Miami to provide the perfect three day itinerary!

Jungle Island

• Enjoy the beauty of Miami’s tropical landscape and the uniqueness of animals from around the globe.
• Fun for all ages, you can learn about animals and plant species in a fun and engaging way.
• Guests can select from different tour packages to get an even more personalized experience with the animals.

Jungle Island is an eco-adventure park on Watson Island in Miami, Florida. This zoological park features waterslides, zip lines, escape rooms, and other fun attractions! It is home to some of the world’s most exotic animals.

Guests can enjoy engaging animal shows, informative exhibits, and behind-the-scenes access at the animal care center. Interact with sloths and lemurs, feed the tortoises and alligators, and pet a condor!

On this one-of-a-kind experience, you’ll get up-close and personal to loads of cool animal species! A trip to Jungle Island is sure to make for an unforgettable experience filled with animal encounters as well as information and insight into the park’s amazing creatures!

With much to see and do at this Miami attraction, you could easily spend a whole day here. Families traveling with children will especially love a trip to Jungle Island . Stroll under the lush canopies of tropical trees and enjoy the sounds of nature on this fun outing!

Little Havana

• Lively Cuban neighborhood full of art galleries, Latin eateries, live music, and more!
• Steeped in history, this high-energy neighborhood has something for everyone!
• Renowned for its fun ambiance, lively entertainment, and friendly locals.

Experience Miami’s Cuban community with a trip to Little Havana! This neighborhood is hopping with entertainment, art, and the most impressive food tours in Miami ! Discover the uniqueness of the Cuban culture as you stroll the streets of this trendy neighborhood.

You’ll find live music playing at all hours and the tastiest Latin American cuisine in town! Dance your heart out to live Salsa music, smoke a Cuban cigar, or enjoy a cup of Cuban coffee!

You could even catch a flick at Little Havana’s Tower Theatre! This theatre has been opened since 1926, a true cultural landmark of the city. Watch a show in this unique and historic Art Deco-style theater.

Head to Cubaocho for a unique experience. There’s never a dull moment at this museum, bar, and performing arts center! Take a salsa lesson, order one of their famed mojitos, or sample rum from the largest rum collection in Miami!

Experience the Cuban culture with a trip to Little Havana, one of Miami’s most colorful and vibrant neighborhoods!

The Bayside Marketplace

• A two-story open-air shopping center located in Downtown Miami.
• Family-friendly, clean, and well maintained.
• Plenty of shopping options to suit all budgets.

The Bayside Marketplace is a large, waterside shopping center loaded with stores, eateries, and sit-down restaurants. Located on the banks of Biscayne Bay, you’ll have breathtaking views everywhere you look!

This shopping center beckons visitors as a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment. You’ll find a diverse offering of local and international brands that guarantee something for everyone.

There are numerous eateries and restaurants to choose from. Whether you need a quick bite and a cup of coffee, a meal when taking a break from shopping, or a leisurely fine-dining experience, you’ll find a wide variety of choices available – all offering a spectacular view!

This is the place to book your boat tours in Miami. Numerous tour boat companies line the harbor awaiting visitors. Book a leisurely sightseeing cruise, a party boat experience, or a ride on a pirate ship!

If you’re spending a weekend in Miami make sure to check out the Bayside’s farmers-market every Sunday from 11:00 am – 6:00 pm. Purchase fresh produce and food provided by local merchants.

Marlins Park

• Home of the Miami Marlins, Florida’s Major League Baseball team.
• New stadium built in 2012 located in Miami’s Little Havana neighborhood.
• Spend a few hours cheering on the home team and enjoying the energy of game day!

Watch a baseball game at Marlins Park, which is fun for all ages! Enjoy a classic American experience and absorb the lively energy of game day!

This large ballpark offers comfortable seating all around the stadium. No matter where you sit, you’ll have an amazing view of the field. Enjoy the views of Miami’s skyline from inside the park. It’s truly spectacular!

There’s a retractable roof that can cover the whole stadium to counter uncooperative weather, guaranteeing a pleasant experience at every game!

Apart from watching a baseball game, there are many activities in the park before and during the game. Check out the virtual batting cage, the bobblehead museum, or take a guided tour of the stadium!

This ballpark serves an eclectic range of food items such as traditional ball-park food, Latin dishes, and Pizza! There’s, of course, plenty of Budweiser and craft beer! Providing fun for the whole family, a trip to the ball-park is a great way to spend an afternoon in Miami!

Insiders Tip: Check out Obie’s concession stand inside the park for USD $3.00 and USD $5.00 food and drink specials!

Miami Beach Botanical Garden

• 3-acre urban green space in Miami Beach.
• General admission to the garden is always free!
• Experience the local wildlife including birds, butterflies, and lizards.

The Miami Beach Botanical Garden’s are the hidden gem of Miami! From blooming flowers to colorful butterflies, this small slice of nature offers an idyllic escape from the busy city.

Peruse the garden’s many walking paths or have a picnic in one of the parks many shady glades. The natural beauty of the gardens makes it the perfect spot for a photo-opt!

Events are often hosted at the gardens, including yoga and meditation classes. There are guided tours scheduled daily and all the guides ask for is a donation of your choosing.

Their self-guided tour system allows visitors to learn about the plant species and the natural history of Miami Beach at their own pace. Simply dial the number provided at the park entrance or seen at each of the 13 stopping points of the tour.

The Miami Botanical Gardens offer a beautiful oasis and is the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature! It’s one of my top attractions in Miami Beach to visit.

Insider Tip: The Botanical Garden shares a parking lot with the neighboring Holocaust Memorial, making the two attractions perfect to visit together.

Miami is generally a very safe city to visit. Like any major city, crime can occur, but in general you should not have anything to worry about. There are certain areas of the city you will want to be extra vigilant, but as a whole Miami crime rates are low.

Miami Beach is considered one of the safest areas of the city. This tends to be a party destination for young tourists, especially during Spring Break, so you might encounter intoxicated college students.

Crime-wise, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about. As always, stay vigilant of your belongings, keep your wits about you, and you should be just fine.

If you’re visiting Downtown Miami you’ll want to keep an extra eye on your things. It is still a safe area but pickpocketing can occur. Many pickpockets are extremely skilled at taking belongings without being detected. Keep your valuables concealed and next to you at all times, especially in crowded areas.

The areas north of Downtown Miami you’ll want to stay away from, especially at night. Overtown, Liberty City, and Civic Center are dangerous for theft and drug-related violence. Avoid these areas and keep to the main tourist parts around Miami and you should be fine.

Miami is filled with a wonderful mix of culture and diversity. There are endless options for enjoyment in this high-energy Magic City. Get a taste of Cuban culture, enjoy the endless coastline, or discover the unique art-decor.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Miami

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Explore more of Florida by choosing one of these fantastic day trips from Miami. Grab your camera and your favorite hat, because these excursions are seriously fun!

Rent a Private Yacht and Sail the High Seas

If you’re travelling with friends, it’s time to treat yourselves to the glitz and glamour of Miami highlife (just for a day, anyway). With space for up to 12 people, a captain to show you the best sites, and an optional jet-ski, why not spend a full 8 hours on the ocean by renting a private yacht , with the breeze in your hair and a cold beer at your fingertips. It may not be the cheapest day trip, but you’ll get to see Miami from a different perspective on the water. You’ll be able to stop wherever you please and create your own route. Don’t forget your sunglasses.

From Miami: Day Trip to Bimini

On this sixteen-hour trip, you’ll travel from Miami to the Bahamas! Spend the day in paradise as you discover Bimini’s pristine beaches and popular attractions! Sit back and relax on your two-hour high-speed boat transfer from the Port of Miami to Bimini.

You’ll have a day pass to the Hilton at World Resorts in Bimini where you’ll be able to make full use of this hotel’s outdoor facilities. Rent a jet ski and explore the ocean, dine beachside, or relax on the warm sand with a drink!

Relax as you are transported to the hotel. Then, enjoy a stop at the famous Bimini Road, which some believe is a remnant of the “Lost City of Atlantis”. You’ll have approximately seven hours to enjoy this beautiful island in the Bahamas ! Spend the day basking in the sun and enjoying exciting aquatic activities!

This tour offers complimentary pick-up at select hotels in Miami Beach and Downtown Miami. This day-trip is the perfect addition to your Miami itinerary!

From Miami: Day Trip to Key West by Shuttle Bus

This fifteen-hour tour will take you from Miami to Key West. Discover the southernmost tip of the United States on this convenient and accessible day-trip!

Enjoy a stop in Florida City for breakfast before continuing on. Upon arrival in Key West, you’ll be given a map of the city to help you plan your day, and your bus driver will fill you in on the city’s key highlights. You’ll have six hours of free time to explore the areas of the city that most interest you!

Spend an afternoon in leisure! Relax on a tropical beach, explore the Old Town, or unwind at the Key West Nature Conservatory! For aquatic enthusiasts, snorkel in the crystal blue waters surrounding the island. The day is yours to enjoy however you’d like!

Key West is connected to the mainland by an extensive system of bridges. Enjoy panoramic views of the ocean as you travel over the water!

This day-trip includes complimentary pick-up and drop-off at select Miami hotels.

Florida Everglades Small Group Adventure Tour

Get back to nature on this nine-hour tour of the Florida Everglades. Spend the day learning about the unique Everglades ecosystem as you travel by boat around the region. Learn about the flora and fauna from your knowledgeable tour guide.

Travel by airboat to a Native American island village, go for a hike in the Big Cypress National Preserve, and learn about wildlife from a naturalist perspective! Witness native bird and animal species in their natural environment where you may spot white pelicans, manatees, and dolphins!

Discover a historic trading post where you’ll visit an art gallery showcasing the local talent. Then, feast on a lunch made of local produce! This comprehensive tour is perfect for nature-lovers or people wanting to escape the city for a day. Enjoy the thrills of nature on this exciting day-trip!

Disney World Full-Day Ticket & Transfer from Miami

On this eighteen-hour day-trip, you’ll be able to enjoy a full and exciting day at your choice of Walt Disney World Resort . This trip takes the stress out of transportation by including round-trip bus service from Miami and back!

Sit-back and relax as you’re taken from your hotel to Disney World directly! Choose from one of the following parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot Center, MGM Studios, Animal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach, or Aquatica.

You’ll have six hours to spend in the Disney resort of your choice! Included in the ticket price is your transportation and entrance fee into the park. Perfect for all ages to enjoy a day-trip to the happiest place on earth!

Miami: Kennedy Space Center & Outlet Shopping

On this fourteen-hour trip, you’ll spend the day discovering the Kennedy Space Center and enjoy a stop at a large outlet mall!

Learn about the history of the United State’s space program at one of the most scientifically advanced places on Earth! The Kennedy Space Center is home to NASA and has been the launch site for various space programs since the 1960s.

Admire real-life space shuttles and learn about the history of the Saturn and Apollo space programs. Enjoy the interactive exhibits, IMAX movies, and the US Astronaut Hall of Fame. Learn about man’s quest to explore space on this fully guided tour!

Next up you’ll head to a large outlet shopping mall. Stroll around and hunt for name brands and bargains. The perfect chance to pick up all your Florida souvenirs! You could also grab a drink and a bite to eat at a restaurant nearby.

This tour is fun and educational, perfect for all ages and a great way to spend a free day in Florida!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning Miami itinerary.

How many days do you need in Miami?

This really depends on your travel plans, but spending 3 days in Miami is ideal if you’re looking to see all the sights!

What should you include on a 4 day Miami itinerary?

Don’t miss out on these Miami hotspots: – Wynwood Walls – Design District – Vizcaya Museum & Gardens – Lummus Park Beach

Where should you stay if you have a full Miami itinerary?

Downtown Miami is the ideal base for exploring the city as it’s central and full of things to do.

Where should you go if you have 1 day in Miami?

Make the most of your time by exporing Downtown, and be sure to check out one of Miami’s famous beaches!

Miami is bursting with historic landmarks, fun attractions, and natural beauty, which makes it an enjoyable exercise when putting together a Miami itinerary! We have included the top-rated activities and even more incredible stops, depending on your length of stay.

It doesn’t matter whether you are there for a long time or a short time, even if you only have one day in Miami, you are sure to have a good time! Use our Miami itinerary as a guide, choose the activities that best suit your trip, and then have a blast exploring the streets and beaches of this sub-tropical paradise!

For your convenience, we have included the best places to stay in Miami, places to visit, all the best landmarks in Miami, some advice for staying safe, and the best day trips from Miami!

We know that our guide will help to ensure that you have an amazing trip!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Colleen Kinsey

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

The Ultimate Miami Travel Guide – the Jetset Guide to Miami & South Beach

When it comes to fun USA destinations for travel,  nothing screams quite as perfect as a Miami getaway . With TONS of open-air activities, spacious hotels and beaches, outdoor dining, and a retro-chic, colorful, uniquely Miami vibe everywhere you look, a few days in Miami will be just what the doctor ordered.

Whether you’re traveling to Miami as a couple, as a family, with a group of friends, or for a Miami bachelorette party , you’re going to LOVE exploring Florida’s sunniest city.

So what do you do when you get there? What are the best places to stay in Miami? What are the best things to do in Miami? And what are the best restaurants and bars in Miami Beach? I’ve got you covered.

Here is the Ultimate Jetset Guide to Miami, Florida

Table of Contents

Where to stay in Miami

1 hotel south beach.

My #1 pick of where to stay in Miami would be 1 Hotel South Beach ! It’s super chic, and has the best rooftop in all of Miami. Perfect for a girls’ getaway, a couples trip, or anyone, really. 

Miami Beach EDITION hotel

I love this boutique luxury hotel in Miami Beach. A bowling alley, an ice rink, a nightclub, and fitness center are all onsite at The EDITION. Bars and cabanas are offered poolside, and there’s even an outdoor movie theater! 

Delano South Beach

Access to the pool is available with a cabana rental, or head to Delano Beach Club after 7 p.m. for craft cocktails and night swimming.

Lennox Hotel South Beach

The Best Airbnb’s in Miami

Get a big airbnb on the water: .

Like this gorgeous one –  the waterfront house we stayed in for my bachelorette party ! It is so perfect for Miami bachelorette parties.

The best restaurants in Miami

Cecconi’s.

This ultra-instagrammable restaurant is a hit for any girls trip or bachelorette weekend in Miami – and the food is SO good. 

A super fun Greek restaurant that has all-you-can-drink options for groups! We LOVED our dinner here. The food was AMAZING and our table was so cute. This dinner was a huge highlight of my bachelorette weekend in Miami . 

Call Me Gaby

This modern Italian gem has the perfect charming outdoor patio for a dinner outside in Miami. 

Joe’s Stone Crab

The iconic Joe’s Stone Crab is a must-do for a first trip to Miami. Joe’s does not accept reservations, and during the prime time of the year it moves over a thousand customers a night through its beautiful Spanish-villa-style restaurant. If waiting in line scares you but you still want to experience Joe’s – it’s easier to snag a seat at lunch (in service mid-October to mid-May).

Smith and Wollensky

Another Miami staple, the Smith and Wollensky steakhouse sits on the Miami skyline with an oceanfront outdoor patio and bar, two floors of restaurant seating and an upstairs deck featuring bar, lounge and table seating, all with views of the water. S&W also has one of the best wine lists in Miami. So if wine is your thing, you need to go here. 

For some of the best pasta and upscale Italian you’ll ever have, check out Upland – a trendy, modern restaurant with an awesome atmosphere and even better food. 

Photo via Afar

Baoli Miami

Photo via tripadvisor

Bodega .

Bodega is a casual taqueria that has a speakeasy behind it! It’s not the most ideal for a LARGE group because their seating is more tables of 6 (so we had them cater instead), but their tacos are delish. Also if you’re in Miami on a thursday night definitely head to Bodega’s speakeasy bar – which goes off on Thursday nights. 

Photo via Digest Miami

If you’re looking for a casual take-out lunch or delivery to your Miami hotel or airbnb, this place is AMAZING. They deliver, and it is SO dang good – think tuna poke bowls, ceasar wraps, salads, and anything and everything healthy and delicious. I crave their chicken cesar wrap ALL the time. We loved it so much we ordered it like four times on my bachelorette party in Miami .

Byblos Miami

The super trendy Byblos is mediterranean inspired, and feels a little like you’re in a Turkish tea house. The food is AMAZING, and the vibe is great, day or night. The 200-seat restaurant was designed by the same people behind places like the Alibi Cocktail Lounge at Aria Resort & Casino and 1OAK Las Vegas at Mirage Hotel & Casino, so you can expect a modern upscale atmosphere, with really great, creative food. 

Mila Rooftop 

The best MediterrAsian cuisine rooftop with super chic vibes. A great spot for dinner or Sunday Brunch!

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by MILA Restaurant Miami Beach (@milarestaurants)

Icebox Cafe

Super cute breakfast cafe with a focus on healthy ingredients. 

Located in the heart of Miami’s design district, Swan is a chic indoor/outdoor dining destination from Miami mogul Dave Grutman and Pharrell Williams. Menu highlights include highlights include the braised carrots with yogurt, polenta topped with corn and popcorn (yum), sea bass sashimi with mango, serrano and kumquat, roasted chicken with curry-carrot puree, hamachi tartare topped with crème fraiche and caviar, and duck breast with pumpkin and mushrooms.

(Morelli Brothers/Courtesy)

What to do in Miami

Renting a boat in miami for the day.

If a yacht experience in Miami is what you’re after, check out this one here, up to 6 people. Or check out this awesome catamaran here. If you’re looking for more a day speedboat cruise around the bay, this is a great one too. 

Check out the Wynwood Walls

Just a few minutes from Downtown Miami, or across the bridge from South Beach, near the Miami Design District, Wynwood is a trendy, hip neighborhood centered around the Wynwood Walls –  a collection of giant walls famed for the art by famous street artists from across the globe. It’s a beautiful tribute to Miami’s unique culture, and, of course, is also super instagrammey. 

If you want to do a tour of the walls – and then hit up a brewery – check out this airbnb experience here!

Photo via wokq.com

Photo via @RuthieSchorr

Get out on the water!

Head to the beach.

If you go early enough to South Beach, you can take pictures in the colorful lifeguard stands!

Wearing Kenny Flowers matching his and hers swimsuits

The best pool parties & rooftops in Miami

Hyde Beach – especially on Saturdays, is a party scene very uniquely MIAMI.

Bikinis and one pieces are Watercolors Swim ( shop our print – The Wailea – here !) and matching sarongs are Kenny Flowers !

Photo via One Hotel South Beach

Sugar, Brickell

Sugar is a Brickell neighborhood hotspot that usually has a line out the door on weekend nights & Friday happy hour. The rooftop features 360-views of the city, 40 floors up! and pricey (but delish) cocktails and a swanky, upscale crowd. Snag a reservation for a guaranteed table for your group. 

Where to go out in South Beach, Miami

The uber-trendy retro neon club, located in the Basement of the Miami Beach EDITION hotel , is only open on Friday and Saturdays, but you can bowl or ice skate any night of the week. 

Adjacent to the nightclub (which is more of a funky dance club meets neon bar feel than a traditional CLUB feel like LIV, Story and Eleven) is a four-lane bowling alley with oversize LED screen displays and fun lighting. Wear your best South Beach neon outfit (take a look at this blog post for inspo ) and book a couple lanes for you and your group, get bottle service, or hit up the bar behind the bowling alley, and then head to the club after. 

Bodega – a speakeasy behind a taco shop that goes OFF on Thursday nights.

Enter through the graffiti-d bathroom to the hottest party on Thursday nights. More of a bar scene than a club scene. Highly recommend. 

photo via world redeye

This trendy, opulent, very Miami club is a must-do on any weekend in Miami. Located inside the famous Fontainebleau Hotel , this is the club where you’ll find all the celebs & VIPs.

Eleven is an energetic, neon-lit night spot with trapeze dancers, burlesque shows, DJs & live music performances. While technically not a strip club, the dancers here are topless.

Photo via E11ven

What to Pack for a Trip to Miami

Miami is the land of COLOR – so pack your chicest colorful outfits, and, of course, a tie-dye bikini . 

The weather will be hot year round (you’ll very very rarely need a jacket), with the most humid months being in the Summer. So break out your best bikinis , cover ups, and colorful neon dresses for nighttime.

Check out these other blog posts:

The best sun hats for vacation

The Ultimate Key West Travel Guide

What to pack for a tropical vacation

The Best Tie-front White Blouses

Prints for your home by Jetset Christina

The Ultimate Bali Packing Guide: What to Pack for A Trip To Bali

The Best Destinations for a Girls Weekend in the USA

WRITTEN BY: Christina

Christina is a leading luxury lifestyle and travel blogger with over 2 million readers. Follow her on instagram @jetsetchristina.

RELATED POSTS

The 10 Absolute Best Family-Friendly Hotels to Stay with a Baby or a Toddler in the USA

How to Plan a Miami Bachelorette – the Ultimate Miami Bachelorette Party Guide & Miami Bach Itinerary [ 2024 ]

The Best Destinations in the United States – Where to Travel in the USA

Pingback: how to plan a miami bachelorette - the ultimate miami bachelorette party planning guide & itinerary - jetsetchristina, pingback: how to plan a bachelorette party: the ultimate step-by-step guide to planning the best bachelorette party girls weekend - jetsetchristina, pingback: the best destinations in the united states - where to travel right now in the usa - jetsetchristina, pingback: sailo: the airbnb for boat and yacht rentals - jetsetchristina, pingback: the best places in the us to airbnb for a monthly rental or remote working vacation this summer and fall - jetsetchristina, pingback: the ultimate santa barbara travel guide - jetsetchristina, pingback: the best airbnbs in joshua tree for a california adventure, group trip, or romantic desert getaway - jetsetchristina, pingback: the best destinations for a girls weekend in the usa - jetsetchristina, leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The Perfect 3 Days In Miami Itinerary (2024 Edition)

• Last Updated: February 3, 2024

While you could spend weeks enjoying the city, here is the perfect 3 days in Miami itinerary to give you the best experience you can have during your visit. 

Miami is located at the southeast corner of the Florida peninsula where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Gulf of Mexico. With such geography, it experiences tropical climates that have been inviting travelers for years, giving it some of the best things to do in Florida . 

Depending on whether you want to experience the beach to its fullest or are seeking a warmer way to escape winter, there is no bad time to visit Miami. 

The city can be generally divided into the beach scenes of Miami Beach and the metropolitan activities of the downtown area. 

Both areas offer lots of great things to do and this 3 days in Miami itinerary is going to give you the best of both worlds!

READ MORE: Don’t miss my epic guide of all the best things to do in Miami !

Table of Contents

8am – Grab Breakfast by the Beach

9am – head to south beach, 12pm – go on a cruise, 6pm – sunset drinks, dinner and more drinks, 7am – breakfast then head to the everglades, 11am – head to biscayne national park or john pennekamp state park, 7pm – grab dinner near your hotel, 8am – breakfast then head to downtown miami, 11am – bayside marketplace or little havana, 6pm – drinks and dinner in little havana, when to visit miami, getting around miami, budget accommodation – posh south beach, mid-range accommodation – stardust hotel, luxury accommodation – marlin hotel, budget – grafa pizza & pasta , mid-range – cvi.che 105, high-end – lobster bar sea grille, how to spend a perfect 3 days in miami itinerary.

Picture yourself sunbathing on the long stretch of sand that is Miami Beach. Or perhaps having cocktails at a ritzy bar overlooking South Beach. 

Maybe you’re interested in the Latin culture that thrives within the city, touring museums and street art, or in taking in one of many professional sporting events throughout the year. 

Miami is also a great jumping-off point to explore Key West and the other Florida Keys.

Or it’s a great location from which to take a cruise to Cuba and other Caribbean destinations. 

From the iconic Miami Beach and South Beach to the multicultural entertainment and outdoor activities, this 3 day Miami itinerary will get you started on a perfect stay!

Day 1 – Enjoy Miami Beach

Start your 3 days in Miami on the famous Miami Beach and enjoy exploring the surrounding areas.

Ocean Drive, the road next to Miami Beach, is full of interesting Art Deco architecture, so be on the lookout for some cool buildings while exploring!

On this first day of our Miami in 3 days schedule, you should enjoy waking up and taking in a relaxing breakfast/brunch at any number of great restaurants on Ocean Drive next to Miami Beach. 

This will start a weekend in Miami off right, with warm sea breezes, palm trees, and sunshine surrounding you all morning. 

A few great places to enjoy in Miami Beach would be Under The Mango Tree, Las Olas Cafe or Charlotte Bakery . 

Read Next: Check out our post on the best day trips from Miami .

Next, get your bearings of Miami Beach by hopping on the free trolley towards South Beach.

With pickups in several places likely near your breakfast venue along Ocean Drive, you can ride the trolley throughout the greater Miami Beach and not have to worry about finding a parking spot. 

You can’t come to Miami without visiting the famous South Beach, so plan to spend an hour or two there browsing the shops, going for a swim, or basking in the shade under the palm trees on the pristine white sand. 

South Beach can get very crowded, so if you want to avoid hordes of tourists there are quite a few other just as beautiful and less busy beaches on the northside of Miami Beach. 

Consider checking out Surfside Beach, North Shore Park Beach or Bal Harbour Beach . 

Every beach offers surfboard, SUPs or kayak rentals if you’re more into adventurous activities and not just sunbathing. 

Once you’ve had your fill of sunbathing on South Beach, hop on the trolley and head on down to the Bayside Marketplace Marina and get on a sightseeing cruise around Biscayne Bay. 

This is the best way to see Miami’s waterfront and Millionaire’s Row . 

See mansions, high rises, and yachts owned by the rich and famous. Such famous people like Shaquille O’Neal, Will Smith, Liz Taylor, and Gloria and Emilio Estefan once or do still reside in this lavish neighborhood. 

If you’d rather enjoy a recreational activity, I suggest renting a SUP and paddling around the bay at sunset. You may catch some amazing views when the Miami skyline lights up at sunset. 

Another alternative for day 2 is exploring the nearby town of Coral Gables, which is a popular tourist spot near Miami. In Coral Gables, you’ll find the famous Venetian Pool, a public pool surrounded by sophisticated Art Deco architecture.

Coral Gables is also home to the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, and more historic sights and museums. There is so much to do in Miami itself that you can save Coral Gables for another trip, but it is a fun little excursion from the city if you’re interested.

Read Next: Use our guide when planning an epic Miami to Key West road trip itinerary !

After your sunset cruise, paddle, or day trip to Coral Gables, go out for a night on the town in South Beach. 

There are plenty of great restaurants and bars on the strip, some with a great view of the beach and ocean.  

At night South Beach really comes alive and you will see expensive cars, people dressed to the nines (you may even spot someone famous!), and glitz and glamour all up and down this ritzy part of A1A. 

A few great spots to enjoy the nightlife is Sweet Liberty Drinks , Mac’s Club Duece , Joe’s Stone Crab and Time Our Market Miami . 

Don’t miss out on a night of salsa lessons and mojitos in South Beach if you want to spice it up! Nightlife is so fun here and you should definitely go out at least once during a weekend in Miami if you’re into it.

READ MORE: Plan to spend the perfect 3 days in New Orleans with this itinerary!

Day 2 – Day Trip to the Everglades and Biscayne National Park or Key Largo

The second day of your 3 days in Miami is going to take you away from the city a little so that you can enjoy the natural sights and sounds that are quintessential to South Florida. 

For this, you have a few options from which to choose. And it’s likely that while you can do two out of three of these activities, you’re probably going to miss out on the third. 

So be sure to add whatever activity you miss to your bucket list for your next trip to Miami! 

Plan to wake up early and grab a quick breakfast offered at your hotel. Then head out to Everglades National Park for your airboat tour ! 

I suggest visiting in the morning as it is much cooler out than midday or in the afternoon. You are also more likely to see active wildlife during the cooler morning temps! 

An airboat ride is a must when visiting Everglades National Park and will take you to spots you’d never be able to see in the 1.5 million-acre park. 

You will witness animals in their natural habitat such as alligators, turtles, manatees, herons, and maybe even a Florida panther! 

After enjoying your airboat ride through the Florida swamp, take your pick of either visiting Biscayne National Park or John Pennekamp State Park . 

Both are great for snorkeling if that’s what you want to do. And the afternoon is the best time to cool off by swimming in the ocean and enjoying the beautiful coral reefs! 

To snorkel the reefs you will need to reserve a spot on a boat snorkel tour for both parks. If you are not interested in snorkeling, both parks offer other ways to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. 

John Pennekamp Florida State Park has glass bottom tour boats so you can still see part of the reef while staying nice and dry. 

Biscayne Bay has a few great hikes and also rents out paddleboards and kayaks so you can paddle around the mangroves and perhaps even see manatees or dolphins! 

If you’re visiting during the lobster season you can go lobstering or even fishing.  

Whichever parks you choose to visit while spending 3 days in Miami, you’ll be certain to enjoy your adventure!

Read Next: Check out other great things to do in Key Largo !

You’re probably exhausted after such a long and amazing day, so I recommend just grabbing a bite to eat close to your hotel.

A weekend in Miami can be as jam-packed or as chill as you want it to be. There is nothing wrong with just hanging near your hotel, walking around, observing the art deco buildings, and soaking in the vibrant Miami atmosphere without making any real plans!

READ MORE: 20 reasons to take a day trip to visit Key West !

Day 3 – Explore Downtown Miami 

The final day of your 3 days in Miami itinerary will take you into the heart of the city to tour the culture, art deco buildings, and vibe of this major metropolitan area. 

There is a lot to do just in the downtown area of Miami. So if you get stuck enjoying one thing or another, don’t worry as you can always come back for another weekend in Miami! 

Just like in Miami Beach, downtown Miami has a free trolley that will take you virtually anywhere you want to go. 

So the first thing you’ll need to do is catch a ride and head toward the north part of the city to Wynwood Walls. 

Wynwood Walls is an area of abandoned factories that has been turned into a street artist heaven!

This is the perfect place for selfie-takers or someone who loves unique art. 

There are over 800,000 square feet of street art murals to enjoy or have your picture taken with from over 50 artists worldwide! 

The best way to enjoy it is by signing up for a golf cart tour of the exhibit . Book it early though.

If art is your passion, plan on being in Miami during the second weekend of the month, visit Wynwood on a Saturday and the neighborhood will be bustling with art vendors, food trucks and live music. 

You can also check out the Miami Beach Botanical Garden, the Art Deco Museum, or the Institute of Contemporary Art while exploring downtown Miami!

Next, take your pick of touring the Bayside Marketplace and The Wharf or touring the neighborhood of Little Havana. 

You could easily spend the entire day visiting either place since there is so much to see and do! 

If you love to shop then Bayside Marketplace is where it’s at. The marketplace has an open container policy, so grab a tasty adult beverage while you shop the beautiful open-air market. 

And if you want to watch the yachts cruise in there’s no better place to do it than The Wharf Miami . You can grab lunch here at any of the several restaurants and sit and enjoy the waterfront atmosphere. 

Little Havana is a diverse and colorful part of Miami to explore. Start your tour on Calle Ocho and truly experience the Cuban culture. 

Plan to grab an authentic Cuban lunch or early dinner in Little Havana and don’t forget the delicious Cuban coffee to go with it! 

If you want to learn more about Cuban culture, there are plenty of art galleries to browse or museums to visit in Little Havana. 

Book a walking tour of Little Havana here .

You could end your night here having dinner at El Exquisito restaurant before trying your hand at Salsa dancing at the historic Ball & Chain bar. 

If Salsa dancing is not your style, just outside of Little Havana is Marlins Park , where you can watch a great professional baseball game. 

Miami Travel Guide

Now that you know how to spend 3 days in Miami, here is a little more information about when to visit the city, how to get around, where to stay and what to eat. 

Any time of year is a perfect time to plan a trip to Miami. However, the most popular time is during spring break. 

If you want to skip the crazy party crowds in Spring, then plan on visiting November or December, after hurricane season has ended. 

There will be fewer tourists and the weather is quite mild in late fall or early winter. 

The summer months are a great time to enjoy the beaches and cool off in the ocean. It is quite hot and humid in Southern Florida in the summer, but there are still plenty of activities to do that can help beat the heat and leave you enjoying the sunshine yet staying cool. 

Consider watching the Marlins play a lively game of baseball in their climate-controlled stadium, or go snorkeling over the coral reefs in the mild waters of the Atlantic Ocean. 

No matter when you visit, you’ll get to enjoy palm trees, warm weather, and lots of sunshine.

Miami is the 7th largest city in the US and therefore is not the best city to see everything there is to do on foot. 

But because it is a large city, there are plenty of transportation options to get you to the top Miami attractions. 

Renting a car will be your best option. And if you’re flying into Miami, most car rentals can be picked up at the airport. 

Another popular option is the hop-on hop-off trolley, and best of all it’s free! 

Though the trolley won’t take you everywhere in Miami, the two separate trolleys located in the downtown and beach areas is a fantastic way to see the sights plus learn a little history along the way. 

If you are looking for a faster way to get around without worrying about parking then consider calling an Uber or taxi. 

Miami is a very popular place and finding rideshare shouldn’t be a problem.

Of course, renting a car will give you the most access to enjoy Miami and all that the surrounding area has to offer.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Where to Stay in Miami

Miami has endless options for places to stay. Whether you want to wake up next to the beach or be in the center of the city, you have plenty of choices on your accommodation. 

Expect to pay a bit more during a weekend in Miami than in other US cities because the city offers premium experiences and is always packed with visitors. 

But regardless of where you stay, you’re going to enjoy your 3 days in Miami. 

Posh South Beach offers an adults-only experience that focuses on relaxation and enjoyment during your stay. 

Just minutes from the beach, the hostel has a pool, terrace, and sundeck and offers standard amenities to be expected such as WiFi, television, and a common kitchen area.

Guests are also treated to free happy hour at an adjacent bar to warm up for a night on South Beach. 

Located in the Art Deco District the Stardust Hotel combines location with affordability and offers guests amenities that make them feel relaxed during their stay. 

Just a five-minute walk to the beach, the hotel provides WiFi, cable TV, microwave and a small refrigerator in each room. 

Ask for beach towels and a beach umbrella to enjoy your time at the beach and know that you are close to all of the restaurants and bars you can enjoy both on Miami Beach and downtown. 

Options for luxury hotels vary throughout downtown Miami and Miami Beach. But one of the best all-around options is the Marlin Hotel , located in South Beach. 

Just steps from the ocean and all the entertainment that South Beach has to offer, the hotel also creates an ambiance that makes you forget you are in the hustle and bustle of the city. 

With blackout drapes and soundproof rooms, bath scents and rainfall showerheads and a fully stocked minibar, you will feel a bit pampered after a long day or night out in Miami. 

Enjoy high-speed WiFi, flatscreen television and ocean views to make your luxurious stay complete!

Best Restaurants in Miami

Miami has a ton of options for eating at all budget points and all international cuisines. Especially in touristy areas like Miami Beach and along Ocean Drive, there is no shortage of places to eat. Here are a few of our recommendations. 

A hole-in-the-wall pizza joint near South Beach, Grafa Pizza & Pasta offers delicious Italian food at most hours of the day. 

Stop in for a slice between the time at the beach or stuff your face with pasta after a night out on South Beach.

CVI.CHE 105 is a top-rated Peruvian and pan-Latin restaurant specializing in – you guessed it – ceviche. 

Enjoy a bowl of this fresh seafood dish or feast on other traditional Peruvian dishes like Corvina, chaufa and chicken or seafood and rice. 

You can’t leave Miami without indulging in some delicious locally caught seafood. The Lobster Bar Sea Grille provides just that with a variety of fine dining options serving lobster, stone crab and other seafood. 

The ambiance of its location in Miami Beach is also hard to beat on any night of the week. 

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Lindsay Harvey

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

The Ultimate 3 Days in New York City Itinerary (2024 Update)

25 Best Things To Do In Santa Fe, New Mexico (2024 Guide)

The 21 Best Things To Do In Richmond, Virginia (2024 Guide)

Related Posts

20 of the best things to do in daytona beach, florida (2024 guide), the perfect oahu itinerary | 3, 5, and 7 days (2024 guide), 21 of the best things to do in chattanooga (2024 guide), 25 of the best things to do in pigeon forge, tn (2024 edition), leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

3 Days in Miami: A Magnificent Long Weekend in Miami Itinerary

Endless sunshine, year-round warm weather, one of the best urban beaches on the planet, a delicious cuisine, an extremely international population, and the gateway to the Caribbean: there are a lot of things you can say about the cosmopolitan gem of South Florida, and essentially every one of them is a reason to be excited about spending 3 days in Miami.

Whether you’re headed south for a long weekend in Miami or as the kick-off to a trip down to the Keys or out to the Caribbean, following this 3 day Miami itinerary will be sure to leave you smitten with the city of sun and sea.

From the shores of South Beach to the restaurants of Little Havana, here’s how we suggest seeing Miami in 3 days.

Table of Contents

Day 1: South Beach + Beyond

Day 2: little havana + wynwood, day 3: take a boat tour + say goodbye to miami, where to stay for a weekend in miami, getting around during 3 days in miami, suggested restaurants for your miami itinerary, what to pack for a trip to miami, when to visit miami, miami travel tips.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Kick off your day on South Pointe Park Pier.

This pier has some of the best views in Miami, and is the perfect place to start your 3 days in Miami!

If you stroll out along the pier and turn back, you’ll see the skyline of downtown Miami in the distance ahead of you… and the length of South Beach, framed by the sea on one side and the skyline of Miami Beach, on the other.

It is an utterly fantastic view–and as soon as you’re done gaping, you’ll have easy access to South Beach!

Walk + swim + lounge on South Beach.

We recommend dedicating the bulk of the first day of your Miami itinerary to its best-known attraction: beautiful South Beach, which is indisputably one of the best beaches in the USA .

Whether you’re visiting Miami as a couple , with friends, or with your family, South Beach is a must.

You’ll be at the far southern end of the beach when you come down from the pier, so feel free to walk as long as you like before finding a place to set up and relax for the day.

Don’t forget to stop and take a photo with a few of the amazing Art Deco lifeguard stands that the beach is known for!

Also, fair warning: South Beach has a fairly noticeable seaweed problem, so depending on when you visit, you might be sharing the sand with a pile of weeds–but really, it’s not a big deal.

Soak up some shade at Lummus Park.

After all the sun on South Beach, your skin will likely be dying for a break.

In other words, it’s the perfect time to enjoy a bit of shade at picturesque Lummus Park!

This beautiful park is framed by South Beach on one side and Ocean Drive on the other, and its many, many palm trees create a lovely canopy of shade to rest in.

If you’d like to explore, this is a great place to rent a bike or play a game of volleyball–but it’s also a great place to simply relax.

Stroll down Ocean Drive + Collins Ave. 

Miami is well-known for its Art Deco (and Meditteranean Revival, and Miami Modern) buildings: on the central streets of Miami Beach, it can sometimes feel like you’re standing inside a delightful, retro throwback, all neon signs and pastel detail. 

It’s a delight to behold, and the streets–especially Ocean Drive and Collins Ave, in our opinion, though Washington Ave is popular too–are incredibly fun to walk down, with or without a tour.

However, if you’re particularly interested in the history of Miami Beach or in architecture, you might want to look into adding an Art Deco tour to your Miami itinerary!

There’s also an Art Deco museum located in the neighborhood, though our understanding is that it is fairly small.

Book your Art Deco bike tour today!

Check out Espanola Way.

This small pedestrian street in Miami Beach was built to mimic a Spanish village, and as a result, has a very Europe-meets-Miami vibe.

It’s not big, but the twinkling fairy lights overhead and the tempting restaurants that line the streets are certainly a reason to visit (and maybe even pick up dinner here).

Not all of the restaurants get great reviews, so we do recommend doing some research before sitting down!

Havana 1957 is a reliable option, and we’ve heard good things about A La Folie Cafe as well.

If you’d rather stroll through Espanola Way but sit down to eat dinner somewhere a bit quieter, Alma Mexicana is a quick walk away and a delicious, unpretentious, and affordable option.

Head to Little Havana for an epic food tour. 

Don’t eat a big breakfast this morning: instead, begin your second day in Miami with an incredible Little Havana food tour!

Despite its relatively small size and mostly residential nature, Little Havana–and its main thoroughfare, Calle Ocho, is one of the most famous neighborhoods in Miami, with a compelling history, distinct vibe, and magnificent food scene.

We adored the Little Havana food tour that we took in Miami!

Our guide, Ashley, was an incredible resource of information about the area, the tour extremely interesting and well-organized, and we ended the tour both more knowledgeable about Little Havana and barely able to move from how much we ate–the ultimate sign of a successful food tour.

Every single stop on our tour was fantastic, but particular standouts were empanadas from El Pub, mojitos from the Ball & Chain, and ice cream from Azucar (and, though we didn’t actually try this flavor, I will never forget Ashley tellings us that they once served an ice cream flavor called “Burn in Hell Fidel”–that’s the kind of creativity that can inspire excellent ice cream puns ).

Though we didn’t eat or drink there, we also loved stopping by Cubaocho, a bar + museum + art venue that is not only incredibly beautiful, it’s run by a pair of brothers dedicated to preserving the history of Cuba (and a few other places, as well–they have a bar brought in from one of Frank Sinatra’s old clubs!).

Overall, we were incredibly impressed with our Little Havana food tour , and heartily recommend adding it to your 3 day Miami itinerary!

Book your Little Havana food tour now!

Soar above the sky in Biscayne Bay.

This is more of an option than an absolute addition to your itinerary for 3 days in Miami–Little Havana and Wynwood alone can take up a full day of exploring.

That being said, if you’re looking for a good excuse to give parasailing a try, this fun experience is a great way to cool off and break up your day!

Not only is parasailing tons of fun, but it’s also a fantastic way to get an incredible birds-eye view of Miami and Biscayne Bay.

Book your Miami parasailing trip today!

Make your way to Wynwood for street art galore.

The story of Wynwood is one that can be told in many cities around the world: once an unloved industrial district, Wynwood has been transformed into one of Miami’s trendiest neighborhoods, bursting with everything from impressive street art to eclectic boutiques, and visiting is now considered one of the best things to do in Florida !

The first stop on any visit to Wynwood should certainly be the Wynwood Walls, a collection of incredibly impressive street art housed in a park.

Outside of these commissioned pieces, though, Wynwood’s art scene continues. The entire neighborhood is covered in colorful art, and there are more galleries, boutiques, and trendy restaurants than you can count–and once the sun sets, plenty of nightlife, too.

If you’re an artsy type, consider a Wynwood street art tour to really get under the surface of this neighborhood’s transformation.

For a sweet treat, we can definitely recommend a stop at The Salty Donut–order the Key Lime pie donut for a fabulous taste of South Florida.

Book your street art walking tour of Wynwood today! If walking around in the Miami heat doesn’t appeal to you, you can also take a Wynwood tour via golf cart !

Stop by the Bayside Marketplace.

The Bayside Marketplace is, essentially, a shopping center–albeit one with a fabulous location on the water.

It actually reminded us quite a bit of the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, with a modern-shopping-meets-harbor vibe–but while it is an extremely popular place to visit during a long weekend in Miami, it’s not on our most recommended spots list… however, there’s still a reason to stop by.

We recommend visiting Bayside Marketplace essentially as a way to get to your next stop in Miami–a boat tour. 

Since so many boat tours leave from Bayside Marketplace, it’s certainly worth showing up a few minutes early to poke around and get an opinion on the place for yourself!

Hit the water on a boat tour.  

I was honestly surprised by how much we loved our Millionaire’s Row Cruise boat tour .

We’re generally the opposite of celebrity watchers, so a tour focused on peeking into the yards of celebrities homes seemed a bit odd to me–but we desperately wanted a quick-and-easy way to admire the skyline of Downtown Miami from the water, so we booked this incredibly popular tour to do so… and we loved it.

Sure, we’re not that invested in which house Jennifer Lopez owns, but the cruise was much more than that: a glimpse at some truly impressive real estate (and while we don’t really follow celebrities, we do love pretty houses!), some fantastic views of the Miami skyline, a bit of Miami history (especially as a film location–hello Scarface mansion!), a cruise past the impressive Miami port, and an excellent way to gain context on Miami’s city layout.

Plus, time on a boat in the sunshine is never a bad experience, and definitely deserves to be part of your 3 days in Miami.

Prefer something with a bit more speed instead? This speedboat tour is very popular and gets great reviews!

Schedule your Miami boat tour today!

Spend the afternoon saying goodbye to Miami.

Sadly, there’s no way to fit absolutely everything to do in the city into a 3 day Miami trip–so depending on your personal taste and tired you are (aka how late you’ve been staying up enjoying Miami’s nightlife), here are four great options to close out your Miami itinerary!

Option 1: Visit Everglades National Park.

Everglades National Park is one of the most unique national parks in the USA, and you can easily visit as a day trip from Miami!

This popular half-day tour will take you right to the park, and includes an exciting airboat ride. 

Book your day trip to the Everglades today!

Option 2: Head back to the beach.

Are you a beach bum at heart?

If so, you can’t have too much time by the water when you’re in Miami for the weekend.

Spending your final afternoon exactly where you started by soaking up the sun on South Beach is a fantastic way to close out a Miami vacation!

Option 3: Visit the Venetian. 

Want to combine history and swimming?

Close out your 3 days in Miami with a visit to the Venetian Pool in Coral Gables!

The Venetian is nearly 100 years old, was created from a rock quarry, and is far more elaborate than your average public pool, boasting rock caves and waterslides to explore.

Keep in mind that the Venetian only sells a certain number of tickets per day, and they do regularly sell out, so if you have your heart set on visiting, the earlier in the day you plan your visit, the better.

Option 4: Tour the Vizcaya Mansion.

Designed to look like an elaborate Italian Villa, this early 20th-century mansion provides an interesting look into both the Gilded Age and the history of Miami.

At the time when the Vizcaya Mansion was built, Miami was not yet the playground of the rich and famous that it would soon become!

The villa and gardens are incredibly beautiful, and visiting them is among the most popular things to do in Miami.

Miami is an enormous, sprawling metropolis that offers a dizzying array of neighborhoods to stay in, but for this 3 days in Miami itinerary, there’s only one we would recommend: South Beach.

This is the iconic place to stay in Miami Beach (more on the differences between Miami and Miami Beach in a bit).

S outh Beach is the neighborhood where you’ll be able to step outside your hotel and immediately be surrounded by Art Deco architecture, where the beach and plenty of restaurants will probably be within walking distance, and where you’ll be able to get by without a rental car (as long as you’re willing to rely on Uber).

We adored staying here and think it’s the perfect location for a trip to Miami that’s focused on the beach and the city’s most famous sights, so our hotel recommendations focus on this area–every one of these hotels is within a short walk of South Beach.

The #1 Thing to Consider When Picking a South Beach Hotel

Noise. Be aware of noise!

We stayed right on Collins Ave (you can see our pick, Hotel Impala , in the mid-range section below) and had a perfectly quiet room, so even in the heart of South Beach you can definitely find peaceful options… but be aware that plenty of properties in the area will be loud late into the night due to the bars, clubs, and restaurants that are around.

Check the reviews carefully–especially if you’re a budget traveler hoping to check into a hostel!

SoBe Hostel — Located right on Washington Ave, SoBe Hostel is just a short walk from Ocean Drive and South Beach. This is the perfect place for travelers looking for a budget stay in Miami Beach while still booking a private room. Breakfast is also included.

The SoBe is home to a popular bar and also hosts bar crawls for those looking to explore South Beach’s nightlife with new friends!

Check rates & book your stay at the SoBe Hostel!

Hotel Impala — We loved our stay at this hotel! 

The room was clean, the shower divine, the customer service lovely, and–most importantly–the location on Collins Ave. was absolutely  perfect.  Located in the heart of the Art Deco district and a five-minute walk from South Beach while still offering a quiet place to sleep at night, Hotel Impala had a location you just can’t beat in Miami Beach.

The included breakfast is weak–we just skipped it and sampled all the delightful restaurants around South Beach instead–but everything else about Hotel Impala was fabulous, and we would happily stay again.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Impala!

The Marlin Hotel — There is no shortage of ways to splurge on a luxury stay in Miami Beach, but the Marlin Hotel offers something you can’t get in a modern high rise: the chance to stay in one of Miami Beach’s historic art deco buildings!

Boasting a fantastic location on Collins Avenue, impeccable customer service, incredible reviews, and spacious suites, the Marlin Hotel is the perfect hotel for those looking for a luxury experience while also seeing a side of Miami Beach’s Art Deco history that not every visitor to the city gets to.

Check rates & book your stay at the Marlin Hotel!

With the exception of right around South Beach in Miami Beach, Miami is far from a walkable city: its maze of curving highways and many causeways quickly make it apparent that this is a car-focused city.

With that being said, you don’t necessarily need to rent a car for your Miami weekend trip, either.

If you follow this 3 day Miami itinerary and stay within walking distance of South Beach on Miami Beach, you’ll likely be able to avoid driving/taking an Uber on most of day one, but days two and three will require transportation.

Driving and parking in the city seemed like too much of a hassle for us on our first trip to Miami, so we stuck with using Uber instead and loved it! 

We didn’t save much money, but we also didn’t spend any extra vs renting a car, didn’t have to worry about navigating the city or parking, and got to have a lot of great conversations about Miami with our drivers.

If you would prefer to rent a car for the ease of having your own transportation or to visit other nearby south Florida locations independently (perhaps a road trip to Key West or the Everglades, or even as part of a bigger Florida road trip that stretches all the way up to Orlando and the iconic Disney World ?), we recommend searching via Discover Cars to find the best price for your dates.

Check rental car prices and availability for your trip to Miami today!

While we certainly aren’t experts on the Miami food scene (yet), here are a few of the restaurants that are easily accessible during this suggested long weekend in Miami itinerary that we enjoyed!

Havana 1957 (Ocean Drive + several other locations)

This Miami staple is known for serving tasty Cuban food in popular locations, while also managing to keep prices reasonable.

We loved the breakfast we had here–order the Big Havana breakfast before heading to the beach, and you’ll stay full for hours.

11th Street Diner (Washington Ave)

This diner is pure Americana, and so tasty that we ate there twice!

Food Network-featured and full of tasty dishes at low prices (and absolutely dirt cheap prices for South Beach!), this diner is a must-visit for anyone wanting a “typical” American diner experience during their 3 days in Miami.

El Pub (Calle Ocho)

Home to my new favorite empanada, stepping into El Pub feels like stepping out of Florida and directly into Latin America. Come here for the coffee, for the atmosphere, for the friendly service, and especially for the food.

Front Porch Cafe (Ocean Drive)

Boasting all-day breakfast and reasonable prices, I wouldn’t say that this is a must-eat in Miami–but if you’re hungry after visiting South Beach, it’s far from your worst option!

Jeremy’s eggs benedict were average, but my fried green tomato + pimento cheese BLT was incredible, and I’d order it again in a second.

The Salty Donut (Wynwood + South Miami)

Artisanal donuts are incredibly popular across the USA right now, but I have to say–The Salty Donut is home to some of the best we’ve had, and we would go back in a heartbeat.

Delicious and detailed without being overly sweet or too heavy, we loved every single one of the five flavors we tried–but I have to give a special shout-out to the Key Lime Pie donut, which was absolutely sublime.

Alma Mexicana (Washington Ave)

Unpretentious and delicious, Alma Mexicana serves up fantastic Mexican food within walking distance of South Beach.

We absolutely devoured our enchilada plates here–like practically-licking-the-plates-clean level of devoured–and loved the (very strong) margaritas as well.

Azucar (Calle Ocho)

If you love ice cream, you need to visit Azucar during your 3 days in Miami!

The ice cream here is made fresh with local ingredients, and it is absolutely fantastic. 

We tried their signature Abuela Maria flavor, but would love to go back and sample more–the caramel flan and key lime pie both caught my eye.

Travel Insurance — We recommend travel insurance for all trips–anything can happen–and a trip to Miami is absolutely a case of better safe than sorry. 

Even if the odds are long, you absolutely don’t want to risk showing up to a Miami hospital with an out-of-network health insurance policy or no US health insurance at all. We recommend Safety Wing for weekend trips to Miami.

Hat — The Miami sun is no joke: bring a sunhat with you when you come.

Beach Cover Up — If you’re staying within walking distance of the beach, bring a cover-up for the walk over! They’re cute and comfortable, will keep you cooler than wearing clothes over your suit, and tend to dry fast. Something like this is a cute, affordable option that will also look great in photos!

Bring a reusable water bottle to make sure you’re always comfortable throughout the day–and to avoid adding even more plastic to the ocean.

Sunglasses — Take it from someone who forgot sunglasses and stubbornly squinted through their entire Miami trip rather than pay $20 for sunglasses worth $5-$10: bring your own!

Miami, delightfully, can be a year-round travel destination.

Its high season is the North American winter, and this is when you’ll find the highest prices and the best temperatures (read: less oppressively hot and humid than the summer).

Summer is less popular, and is when the heat and humidity are off the charts and hurricanes are always a risk.

However, our first trip to Miami was in late June and we loved it–the weather stayed clear with the exception of the occasional brief afternoon thunderstorm (a norm for Florida), and the humidity, while intense, was completely bearable.

Unless you’re a partier in their early twenties, the only time I’d recommend against planning a trip to Miami (other than when a hurricane is about to roll in, obviously), is mid-March: this is peak spring break time in the USA, and Miami Beach will be incredibly busy as a result.

Be prepared for resort fees.

Especially in Miami Beach, resort fees are the norm at hotels.

These are extra fees levied per night of your stay, ostensibly to provide services that hotels generally offer anyway (wifi, beach towels, etc.), but really, they simply charge it because they can.

The fees vary pretty dramatically and aren’t listed with the room rate, so be sure to read the fine print before booking! You can see the fees on each hotel’s page of Booking.com , for example.

Oh–and you’ll get charged resort fees at restaurants, too. It never came to much for us–generally less than a dollar–but be aware you’ll see that line-item on your bill.

Check your bill before you tip.

Virtually every restaurant we ate at in Miami levied a 15-20% service charge onto the bill automatically, and if this is charged, you don’t need to tip more on top of it!

Know your Miami from your Miami Beach.

When most people think of vacationing in Miami, they’re referring to Miami Beach, the home of Art Deco and South Beach.

It’s a fabulous place to visit, and in our opinion the best place to stay during a long weekend in Miami, but Miami Beach is located on a barrier island separate from the mainland and only comprises one small part of the sprawling metropolis that is Miami.

Following this Miami itinerary, you’ll leave Miami Beach to visit Little Havana, Wynwood, and the Bayside Marketplace.

You’ll also leave to take a boat tour and to visit the Vizcaya Mansion, Everglades National Park, or the Venetian Pool if you choose to do so.

They aren’t kidding about the sun.

The Miami sun is insanely strong–cover up or risk spending part of your 3 days in Miami itinerary miserable with a sunburn!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

24 thoughts on “3 Days in Miami: A Magnificent Long Weekend in Miami Itinerary”

That is a wonderful itinerary and tips!!! I have used lots of these while planning our trip. Thank you so much!!!!!

So glad we could help, Iryna!! Enjoy the beach for us!

Great suggestions, many of which I am taking up for my trip to Miami next week. Thanks so much for the recommendations!

Thank you Helen! Hope you have a wonderful trip to Miami!

Lovely suggestions and beautifully covered! Taking up these for our upcoming trip to Miami ! Just one question where is your pink dress from ! I loved it?

Thanks so much Rimika! I got the dress on Amazon and I love it (just consider bringing along a safety pin as it is a traditional wrap dress and does like to fly up a bit when the wind picks up). Here’s my affiliate link for it, and I’ll update the post with it as well. 🙂 Link: https://amzn.to/2RqYTew

Excelent.! Thank you

52 yr old native from Miami. Not a bad summary. Seaweed, your at the beach. You might get it or might not. Design district for high end shopping and close to wynwood might attract some people. The River has some cool spots to eat, drink and party. Take a drive South on Old Cutler RD. Airboat ride during the winter months is pretty cool. Enjoy! Adolfo

Glad to hear, Adolfo! Have a great day.

I am going to Miami by myself for exactly 3 days next week, so this helped a lot. Great tips! 🙂

So glad to hear it, thanks Rafaela! Hope you have a great trip. 🙂

Just booked the Hotel Impala for one night in May. $95 Looks wonderful!

Hope you have an amazing time, Dee!

I’m traveling to Miami Beach on the 4th of July for four nights. I’m going solo and have a packed itinerary so far, but jotted down the restaurants you recommended. I can’t wait!!

Hope you have (or had?) an amazing time! Miami is such a fun city.

I had an absolutely amazing time! I did not want to come back 🙂

Incredibly well written, detailed, yet to-the-point description of everything one will need to plan a trip to Miami. Loved the different sections focussing on different aspects of the trip. Thank you!

This is great to hear, thank you Aishwarya! Hope you have a wonderful time in Miami. 🙂

I used your itinerary for Cancun > Vallodolid > Tulum, and it was perfect. Now about to use this as a kick-start to a Keys roadtrip. Great writing, please keep posting!

Thank you so much, that’s fantastic to hear!

Great piece! Going to use almost all of your recommended spots for our upcoming 3 days trip to Miami.

Any idea how much “resort fee” Impala Hotel charged you guys? It’s not mentioned on the booking.com page even in the fine print and we don’t want that to shock our budget once we are booked in! Thanks so much again.

I just looked it up, they charged us $11.40/night as a resort fee. The fee was charged through our Booking account, but I’m not sure if it’s included in the initial search.

Hope you guys have a great trip to Miami!

Kate, I enjoyed your tips and advice, great descriptions! Just wondering if you advise booking a boat tour ahead of time or if you can just walk up and buy tickets? I am going to Miami from March 22-24, not sure if I will be hitting the spring break madness… Thanks! Christine B.

Hi Christine,

Thank you so much!

I’ve never been to Miami at the height of spring break, but I’m a big fan of booking things in advance in general (especially post-2020, as booking online has become a lot more popular with travel businesses around the world).

As for whether it’s 100% necessary in this case, I’m not sure, but we booked our tour online in advance when we went.

Hope you guys have a fantastic trip!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• The Ultimate Holiday Travel Guide To Miami, Florida

From South Beach to the Wynwood Walls and Little Havana, this is the ultimate holiday travel guide to Miami in Florida!

I’ll admit it. I’m an addict. My vice? COLOUR. Muted tones might be the “in” thing on Instagram, but I’m happiest when surrounded by colour. Blue skies, colourful street art and vibrant plates of food. It extends to the culture of a place too. London may be famed for its grey skies, but the culture and lifestyle is anything but dull.

And the ultimate colourful place? Well, I think I might have just found it. Welcome to Miami – a place that had me smiling from start to finish. From the murals of the Wynwood Walls and the bright lifeguard huts on South Beach, to the Cuban charisma of Little Havana and the Latin soundtrack that resonated throughout, I felt like I found my sunshine-filled happy place!

Over five days I explored as much of the city as I could, checking out cool restaurants, food tours, live music, and some of the areas that come together to make up this diverse city.

Check out my video then scroll down to find out all about Miami…

How To Get To Miami

I travelled to Miami with KLM , who have flights departing from 17 UK regional airports to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. From there it’s easy to connect to one of their long haul destinations, which include Havana, Tokyo, Nairobi, Aruba and of course MIAMI ! Service is fun and friendly, and you can find some great value flights if you book in advance.

From Miami International Airport, it’s around 25 minutes to South Beach where I’d recommend staying. To get around the city, I’d recommend downloading the Uber app. It’s very reasonable and if you need convincing, you can grab a free ride worth up to £5 using this link .

What To Do In Miami

Wynwood walls.

I’d seen so many photos ahead of my visit, and this was somewhere I was dying to explore during my trip. The Wynwood Walls were created in 2009 by the late Tony Goldman, who decided to transform the area into a giant open-air art gallery as a way of revitalising it. Needless to say, it worked!

They’ve expanded to include the Wynwood Doors and Garden, with top international graffiti and street artists being invited to create new works for the area. While it’s a feast for the eyes, I’d also recommend taking a tour with Miami’s Best Graffiti Guide so you can learn about the murals and the artists behind them.

From Maya Hayuk’s alluring pink geometric patterns, to Crash’s mix of comic strips and pop art and Shepard Fairey’s Wynwood mural, there’s plenty to see.

Insider tip: There’s more to this neighbourhood than the area known as the Wynwood Walls. The incredible street art covers a distance of several blocks surrounding Wynwood, so stretch your legs and explore on your own time.

Miami Design District

Another photogenic area of the city is Miami Design District. It’s a mix of shopping, design and architecture, with a few restaurants established there too. As I passed trees covered in silver streamers, stopped to take photos of a huge tropical themed mural, and wandered a shopping street painted in luminous orange, it didn’t feel like any shopping experience I’d had before. I loved the Fly’s Eye Dome – a weird and wonderful dome-like structure in the centre of the shopping plaza, and the funky swings on the upper floor.

Art Deco Buildings

Miami Beach’s Art Deco Historic District is made up of over 800 buildings built between 1923 and 1943. While you might think of art deco buildings as being predominantly white, the Miami Beach area shows off a style called Tropical Deco. Pastel pinks sit next to pale greens and baby blues. It’s super cute and the kind of place it’s lovely to wander around taking pictures.

South Beach Food Tour  

One of my favourite ways to get to know a new place is to go on a food tour. Not only do you get to taste the flavours of the area, you also get to hear the stories and meet the local characters. This Miami food tour  of South Beach was excellent, with tour guide Jen giving a great round up of Miami’s Latin influences, and where to find the real flavours of the city.

After trawling Ocean Drive on night one and finding lots of restaurants serving up similar menus of burgers and giant cocktails, it was great to find out where to go for great local food. We sampled delicious ceviche at Colombian restaurant Bolivar, Cuban picadillo at Larios (Gloria and Emilio Estefan’s restaurant), and tasty sourdough pizza pockets at Block’s Pizza.

Little Havana

Little Havana is a really vibrant part of the city. With its hub on Calle Ocho (8 th Street) you’ll find great Cuban restaurants to stop for a Cuban sandwich, tailors to pick up classic guayabera shirts, cafes serving traditional Cuban coffee (be warned – this stuff is strong!) plus plenty of places to enjoy mojitos. It was lovely walking through Domino Park – an area filled with oldies playing dominoes! I say oldies, as there’s an official set of rules on the walls saying you have to be over 55 to play!

My favourite place was The Ball and Chain – a bar with live music and dancing throughout the day. The vibe was fun, and while there were plenty of tourists stopping by for a drink or two, they were balanced by locals who popped in for a dance! While it’s a fun place to wander around, I’d recommend booking onto a Little Havana Tour with Chat Miami . Our guide Alex was Cuban and gave real insight into the area, its people and what life is like there.

Thriller Boat Trip

Looking for an adrenaline fix in Miami? This boat trip takes you to see some of the key sights including Star Island and Fischer Island plus gives you epic views of the city’s skyscrapers. All that… and it reaches 50mph! It’s a serious rush. Along with the buzz of speeding around Miami Bay (and getting a little wet in the process!) I absolutely loved seeing the houses belonging to Will Smith, The Beckhams and Enrique Iglesias. My favourite was Ricky Martin’s with his rooftop hot tub…!

Lifeguard huts on South Beach  

This was the perfect introduction to Miami’s colourful soul. There are lots of lifeguard huts located on Miami Beach from South Pointe onwards. After Hurricane Andrew destroyed the previous huts in 1992, a decision was made to create these. They’ve been designed by many different people, from architects and designers to artists, and range from stars and stripes to a lighthouse. I’d recommend walking from 14 th Street all the way to South Pointe, then pick your favourite!

Where To Eat And Drink In Miami

A Fish Called Avalon – The best meal I had in Miami! Top quality seafood, right on Ocean Drive. This is the place to go for a special meal, with standout dishes including the scallops with artichoke puree, macadamia-crusted snapper with a raspberry beaujolais beurre blanc and crab crusted grouper. The key lime pie was excellent, and it’s a perfect people-watching spot too.

The Ball And Chain – Little Havana’s funkiest bar, with great mojitos and live music throughout the day. You can’t walk past without having a little boogie.

Blue Bottle Coffee – Miami Design District’s hipster café (which originated in Oakland, California) is a great place to stop for an iced latte when the sun is shining!

Sugar Factory – This is the most fun, quirky, and colourful place to eat in Miami! From epic freakshakes topped with lollipops and candy floss, to rainbow burgers and huge desserts, it’s an extravaganza – both visually and taste-wise! I love theatrical meals, and the cocktails were definitely that – with dry ice coming out as it was poured! While kids will love it here, grown ups will love it just as much, if not more!

11th Street Diner – A silver retro diner right in Miami, serving all the classics (breakfasts, burgers, hot dogs, milkshakes) and open 24/7!

Bodega – This place may look like a fast-food taco store, but it’s SO much more! Head through the graffitied door, past a bank of urinals (not in use thankfully!) and you’ll end up in the cool back room bar at Bodega. I loved the speakeasy vibe, and the fact you can order tacos to accompany your cocktails!

Ricky’s – Arcade games, craft beer, cocktails, sports, and live music make Ricky’s a super cool after work spot for a few drinks. I loved the relaxed vibe; it felt like a true locals joint. I was disappointed to miss their live band karaoke on a Monday though – but, hey it’s a reason to return!

Pizza Rustica – Miami’s own pizza chain is perfect if you want something filling, on a budget. A slice of their rectangular pizza pies were as big as my head…!

Coyo Taco – Mexican street food (AKA tacos!!) moments from the Wynwood Walls. What’s not to love?

Mango’s Tropical Café – A live show featuring singers and dancers, in a bar setting. Pop in for a drink and you’ll stay for at least an hour. With a huge cocktail menu, fun servers and plenty of entertainment (both on and off stage) it’s somewhere you have to visit during your trip!

Top Hotels In Miami For All Budgets

If you’re looking for some amazing and memorable places to stay in Miami, don’t miss my guide to the most unique hotels in Florida . There are lots of great picks that are in South Beach and the Miami region.

Miami – Luxury Hotels

Four Seasons Hotel Miami – Pure luxury, for those who want a seriously indulgent stay in Miami! Located opposite Biscayne Bay, this hotel has one of the most beautiful pool areas of all the hotels in Miami, plus a great spa and restaurant. It’s a short drive to the beach. Rooms start around £380. Check current prices here.

Mandarin Oriental, Miami – Another top luxury hotel in Miami, the Mandarin Oriental is located on Brickell Key Island offers luxurious spa services. There’s a beautiful infinity pool, spa, butler service and top Peruvian resraurant La Mar. Rooms start around £340. Check current prices here.

Mondrian South Beach – For a different view of the city, the Mondrian is located on the waterfront of Biscayne Bay. There’s a stunning pool area with hammocks and a cocktail bar. Meanwhile inside has a playful vibe and is said to play homage to “Sleeping Beauty’s Castle” complete with a kooky floating staircase. Rooms start around £160, so it’s much more reasonable than some of the super-lux hotels in Miami.   Check current prices here .

Miami – Mid-Range Hotels

The Leslie Hotel – An Art Deco wonder, The Leslie is one of Miami’s cutest hotels and one of the most unique hotels in Florida. A vision in yellow, it’s located right on Ocean Drive. A big selling point is its rooftop pool and Jacuzzi – a sanctuary from the crowds below. Rooms start aroudn £130. Read more about my stay at The Leslie Hotel  or check prices here .

The Shepley Hotel – Another boutique Art Deco hotel on Collins Avenue, this hotel offers large stylish rooms, a comfortable lounge area and a veranda where breakfast is served. A perfect location if you like being close to the action without having the crowds of Ocean Drive. Rooms start around £100. Read more about my stay at The Shepley Hotel  or check prices here .

YVE Hotel Miami – By Bayside Marketplace and Bayfront Park, this smart hotel is in midtown, and a great option if you want to be near the action, but don’t want to pay top dollar. As it’s a high-rise hotel, the higher views have incredible views. It’s only a short drive to South Beach, the port for the cruise ships and Wynwood. Rooms start around £130. Check current prices here.

Circa 39 Miami Beach – This boutique hotel is a stone’s throw from the beach, in the mid-beach area. Décor and design are taken seriously, and there’s a bit of a traveller theme throughout, with old posters and retro furniture. There’s a great pool area too. Rooms start around £140. Check current prices here .

The Vagabond Hotel Miami – Super trendy décor and a great pool make this an appealing option, especially as rooms aren’t too pricey. If you’re looking to stay near the beach then this isn’t the place for you, but if you want a base for seeing different parts of the city, it’s perfect. Rooms start around £127. Check current prices here.

Miami – Budget Accommodation

Posh South Beach – This South Beach hostel is located in a boutique loft on Collins Avenue. Forget what you think about hostels – this one is super smart and has its own rooftop pool. It’s in a great spot, moments from the beach, shops, bars and restaurants. They also offer a free airport shuttle. When I checked, it was £35 for a bed in a dorm. Check current prices here.

Freehand Miami – Located in the mid-beach area, Freehand Miami is a funky hostel/hotel with communal spaces, a big courtyard, popular bar The Broken Shaker and a pool. If you want to meet people, it’s a great option, as it has a social vibe. It’s budget-friendly too, with a bed in a dorm starting at £24. Private rooms will set you back over £100. Check current prices here.

Thanks to KLM for flying me to Miami for their #KLMTop10! As always opinions are 100% my own.

If you’re looking for information to make the most of your time in the Sunshine State, don’t miss my Florida travel guides:

• 17 Cool And Unique Hotels in Florida
• 16 Amazing Things To Do In Fort Myers, Sanibel + Captiva, Florida
• Visiting Kennedy Space Center With Kids: Babies, Toddlers and Older Children
• 16 Amazing Things To Do In Cocoa Beach
• 17 Romantic Things To Do In Orlando For Couples
• 48 Hours In St Petersburg & St Pete Beach, Florida: Top Things To Do
• Crystal River and Pasco County, Florida: A 3-Day Travel Guide
• Florida Food Scene: Best Restaurants In Tampa, St Petersburg, Pasco County And Crystal River
• 9 Things To Do In Stuart, Martin County, Florida
• The Ultimate Travel Guide To Martin County, Florida

Enjoyed this post? Why not pin it for later?

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

9 thoughts on “The Ultimate Holiday Travel Guide To Miami, Florida”

I’ve been twice but stuck mostly with South Beach, great to get some more tips!

Ahhh yes, SoBe was awesome but there are plenty more parts of the city to explore! You’d love Wynwood – so colourful! x

What a fab post!! My goodness do I love Miami! We have some of the same tips 😉 http://clutchandcarryon.com/five-personal-reasons-i-love-miami/

It’s SUCHHHHHH a fun city! I want to go back already! x

All I need right now to be there…just a for a moment

Headed to Miami now, thanks for the advice…I really want to check out Ball and Chain. I loved the South Beach food tour! I wonder if you had the same tour guide as me! Cheers!

I loved Ball and Chain! My friends were there a few nights ago and danced the night away. Hope you have a great time!!

Wow, you have a lot of great tips for Miami! I have been to Miami a few times but haven’t explored all of it yet. I will have to check out the Wynwood walls next.

Definitely head to Wynwood – one of my faves!

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Ultimate Miami Travel Guide 2024: Insider Tips for the Perfect Sunshine Getaway

• March 5, 2024

🏖️ Best Beaches

😍 Things to Do

🏨 Where to Stay

🌞 Best Time to Visit

🧳 What to Pack

🗃️ All Miami Guides

❤️ Why So Many People Visit Miami

Miami – Filled with dazzling beaches, vibrant cultural scenes, and dynamic nightlife. Its blend of Art Deco architecture, diverse culinary offerings, and perennial sunshine captivates visitors worldwide.

🏖️ Best Beaches in Miami

Discover Miami’s top beaches , where pristine sands meet crystal-clear waters, promising relaxation and adventure for everyone. 

Here are my Favorites:

South Pointe Beach – Dazzles with its serene waters, stunning views, and vibrant park, making it a must-visit for beach lovers.

Lummus Park Beach – Offers lively vibes, soft sands, and iconic views, perfect for sun-seekers and party-goers.

Miami Beach, a.k.a. South Beach – Renowned for its electric atmosphere, art deco backdrop, and crystal-clear waters, a paradise for beachgoers and culture enthusiasts.

Surfside Beach – Charms with its laid-back ambiance, family-friendly spaces, and pristine shores, ideal for a peaceful beach day.

85th Street Beach – Offers a quieter retreat with its less crowded sands and clear waters, perfect for a tranquil beach experience.

🏖️ Here is a complete list of The Best Beaches in Miami .

😍 Best Things to Do in Miami

Exploring vibrant Miami! From sun-soaked beaches, cultural festivals, to luxury shopping and yacht tours, there’s an adventure for every taste.

Lounging to the Beach : Spend your day at one of Miami’s renowned beaches, like South Beach or Surfside, basking in the sun, sea, and sand.

Relax at a Luxury Spa : Indulge yourself in ultimate relaxation at luxury spas across Miami, offering serene environments and world-class treatments just for you.

Visit Historical Places : Discover the rich history Miami offers by exploring landmarks such as the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens or the iconic Art Deco District in South Beach.

Take a Day Trip : Venture out on exciting day trips to places like the Everglades National Park or Key West, perfect for your adventure and exploration desires.

Fun day at Water Parks : Make a splash and enjoy a day filled with fun at Miami’s water parks, featuring thrilling slides, wave pools, and areas perfect for children.

Miami also has amazing Amusement Parks and Theme Parks .

Explore the Public Parks : Take a leisurely stroll through Miami’s public parks, like Bayfront Park or Crandon Park, offering you beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities.

Skate Parks : Show off or hone your skateboarding skills at one of Miami’s skate parks, equipped with ramps and bowls for all skill levels.

Explore Museums : Engage with art, science, and history at museums throughout Miami, including the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) and the Frost Science Museum.

Visit the Botanical Gardens : Wander through the lush settings of Miami’s botanical gardens, such as the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, showcasing exotic plants and breathtaking flowers.

Admire the Art Galleries : Dive into Miami’s vibrant art scene by visiting contemporary art galleries in areas like Wynwood or the Design District.

Shopping at the Mall : Treat yourself to a world-class shopping experience at Miami’s malls, such as Dolphin Mall or The Shops at Merrick Park, featuring a mix of luxury and retail stores.

World-class Fishing : Take advantage of Miami’s coastal charm with fishing expeditions, whether you’re offshore or along the pier, ready to catch a variety of fish.

Go Golfing : Enjoy a round of golf on Miami’s picturesque courses, known for their challenging layouts and stunning views, perfect for your golfing pleasure.

Cultural Festivals : Immerse yourself in Miami’s diverse cultural festivals, celebrating everything from music, art, to culinary delights, offering you a taste of the world.

Yacht Tours : Experience Miami’s luxury by embarking on a yacht tour, offering you breathtaking views of the skyline and the chance to spot marine life.

Outdoor Fitness Classes : Join outdoor fitness classes, from yoga on the beach to boot camps in the park, keeping you active while enjoying Miami’s beautiful weather.

💕 Here are All the Best Things to Do in Miami .

🏨 Where to Stay in Miami

Discover where to stay in Miami , a city boasting a range of accommodations from luxury beachfront hotels to cozy boutique options in the Art Deco District.

Whether seeking nightlife, culture, or relaxation, find the perfect base to explore Miami’s beaches, cuisine, and vibrant scenes.

Here are our Top Pics for the Best Places to Stay in Miami:

• The Setai, Miami Beach : This serene Haven merges Asian aesthetics with Art Deco chic.
• The Four Seasons Hotel Miami : Blending urban sophistication with resort-style amenities.
• The Standard Spa, Miami Beach : Nestled on Belle Isle, this tranquil retreat is a wellness sanctuary.
• Mandarin Oriental, Miami : With exquisite dining that spans global cuisines.
• Faena Hotel Miami Beach : Art and food converge for a sensorial fusion.

🏨 Here is a complete list of the Best Hotels in Miami .

🛳️ If you are planning a Cruise , here are the Best Hotels in Miami Near the Cruise Port .

🐶 And for pet lovers, here is our curated list of Pet-Friendly Hotels .

🚙 If you are traveling with your camper, here are the Top RV Pars in Miami .

The ideal time to visit Miami spans from December to May when the city basks in warm, sunny weather, making it perfect for exploring its renowned beaches, vibrant cultural festivals, and outdoor activities.

This peak season captures the essence of Miami’s lively spirit, hosting major events like Art Basel, the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, and Ultra Music Festival, attracting visitors worldwide.

For those seeking quieter moments and better deals, the summer months offer fewer crowds and more affordable accommodation, albeit with higher temperatures and humidity.

However, it’s worth noting that June to November marks hurricane season , potentially affecting travel plans.

Regardless of when you visit, Miami’s diverse attractions, from the historic streets of Little Havana to the luxury boutiques in the Design District, promise an unforgettable experience, blending relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion in one dynamic city.

🌞 Here is a Detailed Guide on the Best Time to Visit Miami .  

Miami is one of the Best Places to Visit in Florida .

📑 Fun Facts and Information about Miami:

• Population: 2.6 Million
• The City was founded by Julia Tuttle in 1896.
• It’s known as the ‘Magic City’
• In all of Miami’s history, it has only snowed once in 1977.
• Miami is officially the Cruise Capital of the World .
• Miami is not the capital city of Florida ; that would be Tallahassee.

📖 You will also enjoy all my Miami Travel Tips .

🦺 Safety in Miami

Miami, a vibrant city known for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and rich cultural tapestry, also requires visitors to stay informed about safety.

Like any major urban center, it’s important to exercise caution, especially in tourist-heavy areas. Pickpocketing and petty theft can occur , so keeping valuables secure and being mindful of your surroundings is advisable.

Certain neighborhoods, particularly after dark, might be less safe than others; researching and avoiding these areas can enhance your security. Miami’s local authorities and community initiatives work diligently to ensure the safety of both residents and visitors, with visible police presence and safety campaigns.

For those driving, be aware of Miami’s traffic and occasionally aggressive driving styles. Natural elements, such as strong sun, heat, and potential storms during hurricane season, also necessitate precautions.

By staying informed, using common sense, and preparing for the climate, visitors can enjoy all the beauty and excitement Miami has to offer with peace of mind.

🦺 Here is my Complete Guide to Safely Traveling in Miami .

🧳 What to Pack for Your Trip to Miami

Given Miami’s warm climate year-round, lightweight and breathable clothing is essential.

• 👕 Pack plenty of shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and sandals for daytime exploring.
• 👙 Don’t forget a swimsuit (or two) for those enticing beach days and a cover-up for casual beachfront dining.
• ☀️ Sun protection is crucial, so include sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and high-SPF sunscreen to shield against the strong Florida rays.
• 🌆 Evenings in Miami can bring a cooler breeze, especially by the beach, so it’s wise to bring a light sweater or jacket.
• 💃 For those planning to experience Miami’s renowned nightlife, stylish evening wear is a must, as many clubs and upscale restaurants adhere to a chic dress code.
• 🚶‍♀️ Comfortable walking shoes are important for daytime adventures, whether you’re strolling through the Art Deco District or exploring local parks.
• 🥤 Lastly, pack a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, a daypack for excursions, and any necessary tech chargers.

Considering Miami’s occasional rain showers, a compact umbrella or rain jacket could also come in handy. With these essentials, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy everything Miami has to offer, from its sunlit beaches to its lively urban attractions.

🧳 My Complete Miami Packing List will be very helpful.

👰 If you are planning a special occasion, here is my Complete List of Party Venues in Miami .

Made by travelers, for travelers, check out the Barefoot Caribou Products below!

I hope you enjoyed my Miami Travel Guide , and it will help you on your next adventure.

Don’t miss out— explore our other articles linked below for the ultimate Miami adventure!

The Best Hotels in Miami, Florida for 2024: Stay in Style

Top 13 Golf Courses in Miami, Florida: Swing into Paradise

Ultimate 17 Water Parks in Miami: Splash into Tidal Cove & More

Top 17 Miami Travel Tips & Guide for Your 2024 Adventures

Guide to Best 13 Flea Markets in Miami: Where Deals Await

The 17 Luxury Spas in Miami: Finest Spas for Supreme Relaxation

Top 17 Historical Places in Miami: A Must-Visit Guide

Where to Stay in Miami for Beach Fun: 17 Best Hotels in 2024

Top 17 Best Public Parks in Miami: Must-Visit Open Spaces

Best Time to Travel to Miami in 2024: Optimal Visits

Explore 17 Best Art Galleries in Miami – Top Picks for 2024!

Navigate 2024‘s 17 Best Cruises from Miami: Book Your Getaway

Best 13 Fishing Spots in Miami: Where to Cast Your Line in 2024

19 Best Things to Do in Miami, Florida in 2024 – Ultimate Bucket List

Top 13 Skate Parks in Miami: Find Your Perfect Skate Spot!

Miami Packing List: Top 17 Things for the Ultimate Beach Experience

Top 13 Museums in Miami: Must-See Art & Culture Hotspots

13 Beautiful Botanical Gardens in Miami – Fairchild Tropical Gardens

The 17 Best Beaches in Miami: Top Spots for Fun in the Sun in 2024

Top 17 Amusement Parks in Miami: Family Thrills Await!

Best 17 RV Parks in Miami, Florida – 2024‘s Cozy Retreats

Top 17 Party Venues in Miami, FL: Best Picks for Memorable Events

13 Best Shopping Malls in Miami: Ultimate Guide 2024

13 Best Pet Friendly Hotels in Miami: Top Picks for 2024!

Top 13 Best Theme Parks in Miami for Endless Adventures (2024 Picks)

Is It Safe to Travel to Miami in 2024? Safety Tips for Your Trip

Top 13 Hotels in Miami Near Cruise Port for Sea Voyagers

13 Best Day Trips from Miami: 2024‘s Ultimate Excursions Picks

For more details, check out our HOME PAGE and our AMAZON STORE .

Get the Packing eBook for Free

The Universal Packing List 2.0 is our most comprehensive cheklist, so you never forget a thing when you travel.

Your eBook will be delivered to your email address. Please also check the Spam folder.

• Destinations

Wild Junket

Weekend in miami: the perfect 3-day miami itinerary 2024.

Planning a weekend in Miami? Having lived in Miami, I consider myself an expert on Florida. Here’s my recommended 3-day Miami itinerary!

Miami is intoxicatingly beautiful, with wide boulevards lined with Art Deco buildings and palm trees swaying against the backdrop of lapping waves. Even so, it’s the people – largely Latin American population – that make it unlike anywhere else in the United States.   

Having lived in Miami, I can safely say it’s one of my favorite cities in the world .  The city is sexy, lively and welcoming, with a vibrant culture, lush tropical gardens and exciting cuisines. I’ve returned several times since and it remains a special place for me.  If you’re looking for some insider recommendations, here’s my recommended Miami itinerary.

Table of Contents

Take a Art Deco Tour

Have dinner at española way, experience the nightlife in miami, explore little havana, try a cuban sandwich, take a wander in coral gables, check out hipster wynwood walls, drive to key biscayne, have lunch at rusty pelican, stop at vizcaya museum and gardens, get your culture on in downtown miami, relax at bayside marketplace, do a road trip to the florida keys, go wild in the everglades national park, take a ferry to the bahamas, miami weekend guide, how to get to miami, by day trips, best time to visit miami, budget: hudson house, midrange: biltmore hotel, luxury: shelborne south beach, luxury: 1 hotel south beach, luxury: kimpton epic hotel, where to eat in miami, planning your trip to miami, weekend in miami itinerary.

Miami is one of those cities that are perfect for a girls getaway or a weekend trip with your loved one. This Miami itinerary will help you make the most of your 3 days in Miami and see the best of the city while having a great time.

If you are planning to travel around Florida, please do check out my 2-week Florida road trip .

To help you plan your weekend in Miami, I’ve included everything you need to know, from how to get around, to the best restaurants, hotels and day trips to take.

Miami Itinerary Day 1: Explore South Beach

Start your weekend in Miami at the palpitating heart of the city: South Beach . This is the beating heart of Miami Beach, with its hundreds of dazzling pastel-coloured 1920s and 1930s Art Deco buildings. By day, the sun blares down on the sand and spearmint waters. By night, ten blocks of Ocean Drive become one of the liveliest stretches in Miami, as terrace cafés spill across the specially widened sidewalk.

We recommend booking a hotel in South Beach if you like being in the heart of the action (scroll down for hotel recommendations). But it is notoriously expensive — a beer in a bar along South Beach can cost as much as $20. For those on a budget, stay in Coral Gables or Brownsville near the airport.

To get under the skin of South Beach, I recommend doing an Art Deco Walking Tour . There is a protection act in place and none of the buildings can get knocked down or modified, since they were built before the 1960s. You’ll get to learn more about the history and architecture of the Art Deco and Miami Modern (MiMo) styles from local historians and architects.

Walking up and down Ocean Drive and listening to the history of these buildings is fascinating. Just a short walk away is Lincoln Road, a pedestrianized promenade lined with beautiful buildings. Collins Ave and Washington Ave are also worth visiting.

As the sun sets, head to another charming pedestrianised street in South Beach: Española Way . Designed to resemble a Spanish village, the street is flanked by colonial architecture, Mediterranean restaurants, and lush bougainvillea covered facades.

Mercato Della Pescheria Espanola Way is one of the most popular restaurants along Española Way and we highly recommend coming here for authentic Italian food and fresh seafood. Havana 1957 is a fixture of the restaurant scene here, and serves the best mojitos in Miami.

For your first night in Miami, prepare to paint the town red! South Beach is famous for its vibrant nightlife, so make the most of your time here and hit swanky beach clubs like Nikki Beach , or more upscale spots like LIV . Clevelander South Beach is known for throwing the best party on the beach, right in the center of it all on Ocean Drive. An alternative to the typical Miami mega clubs is Basement Miami , a trendy place with an ice skating rink, bowling lanes, DJ, and lounge seating.

Miami Itinerary Day 2: Venture into the Neighborhoods

Next morning, take a wander around Little Havana , a vibrant Cuban neighborhood in Miami. Little Havana is one of the most famous neighborhoods in Miami, with a compelling history, distinct vibe, and magnificent food scene.

After the Cuban Revolution in 1959 lots of Cubans left the Caribbean island, with many of them coming to Miami. Little Havana is where most of them gather, together with many other immigrants from Central and South America. It is a centre of social, cultural and political activity in Miami.

You can’t leave Little Havana without trying an authentic Cuban sandwich. Veer off the main thoroughfare – Calle Ocho – to find little Cuba cafes that serve some of the best Cuban sandwiches in Miami. Sarussi  is often cited as the go-to for a Cubano. Sanguich De Miami , as the name might imply, does it exceptionally well.  El Mago de Las Fritas  gained great fame for the sandwich when former President Obama stopped in.

After a hot sweaty day at Little Havana, cool off in the beautiful Venetian Pool in Coral Gables that’s just a 10-min drive away. Created from a rock quarry, t he Venetian is nearly 100 years old, and is far more elaborate than your average public pool, boasting rock caves and waterslides to explore.

Then continue your homage to Cuban culture with a drink at the Biltmore Hotel . It’s an iconic landmark of the Coral Gables district dating back to 1926 and definitely worth a visit for  its architecture. Coral Gables is a quiet residential area home to the University of Miami — that’s where I went on an exchange program and met my husband!

From Coral Gables, get acquainted with a very different side of Miami at the Wynwood Walls art district , where you can admire an amazing display of street art from artists all over the world. O nce an unloved industrial district, Wynwood has been transformed into one of Miami’s trendiest neighborhoods, bursting with everything from impressive street art to eclectic boutiques.

Miami Itinerary Day 3: Head to the Nearby Key Biscayne

On your last day in Miami, I recommend driving down to pristine island of Key Biscayne, just a 30-minute drive from South Beach. At the tip of the key is a 400-acre state park named Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park.

My favorite thing is to cycle along the scenic paths in Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, as well as visit the beach at Crandon Park . Don’t forget to visit the Cape Florida Lighthouse after that. Climb the 112 steps to the top of what is South Florida’s only lighthouse for a spectacular view of the Biscayne Bay.

Since you’re at Key Biscayne, drop in at the venerable Rusty Pelican for a seafood lunch by the sea. Its spectacular view of the Miami skyline is unrivaled. While it once had a fairly-dated menu, a new chef brought the place new life about three years ago. We came here on most recent trip to Miami, and were impressed by the trendy and delicious seafood dishes.

On your way back to Miami, make a stop at the Vizcaya Museum , a National Historic Landmark built between 1914 and 1922. Vizcaya is one of the most intact remaining examples from this era, when the nation’s most successful entrepreneurs built estates inspired by the stately homes of Europe.

Be sure to spend some time wandering around the gardens, which resemble the layout of France’s Versailles. The sprawling Formal Gardens were designed by landscape architect Diego Suarez to feel like a great outdoor room, connecting to the main house along a North-South axis.

From there, head to downtown Miami for a cultural experience. Downtown Miami has been given a facelift in recent years, and it’s now a cool cultural hub perfect for those looking to go under the surface of Miami.

Museum Park (also known as Maurice A. Ferre park) is a new cultural district developed on unused waste land. Here you will find the ultra-modern Frost Science Museum, which is home to a Planetarium and an Aquarium. Tickets to the Frost Science Museum start from USD $30. Learn about some of city’s interesting history with a visit to HistoryMiami , which offers several city tour options and exhibitions.

In the evening, enjoy some sundowners at Bayside Marketplace , an entertainment complex right by the water in Downtown Miami. It’s got a nice collection of shops and restaurants, as well as a marina where many boat tours depart from. We used to come here during our university days every weekend, mainly for the al fresco bars!

Day Trips from Miami

You can’t come to Florida and not take a road trip to the Florida Keys! The Keys are a coral cay archipelago located off the southern coast of Florida.  Make  Key Largo your first stop in the Florida Keys. This cute beachside town is the largest town in the Keys with great restaurants that serve up the iconic Key Lime Pie.  

Stop at Islamorada , where you can hand feed giant tarpon at Robbies, before arriving in Key West , the most famous town in the Florida Keys and the southernmost point of continental US. Visit the famous  Ernest Hemingway House  and the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. Don’t miss these   free things to do in Key West .

Just an hour away from Miami, you’ll find the  largest subtropical wilderness in the United States: the Everglades National Park. An  Everglades Airboat Tour  is the best way to experience the Everglades as the vast percentage of the National Park is covered by swamplands and only accessible by boat. Read about our experience cruising the Everglades. Note: The Everglades National Park has an entry cost of $30 per car, valid for 7 days.

I know it sounds ridiculous, but you can actually visit the Bahamas on a day trip from Miami! You can actually catch a ferry to the Bimini islands from Fort Lauderdale, which is just an hour’s drive away. Book a day tour if you’d like them to pick you up from your hotel and show you around Bimini. I recommend exploring the Bimini Nature Trail, Martin Luther King Junior Memorial, and take some time to enjoy the pristine beach.

If you’re visiting from other parts of the US, driving is definitely more convenient than taking the Greyhound (bus) or Amtrak (train). Below is a timetable with the time it takes to drive here from neighboring cities .

Flying into Miami from other parts of the US and internationally is quite affordable. You can fly from Los Angeles to Miami for as little as $300 return (5-hour flight). For the best fares, we always use Skyscanner as they’ve consistently given us the lowest prices.

Flying from Europe to Florida is surprisingly cheap. We took a direct flight from Paris to Fort Lauderdale with Norwegian Airlines (10hours) for $220 one way. 

Search for Cheap Flights to Florida

How to Get Around Florida 

The best way to get around Miami is by car. Miami car rental is very affordable. O ur last car rental in Miami cost us $180 for a week including full insurance, which is around $25 a day. Check the current rates here. If you’re planning to do a Florida road trip , it’s best to book a car rental with pick up and drop-off at Miami Airport.

Compared to the rest of the world, gas prices in Florida are incredibly low. At the moment Florida gas prices sit at around US$2.50 per gallon (3.78L). Miami is rather spread out, so having a car will definitely be useful. [We also rented an e-bike for a day just to explore the downtown area.]

Book Your Car Rental!

If you prefer not to drive, it IS possible to visit popular spots outside of Miami such as the Everglades National Park on day trips. Our favorite site to book day tours is GetYourGuide . They consistently offer the best prices and have free cancellations and mobile vouchers.

Most day trips from Miami cost around US$60 and upwards. There are lots of boat trips and snorkel tours in Florida that are worth doing! The biggest highlight of our Florida trip is swimming with manatees in Crystal River , but that is probably too far for a daytrip. We also really enjoyed our day trip to Dry Tortugas , seriously one of Florida’s best kept secrets.

Here are some of our recommended Florida day tours:

• Miami Star Island Boat Tour
• Everglades Airboat Tour
• Key West Dolphin Eco Tour
• Sunset Sail on a Schooner
•   Crystal River: Snorkel with Manatees Tour

The great thing about Miami is that it is a year-round destination. The coldest it gets in Miami is around 60°F (15°C) in January. July is the warmest month in Miami, when temperatures can rise to up to  90°F (32°C). 

Our favorite time to visit Miami is in fall between September to November. T he weather is perfect around 75°F (24°C), meaning you can still go swimming and enjoy the beaches and springs without getting fried by the heat.

Where to Stay in Miami

It’s hard to find anything less than $100/night in Miami, so this stylish house is a rare find. We stayed here once after a long flight  (it’s near the airport) and it was a great place to rest up. Hudson House is made up of several double rooms (with shared bathrooms) and spacious living area. Check the rates.

One of the iconic landmarks of Miami, the Biltmore Hotel is housed in a Spanish colonial building reminiscent of yesteryears. The plush decor and lush patio reflect its history, while the interior has been completely revamped in recent years. But it’s located in Coral Gables, a lush residential area around a 20-min drive to South Beach. Check the rates here.

Amidst Miami’s iconic Art Deco district stands the chic Shelborne South Beach hotel . It’s got one of the best locations in Miami, right on the beach with a huge pool and lounge area. We stayed here on our most recent trip to Miami and absolutely loved how representative it is of Miami with its yellow-and-white design and chic decor. Check rates here.

Located in the heart of South Beach, this is one of the best hotels in Miami . The upscale property has oceanfront rooms and spacious apartments with spectacular views. It also has 2 swimming pools, including one adults-only rooftop pool. Check the rates here.

This luxury Miami hotel is in the centre of the city’s financial district and offers  views  of the Miami River and Biscayne  Bay . We’ve also stayed here on one of our trips to Miami, and really loved the spacious, the floor-to-ceiling windows in each room. Check rates here.

Miami is where Latin America meets USA. This beautiful fusion is evident from Miami’s vibrant Latino food scene. You can find everything from authentic Mexican tacos to Cuban home-cooked food and barbecued Caribbean fare. On top of that, the abundance of fresh seafood in the waters surrounding Miami means there’s no shortage of excellent seafood restaurants in town!

Here are some of my favorite places to eat:

• Joe’s Stone Crab Restaurant
• Rusty Pelican
• La Cerveceria de Barrio Miami
• Mama’s Tacos
• Sanguich De Miami
• El Mago de Las Fritas

And that’s a wrap! Feel free to print out this Miami itinerary and bring it with you on your weekend getaway! I have packed this Miami itinerary with all the best things you can do in Miami, so get ready to have a blast.

Be sure to leave a comment below if you have any questions. Read more of my Florida and US articles to get idea for your next weekend trip:

• Swimming with Manatees in Florida
• Florida Road Trip Itinerary
• California Road Trip Itinerary
• Arizona Road Trip Itinerary
• Utah Road Trip Itinerary
• Weekend in New York
• Weekend in Boston
• Weekend in Seattle
• Weekend in Los Angeles
• Weekend in San Francisco
• Best National Parks in USA

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to companies I use and trust. I get a small commission when you click on my links, at NO EXTRA COST TO YOU.

Inspired? Pin it!

Nellie Huang

Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 150 countries across 7 continents. She is a book author and Lonely Planet guidebook writer. As an adventure travel blogger, she has a special interest in unusual destinations and deep experiences. Follow her travels on her Facebook and Instagram .

Leave a Comment Cancel Comment

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

The Comments

Thank you, Madam for informations and wonderful photos about wonderful Miami ! Miami is always wortha visit !

You May Also Like

Best national parks in usa 2024, my 2-week route 66 itinerary, 7 best hikes in california.

Get exclusive content!  Subscribe Here

The Only Miami Travel Guide You Need

Disclaimer: this post may contain affiliate links, which at no cost to you I may earn a small commission.

Miami is one of those places where I will never get tired of visiting. Whether you want to spend your time in the sun, trying out new cuisine, or taking in the Art Deco Architecture, there is something for everyone in Miami. I have been returning every year and I always find something new to do that I have to share. Here is my Miami Travel Guide with tips on this fun city.

Where to Stay in Miami

To start this Miami travel guide, ill be breaking down the best places to stay in Miami. This city is not just confined to South Beach. There is a beach called Mid Beach where a lot of beachfront properties are located, as well as Brickell and Downtown Miami.

Each area has its pros and cons. It’s best to know what you plan on doing in Miami so you can better choose a neighborhood.

Miami Neighborhoods:

South Beach & Mid Beach: If going to the beach is your #1 reason to visit Miami, then it’s best you stay on South Beach or Mid Beach.

You’ll be within walking distance to the beach and have your ocean as your front yard. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops in this area as well.

Brickell & Downtown Miami: These neighborhoods are mostly new development high-rises located in the downtown area.

Most of the hotels have a lot more space to work with adding in modern buildings and larger space for amenities with amazing views. However, if you plan on going to the beach, expect to be in a car/ Uber for 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.

Related:  18 Best Hotels in Miami for Every Budget

Betsy Hotel:

I have stayed all over Miami, and the Betsy Hotel is situated in the perfect location right on South Beach in a 1940’s Georgian Revival building.

This boutique upscale hotel offers a comfortable yet luxury experience and has a different vibe from what the other hotels have to offer on South Beach.

Art and literature is an essential part of the design of the hotel. There even is a writing room where writers and creatives have stayed.

You’ll have plenty of space to explore with a rooftop pool and garden, a courtyard pool, library space, a spa, and of course beachfront views.

There are even two beautiful dogs, Betsy and Katie there to greet you. If you are looking for a place to truly relax in the perfect location in Miami, the Betsy Hotel is for you.

How to Get Around Miami

The best way to get around is by using Uber or Lyft. Parking near the beach is hard to come by and expect to pay $35+ a night parking in downtown Miami.

Being car-free will allow you to walk around and explore.

Renting a bike for the day is another fun way to get around. There is a beautiful bike path along the beachfront where you can take in the Art Deco views and many palms.

You can rent the bikes through the CitiBike stations, or find a rental company near the beach.

When to Visit Miami

If you are headed to Miami in the Summer, don’t be startled when the weather app says thunderstorm every day. While it probably will rain during the wet summer months, it usually lasts just an hour and it passes by.

But that doesn’t mean the humidity will leave. That’s why it’s usually better to visit Miami during the fall to spring months to avoid the dense sticky heat.

However, since summertime is technically low season, there definitely will be better deals on flights and accommodation.

What to Do in Miami

Miami beaches.

Obviously, when coming to Miami, you are coming to the beach. Miami has a beautiful white sand stretch of clear waters and the iconic Miami lifeguard stands.

South Beach is a lively fun beach filled with amazing people watching.

If you are looking for a more quiet beach, I would head more north towards the mid beach.

The northern beaches have dedicated seating to hotel guests, but chairs & cabanas are available to rent for about $25.

TIP: Plan your beach days ahead. Bring your supply of water and snacks, as there hardly is food directly on the beach.

Great takeaway beach grub is Le Sandwicherie , located two blocks from the beach. They have awesome (huge) sandwiches and fresh juices perfect for a sunny day.

Wynwood Art District

If you love street art, then this is a must! Wynwood is a grungy yet cool neighborhood just outside of Miami Beach that has incredible street art murals.

While there is a dedicated area for the murals inside of “Wynwood Walls” the art extends past a couple of blocks in each direction. Be sure to look down a the where the art extends to the sidewalks!

Another reason why I love this neighborhood so much is their number of neat restaurants and fun grungy hip bars to check out!

If you want a quick bite defiantly head to Coyo Taco , a fast-casual spot with amazing tacos.

Vizcaya Museum

Architecture and history fans listen up. There are a 1920’s Italian villa and estate owned by James Deering that you can tour right in Miami. The architecture and gardens of Vizcaya are incredible, but the story behind this mansion is what intrigues me most.

James Deering loved to throw parties and the architecture reflects the many guest rooms that he had. He even had a secret door to his room that leads to one special guest room that always remains a mystery.

His story reminds me so much of the Great Gatsby, it’s worth a visit.

Where to Eat in Miami:

Cecconi’s: Cecconi’s is one of my favorite restaurants for a special night out in Miami.

You’ll dine under the stars in this open-aired restaurant with a romantic ambiance where the cuisine tastes just as good as the restaurant looks.

Time Out Market: Time Out Market Miami is a brand new food & beverage market that originated in Lisbon, Portugal. It’s a great way to sample the best of Miami’s cuisine all in one location.

Whatever cuisine you’re craving there will be something inside for you. Also, take advantage of the large open space for seating. 

Chotto Matte: I experienced Chotto Matte first in London, and was thrilled this Asian fusion cuisine was coming to Miami Beach.

Located in a stunning space on Lincoln Road, Chotto Matte offers a unique menu and a chic ambiance.

Española Way: Española Way is a historic street lined with palm trees and twinkle lights offering different options of bars and restaurants.

Havana 1957 is a must for classic mojitos and popular Cuban cuisine. Another great spot is Boteco Copacabana   for Brazilian meats and seafood. 

Where to Drink in Miami:

Juvia: Take in all the views of Miami Beach at Juvia , a rooftop Japanese-Peruvian Restaurant located on Lincoln Road.

You can opt to dine or you can come for the delicious cocktails. Be sure to come in for happy hour for cocktail and food specials!

Broken Shaker: With locations popping up over the US, including Chicago & New York, the Broken Shaker is known for its promising cocktail program.

Grab a cocktail in the open-aired garden for a fun night out in Miami.

Bodega: One of my favorite places in Miami for Happy Hour!

This classic spot has an awesome happy hour with drink specials & $2 tacos. However, Bodega is probably most known for its popular late-night bar scene.

Related:   Miami to Key West Road Trip: Fun 5 Day Itinerary 18 Best Hotels in Miami for Every Budget

Hope you enjoyed this Miami Travel Guide! Save it to your pin boards for reference.

*Disclaimer this post was in partnership with Visit Miami. All opinions are my own.

Dana Berez is a fashion and travel blogger with a focus on affordable style and outfit ideas, especially when traveling. Dana Berez has been featured on the Wall Street Journal, CNN Underscored, Apartment Therapy and more! Plus , you can also watch Dana on Youtube for fashion hauls and travel guides that has over 9 million views.

One Comment

Great guide!!!Hoping to visit soon, definitely gonna carry some of these tips. Thanks for sharing!!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

The Ultimate Travel Guide for Miami, Florida

In this Miami travel guide I want to share with you the best things to do in Miami, where to stay, where to eat, and a few extra tips.

After living in Miami for 13 years and spending 11 of those years on South Beach, I feel qualified to give you a comprehensive travel guide for Miami , complete with places only locals know about.

I will separate this guide into South Beach and the rest of Miami, also known as “Mainland Miami”.

If you only have a couple of days I would suggest just visiting South Beach. If you have a week, you will want to see more of the city.

Miami’s South Beach

South Beach is the most famous part of Miami and the part often seen on television.

It is the southernmost part of Miami Beach which stretches from 1st street to 40th street. It’s glamorous, wild, and beautiful with stunning hotels along the beach and historic art deco buildings.

From Miami airport it is only 11 miles and takes about 20 minutes without traffic.

Things To Do in South Beach, Miami

1. check out the beaches.

No visit to Miami is complete without seeing the turquoise glittering beaches.

The southernmost beaches are the party beaches. Further north and close to the upscale hotels, the beaches are calmer and quieter.

Also Read: What Are the Best Watersports in Miami

2. Go for a Drink on Ocean Drive

Ocean Drive is Miami’s most iconic street , probably because of all the movies it featured in, and therefore one of the must-sees on a trip to Miami Beach.

This iconic strip has art deco buildings and is full of restaurants with happy hours that start at 11 am, so get ready to have some mojitos and enjoy some great people watching!

3. Visit South Pointe Park

This is a local’s favorite . It is a beautiful park at the tip of South Beach.

You can watch the cruise ships depart from the port here on weekends around 4 or 5 pm.

4. Shop or Dine at Española Way

This small charming street is easy to miss, so make sure you don’t.

It’s a popular shopping and dining area that has a Spanish vibe with small boutiques and restaurants.

Española Way is located between 14th and 15th streets, between Washington and Pennsylvania Avenues.

5. Go Paddleboarding

If you haven’t done this, it is surprisingly relaxing, and not to mention, a great workout .

There are many places to go paddleboarding in Miami Beach and you can often find Groupon deals for discounts. You can do this in the bay or the ocean. The bay is calmer and therefore less challenging.

Trust me, paddle boarding looks much harder than it actually is. If you have decent balance skills you can do it. I suggest telling the operator you’ve done it before, otherwise they may make you take a lesson.

On Purdy Avenue on the bay side of the beach just north of Dade Blvd, there is a kayak/paddleboard rental place called Miami Beach Paddleboard.

6. Check out Some Spas

Miami Beach is home to many amazing spas.

One of my favorites is at The Standard Hotel , on the Venetian Causeway just minutes from the beach. It is stunningly beautiful. Children are not permitted at the pool, but dogs are!

You can opt to just have a meal on the water here, but I suggest booking a spa appointment. Once you spend over $100, you get a free day pass to the rest of the facilities. Totally worth it because they charge more than that for a day pass. It’s a whimsical and relaxing spot.

Another fantastic spa in Miami is the one at the Setai Hotel.

7. Stroll Along the Boardwalk

The boardwalk stretches from 23rd to 46th street. Prior to this, starting just north of Nikki Beach around 5th street is a paved oceanside walkway that eventually turns into a traditional wooden boardwalk, and then around 30th street, a paved walkway behind all the hotels.

Unless you are staying at one of the fancy hotels along the boardwalk you may not ever see it.

Note that there are no roller blades or bikes permitted north of 21st street.

It is a nice walk along a scenic part of the beach . Plus you can see the “backyards” of all the fancy hotels with the cool pools.

8. Go to the New World Symphony

Get some culture in your life and enjoy some beautiful music at the New World Symphony .

Or at least just come by and gawk at the stunning architecture and gorgeous landscaping complete with interesting arty structures.

You can bring a blanket, some wine, some food and picnic or simply lie under the stars and listen to the symphony from the state-of-the-art outdoor speakers and watch on the giant screen as the symphony performs inside.

This is one of the best free activities that Miami has to offer .

The wall cast concerts are usually on Saturdays. But check the schedule on their website for more information.

On Wednesdays they show an old movie. And they even have Saturday morning free yoga here in this beautiful space!

9 Don’t Miss Lincoln Road

This is a pedestrian-only street full of shops, cafes and restaurants that runs east to west from the beach to the bay.

Lincoln road is located between 16th and 17th streets. The area is always bustling with activity and is a great spot for people watching.

Where to Stay in Miami’s South Beach

Mid-Range hotel: Dream Hotel South Beach

The beautiful rooftop pool overlooking the ocean makes this one of the hotels I’d highly recommend.

Luxury hotel: SLS South Beach

This is the place to be seen. It truly embodies South Beach with the white breezy Philippe Starck decor. It also hosts Jose Andres’ Bazaar restaurant and Hyde Beach Club.

But you can find hotels in all price ranges in South Beach and hostels as well. I suggest checking Booking.com to find the best hotels in South Beach.

Places to Eat in South Beach

Like the hotels, there is a large range. A few of my favorite places to eat in South Beach:

Budget option: La Sandwicherie

La Sandwicherie offers French style sandwiches that are a hit with locals and tourists. Try the Roast Beef and Camembert with extra cornichons and dressing.

Another budget option: Fratelli La Bufala

They offer great, authentic Neapolitan style pizza.

Mid-Range option: Byblos

Byblos serves Mediterranean food with a twist, in a beautiful setting.

Another mid-range option: Pubbelly Sushi

Pubelly is a great place offering inventive Sushi and Japanese fare.

High-end dining: Prime 112

This is the steakhouse to top all steakhouses. They are known for their killer side dishes including the best lobster bisque and truffle macaroni and cheese you will ever have.

Another High-end dining option: The Bazaar by Jose Andres

This is an epic experience, the creative molecular gastronomy of Jose Andres. The portions are small but the food is beautiful and delicious. Be prepared to splurge!

Clubs and Bars in South Beach

If you’re into clubbing the two places you have to go to in South Beach are Liv , one of the largest and most famous clubs in the world, and Story .

That’s it for South Beach. Now let’s continue this Miami travel guide with some tips for Mainland Miami.

And like I said, while you probably want to check out South Beach first, if you have enough time, do explore mainland Miami too!

Things to Do in Mainland Miami

1. explore wynwood.

This is one of my favorite neighborhoods in Miami.

Wynwood is an artsy, gritty neighborhood that is home to many art galleries and boasts impressive murals on the walls. The famous Wynwood Walls attract quite a bit of attention.

There are many great restaurants and bars here too.

2. Go Shopping in and around Miami

Shopping in Miami is plentiful and fabulous with many great malls.

Aventura Mall is a large indoor mall with a diverse mix of stores. It is located 20 minutes north of Miami in Aventura. Beware there is always traffic!

Bal Harbor Shops  is considered one of the most beautiful malls in the world . However, the shopping is what I would call “Luxury on Steroids”.

I could easily spend an entire paycheck on just one item in one store. It is mostly high-end designer boutiques and there are a few excellent places to eat here.

The Shops at Merrick Park has a perfect combination of beauty and great shopping. Flanked by Nordstrom’s and Neiman Marcus, this outdoor Mediterranean courtyard-style shopping mall is a pleasure to walk through.

Bayside Marketplace is a touristy outdoor shopping and dining area on the bay. The restaurants here are fun and family friendly but not known for gourmet cuisine. It is only 5-10 minutes from South Beach depending on traffic.

3. Visit the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

This Italian style villa was once the winter home of James Deering, built in 1910. It is now a museum with gardens and a National Historic Landmark.

It is a lovely place to visit on a nice day.

They also host a number of events including a Halloween and New Year’s Eve party. And they also do High Tea on the Terrace from time to time. You can check their calendar for event information.

For more information: Vizcaya.org

4. Go to the Everglades

The Everglades is a two million acre wetland ecosystem that reaches from central Florida, near Orlando , all the way south to Florida Bay.

South Florida was at one time mostly Everglades but construction has aggressively encroached on this river of grass that is home to hundreds of animal species including the endangered panther, the manatee, 37 types of snakes, 350 types of birds and of course, alligators!

There are tons of ways to explore the Everglades.

One of my favorites is to bike ride at Shark Valley . You can rent bikes and there is a 14-mile loop that takes you into alligator territory. Halfway through is an observation tower where you can look down into the water. You are guaranteed to see TONS of alligators. There are also beautiful birds and the scenery is a tranquil nature lover’s paradise.

It’s really fun to take an airboat ride where you can really get into the heart of the Everglades and see even more gators. One of the best airboat Everglade tours is done by the Miccosukee Indians and is called Buffalo Tigers.

You can find good prices for Everglade tours and activities via GetYourGuide.com

5. Spend Some Time in Brickell / Downtown Miami

Located directly on Biscayne Bay is the financial and business district of Miami.

The Brickell neighborhood in downtown Miami is a hotspot for young professionals and it has more of a local vibe than South Beach.

Some of my favorite things to do in Brickell:

1. Perez Art Museum : A beautiful museum with a great brunch at the restaurant Verde.

2. Sugar at East : Located in the East Hotel, this rooftop bar and garden is beautiful and the views are spectacular. Bring your standing shoes because you may have to wait in line.

3. American Social : A bar/restaurant with good food and a great scene. Located on the Miami River this is the place to have outdoor happy hour or to watch a game. The Sunday brunch here is great as well.

Where to Stay on Miami’s Mainland

Budget hotel: YVE Hotel

Mid-range hotel: Intercontinental

Luxury hotel: Epic

But again if you want a complete overview of all hotels in Miami I recommend checking Booking.com

Sightseeing and Attractions in Miami

Miami has a lot to offer from shopping tours to boat tours or a day at the Miami Seaquarium.

For good deals on tours and attractions in and around Miami check out GetYourGuide.com

Tip: if you plan to visit several attractions in Miami or go on more than one tour, then get the Go Miami Pass  to save money!

Simplyfixable.com could be a great resource if you’re having trouble with your phone or any electronic device. You can find repair centers in Miami by entering your ZIP code, so you can fix any mobile electronic device.

I hope you found this Miami travel guide helpful. Enjoy your trip!

• Water Sports in Miami Worth Trying
• The Best Places to Visit by Boat in Miami
• The 5 Most Important Things to Look For When Booking a Hotel Room
• The Best Day Trips From Orlando

Like this travel blog with the best things to do in Miami? Pin it!

This Miami travel blog contains affiliate links. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links, at no additional cost to you.

28 thoughts on “The Ultimate Travel Guide for Miami, Florida”

Great guide and helpful tips. Thanks for sharing!

You can also visit live music venues like Bougainvillea’s Old Florida Tavern, Neme Gastrobar and Gramps. Hence, whether you are on a lookout for punk rock or prefer to amuse yourself of Jazz, Miami is the place to be.

Really informative post, Wynwood Walls is my favourite place in Miami, truly an artist paradise.

Miami is a great place for honeymooners, great restaurants for romantic dinners, upscale spas plus all the nice places mentioned on this article.

Really So Amazing !!

Wonderful, I should have read this before visiting Miami a couple of years back ☺️

Some great tips thank you. We arrive on the 18th August from England for 2 weeks and we are staying near North Beach. Would you say it is easy to get to South Beach and Downtown Miami from there? We don’t mind walking and have seen bike hire. Any suggestions welcome. Thank you

Hey Michael. It’s pretty easy by car or maybe bike. It’s kind of a long distance to walk. The city has good bike rental system and there is also Uber or Lyft, ride share services. From North Beach to South Beach without traffic, it is about 15 minutes and would maybe cost $15 in an Uber. I hope that helps!

Hi Alex. Wow that’s such a difficult choice… I think to a 16 year old the keys might be more appealing but if you love nature then the Everglades is definitely a place you want to visit…

Thanks for these ideas! We are going to Miami at the end of the month. We don’t know yet if we are going to visit the everglade or the keys. What do you prefer ? We love nature, I am with my 16 years old teen and my husband

I was in Miami for only two days, spent a day at the South Beach and went on a guided tour at The Everglades around 9pm at night. It is really a weird experience (good weird) to be in the park during the dark and see tons of creatures, including alligators. I wish to visitn Everglades again during the day and check out the rest of the spots you mentioned here. Española Way looks so charming!

Wow wow Miami is the most beautiful and a maicing place to live or have vacation fun.

Wow this is a fantastic guide! Miami seems like an awesome place to visit!

Being a nature lover, for me The Everglades looked the most exciting. Gators and bird watching must be real fun I guess. It’s saddening though to hear about the construction encroaching in. Hope the natural ecosystem from this point on remains intact and safe.

Thanks for the great tips about the hotels and eateries.

The Everglads are a nature lover’s paradise! There are so many different species there. I hope it stays safe also. Glad you liked the tips. I have eaten at many places! LOL

Such a resourceful blog post for people wanting to visit Miami! I’d definitely check out the spa and beaches! Would love to visit some day so when I do I’ll make a note of all these places to visit and eat at! Thanks! 🙂

I’ve never been to the US but I’d love to travel there soon. I’m also fascinated about Miami after watching the series CSI Miami haha. Do you think this place is good for a female solo traveller?

I think it is safe for a female traveller. You have to be cautious like in any other big city. I have been living here for 13 years, living alone most of that time. I walk around by myself at night on South Beach and Downtown on the main roads and feel safe.

The ocean drive looks so appealing. It reminds me instantly of Mumbai’s (India) marine Drive. It is semi circular in shape and looks like a bejeweled necklace from a high rise building. Marine Drive is also lined with old art deco buildings.

How interesting! I never knew they had those similarities!

Great tips! I’m definitely saving this article on Pinterest because I’m moving to Florida in February and I’ll be visiting Miami for sure! Thanks a lot!

Awesome! I’m glad it will be helpful. Good luck with your move!

Love Espanola Way, that vibe would suit me really well. Liked the post but kept thinking of Will Smith’s song about Miami haha!

Haha it’s hard not to think about that song when thinking about Miami!

I’ve only been to Miami once and for a super short period of time, so bookmarking this for future reference when I come back 🙂 I really liked the Aquarium, Key Biscayne, Vizcaya and the beaches. That’s about all I managed to visit when I was there, as I decided to do to Key West for a daytrip and afterwards we already headed out to the Caribbean.

Sounds like you managed to see a lot! Im impressed. That’s more than most people do.

Espanola Way and Wynwood look the most interesting to me. Although I like Miami, it is not one of my favorite American cities. However, my favorite road trip is from Miami to Key West. I enjoyed it even more than the Pacific Coast Highway!

Hey Brian! That is a great road trip and very beautiful!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Contact: [email protected]

Created by Mar y San Design

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

The 12 Best Things to Do in Miami

Miami is vibrant city known for its beach culture, party scene, Cuban influence. It’s definitely considered one of the more high energy, fun cities in America. Miami attracts millions of visitors per year.

Personally, Miami isn’t my favorite city in the States (though I do love the beaches), but there’s absolutely no denying that there’s a lot of fun to be had here. From beaches to partying to Cuban culture to the nearby Everglades, you can do a lot. (And if you’re looking to splash out, there are tons of luxurious hotels, upscale shopping districts, and high-end dining to be found here.)

Here are some of my top things to see and do in Miami:

Table of Contents

1. Explore the Everglades

2. visit little havana, 3. admire the art deco of south beach, 4. see the art in wynwood, 5. take a sightseeing cruise, 6. learn to salsa, 7. immerse yourself in art, 8. visit the museums, 9. do some water sports, 10. visit the vizcaya estate, 11. see coral castle, 12. visit the ancient spanish monastery.

There are plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore the park using your own two feet, but to traverse the waterways, you’ll need to hop in an airboat. The park is only an hour from the city.

Airboat tours cost around $37 USD. If you want a more active boating experience, kayak tours are also popular (expect to pay around $100 for a kayak tour that includes a kayak rental).

Little Havana, Miami’s Cuban neighborhood, was born almost overnight. In the mid-1960s, an estimated 300,000 refugees fled Cuba, with most landing and settling in Miami. Today, over 1.2 million Cuban Americans live in Miami, with Little Havana centering around “Calle Ocho” (SW 8th Street). This is one of my favorite parts of the city and the food here is incredible. Eat in one of the little restaurants and bakeries, walk the vibrant streets, enjoy a Cuba Libre (rum and coke) or Café Cubano (espresso shot sweetened with brown sugar), or get in on some salsa dancing. It’s an arty, quirky neighborhood worth exploring.

Food tours around Little Havana cost around $69 USD and are the best way to learn about the area from an expert local guide.

You can also take an Art Deco bike tour of the area to gain even more insights into the architecture and history.

Wynwood is a former industrial neighborhood that has evolved into a cultural hub/trendy hotspot for graffiti and street art, as well as hip shops, cool restaurants, chill cafes and coffee roasteries, artisan breweries, and art galleries. The most popular attraction here is the Wynwood Walls, a collection of 40 murals from some of the world’s best street artists. The impressive 35,000 square feet of outdoor space, built around existing warehouses, features artists from 21 countries.

The murals are constantly changing, so you never know what you’ll get to see, but many murals address social and political issues, offering commentary on topics such as environmental conservation, immigration, racial justice, and human rights. The Museum of Graffiti, the first museum in the world dedicated to this art form, is also located in the Wynwood neighborhood.

Wynwood Walls: 2520 NW 2nd Ave, (305) 531-4411, thewynwoodwalls.com. Open Mon-Thurs 11am-7pm, Fri 11am-8pm, Sat 10am-8pm, and Sun 10am-7pm. Admission is $12 USD, while a guided tour is $20 USD (includes admission).

Museum of Graffiti: 276 NW 26th St, (786) 580-4678, museumofgraffiti.com. Open Mon-Fri 11am-6pm, Sat-Sun 11am-7pm. Admission is $16 USD.

There are a lot of cruises to choose from but some of the most popular tours are Millionaire’s Row Cruises or Speedboat Tours. Sightseeing cruises are generally around $30-45 USD.

Renowned for its sizzling nightlife and rich Latin culture, Miami’s salsa scene is something that must be experienced. From the iconic Calle Ocho in Little Havana to trendy South Beach, salsa aficionados can find a variety of venues catering to different styles and skill levels.

In Little Havana, Ball & Chain has free salsa classes every Thursday starting at 9pm. If you’re looking for more of a nightclub experience, Mango’s Tropical Café is the best place to go. They offer a Sip, Savor, & Salsa experience every day from 7:30pm–10pm. Tickets are $89 USD and include beginner salsa and bachata lessons, a mojito, food, and entrance to go dancing in Mango’s Nightclub afterward (it opens at 10pm).

An artsy, avant-garde city, Miami offers many different quirky immersive art experiences, with interactive installations, cutting-edge technology, and multi-sensory environments. Here are some of the most popular:

• Superblue Miami – Superblue is a huge (50,000 square feet) experiential art space that showcases large-scale, immersive artworks created by contemporary artists. The exhibits often involve interactive elements and cutting-edge technology. Tickets are $38.50 USD.
• ARTECHOUSE Immersive Art Experience – Artechouse is a space in South Beach that combines art, science, and technology to create immersive digital art installations. The exhibits often use projections, lights, and sound to create visually stunning and interactive environments. Admission is $30 USD.
• Museum of Illusions – Situated in Miami Beach, this museum offers mind-bending optical illusions and immersive exhibits that challenge perception. It’s a fun and interactive experience for visitors of all ages. Tickets are $30 USD.
• Paradox Museum – Fittingly situated in Wynwood, the Paradox Museum is a quirky and interactive museum of optical illusions. It’s also a fun activity to do with kids. Tickets are $30 USD.

While museums aren’t exactly the first thing that comes to mind when most people think of Miami, there are actually quite a few museums in the city worth checking out. Most museums here are art-focused (Miami is a big art city if you haven’t picked that up yet), though there are also a few science and history museums. Some of the museums worth checking out include:

• The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science – Located in Downtown Miami, this museum offers interactive exhibits on science and technology, a planetarium, and an aquarium. It’s a great destination for families and science enthusiasts. Tickets are $29.95 USD.
• Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) – PAMM is a contemporary art museum located in downtown Miami, featuring a stunning waterfront setting and an outdoor hanging sculpture garden. It showcases international modern and contemporary art, with a focus on artists from the Americas. Admission is $18 USD.
• HistoryMiami Museum – Offering a comprehensive look at the history of Miami and South Florida, this museum features exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs that explore the region’s cultural heritage. Admission is $15 USD.
• Bass Museum of Art – Located in Miami Beach, the Bass Museum of Art focuses on contemporary art and features a diverse range of exhibitions, including works by emerging and established artists. Admission is $15 USD.

Whether it’s the adrenaline-pumping excitement of jet skiing, the rhythmic experience of paddleboarding, the exhilaration of windsurfing, the quiet calm of kayaking, there are tons of options to choose from. You can find pretty much every water sport here, including things like flyboarding, which involves riding a water-propelled device called a flyboard and combines elements of wakeboarding, snowboarding, and acrobatics.

Jet ski tutorials are $139 USD (per group of two), parasailing is $130 USD , and flyboarding is $175 USD . If you’re on a budget or simply want to just go out on your own, kayak or paddle board rentals are $19 USD per hour.

3251 South Miami Avenue, (305) 250-9133, vizcaya.org. Open Wed-Mon 9:30am-4:30pm. Admission is $25 USD (advance tickets required).

Coral Castle was created by Latvian-born Miami resident Ed Leedskalnin as a monument to his lover who cancelled their wedding the day before they were meant to get married. Ed channeled his heartbreak into hand-carving 1,1100 tons of coral rock, creating various monuments and sculptures over the span of 28 years. He originally started building in Florida City, yet when a subdivision was planned nearby, he bought land further away, single-handedly moving the heavy coral carvings to Homestead (where Coral Castle is now). It’s a bit of a trip from downtown, but well worth the time.

28655 South Dixie Highway, (305) 248-6345, coralcastle.com. Open Thurs-Sun 9am-6pm. Admission is $18 USD.

16711 West Dixie Highway, (305) 945-1461, spanishmonastery.com. Open Wed-Thu 10am-4pm, Fri-Sat 10am-2pm, and Sun 2pm-5pm. Admission is $10 USD and guided tours are available on weekends.

Miami is the ultimate escape for fun in the sun. People come here to let loose, visit nightclubs, lounge on the beach, and drink the nights away. And while that can certainly all be a fun time, there’s a lot more to Miami than just beaches and clubs. The city offers a dynamic fusion of art, music, and great food, and I encourage you to get out there and explore it!

Book Your Trip to Miami: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay elsewhere, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel – and I think will help you too!

Looking for More Information on Visiting Miami? Check out my in-depth destination guide to Miami with more tips on what to see and do, costs, ways to save, and much, much more!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

Related Posts

Get my best stuff sent straight to you!

Pin it on pinterest.

• Work with me
• Privacy policy

• Years in review
• United Kingdom
• Bosnia & Herzegovina
• North Macedonia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• South Africa
• Africa Overlanding
• Central America
• New Zealand
• Solo Travel
• Budget travel
• Travel tips
• Travel itineraries
• Hidden gems
• Bucket list
• Travel resources
• Digital nomadism
• Blogging tips
• Start a travel blog

The Perfect 2 Day Miami Itinerary For First-Timers

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Welcome to my 2 day Miami itinerary! I recently spent a fantastic 2 days in Miami and it exceeded all my expectations. I didn’t really know much about Miami before my visit to the US . I’d heard of South Beach and seen the glamorous side of Miami portrayed on TV but that was about it. I had no idea that most of the city is Hispanic and there’s plenty of fantastic Mexican and Cuban cuisine to try and culture to be experienced. From vibrant street art to communities from all around the world, there’s more to Miami than just the beach. In this guide, I’ll share my 2 day Miami itinerary including my favourite places, eats, quirky corners and nightlife. Enjoy!

2 DAY MIAMI ITINERARY ESSENTIALS Miami Pocket Lonely Planet Hotels:  Booking.com / Hostelworld Activities:  GetYourGuide  / Viator

How many days are enough for Miami?

Two days is a great amount of time for your first trip to Miami whether you’re visiting for a weekend trip or as part of a larger Florida road trip . You’ll have time to explore a few of the highlights and also relax on the beach, have a few drinks, and sink your teeth into the local cuisine. Granted, you could stay much longer in Miami, especially since there are several day trips you can take, but 2 days in Miami is enough for a nice introduction. For me, a budget traveller , I found Miami very expensive and wouldn’t have been able to stay much longer!

Where to stay during 2 days in Miami

I stayed in Miami Beach and would really recommend it as a base to begin any Florida itinerary . This island city is one of the few places I discovered in Miami that was walkable and easy to get around without a car. The other perk is having the beach right on your doorstep!

Miami Beach’s Art Deco Historic District is another reason to stay nearby. Even if you don’t stay in an Art Deco building, you can wander and admire the largest collection in the world. From the beach to the architecture, there’s nowhere in the world quite like Miami Beach! This neighbourhood has plenty of hotels, apartments and hostels. Apartments in Miami Beach:

• Villa Paradiso Apartment Hotel (suites and apartments with kitchens) from $120
• Villa Venezia (apartment with living room and kitchen from $150

Hotels in Miami Beach:

• Casa Victoria orchid (stylish hotel on Espanola Drive) from $180
• Generator Miami (free pool acccess and bike rental) from $180

Browse all accommodation in Miami on Booking.com .

Hostels in Miami Beach: I stayed at Beds ‘N’ Drinks and would recommend it to other budget travellers. The rooms were comfy (they have dorms and privates), there are several comfy social areas and breakfast was decent with coffee included. Despite the name, it was easy to get a good night’s sleep if you didn’t want to party. It was also a 5-minute walk to the beach. Book here from $15

How to get around Miami

With the exception of a few areas, Miami is not a pedestrian-friendly city. Most people drive everywhere which for me (an Oxford/Londoner) is bizarre. I managed to travel spend 2 days in Miami without getting in a car which must be rare – my tour guide in Little Havana said she’d lived in Miami 30 years without ever taking a bus! Here’s how to get around Miami : Car hire: This is an option if you’d rather have your own set of wheels. Use Rentalcars.com to compare prices and hire a car during your 2 days in Miami. Uber: It’s easy to get around using taxi apps in Miami. The prices were high so I would suggest budget travellers take UberPool. Calculate fares on Taxi Fare . Public transport: The Metrobus and Metrorail are easy to navigate. Most journeys cost $2.25. I took a Metrobus from the airport to Miami Beach, a bus from Miami Beach to Little Havana (changing somewhere in the centre) and another bus from Wynwood Walls to Miami Beach (changing in the centre). I didn’t have mobile data so tried my best to load journeys on public Wi-Fi. It was a faff and the buses didn’t always come when Google Maps said… but I made it! Tip – buy an EASY ticket . Locals use EASY Cards but visitors should get EASY Tickets instead which are free and can be loaded with credit, or you can purchase a 1-day or 7-day pass. You can use these on the Metrobus and Metrorail. I bought mine at the airport Metrorail Station and topped it up.

How to get to Miami

By air – the vast majority of travellers will land at the international airport. I use Skyscanner to get the best deals on flights. By bus – although bus travel isn’t the most common mode of transport in the US, Miami is well connected. You can travel to other cities in Florida such as Miami to Orlando by bus .

How to get from Miami airport

I caught public transport from Miami Airport to Miami Beach. First, I had to board the MIAmover (which is a free train) from my gate to Miami International Airport Metrorail station. From there, I purchased an EASY Ticket and I caught the Miami Beach Airport Flyer Bus (number 150) all the way to Miami Beach, just a block from my hostel. The Airport Flyer Bus runs every 30 minutes from 6am to 11:40pm, seven days a week.

Miami itinerary for 2 days

Quick overview:

• Day 1 – Little Havana, Wynwood Walls
• Day 2 – Miami Beach: South Beach, Española Way, Collins Ave, Art Deco tour, Ocean Drive, Lincoln Road.

Let’s get stuck into my tried & tested Miami 2 day itinerary…

Miami itinerary – day 1

I chose to have a busy first day in Miami then spend my second day relaxing in Miami Beach. I began my Miami itinerary by exploring two of the coolest neighbourhoods, Little Havana and Wynwood Walls. These areas are just a 10-minute drive apart but they’re totally different. By visiting both, you’ll see two totally contrasting sides to Miami…

Morning – Little Havana

I was excited to explore Little Havana partly because I knew I’d be heading to the real Cuba in a few month’s time and wanted to see how they compared. I was visiting Miami as a stopover en route to Mexico so I also couldn’t wait to practice my Spanish. But the main reason? FOOD. I was headed on a Little Havana food tour with the promise of 5+ meals. If you’ve ever read my food blogs before, you’ll know how happy this makes me!

Want to find the best food in Little Havana and explore the area with a local? The walking food tour I took with Miami Culinary Tours is a fantastic option supporting females in the hospitality business. Book on GetYourGuide for $63.

Regardless of whether you’re a foodie or Spanish speaker, Little Havana is a fantastic addition to your Miami itinerary. It’s a chance to explore a unique culture, get to know Miami’s history and meet the Hispanic residents who make up 70% of the Miami population.

Quick background of Little Havana

If you don’t know about Cuban history, you may not understand why there’s a Little Havana in Miami or why over 50% of Miami’s overall population have Cuban origins. The reason relates to the ex Cuban dictator, Fidel Castro, who ruled Cuba mercilessly, inflicting a controlling Communist regime on the country. Understandably, thousands of Cubans were keen to flee. The US Wet Foot Dry Foot policy allowed Cubans to earn US citizenship if they could get a foot on US soil. Some drowned or were captured on the crossing but many made it to Miami where their ancestors still reside today, many within the neighbourhood of Little Havana.

Things to do in Little Havana

– Visit galleries and performance venues : to learn about Cuba and Little Havana via music and art, visit CubaOcho Museum & Performing Arts Center . We watched a musician perform at midday and browsed some impressive pieces of artwork, one of which was apparently worth $35,000! The well-stocked bar and enormous rum collection is another reason to visit. – Shop : there are plenty of places to buy Cuban-style jewellery, art and trinkets. I chatted to the owner of Agustin Gainza Arts and Tavern who told me that the beautiful jewellery is made by his daughter. – Eat Cuban food! Check out my guide to where to eat in Little Havana, Miami . From super strong Cuban coffee to empanadas, Cuban sandwiches, fresh fruit and gelato, there’s so much amazing food in Little Havana.

– Drink. Don’t leave Little Havana without a mojito at famous Ball & Chain , a bar that was closed for years after the owners were arrested for rum smuggling during the prohibition era. If you stay into the evening, explore the Little Havana nightlife .

Where to stay in Little Havana: Selina Miami River (hotel; $100pn); Habitación Céntrica calle 8 Miami (apartment, $60pn); Hostel Brazilian (hostel, $20).

Afternoon – Wynwood Walls

Little Havana was exciting but Wynwood Walls was the reason I was in the US. I’m a huge fan of street art so when I discovered that it was the same price to fly from London – Mexico City with 2 days in Miami, I decided to tag on a visit to the US to see Wynwood Walls, somewhere I’d seen countless times on social media. It didn’t disappoint!

Read next: A complete guide to visiting Wynwood Walls

Wynwood has an interesting history similar to other areas around the world with lots of street art. It was once an industrial part of Miami that received a facelift in the form of street art to repurpose the area.

Want to find the best street art in Wynwood with a guide? Check out this Wynwood Walking Tour with a local expert for $25.

The late Tony Goldman owned much of the area and decided in 2009 that the many large warehouses with no windows would make impressive canvases for urban art. The rest is history and nowadays, Wynwood Walls is a ‘Museum of the Streets’ displaying work from countless international artists.

Where to find street art in Wynwood

Where can’t you find street art? What I like about Wynwood is how walkable it’s become thanks to the street art. I imagine this was once an area where it would be rare to see pedestrians. Nowadays, there are murals dotted all around the neighbourhood which gives people a reason to wander.

Although the joy of Wynwood is exploring aimlessly, if you’re an avid street art fan, you may want to look for murals completed by your favourite artists. In that case, use this official Wynwood map to find specific murals and read about the artists. Don’t forget to tag them on social media if you post photos! Make sure to head to the GGA GALLERY which is central to Wynwood Walls and hosts permanent and temporary exhibitions. I was lucky enough to catch one from Kobra , one of my favourite street artists.

Where to eat and drink in Wynwood

World Famous House of Mac – this restaurant needs no frills. They serve all kinds of mac and cheese dishes like jerk chicken mac and cheese and lobster mac and cheese. Prices start at $14 for huge portions. Zak the Baker – you can’t miss the rainbow-coloured bakery which blends into the backdrop of Wynwood Walls. But it’s more than a colour pop: there are croissants, salads, pasta dishes, deli foods and coffee. Everything is kosher. Order the chocolate croissant! La Tiendita Taqueria – this is the place to eat tacos, quesadillas, chilaquiles and flautas washed down with frozen margs made with tequila or mezcal. Prices are high but worth it.

Where to stay in Wynwood: Stylish studio apartments with cooking facilities – book from $120 a night . Browse all apartments in Wynwood .

If you have extra time

If you manage to visit Little Havana and Wynwood Walls during the morning/early afternoon, there are a couple of other places in the downtown area that you could add to your Miami itinerary. These are:

• Pérez Art Museum Miam i (PAMM) – this 3-level gallery is impressive from the offset with hanging gardens and Biscayne Bay views. The modern and contemporary art celebrates Miami’s diversity and Hispanic communities. Entrance is €16 or free on the first Thursday and second Saturday of the month.
• Miami Children’s Museum – these interactive exhibits (available in different languages) allow children to learn about the world around them in fun ways. Entry costs $22.

Miami itinerary – day 2

If you have a second day in Miami, there are plenty of things to do. Personally, I was feeling burnt out from all the long journeys I’d taken on public transport the day before (as I mentioned, the bus system in Miami isn’t the best) and was glad to stay near my accommodation and relax around Miami Beach. If you fancy something a bit more active, a few things you could do during the second day of your Miami itinerary include: – Vizcaya Museum and Gardens: this is one of Miami’s most beautiful buildings located in Coconut Grove and built in Renaissance style. Wander the 43 acres, snap photos and escape the busy city. – Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden : another ideal place for some fresh air is this 83-acre estate a 30-minute drive from central Miami. There’s a rainforest, running water and plenty of events that can be researched on the website . – Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park : jutting down below Miami is Key Biscayne, an island connected to the mainland by road. At the tip of the island is this state park, measuring 400 acres and filled with picnic areas and biking trails. You can enjoy the beach and practise water sports.

Miami Beach

If you’re like me and want to relax, finish your 2 day Miami itinerary by exploring the beach and its surrounds. ‘Miami Beach’ refers to the island connected to mainland Miami by a set of bridges and there are several beaches to explore: North Beach, Mid-Beach and South Beach.

Browse GetYourGuide in Miami Beach including boat trips and paddleboarding .

After you’ve been swimming and had a chance to relax on the sand, there are some worthwhile places to check out in the neighbourhood which I’ll mention as we continue this Miami itinerary. Nearest to my hostel was South Beach and I’d recommend this section of Miami Beach as a safe, friendly place to relax. You can spend the whole day relaxing and soaking up the Miami vibes. You can’t visit the city and not come here! Spot the Art Deco lifeguard stands (where else but Miami?) and stay for sunset. Getting around Miami Beach: You don’t need a car here as things are pedestrianised. However, you may end up walking a lot – why not hire a CitiBike to get about?

Busy beaches not your scene? There are plenty of quiet beaches in Miami you can visit instead!

Española Way 

Another place to explore during 2 days in Miami is Española Way , originally built in the 1920s to resemble charming Mediterranean villages in Europe. While it was frequented with artists then, it’s now popular with locals and tourists especially as it had a multi-million dollar facelift a few years back. As well as being incredibly picturesque, Española Way is full of cute shops and restaurants including Italian, Japanese and Mexican. It comes to life in the evenings when tables spill out into the street. Consider visiting in the evening for an atmospheric dinner, and finish with drinks at Española Cigars Craft Bar & Lounge .

Miami Beach Botanical Garden

Another option between South Beach and Mid Beach is Miami Beach Botanical Garden , a 4-acre site with flora and fauna native to Miami as well as a peaceful Japanese Garden. Wander the Garden Center and pick up gifts at the Botanical Boutique. Open from 9am-5pm, Tues-Fri (closed Monday). See if your visit coincides with an event like yoga or coffee in the gardens.

Lummus Park

Lodged between South Beach and Ocean Drive is another beautiful destination for your Miami itinerary. Lummus Park is a large green space with beach access, a playground for kids and fitness equipment for those who ate one too many Cubano in Little Havana the day before…

Art Deco buildings

I knew nothing about Art Deco before my trip to Miami but I was blown away by these colourful, quirky buildings. Little did I know I would see even more in Condesa, Mexico City during the following months. Even if you’re not into architecture, you’ll love wandering around Miami Beach and spotting these vibrant and unusual-looking buildings.

Art Deco Welcome Center

If, like me, you know little about Art Deco, this is a great starting point. The Art Deco Welcome Center (1001 Ocean Drive) in Lummus Park houses the Art Deco Museum and offers visitors advice about what to do in the area.

Some of the must-see Art Deco buildings in Miami Beach include: – Colony Theatre, Lincoln Road – this perfectly maintained retro theatre is still open as a performing arts venue. – Cavalier Hotel, Ocean Drive – this pretty blue hotel has gorgeous coloured detailing under the windows that looks almost Aztec, probably because the architect, Roy France, was fascinated by ancient civilisations.

Related activity: Art Deco bike tour in Miami

– Park Central Hotel , Ocean Drive – this bright blue building has circular windows (that remind me of portholes) all built in observance of the ‘Rule of Three’ which is at the heart of Art Deco style. – Senor Frogs, Collins Avenue – once an elaborate 1940s cafeteria, this is now Miami Beach’s most infamous bar. Whether you go inside for drinks or snap a few photos from the outside, it’s worth it. – The McAlpin, Ocean Drive – this iconic hotel is painted white with pastel pink and pale green colour pops. Like the others, it’s perfectly symmetrical. – The Breakwater, Ocean Drive – possibly my favourite Art Deco building in Miami, this hotel has a purple facade with a neon-studded tower at its centre. Apparently inside there are 99 boutique rooms.

Ocean Drive

You can’t miss it, especially if you’ve already explored the Art Deco buildings, but it’s worth adding Ocean Drive to your Miami bucket list. Here there are boutique beach shops, coffee shops and many stylish bars serving margaritas! Like much of the area, it’s busy 24-7 but really comes to life as a party destination at night.

Lincoln Road

If Ocean Drive is the place to sightsee and promenade, then Lincoln Road is a place to relax and socialise after a hard day’s exploring. This wide, pedestrianised street is overflowing with cafes and all kinds of restaurants from Latin American to European and Middle Eastern. There are more global chains on Lincoln than independent boutiques so I preferred it for people-watching than shopping.

South Pointe Park

If you follow Ocean Drive the whole way, you’ll eventually reach South Pointe Park at the tip of the island. Enjoy South Pointe Beach and grab coffee or shakes at South Pointe Cafe or – better yet – finish your Miami itinerary in style with cocktails on Smith & Wollensky’s outdoor terrace.

Where to eat during 2 days in Miami

Miami Beach has a reputation for being expensive and I can confirm that to be true! I can’t tell you much about upmarket restaurants in Miami Beach but I can tell you about some affordable, casual eateries to visit during your 2 day Miami itinerary.

Budget eats in Miami Beach

Sriracha House – I loved this healthy Asian cafe on Washington Avenue. You can choose from noodles (egg, rice, glass, udon or wholewheat) or rice (jasmine or brown), then top with a protein (meat, shrimp or vegan), veggies and a sauce. I went with Vietnamese green coconut milk curry but there are other inventive choices like Mongolian tamarind and Taiwanese oyster sauce. I paid $11 for lunch which is cheap for Miami!

Hiro’s Sushi Express (South Beach) – I ended up eating here twice in two days which is high praise. The sushi is tasty and affordable. You can eat in, takeaway or order via UberEats.

Upscale eats in Miami Beach

If you have 2 days in Miami and fancy treating yourself, go for it! While I didn’t dine here myself, I heard great things about The Local House which does all kinds of fancy brunch dishes like caramelised banana pancakes and eggs benedict, washed down with cocktails. To try Cuban food in fun and authentic surrounds, head to one of the branches of Havana 1957 and order the ropa veija and a mojito!

Nightlife in Miami Beach

There are so many bars and clubs in Miami Beach. For a proper night out, head to Twist South Beach , one of Miami Beach’s megaclubs and a popular LBGT+ venue with 7 different bars, drag acts and DJs from around the world. For a lively Latin-inspired evening, visit Mango’s Tropical Cafe which has been a Miami favourite for the last 30 years.

Miami itinerary – additional day trips

I only had 2 days in Miami but if I’d had an extra day, I would have taken one of the many popular day trips from Miami . These include: Key West archipelago – this set of tiny islands connected by road can easily be visited from Miami. As the southernmost point of the USA (only 90 miles north of Cuba), it’s a favourite with cruise ships but you can also self-drive or take a day tour. Browse GetYourGuide tours to Key West from Miami some including dolphin watching, snorkelling, sailing and more. Everglades National Park – this is one of the most famous regions of Miami and now a World Heritage Site known for its swamps and marshlands home to all kinds of important habitats. Turtles, panthers, alligators and manatees live in this protected reserve measuring 1.5 million acres. Browse Everglades tours with GetYourGuide . Biscayne National Park – another natural wonderland south of Miami is Biscayne. This national park is almost entirely underwater, boasting incredible coral reefs and mangrove forest. If you’re lucky, you might glimpse turtles and dolphins. Take a Biscayne boat cruise with GetYourGuide . Boat trips from Bayside Marketplace – this waterside shopping centre is worth a visit in its own right with a huge collection of shops and eateries. It’s also the location that boat rides depart for as little as $20 around Millionaire’s Row and the Venetian Islands. Browse boat trips here .

When is the best time of year to visit Miami?

Miami is warm and sunny year-round. Peak season is November-April so you can expect things to be busy especially during the Christmas holidays. June-October is rainy season. During my October visit, it was glorious sunshine aside from some crazy showers when I got stranded in a fancy cafe and couldn’t afford to eat anything. Fail!

How expensive is Miami?

I won’t lie, it’s not a cheap destination! Hotels cost on average $160 per night, while a meal in a mid-range restaurant will probably cost you €20 not including drinks or tips. I managed to travel on a budget by staying in hotels, taking public transport and eating takeout food. I spent $200 during 2 days in Miami. If you’re not from the US, remember to factor in tips! As a Brit, I would never consider tipping 10-20% but this is the norm in Miami.

Final tips for visiting Miami

• In certain neighbourhoods like Little Havana, Spanish is more common than English. Download Google Translate or pack a Spanish Phrasebook.
• Miami gets hot and humid so make sure to add sunscreen, sunhat and glasses to your Florida packing list
• If you need Wi-Fi, nip into Mcdonalds or Starbucks as it’s usually available for free.
• For safety reasons, avoid walking on the beach at night. I would also advise avoiding areas you don’t know in the downtown area after dusk.
• If you’ll visit a lot of attractions in a short space of time, pick up a 1, 2 ,3 or 5-day Miami Card before you travel.

Useful travel links Guidebook: Lonely Planet get my seal of approval. Pack a copy of Miami Pocket Lonely Planet . Flights (international and domestic): I use Skyscanner and search by month to see the cheapest dates. Car hire – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals and campers in the US (and all around the world). For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away with travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse tours and activities on GetYourGuide . I also check Viator as they often have fun and unique offerings. For food tours pairing travellers with passionate local chefs and foodies, check out EatWith .  Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing .

Thanks for reading my Miami itinerary!

I hope you enjoy your 2 days in Miami as much as I did. I have no idea when I’ll be back to this city but I hope I return one day!

Read my other Miami guides:

• Where to eat in Little Havana, Miami
• How to visit Wynwood Walls, Miami

See you next time,

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

Ps. Spending 2 days in Miami? Pin this for later!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You can see how this popup was set up in our step-by-step guide: https://wppopupmaker.com/guides/auto-opening-announcement-popups/

A beginner's guide to visiting Miami: Everything you need to eat, see and do

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

Editor's Note: As the travel industry reopens following COVID-19 shutdowns, TPG suggests that you talk to your doctor, follow health officials' guidance and research local travel restrictions before booking that next trip. We will be here to help you prepare, whether it is next month or next year.

Any mention of Miami evokes visions of sun-soaked beaches, glamour, international flair, and a buzzing nightlife scene of drinking and dining. No wonder this South Florida city attracts vacationers from around the world to its shores -- there's so much to offer to every kind of traveler.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Before you make your first trip down to "The 305," make sure you're aware of all there is to see, eat, drink and do. Whether you want to relax at a beachfront resort or take in the city's rich cultural and culinary experiences, you won't be disappointed in Miami.

How to get to Miami

Getting to Miami is easy. Although airline route networks have been significantly altered because of the coronavirus pandemic , Miami International Airport (MIA) is one of American Airlines' largest and busiest hubs, offering lots of connecting flights to the Caribbean and Latin America. Most midsize and large cities across the nation have nonstop service to MIA , making a trip to this electric city quick and easy for many.

And, if you strike out on flights into MIA , Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is about 30 miles north of South Beach and is perhaps even better located for reaching resorts like Aventura and Bal Harbour on the northern edges of the Miami metro area.

Related: What's the best way to fly between New York and Miami?

Getting around

Once you're in Miami, you'll want to get around by car. The area is sprawling and although the city has a public-transit system, it isn't extensive or the most convenient option for visitors. A car rental would be a great option for anyone who plans to do extensive exploration of the region, while Uber or other ride-hailing services will be more than sufficient to transport you from your resort to dinner and back.

Where to eat and drink in Miami

Over the years, Miami has gained a reputation for being one of the best places in the U.S. to eat, thanks to the rich combination of restaurants that have become local institutions, the recent trend of buzzy, high-end dining spots, and a strong influence from Latin America -- particularly Cuba .

Best restaurants in Miami

There's no way you'll get around to sampling all the phenomenal food Miami has to offer in one trip, so here are some of the highlights that you can't miss on your first trip.

One of the city's most venerable restaurants, Joe's Stone Crab. Since 1952, it has been attracting flocks of diners eager to taste the restaurant's famous -- you guessed it -- stone crab. They're especially delicious when they're in peak season between October and May. Located in South Beach, this Miami standby doesn't take reservations, so be prepared to arrive early and wait quite a while for a table. And whatever you do, save room for key lime pie.

In Miami's Little Havana neighborhood, on the famous Calle Ocho, Sanguich de Miami serves up traditional Cuban sandwiches with modern twists. For your first trip, though, you should stick to the classic Cubano sandwich, made with pork, spiced ham, Swiss cheese and mustard on toasty Cuban bread. Don't forget to indulge in a batido , a rich milkshake that comes in multiple flavors.

Wynwood is Miami's hippest neighborhood, with tons of restaurants, cafes and bars. One of my favorites in the area is Kyu, a restaurant featuring Asian-inspired dishes cooked on a wood-fired grill and focused on sustainability and green practices. Opt for dishes like the crispy pork belly buns, a whole roasted cauliflower with goat cheese, shishito-herb vinaigrette, myoga and shiso and baby bok choy with toasted garlic, chili and lemon.

Greek cuisine is big in this seaside city, and one of the best options in town is Mandolin Aegean Bistro in the Miami Design District. I've visited this restaurant many times during visits to the city, and I recommend sitting outside and ordering the grilled octopus to share with your group, and then enjoy kebabs of lamb, chicken and beef along with a bottle or two of crisp Mediterranean wine.

Miami is a city in which to see and be seen, and there are perhaps no better places to do that than at any one of the city's high-end and trendy Japanese restaurants. There's no shortage of places to get high-priced sushi in the city, but Makoto, located in the Shops at Bal Harbour, one of the city's most affluent areas, stands out. Expect a full menu of raw fish dishes, but Makoto offers more to diners, too, with its charcoal robata, which churns out Japanese barbecue-style dishes to hungry diners every night.

Best bars in Miami

Miami has a wide range of drinking establishments for every type of vibe you could want on a given night -- or day, from rooftop hangouts to laid-back beachside watering holes, you won't lack for places to get a cold drink. Here are some "greatest hits" for a first trip to Miami.

Just north of Downtown Miami, Esotico is a paradise for anyone who loves tiki bars and Polynesian culture. Covered in tropical flora, this drinking spot serves up rum-based Polynesian cocktails that will instantly transport you to the South Pacific.

The Broken Shaker at the Freehand Hotel in Miami Beach is an ideal place to begin any evening out in Miami, and I make sure to stop by for a drink or two every time I'm in town. Most of the bar is outside in a lushly landscaped courtyard that even features a pool that guests can sit around while they enjoy cocktails. This laid-back spot's outdoor emphasis suits balmy Miami evenings perfectly.

One of the last true dive bars in Miami Beach, Mac's Club Deuce, is a guaranteed good time. Featuring old-time classics like a jukebox, pool tables and terrible lighting, it's a great place to change up the pace from the typical nightclub-heavy nightlife scene in Miami.

What to see and do in Miami

Many people -- including myself on occasion -- choose to spend a Miami vacation by spending the whole day at the pool or beach and only venturing from the hotel to go to dinner in the evening. That's a totally acceptable way to vacation in South Florida. But Miami has other things to do and see.

One of the most culturally vibrant cities in the country, Miami is full of museums, cultural institutions, sporting events and more that can easily fill your days.

One of the hottest spots in the city is what's known as the Wynwood Walls, in the Wynwood district. The Walls are a display of public art created several years ago when this area of the city began its transformation from a zone of derelict warehouses to one of the city's trendiest districts. Today, the Walls and their murals attract artists from all over the world eager to leave their mark on the city.

One of Miami's most iconic attractions is the Art Deco Historic District found in South Beach. The district has the largest concentration of Art Deco buildings in the U.S. — including the famed Versace Mansion — and transports visitors back to the heyday of Miami's glamour. The pastel-colored buildings lining the beach come alive at night with their neon signs beckoning passersby to stop in for a drink or meal.

Another area that you won't want to miss is the city's Little Havana neighborhood, the center of Miami's strong Cuban heritage. Stroll down the famous Calle Ocho and pick up a case of Cuban cigars, enjoy a cafecito which is a very potent -- and sweet -- espresso drink and sample the numerous culinary delights that are abundant in the neighborhood.

If you're looking to escape the city for a day and get out into nature, look no further than Everglades National Park, which is the third-largest national park in the continental United States and the largest tropical wilderness in the nation at over 1.5 million acres. There's plenty to keep you busy on a visit to the park, with miles of trails, campgrounds, waterways for boating and even observation areas for stunning dark skies at night.

Florida is synonymous with golf, and if you're a fan of the sport, you can't go wrong in Miami. The area is home to more than 20 courses ranging from public courses such as the Miami Beach Golf Club to high-end resort courses like the duo at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa. Whichever route you choose, you'll be (likely) blessed with picture-perfect weather and beautifully maintained fairways.

For some fun for the whole family, head to the Miami Seaquarium in Key Biscayne, south of the city. The kids will love meeting and learning about all the marine animals including turtles, seals and dolphins, and it's a perfect activity for a rainy day or to get out of the blazing summer sun. Book your visit online for the best prices.

For a heavy dose of culture, visit the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM), which is the city's preeminent art museum. Set in a stunning building next to Biscayne Bay, the museum was designed by the renowned architecture firm, Herzog & de Meuron. It provides a fitting home for international modern and contemporary art, presented from the viewpoint of U.S. Latino people, as well as those from the African diaspora, Latin America and the Caribbean.

Where to stay in Miami

Budget-friendly.

Located in the heart of South Beach just blocks from the beach, The Gates Hotel South Beach - A DoubleTree Hotel is a great option for travelers on a budget. With rooms from around $170 or 50,000 Hilton Honors points per night, you'll be paying significantly less than other properties in the area -- especially those right on the beach. Expect an outdoor pool, spa services and, of course, the famous DoubleTree cookies to help enhance your Miami vacation.

Great value on points

One of Hyatt's few beachfront hotels in Miami, the Confidante Miami Beach packs a big punch at a great price -- especially when you're paying with points. As a Category 4 property in the World of Hyatt program , an award night will run you just 15,000 points. (Or, you can use a Category 1-4 award-night certificate that you get on the anniversary of the World of Hyatt Credit Card.) And, Hyatt points are easy to earn, since the program is a 1:1 transfer partner with Chase Ultimate Rewards . Once you're there, you'll delight in the 1940s-era property complete with three dining and drinking outposts, two heated pools, a fitness center, spa and, of course, a prime oceanfront location.

For refined oceanfront luxury, look no further than The St. Regis Bal Harbour . Appropriately located in Miami's well-heeled Bal Harbour neighborhood, The St. Regis makes a big impression on the beach. Huge and luxuriously appointed guest rooms and the signature St. Regis butler service makes this five-star property stand out. And with three restaurants, two resort pools, a top-notch Remède spa, expansive private beach and more on offer, you won't even have to leave the property during your stay. This is a top-tier Category 8 Marriott Bonvoy hotel, so a free night will cost you 70,000 points for an off-peak night, 85,000 for a standard night and 100,000 for a peak night.

Related: Full review of The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach

Bottom line

Miami has so much to offer to every type of traveler, so you must prepare for your first trip so you don't waste valuable time once your vacation has started. Use these TPG recommendations and you can feel confident that you'll get a taste of the city, but know that you'll have to schedule several return trips before you can even begin to scratch the surface. After you visit once, there's no doubt you'll want to return.

How to Spend Three Days in Miami: A 2023 Travel Itinerary

Miami makes for the perfect long-weekend getaway. Miami provides the goods, from incredible food to world-class beaches and a nightlife that flows well into the following morning. 

The beaches in Miami are hard to top, anywhere in the US. The dazzling coastline offers an abundance of potential activities from volleyball, rollerblading, outside gyms and plenty of evening BBQs. Not to mention the people watching in South Beach is an adventure all on its own. 

The evening’s party vibe is what attracts most travelers to Miami, especially those seeking a fun weekend away from regular life. The local nightlife is a vibrant experience with famed nightclubs, international DJs, traditional music and lively bars that awaken from their afternoon slumber every night.  

Besides tanning on the beach and partying into the early hours, Miami has a delightful food scene with amazing Latin American cuisine made with the authentic touch of Miami’s Cuban community. Begin your day sipping on Cuban coffee before upgrading to Cuban cocktails.

Potentially the most exciting aspect of Miami’s food scene is the subtle difference between particular communities. Whether that be Cuban, Ecuadorian, or Puerto Rican, one staple dish will taste different, but just as good, wherever you go. 

There is also more to Miami than sun, sex and sand. The depth of history in the city is underrated and unexplored by most travelers seeking a simple vacation of beaches and cocktails. 

The art scene continues to grow alongside the colorful, historic art deco buildings that line the beachfront. From open-air galleries to contemporary art events, Miami is a cove of growing artistry.

Where to Stay

Staying in Downtown Miami or in the Wynwood district will place you close to many grand adventures in the city. However, for the best Miami experience, stay in South Beach. Here you can walk outside and be right among the exciting atmosphere, with the beach, restaurants and bars all within walking distance.

If you need a good sleep at night, stay a few blocks inland from Ocean Avenue.

Miami is a year-round destination, a city that never sleeps. Peak season is during the northern hemisphere winter which can raise the cost of hotels and flights. However, what better way to escape the cold than by enjoying the warm Miami sun?

March is extremely busy on the back of Spring Breakers rolling into town. But April and May offer a better balance of pleasant weather and lower crowds. The summer months bring a lot more rainy days along with stifling temperatures that may limit your desire to explore on foot. 

Day 1: Arts and Culture

Welcome to Miami! Depending on how much time you have to enjoy your first day here, it’s best to start by exploring Miami’s interesting history and soaking up the city’s amazing arts and culture. 

There’s no better spot to begin than within the Wynwood Arts District. Begin your day of sightseeing by fueling up at the Salty Donut before discovering how local artists have transformed the area from a neighborhood of abandoned factories into a revolving art exhibit.

Wynwood is full of delightful cafes, dozens of galleries along with local boutiques and thrift stores. But the real highlight is the Wynwood Walls, the beating heart of the neighborhood. The walls are all outdoors with pedestrian-only access so you can stroll around without a care in the world.

After Wynwood, make the short 15-minute journey over to Little Havana for a unique insight into the strong local Cuban community. Here you can explore Latin American art, thriving restaurants serving authentic, homemade dishes and cafes slinging Cuban coffee to cigar-wielding patrons. 

Calle Ocho is the center of all that goes on in Little Havana. One of the most famous parts of Miami, where you can find locals playing endless dominoes, an age-old tradition that is as much about socializing as it is about the game. 

As you walk around stop by Los Penarenos Fruteria, a tropical fruit store that has been in operation since the 1960s. Grab yourself a delectable juice and make your way to one of the many cigar shops in Little Havana. El Titan de Bronze is a prominent store where you can see how the cigars are hand-rolled. 

Before returning to your hotel, make one last stop at an iconic Little Havana bar called Ball & Chain. Here you will find a spacious outdoor patio, the perfect spot for sipping on their specialty mojitos. Live Music is a constant on the patio so you can easily kick back and spend a few hours here. If you stay long enough, you can be salsa dancing with locals all night long. 

Alternatively…

Exploring Little Havana and Wynwood on your own two feet is a fantastic way of getting to know Miami. While there are a bunch of outstanding restaurants to pick from throughout the day, why not leave it up to the experts? Join a Little Havana Food Tour to explore the incredible food culture of the neighborhood while also discovering the underground art scene. 

Where to Eat

If you didn’t sign up for the food tour or still have room in the belly, then a stop at Old’s Havana is a must for anyone seeking a scrumptious Cuban sandwich when in town. Other dishes worth trying are the pollo frito, a mojo-marinated chicken and the braised pork tamale. 

On night one in Miami, treat yourself with a visit to Over Under. An electric watering hole, featuring expertly crafted cocktails, boozy frozen drinks and a delicious menu that won’t burn a hole in your pocket. The Jamaican-style veggie burger is lathered in a special dressing so good that any avid meat-eater could be converted. 

Day Two: South Beach

When people think of a trip to Miami their minds immediately wander to a stretch of white sand beaches, and walking paths filled with rollerbladers. Yes, South Beach!

This could easily be your first stop in Miami, but we’ve placed it on day 2 of our itinerary so you can have a full day experiencing one of the best beaches in the USA. 

Once you have found a spot on the beach, it’s time to take in that hot Miami sun and the views all the way to the horizon. When you can, take a picture with one of the many colorful lifeguard stands that dot the length of the beach.

If you’re feeling energetic, you can grab a volleyball and have a game on the glistening white sands underneath the turquoise sky. Now that’s a Miami experience.

Directly behind you will be the wonderful Lummus Park, the perfect escape when you need a break from the sun. With an abundance of towering palm trees, there will be plenty of shade on the luscious grass. Break open the book or rent a bike and ride the paths.

Now you could spend all day switching between the hot white sands and the shady park, but there is so much more to South Beach. From Lummus Park, walk 10 steps and find yourself on Ocean Drive, one of the best streets to walk down in all of Miami.

With vibrant, throwback architecture, these Art Deco buildings house a variety of restaurants and bars that are great for people watching. Once you’re fueled up, rather than return to the beach, it’s time to go for a stroll down Ocean Drive.

Full of boutique stores, once you have your fix simply make your way one block inland and stroll the eclectic Collins and Washington Avenue. The former has designer shops in droves, with the latter providing the vintage goods.

If you feel like roaming around South Beach and learning about its fascinating history, along with its arts and culture, then why not join a walking tour ? Or even better, get off your feet and onto a bike with this wonderful 2-hour Art Deco bike tour ?

Once you’re back from your tour, it is time to take in the Miami sunset. When in South Beach there’s no better spot to watch the sun go down than at South Point Park. Right near the Port of Miami you can watch the cruise ships come in and out of the harbor with amazing views towards the Downtown Miami Skyline. 

From your comfy perch in the park sit back with friends, family and a cheeky bottle of bubbly and watch the sun fall behind the skyline lighting up the horizon with bright warm colors. 

Now, it is time to return to your hotel, freshen up and get ready for an incredible time experiencing the iconic nightlife of South Beach. Now keep in mind that Miami operates on a slightly different clock than much of the world. 

Although the stretch of bars and clubs along Ocean Drive are abuzz from the early evening, they don’t reach their peak until after midnight. Depending on how you like to party, it’s worth timing your run a little later here in Miami.

After a wonderful dinner in South Beach, it’s time for the fun to begin. With the sun down and the moon up, residents of South Beach dress to the nines and expensive cars slowly cruise down the strip. 

The whole stretch of Ocean Drive presents endless options for enjoying a late night cocktail and some dancing. From Sweet Liberty Drinks, to the cheap drinks at Time Out Market and the sprawling dancefloor at Mac’s Club Deuce, you can’t go wrong. 

But if you want to hit up multiple establishments and maybe make a friend or two, then sign up for the South Beach Pub Crawl . 

Finish up early at the beach and make your way to the pedestrian shopping street called the Lincoln Road Mall. Home to almost all stores, from major brands to local boutiques, shop till you drop as you walk by many cocktail bars, restaurants home to a ton of different cuisines and the odd food truck serving anything from donuts to seafood.

Rather than sit back and relax at South Point Park, jump on a sunset cruise and see even more of South Beach. Watch the sun fall behind the Miami skyline from your motor cruiser but only after you’ve cruised along Biscayne Bay. On your late afternoon adventure you will see the iconic Star Island, home to Al Capone’s mansion along with the Venetian Islands.

Start your first morning in Miami with a bomb by having brunch at Cecconi’s. This longtime brunch haunt has been a go-to for locals since Cecconi’s opened its doors. On arrival you will be treated to a complimentary Bellini or mimosa and from there you can enjoy their Weekend Feast, an upscale all-you-can-eat buffet. Chow down in a magical courtyard with the early sun poking through the canopy. Book ahead as seats fill up quick! 

Although you may come back at night for some of the best value cocktails in Miami, Time Out Market is also a brilliant spot for lunch on day two in Miami. Time Out Market combines many of the best chefs and restaurants under one roof, giving you a taste of all things good without having to leave the building. 

Espanola Way is a small pedestrian street that wonderfully mimics a Spanish village. With bright twinkling sky lights lining the street, it is a great place to have dinner. Tapas Y Tintos serves up some of the best tapas and seafood paellas in Miami. Wash it all down with their authentic Spanish sangria served in a terracotta vase.

Day 3: Coral Gables

With potent influence from the architecture of the Mediterranean, Coral Gables just might be the most gorgeous neighborhood in the country. Offering endless leafy boulevards, flanked by terracotta roofs and shady parks, Coral Gables is the polar opposite of yesterday’s adventure to South Beach.

A highlight for any trip to Coral Gables is a visit to the famous Venetian Pool. Now you can escape from the midday heat while also enjoying your own slice of history. The pool dated back to the early 20th century and was created naturally from a rock quarry which filled up with fresh water from underground.

Realistically, you could spend all day at the Venetian Pool and at only $13 it is one of the best inexpensive activities in Miami. Arrive early as only a limited amount of tickets are issued each day.

Next up, it’s time to trade a natural pool for an unnatural beach. Make your way to Matheson Hammock Park where you will find a pristine man-made beach right at the end of Biscayne Bay. But rather than relaxing under the sun, there is still time for plenty of fun. You will have the option of renting a kayak and exploring the bay, or trying your hard at stand up paddleboarding. If you feel like going for a stroll, join a nearby trail and exploring the shady woodlands right behind the beach.

Downtown Miami has transformed significantly over the last two decades. Now it is packed with things to do and if you aren’t up for going to Coral Gables, this is the perfect backup plan.

There are multiple museums such as Museum Park and Frost Science Museum, great for young and old alike. Art lovers will enjoy the extensive collection at PAMM, which is home to classic and new art from international and local artists. 

Finish up with a visit to the Bayside Marketplace. Directly on the water’s edge, you will find great restaurants and shopping while it is also the starting point for multiple cruise tours including a trip to the iconic Millionaire’s Row .

After treating yourself to an epic brunch at Ceccini’s yesterday, begin your last morning in Miami with a simpler but just as tasty breakfast at Las Olas Cafe. Serving authentic Spanish and Cuban breakfast. Here you will find amazing Cuban coffee and with the walk-up window you can grab your food and be on your way in no time at all. 

Once you have spent time in Coral Gables and gone swimming in a historic natural pool, you may be thinking, how am I going to afford to eat out in this neighborhood? Thankfully, there are a few restaurants that serve up delicious cheap eats every day. Izakaya Japanese is a great place to go for fresh, inexpensive lunch with their popular midday bento box going for only $10.50. For families, make your way to the Yard House where for under $10 you can have a hearty midday meal in oversized booths. There are also 200 types of beer to choose from.

Final Thoughts

A three-day venture to Miami is the perfect way to enjoy this electric destination. Sure, there is always more to see and do but when it comes to enjoying a long weekend or a quick escape from the city, Miami is an excellent choice.

You can enjoy nothing but 72 hours of sunshine and boozy frozen drinks or you can mix it up with insightful food tours and sunset boat journeys. It is all up to you. 

But with so many tasty eateries, art galleries and local communities, it is well worth exploring Miami beyond the parade of white sand beaches. 

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

Related Posts

How to Spend One Week in Mauritius: An Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

How to Spend Two Weeks in Belize: An Itinerary for First-time Visitors

21 Thrilling Things to Do in Tennessee

How to Spend Three Magnificent Days in Tbilisi, Georgia: A 2023 Itinerary

How to Spend Three Perfect Days in Delhi: An In-Depth Itinerary

How to Spend Three Magical Days in Cusco, Peru: A 2023 Itinerary

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Meet Lauren Juliff

• Work with Me
• Start a Blog
• Yearly Roundups
• 101 in 1001 Goals
• how to start a travel blog
• tips for new bloggers
• write me a guest post!
• Work With Me

A Passion and A Passport

Proving Travel is Possible with a Full-Time 9-5

15+ Best Things to Do in Miami

last Updated: August 12, 2023 florida miami

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Miami, Florida, you’ve come to the right place! 

I lived on the East Coast for over 25 years, and since moving to the Best Coast West Coast, I’m kicking myself that I hadn’t taken the short flight down to Miami from NYC.  Confession – I used to be a travel snob, and the thought of another. trip. to. Florida. just didn’t sound appealing enough. Silly, silly, naive me.

Welcome to Miami, buenvenito amiami. << that song instantaneously plays in my head whenever I just think of Miami — anyone else?  And hot girls in bathing suits… haha.

With that being said, I’m vowing to explore more of the East Coast that I missed out on while living there, and am hoping to knock places such as Nashville, Miami, and Savannah off my never-ending bucket list sooner than later.  

Miami seems to be a hip summer destination for many in the states!

Unfortunately, since I don’t have the knowledge to share the best things to do in Miami with you just yet, I’ve asked my friend Cherene from Wandering Redhead to do so! She’s lived in the city for years on end, and knows all the hottest places to venture no matter what you’re looking to do in Miami!

Pre-Travel Guide to Miami

How to Get Around

If you’re only planning to visit Miami Beach, a car is not an absolute necessity. There are airport shuttles to get you into town, as well as Uber, Lyft or Taxi.

Once on the beach, ride shares and taxis are plentiful and many activities are within walking distance depending on where you decide to stay. There is even the South Beach local bus for only 0.25 cents per ride!  

The Miami Mover (above ground train) can take you from the airport to downtown and Brickell. This is a good way to get around if you are visiting these areas and don’t want to have a car.  

If you’re feeling extra touristy and want your transportation easily taken care of, hop on a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus (and boat tour) of Miami ! No shame, I promise – I’ve done it in various cities around the world.

If you plan on going further afield such as visiting The Everglades, you may want to consider renting a car or hop on an organized tour .

Miami boasts great weather year round, but beware of hurricane season between June and October. As someone who has lived there 13 years,  I think August and September are the worst months.

The weather is rainy and hot those months, but from November to May, it’s absolutely gorgeous. Like any tropical place, rain is always in the forecast, but sometimes will be a short isolated shower.  January and February can actually be “chilly” — anything under 70 degrees Fahrenheit is considered cold to a South Floridian!  Try not to laugh!

You also need to consider the various events in Miami, because, well, there’s a lot and they can greatly impact your stay!

• February: The Food and Wine Festival is in South Beach.
• March: Ultra Music Festival and Winter Music Conference. There will be crowds and inevitably, hotels will be much more expensive. The Miami Tennis Open on Key Biscayne is also in March.
• Memorial Day weekend is Urban Beach Week. 
• Art Basel is early December. 

These are all great events but if you’re not interested, you may want to schedule around them.  There are usually no big events occuring in the summer, so these will be the quietest and cheapest months to come. 

Important Things to Pack

Miami is both the most casual and the most dressiest city.  I know, it makes no sense!  What that means is you can be as dressy as you want or as casual as you want. Tank tops, shorts, and flip flops are the South Beach “uniform”.   At a trendy restaurant or club, you will see designer dresses and 5 inch stilettos.    Jeans and a nice shirt are fine for just about anywhere. Obviously a bathing suit and cover up are must pack items!   And d on’t forget sunglasses, because the sun is bright!

Where to Stay in Miami

South Beach

• Budget: Free Hand Hostel, Rock Hostel, Bikini Hostel
• Mid-Range :   Dream Hotel , The Redbury , The Catalina
• Luxury :  The Delano , The W South Beach , The Miami Beach Edition
• Budget : YVE Hotel
• Mid-Range : Intercontinental Miami
• Luxury : Epic Hotel

15+ Things to Do in Miami

1 | go to the beach.

You can’t visit Miami without seeing the world famous beaches of South Beach. I’m sure you’ve seen them on CSI Miami — or in a PitBull video! Perhaps more famous for the incredible people watching then the beach itself, absolutely anything goes here.

The most popular public beaches are at the southern tip of South Beach around 3rd street. Going topless here is ok.

Walk further north around 8th street, and you’ll be walking distance to bars and restaurants.   Around 14th street and north is a bit quieter with most of the beaches full of chairs for the hotel guests. Some will let you sit there for a price.

The beach is probably on everyone’s list of best things to do in Miami, both tourists and locals alike!

2 | Ocean Drive

Take a stroll down this iconic street with neon lights and Art Deco Buildings. This place is hopping all day and all night. Feel free to wear just your bikini, as they are usually acceptable dress code due to its location right next to the beach.  

A South Beach Food Tour (with stops on Ocean Drive and Espanola Way – below), is the perfect addition to a day at the beach! You know you’ll get hungry at some point!

3 | Española Way

This charming street evokes an old world European charm. It’s kind of a hidden gem, located between 14th Street and 15th Street on Washington Avenue in South Beach. There are cute shops and restaurants and a festive attitude.  

4 | South Point Park

This southern most spot in South Beach is a favorite thing to do in Miami by locals. You can even wheel around the park via Segway !

There is a beautiful park with a walkway that takes you from the ocean to the bay, and if you time it just right, you can sit and watch the cruise ships depart from the port around 4 to 5 pm on weekends.  

Sit and have a bite to eat and a drink at Smith and Wollensky’s for a lovely afternoon – yes it’ll be expensive, but yes, it’ll be so worth it.

5 | The Everglades

A bit of nature should be on anyone’s bucket list of things to do in Miami.  The Everglades are a two million acre wetland ecosystem that reaches from central Florida, near Orlando, all the way south to Florida Bay. And they’re one of the best national parks on the east coast .

This river of grass is home to hundreds of animal species including the endangered panther, the manatee, 37 types of snakes, 350 types of birds, and of course, Alligators!  And if you haven’t rented a car, don’t fret as there are numerous tours available, like this one that takes you on an airboat and through a Native American Reservation as well!

One of my favorite ways to explore is to bike ride at Shark Valley. You can rent bikes and ride them on the 14 mile loop that takes you right into alligator territory.

Halfway through you’ll encounter an observation tower where you can look down directly into the water. You are guaranteed to see TONS of alligators. There are also beautiful birds and the scenery is a tranquil nature lover’s paradise.

Another fun activity is to take an air boat ride – doing so will get you into the heart of the Everglades with the possibility to see even more gators. 

6 | Vizcaya Villa and Gardens

T his Italian style villa was once the winter home of James Deering, built in 1910. It is now a museum with gardens and is a National Historic Landmark. They also do High Tea on the Terrace from time to time. You can check their calendar for event information.  And yes, the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus will take you to the villa!

7 | Wynwood

If you’re looking for some artsy things to do in Miami, Wynwood is your place! This is perhaps the most instagrammed place in all of Miami!  

In order to see all the top spots, I suggest taking a Wynwood Walls and Street Art Tour !  And if you’re worried about parking, you can even take a Wynwood Graffiti Buggy Tour – looks absolutely hilarious and a wonderful way to get up close to the art without driving all around!

Wynwood is an artsy, cool neighborhood that is home to many art galleries and has impressive murals on the walls.  The famous Wynwood Walls attract thousands of visitors, both local and tourists.

Check out the Wynwood Yard for some great food trucks ( included in this tour! ), an outdoor bar, and a relaxed hippy vibe. I always take visitors here since it’s one of my favorite things to do in Miami!

8 | Have Cocktails with a View at Sugar

This is one of the newer hotspots in Brickell, at the shiny new East Hotel in Brickell City Center. The top floor has a beautiful garden style lounge where you can sip cocktails and have Asian style tapas with majestic city views all around you. Go early to avoid lines!

9 |  Happy Hour at the River Yacht Club

This is where I go to feel fancy and hobnob with the yacht people. This laid back beautiful restaurant is located in Brickell on the Miami River. It is open to us non-yacht owners and they serve great food and have excellent happy hour specials! Try the grouper bites! Yummers!

10 | Have a Cuban Coffee at David’s Cafe

If you haven’t had a cafecito, you haven’t been to Miami. Beware if you are caffeine sensitive…this stuff is liquid crack!   Try the cafe con leche which is the Cuban version of a latte. It is muy deliciosa!

Interested in learning more about Cuban food?  Consider hopping on a Little Havana Food Tour and eat yourself silly!

11 |  The Standard Hotel

This historic hotel is on the Venetian Causeway, just minutes from the beach. It is gorgeous with an enviable location on the water, but manages to maintain a chill unpretentious mood.   Children are not permitted at the pool, but dogs are!

You can opt to just have a meal on the water, but I suggest booking a spa appointment. Once you spend over $100, you get a free day pass to the rest of the facilities.

Totally worth it because they charge more than that just for a day pass!  Of all the best things to do in Miami, this is probably the place I come back to the most!

12 | Brunch at Zuma

This is the ultimate splurge and oh so Miami. This Downtown restaurant is in the Epic Hotel with great bay views. The brunch is a set price ($95) and includes a lavish gourmet buffet and all you can drink libations.

You can easily drink enough Umani Mary’s and eat your weight in oysters to justify this price. The food is fabulous and this is the kind of meal that is your only meal for the day so come hungry!

13 | New World Symphony

Get some culture in your life and enjoy some beautiful music at this state of the art symphony hall. At least just come by and gawk at the stunning architecture and gorgeous landscaping complete with interesting artsy structures!  

During the winter months, on certain Saturdays, they have the “wall cast” concerts. You can bring a blanket, wine, some food, or simply lie under the stars and listen to the symphony from outdoor speakers and watch on the giant screen as the symphony performs inside.   This is one of the best things to do in Miami and better yet, it’s absolutely free!

14 |  Lincoln Road Mall

This pedestrian only street runs east to west from the beach to the bay. It is jam packed with shopping, cafes and restaurants, and always boasts a great energy. Have a coffee or drink at Segafredo’s for a European vibe.  

15 |  Stand Up Paddle Boarding

Get a little exercise while enjoying nature. There are many places to do this in Miami including Biscayne Bay in South Beach, Key Biscayne, or the ocean. If you are a beginner, the bay has calmer waters compared to the ocean.   You can usually  rent by the hour and paddle around until your arms are tired. I even take my dog!

Additional things to do in Miami if you’ve got more time:

• Take a day trip to Key West : Snorkeling, beaches, and cocktails — You’ll feel like you’re in the Caribbean in no time! You can even take a glass-bottom boat!
• Go to the Miami Zoo : Say hello to more than 3,000 animals and 1,200 plants and trees! Feed the giraffes or parrots in the only tropical wildlife park in the United States!
• Go jet-skiing and see wild dolphins : On this tour, you’ll visit 6 different islands (Hibiscus Island shown below – how cute is the name?!) and even catch glimpses of dolphins in the water!
• See Miami from above : Get a one hour narrated tour as you soar over the beauty of the area
• Film and TV Stars in Miami : See all the locations of your favorite films in Miami, including the districts of Art Deco and South Beach, Little Havanna, Downtown, Coconut Grove, Coral Gables and Wynwood
• Go to Disney World! : Many people don’t know that you can do a day trip to Disney from Miami! Hop on this tour and leave the driving to someone else! Save the energy for the park!

Are you visiting Miami soon?! Which of these things to do in Miami is on your list?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

June 9, 2021 at 4:18 pm

Me and my husband just spent our honeymoon in Miami. We were in the Coral Gables area. I highly recommend the Biltmore hotel. It was truly an amazing time. We were only in Miami for a week but believe me, there are 101 things to do in Miami lol.

You may also love...

Subscribe To The Newsletter

FOR TRAVEL INSPO   and   FUN

No spam, only fun!

Favorite Destinations

• About Jessica
• How to Plan a Trip
• Fave Travel Companies
• Shop My Faves

Destinations

• World Travel
• San Francisco
• Northern California
• Southern California
• Central Coast

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

How to Plan the Perfect Long Weekend in Miami Beach

Here’s what to do on a short trip to the Magic City.

Scott Bay is a magazine editor specializing in travel, architecture, and gear. He was previously an assistant editor at Travel + Leisure . His work has also appeared in Wired , Architectural Digest , Wallpaper , Robb Report , Saveur , Daily Beast , and more.

Miami Beach beckons visitors from around the globe, offering white-sand beaches , glamorous accommodations, world-renowned museums and galleries , and restaurants where you don't want the meal to end. There is so much to do and see that it can be hard to plan the perfect itinerary. Here are our recommendations on where to stay, what to do, and where to eat for a weekend in Miami Beach.

Head straight to The Lido Bayside Grill at The Standard Spa, Miami Beach from Miami International Airport for lunch. The atmosphere at the open-air restaurant overlooking Biscayne Bay provides the perfect welcome — relax and cheers the beginning of a sun-filled weekend with the signature Frosé. Spend the rest of the day sunning by The Standard Spa's incredible pool.

NYC favorite, Osteria Morini , just opened a Miami outpost. Dinner by the canal eating their signature battilardo late into the evening just might be the best way to end the first day. Alternatively, Stubborn Seed is also nearby. Jeremy Ford, the Top Chef season 13 winner, curates an 8-course tasting menu that is equally as inventive and fun as it is delicious.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

In the morning, head to mainland Miami and sample the Miami Design District aesthetic, beginning with the graffiti art of Wynwood Walls . The timed-ticket gallery has murals from legendary artists like Shepard Fairey and Kenny Scharf, but also emerging stars. The recently-opened Superblue Miami is an immersive masterpiece. The large-scale installations (and the artists behind them) push the boundaries of what art can be.

Before making your way back to Miami Beach, stop by Bakan for lunch. The Mexican dining experience is built on three elements that date back to pre-Hispanic times: nixtamal, mezcal, and wood fire. After lunch, head to Surfside to enjoy the Four Seasons at the Surf Club's daytime cabanas (available to hotel guests only), or the beach, before enjoying the main attraction of Surfside — The Surf Club Restaurant by Chef Thomas Keller . This iconic restaurant honors the location's history of good times and grand parties through classic continental cuisine, interpreted for a contemporary palate.

Depending on where you are staying — Bal Harbour, Surfside, South Beach — spend the morning at The Setai's Valmont spa for a relaxing massage or The St. Regis Spa at The St. Regis Bal Harbour for a facial. Then, lunch at Makoto . One of Miami's most accomplished chefs, Makoto Okuwa is a master of Edomae-style sushi. He reshapes tradition to create some of the most delicious and inventive dishes, like truffle salmon with yuzu and crystallized soy or wagyu cooked table side on a hot river stone.

Where to Stay

The standard spa, miami beach.

The Standard Spa might be the coolest spot to stay in Miami Beach. Located on Belle Isle, seemingly away from it all, is actually smack dab in the middle of the action. A lush tropical paradise lines the courtyard from the entrance to the pool. Hidden among the flora and fauna are art installations and private areas with hammocks or hanging lounge chairs. The crowning jewel of the property is the beach-like pool that overlooks Biscayne Bay.

St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort

For an escape from the crowds, head to Bal Harbour and enjoy quiet beaches and luxe shopping in the glam accommodations at the St. Regis Bal Harbour . Each room offers floor-to-ceiling windows, which lead to spacious, glass-walled balconies overlooking the vibrant turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The rooms and suites are so comfortable and relaxing, that it becomes difficult to do anything but lounge on your private balcony.

The Setai Miami Beach

The Setai stands out among the other hotels in South Beach. The elegant design, three pools, Asian-inspired cuisine at Jaya, and impeccable service combine to offer an unforgettable stay in South Beach. Steps away, lounge in luxury on the crowded beaches in a private sunning chair with food and beverage service. And just maybe, you'll spot a celebrity.

• South Africa
• Afghanistan
• North Korea
• Adventure + Outdoors
• Amusement Parks
• Backpacking Trips
• Boating + Cruises
• Budget Travel
• Bus + Train Travel
• Coasts + Islands
• Country Trips
• Fall Vacations
• Family Vacations
• Green Travel
• Heritage + History
• Honeymoons + Romance
• Inspiration + Guide
• Landmarks + Attractions
• LGBT Travel
• Markets + Bazaars
• National Parks + Reserves
• Nature + Wildlife
• Parks + Gardens
• Pets + Animals
• Photography
• Airlines + Airports
• Budgeting + Currency
• Business Travel
• Celebrity Travel
• Customs + Immigration
• Deals + Rewards
• Family Travel
• Hotels + Resorts
• Luggage + Packing Tips
• Offbeat News
• Photography Tips
• Responsible Travel
• Solo Travel
• Tech + Gear
• Travel Etiquette
• Travel Warnings
• Bars + Clubs
• Celebrity Chefs
• Restaurants + Cafés
• Wine + Vineyards
• Beach Hotels
• Boutique Hotels
• Hotel Openings
• Hotel Reviews
• Luxury Hotels
• Mountain + Ski Resorts
• Spa Resorts
• Vacation Rentals
• Asia Cruises
• European Cruises
• Festivals + Events
• Museums + Galleries
• Style + Design
• Travel’s Best
• Hotel with Agoda.com
• Hotel with Booking.com

Leh Ladakh bike trip blog — Ladakh bike trip guide &…

Guide to Shenzhen nightlife — Top 5 things & what to…

Ladakh trip cost per person from Delhi — How much does…

India travel tips — 25+ what & things to know before…

India trip tips — 9+ things to know before going to…

All about tips in Nepal — How much to tip in…

Cambodia travel tips — 15+ what to know & things to…

When is the best time to visit Kyoto? — The best,…

Must eat in Hong Kong — 7+ must eat & must…

Must eat in Georgetown — 10+ famous, must-eat & best street…

Must eat in Melaka — 10+ famous Malacca street food &…

Hong Kong Soya sauce Chicken Rice and Noodles — The first…

Top hotels in Siem Reap — 8+ best places to stay…

Top hotels in shanghai — 15+ best hotels in Shanghai

Top hotels in Malacca — 10+ good & best hotels in…

Top places to stay in Bali — Top 10 best areas…

10 must-know things for your best first time European river cruise

Top 3 best luxury cruises in Halong Bay, Vietnam

Cherry blossom festival Korea 2024 — Top 5 cherry blossom festivals…

Ghibli museum blog — The fullest Ghibli museum guide for first-timers

Kyoto festival — Top 10 best events & most famous festivals…

National Palace Museum Taipei blog — What to see in National…

Japanese waterfall — Top 10 most beautiful waterfalls in Japan in…

19+ most beautiful towns in Europe every tourist need to visit…

Georgia travel photos — 20+ captivating photos show Georgia is heaven…

Explore Damnoen Floating Market — The oldest floating market of Thailand

Visiting Fenghuang Ancient Town — One of the most charming ancient…

Mekong Delta travel blog — Beyond rivers of Southwestern Vietnam

14 reasons why you should travel when you are young

Shigaraki Tanuki – An animal symbol of good luck in Japan

Living in the charms of cave houses in Andalucia, Southern Spain

20+ jaw-dropping tiny homes around the world

Miami blog — the fullest miami travel guide blog for a great budget trip to miami for first-timers.

Miami is the largest city in the metropolitan area in South Florida. The colorful city of artful high-rise buildings and skyscrapers, shopping malls with many famous brands, the most luxurious and splendid yachts and countless entertainment venues along with beautiful white sand clear blue beaches. The place can not be miss is Miami’s most famous of South Beach, Coconut Grove shopping center with famous fashion brands and delicious eateries. So, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Miami? – the vibrant coastal city of the U.S. for the first-time? Let’s check out our Miami travel blog (Miami blog) with the fullest Miami travel guide blog (Miami guide, Miami city guide, Miami FL travel guide, Miami tourist guide) from how to get, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

• What to buy in New York City? — 13+ must have souvenirs, gifts & best things to buy in NYC
• Antelope Canyon travel blog — Upper Antelope vs Lower Antelope & photography tips and best camera settings for Antelope Canyon
• Bryce Canyon itinerary — How to visit Bryce Canyon in one day?
• Grand Circle USA blog — The guide & suggested perfect Grand Circle road trip itinerary for 3 weeks
• What to buy in USA? — 17+ must buy in USA & best things to buy in USA

Located on Frolida’s Atlantic coast, Miami is an ideal destination of Florida with warm year-round beaches, exotic forests and upscale restaurants. Rarely does a city have such a blend of beauty as Miami. Miami is considered a city with a unique beauty that blends many different things to create a distinctive color that is both modern, wild and equally mysterious.

Miami blog: Brief introduction about the city of Miami

Miami is a beautiful coastal city located in the southern region of Florida, United States. It covers an area of ​​approximately 160 km2 and a population of about 500,000 people. Thanks to the special advantages of geography and climate, around the mid-20th century, Miami began to have strong developments in tourism and service. Today, tourism industry is still the key economic sector of this city, with more than 16 million visitors per year, of which 80% are international visitors.

The name of the city of Miami is derived from the Miami tribe name which is an indigenous tribe that used to live mainly in the eastern United States and today this tribe is no longer exists.

Miami is not only attractive by the beautiful natural scenery, bustling entertainment venues, but also by the extremely unique Latin American culture. Instead of speaking English, most of the population here speaks Spanish mainly. That is why people also call this city with the nickname “the capital of Latin America”.

Miami travel guide blog: When to visit?

Miami is influenced by a tropical monsoon climate, with warm and pleasant weather all year round. It has a fairly warm winter so many people in other US cities choose to travel to Miami to avoid the cold during the cold winter days. So you can visit Miami at any time of the year.

The time when tourists flock to Miami the most also the peak tourist season is summer, from June to August each year. However, you should not come here at this time because the price of food, hotel and services will increase very high. The good time is probably from August to October. Especially if you go in August, you will have the opportunity to attend the Miami Spice festival with many exciting, unique and interesting activities.

September-November is the hurricane season in Florida, you should not visit Miami during this time, however, if you are lucky enough to visit during a storm-free time you will save a lot of money. So, you should also consider.

December-February is the winter in Miami is the time to see, be seen and watching people passing by from restaurants and cafes, and beach activities are limited.

March-May is the best time to visit Miami with the clubs will be cooled off a little bit while the beaches is heating up with average temperatures rising from 21 degrees Celsius in March to 26 degrees Celsius in May. So, you can go in late April and early May.

Miami travel blog (Miami blog): How to get to Miami?

Miami International Airport is considered one of the largest and busiest airports in the world. It serves up to 45 million passengers a year. In Vietnam, there are also many airlines that are operating routes from Vietnam to Miami for you to choose from such as: Korean Air, EVE Air, Cathay Pacific, American Airlines, Asiana Airlines, … Fares will often fluctuate in from USD 700 to USD 3.000 depending on the time.

• Shared Miami International Airport (MIA) Transfers to/from Miami

Miami guide: Getting around Miami

Miami owns an extremely developed public transportation system. The type of vehicle that is used by the majority of people in the city as well as tourists is the Metrobus bus, which costs about USD 2.2/trip. However, for convenient and economical travel, you should buy an EASY Card for about 55 USD at Metrorail stations to be able to travel freely by public transport here.

In addition, you can also rent a bicycle through the Citi Bike system to cycling around in this city. The rental rate for 30 minutes will be about USD 4.5, USD 6 for 1 hour, USD 10 for 2 hours and 24 USD for the whole day.

Miami has excellent public transportation. To visit downtown neighborhoods including Brickell, Midtown, Wynwood and the Design district, you can take the Mover subway and the free city bus. In South Beach, there are hundreds of taxis available 24 hours a day. Car2Go is a new option that allows you to rent a smart car and pay based on the distance traveled.

The price of taxi in Miami is quite expensive, usually costs about USD 3 for the first km. The next kilometer will cost about USD 0.8. If you need to take a taxi in this city, you should use Uber or Lyft because it will be much cheaper.

Miami blog: What to do and where to go?

Miami beach.

Miami Beach is the first place we want to recommend you on this beautiful city trip. One of the most famous tourist destinations in the city that anyone coming here can not ignore that is Miami Beach. It is located on an island in the middle of the ocean and is connected to the city by bridges. With a seductive and graceful beauty like a true American sexy girl, Miami Beach captivates ten thousands of tourists every year. Not only freely admire the beautiful nature of the sea, but you can also have fun with exciting recreational activities on the sea such as surfing, windsurfing, diving, … Or simply lying on the white sand, sunbathing, enjoy food and watching people pass by.

Ocean Drive (South Beach)

Ocean Drive is one of the first places that anyone traveling to Miami must explore. This is a large, busy and bustling street located right next to the Miami coast. Located along this street are a series of bars, cafes, restaurants, shopping malls and always crowded with tourists, especially at night. There are many famous Hollywood movies that have also been shot in this 2km street.

Little Havana

Little Havana is considered one of the famous tourist destinations in Miami you should not miss. Little Havana is a great destination for those who want to experience the Cuban American lifestyle and culture. It is located in the northern part of the city and always attracts a lot of tourists. The vibrant atmosphere, delicious food and colorful numbers at Little Havana are sure to make you delight.

You can also visit the beautiful Maximo Gomez Park or enjoy tasco with extremely attractive taste at Taqueria El Taquito (Address: 3410 Main Hwy, Miami, FL 33133).

If you are an animal lover, you should not miss the opportunity to visit the Miami Zoo. With an extremely large area, this zoo is currently home to more than 2,000 different animal species. Among them are many rare and endangered types. Miami Zoo is built exactly the same as the natural environment. It not only creates a wonderful living space for wild animals but also helps to give visitors the feeling of being immersed in nature with animals.

• Zoo Miami Admission Ticket

Address: 12400 SW 152nd St, Miami, FL 33177, United States Opened: 1948 Area: 2.995 km² Hours: 10AM–5PM

Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science

Miami Science Museum is one of the great tourist destinations for those who love the fields of science, physics and chemistry, … This is a place to keep archaeological artifacts such as dinosaurs, classic machinery, … The museum grounds are quite large and mostly green, suitable for a cool walk and relaxation of visitors.

Address: 1101 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, United States Hours: 10AM–5PM Tickets: $29

Máximo Gómez Park

This is one of the unique parks because of the fun and strange activities. Coming to Máximo Gómez Park, you will be surprised with the game Domino has become an unique Miami culture that visitors can easily see anywhere. In particular, you can also see the old men gather to discuss and calculate the moves for your mahjong game, it will be fun if you can come here and drop by and try this attractive game once.

Address: 801 SW 15th Ave, Miami, FL 33135, United States Hours: 9AM–10PM

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, formerly known as Villa Vizcaya. It is the old mansion and estate of businessman James Deering. Currently, Miami-Dade County is its owner and the museum is open to the public.

Villa Vizcaya used to be the heart of Miami. Originally, it was a mangrove swamp and dense inland tropical jungle. It later became the businessman’s Villa. Here you will admire the unique landscape and architecture designed in Renaissance style of Italy in the Veneto and Tuscan regions and Mediterranean Revival architecture with Baroque features.

The villa’s museum contains more than 70 rooms with special architectural furniture decorated with many antiques. The highlight is European furniture and decorative artworks from the 15th to early 19th centuries. Among the furniture containing ceramics, their originals were shipped from England in 1912 but sunk with the Titanic. Luckily Deering bought insurance and replaced them.

Address: 3251 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33129, United States Hours: 9:30AM–4:30PM/Wednesday, Tuesday: Closed

Art Deco Historic District

Art Deco Historic District is an art neighborhood located in the South Beach neighborhood of Miami Beach, Florida. The area is famous for being the district where a villa on Ocean Drive is the residence of legendary Italian fashion designer Gianni Versace.

This neighborhood is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Sixth Street to the south, Alton Road to the west, Collins Canal, and Dade Avenue to the north. This is also the place to house up to 960 beautiful buildings. In 1989, it was listed in a guide to Florida’s Historic Architecture.

The buildings here are built in the style of Art Deco, Revival Mediterranean and MiMo (Miami Modern). Visiting the neighborhood, you must definitely visit the Art Decor Museum to better understand the architectural and cultural heritage of Miami Beach.

Address: 1001 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139, United States Area: 23.27 km² Hours: Open 24 hours

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park includes the Cape Florida Lighthouse, the oldest structure in Greater Miami. In 2005, the park was ranked as the 8th best beach in the country. In 2013, it was ranked by Forbes magazine as the 7th beach in America.

Florida is known for its sandy beaches, gently swaying palm trees, and a wonderful, relaxed lifestyle. And it can be said, nothing encapsulates the beauty of southern Florida like Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park.

The park was named in honor of Bill Baggie, editor of The Miami News from 1957 until his death in 1969. He worked to protect the land from development and preserve somethings in its natural state.

Visiting here, there will be many interesting activities for you to choose from. From cycling, swimming to hiking and rowing. There’s a real treasure of outdoor activities for you and your family to enjoy together.

Address: 1200 Crandon Blvd, Key Biscayne, FL 33149, United States Hours: 8AM–5:30PM Established: 1967

Miami Seaquarium

Traveling to Miami, there is a very interesting place you should not miss that is the Miami Seaquarium aquarium. It is located on the main island of Virginia, in the central area of ​​the city. It was established in 1955 and is considered one of the first aquariums in the United States.

Here, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the vast ocean world, watching all kinds of beautiful marine life. Not only that, the dolphin circus performance area at this aquarium is also worth exploring.

• Miami Seaquarium Admission Ticket

Address: 4400 Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami, FL 33149, United States Opened: September 24, 1955 Hours: 10AM–5PM/Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday: Closed

Hobie Beach

Hobie Beach is a great destination for travelers who want to experience exciting water sports activities such as windsurfing, surfing, kayaking, jet skiing, water cycling and more.

Around the beach, there are many centers that rent out water sports equipment. You can go to these places to rent equipment and even hire an instructor. In particular, Hobie is also the only beach in Miami that offers puppy rental services. Therefore, visitors who just want to lie lazily sunbathing on the sunloungers to relax can hire a puppy to playing with.

Jungle Island

Jungle Island is known as the most famous amusement park in Miami. Coming here, you will have the opportunity to experience many attractive games for all ages. If you are an adventure lover, you should try the outdoor wind tunnel or zipline slide at high speeds.

• Jungle Island Admission Ticket with Optional Round Trip Hotel Transfers

Venetian Pool

Venetian Pool is a historic US public swimming pool located in Coral Gables, Florida. The swimming pool was completed in 1924. It was created in 1923 from a coral quarry, where most of the original coral rock was used to contour and accentuate the pool.

The pool was designed by Phineas Paist with Denman Fink. The pool’s original name was unique: “Venetian Casino”. It also has two large observation towers, with beautiful views of the city.

The Venetian Swimming Pool is an underwater facility unlike anywhere else in America. It has been loved by hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world and remains one of the main tourist attractions for those visiting Coral Gables City.

Address: 2701 De Soto Blvd, Coral Gables, FL 33134, United States Opened: 1924 Area: 2 ha

Pérez Art Museum Miami

Pérez Miami Museum of Art (PAMM) is a contemporary art museum. It was transferred to the Park Museum in Downtown Miami, Florida in 2013. Founded in 1984 as the Center for Fine Arts, in 1996 it became known as the Miami Museum of Art until it was renamed in 2013 when was moved to a new building at 1103 Biscayne Boulevard.

Until 2014, the museum’s permanent collection contains more than 1,800 works. Especially 20th and 21st century art from America, Western Europe and Africa. In 2016, the museum’s collection contained nearly 2,000 works.

Since the opening of the new museum building at Museum Park, the museum has had more than 150,000 visitors in the first four months. Although the museum initially only predicted more than 200,000 visitors in its first year at the new site.

Address: 1103 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, United States Hours: 11AM–6PM/Thursday: 2–9PM/Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday: Closed

Everglades National Park

Traveling to Miami without visiting the Everglades National Park is an extremely regret. This place is not only attractive by the wild and mysterious natural scenery but also by an extremely diverse and rich ecosystem. At Everglades, you will have the opportunity to see first-hand the great alligators, rare East Indian sea pigs and more than 350 species of birds and 300 different fish species.

• Everglades Safari Park Admission Ticket

Museum of Contemporary Art (MoCA)

Memorable museums are scattered throughout southern Florida but the MoCA museum designed by Charles Gwathmey opened in 1996 could make Miami a meeting place for the world of contemporary art. Talks, art classes, jazz concerts and more than 400 works of life by Dennis Oppenheim, Alex Katz, Julian Schnabel, Yoko Ono, and Jose Bedia are exhibited here.

Address: Joan Lehman Building, 770 NE 125th street, North Miami, Fl 33161 Hours: Wednesday: 12pm – 7pm/Thursday – Sunday: 10am – 5pm

Bass Art Museum

Bass is an international contemporary art museum, a showcase for works by artists who founded museums and local culture. The museum’s focus is on educational purposes, while offering a number of special programs that teach children about creativity and personal growth through the art.

Not only art galleries, the Bass Museum also houses a boutique, café, educational facility and numerous temporary exhibitions from artists around the world.

Address: 2100 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, United States Hours: 12–5PM/Monday, Tuesday: Closed

Miami Beach Botanical Garden

For those who love nature, want to enjoy a fresh, cool atmosphere, surely you cannot ignore a destination in this city that is the Miami Beach Botanical Garden. This place was established in 1962. It covers an area of ​​2.4 hectares and owns beautiful, captivating scenery. Just walking on the cobblestone paths, checking-in on those bridges and watching the colorful flower gardens at this garden is a very wonderful experience.

Address: 2000 Convention Center Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139, United States Opened: 1962 Hours: 11AM–5PM/Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday: Closed

Wynwood Arts District

If you want to enjoy art in a large open space, go to Wynwood neighborhood. This area is considered the arts center of Miami. Here, you can find more than 70 art galleries, numerous cafes, dozens of museums and numerous outdoor art collections. So, you just need to walk around Wynwood to see countless unique works as well as take hundreds of stunning virtual live photos.

The wall paintings in Wynwood are painted with many unique images from famous artists of Mianmi. In addition to a unique artistic space, Wynwood is also a great meeting place when night falls for those who seek fun and enjoy the cuisine at restaurants, cafes or bars.

Miami travel blog: What to eat and where to eat?

Miami is a great gastronomic place, with new restaurants, bars and dining rooms opening almost every week. Discovering Miami cuisine will certainly be an extremely wonderful experience that any visitor come here cannot miss. This city has many delicious dishes of which the most famous is the rock crab dish. The best place to enjoy this dish is at Joe’s Stone Crab Restaurant (Address: 11 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, United States) . Although the food is expensive, it still attracts a large number of visitors to enjoy. The price of the dish ranges from $30 – $70/plate (5 – 10 crabs) depending on the size of the big or small (the rock crab season takes place from mid-October to mid-May). In addition, you can enjoy this dish at Michael’s Genuine (Address: 130 NE 40th St, Miami, FL 33137, United States) in the Design District.

In addition to rock crab, you can also enjoy many other dishes such as: Mofongo, Churrasco or Cuban sandwich, …

A special thing here is that dinner is considered a competitive world in Miami, as you will need to book in advance at the most popular spots like Yardbird with famous chicken dish and Mandolin .

On the other hand, you can mingle with the locals at locations like David’s Cafecito, La Sandw Richie, Zak the Baker and Panther Coffee. You can dress up your sexiest outfit and have fun at top venues like Nobu Miami, Zuma and Thomas Keller’s The Surf Club Restaurant.

Two locations for an experience in Miami that are unlike any other are 27 Restaurant & Bar (Address: 2727 Indian Creek Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33140, United States/Hours: 6-11PM, closed on Mon, Tue) , where chef Jimmy Lebron brings the culture of Miami into engaging dishes and bursts with fresh ingredients of Florida. Especially, at Kiki on the River (Address: 450 NW N River Dr, Miami, FL 33128, United States/Hours: 5–11PM; Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1PM–12AM) – the outdoor restaurant on Miami river with emotional rooms and Mediterranean cuisine perfect for warm weather.

For a taste of the city’s signature Cuban taste, head to Calle Ocho in Little Havana and enjoy live music and mojito at the historic Ball & Chain site (Address: 1513 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135, United States) , along with medianoché and colada glasses (one of a kind Sweet Cuban coffee, in a small plastic cup) at Versailles or La Carreta (both available at Miami International Airport).

Miami blog: Shopping

Bayside marketplace.

If you are looking for a famous shopping place in Miami then Bayside Marketplace will definitely be a great choice for you. This is a large 2-storey shopping mall located right in the city center. In addition to modern shopping stores, Bayside Marketplace also attracts visitors with live music shows and unique bars and restaurants.

There are more than 150 different stores selling everything from fashion, shoes, accessories, electronics, and food. You can find top brands from around the world popping up in the Bayside Marketplace.

Miami blog: Where to stay?

Below we recommend more best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to..

• Mandarin Oriental, Miami, a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $239/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Novotel Miami Brickell, a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $139/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Kimpton EPIC Hotel, a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $189/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton – Miami Brickell Downtown, a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $189/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

You can find more, check rates, availability & book for hotels in this city on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Miami tourist guide: Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Miami you can refer to

• Motorcoach Roundtrip Transfer from Miami Hotels to Key West
• Miami Day Tour from Orlando
• [SALE] Key West Day Trip from Miami with Conch Train, Trolley & Glass Bottom Boat Tour Options
• [SALE] Key West Day Trip and Snorkeling Experience from Miami
• Key West Day Trip and Parasailing Experience from Miami
• Go Miami – All Inclusive Pass
• Miami Guided City Tour
• Bimini, Bahamas Day Trip from Miami
• Miami Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours (Open-Top)
• Go Miami Explorer Pass
• 30-Min Adrenaline Jet Boat Ride in Miami

Are you looking for more top things to do in Miami: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here.

Related articles

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Leh ladakh bike trip blog — ladakh bike trip guide & tips for first-timers, guide to shenzhen nightlife — top 5 things & what to do in shenzhen at night, ladakh trip cost per person from delhi — how much does ladakh trip by bike cost, india travel tips — 25+ what & things to know before traveling to india.

Coron itinerary 5 days — What to do & how to spend 5 days in Coron?

Arashiyama travel blog — The fullest Arashiyama travel guide with top things to do in Arashiyama

Explore Fenqihu old street — What to do in Fenqihu in a day trip?

Where to go in Kunming? — 15+ top Kunming attractions & best places to visit in Kunming

Must eat in melaka — 10+ famous malacca street food & must try food in melaka, editor picks.

Leh Ladakh bike trip blog — Ladakh bike trip guide &...

Guide to Shenzhen nightlife — Top 5 things & what to...

Ladakh trip cost per person from Delhi — How much does...

Popular posts.

What to buy in USA? — 17+ must buy in USA...

Must buy souvenir in Taiwan — Top 17+ most famous, cheap...

Must buy in Korea — Top 23 cheap, famous & best...

Popular category.

• Inspiration + Guide 1460
• Trip Inspiration 468
• Thailand 209
• Food + Drink 208
• Coasts + Islands 193
• South Korea 168
• Vietnam 166
• Travel Photos 144
• Work for Us
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

Simply Taralynn | Food & Lifestyle Blog

Food & Lifestyle Blog

• Healthy Living

Florida , LIFESTYLE , Press Trips , Travel , Traveling , Trending , United States , Weekend Recaps · October 2, 2019

Miami Beach Travel Guide: Where to Eat, Where to Stay, What to Do!

The ultimate weekend guide to miami beach, florida.

WHERE TO STAY: LOEWS MIAMI BEACH HOTEL

Loews is one of the prettiest hotels, and they never skipped out on the details. I usually leave a place saying, “I wish they offered this or that,” but not here! They’ve thought of everything. Did I mention it’s located in the heart of South Beach, Miami? This meant we could walk to most places! We stayed in the ocean view balcony room, and it was gorgeous! At night, the view of the moon lighting up the ocean was breathtaking. You’ll have to check out my video to see it. If we wanted to hang out at the beach, we just had to take a few steps. If I could describe this hotel in one word, it would be: convenient.  The hotel staff was there to help you no matter what you needed! I have to say that the people in Miami were some of the friendliest people I’ve ever met.

WHAT TO DO: WALK AROUND THE ART DECO DISTRICT 

WHERE TO EAT: CHLOE’S FOR BREAKFAST  

WHERE TO EAT: A LA FOLIE CAFE 

WHAT TO DO: HAVE A BEACH DAY

WHAT TO DO: HAVE A POOL DAY 

WHERE TO EAT: MALIBU FARMS

WHERE TO EAT: ROSETTA THE ITALIAN BAKERY

WHERE TO EAT: THE PALACE FOR BRUNCH

We were there for the show, but even the food blew us away! We had bottomless mimosas and ordered off the special brunch menu. I had their eggs benedict without the hollandaise sauce and bun. The potatoes, avocado, eggs, and flavors were flawless. Beca ordered a frittata and couldn’t believe how good it was.

WHAT TO DO: ICE SKATE & BOWL AT THE BASEMENT

WHERE TO EAT: TACO TACO SOUTH BEACH

WHERE TO EAT: PURA VIDA

Pura Vida is a healthy spot and super trendy. I’m so happy we stopped at this place because they had exactly what I was craving! I ordered the egg salad toast. It was made with pasture-raised eggs, avocado, mustard aioli (SO YUMMY!), fresh herbs, spices, micro-cilantro , served on arugula, and toasted multigrain sourdough gluten-free bread.

I also ordered a super greens smoothie with spinach, kale, granny smith apple, cucumber, celery, pineapple, cayenne pepper, lemon, and extra ginger.

WHAT TO DO: PHOTOSHOOT WITH  FOCAL POINT

We signed up for the free session online and set up a time that would work best. We met up with our photographer, Felipe, and shot photos around the resort and on the beach. He had us posing in fun ways, and we honestly had such a blast doing this shoot. This is something we are always going to remember! I was happy with how great the photos turned out. I’m excited that I’ll be able to frame these photos of us as a way to remember our bestie vacation!

WHERE TO STAY: EXPLORE ESPANOLA WAY

We headed back to the hotel to pack and head to sleep because we had to be up at 3 am for our flight!

Q uestions for you!

• Have you ever been to Miami?
• Are you team pool or beach?
• Where was the last place you traveled to with your best friend?

You may also like…

You’ll Also Love

October 2, 2019 at 8:08 pm

1. Yes, 2. Beach, and 3. Oddly enough, Miami!

October 3, 2019 at 7:30 am

That’s too funny! A great place to go, though!!

October 3, 2019 at 6:49 pm

Yes- I’ve been to Miami and your great post makes me want to go back!!

October 4, 2019 at 7:03 am

Going back to Miami is never a bad idea!

October 2, 2019 at 9:01 pm

I have never wanted to go to Miami till now! Looks so fun! My husband is my best friend and travel partner – and Hilton Head was our last trip! Though my fave getaway location was Chattanooga!

October 3, 2019 at 7:33 am

Ahhh! I think many people assume it’s only for night clubs and cheeky beaches (I THOUGHT THAT!) but it’s SOOOOO different, and I can’t wait to go back.

And Hilton Head is NEVER a bad idea!!

Kyle and I were talking about visiting Chattanooga!

October 2, 2019 at 10:15 pm

I’m on both teams for sure. I love the beach and am a huge fan of a nice pool too. I have never been to Miami but it’s on my bucket list too. Looks like the perfect weekend getaway.

I hope you visit there soon!

October 3, 2019 at 1:18 am

I have never been to Miami, but Florida tho. Looks like so much fun.

October 3, 2019 at 7:29 am

Florida is never a bad idea 😃

October 3, 2019 at 1:33 am

You’re living the dream, Taralynn! Miami looks amazing, just like it does in movies, haha! Hope you enjoyed your stay there. 🙂 I can’t remember the last time I travelled with a friend, but I’m flying to Thailand with my girlfriends this December, so that’s exciting! ❤️✨

Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog http://charmainenyw.com

How exciting!!!

October 3, 2019 at 6:22 am

I’ve never even considered visiting Miami but you sold it! Definitely a destination I’d like to check out some day! I’m 100% a beach person all the way! And I’ve never been on a vacation with my best friend but she recently moved to IN and I plan On flying down there for a visit! Thanks for the blog post, already looking forward to your next one!

October 3, 2019 at 7:28 am

It’s so colorful and upbeat! A great place to visit. I hope you get to visit your BF soon! 😞 I already told Becca she’s not allowed to move away from me 😆 because we already live an hour apart.

October 3, 2019 at 6:27 am

Love Miami, sounds like a great trip!

October 3, 2019 at 7:27 am

♥️ definitely was!

October 3, 2019 at 7:20 am

I went to Miami in college with my two best friends to visit our guy friend (who I was secretly in love with at the time). Had so much fun on the beach!! Still friends with the girls… ditched the guy! Happily married now and looking forward to going back someday with my family!

That is too funny! But crazy how life works out 😉

October 3, 2019 at 7:21 am

This looks like it was such a beautiful and special trip!

I’m torn between team beach/pool. I love how beautiful the beach is and it’s great for searching for shells and going for long walks but I’m not a huge fan of being in the ocean so that’s where I love the pool. Sitting in one of those obnoxiously cute floats and sipping on your favorite bev sounds delightful.

Haha I’m NOT an ocean swimmer that’s for sure. I watch way too much shark week. Like you, I also enjoy the morning beach walks!

October 8, 2019 at 8:45 am

Hi, Brittany! You won the giveaway! Please send me an email! 😃 [email protected]

October 8, 2019 at 2:21 pm

Thanks Taralynn!!! The coffee will go to good use and hopefully help me ace my exams coming up🤓🔬

October 9, 2019 at 10:12 am

Yay! Sent it your way! 😃

October 3, 2019 at 9:05 am

Nope, never been to Miami but did visit Hollywood Beach this summer which is close by!

October 3, 2019 at 12:36 pm

Ohh I bet that was fun!

October 4, 2019 at 8:31 am

I have never been to Miami, but my dad was born there! I am team beach. Nothing quite like sitting Oceanside reading a book ❤️ Last place I went with my bestie (hubby) was Lake Michigan for our babymoon ❤️

October 4, 2019 at 10:59 am

You must go!

What a fun trip. Michigan is great in the summer!

October 3, 2019 at 9:55 am

During our trips, we hang at the beach!

The perfect place to soak up the rays!

October 3, 2019 at 10:06 am

Miami is on my to-see list! I’m definitely a Team Beach person because I cannot sit still! My travel bestie and I went to San Francisco a year ago this weekend! We’re currently in the midst of determining what our next adventure will be!

Love your blog and follow IG, too!

October 3, 2019 at 12:35 pm

Love that you’re planning your next trip! No matter where you go with your best friend, I’m sure it’s going to be a blast!!!

xo xo & thanks for the kind words!

October 3, 2019 at 10:50 am

I love, love, love Miami! My hubby was born and raised there so we are lucky to visit there every few months! So much good food, its unbelievable!! Looks like you 2 had a blast! I bet you will definitely be back!! Did you make it to Wynwood?

We never made it to Wynwood, but totally doing it the next time!!

October 3, 2019 at 11:31 am

I moved to Miami 2 months ago and I’ve been avoiding South Beach like the plague! This post just might convince me to face the traffic! Thanks!

October 3, 2019 at 12:34 pm

Luckily we didn’t have to deal with traffic as tourists! 😆 But, it’s totally worth any time spent in the car! xo

I’ve never been to Miami! But I’ve always wanted to check it out! We only ever make it as far as Orlando for Dinsey lol. It looks like you had a blast! Love your pictures!

October 3, 2019 at 3:21 pm

Thanks, Heather!

October 3, 2019 at 3:35 pm

The photos you took of Becca are stunning — I mean all your photos are fantastic but some of the ones of her made me stop in awe. So glad you guys had such a fun weekend.

October 3, 2019 at 5:33 pm

SHE’S GORGEOUS!

A few of the ones at the bottom of the post were actually taken by Focal Point! 😀

October 3, 2019 at 3:58 pm

I’m both a team pool and team beach 😂 They’re both winners in my book. Sometimes I want to feel the sand between my toes but then days I don’t want to be all sandy i want to lounge by the pool with a drink in hand 🍹

October 4, 2019 at 7:05 am

Every with ALL of that!

October 3, 2019 at 4:13 pm

Wow what an incredible bestie trip! Miami looks beautiful, also what an awesome idea to have professional photos done, they look stunning. I haven’t been to Miami yet, if all goes to plan I will be there next year!!. I have taken some notes from this blog for when I get to visit Miami. Definitely Team both, I love the beach but chilling by the pool with drinks is always fun. The last place I travelled overseas with a friend was, Europe we explored 14 countries in 29 days, it was the best trip ever! Have a great week!

October 4, 2019 at 11:03 am

Thanks, Harriet!

It was cool that the hotel offered that.

You should totally add Miami to your list!!

WHAT AN INCREDIBLE TRIP

October 3, 2019 at 4:38 pm

What a fun and relaxing trip! You girls look gorgeous. I went with my best friend to Miami a few years ago. We also stayed at the Loews. It is a beautiful hotel with wonderful service. I don’t know what scent they use in the lobbies, but it smells so amazing! I wasn’t blown away by Miami. The service everywhere besides the hotel wasn’t the friendliest and it just kind of has a dirty, depressing vibe. We still had lots of fun though and enjoyed hanging out at the pool and beach.

October 4, 2019 at 11:02 am

Thanks so much, Lauren!

OMG!! We said the same thing about the lobbies!!!! 😂 Never have we ever loved a hotel smell so much!!!!

Sad you didn’t have a good experience with the service at the other places!

But seriously Loews was the place to just hang out!

October 3, 2019 at 5:39 pm

1) I haven’t been to Miami but it’s on my list of soon to go places 🙂 2) team beach! 3) New York City 🙂

That’s where we’re going this weekend!

October 3, 2019 at 8:09 pm

I’ve lived in Florida my whole life and I’ve never been to Miami! I would love to plan a trip though! Also, I’m team beach! We have some of the prettiest here in Florida!

October 4, 2019 at 7:04 am

You definitely do!

October 3, 2019 at 8:46 pm

1. .Sadly no. 2. Team beach. 3. Last place I went to with my friend was Virginia Beach where we had a blast. Oceanfront hotels are the best!

Yes they are!

October 4, 2019 at 12:57 am

Love all the photo’s! I haven’t been to Miami, but it’s on my list! I really want to go to Key West though. I am definitely Team Beach being from Seal Beach… I like pools but only if I don’t have to share lol. My last bestie trip was to Las Vegas we went dancing, and hung out at some tiki bars. It was a blast! But we are talking about going to Portland or Seattle next,

Thanks, Ashton!

I agree about making it down to Key West! I want to go.

Sounds like the best trip!

October 4, 2019 at 7:25 am

I went to Miami on spring break my senior year of college and had so much fun! I’m trying to plan a girls trip there for next spring, after reading this blog post I really hope it works out!

Perfect for a girl’s trip!!

October 4, 2019 at 9:48 am

I love Miami! My husband & I met there while doing a teaching program. 💙We made it a point to go to the beach every Sunday (it’s where we got engaged!) but I also love the pool (and hot tub!). Did you try any Cuban coffee??

My besties & I took a trip to Michigan last fall. Great time for apple picking! We’re going to Santa Cruz in February.

October 4, 2019 at 11:00 am

Yay!!!! you’ll love Santa Cruz!!!

October 4, 2019 at 5:38 pm

I’ve never been to Miami, but it looks like so much fun!

October 4, 2019 at 6:50 pm

October 7, 2019 at 8:29 am

Such a fun girlies weekend, you two are lucky to have each other’s friendship! London and Paris was the last place I went with my best friend, so many memories. 💜

October 8, 2019 at 10:18 am

I agree!! ♥️

And that sounds like a dream trip with your friends!

October 7, 2019 at 1:08 pm

I am going to Miami for Thanksgiving! It has always been on my boyfriend and my bucket list so we are super excited. This travel blog was perfect timing and super helpful!

October 8, 2019 at 10:17 am

That is awesome! Have so much fund!

October 7, 2019 at 1:09 pm

What a beautiful trip! I love that you guys focused on relaxation but also had some low key activities, and how great that your hotel had so much to offer!

I went to Miami a few years ago for a work trip but definitely didn’t get to experience anything like this!

I would say team beach for laying out and team pool for swimming!

October 8, 2019 at 10:20 am

Agree! I never like leaving a vacation-style trip feeling exhausted. I’d rather feel refreshed! I think trying to fit everything in is great, but so is laying on the beach doing NOTHING!

I hope you go back and get a vacation-style experience in Miami!!

October 7, 2019 at 1:16 pm

I have never been to Miami, but these pictures make it look so fun! I love all the color! Will you be doing a bestie and the bride trip before your own wedding too? So happy for you and this new phase of life! 🙂

I think I’ll do a trip with all of my friends to celebrate 🙂

October 8, 2019 at 12:58 pm

Loved this post <3 I have never been to Miami, FL AND did not know I wanted to visit there until now! I love how bright and colorful Miami is!

October 8, 2019 at 1:03 pm

It’s the most colorful!!

November 14, 2019 at 9:06 am

My kids really want to go somewhere tropical and warm next spring for our family vacation and I think Miami fits that bill. I want to start pre-planning a few of the activities that we can do so something like walking down the boardwalk in the morning sounds really peaceful. Of course, we will plan some more exciting activities as well and try and get out in the water somehow.

December 3, 2019 at 7:18 am

Thank your for thsese guide !!! In two months I travel there and it will be great

May 7, 2020 at 12:47 pm

Awesome blog on Miami for our trip.

July 17, 2020 at 4:06 am

Great post!

December 1, 2020 at 7:25 am

Miami is so colorful, I love it! I have a layover there about twice a year, but never leave the airport. Perhaps next time I’ll opt for a day in Miami and finally leave the airport!

December 25, 2020 at 6:16 am

January 17, 2021 at 6:32 am

Thank you for this blog. I am from Miami and now live in Atlanta and I haven’t been home in 10 years. However, seeing this just made me smile and laugh at all the familiarity. Miami is a beautiful city. I can’t wait to be able to go visit after this pandemic is over.

January 17, 2021 at 7:35 pm

Awww, so happy you enjoyed this blog! 🙂 Hope you get to visit soon!

April 27, 2021 at 4:26 pm

As a Miami native I have to say you did Miami right girl! Good choices and super happy to hear you think we are so friendly not a common compliment given to us but I also have found friendly people while traveling to NY which also has a bad rap lol

April 29, 2021 at 7:57 am

OMG! I’m so happy and honored to hear you say that!! thank you!!!

August 13, 2021 at 2:15 am

A great guide!

August 13, 2021 at 8:35 am

That cookie looks delicious!

August 14, 2021 at 5:05 am

Great hotel!

August 26, 2021 at 3:35 am

September 7, 2021 at 5:35 am

You are a great skater

September 7, 2021 at 5:36 am

Love this guide Thanks

November 29, 2021 at 1:13 pm

This was extremely helpful. We’ll be traveling mid august. Taking direct flight from Tampa to San Diego. Didn’t travel anywhere since a year now, lol. We’re fully vaccinated.

June 1, 2022 at 11:59 pm

Love your tips so much, I love Miami

July 12, 2022 at 12:56 am

Amazing tips, Miami beach will always be beautiful!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

taralynnmcnitt

• Privacy policy

Copyright © 2024 Simply Taralynn | Food & Lifestyle Blog · Theme by 17th Avenue

Site maintained by Victor Font Consulting Group, LLC