miami trip for 3 days

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.

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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!

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The Ultimate 3 Days in Miami Itinerary – How to Spend 3 Perfect Days in Miami

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2023

So you’ve planned a trip to enjoy a wonderful 3 days in Miami and now you’re looking for the perfect itinerary for your visit…

I’ve got you covered!

Miami is the perfect place to escape to for all the tropical vibes without completely breaking the bank.

There are just so many things to do in Miami , from beautiful beaches, to a vibrant art scene, incredible restaurants, and of course world-famous nightlife and beach clubs!

If you’re planning on spending 3 days in Miami, I’ve put together this 3 day Miami itinerary to help you plan your trip.

PS – I also created a free printable PDF version for you below to really simplify your trip planning!

And if you’re planning on spending 4 days in Miami instead I also have a perfect 4 day Miami itinerary for you .

Before we get started, you might also want to check out these posts:

• The Best Things to do in Miami for the Ultimate Visit
• Little Havana, Miami: The Perfect 1 Day Itinerary
• The Perfect 4 Days in Miami Itinerary
• Best Restaurants in South Beach – Restaurant Guide
• Where to Stay in South Beach – Miami Hotel Guide
• Most instagrammable places in Miami
• 13 Most Instagrammable Places in Palm Beach
• Florida Packing Guide: What to pack for a trip to Florida
• Affordable & Flattering Swimsuits for any Beach Vacation
• Top Disney World Photo Spots: How to get the Perfect Photo at Disney

And be sure to follow me on Instagram , TikTok , and Pinterest . I share a lot of travel content on those that never make it to the blog!

Now, let’s get started on how to spend a perfect 3 days in Miami!

Is 3 days enough to visit Miami?

Although you could easily spend a week or two enjoying the sun in Miami, 3 days in Miami is just enough to really get a great taste of the city and to be able to take in some of Miami’s most popular sights and attractions.

During your 3 days in Miami you’ll get to explore the world famous South Beach where you’ll enjoy the beaches and experience the views of Miami from the water.

You’ll also get to spend some time shopping on Ocean Drive and then spend the afternoon exploring Little Havana, Miami’s vibrant Cuban neighborhood.

Finally, you’ll get a taste of Miami’s art scene through a visit to Wynwood & the Design District.

If you have extra time, I would suggest doing 4 days in Miami since there even more incredibly Miami sights to see.

Be sure to check out my 4 days in Miami itinerary to help you plan your 4 day Miami trip!

I also have a guide to the best things to do in Miami if you’d like to plan your trip yourself.

What to pack for your 3 day trip to Miami

Miami is all about bright colours and tropical vibes so my suitcase was full of everything to match.

To help make things easier for you I’ve compiled a Florida packing guide with a list of everything you need for your trip.

It’s also got a printable packing list!

Check out my full Florida packing guide to help you pack for your Miami trip here!

Where to stay when visiting Miami

Miami has so many amazing hotels and it can definitely be a little daunting to pick one.

But I have a full South Beach hotel guide that will help make your decision a whole lot easier!

For this 3 day trip to Miami I highly recommend making your home base South Beach.

Since you will be spending your first day exploring South Beach, and it is easy to get to the other destinations from South Beach, it really is the best place to stay while visiting Miami.

South Beach is known for its incredible beaches, glamorous nightlife scene, and incredible restaurants & culinary scene.

Here you’ll also find shops, beautiful art deco architecture, and so much more.

You can check out my full South Beach hotel guide here which will help you pick a hotel based on what kind of stay you are looking for!

3 Days in Miami Itinerary: Best things to see and do in Miami in 3 days

I’ve designed this 3 day Miami itinerary to give you the best and most well rounded taste of what Miami has to offer.

If you have even more than 3 days in Miami be sure to check out my guide to the best things to do in Miami for even more activities & attractions!

I also have a 4 day Miami itinerary you can check out as well.

Day 1 in Miami – Explore South Beach

8am – breakfast at (or near to) your hotel.

Your 3 days in Miami will start bright and early with breakfast in South Beach before getting ready to enjoy a day of fun in the sun.

Since you are starting your day bright and early I would suggest grabbing either a quick breakfast at your hotel, or something nearby before heading to the beach!

10:00am – Relax in the sun at South Pointe Beach

You can’t visit Miami without spending some time relaxing on the beach and soaking up the rays!

South Pointe Beach is my absolute favourite beach in Miami and features the highest concentration of the iconic colourful lifeguard towers.

If you’re staying at The Marriott Stanton South Beach like me, it also just happens to be right in the hotel’s backyard which makes it super convenient!

Spend the morning reading a book, relaxing, or taking photos of the cute lifeguard towers and just enjoying the sound of the waves.

1:00pm – Enjoy a delicious lunch in South Beach

After a morning of walking, soaking up the sun, and splashing in the waves, you’re probably hungry!

Now is the perfect time to grab a delicious lunch in South Beach.

I’ve got a whole guide to  the best restaurants in South Beach  which will give you some great lunch options.

Here are a few great South Beach lunch options to pick from:

• Yardbird Table & Bar : Looking for a little Southern Comfort in Miami? Yardbird is for you! Here you can expect to go on a culinary journey through a menu of unapologetically indulgent dishes and heady bourbon cocktails. Expect comfort food like chicken & waffles, cornbread, lobster mac & cheese, and so much more.
• Tapelia Spanish Cuisine:  Feeling like some Spanish food? Tapelia offers Spanish cooking & specialty cocktails in a relaxed setting with TV sports. This extremely highly rated restaurant is one you definitely don’t want to miss during your time in Miami!
• Ole Ole Steak House:  Another extremely highly rated restaurant (4.9 stars on Google with almost 18k reviews!) is Ole Ole. This steakhouse offers grilled meats & paella in a vibrant eatery. Feeling a little more basic? They also have pizza, pasta & burgers.

3:00pm – Millionaire’s Row Cruise

One of the most popular and most often booked tours in all of Miami is the Millionaire’s Row Cruise !

During your Millionaire’s Row Cruise you’ll get to take in the gorgeous views of the Miami skyline on a cruise along Biscayne Bay.

Millionaire’s Row is where you’ll get to see the homes of famous stars, so if celebrity spotting is your cup of tea you will really enjoy this!

The cruise will also take you to the Venetian Islands, and along South Beach.

The Millionaire’s Row Cruise can be booked for 1.5-6 hours in length.

If you would prefer a shorter cruise you can spend more time at the beach beforehand, or head back to your hotel early to relax and get ready for dinner!

7:00pm – Dinner & drinks in South Beach

Miami has a pretty incredible culinary scene and there are a lot of great restaurants to experience during your visit.

Since you are staying in South Beach, you definitely need to experience an evening out in the area!

In the evenings South Beach really comes alive and is truly a sight to see.

You will see that people really dress to impress along Ocean Drive, and everyone is in the mood to have a good time!

For a really memorable dinner out, I suggest booking a reservation at Joe’s Stone Crab , A Fish Called Avalon , or for a very upscale night out Gianni’s .

If you’d like more ideas you can check out my guide to the best restaurants in South Beach .

After dinner, it’s time to enjoy some of Miami’s nightlife!

Or if going out are not for you, I suggest an evening walk along the beach or casual drinks along the strip.

9:00pm – Experience South Beach’s Nightlife

Miami’s nightlife is world famous, so if you’re itching to experience it now is the time!

There are a lot of great night clubs and bars for you to experience in South Beach, depending on the vibe you are looking for.

Start things off by enjoying a few cocktails at a bar along the strip before heading out to nightclub to dance the night away.

Mango’s Tropical Cafe South Beach is a very popular nightclub along Ocean Drive that’s a lot of fun.

They have latin music, shows, great food, and a really great vibe.

LIV is another very popular spot that is known to attract celebrities.

Located in the opulent Fontainebleau Hotel, you can experience world famous DJ’s here and a party you will never forget!

Day 2 in Miami – Ocean Drive & Little Havana

9:30am – breakfast in south beach.

Start the 2nd day of your 3 days in Miami off with a bit of a later breakfast (ok, later than yesterday) in South Beach.

If you had too much of a late night last night you can always skip this part of the itinerary!

Since you’ll be spending your morning on Ocean Drive, you’ll probably want to dine somewhere nearby.

Some of the best rated places for breakfast on (or nearby to) Ocean Drive are Local House , Front Porch Cafe , and Cafe Americano .

11:00am – Shopping & exploring Ocean Drive

You’ve experienced Ocean Drive and all that it offers at night, and now it’s time to experience this iconic Miami strip during the day!

Ocean Drive is completely different during the day than it is at night.

At night you really get the party vibe and experience the vibrant nightlife of the city, but during the day is the perfect opportunity to shop, people watch, and take in the colorful art-deco architecture of the strip.

There are so many cafes, restaurants, shops and more to experience along Ocean Drive and its neighbouring streets.

Grab yourself a coffee and enjoy strolling the strip and shopping around.

You just might find some souvenirs to bring home!

1:00pm – Lunch in Little Havana

After starting your day strolling around Ocean drive it’s time to head out for lunch and to spend the afternoon exploring Little Havana !

Little Havana is the colorful and rich in culture latino dominated neighbourhood of Miami.

It’s a very famous neighborhood to visit!

This historic neighbourhood will give you a glimpse into the heart of Cuba, from the culture, to the architecture, art, history, music and of course the food.

You’ll need to either drive or take an Uber to this area but since you’ll be spending the whole afternoon (and possibly evening if you stay for live music, dancing, or to watch a movie at the theatre) it’s totally worth the 20 minute drive.

In Little Havana you’ll get to eat authentic cuban food and immerse yourself in all things Cuban.

I recommend starting your afternoon with lunch at Versailles Restaurant.

Versailles Is the #1 recommended Cuban restaurant in not only Little Havana but all of Miami, so this is definitely one you don’t want to miss!

2:30pm – Explore Little Havana

There is just so much to see and do around Little Havana, and you have a full afternoon to explore!

You can either just wander around or check out my post on how to spend a perfect day in Little Havana here .

It’s chock full of all the things you should see and do while you are there!

7:00pm – Dinner and drinks in Little Havana

Little Havana is the perfect place to experience some true Cuban flavour at night!

There are so many amazing Cuban restaurants to enjoy an authentic Cuban meal at.

Some of the best rated are of course Versailles, and also Doce Provisions , El Cristo Restaurant , and Old’s Havana Cuban Restaurant & Bar .

8:30pm – Dancing & Drinks at Ball & Chain

Once you’ve finished dinner it’s the perfect time to get out and enjoy some salsa dancing and live entertainment at Ball & Chain !

Located along the famous strip of Calle Ocho, Ball & Chain is an iconic nightclub that dates back to the 1930’s.

Today Ball & Chain is a live music venue that offers Cuban style food & drinks.

It is the perfect place to enjoy an evening of Cuban flavour.

Day 3 in Miami – Wynwood & Design Districts

9:30am – breakfast at wynwood diner.

You will start your last day in Miami by heading to Wynwood!

Known for its many colorful murals, Wynwood is one of the city’s most happening districts and you’ll find art wherever you go!

Once you get to the Wynwood District start your day off with breakfast/brunch at Wynwood Diner .

Conveniently located right across the street from Wynwood Walls they have a great menu of brunch favourites including a yummy avocado toast.

Grab a seat on the sprawling outdoor patio for the perfect way to start the day.

11:00am – Wynwood Walls

After you’ve filled your bellies and gotten your caffeine fix it’s time to walk across the street to check out the famous Wynwood Walls .

Wynwood Walls is an outdoor museum that showcases incredible graffiti murals by some of the world’s best-known street artists.

The surrounding streets have converted warehouses that have all sorts of neat things from craft breweries to funky art galleries.

Wynwood Walls is free to enter and features huge colourful street murals by artists from around the globe.

12:30pm – The Shops at Midtown Miami

Rather than taking an Uber from Wynwood Walls to the Design District, walking is the perfect way to not only get in a little exercise but also get the opportunity to take in some more of the murals in the neighborhood.

Along the way you can stop at the Shops at Midtown Miami to get in a little shopping.

After all, who visits Miami without shopping?

I know as someone from Canada I definitely did a little damage to my wallet during my 3 days in Miami.

Youi’ll also get a little break from the sun which is great.

Some of the most notable shops you’ll want to check out are Nordstrom Rack, Marshall’s, and the Guess Factory.

2:00pm – Drinks and a snack/late lunch at Swan

After all this walking around and shopping you’re probably hungry!

Located in the Design District you’ll find a beautiful restaurant called Swan .

This famous spot is actually owned by Pharrell!

Swan is an extremely chic restaurant and bar that offers a stunning garden patio that’s the perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine and some nibbles mid-day.

3:30pm – Explore Miami’s Design District

After having a break at Swan, it’s time to explore Miami’s Design District .

The Design District is a creative neighbourhood and shopping destination that’s dedicated to design, fashion, art, architecture and dining.

Here you’ll find all sorts of neat art installations among the luxury shops and art galleries.

The Miami Design District is a really neat place to explore, and of course get some shopping in if you’re into luxury goods!

7:00pm – Dinner near your hotel

By now you’ve had a pretty busy few days and you’re probably exhausted!

Once you’ve finished at the Miami Design District it’s time to head back to your hotel and get ready for dinner.

Enjoy a dinner near your hotel before settling in for the night, or head out out for more cocktails and another evening of enjoying Miami’s nightlife after!

If you’re not quite sure where to head out for dinner, check out my guide to the best restaurants in South Beach.

Final Thoughts

With sun, beaches, and an incredible nightlife scene it’s really no surprise that Miami is one of the top tourist destinations in all of the United States.

There’s no surprise why people flock from all over to experience the vibrant city, spend their days lying on the beach, and then dance the night away.

I hope you found this 3 days in Miami itinerary useful and that it helps you plan your 3 days in this beautiful, sunny city.

Don’t forget to download your FREE printable 3 Days in Miami Itinerary below!

And if you’re visiting Florida soon, don’t forget to check out these posts:

Be sure to keep up with me on Instagram , Pinterest , TikTok and Facebook if you aren’t already!

Feel free to subscribe to my weekly newsletter to get my blog posts, updates, and special offers delivered right to your inbox 🙂

Ultimate 3-Day Miami Itinerary: Your Guide to the Perfect Long Weekend in Miami

You can do a lot on a 3-day Miami itinerary! Perfect weather,  beautiful beaches , unique attractions,  luxe nightlife , and vibrant neighborhoods – from sunrise to well after sunset, you won’t run out of things to do, see, and eat in Miami.

Here we’ll break down how to get around, our top recommendations on  where to stay in Miami , and tips for making the most of your long weekend in Miami.

Whether you’re a passionate foodie looking to experience the world’s cuisine in one place, a high-energy beachgoer looking to stay active under the Miami sun, or a discerning art-lover looking to soak up the city’s diverse art scene – there’s something in this 3-day Miami itinerary for you!

This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you buy something through one of these links, we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Please read our full  disclosure policy   for more information.

👉 Planning a trip to Miami? You might also find these posts helpful:

• Miami Packing List: Essential Items for the Perfect Beach Vacation
• From Budget to Luxe, An Insider’s Guide to the Best Hotels in Miami at Every Price Point
• 70+ Unique Date Ideas & Romantic Things to Do in Miami for Couples
• 45 Family-Friendly Things to Do in Miami with Kids
• 30+ Hidden Food Gems Where Locals Love to Eat in Miami
• Miami FAQs: What to Know Before You Go

Getting Around Miami

Miami is a big city, and its neighborhoods are spread apart, so renting a car would provide the most freedom to get around on a 3-day Miami itinerary. But if you’d rather skip the parking fees, taking ride-hailing services like Lyft or Uber is ideal.

Now, what better way to feel like a local if public transport is more your speed? The city of Miami offers several public transportation options: the Metrorail, Metromover, and an extensive bus system.

For free transportation options in Miami, you can ride the Miami Trolley system to get around. If you’re traveling within  downtown Miami  and Brickell areas and wish to visit the local sites, the free Metromover runs several loops to get you where you’re going.

You can also take the Metrorail for a fee. The elevated rail line (think monorail only with two tracks) is a convenient way to get from the International Airport to the downtown area, points south and northwest Miami-Dade.

The bus system serves the rest of the city and is another excellent choice if you go into other inland areas.

Lastly, if you want to experience the city at the pedestrian level – without walking for miles in the sweltering heat – you can rent a Citibike! You can rent their bikes by the hour, or if you plan to be on a bike the whole day, consider getting a bike-sharing membership.

What to Pack for a 3-Day Trip to Miami

There are a few necessities to consider when packing for three days in Miami, especially if the tropical weather isn’t something you’re used to. The first two things you want to have with you are sunscreen and insect repellent.

You’ll want to pack mostly light, breathable clothing – a sundress with sandals is an attractive and comfortable option. Save the long sleeves and jeans for the evenings when it can sometimes get chilly. The sun’s rays are most potent around midday, so bring a wide-brim hat and sunglasses.

And, of course, what’s a trip to Miami without going to the beach? Be sure to bring a swimsuit, beach cover-up, beach towel, and a beach bag.

Here is a list of the essentials to pack for your 3-day Miami getaway.

• reef-safe sunscreen – at least SPF 30
• insect repellent
• wide-brim sun hat – preferably one with UV protection
• beach cover-up

If you want a more comprehensive list with everything you’ll need for your trip, you can also check out our  Miami packing list  and Miami beach essentials!

Where to Stay for a Long Weekend in Miami

Whether you’re looking for something affordable, or accessible for your 3 days in Miami, here are some popular places to stay in Miami in the most sought-after areas.

South Beach/Miami Beach

Hotels in the South Beach and Miami Beach area are amidst some of the city’s most popular attractions – not to mention some of the best beaches. From the famous Ocean Drive with art deco architecture and shopping to museums packed with modern art, this is the area to be.

This area is your best bet if access is your top priority, but accommodation prices are also notably higher.

Where to Stay in Miami Beach / South Beach

• The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach
• Loews Miami Beach Hotel
• Mondrian South Beach
• Fontainebleau Miami Beach
• Eden Roc Miami Beach
• W South Beach
• Freehand Miami

Downtown Miami and Brickell

If you’re looking to explore more of the city, in that case, hotels in downtown Miami and Brickell offer a lot of accessibility (hello, Metromover!) and a luxe experience. This area also has some of the best rooftop bars in Miami.

Rooftop bars and luxe views are a staple here at any price point.

Where to Stay in Downtown Miami and Brickell

• InterContinental Miami
• Kimpton EPIC Hotel
• Comfort Inn & Suites Downtown Brickell-Port of Miami
• Novotel Miami Brickell
• Mandarin Oriental, Miami

Coconut Grove, Miami

While further inland,  Coconut Grove  offers some of the best hotels in Miami. Hotels in the Coconut Grove Miami neighborhood offer better-value lodging options that don’t skimp on luxury and design.

If you’re looking for a family-friend neighborhood in Miami with lots of charm and dazzling accommodations, check out Coconut Grove.

Where to Stay in Coconut Grove

• The Mutiny Luxury Suites Hotel
• Mayfair House Hotel & Garden
• Hampton Inn Miami-Coconut Grove/Coral Gables
• The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove, Miami
• Mr. C Miami – Coconut Grove

Other popular Miami neighborhoods for your 3-Day Miami Itinerary

There are several other laid-back and more residential and family-friendly neighborhoods in Miami, including Coral Gables, Key Biscayne, and Sunny Isles.

If you’re looking to stay in a convenient location, not in the heart of South Beach, each of these neighborhoods has its unique ambiance; and any would be a nice choice.

For more on the neighborhoods and where to stay, check our complete guide on the best places to stay in Miami !

3-Day Itinerary for Miami

Day 1 in miami: biscayne bay, brickell, wynwood, and little havana, brunch and shopping at bayside marketplace.

Start your first day in Miami with food and shopping at Bayside Marketplace . Here you’ll find both popular brands and small, independent boutiques here. You’ll come across over 150 specialty and tourist shops, as well as chain stores, antique shops, and souvenirs.

And apart from shops, you will also find cafes and restaurants like La Cañita, and live entertainment that will get you groovin’ while you explore!

While at the Bayside Marketplace, be sure to check out the  Miami Observation Wheel , one of the top downtown Miami attractions for families.

Or you can book a boat tour along Biscayne Bay – Miami’s Millionaire’s Row Cruise is a favorite – to take in the sights of the Miami skyline from the water.

Unwind at Bayfront Park, museum hop, and more shopping at Brickell City Center

Just a 5-minute walk from Bayside Marketplace is Bayfront Park , a gorgeous green space on the waterfront. Before your trip, visit Bayfront Park Amphitheatre’s website for upcoming events or shows.

From here, take a 10-minute walk (or a 5-minute bike ride) to Maurice A. Ferré Park, locally known as Museum Park, where you can find the Perez Art Museum Miami and the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science . Both are definite must-sees, especially if you’re traveling with children.

Then, for a dose of Miami history, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the Freedom Tower at Miami Dade College. Designed like the Giralda Cathedral Bell Tower in Seville, Spain, it’s historically known as the debarkation point where newly migrated Cubans seeking exile from their native land were processed for immigration.

Now a Historic National Landmark , the stunning architecture and interesting artifacts on display are well worth the trip.

Brickell City Centre, our next stop, is just a 10-minute bike ride away. You can also take the Metromover.

Brickell City Centre is beautifully designed and has some of the best restaurants and high-end shopping in the area. The movie theatre keeps us coming back, easily one of the best in the city!

Good food and Art in Wynwood and Little Havana

Take a car or hop on the free trolley for lunch at Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop in Wynwood (Enriqueta’s con Sabor) to experience some of Miami’s best home-style Cuban food. The servings are hefty, prices are fair, and the food is delicious.

Just a couple of blocks away is the famous  Wynwood Art District , home of those brightly colored murals and graffiti walls you may have seen all over Instagram.

This eclectic entertainment district features over 70 galleries, a myriad of bars, nightclubs, boutique shops, and dining options.

If you’re big on the arts culture, Wynwood is worth exploring. Discover Wynwood and the elaborate street art that makes this area one of Miami’s hippest neighborhoods.

Book a   Wynwood street art tour  to maximize your time and get an up-close experience of Miami’s thriving art scene.

If walking around the Miami heat doesn’t appeal to you, you can also take the Wynwood street art by golf cart . Whether on foot or golf cart, the guides provide valuable insight and background that can deeply enrich your experience.

Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, and casual clothes for medium-to-hot temperatures, and have a camera and water bottle handy.

Finally, cap off the night with great food and nightlife at  Little Havana . You’ll have to drive from Wynwood, but it is well worth it.

Home to family-run eateries, traditional Hispanic bakeries, and ventanitas (Cuban coffee windows), there is a wealth of cultural and culinary delights on offer here. No trip to Little Havana would be complete without tasting some local treats.

Book one of the  food and cultural tour   of the neighborhood to immerse yourself in the best of this Miami national treasure and sample authentic Latin cuisines.

👉 Here are a few popular options:

• Little Havana Introductory Walking Tour in Miami
• Authentic Little Havana Food and Culture Walking Tour
• Cultural and Food Walking Tour through Little Havana in Miami
• Little Havana Food, Cuban Culture & Street Art Tour

Make sure to stop at Azucar Ice Cream for its one-of-a-kind flavors (we highly recommend the fruity and creamy Abuela Maria), Ball & Chain for a delicious Cuban dinner paired with live music, and Cubaocho for a healthy dose of Cuban culture through art, music, and drinks. 

These three places are next to each other, so expect a fabulous night ahead!

Day 2 in Miami: Ocean Drive Miami Beach (South Beach)

Breakfast and beachin’ on south beach.

The adventures through Miami cannot begin until you’re adequately fueled for the day ahead. Take your pick between The Front Porch Café and Big Pink for breakfast. These two iconic American diners both offer fantastic breakfast choices and excellent service.

Of course, what’s a trip to Miami without a day at the beach? Start your morning of fun and sun at South Pointe Park (if you’re coming in from Big Pink), walk along the ocean towards Lummus Park, and end at the Miami Beach Boardwalk.

Take your time exploring the sights along Ocean Drive or partake in some much-needed beach time, whether that means getting into the water or catching a tan. 

These sprawling park beaches are next to each other, so you don’t have to choose! And if you want a more detailed breakdown of each, check out our guide on the  best Miami beaches .

Exploring South Beach through food and art

For lunch, you can’t miss Joe’s Stone Crab. The restaurant has been serving diners for over a century, so you know it’s worth the hype. They are only open during peak stone crab season, from October to May.

You’ll also need a reservation for a table in the formal dining room, but you can always check out Joe’s Takeaway next door if you want to avoid the long wait times. 

Local tip : Though Joe’s is known for its stone crab, they also have some of the best fried chicken in town! And for a sweet and refreshing finish to your meal, we highly recommend the key lime pie.

The nearby  Art Deco District  is our next stop. Like the Wynwood Art District, the best way to appreciate this iconic Miami area is to book the MDPL’s official  Art Deco walking tour . The informative guides bring more depth to the historic district’s beautiful architecture and will also take you to places you may not have noticed on your own.

All the attractions in South Beach are within walking distance, so this is the ideal time to  rent a bike or roller skate if you don’t feel like exploring on foot.

After the art deco walk, continue soaking up some culture and history through the museums in Miami Beach. A few of our suggestions include the following:

• The Bass Museum – a great sculpture garden and regular art events
• The Wolfsonian – eclectic contemporary art and a great place for thought-provoking talks and workshops
• The World Erotic Art Museum – a cheeky collection of art dating back to 300BC

These are just a few of our favorites, but feel free to spend the afternoon exploring what else  South Beach  has to offer!

Reflecting and relaxing at the Miami Beach Botanical Garden

Take some time to pay respects at the historic Holocaust Memorial in Miami Beach . Self-guided tours at the outdoor Holocaust Museum are also available.

Right next to the Holocaust Memorial is the Miami Beach Botanical Garden, a lush park where you can reflect and relax away from the sights and sounds of the city. This sprawling garden also holds workshops & exhibitions, so be sure to check their website for upcoming events.

Shopping and dining at Lincoln Road & Española Way

Lincoln Road is a mile-long shopper’s paradise. Here you can find a mix of high-end and low-end boutiques and a few independent shops. This lively street is the definition of “shop ’til you drop!”

Just a few blocks over is Española Way, a quaint and picturesque street filled with excellent restaurants. Have a little wine and pasta at Hosteria Romana, a lovely café with delicious Roman-Jewish food.

If you’re still buzzing from your night in Little Havana, don’t worry because you don’t have to go far to experience it again. Havana 1957 along Española Way has the same vibrant atmosphere and flavorful cuisine you can find in Miami’s Little Havana.

Dance the night away in Miami’s most famous nightclubs

Miami is renowned around the world for its vibrant nightlife, and there are so many venues where you can dance the night away. With many famous clubs in Miami Beach within walking distance of one another, you may just spend the remainder of your 3 days in Miami hopping from club to club.

Who knows, you may even get to dance in the presence of some of Miami’s celebrities who are known to frequent the South Beach nightlife scene. 

End your night here, or hit a few South Beach clubs and bars. 

• Try STORY for celebrity sightings.
• Do Not Sit On The Furniture for a fun night of drinks and dancing.
• Basement Miami for – get this – dancing, ice skating, and   bowling.
• LIV is not to be missed, as it is considered one of the top nightclubs in the world.

Day 3 in Miami: Coconut Grove and Coral Gables

Appreciating nature and architecture in coconut grove.

Get transported to historic Miami at the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens. From the elaborate detailing to the marble statues and the sprawling gardens, this opulent estate is stunning to behold – not to mention Instagram-worthy!

You can book your admission to Vizcaya Museum & Gardens with transportation here .

Spend the rest of the morning at the Barnacle Historic State Park, another lush area with a mangrove forest and a fabulous historic estate house.

These two gardens are great places for a quiet last morning in Miami, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

An unforgettable Miami lunch

From the Barnacle Historic State Park, you can have lunch at the nearby Greenstreet Café or in Coral Gables at the Eating House or Graziano’s Market.

• Choose Greenstreet Café for classic American fare you can enjoy on their outdoor lounge. 
• Eating House for eclectic dishes made with the best locally sourced produce.
• Graziano’s Market for delicious Argentinian cuisine and artisanal goods.

Experiencing the opulent side of Miami in Coral Gables

Catch up on some more shopping at Miracle Mile, a luxe modern shopping district filled with boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and specialty shops that are hard to find anywhere else.

Then, visit the Biltmore Hotel for more impressive pool views and stunning architecture. Check out the iconic Venetian pool, a sparkling body of deep blue-green water that looks straight out of a movie!

Finally, finish your Miami trip with a stroll through Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. You can book a guided tram tour of the water features and butterfly exhibit or explore the area yourself. 

Appreciating the vibrant greenery, colorful landscaping, and relaxing lakes is the perfect way to say goodbye to Miami – for now, of course, not forever!

Miami 3-Day I tinerary: An Experience

And that concludes our ultimate 3-day Miami itinerary! Some of the absolute can’t-miss, must-see, and worth-it things to do, visit and eat in Miami.

But, of course, nothing is set in stone. Feel free to tweak the itinerary to your liking so you can get the most out of your 3-days in Miami! You can check our Miami bucket list for more of the best that Miami offers.

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3 Days in Miami: Your Perfect Long Weekend Itinerary

By: Author Charlotte

Posted on Last updated: 4th March 2024

Categories Itineraries , USA

Last Updated on 4th March 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

A pocket of warmth, this vibrant coastal city lies in southeastern Florida. We’ve put together the perfect itinerary for 3 days in Miami as well as top tips before you go, to ensure that you make the most out of your trip.

Famed for its stunning stretches of white sandy beach, lively party scene and towering skyline. Miami is a city filled with hidden treasures and has depth to it that doesn’t initially come to mind when most consider going there. Trust us when we say, you will easily fall in love with this magical city!

Is 3 days long enough to visit Miami?

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Many people will happily head to Miami for a long weekend, that being said, it’s easy to spend a longer time in this lively city. There’s a lot more depth to Miami than just beaches and partying, so it would be a shame to miss out on all that it has to offer! Including the various day trips that you can take to further explore this wonderful part of Florida.

I would say you could easily stay in Miami for up to 7 days and still have more to see. But to answer the question, 3 days is absolutely enough to see the most part of the city, which is why we’ve packed full an itinerary to ensure you get the best out of your trip!

A colourful splash of pastel hues, white plush sand and sparkling blue waters! Drawing visitors in from all corners of the world, Miami is known for its warm climate, abundance of beaches, diverse culture and iconic Art Deco style architecture.

A popular holiday spot, this vibrant city has also served as the setting for many tv shows and films. To name just a few, the third James Bond, Goldfinger , Marley & Me and Fast and Furious 2.

Miami is also renowned as a party destination, home to a legendary nightlife scene it’s known to have drawn in celebrities to its plush beaches and lavish ambience. That being said, the city is also super popular amongst retirees, known as the perfect place to relax and live out the rest of your days in sunshine.

A few years ago, I went on vacation in Miami Beach for 10 days with my older sister. Since we’re both used to driving on the left-hand side of the road and were both in our early twenties at the time (which would have added a surcharge to a car rental) we opted to just get around by using a combination of Uber and public transportation.

This was honestly the best move possible as renting a car can be really expensive due to expensive car parking charges. If you do want to rent a car, then be sure to book a hotel with parking.

Day 1: South Beach Art Deco & Miami Beach Beaches

Start your three-day itinerary the right way by exploring the most famous attractions that the city has to offer. Begin your day at South Pointe Park Pier, where you can enjoy gorgeous views of the blue ocean and back onto Miami beach and the city skyline.

Of course, what this means is strolling around Ocean Drive and admiring all of the architecture. Lined with stylish pastel hued buildings (mainly hotels) that spill out onto the sidewalk, each of them unique in character. As you stroll along the stretch of Ocean Drive it’s hard not to feel as though you’re featuring in a Hollywood movie!

The Lincoln Eatery is a food hall just a short walk away from Ocean Drive. Filled with a wide variety of different styled cuisines, this spot is open daily from 8am-9:30pm.

Based around the grab-&-go concept, the Lincoln Eatery makes for the perfect place to get fresh and quick food to eat on the go! Pop in here for some respite from exploring, it’s especially great if you and your fellow travel partner(s) all fancy different things to eat as there’s something for everyone.

Of course, no trip to Miami would be complete without some time spent on the beach. Huge stretches of white plush sands that leave you feeling as though walking on a cloud, making for the idyllic spot to rent a beach chair and soak up the sunshine.

Let your food digest and spend a couple hours at the beach. Whether its reading a book or taking a refreshing dip, this is the perfect place to recharge your energy battery before more exploring. Here’s a couple of suggestions for where to relax:

• South Beach: situated just next to South Pointe Park, this iconic beach is a whopping 9 miles long and 1 mile wide. Offering stunning views of the city skyline, the lifeguard towers that are dotted along the beach are works of art you’ll want to take a picture of!
• Haulover Park Beach: want to avoid the dreaded tanlines? This beach is the only beach in the area where clothing is optional, so feel free to whip off your clothes and tan evenly at this spot
• Bal Harbour: situated in the north, this is home to the lavish oceanfront resorts, as well as home to many fine dining establishments
• Surfside Beach: nestled between Bal Harbour and North Beach, as the name suggests this is the perfect spot for catching waves! Enjoy water sport excursions on this windier spot along the coast
• North Miami Beach: considered to be the most relaxing and quiet of the beaches, this beach is away from the crowds, this is a bit more of a luxury spot!

It’s really up to you whether you throw down a towel or rent a chair (of course one is cheaper than the other) but because of the intense sunlight and heat I’d recommend renting a chair with an umbrella so you have the option of a little shade.

After relaxing at the beach, head over to the botanical gardens and enjoy the serene tranquility they offer as you wander around. A hidden treasure, this sustainable urban oasis lies in the heart of Miami’s South Beach and spans over 2.6 acres of luscious green space.

Thanks to the hot climate, the flora and fauna of this gardens is thriving! With over 100 species of palm tress, orchids and native plants, they even attract Florida’s state butterfly, the black-and-yellow striped zebra long wing.

And better yet, this green paradise in completely free to visit making it one of the best free things to do in Miami!

Truly a dreamy spot to dine in the evening! The pink candy coloured skies as the evening sun sets and the neon signs of the Art Deco buildings turn on, bringing the city to life at night.

Miami is famous for its Cuban food scene, as well as South American, Italian cuisine and an abundance of seafood thanks to its proximity to the ocean.

Day 2: Boat tour & Wynwood & Design District

One of the best ways to get another perspective of Miami and the area surrounding it is to take a boat tour. Cruising along the sparkling turquoise waters and marvelling at the city’s impressive skyline is sure to leave you stunned!

Although on the more expensive side (like most of Miami) It makes for a great way to spend a few hours Some boat tours even offer a sightseeing boat cruise around Biscayne Bay, where you can spot Celebrity homes!

After a boat tour, head to Wynwood, a place where it’s all happening! Home to Miami’s trendy art district, this spot is particularly known for its abundance of street art and colourful murals.

Bursting with creativity that quite literally flows through the air, this cultural hub of a neighbourhood makes for the perfect place to spend your afternoon. Simply wandering around and admiring the art that’s scattered across the walls of this area is the best way to experience the distrcit.

The Wynwood Walls is a must-see, known as Miami’s original Streer Art Museum. If you don’t already, you’ll definitely learn to appreciate the beauty and stories behind street art on a deeper level after visitng!

While in the area head to The Salty, an artisanal donut and coffee store, for some of the most delicious donuts in town.

Directly to the north of Wynwood, the Design District is a chic area that’s fast becoming known for its sleek modern architecture and innovative upscale interior design stores and art galleries.

Well worth a visit on your way back from visiting the Wynwood District, this up and coming area is scattered with impressive pieces of public art, fashion inspiration and fine dining restaurants.

If you weren’t drawn in to one of the fine dining establishments of the Design District… then enjoy dinner back at Miami Beach, while the sun set’s.

Though it’s unfortunately east coast facing, there’s no denying that the golden hour glow over Miami Beach at sunset is mesmerising. Pastel colours of all shades of pink, purple and blue dance in the sky above and it feels as though you are in a highly saturated Wes Anderson movie.

Day 3: Downtown & Brickell & Little Havana 

For a completely different vibe to the Art Deco of Miami Beach be sure to head to Downtown. This modern district of the city is best-known for its finance sector.

The perfect place to get your fill of shopping, discover cultural sights and see another side to that of the beaches and sunshine that Miami is so well known for. Here are just a few top suggestions of what to see and do when visiting Downtown:

• Bayside Marketplace: home to over 50 shops and 30 restaurants, this two-story open air shopping center is a bustling hive of activity
• Bayfront Park: a public park situated along Biscayne Bay, filled with winding pathways that are relaxing to stroll along, this green space stretches over 32-acres!
• Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) : home to a large collection of modern art, tickets are subject to capacity so it’s recommended to book online in advance. Check ticket prices and how to book here.
• Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel : as the name suggests, this is like the ‘London Eye’ of Miami if you will, boasting of captivating views of Miami’s architecture and coastline
• Miami Tower: this 47-story landmark is characterised by its dramatic glassy exterior, although filled with offices, it’s definitely worth stopping by to look at

One of the newest and trendiest districts of the city is that of Brickell. Adjacent to downtown Miami, this new and coming neighbourhood is brimming with art galleries, fashion boutiques and trendy restaurants!

While in the area, why not grab a cocktail? Visit Sugar, Miami’s tallest rooftop bar, it’s filled with plant so you’ll feel as if drinking in an secret garden. Brickell is also home to one of the best hidden gems of Florida , the Miami Circle.

Truth be told, one of my favourite spots in Miami is a little out of the way and is a secluded garden and museum situated within a waterfront estate home that was built in 1916.

The historic house is a magnificent piece of architecture, filled with elaborate decor of stained glass windows and marble floors. Offering stunning views over Biscayne Bay as well as gloriously green gardens to stroll around, this is an absolute must-see when visiting Miami! Book your trip from Miami to Vizcaya here.

From Vizcaya Museum, you can get a bus directly to Little Havana. Just put ‘Calle Ocho Walk of Fame’ down in your GPS app and you’ll find the directions to reach the area. Little Havana is so-called after the same name as Cuba’s capital because it’s home to many Cuban exiles, as well as many immigrants from Central and South America.

The heart of Miami’s Latino community, wandering around you’ll quickly find that the air is filled with the scent of coffee, Cuban cigars and empanadas. This colourful pocket is also home to Little Havana’s Walk of Fame, similar to Hollywood, except this walk exclusively celebrates Hispanic artists and celebrities.

The perfect spot to immerse yourself in Miami’s vibrant Hispanic culture, while there you should book a food tour and indulge in the best of Cuban food! Book your food and walking tour here.

If you have more time:

In order to get to Key Biscayne, we took an Uber Share Ride, which wasn’t too expensive. Just minutes from Downtown Miami is a five-mile-long barrier island and former coconut plantation, home to gloriously green parks and beautiful stretches of beach!

The best thing to do while in Key Biscayne is stroll through the nature trails of Bill Baggs Park and visit the Cape Florida Lighthouse. It’s also a great spot to enjoy the beach and take a refreshing dip in the crystal clear waters.

Key West is the pearl of the Keys and is the southerly most point of mainland USA. A colourful and vibrant subtropical pocket of paradise, this city island is Florida’s most sunny destination. Also the inspiration and beloved home of the writer Earnest Hemingway. This small and mighty island is definitely one to add to your bucket list!

This oasis of green, with crystal clear coastlines is abundant with things see and do! It was honestly one of my favourite places to visit while in Miami, but of course it does take up a whole day so bear this in mind if you don’t have too long in the city. Find out more about booking a day trip to Key West from Miami here .

Things to know before visiting Miami

Personally, I’d recommend staying in South Beach to get the ultimate experience from Miami. Although Downtown Miami offers a more central location in the cultural hub, it’s pretty easy to commute to and visit. In the hot climate of this destination, you’ll be grateful to be staying nearby to water.

South Beach, in my opinion, is also just prettier and a cooler area to explore!

The quickest and by far most efficient way to get around the city is via Uber. Offering affordable rates, you can also opt to use the ‘Share a Ride’ service (where the driver will pick up multiple people) which will make your trip cheaper.

Although South Beach is iconic, it’s not the best one to visit when exploring Miami.

Booking well in advance ensures for prices to be on the lower end, Miami is super expensive to stay and visit so it’s best to try cut costs at any opportunity.

United States use power plugs and sockets of type A and type B, two flat parallel pins that go into the socket. So if you are coming from Europe, be sure to prepare in advance and buy enough travel adapters for your devices. I have this one.

Miami is huge and packed to the brim with things to see and do, so unless you have unlimited time you just have to accept that you won’t be able to see everything. I recommend getting together a list of your most important things to see and make an itinerary (…kind of like this one!) that way you can ensure you get the most out of your visit.

If you like to go with the flow, bear in mind Miami can be overwhelming in size, business and amounts to do. Personally I always find it helpful to bring a guidebook, this way you’ll never be stuck for ideas and you’ve essentially always got a guide with you to fill in the blanks when you want to know more about something.

An informative and easy read is the Lonely Planet Miami & the Keys , which you can buy online second hand from around £4.

If you have time it’s absolutely worth setting aside some time for a day trip from Miami! Close by to so many areas of interest, it would be a true loss to not take advantage of seeing these fabulous destinations while in the area. Our favourite day trip had to be visiting the tropical city island of Key West!

As mentioned, Miami has a big Latino community, especially coming from Cuba thanks to its close proximity to the country. As such, there is a big influence of Cuban culture and this is true with food and coffee too.

While in Miami you have to try some Cuban food. The best is within the district of Little Havana, but is also scattered across the city. It’s the best way to experience Miami properly… and not to mention it’s delicious!

Just a heads up, when eating or drinking out in the United States there’s often an extra 20% tip included on your bill. This is because American hospitality staff rely on these tips in order to make a living wage, so you don’t need to tip extra on top of this (although if you are feeling super generous you’re more than welcome to) .

One of the most frustrating parts of travelling can be the hidden costs that surprise you! Hidden resort fees, which are also sometimes called destination fees are additional costs that hotels or resorts charge for specific amenities that you didn’t realise weren’t included, for example ‘housekeeping’, ‘pool use’ or ‘beach towels’.

The only recommendation to avoid such fees is to look before you book! You’ll find that most ethical hotels will include any mandatory fees as part of the room rate.

Luckily there is more of an effort being done to crack down on the deceptive nature of this kind of advertising, but be sure to watch out for it when booking your accommodation.

I personally recommend staying in Miami Beach (i.e. the island portion of Miami that is technically a city in its own right) because this is where many of the main attractions are. Miami is a big city and so there are lots of options when it comes to accommodation.

We personally stayed at hotels that were just off the strip of Ocean Drive as we were close to plenty of restaurants in a touristy area of town. This was especially useful as we didn’t have a car! Here are some of the best places to stay in Miami based on location and web-reviews:

The Balfour Hotel : situated on a palm lined street and within an Art Deco style building, this hotel is just a two minute walk from South Beach. With amenities including an outdoor pool and sun loungers, breakfast is also included. Check prices and availability here.

Four Seasons Hotel Miami : set within the financial district of the city, this 5-star hotel offers a more luxurious stay. With some rooms offering bay views, it also has a 2 acre outdoor pool area! Check prices and availability here.

Enjoyed reading about how to spend 3 days in Miami? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Charlotte is a photographer, cat lover and an avid knitter. When she’s not curled up on the sofa with her newest knitting project (and Rico her cat!) you can find her out and about on long walks. Currently living in the magical city of Edinburgh, she looks forward to travelling and seeing more of the world!

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3 days in Miami

Despite what you've heard about Miami's legendary nightlife, as a local I can tell you that the city is more than just untz, untz, untz beats and rowdy bachelorette parties on yachts. (Though let's be honest, you will definitely see and hear both of those). Instead, Miami—known as the Magic City—is a vibrant, and sometimes contradictory, combination of sights, sounds, and multicultural experiences that makes it feel unlike anywhere else.

This 3-day itinerary will guide you through some of the best the city has to offer. You’ll get a feel for the city’s distinctive neighborhoods and also its under-the-radar restaurants and attractions using traveler favorites from our community. Whether you want to eat the city’s best Cuban sandwich while lazing on the warm sandy beach or splurge on Michelin-rated cuisine in a 5-star hotel, I can help you choose your own adventure in a city where the possibilities are endless.

Morning: Graffiti and bagels

Start your day by grabbing an everything bagel with cream cheese and lox or avocado toast on sourdough bread at the Michelin Bib Gourmand winning kosher bakery and cafe, Zak the Baker . (Unless it’s Saturday, when they’re closed in observance of the Sabbath.) The hip spot’s colorful facade is the perfect introduction to Wynwood, which is like a graffiti explosion in the best way possible.

When you’re done carb-loading, hop on an open-golf cart tour and get a funky and unique 1-hour look at the artists behind the Instagram-famous Wynwood walls .

Travelers say: “This tour was well worth the money. Our guide, Lance, was great explaining the history, significance, differences, process (and more) about street art, graffiti, tagging, etc. He took the time to answer questions, and even took us to a spray paint store to show us how the art has advanced so much that special cans and nozzles for paint were created for different effects.” —@Matt T

Continue your art tour and take a quick drive (or rideshare) to the Rubell Museum in Miami’s up-and-coming Allapattah neighborhood, one of the city’s newest art hubs. Housed in a former DEA warehouse (a reminder that this is Miami, after all), you’ll find a tightly-curated collection of contemporary pieces from artists such as Richard Prince, Basquiat, and Keith Haring. Leku , the Basque-style restaurant attached to it, is as inspired as the artwork in the museum and is worth a visit for a post-museum tapas tasting.

Afternoon: Havana days

After spending the morning touring new Miami, venture back in time with a visit to Little Havana . Declared a National Treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation in 2017, it’s considered the most popular Cuban exile neighborhood in the world.

Start your DIY walking tour on the neighborhood’s main street, Calle Ocho (8th Street), at Sanguich , a popular gourmet Cuban cafe with a walk-up window that has earned both a Travelers’ Choice and Michelin Bib Gourmand awards. Get there early or be prepared to wait in line (you can also order ahead on their website) for a taste of authentic Cuba with the media noche (pressed roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese and pickles) sandwich and a side of fried croquetas. If you have room, order a classic Cuban pick-me-up of a colada (Cuban coffee) or coladita (coffee milkshake).

Head east and walk five blocks to Domino Park , which is not a park per se but several pavilions with tables and chairs where locals play dominoes, and usually smoke a few cigars while they’re at it. It’s fun to stop and get a glimpse of the Cuban pastime in action. Continue a few more blocks to learn about the fight for Cuban independence at Cuban Memorial Boulevard Park .

OTHER TOUR OPTIONS:

• Eat your way to the heart of Miami’s vibrant Cuban culture with this 2.5-hour food and culture walking tour . A guide will lead you through Little Havana’s most important landmarks and traditions, all while sampling Cuban delicacies from family-owned restaurants, such as pastelito con guayaba y queso (a guava and cheese pastry). Wash it down with a rum and mint mojito and look forward to a nap.
• Experience a world of immersive art at Superblue Miami , where you'll encounter cutting-edge installations that include a mesmerizing mirrored labyrinth and a wild display of 3,000 lights synchronized with your heartbeat.
• Kick it in gear with a party bike bar crawl in Wynwood, pedaling through the streets with a small group of 15 people or less. You’ll discover neighborhood attractions and learn more about the area’s murals, with pit stops at three bars along the way.

Evening: Sky’s the limit

Miami has one of the largest and most colorful skylines in the U.S., and you’ll want to find a great vantage point from which to view it. While South Pointe Park in Miami Beach has one of the best views of the skyline, head to Sugar rooftop bar in Brickell to be in the middle of it all.

Come down to earth and head downtown by crossing Brickell Avenue Bridge by foot or car. It’s here you’ll get one of the prettiest (and overlooked) vantage points in the city. Like most of Miami, this neighborhood has changed dramatically in recent years, and still is. Stop into the multilevel food and entertainment venue Julia and Henry’s to peruse what some of the city’s most notable chefs are cooking up. Or, walk a few blocks to Jaguar Sun for crudo, oysters, and a tasty selection of pastas.

Worthy detours along the way

Morning: Architectural and pop culture legends in Miami Beach

The Miami Beach boardwalk runs seven miles, the full length of Miami Beach, from 5th Street on South Beach to 87th Terrace on the border of Surfside. Explore by walking, jogging, or picking up a Citibike rental, which has bike stands in locations along the way.

Once a sleepy stretch of hotels that were home to retirees, the Art Deco District—a 1-mile zone running from 5th to 23rd streets along Ocean Drive, Collins Avenue, and Washington Avenue, became a historical legend thanks to the formation of the Miami Design Preservation League (MDPL) in 1976, who advocated for the preservation and restoration of the district's historic buildings. From there artists, photographers, and designers followed, including Andy Warhol and Gianni Versace, who helped cement the area’s icon status over the next several decades. Today, you can view the same buildings you’ve seen in shows and movies like Miami Vice and The Bird Cage on a DIY walking tour, stopping to see buildings such as The Carlyle and The Colony Hotel . For more in depth history, consider the official Art Deco Walking Tour by Miami Design Preservation League .

Other Miami Beach tour options:

• Miami Beach is home to some of the most expensive waterfront mansions in the country. See them up close and personal on this 90-minute yacht tour of the private Star, Hibiscus, and Palm Islands, where Al Capone’s former Florida hideaway sits.
• Voted a “Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best,” this guided food and walking tour will not only show you the Art Deco district, but you’ll also get to visit the kitchens and chefs from the neighborhood's five-star and under-the-radar restaurants.
• A private jet ski experience will give you a view of Miami the way it was meant to be seen, from the water. Just you, your group, and a guide will learn how to safely navigate before setting out onto the waters of Biscayne Bay. Keep an eye out for gentle (and big!) manatees.

Afternoon: Sandwiches and sand

End your Art Deco tour on 14th Street and head over to local favorite La Sandwicherie . The french-owned eatery now has several locations across Miami, but this counter was the first one to make beach-perfect sandwiches starting in 1988. No matter which combo you get, just don’t forget the cornichons and vinaigrette (also known as the “magic sauce”), which somehow tastes even better if you eat it with your toes in the sand.

If relaxation is next on your list, walk back east with your sandwich and find your perfect beach spot. Even if you’re not staying at a beach hotel with chair access, many will offer rentals for a fee. Or, look for a Bouchour Brothers or Esteban's for chair and umbrella rentals.

Evening: A relaxed culinary adventure and the city’s oldest bar

Espanola Way , located in Miami Beach's South Beach neighborhood, is a picturesque pedestrian street that has seen a resurgence in the past few years thanks to the opening of the boutique Esme Miami Beach Hotel , along with several adjoining restaurants and bars. Tropezon is a highlight, featuring Andalusian-style tapas and infused gins, all made in-house.

A one-mile walk or drive south will take you from Spain to Italy with dinner at candlelit Macchialina . Listen to 90s R&B and hip-hop while you dine on gnocco fritto (puffed bread), homemade cacio e pepe, and veal milanese. If you’re willing to let the chef make all the decisions for you, try the four-course tasting menu and wine pairing. If you find a bottle you love, you can buy a few on the way out at their small market in front.

If the thought of going to a crowded club makes you want to curl up next to your lasagna, visit Mac’s Club Deuc e, dubbed the “oldest bar in Miami.” And while it seems like nothing much has changed inside since it opened in 1926, you can revel in the fact that you’re probably standing exactly where Don Johnson did when Miami Vice threw their wrap party there.

Travelers say: “This is a Miami Beach staple. One of the oldest liquor licenses in the state. This place is just great. Is it smoky? Definitely! Old? Yep? The vibe is great. Very eclectic crowd and always friendly. Staff is no nonsense but funny and efficient. One of my go to’s and definitely a must for a visitor. The late and amazing Anthony Bourdain came here on Parts Unknown as well.” — Jmoney14

Morning: Window shopping with a side of art

Keep breakfast light and mobile for your day ahead by grabbing a Miami mocha smoothie from local health staple Pura Vida in the Design District. With your superfood in hand, you can get your fair share of window shopping done in the ritzy neighborhood’s high-end stores such as Chanel, Bottega Veneta, and Celine.

Once you (or your wallet) have had your fill, head south to one or two of Miami’s most popular waterfront cultural destinations: The Perez Art Museum or the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science next door, which features a three-level aquarium and planetarium. When you’re done, walk outside and through Maurice A. Ferré Park . Formerly called Museum Park, the 21-acre plot catches you a great glimpse of the cruise ships that call Miami home.

UNIQUE MIAMI TOUR OPTIONS:

• See Miami from new heights with a 30-minute journey on a seaplane . Experience a water takeoff and landing as you fly over Key Biscayne, Coconut Grove, and South Beach with your pilot.
• Discover a different side of Miami beyond its sunny beaches and resort pools on an exclusive half-day, private history through architecture tour . Delve into the city's fascinating architectural history with a knowledgeable guide exploring diverse neighborhoods such as the Financial District, Coconut Grove, and Coral Gables.
• Snakes, alligators, turtles, oh my! Everglades National Park is just 45 minutes from Miami and easy to visit on a three-day trip to Miami. Accompanied by an experienced Everglades guide, this 60-minute airboat tour (3 hours total) will bring you through the fascinating history and ecological significance of this unique ecosystem.

Afternoon: Lunch at a gas station and a stroll through the garden

Continue heading south by car or taxi; if you need gas, all the better. Your lunch stop is El Carajo , a Spanish tapas and wine market located inside a working gas station. Order the seafood paella and grab a bottle of some of the world’s highest rated wines from the shelves to have with your lunch (for a small corkage fee).

Despite the portable restroom outside, the restaurant still has plenty of old-world charm. If you’re wondering how some of Miami’s wealthiest families really used to live, take a 23-minute walk or three minute drive to Vizcaya Gardens . The palatial 12-acre waterfront estate was once the winter home of industrialist James Deering, and has been the filming location for movies such as Any Given Sunday, Bad Boys II, Iron Man 3, and Ace Ventura: Pet Detective. After roaming the 32 rooms in the villa (including nine guest rooms and bathrooms, none of which are portable), grab a spot on a bench in the formal gardens. If you visit on Sunday, you can also check out their weekly farmer’s market for a small selection of locally grown produce and handcrafted goods.

Travelers say: “​​The whole property is an unexpected surprise, from the juxtaposition of the European furnishings against the mostly definitely non-European exterior, to the formal gardens right next to the mangroves, to the stunning water views that are completely not like Newport. Really, REALLY worth a visit if you love house museums.” —@ vichy

Evening: Vinyl and vermouth

Miami is often referred to as New York’s sixth borough. If that’s the case, then Coconut Grove would surely be Brooklyn. With lush foliage and some of the city’s best restaurants and bars, the neighborhood is loved by locals and tourists alike. (Plus it’s only 20 minutes from the beach, unless there’s traffic).

The bayfront neighborhood is home to several amazing local eateries, including Los Félix , a “milpa to mesa” (farm to table) Mexican restaurant complete with homemade tortillas, plus vinyl records playing in the background. Its sister restaurant Krüs Market is located upstairs. It focuses on seasonal dishes such as bone marrow pudding and grilled scallops as well as a large selection of natural wines. If reservations are hard to come by, Le Bouchon Du Grove across the street is a charming and intimate bistro with French classics such as chicken fricassée, garlicky escargots, and giant pots of moules-frites.

Vermouth isn’t just for mixing at Victoria's Vinos y Vermuteria Vermouth Bar , just a few blocks south. Cozy up to the dimly lit intimate bar and try a glass of their homemade vermouth on the rocks, a classic Spanish aperitif.

Know Before You Go

Miami’s best weather coincides with the highest prices for hotels from November to April, which locals refer to as the “season.” One of Miami’s biggest events, Art Basel, is in the beginning of December. The South Beach Wine & Food Festival is at the end of February. Both are events to add to your list, but can make hotel and restaurant reservations harder to come by.

Hurricane season runs June 1 until November 30. You can get better deals during this period, but scattered thunderstorms and hot and humid temperatures (at the very least) are always a possibility.

Miami peaks on the weekends, but it’s pretty great during the week, too. Most museums are open on Sunday, but some (like Vizcaya) are closed on Tuesday or Wednesday, so be sure to check ahead. Like most cities, restaurants may be closed on Monday; plan your schedule accordingly.

Breakfast spots generally open at 7 a.m., while lunch restaurants wait until 11 a.m. Dinner reservations typically begin at 6 p.m., though given the large European and South American population in Miami, you might want to wait to eat until at least 7:30 if you want a lively atmosphere.

Miami nightlife goes late (or early, depending on how you look at it), with clubs opening at 11 p.m. and some staying open until 11 a.m.

Miami Beach: If you’re looking for a classic beach vacation, you can’t beat this Art Deco mecca. In fact, you could stay on Miami Beach and never leave, especially if you stay at one of the larger resorts such as the 1 Hotel South Beach or luxe Faena , which was designed by award-winning film director/producer Baz Luhrman.

Coconut Grove: A more laid-back option with walkable bars and restaurants, a stay in Coconut Grove will make you feel like a local. Mr. C’s looks like the shiny interior of an Italian yacht, with beautiful views of Biscayne Bay and a great restaurant to boot. The recently renovated Mayfair House Hotel & Garden (and its Sip Sip rooftop bar) is an Art Nouveau dream.

Key Biscayne: Want to experience the energy of Miami but return to a serene escape when you’re done exploring? The Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne is only 20 minutes from downtown Miami, but feels like you hopped on a plane to a Caribbean island. The oceanfront resort features a lively beach bar, Mexican cantina, and two pools, one for adults and one for kids. They also have a great spa when your legs need a break from all those walking tours (or mojitos).

Public transportation: Miami has several free or affordable ways to get around the city. The Metrorail connects various neighborhoods, downtown Miami, and Miami International Airport. It runs from 5 a.m. to midnight, with extended hours during weekends and special events. The Metromover is a free people mover system that runs downtown. Aside from the Metrobus, which operates standard bus routes through the city, there’s a free trolley that runs in various neighborhoods, including Miami Beach, Coral Gables, and the Design District.

By bike: Miami is home to a lot of bikers, with over 100 miles of paved and unpaved paths, trails, and bike lanes. The most popular city routes go from Miami to Key Biscayne as well as Miami Beach over the Venetian Causeway. With that said these lanes still run alongside traffic, so you’ll want to be a fairly experienced biker to feel comfortable. Citibike is the city’s bike rental system, but you’ll need to bring your own helmet.

By taxi: Taxis are available, but are not as reliable (or comfy) as rideshares such as Lyft and Uber.

By car: Renting a car might be more affordable than a rideshare if you plan on covering multiple neighborhoods. Just keep in mind that hotels often have expensive daily rates for valet, so you’ll want to do the math to see which one makes the most sense.

By train: The Brightline is a high-speed passenger train that connects Miami to neighboring cities such as Aventura, Ft. Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach as well as a new route to Orlando.

Airport transfers: Taxis to South Beach (28th Street to 1st Street) cost a flat rate of $35. Check to see if a rideshare might be less expensive to your destination before you get in a taxi. You can also take the Metrorail Orange Line from the airport, which connects to some neighborhoods such as Brickell and Coconut Grove, though you may have to then take a rideshare to your hotel from there. Some hotels also offer free airport shuttle service.

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.

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Meet Lauren Juliff

Ultimate 3 Day Weekend in Miami Itinerary (For First Time Visitors!)

Located on the edge of the Caribbean Sea, Miami is lucky enough to have some of the best year-round weather in the country, and it’s the perfect destination for a long weekend of sun, sea, and sand.

3 days in Miami is the perfect amount of time to enjoy the best that this city has to offer. You can spend time on Miami Beach, enjoy the great restaurants and nightlife, and of course the epic city skyline.

You can explore museums and galleries, enjoy the excellent Floridian climate and make the most of your Miami itinerary.

Here’s our ultimate guide to spending the weekend in Miami!

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Miami & the Keys

Ultimate Weekend in Miami Itinerary

Table of Contents

Day 1 of 3 Days in Miami

The first day of your Miami itinerary begins at the iconic South Beach. Get acquainted with this famed part of the city, marvel at the incredible Miami skyline, bask in the sunshine and swim in the ocean.

This is a day for sun, sea, and sand, and a day to take in the great Miami atmosphere on the coast before you start to explore further afield. 

Ride the Miami Trolleys

Before starting your weekend in Miami, one of the best tips you can make use of in the city is knowing that the Trolley Buses here are absolutely free of charge. 

The Miami Free Trolleys are a great way to get around the city, and they can take you all the way along South Beach and up to North Beach, and even into Downtown.

Check the city website for the exact timetables, but they run through most of the day, making them a convenient way to travel and to sightsee.

Relax on South Beach

South Beach is where you’ll find the famed Miami Beach. This is the part of the city that you’ll be imagining when you’re planning your weekend in Miami. 

South Beach is always busy, and that’s part of the fun. Head here in the morning and you’ll escape the intense heat and be able to take in the atmosphere as the rest of the city emerges to exercise.

Take a walk along the boulevard, find a spot to watch the rollerbladers or get ready for the entertainers.

You can enjoy the soft sand, take a dip in the ocean and perhaps find a spot for breakfast or coffee looking over the ocean.

If you’re here for a break, then you could even spend the rest of the day just relaxing on South Beach. Rent a sunbed or book into a resort overlooking the beach, and forget about the rest of the world.

Eat your way through the Latin flavors of South Beach on this food‐filled walking tour . Accompany your guide on a sensory journey to 5‐star restaurants and foodie hideaways.

The tour serves the following cuisines: Peruvian, Italian, Colombian, Mediterranean, Cuban, and Spanish.

Cruise on Ocean Drive

But you might not want to spend the whole day relaxing, and if that’s the case, then don’t worry, because there’s a lot more to pack into your 3 days in Miami.

You can start by walking the length of Ocean Drive, or by taking the Trolley Bus if you’re feeling lazy. 

You can jump into the shops and restaurants, grab a drink, and admire the famed Art Deco buildings that line this seafront boulevard.

See the Art Deco Historic District

South Beach is well known for its Art Deco architecture, and there’s more to see than the buildings that line Ocean Boulevard. 

The Art Deco Historic District is found in South Beach and is home to the highest concentration of colorful Art Deco buildings in the city. You might want to join a walking tour to find out more about the quirky local history. 

See the gorgeous Art Deco architecture in South Beach on a guided walking tour that explores landmark buildings and out-of-the-way gems .

You’ll learn the history of South Beach as you walk through the ocean-side neighborhood, with fascinating stories about mob life, Hollywood glamour, and modern design, and you’ll hear about the area’s outrageous characters and scandals.

Get Away from the Crowds at North Beach

In the afternoon, head up to North Beach, which is found on the barrier islands along the coast.

This is just as spectacular a place to visit as South Beach, and with the many public parks and stretches of sand that are found here, it’s the perfect place to relax and to escape the crowds.

Enjoy Sunset Cocktails

In the evening, take a stroll back along Ocean Drive. Find a spot for sunset cocktails overlooking the city skyline.

Then enjoy a great dinner in one of the many restaurants that are found here, to round off a great start to your weekend in Miami. 

Day 2 – Miami Itinerary

The second day of your Miami itinerary will focus on Downtown, as you head away from the beaches and start to delve deeper into the city’s history and culture.

Enjoy a few museums or galleries and have a great day out in this bustling city.  

Visit Downtown Miami

Downtown Miami is the heart of the city and it’s a great place to spend the day. Grab breakfast in a downtown restaurant or enjoy a coffee in a cafe, then take a walk through the busy streets as you admire the famed skyline.

Explore the most popular sites in Miami on this scenic hop-on hop-off bus tour . Visit many of the top attractions in South Beach, Wynwood, Coconut Grove, Little Havana and more. 

Board at any of the more than 40 stops on three separate routes and get to know the city in custom fashion, with live commentary.

Explore the History of Miami Museum

After a morning stroll through Downtown, make your way over to the excellent History Miami Museum. Here you’ll be able to learn more about the city’s fascinating history.

The museum takes you on a journey through Miami and southern Florida’s history,

From the first indigenous people that called the land home to the waves of settlers from Europe, and then the rest of the Caribbean and the Americas, that have all contributed to the unique flair of the city. 

This is probably one of the most overlooked and interesting things to have on your Miami itinerary. If you have the time, don’t miss it.

Stroll the Museum Park

Downtown is the place to learn about history and to get cultured, and there’s no better destination for this than Museum Park.

This public space overlooks the seafront and offers views out over the Atlantic towards the barrier islands.

Inside the park, you can find two of Miami’s best museums. This is where you can visit the in-depth Philip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science , as well as the Perez Art Museum.

Learn about the world of science, as you explore the exhibits of the science museum, then take a journey through Miami’s contemporary art scene.

Take a Boat Cruise

One of the best things to do during your long weekend in Miami is a boat cruise.

After spending your morning and early afternoon exploring the museums and galleries of Downtown, then take a cruise from the Port of Miami.

You can join organized boat tours or hire your own boat for a few hours, depending on your budget.

The boat cruises will take you along the coast, past the barrier islands and with a view of the iconic city skyline from Biscayne Bay.

Cruise the Miami coastline on this speedboat cruise . Settle into your plush seat as your expert captain pilots the speedboat down the sandy shoreline, where you can view Fisher Island and Star Island’s collection of multi-millionaire and celebrity homes.

Buzz by Miami Beach, where the locals strut their stuff in sun and you can snap photos of the Art Deco mansions lining South Beach.

Shop at the Bayside Marketplace

On your second evening in Miami, take a trip to Bayside Marketplace. This is one of the most popular places to visit in the city, and you’ll soon realize why as you enjoy the festival atmosphere and views over Biscayne Bay.

Bayside Marketplace is packed full of shops, bars, and restaurants, and you can enjoy dinner and drinks with a view as you relax through the evening and into the night. 

Day 3 – Long Weekend in Miami

The final day of your 3 days in Miami is all about exploring the alternative side of the city.

Spend the morning in the artsy district of Wynwood, then spend the afternoon delving into the unique culture of Little Havana. 

Wander Around Wynwood

Located just north of Downtown, the art-centric district of Wynwood is a must-see on your Miami itinerary. This is the famed art district, and it’s best known for its colorful and at times political murals that adorn the streets. 

While you can wander the streets on your own, it helps to join a tour or to have a local guide, so you won’t miss the best of the street art and murals, and so you learn more about Wynwood’s intriguing history. 

The best murals are found at Wynwood Walls, an outdoor gallery dedicated purely to street art. 

Explore a former warehouse district that’s been transformed by street art and galleries on  a guided walking tour of Wynwood, one of greater Miami’s most creative destinations .

Learn the techniques and stories behind Wynwood’s vivid murals and experience Miami at its most vibrant and artistic.

Have a Drink at the Wynwood Brewery

If you love craft beer, then call in at Wynwood Brewery once you’ve explored the street art and murals.

This great local brewery has made quite a name for itself and offers a fine selection of brews and bites to eat, making a great pit stop before you head off into Miami for a busy afternoon.

Venture to Little Havana 

Head across town to another of Miami’s most famous districts, Little Havana. Due to its location on the edge of the Caribbean, Miami became a haven for many of those who were exiled from Cuba, through the 20th century. 

Many Cubans would settle in what is now known as Little Havana, and it’s a busy, colorful and vibrant addition to any weekend in Miami.

Take a tour with a local to learn more about the history and culture, and the relations between Cubans and Americans. 

Little Havana has a great selection of restaurants and bars too, and this is the best place in Miami to try some Hispanic style cooking, and to grab a famed Cuban Sandwich. 

Experience the sights and sounds of Miami’s vibrant Little Havana neighborhood on this guided walking food tour .

Explore this lively Cuban district and sample the local cuisine, like guava pastries, chicken plantain cups, and flan ice cream, to name just a few of the delicacies.

Also, meet some of the local artists, watch skilled Cuban cigar rollers and listen to traditional Cuban music.

Visit the Freedom Tower

After learning about the Cuban community in Little Havana, and gorging on food and drink, then if you’ve still got time head back into Downtown, for a quick trip to Freedom Tower. 

The iconic tower dates back to 1925 and has been an immovable part of the skyline ever since.

Of interest after your tour through Little Havana though, is the fact that today the tower is primarily an art and history museum, and there’s an excellent exhibition focused on Cuban immigration to Florida to wrap up your Miami itinerary. 

More on Florida:

• Epic Miami to Key West Road Trip Guide
• 17 Awesome Things to Do in Islamorada
• 13 MUST NOT Miss Things to Do in Key West
• 18 Amazing Things to Do in Key Largo
• 13 Fun Things to Do in Panama City Beach
• 15 FUN Things to do in Kissimmee, Florida
• Ultimate Florida Packing List

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Florida!

The Ultimate 3 Days In Miami Weekend Itinerary

January 10, 2022 //  by  Florida Trippers

Looking to spend 3 days in Miami but aren’t sure what to see? We’ve got you covered!

Whether you are planning a long weekend in Miami or plan on avoiding the crowds by coming on a weekday, you will have fun in this lively, South Florida city!

Since Miami is well known for its beaches , live music, outdoor adventures, architecture, shopping, and the arts, it can become a bit overwhelming to plan a Miami itinerary. But, you can easily see all of Miami in 3 days!

We have put together a great list of stops so planning can be less stressful, and you can enjoy the sun while strolling the streets in South Florida! This 3 days in Miami itinerary is a great way to see the best of the city, and we know you will enjoy everything this wild city has to offer!

Now, let’s start planning a trip to Miami, Florida !

Table of Contents

The Ultimate 3 Days In Miami Itinerary

Getting to miami.

Getting to Miami to start your long weekend is easy because South Florida is such a popular travel destination. Luckily, there are two airports you can fly into, which gives you lots of options!

The first airport is Miami International Airport, which is arguably the best airport to fly into when traveling to Miami because it is closer to the heart of the city. You will probably pay a bit more for flights at this airport, but you will also have the option of a variety of carriers such as American, Delta, United, and more.

The second option is to fly into Ft. Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, which is about an hour’s drive north of Miami itself. This is a smaller airport and is easy to navigate, and typically has lower-cost carriers such as JetBlue and Southwest.

Ultimately the decision is up to you! You may want to even consider driving to Miami , especially if you’re already in Florida ! Luckily the drive to Miami takes you consistently on long stretches of highways (like 1-75 South). This can be a slightly “boring” drive but it is easy enough!

Getting Around During Your 3 Day Vacation in Miami

If you have decided to fly for your 3 days in Miami, you may want to consider how you are getting around. Both the Ft. Lauderdale and Miami International Airport have car rentals if you’re interested in driving yourself. You can rent from National, Enterprise, and others!

However, you may also want to consider simply Ubering around. Because everything is fairly close to one another in the city, it may be easier to participate in walking tours and hitching a ride when you have to travel a bit.

For example, an Uber to South Beach from the MIA would cost you less than $20 vs. renting a car for a full day. But whatever you decide to do, just make sure you are prepared to go through a lot of tolls in the city and on the highways and be cautious of parking with meters!

Day 1: Little Havana & Miami’s Art District

Stop 1: little havanna.

After arriving in the city, we recommend heading toward Little Havana to kick off your 3 days in Miami! Little Havana is Miami’s vibrant, Cuban heart. It features a vast amount of art galleries and restaurants with cafes that feature Latin flares.

Many cafes have walk-up windows that sell Cuban coffee or cigars. This place is the perfect first stop on your first day because it is close to downtown Miami (just west of it!) and has so much to do. While you are in town, don’t forget to check out our list of Best Places For Brunch in Miami!

Calle Ocho Street typically has locals that welcome all of the tourists, and challenge them to a game of dominoes in Maximo Gomez Park. After talking to the locals, and playing some games, you can always see how cigars are made at El Titan de Bronze or sample fun flavors at Azucar Ice Cream Company.

Little Havana also has live performances often at Cubaocho and its clubs, such as Hoy Como Ayer, are great for dancing. The Tower Theatre also hosts great revival and independent films. Ultimately this is such a fun place to explore, so we recommend swinging by the Little Havana Visitor Center and planning out a great afternoon to start your weekend in Miami!

Book Here: Little Havana: Food & Cultural Walking Tour with Lunch

Stop 2: Wynwood Art District

The Wynwood Art District is home to over ten galleries, museums, and other collections. It is one of the first open-air street installations in the world and features a variety of art to explore, making it perfect for your second stop during the first day of your weekend in Miami.

When walking through the district, you can pick out your favorite Wynwood Wall murals from a variety of street artists, swing by local breweries, and even dance in the back of taco shops (Como Taco for the win!).

This art neighborhood lets you explore some of the neighborhood’s oldest galleries. Wynwood is Miami’s art district after all! You can swing by the Locust Projects and then finish your afternoon at a wine bar!

If you visit Miami in December, then you can come to the Wynwood Market for a unique selection of everything from art to cocktails all to the backdrop of live music. It brings together the best of all Maimi local produce and talent with a festive Christmas flair.

The outdoor adventure, laid-backed local vibe, and immersive art make this district welcoming to tourists and locals alike, so you don’t want to miss it during your 3 days in Miami!

Book Here: Wynwood Art District 1-Hour Street Art Tour by Golf Buggy

Stop 3: Downtown Miami

We have three stops on the first day of your weekend in Miami just so you can pace yourself and see all you can see, especially once you get to downtown Miami! Downtown Miami is a busy area known for its shops, cultural events, sports events, concerts, museums, and more.

You don’t want to miss this part of the city. With its waterfront lined marinas, this place is not only a sight to see but is full of things to explore. While exploring, you can always take a boat cruise through the docks and sail over Biscayne Bay.

You can also visit the History Miami Museum to learn about Spanish conquistadors, and then stop by the Philip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science. The Perez Art Museum is also a great place to explore if you need to escape the Florida sun!

The Shops at Mary Brickell Village keep people busy during the day and evening, and throughout downtown, you are sure to find yourself stopping at great places (maybe the Bloom Skybar or a cool nightclub?) to enjoy food, drinks, and local gems! It’s the perfect place to spend your later afternoon and evening during the first day of your three days in Miami!

Book Here: Miami: Sunset Cruise through Biscayne Bay and South Beach

Day 2: Beaches and Sun

Stop 1: south beach.

Would you really be experiencing a vacation in Miami if you didn’t spend some time at the iconic South Beach ? South Beach is known for its glamorous surrounding area and its white sands and aqua water.

Some say that South Beach glitters–both at night and during the day! This area is fun to hang out in as it attracts everyone for some sun and fun. From tanning, relaxing on the sand, building sandcastles, and soaking up some water, or even renting a jet ski, there is not a dull moment here!

If you are looking for some of the best gay beaches in Florida , head to 12th Street Beach, which is part of South Beach. You will know you have arrived when you see all the Pride flags waving in the ocean breeze.

You can also stop by Haulover Park which is nearby for some fishing adventures, tennis, golf, and bicycle rides. Because you are also in the Art Deco district, you can take a walking tour to enjoy the fine architecture. Make sure to check out some of the best South Beach restaurants , too!

There is no denying the fact that South Beach is an experience. You have to visit or stay here and check it out for yourself, but do be prepared for some crowds on those shores or in the oceanside dining!

Book Here: South Beach: Segway Tour

Stop 2: Española Way

After soaking up some sun and water at South Beach, you’re probably going to want to grab some food and replenish your energy so you can continue having fun during your weekend getaway in Miami!

We recommend stopping and replenishing along Espanola Way! Here is where you can discover some of Miami’s best restaurants, live music, entertainment, shopping, and more!

This historic street, which is SUPER close to South Beach, offers a unique selection of boutiques and specialty stores that offer one-of-a-kind products, celebrity-inspired and run culinary options, and more.

Most importantly though, this street stays true to its 1920s roots and is known for its dancing and dining in the streets: whether its yoga in the park or salsa in the evening, the movement and culture of Espanola Way will be one of the memorable parts of your 3 days in Miami.

Book Here: South Beach: Multicultural Food Tasting Tour

Stop 3: Lincoln Road

Speaking of streets in Miami, Lincoln Road is a pedestrian road that runs east, parallel to the beaches, and is another great outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment destination to add to your 3 days in Miami itinerary.

This mile-long stretch of road is made for pedestrians only, and its street is always hopping with locals and tourists because of what it features. Lined with mainstream clothing options, casual and chef-driven restaurants, and an IMAX theatre, there is so much to do.

People love to gather at the sidewalk cafes and tables. The umbrella-covered outdoor seating offers great spots to relax and enjoy happy hour or to just relax and people watch!

With some high foot traffic and lots of people visiting, you’re sure to experience a lot and witness a lot: from dog-walking locals to street performers, smelling authentic cuisine, and more, this is an experience you don’t want to miss!

Stop 4: Ocean Drive & Collins Ave

To wrap up your evening on day two of your itinerary for Miami, we recommend heading back to South Beach, but this time, make sure you focus on Ocean Drive and Collins Ave rather than the sun, sand, and water! This is truly one of the best things to do in Miami at night!

This area is central to Miami’s evolution as a city that is known for its art, fashion, culture, and entertainment. This edgy street features a mix of restaurants, nightclubs, retailers, and hotels .

The Art Deco District is at full play here, so don’t be afraid to hop on a walking tour to learn more about the history and architecture of beach buildings as you witness “the Capital of Cool.”

To end your evening on this avenue is to end it at a club, high-class restaurant, or experience that is ultimately trendy. You will not experience any other street like this one, especially in the evenings. From performers to modeling shows, to clubs that are kid-friendly, rooftop bars , and graffiti artist shows, this area draws in creatives, locals, tourists, entertainers, and more every second of every day!

Book Here: Miami: 2-Hour Art Deco Bike Tour

Day 3: Heading Toward Coral Gables

Stop 1: vizcaya mansion and gardens.

Vizcaya Mansion and its gardens are part of a breathtaking Gilded Age estate on Biscayne Bay. Across ten acres of well-composed gardens that feature a vast amount of flora, a mangrove shoreline, and more, this is one of the things you must see during your 3-day vacation in Miami.

This unique, cultural gem lets tourists connect to Miami’s past as they navigate the Rocklands and acres of this mansion and its surrounding gardens. Through tours, you can learn about the stories of creativity and innovation, of those who built and lived at the estate.

As a cultural hub, this mansion seeks to be a green space for residents and visitors but it is also consistently creating innovative programming for tourists. They even created a virtual family food lab about plants during Covid-19!

This wonderful place also hosts a variety of fun experiences, such as Murder Mystery nights, cultural events, and more. Better yet, every time you visit something new is in bloom so the always changing gardens will always look different in some way!

Book Here: Miami: Vizcaya Museum & Gardens Ticket with Transport

Stop 2: Venetian Pool

The Venetian Pool is a historic U.S. public pool in Coral Gables, Florida. In fact, it is the U.S’s largest public swimming pool, which is why we recommend adding it to your 3 days in Miami itinerary. You don’t want to miss this!

This aquatic facility is unlike any other. As a main attraction of Coral Gables, thousands of tourists come to visit this pool. Created in 1923 from a coral rock quarry, this 820,000-gallon pool is fed with spring water.

The pool itself is filled and drained nightly to enhance a visitor’s experience, but people also love its surrounding areas, which include two lookout towers, and cave-like grottos, which makes swimming more interesting.

The “pool deck” is also accentuated by palm trees, bridges, loggias, and porticos. This gives the pool a completely immersive experience and makes visitors feel like they are in a whole resort area in Miami!

Stop 3: Miami Fair Trade Marketplace

After touring gardens, mansions, and pools, it is then time to visit the Miami Fair Trade Marketplace! On the 3rd day of your long weekend in Miami, we recommend spending some time at this marketplace to explore a great area.

Located inside the Coral Gables Congregational Church, this marketplace was created by a pastor who wanted to create an alternative shop in Miami. In the marketplace, individuals refrain from seeing inhumane practices (such as child labor and sweatshops).

This marketplace supports artisans in over thirty countries by selling their indigenous products. It is super important to stress that all of these products are made under safe working conditions, so we fully support supporting this marketplace!

You can find jewelry, fashion, gifts, food products, and more here. By purchasing these products you are raising the standard of living for the countries they are from through trade and not aid–and you can get some of the most unique souvenirs from your weekend in Miami!

Stop 4: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

If you want more time in beautiful gardens during your 3 days in Miami, then head to the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. This is one of the best botanical gardens in Florida and is a pretty place to spend time in nature away from the hustle and bustle of Miami.

This expansive tropical garden in Coral Gables spans over eighty acres. With panoramic views from the overlook, palm tree glades, butterfly gardens, a farm, and tropical fruit conservatories, there is a lot to see. So much so that, if you didn’t feel like walking, you could take a guided tram tour.

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden also hosts all sorts of events throughout the year, for all ages. There are watercolor and oil painting classes, pet-friendly live music nights, ice cream-making classes, and even an introduction to beekeeping!

Stop 5: Coconut Grove

To wrap up your 3 days in Miami, we recommend finishing your third day at Coconut Grove! This upscale restaurant hugs the shoreline of Biscayne Bay and is known for its relaxed nature. This is truly one of the Best Places To Stay In Miami!

Alongside the streets are sidewalk cafes, chic shops, and even the Coco Walk Mall. You are able to sit and relax here, grab some great grub, people-watch, and window shop!

But better yet this area also has a variety of green spaces including a mangrove forest and the Barnacle Historic State Park if you want to check out some more of Miami’s natural beauty!

Sailing clubs and marinas also dot the water, so feel free to take a seat and watch some water sports, of even rent out some equipment for yourself to finish up your long weekend in Miami on an adrenaline high! Can someone say jet skis or parasailing?

Where to Stay in Miami

It’s important to feel safe and comfortable during your weekend in Miami. Because Miami often draws tourists to its streets and beaches each year, there are tons of places to stay, including:

The Mayfair at Coconut Grove

Only 2.5 miles from the Vizcaya Mansion, this boutique hotel is great to stay at because it features a rooftop pool, a spa, and an on-site gourmet restaurant so you can relax no matter when you return to your hotel!

All accommodations are safe, including TVs, wifi, a safe, a minibar, and coffee-making facilities. The bathrooms include stone flooring with marble oversized bathrooms–but better yet, you are only 11 minutes from South Beach!

Mid-Range: The Mayfair at Coconut Grove , Check Rates: Booking.com

East Miami is located in the heart of the city and is known for its luxury. Each room is decorated with modern decor, including floor-to-ceiling windows that offer great views of the water.

But even better views can be found at the rooftop bar, and if that doesn’t interest you, you can always go relax at one of the four pools, the on-site restaurant, or the fitness center. And with nearby retail shops, movies, bars, spas and more you won’t ever be bored!

High -Range: East Miami , Check Rates: Booking.com

Private, Cozy, and Quiet Miami Studio

This cute and simple studio is great if you are looking for a more affordable stay in Miami. It is not big and fancy, but you will have everything you need to make your stay comfortable.

This stay is found in a convenient location in a quiet neighborhood. It is close to public transportation, beaches, grocery stores, and Little Havana.

Low -Range: Private, Cozy and Quiet Miami Studio , Check Rates: Vrbo.com

Little Havana Spanish Style Guest House by Calle Ocho

Found in the heart of Little Havana, this adorable home is perfect for your Miami stay. It is near the Miami Welcome Center and many other Miami attractions.

Up to five people can stay here. The kitchen is fully equipped with anything you might need to cook a great at-home meal. There are also two flat-screen TVs, Hulu, and wifi to keep you entertained after a day of exploring the city.

Mid-R ange: Little Havana Spanish Style Guest House by Calle Ocho , Check Rates: Vr bo.com

Where to Eat During Your Miami Vacation

There is no denying the fact that it can be slightly overwhelming to decide where to eat during your trip to Miami, just because there are so many options! Whether you are eating by your hotel, near the art district, after the beach, or looking for a cup of great cafe, we recommend you stop by some of the best restaurants in Miami.

Pane & Vino

Pane & Vino near South Beach is an atmospheric Italian restaurant in Miami . The motto of this eatery is “Eating is a necessity. Eating well is an art.” Pane E Vino focuses on serving traditional Italian food, and you will leave feeling full.

All the pasta dishes at Pane E Vino are homemade, including lasagna, green Cappelletti, spaghetti, and ravioli. For the main course, they serve chicken, salmon, or steak dishes. For dessert get cannoli, creme brulee, or one of the other tasty treats.

Moshi Moshi

Moshi Moshi is one of the restaurants in Miami to visit if you are craving sushi. They are open 24-hours if you so you can eat any time your tummy starts to rumble. Moshi Moshi is known for its cozy and unpretentious atmosphere as well as its creative sushi rolls.

The restaurant has a variety of cold appetizers such as tuna tataki, crunchy crab ceviche, salmon Crudo, and tuna or salmon tostadas. Moshi Moshi also has plenty of dumplings to choose from like chicken, spicy beef, and pork gyoza served with soy vinegar.

Charly’s Vegan Tacos

Tacos are popular in Miami, and you should not miss out just because you are vegan. Charly’s Vegan Tacos has you covered! Charly’s is a great choice for Miami vegan food and is known for the award-winning vegan nachos and tacos. Everything is made in-house using high-quality vegan ingredients in a very chill atmosphere and artfully presented.

You will also find burritos, Charly’s torta, quesadilla, nachos with a chipotle leek cheese and carne asada, street corn, fried plantain, and avocado fries! Is your mouth watering yet?!

GreenStreet Cafe

If you are looking for a great breakfast to start your day in Miami, head to GreenStreet Cafe in Coconut Grove. This restaurant offers outdoor seating and fantastic menu items that are sure to satisfy any taste.

Their rotating selection of specialty pancakes, such as cinnamon roll pancakes, is always a hit. The red velvet pancakes are a crowd favorite and their French toast options are tempting as well.

If you’re looking for something savory, any of their made-to-order omelets are excellent, such as their goat cheese and tomato or the spinach and feta. The scrambled eggs with nova and onions or their nova eggs benedict are also popular choices.

The Salty Donut

If you are craving a tasty treat, you will want to check out the Salty Donut. This family-owned restaurant has multiple locations in the Miami area and has amazing donuts and some of the best coffee around.

The Salty Donut focuses on artisanal donuts made in small batches and 100% from scratch. Their craft donuts rotate based on seasonality and never contain any artificial ingredients!

They roast Intelligentsia Coffee, and their specially crafted coffee menu focuses on seasonality. While their roasts’ flavor profiles may challenge the norm, they are always a perfect match for their donuts!

What to Pack for a 3 Day Trip to Miami

If you are not sure how to start packing for Miami , we will walk you through it. You do not want to overstuff your luggage with things you do not need, but you definitely do not want to forget something essential.

T-Shirts With Sun Protection

T-shirts with sun protection are a must-have item for your Miami packing list. No matter where you are from or how dark or light your skin color may be, you still need to protect your body from possible future skin cancer. These shirts are affordable and breathable, keeping you cool in the Florida heat.

Tank tops are a must for your Miami packing list. If you are visiting Florida any time of year other than winter , you are going to want to pack a few tank tops . This shirt style will keep you cool and free from sweat stains!

Lightweight Shorts

If you want to pack shorts for your Miami trip, consider purchasing an affordable pair of breathable shorts . Sure, jean shorts are okay, but they really hold in the Florida heat! There are great lightweight shorts for men and women.

Whether you go for short or maxi , a few dresses will help mix up your Miami wardrobe. Dresses keep you cool and cute all at the same time. In Miami, a colorful dress will make you feel right at home among the bright buildings and lively atmosphere.

Some might argue this is the most important thing to pack for Miami! You need a swimsuit to make the most of the beaches in Miami! Ladies, get something cute and comfortable . Guys, try swim trunks that are quick-dry.

Flip flops are great for the beach since they are easy to clean and take on and off. Cheap flip flops are great since they are easily replaced if they are lost, and you don’t have to worry about your good shoes being left unattended on the beach.

Classic sneakers are great if you plan on doing a lot of walking in Miami. You do not want your feet hurting after a few hours! Bring a pair that are supportive and will match multiple outfits.

A sun hat, especially one with UV protection , is perfect for protecting your face from the sun. It will also look cute as you snap some selfies on the beach!

SPF-50 Sunscreen

You 100% need sunscreen if you are coming to Florida! SPF-50 or higher is recommended to keep you safe from the harsh rays. Since it is liquid, you can put it in your checked bag if you fly or buy some when you land. If you are going to swim, get a sunscreen that is waterproof and reef-safe .

Waterproof Phone Case

If you think waterproof phone cases are expensive, think again! These little bag-like cases are super cheap and work very well! They allow you to take your phone in the water or hold it during the rain which here in Florida we get quite a lot of, especially during the summer! This is the waterproof phone case we use and love!

Insulated Water Bottle

An insulated water bottle is the perfect essential to pack for Miami because you will want cold water at all times! Reusable water bottles are great for the earth and keep your water cold! Insulated water bottles like this one are perfect for the whole family and very affordable!

Mesh Beach Bag

This is a beach essential for your three days in Miami! A mesh beach bag will keep everything dry, clean, and safe as you have fun at the beach. Plus, they pack up really small!

Waterproof Dry Bag

This waterproof dry bag is the perfect thing to add to your Miami packing list if you are planning on going boating, scuba diving , or being on or near the water during your trip. If your bag falls in the water or gets wet, the special clasp keeps all your belongings dry!

Polarized Sunglasses

You need to bring a pair of sunglasses to Miami! Sunglasses are an essential part of your Miami packing list because they protect your eyes from sun damage. If you are looking for the best protection possible, consider buying a pair of polarized sunglasses .

Fast Drying Towels

Nobody likes dealing with wet towels! Get fast-drying towels to pack for your Miami trip to save the hassle of carrying around wet towels after your beach day!

And there you have it: the best itinerary for a 3 day weekend in Miami! This city is so full of life–it has a fantastic culture and vibe that cannot be found elsewhere.

So in-between soaking up some sun, enjoying nightlife and art, make sure you are enjoying yourself during your 3 days in Miami! We promise you won’t regret it!

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3 Days in Miami Itinerary: A Native shares the perfect Weekend in Miami

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Looking for the perfect 3 days in Miami Itinerary? In this post, a Native shares with us the most epic weekend in Miami. Enjoy!

Miami is a city known for its Caribbean blue beaches and electric nightlife. While both are true characteristics of South Florida’s hottest destination, Miami also offers a lot more than meets the eye.

The city is emerging as a cultural hub in the state of Florida as new museums, unique architecture and creative local businesses move in. Miami is also home to a vibrant display of Latin culture. Local restaurants dish out Cuban delicacies like no other place in the country, as well as Brazilian, Colombian and Venezuelan cuisine.

In other words, Miami is an ideal place for a three-day vacation. It’s no wonder why the colorful culture, beautiful beaches and delicious food attract hordes of visitors every year. With so much to see and do, a jam-packed itinerary is the best way to go.

Here is how to spend a perfect three days in Miami.

Three Days in Miami Itinerary Overview

Three days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Miami. With three days in Miami you’ll have time to get to know its many unique neighborhoods, enjoy the beach, experience the world-famous nightlife and — more importantly — eat well.

Day 1: Miami Neighborhoods: Wynwood, Little Havana, Brickell

Day 2: miami beach, day 3: virginia key, best time to visit miami.

Miami boasts sunny weather all year round. Most agree that the best time to visit Miami is during the spring, between February and May. During this time the temperatures are a bit cooler than the height of summer and the humidity isn’t as bad.

Miami is also notorious for afternoon thunderstorms in the summer, which can get in the way of beach plans. Also keep in mind that hurricane season begins on July 1.

Tips For Visiting Miami

Spending three days in Miami is a dream vacation for all. It’s a destination that welcomes families, couples and groups of friends alike. If you’re planning your first trip to Miami, here are a few tips to keep in mind.

• Accommodation: Hotels can be expensive in Miami, especially if you want to stay in Miami Beach . Booking your stay ahead of time may help you get a better deal. I personally love comparing the hotel rates on Booking.com and on Hotelscombined.com .
• You can also look into staying in less expensive neighborhoods like the MiMo District . Airbnb may be a better option for budget travelers.
• Getting Around: Although some public transportation exists in Miami, it’s certainly not the best in the U.S. Everyone in South Florida uses a car to get around. If you’re planning to explore more than just the beach, then you might want to consider renting a car. If you’re planning to stay in one general area, then using Uber or Lyft will work just fine.
• Weather: South Florida can be extremely hot and humid. Thunderstorms are a daily occurrence in the summer months, too. Plan accordingly and make sure to bring lots of sunscreen and hats to shield you from the sun. Don’t forget an umbrella, too!
• Language: Although mostly everyone speaks English in Miami, there’s a good chance you’ll encounter restaurants or stores where the staff speaks only Spanish, especially when exploring Little Havannah.
• Nightlife: Miami’s extravagant nightclubs are a huge attraction for visitors and locals alike. Clubs can be expensive to get in, so you may want to ask around for a promoter contact that can get you in at a discounted rate. Most nightclubs also have an elevated dress code (you won’t be allowed in wearing beach flip flops).

3 days in Miami Itinerary : The Perfect Weekend In Miami

This three-day Miami itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors.

Miami Itinerary Day 1: Explore Miami’s top neighborhoods

Start off your trip to Miami with a delicious brunch at Morgan’s Restaurant, one of the most popular breakfast spots in the city. Morgan’s is located within Wynwood, Miami’s designated Arts District. The menu offers something for everyone, including a variety of Eggs Benedict, brioche French Toast and fried chicken with biscuits. Vegan options are also available.

After brunch, walk off the meal with a stroll through Wynwood. If you’re a street art fan, then you’ve come to the right place.

Wynwood is home to the highest concentration of street art in the country. The most evident display of this are the Wynwood Walls, an outdoor gallery of seasonally changing murals. Get your camera ready! As you walk around the neighborhood you’ll find more street art on every corner.

From Wynwood you can walk over to the Design District to window shop at the neighborhood’s many high-end stores. Even if you’re not in the mood for a high-priced handbag, the Design District is worth a visit for its unique architecture. It’s one of Miami’s newly built neighborhoods, and unique art and sculpture installations are common throughout.

For lunch, catch an Uber or drive over to Little Havana.

Little Havana is the center of Cuban culture in Miami. It’s the perfect place to experience authentic Cuban cuisine. For a classic Cuban sandwich layered with ham, pork, pickles and mustard head to Sanguich De Miami. If you want to try a Cuban-style burger topped with potato strings and plantains, check out El Rey De Las Fritas. For an authentic plate of rice, black beans and steak, the iconic Versailles Restaurant is the way to go.

Regardless of which you choose, make sure to follow up the meal with a flan or passion fruit flavored ice cream at Azucar.

Feel free to roam around the neighborhood and its cheeky shops before returning to your hotel or Airbnb to freshen up for dinner.

In the evening, head over to Brickell, where most of the city’s high-rises are concentrated. Dinner options include Pubbelly Sushi at the outdoor Brickell City Centre, an architectural masterpiece;  Perricone’s for delicious Italian pastas; or La Mar for seafood with a waterfront view.

Grab an after-dinner drink at the tallest rooftop bar in the city: Sugar at the East Hotel. The bar offers a lush garden setting that transports you to Bali, with views that stretch all the way to Miami Beach.

Miami Itinerary Day 2: Enjoy the sun on Miami Beach

After all that walking on your first day in Miami, you’ll be ready to lay back on a beach.

Odds are there’s a Cuban diner or coffee window near your hotel or Airbnb, which makes for a great quick breakfast before the beach. Cuban coffee, known as cafecito , is a must-try. Pair it with a perfectly toasted slice of Cuban bread and a side of ham croquetas.

One of the best beaches in Miami Beach sits at the southern end of the island. It’s called South Pointe Park, where the sand is as white and the water as blue as you’d expect from a Caribbean beach.

South Pointe is a great place to sunbathe as it’s not as touristy as the main stretch of Miami Beach in front of Ocean Drive. You’ll most likely be sharing this beach with more locals than visitors, which makes it a more pleasant experience.

If you want to experience a classic Miami beach club, walk over to Nikki Beach for a drink.

When you get hungry, consider having lunch at the new Time Out Market, where several Miami restaurants provide a taste of the city’s diverse culinary landscape.

Following lunch, walk toward Ocean Drive to view Miami Beach’s iconic Art Deco buildings. You’ll find plenty of photo ops here, too!

Spend the rest of your afternoon sunbathing on the beach or stop by Lincoln Road for some shopping.

For dinner, the seafood and key lime pie at Joe’s Stone Crab shouldn’t be missed.

Since no Miami night is over after dinner, consider pop[ing over to the Broken Shaker at the Freehand Hotel for a drink. Another more relaxed option is to head to Lagniappe, a beautiful outdoor wine bar in Wynwood. If you’re looking for the quintessential Miami nightclub experience, it doesn’t get more lively than LIV at the Fontainebleau Hotel, neon lights, confetti and champagne bottles included.

Miami Itinerary Day 3: Escape to Virginia Key

On your third day in Miami you’ll head to a place where many tourists don’t venture to.

But first stop by Zak the Baker for some pastries. Grab an extra sandwich or two for a lunch picnic at your next destination.

Virginia Key is an island spanning over 800 acres that offers paradisiacal beaches devoid of all the crowds on Miami Beach. Here you’ll find miles of biking trails with beautiful ocean views, kayak and paddleboard rentals, and a beautiful state park.

Here you’ll spend the day lying out on Virginia Beach or biking around the island.

You won’t want to miss out on the Cape Florida Lighthouse in Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. The picture-perfect lighthouse lies on a white sandy stretch facing turquoise waters. It’ll feel like you escaped to the Florida Keys when you’re just a few minutes away from the center of town.

For dinner, swing by the casual (and perpetually packed) Lung Yai Thai Tapas in Little Havana. There will most certainly be a wait — but it’s worth it! This tiny, unassuming hole in the wall restaurant serves the best Thai food in Miami. Note that you’re required to place your entire order all at once.

End your Miami trip with a bang with live music and salsa dancing at Ball & Chain, Little Havana’s most famous club.

This is a post written by guest contributor Carla Vianna, Founder of Travel By Carla Vianna blog.

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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.

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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 .

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

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Weekend in Miami: 3-Day Guide to Sun, Sand, and Salsa

From sun-soaked rollerblade rides down South Pointe Park to sizzling nights of mojitos and salsa dancing, this South Florida hub is brimming with possibilities. But how to consolidate the best of the 305 into a long weekend in Miami? Follow along to learn everything to see, do, and eat on your Miami weekend getaway.

South Beach or the Art Deco District? Windswept Biscayne Bay Cruise or visits to famous food halls? Stop stressing over what to see in Miami in 3 days or Googling is ‘3 days in Miami enough?’. From which famous neighborhoods to visit, to where to refuel with authentic Cuban food, we’ve devised the ultimate trip to Miami in just 3 days.

Stroll through the stunningly manicured gardens of Villa Vizcaya or appreciate the art deco facade and neon lights of the Avalon Hotel.

Ready to make the most of your Miami weekend getaway? Read on…

Miami Hotels

A beautiful bronze glow and some oceanfront memories are just part of the ideal Miami itinerary. Weekend getaways offer the perfect amount of time to capture the essence of the 305. Nonetheless, before we dive into your stay in Miami you’ll need to secure some lodgings.

Whether you’re spending 36 hours in Miami or more, you deserve some A+ accommodations. From funky and stylish hotels and beach clubs in South Beach to spacious ocean-view suites in North Miami Beach, we offer options for every type of traveler.

Indulge in your favorite amenities such as beach cabanas, poolside bars, saunas, and more when you book any of our premier Miami Hotels . As always, make your reservation stress free knowing you are guaranteed our lowest rates online.

How Can I Spend 3 Days in Miami?

Surf, sun, and sand. What’s not to like about Miami? While we think there’s no wrong answer to the question of how many days to stay in Miami, if you’re short on time we’ve crafted a slam-dunk itinerary.

From people-watching on Ocean Drive to fully narrated architecture tours, our 3 days in Miami trips will cover it all. After all, it’s not how many days in Miami you have, it’s what you do with them.

Rise and shine, sweetie! It’s Day One of your Miami adventure, and it’s time to make some choices. Grab your favorite caffeinated beverage from Vice City Bean or Shepherd Artisan Coffee . Whether you plan on painting the town red or seeing Magic City at your own speed, we recommend grabbing a Go Miami All-Inclusive Pass .

This nifty device is your ticket to sightseeing for a steal. Opt for a 1, 2, or 3-day option and watch as the wonders of the 305 unfold at your feet. Enjoy unlimited access to as many attractions as you like each day. Storm your way through the city as you take on Little Havana, Wynwood, the Seaquarium, and more.

South Beach

For visitors looking for a relaxing first day of South Beach window shopping, beachy strolls, and maybe some volleyball we recommend a day by the sea.

Start with a leisurely walk down Ocean Drive to appreciate the distinctive architecture and flair of the Art Deco hotels. From the ivory edifice of the Beacon Hotel to the feisty vibes of the Clevelander Hotel there’s much to admire.

Related Post: Indoor Activities Miami: What to Do When the Weather Gets in the Way

For the rest of the afternoon whip out that bikini or workout gear and break out an oceanside sweat. Camp out at South Pointe Park for spectacular waterfront scenery and beach access. Snag some blades and take on the pier, or pack a picnic for a romantic lunch.

Real juice heads can also check out Lummus Park’s ‘Muscle Beach’ outdoor gym area, which features an assortment of bars and rings.

ARTECHOUSE Miami

Does your skin shudder at the thought of hours of unrelenting Miami sun? If you prefer to understand the Magic City through a more cultural lens, we suggest you spend your time in South Beach exploring two floors of state-of-the-art lighting effects, surround sound, and brilliant color at ARTECHOUSE Miami .

A feast for the senses this immersive art exhibit’s Miami location promises to dazzle with extravagant hues, textures, and sound. Part of the nation’s ARTECHOUSE family, the Miami branch opened in 2018. Here, curious minds can see, feel, and experience creativity without limitations through the intersection of art and technology.

Related Post: ARTECHOUSE Miami FL: Coupons and Reviews

A pioneer in the field of experiential art, ARTECHOUSE is continuously switching up their exhibits. Stop by to celebrate the Pantone color of the year, or delight in the exploration of art and code with Zach Lieberman.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens with Transportation

More in the mood for some classic Magic City sightseeing? Pick up the pace and opt for an enthralling and educational tour of the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens . Your Vizcaya Museum and Gardens with Transportation Day includes roundtrip transportation from Miami Beach and downtown hotels.

Escape the vivid neon hues and bright lights of South Beach for some European refinement on this four-hour journey into the past. Soak in every angle of the gorgeous 1916 waterfront estate home that contains 10 acres of formal gardens. Spy beautifully blooming orchids, palms, and more as you meander through this fabulous former residence of industrialist James Deering.

One of Miami’s most notable National Historic Landmarks, this palatial Italian-style villa offers a window into the Golden Age through its outstanding collection of art, furniture, and artifacts.

Cuban Food and Salsa Dancing

Wind down your day of beach hopping and neo-classical furniture in the most Miami way possible. Stuff yourself silly with plates of yucca fritters, pressed Cubanos, and Medianoches when you make a date with some of Magic City’s most mouthwatering Cuban food.

For an iconic taste of heavenly week-long marinated pork and fresh bread stop by Sanguich De Miami (and be prepared to wait). Or, for more of a sit-down situation, slip into a cozy booth at Chuck’s Diner and experience foodie ecstasy as you sample Short Rib Boliche or Pan con Lechon.

Related Post: Best Nightclubs in Miami – 11 Hottest Places for Your Night Out

Get ready to work off those carbs and swing those hips when you make your salsa debut at the world-famous Mango’s Tropical Cafe South Beach. Boasting booming Latin music, ice-cold cocktails, and live cabaret entertainment, Mango’s keeps the energy flowing until 5 a.m.

Looking to master the seductive dips and fancy footwork of salsa? Try their Sip and Salsa lessons, which offer hands-on instruction, mojitos, and appetizers.

Hopefully, you awaken from your slumber not too hungover from late-night mojitos at Mangos. Day Two in this palm tree paradise is all about art and Miami design. Awaken your inner artist as you gaze upon Miami modern architecture or embrace an immersive sensory experience at ARTECHOUSE.

Art Deco Walking Tour

Take your iced latte to go and pull on some sneakers because your official Art Deco Walking Tour will kick off at 10:30 a.m. This official walking tour serves up the perfect introduction to the Art Deco, Mediterranean Revival, and Miami Modern (MiMo) styles found within the Miami Beach architecture.

Listen to an expert narration of the rich histories of the district as you explore the iconic facades of the area’s hotels, restaurants, and other commercial structures. From the Breakwater building to the stunning Avalon Hotel you’ll see top examples of the Deco design era.

Wynwood Walls

Mesmerizing combinations of color, neon, and paint come together at the famous Wynwood Walls. This renowned street art museum is a must-visit for any art lover. Located in the heart of Wynwood, it makes the ideal second stop for your day of 305 culture.

Plan to spend a few hours soaking in cutting-edge works from international artists and muralists alike. The museum contains numerous outdoor installations so you can even enjoy some Vitamin D while you admire cartoon-inspired works by Greg Mike or high chroma design works by Lauren YS that explore queer and mixed raced stories.

Purchase tickets for a guided tour here or utilize your Go Miami All-Inclusive Pass  for a Wynwood Outer Walls Self-Guided Audio Tour.

Miami Design District

Got an itch to shop? Put your plastic to good use with a quick stop in the Museum Design District. Depending on your budget you can window shop for luxury goods or pick up some timeless pieces from Louis Vuitton, Tory Burch, Yves Saint Laurent, or Christian Louboutin.

Related Post: Things to Do in Miami for Free – 17 Can’t-Miss Activities

More in the mood to chow down? Sample cuisines from around the world at the chef-led food hall MIA Market . Kick things off with an aperitif from their sophisticated bar menu before diving into a diverse menu of shawarma, sushi, ramen, and more.

Psst..on the prowl for some affordable retail therapy? We suggest Bayside Marketplace  for all of your typical mall retail needs.

Awake rested and perhaps even inspired by your previous day of modern art and culture. Today is your last day in the 305 and every minute counts. This final day in Miami will deliver buckets of wildlife, boat cruises, and a glamorous last meal.

Biscayne Bay Cruise

Get ready to peek into the lives of the rich and famous when you book a Biscayne Bay Cruise . The 305 is a city of the sea, so there’s no better way to experience her flashy charm than on a boat! Feel refreshed as you revel in the stunning aquamarine waters of the Bay coupled with soft ocean breezes.

Your 90-minute cruise will deliver the ideal view of Miami. Whip out that camera as your stately vessel speeds by yachts, sailboats, jet skis, and speedboats. Listen up as your guide points out educational facts and tidbits, all while you sail past the mansions of Miami’s most well-known celebrities. Admire the homes of elite stars and entertainers including Gloria Estefan, Madonna, and Silvester Stallone.

Already picked out your mansion? Get back to reality with a grounding and thoroughly wild afternoon at Zoo Miami . Mammals, birds, and amphibians oh my! Journey to the far reaches of our planet as you observe over 2,000 animals at this 750-acre zoo.

Get up close and personal with creatures from Australia, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Spy Anacondas, Koalas, and African Elephants. Or get to know the beasts of Miami’s backyard with a stop at Florida: Mission Everglades.

Don’t forget to peruse the Zoo’s themed gardens which are home to a bounty of blooming wildflowers, butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees.

Dinner at the Surf Club Restaurant

Break into your vacation budget just a smidge when you splurge on one final supper in this mecca of bikinis and body oil. Book your reservation at renowned chef Thomas Keller’s restaurant and settle in for the meal of your life.

Related Post: Miami Bachelorette Party: 15 Ideas for Your Perfect Itinerary

Located in Surfside,  the Surf Club Restaurant  manages to marry classic Continental cuisine, Miami nostalgia, and sweeping views. Dig into hand-cut steak tartare, fresh oysters, and jumbo lump crab cake before sharing their signature prime beef short rib Wellington for two. Spring for a bottle of champagne and cheers to an epic 3 days in Miami.

A cosmopolitan tropical paradise, this sprawling Florida oasis more than lives up to its moniker of Magic City.

Combining equal parts art, culture, and near-perfect weather, you’d be hard-pressed to find anyone who can resist the enchantment of Miami.

While it’s always optimal to spend more time in the Sunshine City, travelers with just 3 days to spare can cover more than enough ground.

Challenge beliefs and watch contemporary art unfold in real-time when you interact with the immersive exhibits of ARTECHOUSE or gaze upon the urban installations of Wynwood Walls.

Educate yourself on the diverse ecosystem of the Everglades at Zoo Miami. Or satisfy your inner gourmand with a supper of steak, lobster, and caviar at the Surf Club.

All Set to Set Fire to Miami in 3 days? Let’s go!

Tell us, is 3 days in miami enough.

Leave a comment below and tell us your perfect Miami plans!

Written by Isis Maya Nissman

A New York native, Isis-Maya spent most of her professional life working in TV production until a vacation whisked her away to Central...

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3 Days in Miami – An Itinerary for a Long Weekend in Miami

A long weekend in Miami is a great amount of time to spend in the city. If it’s your first visit, or you’re spending a few days in Miami pre or post cruise, you’ll be surprised by how you can see and do in this time. Many of the best neighbourhoods in Miami are fairly close to each other, which can make for an exciting and varied itinerary.

From the beautiful beaches, vibrant street art, exciting foodie offering to the outdoors adventures, there are plenty of things to do and see in Miami. And of course, don’t forget experiencing and exploring the Hispanic culture that influences everyday life in the city. So, here’s my Miami long weekend itinerary guide and all the best things to do and see in 3 days!

Long Weekend in Miami: Essential information

So you’ve got a long weekend in Miami? And you’re not sure where to start? Not sure whether to stay in South Beach, or maybe Downtown Miami? What about both?

This guide will help you plan your time in Miami, based on my own suggested 3 day itinerary. But of course, this could easily be shortened or extended if needed. Having visited Miami many times, often for three or four days each time, I know the city pretty well.

I’d also recommend reading my detailed guide to the best neighbourhoods in Miami . This will give you a clearer overview of all the best areas to visit in the city. In this guide, I’ll often provide a couple of alternatives on how to spend 3 days in Miami. Hopefully this will be helpful so you can decide which would work better for you.

Where to stay in Miami?

So first things first, where to call your base for your long weekend in Miami. This comes down purely to what the main focus of your trip will be.

If you’re inclined to spend more time at the beach, then I’d definitely recommend staying by the beach. I’d recommend South Beach, or Mid-Beach for a slightly quieter alternative.

One of the best things about the destination is that travelling to and from different neighbourhoods is really straightforward. And although Miami Beach (incorporating South Beach and Mid-Beach) is located on a barrier island adjacent to the mainland, it’s easy to cross over the bridges on foot or using public transport.

So if you do choose to stay at the beach, but fancy heading elsewhere, it’s easy by public transport or by Uber.

Miami Beach is home to some of the best and most iconic hotels in Miami, many of which are in stunning Art Deco properties. For example, the Delano South Beach  is an luxury Art Deco hotel and one of the most famous hotels in Miami. Alternatively, SLS South Beach  makes for an ultra chic stay, and  1 Hotel South Beach  has one of the best rooftop bars in Miami.

Some more affordable stays by the beach include The Betsy South Beach , located at the quieter end of Ocean Drive and The Plymouth  which is a luxury Art Deco boutique hotel.

I personally love staying at the  Loews Miami Beach . It has an awesome pool with great daybeds and the seafood at the Lure Fishbar is some of the best I’ve ever had. Check rates at the Loews Hotel Miami Beach here!

If spending time at the beach isn’t a priority, then I’d recommend staying in Downtown perhaps, and visiting Miami Beach for an afternoon, for example. I’ve listed some of my favourite stays in Downtown Miami in the next section.

Pre or post cruise stays in Miami

Are you staying in Miami before or after a cruise? It’s useful to know that PortMiami is where every cruise ship company will depart from. And PortMiami is located right by Downtown Miami/Brickell area, so for pure convenience, it may make more sense to stay in this area.

This map below displays just has close Downtown Miami is to PortMiami.

One of the best hotels for pre and post cruise stays is the  InterContinental Miami , which you can see on the map above, directly by Bayfront Park.

Alternatively, on Brickell Key is one of my favourite hotels in Miami, the  Mandarin Oriental . It has some exceptional dining options, including  La Mar by Gaston Acurio , as well as a private beach and an excellent swimming pool.

Another alternative in the Downtown/Brickell area is the super cool  EAST Hotel .

Getting Around Miami

As mentioned, the city Miami is well-connected on public transport, particularly the bus network. This makes a trip without a car quite simple, especially as Ubers are cheap and plentiful. In Downtown and Brickell, the local train, called the Metromover is free for both locals and visitors.

South Beach and Miami Beach are best explored on foot. Although you could live like a local and hire roller-skates or a bike for the boardwalk!

Miami is also a great place to cycle and using the  Citi Bike  programme makes it easy. You can use a bike at an hourly rate. When the time runs out, dock the bike and grab another!

As parking can be quite difficult in Miami, I wouldn’t recommend hiring a car to explore the city.

Resort Fees and Tipping

Like the rest of America, tipping is customary. Most of the time, the service charged is added automatically. This tends to be 15-20% and can add up quickly if you eat out often.

Another thing to keep in mind is that most Miami Beach hotels add a resort fee for each night of your stay. These often aren’t listed in the room rate, but are included on the bill at the end. It supposedly covers things like beach towels and other amenities.

When to go to Miami

Beautiful Miami is a brilliant year-round destination to visit.

The peak season to visit Miami is between November and March, which is the North American and Europe winter. This can make it a very expensive time to visit Miami, with hotel rates round Christmas and New Year especially steep.

March can be extremely busy in Miami with Spring Breakers coming to party. But, fortunately, April and May are also good months to visit Miami. From June to September, Miami can receive very heavy rains in the afternoon.

3 Day Itinerary for Miami

OK, so you’ve decided where to stay in Miami, but wondering what to prioritise in terms of things to do and see in the city?

If it’s your first time in Miami, the key areas to visit would be South Beach, Little Havana, Wynwood and Downtown Miami. For those returning to Miami, why not also visit Coral Gables, Coconut Grove, Little Haiti and the Design District too?

Make sure to check out my detailed guide on the best neighbourhoods in Miami for more information on each area.

Below is an example 3 day itinerary for a long weekend in Miami. It’s based on a return visit to Miami, but I’ve noted an adaption for each day if it’s your first visit to the city. So let’s get to it!

Day 1: Miami Beach

So you’ve landed in Miami or you’ve just arrived in PortMiami after your cruise. Chances are, you probably want a chilled first day.

Why not spend your first day at South Beach. From soaking up the sun, swimming in the turquoise ocean or walking along the boardwalk towards Mid-Beach, a day in South Beach can certainly be relaxing.

Slightly more active ideas for things to do in South Beach include:

• Taking a walk along  Lincoln Road Mall , which is a large pedestrianised shopping street with some great boutique stores and cocktail bars.
• Consider joining a guided walking tour of the Art Deco District with a local tour guide from the  Miami Design Preservation League (MDPL) . The guides are local historians who are truly passionate about conserving and protecting this unique architectural style. They can share tons of information on the fascinating history of this area. Or why not join a South Beach Art Deco Bike Tour?
• Strolling along to South Pointe Park  which is located at the southern tip of South Beach. The views of the Miami skyline are incredible.

There are also some fantastic places to eat around South Beach, including the brilliant Time Out Market food hall or Le Sandwicherie , for the best sandwiches in Miami. Alternatively, why not head to Nikki Beach near South Point Park. You can spend hours here for lunch, enjoying some live music and access to the private beach too.

Or why not join a food tour? Book a fun foodie tour in South Beach directly here.

If you’re staying nearby in South Beach, I highly recommend visiting Espanola Way for dinner and cocktails. The best tapas in Miami can be found here, and it’s magical setting and live flamenco dancing will have you embracing the Hispanic culture of Miami in no time.

Day 2: Wynwood Arts District and Little Havana

Time to soak up some of the arts and culture scene in Miami! I recommend combining Wynwood Arts District and Little Havana into one full day of sightseeing, as they are reasonably close. The drive between the two neighbourhoods can be as quick as 12 minutes in low traffic, and 25 in high traffic.

I would probably prefer to visit Wynwood in the morning when it would be slightly less quieter. Little Havana would be better in the afternoon so you can kick back with a cocktail to enjoy the live music and atmosphere of the area.

Alternatively, why not do this twin tour, including both Wynwood and Little Havana in one excursion?

Wynwood Arts District

So starting the morning in Wynwood, you could stop by Panther Coffee for a take-out coffee. Other great picks are Zac the Baker or the Salty Donut for a mid-morning snack.

Wynwood is famous for local artists transforming this area from a neighbourhood of disused factories, into a colourful ever-changing outdoors art exhibit. Today there are dozens of art galleries to visit, as well as great cafes and stores. Even if you’re not typically into art, it’s hard not to like the energy and buzz of Wynwood.

Wynwood Walls is the heart of the district and is a pedestrianised outdoor art gallery. Make sure to also visit  Wynwood Walls Shop , which sells curated gifts, books, prints and artwork created by the local artists in Wynwood.

You could either have lunch in Wynwood at one of the great eateries such as Wynwood Bar & Kitchen, Coyo Taco or 1-800-lucky, a vast Asian cuisine food hall.

Little Havana

After a colourful morning in Wynwood, head down to Little Havana. As I mentioned, this is just a short drive away.

The best way to explore Little Havana is to join a guided tour. Often these are with a local who is from the Cuban community and who can give insight into the history and culture like no other.

Calle Ocho is the core of all activity in Little Havana, and most of your visit will be centered around this street. A lot of best things to do in Little Havana are focused on food and drink, so make sure to save some room!

Things not to miss in Little Havana:

Dropping by Maximo Gomez Park (aka. Domino Park), where every day you will see locals playing dominoes, often with a cigar in hand. It’s a longstanding tradition, particularly for the older community and often where they come together to catch up with each other.

Make sure to drop into one of the cigar shops, for example Havana Classic or El Titan de Bronze. It’s great to learn and watch how the cigars are hand-rolled, as well as how the tobacco leaves are prepared and stored.

Then as mentioned, so much of the activity in Little Havana is centered on food, here are some spots not to miss: Los Pinarenos Fruteria  which is a popular family-owned cafe and tropical fruit store. It’s been going since the late 1960s. It’s an eclectic little store, and the tropical fruit juices to-go are delicious! Azucar Ice Cream Company is the best spot in the neighbourhood for homemade Cuban ice cream and the traditional pastries at the Yisell Bakery are excellent.

I recommend going to Old’s Havana restaurant for lunch (if you didn’t eat in Wynwood), or for a late afternoon bite to eat. It’s one of the best places to try a Cuban sandwich, often accompanied by excellent live music.

Finally, make sure to visit Ball & Chain  in the afternoon for a refreshing mojito. This is a famous bar and live music venue, with a beautiful outdoors patio at the back with a huge pineapple stage.

If you fancy exploring some of Miami’s nightlife one evening, I highly recommend coming here.

Day 3: Downtown, Coral Gables or Key Biscayne

Day 3 in Miami! You’ve explored some of the Art Deco architecture and the soft white sands that have made Miami famous, as well as the vibrant arts and culture that makes the city so distinctive.

So for day 3, I have suggested three different areas to explore, with two options for combining areas too. This has been based on geographical proximity.

Downtown and Brickell

Downtown Miami and Brickell is a must-visit area in Miami. It has simply changed so much over the past decade, it is unrecognisable from around 15 years ago. We used to stay in the Intercontinental Miami post-cruise. We used to find that walking around the surrounding area often felt pretty unsafe. And other than the Bayside Marketplace, there wasn’t much else to see or do.

Today however, there’s plenty of things to do and see in Downtown Miami and Brickell. Here are some of my suggestions:

Visit the relatively new  Brickell City Centre . This is a vast new retail, dining and entertainment space spanning an entire three blocks. It’s the perfect place to visit if you have a rainy day in Miami too.

Head to  Museum Park  (aka. Maurice A, Ferre park), which is a magnificent new cultural and education district developed on unused waste land. Here you will find the ultra-modern  Frost Science Museum , which is home to a super-cool Planetarium  and an  Aquarium . Tickets to the Frost Science Museum start are USD $30.

The other key new museum here is PAMM (the Perez Art Museum Miami) which is spread over 200,000 feet and houses contemporary and modern art from around the world. Tickets to PAMM are USD $16.

You can also learn about some of city’s interesting history with a visit to  HistoryMiami , located in the heart of Downtown which offers several  city tour options and exhibitions.

Another area to visit is  Bayside Marketplace , which has been in Downtown for a while now. The complex is positioned on the water’s edge, and has some great shopping and restaurants as well as a marina. This is the departure point for many boating tours. For example,   Island Queen  which provides various tours such as Millionaire’s Row Cruise and  Thriller which offers high speed tours of Key Biscayne.

So as you can see, there’s plenty to do in Downtown alone. However, visiting museums, art galleries and taking historical tours will not suit everyone.

Two other areas I recommend are Coral Gables, a beautiful Mediterranean inspired neighbourhood just south of Downtown, or Key Biscayne, which is a tropical oasis with skyline views of Downtown.

Coral Gables

Often referred to as the ‘City Beautiful’, Coral Gables must be one of the prettiest areas in the whole of the US. Inspired by Mediterranean architecture, Coral Gables is filled with tree-lined avenues, palatial homes with terracotta tiles and beautiful parks. It’s really laid-back and a world away from the action on South Beach.

One of my favourite places in Coral Gables is the stunning Venetian Pool , a natural public swimming pool dating back to the 1920s. It was created from a former rock quarry which is filled with fresh water from a natural underground aquifer. It’s easy to lose a day here relaxing under the palm trees and swimming in the coral grottos. There is an entry as a non-resident of Coral Gables, which is $13 per adult and $8 per child.

Other things to do in Coral Gables include shopping and eating along Miracle Mile . You could also play a round of golf at the ultra-luxurious  Biltmore Hotel , or spend a peaceful afternoon at the  Matheson Hammock Park . This is a beautiful manmade beach set at the edge of Biscayne Bay. Here you can kayak, stand up paddleboard or go hiking along the trails in the surrounding woodlands.

The drive from Downtown Miami takes around 30 minutes or you can take the Metrorail train directly to Coral Gables . Once in Coral Gables, you can use the free trolley service around the area. As they are easy to travel between, you could spend the morning in Downtown Miami and the afternoon in Coral Gables, for example.

Key Biscayne

If you’re craving some outdoor space, and something a little more energetic, definitely head to Key Biscayne.

From Downtown Miami, you must travel over the scenic Rickenbacker Causeway to the island paradise of Key Biscayne. There are buses that cover this route (#102) , or you can take an Uber.

This beautiful tropical oasis used to be a coconut plantation. Some people are even lucky enough to live here in some of the residential areas!

The main attraction of Key Biscayne is the number of outdoor activities on offer here, including kayaking, swimming or cycling.

My favourite thing is to cycle along the scenic paths in Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, as well as visit the beach at  Crandon Park .

You can even jump off the bus earlier, as there are beautiful  beaches located off the Rickenbacker Cause . For example, Hobie Beach which is dog-friendly or the watersports focused beach at Virginia Key Beach Park.

Again, as the gateway to Key Biscayne is at Downtown, combining the two areas work well for a full day adventure. Personally, I’d love to spend a whole full day in Key Biscayne as I love outdoor activities so much!

Long Weekend Itinerary for Miami

So that’s rounds off my guide on how to spend 3 days in Miami. Unless you don’t like the beach, I think that visiting South Beach even for a few hours is a must-do. But there are so many great neighbourhoods to explore in Miami, it’s definitely worth trying to squeeze in as much exploration as possible.

If you’re feeling short on time, or want to combine lots of city sightseeing in one day, the why not join this half day tour around Miami?

In this guide, there were a few neighbourhoods I didn’t include. This was mostly as I felt they were too far with just 3 days in Miami.

However, other areas to consider are:

• Little Haiti, which is north of Wynwood and the heart of Caribbean culture in Miami.
• Coconut Grove, which is south of Coral Gables and known for sailing and its Bahamian culture.
• Bal Harbour, in the north of Miami, known for high end shopping and premium experiences.
• Design District, which is near Wynwood and Little Haiti. This newly regenerated area is home to high end shopping, galleries and great dining options.

Feel free to drop me a line if you would like any advice or further recommendations for planning a trip to the city. If you’ve enjoyed long weekend in Miami itinerary guide, then please do share using the below links!

Wanna see more? Check my Instagram  here , my Facebook  here  or my Twitter  here !

Disclaimer: This guide is based on multiple visits to Miami. Most of these have been paid for by myself, and however the tourism board has supported one of these visits.

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See Nic Wander

3 Day Miami Itinerary For The Perfect Florida Long Weekend

Updated: September 12, 2023

See Nic Wander contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Associates Program. I may earn a commission on purchases made through these links. Read my  disclaimer  to learn more.

If you’ve been dreaming of a weekend retreat to the sunny beaches of Miami Florida, I don’t blame you! There’s nothing quite like taking in a sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean. In this 3 Day Miami Itinerary, we’ll cover exactly what to do, where to stay, and where to eat for the perfect long weekend getaway.

About Miami, Florida

Well-known for its warm weather and limitless beaches, people across the world venture to Miami Florida every year – and it’s no surprise!

Although Miami is rich in Latin culture, diversity is evident everywhere. Amazing art decorates the streets, delicious restaurants offer a variety of flavors, retail shops are plentiful, and there is certainly no shortage of nightlife fun.

Whatever your goal is for your long weekend trip, this 3-day Miami itinerary is sure to set you in the right direction for a great time.

Best Time to Visit Miami

Weather-wise, there really isn’t a bad time to visit Miami. If you prefer less intense heat, it’s best to schedule your visit between November and May. In the winter months, daytime lows hover around 70°F (21°C), the warmest across the country.

In Spring, from March to May, the weather is a bit hotter, reaching upwards of 80-90°F (26-32°C). That explains why it’s – quite literally – one of the hottest spring break destinations for students.

That being said, if you’re looking for quieter beaches and streets, it’s a good idea to avoid visiting in March. The winter and spring months in general, especially around the holidays, can get quite busy.

That doesn’t necessarily mean you should avoid this time when scheduling your visit, just make sure to plan ahead since the availability and cost of accommodations are likely to increase this time of year.

Related Post: 10 Day Florida to Georgia Road Trip Itinerary

Where to Stay On Your 3 Day Trip To Miami

Once you’ve narrowed down the perfect weekend for your 3 day trip to Miami, you’ll need to find a place to stay. Luckily, Miami has plenty of comfortable accommodation options in a variety of price ranges.

The Copper Door B&B: Mid-Range

Only a quick 15-minute ride away from the airport, The Copper Door B&B is right around the corner from Downtown Miami. With very good reviews on Booking.com, The Copper Door B&B features 22 spacious rooms and 3 double-room suites. It’s not too hard on the wallet and has comfortable amenities, including a bright public lounge space perfect for enjoying breakfast. 

This quaint bed and breakfast features vintage 1940s styled rooms, that have been beautifully renovated, each with its own full bathroom. Central to many venues, attractions, and great food spots, you’ll be able to reach most destinations within 30 mins to an hour, or less depending on your choice of transportation. 

Check prices for The Copper Door B&B here!

EAST Miami: Luxury

If you’re looking to splurge a little on your accommodations, the EAST Miami Hotel is the perfect spot. Located in the heart of Downtown Miami Florida, it’s only a short 15-minute drive to the airport – meaning you’ll have more time to soak up the view!

Sitting on the water’s edge, many of the rooms feature beautiful skyline views. The gorgeous modern décor and high-end finishes at EAST Miami make this the perfect location for a stylish city getaway.

Depending on the time of year and the suite you decide on, a reservation at EAST Miami can run anywhere from $379 per night to $1,200+ per night. Perfect for a honeymoon, anniversary, special occasion, or “treat yourself” weekend away!

Featuring a fitness center, room service, a restaurant, and bar – oh, and a 20,000 square-foot outdoor pool – you might not want to leave! To top it off, they include a late-running continental breakfast for two, just in case you want to sleep in.

Check prices and availability here!

Getting Around Miami

For this Miami 3 day itinerary, I wouldn’t suggest a car rental. Honestly, the parking situation isn’t always the greatest, especially downtown. No one wants to worry about logistics while on vacation and it’s so much easier to call an Uber or Lyft.

Miami also has a widespread public transportation network made up of the Metrobus and the Metrorail. You can see the schedules for the Metrobus and the Metrorail on the Miami Transportation website.

If you’re not in a rush or are only heading down the street, the city offers free trolly services. Keep in mind, they’re known to be off schedule, so plan accordingly.

You can also take advantage of the Citi Bike program , where you can rent a bicycle at an hourly rate. According to their website, all you need to do is unlock a bike from one of the Citi Bike stations, ride it where you want to go, and return it to any station when you’re done. 

3 Day Miami Itinerary

Alright, we’ve made it to the fun part! While there are thousands of things to do in Miami and you could probably spend a year discovering cool gems around the city, this 3 day Miami itinerary will take you through some of the highlights.

Day 1: The Wynwood Walls and Little Havana

A trip to the Wynwood Walls is the perfect way to start off your first day in Miami, Florida! Wynwood Walls is an outdoor museum featuring over 50 street art murals. Created by international artists, from Asia, Latin America, Europe, and the United States, it attracts thousands of people every year.

It’s pretty affordable too! You can pay $10 USD for general admission, or upgrade to a guided tour by an Official Wynwood Walls Tour Ambassador for $5 more.

A walking tour can really tire you out and work up an appetite. There are countless eateries, food trucks, and restaurants nearby to choose from. Asian-style cuisine, Mexican street food, pizza joints, even traditional American comfort food.

If you’re like me and can’t say no to Mexican food, head to Coyo Taco , with a 4.5-star Google rating, and over 4,500 reviews, I think it’s safe to say they know tacos!

After lunch, it’s time to head to another one of Miami’s memorable neighborhoods, Little Havana. Little Havana can’t be missed when it comes to sightseeing and it’s only a 15–20-minute commute from Wynwood.

You have a few options for what you can do in Little Havana and there are some amazing tours and attractions all in one neighborhood. The Cubaocho Museum & Performing Arts Center is home to local musicians and artists and offers one of the largest Cuban art collections.

If you’re a foodie, you can check out one of the top-rated tours by Miami Culinary Tours . Or, you can register for one of Little Havana’s Specialty Tours , like the Cigar & Rum Tasting Experience, or Cuban Art & Cocktails.

With your afternoon spent in Little Havana, I’m sure you’ll notice there’s no shortage of food options for dinner. No one knows food better than the locals, so your best bet is to ask your tour guide where they would suggest. If you took a Culinary Tour, I’m sure you’ve got it sorted out anyway!

Day 2: Exploring Downtown!

If you didn’t go shopping in Miami Florida, did you even go ? I’m teasing, I’m usually not a huge shopper myself, but when visiting a place with as many retail possibilities as Miami, it’s definitely worth seeing it for yourself.

The Bayside Marketplace is an absolutely ginormous open-air shopping center located right on Biscayne Bay. For a waterfront coffee or snack near the Bayside Market, check out Segafredo Bayside.

The Shops at Mary Brickell Village is a shopping area located in the Brickell neighborhood of downtown. Here, you’ll find unique shops and dozens of delicious eateries all in one trendy location.

Also in Brickell, the Brickell City Centre Mall is a massive shopping and lifestyle center with a movie theater, luxury shops, restaurants, and bars.

These three shopping areas alone have over 55,000 Google reviews altogether. There’s no denying it’s the perfect spot for a little retail therapy.

After taking a spin through the clothes racks, art and history fans will love visiting the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens . This opulent residence was built in 1916 and contains a treasure trove of antique artwork and furniture. The gardens are equally impressive!

Or, if you’re a science fan, visit the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science . They have a planetarium, aquarium, and a fascinating paleontology exhibit just north of the American Airlines Arena downtown.

In the evening, head to the Rusty Pelican Restaurant for sunset and dinner. You’ll need to travel across the Biscayne Bay to Virginia Key, but the view is worth the drive. At sunset, you’ll have a full panoramic view of the Miami skyline against a background of vibrant pinks and oranges.

The menu is on the pricer side, but Rusty Pelican has a happy hour special every Monday – Thursday from 4:00 pm – 6:30 pm where drinks and a few starters are half price. This restaurant is popular so it’s a good idea to make a reservation in advance.

After a refresh and recharge, head back to Downtown Miami for a night on the town. That’s one of the biggest things Miami is known for after all – the nightlife!

Whether you’re a dancer or a lounger, there’s something for everyone. BLUME Nightclub , Blackbird Ordinary , and E11EVEN Miami are each known for their DJs and dancefloors. If you’re looking for something more laid back, RedBar Brickell and MO Bar & Lounge offer a more relaxed atmosphere.

Day 3: South Beach Relaxation

It’s been a busy couple of days, so it’s time to soak up the sun. There’s no better spot for relaxation than in South Beach Miami. This 9 mile stretch of white sandy beaches is a bit of a commute from downtown but it’s totally worth it. Just make sure to bring everything you’ll need for the day with you to prevent having to travel back and forth.

South Beach is also home to the famous Art Deco Historic District where you can learn the history of this unique architectural style. You can explore South Beach on your own or go with a tour guide if you want to learn more about the area.

Bike and Roll Miami offers a 2-hour bike tour of the Art Deco district with a knowledgeable guide. You can also take a South Beach food tour to explore this neighborhood on foot and try some delicious local favorites.

After soaking up the rays, stop by the Yardbird Southern Table and Bar for dinner. Known for their farm-fresh, classic Southern dishes, it’s definitely a staple on your trip to South Beach. Be sure to make a reservation ahead of time!

Final Thoughts: 3 Days In Miami Itinerary

As one of the most popular tourist destinations on the east coast, Miami has plenty of options for dining, entertainment, and relaxation. Whether you’re looking for an exciting trip full of nightlife and music or want to enjoy a leisurely escape, you won’t be disappointed in Miami.

Have you been to Miami? What’s your favorite thing to do in the city?

Cover Image Via DepositPhotos

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3 Days In Miami Itinerary: The Perfect Weekend Trip

By: Author Martin Soto

Home » Florida » 3 Days In Miami Itinerary: The Perfect Weekend Trip

Miami is a city well known for its beaches, nightlife, and diverse food & drink choices that are hard to find elsewhere. It’s a vast city with an extensive amount of things you can do. If you’re visiting it for just three days, you can still certainly fit in many activities and enjoy what the city has to offer. 

Our Miami trip started a bit weird since as soon as we had ordered our plane tickets, news came out that authorities were placing a curfew due to disruptive spring breakers. In the end, we still decided to continue with the trip, and we had no regrets in the end. Here is our 3-day itinerary guide so you can make the most of your time in Miami. 

One of the most important tips I can give you about visiting Miami is that if there is a restaurant you really want to go to, make a reservation a couple of days in advance. We learned this a little too late and sometimes even struggled to find something to eat at night due to most places requiring reservations.

Unless you’re going when tourism isn’t at its peak, you might run into the same issues we did. Regardless, the restaurants we ended up trying were just as impressive. 

3 Days Miami Itinerary

Day 1 in miami: south beach.

You can’t visit Miami without checking out South Beach. While you still have Mid-Beach and North-Beach , there isn’t anything as famous or as popular as South Beach . Not to mention, the atmosphere (and waves) here are unmatched. 

Of course, if you’re looking for something more quiet or relaxed, then you might be better off in Mid-Beach. I’d recommend checking out Indian Beach Park, which is perfect for families or someone who wants to avoid all the commotion of South Beach if that’s the case.

If you’re a fan of snorkeling, you can visit South Pointe Beach in South Beach to find the artificial reef created from the sunken Jose Cuervo Bar that was dropped. You can also find all sorts of interesting animal life in this area. 

After the beach, go for some lunch in Ocean Drive . After visiting the beach, if you’re looking for lunch or dinner options, then Ocean Drive is the perfect place to check out. There are more than enough restaurant options you can choose from in 3 days.

I’d highly recommend Sugar Factory and Mangos. Sugar Factory is famous for its drinks for adults and candy drinks for kids. While the food can hold its own, the place is pretty renowned for the age-appropriate beverages for everyone. We tried their big Mango drink and shared it between both of us and it was exactly what we expected.

Collins Avenue is home to many Miami Beach stores, museums, and parks. I’d recommend hanging out at Collins Park to check out some of their fantastic art sculptures like the one down below. You can spend an entire day just exploring all the things along Collins Avenue. Be sure to stop by one of the many restaurants and diners on that street for some tasty food.

Day 2 In Miami: Virginia Keys

Your second day in Miami is the perfect time to go kayaking or hiking In the Virginia Keys or Biscayne National Park .

Assuming you haven’t gotten your beach appetite filled up yet, or aren’t tired of being out in the sun, there are plenty of other outdoor places to explore in Miami.

You can choose between Virginia Keys Or Biscayne National Park. If you’re not driving you might want to go with Virginia Keys, since Biscayne National Park is about an hour or more from Miami. Otherwise, if that doesn’t stop you then I’d recommend going to Biscayne National Park instead. 

If you go kayaking in Virginia Keys, you can rent a kayak in the Virginia Keys Outdoor Center. There is a lagoon right around there where Manatees are common. You can also see some jellyfish. If you’re fortunate, you might even get to see some sea turtles if you venture out into the ocean. 

If you’re not fond of kayaking, there are also plenty of places to hike or even bike riding. Cycling seems to be a popular activity in the area, and you can rent bikes from the same outdoor center. We went kayaking and accidentally got lost which kept us out in the water for 3-4 hours. So just make sure you have Google Maps available to you so you know how to get back.  

Near the Virginia Keys, there is Crandon Park which is another place you can go kayaking or snorkeling. On your walk, you can go to a nature preserve and see beautiful birdlife and butterflies. 

You should also visit Little Havana . The Cuban culture is strong in Miami, and visiting the famous Little Havana neighborhood is the best way to learn and immerse yourself in it. Little Havana is a famous neighborhood in Miami that hosts various restaurants, cafes, markets, art, and many other things highlighting the vibrant Hispanic culture in the area.

If you visit on the third Friday of the month, you can experience one of their Cultural Fridays. Between 7 pm to 11 pm, you can see a showcasing of the amazing art scene of the neighborhood and go on tours. 

Whether you’re looking for dinner or enjoying some inspirational art, visiting Little Havana is a great way to enjoy a day in Miami. 

You should also can’t come to Miami and not explore the nightlife . Once you’ve grown accustomed to the Miami weather and have spent a long day at the beach, perhaps it’s time you spend time enjoying the famous nightlife. 

Miami is famous for its nightlife and clubs constantly attended by celebrities. There are popular and unique clubs for people of different music tastes. For the older crowd or if nightclubs aren’t your scene, there are plenty of bars and lounges around to hang out at. 

I’d highly recommend Broken Shaker to anyone. They serve quality custom cocktails in a relaxed and tropical atmosphere with a DJ that plays some great music. This is more of a chill hangout spot at night and the cocktails we tried were quite good but on the pricier side.

If you’re a more techno/house/EDM music enthusiast, one nightclub you will love is Do Not Sit On Furniture. It has a tropical and trendy vibe, plus the music is simply amazing. The first time we came to Miami, we booked a ticket as they had a popular DJ playing and it was such an amazing vibe.

The downside of nightclubs being so popular in Miami is that sometimes they can be quite selective. Miami’s most famous club, LIV, which is constantly frequented by celebrities, is famous for its tight restrictions.

Take this into consideration and have a backup plan in case you don’t get let in for whatever reason. Unfortunately, we never got to go since when we went, it was closed. Also, it’s actually inside a hotel, which is something many people don’t know and it was confusing trying to find it.

As a quick note, any drinks you buy at a place will be quite expensive. It might be worth it to buy something for yourself at one of their many stores beforehand and then spend less at the function. 

Day 3 In Miami: Everglades National Park

For your last day, you should visit The Everglades National Park .

Florida is well-known for its alligators, and if you want to see them, visiting the Everglades is the perfect way to do it. It’s around a 45-minute to an hour drive from Miami and is accessible by taking the Tamiami Trail. This is why it’s also worth renting a car when you come to Miami .

The Everglades is one of the most extensive wetlands in the United States. It’s home to diverse animal wildlife, and alligators are by far the kings of the place. If you visit the Shark Valley area, you can go on a walk, hike, or bike the Shark Valley Trail and enjoy everything the Everglades has to offer.

Hopefully, you’re not too scared because you won’t struggle to find any alligators here, as they are abundant. Plus, you might also see some turtles. There are also plenty of bird species for any enthusiastic bird watchers. 

The last day in Miami always seems to go the fastest, and it’s also the perfect time to buy some souvenirs to take back home. Go shopping at the Bayside Marketplace .

The Bayside Marketplace is home to the most famous brand stores in the world. It’s also a vibe all on its own, with the Mojito Bar playing some loud music and creating a party atmosphere in the center of the mall. There are plenty of food options anyone can enjoy for lunch or dinner. We got some Miami souvenir shirts to bring back home as gifts for the family.

If you still have time, consider buying a ticket for the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science . This science museum is a three-level museum that has a planetarium and aquarium. When you buy a ticket, you also get a free planetarium show, which we really liked.

Apart from the planetarium and aquarium, there is a science exhibition as well as a dinosaur exhibit opening up soon according to their signs. You can also get a fantastic view of the Miami skyline from here.

How To Get Around Miami

While the Miami weather makes it an excellent place for walks and runs, it’s not easy to get around on foot. Depending on where you’re staying, you might not be able to travel the roads, especially with all the construction that goes on.

While it’s certainly possible to walk from South Beach to Mid-Beach (we actually did), it’s a very long 40-minute walk that we probably wouldn’t do again. 

You have several options for getting around the city. You can either rent a car, get Uber/Lyft, or rent out bikes/scooters. If you’re on the Miami beachside, there aren’t any scooters available, but you can rent out a bike. We had the time of our lives riding the bikes late at midnight since they were the only affordable option to get around. Uber and Lyft prices skyrocket as it gets later into the night.

Uber and Lyft are pretty cost-efficient during the day, but the prices at night quickly go up. If you’re a couple or on your own, it’s still cheaper going this route than renting a car that might cost you anywhere between $70-$100 per day. But if you really want to get to know Miami, renting a car is the best way. Looking back on our vacation, we will definitely rent a car next time we visit to be able to explore farther out.

If you’re traveling with a group of friends, consider splitting the costs per day to rent a car if you plan on doing a lot of night travel. This will also make it easier to take long trips to other parts of the city like the Everglades. As mentioned above, the distance from the Everglades to an area like Miami Beach is almost 50 minutes. 

Although be warned, if you think the traffic back at home is terrible, chances are it’s a lot worse here. 

Where To Stay In Miami

If you’re only planning on staying in the city for 3 days, you’ll want to stay at a convenient location close to everything so you don’t spend too much time in the car. 

My recommendation if you’re looking for the full Miami experience is to stay in South Beach. South Beach gives you close access to one of the best beaches in Miami and some of the famous popular restaurants. 

There are plenty of other things to do nearby with museums and parks available to visit. It’s only a 15-20 minute car ride from the downtown city area. Families, couples, and solo travelers can easily find something to do here. 

Initially, we booked our trip to Mid-Beach due to all the things that were occurring in South Beach at the moment, but since things quieted down as we got there, we found ourselves spending most of our time in South Beach anyway. 

While there are plenty of luxurious hotels you can stay at, there are also affordable options. You’ll find El Paso Hotel a budget-friendly option with very high ratings. We had initially booked this hotel before we changed our booking to the Hampton Inn in Mid Beach. However, when we visited with friends a couple of months later we ended up staying there.

Best Time To Visit Miami For A Weekend

Miami is busy with tourists throughout the year. But there are specific points in time when it’s not crowded with as many visitors compared to other times. 

Going off our experience, I would suggest avoiding it during spring break unless you’re a college student looking to party with other crazy college students. If you visit during the summer, you can enjoy the best weather it has to offer, but you also might share that experience with numerous other tourists with the same mindset.

When we visited at the beginning of April, the spring break crowd had gone back home, and the weather was still relatively warm. There was an average daily high temperature of 73 degrees Fahrenheit, although it did get chilly at night. The weather was still perfect to enjoy the beach.

The rainy season for the city starts in May and ends in November. The temperature is also relatively high during the summer, with an average of 85 degrees Fahrenheit. 

If you’re looking for another tropical place in the United States to travel to with warm weather and beautiful beaches, check out the U.S Virgin Islands . 

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Miami Magic: A 3-Day Coastal and Cultural Journey

March 29, 2024 · 2 min read

Embark on a 3-day Miami adventure that combines the allure of sun-kissed beaches with the vibrant pulse of its cultural hotspots. Day 1 is dedicated to the iconic Miami Beach, where the small-town charm meets the vast Atlantic, offering a full day of relaxation and seaside activities. As the sun sets, experience the unique vibe of South Beach, a place where art deco architecture and a lively atmosphere are the norms. Day 2 introduces you to the artistic soul of Miami with a visit to Wynwood, a neighborhood renowned for its street art and creative spirit. Spend two hours admiring the masterpieces at Wynwood Walls, an outdoor museum of international graffiti and street art. Continue your cultural exploration in the Miami Design District, where historic buildings and modern design converge for another two hours of discovery. The final day takes you through the heart of Downtown Miami, where historic buildings tell the story of the city's past. Then, immerse yourself in the tranquility of Vizcaya Museum & Gardens for a blend of art and nature. As your journey nears its end, stroll along the Calle Ocho Walk of Fame and feel the rhythm of Little Havana, where the essence of Miami's Cuban heritage comes to life. This 3-day itinerary is thoughtfully crafted to ensure you experience the full spectrum of Miami's enchanting diversity.

• Day 1: Sun, Sand, and Vibrant Culture in Miami

Miami Beach

Kick off your Miami adventure with the iconic Miami Beach, a small town charm wrapped in tropical allure. As the first stop on your itinerary, this sun-kissed paradise sets the tone for a day of relaxation and exploration. With its powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters, Miami Beach is more than just a seaside escape; it's a lifestyle. Spend your day soaking up the Florida sun, dipping into the Atlantic, and strolling along the palm-fringed paths. The beach's vibrant atmosphere is perfect for travelers seeking both serenity and a touch of seaside sophistication.

Attraction Info

• Florida, USA
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Miami Beach - South Beach

Continuing the coastal journey, South Beach awaits as your second destination of the day. Nestled within Miami Beach, this small town is the epitome of Miami's lively spirit. South Beach is renowned for its Art Deco architecture, trendy cafes, and pulsating nightlife. As you wander down Ocean Drive, the pastel-hued buildings and the rhythm of salsa music create an enchanting backdrop. Whether you're here to bask in the sun at the shore or to indulge in the local dining scene, South Beach is a place where every moment is a celebration of life.

• Miami Beach, FL 33139, United States

Where to Stay Tonight

The villa casa casuarina, hotel victor south beach, suites at congress ocean drive, strand ocean drive suites.

• Day 2: Exploring Miami's Artistic Heart

Begin your second day in Miami with a vibrant stroll through Wynwood, a neighborhood that's a canvas of creativity. As the morning sun casts its glow on the colorful murals, you'll find yourself immersed in an area where every wall and street corner tells a story. Wynwood is not just about the visuals; it's a cultural experience that blends art, fashion, and some of Miami's most innovative dining spots. Allocate a couple of hours to soak in the atmosphere and perhaps grab a coffee from one of the chic cafes.

• 50 NW 24th St Suite 104, Miami, FL 33127-4447
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
• Open 24 hours

Wynwood Walls

Just a short walk from the bustling streets of Wynwood, the Wynwood Walls stand as an open-air museum showcasing large-scale works by some of the world’s greatest street artists. Spend around two hours here to fully appreciate the transformative power of street art, as these once blank walls now burst with life and color, reflecting the diverse tapestry of Miami's soul. It's a place where art is not confined to galleries but flourishes in the open for all to see and enjoy.

• 2516 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33127, United States
• Open on Fri,11:00am-8:00pm;Open on Mon-Thu,11:00am-7:00pm;Open on Sat,10:00am-8:00pm;Open on Sun,10:00am-7:00pm

Miami Design District

Conclude your day with a visit to the Miami Design District, a neighborhood dedicated to innovative fashion, design, architecture, and dining. This area seamlessly blends historic buildings with modern architecture, creating a space that's as much a feast for the eyes as it is a hub for the creative and the curious. Give yourself a couple of hours to explore the district's unique shops, admire the art installations, and perhaps indulge in a culinary treat from one of the district's many upscale eateries.

• 4000 NE 1st Ave, Miami, FL 33137, United States
• Open on Mon-Sat,11:00am-8:00pm;Open on Sun,12:00pm-6:00pm

Quadro Design District by Vesper

Nomada residences, chic miami condo w/ pool, 6 mi to south beach, eco-shared gardenian.

• Day 3: Miami's Cultural Tapestry and Timeless Elegance

Downtown Miami

Begin your final day with the heartbeat of the city at Downtown Miami. As the sun casts its early glow, stroll through the historic buildings and immerse yourself in the vibrant life of characteristic neighborhoods. Allow yourself a couple of hours to explore the fusion of modern skyscrapers and classic architecture, feeling the pulse of Miami's business and cultural scenes intertwine.

• Miami, FL, USA

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

Next, step into the realm of opulence at the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens. Spend two hours wandering through the Italian Renaissance-style villa and its meticulously landscaped gardens. This serene oasis, nestled in the bustling city, offers a glimpse into the luxurious past with its ornate decor, art collections, and the tranquil vibe of its European-inspired gardens.

• 3251 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33129, United States
• Suggested tour duration: 2-4 hour
• Open on Mon, Wed-Sun,9:30am-4:30pm

Calle Ocho Walk of Fame

Continue your cultural journey at the Calle Ocho Walk of Fame, a tribute to the stars that have influenced and shaped Latin culture. Dedicate an hour to meander along this famed street, soaking in the festive atmosphere and the pride of Miami's Cuban community, as you spot the names of illustrious artists and personalities.

• 1756 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135, USA
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour

Little Havana

Conclude your Miami adventure in the vibrant streets of Little Havana. Spend your final hour immersing yourself in the rich Cuban heritage that permeates this neighborhood. From the scent of freshly rolled cigars to the rhythms of salsa music, Little Havana offers an authentic close to your three-day exploration of Miami's diverse and dynamic spirit.

Charming Apt Near to Stadium LoanDepot Park

Miami suite 102, miami suite 303, miami suites 103, top things to do in miami-2024.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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3 Day Miami Itinerary: Miami Weekend Guide with Kids

• Post author: Rachel Pedranti
• Post published: May 24, 2022
• Post category: Travel
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Miami is an eclectic, slightly hectic city that vibrates with energy everywhere you go. No matter where you turn there seems to be a party happening in every corner. Visiting Miami with kids is a new experience as you seem to be going to bed just as everyone else is going out for a night on the town. This 3 day Miami itinerary takes you along on a fun filled, kid friendly long weekend in Miami.

Parts of Miami are a little grungy and, dare I say, even a little sketchy, although we never felt unsafe or ran into any trouble. You will want to be careful where your hotel is located and how late you are out at night.

Everything in this guide is great to do with kids although as a whole Miami is not my favorite place to visit with kids so far. I think other Florida locations like Tampa , Orlando and even Port Orange are more family friendly. Just my honest opinion.

This post may contain some affiliate links. This means I make a small profit from your purchase but at no increased cost to you. I only recommend products that I love and would purchase myself! Full disclaimer here .

Miami 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1 –  excursions from miami.

Everglades Airboat Tour

The first stop of many on your 3 day Miami itinerary is actually not in Miami but 30 minutes outside the city. A half-day trip to the Everglades is a must though. You can find inexpensive deals on airboat tours for under $30 a person on GetYourGuide or Groupon .

The airboats take you to parts of the Everglades that you cannot reach by foot. This allows you to see much of Florida’s natural wildlife such as herons and alligators. The guides are well trained and know the best spots to take you so you’re almost guaranteed to see wildlife.

Our tour also included seeing alligators up close that the park was helping to rehabilitate and we even got to hold baby alligators.

Cape Florida Lighthouse

After visiting the Everglades I recommend you stop somewhere to eat. Coral Gables is on the way to Cape Florida Lighthouse, the next destination, and would be a good place to stop.

Located on the southern tip of Key Biscayne is Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park . This state park has biking trails, beaches and a very picturesque lighthouse. The lighthouse is open for exploring, including climbs to the top, Thursday through Monday from 9am to 4pm with tours at 10am and 1pm. The rest of the park is open from 8am till sunset and the entry fee is $8 per car.

Kids must either be 42” tall and able to climb the tower themselves or be worn in a baby carrier that leaves the parents hands free to use the railing.

Once you are done seeing the lighthouse you can spend some time on the beach before dinner or bring a picnic to share at the beach while you watch the sunset.

Day 2 – Beach Day in Miami

Spanish Monastery

The first stop for day two is the Ancient Spanish Monastery . This destination is north of Miami a little ways but there is a great brunch spot “ La Boulangerie Boul’mich ” nearby if you want to grab breakfast first.

The Monastery was built in Spain in 1141 AD then later moved, brick by brick, from Spain to the US in 1925. Due to financial problems the crates sat in a warehouse for 26 years before the buildings were put back together in their current location in 1954. Today the buildings are used as a church as well as a venue for weddings and other events ( SM ).

The building itself is a beautiful piece of history in the middle of modern Miami and the surrounding grounds and gardens a wonderful space to explore. On Saturdays at noon there is a free tour of the building and grounds. We felt the tour was worth it to learn extra facts about the building and the coat of arms on display since there are not many signs or plaques to explain everything. 

With admission prices at only $10 per adult this is a very affordable thing to do in Miami.

Miami Beach/South Beach

Now it is time to enjoy a relaxing day on the beach! Head over to South Beach to enjoy the sand, the beautiful water and the sun. There are several parking garages near the beach and Ocean Drive that offer very affordable parking. This is also a good time to grab lunch if you are hungry.

We brought beach towels, an umbrella and a set of beach toys from home for Roman to play with and spent a fun couple of hours in the sun. A fun activity is to walk down the beach and see how many lifeguard stands you can find. Each one is a different unique shape and painted in bright neon colors.

Now you can head straight to dinner or you can explore the area a little longer. One fun choice is to walk up Ocean Drive through Loomis Park and see the colorful art deco hotels that line the street. Another option is to grab bicycles from stations located all over the side streets and bike throughout Loomis Park and see more of the South Beach area.

We walked up the road to see the hotels and only carried our son in our arms. If we had thought ahead more we would have carried him in the baby carrier or brought a stroller along.

Once you are done relaxing and exploring the area I am sure you’ve worked up an appetite. Grab dinner and a fun dessert to finish out the night. There is no shortage of amazing restaurants to try in Miami.

Read More in Miami:

• 24 Hours in Miami!
• The Best Restaurants in Miami the Locals Don’t Want You to Know
• 13 Most Instagrammable Places in Miami
• 5 Beautiful Sunflower Fields in South Florida

Day 3 – Explore Miami’s Neighborhoods

Little havana (food tour).

For the last day of this 3 day Miami itinerary you can get out and explore several different areas in Miami. Forgo breakfast in the morning and instead opt to head straight to Little Havana for a delicious and filling food tour of this Cuban neighborhood in Miami. You could do a small self led tour or join this fun Food and Culture food tour .

If you decide on a self led tour make sure you walk along Calle Ocho and stop by Maximo Gomez Park if people are out playing dominos. My favorite food stops in Little Havana are Old’s Havana for a Cuban sandwich, El Pub for empanadas and Azucar for ice cream!

Vizcaya Mansion

Once you have eaten your fill and enjoyed the lively atmosphere of Calle Ocho head only ten minutes down the road to the opulent Vizcaya Mansion . This stunning home is actually not as old as you may originally think. It is only 106 years old as of 2022, but it still predates most of Miami.

I felt the pricey entrance fee was worth it to explore the house and expansive gardens. The house is well preserved and shows what a life of extreme wealth looked like in the early 1900’s which is always fun to see. In addition the view over the ocean and of downtown Miami in the distance was stunning.

Wynwood Walls

Next drive to Wynwood, Miami’s art center. The area was once abandoned and unloved industrial buildings that have been turned into a thriving, bustling center filled with the best places to eat and shop. Plus, it becomes quite the party scene at night if that’s your thing.

Wynwood Walls is one section of the neighborhood that displays commissioned pieces of art from sculptures to murals on walls of course. This area does require a small entrance fee.

The rest of Wynwood is still covered in graffiti art and murals from top to bottom. Everywhere you look there is something new to see. Don’t forget to stop and grab dinner or a sweet treat when you get hungry. There is no shortage of amazing options.

Millionaire Row Cruise

This was already a busy, exciting day but if you aren’t ready to turn in yet, then taking a home seeing cruise around Miami’s coast is the perfect way to end the night. You can see the city from a new perspective while relaxing on a comfortable boat. Plus the homes you can see from the water are truly unbelievable. 

How Many Days to Spend in Miami

Miami is a big city with a lot to see and do. This 3 day Miami itinerary gives you a good feel for the big ticket items but it certainly doesn’t include everything. I think 3 days is a good amount of time to spend in Miami for a fun whirlwind trip. However, if you are looking for something a little more relaxing or if there are more things you would like to see and do such as take a day trip to The Keys, visit the botanical gardens or have an extra beach day then I would recommend as much as 5-7 days.

Even though Miami offers more than enough to fill an entire trip all by itself it is also in the perfect position for some amazing day trips. If you want to take advantage of one or two while you are here these are some unmissable options.

• Road Trip from Miami to Key West
• Take a Boat to the Bahamas
• Spend all Day in the Everglades
• Experience Otherworldly Terrain at McKee Botanical Gardens
• Visit Naples on the West Coast of Florida

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Getting around miami.

There is free public transportation in both South Beach and in Downtown Miami. The free trolley runs all week long and can take you most places you need to go inside the city area. However, this itinerary and many others that you’ll find involve locations that cannot be reached by public transportation such as the everglades.

Because of this and because public transportation in the US is not as robust as other countries I prefer to use a car. On our first trip to Miami we rented a car which was extremely easy and handy. Being able to drop the car off at the airport was convenient.

During our second trip we took a road trip from Tampa to Miami so we had our own car.

Another option is to use car sharing apps like Uber or Lyft to get around as needed. The price may be similar to renting because you will avoid fees such as tolls and parking. It is really up to personal preference.

Where to Stay

South Beach is full of beautiful waterfront hotels and cute home rentals that are all centrally located to the beach and many, many places to eat.

For a more budget friendly price tag we headed outside the city a little ways. Lauderdale Boutique Hotel offered a very simple, bare bones basic hotel room but it was very clean and provided free parking. The room was small and only worked for us because all three of us slept on one bed. There was room for the pack-n-play and we did set up but Roman would not sleep in it. The price tag was unbeatable and helped us save a fair amount of money.

Traveling with Kids:

• How to Travel with a Baby: Everything You Need to Know
• 7 Essential Tips to Road Tripping with a Baby
• 11 Beach Necessities for a Beach Day with Toddlers

Where to Eat in Miami

The food in Miami is one of my favorite aspects of the city. Thanks to its diverse population there are a lot of different types of food and it is all delicious. For a full guide on what to eat make sure you read my guide to the best restaurants in Miami . Here are a couple highlights.

• Old’s Havana in Little Havana
• 1-800-Lucky an asian food hall in Wynwood
• Breakfast at Dreamer in South Beach
• A slice of pie from Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop

What to Pack

Miami is typically sunny, hot and humid so you will want to pack lightweight clothes with maybe an extra layer to throw on if it gets chilly in the winter. You will want a couple sundresses or shirt and shorts combos for sightseeing.

Don’t forget to pack a couple swimsuits, a swimsuit cover-up, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses for the beach. If you are prone to sunburns be prepared with aloe vera or pick some up in Miami.

Sandals and flip-flops are really all you’ll need to walk around but a pair of tennis shoes would be handy if your feet hurt after a lot of walking.

Pick up my full beach packing list here .

Best Time to Visit Miami

One of the great parts about Miami is that the weather is nice almost all year long! 

In the winter it can get down into the 60’s and in the summer it can get as high as over 100 F. Not only is the summer hot but hurricane season is from June through November so it can be really rainy.

The best time to visit Miami is in the shoulder season during the fall and spring with the exception of spring break time period. This is a very popular party destination for college spring breakers making it a horrible place for a family break.

• The majority of hotels located near South Beach charge resort fees in addition to their nightly fee. The resort fee is not included in online prices and is paid separately in person. You can see this disclosed in the description section on sights like hotels.com. Make sure to include it into your hotel budget when looking for a place to stay.
• Downtown Miami is on mainland Florida and is where Little Havana and Wynwood are located. However, some of the most iconic sights in Miami and arguably the most popular place to stay is actually the Miami Beach area. Miami Beach is a border island off the coast of Miami. It is extremely easy to travel between the two.

Practical Information for Miami, FL

Find accommodation , sign up for a local tour , or buy your Miami Travel Guide .

Miami Itinerary

There you have it, a full 3 day Miami Itinerary that will take you to the must see sights of Miami for a fun packed long weekend. It was a very fun trip and it is very doable to travel to Miami with kids. If you have any questions let me know!

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The Perfect 4-Day Travel Itinerary to Miami, Florida

Posted: January 16, 2024 | Last updated: January 17, 2024

Explore Miami’s neighborhoods, from creative enclave Little River to the colorful streets of Little Havana.

Photo by fokke baarssen/Shutterstock

There was a time, and not long ago, when Miami was all about the debauchery and pastel-hued visuals of Miami Beach’s southernmost stretch. But the most seductive city in the Southeast—and the country’s definitive base for contemporary and historical Latin American and Caribbean culture—has grown into a global hub for art, creativity, and design that stretches far beyond South Beach’s sandy confines.

“Miami has finally become a city where the ideas can mature in their own neighborhoods and not everything has to gravitate to South Beach,” says Mike del Marmol of independent Miami creative studio, Sun&Sons . “People are finding their neighborhood pride and developing their own neighborhoods.” He adds that social media has helped pop-up events flourish in neighborhoods like West Kendall and Little River. “There’s the realization that something doesn’t have to be happening in Wynwood or on the beach to make it worth doing.”

Plan a trip round one of Miami’s art festivals, including Untitled Art (left) and Design Miami (right).

Photos by Michelle Heimerman

Major events across the city in 2024 include Inter Miami’s (and Lionel Messi’s) 2024 Major League Soccer season, which kicks off at DRV PNK stadium in Fort Lauderdale in February (the team will move to its permanent home base, Inter Miami CF Stadium, when the 58-acre Miami Freedom Park opens sometime in 2025). The year rolls on at rapid pace, with Miami Music Week and Ultra Music Festival’s mix of electronic, house, and more in March at Bayfront Park and smaller venues across town, from beachside bars (Kill Your Idol) to downtown speakeasies (Floyd). Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix roars into town in May with watch parties galore; then comes III Points music festival in October—an indie/alternative version of Miami Music Week, with headliners like Iggy Pop and Skrillex in 2024. Art Basel Miami Beach and pop-ups and satellite art fairs (among them Design Miami/ and Untitled Art Fair ) finish out the year. In short, there’s never a down time of year to be here.

In a long weekend getaway, Miami promises nightlife, wildlife, natural beauty, and creative inspiration down every palm-lined block and wraps it in a sun-splashed package. Here’s how to spend four very fine days in Miami.

Day 1: Explore the Little River neighborhood

For the city’s latest art- and culture-centric enclave with a refreshing lack of pretension and an open, welcoming vibe, try Little River, a former warehouse district just north of Wynwood and Little Haiti.

Head first to Dale Zine , which champions inclusivity and accessibility in the art world with a selection of zines and print art across genres, and contributions from people from all walks of life. Look for the independent printer’s mobile bookshop, which is housed inside a converted 1996 Honda Acty minitruck stocked with titles. The zine vendor is “the opposite of Taschen,” del Marmol says. “They’re authentic scene creators without trying to be scene creators,” adds Alex Burnard, his partner at Sun&Sons.

Continue the shopping at éliou , a ready-to-wear brand founded by childhood friends with a production and design studio in the neighborhood. Harry Styles is among the celebrities to don their jewelry. And if you’re in town on the third Saturday of the month, food and fashion market Walter’s Mercado pops up with a spread of curated vintage fashion finds, tropical plants, food trucks, and more.

Fuel a day of exploring with a variety of eats. Try La Natural , with its pretty garden, natural wines, and wood-fired sourdough pizzas, or Japanese 12-seater Ogawa , which just opened in December 2023 and has “probably the best sushi in Miami,” says Burnard.

End the day at The New Schnitzel House , where German comfort-food stars on the late-night menu include a traditional schnitzel, pounded thin and breaded and served with a lemon wedge and fries. “The food and drink are incredible,” Burnard says. “Plus it’s small, so you always feel like you are really being taken care of.” Thursday’s jazz nights at Understory , meanwhile, draw crowds to an urban garden packed with date palms, flowering vines, and tiki torches.

Day 2: Visit classic South Beach

Rise in time to catch a syrupy sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean from a suite at the Four Seasons Hotel at the Surfclub, Surfside, Florida , a family favorite thanks to the complimentary all-day kids club for ages 4 to 12.

Hop on one of the complimentary bicycles (or a Miami-Dade Transit bus) for a leisurely ride south to South Beach. Set your sights on two classic restaurants for lunch, suggests Lee Brian Schrager, founder of the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival (Feb. 22–25, 2024). For “classic Miami,” he says Puerto Sagua is a charming Cuban restaurant whose dishes shine. “I always get some croquetas or a medianoche sandwich to start the day, with a cafecito , of course.” During stone crab season (Oct. 15–May 1 every year), Joe’s Stone Crab is “one of those restaurants where you sit down and enjoy the entire experience,” Schrager says (the stone crab and hash browns are obligatory, and the stone crab bisque is a favorite for a quick lunch).

South Pointe Park , on South Beach’s southernmost tip, is a sweet spot for an afternoon swim in the ocean. A short stroll away, in the South of Fifth neighborhood, try the Latin American and Mediterranean fusion at Abbalé Telavivian Kitchen ; think Moroccan-spiced black grouper, shakshuka , and shawarma-spiced wagyu picanha steak.

The Four Seasons’ concierge, Brian Bean, also suggests an outing to Palomino Ranch 20 miles south in Key Biscayne for an unexpected eco-tour—it plays out on horseback, just minutes from downtown’s high-rises, and wraps in history and nature during a visit to the gorgeous coastal hammock trails maintained by volunteers at Virginia Key Beach Park. “You start the tour through beautiful scenery and then finish trotting on these gentle horses through warm waters. It’s not crowded and is really quite fun, peaceful, and memorable,” says Bean.

Day 3: Little Havana, downtown Miami, and Brickell

Start day three with a trip to Little Havana, where tourists still throng Versailles Restaurant and salsa-dancing hot spot Ball & Chain, made famous by the Cuban diaspora. Mandarin Oriental Miami’s concierge, Carlos Ayala, points to Old’s Havana Cuban Bar & Cocina as his favorite restaurant for authentic Cuban cuisine, with dishes like fricasé de pollo (chicken fricassee), picadillo, and vaca frita (crispy shredded beef) on the menu, and a courtyard filled with tropical plants and island memorabilia. Alternatively, hit the walk-up window at Sanguich de Miami a few blocks west, where husband-and-wife team Daniel Figueredo and Rosa Romero serve a gourmet spin on the classic Cuban sandwich, layered with house-fermented mustard, homemade pickles, and ham brined in house.

In downtown Miami, the Underline is due for completion in 2025. Opening in phases, the city’s 10-mile linear park and public outdoor art trail continues to transform 120 acres of land downtown into recreation space. Ayala recommends the Phillip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science for family travelers who want “an experience that is immersive and engaging for parents and children alike.” Between the 250-seat planetarium, the rooftop observation deck’s native vegetation exhibits, and aquarium habitats dedicated to Gulf Stream, mangrove, and Everglades environments, you can easily spend hours exploring. The Herzog & de Meuron–designed Pérez Art Museum Miami , nearby and right on the bay, features hanging gardens and incredible works by Cuban artists José Bedia Valdés and Wifredo Lam, among many other Latin American artists, including Colombian painter and sculptor Beatriz González and Mexican painter Diego Rivera.

End the day with a sunset walk around Brickell Key, which Nichole Walz of social group and community resource Brickell Women says is the finest walking loop in the city. “You can stroll right next to the water while spotting dolphins and manatees, all with an incredible Brickell skyline in view,” she says. Reward yourself at new Brickell bar P.N.O. , which has great cocktails, live piano music, and plush couches.

Day 4: Head to Coconut Grove, two national parks, and a secret spot for sunset

Nature creeps in everywhere in these subtropical parts. Start your day in Coconut Grove, about four miles south of downtown Miami and Brickell, with breakfast at Chug’s , an upscale Cuban diner serving plates including cast-iron pancakes and short rib boliche (pot roast). Right across the street, Barracuda Taphouse & Grill is “one of the last remaining places to go to feel like you’re in a nautical weirdo Florida zone,” says Burnard, who swears by the snapper or mahi sandwich. Get out on the water during tours with Biscayne National Park Institute , which runs boat trips from Dinner Key Marina in Coconut Grove to tour historic Biscayne National Park sites like the lighthouse at Boca Chita Key and Stiltsville, where a collection of wooden shacks originally built in the 1930s hover above crystal-clear waters you can kayak through.

Alternatively, take an easy day trip into Everglades National Park by approaching it from the Homestead entrance, located past the Ernest Coe Visitor Center, and strolling the boardwalk at the Anhinga Trail , where you’ll likely see alligators and all manner of wading birds. Ayala recommends guests make the most of a visit to the park by booking a private tour guide from Magic City Adventures , who can lead you on hikes into the Everglades’ diverse ecosystems and organize private airboat tours.

For beach time at the end of your final day, Burnard and del Marmol both suggest laid-back Matheson Hammock Park , just south of Coral Gables, or Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, with its historic lighthouse and 1.25 miles of undeveloped beachfront on the southern tip of Key Biscayne.

Finish your trip by enjoying what’s easily the best sunset in Miami at The Cleat , a beautiful bar secreted away inside Bill Baggs state park on No Name Harbour.

“It’s almost got a Key West vibe to it,” says del Marmol about the watering hole. “There’s a tiki bar where bands play, and you can see all the way out to Stiltsville.”

Where to stay in Miami

For lavish oceanfront accommodations north of the South Beach fray, book a suite or ocean bungalow at Four Seasons Hotel at the Surf Club, Surfside, Florida . It’s a perfect base for the first two days of this itinerary.

The Mandarin Oriental Miami on the southern tip of Brickell Key has an outdoor infinity pool with incredible Biscayne Bay views and one of Miami’s best spas, which offers Ayurvedic facials, massages, and body treatments.

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The 7 best 3-day cruise itineraries for 2024.

Plan a long weekend getaway aboard a cruise for fun, scenery and entertainment.

The Best 3-Day Cruise Itineraries

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Hop aboard the Carnival Radiance for a short but fun-filled cruise weekend.

Whether you're short on vacation days or you only have a long weekend to spare, three-night cruises offer a fun and affordable way to get a change of scenery. These shorter sailings from the U.S. often amount to a weekend cruise and only depart from Florida and California for now. However, short cruises still let you dine and dance on board, enjoy world-class entertainment, and visit nearby destinations like Nassau in the Bahamas; Key West, Florida; or Ensenada, Mexico.

If you're looking for short cruises that pack a lot of good times into a weekend vacation, you should know that many cruise lines offer these trips, including Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises. Read on to find out which short cruises we recommend, where they depart from, and everything you can see and do over the span of three incredible nights.

3-Day Cruises From Florida

Norwegian sky from miami.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Dates: Aug. 2 to 5, 2024

Departure port: Miami

Stops: Key West, Florida; Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $399 per person

This three-night cruise on Norwegian Sky departs from Miami in August 2024 with stops at two iconic tropical destinations. The vessel's first stop is Key West , where cruise passengers will have the day to visit the southernmost tip of the United States, book a snorkeling or kayaking tour, or bar hop along the world-famous Duval Street. From there, the cruise stops at Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, which is a private island paradise that's only for cruise passengers. Here, visitors can enjoy some beach time, plan a WaveRunner adventure or snorkel the clear waters to watch out for wildlife.

When not at port, passengers on Norwegian Sky can enjoy the ship's 10 dining options, onboard spa, casino at sea, and variety of pools and hot tubs. The Norwegian Cruise Line vessel even has a sushi bar and a Starbucks onboard, and it was completely renovated from top to bottom in 2019.

Book a Norwegian cruise on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

MSC Seashore from Port Canaveral

Conrad Schutt | Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Dates: Multiple dates in November and December 2024

Departure port: Port Canaveral, Florida (Orlando)

Stops: Nassau and Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, Bahamas

Starting price: $169 per person

This three-night cruise on MSC Seashore departs from Port Canaveral near Orlando and takes passengers to two tropical destinations in the nearby Bahamas . The first is the island of Nassau, which is known for its luxury resorts (including the exclusive Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas), huge casinos and powder white sands. After that, guests can spend a second day at port at MSC Cruises ' private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. This island offers a perfect beach retreat for people who just want to relax, including several expansive white sand beaches with ample seating, an interior ocean lagoon for swimming, and beach bars and eateries dotted throughout.

MSC Seashore features huge pools, an onboard water park for kids, the expansive MSC Aurea Spa and 11 distinct dining venues for passengers to choose from. The ship also boasts the exclusive "ship within a ship" Yacht Club area, which offers the best of everything for discerning guests.

Find an MSC Cruises deal on GoToSea.

Celebrity Reflection from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Dates: Ongoing in 2024

Departure port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Stops: Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau, Bahamas

Starting price: $273 per person

This three-night cruise on Celebrity Cruises ' Celebrity Reflection departs from Fort Lauderdale and leaves for two days in the sunny Bahamas. The first stop gives guests a full day to enjoy at Perfect Day at CocoCay, a cruise line private island that's typically reserved for Royal Caribbean guests. This island paradise features an exclusive beach club, idyllic white sand beaches for swimming and floating, a water park, a zip line, and plenty of places to eat and drink all day. The next stop is Nassau: Visitors can dine and shop their way through the port area or book a fun day pass to the Baha Bay water park, which is located at resort Baha Mar and features waterslides, an expansive lazy river and incredible cuisine options right at the park.

Celebrity Reflection was recently refurbished in 2022. It features an incredible array of included dining options, eight specialty and exclusive dining establishments, and bars and lounges throughout the ship. The Retreat, a VIP ship-within-a-ship concept, is also offered on board for those who want an elevated cruising experience.

Explore Celebrity Cruises on GoToSea.

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Disney Dream from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Dates: Nov. 6 to 9, 2024

Stops: Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and Disney Castaway Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $1,973 per stateroom

This three-night Bahamian cruise on Disney Dream stops at two exclusive destinations in the Bahamas – Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, then Disney Castaway Cay. The first stop offers incredible beaches with play areas and crystal-clear water for swimming, as well as the Bahamian Arts and Culture Pavilion for families who want to learn something about the local culture on vacation. At Disney Castaway Cay, families can relax the day away on white sand beaches, go biking or kayaking, ride two waterslides, and more. Both destinations even have adults-only beach areas for cruisers who are traveling kid-free.

Disney Dream holds a maximum of 4,000 passengers and has everything you would expect on an exclusive Disney Cruise Line vessel, including kids and family areas, adults-only dining options and pools, and two large theaters. The ship also has several supervised kids clubs as well as dedicated clubs for teenagers and tweens .

Read: The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Liberty of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Stops: Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Starting price: $263 per person

Royal Caribbean International also boasts a Bahamas cruise from Fort Lauderdale that stops in Nassau and at the line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. In Nassau, cruisers get the chance to explore one of the most popular cruise ports throughout the Caribbean, where you can book an excursion to a local beach, plan a snorkeling adventure or play in one of the two biggest casinos throughout the region at Atlantis or Baha Mar. At Perfect Day at CocoCay, families can stay active with waterslides, book a kayaking tour or ride a hot air balloon up to 450 feet in the air.

Liberty of the Seas is also an ideal ship for families thanks to fun features like a huge onboard water park with slides, an ice skating rink with shows and the Broadway at Sea theater. The Royal Caribbean vessel also has nearly a dozen different dining venues, including Cupcake Cupboard, Johnny Rockets, a pizza kitchen and an old-world Italian eatery called Giovanni's Table.

Compare Royal Caribbean International cruises on GoToSea.

3-Day Cruises From California

Navigator of the seas from los angeles.

Dates: Throughout 2024

Departure port: Los Angeles

Stops: Ensenada, Mexico

Starting price: $282 per person

Royal Caribbean offers a three-night West Coast adventure on Navigator of the Seas that includes a fun day at sea and a full-day stop in Ensenada, Mexico. This Mexican destination is known for the many activities that can be enjoyed along its rugged shores, which can include leisurely days at nearby Estero and Mona Lisa beaches, hiking experiences, exploration of Baja California's wine region, whale watching and more.

Dates for this sailing are offered throughout 2024, and the ship itself has plenty to keep passengers enthralled while at sea. For example, Navigator of the Seas features the longest waterslide at sea, enlarged pool deck areas for relaxation, ice skating shows and shopping – not to mention Broadway-style shows with dancers, acrobats and singers. There are also 12 unique dining options onboard, including Starbucks, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and Johnny Rockets.

Carnival Radiance from Los Angeles

Dates: Jan. 26 to 29 and Sept. 24 to 27, 2024

Departure port: Long Beach (Los Angeles)

Starting price: $244 per person

Carnival Radiance also embarks on three-night journeys to Mexico from Los Angeles throughout the year, including in January and September 2024. This Carnival Cruise Line itinerary includes a fun day at sea and a stop in Ensenada, Mexico, where passengers can plan a sightseeing trip, nosh on the unique Baja cuisine the area is known for, shop for silver jewelry and other keepsakes, or spend the day relaxing on the beach.

Carnival Radiance itself serves as the perfect floating vessel for this fun weekend vacation, with onboard amenities that span the Cloud 9 Spa and WaterWorks water park with slides to a comedy club and special clubs for kids and teens. The ship also boasts an adults-only solarium and 10 different bars to choose from.

Book a Carnival cruise on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer and cruise expert who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 40 times across most of the major cruise lines in destinations throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate the itineraries for this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Cruise Packing List
• Beach Packing List
• Cruise Drink Packages: Your Options by Cruise Line
• First-Time Cruise Tips
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Tags: Travel , Cruises

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• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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'american idol' star, grammy winner mandisa dead at 47, 'american idol' singer mandisa dead at 47.

• Exclusive Details

"American Idol" alum and Grammy-winning singer Mandisa has died ... TMZ has learned.

Her father confirms her death to TMZ ... telling us her death was unexpected and a total shock to the family. We're told there were no known health issues prior to her passing, and her cause of death is not currently known.

Mandisa -- who competed on season 5 of 'Idol,' finishing in 9th place -- was found dead in her home in Nashville on Thursday.

She had previously opened up about her mental health struggles, telling ABC News in 2017 that she had contemplated suicide before. However, it's not clear whether her past battle with depression is related to her death.

Mandisa found success as a Gospel singer in the years after 'Idol,' winning a Grammy Award in 2014 for her album, "Overcomer."

Christian radio station K-Love praised Mandisa for her incredible talent and big heart in the hours following her death.

David Pierce , the station's Chief Media Officer, added ... "Her kindness was epic, her smile electric, her voice massive, but it was no match for the size of her heart. Mandisa struggled, and she was vulnerable enough to share that with us, which helped us talk about our own struggles."

He poignantly added, "Mandisa’s struggles are over. She is with the God she sang about now. While we are saddened, Mandisa is home. We’re praying for Mandisa’s family and friends and ask you to join us."

Mandisa was 47.

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Shaq Correctly Predicts Heat Win Over Celtics, Wins A Lot of Money

Before the Heat's 111-101 over the Celtics, Shaq said Miami would win by 10, made a bet with Charles Barkley, and won.

• Author: Jimmy Traina

1. The NBA may not love to hear about gambling stories right now since we're on the heels of the Jontay Porter scandal, but this is a good one. A very good one.

Before the Heat-Celtics game Wednesday night on TNT, Shaquille O'Neal said Miami would win by 10. Charles Barkley said let’s bet on it.

With the Heat down three, 61-58, at halftime, Shaq stuck to his guns and told Barkley he wanted to double the wager.

The end result: Heat 111, Celtics 101.

The fallout: Shaq showing off wads of hundred dollar bills while taunting his Inside the NBA colleagues and people accusing Shaq of having the script.

Just call him Shaqstradamus 🔮 @SHAQ https://t.co/rmWqBudGP0 pic.twitter.com/zdauNd0c4n — NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) April 25, 2024

2. A brand new SI Media With Jimmy Traina dropped this morning and this week's guest is newly retired Yankees radio legend, John Sterling.

Sterling, who was the radio voice of the Yankees for 36 seasons before stepping away from the job in mid-April, talks about his decision to retire now and clarifies reports on his health. He also addresses the social media backlash the Yankees faced after giving him an 83-inch television as a retirement gift.

Sterling also shares the advice he'd give the person who succeeds him as the Yankees radio play-by-play person, shares his thoughts on his "streak" of calling 5,060 straight games and remembers his time as a sports-talk radio host. Sterling also reveals the one Yankees player who asked him to change his famous home run call and talks about the role Mike and the Mad Dog played in helping the home run calls become a thing.

Following Sterling, Sal Licata from WFAN and SNY joins me for our weekly "Traina Thoughts" segment. This week's topics include the NFL draft, Aaron Boone's ridiculous ejection, the upcoming unedited "Roast of Tom Brady" on Netflix, Taylor Swift's new album and more.

You can listen to each podcast by clicking into the tweet below. You can also listen on Apple and Spotify .

Brand new SI MEDIA PODCAST with the Voice of the New Yankees, John Sterling. - Retirement reaction - Yankees giving him a TV - Player who requested a new HR call - Mike & Mad Dog role in the HR calls - Advice for replacement https://t.co/HgltyWmns7 — Jimmy Traina (@JimmyTraina) April 25, 2024

3. If you're looking forward to tonight's NFL draft and you're wondering about your viewing options, here's a breakdown of who you can watch for full coverage .

4. Wednesday's Orioles-Angels game ended when Los Angeles' Jo Addell was thrown out trying to steal second base. The only problem was that Addell was safe. However, even after replay, the umpires ruled him out. This led to one of the best broadcasting meltdowns you'll ever hear, with the Angels' crew of Wayne Randazzo and Mark Gubicza GOING OFF on the umps and replay officials.

Sorry for the circumstances but love hearing the announcers speaking their mind! @WayneRandazzo @Markgubicza pic.twitter.com/At63bWZMjw — Codify (@CodifyBaseball) April 24, 2024

5 . I've seen this quote about Caleb Williams on social media a few times over the past two days and I still have no idea what it means. Is the comparison to Prince supposed to be a good thing or a bad thing? I legit have no clue. I would assume any comparison to Prince is a good thing, since he's one of the greatest artists of all time, but this quote doesn't sound like a positive quote. Maybe I'm just an idiot.

. @FlemFile on what a former NFL scout told him about Caleb Williams: "Raw emotion is great, but Caleb's thing? That was ridiculous to me. That threw up major red flags. ... I will tell you, he scares the sh*t out of a lot of NFL teams too. The book on him is he's just kind of a… pic.twitter.com/0XQXYvuZUd — Pablo Torre Finds Out (@pablofindsout) April 23, 2024

6. This was a good podcasting moments via New Heights . Jason Kelce called out brother Travis for passing on saying the word "pseudonym" because it was too difficult to pronounce and Travis bragging that he substitued "myriad" for "pseudonym."

Intern Emma did Trav no favors tossing this word in the rundown 😂 pic.twitter.com/D1uxZcLBH2 — New Heights (@newheightshow) April 24, 2024

7. RANDOM VIDEO OF THE DAY : Great stuff here by Jerry Seinfeld on filming the Curb Your Enthusiasm finale.

. @JerrySeinfeld calls filming the "Curb Your Enthusiasm" finale "one of the most exciting moments of my life." pic.twitter.com/edG6hTkmSN — Good Morning America (@GMA) April 24, 2024

Be sure to  catch up on past editions of Traina Thoughts  and check out the  Sports Illustrated Media Podcast  hosted by Jimmy Traina on  Apple ,  Spotify  or  Google . You can also follow Jimmy on  Twitter, Instagram  and  TikTok . 

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Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix returns to South Florida. Here's what you need to know

By Hunter Geisel

Updated on: April 18, 2024 / 1:26 PM EDT / CBS Miami

MIAMI GARDENS — In about two weeks, Formula 1 revs up again in South Florida.

South Florida Motorsports (SFM), the organizers of the Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix 2024, have announced that the international racing event will return to Miami Gardens, taking place the first weekend of May at the Miami International Autodrome next to Hard Rock Stadium.

Entering its third year , Miami has been chosen as one of the only six venues to host an F1 Sprint in 2024, meaning there will be an extra race held that Saturday and guaranteeing high-octane action throughout the weekend.

Here's everything you need to know about this year's race.

Now available for purchase, the General Admission Campus Pass offers three days of on-track action throughout the weekend and across the Autodrome.

For $150 per day, the General Admission Campus Pass offers a variety of views, food, art and entertainment for an immersive F1 weekend to reflect "the culture of Miami throughout," SFM stated.

The pass includes access to the 300 level of Hard Rock Stadium to see the F1 Team Village on the football field, the support paddocks, an expanded F1 Fan Zone, a view of the winners' podium and access to the track at the end of the race. According to the event organizers, the support paddocks access, which hosts the F1 Academy and Porsche series, is new this year for Campus Pass holders.

"We have been eagerly anticipating the launch of this year's Campus Pass and are excited to announce it is now available for fans," stated Tyler Epp, president of the Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix. "As we enter the third year of the Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix, we are proud and excited to welcome fans to our beautiful Campus, which is entirely unique in auto racing and has been thoughtfully imagined and perfected to provide the best fan experience on the Formula 1 calendar."

"This General Admission ticket offers great value for an immersive Formula 1 weekend," Epp continued. "And with the addition of a Sprint race guaranteeing three days of competitive action, all Campus Pass holders will experience everything our race is famous for, from the exciting on-track racing to the very best music, food and culture Miami has to offer."

To purchase tickets, visit f1miamigp.com/tickets .

On the Track

The Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix begins Friday, May 3, and concludes on Sunday, May 5. Below is the preliminary schedule of racing events. The exact times have not yet been announced, but the schedule will be updated when more information is released.

Friday, May 3

• F1 Academy First Practice Session — TBD
• Formula 1 First Practice Session — TBD
• Porsche Carrera Cup North America First Practice Session — TBD
• F1 Academy Second Practice Session — TBD
• F1 Sprint Qualifying Session — TBD
• Porsche Carrera Cup North America Second Practice Session — TBD

Saturday, May 4

• F1 Academy Qualifying Session — TBD
• F1 Sprint Race — TBD
• Porsche Carrera Cup North America Qualifying Session — TBD
• F1 Academy First Race — TBD
• Formula 1 Qualifying Session — TBD
• Porsche Carrera Cup North America First Race — TBD

Sunday, May 5

• Porsche Carrera Cup North America Second Race — TBD
• Ferrari Parade Laps — TBD
• F1 Academy Second Race — TBD
• Formula 1 Drivers' Parade — TBD
• Formula 1 Grand Prix — TBD

For the first time, Miami will be one of six locations to host a Sprint race in 2024. Held on Saturday, the Sprint is roughly a third the distance of a Grand Prix and "will guarantee three days of competitive action" in Miami Gardens this year, SFM stated. The other locations to host Sprints include Austin, Texas; China, Austria, Brazil and Qatar.

On track, there will be no changes to the driver lineups for the first time in the sport's history. This means Florida's Logan Sargeant will enjoy another season at Williams Racing as the American driver, who is looking to build on his rookie campaign from last year. According to SFM, Sargeant turned 23 on New Year's Eve and will be keen to increase his points haul going into this season.

One notable change to the 10 teams is the departure of Alfa Romeo, meaning that the Swiss-based Sauber squad will be known as the Stake F1 Team moving forward before Audi takes ownership of the organization full-time in 2026, SFM stated.

However, a new addition to this season will be the F1 Academy — the innovative junior series that has been created to prepare female drivers for higher levels of motorsport competition, to find a future female Formula 1 star. The championship will visit seven different venues this year and every round will form a part of the support package of a Grand Prix weekend. Each team will also feature a car that will be affiliated to one of the 10 F1 teams. Miami is set to host a round during its weekend, which will further add to the action to the third staging of a Formula 1 race at Hard Rock Stadium.

Off-road Activities

Other than watching the fast cars and races, there are plenty of things to do at the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix.

For starters, there will be a live auction on Saturday night. In partnership with international car auction house Bonhams | Cars, fans will be able to enjoy the display of contemporary, modern supercars and Formula 1 race cars around the Miami campus during the weekend.

Aside from the auction, fans will be delighted to hear that the Hard Rock Beach Club returns for 2024. As one of the most iconic hospitality spaces at the Autodrome, the venue is located on the outside of Turns 11-13 on the track and is the place where "South Beach meets Formula 1," SFM stated.

Exclusively available to Hard Rock Beach Club ticket holders, the space features cabana-style seating, signature pools, bars and all-day cuisine, along with world-class entertainment from top performers such as singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran and DJ John Summit. SFM stated that more A-list acts will be announced in the coming weeks. If you're unable to catch these performances live, you can always watch them anywhere at the venue since they will be streamed for all fans throughout the campus.

Speaking of top performers, fans are expected to watch Grammy winner Marc Anthony to perform the national anthem ahead of Sunday's race before drivers start their engines. To cap off the weekend, Grammy-winning DJ and producer Kaytranada will close out the weekend with an on-stage performance following Sunday's trophy presentation.

For tickets, visit f1miamigp.com/tickets/club/beach-club/

• South Florida
• Formula One

Hunter Geisel is a digital producer at CBS News Miami. Hunter has previously produced digital content for local and national outlets, covering several topics from breaking news and current events to politics and pop culture.

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Princess Beatrice’s ex-boyfriend Paolo Liuzzo dies of drug overdose in Miami hotel room: report

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Princess Beatrice’s ex-boyfriend Paolo Liuzzo has died from a suspected drug overdose, the Sun reported Wednesday .

According to the publication, he passed away in a room at the citizenM Miami Worldcenter hotel at 3:34 p.m. Feb. 7. His body was reportedly transported back to his native Long Island, NY, where a funeral was held Feb 16.

Officer Michael Vega of the Miami Police Department told the Sun on Wednesday that his death “was investigated as an overdose” and that the investigation “is open and ongoing.”

Furthermore, an alleged longtime pal of Liuzzo claimed to the Sun that he was “not doing great” before his death and that he “loved to party and to gamble.”

“It was a very fast lifestyle and we all feared it would catch up with him eventually,” the friend added. “He was always borrowing money to pay off old loans. It became a vicious cycle.”

Page Six was unable to reach reps for Beatrice, who the Sun claimed was “heartbroken” over her ex’s death.

The pair began dating in 2005 when Beatrice, now 35, was 17 and he was 24. Her mother, Sarah Ferguson — who shares Beatrice with Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip’s controversial son Prince Andrew — supported their relationship when they first got together.

“We all have our own journeys and have to learn our way but Beatrice is a sensible girl, soon to be 18, with many friends, including Paolo,” she said via a public statement at the time.

Before they began dating, Liuzzo was charged with the manslaughter of Jonathan R. Duchatellier, a fellow student at the College of the Holy Cross, after they got into a drunken fistfight.

His charge was later reduced to assault and battery and he served 100 hours of community service.

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However, when his romance with Beatrice became public fodder, he was sent back to the US for violating his three-year probation , which was subsequently extended by six months.

Their relationship ended publicly in 2006.

More must-see royals coverage:

• How Prince Harry and Meghan Markle met
• Prince William and Kate Middleton’s relationship timeline
• Royal family tree and line of succession

Later, Liuzzo reportedly claimed he was never “in love” with the princess. “I wasn’t sure I wanted to get in that deep with Bea,” he explained, per the Sun.

In 2009, Liuzzo, who was thought to have inherited his fortune from his dad, was back in the headlines for crashing his pricey Audi rental in Australia’s Gold Coast. He was then charged with fraud and cocaine possession after he tried to skip out on food and boarding bills at a casino.

He reportedly never married and worked as an art industry consultant before he died.

Beatrice, for her part, married entrepreneur Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi in July 2020. They share a 2-year-old daughter named Sienna Elizabeth Mapelli Mozzi.

Edoardo also shares 6-year-old son Christopher “Wolfie” Woolf with former girlfriend Dara Huang.

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