Top 20 Things To Do In Miami Florida

Miami is a vibrant and colorful city that is brimming with things to do. While the city is famous for its powdery white beaches and stunning blue water, there are many more things to do in Miami to captivate every visitor who explores. From the relaxing beaches to the lively city atmosphere, this city is a destination that caters to all kinds of travelers.

Best Things To Do In Miami Florida

1. Visit The Beach

Heading to the beach is probably one of the first things on the Miami bucket list and its no surprise. Miami beaches are stunning with clear blue water and soft white sand making a beach day one of the best ways to spend the day in Miami.

One of the most iconic and famous beaches in Miami is South Beach, or SoBe as known by the locals. It stretches for miles so despite being one of the most visited beaches, it provides plenty of space to enjoy. It’s located near some of the best happenings of the area including artsy neighborhoods, delicious restaurants, and fun shops.

Not all Miami beaches are so populated though, so if you are looking for a quieter beach then visiting beaches at Crandon Park, Matheson Hammock Park or Sunny Isles Beach. At these beaches you will find a more peaceful and quieter setting to enjoy the a beach day away from the crowds.

2. Eat Good Food

Finding good food in Miami is not hard since there are so many options to choose from. Indulging in some of the best food in Miami is truly a treat. From Cuban cuisine to fresh seafood, there are some must-try foods and restaurants when you are in Miami.

Joe’s Stone Crab, which opened in the early 1900’s, is one of those restaurants that has been part of Miami’s history. For years the family-owned restaurant served thousands of people including some of the most well-known names. As soon as Joe discovered stone crabs, the place became known for this tasty crustacean and today is one of the best places in Miami to try this food.

For one of the best Cuban sandwiches visit a small cafe called Enriquetas. Their Cuban sandwhiches are some of the best in Miami serving up an authentic sandwich with pork or ham, Swiss cheese, yellow mustard and pickles on Cuban bread.

A dessert you can’t miss is the Key Lime Pie which is one of Florida’s must-try foods. While the Florida Keys are the place to really indulge in this dessert, one of the best places to try it in Miami is Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop. Their Key Lime Pie has the perfect combination of sweet and tart making it a favorite of many.

3. Speedboat Sightseeing

Have a thrilling ride on a speedboat while seeing the stunning Miami skyline and turquoise water. The tour passes by some fun highlights including views of Fisher and Star islands which are lined with multi-millionaire homes, and Miami Beach where you can catch a glimpse of the beach and even the Art Deco buildings lining the coast.

The speedboat tour is a fun way to see Miami’s coast line from the water and learn about some of the history and culture of the area from the knowledgeable captain. There are plenty for photo-taking opportunities as the captain slows the boat down to view the sights, so be sure to bring the camera to capture Miami’s beauty.

4. Wynwood Art District

The Wynwood Art District is known for its many colorful murals that have created an outdoor gallery of colorful artworks. The many artworks feature the work of some of the best street artists which have transformed this once run-down area into one of Miami’s top cultural hubs.

At the center of the district is the Wynwood Walls, a gated section with some of the featured murals. The murals are massive, covering whole sections of the warehouse exteriors with unique perspectives and bright colors. Although there is an admission fee to access the Wynwood Walls museum, the rest of the artwork in the neighborhood is free to see.

Not only is the area one of the most eclectic art scenes in Miami, it also features trendy restaurants and fun boutiques which you can visit after exploring the artworks. Some of the favorites are Zak the Baker, The Taco Stand, and Doya, although there are many more restaurants in Wynwood that are worth a visit.

5. Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

Situated on Biscayne Bay, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a lavish Mediterranean villa complete with formal gardens that is Miami’s enchanting gem. Vizcaya was originally built by John Deering as a winter home with 34 rooms that were beautifully decorated.

The construction of the residence started in 1914 and was heavily influenced by the Italian Renaissance. With over 180 acres, the estate is one of a kind to visit in Miami. Today, the property can be viewed by a guided tour that gives insight on what life was like and what it took to build this incredible mansion during that time.

Admission is $25 per person which can be purchase online and tours are an additional $5. There are options to tour the house or the village.

6. Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science

The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is a modern complex of four buildings that combines an aquarium, planetarium, and a science museum into one. The museum is located in downtown Miami and provides a wide range of exhibits and experiences for all ages.

One of the biggest highlights of the museum is the three story aquarium named “The Vista”, “The Dive” and “The Deep”. The Vista is the dop deck that showcases the surface of the southern Florida ecosystem with mangroves, fish and hammerhead sharks. Going into the Dive level you get to see what the underwater world looks like with coral and marine animals that reside there. Lastly, the third level is the Deep where you get to learn more about ocean current and see jellies.

The planetarium is another unique feature of the museum that is an educational thrill. The immersive experience is equipped with the best projectors and surround sound making you feel like you are right in the action. Other exhibitions include Mummies of the World, Power of Science, and many more. It is recommended to purchase your ticket in advance which is $29.95 for adults Monday through Thursday and $32.95 Friday through Sunday.

7. Little Havana

The Little Havana neighborhood is the hub of the Cuban-American community. Since this area in Miami has been dominated by the Latino community, it became known as the Little Havana and is the top place to get a taste of Latin culture.

One of the best ways to experience the area is to go on a Little Havana Food and Walking Tour. With the tour you will get to explore the Cuban district and learn more about the history and culture. Get a taste of the local cuisine like the famed Cuban sandwich, empanadas, flan ice cream, guava pastries and chicken plantain cups. You will also come across some local artists and get to hear traditional Cuban music.

8. Ancient Spanish Monastery

The stunning Ancient Spanish Monastery is one of the most beautiful and historic places in Miami. Its construction first began in 1133AD in northern Spain and was completed in a span of eight years. After going through years of use and a social revolution, the monastery was purchased by William Randolph Hearst in 1925. The building was dismantled and packed stone by stone in more than 11,000 wooden crates.

However, after the shipment arrived in the United States, Hearst experienced financial problems so the shipment remained in a warehouse for 26 years. In 1952, the shipment was purchased to be used as a tourist attraction and took 19 months and the equivalent of nearly 20 million dollars to put together. Today this historic building is open to tour from 10am to 4:30pm Monday to Saturday.

9. Bayside Marketplace

Bayside Marketplace is a bustling two-story shopping central. With over one hundred shops, dining and entertainment options, it’s one of the city’s busiest attractions. The complex offers a vibrant blend of shopping, dining, and even live entertainment for those looking to indulge in local cuisine and do plenty of shopping. The marketplace has scenic views as it overlooks Biscayne Bay allowing visitors and locals alike to enjoy this quintessential Miami experience.

10. Art Deco District/Ocean Drive

A stroll down Ocean Drive feels like stepping into a vintage postcard in pastel colors. The palm-lined street is lined with Art Deco buildings that portray the spirit of the 1920’s and 1930’s. On one side of the famed Ocean Drive, admire the sights of the buildings and on the other, the beautiful views of the ocean.

One of the best ways to enjoy the area is to take a Art Deco District tour. With this tour, you will get to know more about the history, learn about the unique architecture and the preservation efforts. The tour includes a visit to the Art Deco museum where the exhibitions expand on the Art Deco style and include the two other prevalent styles in Miami Beach, Mediterranean Revival and Miami Modern.

11. Visit the Everglades

Visiting the everglades from Miami promises an unforgettable adventure into one of the state’s most unique ecosystems. Located just a short drive from Miami, it is one of the best day trips to take if you are visiting the area. At the heart of the everglades, you will find yourself immersed in a subtropical wetland ecosystem that includes cypress swamps, prairies, and mangroves. It is one of the best places to see Florida’s wildlife like the alligators and crocodiles, the endangered Florida panther, dolphins, manatees, and a large number of bird species.

The best way to visit the everglades is by taking an Everglades Tour From Miami that lasts 4-5 hours. The tour includes transport from Miami and back, over two hours at the park, a 60-minute airboat ride, and a 15-minute alligator show. With the tour, you will be able to enjoy the nature and wildlife up close while learning more about the ecosystem.

12. Miami Seaquarium

The Miami Seaquarium, nestled on the beautiful Virginia Key, stands as a beacon of marine education, conservation, and entertainment. This aquatic park has been a staple of Miami’s attractions since 1955 which makes it one of the oldest oceanariums in the state.

It is home to an array of marine species including dolphins, sharks, rays, penguins and seals. One of the best ways to see the animals up close is to book an animal encounter which allows for fun interactions with the animals. At the shows, you get to see the thrilling leaps and rolls of the dolphins, and the fun performances of the seals. Beyond the shows and encounters, the Seaquarium boasts exhibits featuring other creatures like the flamingos and the tropical fish in the 750,000-gallon saltwater aquarium.

13. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

The lush landscapes of the Fairchild Botanic Garden are a testament to Florida’s beautiful nature. This tropical oasis spans 83 acres and is a haven for plant and nature enthusiasts seeking tranquility amongst the bustling city. First coming to life in 1938, the garden was greatly influenced by Robert Montgomery who had a passion for plant collecting.

The collection today features many tropical and subtropical plants from around the world. With over 3,400 species in the collection visitors can view a variety of palms, fruit trees, flowers and exotic plants.

14. See a Coral Castle

Did you know there are castles in Florida? While they might not be the typical castles you think of, there are some very interesting castle structures in Florida that you can visit and one of them is the Coral Castle. It stands as a result of artistic ingenuity by Edward Leedskalnin who single-handedly crafted the limestone structure. He carved the coral rock only with hand tools to create the structure which took him many years to accomplish.

Visitors to this peculiar attraction can explore the meticulously crafted sculptures, meander through the garden, and ponder the enigmatic methods employed by Leedskalnin in the creation of this baffling and awe-inspiring monument, often referred to as “America’s Stonehenge.” The Coral Castle continues to intrigue and fascinate with its mysterious origins and the incredible craftsmanship of its builder, especially the 9-ton gate that moves with just a touch of the finger.

15. Venetian Pool

Coral Gables is home to the Venetian Pool that is a unique hidden gem in Miami. This historic landmark, carved out of a coral rock quarry in the 1920s, exudes Old World charm and sophistication. Designed to resemble a Venetian lagoon, the pool is a fusion of Mediterranean-style architecture, with its grottos, waterfalls, and lush landscaping creating a tranquil and picturesque setting.

Open seasonally, the Venetian Pool offers visitors a refreshing escape with its crystal-clear spring water, fed by an underground aquifer. Visitors can lounge in the sun on the pool’s sandy beach or swim in the cool, freshwater pool. The unique features, including caves, bridges, and palm-fringed islands, create an ambiance that feels both luxurious and idyllic. A designated historic site, the Venetian Pool provides a serene and upscale experience, making it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists seeking a blend of relaxation and architectural elegance in the heart of Miami.

16. Jungle Island

For an immersive zoological park experience, Jungle Island is one of the best places to visit for the whole family. The park is an exciting blend of wildlife encounters, engaging exhibits, and gardens as a replica of the everglades habitat.

Home to a diverse array of exotic animals, Jungle Island provides interactive experiences, allowing guests to get up close with fascinating creatures from around the globe. From colorful parrots and flamingos to playful lemurs and fascinating reptiles, the park offers educational encounters that inspire a deeper appreciation for wildlife conservation.

17. Key Biscayne

Key Biscayne, a tropical island paradise just off the coast of Miami, beckons with its serene beaches, lush landscapes, and a relaxed ambiance. Accessible via the Rickenbacker Causeway, this idyllic retreat offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and upscale amenities. The laid-back atmosphere and breathtaking scenery make Key Biscayne a haven for relaxation and outdoor adventures like kayaking, making it an irresistible destination for locals and tourists seeking a tranquil escape just moments away from Miami’s vibrant energy.

The island is renowned for its pristine beaches, including the family-friendly Crandon Park Beach and the secluded Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park Beach, where visitors can bask in the sun, swim in turquoise waters, and enjoy water sports against a backdrop of stunning vistas. Nature lovers can explore the Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, home to a historic lighthouse and nature trails offering glimpses of diverse flora and fauna.

18. Florida Keys Road Trip

A road trip from Miami to Key West is one of the best road trips to take in Florida. The journey is filled with scenic vistas, historic landmarks, and a taste of Florida’s tropical paradise. The drive along the Overseas Highway (US-1) offers a breathtaking stretch of road, traversing through a chain of islands connected by many bridges, including the iconic Seven Mile Bridge.

Each key offers its unique charm and attractions some of which are not to miss on the drive. As you venture southward, make stops at picturesque spots like Key Largo, home to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, where snorkeling and diving opportunities abound. Continue your adventure through Islamorada, renowned for its fishing and quaint art galleries, and visit Marathon with its marine life sanctuaries.

Arriving in Key West, the southernmost point of the continental United States, immerse yourself in its vibrant culture, historic sites like the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, lively Duval Street, and the spectacular sunset celebration at Mallory Square. This road trip offers a blend of natural beauty, island vibes, and rich history, making it an unforgettable exploration of the Florida Keys.

19. Day Trip to Bahamas

A Miami to Bahamas trip unveils a seamless fusion of sun, sea, and vibrant island culture. Boarding a cruise or hopping on a short flight from Miami allows travelers to reach the paradise in just a few hours. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by the Bahamas’ stunning turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and a myriad of activities—from snorkeling in crystal-clear reefs to exploring historical sites, vibrant markets, and luxurious resorts. This adventure offers an enticing blend of relaxation, water sports, and Caribbean charm, making it an ideal tropical escape from the cosmopolitan allure of Miami.

20. Perez Art Museum

The Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) is located in downtown Miami, offering an enriching and diverse art experience that reflects the city’s dynamic character. Situated along Biscayne Bay, the museum’s modern and minimalist architecture creates an inviting space for visitors to engage with contemporary art and culture.

The extensive collection features an array of art emphasizing modern and contemporary works by renowned artists as well as emerging talents. The museum showcases a variety of mediums, including paintings, sculptures, installations, photography, and multimedia displays, allowing visitors to explore diverse artistic expressions. With its stunning waterfront location, thought-provoking exhibits, and commitment to artistic diversity, the Pérez Art Museum Miami stands as a cultural hub inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant art scene of South Florida.