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25 Best Things to Do in Miami (Florida)

Having had the privilege of experiencing Miami firsthand, I can attest that this city needs no introduction. Its reputation precedes it, renowned across the globe for its mesmerizing glitz, glamorous lifestyle, sun-kissed beaches, and perpetually sunny weather. Miami possesses a captivating allure that bewitches visitors, drawing them into its vibrant embrace. Beyond the dazzling facade, Miami’s natural beauty steals the spotlight, with Biscayne Bay and the clear, azure skies of South Florida captivating hearts at every turn.

While Miami may be synonymous with glamour, there is much more to uncover beneath its surface. Take the time to delve deeper and unearth the hidden gems that lie within. Alternatively, surrender to the city’s allure and immerse yourself in the glamour, embracing the Miami lifestyle to the fullest.

Allow me to present our curated list of the 25 Best Things to do in Miami, offering a diverse range of experiences that capture the essence of this remarkable city.

1. Visit the iconic Miami Beach

Having personally experienced the allure of Miami, I can attest that the image of a sun-drenched sandy beach immediately springs to mind. Miami Beach, in particular, stands out as the prime location for basking in the glorious sunshine and holds legendary status within the city.

Although technically situated outside the Miami municipality, Miami Beach resides on its own enchanting island. Renowned for its pristine beaches, this area beckons visitors to indulge in the ultimate beach experience. The warm sand beneath your feet, the gentle ocean breeze, and the radiant sun combine to create a paradise-like setting.

Miami Beach offers more than just its idyllic coastline. It is also celebrated for its Art Deco district, a treasure trove of architectural wonders. Within this district, one can marvel at the unique and captivating buildings that showcase the beauty of the Art Deco style. These structures stand as a testament to the city’s rich history and architectural heritage.

Exploring Miami Beach allows one to immerse themselves in the seamless blend of natural beauty and architectural marvels. From the sun-drenched beaches to the captivating Art Deco district, the area holds an irresistible charm that leaves a lasting impression.

2. Explore Jungle Island

During my visit to Miami, I had the pleasure of exploring Jungle Island, a renowned and beloved attraction in the city. Situated on Watson Island, this captivating destination was formerly known as Parrot Jungle and even had the honor of hosting a visit from Winston Churchill in 1946.

One of the remarkable aspects of Jungle Island is its convenient location, just minutes away from both South Beach and Downtown Miami. This proximity makes it easily accessible for visitors, allowing them to seamlessly incorporate a trip to the park into their Miami itinerary.

Stepping into Jungle Island felt like embarking on a thrilling adventure, as the park’s interactive experiences immersed me in a world of discovery. The vibrant shows, which took place daily, were an absolute highlight. These mesmerizing performances captivated and entertained guests, adding an extra layer of excitement to the overall experience.

Exploring Jungle Island was a truly immersive and enchanting experience. The park’s engaging atmosphere, coupled with its close proximity to Miami’s popular destinations, made it a must-visit attraction for anyone seeking adventure and entertainment in the city.

3. Wander the Art Deco District

I was captivated by the enchanting Art Deco District, which exudes a charming hint of 1930s nostalgia. The meticulously restored buildings within this district hold a treasure trove of experiences for a leisurely day in Miami.

As I strolled along Ocean Drive, my gaze was drawn to the pastel-painted buildings that lined the street, offering a picturesque view of the sea. Many of these buildings housed delightful dining establishments, making them perfect spots to pause and indulge in a leisurely lunch or a delightful evening meal. The combination of the scenic ocean view and the architectural allure of the Art Deco buildings created a unique and inviting ambiance.

However, it was after dark that the Art Deco District truly came alive. As the sun set, neon signs illuminated the streets, casting a vibrant glow over the area. The canopy-covered dining areas took on a romantic and inviting atmosphere, inviting visitors to experience the district’s captivating nightlife.

The Art Deco District in Miami Beach truly captured my heart. Its beautifully restored buildings, pastel hues, and vibrant dining scene provided a memorable backdrop for a relaxed and enjoyable day in the Miami Beach area. Whether during the daylight hours or after dark, this district offered a delightful blend of nostalgia, architectural beauty, and culinary delights.

• 4.  Bayside Marketplace

I also had the pleasure of exploring Bayside Marketplace, a vibrant hub that offers a delightful mix of over 150 specialty and tourist shops, as well as an enticing selection of cafes and restaurants. This outdoor-style mall exceeded my expectations with its diverse range of offerings.

As I wandered through Bayside Marketplace, I discovered a captivating blend of well-known chain stores and charming boutiques. The presence of these unique boutiques added a touch of character to the shopping experience, offering a wide array of one-of-a-kind finds.

Situated along Miami’s picturesque waterfront, the marketplace lived up to its name, offering breathtaking views of the bay. Many locals flocked to this lively destination, drawn not only by the shopping opportunities but also by the lively atmosphere. The marketplace was abuzz with energy, enhanced by the daily live music performances that filled the air with melodies. The vibrant ambiance and fun-filled vibe created an enjoyable and entertaining experience for all visitors.

Cruise starting at Bayside : The Original Millionaire’s Row Cruise

• 5.  Stroll through The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, an absolute gem that truly deserves its recognition as one of the city’s greatest treasures. The museum and its breathtaking architecture, meticulously manicured grounds, and exquisite artwork left me in awe.

As I stepped into the Renaissance-style villa, I found myself surrounded by 34 rooms arranged around a magnificent courtyard. The villa’s interior was a testament to opulence and elegance, adorned with the most exquisite European furniture and artwork spanning from the 15th to the 19th century. Every corner showcased the curator’s meticulous attention to detail and the sheer beauty of the collection.

What impressed me even more was the level of authenticity achieved in the design of the estate. Over 1,100 craftsmen were brought over from Europe to ensure every aspect of the villa’s construction and decoration was true to its historical roots. This dedication to authenticity added a layer of authenticity and immersion to the experience, making me feel like I had stepped back in time.

The beauty of The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens extended beyond the villa itself. The 28-acre estate was a masterpiece in its own right, featuring meticulously manicured gardens and serene landscapes that invited me to wander and explore. The combination of architectural grandeur, artistic treasures, and picturesque surroundings made my visit truly unforgettable.

6. View over 2000 wild animals at Zoo Miami

The Zoo Miami’s dedication to providing animals with habitats that closely resemble their natural settings truly made the experience exceptional.

As I strolled through the zoo, I was captivated by the open-air exhibits and the cage-free environment that allowed for a more intimate and immersive encounter with the wildlife. It was truly remarkable to observe endangered animals up close, their majestic presence leaving a lasting impression.

One aspect that stood out to me was the level of interaction offered with the animals. Zoo Miami, although not the largest zoo, excelled in creating opportunities for visitors to engage with the wildlife. This made the experience particularly enjoyable for families, especially younger children who could partake in the various attractions offered in the children’s zoo. From camel rides to other captivating activities, there was no shortage of entertainment for the little ones.

Zoo Miami’s commitment to conservation and education was evident throughout my visit. The zoo’s staff and volunteers were knowledgeable and passionate, providing valuable insights into the animals and their conservation efforts. It was truly inspiring to witness their dedication to preserving these remarkable creatures and their natural habitats.

Book online : Zoo Miami Admission Ticket

7. Soak up the Cuban Flavor at Little Havana

Little Havana is widely renowned for its rich cultural flavor and offers an abundance of entertainment options, from open-air social areas to a plethora of restaurants and specialty food shops.

As I wandered through the streets of Little Havana, I was enveloped by the lively rhythms of Latin music that filled the air. The energetic beats seemed to emanate from every corner, adding to the immersive experience. The vibrant street art, adorned with colorful depictions of important Cuban figures, further contributed to the distinctive cultural atmosphere that permeates the neighborhood.

While Calle Ocho, also known as Eighth Street, is considered the heart of Little Havana and the focal point of most activities, I discovered that the district’s cultural influence has gradually spread into the surrounding streets and avenues. Exploring the area allowed me to uncover hidden gems, each offering its own unique charm and contributing to the vibrant mosaic that defines Little Havana.

One of the highlights of my visit was indulging in the culinary delights that Little Havana has to offer. From mouthwatering Cuban cuisine to specialty food shops that tantalize the taste buds, the neighborhood is a true haven for food lovers. The aromas of freshly brewed Cuban coffee and sizzling dishes filled the air, inviting me to sample the authentic flavors and savor the richness of the local cuisine.

Recommended tour: Little Havana Walking Tour

8. Explore salt marshes and Indian burial grounds

I also had the opportunity to immerse myself in the natural beauty and rich history of this expansive 440-acre property. The estate encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, including mangrove forests, salt marshes, a coastal dune island, coastal tropical hardwood rockland hammocks, and endangered pine habitats.

As I ventured through the estate, I was captivated by the stunning landscapes that unfolded before me. The pristine mangrove forests and salt marshes provided a glimpse into the region’s unique coastal ecosystem, while the coastal tropical hardwood rockland hammocks and endangered pine habitats showcased the incredible biodiversity of the area.

One of the highlights of the Deering Estate is the Richard cottages, which date back to around 1900 and once served as a hotel. These historic cottages, along with other significant buildings dating from 1896 to 1922, offer a glimpse into the region’s rich past. Additionally, I discovered an Indian burial ground, estimated to be from around 1500, adding an air of mystery and ancient history to the estate.

9. Get hands on at The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science

On my visit to the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, I was treated to an immersive and interactive experience that spanned a wide array of scientific fields. The museum’s commitment to hands-on learning was evident in its many interactive exhibits and engaging displays, which allowed visitors like myself to delve into the fascinating worlds of physics, biology, and chemistry.

As I explored the museum, I was impressed by its growth and evolution since its establishment in 1950. Over the years, the museum had expanded its space significantly, providing ample room for the diverse range of exhibits and activities it offered. This expansion ensured that there was always something new and exciting to discover during each visit.

One of the standout features of the museum was its ever-changing exhibits. With regularly updated themes and displays, each visit promised a fresh and unique experience. Whether it was exploring the wonders of the natural world, unraveling the mysteries of the cosmos, or delving into the intricate workings of the human body, the museum’s exhibits were thoughtfully curated to inspire curiosity and spark a love for science.

What struck me the most was the museum’s ability to cater to visitors of all ages and knowledge levels. From young children to adults, everyone could find something intriguing and informative within the museum’s walls. The hands-on nature of the exhibits allowed me to actively engage with the scientific concepts presented, making the learning experience both enjoyable and memorable.

I found myself drawn to the museum’s vibrant atmosphere and the sense of excitement that permeated its halls. Each visit felt like embarking on a new adventure, with endless possibilities for exploration and discovery.

10. Explore Croc ridden swamplands at the Everglades National Park

When I visited the Everglades National Park, which was just a short drive from Miami, I was mesmerized by the vast expanse of swamp lands that stretched across 1.5 million acres. This unique ecosystem served as a home to a diverse array of wildlife, including alligators, snakes, crocodiles, and countless bird species.

The park offered a variety of ways to explore its natural beauty, including walking trails and boardwalks that provided excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. However, one of the most thrilling experiences was embarking on a high-speed airboat ride.

As I boarded the airboat, I couldn’t contain my excitement. The powerful engine roared to life, propelling us deep into the marshes and streams of the Everglades. The sensation of gliding across the water’s surface was exhilarating, and I could feel the thrill building up within me.

As we navigated through the maze-like waterways, our knowledgeable guide shared fascinating information about the park’s ecosystem and pointed out various animal species along the way. The highlight of the airboat tour was undoubtedly the chance to encounter alligators in their natural habitat. With their fierce presence and distinctive features, these reptiles showcased the untamed beauty of the Everglades.

The airboat tour not only provided an adrenaline-pumping adventure but also allowed me to witness the stunning landscapes and unique flora of the Everglades up close. The vastness of the marshlands, the shimmering water reflecting the vibrant hues of the surrounding vegetation, and the serenity that enveloped the area left an indelible impression on me.

As the airboat glided through the Everglades, I couldn’t help but marvel at the intricate balance of nature that existed within this expansive wilderness. The symphony of bird calls and the rustling of the vegetation served as a reminder of the thriving ecosystem that depended on these wetlands.

Available tour : Everglades National Park: Airboat Tour and Wildlife Show

11. Admire Freedom Tower

Constructed in 1925, the historic Freedom Tower originally served as an immigration-processing center for the countless Cuban refugees who sought asylum in the United States.

As I stood before the majestic structure, I couldn’t help but appreciate its architectural beauty and the rich history it represented. The Freedom Tower stood tall, proudly displaying its status as one of the oldest and most remarkable skyscrapers in the southeastern United States.

While the tower’s initial purpose was to process and welcome Cuban immigrants, it later served as the headquarters of the Miami Daily News for many years. The building became a symbol of freedom and opportunity, a testament to the resilience and determination of those who sought refuge in the United States.

Stepping inside the tower, I was transported back in time. The interior showcased a blend of historic charm and contemporary exhibits, paying tribute to the Cuban immigration experience. Photographs, artifacts, and personal stories painted a vivid picture of the challenges and triumphs faced by those who passed through its doors.

As I climbed the stairs to the upper levels, I marveled at the stunning views of the cityscape visible through the tower’s windows. The panoramic vistas offered a unique perspective of Miami, reminding me of the ever-evolving nature of this vibrant city.

Visiting the Freedom Tower allowed me to immerse myself in the history of Cuban immigration and gain a deeper understanding of the cultural fabric that shapes Miami today. It served as a powerful reminder of the importance of embracing diversity and offering refuge to those in need.

12. Meet Flipper at The Miami Seaquarium

Miami Seaquarium—a beloved destination for families and a hub for the rehabilitation and rescue of Florida’s endangered manatees.

As I stepped into the Seaquarium, I could sense the excitement in the air. Families from near and far had gathered to witness the incredible shows that took place daily. The vibrant energy and anticipation were contagious

The shows at the Seaquarium were nothing short of spectacular. Dolphins gracefully leapt through the air, killer whales performed mesmerizing acrobatics, and other marine mammals showcased their intelligence and agility. The audience, including myself, was captivated by the awe-inspiring displays of these magnificent creatures.

Apart from the thrilling shows, the Seaquarium also offered a chance to immerse oneself in the wonders of the ocean. Large observation tanks housed a diverse array of tropical fish, majestic sharks, and even alligators. It was a unique opportunity to witness these creatures up close and learn more about their natural habitats.

For those seeking a truly immersive experience, the “swim with dolphins” program was an absolute delight. Participants had the opportunity to interact with dolphins and gain a deeper understanding of their behavior and natural history. It was a memorable and educational experience that left a lasting impression on me.

Throughout my time at the Seaquarium, I couldn’t help but appreciate the vital role it played in the conservation and preservation of marine life. The facility actively worked towards rehabilitating and rescuing endangered manatees, highlighting the importance of protecting these gentle creatures and their fragile ecosystems.

13. Catch a live event

As I approached the Miami-Dade Arena, its grandeur and modern architecture commanded attention. The sleek design and prime location made it an impressive sight. The area surrounding the arena was buzzing with excitement, hinting at the countless unforgettable experiences that have taken place within its walls. This iconic venue serves as the primary host for large-scale concerts and a wide range of events, including performances by renowned singers and, of course, serving as the home arena for the NBA’s Miami Heat.

Stepping inside, I was greeted by a vast space capable of accommodating up to 19,000 spectators. The arena, which opened its doors in 1999, showcased a perfect blend of functionality and aesthetics. It was no surprise that the building had earned the prestigious LEED Green Building Certification, recognizing its commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability.

Attending an event at the Miami-Dade Arena was an electrifying experience. The state-of-the-art sound system and cutting-edge technology ensured that every seat was filled with exceptional acoustics and a clear view of the stage. The arena had an incredible ability to bring people together, creating an atmosphere of anticipation and shared excitement.

I had the privilege of witnessing a Miami Heat game, and the energy in the arena was electrifying. The passionate fans, clad in the team’s colors, cheered and celebrated every play, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. The Miami-Dade Arena truly embodied the spirit of the city, showcasing the perfect blend of sports and entertainment.

Beyond the basketball court, the Miami-Dade Arena hosted an impressive lineup of world-class musicians and performers. Top name singers and bands took the stage, captivating audiences with their talent and leaving an indelible mark on the memories of those fortunate enough to attend.

As I left the Miami-Dade Arena, I couldn’t help but reflect on the vibrant energy and unforgettable moments I had experienced within its walls. This iconic venue was more than just a building; it was a symbol of Miami’s thriving entertainment scene and its passionate sports culture.

14. Visit Bayfront Park

During my visit to Miami, I had the pleasure of exploring the vibrant and rejuvenated Bayfront Park, situated on the east side of Biscayne Boulevard. In the 1980s, the park underwent a remarkable refurbishment, transforming it into a modern and inviting public space.

As I strolled through the park, I encountered various highlights that captured my attention. One of the standout features was the electronically controlled Pepper Fountain, a mesmerizing display of water and light that added a touch of enchantment to the surroundings. Its synchronized movements and vibrant colors created a captivating spectacle.

Adjacent to the fountain, I discovered a sprawling amphitheater, an impressive structure designed to accommodate a wide range of musical events and performances. I imagined the park coming alive with the sounds of concerts, bringing people together to enjoy unforgettable experiences beneath the open sky. The amphitheater’s size and versatility made it a valuable asset to Miami’s vibrant arts and culture scene.

Another notable structure within Bayfront Park was a tower that served as a canvas for dazzling laser illuminations. At night, the tower would come to life, casting vibrant beams of light across the park and creating a magical ambiance. It was a testament to the park’s commitment to providing unique and immersive experiences for visitors.

As I continued my exploration, I came across three important monuments that held significant historical and symbolic value. The Challenger Memorial stood as a commemoration to the brave crew of the Challenger aircraft, which tragically exploded in 1986. It served as a solemn reminder of their sacrifice and the spirit of exploration that continues to inspire.

Next, I encountered the Touch of Friendship monument, a symbol of Miami’s strong ties with Central and South America. It represented the city’s diverse and multicultural identity, celebrating the relationships and connections that have been nurtured over the years.

Finally, I reached the World War II Memorial, a poignant tribute to the heroes who fought and sacrificed during the global conflict. The memorial served as a solemn reminder of the bravery and resilience displayed by those who served their country.

15. Take a slow cruise down Ocean Drive

During my visit to Miami, I had the pleasure of exploring Ocean Drive, a renowned and vibrant stretch that runs along the Oceanfront of Miami Beach. From the moment I set foot on this iconic street, I was captivated by its energetic atmosphere and the stunning backdrop of South Beach’s pristine sands.

Day and night, Ocean Drive proved to be a magnet for tourists, offering an array of experiences that catered to every interest. As a lover of unique skylines and the distinctive scenes Miami has to offer, I found myself in awe of the architectural marvels that lined the street.

One of the standout structures along Ocean Drive was The Beacon, an exciting and notable building that added a touch of excitement to the area. Its striking design and prominent location made it a focal point, commanding attention and sparking curiosity. I couldn’t resist taking a moment to admire its grandeur and appreciate the modern aesthetic it brought to the Miami skyline.

As I continued my stroll, I couldn’t help but notice the charming and picturesque pastel-colored Art Deco buildings that dotted the street. These architectural gems were a testament to Miami’s rich history and the city’s commitment to preserving its unique cultural heritage. Each building exuded its own distinct character, showcasing the vibrant hues and intricate details that defined the Art Deco style.

As the sun began to set, Ocean Drive transformed into a lively and dynamic scene. Neon lights illuminated the street, casting a vibrant glow that added to the enchantment of the area. The bustling nightlife came alive, with restaurants, bars, and clubs beckoning visitors with their enticing offerings. The sound of laughter, music, and conversation filled the air, creating an electrifying ambiance that was hard to resist.

I found myself drawn to the vibrant energy of Ocean Drive, reveling in the lively atmosphere and the sights and sounds that surrounded me. It was a place where people from all walks of life came together to celebrate and indulge in the unique allure of Miami.

As I bid farewell to Ocean Drive, I couldn’t help but reflect on the extraordinary experiences it had offered me. The juxtaposition of the iconic beachfront, the remarkable architecture, and the vibrant nightlife had made it a destination that truly stood out. Ocean Drive had left an indelible mark on my memory, reminding me of the magical allure and endless possibilities that Miami had to offer.

Suggested tour: Ocean Drive Private Tour by Legendary Vintage Convertible

16. Soak up the sun at South Beach

In the summer months, South Beach was a lively hub, teeming with energy and excitement. The beach was filled with people of all ages, basking in the warm sun and reveling in the joyous atmosphere. Laughter and conversation filled the air, as beachgoers indulged in various activities and water sports. As I arrived, I was greeted by a vibrant and bustling atmosphere, with both locals and visitors from around the world coming together to soak up the sun and enjoy the beach.

However, as winter approached, South Beach transformed into a more relaxed and tranquil haven. The crowds thinned out, creating a more serene ambiance. It became an ideal place to take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, allowing me to appreciate the natural beauty and serenity of the beach.

One of the highlights of my South Beach experience was the stunning backdrop provided by the art deco buildings. These architectural gems, adorned with vibrant colors and intricate details, added a touch of charm and character to the beachfront. As I walked along the promenade, I couldn’t help but admire the unique blend of history and style that these buildings brought to the area.

The juxtaposition of the pristine white sand against the backdrop of the art deco buildings created a picturesque scene that was both captivating and enchanting. I took my time, absorbing the beauty of the surroundings, and found myself transported to a bygone era when Miami Beach became synonymous with timeless elegance and glamour.

Fun tour : Duck Tour of Miami and South Beach

17. Be childish at the Miami Children’s Museum

The Miami Children’s Museum, founded in 1983, recently relocated to its current site in 2003, providing a fresh and engaging space for young minds to thrive.

Upon entering the museum, I was immediately struck by its vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. The exhibits were thoughtfully designed to ignite the imagination and curiosity of children, offering a wide range of interactive experiences. Each exhibit revolved around captivating themes such as cultures from around the world and the wonders of art.

As I wandered through the museum, I witnessed the joy and enthusiasm on the faces of the young visitors. They eagerly participated in hands-on activities, fully immersed in the learning experience. The interactive nature of the exhibits allowed children to engage with the subjects in a meaningful way, making education a fun and enjoyable adventure.

The museum itself was housed in a unique and visually striking building, spanning an impressive 56,000 square feet. Its design seamlessly blended functionality and aesthetics, creating a space that was both practical and visually appealing. The spacious layout allowed for easy navigation, ensuring that children and their families could explore the exhibits at their own pace.

18. Learn about locomotive history

As I walked through the Gold Coast Railroad Museum, I marveled at the famous carriages that once carried esteemed figures such as Roosevelt, Truman, and Reagan. These historic carriages were a testament to the rich history and significance of rail transportation in shaping the nation’s development. This museum housed an impressive collection of 30 historic locomotives, all meticulously preserved in pristine condition.

One highlight of the museum was the incredibly detailed model railway. This intricate display showcased miniature landscapes, complete with tiny towns, bridges, and railway tracks. The level of craftsmanship and attention to detail was truly remarkable, and I found myself captivated by the miniature world before me.

The Gold Coast Railroad Museum also catered to the younger visitors, providing wooden toy train sets for children to play with. It was heartwarming to see the excitement and wonder in their eyes as they immersed themselves in the world of trains. The museum served as an inspiration for their imagination and a gateway to a lifelong fascination with locomotives.

19. Visit Crandon Park

During my visit to Miami, I had the pleasure of exploring the charming area of, located south of Miami Beach and accessible via the picturesque Rickenbacker Causeway. Nestled in Key Biscayne, a small but beautiful area were stunning beaches and fantastic park areas, with Crandon Park being the crown jewel and a must-visit destination.

Crandon Park, undoubtedly the most popular park in the area, offered a range of attractions that drew both locals and tourists alike. The presence of a vibrant reef made the swimming conditions ideal, inviting visitors to take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. The park’s pristine beaches provided a serene escape, allowing visitors to bask in the sun and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Beyond the beaches, Crandon Park had much more to offer. An Amusement Center and a Nature Center were nestled within the park, adding to its family-friendly appeal. The Amusement Center promised entertainment and excitement for visitors of all ages, while the Nature Center provided educational opportunities and a chance to explore the local flora and fauna. These additional amenities enhanced the park’s allure, ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy.

Facilities at Crandon Park were well-maintained, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all visitors. Ample parking spaces were available, easing any concerns about finding a spot. Lifeguards were stationed year-round, providing an added layer of safety and peace of mind.

20. Stroll around Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

The Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is a botanical oasis that boasted a vast collection of rare tropical plants, including stunning vines, flowering trees, and cycads. It was truly a paradise for nature enthusiasts and a haven of tranquility.

One of the remarkable aspects of Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden was its year-round accessibility, welcoming visitors with open arms except for Christmas day. This meant that regardless of the season, one could immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty and serenity of the garden.

As I wandered through the garden, I was captivated by the various exhibits on display. One standout exhibit was the Richard H. Simons Rainforest, a marvel that was made possible through a generous grant. This exhibit transported me to the enchanting habitats of tropical rainforests, providing a glimpse into the diverse and often endangered ecosystems found around the world. It was a true testament to the importance of preserving these fragile environments and raising awareness about their conservation.

The attention to detail in the Richard H. Simons Rainforest exhibit was impeccable. The lush greenery, vibrant colors, and ambient sounds recreated the ambiance of a tropical rainforest, evoking a sense of wonder and awe. It was a truly immersive experience that allowed me to appreciate the beauty and complexity of these unique ecosystems.

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden served as a haven for botany enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking solace in the midst of a bustling city. The garden’s dedication to education and conservation was evident throughout, as knowledgeable staff and informative signage provided valuable insights into the various plant species and their ecological significance.

• 21.  See some coral art

Coral Castle, a remarkable creation by the eccentric Latvian American artist Edward Leedskalnin. This awe-inspiring structure was constructed entirely from 1100 tons of coral rock, showcasing both the incredible skill and artistic vision of its creator.

Edward’s remarkable achievement was all the more captivating because he single-handedly built the entire castle. As I marveled at the intricate details and impressive scale of the structure, I couldn’t help but be in awe of his determination and craftsmanship. Each piece of coral rock was meticulously placed, resulting in a breathtaking work of art that defied conventional construction methods.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Coral Castle was the mystery surrounding its construction. Despite the meticulous planning and immense effort required, Edward managed to keep his building techniques a secret. To this day, the methods he employed remain a source of fascination and speculation, leaving visitors to the castle in a state of wonder and curiosity.

Walking through the corridors and courtyards of Coral Castle, I was mesmerized by the intricate carvings and the sheer scale of Edward’s creation. From towering walls to delicate sculptures, every element of the castle reflected his artistic vision and dedication. It was as if the stones themselves had been transformed into a testament to human ingenuity and creativity.

The allure of Coral Castle extended beyond its physical presence. It was a place that sparked the imagination and encouraged contemplation. As I explored the nooks and crannies of the castle, I couldn’t help but wonder about the stories and motivations behind Edward’s masterpiece. It was a truly immersive experience that left me with a profound appreciation for the power of art and the indomitable spirit of human endeavor.

22. Swim in the Venetian Pool

The historic Venetian Pool in Coral Gables aquatic facility, reminiscent of the enchanting city of Venice, proved to be a popular destination, attracting a multitude of visitors each year.

Constructed in 1923, the pool was ingeniously crafted from a coral rock quarry, adding to its unique character. Its grandeur was evident as I marveled at its expansive size and architectural beauty. With a capacity to hold an impressive 820,000 gallons of water, the Venetian Pool was supplied by refreshing underground spring water. To maintain its pristine condition, the pool underwent a daily ritual of being emptied and refilled during the bustling spring and summer months, ensuring a clean and rejuvenating experience for visitors.

As I arrived at the Venetian Pool, I noticed the vibrant energy and excitement in the air. It was apparent that this attraction was a popular choice, particularly during the peak season. The pool’s popularity sometimes led to large crowds, and in order to maintain a comfortable environment for everyone, the facility would stop selling tickets once it reached its maximum capacity. This ensured that visitors could enjoy their time without feeling overcrowded or overwhelmed.

Stepping into the Venetian Pool was like stepping into a dream. The crystal-clear water, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning architectural features, transported me to another time and place. I couldn’t resist taking a refreshing dip and immersing myself in the serene atmosphere. The pool’s design, reminiscent of Venetian canals, featured charming bridges and elegant waterfalls, further enhancing the enchanting ambiance.

Exploring the Venetian Pool was a delightful experience that allowed me to escape the bustling city and indulge in a serene oasis. Whether swimming in the cool waters, lounging by the poolside, or simply admiring the picturesque surroundings, there was a sense of tranquility and beauty that permeated the air.

23. Pay your respects to the victims of the holocaust

This somber and reflective space provided a place for me to pause and pay my respects to the victims of the Holocaust. Designed by Kenneth Treister and commissioned by a small group of Holocaust survivors, the memorial held great significance and served as a powerful reminder of the atrocities that occurred.

As I learned more about the memorial’s history, I discovered that its creation faced significant opposition. During the planning period, there were individuals who objected to the idea of a Holocaust memorial being built, expressing concerns that it would disrupt the vibrant and carefree atmosphere that Miami Beach was known for. Despite these objections, the small group of Holocaust survivors persisted in their mission to create a lasting tribute.

Walking through the memorial, I was struck by its profound symbolism and thought-provoking design. The centerpiece was a striking sculpture depicting a hand reaching out from the ground, representing the anguish and suffering of those who perished. Surrounding the sculpture were walls adorned with engraved names, serving as a solemn memorial to the millions of lives lost during the Holocaust. The tranquil setting, amidst the bustling city, created a powerful contrast that amplified the impact of the memorial.

Visiting the Holocaust Memorial was a deeply moving experience. It allowed me to reflect on the immense tragedy of the Holocaust and honor the memory of those who endured such unimaginable suffering. The memorial stood as a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit, reminding us of the importance of remembrance and education to prevent such horrors from happening again.

24. See smart design at the Wolfsonian FIU

Situated in the vibrant Art Deco district, this Wolfsonian FIU unique institution encompassed a museum, library, and research center. However, it was the museum that particularly piqued my interest, offering a diverse array of thought-provoking exhibitions that celebrated the intersection of intelligence and beauty in design.

As I stepped inside the museum, I was immediately drawn to the carefully curated displays that showcased design in its many forms. The Wolfsonian FIU, affiliated with the Smithsonian, delved into a wide range of subjects, from the intricate artistry of book covers to the powerful impact of propaganda pieces. Each exhibition provided a captivating exploration of design’s influence on society, offering valuable insights into the history and evolution of visual communication.

One of the highlights was the museum’s ability to seamlessly weave together historical artifacts, artworks, and everyday objects to tell compelling narratives. The exhibits conveyed a deep understanding of design’s role in shaping culture, politics, and human experiences. From striking posters that conveyed powerful messages to meticulously crafted furniture pieces that reflected the spirit of their time, the collection at the Wolfsonian FIU celebrated the fusion of aesthetics and intellectual depth.

What impressed me the most was the museum’s commitment to fostering critical thinking and dialogue. It offered a space for visitors to engage with the exhibits on a deeper level, encouraging questions, discussions, and personal reflections. The educational value of the museum was evident, as it provided a platform for learning and understanding the complexities of design’s impact on our lives.

As I explored the various exhibitions, I found myself immersed in a world of creativity, innovation, and historical significance. The Wolfsonian FIU stood as a testament to the power of design to shape our perceptions, challenge our assumptions, and inspire us to see the world in new and profound ways.

25. Catch a performance at the Olympia Theater

Stepping inside the Olympia Theater was like entering a world of enchantment. The theater was adorned in a stunning Moorish style, featuring exquisite balconies and majestic columns that evoked the grandeur of North African architecture. The attention to detail and craftsmanship were evident in every corner, transporting me to a different time and place. Situated on Flagler Street, this iconic venue hosted a wide array of performances and events throughout the year, including concerts and comedy shows. However, what truly left a lasting impression on me was the theater’s remarkable interior decor.

As I gazed up at the intricately designed balconies, I couldn’t help but marvel at the beauty and elegance of the theater’s interior. The combination of rich colors, ornate patterns, and lavish embellishments created a mesmerizing atmosphere. It was a true testament to the artistic vision of its creators and a testament to the theater’s commitment to providing an unforgettable experience for its patrons.

Attending a performance at the Olympia Theater was a feast for the senses. The exquisite surroundings added a touch of grandeur and sophistication to the events, enhancing the overall ambiance and making each moment even more memorable. Whether it was a captivating musical performance or a side-splitting comedy act, the theater’s interior decor served as a magnificent backdrop, elevating the entire experience.

25 Best Things to Do in Miami (Florida):

• Visit the iconic Miami Beach
• Explore Jungle Island
• Wander the Art Deco District
• View over 2000 wild animals at Zoo Miami
• Soak up the Cuban Flavor at Little Havana
• Explore salt marshes and Indian burial grounds
• Get hands on at The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science
• Explore Croc ridden swamplands at the Everglades National Park
• Admire Freedom Tower
• Meet Flipper at The Miami Seaquarium
• Catch a live event
• Visit Bayfront Park
• Take a slow cruise down Ocean Drive
• Soak up the sun at South Beach
• Be childish at the Miami Children's Museum
• Learn about locomotive history
• Visit Crandon Park
• Stroll around Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
• Swim in the Venetian Pool
• Pay your respects to the victims of the holocaust
• See smart design at the Wolfsonian FIU
• Catch a performance at the Olympia Theater

23 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Miami, FL

Written by Lana Law Updated Mar 21, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Miami is one of South Florida's premier vacation destinations, with beautiful beaches , great weather, history, culture, sports, and entertainment. Downtown Miami, separated from the Atlantic Ocean by the Biscayne Bay and Miami Beach, is a modern metropolis and cultural treasure trove.

From the museums to the streets of Little Havana , you can always find plenty of things to do in Miami. Across the bay, Miami Beach , with its Art Deco District, fantastic stretch of beachfront, and fun vibe, is a must-see in the area. Nearby, Everglades National Park is one of several popular day trip destinations from Miami .

Plan your time and discover the best places to visit with our list of the top tourist attractions in Miami.

1. Miami Beach

2. art deco historic district, 3. south beach, 4. vizcaya museum and gardens, 5. everglades national park, 6. bayside marketplace, 7. little havana and calle ocho, 8. bayfront park, 9. perez art museum, 10. miami seaquarium, 11. phillip and patricia frost museum of science, 12. fairchild tropical botanical gardens, 13. bill baggs cape florida state park, 14. hobie beach, 15. zoo miami, 16. deering estate at cutler, 17. wynwood walls street art, 18. miami children's museum, 19. key biscayne and crandon park, 20. basketball games at ftx arena, 21. venetian pool, 22. coral castle, 23. freedom tower, where to stay in miami for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to miami, best time to visit miami, fl.

Located on a barrier island and connected to the mainland by a series of bridges, Miami Beach is a mix of quiet neighborhoods, lively entertainment-focused areas, and long stretches of soft-sand beaches. The southernmost portion of the island is the historic and action-packed area known as South Beach, and this is where you'll find many of the top attractions and things to do.

One of the biggest attractions in Miami Beach is the Art Deco Historic District , with pastel buildings from the 1930s and early 1940s sporting classic neon signs. An expensive tourist district, this area features numerous beachfront restaurants, shops, hotels, and plenty of sunbathing opportunities.

The main street in this area is Ocean Drive , a section of road located along the oceanfront and home to some beautiful Art Deco buildings. Ocean Drive was closed to all but pedetrian traffic in May of 2020 but in 2022 opened to one-way vehicle traffic from 15th Street to 5th Street.

One block inland, running parallel with Ocean Drive, is Collins Avenue . Collins Avenue is actually State Road A1A and is the main street in Miami Beach, joining numerous neighborhoods.

If you are looking to stay in this area, see our selection of recommended luxury, mid-range, and budget hotels .

Even if you have no interest in the beach, the Art Deco Historic District is worth a trip out to Miami Beach. This architectural style, popular in the 1930s and 40s, dominates the trendy South Beach neighborhood .

These uniquely designed buildings, in a range of pastel colors and displaying large neon signs, were built following a devastating hurricane that struck in 1926. Many are hotels and restaurants, most of which have been beautifully restored. Along some of the main streets, awnings on the lower level of these buildings provide shade for outdoor dining areas. Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue are the two main streets through the area.

If you are interested in staying in one of these historic gems, many of the Art Deco buildings still function as hotels and have much more character than modern hotels. Some good options are the National Hotel Miami Beach or the more moderately priced Hotel Breakwater South Beach .

Located at the southern end of Miami Beach is the always action-packed neighborhood of South Beach. This is what many people have in mind when they plan a beach vacation to Miami. The wide section of beach that fronts the ocean along Ocean Drive is one of the big attractions. Often full of people in summer, this is the most popular beach in Miami and one of the top beaches in Florida .

This is a place to see and be seen, but also a place to swim and enjoy the shallow waters, escape the heat, and soak up the sun. A paved walk is set well back from the beach, and in behind is Ocean Drive. Art Deco buildings line the streets and offer luxury hotel rooms and a good mix of dining options.

South Beach is home to several popular festivals and events held throughout the year. By day, it's a great place to wander around or hang out on the beach. At night it comes alive with dining and nightlife.

This National Historic Landmark, set on 28 acres, was the luxurious winter home of 20th-century industrialist, James Deering. Built in 1916, the mansion features 34 rooms arranged around a central courtyard.

It took more than 1,100 workers and craftsmen to complete the Vizcaya project, many of whom were brought over from Europe to ensure authenticity in design.

The Italian Renaissance-style villa is filled with an impressive collection of European furniture and decorative arts from the 15th to 19th centuries.

The grounds and gardens contain beautiful Italian and French fountains, pools, and sculptures. A breakwater at the base of the steps leading into Biscayne Bay is an ornately carved barge, featuring female figures.

Address: 3251 South Miami Avenue, Miami, Florida

Official site: http://vizcaya.org

Everglades National Park, just a short drive from Miami, protects one of Florida's most unique natural features. These swamplands, covering about 1.5 million acres, are home to alligators, crocodiles, snakes, and birds. This whole area is essentially a shallow river flowing out to the ocean.

Within the park is an informative Visitors Center, as well as walking trails and boardwalks for wildlife viewing. One of the most popular walking trails in the park is the Anhinga Trail , which leaves from the Royal Palm Visitor Center. This trail is less than a mile long but leads through terrain where visitors are likely to see alligators and other animals. This trail is wheelchair accessible and non-strenuous.

One of the most enjoyable ways to experience the Everglades is on an airboat tour. These high-speed boat trips take visitors out into the marshes and streams to see alligators and other wildlife. The Miami Everglades Airboat Adventure with Transport half-day tour provides transport from your hotel to the park, and includes a 30-minute airboat ride, a live alligator show at the Everglades Alligator Farm, and transport back to your hotel.

Bayside Marketplace is a large outdoor-style mall with more than 120 specialty and tourist shops, numerous cafes and restaurants, and daily live entertainment. Visitors will find some well-known chain stores, as well as many unique, one-of-a-kind places. The marketplace draws locals as well as tourists.

As may be evident in the name, the mall is located along Miami's waterfront, looking out over docks and boats. Many people come here simply to soak up the atmosphere. Tour boats leave from here, visiting locations around Biscayne Bay. There is also a water taxi service to Miami Beach and downtown hotels located in the area.

A brand new attraction has risen at Bayside Market: the Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel . Towering 200 feet in the air, this giant Ferris wheel has 42 climate-controlled passenger gondolas plus one glass-floored VIP version. The views out over Biscayne Bay and Miami you'll see during your 15-minute ride are spectacular.

Address: 401 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, Florida

Official site: http://www.baysidemarketplace.com/

Little Havana, the Cuban district of Miami , isn't known for its wealth of tourist attractions but more for its distinctive cultural scene. Restaurants and specialty food shops line the streets, and Latin music drifts through the air. Locals socialize in the open spaces.

Murals grace the walls of buildings, showing important Cuban figures and scenes of daily life. Calle Ocho is the main thoroughfare running through the district and home to much of the activity, but Little Havana spreads well beyond, into the surrounding streets and avenues. For people-watching, the area offers a great deal of entertainment. And, of course, this is the place to visit for Cuban cuisine or perhaps, a surprise to most visitors, a great haircut at one of the numerous barber shops.

The Calle Ocho Festival , held in March, is a celebration of Cuban culture and the largest of its kind in the world. Over the years this street festival has expanded to include more Latin American cultures and is now a great way to experience Latin American music and Caribbean cuisine.

Bayfront Park, on the east side of Biscayne Boulevard, is a 32-acre green space, adjacent to the Bayside Marketplace. The park has several interesting monuments and sculptures. One of the unique features is the electronically controlled Pepper Fountain.

Other highlights include the Challenger Memorial , commemorating the crew of the Challenger spacecraft; the Light Tower , an amphitheater used for musical performances of all kinds; and a children's playground. Locals often come here just to run or walk on the paved trails.

A waterfront trail extends from Bayfront Marketplace to the park past the FPL Solar Amphitheater. Near the park are other interesting attractions including the Freedom Tower, the Kaseya Center, and Maurice A. Ferré Park.

Address: 301 North Biscayne Blvd, Miami, Florida

Official site: http://www.bayfrontparkmiami.com/

The Perez Art Museum, known locally as the PAMM, occupies a section of prime real estate on Miami's waterfront. Inside an architecturally stunning building designed by Herzog & de Mueron is housed artwork from the 20th and 21st centuries.

The museum has been celebrating art from local and international artists for over 25 years. In addition to the permanent collection, the PAMM hosts a regular procession of temporary exhibits. The interior of the building is almost a work of art in itself. Light, airy spaces along with incredible views out over Biscayne Bay invoke a sense of calm and introspection, helping to aid in your appreciation of the artwork. You'll find the permanent exhibits are primarily displayed on the first and second floors; the temporary exhibits are usually on the second floor.

The PAMM has a well-regarded on-site restaurant named Verde. Settle in at a table either inside or outside on the expansive patio and enjoy a light lunch while you soak up the fantastic views out over the water.

Save a few dollars on parking (flat rate of $15) by combining a visit here with a stop in at the Phillip and Patricia Museum of Science located right next door.

Address: 1103 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, Florida

Official site: https://www.pamm.org/

Located on the Rickenbacker Causeway on the way to Key Biscayne, the Miami Seaquarium is a good place to take the family for an afternoon of entertainment and education. This aquatic facility is home to a wide variety of sea creatures, including killer whales, dolphins, stingrays, seals, and penguins among many, many others.

The Seaquarium offers a variety of animal shows; however, the killer whale and dolphin shows are currently suspended as of writing. But don't despair, Salty the Sealion is still performing! If you'd like to get up close and personal, animal encounters are available for an additional fee. These include three options for interacting with dolphins, one with penguins, and the opportunity to swim with seals.

In addition to the shows and animal encounters, the Seaquarium has an extensive number of educational animal exhibits and an area devoted to marine conservation.

Note that a $10 fee is charged for parking in addition to the cost of entry to the Seaquarium.

Address: 4400 Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami, Florida

Official site: https://www.miamiseaquarium.com/

Ideal for a rainy day or if you are looking for something to do off the beach, the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is jam-packed with interesting things for all ages.

The museum is divided into four areas: The aquarium is all about the ocean, with a focus on South Florida. The planetarium helps bring an understanding of the solar system through interactive displays and shows. In the North and West wings, other permanent and traveling exhibits help to explain the world we live in.

Across all areas, displays are interactive and fun, and the viewing areas in the aquarium are exceptional.

Address: 1101 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, Florida

Official Site: https://www.frostscience.org/

Miami is a green city. Lush tropical vegetation grows here with abandon, nourished by the frequent rain, warm temperatures, and sunny days. One of the best places to see the wonderful show that Mother Nature puts on is at the Fairchild Tropical Botanical Gardens. Originally founded in 1938, the entire organization is now run by passionate volunteers and is a first-class operation.

Extensive grounds are spread out over 83 acres, allowing you to walk for miles. If that sounds a bit daunting, take one of the 45 minute-long tram tours instead. The tours are led by a knowledgeable guide and provide a fascinating insight to the gardens. Even if you are only slightly interested in plants, you'll find something interesting in one of the 27 exhibits and collections.

Owing to the size of the gardens, it's important to plan out your visit. Most of the attractions are in the southwest area of the gardens, reached by walking straight to the tram stop area from the main entrance and then turning right. Along the way, look down at the pathway to see all manner of leaves imprinted in the cement. This pathway will take you past interesting viewpoints and the entrance to the Richard H. Simmons Rainforest area. Be sure to take a stroll through this area, where mist snakes along the pathway, and rain showers take place among the plants.

Beyond the rainforest area are the Clinton Family Conservatory and the Wings of the Tropics exhibit. Enter the building, and find yourself in a wonderland of colorful butterflies and tropical flowers. Have your camera ready to try to snap a picture of the stunning blue morpho butterfly.

Spread throughout the gardens are 11 sculptures, including two by the acclaimed glass artists Dale Chihuly. A good spot to grab a light lunch is the Glasshouse Café. Tables are spread among the greenery, and it's a pleasant spot to refresh and recharge.

Unless you've ventured further afield, you may find yourself walking back past one of the more unusual plant displays in the gardens: the Lougheed Spiny Forest of Madagascar. Large trees with spikes definitely discourage any touching! Nearby is a giant baobab tree dating from the mid 1930s, planted by the founder, David Fairchild.

Address: 10901 Old Cutler Road, Miami, Florida

Official site: https://fairchildgarden.org/

Miami is fortunate in the fact that it has one of Florida's most beautiful state parks only a bridge ride away. Saved from development by Bill Baggs in the 1960s, this perfectly preserved wilderness is a perfect place for a family beach day trip. One of the main attractions is the 1.25-mile-long soft-sand beach, providing amazing views out over the Atlantic Ocean.

The park is long and relatively narrow, and where you park depends on what you'd like to do. If you just want to hit the beach, park near access #6. If you'd like to visit the beach and visit the historic lighthouse, park at access #7. Fishing more your thing? Park at the far end of the road in the parking lot by the washrooms, and walk out to the fishing docks or set up on the seawall.

The park is also a migratory bird hot spot. To have a chance at seeing birds, walk Robin's Birding Trail.

Address: 1200 South Crandon Blvd, Key Biscayne, Florida

Official site: https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/bill-baggs-cape-florida-state-park

One thing you learn pretty quickly about Miami is that it can be an expensive place. Road tolls, restaurant prices, park and attraction admissions – the costs can add up quite quickly. For a delightful beach spot that's gentle on the pocketbook, head to Hobie Beach.

It's easily located on the Rickenbacker Causeway, and parking here is, amazingly, free! Soft white sand and gentle waves (if any) make this one of the most accessible beaches in the area. Hobie Beach is dog friendly – pooches can run leash-free here on the sand and in the water.

Note that Hobie Beach exists in two locations. The first location you come to as you cross the causeway is the area that rents sailboats and is popular with the windsurfing and sailing crowd. The beach here is narrow and rocky. Farther along is the main beach area described above.

Zoo Miami houses more than 3,000 wild animals, including 40 endangered species. Unlike many traditional zoos, animals here are grouped with other species they would normally co-exist with peacefully in the wild, and kept in settings similar to their natural habitats.

One of the most enjoyable experiences at the zoo is feeding the giraffes. Kids will be amazed as these gentle giants reach down with their long necks to pluck a treat from their hands.

This is the only zoo in the continental United States located in a subtropical climate. More than 1,000 species of trees and plants can also be found on the grounds, including a large collection of orchids.

Children will find plenty of entertainment options. If they are bored with the animals, they can head over to the play areas and enjoy some splashing around at the water-themed play area.

Address: 1 Zoo Blvd, 12400 SW 152nd Street, Miami, Florida

Official site: http://www.zoomiami.org/

This former home of Charles Deering is a 444-acre estate, protecting globally endangered pine rockland habitat, as well as coastal tropical hardwood rockland hammocks, mangrove forests, salt marshes, and a coastal dune island.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places , Deering Estate at Cutler is home to the Richmond Cottage, which served as a hotel, as well as historical buildings dating from 1896 to 1922, and an American Indian burial ground dating from 1500.

Charles Deering was an art collector, who, along with his brother James, accumulated a great number of works by the Old Masters. Deering himself also painted, and some of his works are on display here. The Artist Village at the estate has become an important cultural center, featuring art and artists programs.

Address: 16701 SW 72nd Avenue, Miami, Florida

Official site: http://www.deeringestate.org/

In the warehouse district of Wynwood, the formerly drab exterior warehouse walls have been transformed into colorful pieces of art. The Wynwood Walls, plastered in street art, or what most people think of as graffiti, have brought new life to this area.

Brought about by Tony Goldman in 2009, the district has attracted big names in the world of street art from across North America and around the world. Since it was started, more than 80,000 square feet of wall space have been graced with paintings in this unique artform.

The entire area is full of colorful street art. Wander around on your own, or for greater insight into the murals, sign up online for a guided tour. If you want to see famous name artists, and purchase prints, visit the Wynwood Walls Museum. Inside this gated area, you'll find 35 walls, retail shops, and galleries. This area used to be free, but now an admission fee is charged.

Official site: http://www.thewynwoodwalls.com

Always a fun outing for children, the Miami Children's Museum is housed in a colorful and creatively designed facility with more than 56,000 square feet of space. Educational and entertaining exhibits are designed to appeal to children's curiosity and creativity.

Fourteen themed galleries revolve around arts, culture, community, and communication, and four outdoor exhibits allow kids a chance to play and enjoy time outside. Some of the exhibits are definitely Miami themed: the ability to explore a cruise ship and the ability to explore the Port of Miami.

Address: 980 Macarthur Causeway, Miami, Florida

Official site: http://www.miamichildrensmuseum.org/

South, beyond Miami Beach and over the Rickenbacker Causeway, is Key Biscayne, a small community with lovely beaches and beautiful parks. Of particular note is Crandon Park with an offshore reef that leaves the shoreline protected from big waves and perfect for swimming.

The park has a Family Amusement Center, making it particularly popular with families, and a Nature Center. There is generally ample parking, good facilities, chair rentals available, and lifeguards on duty.

On windy days, you may see kiteboarders ripping across the waves, being towed by their colorful kites.

The FTX Arena, formerly the American Airlines Arena, is the home of the NBA's Miami Heat . It is also the main venue for large concerts and other special events, including top-name singers and performers. It can hold more than 19,000 people.

The structure itself opened in 1999, has been awarded the Leed Green Building Certification for being an energy-efficient building. The arena stands out prominently on Biscayne Bay in downtown Miami.

Address: 601 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, Florida

Official site: https://www.ftxarena.com/

If you become tired of the beach, or the wind is up, or you are just looking for freshwater to swim in, head to the historic Venetian Pool. Located in the beautiful city of Coral Gables, just south of Miami, the pool dates from the early 1920s. The water in the pools is as pure as it gets. Fed from an underground spring, the water is crystal clear and refreshing. Each day, the 820,000-gallon pool is drained and refilled by the spring.

The pool is a byproduct of a former quarrying operation that used the coral dug from here for the construction of homes in Coral Gables. The area surrounding the pool is like a scene from Venice, Italy. Bridges, towers, and small plazas surround the pool, giving it a very European look and feel, while caves, grottoes, and two waterfalls provide hours of enjoyment for children and adults alike.

The pool is open from the start of February until the end of November each year. Ample free parking is available across the street in the public lot.

Address: 2702 de Soto Boulevard, Coral Gables, Florida

Official site: https://www.coralgables.com/venetianpool

The Coral Castle is the result of one man's 28 years of carving, using his own home-made tools. This incredible creation, made of limestone, was built by Edward Leedskalnin between 1923 and 1951. He kept his methods private and would not allow anyone to watch him work, leaving many people to wonder how he did it.

Today, you can tour the property and see the most famous structure, a giant stone gate, which opens effortlessly with the touch of a finger, as well as carvings that include stone tables and chairs, unique figures, and other pieces.

Address: 28655 South Dixie Highway, Miami, Florida

Official site: http://coralcastle.com

One of the most striking buildings on Biscayne Boulevard, Freedom Tower displays a "wedding-cake" style. Built in 1925, it is one of the oldest skyscrapers in the southeastern United States, and served for many years as the headquarters of the Miami Daily News.

Its name comes from its role as the immigration-processing center for hundreds of thousands of Cuban refugees who arrived in the 1960s. Today, it stands as a tribute to Cuban immigration and is used, in part, as a contemporary art museum.

Address: 600 North Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, Florida

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/history/nr/travel/american_latino_heritage/Freedom_Tower.html

Miami's main tourist area is Miami Beach, with its lovely soft-sand beaches, Art Deco buildings, and vibrant atmosphere. There are all kinds of hotels here, from small, quaint boutique hotels in landmark buildings to the large chain hotels. Most of the hotels have pools and are within easy walking distance of the ocean and a variety of great restaurants.

Luxury Hotels :

• With 600 feet of prime beachfront property and occupying an entire city block on Collins Ave, 1 Hotel South Beach is one of the trendiest luxury properties in town. The hotel has 426 rooms and suites, and many feature expansive views from floor-to-ceiling windows that face the Atlantic Ocean. The décor is maritime themed and makes use of reclaimed driftwood in furnishings. There are four swimming pools on-site, including the largest rooftop pool in South Beach. There are a number of restaurants with a healthy focus, and guests have access to rides in the hotel's Tesla vehicles within a three-mile radius. Pets are also welcome to stay.
• Right on the trendiest section of South Beach, The Setai, Miami Beach is a stunning, Asian-inspired luxury resort that is popular with couples on a romantic getaway. It's an all suite hotel, and these begin studio sized and go all the way up to a four-bedroom penthouse. Expect high-end decor like hand-crafted Duxiana beds and high thread-count, Italian sheets. There are also in-room espresso machines and rainfall showers in large baths. The Setai also boasts a host of amenities, including a posh spa, three swimming pools, and sun-loungers and umbrellas on the beach. There are also multiple restaurants on-site. Try Jaya for Asian-inspired fare and The Ocean Grill for international cuisine.
• Literally in the middle of the Miami skyline with views of the Miami River, Biscayne Bay, and downtown from the balconies attached to every room and suite, the just remodeled Kimpton EPIC Hotel is another top luxury sleep. The décor is urban contemporary, and we love the floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as the comfy beds with quality linens. The Kimpton is known for being super dog-friendly, and there is never a pet deposit to stay. Also noteworthy are two on-site restaurants: Area 31 with outdoor patio seating and Zuma on the ground floor. An on-site spa and fitness center and two swimming pools with cabanas that can be reserved complete the amenities picture.
• In the heart of the Brickell neighborhood in downtown Miami, the Four Seasons Hotel Miami is a popular choice for families seeking a luxury resort stay. The resort even doubles as a Latin American art gallery, hosting a multi-million-dollar collection that is exhibited throughout. Child-focused amenities here include a kids' club with organized activities and a children's section in one of the two rooftop swimming pools. Adults can check out a class at the on-site Equinox fitness center or book a massage at The Spa, both located on the hotel's fourth floor.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• If you want to be near South Beach but can't afford to pay a fortune, then try the boutique Urbanica The Meridian Hotel , which offers a more affordable, luxe experience. The hotel in the hip South of Fifth neighborhood in Miami Beach features minimalist design, with white and beige hues, and is known for its personalized service.
• Another upmarket, mid-range choice is the Marriott Stanton South Beach , which is right on the beach. Set at the southern side of South Beach's Ocean Drive, it is a kid-friendly property but can also work for couples on a budget. There are two swimming pools and a hot tub on-site, as well as a spa with a sauna and a modern gym. There are a few dining options as well, including a good restaurant fronting the sea.
• It is usually more affordable to stay in downtown Miami than Miami Beach, and these days the downtown area around Brickell, where the Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton - Miami-Brickell Downtown is located has plenty to keep you occupied. The good-value hotel has a classy vibe and even features its own contemporary art collection. Other perks include a free breakfast and swimming pool.

Budget Hotels :

• Even budget hotels in Miami Beach tend to be pricey unless you're visiting in the super low season. Try the Hotel Shelley for a quality budget sleep in an Art Deco building right on Collins Ave. The rooms have minimalist design and marble baths.
• The Element Miami International Airport is right by the airport, but Miami's airport is not inconveniently located to get around the city. This hotel offers renovated rooms, with small kitchens, and an outdoor pool. The free shuttle is handy for late or early flights.
• Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: To see the sights of Miami at your own pace, it doesn't get any easier than a Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour . The three routes hit all the major destinations, including South Beach, Downtown Miami, Coral Gables, and Little Havana, with a total of 40 stops to choose from.
• Sightseeing, Cruise, and Everglades Tour : If you really want to make the most of your time in Miami, the most comprehensive and convenient way to see and experience the highlights is on a Miami Combo Tour: City Sightseeing, Biscayne Bay Cruise, and Everglades Airboat Ride . This tour checks off everything but the beach, and it's all wrapped up in a one-day tour. The trip includes a narrated coach tour through the city; a cruise on the beautiful, clear waters of Biscayne Bay; and an airboat ride through the Florida Everglades.
• Visit Key West : Take an organized Key West Day Trip to see the famous bridges that link the Keys, spend an afternoon wandering around Key West, or add on a glass-bottom boat tour, a snorkeling cruise, hop-on-hop-off tour of Key West, or parasailing. This 12-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off at your Miami hotel, bus transportation to Key West, and plenty of free time to see the sights.

If you're planning a vacation packed with plenty of sunshine, endless entertainment, and festivals galore, the best time of year to visit Miami is spring .

March through May are considered high season (as are the winter months of December through February), which means you should expect crowds of tourists splaying themselves on Miami's best beaches , as well as increased rates on things like hotel rooms and local attractions. You may also need to call in advance to book a dinner reservation.

During spring, you can expect beautiful weather. With highs in the high 70s and low 80s Fahrenheit, it's not too hot, nor is it too humid. Plus, spring offers a slew of events to keep visitors busy. From tennis tournaments to outdoor concerts to food festivals, you won't be lacking in fun things to do.

This time of year is also free of the intense rains and pesky insects that plague the sticky summer months, as well as the hurricanes that hit during late fall.

A word of advice: Avoid spring break ; unless you're a fan of all day (and all night) parties, screaming youth, and bikini contests. Prices go up during this popular holiday and so does the noise level!

Easter is another time to steer clear of Miami if you're hoping to avoid crowds and keep your costs low.

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Apr 9, 2024 • 7 min read

Miami is a cultural hub with a world class art scene © Sean Drake / Getty Images

Miami is most known for being a hub of Latin American culture with a 24/7 party atmosphere, and that’s not wrong. But as one of the fastest growing metro areas in the country, the city clearly has even more to offer every sort of traveler. 

So how do you choose where to spend your time and money in Miami? Yes, there are nightclubs and bars a-plenty. But there are also world-class museums, literary events, all kinds of sports, theater and more Latin cuisine than you ever even knew existed. No matter your interests, these are the best things to do in the Magic City.

1. Order a cafecito from a ventanita

Cuban coffee is king in Miami, and there’s no better way to enjoy some than by ordering it from a ventanita – that is, a cafe window. Ventanitas serve not only as convenient coffee and snack spots, but also as spaces to have conversations and catch up on news and life. Versailles is a popular spot both for locals and tourists alike, but drive around Miami enough, and you’ll likely encounter several of these on-the-go coffee spots.

Continue your Miami coffee tour at these amazing cafes

Local Tip: Learn about the different types of coffee drinks ahead of time. Cafe con leche is akin to a sweet hot latte. A colada is more like several shots of sugary supercharged espresso served in a styrofoam cup, and it's meant to be shared. 

2. Make time for a beach day

You can’t visit Miami without dipping your toes in the warm Atlantic waters at least once. The best family-friendly beaches are Crandon Park and Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park – both great for barbecuing, biking and swimming. For more action and prime people-watching, stretch out on South Beach. Mid-beach all the way through Bal Harbour tends to have less public access, meaning slightly fewer crowds. If you hate tan lines and don’t blush easily, Haulover Beach (featuring the city’s only nude beach) might pique your interest. 

Local Tip: If you can’t stand the heat and humidity but still love to hear the waves, walk onto the sand anywhere from South to North Beach after dark and spend some quiet beach time under the stars.

Visit more of our favorite beaches in Miami

3. Actually, hop on a boat while you’re at it

There’s no shortage of boats to ride on in Miami, but you’ll want to choose the right experience for you. Many boat tours can be found in and around Bayside Marketplace (a tourist-friendly shopping and dining hotspot in Downtown Miami). These tend to vary from a general 1-2 hour “party boat” experience that takes you into Biscayne Bay with music and drinks, to millionaire mansion sightseeing tours, to sightseeing speedboat tours for those who enjoy a faster pace. There are other options, like private boat tours of  Stiltsville and Biscayne National Park  (parts of Miami that are only accessible by boat), as well as  small sailing experiences  out of Coconut Grove.

Local Tip: Already have experience driving a boat? You can easily rent one by the hour for a more intimate boating experience. 

4. Immerse yourself in the Wynwood art scene

What was once a few blocks of struggling art galleries has become a gentrified mass of high rises, restaurants, bars, and well, a lot more art. You can still visit some of the long-standing cultural institutions and galleries in the area like the Margulies Collection and the Wynwood Walls , as well as the Bakehouse Art Complex . More importantly, you can still find plenty of art by simply walking around the neighborhood – murals and graffiti have long been a staple here. And of course, don’t forget to bring your camera. The photo ops are endless.

Local Tip: If you can deal with the crowds and traffic, visit during the first week of December for Art Basel – an international art show with multiple satellite events, many of which take place in and around Wynwood. It’s a great time for seeing new art (and even getting to watch street artists at work).

5. Venture out to any of Miami’s other top-notch art museums

No matter where you are in the 305, you’re bound to find an art museum nearby. North Miami is home to the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA NoMi) , whose collection includes works by artists like Keith Haring and Anna Gaskell. The Bass Museum of Art in Miami Beach is one of the city’s oldest art museums, open since 1964. Both Florida International University and the University of Miami house their own art museums – the Frost in Sweetwater and the Lowe in Coral Gables, respectively. And if you want to see a truly impressive collection of Latin American art, make time for the Perez Art Museum .

Local Tip: Many museums feature free days at least once a month. Check their websites for info and plan accordingly.

6. Explore everything the Everglades has to offer

The largest subtropical wilderness in the country, the Everglades is a magical place home to gators, crocs, turtles, frogs, snakes and dozens upon dozens of species of birds from cranes, ducks and geese, to anhingas, spoonbills and more. There are several entrances to Everglades National Park that feature nature centers, hiking trails and ranger-led experiences. You can also venture to businesses like Everglades Safari Park (not affiliated with the national park), where you can ride in an airboat along the river of grass.

There are several entrances to Everglades National Park that feature nature centers, hiking trails and ranger-led experiences, with the closest entrance to greater Miami being via the  Shark Valley Visitor Center .

Local Tip: Pack plenty of bug spray and sunscreen for your visit. While beautiful, the environment of the Everglades can be rough on anyone.

Add these Everglades experiences to your itinerary

7. Cheer on the Heat, Fish, or Fins

The Magic City’s got plenty going on when it comes to sports, though locals generally root hardest for the Miami Heat , our three-time NBA champs. You can catch them live at the Kaseya Center in the heart of Downtown Miami. If baseball is more your speed, tickets to see the Marlins are generally affordable for games at LoanDepot Park in Little Havana (fun fact: it’s one of the few baseball stadiums in the country with a retractable roof). And finally, football fans can root for the Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium up in Miami Gardens (and if college football is more to your liking, the University of Miami’s Hurricanes play up there as well).

Local Tip : If tickets aren’t available, do as the locals do and head to the closest Flanigan’s to watch any and all games while enjoying beer and wings alongside other fans.

8. Walk (and dance) along Calle Ocho

The most famous street in Miami is undoubtedly Calle Ocho – in fact, it even has a festival named after it. While attending this annual block party is recommended at least once, you can still enjoy plenty of Cuban culture if you walk along the stretch of Calle Ocho that cuts through Little Havana. Pop into Los Pinarenos Fruteria for some guarapo (sugar cane juice), watch the elders playing dominos at Maximo Gomez Park , snap photos of the Cuban Walk of Fame and take in some more culture at the CubaOcho Museum . And of course, don’t forget to stop by Ball and Chain for drinks and dancing (they occasionally host salsa lessons as well)!

Planning Tip: First time in the area? Book a tour like this one to get some insider knowledge of the history of the area and get some tasty treats along the way.

Keep planning your trip to Miami:

Figure out the best time to visit Plan a quick getaway with  this ultimate weekend itinerary Uncover  Miami's best neighborhoods Learn how to get around like a local

This article was first published June 2021 and updated April 2024

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The 26 Best Things to Do in Miami

By Terry Ward and Sara Liss

First things first: You came to Miami for some sun, sand and surf, and you’re going to get it—with a side of next-level people-watching, too, of course. And if that's all you want (along with a cold glass of your preferred fruity cocktail or a classic mojito), that's fine, but Miami's beaches and rum drinks are barely the beginning of what the Magic City has to offer. From the highest of high-end designer shops and cutting-edge galleries to all types of walking tours, salsa dancing, unique neighborhoods, museums, and even animal reserves to captivate any kids in your group, this city is the full, sunny package. Here, our picks for the best things to do in Miami.

Read our complete Miami travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science Arrow

The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is a temple to learning in Downtown Miami’s Bayfront Park that's as vast as it is comprehensive. With an aquarium, a planetarium, and two science galleries, this distinguished destination is always busy, but it's big enough to accommodate even the largest rainy-day crowds. Though the exhibitions are just as interesting to adults as they are to kids, the Frost Museum is definitely a family-friendly place. Don’t miss a trip up the elevator to the sixth floor’s rooftop terrace for sprawling views of downtown Miami.

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden Arrow

Spanning nearly 84 acres, the Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden is filled with tropical plants, flowers, and trees, including extremely rare species like the petticoat palm. Every square inch of the facility has been thoughtfully designed and constructed, making it easy to navigate. The best way to see a little of everything, though, is by hopping aboard one of the 30-minute tram tours, which run year-round, twice an hour. Don't miss the Wings of the Tropics exhibition, where 40 species of butterflies engage in a colorful display of acrobatics all around you.

Wynwood Walls Arrow

Known as Miami's most Instagrammed place, this outdoor "gallery" of artwork by graffiti artists and muralists that spreads across warehouses and shop exteriors is a nice foil to Miami's museums . And it can be a quick stop. It'll only take about twenty minutes to hit all the art at Wynwood Walls, including murals by Shepard Fairey (the artist who designed Obama's "Hope" poster). It's a relatively small outdoor space so it's easy to navigate, and there are plenty of benches or rocks to sit on and take it all in. The Walls recently instituted a ticket policy whereby Adult admission is $12, students are $5 and children under 12 are free.

Miami Design Preservation League: Art Deco Walking Tour Arrow

Located on the beach on Ocean Drive, right in the heart of South Beach’s Art Deco District, the Art Deco Museum and Welcome Center is where architecture enthusiasts can pop in and learn more about the iconic, colorful buildings that give this neighborhood its personality. While just looking up and admiring the glamorous geometric details and chrome accents is enough for some people, the Miami Design Preservation League—a nonprofit advocacy group that fights to maintain the city’s architectural character—offers daily walking tours of the neighborhood at 10:30 a.m.

CNT Editors

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Known as one of the most culturally diverse neighborhoods in a city brimming with them, the barrio called Allapattah, just west of Wynwood, keeps adding artsy attractions to its ever-growing lineup of thrift shops, hipster bars and Latin restaurants (including Dominican and Honduran eateries and a fab Mexican taqueria). The famed Rubell Museum —six former industrial buildings that hold a collection of world-class contemporary works by the likes of Keith Haring, Jeff Koons, Cindy Sherman and many celebrated newcomers, too—is Allapattah’s heaviest cultural hitter. And right across from the Rubell Museum, a new (Spring 2021) walk-through art experience called Superblue immerses visitors in exhibitions through music and visuals in a way you’ll have to force yourself not to Instagram or Tik-Tok at every turn.

Española Way Arrow

With its twinkling string lights, Mediterranean revival architecture and lively sidewalk cafes this palm tree-lined pedestrian-only street is a charming throwback to Miami’s historic neighborhoods of the 20s. Built in1925, the two-block corridor between Washington and Pennsylvania Avenues was designed to resemble the romantic Mediterranean villages of Spain and France. Here, buildings are made of chalky pink stucco with Spanish tile roofs where sidewalk cafes are shaded by striped awnings. Strolling along the promenade you’ll hear everything from salsa, samba, jazz and techno rhythms wafting from a variety of restaurants—some of which are excellent, and others which cater to a less-discerning crowd—but all are usually packed on weekends and most weeknights. The street hosts weekly programming from flamenco and salsa dancing to yoga and an open air local makers market. A few charming boutique hotels blend in with the lively atmosphere here, offering a unique jumping-off point for visiting and exploring South Beach.

Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA), Miami Arrow

Called ICA Miami for short, this is another pillar of the Miami art scene, located in the Miami Design District. The building has a bold and eye-catching metallic facade and was designed by Spanish architect firm Aranguren + Gallegos Arquitectos. Permanent and temporary exhibits with a focus on emerging and local artists; for Miami, this means many Cuban-born and Latin American artists. You don't need hours at this museum, like is the case at others in town, so for people who just want to dabble in Miami's arty side during a vacation, it makes a perfect stop. Interiors are as modern as exterior with brightly lit open spaces. The permanent collections has works by Pablo Picasso, Yves Klein, and Roy Lichtenstein, among others.

South Beach Arrow

South Beach, the quintessential Miami experience, is a public beach that's free and open to everyone. It's also easily accessible by foot, though the most scenic part is the southernmost section, via Lummus Park , which runs along Ocean Drive from 5th to 15th streets. Because it's been used as a backdrop for just about every movie and TV show set in Miami, you'll feel that everything on South Beach looks familiar, including the kiosks where you can rent lounge chairs and umbrellas. Even if you’re not big on sitting in the sun, it’s worth taking a stroll up or down the beach to see what all the fuss is about. If you wait until the late afternoon (around 4 p.m.) the crowds will have thinned out a bit.

Faena Theater Arrow

An opulent cabaret-style theater inspired by Europe's grand opera houses that harkens to a bygone area, Faena manages to feel totally decadent, sumptuous, and Miami. The theater's original live production is a cabaret-style spectacle called Tryst—a Lovers' Rendezvous that is perfect for the red velvet surrounds and has elements of the circus (more like cirque) and burlesque. Big names have performed intimate shows here, too, including Bon Jovi, Macy Gray, Miike Snow, Grace Potter, Andra Day and many others. There are only 150 seats in the audience, and there's also regular jazz programming.

Therapy-IV Deep Sea Fishing Arrow

Sure, the water in Miami is pretty to gaze at from your lounge chair . But give yourself a real experience and hop aboard Captain Stan Saffan's 58-foot sportfish boat, with his crew for a day (or half-day) of deep-sea fishing. It’s not just any old tourist who decides that spending a day at sea fishing for marlin, sailfish, or hammerhead sharks qualifies as a good time. So if you’re paired with a couple of strangers, it’s safe to assume you’ll have at least a love of the ocean in common.

Miami Design District Arrow

With dozens of shops, boutiques, showrooms, galleries and restaurants, you’d be hard-pressed to not find whatever you're looking for in the Miami Design District —provided you're looking for something delicious or with a designer tag, that is. In addition to a wide range of popular clothing boutiques, there’s an impressive lineup of handbags and accessories (Louis Vuitton, Hermès); jewelry and watches (Rolex, Tiffany & Co.); and home furnishings (Jonathan Adler, Versace Home). L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon and vegetable-driven restaurant Le Jardinier are among the district’s most sought after tables. And the chef-driven Mia Market food hall is a more casual must-stop. If you can dream it, you can find it. And even if you’re just browsing, the window-shopping and people-watching are pretty great, too.

Cape Florida Lighthouse Arrow

Though it sits on a tranquil sweep of sandy beach within Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park on Key Biscayne, this pristinely restored lighthouse gives a glimpse into a tumultuous side of South Florida's history. The regal lighthouse, now defunct, tells stories of nautical adventures, Caribbean slave smuggling, and attacks by Native American Seminole tribes. A knowledgeable park ranger conducts half-hour tours several days a week during which you’ll learn about the monument's history as the oldest structure in Dade County (it was built in 1825, twenty years before Florida became a state). When visiting make sure to wear comfortable shoes , as climbing the 109 steps to the top is a mini-workout.

Pérez Art Museum Miami Arrow

Though the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) is focused on 20th- and 21st-century international art, and a large permanent collection of works (over 3,000 spread across 8 galleries) by such acclaimed artist as Jenny Holzer and Sam Gilliam. The museums spans 120,000 square feet inside but is best known for its facade, with hanging gardens among its most iconic features. Current exhibitions explore things like post-colonial condition and Africa and African-diaspora art; the museum is in a constant conversation with the current topics consuming society, as well as overlooked and worthy subjects. Timed tickets must be reserved online in advance of visits, so the museum doesn't feel crowded. Elevators and ramps for people with mobility issues. Don't miss a swing in the sculpture garden on the hammock-like net swings overlooking Biscayne Bay.

Upper Buena Vista Arrow

 A 120-year-old majestic oak tree serves as the focal point of this funky shopping destination just north of the Design District . The Bodhi "wish tree," as it’s called, is based on a Buddhist tradition of designating a tree to be used as the object of wishes and offerings. In addition to the tree, you’ll find gardens and walkways that connect the businesses and micro-boutiques that make up the neighborhood. It's free to visit, and offers a peaceful respite from Miami's sometimes frenetic urban core. 

Jewish Museum of Florida - FIU: The South Beach Jewish Walking Tour Arrow

Sponsored by Florida International University and run through the Jewish Museum of Florida, this look at the history of the Jewish people and Jewish culture in Miami begins at the museum itself, a historic former synagogue. Small groups first watch a short video presentation and then get a look at some of the main artifacts (if you're interested in the museum itself, you can return later). Then begins a two-hour walk around a 10-block radius, with stops at various significant buildings such as the Lord Balfour Hotel. The tour is a great palate cleanser for the decadence and glitz of Miami Beach. It’s a humbling, grounding experience in the best way, and gives some much-needed cultural context to this part of the city. 

Lincoln Road Mall Arrow

Running almost the entire width of South Beach , Lincoln Road Mall is a mile-long pedestrian mall and one of Miami’s favorite spots for outdoor activities—besides the beach, which is just a few blocks away. Designed by Morris Lapidus, the architect behind The Fontainebleau hotel, the strip maintains a fun, Miami Modern (MiMo) style of the past, but with more than 100 fashionable shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes. Retail options range from mall mainstays like the Gap and American Eagle to high-end names like All Saints and John Varvatos. But the mall doesn't close down when the shops do. The restaurants and bars keep Lincoln Road buzzing into the wee hours.

Ancient Spanish Monastery Arrow

Originally known as The Monastery of Our Lady, Queen of the Angels, this ancient monastery, a true architectural wonder, started life in the year 1133—in northern Spain. It was eventually purchased by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, who had each structure dismantled, stone-by-stone, packed into more than 11,000 crates, and shipped to New York. After sitting in a warehouse in Brooklyn for more than a quarter-century, the crates were purchased by new owners who understood the stones’ potential value as a tourist attraction. They spent nearly two years relocating and rebuilding the structure in North Miami.

Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County Arrow

Designed by architect Cesar Pelli in 2006, Miami’s iconic performing arts center was built on the site of a former Sears department store, of which a seven-story Art Deco tower is preserved, now home to a small cafe and book store. Composed of two imposing buildings that take inspiration from beige-colored shells, the 2,400-seat Ziff Ballet Opera House and 2,200-seat Knight Concert Hall are connected by Thomson Plaza for the Arts, an outdoor public gathering space. The complex also includes the Carnival Studio Theater, an intimate venue for experimental productions. The buildings are united by a grand oval-shaped public plaza that stretches across Biscayne Boulevard. A popular gathering space with outdoor performances and events, the plaza is an inviting oasis with lush garden terraces, fountains, shade trees, and greenery.

Venetian Pool Arrow

Pictures don't do the Venetian Pool—one of the most beautiful public pools in the world—justice, but trust us: it's worth the trip to Coral Gables just to experience the complex in person. Be warned that the pool gets very crowded on hot days, particularly when kids are out of school (although no one under three is allowed), so your best bet is to call ahead to see if there's room. Or, better yet, get there early. You'll get a head start on sunbathing; just be sure to bring sunscreen .

Deering Estate Arrow

The Deering Estate, a sprawling 444-acre environmental and archaeological preserve fronting Biscayne Bay, is dotted with historic houses, outdoor activities like nature hikes, paddling (kayaks and paddleboards are available for rent), cruises into Biscayne National Park and biking, and a robust schedule of arts programs, including concerts, movies, and theater. A regular haunt for locals and visitors alike, the estate is a fantastic way to get to know the history of Miami and its commitment to environmentalism. It's also yet another way to spend time (where else?!) outside.

Little Havana Food & Cultural Tour Arrow

Since 2010, Miami Culinary Tours has orchestrated deep dives into some of Magic City’s most famous neighborhoods, Little Havana among them. The heart of Miami’s Cuban population, the area includes Calle Ocho (SW 8th Street), a dynamic stretch famous for Domino Park, strong cafecitos, and counter-service croquetas. You’ll get to experience all of that and more over the course of two-and-a-half hours on this popular walking tour, which hits several Cuban hotspots . Just be sure to book online; tickets must be purchased in advance.

Monkey Jungle Arrow

Built in 1933, this is less a zoo than it is a conservation and observation park. In Southwest Miami the jungle is home to around 500 primates, covering some 18 different species of monkeys and apes. Guests navigate the 30-acre park through a series of tunnels—the park’s tagline is "Where the humans are caged and the monkeys run wild." The animal inhabitants live in semi-natural habitats where they can live as they would in the wild. It’s perfect for families with young children who may not have seen wildlife up this close before, and the information and habitats will also pique the interest of natural science enthusiasts. 

Artechouse Arrow

A digital art gallery mixing science, technology and art to wondrous effect Artechouse features new-media art displays through light, color, and sound, which viewers move throughout. Open to the public in Miami Beach, the concept originated in Washington DC, so this is an outpost. The space is meant to introduce people to art and technology and inspire a dialog between the two topics and how they're connected; it's a digital art gallery which viewers move throughout, becoming a part of the art in an immersion experience. The price tag isn't exorbitant, and it offers a surprising and different experience after a day on the nearby beaches. Anyone into digital art or the nexus of technology and art or new media shouldn't miss this.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens Arrow

If you want a little Italian flare during your trip to Miami, you'll find it here. Now a national landmark, the Vizcaya is a living museum dedicated to the early days of Miami’s rise as a destination and to old-school European design. The waterfront home’s many treasures include more than 2,500 antique art objects and furnishings; 10 acres of immaculately landscaped gardens, including 2,000 orchids; and 25 acres of endangered forest lands. It's easy to spend several hours at Vizcaya without getting bored.

South Pointe Park Arrow

As much as locals might have liked to keep South Pointe Park under wraps, it was only a matter of time before word got out. The park is located at the southernmost tip of South Beach just a few steps from Joe’s Stone Crab , the legendary restaurant that everyone's got to try at least once for Florida’s finest seasonal crustacean. While it’s technically just a city park, this 17-acre haven offers much more than a couple of benches and pretty palm trees to lounge beneath. There’s beach access, a fishing pier, a playground for kids and lots more green space for relaxing. Also, the by-the-hour parking spaces here are not only usually more available than elsewhere in South Beach’s many pay lots but also far less pricey.

Pinecrest Gardens Arrow

A botanical delight brimming with lush foliage, trees, plants and birds, this city park has plenty of things to do including a splash pad and a petting zoo for kids, plus a botanical garden and an outdoor theater. Established in the 1930’s and originally the home of Parrot Jungle the Village of Pinecrest acquired the 14-acre park in 2002, securing its place on the National Register of Historic Places in 2011 and transforming it into a venue for events and education. Beyond the breathtaking and massive Banyan trees, the hardwood hammocks, and a serene cypress slough and orchids winding up tree limbs, the park has a full schedule of programming that keeps visitors interested throughout the year, from concerts in the 530-seat amphitheater, to rotating art exhibits to horticulture lectures and holiday festivities. A weekly Sunday Farmer’s Market includes a free community yoga class.

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The 27 Best Things To Do in Miami

Pola Damonte / Getty Images

Miami is one of the hottest destinations to visit in the U.S.— sometimes literally —and offers a never-ending list of things to stay busy. Whether you'd like to party all night at the South Beach bars, explore the natural wonders of Everglades National Park , or simply veg out on the beach with your friends, Miami has plenty of recreational opportunities available for all tastes and budgets. These are the best things to do during your trip to this cultural paradise.

Watch Now: 7 Essential Things to Do in Miami

Feel like you're in cuba on calle ocho.

In the heart of the Little Havana neighborhood is the vibrant and colorful Eighth Street—better known to locals and visitors as Calle Ocho . If you want a full Cuban experience without actually visiting Cuba, Calle Ocho is just about as close as you can get. Sip on Cuban coffee, play a game of dominos with the seniors in the park, buy tropical Caribbean fruits from the street stands, and even purchase some hand-rolled Cuban cigars.

Grab a Snack at Florida's Best Fruit Stand

Robert Is Here 

Driving 45 minutes outside of Miami to visit a fruit stand may sound like a joke, but the Robert Is Here fruit stand in Homestead has been a South Florida staple for years. Most of the tropical and exotic fruits they sell are grown on their own local farm, in addition to a wide-ranging menu of homemade salsas, jams, dressings, and more. There's even a petting zoo on-site, and you can feed the animals with something you purchase from the stall. It's on the way to Everglades National Park, so you can quickly stop by for one of their famous smoothies before visiting the alligators.

Get Your Contemporary Art Fix

Museum Park in downtown Miami is home to several award-winning museums , but art lovers can't miss the Pérez Art Museum . The museum is home to some of the most important contemporary art exhibitions in the South, highlighting artists from the Americas, Africa, and Europe. Those interested in pieces by Latin American artists will be especially delighted by the collection, including works by Mexican artist Diego Rivera, Cuban painter Wifredo Lam, and Colombian artist Beatriz Gonzalez.

Spend the Day at Crandon Park

Crandon Park is one of the parks operated by Miami-Dade County, but this isn't your average city public park. It's located on Key Biscayne, one of the islands off the coast of downtown Miami surrounded by turquoise water. It's easy to reach via the Rickenbacker Causeway, taking just 10 minutes by car from the Brickell neighborhood. Apart from normal park activities like skate parks, picnic areas, and tennis courts, the biggest draw is the gorgeous beach area. And since it's part of a protected park, you can get away from the hyper-developed beaches around Miami Beach.

Shop Around at Bayside Marketplace

According to the Miami Visitors Bureau, Bayside Marketplace is the most visited tourist attraction in all of Miami-Dade County. While you could technically describe it as an outdoor mall, that would be a vast understatement. It's a meeting place for the entire Miami community who come to shop at the local stores, eat out at the numerous restaurants, or enjoy the waterfront view. It's also home to a packed calendar of events, such as cultural festivals and free concerts, so the chances are good that something will be going on during your visit.

Take a Trip to a Different Kind of Museum

Alexander Tamargo / Getty Images

There are plenty of outstanding museum options to choose from in Miami, but none of them quite compare to the uniqueness of the Cubaocho Museum . Located in Little Havana, the Cubaocho Museum celebrates everything Cuban from visual arts, music, and performance to cigars and rum. Stroll around admiring the work of Cuban artists while sipping on a house-made mojito from the museum bar. If you want to experience a live descarga , which is the Cuban version of an informal jam session , you can not only listen but dance along.

Educate Yourself on Miami's History

HistoryMiami Museum

Long before beach tourists and spring breakers arrived in Miami, the city was home to many other cultures and peoples. The HistoryMiami Museum tells the story of South Florida's long history, stretching back over to over 10,000 years ago when the first Indigenous tribes arrived in the area. The HistoryMiami Museum details all of that through the Spanish exploration and up to Miami's modern-day position as the Gateway to the Americas.

Take a Free Ride on the Miami Beach Trolley

The Metromover is a convenient way to get around the city for free, but the Miami Beach Trolley is convenient, free, and endearing. This bus is designed like a cute old-town cable car and is easily recognizable by the sky blue paint. There's a South Beach loop, Mid-Beach loop, and North Beach loop, depending on what part of Miami Beach you're traveling around. For those muggy summer days when it's too unbearable to walk around outside, the air-conditioned trolley will be your saving grace for moving around Miami Beach.

Step Back in Time at Ball & Chain

Corbis / Getty Images

Ball & Chain was an iconic nightclub dating back to the 1930s in the Little Havana neighborhood of Miami. In the 1950s, it shut down and changed businesses several times over the decades until the 1990s, when it was renovated once again to be one of the city's premier nightclubs and retook its original name, Ball & Chain. Today, the vintage-style bar reflects the neighborhood with live Cuban music, salsa dancing, and an expansive rum bar. On Saturday nights, the weekly La Pachanga dance party is the most happening place in Little Havana.

Admire the Art in Wynwood

TripSavvy / Kristjan Veski 

Miami's famed Wynwood neighborhood is a formerly industrial neighborhood that quickly rose to fame as a hot spot for graffiti and street art. Today, it's home to trendy boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and bars. The real estate mogul and visionary Tony Goldman was the mastermind behind the neighborhood's redevelopment, including the Wynwood Walls , made up of 40 murals from some of the world's best street artists. You can see other renowned art institutions in the neighborhood, like the Rubell Museum and the Margulies Collection at the Warehouse .

Hit Up the Iconic South Beach

TripSavvy / Kristjan Veski

No visit to Miami can be considered complete without a stop at South Beach , the quintessential Miami hot spot. From shopping to partying, this area of Miami Beach is well-known for being a trendy locale. Depending on your personal tastes, you might enjoy spending an entire weekend touring South Beach. Stay at one of the best hotels in South Beach , take a South Beach walking tour , explore the Art Deco architecture of the area, or party all night with the Miami Beach nightlife .

Explore Everglades National Park

Robin Hill / Getty Images

With 1.5 million acres of swamps, saw-grass prairies, and sub-tropical jungles, Everglades National Park is one of the most unusual public parks in the United States. Located on the southern tip of Florida, the park is home to 39 rare and endangered species, including the American crocodile, the Florida panther, and the West Indian manatee. A significant portion of the park is primitive, explored only by adventurists and researchers, but visitors have ample opportunity to walk, camp, and canoe (with the option of booking a guided tour , so you don't have to rough it on your own).

Visit the Cage-Free Zoo Miami

Zoo Miami is fast becoming one of the best zoos in the nation, and it probably stands out from other zoos you've been to—the exhibits here are entirely cage-free, making it one of the first free-range zoos in the country. Miami's climate allows it to keep a wide variety of animals from Asia, Australia, and Africa like no other zoo, where they're allowed to roam in free-range exhibits and interact as they would in the wild. Animals are grouped according to their geographic territory, with natural barriers like moats separating species that wouldn't live together peacefully.

Experience an Outdoor Aquarium

The Miami Seaquarium is located right off of the coast of downtown Miami on Virginia Key and makes for an easy half-day trip to keep the little ones entertained. The park specializes in all types of interactive exhibitions, such as swimming with dolphins, tide pool touch tanks, shark and stingray encounters, and more. The Seaquarium also specializes in the conservation of local wildlife, so you'll find endangered species—like rescued manatees and sea turtles—being nursed back to health so they can be released back into their natural environments.

Visit the Former Versace Mansion

Located on the posh Ocean Drive, the former Versace Mansion, now known as the Villa Casa Casuarina , is filled with history. Once the home of world-famous fashion designers Gianni and Donatella, it hosted some of the world's biggest celebrities in the '90s, including Madonna, who was said to have a dedicated suite. These days, it might be best known as the location of Gianni Versace's shocking assassination in 1997; the event was documented in the 2018 television series "The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story," which was filmed at the mansion. Currently operating as a luxury hotel, the Casa Casuarina boasts 10 suites, a restaurant and bar, a lavish Mediterranean-style garden, and a 54-foot-long pool made from 24-karat gold mosaic tiles.

Explore the Newest Urban Development at Brickell

Brickell is Miami's financial center, but it's also become the central hub of glittering high-rise condos, chic boutique hotels, and shopping that puts Bal Harbour to shame. The Brickell City Centre , home to the ultra-trendy boutique hotel EAST Miami , is the place to see and be seen. This pedestrian-friendly area is easy to walk around, but for those particularly rainy or muggy days, hop aboard the Metromover. The Brickell Loop line conveniently shuttles passengers around the neighborhood and to other parts of downtown Miami—best of all, it's entirely free to use.

Hit the Beaches

Miami's beaches offer an excellent opportunity to get some exercise or just enjoy some time in the sun—and believe it or not, there's more to Miami than South Beach. If you're looking for something calmer, Mid-Beach tends to be quieter and has great views of the city's modernist architecture, and the small beach town vibe at Surfside makes it a favorite of the local community. Families with young kids often head to Crandon Beach Park on Key Biscayne for shallow waters and accessible amenities, while surfers flock to the waves at Hobie Beach.

Learn Something New at the Frost Science Museum

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre 

Miami's science museum got an incredible upgrade in 2017 when it relocated to a brand-new facility and renamed itself the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science . The museum houses a three-level aquarium, a 250-seat planetarium, and open bird aviaries. The science exhibitions are informative and interactive, providing hours of educational fun for visitors of all ages.

Let Kids' Minds Run Wild

Elan Fleisher / Getty Images

If you are visiting Miami with kids (or just like to act like them!), the Miami Children's Museum is a must-see destination. Its motto of "Play, Learn, Imagine, Create" shines through in the wide variety of interactive exhibits that allow children to explore and immerse themselves in all types of activities, from a trip to the supermarket to running a television studio. Not only will it keep your little ones entertained, but they'll also pick up valuable lessons along the way.

Head Into the "Jungle"

Courtesy of Monkey Jungle 

Monkey Jungle in southern Miami-Dade County is a truly unique park. While humans traverse carefully constructed wire pathways, many primates scamper overhead, swinging through trees and interacting with each other in ways difficult to observe in captivity. Keep your eyes open; you never know who's hanging around!

Explore a One-of-a-Kind Sculpture Park

Joe Raedle / Getty Images

The quirky Coral Castle Museum is truly a monument to the uniqueness of Miami. This attraction was built by a Latvian-born Miami resident named Ed Leedskalnin—supposedly as a monument to his lover—and, after 28 years of effort, he introduced his 1,100-ton coral creation to the world. How he single-handedly created these massive sculptures is still a mystery and one of the park's biggest draws. It's about 30 minutes south of downtown Miami by car but well worth the time if you're interested in unique wonders.

Visit a European-Style Mansion at Vizcaya

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

No visit to Miami is complete without a stop at the historical 50-acre Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. This European-style mansion offers a glimpse at life in turn-of-the-century South Florida, with sprawling, perfectly manicured gardens and a house full of world-class European antiques. As one of the most historical attractions in Miami , it's also a trendy venue for galas, weddings, and other entertainment events.

Hang Out at Bayfront Park

Miami's Bayfront Park is a popular venue for concerts and holiday celebrations, especially during the cooler months of winter when events are planned out practically for every weekend. But even when nothing special is going on, it's a great place to relax by the water. The palm tree-studded park is also home to various tributes and monuments, including a white metal tower that commemorates the crew on the 1986 Space Shuttle Challenger disaster and a memorial to the unknown Cuban refugees lost at sea.

Eat at Versailles

Courtesy of Versailles

No, not the French palace. Miami's Versailles is perhaps more famous than its French counterpart—at least to Floridians. In this case, Versailles is a massive Cuban restaurant, and in a city known for its Cuban food , Versailles distinguishes itself as the best of the best. Stop by a cup of Cuban coffee or a toasted Cuban sandwich with ham, pork, and cheese. You can also try more traditional items such as the national dish ropa vieja , which translates to "old clothes," but in reality is much more appetizing: shredded beef that's been stewed with vegetables and spices. In 2022, the restaurant will celebrate its 50th anniversary.

Shop on Trendy Lincoln Road

One of Miami's most famous architects, Morris Lapidus, designed this complex in the 1950s, and it retains much of its popularity today. Now, Lincoln Road is lined with shops, restaurants, and venues for art and culture. Even if you're just window-shopping, the Lincoln Road Mall has enough to keep you entertained for hours. 

Spend Time in the Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden

Named after renowned botanist David Fairchild, a visit to this 83-acre garden will feel like taking a walk through the rainforest. Plant lovers will get face time with botanical beauties like sunken gardens, majestic vistas, and even a museum dedicated to all things green.

Explore the Miami Design District

Miami's Design District was once just a hot spot for decorators and designers to shop, but no longer. Now, some top designers have decamped from pricy Bal Harbour, turning the former Decorators' Row into a hub for trendy fashion, art, and architecture. The neighborhood has slowly been crossing into Wynwood, which means even if you don't have the budget to shop, there are plenty of great free galleries and museums, like the Institute of Contemporary Art .  

Miami Visitors Bureau. "Bayside Marketplace in Downtown Miami Area/Brickell Area, FL." Retrieved April 23, 2021

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25 Best Things To Do In Miami, FL You Shouldn’t Miss

August 22, 2022 //  by  Florida Trippers

Looking for the best things to do in Miami, Florida? This vibrant city holds so much to entertain you for days!

A melting pot of culture, you can always find unique and fun Miami attractions. The city’s diversity, seen through its food, art, and entertainment, represents destinations from all over the globe.

Known for its beautiful art deco architecture, Miami’s streets burst with color and life. The city has been featured in hit shows like Miami Vice and Dexter , movies like The Birdcage , and even video games like Grand Theft Auto !

One of the few places in America with a year-round subtropical climate, Miami has the prettiest beaches in Florida . Even during hurricane season, sudden rain showers are always replaced quickly by endless sunshine!

With endless art galleries, an array of incredible restaurants , museums, and even rooftop cocktail bars, Miami drips with a chic ambiance. With top-rated dining, glamorous accommodations, and the best spas in Florida , you’ll want nothing more.

If you’re looking for an adventure, a chic, luxury vacation, or a weekend getaway , have no fear. Miami has everything!

Check out our top picks for what to do in Miami!

Tour the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Previously the Villa Vizcaya was formerly the villa and estate of businessman James Deering. Overlooking Biscayne Bay, this is a gorgeous  attraction to visit in Miami  and one of the prettiest museums in Florida and one of the best things to do in Miami.

Because of its timeless Mediterranean-style architecture, a visit to the Vizcaya is like taking a tour through the Gilded Age. As a result, the 32 decorated rooms and 10 acres of gardens have been pristinely preserved.

Only the first floor is open to the public, but this still includes several reception rooms, the Music Room, and the Dining Room. You can also see a layered collection of artifacts intended to suggest the passing of time.

Once you step out into the gardens, you’ll be transported to Europe. This is because the gardens are reminiscent of those from 17th and 18th century Italy and France.

Low hedges in geometric patterns divide the garden into a series of rooms. Admire the sculptures made of porous coral stone!

The Vizcaya Museum & Gardens is open on Thursdays through Monday from 9 AM – 4:30 PM.

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

Soak in Culture at the Bass Museum of Art

To experience the most contemporary of modern art, head over to the Bass Museum of Art. Because the Bass is in Miami, it’s a  must-see attraction on your way to Key West  as one of the best museums in Florida !

The Bass seeks to bridge the gap between international contemporary art and the diverse audience of Miami Beach.

Moreover, the museum has been a major player in answering the question, “What is art?” by incorporating modern disciplines like design and fashion into its collection.

Consequently, permanent collections include commissioned works by Sylvie Fleury who uses contemporary iconography to suggest irony. You can also see Jim Drain’s works which notably use textiles, specifically yarn!

Outside, don’t forget to gaze upon Miami Mountain. The 42-foot tall stack of megalithic boulders creates a sense of romantic minimalism while making reference to many cultures’ traditions of stacking stones.

Of all the museums in Miami, the best art classes are found at Art After Hours! Classes include charcoal, experimental watercolors, and kinetic art. If you want to continue your studies at home, you can even take virtual classes with the Bass.

The Bass Museum of Art is open from Wednesday through Sunday from 12 PM – 5 PM.

Take a Day Trip to Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States and is the largest wilderness east of the Mississippi River. This National Park in Florida is so huge that it spans 1.5 million acres over the southern part of Florida.

The park is broken up into three main areas. The southern section can be accessed from Homestead, but when you’re in Miami , you’ll want to enter from the northern end of the park.

Due to the expansive amount of land, it is essential to know what section you want to explore so you can get the most out of your visit.

The landscape is unparalleled, home to a diverse and fragile ecosystem with tropical hammocks, coastal lowlands, mangroves, and cypresses.

This habitat includes a wide variety of rare and endangered species, such as American crocodiles, great blue herons, alligators , manatees , panthers, dolphins, and many other native Florida animals .

This national park in Florida offers a variety of activities for families, groups, or individuals to explore and have fun in the great outdoors. So what activities can you do?

You can bike on trails, birdwatch, fish, geocache, hike, or go slough slogging which is off-trail hiking that brings you deeper into the park.

You can also participate in ranger lead programs in which rangers lead guided tours or activities throughout the park. Everglades airboat tours are really popular too!

Everglades National Park is about an hour west of the city, making it one of the best places to go near Miami for a Florida day trip !

Book Here: Everglades National Park: Airboat Tour and Wildlife Show

Birdwatch at the Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden

When the temperatures drop during fall in Florida , it’s time to grab the binoculars and head to the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables. Just a few minutes to the south, this tropical oasis is one of the best things to do in Miami!

The grounds are 83 acres of one of the best botanical gardens in Florida , laden with palms, flowering trees, and the largest collection of bamboo on earth with 125 species.

The Bird Festival attracts birders from all over the state to get a glimpse at some rare breeds. Guests can walk down the “Warbler Zone” on the Kushian Bird Trail, where barn swallows, red-shouldered hawks, and ovenbirds have been sighted.

The paths and trails are filled with tropical garden flora, with more than 30 species of butterflies dancing about.

If you visit during the Bird Festival, one of the best festivals in Florida , you’ll find arts and crafts booths, activities for children, and many vendors selling plants that attract birds to take home! Guest speakers are also present to speak about findings within the birding community.

Even if you’re not a birder, this festival welcomes all that are interested in birds or beginners wanting to learn, making it one of the most unique Miami tourist attractions for a weekend getaway .

Journey to Jungle Island

If you’re looking for adventure attractions in Miami, then look no further than Jungle Island. You don’t have to travel all the way to a zoo to get up close and personal with animals. In this animal sanctuary, there’s something for the whole family.

Jungle Island is Miami’s premier entertainment destination, combining Miami’s landscape with rescued animals from around the world. Over 80 years old, the sanctuary was even featured in the opening credits of Miami Vice !

Evolving from the “Parrot Jungle,” you can see a variety of exotic animals like colorful parrots and pink flamingos. Don’t forget Pinky, the high-wire bicycle-riding cockatoo!

In addition to the avian residents, you can also see unusual flora and fauna. Stroll through the 1.35 miles of shaded trails to see the incredible African sausage tree and even a rare collection of cicadas.

Enjoy animal shows featuring marsupials and birds from around the world. Kids will love the Tree Walk Village over 8 feet high! Then enjoy a spider web climb, a balance beam, and wooden bridges at the Playground.

Book Here: Miami: City Cruise to Millionaire’s Homes & Venetian Islands

Visit Little Havana

Famous for its culture, Miami draws influences from Latin America and the Caribbean. It permeates every facet of life from culture to recreation to dining. All of Miami’s Cuban influences meet at Little Havana, a bustling district. This is truly one of the Best Places To Stay In Miami!

The de facto “capital” of Latin America, Little Havana brightens up Miami’s cityscape with vibrant colors, giving voice to all backgrounds taking root in the neighborhood. You’re likely to hear locals talking politics over a game of Dominoes or grabbing an afternoon cortado.

Make sure to walk down Calle Ocho or 8th Street. At Versailles, you’ll find a local gathering spot for the Cuban diaspora with golden chandeliers and casual Cuban cuisine.

The Tower Theatre screens independent and revival films. Dance to live Latin music in one of the many clubs!

You will never see a bad performance at the Cuba Ocho Performing Arts Center, a haven for local musicians and intellectuals. This is also one of our favorite things to do in Miami for adults .

Grab a milkshake or juice made with organic exotic fruits at Los Pinarenos Fruteria, the oldest open-air market in Miami!

To get a more comprehensive taste of the district, take a walking tour to gain insight into the rich history and cultural traditions. To get a true “taste” of Little Havana, take a culinary tour, rated in the Top Ten Cultural Experiences of the World!

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

Chill at South Beach

Florida is home to some of the most beautiful beaches , and Miami takes the cake. Sure, it’s famous for its white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. But South Beach’s notoriety comes from its glamorous scene and culture.

One of the best free things to do in Miami, South Beach was the first section of Miami Beach to be developed. Known by locals as SoBe, what was once farmland has been cultivated into a bustling community with its own booming economy.

When you step onto the white sands of South Beach, you’ll notice the bright and colorful lifeguard stands. Architect William Lane donated his design services after Hurricane Andrew hit. Now, his lifeguard towers have become the symbol of all of Miami Beach.

Popular with tourists all over the world, South Beach draws tourists with its multiple entertainment options. Some people even have permanent or second homes here! And if you are looking for food, we have a list of the best restaurants in South Beach you shouldn’t miss!

South Beach also is very permissive than most beaches in the US when it comes to topless sunbathing . While the practice has not been officially legalized by the local government, you’re more than likely to see it happening with officials turning a blind eye.

South Beach is also the home to Miami’s Pride Parade and Pride Festival! Running from Ocean Drive to Fifth and 15th Streets, Miami Beach Pride gathers 130,000 people every year in one of the most loving festivals in Florida.

Book Here: South Beach: Segway Tour

Discover Coral Castle

To this day, Coral Castle’s origins remain a mystery. We know from 1923-1951, Edward Leedskalnin carved 1,000 tons of coral rock. We know he designed an elaborate rock garden. What we don’t know is how he did it by himself.

A true eccentric, Leedskalnin attributed this feat because he “knew the secrets used to build the pyramids.” Some have said he had supernatural powers. Perhaps we’ll never know how he did this single-handedly. But the Castle’s legacy endures today.

Built as an everlasting monument to his lover that canceled their wedding the day before the ceremony, there’s something quite romantic about the gardens. Bougainvillea trees shade the gigantic rock walls.

Among the garden’s features is a 9-ton gate that opens with the touch of a finger, a Polaris telescope, and functional rocking chairs. All of them are made completely of coral stone.

When you walk through this castle in Florida , you’ll be in awe of the structure. While scientists debate how Leedskalnin built this castle, it stands as a testament to the power of love.

One of the best things to do in Miami, Coral Castle is a must on your Florida hidden gems bucket list.

Attend the Ultra Music Festival

Ultra Music Festival is held across the globe, with Miami being the only destination in the United States! Held every March at Bayfront Park, this outdoor electronic music festival was founded in 1999.

The festival is held alongside the Miami Music Week with electronic music concerts, performances, parties, and programming leading up to Ultra.

One of the best things to do in Miami, you won’t find a more exciting festival in Florida!

This is one of the best music festivals in Florida known for its all-out party atmosphere and amazing musical lineups! Over 165,000 attendants come to Bayfront Park to listen to the best hip-hop and electronic music sets.

If you’re looking to make a full vacation of the festival, we have you covered with the best places to stay !

Admire Ocean Drive

A major thoroughfare in South Beach, you’ll find the heart of Miami’s vibrant community on Ocean Drive. Known for its iconic destinations, Ocean Drive is one of the best places to go in Miami.

Known mostly for its Art Deco style, you’ll find over 900 preserved buildings. Many of these bars and restaurants have become pop culture icons!

The Sunny Apartments were featured in Scarface while the Carlyle Hotel was the drag club seen in The Birdcage ! You’ll also see Casa Casuarina, home of the late designer Gianni Versace, now one of the best boutique hotels in Miami .

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, make sure to check out Mango’s Tropical Cafe for their Caribbean food with live dancers and singers!

Make a stop at the cabaret and drag shows at the Palace Bar, dedicated to the LGBTQ community.

Fashionistas will love the high-end shopping on nearby Lincoln Road. Afterward, check out a boozy pool party at the Clevelander Hotel or High Bar with celebrity DJs! This is truly one of the best things to do in Miami at night!

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

Learn at the Frost Museum of Science

Dedicated to sharing the power of science, the Frost Museum of Science sparks wonder and investigation in all of its guests. One of the most fun yet educational Miami activities, this science museum fuels innovation for the future.

Found in downtown Miami’s waterfront Museum Park, the Frost is divided into four buildings: the Planetarium, Aquarium, and North and West Wings.

Guests can explore science in an experimental setting with interactive exhibitions and unique shows.

Experience 16-million-color 8k projection when you take a visual odyssey on a vast dome screen at the Frost Planetarium. The three-level aquarium features many native Florida animals from the Gulf Stream, Mangrove forests, and the Everglades.

In the North and West Wings, you’ll find permanent and traveling exhibitions! Learn about all creatures of flight from dinosaurs to our modern space travel in Feathers to the Stars. In the MeLab, see the ways our bodies and minds work in tandem!

One of the best museums in Florida, the Frost Museum of Science is one of the best things to do in Miami. Check it out from 9:30 AM – 6 PM daily.

Stop by Robert Is Here

In 1959, a little boy opened a fruit stand to help his father sell produce from their family farm. To get attention, his dad wrote “Robert Is Here” on two signs. After selling all his produce by noon, a budding entrepreneur was born.

Today, Robert Is Here has become a local mainstay, one of the best things to do near Miami, Florida. It’s not just a fruit stand, Robert Is Here has become a Miami tradition, a gathering place, and a daily community service!

Robert Is Here features the rarest and most exotic fruits and vegetables. On any given day, you can find avocados, purple plumbs, herbs, sunflowers, Idaho potatoes, kale, asparagus, seedless watermelons, and pomegranates!

It’s not just fruits and veggies either. Robert Is Here also hand-makes and sells their own unique condiments! Try honey infused with lemon, tangerine, peach, mango, or raspberry. A local favorite is the dill pickle mustard!

Locals absolutely rave about Robert Is Here’s frozen tropical fruit milkshakes! The most popular flavor is definitely Key Lime, but try other rotating flavors like mango, pumpkin, mamey sapote, canistel, passion, and dragon fruit.

Don’t forget to grab a Cuban sandwich or Capri pizza for lunch.

Robert Is Here is open seven days a week from 9 AM – 5 PM.

While you are in town, don’t forget to check out our list of Best Places For Brunch in Miami!

Get a Drink at Sugar Rooftop Bar

There are no more hip places to get a cocktail than on a chic rooftop bar in Miami . There’s no better place to indulge in libations than the Sugar Rooftop Bar at the Bickell City Centre.

Sugar sits atop the 40th Floor of the East Miami Hotel. Surrounded by a lush garden creating a tropical deck paradise, this is one of the best Miami activities.

Enjoy unparalleled sunsets with 360-degree views of the city. This is one of the best things to do in Miami for couples looking for a romantic date night .

No matter if you’re grabbing a sunset mojito or a late-night Moscow mule, you’ll enjoy the vibrant nightlife. The cocktail menu also features chic exotic drinks mixed with Hong Kong vibes!

For small bites, choose selections from an Asian-inspired tapas menu. Have a fresh sushi roll, boneless Korean barbecue wings, or a truffled pistachio tataki.

One of Miami’s hidden gems , you won’t find a more chic spot. Dress to impress, as a dress code is enforced. We recommend making reservations in advance, as Sugar sometimes has a long line to get in.

Book Here: M iami: Private Helicopter Adventure

Visit the Miami Circle

When you think of history in Miami, early settlers and cigars may come to mind. What if we told you Miami might contain evidence of a prehistoric-era structure?

In the heart of the Brickell District, the mystery of the Miami Circle is alive and going strong to this day, one of Florida’s spookiest attractions . A perfect circle of 24 mysterious holes dates back to prehistoric times. To this day, archeologists have no idea what the structure used to be.

Discovered when demolishing a 1950-era apartment complex, a visit to the Miami Circle is one of the most unique things to do in Miami. Nicknamed “America’s Stonehenge,” visit the circle and gaze upon the holes built into the bedrock.

Theorized to have been once occupied by the Tequesta Indians, the holes may have been part of the foundation of a building. What’s even more curious is that artifacts found in the circle are made from stone not indigenous to Florida.

Certainly one of the best things to do in Miami, tourists and locals still marvel at the mystery of the circle today. You may not know the full story behind it, but when you gaze at the Miami Circle, you’ll know you’re looking at history.

Stop by the Wynwood Walls

Miami already has a strong foundation in the arts with its fashion districts and colorful Art Deco architecture. No visit to Miami would be complete without a visit to the city’s most unique attraction: the Wynwood Walls !

A collection of graffiti and street art, the Wynwood Walls holds the spot as one of the best museums in Florida. Here Miami’s diversity and culture truly shine.

Minutes from downtown, muralists were commissioned to turn the giant walls of six buildings to create a cultural oasis in a failing neighborhood!

Today, Wynwood is pedestrian friendly. Everywhere you turn, you’ll be surrounded by art. The buildings surrounding the park continue to be covered in murals as artists come to Wynwood to find inspiration.

For the biggest party, visit on the second Saturday of the month for the Wynwood Art Walk. Here, Wynwood District transforms into a late-night street party complete with food trucks and live music!

Surrounding art galleries stay open late and hand out drinks. This is one of the best things to do in Miami for adults looking to get away from their kids.

During Miami’s most popular festival, Art Basel, artists and art lovers flock to Wynwood from across the world. Many Wynwood muralists return at this time to update their art or create new pieces.

These murals are some of the best things to do in Wynwood!

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

Swim at the Venetian Pool

You’ve been to the theme parks and the water parks, but you’ve never been to a water attraction quite like this. A swimming oasis, the Venetian Pool is one of the best things to do in Miami with kids!

An aquatic facility like no other in the world, the Venetian Pool was created in 1923 from a coral rock quarry. The original coral rock was used to create a beautiful, natural border for the pool.

The 820,000-gallon pool is fed with spring water from an underground aquifer. Filled and drained daily, the clear aqua waters sparkle and cascade down two waterfalls. Climb two lookout towers to get a bird’s eye view of the city.

Surrounding the pool are loggias, porticos, palm trees, and the signature Venetian bridge. Inspired by Mediterranean architecture, cave-like grottos resemble the waterways and canals of Venice.

The Venetian Pool opens to guests on Tuesday through Sunday from 10 AM – 4:30 PM and closes on Federal holidays.

This is a super fun thing to do in Miami with Kids that you shouldn’t miss!

Photograph a Spanish Monastery

The monastery of St. Bernard de Clairvaux was completed in 1141 in Spain. Over 800 years later, the structure was dismantled and reassembled in Miami. Time Magazine called it “the biggest jigsaw puzzle in history.”

Presented to the Bishop of Florida upon completion, today the parish church of St. Bernard de Clairvaux is an active Episcopal Church! Its incredible architecture and history make a visit to the Spanish Monastery one of the best free things to do in Miami.

Today, you can see the Romanesque and Gothic architecture in all its glory. In all its cloisters, you can admire the stone enclaves and archways. Scattered throughout and around the structure are beautiful and lush gardens.

A popular Miami tourist attraction, the Spanish Monastery opens to the public daily from 10 AM – 4:30 PM. Tours are self-guided although you do receive a brochure that highlights the history and architecture.

Visit Stiltsville

On the south side of Biscayne Bay, you can find one of the unique things to do in Miami. Stiltsville, a group of wood-stilt houses, stands on reinforced concrete pilings.

This group of pastel buildings appears to hover over the greenish water. At a distance, they even appear to be boats. There are currently seven houses, although a number of them have been destroyed due to hurricanes.

In Biscayne National Park, one of the best national parks in Florida, you can take a boat tour of the mysterious community. The ride to get there lasts an hour, but the sight of the Miami skyline makes it worth it. You can even see native Florida animals like sea turtles !

You are free to charter your own boat as well! Try Monty’s in Coconut Grove or Haulover Marina in North Miami Beach. Be advised the area around Stiltsville can be difficult to navigate. With only one deep channel running through the houses, pay attention close attention to markers.

Book Here: Miami: Biscayne Bay Small-Group Sightseeing Boat Tour

Come to the Thai Temple

Built in 1982, the Wat Buddharangsi, or Thai Temple, is a Theravada Buddhist Temple that services the Miami community. On five acres of land, the temple is one of the most serene best things to do in Miami, Florida.

Composed of five buildings (a religious hall, an all-purpose building, two classrooms, and a bell tower), visitors will be met with inner peace when entering the grounds. The symmetry in the architecture along with the gold trim will leave you breathless.

Inside the religious hall lies a gorgeous Buddha statue, erected for worship. Sculpted by a master in Thailand, the statue stands 23 feet tall. Made of bronze, copper, brass, silver, and gold, the statue weighs over five tons!

Visitors are always welcome to visit the Temple! If you are seeking peace of mind or simply want to learn more about Thai culture, the monks and regular patrons of the Temple will eagerly help you.

There are always special events going on too! Classes are open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays from 3 – 5 PM that teaches meditation practices. On special Buddhist holidays, you can also attend a weekend retreat to practice the Buddhist eight precepts.

Walk the Miami Design District

To get a full and comprehensive taste of Miami’s culture and atmosphere, head to the city’s Design District! A creative neighborhood, this is one of the best activities in Miami.

In Midtown you’ll find over 130 art galleries, showrooms, creative services, stores, antique dealers, eateries, and bars. Here, art is everywhere!

One of the best free things to do in Miami is simply walking through the area and taking in the abstract sculptures and fountains.

Not just a home to funky galleries and art, you’ll also discover a high-end shopping haven. Stroll and window shop through the displays from Christian Louboutin, Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes.

Afterward, discover the culinary magic that matches every facet of the neighborhood. Try Kaido with its sexy, dark energy and Tokyo-inspired menu. For a low-key bistro, grab a croissant or cappuccino at the Buena Vista Deli! These are some of the best restaurants in Miami !

Book Here: Miami: Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour, Everglades & Cruise Option

Shop at the Bayside Marketplace

The Bayside Marketplace is one of the best places to visit in Miami for shopping and dining. Found downtown and right on the water, this is a pretty place to stroll and soak in the atmosphere of Miami.

There are over 100 shops and restaurants to explore. This is a great place to pick up a Miami souvenir . There is a mix of well-known stores and independent boutiques.

After shopping, you can eat at a classic tourist spot like the Hard Rock Cafe or Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. There are also awesome waterfront bars!

If you are visiting Miami with kids, check out the Dino Safari: A Walk-Thru Adventure or travel 176 feet into the air on the Sky Views Miami Observation Wheel!

Since the marketplace is found right next to the bay, it is a great jumping-off point for boat tours in Miami . Take a ride on a speedboat or book a fishing charter.

Book Here: Miami: Sights eeing S p eedboat Tour

Explore Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

Head out of the city and visit one of the best state parks in Florida ! Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is found on Key Biscayne just off the coast of Miami.

Since it is accessible by car and only about 20 minutes from downtown, this is one of the cool things to do in Miami for the whole family!

One of the top sites in the park is the 100-foot Cape Florida Lighthouse. Interestingly, this is the oldest structure in Miami and one of the best lighthouses in Florida !

The lighthouse was originally built in 1825. After being damaged during the Second Seminole War, it was rebuilt in 1846. As part of the National Register of Historic Places, think of the history this lighthouse has seen and the hurricanes it has withstood.

There are lighthouse tours from Thursday through Monday. Be prepared to climb 109 steps.

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park also has beautiful beaches for swimming, hiking trails, a fishing pier, and a cafe. Keep an eye out for birds, butterflies, and turtles.

Attend a Sporting Event

Sports fans will love visiting Miami because of the opportunities to watch professional and college sports games.

For football, head to the Hard Rock Stadium. The Miami Dolphins are the oldest sports franchise in the city, founded in 1966. You will love a thrilling NFL game at this state-of-the-art stadium.

The Miami Heat plays NBA basketball downtown at the FTX Arena. Cheer for your favorite players during the October to April season.

Baseball is a classic American pastime. If you want to catch an MLB game, visit LoanDepot Park to watch the Miami Marlins play. The ballpark is found in Little Havana.

If you like college sports, the University of Miami and Florida International University are the places to be for some of the most fun things to do in Miami.

Bring the Kids to the Miami Children’s Museum

One of the best things to do in Miami for families is the Miami Children’s Museum. Kids will be able to let their imaginations run wild as they learn with interactive exhibits.

Kids of all ages and even adults will have fun with the indoor and outdoor exhibits. The park outside gives kids the chance to burn off energy on playgrounds.

Inside, it is time for make-believe. Kids can pretend to be veterinarians in the Pet Center or join the police and fire rescue units in the Safety Zone.

Learn about plants in My Green Home or get creative at the Art Studio. Explore the Castle of Dreams, a two-story sand castle with many fun elements and sounds.

This museum is also super inclusive. Some of the exhibits, like the Multi-Sensory/Snoezelen Room, are made especially for children with autism, sensory processing disorders, and other special needs.

Make sure to check the events calendar before coming too! The fun events here are some of the top things in Miami for a great time.

Discover the Freedom Tower

The Freedom Tower has had a long and rich history dating back to 1925. This Spanish Renaissance Revival-style building was originally the headquarters for The Miami News .

Between 1962 and 1974, the building acted as the Cuban Assistance Center. Hundreds of thousands of Cuban immigrants were processed here during the Cuban Revolution. The building stands for freedom and is a tribute to the Cuban legacy in Miami.

Today, the building is owned by Miami Dade College and houses the Museum of Art and Design and MDC Special Collections.

At night, the Freedom Tower stands out in the downtown skyline, shining with red and orange lights. You will want to take time to visit this National Historic Landmark while in Miami.

It is one of the best things to do in downtown Miami for anyone interesting in history or architecture

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The best Miami attractions to explore right now, including tourist favorites

Check out fascinating museums, thrilling outdoor adventures, artful neighborhoods and more of Miami’s best attractions.

Ah, Miami. We know our 35-mile stretch of glorious beachfront lured you in, our world class museums piqued your curiosity and one look at any of our sexiest swimming pools definitely sealed the deal.  While we can’t deny these are some of our favorite attractions, too, we’re here to tell ya: Miami offers so much more. 

We’ve got historic vacation estates to meander through, meaningful monuments, and lush tropical gardens in which to laze the day away – some of them touting animals galore. Plus, Miami touts two of the most unique national parks in the country – one completely submerged under water and the second spanning over 1.5 million acres of tropical wetland – both just an hour away from each other. No matter the reason or the season (though we’ll admit, winter is honestly the best), our guide to the best Miami attractions has something for every type of curious traveler.

RECOMMENDED:  The best things to do in Miami this Winter

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Best Miami attractions

1.  Everglades National Park

• Things to do
• Walks and tours

Spanning over 1.5 million acres of vital wetland, the Everglades is the largest subtropical habitat in the country. There are many ways to explore this National Park, but a boat tour is top of the list for a fun journey. Check out the local fauna on one of the daily, 90-minute tours, or DIY the experience with a canoe or kayak rental. 

Time Out tip:  Want to get knees-deep into Everglades knowledge? Try an Everglades immersion walk , where you'll slog through a Cypress Dome learning about alligators, birds and other critters along the way. 

2.  Wynwood Walls

• Exhibitions

This outdoor street art park launched during Art Basel in 2009 and has since become an anchoring institution of the wildly popular arts district. Featuring nearly 50 murals that rotate annually, some of the world’s most acclaimed artists have contributed over the years, including Shepard Fairey, Ryan McGuinness, Kenny Scharf, DEIH, KOBRA, Martin Whatson and Queen Andrea. On display this year is a retired subway car, which will be great for tricking your friends into thinking you're actually in The Big Apple. 

Time Out tip:  Find a curated collection of artsy gifts, coffee table books, prints and more created by the artists on display at the Wynwood Walls Shop. 

3.  Jungle Island

• Event spaces
• price 2 of 4

Located on Watson Island between South Beach and mainland Miami, Jungle Island is a sanctuary for birds, exotic animals and local wildlife. The lush, verdant facilities make for a unique zoo experience. Jungle Island has grown to include more than wildlife. Thrillseekers can visit Treetop Trekking Miami, an aerial zipline adventure park with suspended bridges, Tarzan swings and more. For animal lovers, the park offers new hands-on encounters and feeding experiences.

Time Out tip:  Garden admission to Jungle Island is free with tickets to Treetop. 

4.  Cape Florida Lighthouse

• Key Biscayne

Key Biscayne’s Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is home to South Florida’s oldest lighthouse—which guided sailors to safety throughout the 19th century. Once you’re through swimming and soaking up the sun off the coast of Key Biscayne, climb the 109 spiral steps to the top of the lighthouse. Included with the price of park admission ($8 per vehicle), visitors can tour the tower five days a week at 10am and 1pm. The tower is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Time Out tip:  Catch the sunset from The Cleat, the breezy waterfront beach bar tucked deep inside the park. 

5.  Superblue Miami

There’s observing art, and then there’s being entirely consumed by it. This is the case at Superblue Miami, which sees you walking through the imaginations and whims of some of the world’s most innovative artists. More than just a place to nourish your Instagram feed, Superblue elevates the experiential museum with meaningful themes and ideas projected from floor to ceiling, using state of the art technology to make everything around you interactive. 

Timeout Tip: If you’ve ever wanted to know what flying on a foggy day feels like, suit up and dive into Teamlab’s ‘Massless Clouds,’ an additional experience within the museum. 

6.  Calle Ocho

Famed for its strong coffee, delicious food, music and cigars, Little Havana remains one of Miami’s busiest and most iconic destinations. Calle Ocho is the historic neighborhood’s charming main corridor, where you’ll find numerous Cuban restaurants, cocktail bars and cultural landmarks, including Domino Park . Grab a scoop of Abuela Maria ice cream from Azucar and enjoy it in the public square where viejitos still gather to play, or sip mojitos and learn to salsa dance at Ball & Chain .

Time Out tip: Stop by during the third Friday of the month for Viernes Culturales , the free monthly festival in Little Havana's cultural district.

7.  Miami Beach Botanical Garden

• South Beach

A small but charming oasis in bustling Miami Beach, the botanical garden offers nearly three acres of lush greenery showcasing native flora and fauna alongside a Japanese garden, rare orchids and calming water features. Kill some time in between stops or snap a quick Instagram with a pineapple in the edible garden, or visit the gardens during one of their cool events. 

Time Out tip:  Get your OM on with AM soundbaths and vinyasa yoga hosted every Sunday morning. 

8.  Holocaust Memorial Miami Beach

• Cultural centers

Located right next to Miami Beach Botanical Garden, this free, outdoor memorial was erected in 1984 to honor those lost during the holocaust. You can't miss the striking sculpture of Love and Anguish by Kenneth Treister in real life. The 40-foot-tall hand outstretched toward the sky is a powerful and necessary sight to behold up close. 

Time Out tip:  Spend some time exploring the grounds at sunset. The light reflecting against the pond and thousands of names etched into the memorial wall is a remarkable sight. 

9.  Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

• Coconut Grove

Built by Chicago magnate James Deering as his winter estate, this sprawling waterfront mansion is the idyllic backdrop of numerous (expensive) weddings and quinceañera photoshoots. When it’s not being used for celebrations, the palatial estate and its manicured gardens are ripe for exploring. Check it out on weekends when Vizcaya hosts full moon parties, outdoor yoga classes and other community events.

Time Out tip:  Use your Miami-Dade Library card to check out free passes for up to four people. 

10.  Venetian Pool

• Coral Gables
• price 1 of 4

The only public pool in the city worth its weight in chlorine, Venetian Pool, first designed in 1923 by Coral Gables mastermind George Merrick, remains a fanciful Mediterranean postcard with waterfalls, a grotto and plenty of room to swim. Go for a dip in the city’s only quarry. Open only during spring and summer, the 820,000-gallon pool remains cool thanks to the underground aquifer used to fill it with fresh water.

Time Out tip: Coral Gables residents score discounted admission to the pool. Make friends in the neighborhood and enjoy the facilities for more than half-off.

11.  Miami Art Deco District

What is South Beach without its perfectly symmetrical and pastel buildings, with their breezy verandas, windows with “eyebrows”, neon trimmings and terrazzo floors? With over 800 designated historic buildings between 5th and 23rd streets, architecture buffs have a lot of ground to cover when exploring the Art Deco District. 

Timeout Tip: The Miami Dade Preservation League holds daily tours , which is a great way to amp your appreciation for the neighborhood.

12.  Española Way

Imagine yourself strolling through a European promenade, popping in and out cafés or sitting down to an al fresco meal. Now picture all of this happening in South Beach along Española Way, a true pedestrian-only strip dripping in charm and Mediterranean flare. Want to escape the hustle? Meander through the Esmé Hotel's magical passeos and grab a cocktail at their vibey rooftop. 

Time Out tip:  Hungry? Head towards the Drexel Avenue block for dinner at The Drexel, Tropezon or longtime local favorite A La Folie. 

13.  Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

Pretty gardens are hard to come by in scorching-hot Miami, so we’re extra grateful for places like Fairchild, whose diligent groundskeepers and volunteers keep it looking fresh and verdant year-round. Plus, with 83-acres of rare plants and flowers, you’ll never get tired of exploring. Take a morning or afternoon stroll through these stunning surroundings and escape the South Beach bustle. Not one for greenery? Visit during the annual chocolate festival in January—a delicious event dedicated to all things cocoa.

Time Out tip: Spring for a membership and take advantage of after-hours programming. Deals change seasonally but often include perks to check out one of the garden’s exciting festivals.

14.  Biscayne National Underwater Park

With nearly all of its surface underwater, Biscayne National Park is truly one of a kind. Explore it via glass-bottomed boat tours, canoes or—better yet—snorkeling or scuba diving. The ecosystem is spectacular, think mangrove forests and dazzling coral reefs filled with brilliantly colored fish, sea turtles and other marine life. 

Time Out tip: Biscayne National Park Institute  offers full-day guided eco-adventures departing from Miami’s Historic Coconut Grove, making the jaunt south even faster.

15.  Deering Estate

• Palmetto Bay

Up the road from Vizcaya, is brother Charles Deering’s waterfront estate. It’s far less flashy but a hit with nature lovers—mangroves, salt marshes and an Indian burial ground make up its 400-plus acres. Mark your calendars for the annual seafood festival (stone crabs!) and regular music programming, including their romantic Valentine's Day jazz night. 

Time Out tip: Deering offers monthly night hikes, featuring guided walks through the premises’ 444 acres and a group campfire with s’mores, as well as bird walks and moonlight kayak tours. There's something on the schedule for every type of naturalist.

16.  Zoo Miami

From reptiles and amphibians to primates, the cageless zoo is home to hundreds of species. Kids will love the carousel rides and splash zones (especially during the hot summer months) while parents look forward to pedaling around the park in Safari Cycle bikes, which fit up to five family members.

Time Out tip: Book a VIP tour for a guided experience in a golf cart. One of the zoo's knowledgeable staff members will zip you around and give you in an inside scoop on all its residents.

17.  Coral Castle Museum

• Leisure City

Coral Castle is a bizarre but captivating outdoor sculpture garden that was apparently the work of just one man, Ed Leedskalnin, who channeled a broken heart into hulking blocks of coral. If you can’t make it to the Taj Mahal, Coral Castle is a worthy runner-up as far as grand gestures go. Visit on the first weekend of the month for psychic Saturday, featuring palm readers and fortune tellers.

Time Out tip: Every year during Valentine’s Day, the museum hosts a massive vow renewal ceremony should you want to reaffirm your love surrounded by thousands of your closest friends.

18.  The Kampong

Kampong is home to nearly 600 trees and more than 200,000 varieties of plants and crops. It's  home to the International Center for Tropical Botany at The Kampong, which is all about plant exploration and discovery.  A portion of the grounds sustained considerable damage during Hurricane Irma in 2017 but valiant recovery efforts have all but completely restored the tropical oasis (including erecting its famous 50-ton baobab tree from Tanzania, which founder David Fairchild planted himself in 1928).

Time Out tip: Reservations are required to visit the nine-acre property. Self-guided tours are available but we suggest the guided option to really get a sense for the bountiful space.

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Get your art on at the best museums in Miami, showcasing an array of artists, recognizable works and 'gram-worthy finds.

The 17 best free things to do in Miami

From complimentary museum access to free dance classes, here’s how to enjoy Miami without ever opening your wallet.

The most beautiful buildings in Miami everyone should see

These are the most beautiful buildings in Miami that you need to see before you leave town and snap for the ’gram.

The best cheap things to do in Miami

Have a blast exploring the Magic City on a budget with our day-by-day guide to the best cheap things to do in Miami.

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22 Top Tourist Attractions in Miami

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on April 3, 2024

Glorious beaches, world-class nightlife and unending shopping opportunities are just a few of the things that Miami is known for. The city is blessed with warm weather, and lies alongside the sparkling waters of the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay. Long a popular tourist destination, it has everything you could ever want from a city for a Florida vacation.

Visiting Miami is more than just visiting a single city. It is a chance to explore several unique neighborhoods, each with a distinct style, culture and architecture. From the Art Deco buildings on Miami Beach to the colorful homes in Little Havana, there is an incredible array of tourist attractions in Miami for you to admire and enjoy.

With so much things to do in Miami, it should come as no surprise to learn that the Magic City attracts the second-highest number of international visitors in the States after New York City.

Map of Miami

22. Haulover Beach

If you’re after some sun, sea, and sand then head to idyllic Haulover Beach. Set on a shoal between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean, it is noted for its beautiful blue waters, soft welcoming sands, and a stretch of clothing-optional shoreline.

Much less crowded than South Beach, it has plenty of outdoor activities and amenities to enjoy, as well as a large urban park. Besides picnic areas and playgrounds, are tennis courts, a marina and a golf course, with Haulover Beach lying just forty minutes drive northeast of the center.

21. Phillip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science

Located just to the north of Downtown Miami is the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science. Founded in 1949, it occupies a state-of-the-art site in Museum Park beside Biscayne Bay.

A fun and family-friendly place, its extensive exhibitions have everything, from insects and dinosaurs to science, technology, and space flight. Aside from its fascinating exhibits, the interactive museum also boasts a gigantic aquarium and a planetarium with fascinating 3D films that take you to the outer edges of the cosmos.

20. Bayside Marketplace

Just south of the excellent science museum you can find the bustling Bayside Marketplace, home to all kinds of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Set along Miami’s waterfront, it is one of the most popular places to shop, dine or enjoy some entertainment in the city.

In total, it has over 150 boutiques, bars, and eateries, with countless kiosks and carts also dotted about. Adding to its casual ambience are the superb street performers and entertainment acts that perform daily, and the magnificent vistas of both the bay and marina.

19. Design District

An awesome neighborhood to explore, Miami Design District lies just north of downtown, next to many of the city’s other happening areas. It is known for its fabulous high-end shopping and dining scene, with upmarket stores such as Prada, Saint Laurent, and Dior, plus hip eateries dotted about.

This delightful district is also packed with art galleries, antique dealers, fashion boutiques, and sparkling showrooms. Many creative services and architectural firms are also based in the Design District.

18. Jungle Island

Jungle Island is an amazing eco-adventure park that lies in the heart of Miami, between downtown and South Beach. While its incredible animal shows, exhibits, and encounters are the main draw, it also has pretty green spaces, a pristine beach, and epic views of the city’s skyline.

First opened in 1936, the park now offers immersive experiences where guests can meet capybaras, lemurs, and sloths among other animals. Amidst the lush vegetation, you can spy exotic birds, giraffes, and gorillas with displays and demonstrations teaching you all about the animals.

There are also fun ziplines, climbing walls, and escape rooms to try out.

17. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

Occupying the southern third of Key Biscayne is the serene wilderness of Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. Besides offering all kinds of outdoor activities, it has beautiful beaches and pristine nature for visitors to enjoy; some interesting historic sights are also scattered about.

Although it lies just fifteen minutes drive from the center of town, the park feels a world away with its tangled mangroves and wonderful white sands. In addition to cycling and hiking, visitors can go swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling. There’s also a small museum, visitor center, and the impressive Cape Florida Lighthouse.

16. Lincoln Road

Aside from iconic Ocean Drive, the main place to shop and dine in Miami Beach is Lincoln Road which runs through the center. Lined by amazing architecture with palms, fountains, and flowers, the busy pedestrian street has a very lively feel thanks to its numerous street performers.

In total, it boasts over 200 boutiques and stores, as well as countless cafes, eateries, and bars with art galleries, a concert hall, and a cinema complex also on offer.

Thanks to its eye-catching design, and thriving cultural and commercial life, Lincoln Road is widely considered one of the best shopping streets in the States.

15. Venetian Pool

If you’re looking to relax and unwind then you can’t beat taking a dip in the gorgeous Venetian Pool—a unique place to swim, soak and splash about. Unlike any other pool in the country, its turquoise waters occupy a former coral rock quarry, and is surrounded by rock formations and waterfalls.

Turned into a pool and tourist attraction in 1924, the Venetian-style lagoon is overlooked by two large historic towers and has charming porticos, palms, and grottos. Fed from an underground aquifer, its inviting waters are one of the most memorable places to cool off in town and lies only twenty minutes drive from the center.

14. Dolphin Mall

Half an hour’s drive west of downtown you can find the enormous Dolphin Mall, home to numerous shops, stores, and eateries. The largest outlet shopping center in the area, it has everything you could ever want or need, and is just as popular with locals as with tourists.

Since opening in 2001, it has expanded considerably and now has over 240 outlets with Burlington, H&M and Old Navy among its major anchor stores. Aside from all its shops and fashion outlets, the massive mall has a wide range of excellent restaurants with a huge on-site cinema.

13. Espanola Way

Lying in between Lincoln Road and Ocean Drive is another of Miami’s scenic streets, and most popular shopping and dining destinations: the atmospheric Española Way. Modeled after romantic Mediterranean villages, the palm tree-lined pedestrian street is a treat to stroll along and has a very quaint and rustic look and feel.

Lining the cobblestone street are charming cafes and pretty pastel-colored buildings that sport flower-coated facades. Besides shopping at the boutiques, visitors are spoiled for choice with superb restaurants that serve food from all around the world.

Taking you back in time to Old World Europe, Española Way is certainly not to be missed for all that it has to offer.

12. Everglades National Park

Just over an hour’s drive southwest of Miami is one of the most unique and impressive ecosystems in the States: the enormous Everglades . Known as the ‘River of Grass’ by its former Native American inhabitants, the massive tropical wetlands sprawl across much of South Florida.

Its masses of mangroves, marshes, and forests are home to rare and exotic animals, such as the American crocodile and Florida panther. While hiking along the national park’s trails or kayaking and motorboating its remote waterways, visitors can also spy snakes, turtles, and manatees from time to time.

11. Zoo Miami

Another great place to see all kinds of awe-inspiring animals is the sprawling Zoo Miami, forty-five minutes drive southwest of the center. In total, its lush tropical grounds house over 3,000 animals with everything, from orangutans and elephants to rhinos, tigers and gorillas on show.

Since its founding in 1948, the zoo has been a firm favourite with locals and tourists due to its amazing educational exhibits. These focus on animals and ecosystems from as far away as Africa, Asia, and Australia.

Besides enjoying seeing animals amble about their scenic and spacious enclosures, there are also captivating collections of insects, amphibians, and reptiles to check out.

10. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

In the Coral Gables area of Miami, you’ll find the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. Surrounded by the Matheson Hammock Park, the botanic garden is a fantastic place to explore on a sunny day.

In the Wings of the Tropics Conservatory, you can spot thousands of exotic and rare butterflies as well as rare tropical fish and unusual plants. Then, in the Edible Garden, you can learn about how to create your own garden at home to reap the benefits of fresh herbs, fruits, vegetables and even edible flowers. Reflect on a wonderful, memorable day at the scenic and tranquil Moos Sunken Garden.

9. Bayfront Park

Bayfront Park is a green urban park right in the very center of Downtown Miami. It borders the waters of Biscayne Bay, meaning that you can set off on an unbelievably scenic walk right by the blue waters. Bayfront Park is also home to a range of events and performances.

You might be lucky enough to catch a major concert one evening, or you could take a yoga class in this gorgeous spot. If you’re eager to try something new, Bayfront Park is home to a flying trapeze school, which means that you can quite literally learn the ropes with an unparalleled view!

8. Crandon Park

In northern part of Key Biscayne is Crandon Park, a stunning beach park that really offers something for everyone. As the name implies, there is a gorgeous two-mile beach that is widely considered one of the best beaches in Florida. Beyond that, you can explore a wide range of ecosystems in the region.

Entirely within Crandon Park, it is possible to hike through sandy dunes, navigate around the roots of mangroves and see the surf crash into the offshore sandbar. To top it all off, there are tennis facilities, a golf course and even a large marina where visiting boats are welcomed.

7. Villa Vizcaya

The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, also known as Villa Vizcaya, looks as if it could have been transported straight from Europe. Although it sits right on the shores of Biscayne Bay, the main home was built in the 1920s in the Italian Renaissance style. The main building was once a private estate, but today is houses the museum, which boasts more than 70 rooms of European art and antiques.

Just as appealing is what you can find outside, where the lavish and extensive gardens are located. Beautiful manicured flower beds, shrubs and shade trees dot the property, making it a popular place for events and weddings.

6. Lummus Park Beach

In the heart of Miami’s famous South Beach is Lummus Park Beach, an urban park in the middle of all the action. Right on the Atlantic Ocean, Lummus Park Beach is an iconic spot that has been featured in countless films, television shows and music videos.

There’s a paved pathway that runs alongside the beach, but you can also walk right across the sand and dive into the cool waters of the Atlantic. Lummus Park Beach is the ideal place to start or end a walking tour of the top attractions in Miami, and it is just steps from wonderful bars, restaurants, shops and even Art Deco architecture.

5. Little Havana

If you can’t get to Cuba, the next best place to experience Cuban cuisine, heritage, music and culture is in Little Havana. The highlight of this Miami attraction is the main drag through the district, called Calle Ocho or 8th Street.

You’ll exclusively hear Spanish being spoken, and the surrounding shops on either side of the street sell Cuban favorites. On the street is Tower Theater, an Art Deco structure that still shows movies subtitled in Spanish. Stop in at Azucar Ice Cream Company to get Cuban-inspired sweet treats like a guava sorbet.

4. Miami Beach Boardwalk

The Miami Beach Boardwalk is perhaps the best way to walk along the coast of Miami Beach. It stretches for over three miles, and it never veers far from the coast and Miami’s most stunning beaches.

The Miami Beach Boardwalk begins at Indian Beach Park in Mid-Beach Miami, and it heads south all the way to the heart of South Beach. Eventually, the boardwalk turns to a paved walkway, but it never stops being lively, vibrant and scenic. Head there in the early morning to beat the heat and join the countless runners and cyclists starting their day with some exercise.

3. Wynwood Walls

If you’re a fan of art, then you won’t want to miss the incredible Wynwood Walls. This enormous outdoor exhibition is a collection of street art. More than 50 artists have been involved in the exhibit, and they come from Miami as well as from around the world. You can walk to the six main buildings, each of which transformed from a warehouse to a canvas and then to a work of art.

The murals change frequently, and the whole area is pedestrian friendly. Although you can get a view from your car, your own two feet will be the best way to experience the colors and skill of this unique art form.

2. Art Deco District

In the 1930s, Miami Beach grew significantly. As a result, the city boasts a staggering amount of Art Deco architecture. Since the area is known for it, existing buildings are protected and preserved, and many of the interiors reflect their historic origins.

There are more than 800 examples of Art Deco architecture in South Beach alone, so that’s the best place for a walking tour. Although guided tours are available, you can also set off on your own and look for iconic landmarks like the Plymouth or the McAlpin. Be sure to check out the Bass Museum, which offers both an impressive collection of early 20th century pieces and an impressive Art Deco exterior.

1. Ocean Drive

Through Southern Florida, there is a major road known as the A1A. When it passes through much of Miami, it is known as Ocean Drive, and it turns into Collins Avenue as you head toward Miami Beach. Be prepared for thousands of people in their best swimsuits, a plethora of nightlife options, access to white sand beaches and plenty of roller skating on the paved sidewalk just next to the road.

Ocean Drive is lined with trees, which means that you can stroll back and forth, sightseeing and people-watching the whole way, and still take advantage of the shade on a hot Miami day.

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January 21, 2019 at 3:13 am

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Discover miami's attractions & sightseeing, miami is one of the nation’s most well-rounded metropolitan destinations. it has a special arts scene, tons of shopping, family attractions, and the worldwide draw of  miami beach .  .

Vibrant and charged with the energy of Caribbean rhythms, Miami means big-city sophistication and seductive beaches to those who plug into its unique brand of electric charge.

A railroad into the old Indian trading post started Miami down its path as Florida's most dynamic city and a few works of modern engineering made Miami Beach a sudden hotspot of the 1920s. With a colorful arts scene, world-class shopping, watersports splendor, professional sports and a load of family attractions , Miami makes one of the nation's most well-rounded metropolitan destinations.

Little Havana

The greatest influence upon the city's modern-day personality came with the influx of Cuban refugees that began in the 1960s. They settled in an area dubbed Little Havana , where salsa music blares, men play dominoes in the park and breezes carry strong whiffs of caf é con leche . Miami's overall cuisine and arts scene sway Cuban, blended with other local Caribbean influence. Floribbean cooking, a Miami invention, fuses Florida and island technique and products into one of the most popular styles to have hit in many decades.

a group of men playing dominoes in a Cuban cigar shop in Little Havana.

- Greater Miami CVB

Coral Gables

One of the nation's first planned developments, Coral Gables was built almost entirely out of the coral limestone quarried there. The quarry itself was turned into Venetian Pool, an exotic swimming hole with romantic stone bridges and waterfalls. Gracious Spanish colonial-style homes line twisty streets vegetated lushly and sequestered aesthetically from the big-city world.

Key Biscayne

Key Biscayne holds popular tourist attractions, busy recreational marinas and fantastic beaches. Windsurfing and sailing are foremost along its windy causeway, known as Hobie Beach. Miami Seaquarium ranks as one of Florida's first marine attractions, but keeps up-to-date with dolphin interaction programs and environmentally inclined exhibits. Nearby marinas offer everything from boat rentals to diving excursions. There are more ways to play at Crandon Park, a huge beach park with amusement rides, tennis and bike paths. At the island's southern tip, a state park protects a historic lighthouse and the beach that fronts it.

Coconut Grove

Another of Miami's historic neighborhoods, Coconut Grove keeps up with the times as a lively shopping and nightlife scene. While you're there, visit a Gilded Age Italian-style palace at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens .

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens -- Outside, you'll enjoy spectacular views of Biscayne Bay, colorful orchids in the David A. Klein Orchidarium, and the serene gardens and statues that inhabit them.

- Photo by Peter W. Cross

South Beach , and More

The majority of celebrities live on islands along MacArthur Causeway, which leads to South Beach, a.k.a. SoBe, Miami's acclaimed district for naughty and nice. Two family attractions - Jungle Island and Miami Children's Museum - have also moved along the bridge's causeway in the vicinity of Miami's busy cruise ship port. Ocean Drive, SoBe's much-photographed street, faces a wide, bustling beach and is lined with its historic Art Deco gems. Intimate, chic hotels have taken up in the jauntily painted masterpieces, their lively caf é s spilling onto the sidewalk with hip clientele, wannabe fashion model servers, and Latin tunes. A block off Ocean, all-night clubs and drag bars pick up the tempo. Edgy art galleries and museums, chi-chi restaurants, and the most design-forward of restored hotels contribute to SoBe's reputation as it follows Collins Avenue along Miami Beach's Golden Mile and to the newly fashionable neighborhoods of North Miami Beach , Sunny Isles Beach and, on the mainland, Aventura . Haulover Park offers scores of recreation and chic hotels, spas and golf resorts accommodate in style. Trend-setting Bal Harbour Village , a barrier island at the northern tip of Miami Beach, is home to two oceanfront resorts, the Bal Harbour Shops (with 100 flagship stores such as Louis Vuitton, Hermes and Gucci) and a number of see-and-be-seen eateries.

Enjoy the inviting sun and sand on Sunny Isles Beach

- City of Sunny Isles Beach

At its southern extremes, the Miami area turns agricultural and natural in Homestead, tropical fruit capital and home to a grand new auto-racing speedway. Homestead is also gateway to two extraordinary national parks. Biscayne National Park introduces a world accessible by boat, a world best seen through a snorkel mask. A 40-mile road takes you through Everglades National Park and its subtle beauty, to Flamingo , where a modest lodge and scores of water and land adventure await. East of town, along Tamiami Trail, lies another Everglades access. Nearby, the Miccosukee Indian tribe attracts visitors with a modern casino and a cultural attraction that includes airboat rides to old-style clan camps.

For more ideas, check out  Visit Miami's Best Attractions (miamiandbeaches.com)

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15 Fun Things to Do in Miami Beach

Miami Beach caters to the moneyed crowd. At upscale shopping centers like pedestrian-friendly Lincoln Road Mall  and renowned spas (the 70,000-square-foot spa at Carillon Miami Wellness Resort is the largest on the Eastern Seaboard), residents and

• All Things To Do

South Beach South Beach free

With a nickname like the "Art Deco Playground," it's no wonder so many people flock to South Beach. Travelers see South Beach not only as one of the best vacation areas in Florida, but as one of the best in the country. Popular perception has somewhat pigeonholed the area as being reserved exclusively for the 24-hour partiers, but that's not necessarily the case. The truth is that South Beach (or SoBe, for short) welcomes anyone looking for pristine sand, amazing food and yes, a buzzing nightlife.

The options are limitless: you can spend the whole day shopping at boutiques, getting pampered at an opulent spa or just strolling along Ocean Drive . South Beach also hosts numerous festivals and events, including volleyball tournaments, Art Deco Weekend and music and art shows. Families can take the kids over to Watson Island about 4 miles over the McArthur Causeway to see the animals at Jungle Island or to play at the  Miami Children's Museum  for some educational fun.

Ocean Drive Ocean Drive free

One of the most famous thoroughfares in the city, the country, or maybe even the world, Ocean Drive is characterized by its distinct art deco buildings, its constant streams of crowds and its glittering hotel and club fronts in the nighttime. Suffice it to say that if you've booked a hotel  along Ocean Drive, you're guaranteed to be in the thick of things. Shopping, dining, beach activities and more are all right outside your hotel door.

Travelers say the best way to experience Ocean Drive is just by walking down the street, taking in the historic art deco hotels and storefronts and snapping some photos along the way. Day or night, visitors say you'll find something to do along Ocean Drive, whether it's dining outdoors steps from the ocean, grabbing a cocktail at a bar or dancing the night away at one of the clubs. Though, many warn that partaking in the revelry of food and drink along Ocean Drive does come with a high price tag. If you sign up for one of the best parasailing tours in Miami , you'll likely enjoy a bird's-eye view of Ocean Drive from the sky.

Lincoln Road Mall Lincoln Road Mall free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For the best affordable fare, take a slight detour off Lincoln Road to The Lincoln Eatery for a handful of fast-casual food booths or the top-rated Mister 01 Extraordinary Pizza, hidden inside of a South Beach office building on Michigan Avenue. – Lyssa Goldberg

Located on Lincoln Road, between Alton Road and Washington Avenue, the Lincoln Road Mall is a mile-long, can't-miss pedestrian shopping area. Originally envisioned as the "Fifth Avenue of the South," Lincoln Road attracted outposts of Burdines, Saks Fifth Avenue and Cadillac, and was transformed into only the second open-air mall in the United States by famed Miami Modern (MiMo) architect Morris Lapidus in the late 1950s. As artists flocked to Lincoln Road and brought visitors to the area, the pedestrian promenade experienced a resurgence as one of the premier streets in the nation by the late 1990s. The street offers a blend of several architectural styles, including Mediterranean Revival, art deco, midcentury modern, and has been added to the National Register of Historic Places.

Lummus Park Lummus Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Snap a pic with one (or all) of Miami Beach's iconic lifeguard towers, each designed in its own set of funky colors and whimsical shapes to reflect the city's surrounding art deco aesthetic. – Lyssa Goldberg

This is the beach and park area that fulfills all of South Beach 's stereotypes. Fit sunbathers, bikini-loving celebrities, supermodels (often occupied with a photo shoot) – all of the above crash on the beige-colored sand here, which runs along Ocean Drive from about 5th Street to 14th Street. Volleyball nets, beach gear rental kiosks and restrooms dot the area as well. The grassy stretch between Ocean Drive and the beach features plenty of palm trees, playgrounds and a winding paved pathway that attracts runners, bikers and rollerbladers. It's also the home of Muscle Beach, an outdoor fitness area for exercise, weight lifting and gymnastics located on the sand at 9th Street. Spending some time here will put you within walking distance of Ocean Drive's many restaurants and bars and allow you to experience the Art Deco District, in addition to the sun and sand.

South Pointe Park and Pier South Pointe Park and Pier free

Located at the southernmost tip of Miami Beach, South Pointe is a 17-acre park that features walking paths, grassy knolls and sweeping views of the ocean. The area also has a playground with water features, and a dog park. There's plenty of seating throughout the park and a 55-foot art sculpture that lights up and greets visitors like a modern lighthouse. The South Pointe Pier juts out into the Atlantic Ocean and is a popular place to fish. The 450-foot-long pier offers stations for cutting bait and washing fish, recycling bins for fishing line and seating for various vantage points of the ocean.

Overall, recent travelers said a stroll through this park and along the pier is enjoyable, with many noting they loved watching both cruise ships and smaller yachts come and go. Reviewers also commented on the stunning views and raved about the many photo-ops. Families also say South Pointe Park, with its grassy areas and playground, is a great spot for kids.

Art Deco Historic District Art Deco Historic District

Miami Beach is known for its art deco architecture, a design style of the 1920s and '30s that's characterized by bold colors and geometric shapes. It often incorporates styles of cubism, futurism and other varying art movements. You'll spot this architectural style adorning the city's gorgeous  hotels , storefronts, restaurants and buildings that line South Beach . The best way to experience all the art deco architecture Miami Beach has to offer is on a walking tour of the South Beach neighborhood.

Several outfitters offer tours, including the  Miami Design Preservation League  and  Art Deco Tours , and prices start at $32 per person.

Española Way Española Way free

Located between 14th and 15th streets, the pedestrian-only Española Way is a two-block corridor of pastel pink Old World-style buildings known for its restaurants, shopping and entertainment. It's bound by the main Washington Avenue thoroughfare on one side and Pennsylvania Avenue on the other. Modeled after the charming Mediterranean villages of Spain and France, the historic enclave was formed as a bohemian artist colony in the 1920s. It quickly became a popular hangout that attracted the likes of gangster Al Capone, who made one Española Way hotel the site of an underground gambling ring.

Recent travelers called Española Way a hidden gem and recommend seeking out this charming side street for a short stroll, shopping, lunch or dinner. With more than a dozen restaurants, sidewalk cafes and bars in a two-block span, visitors come here for people-watching in a lively atmosphere and al fresco dining under twinkling lights. The area comes alive at night with music from the street's restaurants, and you'll find everything from Cuban food, sushi and coffee shops to Spanish tapas, Mexican and Italian.

New World Symphony Center New World Symphony Center

U.S. News Insider Tip: Check the lineup of free outdoor screenings and plan an evening picnic. Bring a blanket (or hotel towel) and buy sandwiches from a spot nearby like Rosetta Bakery, Crema or La Sandwicherie, which is worth the extra few blocks' walk. – Lyssa Goldberg

You don't have to be a classical music aficionado to appreciate Frank Gehry-designed symphony hall, the New World Center. Home of the New World Symphony, an orchestral academy for young music graduates, the New World Center is both a campus for music education and a state-of-the-art performance center with plenty to offer lovers of the performing arts and live entertainment. Visitors who've attended a concert here praised the excellent acoustics and architectural design of this cultural landmark.

Miami Beach Botanical Garden Miami Beach Botanical Garden free

U.S. News Insider Tip: The plants aren't the only reason to visit – Miami Beach Botanical Garden offers an escape from the South Beach bustle. For some peace and tranquility, attend one of the garden's community events like yoga, tai chi or a meditation sound bath. – Lyssa Goldberg

A subtropical garden in the center of South Beach, Miami Beach Botanical Garden is a 3-acre landscape filled with 100 species of palm trees, orchids and other native plants. This lush garden oasis is an ideal spot to spend an hour strolling under the shade of flowering trees and spotting wildlife, such as native and migratory birds, butterflies, turtles and koi fish. The garden is divided into several sections, including a Japanese garden with water lilies and a red wooden bridge, a gumbo-limbo courtyard, an edible plant garden, wetland mangroves, turtle and koi ponds, water features and more. You can pick up a garden map at the entrance to navigate to self-guided audio tour stops.

The Wolfsonian-Florida International University The Wolfsonian-Florida International University

Located in the Art Deco Historic District and housed in a 1920s Mediterranean Revival building that is a South Beach landmark in its own right, the Wolfsonian-Florida International University is a multistory museum that explores the impact of art and design on world history through a collection of more than 200,000 objects. Focused on a century of transformation from 1850 to 1950, the collection of artifacts includes everything from everyday household appliances and furniture to groundbreaking architectural plans, propaganda posters and more.

Visitors enjoyed learning about 20th century design and seeing the display of art deco objects and political memorabilia. Some noted the museum's relatively small size means you can get a comprehensive look at the collection in about two hours. The indoor, air-conditioned museum is also a great place to escape the inevitable South Florida rain or humidity. At the gift shop, you can find design-oriented souvenirs, jewelry, clocks, kitchenware and books, including Wolfsonian publications. Travelers also recommended ordering a cappuccino or macchiato from the on-site coffee bar.

Holocaust Memorial Holocaust Memorial free

Located near the intersection of Dade Boulevard and Meridian Avenue, the Holocaust Memorial in South Beach is a moving tribute to the victims and survivors of the Holocaust. The idea was conceived by a small group of Holocaust survivors in 1984 and the memorial officially opened to the public in 1990. The site features a series of statues, architectural pieces, a garden of meditation and a memorial wall. The main sculpture features dozens of emaciated people reaching out for help, clinging to one another, that make up an outstretched arm reaching up to the sky.

Recent visitors echo one another, saying that Miami Beach's Holocaust Memorial moved them deeply and caused them to remember the importance of never forgetting the tragedy. Most travelers agree that you should stop by to see this beautiful tribute while you're in the area, citing the informative photo panels as ways to learn even more about this atrocity. There is also a brochure for self-guided tours available for a suggested $2 donation.

The Bass The Bass

Located in Collins Park steps from the beach, The Bass is a contemporary art museum on the northern end of South Beach featuring international contemporary art in a wide range of media, including sculpture, design, fashion and architecture. The small two-floor museum is housed in a 1930s art deco building that was formerly the Miami Beach Public Library and Art Center. While exhibitions within the galleries change every few months, The Bass' permanent collection includes outdoor public art within Collins Park, headlined by artist Ugo Rondinone's Miami Mountain sculpture – five boulders stacked 42 feet high, each painted a different fluorescent color, that have become an iconic photo-op.

Visitors can scan QR codes throughout the museum to follow a self-guided tour from their phone, but guided tours must be reserved in advance for an additional fee. The museum also has a cafe serving coffee and light bites; a boutique bookstore and gift shop selling designer jewelry, accessories, art books and other unique gifts; and an education facility called the Creativity Center for programming and workshops.

Miami Children's Museum Miami Children's Museum

The Miami Children's Museum is located on a little island between downtown Miami and South Beach . Kid-friendly interactive exhibits are the focus of this museum, which caters to young children with things like a 6-foot piggy bank (to learn about financial literacy), the Castle of Dreams (a two-story sand castle with a winding slide designed to inspire imagination) and the Music Makers Studio (where children can learn how musical sounds are made), among several other engaging activities.

Families visiting Miami Beach say this is a great air-conditioned place to spend some time with younger kids, especially since many of the exhibits are so engaging. The museum offers fun activities for all ages, but parents said children ages 3 to 6 seemed to enjoy it more than the older ones. The downsides visitors noted were the high cost of admission (and having to pay for parking, too) and the limited food options available on-site. Recent travelers have also mentioned the museum could benefit from some updates.

Haulover Park Haulover Park

Clothing-optional Haulover has long been a favorite of laissez-faire residents and vacationers, but there's more to do here than nude sunbathing. You can fly kites, go charter fishing and even play volleyball at this shore located just north of Bal Harbour. And you don't have to strip to your birthday suit to enjoy this area, as there are also designated sections for swimsuit-clad beach bathing (the northern area of the beach is where you'll find nude sunbathers).

Most travelers said they enjoyed their time at Haulover Park, noting that it's a far more laid-back option than the busier South Beach . Some recent travelers expressed surprise at how friendly the people at the beach were, whether clothed or unclothed. If you don't bring your own gear, plan to part with at least $10 to $25 for beach and chair rentals, according to past visitors.

Ancient Spanish Monastery Ancient Spanish Monastery

Situated in North Miami Beach, this monastery has a storied past. Officially known as the Monastery of St. Bernard de Clairvaux, construction on the structure began in A.D. 1133 in northern Spain and was completed eight years later. It was inhabited by monks for nearly 700 years, but after a revolution in the 1830s, the monastery was taken over and sold. In 1925, the cloisters and the rest of the monastery were purchased by William Randolph Hearst and dismantled stone by stone to be shipped to the U.S., packed in more than 11,000 crates. After years of sitting in storage, the monastery was rebuilt in Miami over the course of 19 months with plans to turn it into a tourist attraction called the Ancient Spanish Monastery. (Time magazine called it "The Biggest Jigsaw Puzzle in History," as it involved over 35,000 stones.) It didn't do too hot as a tourist attraction alone, so it was sold to a local diocese and was turned into a church. Today, it's an active congregation that welcomes churchgoers and also acts as an attraction highlighting the monastery's beautiful architecture and its surrounding gardens.

If you're looking to escape the hubbub of South Beach , you can venture north to admire this tranquil monastery. Visitors love that its grounds are historic, quiet and serene, and say when the gardens are in full bloom it's truly a sight to see.

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1.  wynwood walls the soul of miami’s art.

Wynwood , CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

2.  South Beach is Miami’s Art Deco Wonderland

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3. Dive into the Enchanting World of Marine life at the Miami Seaquarium

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4.  Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is Miami’s Dedication to  Nature

5. step back in time at the vizcaya museum and gardens.

Daderot , Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

6. Beyond its Famous Shores, Miami Beach offers Plenty of Aquatic Adventures

7. experience the heartbeat of cuban culture in little havana.

Sharon Hahn Darlin , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

8.  Jungle Island is Miami’s Tropical Eden

9. miami’s gastronomic scene is a tantalizing journey, 10.  get a bird’s eye view of the magic city from  miami observation wheel.

Image by yanivmatza from Pixabay

11. A Short Drive from Miami, Key Pristine Beaches Biscayne Await

12. immerse yourself in the culture of miami at the adrienne arsht center.

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13. Miami Design District is your Dose of High-End Shopping

14. perez art museum miami (pamm) beckons art enthusiasts.

Sculpture by Raymond Duchamp-Villon; I took this photograph. , Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

15.  Everglades Encounter: Airboat Adventures

16.  delve into the historic charm of coral gables merrick house , 17.  miami’s historic landmark: freedom tower.

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18.  Dive into the Venetian Pool, a Unique Miami Freshwater Oasis

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19. Frost Planetarium is a Must-see Tourist Attraction in Miami

20. cap off your miami adventure at   bill baggs cape florida state park.

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53 Best Tourist Attractions in Miami

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It’s glitzy, it’s world-famous, and it’s long been high upon many a tourist bucket list. The sun-kissed city of Miami is where pastel-hued buildings and lively nightlife converge; it’s where Cuban flair (looking at you, Little Havana) intersects with nature and world-class food and dining.

Miami is a city of choice; whatever you want, where that’s a deep-dive into art, culture, food, sport, or shot-slinging nightlife, you’ll find it here in the 305.

From the luxurious shopping on Ocean Drive to the gram-worthy Wynwood Walls, the golden shores of South Beach, and the jaw-dropping Millionaire’s Row, you’re spoiled for choice for things to do in Magic City.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the best tourist attractions in Miami – throw in the zoo, Biscayne Bay, the Everglades, Gulfstream Park, the Venetian Pool, and the Calle Ocho Walk of Fame, are you’re left with an enticing smorgasbord of opportunity.

1 – Zoo Miami

Where the Amazon jungle meets the Australian outback, Zoo Miami brings the cuddliest, fluffiest, and sometimes most sinister creatures from all around the globe into one 750-acre attraction (making it one of the largest zoos in the US).

A surefire hit for families, the zoo plays host to more than 3,000 animals of all shapes and sizes, representing over 500 species from near and far. Open year-round, you can wander through themed exhibits like Amazon and Beyond, the Wings of Asia Aviary, and Florida: Mission Everglades.

Besides the chance to see the curious critters – lions, tigers, kangaroos, snakes, meerkats, giraffes, gazelles, and more – roaming around in their spacious enclosures, the zoo also offers behind-the-scenes safari tram tours which provide a closer look at the animals’ habitats and care.

The youngsters are sure to love the Animal Fun Factory, the Pedal Boats, and the Lostman’s River Ride, while the daily Critter Connection presentations are always a hoot with visitors of all ages.

While you’re there: The zoo is right next to the Gold Coast Railroad Museum, so why not check them both off on the same day?

• Zoo Miami tickets

2 – Venetian Pool

Having welcomed Florida locals for over a century (opened back in 1924), this Coral Gables institution is nothing short of iconic. The Venetian Pool, nestled in a former coral rock quarry, beckons with its Mediterranean-style allure. Dip into its crystal-clear waters (and with approximately 820,000 gallons, you’re sure to find your own space) while waterfalls cascade around you and grottoes invite you to venture off the beaten track.

Found on many a postcard, this historic swimming pool – which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places – is a true marvel. Inspired by the Italian city of Venice, it’s complete with bridges and a sandy beach area, making it a worthy destination on any sizzling summer’s day.

Open seasonally (usually between March to November), the Venetian Pool sells itself as a picturesque and refreshing escape from the Miami heat (not to mention the Miami crowds). Rent a cabana for added luxury, and bask in the peaceful ambiance of this stunning oasis.

Once you’re all dried off, Miracle Mile shops are just around the corner; or there’s the Coral Gables Museum if you want to learn more about the historic area.

3 – Millionaire’s Row Sightseeing Cruise

The East Coast’s answer to Beverly Hills, Millionaire’s Row is – just as you’d expect from the name – a hubbub of luxury, opulence, and, well, money.

Given that so many of these mansions are directly facing the waters of Biscayne Bay, you can only truly appreciate their grandeur from the water itself – and that’s exactly why Millionaire’s Row sightseeing cruises have become so popular as of late.

Whether you prefer the high-speed thrill of a speedboat tour or the low-key nature of a catamaran, all of the sightseeing cruises roll back the curtain on the glamorous lifestyles of Miami’s wealthy elite.

Usually departing from Bayside Marketplace, these narrated boat tours take you along the sparkling Biscayne Bay, where opulent mansions and luxurious yachts dot the shoreline. You can expect to soak in breathtaking views of Miami’s skyline and the picturesque Miami Beach, sail past Star Island, Fisher Island, and the Venetian Islands, and learn all about the city’s rich and famous residents.

Choose from daytime cruises or embark on a romantic Sunset Cruise to add a touch of magic to your Miami experience.

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4 – Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

Craving an escape from the fast-paced city life? Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park may just be the serene retreat you’re looking for. Tucked away on the tip of Key Biscayne, this natural gem boasts two miles of pristine beaches, inviting you to relax, swim, and sunbathe on the golden shores.

Finding itself on many a postcard, the park’s centerpiece is the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse, a cherished landmark whose story dates all the way back to 1825. From its lookout (yes, you can actually climb it), you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the bay in one direction and the city skyline in the other.

Lighthouse aside, the park also boasts hiking and biking trails that wind their way through the greenery and along the shoreline – Robin’s Birding Trail being the main one.

Enjoy a meal at the on-site Lighthouse Cafe, soak up the sun at Cape Florida Beach, or bring a picnic to make the most of this peaceful outdoor paradise.

5 – Candlelight concert

A perfect date night option, the candlelight Concert series brings enchanting musical performances to unique venues all across Miami. And while you might expect candlelight and classical music to go hand in hand, there are actually dozens of different concert themes to choose from.

On the one hand, you’ve got candlelight tributes to Radiohead, Adele, Marvin Gaye, Beyonce, Taylor Swift, Fleetwood Mac, Ed Sheeran, Metallica, Coldplay, Linkin Park, Queen, and more. On the other,  you’ve got holiday jazz concerts haunted Halloween nights, hip-hop classics played on the piano, and soundtrack renditions from video games like Zelda. Throw in ballet shows with Tchaikovsky as the backdrop and a showcase of different anime TV show themes, and it’s clear that there’s a romantic evening suitable to each and every interest.

The venues vary too; whether held in historic buildings, gardens, or other scenic spots around town, candlelight concerts promise to be an unforgettable night out in Miami’s cultural scene. Simply check the website to see what’s playing when you’re in town.

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6 – Calle Ocho Walk of Fame

Forget about Hollywood Boulevard’s Walk of Fame; Miami’s Calle Ocho Walk of Fame takes you on a fascinating journey through the heart of Little Havana’s rich cultural heritage – it’s all the cultural significance and photo-worthy moments, without the tourist traps you’ll find in Tinseltown.

Located along SW 8th Street between 12th Avenue and 7th Avenue, this sidewalk pays homage to celebrated Latin artists, musicians, and culture shapers. As you stroll through the area, you’ll encounter stars embedded in the pavement, honoring Latin icons like Gloria Estefan, Julio Iglesias, Celia Cruz, and so many more.

Make your way along the Walk of Fame to Little Havana, where authentic Cuban cuisine, the rhythmic sounds of salsa music, and the Cubaocho bar-meets-performing arts center awaits.

Hot tip: If you happen to be visiting in March, don’t miss the Calle Ocho Festival – a one-day extravaganza of music, food, and partying through the city’s vibrant Latin neighborhood.

7 – Everglades National Park

Covering close to 1.5 million acres of untouched wilderness, Everglades National Park stands as a sprawling sanctuary of biodiversity and natural wonders. Located just a short drive from Miami, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is officially the largest tropical wilderness reserve in the United States (not to mention the largest wilderness of any kind east of the Mississippi River).

Home to all kinds of rare and endangered species, including the elusive Florida panther, the American crocodile, and the American alligator, the park presents fantastic opportunities for wildlife viewing – and, with over 360 different avian species, fantastic birdwatching opportunities too.

And while you can easily explore the region on your own, to make the most of the adventure, most tourists prefer to join a guided tour. This way, you can explore the park’s trails, zoom around on an airboat, or take a relaxing boat ride around the mangroves to discover the true essence of this untamed wilderness – without having to worry about navigating your way around the sprawling parklands.

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8 – Pérez Art Museum

One for the culture vultures, the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) sits at the forefront of Miami’s vibrant art scene. Located on Biscayne Bay, this architectural gem houses an impressive collection of contemporary and international art. Focusing specifically on work from the 20th and 21st centuries, the thought-provoking exhibits feature renowned artists from Latin America, the Caribbean, and beyond.

PAMM’s stunning waterfront location provides a dynamic backdrop for the ever-changing art displays and installations, and its picturesque hanging gardens add the cherry on top.

Permanent collection and rotating special exhibits aside, the museum also puts on an array of engaging educational programs and events, from artist talks to live performances. Simply check the website to see what’s on the cards when you’re in town.

While you’re there: The museum sits right next to the Phillip and Patricia Frost Science Museum, so if you’re in the neighborhood, why not make a day of it by taking in both impressive venues?

9 – Biscayne Bay

A little inlet of the Atlantic, but a massive part of southern Florida culture, Biscayne Bay stretches out along the city’s eastern edge. Boating, fishing, swimming, and sunbathing are just some of the activities you can get up to here – but if you’re looking for a more active day out on the water, jet skiing is also an option.

The bay is known for its diverse plant and animal life too – keep an eye out in particular for the infamous manatees, playful dolphins, and a myriad of seabirds that can be seen soaring around the area.

Of course, no trip to Miami is complete without a visit to Biscayne Bay’s stunning white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. Take your pick from Key Biscayne Beach (next to Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park), Rickenbacker Causeway Beach, or Crandon Beach, to name a few.

Hot tip: To get the most out of your visit, and venture away from the run-of-the-mill tourist spots, consider booking a private Biscayne Bay boat tour. This way, you can explore the bay’s remote islands and inlets – the picturesque ones that only the locals know about!

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10 – Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel

From ground level, Miami is a cacophony of sights and sounds, but from an aerial perspective, it transforms into a breathtaking panorama of skyscrapers, sun-kissed beaches, and sprawling suburbs.

That’s exactly what you can expect to find aboard the Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel , where you’ll be lifted high above the city’s skyline for a mesmerizing experience. Standing tall at an impressive height of over 175 feet, this giant Ferris wheel treats you to sweeping views of Miami’s iconic landmarks – from the glimmering waters of Biscayne Bay to the art-golden shores of South Beach.

Whether it’s a day ride or a nighttime adventure (or, better yet, a sunset), each cabin presents a 360-degree view (with glass floors to boot).

Each ride is over and done within 15 minutes, making it an easy addition to any afternoon of Bayside Marketplace or Bayfront Park exploring.

11 – Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Epitomizing the idea of early 20th-century luxury, the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens transports you back to a time of opulence and grandeur.

This European-inspired estate, built by businessman James Deering in 1916, showcases the lavish lifestyle of the Gilded Age — wander through the stunning Italian Renaissance-style villa, whose 32 rooms are decked out with an impressive collection of art and antiques.

From there, make your way out to the enchanting gardens, where fountains, sculptures, and lush plantlife await – all overlooking Biscayne Bay if you don’t mind.

The architectural beauty and historical significance of Vizcaya have earned it a place on the National Register of Historic Places, so if you can grab tickets it’s well worth a visit.

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12 – South Pointe Park Pier

Stretching 450 feet out into the Atlantic Ocean, the South Pointe Park Pier is an often-overlooked gem – most people flock to South Beach, however, the pier which sits right around the corner is arguably just as stunning.

This iconic pier dishes up spectacular views of the city skyline and – weather permitting – a wonderful sunset experience. And, if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of dolphins, manatees, and pelicans making their way around the waters below.

On dry land, there are plenty of things to do as well – explore the little shops nearby (such as the South Pointe Cafe) or even go fishing from the pier itself. Totally free to visit, and with the South Pointe Park Lighthouse a stone’s throw away, Southe Pointe Park Pier sells itself as one of the best tourist attractions in Miami.

13 – Hop on hop off bus tours

Short on time? Or can’t be bothered planning out a detailed sightseeing itinerary? Look no further than Miami’s convenient and entertaining hop-on-hop-off bus tours.

A stress-free way to explore the city’s top attractions, these guided tours allow you to (as the name suggests) hop on and off as you please.

The route passes by the majority of Miami’s iconic landmarks –from South Beach to Little Havana, the Wynwood Walls, the Bayside Marketplace, the Design District, Downtown, Soundscape Park, and more.

Take your pick from two options: the day tour and the night tour. The former, also known as the Red Loop, takes just over 2 hours from start to end (not including any time you hop off to explore) and runs every 30 minutes from around 9 AM to 5 PM.

The 90-minute night tour (Blue Loop), on the other hand, only operates once a night but makes sure to hit up the most happening haunts in town: South Beach, Ocean Drive, and Downtown Miami, to name a few.

Either way, knowledgeable guides will wax fascinating insights into the city’s history and culture along the way. And with ticket options that also include a Millionaire’s Row Boat Cruise and free bike rental, you can save yourself some cash in the long run too.

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14 – Matheson Hammock Park & Marina

A Coral Gables crowd favorite, Matheson Hammock Park & Marina sports 630 acres of scenic beauty – making it a treasure trove of outdoor fun.

Sitting on the shores of Biscayne Bay, not too far from the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, this picturesque park is a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts.

If you prefer to stay on land, take a leisurely stroll along the walking trails where you can breathe in the fresh air and bask in the serene ambiance (it’s night and day compared to the likes of South Beach). The several grassy areas make for a solid spot for a picnic, although eateries like NOMA Beach at Redfish also put their hand up if you prefer more of a table setting.

When you’re ready for a dip, the park’s undisputed highlight is its man-made atoll pool – with calm, shallow waters, it’s ideal for a relaxing swim or paddle.

Of course, the park’s marina has boating and fishing tours aplenty. Whether you’re seeking a dose of relaxation or some good old outdoor adventure, Matheson won’t disappoint.

15 – Art Deco District

Always full of energy and color, Miami’s Art Deco District is all about that retro charm.

A popular area in the iconic South Beach neighborhood, primarily concentrated along Ocean Drive, this architecturally famous locale showcases over 800 historic buildings, many of which sport that vibrant Art Deco style of the 1920s and 1930s — think pastel-hued colors, distinctive geometric patterns, and sleek lines.

Walk through the streets and admire all the unique buildings, or take some time to explore the galleries, shops, and restaurants that call this energetic part of Miami home. And when you’re done exploring, the slew of nightclubs and bars will be waiting to welcome you in for a night of fun.

Sure, it’s beautiful, but it’s also an area overflowing with historical significance. For that reason exactly, an organized tour comes highly recommended. You’ll not only learn about the history and culture of the area, but you’ll also get the inside scoop on all those Art Deco buildings.

Timing your visit: Each January (for the better part of 50 years), Miami hosts the Art Deco Weekend festival. The city comes alive, celebrating the district’s heritage with live music, art shows, vintage cars, and so much more – so if you happen to be in town at the start of the year, take note.

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16 – Wynwood Art District

The neighborhood of Wynwood has become one of the most vibrant areas in Miami – and it’s thanks largely to the eponymous Wynwood Walls, an outdoor art gallery that shows off work from some of the biggest names in street art (including Futura 2000, Kenny Scharf, and Swoon).

Since 2009, the Wynwood Walls have become a social media sensation and a justifiably popular spot for art-seeking tourists. If you’re looking to take some amazing photos or spend an afternoon walking around taking in the sights (and maybe some lunch if you get peckish) then this famous area beckons. Plus, the colorful murals are constantly being updated, so no two visits are the same!

And, if you’re in the mood for more art, and have already ticked off one of the street art tours in Miami , there are plenty of galleries around the area that you can explore too – the Peter Tunney Experience, GGA Gallery, and the Wynwood Art Gallery, in particular, all invite art aficionados to pop by.

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17 – South Beach

Arguably the most iconic beach on America’s East Coast, South Beach has it all – pristine sandy shores, crystal-clear waters, and a high-energy, never-sleeps vibe.

As the crown jewel of Miami Beach, South Beach draws locals and tourists alike to its sun-kissed shores; here, you can kick back and soak up the rays, take a dip in the Atlantic Ocean (lifeguard-protected) waters, or sip on a handcrafted cocktail at one of the trendy beach clubs or cafes that line the boardwalk.

Shop ’til you drop at Lincoln Road, a pedestrian-friendly shopping promenade; join a game of beach volleyball at Lummus Park; or escape the hustle and bustle at the Miami Beach Botanical Garden — as you can see, there’s no shortage of things to do in South Beach .

That’s all the mainstream stuff though. If you want to venture off the beaten track,  consider joining one of the bike tours in Miami . Led by in-the-know locals, these tours cycle along the scenic paths of South Beach away from the crowds — soak up the art deco architecture, discover hidden gems tucked away behind the lively streets, and check out the colorful murals that define the neighborhood’s unique character.

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18 – Bayside Marketplace

A hot spot for shopping, dining, and entertainment, Bayside Marketplace is a must-visit destination in downtown Miami. Overlooking the picturesque Biscayne Bay, this open-air shopping center boasts a truckload of shops, boutiques, and souvenir stores where you can find everything from the latest fashion trends to handmade arts and crafts.

After exploring the myriad of shops, take a second to slow down at one of the waterfront restaurants or cafes. Whether you hit up Black Market Bayside, Cafe Con Leche, Five Guys, LandShakr Bar & Brill, or the infamous Hard Rock Cafe, you’ll be treated to top-notch marina views with delectable eats to boot.

And when the sun begins its descent, Bayside Marketplace springs to another level of life — you’ll regularly find live music and street performers entertaining the masses. It’s the perfect recipe for an enchanting evening in the Magic City.

Hot tip: Take a short walk over to Bayfront Park, a nearby slice of greenery with beautiful gardens, relaxing walking paths, and stunning views of the bay (and the cruise ships docking at the Port of Miami). It’s also where you’ll find the Bayfront Park Amphitheater, an outdoor venue that hosts concerts, festivals, and cultural performances throughout the year.

19 – Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience

Where centuries-old artistic masterpieces come face to face with ultra-modern technology, Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience promises an unforgettable journey into the mind of the legendary Dutch artist, Vincent van Gogh.

Found in downtown Miami at the historic Olympia Theater, this captivating exhibition uses cutting-edge projection techniques and surround sound to bring Van Gogh’s most celebrated works — Sunflowers, Starry Night, Almond Blossom, and Tree Roots, to name a few — to life.

Through the artwork, as well as the complementary displays, you’ll learn all about the painter’s life, work, and style.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for a cute, romantic date activity, this 360-degree immersive attraction guarantees an experience that’s both entertaining and educational.

What’s next? After spending an hour or so visiting Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience, consider popping over to other downtown Miami cultural spots, like Bayfront Park or the History Miami Museum (see #25).

• Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience tickets

20 – Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science

If you’re an unapologetic nerd, fascinated by all things space, physics, biology, and nature, the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is your ultimate playground in Miami.

Located in the aptly-named Museum Park alongside the Pérez Art Museum (see #8) and the Dogs and Cats Walkway and Sculpture Gardens (yes, that’s a real thing), this state-of-the-art science museum dives into anything and everything about the natural world, technology, and the galaxies beyond.

Featuring interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and a three-level Gulf Stream Tank aquarium (full of sharks, stingrays, and colorful tropical fish), the 250,000-square-foot manages to make learning fun for the entire family.

The Mummies of the World, which boasts the mummified remains of 40 real humans and animals, takes visitors on a journey back to Ancient Egypt; The Ice Age Giants section shows off the giant beasts that roamed North America 10,000 years ago, and the River of Grass gallery dives into the wet, wild and mysterious Everglades.

Those, and half a dozen more, make this place one of the best tourist attractions in Miami.

The museum also puts on several hands-on workshops and educational programs designed to engage and inspire curious minds of all ages – from Tech Lab sessions to volunteer tree planting, there’s always something new happening. Just check the website to see what’s on.

21 – Rooftop Cinema Club

With so many warm, balmy nights throughout the year, and summer days that seem to last forever, it’s no wonder Miami has become home to a number of outdoor movie screenings.

And if you ask the locals, they’ll tell you that there’s no place better equipped than the Rooftop Cinema Club on Lincoln Road in South Beach.

You can grab the popcorn (or, thanks to a diverse menu, hot dogs, pizzas, and more) and check out all kinds of top-notch films – from the latest blockbusters to classic favorites from the ’80s and ’90s. Plus, to spice things up a notch, the 21+ full bar sells cocktails, wine, beer, hard seltzers, and – for the romantics out there – bubbles.

With a 24-foot LED screen, comfortable lounge chairs, and wireless headphones (instead of a speaker system), you’ll feel like you’re in your private cinema – this time, however, you’ve got the cityscape as your backdrop!

The roster of films is always changing, so make sure to check out the website for updates on showtimes and movie titles. And don’t forget to bring a light jacket – even during the summer months, it can get a bit chilly up there.

Hot tip: Arrive early for a drink, and play a round of giant Jenga, Cards Against Humanity or Connect 4 before the show starts.

22 – Artechouse

Tucked away in the heart of South Beach on Collins Street, Artechouse is where art, science, and technology collide. Step inside this innovative art space and you’ll be completely blown away by its cutting-edge exhibitions.

Similar to the Van Gogh Immersive Experience (see #19), Artechouse is designed to put you smack-bang in the middle of the artwork. Using the latest interactive technologies like projection mapping, surround sound, lasers, and augmented reality, Artechouse creates an immersive atmosphere that transports you to worlds exploding with color and patterns.

This isn’t your typical art museum – touching, feeling, photographing and even stepping inside the artworks is encouraged.

As well as showcasing a selection of rotating exhibitions (which are usually centered around a specific theme, like nature, technology, color, or human connection), Artechouse also has interactive art classes and workshops for adults and children alike.

Even if you’re not transfixed by the art world, it makes for one hell of an Instagram backdrop.

23 – Deering Estate

Sitting on a whopping 450 acres, right on the edge of Biscayne Bay, the Deering Estate blends history, nature, and noteworthy architecture to which few other Miami-based estates can compare.

Steeped in rich history, this scenic estate features the majestic Charles Deering Mansion, a Mediterranean Revival-style marvel that dates back to the early 1920s. By day, you can wander through well-preserved archaeological sites that uncover the fascinating stories of ancient inhabitants; by night, you can join one of the spooky ghost tours that unpack the estate’s rumored paranormal activity

The best way to see everything the estate has to show is with a guided tour – this way, you’ll learn all about the estate’s past, the building’s unique architecture, and the surrounding environment (not to mention the 170+ bird species that frequent the area). Staff-led daily Nature Preserve Tours are held at 12:30 pm between October and May.

Plus, with art exhibits, kayak, and paddleboard rentals to explore the mangroves, cruises out to nearby lighthouses, sunrise photography sessions, yoga sessions, and more, there’s so much more to this place than just a sprawling, old mansion.

24 – Miami International Autodrome

Speed demons and petrolheads, listen up. The Miami International Autodrome – a 15-20-minute drive from Downtown or South Beach – is a haven for motorsport enthusiasts.

If, for nothing else, it’s home to the highly anticipated annual Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix. Held every year in May, the Autodrome comes alive with local and international spectators, and the fastest drivers on the planet – with food, entertainment, and so much going on over the weekend, it’s unmissable if you’re a racing fan.

Located in the Miami Gardens district, this high-octane venue promises thrilling racing action on a twisting circuit that snakes around the Hard Rock Stadium (where music events, festivals, and home games for the Miami Dolphins and the University of Miami Hurricanes take place year-round).

Outside of the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix season, the Autrome lays mostly quiet, bar a couple of car shows and events throughout the year.

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25 – History Miami Museum

What comes to mind when you think of Miami? Eccentric nightlife, golden beaches, and Art Deco architecture, right? Well, add a dash of history to that mix – and there’s no better place to learn about the Magic City of yesteryear than the History Miami Museum .

Here, through fascinating displays, old-school artifacts, and plenty of stories, you can immerse yourself in the narratives of Miami’s past, diving into the cultural evolution, the diverse communities (especially the Cuban and Latin circles), and the pivotal events that shaped the city’s identity.

While the themes do change from time to time (past exhibitions have included Miami from the Sky, 50 Years of Music with Willy Chirino, and Mythical Creatures), you can usually expect to explore exhibits on topics ranging from early indigenous cultures to the glamorous heydays of Art Deco architecture, and from the civil rights movement to the impact of immigration on the city’s growth.

Located in Downtown Miami on Flagler St, the History Miami Museum houses a vast collection — we’re talkin’ 37,000 artifacts, 1.5 million photographs, and close to 30,000 maps and architectural drawings.

Good to know: The History Miami Museum also runs public and private guided tours that explore the city’s historic neighborhoods and landmarks with internationally acclaimed historian Dr. Paul George.

26 – Miami Seaquarium

A great option for anyone traveling with kids in tow, the Miami Seaquarium promises a day of underwater wonders and full-on family fun.

Found over on Virginia Key (a terrific spot for an afternoon stroll in the park), this iconic marine institution has been a staple in Miami’s entertainment scene since 1955, captivating visitors with its long list of friendly sea creatures and the entertaining, highly educational shows.

The star attractions include magnificent killer whales, dolphins, manatees, penguins, sea turtles, and sharks, many of which come together in the 750,000-gallon saltwater aquarium. But there’s more to it than just animals – the Seaquarium also holds talk on animal behavior and conservation efforts, making it an eye-opening experience for visitors of all ages.

Looking for something extra special? Why not sign up for one of the animal encounters? Choose from swimming with dolphins or seals, feeding sea turtles, heading underwater on the SeaTREK® Reef Encounter, or joining a 2.5-hour VIP behind-the-scenes tour, where you’ll get to experience an entirely different side of the aquarium.

Before you leave: Make sure to try the new DIVR+ virtual reality snorkeling system. sensory feedback

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27 – The Wharf Miami

Where the good times roll, The Wharf Miami is a premier waterfront destination that fuses great food, lively entertainment, and a bubbly atmosphere. Perched along the Miami River, this trendy venue is known for its breathtaking views (of both the skyline and the water), making it a hot spot for locals and tourists alike.

As you make your way around the area, you’ll find a dynamic mix of restaurants, bars, and food trucks ranging from gourmet eats to casual bites — Spris Artisan Pizza and Sake Room Sushi both tantalize, while just across the bridge, Jamon Iberico Pata Negra Restaurant is one of the top choices in the area.

The Wharf Miami’s appeal extends beyond its food though. Its main function is as a lively events space – throughout the year, you’ll find everything from game nights to UFC fight screenings, International Beer Day celebrations, weekly happy hours, and so much more.

Don’t miss the Sundays On The River staple – held weekly, from midday till late, you can soak up the live music, while sipping on handcrafted cocktails. What’s not to love?

28 – Ancient Spanish Monastery

History buffs, rejoice. Officially the oldest building in the Western hemisphere, the Ancient Spanish Monastery – also known as the St. Bernard de Clairvaux Church – is a rare architectural gem that stands as a testament to medieval European craftsmanship.

Originally constructed in the 12th century in Segovia, Spain, the structure was dismantled, shipped to the United States, and reassembled in Miami during the 20th century. By who? None other than William Randolph Hearst, the man behind California’s Hearst Castle.

Back to Florida though – today, visitors can explore this living piece of history, admiring its detailed arches and columns, and the beautiful gardens that transport you to Europe European.

Thanks to its rare image, the Ancient Spanish Monastery is a sought-after location for weddings, photography sessions, and special events – between them, however, it remains open to the public for guided tours (that focus on the history and architecture, mostly), art exhibits and regular chapel services.

At just $10 per ticket, not only is it one of Miami’s best tourist attractions, but it’s also one of the more affordable.

29 – LoanDepot Park

The stomping ground of the MLB’s Miami Marlins, LoanDepot Park is always buzzing with diehard baseball fans, dishing up energy – and when packed to the rafters with 37,000 supporters, a roar – that you won’t find in too many other Florida stadiums.

Formerly known as Marlins Park, this state-of-the-art stadium offers much more than just baseball games; it’s a modern entertainment hub with a retractable roof, large LED displays, and an array of amenities.

During the season, which runs from roughly April to November, you can catch a thrilling game of America’s favorite pastime as the Miami Marlins take on rival teams. In the off-season, the stadium doesn’t just sit and wait – it plays host to rock and pop concerts (hosting names like Kanye, Guns N Roses, and Beyoncé in recent years), festivals, and preseason matches.

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30 – Miami Children’s Museum

Looking for an interactive and educational adventure for the little ones? The Miami Children’s Museum is an absolute delight, presenting a world of imagination, learning, and play for tots of all ages.

Tucked away over on Watson Island (right next to Jungle Island – see #37), which is one of many sandwiched between the mainland and Miami Beach, this locally beloved museum boasts a truckload of hands-on activities designed that engage young minds and nurture their creativity.

With a mission to provide a safe and fun space for children to learn through play, the museum dives into everything from science and art to culture and communication.

Little explorers can set sail on a virtual cruise, explore the world of art, walk through a six-foot piggy bank, learn about the workings of money, relax and unwind in the multi-sensory Snoezelen Room; and role-play as construction workers, rockstars, athletes, even farmers!

The Miami Children’s Museum also hosts special events, workshops, and educational programs throughout the year. Oh, and let’s not forget the on-site mini-golf course.

So, if you’re looking to keep the little ones entertained for an afternoon, the Miami Children’s Museum is the perfect destination.

31 – Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

Craving an escape? Then the natural wonderland at the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden , where a breathtaking array of exotic trees and flowers await, will do just the trick.

Conveniently located in Coral Gables, a few minutes from the Matheson Hammock Park & Marina (see #14), this sprawling garden spans 83 acres and showcases one of the most extensive collections of tropical and subtropical plants in the world.

As you stroll along the well-maintained pathways, you’ll discover diverse gardens, each with its own distinctive theme — you’ll find 11 lakes and 7 pools in the Aquatic Exhibits, 740 species of trees in the Arboretum and Geiger Tropical Flower Garden; climbable attractions in the Children’s Garden; an incredibly diverse spectrum of fauna in the Richard H. Simons Rainforest, a thriving Cycad Collection with most of the world’s 315 species, and so much more.

Throw a Butterfly Garden, Organic Vegetable Garden, and Tropical Fruit Pavillion into the mix (and we’re not even done yet), and it becomes clear that nature enthusiasts, photographers, and families alike will adore the garden’s serene ambiance and stunning scenery.

Don’t forget to check the garden’s calendar for special events, plant sales, and educational programs that encourage you to delve deeper into the fascinating world of tropical botany.

32 – Superblue Miami

It’s trippy. It’s meditative. And it’s downright gorgeous. At least, that’s what the New York Times had to say about this new age, art-meets-technology attraction.

Found over in the residential Allapattah neighborhood, Superblue Miami is an innovative art space that presents mind-bending experiences through cutting-edge technology – think fully immersive, 360-degree art, which you literally become a part of.

As the first of its kind in the United States, Superblue Miami has quickly become a hotspot for art enthusiasts seeking to be transported into interactive and multidimensional worlds of creativity.

Featuring works from world-renowned artists – like Pulse Topology by renowned Mexican-Canadian artist Rafael Lozano-Hemmer, or colorful installations by Es Devlin or teamLab – Superblue Miami invites visitors to interact, engage, and even become part of the art itself.

One of the highlights at Superblue Miami is the “teamLab” exhibition, a collaboration with the acclaimed art collective from Japan.

Blending digital art, projection mapping, and spatial design, the Superblue Miami Immersive Art Experience feat. teamLab exhibition immerses visitors in a realm of ever-changing colors, shapes, and virtual landscapes.

Hot tip: visit during the week to save a few bucks.

33 – Bayfront Park

A stone’s throw from the waterfront Bayside Marketplace, Bayfront Park is a lush urban oasis in the heart of Downtown Miami. This 32-acre park serves as a delightful escape from the bustling city, with stunning views of Biscayne Bay on one side and the towering skyline on the other.

Ice cream in hand, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque promenade, then chill out for a break in the shade of swaying palm trees. Or, if you get lucky, you can even catch an outdoor concert at the Tina Hills Pavilion or the Klipsch Amphitheater.

For all you history buffs, there’s a good list of notable attractions here for you too: the Challenger Memorial, the Light Tower, and the Slide Mantram, as well as the World War II Veterans’ Memorial, are all worthy of a quick stop.

All in all, Bayfront Park has been a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike since the turn of the 20th century – and it continues to dish up the perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation to this day.

34 – Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU

A quick walk behind the bustling shores of South Beach, the Jewish Museum of Florida reveals a different side of the local culture, focusing on the stories of Jewish immigrants, and how they’ve helped shaped the modern Miami (and the modern Florida) of today.

Through all kinds of historic documents, as well as throwback photographs and multimedia presentations (not to mention live events) that show all kinds of perspectives on how Florida’s Jewish life has progressed through generations, the museum manages to successfully showcase both sides of the coin: both the challenges and the successes experienced by the Jewish community throughout the years.

With new exhibits popping up regularly, diving into everything from Jewish art and film to photojournalism pieces, there’s always something new and intriguing to discover.

35 – Historic Virginia Key Beach Park

When you need a reprieve from the bustling city life, Historic Virginia Key Beach Park provides a tranquil escape on Virginia Key, just a short drive from Miami’s downtown.

While its beauty speaks for itself, this historic park also holds immense cultural significance  –it was the only public beach accessible to African Americans during the era of segregation.

Today, it stands as a symbol of unity and progress, welcoming visitors of all backgrounds to enjoy its natural beauty and historical importance.

After a topsy-turvy history, including a few decades of closure, it’s now reopened and thriving – you can take a ride back through its history aboard the Biscayne Virginia Rickenbacker Central, a historic miniature train that ventures through the wetlands, ride along some of the city’s most adrenaline-pumping bike trails, rent a kayak or even take a moonlight paddleboard tour.

With so much to do, and such a strong cultural tie, it’s right up there with the best tourist attractions in Miami (despite still being underrated).

36 – Museum of Illusions

Ready to have your mind blown? Sporting over 50 different exhibits that play with perspective, size, and gravity The Museum of Illusions in Miami is an interactive wonderland that encourages your imagination to run wild.

Sitting in Miami Beach’s upbeat Lincoln Road Mall, this museum is a playground of visual tricks, mind-bending puzzles, and optical illusions that will leave you questioning what’s real and what’s not — and, trust us, your social media followers will be questioning it too!

Ride through Agrabah on Aladdin’s magic carpet, battle fire-breathing dragons, or head to outer space! Either way, you’ll walk away with a new profile pic – guaranteed!

Got some pent-up rage? The on-site Smash Room should help you out with that too.

• Museum of Illusions tickets

37 – Jungle Island

Right around the corner from the Miami Children’s Museum, Jungle Island is another family-favorite Miami attraction. Themed around (yep, you guessed it) the diverse creatures of the world’s jungles, this zoological park promises an adventure for the whole family.

Set in a tropical landscape, the park is home to animals big and small, from all corners of the world. You’ve got playful lemurs, sleepy sloths, fabulous flamingoes, giant tortoises, wallabies, capybaras, cute-as-a-button bunnies, and plenty more.

The most basic option is a walk through the Garden (which includes a fascinating Florida Everglades exhibit). But if you’re looking for something a little extra special, why not sign up for one of the up-close animal encounters?

Whether you’re feeding a friendly wallaby, cuddling a lemur, or petting a couple of capybaras, Jungle Island is sure to leave you with cherished memories aplenty.

But the excitement doesn’t end there! In addition to animal encounters, Jungle Island Miami also sports its own high ropes and zipline course – the Treetop Trekking adventure park! With multiple routes, the highest of which is 55 feet above the ground, the blood will be pumping in no time.

38 – Original Selfie Museum

Camera at the ready! The interactive art at the Original Selfie Museum in Miami is chock-full of colorful creations and quirky backdrops, each designed to light up your social media feeds.

From whimsical installations like yellow bubblegum walls to neon-centric murals, angel wing backdrops, and optical illusions (like squeezing yourself into a washing machine), every room is made to level up your selfie game.

Fittingly, you’ll find this art-centric attraction right next to the Wynwood Walls (see #16) – so why not combine them both into one afternoon?

39 – Hard Rock Stadium

Home to the NFL’s Miami Dolphins (as well as the University of Miami Hurricanes) Hard Rock Stadium is not only a sports lover’s paradise but also an iconic Miami event venue.

Whether you’re cheering on your favorite team during a football game (the season runs from September to January) or attending a star-studded concert or event (with names like Beyoncé and Karol G), this state-of-the-art stadium promises an unforgettable experience. With its retractable roof and room for 65,000 diehard fans, Hard Rock Stadium guarantees a top-notch view from every angle.

Plus, in May every year, the Stadium (and the International Autodrome which surrounds it) plays host to the Miami F1. Two months earlier, it hosts the Miami Open tennis tournament as well. So no matter what time of year you’re in town, there’s guaranteed to be something exciting happening at Hard Rock.

Hot tip: If you can snag tickets to a Dolphins game, when in Rome, do as the Romans do – enjoy the lively atmosphere of a tailgate party before kickoff.

• Hard Rock Stadium tickets

40 – The Bass

Welcoming art-savvy travelers since the mid-1960s, The Bass is Miami Beach’s leading contemporary art museum.

Besides regularly hosting lectures, panel discussions, and workshops by artists (such as Teen Studio Art Intensives, Art Making in 3D, and Fashion Design 101), the museum also sports a diverse, fascinating collection of modern art – paintings, films, sculptures, and everything in between.

From Tracey Moffatt’s “Montages”, a film that deconstructs stereotypes within Hollywood films and television, to Joyous Dystopia’s Data Collection which focuses on the world of digital art, you’ll find nearly every end of the contemporary spectrum here.

The collection is always changing too — new installations and thought-provoking sculptures are introduced regularly; it evolves as the world of contemporary art evolves around it.

Located in the heart of Miami Beach’s cultural district, it’s an easy place to pop into for an hour or so between the beaches and the bars.

41 – Grapeland Water Park

Looking for a way to escape the Miami heat? If sand between your toes gives you nightmares, then dive into the refreshing fun of Grapeland Water Park instead.

Located within Grapeland Park, right next to the international airport, this family-friendly attraction is a paradise of water-themed adventures, with thrilling slides, a relaxing lazy river, and a splash-tastic shipwreck-themed water playground that the kids are sure to love.

Being rather small in size (especially compared to Rapids Water Park and Tidal Cove) the park is perfect for families with kids under 10. And with on-site food and drinks, as well as larger recreational pools for more experienced swimmers, the adults can kick back and relax as well.

42 – Gold Coast Railroad Museum

Like stepping back in time to the golden age of trains, the Gold Coast Railroad Museum in Miami is a true delight for locomotive enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Set on a sprawling 50-acre site, this museum houses an impressive collection of vintage trains –  steam engines, passenger cars, and freight cars – each with its own storied past.

Whether solo or alongside one of the friendly staff, you can wander around the 40+ meticulously restored train cars (including the famous “Ferdinand Magellan” Presidential Railcar), climb aboard vintage locomotives, and even ride on a historic train through the scenic grounds.

With fascinating, educational exhibits on site too (arguably none more impressive than the Model Train Room), the Gold Coast Railroad Museum gives a glimpse into a bygone era.

And for all of you thinking about it – yes, you can ride on a train too. The museum offers train rides on its Standard Guage locomotive on the First Saturday of the Month.

43 – Homestead-Miami Speedway

The local NASCAR track, the Homestead-Miami Speedway , serves as a Mecca for motorsport fans in Miami. This premier racing facility hosts some of the most exhilarating NASCAR and INDYCAR races on the annual calendar, including the grand finale of the NASCAR Cup Series each year for the better part of 17 years (although not anymore).

Still, you can witness the thunderous roar of high-speed racing as professional drivers navigate the 1.5-mile oval track. On racing weekends (check the calendar) the speedway gives fans an unforgettable experience, with engaging audience activities, occasional driver meet-and-greets, and plenty of kid-friendly zones too.

A little off the beaten track, the Homestead-Miami Speedway is located about 40 minutes south of the big smoke. As such, it’s a great stopover on the way to the Florida Keys.

• Homestead-Miami Speedway tickets

44 – Miami Beach Botanical Garden

Finding peace and quiet at Miami Beach can sometimes seem like a challenge. That is, of course, unless you make a beeline for Miami Beach Botanical Garden – a low-key oasis amidst the bustling cityscape.

Nestled just out the back of South Beach, just over a 10-minute walk from the 17th Street Lifeguard Tower, this lush botanical haven isn’t large (at just three acres), but it’s certainly enchanting.

Featuring a diverse collection of plants and gardens, including over 100 different palm species, the winding pathways are lined with fragrant flowers and tranquil water features. The garden also serves as an events hot spot, with Tai Chi in the garden, summer art classes for kids, Vinyasa yoga on Sundays, and painting sessions, to name a few.

The best part? It’s totally free!

45 – Zoological Wildlife Foundation

Specializing in one-on-one encounters with some of mother nature’s most beautiful creatures, the Zoological Wildlife Foundation provides an up-close wildlife experience unmatched by most zoos in the area.

This private zoo in southwest Miami (not too far from Miami Zoo, in fact) encourages visitors to get up close and personal with an array of fascinating animals — lions, leopards, porcupines, servals, monkeys, otters, cockatoos, owls, giant anteaters, lemurs, exotic birds, feline cubs, and more.

Due to the intimate nature of the place, visits are by appointment only. So if it sounds like your speed, make sure to book online in advance.

46 – Museum of Contemporary Art

One of the best tourist attractions in Miami for self-appointed culture vultures, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) in North Miami presents an eclectic mix of contemporary art from renowned and emerging artists.

Ticket in hand, you’ll step into a world of thought-provoking installations, abstract masterpieces, and innovative artworks that challenge conventional perspectives – that is, after all, what contemporary art is all about.

With rotating exhibitions, and a handful of events – the Jazz at Moca free outdoor concert series is a crowd favorite – there’s always something new to discover too!

While you’re there: Since MOCA is, admittedly, a ways away, consider checking out the Bay Harbor Islands and the Bal Harbour Shops while you’re in the area.

47 – Little Havana

Miami has many faces. But arguably its most passionate, its most eccentric, is found in Little Havana. This eclectic neighborhood is a cultural melting pot, capturing the essence of Cuban heritage to a tee.

As you stroll through the bustling streets, you’ll be transported to Havana, with the sounds of salsa music, the aroma of Cuban cigars, and the lively atmosphere of Domino Park, where there’s always some sort of festivities happening.

Immerse yourself in the local culture by savoring authentic Cuban cuisine, from mouthwatering Cuban sandwiches to flavorful black beans and rice.

The go-to spots are Café La Trova , Sanguich de Miami , La Camaronera (try lobster poppers), the Azucar Ice Cream Company , and Terras (the only rooftop bar and restaurant in the neighborhood) – but, in reality, you can discover hidden gems around every corner.

Take one of the food tours in Miami and there’s no doubt you’ll find yourself in Little Havana.

Eats aside, the Ball & Chain bar is a hotspot for live music, the Viernes Culturales (which takes place on the third Friday of the month) is a free street party, and the Manuel Artime Theater always has a local show on the bill.

Had a big night? The Cuban Coffee Culture is big in Little Havana, with coffee windows scattered throughout the neighborhood that can deliver the pick-me-up you may so desperately need.

• Little Havana tours

48 – Coral Castle Museum

There are notable houses, quirky museums, and then there’s the Coral Castle – a rare combination of the two. Made out of 1,100 tons of coral rock (yes, really), this beautifully bizarre 100-year-old structure was single-handedly built by Edward Leedskalnin, a Latvian immigrant, over a period of nearly 30 years.

The story of Coral Castle is steeped in legend and mystery – nobody actually knows how Ed single-handedly built it. There have been theories ranging from supernatural powers to advanced engineering techniques, some even alluding to the same secrets of the Pyramids.

One thing’s for sure though: visitors will be treated to dozens of intricately carved coral rock sculptures, including a massive 9-ton gate that moves with the mere push of a finger (how? Perfectly weighted balance).

Wander through the stunning garden on a self-guided audio tour and check out the sculptures, all crafted by Leedskalnin himself, or join one of the educational programs (just check the website to see when they’re coming up) that dive deeper into the history, of geology, and engineering behind the Coral Castle Museum.

49 – Monkey Jungle

Situated on 30 acres of lush greenery within the natural subtropical forest of Miami-Dade County, Monkey Jungle is a primate paradise – and undeniably one of the best tourist attractions in Miami for animal lovers.

Unlike traditional zoos, Monkey Jungle is a cage-less environment – this means you can observe the cheeky monkeys and apes in their natural habitats, swinging freely among the trees. The park’s tagline is “Where the humans are caged and the monkeys run wild”, which should tell you just about all you need to know about the love and care for these adventurous animals.

From capuchins to orangutans, macaques, spider monkeys, and a huge silverback gorilla, close to 500 different critters call this place home, covering some 20 different species.

While you’re there, don’t miss the Wings of Love section – a sanctuary for displaced parrots, and a colorful feathery overload.

Hot tip: If you’re happy to fork out a few extra bucks ($150, to be exact), guided tours take place at 10 AM, 12:15 PM, and 2:30 PM, so try to line up your visit with one of these.

50 – Kaseya Center

Where the Miami Heat put on a show, week in, week out, the Kaseya Center (formerly known as the AmericanAirlines Arena), delivers electricity and a roar that few East Coast stadiums can match.

Sitting right on the shores of Biscayne Bay, next to the Bayside Marketplace (a great spot for pre-game dinner, perhaps?) this state-of-the-art arena not only hosts edge-of-your-seat basketball games but also hosts world-class concerts throughout the year. In recent times, everyone from Drake to Carrie Underwood to Rauw Alejandro has graced the stage, and the line-ups continue to get more exciting with every passing year

Throw in UFC matches, summer night movie screenings, and the Miami Salsa Festival (usually held in July), and you’ve got quite the list to choose from!

• Kaseya Center tickets

51 – Gesu Church

Dating all the way back to 1896 (and therefore, deserving of its impressive listing on the National Register of Historic Places), the Gesu Church on the corner of 1st Avenue and 2nd Street stands as a timeless reminder of Miami’s architectural diversity – and, as the city’s oldest Catholic church, its religious heritage.

The church’s striking architecture, blending classical and Gothic elements, draws visitors and history enthusiasts on many Downtown Miami walking tours. But if you take the time to step inside, you’ll be treated to stunning stained-glass windows and a quiet atmosphere perfect for reflection

52 – World Erotic Art Museum

Feeling a little saucy? Curious about kinks? The World Erotic Art Museum in Miami Beach explores the fascinating, often taboo subject of erotic art. Delving into bare-all art through the ages, this one-of-a-kind museum celebrates the beauty and diversity of human sexuality.

From classical sculptures and sensual paintings to provocative art from bygone centuries, the museum takes us on a journey through sensual expressions of various cultures and historical periods. Above all though, it emphasizes the importance of artistic expression and sexual freedom – topics that founder, Naomi Wilzig, is incredibly passionate about.

53 – Gulfstream Park

Sitting down in Hallandale Beach, about halfway between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Gulfstream Park is the coast’s premier horse racing venue, with the Holy Bull Stakes and the Florida Derby the two most coveted race days.

You’ll also find food and wine festivals, art shows, and holiday celebrations here throughout the year – simply check the website to see what’s on when you’re in town.

Racing aside, Gulfstream is also a fully operational (albeit small) casino. Fancy some retail therapy with your winnings (read: gamble responsibly)? Adjacent to the racetrack, The Village shopping and dining district is chock-full of independent boutiques, chain and local restaurants, and entertainment options like a Strike bowling alley and the Sher Gallery.

Visiting Miami on a budget?

Just because it’s glitzy and full of notable tourist attractions, that doesn’t mean that Miami needs to break the bank. If you plan on hitting up a handful of the best Miami tourist attractions, the Miami Sightseeing Pass could be your best friend.

The pass works like this: 60+ attractions and special offers are included in one ticket – including popular destinations such as the Miami Seaquarium, Artechouse, The Museum of Illusions, Zoo Miami, and even the Everglades Holiday Park.

Take your pick from a Day Pass, which gives you 1, 2, 3, or 5 days of unlimited sightseeing, or a Flex Pass , which grants you entry to 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 attractions over 60 days.

Beyond the Flex Pass, there are numerous ways to experience Miami’s rich culture and vibrant lifestyle without draining your wallet.

Hit up the free attractions, like Bayfront Park, Little Havana, Coconut Grove, and the beaches; or join one of the city’s free walking tours (just be prepared to leave a tip).

Looking for the best Miami tours?

Miami is brimming with exciting tours that let you explore and experience the city from a local’s perspective. For those with a love for water, boat tours like the Millionaire’s Row Cruise & Venetian Island tour introduce you to the city’s stunning coastline and glittering skyline.

History buffs and foodies alike are always drawn to the Little Havana food and walking Tour , which shows off the rich influence of Miami’s Cuban community. For an offbeat experience, the Wynwood Art District tour combines shopping with art (and a beer or two), while the helicopter tour shows off an entirely new perspective on the city – while a bit more expensive, it’s regarded as one of the top things to do in Miami .

Fancy a longer excursion? The Everglades day trip from Miami , as well as the Key West day trip from Miami , are both seriously good options.

Regardless of your interests, the variety of Miami tours can unveil a different side of this dynamic city. So, grab your camera, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to discover Miami like never before.

Final thoughts

Well, that’s a wrap! We hope you’ve enjoyed this comprehensive rundown of the best tourist attractions in Miami – from South Beach to the Everglades and everywhere in between, we’re truly spoiled for choice.

Is there anything else you’d add to the list of things to do in Magic City? Let us know in the comments below. And, as always, happy travels!

Florida is home to theme parks, sharks, alligators, beaches, but it made ‘most boring’ list

Florida is boring?!

The Sunshine State is home to Disney World and Universal Studios and has hundreds of miles of beaches. We have the oldest city in the U.S. in our backyard and some of the richest people in the world .

To keep life interesting, we even have sharks and alligators .

Apparently, that's not enough.

According to a study by Solitaired , Florida is the fifth most boring state in the United States , based on an analysis of 66.7 million Google reviews of 3,290 popular tourist attractions around the world. The analysis was made to determine what locations were the least interesting.

Here's what the study discovered.

Takeaways from study on Top 100 most boring tourist sites around the world

According to Solitaired , key takeaways include:

• Branson Scenic Railway in Branson, Missouri, is the most boring attraction in the world.
• Museums comprise 33% of the Top 100 most boring attractions.
• Four LEGOLAND Discovery Centers are in the Top 25 most boring attractions worldwide.
• Georgia is the most boring state, with many attractions and extensive reviews indicating boredom.
• The U.S., Canada and Australia hold the top three spots for countries with the most boring tourist attractions. And yes, U.S. was No. 1.

Top 'most boring' tourist attractions in Florida

Here are the Florida locations ranked among the most boring tourist attractions around the world. The "boredom score" is on a scale from zero to five.

• No. 7: Museum of Science & Technology, Tampa. Score: 3.10
• No. 19: Phillip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science, Miami. Score: 2.40
• No. 21: Jungle Island, Miami. Score: 2.40
• No. 22: Skull Island: Reign of Kong, Universal Orlando theme park. Score: 2.40
• No. 23: Miami Seaquarium, Miami. Score: 2.30
• No. 35: Ripley's Believe It or Not! Orlando. Score: 2.20
• No. 46: Ripley's Believe It or Not! St. Augustine. Score: 2.10
• No. 56: WonderWorks, Orlando. Score: 2.0
• No. 100: Glazer Children's Museum, Tampa. Score: 1.80

Top 10 states with highest boredom score

"We ranked states based on how often attractions were called boring in reviews compared to the total number of attractions with any reviews labeling them boring in that state," Solitaired said. "By this metric, Georgia, Massachusetts, and Tennessee are the nation's top three boring states."

The "boredom score" is on a scale from zero to five.

• Georgia: 21 boring attractions. Boredom score: 5.0
• Massachusetts: 4 boring attractions. Boredom score: 4.1
• Tennessee: 49 boring attractions. Boredom score: 4.1
• Missouri: 33 boring attractions. Boredom score: 3.9
• Florida : 104 boring attractions. Boredom score: 3.5
• Texas: 72 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.8
• California: 99 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.7
• Nevada: 33 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.5
• Minnesota: 7 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.4
• Illinois: 23 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.3

How did Florida rank as 5th most boring state in US?

"With its 104 boring attractions, Florida might seem like the boredom capital at first glance ," Solitaired said.

"Yet, it only ranks as the fifth most boring state because each attraction garners very few yawns from visitors. Despite many attractions being labeled boring by reviewers, this sentiment is such a minority that Florida only pans out as the fifth most boring state."

Top 10 most boring tourist attractions in the US

• Branson Scenic Railway: Branson Missouri. Boredom score: 5.0
• lluminarium Atlanta: Atlanta, Georgia. Boredom score: 4.5
• Jurassic Jungle Boat Ride: Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Boredom score: 3.70
• Salem Witch Museum: Salem, Massachusetts. Boredom score: 3.40
• LEGO Discovery Center Atlanta: Atlanta, Georgia. Boredom score: 3.40
• Adler Planetarium: Chicago, Illinois. Boredom score: 3.30
• Museum of Science & Industry: Tampa. Boredom score: 3.10
• LEGOLAND Discovery Center Dallas/Fort Worth: Dallas, Texas. Boredom score: 2.90
• Museum of Ice Cream: New York City. Boredom score: 2.50
• The Shepherd of the Hills: Branson, Missouri. Boredom score: 2.50

➤ Want more? Here's the most boring tourist attraction in every state

Around the world: 8 of Top 10 boring tourist attractions in US

Eight of the Top 10 most boring tourist attractions are in the U.S., according to the Solitaired analysis:

• Museum of Science & Industry: Tampa . Boredom score: 3.10
• Shrek's Adventure London. London, England. Boredom score: 2.90
• LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Toronto. Vaughan, Canada. Boredom score: 2.80

➤ More boring content: The most boring tourist attraction in every country

Methodology used by Solitaired in ranking attractions

Solitaired, an online gaming platform that creates classic games — like Solitaire — with a focus on improving mental acuity, memory and processing speed.  

In March 2024, Solitaired "analyzed 66.7 million Google reviews of 3,290 popular tourist attractions worldwide , spanning 384 cities across 71 countries.

"We focused our analysis on keyword mentions indicative of a bored tourist. Those keywords were "boring," "bored," "bore," "boredom," "tiresome," "dull," "drab," "lackluster," "lifeless," "mediocre," and "tedious.

"We ranked the attractions by the frequency with which tourists mentioned boredom-related keywords, comparing the mentions to the total reviews for each spot."

Attractions with fewer than 2,000 total reviews were removed.