Fun Things to do in Miami
Florida
city guide
Welcome to the vibrant city of Miami, where art, culture, and entertainment collide to create an unforgettable experience. Start your exploration by immersing yourself in the colorful and eclectic street art of Wynwood. Stroll through the streets adorned with murals by local and international artists, and don't forget to snap some Instagram-worthy photos along the way.
Next, head to Bayfront Park and take a leisurely walk along the scenic boardwalk, offering stunning views of Biscayne Bay and the city skyline. Feel the ocean breeze and soak in the lively atmosphere of this waterfront park.
For a unique way to navigate the city, hop on the People Mover and venture into the bustling neighborhoods of Brickell and downtown. Discover the urban oasis of Brickell City Centre, a sprawling outdoor mall that boasts a mix of upscale shops, dining options, and entertainment venues.
No visit to Miami is complete without a day at the beach. While Haulover Dog Beach offers a more laid-back and pet-friendly experience, South Beach is the go-to destination for vibrant energy and bustling beach scene. Take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk from South Beach to explore the different neighborhoods and soak up the sun.
Immerse yourself in the local culture by indulging in some people-watching on Lincoln Road, a pedestrian-friendly street lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Join a free yoga session at a museum or Bayfront Park to rejuvenate your mind and body amidst the city's hustle and bustle.
Experience the rhythm of Miami at Bayside Marketplace, where you can enjoy live music performances against the backdrop of the marina. Don't miss the opportunity to catch a SoundScape movie or WALLCAST Concert at New World Center, offering a unique outdoor cinematic and musical experience.
Expand your horizons by visiting one of Miami's world-class museums, many of which offer free admission on select days. Immerse yourself in art, history, and culture while exploring the diverse exhibits and collections.
To stay updated on the latest events, activities, and hidden gems in Miami, be sure to follow these social media accounts:
- Instagram: @miamiandbeaches
- Twitter: @CityofMiami
- Facebook: @MiamiTravel
For a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Miami, check out publications like "Miami New Times," "Miami Herald's Miami.com," and "Time Out Miami." These resources provide insider tips, event listings, and recommendations to help you make
Best time to go
Busy season January to April. When most festivals are happening Get a deal from May to Sept (low season very hot) Best time to go mid March
Fun city facts and activities
- Walk down around Wynwood and enjoy the street art
Start at Bayfront park and walk along the board walk
Ride the People mover and explore Brickell and downtown. City center is huge outdoor mall
Go to a beach. Haulover dog beach is my favorite, but if you want action go to South Beach.
Walk on the board walk from south beach north
People watching on Lincoln road
Free yoga at Museum or Bayfront park
Live music at Bayside Marketplace
Catch a SoundScape movie or WALLCAST Concert at New World
Visit a museum for free
Walk South Point Park
Neighborhoods to explore
- Brickell/Downtown
South Beach is the only place in Miami where I would say that having a car is optional. There is plenty of things to do, places to eat and grocery stores within walking distance.
Wynwood is known for its street art
Little Havana
Restaurants
Food Specialties
- Ricky thai's for incredible and affordable authentic thai food.
Salty donut for sweets and cinnamon toast crunch iced latte
Ceviche105 for fried fish and ceviche
Phuc Yea: Miami's modern Vietnamese gem in the MiMo district, renowned for its vibrant setting and contemporary twists on traditional dishes like caramel chicken wings and seafood curry.
El Bagel (Multiple locations): Originating as a popular weekend pop-up, El Bagel has evolved into a beloved outpost offering creative bagels, schmears, and unique sandwiches, including the Miami-inspired pastelito bagel.
Boia De: Tucked away in a strip mall, Boia De showcases the culinary expertise of owners Luciana Giangrandi and Alex Meyer, delivering creative dishes like crispy potato skins with stracciatella and baked clams with 'nduja.
Mandolin Aegean Bistro: Transporting diners to the Greek isles, Mandolin Aegean Bistro offers an intimate courtyard setting for elegant small plates, enticing entrees, and refreshing Greek wines.
Cote Miami: A Michelin-starred import from New York City, Cote Miami dazzles with its Korean barbecue-style dry-aged beef, extensive wine selection, and the popular butcher's feast featuring a variety of cuts.
Old Greg's Pizza: Gaining fame during quarantine, Old Greg's Pizza offers photogenic square pizzas, polenta-crusted chicken wings, and other delectable options in a lively atmosphere.
Maty's: Chef Val Chang pays homage to her grandmother with creative Peruvian dishes at Maty's in Midtown, where traditional flavors meet modern flair.
Miami Offbeat activities
Free or cheap things to do
1. Take a Walk Through the Art Deco District: Explore the iconic buildings of Miami Beach's Art Deco District, with its pastel buildings, neon signs, and colorful architecture.
2. Visit Vizcaya Museum and Gardens: Step back in time at this stunning 1920s estate, set on a stunning bayfront property.
3. Go Kayaking at Oleta River State Park: Take a kayak out onto the calm waters of the Oleta River, and explore the mangroves, wildlife and nature trails.
4. Visit the Little Haiti Cultural Center: Learn about the Haitian culture through art and performance at this vibrant cultural center.
5. Explore the Wynwood Art District: Marvel at the vibrant street art, galleries and unique shops in this trendy Miami neighborhood.
6. Take the Miami Culinary Tour: Taste your way through the city on a guided food tour, sampling the best of Miami's cuisine.
Fun things to do in with kids
Free or cheap things to do
1. Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science
This sprawling, high-tech museum connects people of all ages with science through a range of inspiring programmingsome of which is even bilingual. Exhibitions such as the MeLab let kids learn about health by using their own bodies to conduct experiments, while the aquarium, which houses all sorts of sea creatures, teaches them about marine life.
2. Miami Childrens Museum
Every inch of the Childrens Museum was designed to foster creativity and inspire little ones to play as they explore and engage educational activities. Locals enjoy access to after-school programming as well as Mommy and Me classes.
3. Venetian Pool
Possibly the most beautiful swimming pool in the world, even if it is jam-packed on hot days. It combines an impossibly idyllic setting (tropical foliage, waterfalls, Italian architectural touches) with freshwater, replenished nightly in summer months from a subterranean aquifer. Everyone wants a piece of the pool. Luckily for Joe Public, its open to the masses seven days a week, but it is perhaps best enjoyed when not overrun with toddlers and boom-box blasts (avoid weekends).
4. FunDimension
Walk a few blocks south from where most of the artsy action is in Wynwood and youll find this massive warehouse-turned-indoor-arcade with not just video games, but also laser tag, bumper cars and a 7-D theater.
5. Tidal Cove
No kid will ever want to visit another hotel pool after a day at Tidal Cove, JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spas splashy water park. The sprawling attraction features a lazy river, 4,000-square foot kids pool, a splash pad for the little ones, two eateries and plenty of lifeguards on duty so that parents cant also enjoy themselves.
6. Zoological Wildlife Foundation
The animals at this private facility have been rescued from large zoos or donated, including the adorable camel guests can feed carrots to and the small capuchin monkeys, Amaya and Ahmed, which love to pose for photos.
7. Miami Theater Center
A hub for theater kids of all sizes, this charming theater in Miami Shores regularly hosts kid-friendly performances, a drama camp and workshops for local schools and organizations.
8. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
Occupying the southern tip of Key Biscayne, this parks wide beaches regularly make the national top 10 lists. But this is more than just a place to catch some rays: theres history, wildlife and plenty of activities too. Covered pavilions are available for picnics, and the Lighthouse Caf̩ offers good food.
9. Wynwood Walls
This outdoor museum boasts more than a dozen murals by some of the worlds most acclaimed artists. Whether its for a photo op or to teach your kids about art, a stop at the Wynwood Walls is essential for families.
10. Matheson Hammock Park
This huge park down south has marina for boaters, green space for picnicking, bike trails for cyclists of all skill levels and a small beach for sunbathing.
City data and FAQ
What is Miami most known for?
South Beach, Scarface, maybe the Wynwood Art District if youre interested in the nightlife, Cuban culture, Haitian culture when it comes to the Blacks, a southern New York, stuff like that.
Jose Stevenson Lived in Miami
Are two days enough to visit Miami?
Miami is one of the most popular cities to visit in Florida and receives over millions of visitors every year. While some come here for just a day or two, I recommend spending at least 3 days in Miami and Miami Beach area to see the most popular tourist attractions including South Beach, Wynwood Wall, and Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Miami is also an amazing place to explore other popular attractions in southern Florida. If you love the outdoors, then go snorkeling or windsurfing or hire a fishing charter. There are also several hiking trails near Miaminamd lots more.
Gregory DInceli Lives in Miami (2015 Present)
A visit to any large city requires more than two days. A few years ago ,we spent 8 days in the Miami area and only accomplished about 2/3 of what we wanted to do and see.
Carl Backes - Lives in North Texas
Its tight but yes! Just have a detailed list and schedule of what you want to see! Here is what I would see. First Day - The Wynwood Walls and Design District (close to each other). 2 Miami beach/South beach and deco district/ Lincoln Road and have a drink at the Delano hotel. 3 Little Havana for some authentic Cuban culture and snacks. Head to Brickell City Center. 4 Visit Brickell City Center that night to experience the Miami Skyline and a great outdoor shopping venue in downtown Miami. Some good places to eat there. It is a three level open air shopping center in the heart of downtown.
Next day
5 Take a drive to and along Key Biscayne and go all the way to the end and turn around and go back. The views of the bay and downtown Miami are incredible. Its the Newport Beach of South Florida. 6 From there go to Coconut Grove and have lunch at the newly opened Bayshore club outdoor restaurant overlooking the Bay. Coco walk is at the heart of The Grove and a great place to visit. Its .7 miles from the Bayshore Club.
David Herbert Lives in Florida (1985 Present)
Landmarks in the city
1. South Beach: A vibrant and popular beach known for its white sand, clear waters, and lively atmosphere with beachfront restaurants and bars.
2. Art Deco Historic District: A neighborhood in South Beach known for its colorful buildings and iconic Art Deco architecture from the 1930s.
3. Wynwood Walls: An outdoor street art gallery featuring vibrant and colorful murals by renowned artists.
4. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens: A historic Italian Renaissance-style villa and gardens with stunning architecture and beautiful landscapes.
5. Little Havana: A vibrant neighborhood known for its Cuban culture, delicious cuisine, colorful murals, and lively street life.
6. Bayside Marketplace: A waterfront shopping and entertainment complex with shops, restaurants, and live music overlooking Biscayne Bay.
7. Jungle Island: An interactive zoological park with exotic animals, shows, and attractions for visitors of all ages.
8. Miami Seaquarium: A popular marine park with dolphin and sea lion shows, exhibits featuring marine life, and interactive experiences.
9. Coral Gables: A picturesque neighborhood with beautiful Mediterranean architecture, upscale shops, restaurants, and the historic Venetian Pool.
10. Everglades National Park: A vast subtropical wilderness with unique ecosystems, wildlife, and opportunities for airboat rides, hiking, and wildlife viewing.