The 27 Best Things to Do in Miami

Miami, a vibrant metropolis nestled on the southeastern coast of Florida, consistently ranks as one of the most sought-after destinations in the United States. The city pulsates with an infectious energy, offering an eclectic mix of experiences that cater to every traveler’s desires. From the sun-kissed shores of its world-famous beaches to the pulsating rhythms of its Latin-infused culture, Miami presents a kaleidoscope of attractions waiting to be discovered.

Whether you seek the thrill of the nightlife in South Beach, the tranquility of exploring the natural wonders of Everglades National Park, or simply a relaxing day basking in the warm Florida sun, Miami has something to offer everyone. This cultural paradise boasts a diverse range of recreational opportunities, ensuring that every visitor, regardless of their tastes or budget, will find something to captivate their senses.

This guide delves into the 27 best things to do in Miami, providing a comprehensive overview of the city’s most captivating attractions and experiences. Prepare to embark on a journey through a city that seamlessly blends cultural influences, natural beauty, and urban sophistication.

1. Feel Like You’re in Cuba on Calle Ocho: Immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of Little Havana, where Calle Ocho, or Eighth Street, comes alive with the sights, sounds, and flavors of Cuba. This iconic street serves as a cultural microcosm, offering a captivating glimpse into the rich heritage of the Cuban diaspora.

   Stroll along the colorful sidewalks, inhaling the aroma of freshly brewed Cuban coffee emanating from quaint cafes. Engage in a spirited game of dominoes with the local seniors in Máximo Gómez Park, known as Domino Park, a true Cuban tradition. Sample the exotic flavors of tropical Caribbean fruits from the vibrant street stands, and perhaps even indulge in a hand-rolled Cuban cigar, a symbol of the island’s legacy. Calle Ocho offers an authentic Cuban experience without ever leaving Miami.

2. Grab a Snack at Florida’s Best Fruit Stand: Venture a short distance outside of Miami to Homestead, and discover a true South Florida institution: Robert Is Here. This unassuming fruit stand has garnered a loyal following for its exceptional selection of fresh, locally grown tropical and exotic fruits.

   Robert Is Here goes beyond the typical fruit stand, offering a diverse array of homemade salsas, jams, dressings, and other culinary delights. Explore the grounds and discover a charming petting zoo, where you can interact with the animals and even feed them with treats purchased from the stall. Before heading to Everglades National Park, treat yourself to one of their renowned smoothies, a refreshing concoction that perfectly captures the flavors of the tropics.

3. Get Your Contemporary Art Fix: Immerse yourself in the world of contemporary art at the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM), located in the heart of Museum Park in downtown Miami. This architectural masterpiece showcases some of the most important contemporary art exhibitions in the South, featuring works by artists from the Americas, Africa, and Europe.

   Art enthusiasts with a particular interest in Latin American art will be delighted by the museum’s impressive collection, which includes pieces by renowned artists such as Mexican muralist Diego Rivera, Cuban painter Wifredo Lam, and Colombian artist Beatriz Gonzalez. The museum itself is a work of art, with its stunning waterfront location and innovative design.

4. Spend the Day at Crandon Park: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at Crandon Park, a tranquil oasis located on Key Biscayne. This meticulously maintained park offers a wide range of recreational activities, catering to diverse interests.

   Engage in classic park activities such as skating, picnicking, and tennis, or simply relax on the pristine beach, known for its calm, turquoise waters. The beach at Crandon Park offers a refreshing alternative to the more developed beaches of Miami Beach, providing a serene escape surrounded by natural beauty.

5. Shop Around at Bayside Marketplace: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Bayside Marketplace, a bustling waterfront destination that holds the title of the most visited tourist attraction in Miami-Dade County. This dynamic hub serves as a meeting place for the entire Miami community, offering a diverse range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

   Browse the local stores, savor delectable cuisine at the numerous restaurants, and soak in the stunning waterfront views. Bayside Marketplace also hosts a variety of events, including cultural festivals and free concerts, ensuring that there is always something exciting happening during your visit.

6. Take a Trip to a Different Kind of Museum: Delve into the heart of Cuban culture at the Cubaocho Museum in Little Havana, a unique institution that celebrates all aspects of Cuban heritage. This vibrant museum showcases visual arts, music, performance, cigars, and rum, offering a multifaceted experience.

   Admire the works of Cuban artists while sipping on a handcrafted mojito from the museum bar. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of a live descarga, a Cuban jam session where you can not only listen to the music but also join in the dancing.

7. Educate Yourself on Miami’s History: Uncover the rich and layered history of South Florida at the HistoryMiami Museum, which traces the region’s story back over 10,000 years. Learn about the first Indigenous tribes, the Spanish exploration, and Miami‘s transformation into the modern-day Gateway to the Americas.

8. Take a Free Ride on the Miami Beach Trolley: Navigate Miami Beach with ease and charm aboard the Miami Beach Trolley, a free and endearing mode of transportation. This vintage-style bus, designed like an old-town cable car, traverses South Beach, Mid-Beach, and North Beach, offering a convenient and comfortable way to explore the area, especially on humid summer days.

9. Step Back in Time at Ball & Chain: Experience the nostalgia of old Havana at Ball & Chain, an iconic nightclub in Little Havana that dates back to the 1930s. This vintage-style bar reflects the neighborhood’s vibrant culture with live Cuban music, salsa dancing, and an extensive rum bar.

10. Admire the Art in Wynwood: Explore the vibrant Wynwood neighborhood, a former industrial district transformed into a hub for graffiti and street art. Discover trendy boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and bars, and marvel at the Wynwood Walls, a collection of 40 murals created by some of the world’s best street artists.

11. Hit Up the Iconic South Beach: No visit to Miami is complete without a stop at South Beach, the quintessential Miami hot spot. This trendy area of Miami Beach offers a wide range of activities, from shopping and dining to nightlife and cultural attractions.

12. Explore Everglades National Park: Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Everglades National Park, a vast expanse of swamps, saw-grass prairies, and sub-tropical jungles. Discover rare and endangered species, and explore the park through walking, camping, and canoeing.

13. Visit the Cage-Free Zoo Miami: Experience a unique zoo experience at Zoo Miami, where animals roam freely in cage-free exhibits. Observe animals from Asia, Australia, and Africa interacting as they would in the wild.

14. Experience an Outdoor Aquarium: Discover the wonders of marine life at the Miami Seaquarium, which offers interactive exhibitions, such as swimming with dolphins, tide pool touch tanks, and shark and stingray encounters.

15. Visit the Former Versace Mansion: Explore the Villa Casa Casuarina, the former Versace Mansion, a luxurious hotel filled with history and intrigue.

16. Explore the Newest Urban Development at Brickell: Discover the modern and chic Brickell neighborhood, Miami‘s financial center and a hub for high-rise condos, boutique hotels, and upscale shopping.

17. Hit the Beaches: Relax and soak up the sun on Miami‘s diverse beaches, from the lively South Beach to the quieter Mid-Beach and Surfside.

18. Learn Something New at the Frost Science Museum: Engage with interactive science exhibits at the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, which houses a three-level aquarium, a planetarium, and open bird aviaries.

19. Let Kids’ Minds Run Wild: Unleash your children’s creativity and imagination at the Miami Children’s Museum, which offers a wide variety of interactive exhibits.

20. Head Into the "Jungle": Observe primates in their natural habitat at Monkey Jungle, where monkeys scamper overhead while visitors traverse carefully constructed wire pathways.

21. Explore a One-of-a-Kind Sculpture Park: Discover the quirky Coral Castle Museum, a unique attraction built by a Latvian-born Miami resident.

22. Visit a European-Style Mansion at Vizcaya: Step back in time at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, a historical 50-acre estate with a European-style mansion and meticulously manicured gardens.

23. Hang Out at Bayfront Park: Relax by the water at Miami’s Bayfront Park, a popular venue for concerts, holiday celebrations, and tributes and monuments.

24. Eat at Versailles: Savor authentic Cuban cuisine at Versailles, a massive Cuban restaurant that is considered the best of the best in Miami.

25. Shop on Trendy Lincoln Road: Explore the shops, restaurants, and art venues on Lincoln Road, a popular pedestrian mall designed by Morris Lapidus.

26. Spend Time in the Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden: Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden, an 83-acre garden that feels like a walk through the rainforest.

27. Explore the Miami Design District: Discover the trendy fashion, art, and architecture in the Miami Design District, a former decorators’ row that has transformed into a hub for luxury and creativity.

This guide provides a glimpse into the diverse array of experiences that await you in Miami. From its vibrant culture and stunning beaches to its world-class museums and unique attractions, Miami offers something for every traveler. Prepare to be captivated by the city’s infectious energy and create memories that will last a lifetime.