Top 10 Things to do in Miami Florida - insider picks and local choices
Miami is a city bursting with activities and attractions, making it a top destination for travelers from around the world. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, there’s always something new to discover. Here are the top 10 things to do in Miami, complete with insider tips, hours of operation, links, and recommendations. If you are searching for how to find the best airfare to Miami, Florida. I recommend the Best Airfare to Miami Guide, or How to Find Last Minute Deals in Miami, Florida.
1. Visit the Art Deco District
Overview: The Art Deco District in South Beach is renowned for its beautifully preserved architecture from the 1930s and 1940s. A stroll through this historic area offers a glimpse into Miami’s glamorous past.
Insider Tips:
Free Tours: Take advantage of the free walking tours offered by the Miami Design Preservation League.
Best Time to Visit: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
Hours of Operation: The district is open 24 hours a day, with many attractions open from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Link: Art Deco District
Recommendations:
Dining: Enjoy a meal at The Front Porch Café, a local favorite.
Stay: The Betsy Hotel offers luxurious accommodations with easy access to the district.
2. Explore Little Havana
Overview: Little Havana is the vibrant heart of Miami’s Cuban community. It’s filled with colorful murals, lively music, and authentic Cuban cuisine.
Insider Tips:
Calle Ocho: Walk along Calle Ocho to see the iconic Walk of Fame and visit the local shops.
Cuban Coffee: Try a cafecito at Versailles, a beloved Cuban restaurant.
Hours of Operation: Little Havana is lively from morning until late evening.
Link: Little Havana
Recommendations:
Dining: Savor authentic Cuban dishes at El Exquisito.
Stay: The Life House Little Havana offers a unique boutique hotel experience.
3. Miami Seaquarium
Overview: The Miami Seaquarium is a world-class marine park featuring a variety of marine life shows and exhibits. It’s perfect for families and animal lovers.
Insider Tips:
Discount Tickets: Look for online discounts and package deals.
Interactive Programs: Participate in interactive programs like swimming with dolphins or sea lions.
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM.
Link: Miami Seaquarium
Recommendations:
Dining: Enjoy a meal at one of the park’s many restaurants.
Stay: The Four Seasons Hotel Miami offers luxurious accommodations nearby.
4. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Overview: Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a stunning historic estate featuring beautiful gardens and impressive architecture. It’s a perfect spot for a peaceful and scenic visit.
Insider Tips:
Photography: Bring your camera for some amazing photo opportunities.
Guided Tours: Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture.
Hours of Operation: Open Wednesday through Monday from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
Link: Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Recommendations:
Dining: Enjoy a light meal at the Vizcaya Café and Shop.
Stay: The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove offers luxurious accommodations nearby.
5. Wynwood Walls
Overview: Wynwood Walls is an outdoor museum featuring large-scale murals by some of the world’s best street artists. It’s a vibrant and colorful area that’s a must-see for art lovers.
Insider Tips:
Free Entry: Entry to the Wynwood Walls is free, but guided tours are available for a fee.
Best Time to Visit: Visit during the week to avoid the weekend crowds.
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 10:30 AM to 11:30 PM.
Link: Wynwood Walls
Recommendations:
Dining: Enjoy a meal at Joey’s Italian Café, located nearby.
Stay: The Arlo Wynwood offers a trendy and comfortable stay close to the walls.
6. Miami Children’s Museum
Overview: The Miami Children’s Museum offers interactive exhibits and educational programs designed to inspire young minds. It’s a fantastic destination for families with children.
Insider Tips:
Discount Days: Take advantage of the museum’s Target Free Third Friday program for free admission.
Interactive Exhibits: Don’t miss the Castle of Dreams and the Music Makers Studio.
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM.
Link: Miami Children’s Museum
Recommendations:
Dining: The museum has a café that offers kid-friendly meals.
Stay: The Hilton Miami Downtown is conveniently located near the museum.
7. Jungle Island
Overview: Jungle Island is an interactive eco-adventure park featuring a variety of animal encounters, shows, and attractions. It’s perfect for families and nature enthusiasts.
Insider Tips:
Animal Encounters: Book animal encounters in advance to ensure availability.
Annual Passes: Consider an annual pass if you plan to visit more than once.
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM.
Link: Jungle Island
Recommendations:
Dining: Enjoy a meal at one of the park’s restaurants.
Stay: The Kimpton EPIC Hotel offers a luxurious stay close to the park.
8. Bayfront Park
Overview: Bayfront Park is a beautiful waterfront park located in downtown Miami. It offers scenic views, walking paths, and a variety of events and activities.
Insider Tips:
Free Yoga: Join a free yoga class offered regularly in the park.
Concerts and Festivals: Check the park’s calendar for upcoming concerts and festivals.
Hours of Operation: Open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Link: Bayfront Park
Recommendations:
Dining: Enjoy a meal at the Bayside Marketplace, adjacent to the park.
Stay: The InterContinental Miami offers luxurious accommodations with stunning views.
9. Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)
Overview: The Perez Art Museum Miami is a contemporary art museum showcasing works from the 20th and 21st centuries. It’s a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
Insider Tips:
Free Admission: Admission is free on the first Thursday and second Saturday of each month.
Guided Tours: Take a guided tour to learn more about the exhibits.
Hours of Operation: Open Thursday through Monday from 11 AM to 6 PM.
Link: Perez Art Museum Miami
Recommendations:
Dining: Enjoy a meal at Verde, the museum’s waterfront restaurant.
Stay: The JW Marriott Marquis Miami offers luxurious accommodations nearby.
10. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
Overview: The Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is a stunning garden featuring a wide variety of tropical plants and flowers. It’s a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
Insider Tips:
Tram Tours: Take a complimentary tram tour to see the highlights of the garden.
Events: Check the garden’s calendar for special events and workshops.
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM.
Link: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
Recommendations:
Dining: Enjoy a meal at the Glasshouse Café, located within the garden.
Stay: The Biltmore Hotel in nearby Coral Gables offers luxurious accommodations with historic charm.
Conclusion
Miami offers an incredible array of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant Art Deco District, enjoying a family day at the Miami Seaquarium, or immersing yourself in the contemporary art scene at PAMM, there’s always something new to discover. Use these insider tips and recommendations to make the most of your Miami adventure. Happy exploring!
