21 Top Things To Do In Miami Florida, Where to Stay, Dine & Explore
From South Beach to Wynwood, Millionaire’s Row to Little Havana, discover the top things to do in Miami, where to stay, eat, and my top Miami tips.
I’m just back from a trip to Miami and finally get the hype! From the moment I checked into my hotel and stepped onto my balcony, I could hear Ferraris whizzing along the highway while watching superyachts glide past below. The wealth and lavish lifestyles associated with Miami were instantly clear, but as my trip went on, I realised there is much more to the city than luxury and excess. In fact, many of the top things to do in Miami cost nothing at all. And with free transport options and affordable restaurants, you do not need a small mortgage to enjoy a holiday here.
Miami’s strong Hispanic influence is evident everywhere you go, with around 70% of residents speaking Spanish. This creates a vibrant, cosmopolitan atmosphere that makes the city so distinctive and such a pleasure to explore.
Miami is home to one of the world’s largest collections of Art Deco architecture, with hundreds of colourful buildings dating from the 1920s lining the streets near Miami Beach. Strolling along Ocean Drive, admiring the murals in Wynwood or listening to salsa music drifting through the streets of Little Havana are all memorable experiences that will not cost a cent.
That said, many of the fun activities in Miami involve dining in its stylish restaurants, sipping cocktails in rooftop bars, renting a sun lounger on South Beach and enjoying its vibrant nightlife, so it is not a destination I would recommend for a budget break!
Whether you are looking to keep costs down or indulge in some of the city’s famous glamour, I have listed the top things to do in Miami, as well as my favourite hotel and recommendations below.
About Miami
Located on the southeast coast of Florida, between the Atlantic Ocean and the Everglades, Miami is one of the most vibrant and diverse cities in America. Home to around 450,000 people, with more than six million living across the wider Miami-Fort Lauderdale metropolitan area, it is a major city, but it does not feel like one.
I remember being surprised to see that Miami’s hop-on hop-off bus tour has just nine stops. For comparison, the equivalent tour in New York has around 20. The city’s main neighbourhoods are relatively compact and easy to navigate, making it feel more like you are visiting different holiday resorts than a US metropolis.
Renowned for its year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches, strong Latin American influence and world-class dining and nightlife, it has earned the nickname ‘The Magic City’ for good reason.
21 Top Things to do in Miami
1. Chill out on South Beach
You simply cannot visit Miami without spending some time on Miami Beach, it is one of the top Miami attractions. This nine-mile barrier island is divided into three distinct areas: North Beach, Mid-Beach and South Beach, each offering its own atmosphere while sharing the same beautiful stretch of Atlantic coastline.
South Beach is the most famous and instantly recognisable, having featured in countless films and TV shows, but the island’s glorious white-sand beach can be enjoyed from all three areas. The beach tends to be wider and more dramatic in the south, while North Beach offers a quieter, more relaxed experience.
One of the highlights is the Miami Beach Boardwalk, which stretches for around four miles through South Beach and Mid-Beach. There are walking and cycling paths that run along much of the island, making it ideal for a stroll, jog or bike ride by the ocean.
Top tip: Sun loungers and umbrella rentals can cost up to $50 per day in South Beach. If you want to stay in South Beach, look for hotels that include complimentary beach clubs or beach access, as this can save you money in the long run. See hotel recommendations in my where to stay guide below.
2. Spend an afternoon on Ocean Drive
Ocean Drive, as the name suggests, runs alongside the coastline in South Beach and is one of Miami’s most iconic streets. If you are only in Miami for a weekend, then you have to visit here. Lined with colourful Art Deco buildings, cool cafés, lively bars and popular restaurants, it is the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere.
The road is often closed to traffic, making it easy to wander around and capture some great photos, particularly during the day when the pastel-coloured buildings look their best.
While Ocean Drive has a reputation for being expensive, I was pleasantly surprised by the value on offer. In many ways it reminded me of a Spanish holiday resort, with happy hours, live music and restaurant staff encouraging us to stop for a drink or a bite to eat.
Normally I would find this tacky, and it should not work, but somehow it does, and it all adds to the energy and character of the area.
I enjoyed a delicious jerk chicken pasta in J’Adore for $24, while drinks were two-for-one at lunchtime. We had a great outdoor table for people-watching and the great food too.
Top Oean Drive tips: Head up to one of the rooftop bars for cocktails and fantastic views over South Beach and the Atlantic Ocean, and make sure to snap a pic at the Miami Beach sign.
3. Book a Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour
I usually prefer to book a TukTuk or private tour when I am short on time in a new city, but the Big Bus Miami Tour proved to be excellent value. With just nine stops covering Miami tourist attractions it was an easy and stress-free way to scratch the must do things in Miami off my list!
I opted for the 48-hour Essential Ticket which includes a complimentary 90-minute Millionaire’s Row Boat Cruise. For $65, I was able to see all of Miami’s highlights and enjoy a cruise past the celebrities luxurious mansions.
And, while I didn’t have time to do this, you can also avail of a free one-hour bike rental included with the ticket. It is the best way to explore South Beach and, one of the best-value sightseeing experiences in Miami.
4. Marvel at the Millionaire’s Mansions
When I asked my followers what to do in Miami on Instagram, the Millionaire’s Row Boat Cruise was one of the most recommended. Cruising around Biscayne Bay, passing enormous yachts and cruise ships with Miami’s skyline as a backdrop, would be worth the fare alone. However, getting a glimpse of some of the city’s most lavish waterfront mansions takes the experience to another level.
Many of these spectacular homes are located on exclusive islands such as Star Island, which is only accessible to residents and invited guests. The sheer scale of the properties is staggering, and I loved hearing the stories behind some of the famous owners and former residents.
We passed the homes of Jennifer Lopez and Gloria Estefan, and with an average mansion costing a whopping $40 million, I was surprised to learn that the largest estate on Star Island is owned by billionaire Dr Phillip Frost, inventor of Viagra!
At just $20 for a 90-minute cruise, this is one of the best-value activities to do in Miami. Cruises depart from Pier 5 at Bayside Market Place.
There are many private yacht cruise experiences which offer great value too. Prices from €260 for a two hour private experience up to 10 people.
5. Wander around Wynwood
Miami is famous for its distinctive neighbourhoods, and Wynwood is one that shouldn’t be missed. Once an industrial warehouse district, Wynwood has been transformed into one of the world’s most famous street art destinations and is now one of Miami’s top attractions. From the minute we arrived we were greeted with colourful murals covering entire buildings and found the whole area has a cool, arty vibe.
Even if you are not an art lover, it is worth going just to wander the streets and soak up the atmosphere in one of the top places to see in Miami. However, I would recommend you pay the $12 entrance fee to snap a pic at the famous Wynwood Walls open-air museum, which is home to over 40 murals and 12 sculptures from world renowned street artists.
You can also choose to book a Golf Cart Small Group Tour of Wynwood. Priced at €40 for one hour, this top-rated Miami tour is a great way to explore this vibrant neighbourhood, and is one of the fun things to do in Miami.
6. Shop and Dine in Brickell
We stayed in Brickell, Miami’s sleek financial district, which has evolved into one of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. Popular with shoppers, food lovers and cruise passengers due to its proximity to the cruise port, Brickell is a great base for exploring Miami.
One of its biggest attractions is the Brickell City Centre, a sprawling shopping and dining destination spread across three city blocks. With a mix of luxury designer boutiques, popular high-street brands and excellent restaurants, it offers something for every budget. Much of the complex is open-air, making it a pleasure to explore, and I would recommend allowing at least three hours if you enjoy shopping.
While in Brickell, take time to try the Metromover, a free Downtown Miami transit service, This elevated automated train loops around Downtown Miami and Brickell and is one of the things to do for free in Miami.
Make sure to visit nearby Coconut Grove for its boutique shopping and relaxed atmosphere. Dine in iconic Monty’s and afterwards, head to Sugar, one of Miami’s most famous rooftop bars, for spectacular views over the city skyline.
7. Hang out in Little Havana
Did you know that around 70% of people living in Miami speak Spanish? Miami has one of the largest Spanish-speaking populations in the US, largely due to immigration from Cuba and other Latin American countries.
Little Havana is Miami’s Cuban heart and is one of the top places to visit in Miami. It is packed with cigar shops, colourful cafés, salsa music and authentic Cuban restaurants. If you are arriving by taxi, ask to be dropped at Calle Ocho, and simply soak up the atmosphere. It feels a world away from the glitz of South Beach.
I had heard about Little Havana for years and was excited to finally visit. We stopped by for breakfast and while I loved it, I could not help feeling that it really comes alive after dark. As we were leaving, the salsa bars and restaurants were just beginning to open and I instantly wished it was six hours later.
I suggest booking a food and walking tour of Little Havana to maximise your experience here, I have linked the most top rated tour below, which is superbly priced at €61 for a 2 hour 30 minute experience.
Top Tip: The Ball & Chain is one of Little Havana’s most famous venues and is one of the top things to do in Miami for adults, due to its live music and vibrant atmosphere after dark.
8. Browse Bayside Market Place
Bayside Marketplace is an open-air shopping and dining area lined with high-street brands, local shops and street vendors selling boat trips, excursions and the latest TikTok sensations. Much to the delight of my daughter, we picked up NeeDohs from one of the street vendors here, which were impossible to find in Ireland at the time!
Boat tours of Biscayne Bay also leave from here, including the popular Millionaire’s Row cruises. You will also find lively bars and restaurants, with prices lower than those in South Beach, and the Skyviews Miami Ferris wheel which one of the Miami family attractions.
9. Bike the Boardwalk
The South Pointe Park is located at the southernmost tip of South Beach and is the perfect place to grab a bike and explore Miami Beach on two wheels. Rather than just visiting South Beach, you can easily cycle along the coast, with scenic pathways and boardwalks stretching all the way to North Beach.
The route offers fantastic ocean views and passes many of Miami Beach’s most popular parks, beaches and neighbourhoods along the way.
Citibike is probably the handiest option, with bike stations located throughout the city and an easy-to-use app. Alternatively book a bike bites and views tour, where you get to sample lite bites at some of Miami’s hidden gems. I did a similar tour in Chicago and loved it!
10. Visit Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
If you fancy a change of scene from Miami’s beaches and lively neighbourhoods, spend a few hours at the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens. Built in 1916 as the winter home of industrialist James Deering, this 50-acre waterfront estate on Biscayne Bay looks more like a grand European palace than one of Miami top attractions.
While the villa, now a museum, is filled with priceless art and antiques, it is the spectacular Italian-style gardens that are likely to leave the biggest impression. Spread across 10 acres, they feature elegant fountains, sculptures, and thousands of tropical plants and orchids, creating a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. It is one of the top things to see in Miami Florida if you want to slow down, escape the crowds and recharge.
Top tip: Visit on a Sunday and you can also browse the weekly farmers market from 930am – 230pm. It is a great place to sample local produce and pick up handcrafted souvenirs.
11. Check out the Design District
If you enjoy shopping, art and architecture, then the Design District is a must visit in Miami. This creative neighbourhood has seen industrial warehouses transformed into luxury fashion houses, contemporary art galleries and top-class restaurants.
Even if high-end shopping is not your thing, this midtown Miami area worth visiting to admire the innovative architecture, numerous art exhibitions and sophisticated streets. The area feels very different to the energy of South Beach, making it a great place to spend a few hours exploring, dining and people-watching.
Top Tip: Check out the website below to see the schedule of upcoming exhibitions and events.
12. Visit Zoo Miami with Kids
If you are travelling to Miami with children, a visit to Zoo Miami, the largest and oldest zoo in Florida, is well worth considering. Home to more than 2,000 animals, many live in large open-air habitats designed to replicate their natural environments. Miami’s tropical climate also allows many species to thrive year-round, creating a more authentic wildlife experience.
Although the zoo is spread across 750 acres, it is easy to explore thanks to its monorail and extensive bike paths. Children will love the opportunity to feed giraffes and cool off in the splash pads dotted throughout the park. Zoo Miami is one of the best things to do in Miami with kids.
If you are combining a stay in Miami with some time in Orlando, check out my Orlando guides here:
Read: Where to stay in Orlando
Read: How to plan a trip to Orlando in 10 easy steps
“Miami Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) which means it has passed a rigorous application and inspection process and meet or exceed the AZA’s standards for animal health and welfare, fundraising, zoo staffing, and involvement in global conservation efforts.”
13. Avail of Miami’s free transport
Miami may have a reputation for being expensive, but you can’t knock its choice of free transportation. From the Metromover, an elevated automated train in Downtown Miami and Brickell, to the free trolley services along Miami Beach, you can easily explore Miami without spending a penny!
You can even avail of free taxis in Miami! If you download the Freebee App you can pre book rides in Downtown Miami, Brickell and Edgewater. If you are looking for free things to do in Miami, look no further.
Where to eat in Miami
14. Have a sandwich at La Sandwicherie
La Sandwicherie has been a household name in Miami since it started serving sandwiches in South Beach 1988. Don’t let its simple setting throw you, its sandwiches and french baguettes with its coveted ‘Magic Sauce’ are worth the wait – queues are regularly seen here.
In fact the South Beach location became so popular that you can now find La Sandwicherie in Wynwood. North Beach, Sunny Isles, and Brickell too. As well as a lunchtime favourite with locals, Le Sandwicherie is also open for breakfast from 7am and for partygoers till 5am.
Top Tip: You can order online for pickup or delivery from La Sandwicherie in South Beach directly through their official online ordering page on ToastTab.
15. Have pizza in Le Leggenda
If you are looking for the best pizza in Miami, look no further than Le Leggenda. Located in the heart of South Beach, this was the first place I visited when I arrived in Miami.
A friend of mine who is a regular Miami visitor, told me about this multi-award winning pizzeria, so I had to try it. I had the ‘Salame & Bell Peppers’ pizza, which won the best pizza in the world in Las Vegas, and was well priced at $23. I think the picture speaks for itself!
16. Have lunch at the Versace Mansion
One of the places I didn’t get to visit was the Versace Mansion. Priced at just $39.50 for an appetiser, entrée and a dessert, I’m not surprised it has hard to get a table! Gianni Versace’s Italian style villa is located on Ocean Drive and I’m told is one of the best places to eat in Miami if you like a glamorous backdrop and a lively atmosphere.
Top Tip: Don’t arrive in flipflops or beach wear. We were not allowed in as we were dressed in beach attire. While the price may not reflect the admission rules, you do need to dress to impress.
17. Dine on Española Way
I stumbled upon Española Way while exploring the South Beach area and instantly felt like I had been transported to an upmarket Mediterranean resort. This charming pedestrianised street is lined with colourful buildings and outdoor cafés with twinkling lights, making it one of the best places to enjoy Miami outdoor dining.
Whether you fancy Spanish tapas, Italian pasta or Cuban cuisine, you will find plenty of choice here. It is also a lovely place to stop for a pre-dinner drink and soak up the atmosphere before the street comes alive with the evening buzz. Put Española Way on your Miami things to do list, and thank me later.
18. Splash out at Smith & Wolensky
For a special occasion, or if you just want to treat yourself, it is hard to beat the waterfront setting on Smith and Wolensky. Located at the southern tip of South Beach, this iconic steakhouse is renowned for its superb steaks, which I highly recommend you try, but there is also an extensive menu with seafood, salads and lighter dishes.
While dinner here is certainly a splurge, lunch offers a more affordable way to enjoy the experience, with burgers, sandwiches and other casual favourites available.
Top Tip: Outside tables cannot be reserved in advance, so arrive early and put your name down with the maître d’. I waited about an hour for a table, but it was well worth it. The outdoor bar has a lovely atmosphere, great views and plenty of delicious cocktails to enjoy while you wait.
19. Party in the city where the heat is on!
Any reply to a question on what to do in Miami Florida usually includes sampling its pulsating nightlife. South Beach is the heart of the action, and offers something for all ages, but if you want to experience Miami’s world-famous club scene, don’t miss LIV or E11EVEN, two of the city’s most iconic nightlife venues.
However, there are plenty of more laid-back options if nightclubs are not your thing. Little Havana is packed with salsa bars and live music, Española Way is perfect for a relaxed evening of outdoor dining and cocktails, and Ocean Drive is also known for its lively bars and colourful drag shows.
Brickell is also home to sophisticated rooftop bars with stunning skyline views, as well as a cool speakeasy that we found, the Red Phone Booth – check out my Instagram highlights to see how we got on.
From glamorous beachfront venues and trendy rooftop bars to live music and Latin dance clubs, Miami comes alive after dark, and its nightlife is a huge part of the city’s appeal.
Best Day trips from Miami
20. Escape to the Everglades
Swap the city for the wilderness of the Everglades national park. An airboat ride through the Everglades is one of the top things to do in Florida and is easily accessible from Miami.
Go in search of alligators and wildlife for 50-60 minutes, enjoy the stunning scenery, and learn about the history of this remarkable ecosystem with a professional guide. This will be followed with a 20 minute learning activity in English on rescued alligators (alligators saved from wildlife danger). This is one of the top family things to do in Miami Florida.
Total duration of the tour is normally 4-5 hours including complimentary pick up and drop off at Miami hotel locations.
21. Spend the day in Key West
Drive across the iconic Overseas Highway and spend the day in Key West, the southernmost point of the continental United States. Famous for its colourful coral reefs, laid-back atmosphere and Caribbean-style charm, this popular Miami day trip offers a wonderful introduction to the Florida Keys.
The tour can be tailored to suit your interests. You can simply enjoy the return transportation and explore Key West at your own pace, or enhance your experience with optional activities such as snorkelling, or a hop-on hop-off trolley tour.
Early hotel pick-up is included from selected Miami locations, making it a hassle-free way to experience one of Florida’s most unique destinations.
Where to stay in Miami – Top 10 Miami Hotels
Miami Beach / South Beach Neighbourhoods
South beach is one of the best places to stay in Miami and I have selected some of the best hotels Miami to suit all budgets below.
1. Waldorf Towers ***
One of the top hotels in Miami according to TripAdvisor, yet often available at a fraction of the price of some of its famous neighbours, the Waldorf Towers Hotel is well worth checking out. This restored Art Deco property, originally designed in 1937, has just 43 rooms and enjoys a prime location right on Ocean Drive.
While it does not have a swimming pool, this is likely one of the reasons it offers such good value, with South Beach just steps away, you are unlikely to miss it. Combining historic charm, a superb location and excellent reviews, it is a great option for travellers seeking an authentic Miami Beach stay without the premium price tag.
2. Nassau Suite Hotel ****
I was originally booked to stay at this popular all-suite hotel, but due to a huge festival over Memorial Day weekend, we opted to stay in Brickell instead. That said, if I return to Miami, I would happily stay here.
Located on Collins Avenue, just one block from Ocean Drive, the hotel enjoys a super South Beach location. This Art Deco boutique property has 44 spacious suites, many with kitchenettes, making it an excellent choice for families as well as couples.
Guests can relax on the rooftop terrace, which features a swimming pool and Jacuzzi, while complimentary beach chairs, beach towels and access to the fitness centre add to the appeal. With its spacious accommodation, prime location, and no resort fees, it is easy to see why this is such a popular place to stay in South Beach.
3. Pelican Hotel ****
This 33 roomed art deco boutique hotel receives rave reviews from guests and is considered one of the best 4 star hotels in South Beach, yet is surprisingly well priced. Guests can enjoy a daily complimentary signature cocktail during limited early evening hours and its cafe offers international cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
4. Pestana South Beach ****
This boutique Miami hotel is a popular choice with visitors, earning consistently excellent reviews on TripAdvisor, and having stayed in hotels from this Portuguese hotel group, I can see why. Housed across four beautifully restored Art Deco buildings, it combines historic charm with modern comforts in a superb location.
South Beach is just a five-minute walk away, while the popular open-air Lincoln Road shopping and dining district is only nine minutes on foot. At the heart of the hotel is its courtyard with a heated outdoor swimming pool, bistro and bar.
5. Betsy Hotel South Beach *****
Superbly located on Ocean Drive, The Betsy Hotel is one of the best places to stay in South Beach and one of the most famous hotels in Miami. With direct beach access, a rooftop pool with 360 degree views, and fresh orchids and original art on view, the minute you walk into the Betsy you know you are somewhere special.
Betsy’s rooftop is the perfect place to experience sunrise yoga and the private beach service offering chairs and umbrellas will save you paying $50 a day on South Beach.
6. 1 Hotel South Beach *****
While it does come with a hefty price tag, the historic oceanfront 1 Hotel is widely regarded as the best hotels in South Beach Miami.
With a private beach area, four restaurants and four swimming pools, including an adult only rooftop pool, as well as a spa and wellness centre, this has every box ticked. Even families are catered for with children’s activities and kids club. Check out the reviews on the TripAdvisor if you still need convincing.
7. Monte Carlo by Miami Vacations ****
The beachfront Monte Carlo by Miami Vacations is a ideal choice for those looking for self-catering facilities or a family hotel in Miami. Located in North Miami Beach, Florida, it has two pools and direct beach access.
Brickell / Downtown Neighbourhoods
Brickell, Coconut Grove and Downtown Miami tend to offer more reasonably priced Miami hotels but still offer superb shopping, dining and entertainment areas. This is also the best place to stay in Miami near cruise port or airport.
8. The Elser Hotel Miami ****
Rated the best Miami hotel on TripAdvisor, yet also offers good value, if looking for a cheap place to stay in Miami, that comes highly recommended, look no further.
Enjoy its rooftop swimming pool, fitness centre, sun terrace, restaurant, bar, as well as yoga and fitness classes. Family rooms with fridges also make this a great choice as a family hotel in Miami.
Located just a short walk from Bayside Market Place and just 11km from the airport, it is a great choice for those looking for a hotel near the cruise port or airport.
9. Epic Kimpton Hotel ****
I stayed at the Epic Kimpton Hotel and loved its spacious rooms, stylish design and convenient downtown location. Set on the Miami River, it offers fantastic waterfront views, particularly from its renowned restaurant, Area 31.
The bright, contemporary rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows with city views. I also spent some time at the lively rooftop swimming pool and, as with all Kimpton properties, I loved it complimentary wine social hour each evening from 5pm to 6pm. It is also a pet-friendly Miami hotel.
10. East Miami *****
Located in the heart of Brickell City Centre, EAST Miami is an excellent choice if you want world-class shopping, sophisticated dining and the best rooftop bar in Miami – Sugar. The hotel boasts stylish rooms, multiple swimming pools and direct access to Brickell’s premier shopping and entertainment district.
It is arguably one of the best hotels in Miami for those looking to combine relaxation with city living, offering easy access to Downtown Miami, the cruise port and Miami International Airport, while still being surrounded by the vibrant nightlife, restaurants and shopping experiences that Miami is famous for.
How to get around Miami
One of the things that surprised me most about Miami was how easy and affordable it was to get around. Despite being a large city, I found transport straightforward, and most of the top attractions were easily reached.
As well as the many free transportation services (see number 13 above), Uber and taxis were readily available and generally reasonably priced. Traffic can be heavy at peak times, particularly around South Beach and Downtown, but overall I found visiting the best attractions in Miami much easier than expected.
Top Tips for getting around Miami:
Use bikes and the free trolleys around Miami Beach and the Metromover or Freebee in the Downtown / Brickell areas.
If visiting Miami before or after a cruise, choose to stay in Brickell for easy access to the port and airport.
Try something new and book a driverless taxi! Download Waymo, its just like UBER and similar cost, only there is no driver! It is such a fun thing to do in Miami – check out my Instagram highlight to see more.
When is the best time to visit Miami
Miami is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit Miami is generally between November and April when temperatures are warm, humidity is lower and there is very little rainfall. It is best to avoid Christmas and Easter (Spring Break) if you are looking for good value and fewer crowds. I visited in May and found it perfect.
Miami’s summer months (June to September) can be extremely hot and humid with a good chance of rain. However, this is also when you will find some of the best hotel deals for a Miami holiday.
I hope this Miami travel guide featuring what to see in Miami and will you plan a trip to this great city! While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, descriptions and costs are subject to change.
Some of the links in this post contain affiliate links, where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional cost to you.
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