Bienvenidos a Miami! The city has rightfully gained a rep for being the place to be when it comes to good times under the sun, thanks to its incredible beaches and great weather all year round. But Miami has more to offer than its endless beaches . It also boasts grand estates, historic neighbourhoods, fantastic shops, piping hot nightlife and arts scenes.
Whether you’re going with mates or with the fam, you’ll have your fair share of amazing things to do in Miami with these 18 exciting places to visit:
- Miami Beach
- Coral Castle Museum
- Cape Florida Lighthouse
- Jungle Island
- Bayfront Park
- Everglades Safari Park
- Venetian Pool
- Art Deco Historic District
- Perez Art Museum
- Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science
- Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
- FTX Arena
- Wynwood Walls
- Bayside Marketplace
- Zoo Miami
- Deering Estate
- Calle Ocho
1. Miami Beach
Miami Beach isn’t just a beach. It’s actually a bustlingcity on one scenic island. Boasting quaint neighbourhoods, lively streets made for partying, and endless stretches of gorgeous beaches, it’s a must-visit whenever you’re in Florida. The best taste to get a taste of Miami’s vibe is Ocean Drive. This promenade hosts the best restaurants, bars, shops and live music in Miami beach. No matter the time of day, Ocean Drive in Miami brings unrivalled energy to this coastal island. If you’re up for something more chill, stop by the Miami Beach Botanical Gardens and explore acres upon acres of greenery and tranquil water features.
Can’t get enough of tropical paradises? Discover these 12 amazing things to do in Hawaii with Klook!
2. Coral Castle Museum
Ever seen a castle made entirely by one man? Prepare yourself for the stunning sight that is the Coral Castle Museum! It’s the result of Edward Leedskalnin’s 28 years of hard work, who made the castle a tribute to his long-lost love. Discover intricately carved stone tables, chairs, and other unique figures. It's best to time your visit during Psychic Saturday (the first of each month) to have your future read by palm readers.
3. Cape Florida Light
Cape Florida Light isn’t just a pretty sight by the shores; it’s also an incredible piece of history. After nearly 200 years of existence, it has survived all sorts of natural calamities while guiding sailors home. For the best views of the Atlantic Ocean, climb 109 steps to the top. For something more relaxing, enjoy a drink at the nearby Lighthouse Café, where you can watch the sunset.
4. Jungle Island
When it comes to sights and experiences, you can’t go wrong with Jungle Island. Situated on Watson Island, it’s a sanctuary for the diverse Floridian wildlife while serving as a premier event destination. During the day, you can feed the animals and experience SuperFlight, a thrilling sky diving simulation. At night, you can enjoy a classical concert by candlelight.
5. Bayfront Park
Located on the east side of Biscayne Boulevard, Bayfront Park features the UFO-like Pepper Fountain, the helix-shaped Challenger Memorial, a 54m ferris wheel, sandy beach areas and an epic children’s playground. It’s a great place to relax, play, exercise or even take photos for the ‘gram.
6. Everglades Safari Park
Spending a day at the Everglades Safari Park is one of the best things to do in Miami. Ride an airboat to explore the sprawling park in style. Then, see Florida icons in full glory on a fun alligator wildlife show. Plus, you can see snakes up close and snap a photo while holding a baby alligator.
7. Venetian Pool
Head to Coral Gables for a nice dip in the Venetian Pool. The 820,000-gallon pool built in the 1920s is a guaranteed refreshing swimming experience. Its water is emptied and refilled by the nearby spring every day. While you’re there, expect to see picturesque waterfalls and grottos.
8. Art Deco Historic District
Experience Miami’s vibrant ambience at the Art Deco Historic District. Featuring a long stretch of postcard-worthy pastel buildings and neon signs, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a nice meal, some booze and views. There are also historic hotels that have been restored if you’re looking for a lovely place to stay.
9. Perez Art Museum
Enjoy art inside and out at Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM). With a wooden trellis covered by lush plants, it’s the tropical museum that fits Miami’s vibe to a T. When you enter, you’ll find a stunning collection of artworks by local and international artists. After enjoying the paintings and sculptures, grab a meal at the on-site restaurant, Verde, to enjoy waterside views while indulging in your dishes.
10. Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science
After your visit to the PAMM, stop by its next-door neighbour, the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science. As you walk through its incredible aquarium, get to know the secrets hidden beneath the depths of Miami’s waters. There’s also the planetarium, where you can learn about the solar system from its interactive displays.
11. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
No need to fly to Italy for a glimpse of classic Italian art and architecture. Head to the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, where you’ll find a sprawling estate influenced by Renaissance styles and embellished with European furniture and artworks, some of which date back to the 15th century.
12. FTX Arena
For sports fans, one of the most unmissable things to do in Miami is to visit the FTX Arena. Home of the NBA team Miami Heat, you can usually catch a game any time during the season from October to June. Aside from basketball games, it’s also the usual site for the city’s biggest concerts and events.
13. Wynwood Walls
Art isn’t just limited to galleries and museums. Wander to the Wynwood Walls, where you’ll see over 80,000 square feet of walls covered with impressive paintings and drawings. Stop by the nearby Wynwood Walls Museum, where you can shop for souvenirs.
14. Bayside Marketplace
Speaking of souvenirs, enjoy the incredible shopping options at Bayside Marketplace. With over 120 shops, you’ll find all kinds of goods and knick-knacks. There are also great cafes, restaurants, and even live entertainment!
Not sure how you can get around the city? Travel to the marketplace and other Miami highlights aboard the Miami Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off tour. You can explore the city at your own pace with unlimited access and convenient bus stops.
15. Zoo Miami
Besides great beaches and nightlife, Miami is also known for its diverse range of native animals, and one of the best places to discover them is at Zoo Miami. What sets it apart from other zoos is that it groups different species to make the environment as similar to their natural habitat as possible.
16. Deering Estate
What do you get when you combine history and scenery? The Deering Estate at Cutler! Registered on the National Register of Historic Places, it was originally a Native American burial ground in the 1500s before becoming a hotel and, eventually, a museum. The estate offers scenic night hikes, camping experiences, and guided walks.
17. Calle Ocho
No visit to the Magic City is complete without going to a party, and there might not be a better place to do it than at Calle Ocho! The iconic area is famous for its Cuban restaurants, cultural landmarks (like Domino Park), and lively nightclubs. Every March, the enclave hosts the largest Latin music festival in the US, the Calle Ocho Music Festival. With fun musical performances, delicious food, and live entertainment, it’s one of the best things to do in Miami.
Written by: Alyssa Dela Cruz