Things to Do in Miami, United States of America

Miami is a vibrant coastal metropolis that seamlessly blends Latin American culture with American sophistication, creating one of the world's most dynamic urban destinations. Known for its pristine beaches, Art Deco architecture, and pulsating nightlife, Miami offers an intoxicating mix of sun-soaked relaxation and cosmopolitan excitement that attracts millions of visitors annually. The city serves as the gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean, resulting in a rich cultural tapestry reflected in its cuisine, music, and festivals. From the iconic South Beach with its pastel-colored buildings and celebrity-spotting opportunities to the trendy Wynwood Arts District with its world-class street art, Miami provides diverse experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you're seeking luxury shopping on Lincoln Road, exploring the natural beauty of Biscayne Bay, or dancing until dawn at world-renowned clubs, Miami delivers an unforgettable tropical urban adventure.

Top Things to Do in Miami

South Beach and Art Deco Walking Tour

Explore the iconic South Beach district with its world-famous Art Deco architecture, pristine white sand beaches, and vibrant Ocean Drive. These tours typically combine historical insights about the 1930s buildings with celebrity stories and beach culture, offering perfect photo opportunities at every turn.

Booking Tip: Tours cost $25-45 per person and are best taken in early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat. Look for guides certified by the Miami Design Preservation League for the most authentic historical information.

Everglades Airboat Adventure

Experience the unique ecosystem of the Florida Everglades on a thrilling airboat ride through the 'River of Grass.' These tours offer opportunities to spot alligators, exotic birds, and other wildlife while learning about this UNESCO World Heritage site's importance to South Florida's environment.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours range from $50-80 per person, with morning departures offering better wildlife viewing. Choose operators that include transportation from Miami Beach to save on rental car costs and parking fees.

Wynwood Arts District Street Art Tour

Discover one of the world's largest outdoor street art installations in the trendy Wynwood neighborhood. These walking tours showcase massive murals by internationally renowned artists, local galleries, and the area's transformation from warehouse district to cultural hotspot.

Booking Tip: Tours cost $20-35 per person and are best scheduled for late afternoon when lighting is optimal for photography. Some tours include gallery visits or craft brewery stops for a more comprehensive cultural experience.

Biscayne Bay Boat Cruise

Cruise the crystal-clear waters of Biscayne Bay to see Miami's stunning skyline from the water while passing by exclusive Star Island and other celebrity mansions. These tours often include commentary about Miami's maritime history, architecture, and famous residents both past and present.

Booking Tip: Daytime cruises cost $25-50 per person, while sunset cruises are $35-65. Book sunset tours well in advance during peak season, and choose operators with covered seating areas for comfort during Miami's frequent afternoon showers.

Little Havana Cultural Experience

Immerse yourself in authentic Cuban culture in the heart of Little Havana along famous Calle Ocho (8th Street). These cultural tours typically include visits to cigar factories, domino parks, and local restaurants while learning about the Cuban exile community's impact on Miami's identity.

Booking Tip: Walking tours cost $30-50 per person and often include food tastings. Afternoon tours are ideal as many cultural activities peak after lunch, and some tours offer cooking classes or salsa dancing lessons for an additional fee.

Getting There

Miami International Airport (MIA) serves as the primary gateway, located just 8 miles from downtown Miami with direct flights from major cities worldwide. The airport connects to the city via the Metrorail Orange Line, ride-sharing services, taxis, and rental cars. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, about 30 miles north, often offers cheaper flights and connects to Miami via shuttle services, rental cars, or the Tri-Rail commuter system. For those driving, Miami is easily accessible via Interstate 95 from the north and south, while Amtrak provides train service to the downtown station from major East Coast cities.

Getting Around

Miami's public transportation system includes the Metrorail, Metromover (free downtown circulator), and Metrobus network, though coverage can be limited in some tourist areas. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available and often more convenient than traditional taxis. Many visitors rent cars for flexibility, but be prepared for heavy traffic and expensive parking, especially in South Beach where rates can exceed $25 per day. The city is increasingly bike-friendly with Citi Bike Miami sharing stations throughout downtown and beach areas, while water taxis provide scenic transportation between some waterfront destinations.

Where to Stay

South Beach

Downtown Miami

Coconut Grove

Coral Gables

Wynwood

Key Biscayne

Food & Dining

Miami's culinary scene reflects its multicultural identity, with exceptional Latin American cuisine, fresh seafood, and innovative fusion restaurants. Little Havana offers authentic Cuban cafeterias and family-run restaurants, while upscale establishments in South Beach and downtown feature celebrity chef concepts and oceanfront dining. The city excels in ceviche, stone crab (seasonal), and Cuban sandwiches, with food trucks and casual spots often providing the most authentic experiences. Design District and Wynwood have emerged as foodie destinations with trendy gastropubs and craft breweries, while traditional Jewish delis and Argentine steakhouses add to the diverse dining landscape.

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Miami is from December through April when temperatures are comfortable (70-80°F), humidity is lower, and rainfall is minimal, though this is also peak season with higher prices and crowds. Summer months (May-October) bring hot, humid weather with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and higher hurricane risk, but offer significantly lower hotel rates and fewer tourists. Hurricane season officially runs June through November, with September and October being peak months, though direct hits are relatively rare and most storms provide advance warning for travel adjustments.

Insider Tips

Many South Beach restaurants and clubs don't get busy until after 10 PM, so embrace the late-night dining culture and make dinner reservations accordingly

Purchase a EASY Card for public transportation to save money on Metrorail and bus fares, and take advantage of the free Metromover for downtown exploration

Avoid driving in South Beach on weekends if possible - use ride-sharing or walk, as traffic is extremely congested and parking is both expensive and scarce

Things to Do in Miami