Miami is a city with endless possibilities. There is something for everyone, whether you’re a beach vacationer, a foodie, a wildlife enthusiast, an art lover, or all of the above. As one of the places in the United States with a Caribbean tropical climate, there are plenty of unique things to do in Miami.
If you’re searching for a world-class food and drink scene, Miami is the right place for you. If you want to stay active on your vacation, you’ll find tons of options in Miami for that as well. Maybe you want a break from the gorgeous beaches and are interested in exploring a bit of art and culture. There are even tons of family-friendly activities to keep the kids entertained.
Below you’ll find 101 things to do in Miami, including many free activities, from outdoor activities to cultural neighborhoods, to incredible galleries and shopping.
This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you buy something through one of these links, we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Please read our full disclosure policy for more information.
Iconic Miami Neighborhoods
1. Miami Beach – Explore glamorous and iconic South Beach with plenty of boutique shops, pulsing nightlife, and beautiful beaches
2. Coconut Grove – Hop on the trolley and explore this oldest section of the city. Tree-lined streets give rise to the shopping and restaurant areas. Originally a bit Bohemian, the area still maintains the quaint aura of culture and charm.
3. Little Havana – Little Havana is a warm and vibrant enclave with a rich Cuban influence, evident in its restaurants, music, and cultural scene. Calle Ocho, in the heart of Little Havana, is the perfect place to embark on a neighborhood cultural food tour, and sample local cuisine from some of the best restaurants in Little Havana.
4. Little Haiti – Many residents of Haitian ancestry settled in this neighborhood, which is well worth a visit for its island art scene and Caribbean marketplace.
5. Coral Gables – Home of the Biltmore Hotel and Venetian Pool, ivy-covered mansions, and tree-lined boulevards. This neighborhood has its roots in the 1920s, which can still be felt today.
6. Wynwood Art District – Wynwood is the city’s hippest district featuring an internationally renowned street art scene with work from artists across the globe. There is so much to discover here, you’d be remiss to explore the area without a guide. So save yourself the hassle, join a local expert on a private tour and uncover Wynwood’s hidden gems.
More ways to explore Miami’s neighborhoods
Top Attractions to Visit in Miami
7. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens – This Renaissance-style mansion is now open to the public. Wander the formal gardens outside or the corridors of the gorgeous European-inspired estate.
8. Venetian Pool – People flock to Coral Gables for a dip in the historic Venetian Pool, a spring water pool built initially from a rock quarry. With its pink, coral caves and waterfalls, it’s not your average public pool.
9. Bayside Marketplace – A popular open-air shopping complex on the waterfront with well-known brand shops, quirky boutiques, live entertainment, and plenty of great places to eat.
10. Zoo Miami – One of the first cage-free zoos in the United States! Animals are grouped into large free-range enclosures according to their original habitats. There is a vast diversity of animals here from Asia, Australia, and Africa which can be seen year-round. Skip the lines, pick up your Zoo Miami admission tickets in advance here!
Historical Sights in Miami
11. The Ancient Spanish Monastery – Originally built in Spain starting in A.D 1133, later purchased by William Randolph Hearst, transported to the United States, and reassembled brick by brick!
12. Cape Florida Lighthouse – climb the 109 steps to the top of this landmark lighthouse which played a role in Miami’s Black History
13. Cauley Square Historic Village – the last railroad village in Florida, a quaint village in Homestead with unique boutique shopping in historic homes
14. Stiltsville – Take a boat to visit and enjoy the quirky sight of a group of cabins perched on stilts over the water just south of Cape Florida. Permits are required.
15. HistoryMiami Museum – Learn about Miami’s storied past, including archives of the city’s founding and history throughout the years
Adventure: Best Outdoor Activities in Miami
16. Jet ski across Biscayne Bay – If you are looking for a short yet thrilling experience, then jet skiing across Biscayne Bay is one of the best things to do in Miami for adrenaline junkies. Hop on a high-speed jet-ski and feel the blood pump through your veins as you’re treated to magnificent views of the Miami skyline. Don’t forget to pack these for your Miami trip!
17. Biscayne National Park – experience the incredible ecosystem of South Florida, including a coral reef, mangrove forests, and white sand beaches. Visitors are invited to snorkel, kayak, or fish to enjoy this unique environment
18. Oleta River State Park Full-Moon Kayak Tour – One of the most memorable things to do in Miami at night. With glow sticks in hand and the full moon lighting the sky, you will never forget this unique experience in Miami. Stand-up paddleboards and canoes are also welcome
19. Parasailing in Miami – Have you ever wondered what it would be like to get a birds-eye-view? Well, wonder no more, as you can experience the magic and thrill of flying 400 ft above Miami’s blue waters. Book your Miami parasailing adventure here!
Unique Things to Do in Miami
20. Art Deco Historic District – Full of the iconic architecture of the height of Miami’s art deco period.
21. Wynwood Walls – Street art graffiti, is so much more when you view it in Wynwood. Think: outdoor museum featuring rotating street art from artists across the globe. For a more in-depth look into the area check out these Wynwood activities.
22. Caribbean Marketplace – a bustling complex filled with genuine Afro-Caribbean art, culture, food, set against the backdrop of live music, island-style.
23. Maximo Gomez Park (a.k.a. Domino Park) – Located in Little Havana, you’re sure to find a game of dominos here. The locals always welcome a new opponent (55 and over) to start a pick-up game!
24. Port of Miami – Admire the floating cities (cruise ships) at PortMiami, also known as the Cruise Capital of the World. Planning a cruise? Check out our what to know when cruising out of South Florida.
25. Coral Castle – Wander this quirky outdoor limestone structure, and you’ll see why this is one of the unique things to do in Miami. How did one man build an 1100 ton structure out of solid coral? Find out all about this mysterious castle in Coral Castle Explained: The Secrets Of Edward Leedskalnin Revealed.
Other fun Miami activities to add to your bucket list
Family-Friendly Activities: Things to Do in Miami with Kids
26. Topgolf – Take the whole family to this spacious entertainment venue, complete with golf games for all levels, a high-tech driving range, a bar lounge, and a music lineup.
27. Miami Children’s Museum – It’s easy to spend an entire day here with many interactive, hands-on exhibits, including a music studio and classes for the kids. Offers free admission every third Friday of the month from 3 to 9 pm
28. Miami Seaquarium – this oceanarium is the perfect place to see your share of fish, sharks, sea turtles, and whales. With daily shows, it’s a great family-friendly option.
29. Jungle Island – Located on Watson Island, this eco-adventure park features zip-lining, a petting zoo, an outdoor skydiving simulator, ropes course, plus 1,000 varieties of parrots who call the 20 acres of tropical forest home.
Things to Do in Miami Beach and South Beach Florida
30. Ocean Drive – Cruise along South Beach and take in the gorgeous Art Deco buildings, many of which have been featured in films and on television, as well as the popular cafes, boutiques, and Miami icons. You could spend a whole day in Miami Beach just on Ocean Drive.
31. Miami Beach Boardwalk – Go for an early morning walk, bike, or run along the 7-mile Miami Beach Boardwalk taking in some of the most picturesque areas of the city from South Pointe Park to 87th Terrace.
32. Lincoln Road – This outdoor pedestrian mall has something for everyone whether you want to shop, eat, drink, or enjoy local art galleries.
33. Espanola Way – Just 5 minutes away from Lincoln Road, this Spanish-style pedestrian-only shopping area is another great place to browse boutiques and galleries, have a meal, or just sip a mojito while people watch.
34. South Beach Nightclub Party Package – Want to meet other travelers and chat about the best places to party in Miami? Join this tour of the hottest club in the city that is oh-so-famous for its incredible nightlife.
Here are some more popular Miami Beach activities
Free Things to Do in Miami
35. WALLCAST Concerts Series – Want to experience a free symphony concert? Performances from the New World Center in Miami Beach are broadcast live at SoundScape Park for all to enjoy. Bring a blanket, food, and friends!
36. Institute of Contemporary Art – A free art museum with free guided tours every day at 1 pm. The museum complex also boasts a lush sculpture garden.
37. Miami Design District Public Art Tour: When it comes to free things to do in Miami, put a guided tour of this neighborhood at the top of your list. Let an expert guide you through the famous public works and renowned architecture of this iconic area.
MORE: 60+ FREE Things to Do in Miami That Won’t Cost You a Thing!
Attend one of Miami’s Famous Festivals
38. Calle Ocho Festival – This is the largest Hispanic festival in the United States and takes place right in the heart of the Little Havana neighborhood in conjunction with Carnaval Miami
39. South Beach Wine and Food Festival – See and be seen at this food festival put on by The Food Network and The Cooking Channel. Enjoy delicious culinary treats at this star-studded event in South Beach
40. Miami Book Fair International – One of the largest literary festivals in the United States. This festival takes place every year in November and attracts authors, publishers, and readers from far and wide
41. Art Deco Weekend – Founded at the height of Miami’s art deco movement, enjoy three days full of free public events on historic Ocean Drive
42. The Coconut Grove Arts Festival – This 3-day festival takes place every year on Presidents’ Day weekend overlooking Biscayne Bay. Features live music, art displays, and plenty of food
43. Art Basel Miami Beach – Arguably the most famous art show on the American continent, Art Basel is a multi-day festival centered around modern and contemporary art
MORE: Annual South Florida Events, Fairs & Festivals
Glimpse into Miami’s Luxury Lifestyle
44. Miami Design District – A trendy blend of galleries, interior design stores, and celebrity chef restaurants, all found in gorgeous modern architecture
45. Biltmore Hotel Tours – Get an inside look at this glamorous and historic hotel featuring an extravagant interior and breathtaking pool. The tours are free and guided by docents from the Dade Heritage Trust. Can’t make it to a tour? Pick up a copy of The Biltmore: Beacon for Miami, a great resource on the vivid history of this iconic Miami hotel.
46. Bay Cruise – What better way to enjoy the sights of Miami than by hopping on a relaxing boat cruise? Take the 90-minute Millionaire’s Row cruise that includes a stretch of waterfront mansions, which Miami’s rich and famous call home.
Miami’s Art and Cultural Events
47. Wynwood Art Walk – One of the quintessential hipster things to do in Miami, this outdoor festival features food trucks, local vendors, and live music in the colorful Wynwood neighborhood every second Saturday of the month
48. Overtown Folklife Friday – Enjoy artisan vendors, food live music, and more at Folklife Friday Open Air Market Festival every first Friday of the month from 11 to 8 p.m. Happy hour from 5-8 pm with live entertainment is just the icing on the cake!
49. Sounds of Little Haiti – Taking place every third Friday of each month, this outdoor festival and marketplace feature Caribbean art, live music, and Haitian food.
50. Viernes Culturales (Cultural Fridays) – You’ll find this outdoor festival in Little Havana third Friday of every month abuzz with music, food, and art.
Things to do in Miami: Walking Tours
51. Miami Best Graffiti Guide Tours – Artist-led (walking, bike, and scooter) tours through the Wynwood Art District
52. Arsht Center Tours – This huge performing arts complex houses both the Ziff Ballet Opera House and the Knight Concert Hall. Even if you do not see a show here, take a free tour of this magnificent structure with its state-of-the-art acoustics
53. Little Havana Food & Cultural Tour – Enjoy authentic Cuban cuisine while learning about Little Havana’s culture and history. The tour takes you through the vibrant Little Havana neighborhood while providing plenty of storytelling, food, and refreshments.
Best Views in Miami
54. Area 31 – Located on the rooftop of EPIC Hotel in the Brickell neighborhood. This lounge offers a great view of Downtown Miami, Biscayne Bay, and Brickell and is one of the best things to do in Miami at night
55. Bayfront Park – The popular Bayfront Park is a huge public waterfront area with lots of space to relax and spectacular views of Biscayne Bay
56. Sugar – An upscale cocktail bar located on the rooftop of the EAST Miami hotel. Offers a great atmosphere and one of the best views in Downtown Miami
Best Bars in Miami: Places to Grab a Drink
57. Wynwood Brewing Company – Enjoy a drink at Miami’s first craft brewery located in the heart of the Wynwood Art District
58. Schnebly Redland’s Winery & Brewery – Taste tropical fruit-flavored wine and beer at this great location in Homestead, between Miami and the upper Florida Keys
59. Veza Sur Brewing – Drink, eat, dance, or enjoy the atmosphere at this Latin America-inspired craft brewery in Wynwood
60. Churchill’s Pub – For real local flavor, check out this dive bar in the heart of Little Haiti. There is nothing fancy about this place, just good music, reasonably priced bar food, and tasty drinks.
RELATED: Your Guide to the Best Outdoor Dining in Miami (& Drinks with a View!)
Where to Eat in Miami: Restaurant Bucket List
61. Cuban sandwich – Don’t leave Miami without trying a classic Cuban sandwich!
62. Ventanitas (Cuban coffee window) – You’ll find these walk-up coffee counters all over town. Partake in the tradition of grabbing a café con leche, corditio, or cafeito – all varieties of Cuban coffee.
63. El Rey De Las Fritas – Home to the original Frita Cubana (Cuban burger), a spin-off of the iconic Cuban sandwich
64. Joe’s Stone Crab – For amazing stone crab and a fabulous deal on one of the best fried chicken in Miami, this is the spot in town.
65. Knaus Berry Farm – A favorite among both visitors and locals, their famous cinnamon rolls are worth the wait in line! Take advantage of the u-pick strawberry fields (when in season), or grab a shake and stroll through the small market.
66. Robert Is Here – This produce stand is home to some rare tropical fruits, including dragon fruit, guanabana, and passion fruit. Try some fresh produce, grab a smoothie to go, or take some homemade spreads, like coconut toast spread or lychee honey.
RELATED: Best Places to Eat in Miami: 30+ Time Tested, Tried, and True Local Food Gems
Performances, Theaters, Arts and Entertainment
67. Colony Theatre – Attend a live theater performance at the Colony Theatre in the heart of South Beach
68. Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater – A fixture of the Historic Overtown neighborhood since 1913, and the oldest operating theater in Miami.
69. Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre – Love the theatre? Make a beeline for this cool spot. Really love the theatre? Sign up for acting classes there!
70. Tower Theatre – Catch a film at one of the oldest cultural landmarks in Miami in the Little Havana neighborhood. The theater usually features international movies that are a bit out of the ordinary
71. New World Center – If you don’t have time to see a show, you can tour this beautiful concert venue designed by Frank Gehry. Or check out the schedule of events for exciting orchestral and symphonic performances.
Museums and Galleries in Miami
72. The Bass – A stately structure within Miami’s Art Deco District, this museum features contemporary art, a sculpture garden and makes a great place to catch a film or lecture. Free admission on the last Sunday of every month from 2 to 4 pm
73. Historic Black Precinct and Courthouse Museum – Before integration in Miami, this building, now a museum, served as an all-black courthouse, jail, and Police precinct house in Overtown
74. Jewish Museum of Florida – Two meticulously restored heritage synagogues house this museum, known as much for its iconic architecture as it is for its celebration of the Florida Jewish experience.
75. Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science – This hands-on facility in Downtown Miami operates as a planetarium, wildlife center, and aquarium all in one.
76. Freedom Tower – A gorgeous tower that went from newspaper headquarters to immigration facility to its current status as a museum of contemporary art
77. Perez Art Museum Miami – Modern and contemporary art museum at a gorgeous waterfront location
Shopping in Miami
78. Brickell City Centre – This shopping center in the city’s commercial district offers upscale shopping and dining, as well as a Saturday farmer’s market and yoga classes.
79. Bal Harbour Shops – Window shop the iconic luxury brand outdoor mall on Collins Avenue. High-end Miami shopping at its most glamorous
80. Aventura Mall – This upscale indoor mall spans more than 2,400,000 square feet in the suburban community of Aventura. You’ll find endless shops, eateries, and services here, all within a 20-minute drive from downtown Miami.
81. Dolphin Mall – Forgot something? This sprawling center just west of Miami features over 200 retailers, including outlet stores and name-brand discounters. Many of the local hotels feature shuttle service to the mall, as it’s a popular destination for those looking for chic on a discount. Catch a movie at the 19-screen cinema or have dinner at many of the center’s restaurants.
82. Upper Buena Vista – For something different, visit this outdoor marketspace focusing on independent bohemian boutiques and unique culinary offerings. Be sure to check out the two-story Vista rooftop terrace bar for an impressive view of the Buena Vista neighborhood.
Romantic Things to Do in Miami for Couples
83. World Erotic Art Museum – Artifacts related to eroticism from 300 BC to the present day. X-rated and not suitable for kids!
For more ideas, check out our round-up of 65+ Romantic Things to Do in Miami
Miami Parks and Gardens
84. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Gardens – A real gem in Coral Gables, this 83-acre botanical garden features a collection of rare tropical plants, as well as laboratory and research space and a museum.
85. The Barnacle Historic State Park – If you’re looking for relaxing things to do in Miami, Barnacle Historic State Park is a great option.
86. Miami Beach Botanical Garden – a large outdoor space featuring tropical plants; don’t miss the popular Japanese Garden!
87. The Kampong National Tropical Botanical Garden – A beautiful outdoor garden featuring tropical plants and exotic fruits, including more than 50 varieties of mango!
88. Fruit and Spice Park – This unique botanical garden boasts not just flowers but 500 varieties of fruit, vegetables, and spices, including some you’ve probably never heard of.
RELATED: Amazing Ways to Experience Miami Outdoors
Best Beaches in Miami
89. Lummus Park Beach – A stretch of picture-perfect sand in South Beach including a playground, outdoor gym equipment, volleyball nets, and beach gear rentals
90. South Pointe Beach – An urban park and pier that stretches out into the cove, making it a great place to eat, relax and enjoy the sunset. Try the observation deck for a truly breathtaking view of the city.
91. Crandon Park Beach – Take a day trip to this picturesque tropical island beach with palm trees, protected beaches, eco-tours, and facilities for day-trippers
Activities for Sports Enthusiasts in Miami
92. Baseball Game at Miami Marlins Loan Depot Park – Ultra-modern baseball stadium for the Miami Marlins. Features a retractable roof to ensure games can be played year-round, even in the sweltering Miami summers
93. Miami Heat Basketball – Plan and catch a basketball game at the American Airlines Arena
94. Miami Dolphins Football – See a football game at the 70,000-person capacity Hard Rock Stadium
95. Miami Homestead Speedway – A large-scale motor racing track that holds NASCAR races and various events.
Staying Active in Miami
96. Free Yoga Classes – Daily yoga classes take place at various places around the city. Soundscape Park, Peacock Park, and Tina Hills Pavilion in Bayfront Park are some of the more popular spots.
97. Critical Mass – Join hundreds of cyclists who take over the city for a couple of hours on the last Friday of every month
98. Rickenbacker Trail – Hop on a bike and take this 9-mile trail through the highlights of Miami. The trail starts at the southern end of the Key of Biscayne and continues north over the Rickenbacker Causeway
99. Old Cutler Trail – Bike under the Banyan trees on this paved bike path which will take you through some of Miami’s most charming neighborhoods
Miami’s Best Wildlife and Nature Experiences
100. Visit Everglades National Park – The Everglades are a protected natural habitat and UNESCO World Heritage site, spanning 1.5 million acres featuring shallow bays, mangroves, and lush swamps. There are plenty of things to do in and around the Everglades, from canoeing to camping to biking the Shark Valley trail with plenty of opportunities to spot alligators and other local wildlife.
101. Airboat Ride through the Everglades – While you’re in the Everglades, check out Everglades Safari Park. Hands down one of the most exciting ways to experience the Everglades. Take an airboat tour or catch a live alligator show … if you dare!
So there you have it, only 101 things you MUST do while in Miami. Look at this list of top Miami attractions, go ahead, and book an excursion or two!
Planning a trip to Miami? Here are some other posts you might find helpful.
Miami Packing List: What to Bring on a Beach Vacation
24 Hours in Miami: Unforgettable Hotspots & Hidden Gems in Miami
Ultimate 3-Day Miami Itinerary: Your Guide to the Perfect Long Weekend in Miami
35 Essentials to Pack for Your Florida Road Trip
Miami to Key West: Insider Tips for the Perfect Florida Keys Road Trip Itinerary
Don’t forget to Pin and save it for later!
4 comments
We LOVE going to Miami and this list is excellent! So many great ideas. Thanks for sharing!
It’s always fun highlighting and sharing with others the gems of this beautiful vibrant city.
Hi,
Thanks for sharing this amazing blog post with us. It is really informative blog post. I am waiting for your next blog post.
Thank you!