Everyone likes a good deal; free is even better! Whether you are in Miami on business or pleasure, a resident trying out a staycation, or just looking for something to do; there are tons of free things to do in Miami.
From the lovely beaches and historic tours to the unique festivals and the vibrant Miami nightlife, there are so many free, unique things to do in Miami.
Here are 60+ ways to explore and enjoy Miami attractions without making a dent in your wallet! But I’ll caution you, while these activities are free, you may want to consider adding in some traffic time – it is Miami after all.
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Museums are not just for the snooty or wealthy. They provide fun activities for the whole family, and you get to learn a little something along the way. Many of the Miami museums have free days at least once per month.
Holocaust Memorial Miami Beach
Holocaust Memorial Miami Beach– This outdoor facility, free to the public and is dedicated to the 6 million lives lost during this horrific period in history. It is open 365 days per year, from 9:30 am to sunset.
Institute of Contemporary Art– Always free. Free guided tours are available every day at 1 pm, two-week advance notice is required for groups of 15 people or more.
Miami Children’s Museum– Free on the third Friday of the month from 4 to 8 pm. On one Saturday per month, the museum is reserved from 9 to 11 am for children with disabilities.
MDC Museum of Art and Design(MOAD) – Housed at the Historic Freedom Tower, MOAD offers free admission on the last Sunday of every month from 1 to 6 pm
Museum of Contemporary Art North Miami(MOCA)– They will accept whatever you want to contribute on the last Friday of the month from 7 to 10 pm. They also offer a free jazz concert in their courtyard beginning at 8 pm.
Patricia and Phillip Frost Art Museum– Always free. Also, it offers free guest lectures by leading artists, historians, and scholars throughout the year.
Wolfsonian-FIU– It is free and open to the public every Friday from 6 to 9 pm.
Free Walking & Self-Guided Tours in Miami
Tours are a great way to see the city from different, unique perspectives. Whether you’re a history buff, obsessed with art, or want to explore some of the most iconic attractions in Miami, you will find a free tour that is perfect for you.
Biltmore Hotel, Coral Gables, Florida
Biltmore Hotel Tour – Join a Dade Heritage Trust docent on a free hour-long guided walking tour of the iconic Biltmore Hotel every Sunday at 1:30 pm and 2:30 pm Tours start in the hotel’s upper lobby, next to the birdcage. While you’re there, be sure to check out the stunning Biltmore pool, known for being one of the largest hotel swimming pools in the continental U.S. Free parking also available in the adjacent west lot.
Dr. George’s Walking Tour– A free historic walking tour of the Little Havana neighborhood lead by historian Dr. Paul George every third Friday of the month during Viernes Culturales. Tour departs from the Tower Theater at 7 pm
Coconut Grove Historic Walking Tour– Discover the charming beauty from one of the area’s oldest neighborhoods with a fascinating walking tour through historic Coconut Grove.
Arsht Center Tour– Free one-hour, guided tours available Mondays and Saturdays at noon. Not only do you get to view the centers’ stunning architecture, but enjoy breathtaking views of the Miami skyline and Biscayne Bay from the upper tiers and walkway.
DYI Art Deco Tour – There are numerous guided tours of the Art Deco style hotelsand buildings in the Miami Beach Architectural Historic District. But if a paid tour is not in the cards, you can meander down Ocean Drive and wind your own way through the pastel-colored structures.
Motoring Along A1A – If you prefer a car trip, try driving the Florida A1A. Following the Atlantic coast starting at Ocean Drive and First Street and merging onto Collins Avenue heading north. This thoroughfare will take you past some of the most scenic areas speckled with period hotels and modern high rises. Picturesque, but be ready to sit in traffic, it is Miami!
Here are a few more popular (but not free) ways to enjoy Miami’s activities
Miami Free Cultural Nightlife Events
Walking is one of the best exercises around, couple that with sightseeing, events, and delicious food and you have the recipe for a perfect day or night.
Little Havana, Miami, Viernes Culturales (Cultural Fridays)
Viernes Culturales/Cultural Fridays– Little Havana is the place to be on the third Friday of the month from 7 to 11 pm for an explosion of art, music, and food. Just make your way to Calle Ocho (SW 8th Street) between 13th and 17th Avenues. There is a free trolley with service through Calle Ocho. It departs from Mary Brickell Village and the Brickell Metrorail/Metromover station every 15 minutes starting as early as 6:30 pm.
Wynwood Art Walk– Stroll through the crowded streets, tour the newly installed graffiti murals, and experience the food and culture of Miami from the area’s most popular monthly block party. This event is held on the second Saturday of each month starting at 6 pm extending through the night.
Bird Road Art Walk– The Bird Road Art District (BRAD) Walk takes place in a former warehouse complex converted into artist studios and gallery space, with many offering complimentary wine and snacks. The event is held on the third Saturday of every month from 7 to 10 pm.
Sounds of Little Haiti– This vibrant outdoor event is an opportunity to immerse in a cultural experience with traditional food, music, arts, and goods of the Caribbean island nation. It takes place at the Little Haiti Cultural Complex every third Friday from 6 to 10 pm.
Other popular experiences to add to your Miami itinerary
Other Unique, Free Things to Do in Miami
Here are some other quirky, fun and FREE things to do in Miami that don’t really belong in any sort of ‘category’.
Wynwood Art District– Looking for a great selfie spot? You’ve found it with this unique outdoor art installation featuring rotating street art from artists around the world. It is similar to Lake Placid’s Town of Murals
Critical Mass– This is a monthly, community-wide mass cycling initiative that runs through several neighborhoods, including Downtown Miami, Little Haiti, Wynwood, and Upper East Side. It’s held on the last Friday of every month.
Outdoor Jazz at MOCA– The Museum of Contemporary Art North Miami (MOCA) presents free outdoor concerts on the last Friday of the month at 8 pm. Free-will offerings are accepted to defer ongoing costs.
New World Symphony WALLCAST Concert Series– A free unique multi-media event held at an open-air park with live classical music performances projected onto a 7,000 square foot exterior wall. Bring a blanket, lawn chair, food, and friends.
SoundScape Cinema– From October through May, The New World Center also offers free outdoor movies that span contemporary and classics with flicks projected onto the 7,000 square foot screen. That is what you call a big-screen experience.
Miami Beach Boardwalk– If you’re not one for sand in your shoes, try this four-mile boardwalk that parallels the dazzling shoreline. Walk or jog along the path, but bikes are not allowed north of 21st street.
Little Havana – Stroll along Little Havana’s Calle Ocho and soak up Miami’s Latin culture by exploring the art galleries, Walk of Stars, Domino Park, fruit stands, cigar shops and more.
Rickenbacker Causeway– Bike or walk along the Rickenbacker Causeway pedestrian path and take in the incredible Miami skyline views. Even more special during sunset!
Bayside Marketplace– This 2-story waterfront open-air market is an ideal spot to take a stroll, enjoy daily free live performances, or sit by the bay and admire the Miami skyline views.
Libreri Mapou Bookstore– A resource for Haitian Creole literature and culture, this is the perfect place to browse books, art and take part in workshops dedicated to showcasing the rich history of this vibrant community.
Little Haiti Caribbean Marketplace– Stop by the vibrant Little Haiti Caribbean Marketplace for a sample of Afro-Caribbean theatre, art, music, food, and drink. Every Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm.
Free Miami Events and Festivals
Everyone loves a festival – especially a FREE one!
Art Deco Weekend– This three-day festival held in January in Lummus Park and is free to the public. It offers various events, including live entertainment, classic car show, lecture series, fitness programs and more.
Seminole Tribal Fair and Pow Wow– A celebration of Native American culture with food, live music, alligator shows and more! Open to the public!
Calle Ocho Festival– A lively event in March, stretching along the main drag in Little Havana from SW 12th to 27th Avenues featuring food, dancing, and music.
Coral Gables Bluesfest– This is a four day Blues party held on the Bierhaus Plaza with free live performances from local and national bands from all over the USA.
There are a number of free yoga classes throughout Miami. The days and times vary, but one almost every day of the week. Here are a few to get you started.
Soundscape Park (Miami Beach) – Once a month, on Saturday at 9 am
Outdoor Activities – Trailing Through Miami Parks
If you love the outdoors, you may be surprised at the number of available parks in Miami just waiting for you to wend your way around.
Lummus Park – You’ve probably seen this public park on the big and small screens – it’s right on Miami Beach and a great place to stroll the sandy shores, sightsee, people watch, or enjoy the warm Miami sun.
Bayfront Park – Looking for an outstanding urban park? Bayfront Park is the answer. This picturesque green space spanning 32 acres is the ideal place for a stroll, picnic or a laid-back atmosphere with open bay views.
Museum Park– This urban park located on Biscayne Bay, with views of the city skyline, features winding walkways with access to the museums and the American Airlines Arena.
Alice C. Wainwright Park– This tiny neighborhood park is located directly on the water with spectacular views of Key Biscayne Bay and the Downtown Miami skyline. It includes a playground, picnic pavilions, two basketball courts, and an outdoor fitness area. This hidden gem within the city is also popular with bikers, runners and picnickers.
David Kennedy Park– Located in Coconut Grove this urban park features an outdoor walking path, free fitness equipment, beach volleyball, a kids area, doggie play area and scenic waterfront.
Legion Park – Located in Miami’s Upper East Side this 37 acres park stretching from Biscayne Boulevard includes basketball and tennis courts all within view of Biscayne Bay.
Amelia Earhart Park– Spanning over 500 acres, this urban park is full of recreational offerings, including a skateboard park, biking trails, and a historic replica farm and petting zoo. Free admission Monday-Friday
Old Cutler Trail– Take cover under the banyans trees and enjoy a leisure walk or bike ride through the 13.5-mile Old Cutler Trail. The beautiful trail passes through several South Miami neighborhoods including Pinecrest, Palmetto Bay, and Cutler Bay. Miami outdoors at its best!
With miles of coastline, activities such as strolling, swimming or lying on the sand and enjoying Miami’s lovely beaches are the ultimate freethings to do in Miami. Here are just a few beach bumming options.
South Pointe Park – Enjoy the quaint, limestone boardwalk along the beach at this 17-acre park, it’s a great place to catch the sweeping seascapes or relax with the family.
Hobie Beach – Popular for sunbathing, surfing and beach volleyball, it is a well-frequented beach near the Virginia Key ideal for watersports.
Mid Beach: 21st–45th Street – features an elevated boardwalk, multiple beach access, beachside cafes and trendy hotels such as the historic Fontainebleau
Surfside– A quiet stretch of beach in a mostly residential area, offering walking paths and lovely sunset views.
Bal Harbour Beach – It is beautifully landscaped to accommodate the luxury resorts and condos that line the area, but it’s still a public beach with walking and jogging paths.
Sunny Isles Beach– a two-mile stretch of beach with magnificent views, hotels, and water sports options.
Book these experiences for a look at Miami on the water
Let Your Camera Be Your Guide
Sometimes you find the best spots from wandering around town without a plan. Just you and your camera. Walk the picturesque coastline, sit at an outdoor café or a park and photograph the beautiful people, Art Deco buildings, and make some remarkable discoveries along the way.
Whether you’re a local or first-time Miami visitor the city is filled with free activities to keep you entertained. The idea is that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to have a good time. Vacations can be expensive, and city dwellers often think there is little to do. Just be open to new experiences and see what happens.
The city has deservingly earned a reputation for it lovey beaches, but it’s also a culturally rich town boasting amazing architecture, stunning outdoor space, and a thriving food, arts and entertainment scene. The beaches are sometimes (almost ?) an after thought to locals.
It’s one of the things I love about living in this city, even if budget is tight, you’re almost guaranteed to find something to do. Thanks for pinning and checking it out!
Wow! What an incredible list. There is so much to do in Miami! Considering this is also a list of free things to do is even better! Really, the most I know about Miami is that it has the cool retro Art Deco district and that I will be able to use the little amount of Spanish I know. Can’t wait to visit someday!
Thanks! This city isn’t exactly known for being budget friendly, but I also wanted to provide a comprehensive list proving you don’t have to break the bank to have a good time here. I enjoyed exploring the town and working on it equally. And yes, this is the place to practice your Spanish.
This is such a good list. I think that the city look and feel of Miami can make things seem expensive, but you’ve brought attention to the really accessible side of things. Thank you so much for sharing!
Thank you so much for sharing such a comprehensive list! I had no idea there were so many interesting things to do in Miami, but this has me wanting to plan a holiday there for sure :) Wonderful post!
Thanks for reading! If your plans ever lead you into town, let know me if you were able to do anything on this list. I’d love to hear about your experience. Thanks again!
18 comments
I’m glad you left the beaches until last.
That’s our first – outsiders to your beautiful city – always think.
Clearly, Miami is so much more.
The city has deservingly earned a reputation for it lovey beaches, but it’s also a culturally rich town boasting amazing architecture, stunning outdoor space, and a thriving food, arts and entertainment scene. The beaches are sometimes (almost ?) an after thought to locals.
This is a great collection of FREE things to do. Its hard sometimes finding a good guide with a little of everything.
Thanks! It’s usually a dilemma of mine as well to find a list that provides a great overview. I hope you find this one useful!
Wow, I’ve visited Miami a few times but can’t believe how many free things I missed. Definitely pinned this for later, thanks!
It’s one of the things I love about living in this city, even if budget is tight, you’re almost guaranteed to find something to do. Thanks for pinning and checking it out!
Wow! What an incredible list. There is so much to do in Miami! Considering this is also a list of free things to do is even better! Really, the most I know about Miami is that it has the cool retro Art Deco district and that I will be able to use the little amount of Spanish I know. Can’t wait to visit someday!
Thanks! This city isn’t exactly known for being budget friendly, but I also wanted to provide a comprehensive list proving you don’t have to break the bank to have a good time here. I enjoyed exploring the town and working on it equally. And yes, this is the place to practice your Spanish.
Wow, what an amazing list!
Thank you! It was fun putting it together! ?
This is such a good list. I think that the city look and feel of Miami can make things seem expensive, but you’ve brought attention to the really accessible side of things. Thank you so much for sharing!
There is no denying Miami isn’t a cheap destinations, but with a little planning it’s certainly manageable on the budget. Thanks for checking it out!
What a great list! I’ve had such little time to explore Miami but this post makes me excited to go back :)
Thank you! I hope it’s helpful when planning your next trip to Miami.
I could just walk around and look at cool street art all day for FREE :D
You sure can! In addition to the rotating street art, the area is has plenty of shops, bars, and restaurants to keep visitors entertained.
Thank you so much for sharing such a comprehensive list! I had no idea there were so many interesting things to do in Miami, but this has me wanting to plan a holiday there for sure :) Wonderful post!
Thanks for reading! If your plans ever lead you into town, let know me if you were able to do anything on this list. I’d love to hear about your experience. Thanks again!