36 Best Things to Do in Miami Florida for First-Time Visitors
As a first-time traveller to the dazzling Magic City of Miami, you’ll likely feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of sights, activities, neighbourhoods, and cultural enclaves to explore in this sprawling coastal metropolis.
Where do you even begin uncovering the vibrant beauty, Latin flair, and Art Deco glamour that gives Miami its distinct reputation of luxury, indulgence, and exotic sizzle?
As an experienced Miami visitor, myself, having spent considerable time soaking up the sights in popular South Beach as well as off-the-beaten-path spots across greater Miami-Dade County.
I’ve compiled the 25 very best things to do in Miami to help first timers maximise their iconic Miami vacation.
The Miami: Go City All-Inclusive Pass is an exceptional choice for first-time visitors to Miami. This pass grants you free admission to over 30 activities, attractions, and tours, allowing you to experience a wide range of attractions in Miami at up to 50% offer at a discount. Key attractions include the Miami Seaquarium, Everglades Airboat, Zoo Miami, Big Bus Miami Hop-On Hop-Off. Available in 1, 2, 3, or 5-day options, the pass offers flexibility to suit any itinerary.
Best Things To Do in Miami Florida
I’ve crafted the ultimate Miami bucket list for first time visitors. Through my own travels discovering trendy Wynwood’s street art scene, historic Art Deco buildings, Little Havana’s bustling Calle Ocho, and more Miami hidden gems.
1. Stroll Down Ocean Drive
Ocean Drive is one of the most iconic streets in Miami. As you walk down this vibrant stretch, you’ll be surrounded by the area’s illustrious Art Deco buildings in pastel colours, making this one of the top things to see in Miami Florida.
Soak up the atmosphere, do some people watching from one of the many outdoor cafes, and don’t forget to bring your camera! No trip to Miami is complete without a jaunt down Ocean Drive.
Fun fact: Miami has the largest collection of Art Deco buildings in the world.
2. Tour the Art Deco District
Art Deco architecture first emerged in 1920s Europe with its sleek lines, nautical motifs like waves and portholes, pastel colours, glass blocks and neon lights.
Architects then incorporated these design elements into many buildings along Miami Beach’s Lincoln Road and Ocean Drive during South Beach’s 1920s/30s development boom, giving rise to hundreds of stunning Art Deco structures.
Classic examples include the Colony Hotel with its famous neon rooftop signage and porthole windows, the rounded corners of the Park Central Hotel, and the glass brick corner feature of the Avalon Hotel.
Pay attention as your guide points out the key external decorative features like tropical foliage designs, glass block windows, chrome fin accents, curved window openings, limestone friezes, or Carrara marble facades throughout this iconic neighbourhood.
Understanding the history and defining architectural details will help you better appreciate the creative vision that transformed South Beach into a living museum celebrating Miami’s glamorous heyday, making it amongst the activities to do in Miami Florida.
3. Do A Tour of Little Havana for Cuban Culture
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and flavours of Miami with the Little Havana Food Walking Tour, a Miami must-do for first-time visitors.
This culinary adventure takes you through the heart of Little Havana, one of Miami’s most historic neighbourhoods, renowned for its rich Cuban heritage.
As you stroll along the lively Calle Ocho, you’ll not only savour authentic Cuban cuisine but also gain a profound understanding of the local history and culture. The tour begins near the iconic Tower Theatre, a landmark that sets the stage for your exploration of this colourful community.
Experience the true essence of Cuban culinary traditions with tastings of classic dishes. Your palate will be delighted by Mariquitas and Malanga Frita, giving you a taste of recipes passed down through generations.
Visit various family-owned eateries that are local favourites, indulging in chicken and picadillo-stuffed plantain cups, a testament to the rich and diverse flavours of Cuban cuisine.
Refresh yourself with guarapo juice at a traditional fruteria, and enjoy a café Cubano, expertly crafted by a top local barista. The tour also includes a visit to a popular bar where you can try a Cuban mojito, offering a glimpse into the lively local nightlife.
Beyond the culinary delights, the tour offers cultural insights as well. Visit a cigar-making factory to witness the art of master cigar rollers, a significant aspect of Cuban culture in Miami.
As you walk, you’ll also explore El Callejon del Gallo, an alley that’s a canvas for contemporary local street art, reflecting the dynamic and evolving identity of Little Havana.
This tour is not just about food; it’s a journey through the heart of Cuban culture in Miami, making it an unforgettable experience for anyone looking to explore the city’s diverse heritage.
4. Street Art Tour in Wynwood
A must see in Miami is the famous Wynwood. Wynwood Walls in the heart of Miami’s Arts District bursts with colourful murals and street art around every corner. Take a guided walking tour to uncover the stories behind the ever-changing artworks and to truly understand the talent transforming Wynwood into a living canvas.
Hear how visionary developer Tony Goldman first transformed abandoned warehouses into an outdoor graffiti park in 2009, paving the way for Wynwood’s evolution into Miami’s edgy cultural epicentre.
Learn how artists like Kenny Scharf, Shepard Fairey and Ron English catalysed the area with their captivating murals. Watch artists at work to better grasp their creative process and passion.
In addition to tales behind the eye-popping artworks, tours provide insights into Miami’s architecture, history, food scene and local businesses. Captivating street art serves as the entry point to deeply understand Miami’s cultural renaissance cantered in the Wynwood Arts District.
This Wynwood Art District 1-Hour Wynwood Buggies Street Art tour zips through the 10-block radius of the Wynwood Art District, providing unobstructed views of the most striking and significant murals. Your guides, who are part of the local art community, will share fascinating insights into the history and evolution of the area.
5. Do A Tour the Everglades National Park
Just 30 miles from downtown Miami lies this unique ecosystem of subtropical wetlands, home to an incredible diversity of wildlife.
See why the Everglades National Park is called the “River of Grass”.
This Everglades airboat ride and nature walk tour is a must for first-time visitors in Miami, offering a unique blend of excitement and education.
The highlight of the tour is a thrilling one-hour airboat ride. As you glide effortlessly over the grassy waters, keep an eye out for wild alligators basking in their natural habitat, and spot unusual birds like the roseate spoonbill, offering an unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunity. This exhilarating ride combines the thrill of speed with the beauty of nature, making it an unforgettable part of your Miami visit.
Additionally, the tour includes an exclusive visit to a historic Miccosukee Indian village, accessible only through the airboat company.
Guided boat tours and airboat rides are popular ways to experience this unique wetland ecosystem.
As one Airboat tour guide explained, “People don’t realise the Everglades is its own distinct ecosystem”. Visiting the Everglades is one of the most unusual things to do in Miami Florida.
6. Soak Up the Sun at South Beach
You can’t visit Miami without spending some time on the sand at South Beach. The crystal blue waters and white sandy beaches of South Beach are world-famous.
Grab a spot on the sand to soak up the Florida sunshine, go for a dip to cool off, and do some prime people watching.
The Art Deco architecture provides a stylish backdrop to this iconic Miami scene. South Beach dazzles day and night with its glamorous vibe.
7. Go on a Miami Food Tour
Miami’s multicultural heritage shapes its distinctive culinary landscape. Embark on a food tour to get a tasty introduction highlighting Cuban, Haitian, Caribbean, South American and other influences.
Mouth-watering options include classics like Cuban sandwiches, empanadas, arepas, along with more adventurous bites.
These walking tours take you to hole-in-the-wall eateries and local favourites you might otherwise miss. You’ll likely make some delicious discoveries.
8. Do A Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Explore Miami’s iconic landmarks and vibrant culture with the Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour.
Perfect for first-time visitors to Miami, this tour offers a unique perspective of Miami from the top of an open double-decker bus. Making it a fun thing to do in Miami Florida.
As you traverse the city, you’ll have the chance to experience the diverse attractions Miami is famous for, including Bayside Marketplace, the lively South Beach, the artistic Wynwood neighbourhood, and the culturally rich Little Havana.
The tour is designed to showcase the best of the ‘Magic City,’ ensuring a thorough and enjoyable experience for all.
The beauty of the hop-on hop-off format lies in its flexibility, allowing you to tailor your sightseeing experience according to your interests. Enjoy entertaining and informative audio commentary that provides insights into Miami’s history and contemporary life, highlighting all the must-see spots along the way.
You have the freedom to hop off at any attraction that piques your interest and explore at your own pace. With buses arriving every 30 minutes, you’re never left waiting long to continue your journey.
Highlights include the Design District with its Art Deco architecture, the lush Soundscape Park, and the vibrant street art of Wynwood Walls.
9. Experience Miami by Boat With A Biscayne Bay Mansions Sightseeing Cruise Tour
Explore the opulent side of Miami with the Biscayne Bay Mansions Sightseeing Cruise, a must-do for visitors seeking a glimpse into the lavish lifestyles of the rich and famous.
This scenic boat trip takes you through the heart of Miami’s Biscayne Bay, offering stunning views of iconic Miami landmarks and luxurious estates. As you cruise by, marvel at the impressive homes on Star Island, Fisher Island, and The Venetian Islands, each a testament to Miami’s allure for celebrities and high-profile personalities.
Notable sights include the FTX Arena, home to the Miami Heat, adding a touch of sports prestige to the tour. This cruise provides a unique perspective of Miami’s architectural beauty and the extravagant living that defines the city’s coastal areas.
Your journey begins with a comfortable boarding experience, setting sail on an insightful adventure through Miami’s chic neighbourhoods.
Witness the breath-taking homes of celebrities past and present, including stars like Shaquille O’Neal, Gloria Estefan, and historical figures such as Al Capone.
The cruise also takes you past the Venetian Islands, an impressive chain of man-made islands created in the 1920s, and other uninhabited islands like Flagler Monument Island, each with its own story.
Throughout the cruise, you’ll enjoy engaging commentary providing interesting facts and anecdotes about the area’s history and its famous residents.
10. Eat Cuban Food
Still wondering what to do in Miami Florida? Well, no trip to Miami is complete without digging into authentic Cuban cuisine. From classic restaurants in Little Havana like Versailles, La Carreta or Puerto Sagua in Miami Beach, to trendy nuevo Cuban spots, there is no shortage of places to sample the flavours of the Caribbean.
Savour tender, slow-roasted lechon pork shoulder, tangy mojo-marinated roasted chicken, or crispy fried whole snapper.
Taste the national sandwich specialties: Cubano stuffed with ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese and pickles or Media Noche’s sweet egg bread.
Dip warm Cuban bread into black bean soup for a savoury starter. Accompany your meal with rice, plantains, and yucca fries.
And don’t forget a steaming cup of dark Cuban coffee. With its vibrant mix reflecting generations of Cuban heritage, Miami’s one-of-a-kind cuisine is meant to be slowly savoured and shared with friends over lively conversation.
11. Wolf Down Cuban Food at Versaille’s Restaurant
No Miami foodie itinerary is complete without a stop at the legendary Versailles Restaurant in Little Havana. This iconic Cuban restaurant serves heaping portions of favourites like roasted pork, fried yucca, rice and beans.
While you wait for a table in the bustling dining rooms, sip a steamy Cuban coffee from the takeaway window.
Then dig into the mouth-watering traditional dishes that define Miami’s rich Cuban heritage and culture with every flavourful bite.
12. Window Shop & Gallery Hop Design District
Miami’s Design District dazzles as an open-air art gallery meets high-end shopping destination. Once a pineapple plantation, the neighbourhood transformed into a hub for design showrooms and furniture companies to showcase wares to trade professionals. Over the decades, galleries, luxury retail and museums joined the mix.
Today you can ogle dreamy home interiors through floor-to-ceiling shop windows or walk through to get a closer look.
Admire unique furnishings, catch cutting-edge exhibits at galleries or simply gaze up at modern architectural details as you meander under shady palms. Relax with coffee at trendy cafes between browsing eye-catching storefronts.
Don’t miss public art like the giant metal bungalow bursting with flowers or the rainbow-hued umbrellas suspended overhead! From show-stopping windows to spectacle art installations, Miami Design District dazzles.
13. Party at a Beach Club
Miami’s beach clubs know how to bring the fun. Spend the day lounging by the pool under swaying palms with drinks in hand, taking in energetic DJ beats. Some of the hottest spots include Nikki Beach, Story, and Club Space. Just be ready to dress to impress.
As one frequent partygoer said, “The energy at Nikki Beach is just electric. Everyone comes ready for a good time!”
14. Tour Miami in a Classic Car
Cruise Miami’s streets in vintage style by renting a classic convertible! Choose from automobiles like a cherry red Ford Mustang, Cadillac Eldorado or a sporty BMW as you play out your Miami Vice fantasies.
With the top down and sun beating overhead, you’ll look super glamorous riding through South Beach and other hot spots around Miami. Make like Don Johnson stopping for an obligatory selfie with the beach as your backdrop.
15. Bar Hop on a Pub Crawl
What better way to experience Miami’s legendary nightlife scene than joining a festive pub crawl in South Beach? Expert guides lead the revelry, taking you to famous bars and hot spots while sharing local tips, Miami trivia and tales behind iconic Art Deco buildings.
There’s no easier – or more fun! – way to hit up world-famous bars and clubs around SoBe’s colourful Art Deco neighbourhood.
The perfect ice breaker for first-time visitors and solo travellers, pub crawls instantly connect you with new friends from across the globe. No crowded lines either – your guide whisks you into Miami’s buzziest bars and clubs through the VIP entrance.
Sip celebratory welcome shots, pose for silly photos with your new crew under neon lights, guzzle drinks during lively bar games, and dance like nobody’s watching when thumping DJ beats blast overhead.
Miami’s nightclubs dazzle with over-the-top light displays, aerial dancers, confetti blasts, sparkler showers and CO2 cannons.
By the end of the night, you’ll have befriended fellow travellers and locals alike while creating unforgettable Miami memories (or a few hazy ones at least!). An evening pub crawling Miami’s South Beach with an expert guide guarantees crazy fun. This pub crawl is one of the best things to do at night in Miami Florida.
16. Visit Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is best things to see in Miami Florida. Take part in one of the estate’s Living History days when costumed actors bring early 20th century Miami heritage to life, escorting you back in time 100 years.
Or attend the Renaissance Fair fundraiser complete with minstrels, medieval knights, Italian cuisine, archery displays and other old-world recreations amid Vizcaya’s historic European-styled grounds.
For the full immersive experience, make reservations to visit after dark by candlelight when the opulent mansion truly transports you to Miami and Deering’s extravagant bygone era.
17. Party at a Rooftop Bar or Lounge
Miami has no shortage of swanky rooftop bars and lounges offering panoramic views and lively pool scenes. Dress to impress and head up to Sugar, sip cocktails poolside overlooking Brickell and downtown Miami from the top of East Hotel in Mid-Beach.
At Komodo Miami, lounge midst lush greenery in downtown’s Brickell City Centre complex, making this amongst the top things to do in downtown Miami Florida. The Rooftop by Bars at the 1 Hotel South Beach faces the beach and sparkling Atlantic Ocean.
Broken Shaker at the Freehand Hotel in Miami Beach, or Le Jardinier at Hotel Capri in South Beach. Sip cocktails, nosh on small bites, and dance the night away under flickering candlelight and the stars. Visiting a rooftop bar, is amongst the things to do around Miami.
18. Paddle a Kayak through Mangroves
Miami’s location between the Atlantic Ocean and Everglades provides opportunities for ocean and eco adventure. For an up-close look at the region’s ecology, paddle a kayak through mangrove tunnels and rivers.
Dozens of outfitters lead tours through lush green mangroves inhabited by tropical birds like roseate spoonbills, white ibis and wood storks.
Paddling these calm waters allows you to soak in natural beauty just minutes from Miami’s urban environs. Experience South Florida’s sub-tropical ecosystem from a whole new perspective with a mangrove kayak tour.
19. Party at a Nightclub
Partying at a nightclub is one of the top things to do in Miami at night as when the sun goes down, Miami heats up! Join locals and tourists dancing the night away at some of the country’s best nightclubs.
Oversized mirrors, aerial dancers, confetti showers, celeb DJs…you never know what you’ll experience in Miami’s pulsing mega-clubs.
Liv at the Fontainebleau, Story and E11even are always buzzing with beautiful people dressed to the nines. Or check out classic icons like Club Space, known for its marathon DJ sessions. Want an epic Miami night out? These sizzling nightclubs deliver.
20. South Pointe Park Beach
South Pointe Park Beach is located in Miami’s South Beach neighbourhood at the southern end of Miami Beach.
This 17-acre urban park attracts beachgoers, families, rollerbladers, picnickers, and even yogis with its tranquil waters, soft sand beaches, stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and plentiful park amenities.
Meander along the 1.4-mile-long promenade to take in magnificent vistas of the ocean, cruise ships or dazzling downtown Miami skyline. Bring a towel to soak up some rays or take a dip in the ocean. Afterwards, rinse off at one of the outdoor showers.
When a tropical rain shower hits, duck under pavilions or J.C. Bermudez’s colourful mosaic gazeboes inspired by Miami’s eclectic mix of architectural styles, including Mediterranean Revival, Art Deco and Caribbean motifs.
Recharge with a picnic on the beach or lawn, or grab an acai bowl from MIAMICAFE, a casual beachfront cafe with indoor and outdoor seating.
Work on your tan, toss a football, or join the locals doing partnered acro-yoga poses against the powder blue skies. With its postcard-perfect setting and laidback vibe, South Pointe Park Beach captures Miami’s easy, breezy lifestyle.
21. Pérez Art Museum Miami
Known as PAMM, the Pérez Art Museum Miami is a modern and contemporary art museum located downtown right on Biscayne Bay. Tour the waterside museum to experience an exceptional showcase of international art of the 20th and 21st centuries, making it one must visit places in Miami.
In addition to impressive indoor galleries with special exhibitions, much of the artwork and architectural features integrate interior and exterior spaces, creating a unique museum experience.
Stroll the verdant waterside garden to take in monumental sculptures by iconic artists like Louise Bourgeois, John Ahearn and Roy Lichtenstein. Or gaze out the expansive floor-to-ceiling windows to soak in gorgeous views of palm-fringed downtown Miami across the bay.
Don’t miss PAMM’s signature and much photographed hanging garden installation with vibrant cascading flowers designed by world-renowned artist Patricia Marguiles.
Cultural performances, film screenings and innovative programs round out the offerings. For a multifaceted immersion into Miami’s exciting art scene, PAMM is a don’t miss attraction.
22. Go on an Island-Hopping Boat Tour
One advantage of Miami’s coastal location is easy access to beautiful barrier islands via boat tours.
Glide over turquoise waters on comfortable yachts and catamarans to destinations like photogenic Biscayne Bay islands perfect for snorkelling, collecting shells or simply admiring sandy beaches and azure waves.
Some tour options feature onboard DJs, open bars and even waterslides between stops for taking in island scenery from inviting offshore vantage points.
23. Go Clubbing on a Party Boat
For a quintessentially Miami experience, hop aboard a club party boat! These floating nightclubs feature DJs blasting thumping music as you sail along Miami’s waterways under the moonlight.
Order bottle service as you dance alongside other revellers. Some boats even offer onboard pools for those ready to make a splash with their wild side! Just don’t party too heartily unless you have plenty of Dramamine on hand.
24. Lincoln Road Mall
Channel South Beach’s playfulness and eccentricity with a leisurely stroll down Lincoln Road Mall, a Miami top places to visit.
This lively pedestrian-only street became one of the country’s first outdoor malls during Miami Beach’s Art Deco heyday in the 1930s. Today, it’s a hub of non-stop activity buzzing with shoppers, diners, street performers, tourists and locals soaking up the constant carnival atmosphere.
Browse trends at high-end boutiques, check out kooky public art installations or simply people watch from a bench or Parisian-style café. Stop for cake pops at local favourite Sugar or authentic Italian pizza at Café Milano.
After the sun dips below turquoise waters, hit up one of Lincoln Road’s eclectic bars and lounge into the evening under swaying palms.
Miami Beach’s iconic shopping, dining and entertainment promenade thrums with energy morning to night.
25. Day Trip to the Florida Keys
Trade urban bustle for island time with a scenic road trip from Miami to the Florida Keys archipelago.
Your adventures begin as soon as you hop onto the Overseas Highway and start snaking south through turquoise waters towards Key Largo. Pull over at scenic look out points to take in gorgeous vistas where ocean and sky melt together in shimmering hues.
In Key Largo, stop for lunch after snorkelling vibrant coral reefs, or tour Dolphins Plus to get up close with the amusing marine mammals.
Further south, funky Islamorada charms with laid-back bars and seafood shacks dotted amongst island green foliage. Don’t skip stopping to snap a photo at the iconic rainbow-hued Hurricane Monument at mile marker 82.
Venture down to Marathon or Big Pine Key to kayak mangrove tunnels or spot Key deer. Or keep truckin’ down to Key West, where sunset celebrations, pastel Victorian homes and festive bars exude spirited island vibes. With undersea state parks, historic sites and chill island communities, a Keys day trip showcases the best of the Florida islands.
26. Miami Seaquarium
At this ocean-side marine park on Virginia Key facing downtown Miami’s glittery skyline, visitors can experience Florida’s vibrant marine life through shows, encounters and exhibits.
The main attraction is the killer whale Lolita, one of the world’s oldest captive orcas, who delights crowds with her spins, jumps and waves during her show.
Daredevil visitors can even become a trainer for a day, getting into the pool to feed, play with and give signals to the 7,000-pound marine mammal. Other exhibits allow you to touch stingrays gliding by or be dazzled by the dexterity of Pacific white-sided dolphins.
27. Visit Deering Estate
History and nature buffs will love this 444-acre preserve on the edge of Biscayne Bay. Tour the Richmond Cottage built in 1896 as the weekend retreat for Chicago industrialist Charles Deering.
The ornate two-story home brims with almost all its original furnishings, artwork and decorative pieces. Guests can glimpse the lavish lifestyle of Miami’s early 20th century snowbirds who founded many local cultural institutions, making it one of the cool places in Miami Florida.
Afterwards, explore the lush tropical landscape Deering carved out of pine rockland forest and mangrove swamps for his estate’s grounds. Miles of walking trails wind through fairytale forests of oak trees dripping Spanish moss and dazzling bromeliad plants clinging to branches.
Catch a glimpse of native wildlife like iguanas and butterflies that call Deering home. The Deering Estate provides the ultimate Miami combo of manmade opulence against Mother Nature’s exotic beauty.
29. Hang Out in Coconut Grove
Coconut Grove exudes a laid-back, bohemian vibe with its outdoor cafes, indie boutiques, yoga studios, and organic grocers. Panoramic views of sailboats cruising Biscayne Bay provide a picturesque backdrop as you get your shop on or relax over brunch.
Every Saturday, the Grove’s farmers market draws locals with its organic produce, artisanal goodies, and live music. And on the last Friday of each month, galleries throw open their doors for spirited art walks.
30. Take in Sweeping Views Aboard the Metromover
If you want to sightsee in Miami on a budget while staying cool, take a ride on the elevated, electric Metromover vehicles. This is a must do in Miami Florida.
This public transit system offers an affordable way to tour the greater downtown Miami area while getting unique vantage points of attractions like the Arsht Centre, American Airlines Arena and scenic shoreline.
And because it’s air-conditioned, it makes for a welcome respite after walking Miami’s hot streets on a sweltering day.
31. Have a Big Night Out in South Beach
Want to really live it up, Miami style? An epic night out in South Beach awaits! Start with dinner at a see-and-be-seen hotspot like Prime 112. Next, head to a fancy cocktail lounge like Bodega Taqueria y Tequila.
When you’re ready to dance, world-famous clubs LIV and Story will get you going into the early morning hours. Or for nonstop revelry, find your way into one of South Beach’s extravagant pool parties with bikini-clad partiers, thumping DJ beats and free-flowing champagne on tap all day.
32. Attend a Miami Heat Basketball Game
Basketball fever seizes Miami whenever its beloved Miami Heat take the court at the sensational FTX Arena right off Biscayne Bay, is one of the best places to visit in Miami Florida.
Since Lebron James and Dwyane Wade powered the team’s meteoric success in the early 2000s, the downtown arena rocks with high energy and thundering cheers. Watching King James or vintage Wade highlights on the jumbotron will give you chills.
The sizzling halftime shows, and hype crowds make for an unforgettable experience win or lose.
33. Go Paddleboarding
Paddleboarding is one of Miami’s favourite outdoor activities thanks to its beautiful beaches and waterways. It’s a fun way to get out on the ocean regardless of your experience level.
Glide across the peaceful waters of Oleta River State Park, weave through the lush mangrove tunnels of Bill Baggs State Park or paddle out from South Beach for picture-perfect views of the Miami skyline. Most beaches and parks offer paddleboard rentals and lessons, making it one of the unique things to do in Miami Florida.
34. Birdwatch at Bill Baggs Park
Pack your binoculars for an afternoon of bird watching at Bill Baggs Park at the southern tip of Key Biscayne. More than 80 feathered species flap and flutter through the coastal dunes, mangroves and lagoons of this scenic 444-acre park. Spot great blue herons silently standing guard, pelicans dive-bombing for fish, or perhaps roseate spoonbills painting the sky pink at sunset with their colourful plumage.
Between sightings, gaze out at the teal and azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean or Biscayne Bay from this tranquil natural sanctuary just 15 minutes from downtown Miami. The Cape Florida Lighthouse also resides within the park, offering tours and sweeping vista views. For Miamians, Bill Baggs serves as a treasured natural escape from the urban jungle.
35. See Rare Tropical Plants at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
With its 83 acres of gardens, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden has the largest botanical garden in the continental U.S. Meander through areas like the Palm Collection showcasing rare varieties from around the world.
Other highlights include vine-covered lush rainforest areas, vine pergola, butterfly and bird habitats, and tranquil lakes. Fascinating plants and vibrant tropical blooms greet you at every turn. The peaceful tropical botanical garden offers a nice nature break from Miami’s bustling city vibe.
36. Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science
For an awe-inspiring immersion into Florida’s fascinating ecosystems through cutting-edge interactive exhibits on science and nature, don’t miss the Philip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science.
The state-of-the-art South Beach Museum provides engaging experiences for visitors of all ages focused on preservation, education and research surrounding the state’s lands, seas, sky and space wonders.
Delight in simulated hurricane winds whipping through a wind tunnel or ogle cloud structures from below in the Gulf Stream Aquarium’s upper level. See vibrant coral, Florida’s sponge population and dive with sharks without getting wet.
The North and West Wings discuss wildlife and planetary science while Journey through the Human Body thrills with a six-story climb highlighting human cells, organs and health.
And don’t miss outdoor wildlife habitats with native butterflies, birds and an elevated “cypress ceiling” with a floor-to-ceiling vertical kinetic waterfall installation called the Everglades.
Illuminated by holographic clouds, vibrant lighting transitions mimic sunset, creating an enchanting perception of standing in a magical cypress dome as nocturnal animals wake up.
Q&A Tips for First-Time Miami Visitors
Q: When is the best time of year to visit Miami?
A: Mid-December through April sees ideal dry weather, though spring break season and holidays raise hotel rates. May, September, and October also have tolerable heat good for beach days.
Q: Which areas should I stay in for first Miami trip?
A: South Beach for nightlife and beaches. Downtown or Brickell if you want an urban vibe. Coconut Grove or Coral Gables for more relaxed stays near dining and shopping.
Q: Is public transportation decent in Miami?
A: Yes, the Metrobus, Metrorail and MetroMover systems connect most major tourist areas like South Beach, Downtown Miami, and Calle Ocho if you map routes ahead of time and don’t mind longer trips.
Q: Are all beaches public or are there private ones?
A: Miami Beach is nearly 5 miles long and open to all as public land. But islands like Fisher Island or Key Biscayne have private, resident-only beaches that require memberships or hotel stays to access.
Q: Is Uber or Lyft safe for getting around Miami?
A: Yes, rideshares are extremely common, affordable, and safe options for visitors navigating Miami’s vast districts and neighbourhoods, especially at night instead of walking long distances. Just check surge pricing at peak times.
Travel Tips for First Timers To Miami Florida
- Avoid renting a car if possible. Between traffic and expensive parking, ride shares, or public transportation are usually easier for getting around major areas like Miami Beach, Downtown and Brickell.
- Pack light, breathable clothing. With hot and humid weather year-round, you won’t need bulky items or lots of layers. Swimwear and summer dresses are perfect.
- Don’t just stick to South Beach. Branch out to other districts like Wynwood, Little Haiti or Little Havana to see the real Miami.
- Prepare for rainy days even during peak season. Brief storms are common so have a back-up indoor activity just in case.
- Learn some key Spanish phrases. You’ll get better service and connections with locals.
- Try venturing out a neighbourhood called Overtown. It’s just northwest of Downtown but offers a vibrant slice of historic Black Miami culture, food, and nightlife.