Things To Do
in Miami
Miami is a sun-drenched city where tropical beaches meet Latin-infused culture and a bold arts scene. From the Art Deco allure of South Beach to the vibrant neighborhoods of Little Havana and Wynwood, the city thrives on contrast. Cuisine blends Cuban, Caribbean, and international flavors with seafood-forward menus and landmark comfort foods.
With a tropical climate and lively nightlife, Miami offers year-round opportunities for exploration and celebration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Rise early to watch the sun paint the sky in shades of pink and gold above the Atlantic horizon. Feel the gentle sea breeze and the warm sand underfoot as locals start their morning jogs along the shoreline. Savor a freshly brewed Cuban espresso at a beachfront café while palm trees sway overhead.
Rent a bike or rollerblades and cruise the Ocean Drive promenade past pastel Art Deco hotels and swaying palms. Stop at a shaded café for a light lunch of tropical fruit smoothies and arepas. Dip into the clear blue surf for an invigorating swim before lounging under a beach umbrella with a good book.
Dine al fresco along Española Way, sampling fresh seafood and Latin-American tapas under string lights. Join a beach bonfire gathering or dance to live Latin jazz at a nearby club. End the night with a moonlit stroll along the gently lapping waves of South Beach.
Join a guided walking tour to explore the iconic pastel facades and neon marquees of Miami’s Art Deco Historic District. Learn about the 1920s and 30s-era architecture as you pause for photos in front of classic oceanfront hotels. Sip a cold brew coffee at a retro-style café decorated with vintage posters.
Wander along Lincoln Road pedestrian mall to browse boutique shops, galleries, and resort-worthy fashion. Enjoy lunch under lush banyan trees at a chic open-air bistro, sampling local farm-to-table dishes. Pop into independent art galleries to discover up-and-coming Miami artists.
Head back toward the strip for sunset cocktails on a rooftop bar overlooking the Atlantic. Watch the neon signs flicker on as the Art Deco skyline comes alive at dusk. Later, dance the night away at a lively oceanfront lounge with live DJ sets.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🍕Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-80 |
| 🏨One-night hotel stay (mid-range) | $120-240 |
| 🚌Weekly public transit pass | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant multicultural scene with strong Latin American influences
- World-class dining, seafood, and nightlife
- Extensive coastline, beaches, and water-based activities
- Accessible day trips to the Everglades and islands nearby
- Can be very hot and humid for extended periods
- Tourist crowds and traffic in peak seasons
- Certain neighborhoods require awareness and planning for safety
Places to Visit in Miami
Visit one of these nice places.
Pastel, neon-soaked hotels line Ocean Drive; best photographed at morning or dusk when light is soft.
Iconic street art murals and vibrant backdrops; ideal for bold, colorful photography and urban portraits.
Grand villa and formal gardens with bayfront views; classic European-inspired photography opportunities.
Long pier with sweeping views of the Atlantic and the Miami skyline; great for sunset shots.
Lighthouse at Cape Florida State Park offering dramatic coastal vistas and wide horizons.
Food in Miami
Miami Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pressed sandwich with roast pork, ham, cheese, pickles, and mustard; a quintessential Little Havana staple.
Must-Try!
Sweet crab claws served with mustard dipping sauce; seasonal (roughly Oct–May); iconic at top seafood spots like Joe's.
Shredded beef simmered with peppers and onions, usually served with rice and beans.
Cornmeal patties stuffed with cheese or meats; widely available at Venezuelan/Colombian eateries.
Tart, creamy lime filling with a graham-cracker crust; a Florida classic offered in many cafés and bistros.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Indoor market with a mix of chef-driven stalls and casual bites in the Wynwood district.
Vibrant street-food scene with croquetas, empanadas, plantains, and rich Cuban coffee.
Seasonal market along Lincoln Road in Miami Beach offering fresh produce, prepared foods, and local crafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Spanish is widely spoken alongside English; a courteous greeting goes a long way. Dress codes vary by venue—casual in many places, upscale in notable clubs and fine dining.
Tipping is customary in hospitality. Be mindful of personal space and local norms in neighborhoods; respectful behavior in residential areas is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Miami
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15–20% is standard for good service; tip more for exceptional service. At bars and with large groups, 10–20% is common if not included. Some venues may add a service charge for large parties or special events; check the bill.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is accepted everywhere, and ATMs are plentiful in tourist areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
June–August brings heat, high humidity, and frequent afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated, wear light clothing, use sunscreen, and seek shade. Hurricane season runs June through November, so monitor forecasts when planning outdoor activities.
September and October remain warm with occasional rain; crowds ease after peak summer season, making it a good time for shorter lines at major attractions.
December through February offers the most comfortable weather: mild temperatures, low humidity, and sunny days—great for outdoor dining and waterfront strolls.
March through May brings warm days and vibrant events; expect higher humidity toward late spring and occasional pop-up showers.
Miami at Night
Hiking in Miami
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic boardwalk trail near the Gulf Coast side, offering excellent opportunities to spot wildlife and wetland scenery.
Urban state park with nature trails, kayaking, and easy hikes through coastal mangroves.
Coastal trails and scenic coastal views around the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse.
Airports
How to reach Miami by plane.
Primary gateway to the region with extensive international and domestic flights; connected to the city by car, rideshare, and train services.
Alternative gateway within driving distance; often used for low-cost carriers and some international routes.
Another option for regional travel; longer drive but useful for certain itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong historic presence in Little Havana and surrounding neighborhoods; a cornerstone of the city’s cultural fabric.
Large, vibrant communities contributing to music, food, and culture across the region.
Diverse immigrant population driving a dynamic, multicultural scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Miami Heat (NBA) - major city team with postseason participation and bustling home games.
Miami Dolphins (NFL) games and related events during the season.
Inter Miami CF (MLS) – expanding major league soccer presence in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Miami.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Miami offers plentiful vegetarian options across cuisines; look for markets, Mediterranean spots, and Latin restaurants with plant-based dishes. When in doubt, request sides (greens, beans, rice) or vegetarian entrees and confirm ingredients to avoid veal stock or lard. Many kitchens are happy to adapt with simple substitutions.