What’s the first thing that you would associate with Miami, Florida? Beaches, right? Well, there’s so much more to this beautiful city on the East Coast of the USA than just iconic beaches. To get an idea of some of the best places to visit and fun things to do in Miami, go through our travel guide. Here we go:
Jungle Island
After enjoying the clear blue waters of the ocean and beaches, another must place to visit in Miami is Jungle Island, which is home to hundreds of species of birds, orangutans, and other animals.
The Jungle Island promises a delightful experience for both adults and children with its aerial adventure park, which features ropes courses and zip lines among other attractions. Now, Jungle Island also has a new addition — a Treewalk Village with five treehouses.
By Pietro, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami, FL 33132, United States | Timing: 24×7 | Phone Number: +1305-400-7000 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/g2diVdAHVPxeFqNx5
Visit THE Miami Beach
Before you begin your city tour, recharge your batteries on the iconic Miami beach. It is situated outside the city limits, on an island. With hopping hubs and hotels that suit every budget, the Miami beach is every visitor’s delight.
While here, do not miss South Beach, which is located at the southern tip of the Miami beach. Famous for its glittery nightlife and azure ocean, this entertainment destination, will leave you spoilt for choice with its wide array of nightclubs, restaurants, and beach hotels. It’s also popular among the beaches for its shallow waters, where you can enjoy a swim in the ocean.
By Elmschrat, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA | Timing: 24×7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/SmR2GsBPNCsY3jip7
Bayside Marketplace
Indulging in retail therapy is one of the fun things to do in Miami. Visit the Bayside Marketplace and you will be spoilt for choice. The place has over 150 stores and many cafes and restaurants, making it popular among the locals as well as tourists.
Apart from reputed brands, there are also shops selling unique items. The main highlight of this mall is that it is located along the city’s waterfront. Tour boats and water taxi services are available here, taking visitors to nearby locations.
Address: 401 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, United States | Timing: 11:00 am to 11:00 pm | Phone Number: +1305-577-3344 | Google Map Location: https://g.page/baysidemktplace?share
Art Deco Historic District
The Art Deco District, which is also a part of the South Beach neighborhood, is an ode to the architecture of the 1930s and 40s. As the name suggests, The Art Deco District boasts of structures built in typical art deco style, its main characteristics being pastel colors, neon signs, plant and animal motifs, porthole windows, flags, and statues.
Here’s some more good news for visitors. Many of these art deco buildings operate as hotels. So, here’s your chance to experience something different.
By Stefenetti Emiliano, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 1001 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139, United States | Timing: 24×7 | Phone Number: +1305-672-2014 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/WV2c5FLTVrd89qHU6
Miami Zoo
There are few things that children and adults enjoy alike, like a trip to the zoo. A trip to the Miami Zoo, which is spread across 750 acres, is among the top things to do in Miami. The zoo is home to more than 3,000 animals, which includes 40 endangered species.
Given that it is in sub-tropical climates, even species belonging to warmer climates like Australia and Africa are found here.
By Ivan Curra, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address:12400 SW 152nd St, Miami, FL 33177, United States | Timing: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm | Phone Number: +1 305-251-0400 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/D6JoPVY5JftXynRk9
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
Talk about Miami attractions and one cannot miss the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Set on a 28-acre plot, this Italian Renaissance-style villa is breathtakingly beautiful. It was constructed in 1916, as the winter home of industrialist James Deering. The collection of European furniture and art here will impress visitors.
The garden surrounding the 32-room villa boasts of stunning Italian and French fountains, pools, and also artistic sculptures. The villa is also a popular venue for weddings and other social events.
Address: 3251 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33129, United States | Timing: 9.30 am to 4.30 pm | Phone Number: +1305-250-9133 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/BWXuyzVz6KDYwFGF8
Salt Marshes And Indian Burial Grounds
Are you confused about what to do in Miami next? Well, do take out some time to delve into history.
On the grounds of the Charles Deering Estate is an Indian burial ground, which dates to 10,000 years. A fossil pit of animal bones that is 50,000 years old has also been discovered on the estate grounds. Apart from these, a coastal dune island and salt marshes will add more fun to your trip. Also, try the nature walks that are available here.
By Elisa Rolle, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address:16701 SW 72nd Ave, Miami, FL 33157, United States | Timing: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm | Phone Number: +1 305-235-1668 | Google Map Location: https://g.page/deeringestate?share
Explore The Neighborhood Of Little Havana
Wondering what to do in Miami, next? Well, check out Little Havana, which will offer you an authentic glimpse of Cuban culture, right in the United States. Strains of Latino music, mouthwatering aroma of Cuban cuisine and murals depicting daily life, and famous personalities from Cuba will transport you into a different world.
The biggest attraction of Little Havana is Calle Ocho, the main street which runs through the district and Calle Ocho Walk Of Fame. Also, do not forget to visit Versailles restaurant, which is famous for authentic Cuban food.
Address: Miami, Florida, United States | Timing: 24×7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/vay9356B97XqAnTw7
Everglades National Park
No trip to Miami is complete without a visit to Everglades National Park, one of the main Miami attractions. Spread over 1.5 million acres of wetlands, it houses a wide range of species, including alligators, turtles and, hold your breath, even panthers.
Just a short drive from Miami, you can explore the Everglades National Park on airboat tours, which is a high-speed boat, or enjoy a hike on one of the walking trails. If you want to spend more time here, camping facilities are also available.
Address: Florida, United States | Timing: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm | Phone Number: +1305-242-7700 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/TgGVsTvFCuCbvY8b8
Phillip And Patricia Frost Museum of Science
Next on your list of places to visit in Miami is the Phillip And Patricia Frost Museum of Science. Spread across 250,000 square feet, the museum has been divided into four sections, which includes an aquarium and a planetarium.
Equally appealing to children and adults, one of the main attractions of the museum is the ‘Power of Science’ — an interactive session that throws light on the path-breaking research conducted by the University of Miami.
Address:1101 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, United States | Timing: Monday to Thursday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Friday, Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 am to 7:00 pm | Phone Number: +1 305-434-9600 | Google Map Location: https://g.page/FrostScience?share
Miami Seaquarium
If you are a lover of marine life, you must pay a visit to the Miami Seaquarium. Their daily live shows, featuring dolphins, orcas (killer whales), and other ocean mammals are not to be missed.
Visitors can also enjoy the sight of a wide variety of tropical fish, sharks, and even alligators, which have been kept in large observation tanks. The facility also offers a program that will throw light on the behavior of dolphins.
By Averette at English Wikipedia, CC BY 3.0, Link
Address: 4400 Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami, FL 33149, United States | Timing: Closed on Tuesday and Wednesday; Open on other days from 10 am to 5 pm | Phone Number: +1 305-361-5705 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/4KqZn9wmVkZ77iGJ6
Freedom Tower (Miami)
If you are at Biscayne Boulevard in Miami, there is no way you can miss the Freedom Tower, which has been constructed in the ‘wedding cake’ style. The building got its name, as the immigration processing center for Cuban refugees, who arrived in the United States in the 1960s, operated from there. Today, apart from being a tribute to Cuban refugees, a part of the Freedom Tower also houses a contemporary art museum.
By Tom Schaefer, CC BY 3.0, Link
Address: 600 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, United States | Timing: Closed on Monday and Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm, Thursday 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm | Phone Number: +1 305-237-7700 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/AZKqVvGQ8BdfyWLD6
Bayfront Park
One of the main highlights of Miami sightseeing is Bayfront Park, which is a garden spread over 32 acres, located near the Bayside Marketplace. It has many attractions, including monuments and sculptures. One such example is the Challenger Memorial, which is dedicated to the crew of the Challenger Spacecraft. It also has Light Tower, which is an amphitheater that stages musical performances.
Children will also love this park, as it has an excellent play area. Along with tourists, this is also a favorite hangout spot for the locals.
Address:301 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, United States | Timing: 24×7 | Phone Number: +1 305-358-7550 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/GfVXyM4tQFt8jKEV8
Trip To Abandoned Missile Silo
Apart from the warm beaches of Miami, another place to visit in Miami is an abandoned rocket facility near Everglades National Park in Miami, Florida. A relic of the Cold War, this Nike Hercules Missile Site is popularly known as ‘Alpha Battery’ or ‘HM69’.
The site houses a few structures, including missile barns, a building where missiles were assembled, a kennel for guard dogs, barracks, and two Nike Hercules missiles. You can drive to this site that is open on most days from early December to late March.
Address: Research Road, Homestead, FL 33034, United States | Timing: 10:00 am to 2:00 pm | Phone Number: +1305-242-7700 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/P3jkr8RhDyr9dHaF7
Hollywood Beach Boardwalk
You’ll never fall short of things to do in Miami, Florida. Yet another Miami tourist attraction is the Hollywood Beach Boardwalk. Stretched over 2.5 miles (4 kilometers), this pedestrian promenade is ideal for a stroll while enjoying the beauty of the ocean and the beach.
You can also rent cycles from the rental spots along the Boardwalk. And, if you get tired of all the walking and cycling, a stopover for some refreshments by one of the seaside cafes.
Address: 101 S. Broadwalk, 3501 N Broadwalk, Hollywood, FL 33019, United States | Timing: 24×7 | Phone Number: +1 954-921-3404 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Mt56rmdgMGczf7oR6
Wynwood Walls
There’s more, as far as Miami activities are concerned, Wynwood Walls is one of the best tourist attractions in Miami. The warehouse district of Wynwood witnessed a revival in 2009, when famous community revitalizer, the late Tony Goldman, took the initiative to give its exterior walls a makeover.
Today, the Wynwood Walls will leave you mesmerized with its murals and street art. Drive around the streets to look at some of the most renowned street and graffiti artists from across the world.
By Daniel Di Palma, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address:2520 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33127, United States | Timing: 11:00 am to 7:00 pm on weekdays, Fridays and Saturdays 11:00 am to 9:00 pm | Phone Number: +1 305-531-4411 | Google Map Location: https://g.page/wynwoodwallsofficial?share
Treat Your Tastebuds At Knaus Berry Farm
Another best thing to do in Miami is to check out the Knaus Berry Farm. What started as a family enterprise by brothers Ray and Russel Knaus in 1956 has now turned into a tourist spot that attracts visitors from across the world.
Along with farm-fresh, juicy strawberries, one can also taste some of the best milkshakes and ice-creams here. And yes, their cinnamon rolls are to die for!
Address:15980 SW 248th Street, Homestead, FL 33031, United States | Timing: 8:00 am to 5.30 pm from Monday to Saturday, Sunday closed | Phone Number: +1 305-247-0668 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/1ZSpBeKVxn2DPfWTA
Miami Children’s Museum
Looking for places to go in Miami with kids? Make your trip to Miami an even more memorable experience for your little ones by visiting the Miami Children’s Museum. Spread over an area of 56,000 square feet, the museum will both educate and entertain children.
The facility features 14 themed galleries, which are based on arts, culture, community, and communication. It also has an outside area where children can play. The motto of the museum is to encourage visitors across age groups to play, learn, imagine, and create together.
By qwesy qwesy, CC BY 3.0, Link
Address: 980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami, FL 33132, United States | Timing: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm | Phone Number: +1 305-373-5437 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/kJLCoBMtFwc2KPcB6
Try Your Luck at Gulfstream Park Racing And Casino
Visiting the Gulfstream Park should be on top of your list of things to do in Miami. Apart from enjoying the thrill of horse racing, you can also try your luck at the casino here. That’s not all, the park is an ideal destination for shopping and eating out, with numerous stores and restaurants. It has lodging facilities, too.
Address: 901 S Federal Hwy, Hallandale Beach, FL 33009, United States | Timing: Monday to Thursday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Friday, Saturday and Sunday 10:00 am to 7:00 pm | Phone Number: +1 954-454-7000 | Google Map Location: https://g.page/GSPracingcasino?share
Deering Estate
The Charles Deering Estate is one of the places to visit in Miami. Set on a sprawling 444-acre estate, the Charles Deering Estate used to be the residence of the late art collector. Apart from an impressive collection of artworks, the place is also a treasure trove of history and nature.
Apart from its historical significance, the Deering Estate also operates as a center that offers various classes for people across age groups. The estate can be rented for social events and wedding functions.
By Zoohouse, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address:16701 SW 72nd Ave, Miami, FL 33157, United States | Timing: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm | Phone Number: +1 305-235-1668 | Google Map Location: https://g.page/deeringestate?share
Biscayne National Park
Biscayne National Park is a watery paradise close to downtown Miami with clear blue waters, beautiful islands, mangrove forests, and even coral reefs. The best way to explore the park is by boating, kayaking, and canoeing.
Apart from going on guided eco-adventures, including snorkeling at a shipwreck, visitors can also try their hands at fishing and lobstering here. Nature and wildlife enthusiasts can also go camping here.
By Yinan Chen, Public Domain, Link
Address: 9700 SW 328th Street, Sir Lancelot Jones Way, Homestead, FL 33033, United States | Timing: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm | Phone Number: +1 305-230-1144 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/AZKqVvGQ8BdfyWLD6
Coral Castle
One of the most beautiful things to see in Miami is the Coral Castle. What makes this stunning artwork even more beautiful is the fact that the Coral Castle was made by a single person, Edward Leedskalnin, between 1923 and 1951.
Edward has carved all the structures in limestone, using homemade tools. The main highlight of this Coral Park is a huge stone gate, which opens merely with the touch of a finger. It also features many other impressive carvings.
By Christina Rutz, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: 28655 S Dixie Hwy, Homestead, FL 33033, United States | Timing: Temporarily closed | Phone Number: +1 305-248-6345 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/gpcvAVd45rsWgySz5
South Pointe Park
One of the best things to do in Miami, Florida is to visit South Pointe Park, which is located at the southern tip of Miami beach. It offers breathtaking views of South Beach shoreline, downtown Miami’s skyline, and Fisher Island.
Apart from quiet corners where visitors can relax, the park also has a mini splash zone for kids, picnic and barbecue areas, and even a special zone where your pet can be let off the leash. The 450-feet pier is one of the main attractions of the park.
By Visitor7, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 1 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, United States | Timing: 6.30 am to 6:00 pm | Phone Number: +1 305-673-7006 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/imDdErpmZ1oAXuWaA
American Airlines Arena
Talking about things to do in Miami, visit the American Airlines Arena, which is one of the most prominent structures in the Biscayne Bay area. Basketball fans from across the world visit this building as it’s the home of the NBA team, Miami Heat.
With a capacity for seating 19,000 people, it’s also a popular venue for hosting large musical concerts and other events. Many world-renowned musical stars have staged their performances here.
By Edgar Serrano, CC BY 3.0, Link
Address: 601 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, United States | Timing: 24×7 | Phone Number: +1 786-777-1000 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/f7WbotMrSfUR84Hk7deer
