18+ Best Things To Do In Miami
Last updated September 20, 2025
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If you're planning a Miami trip, you're in the right place.
From its lively nightlife to its amazing beaches, there are countless activities to enjoy in Miami.
Most recognized for warm climate and unspoiled beaches, Miami remains the ideal location to be when you desire to relish a remarkable atmosphere.
Here are 18+ best must-dos in Miami which you must include in your itinerary!
1. Savor the Cuban Sandwich
Versailles restaurant & La Ventanita café have served as a favored spot for meetings and discussions of the Cuban community in Miami for fifty years.
This restaurant which serves genuine Cuban dishes is well-liked for its vaca frita, croquettes, and iconic sandwiches served across the US.
Renowned as the world’s most iconic Cuban restaurant, it will delight you with enormous servings of delicious high-quality Cuban cuisine at an affordable cost provided in this cafe and restaurant resembling a museum.
Nearly every surface here acts as a mirror, creating confusion at times.
The restaurant even appears to be a vast area filled with throngs of guests anticipating their food, and there are numerous waitstaff, so you'll not experience neglect even for one moment.
Also, prior to your departure, buy a delightful Cuban coffee (Cuban Pastelitos) for yourself while on the move from the eatery’s traditional Havana-style window.
2. Explore Big Cypress National Preserve
Just a brief walk from the exquisite dining and stunning coastal retreats of Naples & Marco Island, this National Preserve provides plenty of opportunities for campers, hikers, and enthusiasts of the outdoors.
The unexplored marshland will guide one through Florida’s wilderness side you never imagined existed.
This USA initial preserve encompasses more than 700000 acres of varied wildlife.
Its wet season spans from May through October, and it's best to steer clear of this time if you wish to prevent pesky bugs and excess humidity.
The preserve’s outdoor activities range could have you staying here for many days.
Begin at the Oasis VisitorCenter or the BigCypress Swamp Welcome Centre to obtain information regarding the rough terrain and trails excursions.
You can then ride your bike along Fire Prairie’s Trail and trek Deep Lake’s Trail.
Also, paddle inside a kayak or lodge at any of the available eight camping spots with facilities accessible throughout the year.
Big Cypress remains accessible throughout the entire year without any admission charge.
3. Go Parasailing
Water is integral to Miami's essence, providing a turquoise backdrop to the urban skyline.
The city is also inhabited by aquatic creatures like dugongs, porpoises, and sea ponies.
Parasailing off the Miami coast offers a thrilling experience to appreciate Coconut Grove and the skyline of Miami as you fly high above the Biscayne Bay waves.
It perfectly combines adventure activities with sightseeing fun that one ought to encounter once in their life.
Parasailing in Miami is secure and no previous experience is necessary; all instructions and protective gear are provided.
The complete expedition is calm and peaceful, and you’ll be amazed at how quiet it can get.
During the excursion, you will embark and disembark on the exact vessel.
Based on the total number of attendees, the journey could require up to one hour from beginning to end.
4. Visit the Coffee Shops in Miami
Among my favorite Miami activities is exploring the various coffee shops throughout the city!
You will discover amazing locations in the city for gourmet coffee and some locations where you can obtain a coffee on a lovely balcony.
My preferred spots are Panther Coffee, Vice City Coffee, and XO Coffee Bar.
If you also want a spot outdoors to savor a coffee on a picturesque balcony, you can visit Life House located at exactly 321 Collins Avenue.
It's a charming hotel that offers a serene and lovely atmosphere, and an open-air area.
5. Explore Miami's Top Beaches
You have to adore beaches, particularly if you're in Miami.
This destination is a favorite for swimming, relaxing, camping, active sports, and nightlife, and there's a fun beach for everybody.
Among all the beaches in Miami, 15 truly deserve your visit, beginning with South Point Park Pier, ideal for picnics.
In case you desire to experience the sensation of a film icon from Miami, visit Lummus Park Stunning Beach, the location you have observed in films that have a 90s feel.
Then, to capture a postcard-worthy scene, head to Crandon Park, where Crandon Park Zoo's remnants and Bear Cut hiking paths are.
Afterwards, hop on a small train into Virginia Key Beach, drive through marshlands and remain in cabins by the beachside.
Explore Matheson Hammock too, which features an artificial atoll pond concealed by the mangroves and banyan trees for tranquil swimming.
Then conclude your journey at Hollywood Beach in order to check out Le Tub.
Visit their saloon too and try one of Miami’s most renowned burgers.
6. Check Out Perez Art Museum
This museum is an outstanding illustration of the 20th-century distinctive design featuring modern art displays.
Created by the renowned Herzog de Meuron, Basel, PAMM boasts Biscayne Bay’s amazing vistas, magnificent outdoor squares featuring suspended gardens, along with multiple contemporary indoor venue spaces.
Allocate two to three hours to the museum for a thorough exploration of contemporary global art and displays showcasing the varied community of Florida at the intersection of the American continents.
You will discover 3000 artworks from Cuba and South Africa, and artists from Mexico, alongside touring exhibits, sound, and visual art pieces created by African and European artists.
Then, following your tour, you’re free to enjoy dinner at Verde’s contemporary eatery within PAMM which features a waterfront patio.
The museum operates from Thursday to Monday, between 11 am and 6 pm, though Thursday is until 9 pm.
There is parking available for visitors at a cost close to the museum.
The entryway is free for visitors having disabilities.
7. Discover Virginia Key
Located inside Biscayne Bay, just minutes from downtown Miami, this park stands as a vibrant public space filled with greenery and a leisure area that features the broadest mangrove marshes.
Recognized on the iconic National Register Historic Places, this park covers 82 acres.
It offers activities for visitors of all ages including cycling paths, tidy lodges for camping, and picnic shelters.
This seaside retreat provides lengthy shoreline strolls, a journey on a vintage carousel overlooking the sea, and a historic small-scale railway.
The park was a favored spot for the African American Miami community.
Its heritage structures are the vibrant displays that take visitors back into the 1940s.
It operates every day of the week from 7 am to sunset.
Its admission charge is 10 dollars from Friday to Sunday and there is no cost during weekdays.
8. Join a Key West Day Trip
Do you possess time for an amazing day trip through the stunning Florida Keys?
There are many activities and sights to explore there, but let's begin with the path itself!
Florida Keys consist of numerous islands (keys) and five principal islands including the westernmost island, Key West being the most sought-after travel hotspot.
An excursion here will take you along the scenic Overseas Highway, extending 113 miles to KeyWest from Miami, including stops at highlights on the islands linked by bridges.
The path itself is a remarkable journey featuring magnificent ocean scenery, pristine shores, and the most delicious cuisine.
Your initial destination will be the fun Key Largo in order to enjoy incredible hiking and snorkeling at Bahia Honda Beach.
Don’t overlook the stunning vistas of the underwater statue “Abyss" encountered while you scuba dive near the island.
The iconic Florida Keys feature eleven state parks, each with plants and wildlife, and the final one located inside Key West – FortZachary Taylor Park featuring Civil War relics.
Your last destination will be Key West, featuring the Ernest Hemingway House and Museum, Historic District, and Key West’s Garden Club together with vibrant tropical foliage.
The optimal period to organize your journey to Key West is from March - May. You will also enjoy it here during Christmas.
The warmest months are August and July, while the rainiest months are September, August, and June.
9. Explore the Art Deco Structures of South Beach
The renowned Art Deco structures in South Beach originate from the 1920s and 30s. They have become emblematic of the city!
Their design was created following a 1926 hurricane and constructed in the design that was cherished during that era – Art Deco!
Currently, South Beach boasts the most extensive collection of Art Deco architecture in the globe featuring more than 800 structures that display this particular style.
They're just as vibrant as they're camera-perfect, and I regularly visit them whenever I’m in Miami!
10. Visit Cape Florida Light house
Make sure to visit this lighthouse and ascend the 109 winding steps to enjoy a stunning panorama.
It is among Florida's most fascinating lighthouses and is Bill Baggs CapeFlorida State Park’s most visited spot, located in Key Biscayne.
Situated at the southern tip of the island, this lighthouse has steered anglers and sailors since the late 1800s.
This historical artifact successfully endured assaults from indigenous peoples, conflicts of the Civil War, and numerous tropical cyclones.
Currently, it is available for tours as the ancientest existing framework in MiamiDade County.
Your journey will begin by ascending 109 steps with tight spots while experiencing this favored Miami site.
Then, upon reaching the summit, a slim cast-iron railing will provide you with the finest perspective of the sea.
Proceed with an excursion to the keeper's house by the lighthouse to view the movie about the location.
Cape Florida lighthouse is available for tours from Thursday to Monday starting from 8 am to 2pm, except for Wednesdays and Tuesdays.
You can also enjoy drinks and dinner at the Rusty Pelican seaside eatery here while appreciating the sunset.
11. Experience the Iconic Museum of Illusions
This Miami’s renowned museum will immerse you in the captivating realm of illusions, tricking your perceptions and astonishing you.
This realm of enchantment and illusions will astonish you nonstop and is an absorbing and captivating experience for both kids and adults, challenging your mind, awareness, and sight.
The museum showcases more than 40 optical 3D illusions influenced by films, animations, creative works, and various historical occurrences.
You will soar on an enchanted carpet, test your fortune at the brink of a high-rise, and also endure a stroll across the picturesque lava bridge.
Capturing images is not just allowed but also promoted here.
So, go ahead and capture numerous moments to create wonderful recollections in your gallery.
The Museum operates Sunday through Thursday from 9 am to 9pm, and on Friday and Saturday from 11am to 10pm.
12. Walk Around Vizcaya Museum
Deriving its title from the intriguing coastlines of the Coast of Spain, the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens displays magnificent European opulence within an enchanting American setting.
The mansion in Miami tropics’ center, influenced by the Renaissance, showcases a distinct juxtaposition of structures and scenery.
The simplest method to discover the lovely estate and gardens is keeping a map accessible and adhere to the suggested path through the regal chambers and the Entrance Hall which features hand-painted wallpapers.
Also pass through their Music Hall and its distinct instrument assortment and the Butlers Storage Room which features invaluable glass pieces from 1916.
After completing your visit to the museum, stroll along the Statue trail with cascades, caverns, and sculptures.
Indeed, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a true gem, and the estate has even been featured in Bad Boys 2 and Iron Man III.
It also continues to hold unique gatherings as a well-liked cultural center.
The Museum and Gardens can be accessed by wheelchair. Rentals for wheelchairs are offered there too.
13. Have Fun in Biscayne Park
This park is a sight you haven't encountered before because it's 95% underneath the water.
Numerous endangered species inhabit its marine reserve of 270 square miles, Miami southeast towards the lovely Florida Keys.
The park comprises multiple islands encircled by verdant mangrove woodlands.
Try snorkeling to explore the third-biggest coral reef, sunken vessels, and vibrant sea creatures here.
If you enjoy hiking, there are numerous hiking trails that might catch your attention too.
Note that boat is the most effective way to navigate the park.
Your path will begin at the DanteFascell Visitor Center to view an audio-graphic display and select your preferred journey.
The waters of the park are accessible 24 hours a day while their Information Center is open daily.
Biscayne Park is an area designed for public enjoyment, offering a range of free recreational opportunities, though tours can incur a fee.
Equipment for kayaking, snorkeling, and boats is available for rental for the excursions.
And remember to take sunscreen in order to be safeguarded.
14. Explore Little Havana on Foot
Who said that you can enjoy Cuban vibes solely in Cuba?
Miami's Little Havana cultural and food walking tour which features Havana cuisine and culture will aid you to immerse yourself in the vibrant Cuban neighborhood right in Miami.
It's a blend of cultures enhanced by Cuban food and lifestyle.
The tour occurs every day and will lead you to discover Cuba’s diverse history with stops at stores, coffee shops, and eateries, each for about 10 minutes.
You will sample classic Cuban foods including chicken plantain bowls, guava pastries, flan gelato paired with freshly brewed coffee, Cuban cigars, and the finest mojito in this area, all of which are paired with folk music and dance.
You can also linger after the guided tour to return to your favorite spots, shop, or enjoy a meal.
The excursion is even accessible for wheelchairs.
15. Check Out Calle Ocho Walkof Fame
Among all the widely enjoyed entertaining activities in Miami, ensure you don’t overlook this.
Established in 1988, it aims to acknowledge famous Latin people from South Florida.
You'll encounter this Walk of Fame while traveling from the central road into Little Havana.
Extending from 12th Avenue to 17th Avenue, it features more than 30 names, among them Julio Iglesias, Celia Cruz, Thalia, and Pitbull etched in pink stone constellations.
Also schedule a trip to Miami for the Carnaval festivity which is one month long, and you'll be able to participate in free outdoor activities, featuring live shows by Latin icons such asMarc Anthony and Ricky Martin.
16. Visit The Everglades
This iconic Grass River & Everglades Park, designated as one of the World Heritage Sites, covers a subtropical and tropical territory of 1.5 million acres and houses one among the planet's most varied ecosystems.
To experience the serenity of this USA national park, you'll need days.
However, in case you have fewer hours, proceed directly to the park center and stroll briefly down the picturesque Anhinga Trail in order to discover wildlife, such as herons, turtles, and crocodiles.
Ascend the lookout tower of 65 feet inside Shark Valley too for an aerial perspective of the beautiful Everglades.
Afterward, kayak for an opportunity to observe a crocodile, dolphin, or manatee, or float across Florida Bay.
Spend some moments observing the sunset above Flamingo, Florida's peninsula’s southernmost location, cycle along the pine-lands, paddle through Nine-Mile Pond’s mangroves, and visit the former missile location of Nike Hercules.
17. Visit the Stunning Haitian Heritage Museum
This museum is a charitable organization uniting all Haitians living abroad.
The museum exhibits Haiti's vibrant culture and heritage, and aids in the progress of Little Haiti society.
The museum, functioning for seventeen years has involved 10000 students and created more than 100 job openings for Haitians, non-Haitians, and Haitian-Americans alike.
Here, you'll also encounter breathtaking Haitian artwork, view documentaries and films, and enjoy folk music.
The museum is open Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 5pm.
18. Embark on a Day Excursion to the Bahamas
The Bahamas remains famous for its exceptional ocean food, immaculate beaches, and warm weather, and you can embark on a fun day excursion from Miami to the Bahamas.
Ensure you take a drink of water to stay energized while exploring this island, and also remember to explore the legendary Fountain ofYouth, a nice natural spring shaped in limestone.
The spring is believed to possess enchanting qualities.
Legends state that Juan Ponce León, a renowned explorer, was searching for the spring in 1500 but he did not succeed, and rather, he found Florida and the stunning Gulf Stream.
Then, your next stop in the Bahamas should be the fun Bull Run, a secure cage diving with sharks in a robust enclosure.
The surge of adrenaline here is affirmed.
Afterward, explore the Bimini depths to discover the lovely Bimini Wall extending over a distance.
Lastly, discover Radio Beach’s postcard-worthy perspectives and explore Bahamas dining establishments, pubs, and nightclubs.
19. Discover Key Biscayne
Key Biscayne, the southernmost island of Florida, is a fast getaway from Miami.
It’s an amazing subtropical island utopia stretching four miles and featuring coastal shores, wildlife refuges, cycling trails, and beach dining establishments.
The island’s village, located in the center, features Miami-Dade’s conserved Crandon Park at the north.
Crandon Park remains highly favored for its impressive 27 tennis facilities and golf course of 18 holes.
You have the option to pick kayaking, kite surfing, diving, and sailboarding for aquatic activities.
Note that Bill Baggs State Park frequently experiences overcrowding, particularly on weekends when visitors seek entertainment.
Among other favored pastimes, you can bike on paved cycling routes and unpaved paths of 1.5 miles long (cycle rental is offered) or hike through mangrove marshes.
