Miami dazzles with its mix of beaches, culture, and adventure. The city offers so much, it’s difficult to choose just a few activities for a 3-4 day holiday. That’s why we prepared this extensive list of top things to do in Miami, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Find the top things to do in Miami while traveling to the Magic City on our Miami attractions guide.
While traveling to the magic city, start with the iconic South Beach, famous for its golden sands and lively nightlife. For a quieter escape, visit Crandon Park Beach on Key Biscayne. Art lovers should not miss the vibrant Wynwood Walls or the serene Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science offers interactive exhibits and stunning views of Biscayne Bay. Experience authentic Cuban culture on a Little Havana Food & Cultural Tour. Thrill-seekers can try flyboarding or jet skiing in Biscayne Bay. Explore the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse and shop at the bustling Lincoln Road Mall. Discover Miami’s diverse attractions, each offering a unique slice of the Magic City.
And then, for the nightcrawlers, we have an exhaustive guide here: A Nightcrawler’s First-Hand Account of Miami’s Hottest Spots, and here: Dance the Night Away: Miami’s Hidden Gem Dance Clubs.
Before you start exploring Miami, you must become a member of Apogee Indigo. Apogee Indigo is a mobile payment app designed especially for travelers to make great savings on food and attraction bills.
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Best Beaches To Explore
South Beach
South Beach, or SoBe, epitomizes Miami’s vibrant lifestyle, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and urban chic. Stretching from South Pointe Park to 23rd Street, South Beach is famed for its golden sands, clear blue waters, and colorful Art Deco architecture along Ocean Drive. Visitors can lounge on the beach, enjoy water sports, or explore the iconic Lincoln Road Mall with its myriad shops, restaurants, and galleries. The area is also renowned for its lively nightlife, with numerous clubs and bars that cater to every taste. Don’t miss the scenic beauty of Lummus Park, which runs parallel to the beach, offering a perfect spot for biking or a leisurely walk.
Address: Ocean Drive from 5th to 15th Streets, Miami Beach, FL
How to Reach: Easily accessible by foot or by bus via routes 103, 120, or 150.
Crandon Park Beach
Crandon Park Beac in Key Biscayne offers a serene escape from the bustling city life with its beautiful, expansive shoreline and lush surroundings. This beach is known for its gentle waves, making it perfect for families and those seeking a relaxing day by the water. Crandon Park features designated picnic areas, volleyball courts, and a nature center, providing ample activities for visitors of all ages. The park also has bike and kayak rentals, allowing for further exploration of the area’s natural beauty.
Address: 6747 Crandon Blvd, Key Biscayne, FL 33149
How to Reach: Accessible by car via the Rickenbacker Causeway, or by bus via route 102.
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park at the southern tip of Key Biscayne offers one of Miami’s most picturesque beach settings. The Cape Florida Lighthouse here provides stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy many activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. The park also features scenic bike trails, picnic pavilions, and nature trails where you can spot local wildlife. The Lighthouse Café and Boater’s Grill offer convenient dining options with spectacular views of the bay.
Address: 1200 Crandon Blvd, Key Biscayne, FL 33149
How to Reach: Accessible by car via the Rickenbacker Causeway, or by bus via route B.
And here is a practical guide every traveler on a budget would appreciate: Miami Beach on a Budget: A Backpacker’s Guide to Affordable Dining
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Top Water Sports Activities To Try
Flyboarding
Flyboarding in Miami provides an unparalleled adrenalin rush for water sports enthusiasts. While flyboarding, you can experience the sensation of flight above the sparkling waters of Biscayne Bay. Professional instructors guide you through the process, ensuring safety and maximizing fun. The activity is perfect for thrill-seekers looking to add a unique twist to their Miami visit.
Providers
Flyboard 305
Address: Dinner Key Marina, 3400 Pan American Dr, Miami, FL 33133
Cost: $109 per session
How to Reach: Accessible by car; public transit options include the Miami Metrorail and bus routes serving Coconut Grove.
Miami Watersports
Address: 3400 Pan American Dr, Miami, FL 33133
Cost: $109 per session
How to Reach: Same location as Flyboard 305; accessible via car and public transport.
Jet Skiing
Jet skiing in Miami is a fantastic way to explore the city’s scenic waterways, from Biscayne Bay to the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a perfect activity for those looking to combine speed and sightseeing. You can navigate around Miami’s coastline, see luxurious mansions, and enjoy the thrill of high-speed watercraft.
Providers
Miami Jetski
Address: Dinner Key Marina, 3400 Pan American Dr, Pier 9 Slip 24, Miami, FL 33133
Cost: $89.99 to $159.99 per hour
How to Reach: Accessible by car, with public transit options available.
SeaWolf Jet Ski Rentals
Address: 4500 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140
Cost: Starting at $130 per hour
How to Reach: Easily accessible by car and public transport.
Wahooa Watersports
Address: 2931 Sheridan Avenue #10, Miami Beach, FL 33140
Cost: Prices vary; typically around $100-$150 per hour
How to Reach: Accessible by car and public transport.
We have an exhaustive guide on Miami’s sea and sky sports activities here: Unlocking Miami’s Exclusive Experiences from Sea to Sky.
Also, when you feel hungry after exploring so much, check Apogee Indigo’s Guide to The Top South Beach Restaurants and Top Miami Downtown Restaurants.
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Top Places to Visit in Miami
Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science
The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science in Downtown Miami’s Maurice A. Ferré Park combines a planetarium, aquarium, and science museum. Spanning 250,000 square feet, the museum offers interactive exhibits across four buildings, including a three-level aquarium showcasing diverse marine life from South Florida’s ecosystems and a state-of-the-art planetarium featuring an 8K projection system. Highlights include the “Feathers to the Stars” exhibit, tracing the history of flight, and the hands-on “MeLaβ” exhibit focused on health and fitness. With its innovative programming and breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay, Frost Science is a must-visit for science enthusiasts and families.
Cost: $29.95 for adults, $20.95 for children (3-11)
Address: 1101 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132
How to Reach: Accessible via Metromover’s Museum Park station.
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
The 83-acre Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is a lush sanctuary dedicated to the conservation and appreciation of tropical plants. Established in 1938, the garden features a variety of themed sections, including a stunning butterfly conservatory, a tropical rainforest complete with a 500-foot waterfall, and a rare plant conservatory showcasing unique species such as palms, bromeliads, and orchids. The garden also hosts seasonal events like the International Mango Festival and offers educational programs through partnerships with local universities. Visitors can explore the grounds via narrated tram tours, enjoy the interactive exhibits, and participate in hands-on activities, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts of all ages.
Cost: $25 for adults, $12 for children (6-17)
Address: 10901 Old Cutler Rd, Coral Gables, FL 33156
How to Reach: Accessible by car or bus routes 136, 57, or 252.
Wynwood Walls
Wynwood Walls is a vivid outdoor museum in Miami, featuring over 80,000 square feet of dynamic street art created by more than 50 renowned urban artists from around the globe. Established in 2009 by the late Tony Goldman, it is a cultural hub and a prime example of urban revitalization. The Walls are continuously evolving, with new murals and installations appearing regularly, ensuring a new experience with each visit. The site also includes two street art galleries and a variety of shops offering unique merchandise. Visitors can take guided tours, including golf cart tours and food and art walking tours that cover the history and artistic interpretations.
Cost: $12 for adults, $5 for students, free for children under 12
Address: 2516 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33127
How to Reach: Accessible via bus routes 2, 6, or 10.
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Coconut Grove is a stunning tribute to Italian Renaissance architecture and landscape design. Built around 1916 by industrialist James Deering as a winter retreat, the estate features a lavish villa filled with European antiques and decorative arts from the 16th to 19th centuries. The mansion’s 34 rooms showcase exquisite furnishings and innovative early 20th-century technology. The 10 acres of formal gardens, inspired by European designs but infused with tropical elements, include fountains, sculptures, and a maze garden. The estate offers a serene view of Biscayne Bay, making it a popular venue for weddings and special events. Visitors can explore the meticulously restored grounds, enjoy guided tours, and participate in a variety of cultural programs and workshops.
Cost: $22 for adults, $10 for children (6-12)
Address: 3251 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33129
How to Reach: Accessible via Metrorail to Vizcaya station.
Little Havana Food & Cultural Tour
This guided walking tour in Miami’s Little Havana neighborhood immerses you in Cuban-American culture as you visit family-owned eateries, taste authentic Cuban delicacies, and explore the rich history and vibrant art scene. Highlights include sipping Cuban coffee at a traditional ventanita, sampling fresh-pressed guarapo juice, and enjoying Cuban classics like pastelitos de guayaba, empanadas, and churros. The tour also includes visits to a cigar factory, Domino Park, and local art galleries, providing a comprehensive look at the area’s unique heritage. Perfect for foodies and culture enthusiasts, this tour offers a delicious and insightful experience into the heart of Little Havana.
Cost: $59 per person
Address: Starts at Ball & Chain, 1513 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135
How to Reach: Accessible via bus routes 8, 207, or 208.
Cape Florida Lighthouse
The Cape Florida Lighthouse is the oldest standing structure in Miami-Dade County, with a history dating back to 1825. This iconic lighthouse has guided mariners for nearly two centuries and offers breathtaking panoramic views from its 109-step spiral staircase. Visitors can learn about the lighthouse’s storied past, including its role in the Seminole Wars and its use during the Civil War. The surrounding state park provides beautiful beaches, scenic walking and biking trails, and opportunities for fishing and picnicking. The lighthouse is a key part of the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom, recognizing its historical significance as a site where escaped slaves sought refuge. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply looking for a picturesque outing, the Cape Florida Lighthouse is a must-visit attraction in Miami.
Cost: $8 per vehicle (state park entry fee)
Address: 1200 Crandon Blvd, Key Biscayne, FL 33149
How to Reach: Accessible by car or bus route B.
Lincoln Road Mall
Lincoln Road Mall is a huge open-air pedestrian promenade in the heart of Miami Beach, stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to Biscayne Bay. Designed by iconic architect Morris Lapidus in the 1950s, it is renowned for its blend of retail, dining, and cultural experiences. The eight-block stretch features over 200 shops, cafes, galleries, and restaurants, attracting millions of visitors annually. Highlights include high-end retailers like Apple, H&M, and All Saints, as well as unique boutiques and local art galleries. The mall is also home to cultural institutions such as the New World Symphony and the Colony Theatre, offering a rich array of events and performances. With its charming outdoor cafes, weekly farmers’ markets, and seasonal festivals, Lincoln Road Mall provides an engaging and lively atmosphere for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Cost: Free entry, varies by shop
Address: Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach, FL 33139
How to Reach: Accessible via bus routes 103, 120, or 150.
