Miami, Florida, is a city where sunny beaches, vibrant nightlife, rich history, and cultural diversity come together to create an unforgettable experience. From art deco landmarks to lush gardens, here’s part one of your guide to the top 20 attractions in Miami.
1. South Beach
Description: Known for its lively atmosphere, iconic Art Deco architecture, and pristine white sands, South Beach is Miami’s most famous neighborhood. It’s the ultimate destination for sunbathing, water sports, and nightlife.
History: South Beach, part of Miami Beach, rose to prominence in the 1920s and 1930s with its Art Deco buildings. It became a cultural hotspot in the 1980s, attracting artists, celebrities, and tourists.
Google Maps Link: South Beach
Ticket Prices: Free access to the beach; costs apply for water activities or parking.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.
Travel Options:
– By car: Ample parking lots and garages available.
– By public transport: Miami Beach Trolley or Metrobus routes.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Joe’s Stone Crab – Famous for its stone crab claws and key lime pie.
– The Bazaar by José Andrés – Offers creative tapas and seafood dishes.
Additional Tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds. Explore Ocean Drive for its nightlife and Art Deco landmarks.
2. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Description: A stunning Italian Renaissance-style villa surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens, Vizcaya Museum offers a glimpse into Miami’s glamorous past.
History: Built in 1916 as the winter estate of industrialist James Deering, Vizcaya showcases European art and architecture combined with tropical landscapes.
Google Maps Link: Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Official Website: Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: $25.
– Youth (6–12): $10.
– Children under 5: Free.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm. Closed on Tuesdays.
Travel Options:
– By car: Parking available on-site.
– By public transport: Metrorail Vizcaya Station.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Ariete – Known for its modern take on Cuban cuisine.
– Greenstreet Café – Offers casual American brunch and cocktails.
Additional Tips: Bring comfortable shoes for walking the gardens. Visit in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds.
3. Wynwood Walls
Description: An open-air museum featuring vibrant street art and murals by renowned international and local artists, Wynwood Walls is a hub of creativity and culture.
History: Established in 2009 by Tony Goldman, Wynwood Walls transformed a neglected warehouse district into one of the world’s premier street art destinations.
Google Maps Link: Wynwood Walls
Official Website: Wynwood Walls
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: $12.
– Children under 12: Free.
Opening Hours:
– Monday to Thursday: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm.
– Friday to Sunday: 11:00 am – 8:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By car: Street parking available nearby.
– By public transport: Metrobus routes to NW 2nd Avenue.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Kyu Miami – Known for Asian-inspired dishes like wood-fired Korean short ribs.
– Coyo Taco – Offers delicious tacos and margaritas.
Additional Tips: Visit during Art Basel Miami for special exhibitions. Wear comfortable clothes and bring a camera for vibrant photo ops.
4. Miami Seaquarium
Description: A marine park offering interactive exhibits, animal shows, and opportunities to learn about marine life, including dolphins, sea lions, and manatees.
History: Opened in 1955, the Miami Seaquarium is one of the oldest oceanariums in the United States and has been featured in movies and TV shows.
Google Maps Link: Miami Seaquarium
Official Website: Miami Seaquarium
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: $49.99.
– Children (3–9): $39.99.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By car: Parking available for $10.
– By public transport: Metrobus routes or rideshare options.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Rusty Pelican – Known for seafood and waterfront views.
– Novecento Key Biscayne – Offers Argentinian cuisine and cocktails.
Additional Tips: Book tickets online for discounts. Arrive early to secure spots for popular shows like the dolphin presentation.
5. Little Havana
Description: A vibrant neighborhood rich in Cuban culture, Little Havana is famous for its lively music, street art, authentic Cuban food, and the iconic Calle Ocho.
History: Little Havana became a refuge for Cuban immigrants in the 1960s, transforming it into a cultural hub celebrating Cuban heritage.
Google Maps Link: Little Havana
Ticket Prices: Free to explore; individual attractions like art galleries may have entry fees.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours; shop and restaurant hours vary.
Travel Options:
– By car: Street parking available.
– By public transport: Metrobus routes 8 and 11.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Versailles Restaurant – Famous for Cuban classics like ropa vieja and cafecito.
– Ball & Chain – Offers mojitos and live music in a historic venue.
Additional Tips: Visit during the Calle Ocho Festival in March for live music, parades, and food. Don’t miss Domino Park for a glimpse into local life.
Travel Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Visit South Beach and Little Havana during the morning or early evening for cooler weather. Wynwood Walls and Vizcaya Museum are best explored during weekdays to avoid crowds.
Transportation: Miami’s public transit is convenient, but renting a car or using rideshare services may be more flexible for visiting multiple attractions.
Local Cuisine to Try: Sample Cuban sandwiches, stone crab claws, and tropical cocktails at the recommended eateries.
6. Everglades National Park
Description: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Everglades National Park is a unique wetland ecosystem home to alligators, manatees, and various bird species. Visitors can explore via airboat tours, hiking trails, and kayaking routes.
History: Established in 1947 to protect the delicate ecosystem, the Everglades is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States.
Google Maps Link: Everglades National Park
Official Website: Everglades National Park
Ticket Prices:
– Vehicle: $30 (7-day pass).
– Pedestrians and cyclists: $15 per person.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours; visitor center hours vary.
Travel Options:
– By car: Accessible via the Homestead entrance.
– By tour: Various operators offer guided airboat tours.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Robert Is Here – A popular fruit stand offering fresh smoothies and key lime milkshakes.
– Everglades Gator Grill – Known for its alligator bites and burgers.
Additional Tips: Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and water. Visit during the dry season (November to March) for the best wildlife viewing.
7. Key Biscayne and Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
Description: A serene island paradise offering pristine beaches, hiking trails, and the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse, Key Biscayne is a great escape from Miami’s bustling city life.
History: Once a Native American settlement, Key Biscayne became a haven for European settlers in the 1800s. The Cape Florida Lighthouse, built in 1825, is the oldest standing structure in Miami-Dade County.
Google Maps Link: Key Biscayne and Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
Official Website: Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
Ticket Prices:
– Vehicle: $8.
– Pedestrians and cyclists: $2 per person.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 8:00 am – Sunset.
Travel Options:
– By car: Parking available on-site.
– By bike: Rent a bike and take the Rickenbacker Causeway.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Rusty Pelican – Offers upscale seafood with panoramic waterfront views.
– Boater’s Grill – Located within the park, serving fresh seafood and Cuban dishes.
Additional Tips: Climb the lighthouse for spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. Bring a picnic and enjoy the shaded pavilions.
8. Jungle Island
Description: A tropical-themed animal park and eco-adventure destination featuring interactive exhibits, rare animals, and activities like ziplining and rock climbing.
History: Opened in 1936 as Parrot Jungle, Jungle Island has evolved into a modern eco-park focused on education and conservation.
Google Maps Link: Jungle Island
Official Website: Jungle Island
Ticket Prices:
– General Admission: $49.95.
– Adventure activities: Additional fees apply.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By car: Parking available for $10.
– By public transport: Accessible via Metrobus routes.
Nearby Restaurants:
– The Lido Bayside Grill – Known for its Mediterranean-inspired menu.
– Monty’s Coconut Grove – Offers fresh seafood and tropical drinks.
Additional Tips: Book tickets online for discounts. Wear comfortable clothing and be ready for animal interactions.
9. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
Description: A lush botanical garden spanning 83 acres, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden showcases rare tropical plants, butterfly exhibits, and art installations.
History: Founded in 1938 by Dr. David Fairchild, the garden is dedicated to plant conservation and environmental education.
Google Maps Link: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
Official Website: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: $24.95.
– Children (6–17): $11.95.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By car: Parking available on-site.
– By public transport: Metrobus routes to the area.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Whisk Gourmet Food & Catering – Offers Southern-inspired comfort food.
– Glass & Vine – Known for its garden-to-table menu.
Additional Tips: Visit during the International Mango Festival or other seasonal events. Bring water and sunscreen for outdoor exploration.
10. Coral Gables and the Venetian Pool
Description: Coral Gables is a charming neighborhood known for its Mediterranean-style architecture, tree-lined streets, and upscale dining. The Venetian Pool is a historic public swimming pool carved from coral rock.
History: Established in the 1920s by George Merrick, Coral Gables was designed as a planned community. The Venetian Pool, built in 1924, remains a unique attraction with natural spring water.
Google Maps Link: Venetian Pool
Official Website: Venetian Pool
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: $21.
– Children (3–12): $16.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 10:00 am – 4:30 pm (Seasonal).
Travel Options:
– By car: Parking available nearby.
– By public transport: Accessible via Metrobus routes.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Ortanique on the Mile – Known for Caribbean-inspired cuisine.
– Bulla Gastrobar – Offers Spanish tapas and paella.
Additional Tips: Arrive early as the pool has a limited capacity. Explore Miracle Mile for shopping and dining options.
Travel Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Dry season (November to March) is ideal for outdoor attractions like the Everglades and Key Biscayne. Coral Gables is perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Transportation: Rent a car for day trips to the Everglades and Key Biscayne. Public transit is efficient for Jungle Island and Coral Gables.
Local Cuisine to Try: Sample fresh seafood, alligator bites, and tropical fruit smoothies at the recommended restaurants.
11. Design District
Description: Miami’s Design District is a chic neighborhood filled with high-end boutiques, art galleries, and trendy restaurants. It’s also home to unique public art installations and architecture.
History: Originally a furniture manufacturing hub, the area was transformed in the early 2000s into a luxurious shopping and cultural destination.
Google Maps Link: Design District
Official Website: Design District
Ticket Prices: Free to explore; costs vary by shop and attraction.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours; shop and restaurant hours vary.
Travel Options:
– By car: Parking garages are available.
– By public transport: Metrobus routes connect to the area.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Swan Miami – Known for its stylish atmosphere and globally inspired menu.
– Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink – Offers farm-to-table cuisine.
Additional Tips: Visit during the evening for a lively atmosphere with lit-up art installations. Don’t miss the Instagram-worthy Museum Garage.
12. Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)
Description: A contemporary art museum featuring thought-provoking exhibitions, interactive installations, and stunning views of Biscayne Bay.
History: Opened in 2013, PAMM is named after Jorge M. Pérez, a prominent Miami developer and art collector who donated $40 million to the museum.
Google Maps Link: Perez Art Museum Miami
Official Website: Perez Art Museum Miami
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: $16.
– Youth (7–18): $12.
– Children under 6: Free.
Opening Hours:
– Thursday to Monday: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm. Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Travel Options:
– By car: Parking available on-site for $15.
– By public transport: Take the Metromover to Museum Park Station.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Verde (inside PAMM) – Offers casual dining with bay views.
– Zuma Miami – Known for its upscale Japanese cuisine.
Additional Tips: Visit on the first Thursday or second Saturday of the month for free admission. Explore the outdoor sculpture garden.
13. Miami Children’s Museum
Description: A family-friendly destination with interactive exhibits designed to spark creativity and learning in children. Highlights include a mini supermarket, cruise ship exhibit, and music studio.
History: Founded in 1983, the museum moved to its current 56,000-square-foot facility on Watson Island in 2003.
Google Maps Link: Miami Children’s Museum
Official Website: Miami Children’s Museum
Ticket Prices:
– General Admission: $22.
– Children under 1: Free.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By car: Parking available for $5.
– By public transport: Accessible via Metrobus routes.
Nearby Restaurants:
– The Daily Creative Food Co. – Offers sandwiches and fresh salads.
– Icebox Cafe – Known for its kid-friendly meals and desserts.
Additional Tips: Plan to spend 2-3 hours exploring. Book tickets online for faster entry.
14. Bayfront Park
Description: A scenic waterfront park in downtown Miami offering green spaces, walking trails, an amphitheater, and iconic attractions like the Torch of Friendship and the Pepper Fountain.
History: Established in 1925, Bayfront Park has undergone several renovations and remains a popular spot for concerts, festivals, and relaxation.
Google Maps Link: Bayfront Park
Ticket Prices: Free to explore; event tickets vary.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.
Travel Options:
– By car: Parking lots are available nearby.
– By public transport: Metromover stops at Bayfront Park Station.
Nearby Restaurants:
– The Knife Miami – Offers Argentinian steaks and a salad bar.
– Bayside Marketplace – Features a variety of casual dining options like Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
Additional Tips: Visit during sunset for beautiful views of Biscayne Bay. Check the schedule for live performances or yoga classes.
15. Bayside Marketplace
Description: An open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment complex located along Miami’s waterfront. It’s a hub for boat tours, live music, and souvenir shopping.
History: Opened in 1987, Bayside Marketplace has been a top destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a mix of retail and cultural experiences.
Google Maps Link: Bayside Marketplace
Official Website: Bayside Marketplace
Ticket Prices: Free to explore; boat tours and shopping have separate costs.
Opening Hours:
– Monday to Thursday: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm.
– Friday and Saturday: 10:00 am – 11:00 pm.
– Sunday: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By car: Parking available on-site.
– By public transport: Metromover stops at College/Bayside Station.
Nearby Restaurants:
– The Mojito Bar & Grill – Offers refreshing cocktails and Cuban-inspired dishes.
– Hard Rock Café – Known for its classic American menu and waterfront views.
Additional Tips: Take a sightseeing cruise or rent a speedboat to explore Biscayne Bay. Visit in the evening for live music and entertainment.
Travel Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays are ideal for exploring museums like PAMM and the Children’s Museum. Bayside Marketplace and Bayfront Park are perfect for evening visits with scenic views.
Transportation: Miami’s Metromover and Metrobus are convenient for downtown attractions. Renting a bike or scooter is a fun way to explore Bayfront Park and the Design District.
Local Cuisine to Try: Indulge in Argentinian steaks, Cuban sandwiches, and refreshing mojitos at the recommended restaurants.
16. Freedom Tower
Description: Often referred to as the “Ellis Island of the South,” the Freedom Tower is a historic landmark symbolizing Cuban immigration and a beacon of hope for immigrants. It also houses the MDC Museum of Art and Design.
History: Built in 1925 as the headquarters of the *Miami News*, the Freedom Tower later served as a Cuban Assistance Center during the 1960s. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2008.
Google Maps Link: Freedom Tower
Official Website: Freedom Tower
Ticket Prices:
– General Admission: $12.
– Discounts for students and seniors.
Opening Hours:
– Wednesday to Sunday: 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Travel Options:
– By car: Parking available nearby.
– By public transport: Metromover stops at Freedom Tower Station.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Jaguar Sun – Known for its pasta dishes and craft cocktails.
– Verde – Offers casual dining with stunning bay views.
Additional Tips: Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby Perez Art Museum or Bayfront Park for a full downtown experience.
17. Holocaust Memorial Miami Beach
Description: A striking open-air memorial commemorating the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust. It features sculptures, a reflecting pool, and a meditation garden.
History: Designed by artist Kenneth Treister, the memorial opened in 1990 after years of planning and fundraising by the Miami Holocaust Memorial Committee.
Google Maps Link: Holocaust Memorial Miami Beach
Official Website: Holocaust Memorial Miami Beach
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 9:30 am – Sunset.
Travel Options:
– By car: Parking available nearby.
– By public transport: Accessible via Metrobus routes.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Yardbird Southern Table & Bar – Famous for its fried chicken and comfort food.
– Cleo South Beach – Offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
Additional Tips: Allocate at least an hour to explore the memorial. Visit in the morning for a quiet, reflective experience.
18. Crandon Park
Description: Located on Key Biscayne, Crandon Park is a scenic beach park offering soft sands, calm waters, nature trails, picnic areas, and a golf course.
History: Once a coconut plantation, the park was donated to Miami-Dade County in 1940 and has since become a beloved recreational area for locals and tourists.
Google Maps Link: Crandon Park
Official Website: Crandon Park
Ticket Prices:
– Beach entry: Free.
– Parking: $7 per vehicle.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 8:00 am – Sunset.
Travel Options:
– By car: Parking available on-site.
– By bike: Accessible via the Rickenbacker Causeway.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Boater’s Grill – Offers seafood and Cuban dishes with waterfront views.
– Rusty Pelican – Known for upscale seafood and city skyline views.
Additional Tips: Bring a picnic or use the park’s BBQ facilities. Visit early to secure a spot on the beach.
19. Matheson Hammock Park
Description: A tranquil park with a man-made atoll pool, lush greenery, and serene views of Biscayne Bay. It’s a perfect spot for picnics, paddleboarding, and nature photography.
History: Opened in the 1930s, the park was designed by landscape architect William Lyman Phillips and is a popular escape from Miami’s bustling urban areas.
Google Maps Link: Matheson Hammock Park
Official Website: Matheson Hammock Park
Ticket Prices:
– Park entry: Free.
– Parking: $5 per vehicle.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: Sunrise to Sunset.
Travel Options:
– By car: Parking available on-site.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Red Fish Grill – Located within the park, offering fresh seafood.
– Whisk Gourmet Food & Catering – Known for its Southern comfort food.
Additional Tips: Ideal for families with small children due to the shallow atoll pool. Bring a kayak or paddleboard to explore the waters.
20. Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science
Description: A state-of-the-art science museum featuring interactive exhibits, an aquarium, and a planetarium. Highlights include the “Feathers to the Stars” exhibit and a 500,000-gallon Gulf Stream aquarium.
History: Opened in 2017, the Frost Museum replaced the original science museum, which had been a Miami institution since 1960.
Google Maps Link: Frost Museum of Science
Official Website: Frost Museum of Science
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: $29.95.
– Youth (3–11): $21.95.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By car: Parking available on-site for $15.
– By public transport: Metromover stops at Museum Park Station.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Verde – Located nearby at the Perez Art Museum, offering casual dining.
– STK Miami – Known for its upscale steakhouse menu.
Additional Tips: Allocate 2-3 hours for your visit. Book tickets online for discounts and to avoid lines.
Travel Tips:
Best Time to Visit: Morning visits are ideal for parks like Matheson Hammock and Crandon. Museums like the Frost Museum and Freedom Tower are perfect for afternoon explorations.
Transportation: Rent a car for easier access to parks. Use Miami’s Metromover and Metrobus for downtown attractions like the Freedom Tower.
Local Cuisine to Try: Enjoy fresh seafood, Southern comfort food, and Cuban-inspired dishes at the nearby restaurants.
