Miami's 14 Prime Viewing Spots to Explore
Flavorful Escapade in Miami:
Miami is renowned for its Latin American spirit, stunning beaches, and 24/7 vibrant energy. But this dynamic city offers much more than just the usual tropical vibes. Discover Miami's hidden gems and exhilarating activities, whether you're here for a brief visit or a longer stay.
1. Sip on a scrumptious cafecito at a cozy ventanita
Café con leche or colada, the Cuban coffee culture reigns supreme in Miami. Step up to a ventanita – a quaint café window – and enjoy your brew along with delightful pastries. Versailles, a local favorite, is worth a visit, but keep your eyes peeled for other ventanitas scattered throughout the city.
Local Smart Move:Familiarize yourself with various coffee drinks ahead of time to jumpstart your Miami explorations.
2. Bask in the warm sun at Miami's fabulous beaches
Take a dip in Miami's inviting waters at least once. Families love Crandon Park and Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, which offer picnic areas, bike rentals, and swimming. For those seeking more action and people-watching, South Beach has got you covered. Looking for something less crowded? Head to Mid-beach and continue through Bal Harbour. For the brave at heart, Haulover Beach – the city's only nude beach – might be right up your alley.
Local Savvy Advice:Visit Miami's beaches after dark for a quiet, starry retreat.
3. Set sail on a thrilling boat ride
Boating adventures abound in Miami, with options ranging from party-centric boat tours in Bayside Marketplace to luxury yacht trips showcasing millionaire mansions. Prefer a more laid-back experience? Venture out on private boat tours of Stiltsville and Biscayne National Park. Fancy a sailing adventure? Coconut Grove has small sailing experiences available.
Local Top Tip:Take the reins and rent a boat by the hour for a customized boating escapade.
4. Dive into the art-filled heart of Wynwood
Once a modest collection of art galleries, Wynwood has since bloomed into a bustling neighborhood full of high-rises, eateries, and even more art. Visit cultural institutions like Margulies Collection, Wynwood Walls, and Bakehouse Art Complex. Don't forget to take advantage of the vibrant street art and abundant photo ops.
Go For It!Join the crowds at Art Basel during the first week of December to witness new creations being painted, as well as a wealth of art on display.
5. Feast your eyes on Miami's other remarkable art museums
Art enthusiasts will never run out of things to admire in Miami, no matter their location. Visit MOCA NoMi, The Bass Museum of Art, or the Lowe and Frost museums at the University of Miami and Florida International University, respectively. For an impressive collection of Latin American art, don't miss the Pérez Art Museum.
Local Inside Scoop:Many museums offer free admission at least once a month. Check their websites for the latest information.
6. Embark on an Everglades adventure
Explore the Everglades, the nation's largest subtropical wilderness, and discover its diverse indigenous wildlife – from alligators and crocodiles to a myriad of bird species. Visit Everglades National Park's various entrances, with the closest entrance to greater Miami being via the Shark Valley Visitor Center. For a different experience, explore Everglades Safari Park, not affiliated with the national park.
Prepare Ahead:Pack plenty of bug spray and sunscreen for your Everglades adventure.
7. Cheer on Miami's beloved sports teams
Miami is a sports city at heart, and locals passionately support the Miami Heat, the city's three-time NBA champions. Catch games at the Kaseya Center. If baseball is more your thing, check out the Marlins' affordable games at LoanDepot Park in Little Havana. And football enthusiasts can cheer on the Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.
Local Hangout:When tickets aren't available, join the locals at Flanigan's to watch any and all games over a beer and wings.
8. Dance and saunter along Calle Ocho
Stroll along the renowned Calle Ocho, taking in the Cuban culture. Pop by Los Pinarenos Fruteria for a refreshing guarapo, enjoy lively discussions at Maximo Gomez Park, and take in more culture at the Cubaocho Museum. Don't forget to stop by Ball and Chain for drinks and dancing!
Tour It Up:New to the area? Book a guided tour to learn about the history and sample delicious treats along the way.
9. Be one with nature at Miami's botanical gardens
Miami's warm climate helps support numerous beautiful gardens that provide a refuge from urban life. Discover the Miami Beach Botanical Garden, or visit the Kampong, Fairchild Tropical Garden, and Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, each with unique features that celebrate tropical flora.
Free Fun:Enjoy the Miami Beach Botanical Garden – one of the city's best things to do for free.
10. Glide through Oleta River State Park
Oleta River State Park offers thrilling outdoor activities just 10 miles north of Miami Beach. Kayak, canoe, or paddleboard along the Oleta River as it winds through tangled mangroves and into Biscayne Bay. Mountain bike enthusiasts will love the park's trails, ranging from challenging paths for skilled cyclists to more accessible routes for beginners.
Detour:Head south of Miami Beach to Virginia Key Beach Park on Key Biscayne for more watersports and mountain biking adventures.
11. Embrace Coconut Grove's Old Florida charm
Discover the Old Florida allure of Coconut Grove, starting at The Barnacle Historic State Park, featuring a pioneering home built in 1891. Take a leisurely stroll along Main Highway to McFarlane Road, where you'll find Peacock Park and as far as Dinner Key Marina, where you can savor local seafood and live music at Regatta Grove.
Cultural Kaleidoscope:Celebrate the area's Bahamian heritage in Little Bahama, known for its art, food, and dedication to honoring black history. Admire the iconic Nassau Daddy Peacock statue and browse the Little Bahamas Foodie & Farmers Market held on Fridays and Sundays.
12. Refresh in the vast Venetian Pool
Built in 1923, the Venetian Pool in Coral Gables is a rare marvel, featuring waterfalls, grottoes, and a surface that refills daily with spring water from an aquifer. Visit this National Register of Historic Places-listed pool to escape the Miami heat, but keep in mind that admission fees and hours vary by season, and the pool closes annually from December to January.
Additional Coral Gables Attractions:Discover the beauty of the Biltmore Hotel Miami, a National Historic Landmark, and explore the community's history at the Merrick House and Coral Gables Museum.
13. Savor local produce in Homestead
Journey west from Miami and immerse yourself in Homestead's agricultural bounty. Visit the Fruit & Spice Park, a 37-acre park brimming with hundreds of fruit varieties, including tours and tastings at the Park Store. Spend a morning at Robert is Here Fruit Stand, sampling fresh fruits, milkshakes, or smoothies and delving into unique gifts.
Local Favorite:Indulge in tropical fruit flavors at Schnebly Redland's Winery & Brewery, featuring wine tastings, farm-to-table dining, and beautiful views.
14. Jet off to Key West
Extend your trip beyond Miami by taking a flight to Key West from Miami International Airport. After landing at Key West International, explore the city's unique "Floribbean" culture, enjoy key lime pie, and visit iconic landmarks like Mallory Square and the Hemingway House.
Dreamy Destination:Plan a day trip or overnight stay to beautiful Dry Tortugas National Park, accessible only by boat or seaplane. Marvel at its unspoiled beauty and explore the area's exceptional snorkeling and scuba diving sites.
- On a Friday, visit the Little Bahamas Foodie & Farmers Market in Coconut Grove, showcasing the area's Bahamian heritage and fresh produce, perfect for a taste of the local lifestyle.
- Explore Miami's pioneering history by renting a boat for a day trip to the iconic and architecturally stunning Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, nestled among Biscayne Bay's broader waters.
- Create your own Miami playlists by incorporating Latin American rhythms with a twist of modern pop, setting the tone for a culturally enriching travel experience as you tour the city's vibrant neighborhoods.
