The Top Things to See and Do in Miami
Miami is one of the greatest destinations to fly to during the winter and spring, which is the peak season. When visiting the Magic City, be sure to hit any of these exciting destinations for an unforgettable vacation.
1. Visit the Venetian Pool
Swimming Pool
2. See the Pérez Art Museum Miami
Museum
3. Go to a Wynwood Art Walk
Hiking Trail, Art Gallery
Your tour of Miami isn’t over until you’ve seen Wynwood, the arts district, and have attended an Art Walk, which take place every second Saturday of the month. Galleries open and offer viewings, free drinks and music, and the whole district is alive with a block party feel. Bars have DJs and local talent playing, with refreshing cocktails and food trucks serving up some tasty street food eats. You can view the street art, along with performances by drummers and dancers on every street corner.
4. Visit Calle Ocho (and Viernes Culturales!)
Art Gallery, Historical Landmark
Anyone who comes to Miami has to visit Little Havana, which is the epicenter of Cuban culture and politics in Miami. Men gather for café con leche and pastries and talk about their favorite memories from Havana. Families gather for delicious, authentic Cuban meals and Cuban ice cream. When it reopens, head to Ball and Chain, a lounge in Little Havana where people come to dance, drink, eat and listen to local bands. Viernes Culturales (Cultural Fridays), happen on the last Friday of every month. This must-see event is when the whole stretch of Calle Ocho comes together to celebrate Cuban culture, with live music, dancing, galleries that stay open to show off Cuban artists’ work, games of dominoes and people rolling and smoking Cuban cigars.
5. Enjoy the Miami skyline (and delicious food!) at Juvia
Restaurant, Bar, French, Japanese, Peruvian, American
If you’re looking for a place with an outstanding view and an even more impressive lunch menu, then Juvia is the place for you. Situated on the roof of a parking garage, it features the most breathtaking view of Miami (both during the day and at night when the stars are out, and the city is lit up). Food-wise, it offers guests delicious dishes like fresh ceviche, Chilean sea bass, king crab eggs Benedict and, of course, bottomless Bellinis. If you’re looking for a romantic spot for dinner, Juvia is equally impressive at night, complete with a full bar. Make sure to wear your best attire for this spot.
6. Get a great tan on South Beach
Natural Feature
At some point during your vacation, make sure to hit South Beach for a great tanning session. Bring along some friends or your family and a cooler of cold drinks. When you’re ready to drink, be sure to use plastic cups as Miami Beach is very strict about glass containers on the beach. Dip into the water and catch some (small) waves. Enjoy a game of beach volleyball or go rollerblading. You’ll be sure to walk away with a golden glow and the most beautiful beachy waves.
7. See the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Botanical Garden, Museum, Park
8. Visit Zoo Miami
Zoo
9. Take a stroll down Ocean Drive
Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark
10. Visit the Bayside Marketplace
Market, Shop, Shopping Mall
At some point, you’ll need to make your way over to Bayside for a boat ride, some salsa dancing and to buy some trinkets to take home with you. The Bayside Marketplace is home to little shops that sell all kinds of items, including jewelry, bikinis, home decor and clothing. Take a boat ride around the bay to get some fresh air and a lovely view of downtown Miami. Afterward, stay for a filling seafood lunch at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., or head to the Knife Parrilla for an unforgettable steak.
11. Swim on the pristine beaches at Crandon Park
Park
12. Hit a nightclub
Nightclub, American
13. Go shopping at Lincoln Road Mall
Shopping Mall
Shoppers and food lovers will want to check out Lincoln Road Mall, a smart cluster of stores, cafés, bars and restaurants in Miami Beach. Big brand outlets such as Lacoste and Nike can be found alongside independent shops specializing in clothing, shoes and beauty products. The hospitality offering is similarly diverse, ranging from espresso and ice cream to pizza and teriyaki. To enjoy a bargain cocktail or two, check out the various bars’ happy hours.
14. Chill out in David T. Kennedy Park
Park
15. Soak up the Cuban ambience in Domino Park
Park
Additional reporting by Mark Nayler
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