Miami is a city that lives in color. From the turquoise waters of Biscayne Bay to the pastel Art Deco buildings of South Beach, every corner of the Magic City feels alive with rhythm, flavor and sunshine. A blend of Latin culture, coastal energy and cosmopolitan style gives Miami its one-of-a-kind personality. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore its creative neighborhoods or dive into its rich history and cuisine, the best things to do in Miami offer something for everyone.
1. Stroll Through South Beach & Ocean Drive
Few places capture the essence of Miami like South Beach. The neighborhood’s world-famous Ocean Drive is lined with palm trees, neon lights and pastel-colored Art Deco buildings that date back to the 1930s. Take a walk along the sidewalk cafes, pop into boutique hotels or stretch out on the white sands of Lummus Park Beach. South Beach comes alive both day and night, offering sunbathing by day and a lively social scene after sunset.
2. Explore the Art Deco Historic District
Miami’s Art Deco District is one of the largest collections of Art Deco architecture in the world. Located in South Beach, this area features over 800 preserved buildings with curved corners, porthole windows and geometric facades. Start at the Art Deco Welcome Center on Ocean Drive to learn about the district’s history, then stroll down Collins Avenue and Washington Avenue to admire the pastel masterpieces. The vibrant design and tropical setting make this one of the top things to do in Miami for architecture lovers and photographers alike.
3. Discover Wynwood Walls & the Street Art Scene
What was once an industrial neighborhood has transformed into one of the most famous art districts in the world. Wynwood is a kaleidoscope of creativity, where massive murals by renowned artists cover warehouses and alleyways. Wynwood Walls serves as the district’s centerpiece, featuring ever-changing works that make every visit unique. Beyond the murals, explore nearby galleries, local breweries and trendy restaurants that reflect Miami’s dynamic artistic spirit. It's one of the most fun things to do in Miami for travelers who love culture and color.
4. Experience Little Havana
To experience the cultural heartbeat of Miami, head to Little Havana. Centered along Calle Ocho (8th Street), this lively neighborhood showcases the city’s Cuban heritage through food, music and community. Sip a cafecito at a local ventanita, watch skilled players at Domino Park and listen to live salsa bands drifting through the air. Try authentic Cuban sandwiches and pastelitos from neighborhood bakeries or visit a cigar shop to see the art of hand-rolling cigars up close. The warmth and energy of Little Havana make it one of the best things to do in Miami for an authentic local experience.
5. Cruise Biscayne Bay
Seeing Miami from the water offers a whole new perspective on the city. Board a sightseeing cruise through Biscayne Bay to glide past the Miami skyline, Star Island and Fisher Island. You’ll spot luxury waterfront mansions belonging to celebrities, as well as yachts anchored beneath swaying palms. Sunset cruises are especially popular, offering golden-hour views of downtown’s shimmering high-rises. It’s an experience that perfectly combines relaxation and scenery.
6. Take an Everglades Airboat Adventure
Just a short drive from the city lies one of the most unique ecosystems in the world: the Florida Everglades. A guided airboat ride through this vast wilderness lets you skim across sawgrass marshes while spotting alligators, herons and other native wildlife. Many tours also include educational stops where you can learn about the park’s delicate ecosystem and see rescued animals up close. Visiting the Everglades is one of the top things to do in Miami for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
7. Visit Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Step back in time at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, an Italian Renaissance–style villa that once served as the winter estate of industrialist James Deering. Set on Biscayne Bay, the mansion is filled with antique European furniture, art and ornate architecture. Outside, the manicured gardens feature fountains, sculptures and waterfront views that feel straight out of Europe. It’s one of Miami’s most elegant landmarks, and a favorite among photographers.
8. Relax in Coconut Grove & Coral Gables
Escape the city’s fast pace with a visit to Coconut Grove, Miami’s oldest neighborhood. Shaded by banyan trees, it offers a bohemian vibe with open-air cafes, boutiques and parks overlooking the marina. Nearby Coral Gables, known for its Mediterranean Revival architecture, offers upscale shopping and dining along Miracle Mile. Stop by the historic Biltmore Hotel or take a refreshing dip in the Venetian Pool, a coral rock swimming lagoon filled with spring water. These neighborhoods showcase a quieter, more refined side of Miami.
9. Visit Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)
Art lovers should not miss the Pérez Art Museum Miami, a contemporary art museum overlooking Biscayne Bay. The striking architecture and hanging gardens are as impressive as the exhibits inside, which feature international modern and contemporary works. After exploring the galleries, enjoy a drink on the museum’s terrace and take in panoramic views of the water and city skyline.
10. Enjoy the Beaches Beyond South Beach
While South Beach gets all the fame, Miami is home to several other beautiful beaches worth exploring. Crandon Park on Key Biscayne offers family-friendly shores, picnic areas and calm waters ideal for swimming. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, located at the southern tip of the island, is known for its historic lighthouse and peaceful walking trails. For something more local, head to North Beach for fewer crowds and stunning ocean views.
What Are the Top Things To Do in Miami?
The top things to do in Miami include exploring South Beach and its Art Deco architecture, discovering the street art of Wynwood Walls and experiencing Cuban culture in Little Havana. You can cruise Biscayne Bay, tour Vizcaya Museum and Gardens or take an airboat ride through the Everglades. For a slower pace, relax in Coconut Grove or spend time on Key Biscayne’s beaches. From culture and art to adventure and sunshine, there are endless fun things to do in Miami.
Discover Miami, Florida With a Shore Excursion
Miami captures the spirit of the tropics with its creative culture, sparkling coastline and multicultural flavor. Booking a Miami shore excursion makes it easy to experience the city’s highlights, from art-filled neighborhoods and gourmet dining to scenic cruises and outdoor adventures. However you explore, Miami promises a vibrant blend of beauty, energy and warmth that stays with you long after you leave.
