What to Do in Miami: The Ultimate Travel Guide
- Jay Curtis
- Apr 17
- 6 min read
Welcome to the Magic City! Miami is one of the most vibrant and diverse destinations in the United States, where culture, nature, art, and nightlife all come together in a sun-drenched package. Whether you’re in town for a few days or just stopping by before or after a cruise, here’s my ultimate guide on what to do in Miami.
Explore the Charming Streets of Coconut Grove
Start your adventure in Coconut Grove, Miami's oldest continuously inhabited neighborhood. With its tree-lined streets, lush parks, and bohemian spirit, it’s a laid-back escape from the city’s high-energy hubs. Walk through boutique shops, sip coffee at sidewalk cafes, and take in the historic architecture that gives this area its distinct charm.
During my visit, I stopped at Chug's Diner, a beloved local spot known for its Cuban comfort food and lively atmosphere — perfect for breakfast or a casual bite. I also made a delicious pit stop at the Mr. C Hotel, where crepes in the stylish lobby lounge felt like a little taste of Europe in the tropics. And of course, I couldn’t leave without grabbing a box of gourmet donuts from The Salty, a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Don’t miss a stroll through Peacock Park or a visit to the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens — a jaw-dropping estate that blends European extravagance with tropical flair.
Go Gator Spotting in the Everglades National Park
No trip to Miami is complete without venturing into the wild beauty of the Everglades. Just a short drive from the city, this vast subtropical wilderness is home to an incredible array of wildlife. Hop on an airboat tour and glide through the grassy marshes as you keep your eyes peeled for alligators, herons, and maybe even a manatee or two. It’s an unforgettable experience that offers a thrilling contrast to the buzz of city life.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t leave without trying a local delicacy — gator bites! These lightly fried pieces of alligator meat are often served with tangy dipping sauces and can be found at several eateries near the park. It's a unique way to literally get a taste of the Everglades.
Feel the Energy of South Beach
South Beach is where Miami’s iconic image comes to life — think art deco buildings, palm-lined streets, and endless white sand. Whether you're sunbathing on the beach, rollerblading along Ocean Drive, or grabbing a bite at a sidewalk cafe, the energy here is unmatched.
Don’t miss the chance to snap some photos with the Instagram-famous lifeguard huts, each painted in bold, colorful designs that reflect Miami’s vibrant culture. They’re scattered all along the beach and make for the perfect backdrop to your South Beach selfies.
And if you're into fitness, be sure to swing by Muscle Beach, an open-air gym right on the sand where locals and tourists alike get their pump on with a view. It’s equipped with free-to-use pull-up bars, ropes, weight benches, and even gymnastic rings. Whether you're joining in or just spectating, it's a fun and energetic spot that showcases the city’s outdoor lifestyle.
Discover the Buzz of Brickell
Once a quiet financial district, Brickell has transformed into one of Miami’s most exciting neighbourhoods. Here, towering glass buildings meet trendy rooftop bars, high-end restaurants, and luxury shopping at Brickell City Centre. By day, it’s a business hub; by night, it turns into a chic playground for locals and visitors.
Be sure to check out Sugar, the rooftop bar perched atop the EAST Miami hotel — it offers lush greenery, panoramic views, and one of the best sunset spots in the city. While you’re exploring the area, grab a sweet treat from Tosetta Italian Bakery, a hidden gem serving up authentic pastries, cannoli, and espresso.
For lunch, Zeru Miami is a must-visit, known for its Mediterranean-meets-Mexican fusion and stylish setting that’s perfect for a relaxed but refined meal. Don’t forget to take in the skyline views — especially magical at golden hour.
Get Inspired by Wynwood Walls
If you love street art, Wynwood is your paradise. This once-industrial district has become one of the world’s most celebrated creative hubs, thanks to the iconic Wynwood Walls — an ever-evolving outdoor gallery showcasing massive murals from top artists around the globe. Beyond the walls, you’ll find hipster coffee shops, craft breweries, and boutique stores. Every corner here is Insta-worthy.
Want to go beyond just viewing the art? Let your creative side go wild by signing up for a street art class, where you can learn the basics of graffiti and even spray-paint your own masterpiece on a designated wall. It’s a unique hands-on way to experience Wynwood’s artistic spirit.
While you’re in the area, don’t miss Mamas Margaritas — a popular food truck-style stop for casual street food and tropical drinks. And for lunch, grab some seriously good tacos at Coyo Taco, a local favourite with a cool vibe and bold flavours.
Bayside Marketplace & Millionaire’s Row Boat Tour
Located in the heart of downtown, Bayside Marketplace is a vibrant waterfront destination perfect for shopping, dining, and catching the breeze off Biscayne Bay. This open-air mall buzzes with energy and is also a launch point for some of Miami’s best sightseeing adventures.
One of the top things to do here is hop on a Millionaire’s Row boat tour, which cruises past luxurious celebrity homes on Star Island, Hibiscus Island, and Palm Island. You’ll also enjoy unbeatable views of the city skyline, PortMiami, and Fisher Island as you float by iconic mansions.
The marina at Bayside is fully equipped for comfort — with shaded upper decks, onboard refreshments, and air-conditioned cabins. Make sure to arrive early to grab a good seat and soak up the buzz of the waterfront promenade before your trip. Parking is convenient and nearby, making it an easy half-day adventure from anywhere in the city.
Cruising Through Miami
Miami isn’t just a destination — it’s one of the world’s biggest cruise hubs. Millions of travelers visit Miami each year via cruise ship, using the city as a gateway to the Caribbean and beyond. If you’re embarking on a cruise, plan to spend a day or two exploring everything the city has to offer before setting sail. From laid-back neighbourhoods like Coconut Grove to electric hotspots like Wynwood and South Beach, there's plenty to fall in love with.
In Fact, PortMiami recently welcomed an unprecedented 8,233,056 cruise passengers in a single year, setting a new record and on February 8, 2025, the port set another milestone by accommodating 10 cruise ships in a single day, including vessels from major cruise lines such as Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, MSC Cruises, and Virgin Voyages. This brought approximately 68,000 passengers through the port in just one day.
PortMiami serves as the departure point for numerous cruise operators, including:
Carnival Cruise Line
Royal Caribbean International
Norwegian Cruise Line
MSC Cruises
Virgin Voyages and more....
I also recommend a visit to South Pointe Park, a prime spot to watch cruise ships depart PortMiami. This scenic park offers panoramic views of the departing vessels as they pass by the pier. It's an ideal location to relax and witness the grandeur of ships like the latest MSC World America setting sail.
Stay in Style: The Breakwater Hotel & Ocean Drive Icons
Located right in the heart of the iconic Art Deco District on Ocean Drive, the Hotel Breakwater offers vintage Miami vibes with a modern twist. This historic boutique hotel places you steps away from the beach and right in the center of South Beach’s buzzing nightlife.
Film buffs might recognise the area from Scarface, with the Art Deco buildings playing a prominent backdrop in several scenes. A short stroll down Ocean Drive leads you to the Versace Mansion (Casa Casuarina), where you can indulge in an unforgettable dinner surrounded by opulence and history.
There’s always something to do along Ocean Drive — from sipping cocktails at rooftop bars to live music on the sidewalks, classic car parades, and beach volleyball at Lummus Park. The neon lights, pastel colours, and palm trees make every evening feel like a movie set.
Final Thoughts:
Miami is more than beaches and parties — it's a city of contrast and creativity, where every neighbourhood offers something unique. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning for more, this city has a way of surprising you. So grab your sunnies, hit the streets, and let the Magic City work its charm!
Watch the full Miami Vlog here:
Comments