Miami needs no introduction. The vibrant, ocean-side city is one renowned for its glamour, its warm breezes, and year-round sunshine and some of the most scenic views in all of Florida. The city is filled with history and a melting pot of cultures, bringing together the best of the Caribbean and Cuban cultures into its museums, restaurants, and music venues. The white sandy beaches and bays of the city cause a major stir for visitors. From trendy downtown Biscayne Bay to the stylish Ocean Drive, Miami offers the vacation dream for visitors to the city. From the art and culture to the food, drink, and nightlife, Miami has something for you on your next visit. Read on to find our guide on the best things to do in Downtown Miami, Florida to enjoy your time here to the fullest.
1. Go shopping at Bayside Marketplace
With more than 150 shops and 12 restaurants, Bayside Marketplace is an ideal shopping destination to spend your day in. With several shopping options that include national and international brands, this two-story, open-air shopping center is located in downtown Miami and is convenient to get to from most locations in the city. As an added bonus, visitors may want to consider using the water taxi service to get to other areas in the city or take a bay cruise to tour the famed Star Island and other parts of Biscayne Bay.
Bayside Marketplace
Address: 401 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, USA
Website: Bayside Marketplace
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 10am - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 10pm; Sun: 11am - 9pm
2. Get amazed at Philip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science
The ideal way to spend a day with the whole family, Miami’s acclaimed science museum has permanent exhibitions that explore biology and ecosystems, human interactions with technology, and several other interesting curations made for the curious-minded. The three-level aquarium and 250-seat planetarium itself are enough to keep children of all ages continuously engaged, but older children will definitely not want to miss a chance to delve into ‘Strange Matter’ and the 'Design Lab’, made for tasks requiring a more hands-on approach.
Philip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science
Address: 1101 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, USA
Website: Philip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science
Opening hours: 9:30am - 6pm (daily)
Price: From 29.95 USD
3. Explore the historic artifacts at HistoryMiami Museum
The HistoryMiami Museum has a long and established place in the downtown Miami area, having contributed significantly to research and education programs for the local community. Its exhibitions are a great learning experience for visitors, bringing to light images and stories from South Florida’s past. Exhibitions include diverse representations from Afro-Cuban folk art to representations of Football in Miami-Dade’s history. As a Smithsonian Affiliate institution, HistoryMiami Museum is a must-visit for all those passing through Miami.
HistoryMiami Museum
Address: 101 West Flagler Street, Miami, FL 33130
Website: HistoryMiami Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 10 USD
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4. Stroll along historic Virginia Key Beach Park
Located just north of Key Biscayne, off he Rickenbacker Causeway, is Virginia Key Beach Park, an ideal beach to spend the day lounging on the sand or activating yourself with the outdoor activities of the area. With large areas perfect for having a picnic and beachside cabana rentals, you can spend the day on one of Miami’s most scenic beaches, have the kids use the playground and an antique carousel, and swim in its warm waters.
Virginia Key Beach Park
Address: 4020 Virginia Beach Dr, Miami, FL 33149-1000
Website: Virginia Key Beach Park
Opening hours: 7am - 7:30pm (daily)
Price: Free entry
Miami Tour Guide
Alexander Gorn
I was born in Leningrad, now St. Petersburg, in the Soviet Union, and left for the USA when I was 23 years old, just out of college. Leningrad was and still is a city with great cultural traditions. I fell in love with its world-famous museums, art galleries, theaters, and other attractions. I have been guiding tours for most of my life and began while still in high school. During the summer, Leningrad was visited by numerous youth groups from the UK and USA and English-speaking students were recruited to show them around. That is how I got my first taste of being a tour guide. I continued guiding through college and often worked with young adults. After leaving the USSR, I settled in New York City, went to graduate school, and started my own travel company in 1985. We primarily worked with international visitors showing them famous places of interest all over the country, from coast to coast. Though I had other tour guides working at my company, I continued to guide because it was rewarding and enjoyable. I traveled extensively throughout the country and that's how I first became acquainted with South Florida. I instantly fell in love with this beautiful place and eventually moved to the Miami Beach area. I love South Florida and want my tourists to feel the same way. I am exhilarated by its nature and history and I promise to get you excited as well. See you in Miami!
Tours by Alexander
5. Tour the city with BigBus Miami
A classic way to see the city is BigBus Miami, the hop-on and hop-off bus service that allows you to choose between three sightseeing routes to see the whole of Miami City. From classic South Beach, to downtown Biscayne, to the colourful Wynwood Walls and vibrant Little Havana, there is no better way to familiarise yourself with this city than with BigBus Miami. Buses arrive at stops every 20 minutes by the key points of interest, allowing you flexibility and a completely customisable experience.
BigBus Miami
Website: BigBus Miami
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
Price: From 45 USD
6. Enjoy a cruise on Miami's waters
Operating one of the world’s most busy cruise ports, PortMiami offers a variety of cruise liners to choose from and a number of national and international destinations for those looking to spend some time on the water. For those who want to stay on land, explore the nearby area on the waterfront which offers history, shopping, art, or entertainment options across the downtown space. The sunsets over Miami’s waters are breathtaking, no matter what your vantage point might be.
Port of Miami
Address: Port Miami, Miami, FL 33132, USA
Website: Port of Miami
7. Have a drink at Bloom Skybar
Last night's good vibes!
Posted by Bloom Skybar on Saturday, 28 April 2018
Miami has outdoor rooftop bars dotted all over the city, offering everything from laid-back vibes to swanky gatherings. With no shortage of vibrant atmosphere, flowing alcohol and delicious food, find yourself a seat during sunset and you are unlikely to want to leave too quickly. Check out Bloom Skybar on your next visit to Miami which is set atop the Langford Hotel. Come for the spectacular sunset views during happy hour (Tuesday to Friday from 4pm - 7pm) and stay for a night to experience one of Miami’s most exciting and exclusive parties.
Bloom Skybar
Address: 121 SE 1st St, Miami, FL 33131, USA
Website: Bloom Skybar
Opening hours: Tue - Wed: 4pm - 12am; Thu: 4pm - 1am; Fri - Sat: 4pm - 3am (closed on Sun & Mon)
8. See the modern art exhibits at Pérez Art Museum
Wander around and browse through the works at Pérez Art Museum, a wonderful space that showcases modern art from a diverse community of national and international artists in Miami. The museum’s contemporary exhibitions highlight many current trends of the city and its surrounding community. The building itself is an architectural marker, designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architects Herzog and de Meuron. Do not miss a meal at Verde restaurant during your visit to take in its serene waterfront views and location, and have a great culinary experience, too.
Pérez Art Museum
Address: 1103 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, USA
Website: Pérez Art Museum
Opening hours: Fri - Tue: 10am - 6pm; Thu: 10am - 9pm (closed on Wed)
Price: 16 USD
9. Sunbathe at Hobie Island Beach Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
A beach that caters to everyone in the family, welcoming even the dogs of the household, is Hobie Island Beach Park. An ideal beach to visit for those of us looking to be away from the bustling beaches of South Beach and the sometimes overwhelming party atmosphere. Head here to Hobie Island Beach Park to spend a day on the beach, swimming, sunning, doing water sports or playing with your dog companion. There are vendors selling food, refreshing lemonades, and ice creams to keep you cool on your day in the sun.
Hobie Island Beach Park
Address: South side, Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami, FL 33149, United States
10. Get active at Virginia Key Outdoor Center
Rent kayaks, paddle boards, and bikes at the Virginia Key Outdoor Center for an active day spent by the beach. Make the most of Miami’s waterfront locations during your visit with the many activities there are on offer. Enjoy the white sands, blue sea, and lagoon waters and lush green nature trails that wind through the edges of the city when you embark on one of the many adventures with the centre. With so many activities to choose from, including fishing and sunset kayak sessions, the centre will guarantee you a fun-filled and exciting day. You could consider a guided experience to make the most of local knowledge. For the uber adventurous, go out on your own and experience the best of South Florida outdoors.
Virginia Key Outdoor Center
Address: 3801 Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami, FL 33149
Website: Virginia Key Outdoor Center
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 7pm; Sat - Sun: 8am - 7pm
Price: From 15 USD
11. Tour the magnificent Freedom Tower
Freedom Tower is a contemporary art museum and a location for arts programs for Miami Dade College. Having been designated a US National Historic Landmark in 2008, Freedom Tower is a symbol of South Florida’s immigrant community, with its iconic place in their American story. The tower once operated as a reception center for Cuban refugees between 1962 and 1974 and is affectionately known as the “Ellis Island of the South”. Its distinctive architecture and newly established art and design exhibitions ensures it’s a must-visit for all.
The Freedom Tower
Address: 600 Biscayne Blvd, Freedom Tower, Miami, FL 33132-1802
Website: The Freedom Tower
Opening hours: Sat - Sun: 1pm - 6pm; Wed: 1pm - 6pm; Thu: 1pm - 8pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
Price: 12 USD
12. Explore the sky with Miami Seaplane Skyline Tour
Tick off an item from your bucket list when you take a seaplane tour of Miami’s skyline. Getting an aerial view of a city would be an iconic experience. A seaplane journey allows you to hover over the famed landmarks of the city and take in the gorgeous coastline, all from the best seats in the house. Miami’s skyline features beautiful hotels, homes to many stars, and even the high-rise offices and condominium towers of downtown which look attractive from above. Make a reservation via the website or calling the company directly to book a place on the seaplane during your next visit to Miami.
Miami Seaplane Skyline Tour
Website: Miami Seaplane Skyline Tour
Price: From 160 USD
13. Catch a show at Flamingo Theater Bar
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Have a night out on the town in the buzzing Brickell neighborhood during your Miami visit, which is famed for its abundance of nightlife. Catering to everything from dive bars with pool tables, to the plush velvet sofas for the glamorous, Brickell has something for everyone. Flamingo Theater Bar is a great option for those who want to enjoy the best of local talent - from stand-up comedians, to theatre productions and Latin music acts, enjoy these varied performances in the heart of downtown amongst a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Flamingo Theater Bar
Address: 905 Brickell Bay Dr, Miami, FL 33131, USA
Website: Flamingo Theater Bar
Opening hours: Thu - Sun: 8:30pm - 3am (closed from Mon - Wed)
14. Jet ski on the waters of Biscayne Bay
Take on the lagoon waters of Biscayne Bay with a jet ski for your next day out on the water. Approximately 35 miles long (56 km) and up to 8 miles (12 km) wide, Biscayne Bay is a beautiful area to enjoy water activities and entertainment during your visit to Miami. Jet ski tours are also available in the area and can be up to three hours long to make your way around the Atlantic ocean coastline to see Miami’s famous islands and if you are lucky, to see the dolphins and manatees up close. Jet boats and flyboarding are also amongst the many activity options on Biscayne Bay.
Jet Ski Miami
Address: 401 Biscayne, Pier 5 Slip 31, Miami FL 33132
Website: Jet Ski Miami
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
Price: From 99 USD
15. Enjoy fun-filled shopping at Mary Brickell Village
The ultimate lifestyle destination for locals in Miami, Mary Brickell Village provides all necessary conveniences and luxuries in one destination. Enjoy people-watching whilst sipping an ice latte, or embrace the Miami lifestyle and partake in the boutique shopping and a bit of self-care whilst you visit. From blow dry bars and gyms to large supermarkets and a fantastic array of restaurants and cafes to choose from, you will find everything you need and many more that you want, all under one conveniently located space.
Mary Brickell Village
Address: 901 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33130, USA
Website: Mary Brickell Village
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 9pm; Sun: 12pm - 6pm
16. Visit the remarkable Miami Circle, a National Historic Landmark
The Miami Circle is an archaeological site discovered only in 1998, when a local entrepreneur was using the site for a high-rise. The site is a perfect circle of twenty-four holes arranged in the area very close to the Miami River and has been discovered to date back to prehistoric times. Also known as the Miami River Circle or Brickell Point, this archaeological feature was made a National Historic Landmark in 2009 and is a well-established part of South Florida’s early history.
Miami Circle National Historic Landmark
Address: 461 Brickell Ave, Miami, FL 33131
17. Try ceviche and cocktails at CVI.CHE 105
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Try some South American flavours at this award-winning Peruvian restaurant, CVI.CHE 105. With a mix of traditional and creative dishes, including spectacular ceviches, CVI.CHE 105 is a must-visit for all foodies, looking to explore their gastronomical palette. Wash down the choclo (jumbo Peruvian corn kernels) and cancha (Andean roasted corn nuts) with their delicious cocktail selection, offering you the best pisco sours in the city. A great space for a date night or dinner and drinks with large groups, the specialities served at CVI.CHE 105 will make for great impressions, no matter the occasion.
CVI.CHE 105
Address: 105 NE 3rd Ave, El 33131, Miami, FL 33132-2217
Website: CVI.CHE 105
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11:30am - 10pm; Fri: 11:30am - 11pm; Sat - Sun: 12pm - 11pm
18. See the spectacular Miami Tower
Even office buildings in the central business district are of wonder in Miami and architecture fans must check out the Miami Tower - 47 floors high and a recipient of numerous architectural awards. The three-tiered feature made from glass makes the tower recognisable on the Miami skyline, but you can visit the numerous retail and restaurant options available if you want a more personalised look at the building. The sky lobby on the 11th floor offerings sweeping views of this beach city.
The Miami Tower
Address: 100 SE 2nd St, Miami, FL 33131, United States
Website: The Miami Tower
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 7am - 7pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
19. Marvel at the architecture of Alfred I. duPont Building
The Alfred I. DuPont Building is another must-see building for architecture fans when visiting Miami. A symbol of Miami’s emergence from the 1930s’ Great Depression, it was completed in 1939 on the back of the city’s economic recovery and was named after the principal tenant of the building at the time - Florida National Bank’s owner, Alfred I. DuPont. No longer a banking site, the building hosts private events such as weddings. It is sur to be a treat for those who want to be served a drink from behind a 1930s hand-wrought bank teller window. The vast and detailed hand-painted celling, limestone walls, and beautiful Art Deco touches throughout the building highlight an era to be remembered.
Alfred I. duPont Building
Address: 169 East Flagler Street, Miami, Florida 33131
Website: Alfred I. duPont Building
20. Take a leisure walk through Miami Riverwalk
The walking track alongside Miami River begins at Bayfront Park and ends one block from the South West 2nd Street bridge. The path follows the twists and turns of the river and Biscayne Bay, an ideal way to explore the city and its highlights alongside it. If you are lucky, the annual Miami Riverwalk Festival might be on to partake in festivities and cultural activities. Take in the beautiful views of the Miami skyline as you cross bridges and make your way through this wonderful walkway.
Miami Riverwalk
Address: Bayfront Park, 301 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, United States
21. Enjoy jazz at Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts
The beautiful Art Deco building located on Biscayne Boulevard is Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, a must-visit for those interested in music and theatre during their time in the city. Built in 1929, the Arsht Center has been the site for ballets, symphonies, orchestras, musical series, and countless theatre productions. Be sure to check out their website to find the most up-to-date schedule of what will be on during your visit.
Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts
Address: 1300 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, USA
Website: Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts
Opening hours: Box Office: Mon - Fri: 10am - 6pm (closed on Sat & Sun_
22. Have fun at Jungle Island
Jungle Island is Miami’s adventure park, bringing in the city’s tropical island vibe as its theme for rides and atmosphere. Described as an ‘eco-adventure theme park’, Jungle Island features personal experiences with twin orangutans, over 300 species of birds and the wonderful parrots that have become an icon of the park. With all the amenities and facilities available on Watson Island, it is the perfect place to spend half your day with the family and children.
Jungle Island
Address: 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail Miami, Florida 33132
Website: Jungle Island
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 30 USD
23. Go dancing at Club Space
Miami comes to life after dark, and no where is that truer than within the walls of Club Space. Considered the best music venue for those looking for house/techno and an after-hours spot, Club Space is located in the heart of downtown Miami’s party district and will not disappoint club-goers with their fabulous music and atmosphere. Opens on a Friday evening and does not shut down until Sunday evening, Club Space is for all those heading to Miami for a night (or two) they wont forget.
Club Space
Address: 34 NE 11 ST, MIAMI, FL, 33132, USA
Website: Club Space
Opening hours: Fri: 10pm - 12am; Sat: 12am - 12am; Sun: 12am - 4pm (closed from Mon - Thu)
24. Watch a musical performance at Olympia Theater
A well-established cultural and performing arts venue to check out during a visit to Miami is Olympia Theater. With free, regular weekday shows, this venue aims to be inclusive in every way, even with a large education outreach for the local community. Catch regular film festivals, local theatre productions and cultural and community events almost every night at the Olympia Theater.
Olympia Theater
Address: 174 E. Flagler Street, Miami, FL 33131
Website: Olympia Theater
Opening hours: Box Office: Mon - Fri: 10am - 6pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
25. Visit the beautiful Fort Dallas Park
An unspoilt, undiscovered part of Miami is Fort Dallas Park tucked behind SE 4th Street, alongside the Miami Riverwalk. Originally a site of the American military presence named after US Navy Commodore Alexander James Dallas, the park is a hidden gem in the midst of a busy city. A welcome reprise from the high city buildings and fancy hotels, the park’s beautiful trees and vegetation, including ficus, oak, Royal Poinciana, and palm trees offers a calm and serene spot away from the bustle.
Fort Dallas Park
Address: 404 Northwest 3rd Street
26. Discover the exceptional Knight Plaza
The building connecting Pérez Art Museum Miami and Frost Museum of Science and situated on the waterfront of Biscayne Bay is the magnificent Knight Plaza. A community project that provides an oasis in the hot tropics, the plaza showcases sub-tropical plants in seamless designs that flow into one another, to form walls, lounges, and seating across the one acre of land. Take the time out from your visit to these museums to stop by here and marvel at this unique creation.
Knight Plaza
Address: 1103 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, United States
27. Relax at Bayfront Park
Bayfront Park is the ideal space to spend a weekend, taking in the beautiful landscaped gardens and surrounding waters and lush views. The location for many big festivals and outdoor musical performances, catch some time on the green when it is not being utilised by one of these mega-shows and you can enjoy a family-friendly day out in the park, eat at a number of surrounding restaurants, and catch a musical performance at the amphitheater on some evenings.
Bayfront Park
Address: 301 North Biscayne Boulevard Miami, Florida 33132
Website: Bayfront Park
28. Get entertained at American Airlines Arena
Home to basketball legends the Miami Heat, American Airlines Arena hosts several musical acts and performances alongside its basketball series. Celebrity performances are common, as are celebrity attendees to the shows, with big names stepping out regularly to one of the most plush venues in the city. Accessible by the Miami Metrorail as well as being located in the heart of Downtown Miami alongside Biscayne Bay, catch a number of performances or basketball games at American Airlines Arena.
American Airlines Arena
Address: 601 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, USA
Website: American Airlines Arena
Opening hours: Box office: Mon - Fri: 10am - 4pm
29. See the art displays at Meetinghouse Art Collective & Gallery
An unusual art space that aims to redefine the boundaries of art and a gallery space, Meetinghouse is interdisciplinary, bringing together historians, artists, architects, designers, and connecting them in a group exhibition. Located in the historic Huntington building, visit Meetinghouse for its array of exhibitions, lectures, screenings, and performances that highlight the work of local, national, and international artists in mixed media, all under one roof.
Meetinghouse Art Collective & Gallery
30. Bring your kids to the exciting Miami Children's Museum
Miami Children’s Museum is a great way to entertain children during a Miami holiday. Encouraging learning and interactions, the exhibits and galleries stimulate children and expose them to diverse media and materials. In an environment that promotes art and imagination, educational play is a productive and stimulating way for children to spend their time and be entertained on their next visit to the museum.
Miami Children's Museum
Address: Watson Island Park, 980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami, FL 33132, USA
Website: Miami Children’s Museum
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 20 USD
Energetic Miami
Miami’s energy is ever apparent, from the buzzing nightclubs, the music events and theatres in abundance, you will never fall short of ways to keep yourself entertained in this metropolis. Our recommendations do not leave out the family either, children will love the open green spaces, sandy beaches, and a chance to enjoy being outdoors throughout the year.
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