Miami is a vibrant city that offers a wide range of things to do and experience. Whether you’re there for the pristine beaches, seaside golf courses, Cuban coffee, art or nightlife, there are plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy the city. In this blog post, I’ll share what I think are the 10 coolest things to do in Miami!
1. Explore Artistic Wynwood
Wynwood is a trendy neighborhood in Miami that has become a popular destination for art lovers, coffee enthusiasts, and foodies. It’s home to the Wynwood Walls, a collection of colorful murals painted by renowned street artists from around the world. This outdoor art museum is a must-see attraction in Miami and just $12 to visit. After checking out the murals, be sure to stop by one of the many coffee shops in the area, like Panther Coffee, for a delicious cup of coffee and some people watching.
2. Experience Cuban Culture in Little Havana
Miami is rich in Cuban culture and history. Due to its proximity to Cuba, Miami has served as a hotbed for Cuban immigration since the early 1960s. By traveling to Miami, you get to have a little taste of Cuban culture as well.
Little Havana is a great place to experience the local culture and enjoy some delicious Cuban food and of course Cuban coffee! Start your visit with a cortadito or café con leche at a local coffee shop, like Versailles or La Carreta, before exploring the neighborhood’s colorful streets and checking out the shops and galleries. Don’t miss out on trying some of the area’s famous street food, like a Cuban sandwich or empanadas, at one of the many food trucks or restaurants in the area.
3. Spot Colorful Lifeguard Towers at Miami Beach
No trip to Miami is complete without a visit to the beach. Miami Beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, with miles of white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Spend the day lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, and taking a dip in the ocean. 36 colorful lifeguard stations line the white sand beach. See how many you can spot while you’re there. For a more active beach experience, check out some of the water sports activities offered, like paddleboarding or kayaking.
4. Play a Round of Golf
Miami is home to some of the best golf courses in the country, with year-round warm weather and stunning views of the ocean. Golfing is easily one of the best things to do while you’re in Miami.
One of the most popular courses in Miami is the Crandon Golf Course on Key Biscayne, which was designed by Robert von Hagge and Bruce Devlin. It’s an 18-hole championship course that offers a challenging round of golf with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Since Alan and I are still beginners, we played at the Palm Beach par-3 course. It was a bit further from downtown Miami but so worth the 1.5-hour drive!
5. Explore the Everglades
The Everglades is a unique and beautiful ecosystem that is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including alligators, snakes, and birds. Take a guided tour of the Everglades to learn about the history and ecology of the area and see some of the wildlife up close. You can take an airboat tour, hike through the swamp, or even camp overnight in the wilderness.
6. Check out the Farmers Markets
Miami is home to a number of farmers markets that offer fresh produce, local goods, and artisanal products. The Coconut Grove Farmers Market is a popular destination for locals, with a wide variety of vendors selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts and jewelry. Other great markets to check out include the Pinecrest Farmers Market and the Upper Eastside Farmers Market.
7. Visit the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a beautiful historic estate in Miami that was built in the early 20th century. It’s home to a stunning collection of art and antiques from around the world, as well as breathtaking gardens that overlook Biscayne Bay. Take a guided tour of the estate to learn about the history of the property and explore the gardens and museum.
8. Go on a Food Tour
Miami is known for its diverse and delicious food scene, influenced by the city’s diverse cultural heritage. Taking a food tour is a great way to experience the city’s culinary offerings and learn about its history and culture at the same time. There are several food tour companies in Miami that offer guided tours to different neighborhoods, like Little Havana or Wynwood, and provide tastings at local eateries and markets. It’s a fun and tasty way to explore the city like a local.
9. Watch a Basketball Game at Kaseya Center
For basketball fans, catching a game at Kaseya Center is a must-do while in Miami. Experience the passion of the Miami Heat fans first hand — it won’t be like anything else you’ve experienced! If you’re a big sports person in general, watching a Miami Marlins baseball game is also a great option.
10. Enjoy the Nightlife
Miami is famous for its vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, clubs, and lounges to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for a craft cocktail at a speakeasy-style bar or dancing the night away at a high-energy nightclub, there’s something for everyone in Miami.
Check out some of the local hotspots like LIV, E11even, or The Broken Shaker for a night out on the town. For something more laidback, check out the rooftop at Dolores But You Can Call Me Lolita (they make a delicious frozen sangria) or get a coffee infused cocktail at the beautifully decorated restaurant/bar Sexy Fish.
Miami offers a wide range of activities and experiences for those who enjoy exploring like a local, savoring a good cup of coffee, and indulging in some outdoor activities. From exploring vibrant neighborhoods like Wynwood and Little Havana, hitting the beach, playing a round of golf, or experiencing the Everglades, there’s something for everyone in Miami. And after a long day of exploring, there’s no better way to unwind than by enjoying the city’s delicious cuisine and vibrant nightlife. Start planning your trip to Miami today and experience all that this beautiful city has to offer!
