Spend a day exploring South Beach and the Beach’s Art Deco Historic District. Relax on Miami’s soft, white sand and soak up the sun, or take a stroll along Ocean Drive and admire the pastel-colored architecture. You may also choose to rent a bike and pedal up and down the Miami Beach Boardwalk, a scenic oceanfront pathway.
Escape the city and enjoy a peaceful stroll through lush gardens and tropical landscapes at Miami Beach Botanical Garden and/or the 83-acre Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. Or head to Vizcaya. Once the estate of a millionaire, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a Great Gatsby-style historic home that’s over a hundred years old. Wander through the stunning gardens and tour the villa overlooking Biscayne Bay—don’t miss the glass-encased courtyard or the gift shop/cafe.
Wynwood Walls is quick and free to visit, and there’s plenty to do in the area including eating, shopping, drinking, and gallery hopping. Explore the famous outdoor street art museum showcasing vibrant murals by renowned artists. The best way to experience it is on foot.
If the weather is mild, take an airboat tour through the Everglades to spot alligators and other wildlife at Everglades National Park. Or take a trip to Key Biscayne, where you can relax on the beaches, go snorkeling, and visit the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse. Key Biscayne’s beaches tend to be less crowded than South Beach and there’s even a dog-friendly beach there.
Explore coral reefs, mangrove forests, and scenic islands by boat or kayak at Biscayne National Park or Oleta River State Park.
Spend a day at the museums downtown like Pérez Art Museum Miami and the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, near the Port of Miami. Some other wonderful museums in the city include the Haitian Heritage Museum, the HistoryMiami Museum, the Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami, and the Bass.
If shopping is one of the reasons for your trip, head to The Shops at Merrick Park, Lincoln Road, or Aventura Mall.
Trip Extras
Are you an IHG One Rewards member? Book tours, activities, and things to do in Miami and earn points toward future travels. Some fun ones include a private boat tour with a captain, a walking food tour of Little Havana, and a kayak or stand up paddleboard island and wildlife tour.
Take a Day Trip from Miami
Planning to visit Fort Lauderdale during your Miami trip? You can drive or take the Brightline from Miami to the “Venice of America” and experience all the beach town has to offer. Read our complete guide to Fort Lauderdale for insider tips on things to do, where to stay, top restaurants, and more!
