Miami has tons of things to do and it can be hard to know where to start! There are so many attractions, museums, restaurants, and events to choose from that it can leave you feeling overwhelmed instead of excited.
We’ve listed the 10 best things to do in Miami so you don’t have to waste time researching every option yourself!
1. Visit the Biltmore Hotel
The Biltmore Hotel is one of the most iconic buildings in Miami and has been featured in many movies and TV shows. It’s also a National Historic Landmark, so it’s worth a visit!
Plus, the hotel offers tours, so you can learn all about its fascinating history. Trust us, visiting the Biltmore Hotel is an experience you’ll never forget!
2. See a concert at Bayfront Park
Bayfront Park is one of the most popular concert venues in Miami, and for good reason. The park offers a stunning view of the city skyline, and the stage is set up so that everyone in the audience has a great view.
Plus, there are plenty of food and drink vendors on-site, so you can enjoy a meal or a snack while you watch the show. On Friday nights, there’s a weekly event called Concerts at Sunset where you can enjoy live music with your favorite summer cocktails.
The best part about Bayfront Park? It’s free! So if you’re looking for an activity that won’t cost any money, this is your spot.
3. Go fishing on Watson Island
Watson Island is a great place to go fishing, especially for those who are looking for a challenge. The island is home to many different kinds of fish, including bass, catfish, and snapper.
There are also plenty of places to cast your line, so you’re sure to find the perfect spot for yourself. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a manatee or dolphin!
4. Shop luxury brands at Bal Harbour Shops
Bal Harbour Shops is an open-air luxury shopping mall located in Bal Harbour, Florida. The mall features high-end retailers such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus, Gucci, and Tiffany & Co.
Bal Harbour Shops is the perfect place to find a special gift or treat yourself to a new piece of jewelry or clothing. It’s conveniently located just north of downtown Miami on US1. It’s also easy to get there by car via I-95 or by Metrorail from South Beach with transfers at Government Center Station (Southbound) and Broward Central Terminal (Northbound).
5. Stroll through South Beach
South Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Miami, and for good reason. The white sand and clear blue water make it a perfect place to relax, and the people-watching is unbeatable.
If you’re looking for a more active experience, there’s plenty of opportunity for that, too. Jet skiing, parasailing, and windsurfing are all popular activities in South Beach.
6. Ride the glass elevator at Fountainebleau
Fountainebleau is one of the most iconic buildings in Miami and riding the glass elevator up to the top is an experience you won’t soon forget.
From up there, you’ll have sweeping views of the city and the ocean. If it’s a nice day, stop by the pool on your way out for a quick dip before heading back down.
7. Take an airboat ride through the Everglades
One of the best things to do in Miami takes an airboat ride through the Everglades. This unique experience will give you a chance to see alligators, birds, and other wildlife up close.
The tour guides are also very knowledgeable about the area and can answer any questions you have. It’s worth it to try this one-of-a-kind activity while visiting Miami!
While several companies offer airboat rides around Miami, I would recommend Atlantic Safari Airboats because they’re known for their high-quality service. They’ve been offering tours for over 30 years and provide an excellent tour every time without fail.
In addition to gators, you may see different bird species as well as wild pigs during your trip. Depending on where your boat captain decides to go along the route, you could be kayaking or canoeing through waters with mangroves or paddling around grassy flats by a cypress swamp too.
8. Play with dolphins at Jungle Island
Jungle Island is home to some of the most playful and friendly dolphins you’ll ever meet! Swimming with them is an unforgettable experience, and you’ll get to learn all about these amazing creatures. Plus, there are plenty of other fun things to do at Jungle Island, so you can make a day of it. Take the little ones to see giraffes, elephants, lions, monkeys, and more.
Get your adrenaline pumping on one of their new rides like the Jungle Skipper or zip-line across the tree tops. Don’t forget about Boomerang Bay waterpark with its 17 waterslides, lazy river ride through a tropical rainforest where people come face-to-face with sharks, plus all sorts of thrilling attractions for kids and adults alike. You’re guaranteed to have an awesome time!
9. Swim with manatees at Seaquarium
Seaquarium is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Miami. And for good reason! The massive aquarium is home to all sorts of aquatic life, including manatees. You can even swim with them! Just be sure to follow the safety guidelines and you’ll have a blast.
If you don’t want to get wet, Seaquarium also offers a wide variety of dolphin shows that are both entertaining and educational. And if you’re not into animal encounters, head upstairs where there’s an outdoor amphitheater that hosts daily entertainment (think: bird shows!).
10. Watch boat races from Watson Island
One of the best things to do in Miami is watching the boat races from Watson Island. The island is located just off the coast of downtown Miami, and it’s the perfect place to watch the boats race by. There are also several restaurants and bars on the island, so you can enjoy a meal or a drink while you watch the races.
