miami best areas to visit

Insider’s Guide to 15 Miami Neighborhoods Worth Visiting

From hole-in-the-wall taquerias to swanky nightclubs , Miami is one of those places that can be everything to everyone. With such a unique and diverse cultural landscape, it’s almost impossible to decide on the best Miami neighborhoods.

Whether you’re traveling with friends or family, going on a solo visit, or wondering where to live, there’s a place in Miami for you.

Here, we cover 15 of the best Miami neighborhoods. We break down where to stay , what to see and do, where to eat, and what vibe you can expect from each area.

Ready to start exploring? Here’s your guide to visiting the best neighborhoods in Miami.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you buy something through one of these links, we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Please read our full  disclosure policy   for more information.

Table of Contents

Cool Miami Neighborhoods to Stay and Visit

Miami is full of culture and influences from around the globe, and each neighborhood has a different vibe and attractions for different personalities.

1. South Beach and Miami Beach: The famous party district

As if its pristine beach access wasn’t enough, South Beach is renowned for its nightlife, luxury shopping, and globally recognized eateries. Consider this party neighborhood your go-to for a fun Spring Break, the best nightlife hangouts, or a weekend beach getaway with friends.

Situated on the barrier island known as Miami Beach, which is connected to the mainland through a series of causeways, this neighborhood is a must if you want to experience the A-list lifestyle, even if you’re visiting Miami just for a day .

Head to the famous Ocean Drive and Lummus Park Beach during the day for some sun and sand, then hit up all the hottest clubs.

Hotel Lennox Miami Beach and its art deco vibes are the perfect home-away-from-home during your South Beach stay.

👉 Things to do in South Beach:

• Speedboat Sightseeing Tour of Miami – Enjoy views of Miami’s scenic coastline on this speedboat cruise
• Art deco walking or biking tour – See Versace’s over-the-top mansion and other South Beach’s highlights on the Official Art Deco Walking Tour by The Miami Design Preservation League
• A Taste of South Beach Food Tour – If you’re a passionate foodie who wants to explore South Florida’s vibrant multicultural cuisine, this mini culinary experience is perfect for you.
• South Beach Nightclub experience – If you’re itching for a great party, then this all-inclusive party package with access to some of the best clubs is it.

2. Little Havana: Vibrant Cuban culture and food

A popular community for the Latin cultural experience in the heart of Miami’s Little Havana party-ready Calle Ocho. Cuban cuisine, art, and music fill every corner of this affordable tourist destination.

Start the day with a Miami-worthy food experience by stopping at a ventanita (coffee window), picking up a Café Cubano and pastelito. Then join the Little Havana Food and Walking Tour through Calle Ocho to truly immerse yourself in this eclectic neighborhood.

If Latin music is more your scene, check out some of the smaller venues in Little Havana, which is renowned for its Latin and Spanish-inspired nightclubs.

You’ll also want to visit Cubaocho Museum and Performing Arts Center, popular with travelers and locals alike for their famous live music and performances.

And just a short distance from Little Havana’s center is Life House , an impossibly stylish boutique hotel decked out in tropical greenery with a charming rooftop bar.

👉 Things to do in Little Havana, Miami:

• Little Havana Food, Cuban Culture & Street Art Tour
• CubaOcho Museum & Performing Art Center
• Maximo Gomez Park (Domino Park)
• Calle Ocho Walk of Fame (Paseo de las Estrellas)

For even more recommendations check out our Must-Visit Spots in Little Havana Miami, Calle Ocho for a True Cultural Experience

3. Coral Gables: Historic, artsy, and sophisticated

Arguably one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Miami, this Instagram-worthy community is dotted with canopied streets, historic architecture, lush parks, posh boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.

Being in Coral Gables feels like being a Parisian socialite in the 1920s. Live out your Great Gatsby fantasy by staying at the Biltmore Hotel , soak in the crystalline waters of the Venetian Pool, and stop by Chocolate Fashion on Andalusia Ave for some divine pastries.

Youthful and community-minded, Coral Gables is home to the Fairchild Botanical Garden, international retailers, and a free trolley system, which makes getting around easy.

👉 Things to do in Coral Gables :

• Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
• Matheson Hammock Park
• Venetian Pool
• Miracle Mile
• Giralda Plaza

4. Coconut Grove: Kid-friendly Miami neighborhood perfect for families

Hop on the trolley and explore one of the greenest and oldest neighborhoods in Miami. Tree-lined streets give rise to the shopping and restaurant areas. Originally a bit Bohemian, the area still maintains the quaint aura of culture and charm.

Being an excellent place to live and raise children, this bayfront neighborhood has many family-friendly attractions to explore.

The lush Kampong Botanical Garden , one of only five National Tropical Botanical Gardens is an absolute must-see. Note you’ll need to schedule an appointment to explore this tropical paradise.

You can’t go to Coconut Grove without having a spontaneous Argentine feast at Loretta & The Butcher. And if you looking for a place to stay, the Mayfair House Hotel & Garden is an excellent choice for affordability and quality service.

👉 Things to do in Coconut Grove, Miami :

• Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
• David T. Kennedy Park
• The Barnacle Historic State Park

Want more ideas? Here’s our Inside Scoop on What to Do in Coconut Grove , Miami

5. Downtown Miami: Popular tourist destination near PortMiami

This favored tourist spot in Miami is peppered with both modern attractions and historical landmarks, making it the perfect place for a pre-cruise visit with your family to experience the true Miami vibe.

For an upscale experience that won’t break the bank, head for the Kimpton EPIC Hotel .

From here, you can take a short walk to the bustling Bayside Marketplace, or for something posher, scope out the events at the Adrienne Arsht Center and the surrounding museums.

The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is a go-to, no matter how old you are. Garcia’s Seafood Grille & Fish on the Miami River is also a must-try.

Take refuge at the nearby Bayfront Park when the city gets a little overwhelming; this huge Miami park also hosts fun outdoor events and musical performances.

👉 Things to do in downtown, Miami :

• Bayfront Park
• Bayside Marketplace
• Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel
• Pérez Art Museum Miami
• HistoryMiami

Planning a trip to Miami? Start with out our complete downtown Miami guide.

6. Brickell: A home for young professionals

Fast becoming Miami’s hippest neighborhood, affluent millennials are coming to Brickell in droves, pulled in by the luxury shopping, trendy nightlife, world-class restaurants, and high-class developments.

👉 To start your stay in Brickell right:

• Book a room at the much raved about SLS Brickell .
• Spend the evening at one of the rooftop bars, or experience the neighborhood’s extremely diverse culinary scene: Dimitrios for Mediterranean, La Mar for South American, or LPM for French, to name a few.
• Explore Brickell City Centre and the Shops at Mary Brickell Village for all your upscale entertainment and shopping needs.

7. Wynwood: Miami’s Art District

Packed end to end with art galleries, hip breweries , eclectic shops, nightclubs, trendy restaurants , and Instagrammable murals, Wynwood is a haven for hipsters and art enthusiasts alike.

This youthful pocket is populated by converted warehouses and colorful murals and has a hip, yet welcoming vibe.

Despite the crowds, you don’t want to miss the famous Wynwood Walls and ever-evolving murals throughout the Wynwood Arts District. If you’re big on the arts culture, this neighborhood is an absolute must.

Book a room at the colorful Sentral Wynwood to soak up this art hub’s creative vibe. Then join a Wynwood food and art tour to experience the neighborhood’s most worthwhile hidden gems.

👉 Things to do in Wynwood, Miami :

• Wynwood Walls Tour
• Wynwood Street Art Tour
• Museum of Graffiti
• Wynwood Party Bike Bar Crawl

Plan ahead and map the best place to eat, shop and play with our extensive Wynwood First Time Visitor guide .

8. Miami Design District: A trendy hub of design and fashion

If upscale boutiques and galleries are more your speed, you’ll love the shopping, fine dining, and chic bars and museums this famous neighborhood has to offer.

The Miami Design District’s streets are lined with a wealth of luxury fashion houses to shop, from Versace to Marni. But if fine art is more your style, modern galleries like Markowicz Fine Art and Opera Gallery have what you need.

Be sure to try the grilled octopus and the manti dumplings over a romantic date night at Mandolin Aegean Bistro.

👉 Things to do in Miami’s Design District :

• Miami Design District Food & Art Tour
• Institute of Contemporary Art
• The Haitian Heritage Museum

9. Midtown: Eclectic Miami neighborhood for hipsters and yuppies alike

Encompassing Wynwood and bordered by the Design District, this trendy, up-and-coming area has a vibrant, artsy atmosphere complemented by luxury high-rises and excellent nightlife.

You can spot both locally-made crafts and premium contemporary art in this artistically diverse neighborhood; hit up Wynwood Shops for the former and Coral Contemporary Gallery for the latter.

Then, check out the assortment of food trucks at the ultra-hip Wynwood Marketplace. Don’t forget to book a room at Hyde Midtown for the perfect mix of quality and accessibility.

10. Little Haiti: Authentic Haitian cuisine and culture

This upcoming neighborhood is an underrated hub of Afro-Caribbean culture. The creative community and cultural attractions make this a must-visit for adventurous travelers seeking hidden gems.

Head to Little Haiti Cultural Center and soak up the Caribbean nation’s art and history. Their Libreri Mapou Bookstore houses a rich library of Haitian literature. Sweat Records, a few minutes’ walk away, is another must-visit – especially for music lovers.

Piman Bouk is our go-to for authentic Haitian food – be warned, they don’t go easy on the spices, just the way locals like it!

👉 Things to do in Little Haiti :

• La Perle De Miami: Little Haiti Tour
• Libreri Mapou Bookstore
• Sweat Records
• Earth-n-Us Farm

11. Upper Eastside: Eclectic neighborhood known for its striking art deco architecture

While mostly a residential neighborhood, the Upper Eastside also features a historical district, home to many vintage motels, along with shops and restaurants. It’s popular for its striking art deco architecture, as well as a burgeoning restaurant scene.

This hip residential Miami neighborhood has a youthful atmosphere perfect for soaking in the cultural scene.

Hit up Morningside Park for water sports and the Saturday farmers market or the MiMo Garden Center – or both! Cap off the night with a drink and live music at Miami Ironside for its art scene and trendy restaurants.

👉 Things to do in Upper Eastside, Miami :

• Morningside Park
• Legion Park
• MiMo Garden Center
• Upper East Side Farmers’ Market

12. Bal Harbour: Access to luxury stores, pristine hotels, and high-end eateries

Bal Harbour is a small village located on the northern tip of Miami Beach. This beachside enclave is a high-end tourist destination, boasting upscale resorts and hotels such as The Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour , as well as designer boutique shops. All with a beach view to soak in along the way.

👉 Things to do in Bal Harbour, Florida :

• Bal Harbour Shops
• Bal Harbour beach

13. Sunny Isles Beach: A chill and relaxed place to live

This highly walkable stretch of beaches and parks is a quiet haven north of Miami Beach. It’s an urban suburb that’s both a good place to live and a fantastic spot for laid-back family vacations.

If fishing is what you want, this is the place to find it. You don’t even need to charter a boat, although they are certainly available. Just drop a line in the ocean from the Newport Fishing Pier.

You’ll want to stay at the Residence Inn to be close to all the great hangouts while feeling like a Sunny Isles native. The main street is Collins Avenue, and that’s where you will find the best restaurants and shopping.

👉 Things to do in Sunny Isles Beach, Florida :

• Newport Pier
• Sunny Isles Beach
• Oleta River State Park

14. Homestead: Perfect day trip from Miami with affordable and free attractions

Homestead has a wholesome, small-town vibe with agricultural roots and nature-focused attractions including Shark Valley in the Florida Everglades – perfect for a day trip with the kids.

Spend the morning at Knaus Berry Farm for their fresh-baked pastries (the cinnamon buns are a must) and freshly picked strawberry treats. Or, if you can’t stand long lines, try a tropical fruit smoothie at Robert is Here.

Also, stop by Coral Castle, an amazing sculpture garden built entirely out of stone. There’s a bit of mystery behind its construction, and the awe-inspiring work will leave you amazed.

👉 Things to do in Homestead, Miami :

• Everglades Airboat Tour
• Biscayne National Park
• Coral Castle
• Fruit & Spice Park

15. Key Biscayne: peaceful beaches and quiet community

It doesn’t get any more laid-back than this Miami suburb. Key Biscayne is filled with acres of greenery and picturesque beaches is as much an idyllic place to live as it is a wonderful vacation spot.

This pocket of suburbia across the Rickenbacker Causeway takes full advantage of its warm coastal location.

Crandon Park is an excellent beach and park hybrid that’s perfect for some high-quality R&R. Pack a picnic or try any of the restaurants located along Crandon Blvd. – we recommend Milanezza Kitchen-Bar-Market.

The luxe Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne is the ideal place to keep you as close as possible to Key Biscayne’s beaches and nature trails.

👉 Things to do in Key Biscayne, Florida :

• Crandon Park
• Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center
• Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park Beach

Miami’s fabulous neighborhoods

That’s our round-up of the best Miami neighborhoods: For the hardcore party animals, South Beach, Miami Beach, and Little Havana are waiting for you. Arts and culture lovers should head to Wynwood, Coral Gables, and Little Haiti.

Those looking for luxury will feel right at home in Brickell, the Miami Design District, and Key Biscayne. Meanwhile, families can have the most fun at Coconut Grove, Downtown Miami, and Homestead.

And those looking for a place to settle down can choose between Brickell, Sunny Isles Beach, and Key Biscayne. Florida’s Magic City has a neighborhood to fit every kind of traveler. So which one is yours?

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE:

Miami Packing List: What to Bring on a Beach Vacation

From Budget to Luxe, An Insider’s Guide to the Best Hotels in Miami at Every Price Point

10 Fascinating Miami Tours for Sightseeing: Exploring Miami’s Cultural Highlights

Family Activities South Florida: Top 45 Things to Do in Miami with Kids

When is the Best Time to Visit Miami? How to Choose the Perfect Season

Miami FAQs: What to Know Before You Go

Like this post? Pin and save it for later!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More

North America Chevron

United States Chevron

Florida Chevron

Miami Chevron

The 26 Best Things to Do in Miami

By Terry Ward and Sara Liss

First things first: You came to Miami for some sun, sand and surf, and you’re going to get it—with a side of next-level people-watching, too, of course. And if that's all you want (along with a cold glass of your preferred fruity cocktail or a classic mojito), that's fine, but Miami's beaches and rum drinks are barely the beginning of what the Magic City has to offer. From the highest of high-end designer shops and cutting-edge galleries to all types of walking tours, salsa dancing, unique neighborhoods, museums, and even animal reserves to captivate any kids in your group, this city is the full, sunny package. Here, our picks for the best things to do in Miami.

Read our complete Miami travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science Arrow

The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is a temple to learning in Downtown Miami’s Bayfront Park that's as vast as it is comprehensive. With an aquarium, a planetarium, and two science galleries, this distinguished destination is always busy, but it's big enough to accommodate even the largest rainy-day crowds. Though the exhibitions are just as interesting to adults as they are to kids, the Frost Museum is definitely a family-friendly place. Don’t miss a trip up the elevator to the sixth floor’s rooftop terrace for sprawling views of downtown Miami.

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden Arrow

Spanning nearly 84 acres, the Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden is filled with tropical plants, flowers, and trees, including extremely rare species like the petticoat palm. Every square inch of the facility has been thoughtfully designed and constructed, making it easy to navigate. The best way to see a little of everything, though, is by hopping aboard one of the 30-minute tram tours, which run year-round, twice an hour. Don't miss the Wings of the Tropics exhibition, where 40 species of butterflies engage in a colorful display of acrobatics all around you.

Wynwood Walls Arrow

Known as Miami's most Instagrammed place, this outdoor "gallery" of artwork by graffiti artists and muralists that spreads across warehouses and shop exteriors is a nice foil to Miami's museums . And it can be a quick stop. It'll only take about twenty minutes to hit all the art at Wynwood Walls, including murals by Shepard Fairey (the artist who designed Obama's "Hope" poster). It's a relatively small outdoor space so it's easy to navigate, and there are plenty of benches or rocks to sit on and take it all in. The Walls recently instituted a ticket policy whereby Adult admission is $12, students are $5 and children under 12 are free.

Miami Design Preservation League: Art Deco Walking Tour Arrow

Located on the beach on Ocean Drive, right in the heart of South Beach’s Art Deco District, the Art Deco Museum and Welcome Center is where architecture enthusiasts can pop in and learn more about the iconic, colorful buildings that give this neighborhood its personality. While just looking up and admiring the glamorous geometric details and chrome accents is enough for some people, the Miami Design Preservation League—a nonprofit advocacy group that fights to maintain the city’s architectural character—offers daily walking tours of the neighborhood at 10:30 a.m.

Lauren Burvill

Kaitlin Menza

Charlie Hobbs

Known as one of the most culturally diverse neighborhoods in a city brimming with them, the barrio called Allapattah, just west of Wynwood, keeps adding artsy attractions to its ever-growing lineup of thrift shops, hipster bars and Latin restaurants (including Dominican and Honduran eateries and a fab Mexican taqueria). The famed Rubell Museum —six former industrial buildings that hold a collection of world-class contemporary works by the likes of Keith Haring, Jeff Koons, Cindy Sherman and many celebrated newcomers, too—is Allapattah’s heaviest cultural hitter. And right across from the Rubell Museum, a new (Spring 2021) walk-through art experience called Superblue immerses visitors in exhibitions through music and visuals in a way you’ll have to force yourself not to Instagram or Tik-Tok at every turn.

Española Way Arrow

With its twinkling string lights, Mediterranean revival architecture and lively sidewalk cafes this palm tree-lined pedestrian-only street is a charming throwback to Miami’s historic neighborhoods of the 20s. Built in1925, the two-block corridor between Washington and Pennsylvania Avenues was designed to resemble the romantic Mediterranean villages of Spain and France. Here, buildings are made of chalky pink stucco with Spanish tile roofs where sidewalk cafes are shaded by striped awnings. Strolling along the promenade you’ll hear everything from salsa, samba, jazz and techno rhythms wafting from a variety of restaurants—some of which are excellent, and others which cater to a less-discerning crowd—but all are usually packed on weekends and most weeknights. The street hosts weekly programming from flamenco and salsa dancing to yoga and an open air local makers market. A few charming boutique hotels blend in with the lively atmosphere here, offering a unique jumping-off point for visiting and exploring South Beach.

Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA), Miami Arrow

Called ICA Miami for short, this is another pillar of the Miami art scene, located in the Miami Design District. The building has a bold and eye-catching metallic facade and was designed by Spanish architect firm Aranguren + Gallegos Arquitectos. Permanent and temporary exhibits with a focus on emerging and local artists; for Miami, this means many Cuban-born and Latin American artists. You don't need hours at this museum, like is the case at others in town, so for people who just want to dabble in Miami's arty side during a vacation, it makes a perfect stop. Interiors are as modern as exterior with brightly lit open spaces. The permanent collections has works by Pablo Picasso, Yves Klein, and Roy Lichtenstein, among others.

South Beach Arrow

South Beach, the quintessential Miami experience, is a public beach that's free and open to everyone. It's also easily accessible by foot, though the most scenic part is the southernmost section, via Lummus Park , which runs along Ocean Drive from 5th to 15th streets. Because it's been used as a backdrop for just about every movie and TV show set in Miami, you'll feel that everything on South Beach looks familiar, including the kiosks where you can rent lounge chairs and umbrellas. Even if you’re not big on sitting in the sun, it’s worth taking a stroll up or down the beach to see what all the fuss is about. If you wait until the late afternoon (around 4 p.m.) the crowds will have thinned out a bit.

Faena Theater Arrow

An opulent cabaret-style theater inspired by Europe's grand opera houses that harkens to a bygone area, Faena manages to feel totally decadent, sumptuous, and Miami. The theater's original live production is a cabaret-style spectacle called Tryst—a Lovers' Rendezvous that is perfect for the red velvet surrounds and has elements of the circus (more like cirque) and burlesque. Big names have performed intimate shows here, too, including Bon Jovi, Macy Gray, Miike Snow, Grace Potter, Andra Day and many others. There are only 150 seats in the audience, and there's also regular jazz programming.

Therapy-IV Deep Sea Fishing Arrow

Sure, the water in Miami is pretty to gaze at from your lounge chair . But give yourself a real experience and hop aboard Captain Stan Saffan's 58-foot sportfish boat, with his crew for a day (or half-day) of deep-sea fishing. It’s not just any old tourist who decides that spending a day at sea fishing for marlin, sailfish, or hammerhead sharks qualifies as a good time. So if you’re paired with a couple of strangers, it’s safe to assume you’ll have at least a love of the ocean in common.

Miami Design District Arrow

With dozens of shops, boutiques, showrooms, galleries and restaurants, you’d be hard-pressed to not find whatever you're looking for in the Miami Design District —provided you're looking for something delicious or with a designer tag, that is. In addition to a wide range of popular clothing boutiques, there’s an impressive lineup of handbags and accessories (Louis Vuitton, Hermès); jewelry and watches (Rolex, Tiffany & Co.); and home furnishings (Jonathan Adler, Versace Home). L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon and vegetable-driven restaurant Le Jardinier are among the district’s most sought after tables. And the chef-driven Mia Market food hall is a more casual must-stop. If you can dream it, you can find it. And even if you’re just browsing, the window-shopping and people-watching are pretty great, too.

Cape Florida Lighthouse Arrow

Though it sits on a tranquil sweep of sandy beach within Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park on Key Biscayne, this pristinely restored lighthouse gives a glimpse into a tumultuous side of South Florida's history. The regal lighthouse, now defunct, tells stories of nautical adventures, Caribbean slave smuggling, and attacks by Native American Seminole tribes. A knowledgeable park ranger conducts half-hour tours several days a week during which you’ll learn about the monument's history as the oldest structure in Dade County (it was built in 1825, twenty years before Florida became a state). When visiting make sure to wear comfortable shoes , as climbing the 109 steps to the top is a mini-workout.

Pérez Art Museum Miami Arrow

Though the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) is focused on 20th- and 21st-century international art, and a large permanent collection of works (over 3,000 spread across 8 galleries) by such acclaimed artist as Jenny Holzer and Sam Gilliam. The museums spans 120,000 square feet inside but is best known for its facade, with hanging gardens among its most iconic features. Current exhibitions explore things like post-colonial condition and Africa and African-diaspora art; the museum is in a constant conversation with the current topics consuming society, as well as overlooked and worthy subjects. Timed tickets must be reserved online in advance of visits, so the museum doesn't feel crowded. Elevators and ramps for people with mobility issues. Don't miss a swing in the sculpture garden on the hammock-like net swings overlooking Biscayne Bay.

Upper Buena Vista Arrow

 A 120-year-old majestic oak tree serves as the focal point of this funky shopping destination just north of the Design District . The Bodhi "wish tree," as it’s called, is based on a Buddhist tradition of designating a tree to be used as the object of wishes and offerings. In addition to the tree, you’ll find gardens and walkways that connect the businesses and micro-boutiques that make up the neighborhood. It's free to visit, and offers a peaceful respite from Miami's sometimes frenetic urban core. 

Jewish Museum of Florida - FIU: The South Beach Jewish Walking Tour Arrow

Sponsored by Florida International University and run through the Jewish Museum of Florida, this look at the history of the Jewish people and Jewish culture in Miami begins at the museum itself, a historic former synagogue. Small groups first watch a short video presentation and then get a look at some of the main artifacts (if you're interested in the museum itself, you can return later). Then begins a two-hour walk around a 10-block radius, with stops at various significant buildings such as the Lord Balfour Hotel. The tour is a great palate cleanser for the decadence and glitz of Miami Beach. It’s a humbling, grounding experience in the best way, and gives some much-needed cultural context to this part of the city. 

Lincoln Road Mall Arrow

Running almost the entire width of South Beach , Lincoln Road Mall is a mile-long pedestrian mall and one of Miami’s favorite spots for outdoor activities—besides the beach, which is just a few blocks away. Designed by Morris Lapidus, the architect behind The Fontainebleau hotel, the strip maintains a fun, Miami Modern (MiMo) style of the past, but with more than 100 fashionable shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes. Retail options range from mall mainstays like the Gap and American Eagle to high-end names like All Saints and John Varvatos. But the mall doesn't close down when the shops do. The restaurants and bars keep Lincoln Road buzzing into the wee hours.

Ancient Spanish Monastery Arrow

Originally known as The Monastery of Our Lady, Queen of the Angels, this ancient monastery, a true architectural wonder, started life in the year 1133—in northern Spain. It was eventually purchased by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, who had each structure dismantled, stone-by-stone, packed into more than 11,000 crates, and shipped to New York. After sitting in a warehouse in Brooklyn for more than a quarter-century, the crates were purchased by new owners who understood the stones’ potential value as a tourist attraction. They spent nearly two years relocating and rebuilding the structure in North Miami.

Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts Arrow

Designed by architect Cesar Pelli in 2006, Miami’s iconic performing arts center was built on the site of a former Sears department store, of which a seven-story Art Deco tower is preserved, now home to a small cafe and book store. Composed of two imposing buildings that take inspiration from beige-colored shells, the 2,400-seat Ziff Ballet Opera House and 2,200-seat Knight Concert Hall are connected by Thomson Plaza for the Arts, an outdoor public gathering space. The complex also includes the Carnival Studio Theater, an intimate venue for experimental productions. The buildings are united by a grand oval-shaped public plaza that stretches across Biscayne Boulevard. A popular gathering space with outdoor performances and events, the plaza is an inviting oasis with lush garden terraces, fountains, shade trees, and greenery.

Venetian Pool Arrow

Pictures don't do the Venetian Pool—one of the most beautiful public pools in the world—justice, but trust us: it's worth the trip to Coral Gables just to experience the complex in person. Be warned that the pool gets very crowded on hot days, particularly when kids are out of school (although no one under three is allowed), so your best bet is to call ahead to see if there's room. Or, better yet, get there early. You'll get a head start on sunbathing; just be sure to bring sunscreen .

Deering Estate Arrow

The Deering Estate, a sprawling 444-acre environmental and archaeological preserve fronting Biscayne Bay, is dotted with historic houses, outdoor activities like nature hikes, paddling (kayaks and paddleboards are available for rent), cruises into Biscayne National Park and biking, and a robust schedule of arts programs, including concerts, movies, and theater. A regular haunt for locals and visitors alike, the estate is a fantastic way to get to know the history of Miami and its commitment to environmentalism. It's also yet another way to spend time (where else?!) outside.

Little Havana Food & Cultural Tour Arrow

Since 2010, Miami Culinary Tours has orchestrated deep dives into some of Magic City’s most famous neighborhoods, Little Havana among them. The heart of Miami’s Cuban population, the area includes Calle Ocho (SW 8th Street), a dynamic stretch famous for Domino Park, strong cafecitos, and counter-service croquetas. You’ll get to experience all of that and more over the course of two-and-a-half hours on this popular walking tour, which hits several Cuban hotspots . Just be sure to book online; tickets must be purchased in advance.

Monkey Jungle Arrow

Built in 1933, this is less a zoo than it is a conservation and observation park. In Southwest Miami the jungle is home to around 500 primates, covering some 18 different species of monkeys and apes. Guests navigate the 30-acre park through a series of tunnels—the park’s tagline is "Where the humans are caged and the monkeys run wild." The animal inhabitants live in semi-natural habitats where they can live as they would in the wild. It’s perfect for families with young children who may not have seen wildlife up this close before, and the information and habitats will also pique the interest of natural science enthusiasts. 

Artechouse Arrow

A digital art gallery mixing science, technology and art to wondrous effect Artechouse features new-media art displays through light, color, and sound, which viewers move throughout. Open to the public in Miami Beach, the concept originated in Washington DC, so this is an outpost. The space is meant to introduce people to art and technology and inspire a dialog between the two topics and how they're connected; it's a digital art gallery which viewers move throughout, becoming a part of the art in an immersion experience. The price tag isn't exorbitant, and it offers a surprising and different experience after a day on the nearby beaches. Anyone into digital art or the nexus of technology and art or new media shouldn't miss this.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens Arrow

If you want a little Italian flare during your trip to Miami, you'll find it here. Now a national landmark, the Vizcaya is a living museum dedicated to the early days of Miami’s rise as a destination and to old-school European design. The waterfront home’s many treasures include more than 2,500 antique art objects and furnishings; 10 acres of immaculately landscaped gardens, including 2,000 orchids; and 25 acres of endangered forest lands. It's easy to spend several hours at Vizcaya without getting bored.

South Pointe Park Arrow

As much as locals might have liked to keep South Pointe Park under wraps, it was only a matter of time before word got out. The park is located at the southernmost tip of South Beach just a few steps from Joe’s Stone Crab , the legendary restaurant that everyone's got to try at least once for Florida’s finest seasonal crustacean. While it’s technically just a city park, this 17-acre haven offers much more than a couple of benches and pretty palm trees to lounge beneath. There’s beach access, a fishing pier, a playground for kids and lots more green space for relaxing. Also, the by-the-hour parking spaces here are not only usually more available than elsewhere in South Beach’s many pay lots but also far less pricey.

Pinecrest Gardens Arrow

A botanical delight brimming with lush foliage, trees, plants and birds, this city park has plenty of things to do including a splash pad and a petting zoo for kids, plus a botanical garden and an outdoor theater. Established in the 1930’s and originally the home of Parrot Jungle the Village of Pinecrest acquired the 14-acre park in 2002, securing its place on the National Register of Historic Places in 2011 and transforming it into a venue for events and education. Beyond the breathtaking and massive Banyan trees, the hardwood hammocks, and a serene cypress slough and orchids winding up tree limbs, the park has a full schedule of programming that keeps visitors interested throughout the year, from concerts in the 530-seat amphitheater, to rotating art exhibits to horticulture lectures and holiday festivities. A weekly Sunday Farmer’s Market includes a free community yoga class.

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

23 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Miami, FL

Written by Lana Law Updated Mar 21, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Miami is one of South Florida's premier vacation destinations, with beautiful beaches , great weather, history, culture, sports, and entertainment. Downtown Miami, separated from the Atlantic Ocean by the Biscayne Bay and Miami Beach, is a modern metropolis and cultural treasure trove.

From the museums to the streets of Little Havana , you can always find plenty of things to do in Miami. Across the bay, Miami Beach , with its Art Deco District, fantastic stretch of beachfront, and fun vibe, is a must-see in the area. Nearby, Everglades National Park is one of several popular day trip destinations from Miami .

Plan your time and discover the best places to visit with our list of the top tourist attractions in Miami.

1. Miami Beach

2. art deco historic district, 3. south beach, 4. vizcaya museum and gardens, 5. everglades national park, 6. bayside marketplace, 7. little havana and calle ocho, 8. bayfront park, 9. perez art museum, 10. miami seaquarium, 11. phillip and patricia frost museum of science, 12. fairchild tropical botanical gardens, 13. bill baggs cape florida state park, 14. hobie beach, 15. zoo miami, 16. deering estate at cutler, 17. wynwood walls street art, 18. miami children's museum, 19. key biscayne and crandon park, 20. basketball games at ftx arena, 21. venetian pool, 22. coral castle, 23. freedom tower, where to stay in miami for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to miami, best time to visit miami, fl.

Located on a barrier island and connected to the mainland by a series of bridges, Miami Beach is a mix of quiet neighborhoods, lively entertainment-focused areas, and long stretches of soft-sand beaches. The southernmost portion of the island is the historic and action-packed area known as South Beach, and this is where you'll find many of the top attractions and things to do.

One of the biggest attractions in Miami Beach is the Art Deco Historic District , with pastel buildings from the 1930s and early 1940s sporting classic neon signs. An expensive tourist district, this area features numerous beachfront restaurants, shops, hotels, and plenty of sunbathing opportunities.

The main street in this area is Ocean Drive , a section of road located along the oceanfront and home to some beautiful Art Deco buildings. Ocean Drive was closed to all but pedetrian traffic in May of 2020 but in 2022 opened to one-way vehicle traffic from 15th Street to 5th Street.

One block inland, running parallel with Ocean Drive, is Collins Avenue . Collins Avenue is actually State Road A1A and is the main street in Miami Beach, joining numerous neighborhoods.

If you are looking to stay in this area, see our selection of recommended luxury, mid-range, and budget hotels .

Even if you have no interest in the beach, the Art Deco Historic District is worth a trip out to Miami Beach. This architectural style, popular in the 1930s and 40s, dominates the trendy South Beach neighborhood .

These uniquely designed buildings, in a range of pastel colors and displaying large neon signs, were built following a devastating hurricane that struck in 1926. Many are hotels and restaurants, most of which have been beautifully restored. Along some of the main streets, awnings on the lower level of these buildings provide shade for outdoor dining areas. Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue are the two main streets through the area.

If you are interested in staying in one of these historic gems, many of the Art Deco buildings still function as hotels and have much more character than modern hotels. Some good options are the National Hotel Miami Beach or the more moderately priced Hotel Breakwater South Beach .

Located at the southern end of Miami Beach is the always action-packed neighborhood of South Beach. This is what many people have in mind when they plan a beach vacation to Miami. The wide section of beach that fronts the ocean along Ocean Drive is one of the big attractions. Often full of people in summer, this is the most popular beach in Miami and one of the top beaches in Florida .

This is a place to see and be seen, but also a place to swim and enjoy the shallow waters, escape the heat, and soak up the sun. A paved walk is set well back from the beach, and in behind is Ocean Drive. Art Deco buildings line the streets and offer luxury hotel rooms and a good mix of dining options.

South Beach is home to several popular festivals and events held throughout the year. By day, it's a great place to wander around or hang out on the beach. At night it comes alive with dining and nightlife.

This National Historic Landmark, set on 28 acres, was the luxurious winter home of 20th-century industrialist, James Deering. Built in 1916, the mansion features 34 rooms arranged around a central courtyard.

It took more than 1,100 workers and craftsmen to complete the Vizcaya project, many of whom were brought over from Europe to ensure authenticity in design.

The Italian Renaissance-style villa is filled with an impressive collection of European furniture and decorative arts from the 15th to 19th centuries.

The grounds and gardens contain beautiful Italian and French fountains, pools, and sculptures. A breakwater at the base of the steps leading into Biscayne Bay is an ornately carved barge, featuring female figures.

Address: 3251 South Miami Avenue, Miami, Florida

Official site: http://vizcaya.org

Everglades National Park, just a short drive from Miami, protects one of Florida's most unique natural features. These swamplands, covering about 1.5 million acres, are home to alligators, crocodiles, snakes, and birds. This whole area is essentially a shallow river flowing out to the ocean.

Within the park is an informative Visitors Center, as well as walking trails and boardwalks for wildlife viewing. One of the most popular walking trails in the park is the Anhinga Trail , which leaves from the Royal Palm Visitor Center. This trail is less than a mile long but leads through terrain where visitors are likely to see alligators and other animals. This trail is wheelchair accessible and non-strenuous.

One of the most enjoyable ways to experience the Everglades is on an airboat tour. These high-speed boat trips take visitors out into the marshes and streams to see alligators and other wildlife. The Miami Everglades Airboat Adventure with Transport half-day tour provides transport from your hotel to the park, and includes a 30-minute airboat ride, a live alligator show at the Everglades Alligator Farm, and transport back to your hotel.

Bayside Marketplace is a large outdoor-style mall with more than 120 specialty and tourist shops, numerous cafes and restaurants, and daily live entertainment. Visitors will find some well-known chain stores, as well as many unique, one-of-a-kind places. The marketplace draws locals as well as tourists.

As may be evident in the name, the mall is located along Miami's waterfront, looking out over docks and boats. Many people come here simply to soak up the atmosphere. Tour boats leave from here, visiting locations around Biscayne Bay. There is also a water taxi service to Miami Beach and downtown hotels located in the area.

A brand new attraction has risen at Bayside Market: the Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel . Towering 200 feet in the air, this giant Ferris wheel has 42 climate-controlled passenger gondolas plus one glass-floored VIP version. The views out over Biscayne Bay and Miami you'll see during your 15-minute ride are spectacular.

Address: 401 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, Florida

Official site: http://www.baysidemarketplace.com/

Little Havana, the Cuban district of Miami , isn't known for its wealth of tourist attractions but more for its distinctive cultural scene. Restaurants and specialty food shops line the streets, and Latin music drifts through the air. Locals socialize in the open spaces.

Murals grace the walls of buildings, showing important Cuban figures and scenes of daily life. Calle Ocho is the main thoroughfare running through the district and home to much of the activity, but Little Havana spreads well beyond, into the surrounding streets and avenues. For people-watching, the area offers a great deal of entertainment. And, of course, this is the place to visit for Cuban cuisine or perhaps, a surprise to most visitors, a great haircut at one of the numerous barber shops.

The Calle Ocho Festival , held in March, is a celebration of Cuban culture and the largest of its kind in the world. Over the years this street festival has expanded to include more Latin American cultures and is now a great way to experience Latin American music and Caribbean cuisine.

Bayfront Park, on the east side of Biscayne Boulevard, is a 32-acre green space, adjacent to the Bayside Marketplace. The park has several interesting monuments and sculptures. One of the unique features is the electronically controlled Pepper Fountain.

Other highlights include the Challenger Memorial , commemorating the crew of the Challenger spacecraft; the Light Tower , an amphitheater used for musical performances of all kinds; and a children's playground. Locals often come here just to run or walk on the paved trails.

A waterfront trail extends from Bayfront Marketplace to the park past the FPL Solar Amphitheater. Near the park are other interesting attractions including the Freedom Tower, the Kaseya Center, and Maurice A. Ferré Park.

Address: 301 North Biscayne Blvd, Miami, Florida

Official site: http://www.bayfrontparkmiami.com/

The Perez Art Museum, known locally as the PAMM, occupies a section of prime real estate on Miami's waterfront. Inside an architecturally stunning building designed by Herzog & de Mueron is housed artwork from the 20th and 21st centuries.

The museum has been celebrating art from local and international artists for over 25 years. In addition to the permanent collection, the PAMM hosts a regular procession of temporary exhibits. The interior of the building is almost a work of art in itself. Light, airy spaces along with incredible views out over Biscayne Bay invoke a sense of calm and introspection, helping to aid in your appreciation of the artwork. You'll find the permanent exhibits are primarily displayed on the first and second floors; the temporary exhibits are usually on the second floor.

The PAMM has a well-regarded on-site restaurant named Verde. Settle in at a table either inside or outside on the expansive patio and enjoy a light lunch while you soak up the fantastic views out over the water.

Save a few dollars on parking (flat rate of $15) by combining a visit here with a stop in at the Phillip and Patricia Museum of Science located right next door.

Address: 1103 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, Florida

Official site: https://www.pamm.org/

Located on the Rickenbacker Causeway on the way to Key Biscayne, the Miami Seaquarium is a good place to take the family for an afternoon of entertainment and education. This aquatic facility is home to a wide variety of sea creatures, including killer whales, dolphins, stingrays, seals, and penguins among many, many others.

The Seaquarium offers a variety of animal shows; however, the killer whale and dolphin shows are currently suspended as of writing. But don't despair, Salty the Sealion is still performing! If you'd like to get up close and personal, animal encounters are available for an additional fee. These include three options for interacting with dolphins, one with penguins, and the opportunity to swim with seals.

In addition to the shows and animal encounters, the Seaquarium has an extensive number of educational animal exhibits and an area devoted to marine conservation.

Note that a $10 fee is charged for parking in addition to the cost of entry to the Seaquarium.

Address: 4400 Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami, Florida

Official site: https://www.miamiseaquarium.com/

Ideal for a rainy day or if you are looking for something to do off the beach, the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is jam-packed with interesting things for all ages.

The museum is divided into four areas: The aquarium is all about the ocean, with a focus on South Florida. The planetarium helps bring an understanding of the solar system through interactive displays and shows. In the North and West wings, other permanent and traveling exhibits help to explain the world we live in.

Across all areas, displays are interactive and fun, and the viewing areas in the aquarium are exceptional.

Address: 1101 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, Florida

Official Site: https://www.frostscience.org/

Miami is a green city. Lush tropical vegetation grows here with abandon, nourished by the frequent rain, warm temperatures, and sunny days. One of the best places to see the wonderful show that Mother Nature puts on is at the Fairchild Tropical Botanical Gardens. Originally founded in 1938, the entire organization is now run by passionate volunteers and is a first-class operation.

Extensive grounds are spread out over 83 acres, allowing you to walk for miles. If that sounds a bit daunting, take one of the 45 minute-long tram tours instead. The tours are led by a knowledgeable guide and provide a fascinating insight to the gardens. Even if you are only slightly interested in plants, you'll find something interesting in one of the 27 exhibits and collections.

Owing to the size of the gardens, it's important to plan out your visit. Most of the attractions are in the southwest area of the gardens, reached by walking straight to the tram stop area from the main entrance and then turning right. Along the way, look down at the pathway to see all manner of leaves imprinted in the cement. This pathway will take you past interesting viewpoints and the entrance to the Richard H. Simmons Rainforest area. Be sure to take a stroll through this area, where mist snakes along the pathway, and rain showers take place among the plants.

Beyond the rainforest area are the Clinton Family Conservatory and the Wings of the Tropics exhibit. Enter the building, and find yourself in a wonderland of colorful butterflies and tropical flowers. Have your camera ready to try to snap a picture of the stunning blue morpho butterfly.

Spread throughout the gardens are 11 sculptures, including two by the acclaimed glass artists Dale Chihuly. A good spot to grab a light lunch is the Glasshouse Café. Tables are spread among the greenery, and it's a pleasant spot to refresh and recharge.

Unless you've ventured further afield, you may find yourself walking back past one of the more unusual plant displays in the gardens: the Lougheed Spiny Forest of Madagascar. Large trees with spikes definitely discourage any touching! Nearby is a giant baobab tree dating from the mid 1930s, planted by the founder, David Fairchild.

Address: 10901 Old Cutler Road, Miami, Florida

Official site: https://fairchildgarden.org/

Miami is fortunate in the fact that it has one of Florida's most beautiful state parks only a bridge ride away. Saved from development by Bill Baggs in the 1960s, this perfectly preserved wilderness is a perfect place for a family beach day trip. One of the main attractions is the 1.25-mile-long soft-sand beach, providing amazing views out over the Atlantic Ocean.

The park is long and relatively narrow, and where you park depends on what you'd like to do. If you just want to hit the beach, park near access #6. If you'd like to visit the beach and visit the historic lighthouse, park at access #7. Fishing more your thing? Park at the far end of the road in the parking lot by the washrooms, and walk out to the fishing docks or set up on the seawall.

The park is also a migratory bird hot spot. To have a chance at seeing birds, walk Robin's Birding Trail.

Address: 1200 South Crandon Blvd, Key Biscayne, Florida

Official site: https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/bill-baggs-cape-florida-state-park

One thing you learn pretty quickly about Miami is that it can be an expensive place. Road tolls, restaurant prices, park and attraction admissions – the costs can add up quite quickly. For a delightful beach spot that's gentle on the pocketbook, head to Hobie Beach.

It's easily located on the Rickenbacker Causeway, and parking here is, amazingly, free! Soft white sand and gentle waves (if any) make this one of the most accessible beaches in the area. Hobie Beach is dog friendly – pooches can run leash-free here on the sand and in the water.

Note that Hobie Beach exists in two locations. The first location you come to as you cross the causeway is the area that rents sailboats and is popular with the windsurfing and sailing crowd. The beach here is narrow and rocky. Farther along is the main beach area described above.

Zoo Miami houses more than 3,000 wild animals, including 40 endangered species. Unlike many traditional zoos, animals here are grouped with other species they would normally co-exist with peacefully in the wild, and kept in settings similar to their natural habitats.

One of the most enjoyable experiences at the zoo is feeding the giraffes. Kids will be amazed as these gentle giants reach down with their long necks to pluck a treat from their hands.

This is the only zoo in the continental United States located in a subtropical climate. More than 1,000 species of trees and plants can also be found on the grounds, including a large collection of orchids.

Children will find plenty of entertainment options. If they are bored with the animals, they can head over to the play areas and enjoy some splashing around at the water-themed play area.

Address: 1 Zoo Blvd, 12400 SW 152nd Street, Miami, Florida

Official site: http://www.zoomiami.org/

This former home of Charles Deering is a 444-acre estate, protecting globally endangered pine rockland habitat, as well as coastal tropical hardwood rockland hammocks, mangrove forests, salt marshes, and a coastal dune island.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places , Deering Estate at Cutler is home to the Richmond Cottage, which served as a hotel, as well as historical buildings dating from 1896 to 1922, and an American Indian burial ground dating from 1500.

Charles Deering was an art collector, who, along with his brother James, accumulated a great number of works by the Old Masters. Deering himself also painted, and some of his works are on display here. The Artist Village at the estate has become an important cultural center, featuring art and artists programs.

Address: 16701 SW 72nd Avenue, Miami, Florida

Official site: http://www.deeringestate.org/

In the warehouse district of Wynwood, the formerly drab exterior warehouse walls have been transformed into colorful pieces of art. The Wynwood Walls, plastered in street art, or what most people think of as graffiti, have brought new life to this area.

Brought about by Tony Goldman in 2009, the district has attracted big names in the world of street art from across North America and around the world. Since it was started, more than 80,000 square feet of wall space have been graced with paintings in this unique artform.

The entire area is full of colorful street art. Wander around on your own, or for greater insight into the murals, sign up online for a guided tour. If you want to see famous name artists, and purchase prints, visit the Wynwood Walls Museum. Inside this gated area, you'll find 35 walls, retail shops, and galleries. This area used to be free, but now an admission fee is charged.

Official site: http://www.thewynwoodwalls.com

Always a fun outing for children, the Miami Children's Museum is housed in a colorful and creatively designed facility with more than 56,000 square feet of space. Educational and entertaining exhibits are designed to appeal to children's curiosity and creativity.

Fourteen themed galleries revolve around arts, culture, community, and communication, and four outdoor exhibits allow kids a chance to play and enjoy time outside. Some of the exhibits are definitely Miami themed: the ability to explore a cruise ship and the ability to explore the Port of Miami.

Address: 980 Macarthur Causeway, Miami, Florida

Official site: http://www.miamichildrensmuseum.org/

South, beyond Miami Beach and over the Rickenbacker Causeway, is Key Biscayne, a small community with lovely beaches and beautiful parks. Of particular note is Crandon Park with an offshore reef that leaves the shoreline protected from big waves and perfect for swimming.

The park has a Family Amusement Center, making it particularly popular with families, and a Nature Center. There is generally ample parking, good facilities, chair rentals available, and lifeguards on duty.

On windy days, you may see kiteboarders ripping across the waves, being towed by their colorful kites.

The FTX Arena, formerly the American Airlines Arena, is the home of the NBA's Miami Heat . It is also the main venue for large concerts and other special events, including top-name singers and performers. It can hold more than 19,000 people.

The structure itself opened in 1999, has been awarded the Leed Green Building Certification for being an energy-efficient building. The arena stands out prominently on Biscayne Bay in downtown Miami.

Address: 601 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, Florida

Official site: https://www.ftxarena.com/

If you become tired of the beach, or the wind is up, or you are just looking for freshwater to swim in, head to the historic Venetian Pool. Located in the beautiful city of Coral Gables, just south of Miami, the pool dates from the early 1920s. The water in the pools is as pure as it gets. Fed from an underground spring, the water is crystal clear and refreshing. Each day, the 820,000-gallon pool is drained and refilled by the spring.

The pool is a byproduct of a former quarrying operation that used the coral dug from here for the construction of homes in Coral Gables. The area surrounding the pool is like a scene from Venice, Italy. Bridges, towers, and small plazas surround the pool, giving it a very European look and feel, while caves, grottoes, and two waterfalls provide hours of enjoyment for children and adults alike.

The pool is open from the start of February until the end of November each year. Ample free parking is available across the street in the public lot.

Address: 2702 de Soto Boulevard, Coral Gables, Florida

Official site: https://www.coralgables.com/venetianpool

The Coral Castle is the result of one man's 28 years of carving, using his own home-made tools. This incredible creation, made of limestone, was built by Edward Leedskalnin between 1923 and 1951. He kept his methods private and would not allow anyone to watch him work, leaving many people to wonder how he did it.

Today, you can tour the property and see the most famous structure, a giant stone gate, which opens effortlessly with the touch of a finger, as well as carvings that include stone tables and chairs, unique figures, and other pieces.

Address: 28655 South Dixie Highway, Miami, Florida

Official site: http://coralcastle.com

One of the most striking buildings on Biscayne Boulevard, Freedom Tower displays a "wedding-cake" style. Built in 1925, it is one of the oldest skyscrapers in the southeastern United States, and served for many years as the headquarters of the Miami Daily News.

Its name comes from its role as the immigration-processing center for hundreds of thousands of Cuban refugees who arrived in the 1960s. Today, it stands as a tribute to Cuban immigration and is used, in part, as a contemporary art museum.

Address: 600 North Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, Florida

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/history/nr/travel/american_latino_heritage/Freedom_Tower.html

Miami's main tourist area is Miami Beach, with its lovely soft-sand beaches, Art Deco buildings, and vibrant atmosphere. There are all kinds of hotels here, from small, quaint boutique hotels in landmark buildings to the large chain hotels. Most of the hotels have pools and are within easy walking distance of the ocean and a variety of great restaurants.

Luxury Hotels :

• With 600 feet of prime beachfront property and occupying an entire city block on Collins Ave, 1 Hotel South Beach is one of the trendiest luxury properties in town. The hotel has 426 rooms and suites, and many feature expansive views from floor-to-ceiling windows that face the Atlantic Ocean. The décor is maritime themed and makes use of reclaimed driftwood in furnishings. There are four swimming pools on-site, including the largest rooftop pool in South Beach. There are a number of restaurants with a healthy focus, and guests have access to rides in the hotel's Tesla vehicles within a three-mile radius. Pets are also welcome to stay.
• Right on the trendiest section of South Beach, The Setai, Miami Beach is a stunning, Asian-inspired luxury resort that is popular with couples on a romantic getaway. It's an all suite hotel, and these begin studio sized and go all the way up to a four-bedroom penthouse. Expect high-end decor like hand-crafted Duxiana beds and high thread-count, Italian sheets. There are also in-room espresso machines and rainfall showers in large baths. The Setai also boasts a host of amenities, including a posh spa, three swimming pools, and sun-loungers and umbrellas on the beach. There are also multiple restaurants on-site. Try Jaya for Asian-inspired fare and The Ocean Grill for international cuisine.
• Literally in the middle of the Miami skyline with views of the Miami River, Biscayne Bay, and downtown from the balconies attached to every room and suite, the just remodeled Kimpton EPIC Hotel is another top luxury sleep. The décor is urban contemporary, and we love the floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as the comfy beds with quality linens. The Kimpton is known for being super dog-friendly, and there is never a pet deposit to stay. Also noteworthy are two on-site restaurants: Area 31 with outdoor patio seating and Zuma on the ground floor. An on-site spa and fitness center and two swimming pools with cabanas that can be reserved complete the amenities picture.
• In the heart of the Brickell neighborhood in downtown Miami, the Four Seasons Hotel Miami is a popular choice for families seeking a luxury resort stay. The resort even doubles as a Latin American art gallery, hosting a multi-million-dollar collection that is exhibited throughout. Child-focused amenities here include a kids' club with organized activities and a children's section in one of the two rooftop swimming pools. Adults can check out a class at the on-site Equinox fitness center or book a massage at The Spa, both located on the hotel's fourth floor.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• If you want to be near South Beach but can't afford to pay a fortune, then try the boutique Urbanica The Meridian Hotel , which offers a more affordable, luxe experience. The hotel in the hip South of Fifth neighborhood in Miami Beach features minimalist design, with white and beige hues, and is known for its personalized service.
• Another upmarket, mid-range choice is the Marriott Stanton South Beach , which is right on the beach. Set at the southern side of South Beach's Ocean Drive, it is a kid-friendly property but can also work for couples on a budget. There are two swimming pools and a hot tub on-site, as well as a spa with a sauna and a modern gym. There are a few dining options as well, including a good restaurant fronting the sea.
• It is usually more affordable to stay in downtown Miami than Miami Beach, and these days the downtown area around Brickell, where the Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton - Miami-Brickell Downtown is located has plenty to keep you occupied. The good-value hotel has a classy vibe and even features its own contemporary art collection. Other perks include a free breakfast and swimming pool.

Budget Hotels :

• Even budget hotels in Miami Beach tend to be pricey unless you're visiting in the super low season. Try the Hotel Shelley for a quality budget sleep in an Art Deco building right on Collins Ave. The rooms have minimalist design and marble baths.
• The Element Miami International Airport is right by the airport, but Miami's airport is not inconveniently located to get around the city. This hotel offers renovated rooms, with small kitchens, and an outdoor pool. The free shuttle is handy for late or early flights.
• Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: To see the sights of Miami at your own pace, it doesn't get any easier than a Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour . The three routes hit all the major destinations, including South Beach, Downtown Miami, Coral Gables, and Little Havana, with a total of 40 stops to choose from.
• Sightseeing, Cruise, and Everglades Tour : If you really want to make the most of your time in Miami, the most comprehensive and convenient way to see and experience the highlights is on a Miami Combo Tour: City Sightseeing, Biscayne Bay Cruise, and Everglades Airboat Ride . This tour checks off everything but the beach, and it's all wrapped up in a one-day tour. The trip includes a narrated coach tour through the city; a cruise on the beautiful, clear waters of Biscayne Bay; and an airboat ride through the Florida Everglades.
• Visit Key West : Take an organized Key West Day Trip to see the famous bridges that link the Keys, spend an afternoon wandering around Key West, or add on a glass-bottom boat tour, a snorkeling cruise, hop-on-hop-off tour of Key West, or parasailing. This 12-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off at your Miami hotel, bus transportation to Key West, and plenty of free time to see the sights.

If you're planning a vacation packed with plenty of sunshine, endless entertainment, and festivals galore, the best time of year to visit Miami is spring .

March through May are considered high season (as are the winter months of December through February), which means you should expect crowds of tourists splaying themselves on Miami's best beaches , as well as increased rates on things like hotel rooms and local attractions. You may also need to call in advance to book a dinner reservation.

During spring, you can expect beautiful weather. With highs in the high 70s and low 80s Fahrenheit, it's not too hot, nor is it too humid. Plus, spring offers a slew of events to keep visitors busy. From tennis tournaments to outdoor concerts to food festivals, you won't be lacking in fun things to do.

This time of year is also free of the intense rains and pesky insects that plague the sticky summer months, as well as the hurricanes that hit during late fall.

A word of advice: Avoid spring break ; unless you're a fan of all day (and all night) parties, screaming youth, and bikini contests. Prices go up during this popular holiday and so does the noise level!

Easter is another time to steer clear of Miami if you're hoping to avoid crowds and keep your costs low.

More on Florida

• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary navigation
• Skip to primary sidebar

Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Florida!

15 Best Places To Visit In Miami (+ Unique Vacation Spots)

January 3, 2022 //  by  Florida Trippers

Are you taking a trip to soon, and need a tried and true list of the best places to visit in Miami? Good news, you’re in the right place!

Miami is a veritable beach paradise, but that doesn’t mean should just do whatever you find first, take a look at our list of best places to visit in Miami and you’ll be sure to find the perfect activities to make your trip one to remember!

Being such a large city, there is an attraction or something to do for just about anyone on this list who is looking for the best activities in Miami! Whether it’s museums, national parks, amazing restaurants, or historic ocean-side mansions you’re looking for, we have it all!

Miami is the eighth-largest metropolitan area, and third-largest skyline in the United States – this makes for an abundance of fun stuff which can be a little overwhelming if you don’t know what you’re looking for, which is why this list is the perfect compilation of the best places to visit in Miami!

17 Best Places To Visit in Miami (+ Unique Vacation Spots)

Vizcaya museum.

The Vizcaya Museum and gardens is the winter estate of the Late industrialist James Deering, and is one of the best places to visit in Miami!

Paul Chalfin, the director of design for the Vizcaya had an timelessly iconic sense of style, making this one of the most beautiful places to see in Miami.

Vizcaya was built in the early 1900’s, using Italian villas from the 1700’s and the lush tropical landscape as sources of inspiration. The house was cutting edge at it’s time of construction, blending old things such as baroque style with the newest technologies such as water filtration systems and ventilation/heating.

In addition to the cool high tech gadgets installed, there are also old school magical things hidden all over the place such as a secret staircase that you open by pulling a book in the library!

One of the crown jewels of the Vizcaya is the pool grotto: this magical room was meant to make guests feel like they’re submerged underwater, this illusion is achieved with the breathtaking plaster artwork of the American artist Robert Winthorpe Chanler, and the reflections of the water in the pool.

Due to the extremely antique nature of the estate, sadly no, you cannot swim in the pool!

There are certain spots that are off limits to visitors in an effort to preserve all the natural beauty, however there is still plenty to see and enjoy with the massive estate gardens and extensive art collection.

If you absolutely loved this museum then you’re in luck, because Florida has so many interesting museums all over the state! If want to see what other kind of museum experiences Florida offers, check out our post on cool museums in Florida you must visit!

Wynwood Walls

If you’re into art, especially open air art, then we have just the place for you: the Wynwood Walls! The walls are a series of murals in the warehouse district of Miami, and it’s one of the biggest open air art installations in the world, making it one of the best places to see in Miami!

The walls were born from the vision of the late artist Tony Goldman, who instead of seeing ugly warehouses saw blank canvases ready to transform into art.

Tony Goldman’s iconic eye-catching style drew attention quickly, alerting other artists of the possibilities with this new untouched area – which exploded into a community project.

This experiment in art was so successful in fact, that the are has expanded to include Wynwood Walls Garden, which is a community garden space for events – sometimes they even have food trucks!

Goldman laid the foundation for what is now one of the most happening art districts and one of the best places to see in Miami!

For more in depth details about visiting the walls, head over to our ultimate guide to exploring the Wynwood Walls !

Biscayne Bay National Park

If you love exploring the native species of the Miami area, or just love nature in general, then Biscayne Bay National Park is your best place to visit in Miami!

Biscayne Bay is a gorgeous expanse of land has emerald waters that are truly magical – and thanks to savvy conservation and protected status, it all exists close to the city!

The geological location of the bay creates a shallow estuary, which allows a mixing of freshwater and saltwater.

The estuary gives the area an abundance of nutrients for plants and baby sea animals alike, which makes for a beautiful place to scuba, take boating tours, take a canoe, or even fish.

The national park is quite expensive to camp overnight, however for a day trip there is no fee to enter the park !

The lack of entrance or parking fees make it one of the most cost effective activities in Miami!

For even more amazing ideas on! how to spend the time on your trip take a look at our post on Best day trips from Miami .

Additionally, if you’re really loving the national park experience, we have a whole post on The best national parks to explore in Florida !

Art Deco Historic District

If the metropolitan vibe of Miami is more your speed than the national parks, there is all kinds of gorgeous architecture around the city. This is truly one of the Best Places To Stay In Miami!

One particular stretch of Miami beach you can’t miss is the Art Deco district!

The Art Deco district is home to houses, hotels, restaurants and apartments between 5th and 23rd street that are built in the colorful and flamboyant style that dominated the early 18th century between 20’s and 30’s.

Art deco style is known for features of sharp lines, bold colors, and a re-imagining of neoclassical style that is truly iconic, making it one of the top places to see in Miami!

The Art Deco district has a Visitor Center that offers tours most days, as well as lectures, presentations, and a museum with a gift shop!

Tours offered include a general public tour, or also private tours that focus on different aspects of the district, if you’re looking for more fun stuff to do in Miami, check out this list!

Sugar Miami

For a truly once in a lifetime dining experience, Sugar rooftop is the best place to visit in Miami!

On top of the high-rise East Hotel, this one of a kind Asian-inspired rooftop garden bar is not something you want to miss!

Once outside of the elevator you’ll be transported to a tropical forest with lush greenery, you’ll feel like you’re somewhere else entirely!

The menu boasts cuisine that borrows from Korean, Japanese, and Malaysian flavors, making it uniquely and internationally delicious!

On top of the great food, the bar features drinks that showcase East Asian fruits like Lychee and classic Miamibar standards like the Pastelito

Check out our post on the Best rooftop bars in Miami for even more info on the coolest spots to get a drink in the gorgeous open ocean air! This is truly one of the best things to do in Miami at night!

Limoncello Miami

A brand new contender in the Miami scene, Limoncello is quickly becoming known as one of the best places for southern Italian style food.

The restaurant is located right in the heart of Miami Beach, making it a perfect place to go on your Miami Vacation!

Limoncello’s food menu is centered around traditional southern Italian-style cooking staples such as pasta dishes, wood-fired pizza, and fresh seafood – and the restaurant’s atmosphere is a careful balance between warm and modern.

The drink menu features both classic and new takes on the cocktail of it’s namesake, as well other fruit-forward cocktails like tequila-cantelupe.

More excellent Italian restaurants in Miami and Miami beach can be found here!

Check out their menu for more info and see why it’s one of the best places to visit in Miami!

For the people on Miami vacation who love fresh seafood, but are wanting something different than Italian: meet Dalia!

The restaurant’s menu is based around Mediterranean flavors, developed and created by Chef Patrick Ochs. There is also a high emphasis on fresh ingredients, making it one of the best places to visit in Miami!

In addition to the Mediterranean classics such as baba ghanoush and muhamarra, Dalia has a raw bar to showcase the fresh flavors that are abundant in an ocean-side city like Miami.

Check out this list for even more amazing dining options for you Miami vacation!

Dalia is under the INK umbrella, a company responsible for some of the best restaurants in Montreal and Miami which are two metropolitan cities with impeccably high standards for dining experiences.

With a proven winner in the restaurant game like INK, a place like Dalia is the perfect addition to your Miami vacation!

All of the restaurants so far have had plant based options for those of us who don’t eat animal products, however this restaurant puts that diet front and center!

Planta is a restaurant with a mission: to showcase how amazingly delicious a plant-based diet can be. As it is right in the Miami Beach area, Planta is the perfect addition to your Miami Vacation

The highlights of Planta’s menu are the vegan sushi made from watermelon or heart of palm, as well as vegan poke bowls and coconut ceviche!

On top of the excellent ‘seafood’ options there are heartier options such as burgers, pizza, and even lasagna!

For an exhaustive list of the best plant-based options for dining in Miami check out this list!

While you are in town, don’t forget to check out our list of Best Places For Brunch in Miami!

South Beach

South Beach is the formal name of the neighborhood of the ever famous Miami Beach! Hands down this is one of the best places to see in Miami for several reason!

The Art Deco district is in south beach, which attracts people from all over the world and makes for especially excellent people watching opportunities.

Not only is South Beach aplomb with gorgeous buildings and interesting people, it really is the heart of Miami, making it an absolute must-see area for your Miami vacation!

For those who don’t want to even plan a single thing, and want to completely take out the guesswork for your Miami trip, we have taken the time to create the ultimate 3-day Miami weekend itinerary to ensure that everything you could possibly think of has been handled and planned ahead of time!

Miami Beach

No trip to Miami would be complete without stopping by arguably one of the most iconic beaches in the United States, this is THE best place to visit in Miami!

Whether you’re looking for tours, shopping, dining, people watching, or even just a walk along the beach, this is the best place to do any of them!

Miami Beach’s vibrant energy is the perfect crown jewel to add to your Miami vacation!

Check out our post on even more fun things to do in Miami!

Surfside Beach

If you’re looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Miami’s oceans, but the Miami beach scene is just a little too much for you, this is a perfect beach!

The semi secluded nature of the beach is well suited to those looking for a clean beach that’s a little more quiet, and is one of the best places to go in Miami for those who hate the big crowds!

While Surfside has great well-kept facilities one might expect from a large tourist beach, it has maybe half the amount of people

The beautiful trail and small crowds make Surfside beach the perfect place to go in Miami if you’re looking for a more quiet Florida beach experience.

In addition to the facilities there is also a lovely trail away from the sand that’s perfect for walks or a bike ride!

If you don’t want to bring your own umbrella or chair not to worry, there are rentals available!

Check out our post for even more gorgeous beaches in Miami to visit on your next vacation!

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

This beautiful state park is the location of the original “Cape Florida” named by Ponce De Leon in 1513, and to this day remains one of the most loved beaches in Miami.

The beach is quite busy in the summer months, so if this is on your list of places to see in Miami then make sure you’re there nice and early!

The park offers rentals for bikes and large quad bikes, beach chairs, and umbrellas in case you don’t want to bring your own.

If you’re looking for a beach-adjacent place for a large gathering, Bill Baggs state park is a perfect option because they have pavillions for rental that can accommodate up to 40 people!

Bill Baggs park is on completely flat terrain making it a truly delightful place to take a bike ride and enjoy the ocean air.

This state park is one of the most inclusive state park experiences, making it one of the best places to visit in Miami!

Check out our list of other gorgeous national parks to visit in Florida!

Coral Castle

Made as a tribute to his lover who cancelled the wedding the day before, Coral Castle is one of the coolest places to go in Miami!

To this day, the exact method the builder(and owner) Edward Leedskalnin used to make this magnificent castle is still unknown! What we do know however is that it took him almost thirty years to build, starting in 1923 and finishing just after 1950.

The castle itself and the surrounding rock garden are all carved out of coral, which Leedskalnin carved himself – he said he used “the secrets that built the pyramids” however what exactly that means in modern terms is still up for debate!

The rock gardens feature beautiful bougainvillea trees and rocking chairs made from carved coral stone with a peaceful atmosphere, that make it one of the best places to go in miami!

For even more castles in Florida check out our post!!

Deering Estate

Similar to the Vizcaya, the Deering Estate is a 1920’s mansion belonging to a rich industrialist that has been beautifully preserved and turned into a museum for everyone to enjoy! Charles Deering made his fortune in Chicago at the head of his family’s farm equipment business

The mansion is one of the crown jewels that Florida Contributes to the National Registry of Historic Places, and is one of the best places to visit in Miami!

Being a man of such considerable wealth, Mr. Deering was an avid philanthropist, nature enthusiast, art collector, and preservationist. Today we are able to see the fruits of these passions, and it is an experience you will not want to miss!

Morikami Museum and Japanese Garden

Unbeknownst to most, there was once a small Japanese colony in what is now the Miami-Dade county area!

The Morikami Museum’s architecture is inspired by the Japanese style of villa, which features rooms that center around an open-air gravel garden. This stunning estate is one of the best places to visit in Miami!

The museum features over 7,000 cultural items such as art and tea ceremony items, which help the museum achieve its mission of presenting Japanese culture to the general public for education and dialogue.

In addition to the museum’s main building, the estate features 16 acres that have been transformed into a snapshot of the history of Japan’s gardens. Each garden reflects the style of a certain period, starting with the 8th century all the way up to present.

The gardens are a great place for reflection, especially if you’re looking for some calm after a crazy night out in Miami beach!

If you’re on the hunt for more flora-based fun and enjoyment, check out our post on prettiest botanical gardens in Florida for even more gorgeous green spaces!

Reader Interactions

[…] For suggestions on the many fun activities available in Miami, check out our post on fun things to do in Miami! […]

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best of Miami for free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy Miami without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Attractions
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Traveling to South Florida? Here's where to stay in Miami

Maximize your vacation with our breakdown of where to stay and what to do in Miami's best neighborhoods.

Repeat after us: Miami is not South Beach . Of course we love our world famous stretch of beachfront, but we have so many other great neighborhoods in which to stay and play, from the lush canopy lined streets of Coconut Grove to the more low key and lesser tapped creative enclave of MiMo.

Whether you’re popping in for the weekend or lucky enough to find yourself on an extended stay, Miami's coolest neighborhoods have something to offer every kind of traveler, from the  city’s best bars and restaurants  to world class  museums , and lush tropical parks  to unique Floridian attractions . Planning your trip or staycation? Here are the best areas to stay in Miami, along with the best things to do in each neighborhood.   

RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best  things to do in Miami 🏖️ The best  beachfro nt Airbnbs in Miami 🏡 The best  Airbnbs in South Beach   🛏 The best  Airbnbs in Miami 🧖🏽‍♀️ The best  spa hotels in Miami 😎 The best resorts in Miami

An email you’ll actually love

The best places to stay in Miami

South Beach

When the world hears the word Miami, they close their eyes and see South Beach . They see sloshing mojitos and miles of bright neon. They also see dollar signs— a lot of them. And they’re not entirely wrong. Miami’s biggest tourism hub still offers popped-collar nightlife and sandal-friendly sidewalk cafés. But the last decade has seen South Beach diversify in delightful ways. Locals no longer avoid it and tourists aren’t the only people wiggling toes in the sand. Nightlife options have grown plentiful and veered from the velvet rope elitism of the early 2000s. Now, each pocket of the neighborhood holds something new, and you’re as likely to find five-star dining, world-renowned cocktail dens and breathtaking art as you are a bartender wielding a water gun full of tequila. Welcome to the new South Beach.

You already know about Joe's Stone Crab. You're still on the waitlist for Carbone. If you're looking for a South Beach Restaurant that's as popular with locals as it is travelers, and is absolutely delicious without being over the top, weave through the crowds on Española Way and take an outdoor seat at The Drexel. Helmed by the same folks behind Mandolin Aegean Bistro, The Drexel offers clean and simple Mediterranean-leaning fare with a contemporary spin. Come here for wood-fired pizzas and meats, pastas, fresh seafood and delicious vegetable dishes.

Stubborn Seed

This South of Fifth restaurant (run by Top Chef winner Jeremy Ford) earned a Michelin star for its exquisite balance between relaxed comfort and culinary ambition. The menu changes with the seasons and ingredient availability, but expect regionally inspired dishes like crunchy truffle bravas and spring asparagus and blue crab noodles that are best experienced via Ford’s tasting menu. It’s, hands down, the best restaurant in South Beach.

Sweet Liberty Drinks & Supply Co.

Sweet Liberty is both a place to start and end your night—stop in early for $0.95 oysters and $10 drinks during happy hour or stumble in late for live music and plenty of dancing. Every cocktail on the menu is a home run, especially what’s usually an overpriced no-no around these parts, the piña colada. Sweet Liberty makes its own blend of spiced rums and coconut cream and finishes it with a special sherry floater. It's also a great place for thematic Sunday brunches: drag on the first, salsa on the second and smooth piano jams on the third of the month. 

Medium Cool

It’s funny – the best bars in Miami make you feel like you’re not in Miami. During Medium Cool’s consistent jazz nights (Wed – Sun at 7pm) it feels like you’re in a lower Manhattan basement. As the clock nears midnight, the venue turns into an intimate party with some of the best local DJs in town and a mixed bag of people and tunes – tourists dancing to 80s pop, young 20-somethings vibing to house music, classic cocktails splashing around. It’s fun and fancy at the same time. Then again, what would you expect from a bar that’s helmed by the people who bred Miami’s favorite bars: Sweet Liberty, Purdy Lounge, Blackbird Ordinary. But perhaps what’s so cool about Medium Cool is that it’s never trying too hard. In fact, it’s just cool enough.

Wolfsonian-FIU

For a touch of culture, go to the Wolfsonian-FIU. Its myriad exhibits span multiple floors and highlight global art and artifacts from the Industrial Revolution through WWII. On weekends, the place is crawling with creative types stopping in for free programming like live music, art workshops and film screenings.

Lincoln Road Mall

Lincoln Mall is two things. First, it's a mall with your standard stores: Zara, H&M, JCrew, even a Macy's. But more importantly, it's an architectural treasure trove in the heart of South Beach with enough cafés and entertainment to keep you delighted from morning to night. A great job has been done to preserve the Morris Lapidus-designed thoroughfare and the art deco buildings that dot the street, however Lincoln Road is very much rooted in modernity and one look at the 1111 Garage proves that. Sundays are the best days to go, as the Lincoln Road Antiques and Collectibles Market pops up twice a month between October and May. 

The Betsy Hotel

You could go big with a hotel but with so many boutique properties to choose from, The Betsy is our pick in South Beach. Situated on the quieter north end of the oceanfront Lummus Park, The Betsy boasts live jazz in its stylish lobby bar, plus cool art installations and a rooftop pool. There’s something about the conviviality of a good boutique that blends so well with the Art Deco vibes of SoBe. No 20-story elevator rides or doormen—just a few quick steps and you’re out in the salty air where you belong.

Esmé Miami Beach

Split over several Mediterranean Revival-style buildings on Española Way, Esmé Miami Beach will have you questioning: am I in Miami Beach or in Seville? Meander through the hotel's breezy paseos to find surprises at every corner, like  El Salon , a sultry rosewood-hued bar, or Sushi Bar, one of the city's   top omakase spots . There are also plenty of nooks in which to kick back, catch up on some work or read a book. Make your way up to the hotel's rooftop for a dip in the pool, breakfast or lunch al fresco, or to catch DJs and other fun programming all year round.

If you do just one thing…

Stay out until 5am. Nightlife is what made South Beach what it is today, so it’s only right that you go see it for yourself. You might as well go to a club if you’re planning on pulling an all-nighter since most don’t get going until 3am anyway. Try Story for a packed roster of famous DJs year-round or, for a truly interesting evening, Mac’s Club Deuce, the neighborhood’s oldest dive bar.

Downtown Miami

You can thank the party animals for Downtown Miami . Before they moved into the neighborhood, Club Space being the first to do so in 2000, the area was really quite depleted—a bunch of empty warehouses and not much else. But the momentum built on the backs of Downtown’s nightlife has snowballed into so much more.

These days, Downtown is experiencing a boom marked by a number of coming condos, restaurants and more. An arena, outdoor amphitheater and two giant museums also make it the home of many of Miami’s hottest events, concerts and music festivals. An added bonus: the Metromover and trolley system (both free) make the area perhaps the easiest to get around in the whole city. Downtown Miami is still on its way up, sure, but each month is bringing something new and exciting for you to taste, watch and experience.

Julia & Henry's

Named for Julia Tuttle and Henry Flagler, two City of Miami pioneers, this multi-story food hall resides in a large and historic building that once housed a department store. There's the usual food hall staples (pizza and burgers come to mind), but Julia & Henry’s covers a far wider spectrum, from Venetian tapas to Japanese hand rolls, a Jewish deli and Peruvian eats. The basement houses Jolene Sound Room, one of Miami's best places to hear electronic music. 

Tiny, dark and entirely without frills, NIU Wine is the charming sister spot to Downtown’s longtime foodie destination, NIU Kitchen. Whether you’re stopping in while you wait for your table next door or noshing before a night out, sipping natural and biodynamic wines over excellent small plates like shrimp aguachile or braised pork cheek will send you off feeling perfectly content and casually European.

Downtown Miami’s drinking culture runs deep, whether it’s the 5pm post-work crowd or the 5am post-club crowd. You’ll find both at the Corner, a dim cocktail bar right on the edge of all the nightlife action. Though the space is small, sidewalk seating helps ease the crowding and you can order drinks from a little cafecito window outside. The beer is good, the happy hour snacks are on point and the cocktails are much better than one might assume when taking in the bar from across the street.

A basically perfect bar that also stands on its own as a fantastic restaurant, Jaguar Sun is a small but lively offering curtained off on the ground floor of the X Miami. Expect serious, well-balanced cocktails served up in fun tiki vessels and vintage glassware, along with always friendly service and a reliably non-cheesy playlist. Even if you’re not particularly hungry, an order of the Parker House Rolls or spicy rigatoni is never a bad idea, especially after two or three Green Ghoul cocktails.

Pérez Art Museum Miami

Two of Downtown’s newest and most popular attractions are right next to each other: the Pérez Art Museum Miami (better known as PAMM) and the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science (better known as Frost Science). Over at PAMM, you can stroll through a stunning collection of modern and contemporary art, then chill out on the steps outback—which provides one of Miami’s best Biscayne Bay views.

Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science

Next door to PAMM is Frost Science, a family-friendly museum with enough to keep adults entertained as well. Pet a stingray, learn about space or catch a laser light show in the planetarium.

Eurostars Langford

Back in 1925, it was the Miami National Bank Building. Today, it’s the 126-room Langford. And though the front desk is still designed to look like a bank teller window, everything else in the hotel is new—down to the gold bathroom fixtures, mid-century-style furniture and converted trunks—but certainly designed with nostalgia in mind.

CitizenM Downtown

Looking to stay closer to the arena, Port of Miami and aforementioned museums? CitizenM Downtown recently opened, offering an ecclectically modern stay with both a sundeck and rooftop bar that tout stunning views of Biscayne Bay. 

If there’s a play, musician or comedian in town performing at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, grab a ticket. The performing arts center, home to the Florida Grand Opera and Miami City Ballet, is one of Miami’s grandest architectural landmarks and proves to be just as beautiful inside as it is on the outside.

Miami Beach

For quite some time, folks didn’t see much reason for going north of Lincoln Road on Miami Beach . There was South Beach and then that was it, right? Today, not so much. Miami Beach, and Mid-Beach specifically, holds some of Miami’s most celebrated hotels and boasts a growing roster of killer restaurants. Locals love it too, and they know that during some of Miami’s biggest events (like the glitzy Art Basel), it’s Mid-Beach—not South Beach—where you’ll find the city’s hottest parties. With the development of the new Faena District, that’s sure to be true for years to come.

27 Restaurant and Bar

Located on the same property as the Freehand Hotel and Broken Shaker bar, 27 has the dining room of your dreams, a cozy space that truly feels more like a house than a restaurant. Its menu uses local flavors and shifts accordingly based on what’s fresh and available. Expect straightforward simplicity, like the variety of baked and roasted vegetables on the menu (the oyster mushrooms arre a must) and novel surprises, like the kimchi fried rice and make-your-own arepas.

Matador Room

Chef Jean-George Vongerichten's Matador Room looks like the kind of place where you may have spotted Sinatra or Marilyn Monroe circa 1960, but the Art Deco decor and oversized supper-club-style booths is about where the retro influences end. The menu is a modern take on Caribbean, Spanish, Latin and South American cuisines, fusing them all to create something that is uniquely Miami. 

Broken Shaker

Part of the Freehand trinity, the Shaker is behind the city’s full embrace of craft cocktails. The bartenders put themselves on the map with creative concoctions and shareable punch bowls (which change seasonally) that taste even better when enjoyed in the bar’s lush backyard on a bright Miami afternoon—perhaps poolside, if you’re lucky enough to snag a seat. These days, there are many imitators, but to get a taste of authentic Miami cocktail culture, the Broken Shaker remains your best bet. 

The Living Room at Faena

If Zsa Zsa Gabor were drinking anywhere in South Beach, it would probably be here. The Living Room is no place to sit and chill; It's a place to see and be seen, where live music fills the room every night of the week and caviar bumps can be had alongside pricey cocktails. Come here as a preamble to dinner or for a sumptuously sexy nightcap to the evening. 

The Miami Beach nightclub is an experience everyone should undergo at least once in their life. LIV is for the velvet rope stargazer. On any given night, celebs pack the recently renovated club and dance under the hundreds of moving LED panels that line the ceiling. Each night brings something different at LIV, though its most popular evening remains Sunday’s popping hip-hop party during which anything is possible.

Fontainebleau Miami Beach

Two worlds collide at the Fontainebleau. Of course, you have the hotel’s old Miami charm and wonderful history. It’s where Frank Sinatra and his crew used to hang while in town. But it’s also on the cutting edge, home to Miami’s most powerful nightclub, LIV, and some truly stunning restaurants: the Chinese powerhouse Hakkasan and modern chophouse Prime 54. And don’t even get us started on the spa or the pools – all  11 of them.

Faena Hotel Miami Beach

The Faena Hotel Miami Beach is the new kid on the block and the centerpiece of Alan Faena’s new Faena District, a three-block strip of hotels, restaurants and performance venues. The gilded woolly-mammoth housed in the Faena’s courtyard should tell you everything you need to know about the hotel’s unapologetic elegance—crimson, velvet and animal prints are everywhere.

Go to the beach. Really—did you think we were going to forget about the one thing that has been driving people across Biscayne Bay for decades? The sands of Miami Beach—and Mid-Beach specifically—are wide, gorgeous and open for business 365 days a year (for free, of course). The pedestrian boardwalk runs from 23rd Street to 46th Street, so walk until you find a patch of sand that looks perfect and chill the eff out.

Little Havana

We'd be doing a poor job indeed if we failed to mention Miami's Cuban connections. Little Havana is probably the best-known Cuban-American neighborhood in the country, boasting all that is vibrant and wonderful (and tasty) about the culture. This Latin area formed in the 1960s with the arrival of Cuban refugees escaping Castro's regime, some of whom set up businesses that are still there today. Plus, thanks to campaigning by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, much of Little Havana's original architecture – historic bungalows, Mission Revival blocks and oolitic limestone facades—is being preserved. Marvel at the colourful buildings while you're there and look out for street parties, sweet cafecitos and crispy tostones.

Consult any travel guide, online list or hungry local about where to grab some Cuban food down in Little Havana and one name will always pop up: Versailles. It’s not hype. The food at Versailles is done with tradition in mind, and the result is classics such as croquetas, Cuban sandwiches and cafecito that have even the most hard-to-please viejos nodding in agreement.

Lung Yai Thai Tapas

Little Havana has some culinary surprises waiting, like this cozy Thai joint that serves small Thai bites, noodle and rice dishes until 1am on the weekends. Sign your name on a list by the door and prepare for an unconventional delicious dining experience.

Azucar Ice Cream Company

Little Havana’s famous ice cream shop is very worth the trip. With only-in-Miami flavors that are unique, creative and—above all else—delicious, this place does not disappoint. Don’t forget to pose with the huge ice cream cone sculpture outside.

Ball & Chain

Day, night, weekday or weekend—you’re going to Ball & Chain. Originally opened in 1935, the bar and music venue was renovated and restored in 2014 with its rich musical history in mind (Billie Holiday, Count Basie and Chet Baker have performed there). Equally as impressive is the drink menu, which features a pitch-perfect mojito and a Calle Ocho old-fashioned made with rum and garnished with a tobacco leaf.

Union Beer Store

If you’re a beer person, Union Beer Store provides a tasty dive into South Florida’s rich brewing culture. The small bar has world-class beer on tap and a couple of free arcade games to help pass the time. Depending on the day of the week, some of Miami’s best food pop-ups feature here too, including Haochi (dim sum), Panolo’s (Cuban with vegan options) and Peacock Ramen.

Named one of the best bars in the world, La Trova is the hub of cantineros (Cuban bartenders) in America, thanks in no small part to Julio Cabrera's influence. Dining and drinking here is an expereince, as salsa bands take the stage every night and it's not unusual for bartenders and patrons alike to break into dance in between courses and rounds. But it's not all són and dance. Stay late and check out the 80s themed bar in the back.  

CubaOcho Museum & Performing Arts Center

Don’t leave Little Havana without catching some live Cuban music. There’s no better place to do just that than at CubaOcho, a Cuban-owned art gallery, cafe, performing arts space and bar that showcases, among many other things, live salsa in an intimate setting. Dancing is encouraged. Rum is essential.

Life House, Little Havana

This new boutique hotel is a first of its kind in Little Havana, which has only recently become a massive tourist destination. Life House is perfect for those looking for something a little more hip and curated. There’s live music programming and a popular rooftop bar, Terras, that boasts some of the best skyline views of the city at sunset.

Book your stay during Viernes Culturales , which takes place on the last Friday of the month. This monthly block party has grown in popularity along with the neighborhood. All night long, local vendors and live musicians fill the area while hundreds of people flow up and down Calle Ocho. There are food and dancing as far as the eye can see.

Turn around for five minutes and there’s another skyscraper standing tall in Brickell — construction cranes dot the skyline and there’s always a jackhammer echoing through the wind. On certain blocks, it feels more like Manhattan than Miami. Such is life in Brickell, the city’s financial district and one of Miami’s fastest-growing areas. Just about everything in the neighborhood is brand-spanking-new, which makes it a great place to take the pulse of Miami’s vibrant future. And it’s not just towering condos and office buildings going up either; restaurants, hotels, bars and retail meccas are all pouring into Brickell with remarkable speed, making it an essential destination for anyone visiting the city.

It’s hard to decide what’s cooler about La Mar. Is it the view of Biscayne Bay and the Downtown skyline—which is just dazzling, by the way. Or is it the upscale Peruvian food from chef Gastón Acurio—which is equally as dazzling. Thankfully, you don’t have to choose and can enjoy both at one of Brickell’s best restaurants.

Chic is one way to describe LPM. Delicious is another.  This French Bistro on Brickell Bay Drive is a breeze of fresh air in the neighborhood, a light-filled space of Parisian sensibilities where the food is just as great as the ambiance. Their tomatini cocktail is practically a neighborhood icon, and on offer is one of the juciest chickens in town. LPM just introduced a fabulous new Sunday pre-fixe brunch, with unlimited starters and cocktails (or mocktails) and delightful AM fare. 

This elegant (if a bit pricey) lounge 40 floors up on the scalp of East, Miami combines the neighborhood’s penchant for elaborate cocktails and seductive views. Lines form quickly on the weekend, so an early happy hour might be your best bet here. 

Kaori is a two-story Asian and Mediterranean restaurant in the heart of Brickell with a sleek and sexy cocktail bar on the first floor and an elegantly warm Japandi-style dining room on the second. It’s known for its high quality craft cocktails, insanely delicious dishes and nightly sound sessions. 

El Tucán

This gorgeous, jungle-themed Miami venue is now home to one of Miami’s most festive supper clubs. Asian-inspired plates are paired alongside acrobatics, cabaret and loud music that’ll have you wondering whether you’re in a restaurant or nightclub. The answer? A little of both.

EAST, Miami

The first Miami hotel from Hong Kong’s Swire Properties, East is a faithful reflection of the small urban neighborhood: state-of-the-art and shiny with breathtaking views at every bend, plus food and drink options aplenty.

You must walk through the Brickell City Centre , even if only to window shop. The megamall/entertainment complex holds five million square feet of stores and a $30 million roof designed to manipulate Miami’s brutal heat. Simply put, the City Centre is really neat.

Coconut Grove

A verdant and upscale waterfront swath fighting to hang on to its bohemian roots, Miami’s historic Coconut Grove neighborhood has undergone a transformation over the last couple of decades, swapping out many of its colorful cottages and quaint bungalows for sleek highrise condos and boxy “sugar cube” houses. Still, increased development along the bay –  including a completely reimagined CocoWalk open-air mall and a couple of modern hotels – has invigorated this once-sleepy enclave for families and University of Miami students. Roam the east end of the neighborhood’s leafy, brick-paved sidewalks to find an eclectic mix of shopping, dining and green spaces, along with a few tried-and-true dives and a lively Saturday farmers’ market.

Krüs Kitchen

Located in the same narrow two-story space, Krüs Kitchen and Los Felix both earned nods from the Michelin Guide in 2022. Boasting a relaxed, minimalist design and vinyl DJs on the weekends, each concept is pretty swoonworthy, but Krüs offers a bit more bang for your buck. Stop by for elevated handhelds like a prosciutto sandwich made with truffle stracciatella and confit eggplant. Make it a picnic at nearby Peacock Park by pairing your meal with a bottle of natural wine to-go. Or dine-in to explore a variety of proper entrees and the funky artisanal market upstairs.

Much fanfare has been made over the pressed duck at chef Michael Beltran’s Coconut Grove gem, Ariete. The tableside show that involves the churning and reducing of innards into a decadent sauce to accompany a series of otherworldly duck dishes isn’t just a novelty—it’s an art form. But there are more surprising dishes to explore at this daring New-American spot with classic cocktails, warm service and an understated ambiance.

Monty’s Raw Bar

Overlooking the marina, this popular Grove hangout is a sweet spot for cold beers, stiff drinks and casual seafood. On Friday afternoons find a rowdy happy hour crowd (heavy with thirsty UM kids) eagerly slurping up strong frozen drinks. For a more family-friendly vibe, come on the weekends, order a basket of fried seafood and a pitcher of beer for yourself and send the kids off to dance to the live music.

In a sea of college dives and upscale gastrobars, the Taurus stands out. This cool little whiskey joint serves an extensive selection of scotches, bourbons and all sorts of caramel-colored spirits—ranging in flavor from smooth to put-hair-on-your-chest strong. They also have a wide selection of beers on tap and bottled, plus a large outdoor patio and one of the best burgers in town.

Coconut Grove Organic Market

This long-running open-air farmers’ market sets up shop every Saturday, bringing in tons of fresh produce from Homestead along with dozens of stands proferring everything from prepared foods and cold-pressed juices to locally harvested honey, homemade soaps, vegan treats and vintage wares. Plenty of shaded picnic tables offer a respite for enjoying your loot.

Mr. C Miami - Coconut Grove

A popular choice both for couples and families, Mr. C is a new boutique hotel with 100 guest rooms and suites boasting updated amenities and breezy outdoor terraces. Ultra-modern without lacking personality, the building was designed by famed Miami firm Arquitectonica and is ideally positioned for walkability to all the neighborhood’s best spots. On the rooftop, Bellini Restaurant and Bar is an incredible perch for enjoying classic Italian fare with sweeping bay and city views.

Mayfair House Hotel & Garden

Mayfair House recently underwent extensive renovations, and while many things have changed throughout the property – like the addition of Sip Sip, a tropical rooftop bar, and Mayfair Grill, a Mexican restaurant serving Sonoran cuisine – the lush atrium lobby with art nuveau trimmings remains, albeit with modern furnishings. Should you find yourself a  repeat customer of the Mayfair House Hotel & Garden, no two rooms are the same, however each is designed to feel  like mini private homes complete with a terrace and separate dining and living areas.

Support local. As more and more chains move in, some of the neighborhood’s most iconic institutions are at risk of being pushed out. But it’s the Grove’s locally owned small businesses that continue to give the neighborhood its identity and appeal. Instead of Starbucks, grab a potent cold brew and almond croissant from Panther Coffee, then pop in next door to browse the offerings at homegrown literary hub Books & Books .

Upper Eastside/MiMO

This funky neighborhood technically runs up Biscayne Boulevard starting from the Julia Tuttle Causeway and ending somewhere around 86th Street. Encompassing some of the city’s best examples of Miami Modern (MiMo) architecture, the Upper East Side is characterized by playful mid-century hotels and condos, along with a smattering of bars, restaurants, shops and plenty of beautiful historic homes. Upper East Side also touches several more of Miami’s up-and-coming neighborhoods, like the Design District, Little Haiti and Little River. All within a short drive or walk of each other, these pockets are increasingly becoming coveted destinations for visitors and locals alike.

Mandolin Aegean Bistro

Everyone’s go-to restaurant for a casually upscale al fresco lunch or dinner, Mandolin continues to charm with its simply prepared, fresh ingredients. Its atmosphere is incomparable, calling to mind summers on the windswept Aegean coast. Traditional mezzes, whole fried fish and freshly batched sangria invite guests to come in crisp linens and flowy caftans to sit, unwind and enjoy.

This retro-designed Michelin-starred spot in a Little Haiti shopping plaza only has 24 seats, so reservations are a must. At the black-and-white terrazzo counter, you can spy chefs Luciana Giangrandi and Alex Meyer doing their thing as Neil Young and Paul McCartney songs play on the speakers. The seasonal, ingredient-driven menu is meant for sharing—among our favorites, the beef tartare topped with a crunchy garlic-shallot crumble and crispy capers.

For a city that prides itself on being international, we’ve always lacked a place where we can discover international music. Thank God for ZeyZey. This outdoor venue in Little River feels like it’s been airdropped from the Caribbean and every night you’re guaranteed to hear genres and sounds that just open your world. There's Latin disco funk, pure salsa, afrobeats, electro Cumbia – plus plenty of community events like salsa classes, tasteful arts and crafts and more. ZeyZey is the come-as-you-are music venue Miami’s been missing. We’ll see you on the dance floor soon.

Alejandro Vigil, the “Messi of Wines” according to Michelin Guide, has opened his popular Argentine restaurant, Casa Vigil, in Upper Buena Vista , a Tulum-esque shopping plaza with micro boutiques touting vintage, new age goods, and more. Casa Vigil is poised to be the place to learn about wine, particularly when you run through the five-course Mediterranean-inspired tasting menu, which comes with three levels of wine pairings.

Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami

A free contemporary art museum in the heart of one of the city’s most affluent shopping hubs? It doesn’t make a lot of sense, but it also doesn’t need to. Since its opening, the privately owned ICA museum has hosted countless heavy-hitters like Yayoi Kusama, Dan Flavin, Judy Chicago and Betye Saar. What it lacks in size, the petite museum more than makes up for in community-driven parties and programming throughout the year.

Sweat Records

This beloved local indie record shop and cafe is a longstanding hub where music fans come together to discover new sounds, exchange ideas and support the local arts community. Expect assorted indie, electronic, local gems, underground and undiscovered kitsch, available in cassette, CD or LP. Around the corner, stop in at Primaried Studio to browse a tightly curated selection of vintage furniture and homewares with a postmodern bent.

The Vagabond Hotel

A pioneer in the revitalization of the Upper East Side’s previously neglected MiMo motels, Vagabond nails the irreverent 1950s tropical aesthetic without going over the top, or skipping out on the modern amenities. At the center of the bi-level property is a pristine mosaic pool, whose iconic tile mermaid was restored from the original. Most of the rooms are small, fitting only an armoire rather than a full closet, but comfortable and contemporary. On property, enjoy laidback Mediterranean fare from Mr. Mandolin , a more fast casual sibling restaurant to the coveted Mandolin Aegean Bistro.

Browse the impressive public art and high-end shops around the Design District. The pristine, tree-shaded sidewalks are activated year-round with cool interactive installations, including pieces by Studio Proba, Buckminster Fuller and the late Virgil Abloh. Enjoy an iced matcha from Pura Vida  as you window shop, or stop in for liquid courage in the form of a Michael’s Genuine dirty martini before pulling the trigger on some designer splurges.

Known for blocks upon blocks of incredible, world-renowned murals, Wynwood is a neighborhood dedicated to the pursuit of fun, creativity and pleasure. Around every corner, you’ll find interesting shops, great restaurants (and the scene's getting even better), vibey bars fit for every mood and a number of Miami’s top breweries. Plus, it’s filled with tons of activities for everyone in the family, making it a great destination to explore from morning all the way into the wee hours of... the next morning.

Marygolds by Brad Kilgore

While some restaurants are all about views or ambiance, MaryGold's exists largely as a home for Brad Kilgore, one of Miami's most try-anything chefs. That's not to say the vibe here isn't memorable, because it's a beautiful space full of barstools and banquettes and tufted armchairs so comfy you'll want to make them your permanent address. But mostly, you come here for Kilgore's dishes, which mix new-to-us ingredients with tweezered plating that's simply stunning.

Hiden is a top-secret omakase counter tucked behind the back of the unassuming Taco Stand. Only a handful of diners can sit at the counter so reservations are a must (and hard to come by). The day of, you’ll receive a code that’ll get you in the door. It's steep, at $300 per person, but Hiden does offer an undeniably cool dining experience. You'll get unique, made-to-order sushi and cooked dishes served by true pros. Oh, and you'll get to pick your own sake vessel from an assortment of adorable vintage cups.

Dante's Hi-Fi

Miami’s first vinyl listening bar is a cozy 50-seat venue where the soundtrack is just as important as what you’ll be sipping. Dante’s HiFi draws inspiration from Japan’s listening bars, which came to prominence in the 1950s, where people would come together to listen to and discover new music. It’s a simple pleasure the hidden Wynwood bar endeavors to reprise for Miami’s music-curious, thanks to a state-of-the-art sound system and a growing collection of nearly 8,500 vinyl records curated by DJ and Dante’s musical director, Rich Medina.

The Sylvester

This cozy, unassuming hodgepodge of vintage couches and retro Florida accents could’ve been a Golden Girls set. It's no surprise then that drinking at the Sylvester feels like you’re hanging at the house of a buddy with excellent mixology skills and a penchant for tropical wallpaper. Pass the time playing pool, poking around the pinball machine. At night, this place gets packed with locals sipping cocktails and bumping up against each other as they dance into the morning. 

Bakehouse Art Complex

Set in an old industrial bakery, the Bakehouse Art Complex has been fostering emerging artists for over 30 years. With around 100 resident and associate artists and 60 studios to explore, you’ll be inspired (and even perplexed) by all the different themes, mediums and practices to explore—whether on canvas or a hypothetical stage. Bakehouse is open daily from noon to 5pm and admission is free.

Wynwood Walls

Launched during Art Basel, what began as a few commissioned murals to beautify the area has morphed into the city’s only outdoor street art park, featuring more than 40 murals from a roster of world-renowned artists, including Shepard Fairey, Ryan McGuinness, Kenny Scharf, How and Nosm, Faile, Retna, the Date Farmers and Liqen.

Arlo Wynwod

Wynwood's first and only hotel, Arlo Wynwood offers an experience-driven stay with tons to do on property. Take a break from urban life and lounge in your own cabana by the pool, enjoy cocktails at Higher Ground, jump in on a class at the yoga deck or zip around the neighborhood on a complimentary bike.

If you only do one thing...

Walk around! We know, we know: that’s a copout answer. But we can’t name a better neighborhood for endless exploration and discovery, especially with so many world-class murals just footsteps away from each other. Pop in and out of the amazing boutiques, refuel at one of the neighborhood’s best restaurants, then spend the day or night drinking and dancing with friends at Wynwood’s best bars. And if it’s your first time visiting—or even your first time in a while—be sure to pop by Wynwood Walls, the outdoor museum that started it all.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Copyright agent
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

Time Out magazine

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Where to Stay in Miami: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Miami , a vibrant metropolis on Florida’s southeastern coast, is known for its sun-soaked beaches, pulsating nightlife, and rich culture that blends Latin American and Caribbean influences. There’s a ton to see and do here, from exploring South Beach’s iconic, pastel-hued Art Deco buildings to kayaking in the Everglades.

There’s a lot of diverse and vibrant neighborhoods to explore, but choosing where to stay will greatly influence your visit as each area offers a unique atmosphere, culture, and attractions. (Plus, traffic can be brutal at times, so you don’t want to spend all your time (and money) getting around.)

To help you choose which is best for you, here’s my list of the best neighborhoods in Miami for visitors:

Table of Contents

Where to Stay in Miami for Nightlife: South Beach

Where to stay in miami for sightseeing: downtown, where to stay in miami for foodies: brickell, where to stay in miami for arts & culture: wynwood and the design district, where to stay in miami for families: coconut grove.

Since South Beach attracts a diverse crowd of locals, tourists, celebrities, and partygoers from all over the world, you’re sure to meet an interesting mix of people here. Plus, after a night out, you can satisfy your cravings with delicious late-night eats at the numerous restaurants and food trucks that dot the neighborhood.

Best places to stay in South Beach:

• BUDGET : Viajero Miami – This design-forward hostel is just a block from the beach and offers a host of amenities, including a library co-working space and three swimming pools. The poolside bar is a fun place to hang out and meet people while sipping on a specialty cocktail. The dorms rooms are spacious and clean with comfy beds that have privacy curtains and lockers.
• MIDRANGE : Hotel Ocean – Located on Ocean Drive just steps from the beach, this small hotel features an airy, beachy design, with spacious rooms that have a desk, mini fridge, and flatscreen TV. The recently renovated bathrooms are huge and many have both tubs and a shower. There’s a lovely restaurant on-site and complimentary bikes should you want to get out and explore.
• LUXURY : The Betsy – This luxe five-star boutique hotel is renowned for its Art Deco–inspired design and personalized service. The rooms and suites are adorned with curated original artwork and luxurious features, like hardwood floors and marble bathrooms with walk-in showers. The hotel also has a gorgeous rooftop pool and lounge area, a fitness center with Peloton bikes, a cozy library, and several eateries. It is just steps from the beach and offers private beach service (chairs, umbrellas, and loungers). It’s one of the nicest non-chain luxury hotels in the area.

If your main reason for coming to Miami is to lounge on the beach but you want a quieter neighborhood than South Beach, head to Mid Beach. This area features a picturesque stretch of shoreline lined with palm trees and dotted with chic beach clubs and waterfront restaurants. It is also known for its luxurious resorts, boutique hotels, and upscale condominiums. The best budget spot to stay in the area is Freehand Miami . It has a pool, and also offers shuttles to Little Havana and tours to Key West and the Everglades (among other places). This upbeat hostel with two bars is also just five minutes from the beach. Overall, it’s a good choice for travelers who want a social hostel that isn’t too wild.  

If you’re in town to visit museums and see the main sights, you’ll want to stay here. Moreover, it’s easy to explore the rest of the city from downtown, thanks to the multiple modes of transit available (Metrorail, Metromover, and Tri-Rail).

Best places to stay Downtown:

• BUDGET : Selina Miami River – Just across the river from downtown, this upscale hostel has a stylish design, featuring art installations, communal areas that encompass a co-working space and outdoor pool, and organized events (such as morning yoga classes). Both private rooms and dorms with pod-style beds and are really private and comfy. You get a lot of value here. It’s one of the best budget spots in the city.
• MIDRANGE : YOTEL Miami – In an area with mostly luxury properties, this four-star hotel is the best midrange option around. It has a sleek and modern design with a very Miami aesthetic (think bright, bold colors) and amenities that include a swimming pool, hot tub, fitness center, and restaurant. There are both rooms and full apartments to choose from; both feature adjustable SmartBeds, wireless charging stations, and spacious bathrooms with rainfall showers.
• LUXURY : InterContinental Miami – This five-star hotel boasts a stylish and contemporary design with sweeping views of Biscayne Bay. Its spacious rooms are elegant, featuring plush bedding, flatscreen TVs, and minibars. The marble bathrooms have rainfall showers and luxurious bath products. Hotel facilities include a spa, a 24-hour fitness center, a large outdoor pool, EV charging stations, and several eateries (including one that serves an outstanding daily breakfast buffet and Sunday brunch).

Brickell also has easy access to cultural attractions and is a great place to stay if you want an urban experience with excellent dining and cocktail bars at your fingertips. It’s got a much more “local vibe” than other parts of the city.

Best places to stay in Brickell:

• BUDGET : Smart Brickell Hotel – This three-star hotel offers sleek, furnished suites and apartments with lots of natural light thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows. All suites have at least a living room, and apartments come with a full kitchen. Hotel amenities include two rooftop swimming pools, a fitness center, a sauna, and a spa, as well as a restaurant/café. Overall, I think it’s a great value for the area.
• MIDRANGE : citizenM Miami Brickell – Located in the heart of Brickell, citizenM has all kinds of colorful artwork and murals throughout, including “Cosmic Connection,” a huge mural adorning the exterior of the building, created by Miami native Jen Stark. The rooms have fluffy pillows and blackout blinds, and are well soundproofed so you can get a good sleep. All rooms are also equipped with a tablet from which you can control various settings, including lighting, temperature, and entertainment choices. The hotel features an expansive rooftop with a pool and bar, plenty of common areas (including co-working spaces), and a restaurant serving a delicious daily breakfast buffet that caters to all diets.
• LUXURY : SLS Brickell – This five-star hotel, renowned for its chic design and impeccable service, is a tranquil oasis amid the bustle. The rooms are huge and decorated with relaxing light pastel colors. The spacious bathrooms have large tubs as well as rainfall showers with excellent pressure. With a world-class spa, a huge outdoor pool, and a restaurant and fitness center on-site, you’re guaranteed a lavish and unforgettable stay.

However, Wynwood is relatively small and there aren’t a lot of hotels there. For more accommodation choices, head to the nearby Design District. It’s artsy in a more upscale way than Wynwood, a haven for cutting-edge art galleries, design museums, and luxury shopping.

Best places to stay in Wynwood/Design District:

• BUDGET : Art Gardens Hostel – While this hostel is not technically in the heart of Wynwood (it’s in the next neighborhood over), it’s by far the best budget-friendly option in the area. It’s a quiet hostel (no alcohol allowed on site) offering both dorms and private rooms with shared bathrooms that are always kept sparkling clean. The rooms are basic (the dorms have cheap metal bunks), but everything is clean and comfortable. The hostel also has a shared kitchen and an outdoor patio with plenty of comfy spots to hang out in.
• MIDRANGE : Hampton Inn & Suites Wynwood Design District – This is like all your standard Hampton Inns. Equidistant from both Wynwood and the Design District, this hotel offers a lot for the price: an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and an excellent and varied breakfast. While the rooms are a bit bland in design, they’re well equipped, with a work desk and ergonomic chair, coffee makers, mini-refrigerators, and microwaves. The shower pressure wasn’t particularly great, but overall, this is a solid midrange choice in an otherwise pricey area.
• LUXURY : Sentral Wynwood – This four-star aparthotel offers spacious units with fully equipped kitchens (including a dining area, dishwasher, oven, microwave, and coffee machine), living room, and a private bathroom complete with a hairdryer, bath or shower, and complimentary toiletries. The units have a modern and minimal design, with flatscreen TVs with streaming services and a washer/dryer. The hotel has a stunning rooftop pool, a fitness center, and even Teslas for short-term rental. This is an ideal accommodation if you’re staying in Miami for a while as you get all the amenities of an apartment and hotel combined. The hotel has a co-working space too.

Best places to stay in Coconut Grove:

• BUDGET : Hampton Inn – Coconut Grove/Coral Gables – There are no hostels in this area (and you probably wouldn’t want to stay here if you’re on a budget anyway). The Hampton Inn is the best budget-friendly accommodation, offering a great free breakfast (with a waffle station), complimentary coffee and tea in the lobby 24/7, a tranquil outdoor pool, and a fitness center. While the design is nothing to write home about, it’s a comfortable and clean hotel with helpful in-room amenities like a mini fridge and microwave, as well as large bathrooms with walk-in showers.
• MIDRANGE : Hotel Arya – This waterfront hotel boasts an outdoor pool, a hot tub, and a sauna. While the rooms are a bit dated, they’re quite spacious and have mini-fridges, workspaces, and flatscreen TVs; some even have kitchenettes and balconies with views over the city. The hotel is in the heart of CocoWalk, the neighborhood’s main street, which has lots of fantastic restaurants and shops.
• LUXURY : The Mayfair – This five-star boutique hotel is housed in a historic Mediterranean-style building, exuding Old World charm and elegance. Each of its spacious rooms and suites is uniquely designed and decorated, with rich colors, curated artwork, and luxurious furnishings (like mahogany desks and plush couches); they also have large bathrooms with rainfall showers. There’s a tranquil rooftop pool (with an accompanying bar) surrounded by lush tropical gardens, an acclaimed restaurant serving up gourmet cuisine (including a stellar Sunday brunch with live music), complimentary bikes, and a 24/7 fitness center. This is one of the best hotels for a truly luxurious experience.

Whether you’re here to eat your way through the city’s eclectic cuisine, dance in trendy nightclubs, or simply lounge on the beach enjoying the year-round sunshine, Miami offers an unforgettable escape. Each of its unique neighborhoods has its own charm and attractions, so you’ll want to choose the area that serves your taste and needs best. Choose one from the list above and you’ll have a fantastic stay in the Magic City!

Book Your Trip to Miami: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay elsewhere, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel – and I think will help you too!

Looking for More Information on Visiting Miami? Check out my in-depth destination guide to Miami with more tips on what to see and do, costs, ways to save, and much, much more!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

Related Posts

Get my best stuff sent straight to you!

Pin it on pinterest.

The best things to do in Miami: feel the heat at these 21 hotspots

Dec 20, 2021 • 10 min read

South Beach is known for its colorful lights and beautiful art deco architecture © Meinzahn/Getty Images

Beautiful beaches and art deco delights are just some of Miami's many charms – there's also the blazing nightlife, tropical gardens, lively arts scene and sizzling cuisine.

If you're planning to make a trip to The Magic City , here are some of the best things to do to make the most from your time there.

Sizzle on South Beach 

South Beach  is everything Miami is known for – the sparkling beach, beautiful art deco architecture, top-end boutiques and buzzing bars and restaurants. Its glamour, but you'll also find some great down-to-earth bars, good eats and excellent museums. The section of beach running from 5th to 15th Sts is usually the busiest, but you can head south to a quieter area known as SoFi.

If you’re interested in escaping the crowds and the pressure to look fabulous, North Beach will fit the bill. People-spotting aside, this is generally a higher quality of beach. Places such as Haulover Beach Park are pretty enough to serve as your screensaver, and if you really fancy a complete tan, there’s a clothing-optional beach here too.

 Top 9 beaches in Miami

Gallery hop in Wynwood

Miami’s hippest residents pop into South Beach clubs occasionally, but for years the ultimate cool-kid activity has been the neighborhoods of Wynwood and the Design District .

Wynwood is very popular with travelers and has lots of street art and many galleries, and every month these outposts throw open their doors on a night of art openings – a showcase for some of the rising stars in the art world. Wine flows as the crowd hops from gallery to gallery. Then there's the Design District, which is a high-end shopping area with a couple of great little art museums.

Embrace Miami's lively nightlife  

Miami's nightlife is as diverse as its population, so you’ll find brassy Latin jazz joints, buzzing microbreweries, friendly neighborhood pubs, stylish rooftop lounges, creatively-configured cocktail dens, open-air music jams in backyard bars and bass-heavy nightclubs where the dance party continues well into the next day.

There’s a feast for all seasons when it comes to partying north of Downtown Miami. The bars, pubs and clubs here, which stretch from the edge of artsy Wynwood to the Upper East Side, run a veritable gamut of styles. Choose from posh lounges draped with pretty people, gay dive bars where karaoke is often on the menu and converted studio spaces that host live-music venues.

Explore Art Deco beauties

Like all great cities, Miami and Miami Beach have a distinctive architectural style and art deco is their aesthetic signature – you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better concentration of it outside of this city. The style is an early 20th-century expression of an aesthetic that embodies an anti-traditional elegance and symbolizes wealth, progress and sophistication.

The world-famous Art Deco Historic District is pure exuberance: the architecture of bold lines, whimsical tropical motifs and a color palette that evokes the beauty of Miami's landscape. The design of each art deco building is different, and it's hard not to be captivated when strolling among these restored beauties from a bygone era.

Shuck oysters like a pro 

With the ocean at its doorstep and the gulf nearby, Miami has access to incredible seafood. You’ll have the opportunity to feast on some of the best ingredients plucked straight from the ocean. You can slurp fresh-shucked oysters at a bar in South Beach, sample creative takes on softshell crab in Wynwood and feast on fresh-grilled fish at a waterfront eatery overlooking Key Biscayne.

17 best free things to do in Miami

Scope out Miami's contemporary art scene

The Rubell family's private art collection made Miami synonymous with the contemporary art scene, and their Wynwood museum helped set the stage for that neighborhood's gentrification. Rubell Museum has now relocated to Allapattah, where an enormous campus has been converted into one of the largest private contemporary art institutions in North America. The sleek museum consists of some 100,000 square feet of soaring exhibition space divided into 40 galleries, and artists on display include Kehinde Wiley, Jeff Koons, Cindy Sherman and Cady Noland.

Celebrate Miami Beach Pride

Usually held in April (although 2021's event will take place in September), Miami Beach Pride proudly flies the rainbow flag high in celebration of the unique spirit and culture of the LGBTIQ+ community. The multi-day celebration of arts and culture includes a lively weekend festival featuring two stages with celebrity entertainers, DJs and special events, and it culminates in a colorful street parade along Ocean Drive.

Catch a show at Barnacle Historic State Park

Coconut Grove was once a hippie colony and is a pleasant place to explore, with intriguing shops and cafés and a walkable village-like vibe. Barnacle Historic State Park is located in the center of Coconut Grove village and is a shady oasis for strolling. It also hosts frequent moonlight concerts, ranging from jazz to classical. You can visit Ralph M. Munroe House, the former residence of the late pioneer and noted yacht designer, which was built in 1891 and is open for guided tours.

Best day trips from Miami 

Nab a deal during Miami Museum Month 

Held through the month of May each year, Miami Museum Month offers an excellent chance to see and hang out in some of the best museums in the city. Participating museums offer an array of different deals, including two-for-one admission or half-off ticket prices, and the program is a great way to see the latest offerings at popular venues in the midst of happy hours, special exhibitions and lectures.

Sip a mojito in Little Havana

One of Miami's most famous neighborhoods, Little Havana is populated by more than Cubans. Spanish speakers from all across Latin America mingle on Calle Ocho, otherwise known as “8th St”, one of the most colorful, culturally vibrant thoroughfares in the country. It helps to speak some Spanish, but it doesn’t matter if you don’t. Just don your finest guayabera (Cuban shirt), order a mojito or a tall tropical fruit juice, and place your finger on Miami’s multicultural pulse.

Marvel at Coral Gables Mansions

Coral Gables is called the “City Beautiful” and with good reason. Miami is often associated with gaudiness, but Coral Gables takes this cliché and turns it on its head. Yes, houses here are opulent and some are admittedly over the top, but many are gorgeous executions of a Mediterranean-revival style that blends the best of Iberian villas, Moroccan riads and Roman pleasure domes.

Some say the grandest jewel in the city’s crown is the Biltmore , which was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1996. Built in 1925, the hotel encapsulates the two initially disparate vibes of the Jazz Age: brilliant flashiness and elegant dignity. Today the majestic grounds are prowled by the well-to-do and the ghosts of guests past. And we don’t just mean the Biltmore captures the essence of its heyday; some say spirits haunt the halls.

How to get around Miami 

A little fun for the kiddies  

Located between South Beach and Downtown Miami, Miami Children's Museum isn’t exactly a museum but more like a very cool playhouse. It has areas for kids to practice all sorts of activities, such as banking, food shopping, caring for pets and acting as a local cop or firefighter. Adults must be accompanied by children, and vice versa.

Other imaginative areas let kids make music, go on undersea adventures, make wall sketches, explore a little castle made of colored glass or simply play on outdoor playgrounds.

Go back in time at the Deering Estate 

The Deering Estate was built by businessman, art collector and philanthropist, Charles Deering. Its 150-acre grounds are awash with tropical growth, an animal-fossil pit of bones dating back 50,000 years and the remains of Native Americans who lived here 2000 years ago. There’s a free tour of the grounds at 3pm included in admission, and the estate often hosts jazz evenings under the stars.

Experience Superblue Miami

A groundbreaking immersive art center has just opened in Miami, with blockbuster shows, attention-grabbing exhibitions and headline acts. Tapping into the growing trend of multisensory experiences, Superblue Miami is hosting large-scale works by Japanese art collective teamLab, known for their exhibitions that combine technology, nature and light.

Duke and Ella's playground 

Duke Ellington and Ella Fitzgerald once walked across the stage of the Lyric, a major stop on the “Chitlin’ Circuit” – the black live-entertainment trail of pre-integration USA. As time passed, both the theater and Overtown, the neighborhood it served, fell into disuse. Then the Black Archives History & Research Foundation of South Florida took over the building. Today, the Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater hosts occasional shows, while the foundation hosts exhibitions exploring Black American heritage.

Miami EcoAdventures

Miami EcoAdventures offers guided excursions for nature lovers and enthusiasts and trips depart from different locations in the city. The Dade County parks system leads a variety of tours, including excellent bike tours on Key Biscayne and out in the Everglades. You can also go on one of six different canoe trips, out on the Oleta River, on the Matheson Mangrove trek or paddling to Indian Key down in the Keys. There's also kayaking, snorkeling trips, walking tours and birdwatching.

A tropical escape 

If you need to escape Miami’s madness, consider a green day in Fairchild Tropical Garden . Its butterfly grove, tropical plant conservatory and gentle vistas of marsh and keys habitats are all stunning, plus there are frequent art installations from artists like Roy Lichtenstein. In addition to easy-to-follow, self-guided walking tours, a free 45-minute tram tours the entire park.

The Wings of the Tropics exhibition is a favorite among the garden's youngest visitors, and it's where hundreds of butterflies flutter freely through the air, the sheen of their wings glinting in the light. There are some 40 different species represented, and visitors can also watch in real time as chrysalises emerge as butterflies at Vollmer Metamorphosis Lab.

When to visit Miami  

Pérez Art Museum Miami

One of Miami's most impressive spaces, Pérez Art Museum Miami integrates tropical foliage, glass, concrete and wood. This melding of tropical vitality and fresh modernism stages some of the best contemporary exhibitions in the city with established artists and impressive newcomers.

The permanent collection rotates through unique pieces every few months – drawing from a treasure trove of work spanning the last 80 years. The temporary shows and retrospectives bring major crowds, and the outdoor space has hanging gardens that took an entire two months to create.

Do it all on Key Biscayne

Although it's an easy drive – or even a bike ride – from Downtown Miami, Key Biscayne feels like a world removed from the big-city bustle. This island has some lovely beaches, pretty nature walks and outdoor adventure aplenty, whether taking long beach walks, cycling its length or paddling out among the mangroves to look for manatees off Virginia Key. For a refreshing dose of nature, head to Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park for scenic walks and frolics on the untouched seashore, or chill out on the lovely Crandon Park Beach.

Avant-garde dining

Miami is a city that loves its indulgences, and the greatest of these is a fine meal. If you really want to tantalize your taste buds, go to its culinary frontier: Wynwood and surrounds. In restaurants that range from rustic, vintage-filled taverns to swanky high-end dining rooms, you’ll find creative chefs at the helm, hard at work refining whatever it is they do best. This includes Japanese wood-fired cooking, high-end tacos, Hawaiian-style poke, vegan grain and salad bowls, gourmet donuts and perfectly buttery croissants.

Attend a trendy party at Art Basel

Held at the Miami Beach Convention Center, Art Basel Miami Beach draws thousands of art dealers, artists, collectors and aficionados to the city during the fair held every December. It's one of the most important international art shows in the world, with works from more than 250 galleries and a slew of trendy parties. Even if you're not a billionaire collector, there's much to enjoy at this festival, including open-air art installations around town, special exhibitions at many galleries and outdoor film screenings.

You might also like: The 14 best city parks in Miami  How to spend a perfect weekend in Miami Introducing Miami's best neighborhoods

This article was first published June 2021 and updated December 2021

Explore related stories

Apr 5, 2024 • 6 min read

Miami is home to some of Florida's best beaches, from popular party hot spots to stretches of sand for family-friendly fun. These are our favorites.

Apr 3, 2024 • 5 min read

Apr 3, 2024 • 10 min read

Apr 3, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 26, 2024 • 5 min read

Mar 24, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 5, 2024 • 5 min read

Feb 7, 2024 • 5 min read

Jan 17, 2024 • 9 min read

Jan 5, 2024 • 7 min read

We’re in Myanmar right now and it’s SO epic… click here to follow along on Instagram.

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » North America » Miami

Where to Stay in Miami in 2024 – The Best Places to Stay and Areas to Visit

Who doesn’t want to take a trip to the 305?

The sun, glam and parties you’ll find in America’s most magical city are even better than they’re made out to be – but so are the prices. In the 5 years I spent living in Miami, I encountered just about everything from cheap hostels to weekend pool parties at see and be scene hotels.

But the city (which IS in fact more than just South Beach) has a lot more to offer as far as accommodation is concerned – yes you have 5-star resorts BUT there are also unique Airbnbs, private pool villas, and even entire homes if you’re willing to head into the suburbs a bit.

Basically, you won’t be short of options when deciding where to stay in Miami –  a fact that can be a bit daunting. I still remember trying to book my first stay in the city back in 2014, and I certainly could have done a whole lot better looking back.

So to help YOU score your dream spot for your Miami trip, Im going to walk you through the very best areas of the city to base yourself in, based on your specific travel style.

Where to Stay in Miami

Miami neighborhood guide – places to stay in miami, miami’s 5 best neighborhoods to stay in, don’t forget travel insurance for miami, faq’s on where to stay in miami, what to pack for miami, final thoughts on where to stay in miami.

Traveling to Miami ? These are the overall best places to stay in the city:

Four Seasons Hotel Brickell | Best Hotel in Miami

This incredible hotel is located across from Biscayne Bay in Brickell and features 5-star luxury all around. Enjoy the two stunning outdoor pools and hot tub, soak in the sauna or enjoy the state-of-the-art fitness room. The service, quality of the rooms, and on-location bar and restaurant seal the deal: While it’s not cheap, this is truly the best hotel in Miami.

Generator Miami | Best Hostel in Miami

With a prime South Beach location and great vibes all around, Generator Miami is without a doubt the best hostel in Miami . Located only a few minutes from the beach, this hostel is also close to all of South Beach’s top shops, bars, clubs, and restaurants. You can stay in dorms or private rooms. A light breakfast is included and, furthermore, this hostel boasts not one but two restaurants AND a pool!

Oceanfront Apartment | Best Airbnb in Miami

The best Airbnb in Miami is the best for a reason: it just ticks every box! Start your vacation in a modern beachfront studio apartment in Miami Beach, complete with 180-degree ocean views of the crystal clear water AND free parking. The apartment features a king-size bed and complimentary WiFi. If you want to stay in one of the best Airbnbs in Miami Beach , look no further than this one!

Downtown Miami

Downtown Miami is the commercial and financial centre of the city and the best place to stay for your first time in Miami. visitors. It is a generally busy area that is jam-packed with skyscrapers and businesses, shops and boutiques, and entertainment venues.

Miami Beach

Although Miami Beach isn’t technically part of Miami, we’ve decided to include it for where to stay in Miami Beach. Because really, there’s no neighbourhood that is more quintessentially Miami than Miami Beach.

South Beach

South Beach is one of the most famous neighbourhoods not just in Miami, but in the United States. Renowned throughout the country, South Beach is the city’s dedicated nightlife area with plenty of bars, restaurants, clubs, bistros, and hip hangouts and our recommendation for where to stay in Miami for nightlife.

Brickell is a neighbourhood that appears buttoned-up at first glance because it’s home to a variety of financial institutions and commercial enterprises.

Key Biscayne

Key Biscayne is a tropical island south of Miami and the best area to stay in Miami for families. It’s noted for its verdant nature, pristine beaches and its relaxed and laid-back attitude.

Miami is the largest city in Florida. It boasts a rich history and diverse cultural heritage and is home to one of the largest Spanish-speaking populations in the US, and those influences can be seen throughout the city.

There are more than 25 neighborhoods in the Miami area. Each offers visitors a diverse selection of attractions and activities. To get a good feel for the city, you should definitely add more than one to your Miami itinerary .

Starting at the heart of Miami, you have Downtown. The commercial, cultural, and financial center of the city, Downtown Miami is where you’ll find flashy skyscrapers, interesting museums, unique art galleries, and plenty of history.

South of Downtown is the up-and-coming neighborhood of Brickell. A favorite local spot, this neighborhood is packed with fantastic shops and incredible restaurants.

Travel east across the McArthur Causeway and you’ll arrive in Miami Beach and, more specifically, South Beach. Arguably the liveliest and most famous place in Miami, this is where to stay if you’re looking for great beaches. If you’re looking for a good time, there are many things to do in Miami Beach and it’s also where you’ll find Miami’s party hostels .

Head back south through the city to find Key Biscayne , one of Miami’s hidden gems that most tourists never see. One of the greenest areas of the city, this island paradise is packed with family-friendly activities and stunning, natural beaches.

Let’s take a look at the five best neighborhoods to stay in Miami. Each is different from the last, so be sure to choose the one that’s right for you.

1. Downtown – Where to Stay in Miami for Your First Visit

Downtown is the commercial and financial center of the city. It is a generally busy area that is jam-packed with businesses, restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. If you’re into electronic music, Club Space is in Downtown Miami and shouldn’t be missed, especially if they happen to have a big event.

But that’s not all there is in Downtown Miami. This area of the city is also where you’ll find its core cultural institutions including world-class art galleries and renowned museums. With so much going on, it’s the perfect place to stay for your first time in Miami. It’s also the area closest to Miami International Airport and the American Airlines Arena .

Downtown Miami is also home to trendy Wynwood . Bursting with creative vibes, cool bars and cafes, and delicious restaurants, Wynwood is the best place in Miami to simply wander the streets and take it all in. You can also check out Little Havana , where you can find authentic Cuban food, coffee, and vibes. Don’t miss out on Azucar Ice Cream–it’s truly delicious.

Hilton Miami Downtown | Best Hotel in Downtown Miami

A fantastic location, elegant décor, and luxurious rooms are just a few of the reasons this is my top pick for where to stay in Downtown Miami. This hotel boasts a fitness center, swimming pool, and a stylish on-site bar.

It is close to well-known attractions and is within walking distance of a few of Miami’s hottest clubs.

Mesmerizing Loft | Best Airbnb in Downtown Miami

This impeccably designed Miami studio is the perfect place to stay Downtown. You’ll be close to the famous Bayfront Park, and just about anywhere else you want to go is accessible by public transport or Uber. As Downtown is situated perfectly in between numerous Miami attractions, this is ideal for those looking for a well-rounded trip. Aside from the colorful decor, the 5-star-rated high-rise has both city and ocean views, plus access to an iconic rooftop pool.

2 Bedroom Apartment with Stunning Views | Best Luxury Condo in Downtown Miami

You can never do wrong with a bit of luxury. In this case, it’s a lot of luxury! This stunning apartment offers the absolute best views of the ocean and the bay. Sleeping 4 people, it’s the perfect spot to bring some friends with you on your first Miami visit. You can use all of the facilities that the building offers. While it’ll be hard to leave this stunning condo, rest assured that you’ll be practically within walking distance of some of Miami’s top attractions.

Things to See and Do in Downtown Miami

• c from a boat!
• Stroll around Bayfront Park
• Go on a Little Havana food and walking tour
• Check out modern and contemporary art at the Institute of Contemporary Art
• Take a Big Bus Tour around the city
• Experience an Opera at the Florida Grand Opera
• Visit Wynwood’s colorful street art
• Party until sunrise at Club Space

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

2. Miami Beach – Best Place to Stay in Miami on a Budget

There’s no neighborhood in Miami that is more quintessentially “Miami” than Miami Beach. This small barrier island just east of downtown is packed with things to do and see , such as art deco architecture, swaying palm trees, neon lights, and glitzy clubs.

It’s also the top choice if you’re on a budget. It’s here where you can find Miami vacation rentals that don’t cost an arm and a leg, though those options are certainly available if you need them.

Staying in Miami can be a challenge if you’re on a budget. While you can find some cheap motels in Miami along with some cool backpacker hostels in Miami, most accommodation is NOT easy on the wallet.

That’s why I recommend Miami Beach to anyone looking to save a bit of money. Here you can actually find double-digit nightly stays and a few amazing Miami bed and breakfasts – all perfect for keeping the cash in your pockets.

You can also check out some of the amazing (and less touristy) seaside near North Miami Beach. Miami’s North Beach is a lot quieter and more relaxing than the South, so it’s ideal for couples and families looking to escape the nightlife.

Nautilus A SIXTY Hotel | Best Hotel in Miami Beach

This modern hotel is the epitome of Miami-chic. Each room is bright and airy and features comfortable beds and modern amenities.

This four-star property comes complete with an outdoor swimming pool, fitness facilities, and a helpful and knowledgeable staff. It also has a fantastic restaurant open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Generator Miami | Best Hostel in Miami Beach

The Generator Miami is the best hostel in Miami Beach, hands down. Located at the center of this vibrant and lively district, this party hostel is close to South Beach, shops, bars, clubs, and restaurants. A light breakfast is included and this hostel boasts not one but two restaurants!

Oceanfront Apartment | Best Airbnb in Miami Beach

Fall in love with this modern-style beachfront studio apartment in North Miami Beach, one of the many iconic Florida Airbnb listings to choose from. Boasting 180-degree ocean views of crystal clear water and free parking, this apartment also features a king-size bed and high-speed WiFI. Not only will you be steps from the beach, but you’ll also have access to an on-site pool, and the hosts provide free beach chairs and snorkeling gear as well!

Things to See and Do in Miami Beach

• Spend a day at North Beach Oceanside Park
• Take a salsa dance lesson
• Swim in your birthday suit at Haulover’s Nude Beach
• Explore Mid Beach
• Party the night away at LIV
• Stroll around the Miami Beach Botanical Garden

3. South Beach – Best Place to Stay in Miami for Nightlife

South Beach is one of the most famous neighborhoods not just in Miami, but in the United States. Renowned throughout the country, South Beach is the city’s dedicated nightlife area with plenty of bars, restaurants, clubs, bistros, and hip hangouts.

SoBe is where you’ll find Miami’s young, rich and famous partying almost every day of the week at the area’s famous clubs and bars. The nightlife here is so incredible and abundant you’ll never have to question what to do.

Whether you want to dance until sunrise or enjoy custom cocktails on a rooftop patio, South Beach has it all.

1 Hotel | Best Hotel in South Beach

This top-rated luxury hotel in South Beach may not be budget-friendly, but it’s truly worth every dollar you pay. The hotel is a 2-minute walk from the beach and features a jaw-droppingly gorgeous rooftop pool that rivals all others in the neighborhood.

As if that wasn’t enough, 1 Hotel has three other pools and a fitness center to keep you busy, as well as snack and beverage bars. Aside from being right on the beach and near all of South Beach’s top attractions, you’ll be in for world-class comfort and service, too.

Viajero Miami | Best Hostel in South Beach

Looking to save some cash by staying at a top-rated hostel in Miami? Look no further than Viajero–located in the heart of SoBe, Viajero is barely a block from the beach and features an artsy design, free tea/coffee, and a pool.

You’ll find yourself smack in the middle of all South Beach has to offer, with dozens of restaurants and bars just seconds away, AND an on-site bar too! You can choose from 4, 6, or 8-bed dorms OR splurge a bit on a private room. The hostel also has a library/coworking space for anyone living the digital nomad life .

Bright Apartment Steps from the Beach | Best Airbnb in South Beach

This stunning and bright one-bedroom apartment features a trendy, modern interior unlike any other Airbnb in South Beach. Located near the famous Lincoln Road, you’ll be close to the goings on as well as being steps away from the beach. You’ll also be able to enjoy the apartment’s beach equipment and relish its central location near to some of the best things to do in Miami .

Ocean Drive Luxury Apartment  | Best Apartment in South Beach

The title says it already, this amazing apartment is located on Ocean Drive, just steps from the beach, in the heart of all the action and nightlife of South Beach. The luxury home offers all high-quality amenities that you might need during your stay, including a high-end kitchen, AC, and a massive satellite flatscreen TV – perfect to cure those hangover days!

Things to See and Do in South Beach

• Go on a South Beach food tour
• Take a trip up to North Beach for a more relaxing escape
• Admire the Art Deco buildings
• Party it up at 8th Street Beach
• Explore SoBe from a golf cart
• Watch a dance show at the Miami City Ballet
• See South Beach from above !

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

4. Brickell – Coolest Neighborhood in Miami

Tucked away south of Downtown is Brickell, one of Miami’s trendiest and happening hot spots. With plenty of places to eat, party, chill, and shop, it’s no surprise that Brickell is the coolest neighborhood in Miami.

Brickell is a place that appears buttoned at first glance because it’s home to a variety of financial institutions and commercial enterprises. But scratch the surface and you’ll quickly realize that this often-overlooked area is one of the coolest neighborhoods in Miami with its independent boutiques and rustic bars.

Love to eat? In Brickell, you’ll find the best restaurants in Miami. From chic bistros and upscale fine dining to rooftop patios and charming kitchens, Brickell is where you can tease your taste buds and enjoy unique flavors from cuisines from around the world. It’s also right on Biscayne Bay, which means turquoise-colored views all around and easy access to Key Biscayne’s amazing beaches.

Mandarin Oriental Miami | Best Hotel in Brickell

This top-rated hotel isn’t just the best in Brickell, but one of the best luxury hotels in all of Miami. While the Mandarin is centrally located to all of Brickell’s top attractions, you might not want to leave once you see its incredible pool and 5-star luxury spa services. The comfort and cleanliness couldn’t be better, and you can even enjoy delicious food and drinks at their bar & restaurant.

Sky Residence Condo | Best Airbnb in Brickell

Relax and unwind in the heart of Brickell at one of the top Airbnbs in Miami . This large, airy condo features a stunning ocean view from the balcony, wide-open spaces, and a jacuzzi AND a pool to enjoy. You’ll also get to avail super-high-speed internet, 4k SMART TVs with cable, a rain shower head, and plenty of more amenities right near the hottest Brickell eateries and attractions.

Designer Condo Overlooking the Ocean | Best Apartment in Brickell

Welcome to the world of Miami VRBOs, an Airbnb competitor with fantastic condos like this one – a 1400 sq foot luxury space with incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean. The two-bedroom, two-bathroom listing has three beds which means it can comfortably sleep up to four guests. Head out to the massive outdoor pool to start or end your day, and even enjoy an iconic in ground hot tub. Location, unsurprisingly, is also fantastic – the very best of Brickell is steps away, as is public transport and of course, Uber.

Things to See and Do in Brickell

• Shop at the Brickell City Center
• Paddleboard through Brickell’s city lights after dark
• Walk around Brickell Key
• Grab a snack at Mary Brickell Village
• Have brunch at American Social
• Enjoy happy hour at The Wharf

5. Key Biscayne – Best Place to Stay in Miami for Families

Key Biscayne is the Best Place to Stay in Miami for Families as it’s noted for its verdant nature, pristine beaches, and its relaxed, and laid-back attitude. It’s one of the best locations to stay in Miami for those who just want to escape the feeling of the city. It’s also the ideal place to rent a boat in Miami for a day–nothing beats the waters around the Key!

Key Biscayne is the perfect place to stay in Miami with kids as it’s one of the greenest neighborhoods in the city. Not only are there numerous stunning beaches to choose from, but you’ll also find many tropical forests, mangroves, and parks nearby. It’s also one of the safest places in Miami , and very close to one of the city’s most beautiful suburbs, Coconut Grove.

The Ritz Carlton | Best Hotel in Key Biscayne

This incredibly luxurious Miami hotel is no doubt the top place to stay on Key Biscayne, but it might even be one of the nicest accommodations in the city. You’ll feel far away from one of busiest cities while staying here, on a massive resort with its own private beach and an elaborate arrangement of swimming pools. Their on-site restaurant is fabulous – I particularly loved the key lime pie and baked mac and cheese if they still have them!

Cozy Modern Apartment With Beach Access | Best Airbnb in Key Biscayne

This stunning modern one-bedroom apartment is impeccably clean and provides private access to the Key Biscayne Beach Club. The club is within walking distance, and you can also cool off in the property’s very own infinity-style pool. The host also offers golf club rentals for a true island vibe, though many Key Biscayne attractions (including restaurants) are also walkable.

Things to See and Do in Key Biscayne

• Go on an epic 17 mile cycle tour
• See the historic Cape Florida lighthouse
• Explore Biscayne Bay on a jet ski
• Spend a whole day under the palm trees at Crandon Park
• Watch the sunset at Hobie Beach
• Enjoy incredibly fresh sushi at Kazumi

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

When you’re setting on to Miami, make sure you’ve got your travel insurance sorted before you go. Healthcare certainly is not cheap in this city!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here’s what people usually ask about the areas of Miami and where to stay.

What’s the best part of Miami to stay in?

Staying in Downtown Miami will give you easy access to all of the city’s sights, but if you’re a beach person, you’re going to want to stay in or around South Beach.

Where is the best place to stay in Miami for families?

Key Biscayne is my pick for families. It is a relaxed tropical paradise with plenty of beaches, parks, and attractions. It’s perfect for kids to run and explore.

Where to stay in Miami for couples?

Brickell is my absolute favorite area for couples. There are so many unique and chic bistros, restaurants, and bars. It’s a perfect place to share with someone. Beachy couples might opt for a seaside South Beach apartment.

Where is the best place in Miami for nightlife?

South Beach is abundant with nightlife. You have all the bars, clubs and restaurants you could need. This place sets the standard for the USA.

Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!

What is the safest area of Miami to stay in?

The safest area of Miami to stay in is definitely Key Biscayne . This laid-back beach neighborhood is actually on its own “key” and is attached to the Miami mainland by a bridge. It’s quiet, relaxed, and has the chillest stretches of sand in the city.

Alternatively, Coral Gables , which is about 40 minutes from South Beach, is a lovely residential area that I loved living in when I was studying there.

What are the best hotels in Miami?

I’d say the very best hotels in Miami are:

• Mandarin Oriental Miami
• Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne

Is it better to stay in South Beach or Miami Beach?

I’d say it all depends on your preferences. If you’re in Miami to party, South Beach is definitely where it’s at – this is where all the most famous beaches, bars and restaurants are. BUT, if you’re seeking a more relaxed Miami vacation, Miami Beach (particularly Mid-Beach and North Beach) is where it’s at.

Where to stay in Miami if you don’t have a car?

If you don’t have a car, I’d say you should either opt to stay in Brickell or South Beach as so many things will be within walking distance. Not having a car rental in Miami isn’t a issue though – I didn’t have a car for 3 years that I lived in the city and got by just fine with Uber and Lyft.

What hotels are right on the beach in South Beach Miami?

These fantastic Miami hotels are right on South Beach, making them the best option if you want your trip to be all about sun, ocean and sand.

• W South Beach
• The Betsy Hotel

Wild parties, a rich history, incredible nature and stunning views – Miami has so much to offer travelers. It’s no wonder that this southern Florida city is one of the most famous – and most visited – cities in the United States.

I lived in a few different places in the 305, and if you’re even a bit of a beach lover, the answer to where to stay in Miami is definitely…

South Beach .

Its iconic turquoise waters, unique architecture, and thriving nightlife scenes are sure to be a hit, especially if you’re coming from the cold. Otherwise, you can’t go wrong with Brickell or Downtown , both of which will give you easy access to just about everywhere.

So what are you waiting for? Book your Miami accommodation (and ticket!) today!

• Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Miami .
• Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Miami .
• Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Miami instead.
• Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Miami to plan your trip.
• Planning out an itinerary for Miami is a great way to maximise your time.
• Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA .
• Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.

Last Updated July 2023 by Samantha Shea from Intentional Detours

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Colleen Kinsey

Share or save this post

Downtown Miami is not the best place to stay..it’s surrounded by bad places and has alot of homeless nearby in the streets

Best places North Beach, Surfside,sunny isles…I lived here for 35 years and Im a plumber so drive thru all places

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

The 8 Best Miami Neighborhoods to Visit

Independent Traveler

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

Miami is a dynamic city steeped in multiculturalism, with Cuban and other Caribbean influences leaving an imprint on its food, music, culture, and neighborhoods. Want a taste? From vibrant South Beach to historic Coconut Grove, these are the best Miami neighborhoods to visit on your next trip.

The Coolest Miami Neighborhoods

Looking for museums? Shopping? Cuban food? Discover which Miami neighborhoods are right for you.

[viator_tour destination=”662″]

South Beach

The Art Deco-styled waterfront district of South Beach has it all: beautifully restored historic buildings, funky shops and boutiques, elegant restaurants and casual cafes, fabulous nightclubs, and a wide, clean beach. It’s easily one of the best neighborhoods in Miami for people watching. The Art Deco district runs from 6th to 23rd Streets between Ocean and Lenox Avenues, and it’s a great spot for a stroll.

Downtown Miami

Major sites in the bustling waterfront district of Downtown Miami include the Perez Art Museum Miami , the Frost Science Museum , and the Bayside Marketplace . It’s easy to get around via the free Metromover train system.

Coral Gables

Rent a car and head to Coral Gables, developed in the 1920s. It’s best known as home to the Biltmore Hotel , noted for its resemblance to Seville’s Giralda Tower. Bring a swimsuit and take a dip in the Venetian Pool , a fantasy-themed public pool created out of a rock quarry.

Coconut Grove

Coconut Grove is Miami’s oldest section, with construction beginning in the 1870s. It’s also a place of fashionable boutiques and restaurants. Worth a detour in this area: Vizcaya Museum and Gardens , an early 20th-century Renaissance-style—and quite grandiose—estate built for a Chicago industrialist who wanted to recreate a 16th-century Italian estate.

Little Havana

Little Havana is the famous 3.5-square-mile site where many Cubans fled after escaping their country. “Calle Ocho,” or 8th Street, is the main drag and central point (particularly between 11th and 17th Avenues), and it’s best as a walking-around destination.

If you love art, don’t miss Wynwood, a former warehouse district that’s been revitalized by galleries, cafes, street art, and the incredible Wynwood Walls (a mural arts project). This neighborhood is also home to the Margulies Collection , which displays a rotating selection of modern art.

A quieter alternative to Miami Beach and Downtown, the up-and-coming Brickell neighborhood is convenient to the cruise port and the airport and has a wealth of hotels, restaurants, and shopping—including numerous rooftop bars where you can enjoy the views.

Key Biscayne

Rent a car and head to Key Biscayne, an island connected to Miami via two bridges and the Rickenbacker Causeway. Nature, beach, and marine enthusiasts can choose between the Miami Seaquarium and Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park .

More from SmarterTravel:

• Miami Travel Guide
• 9 Fun Things to Do in Miami
• 8 Must-See Miami Attractions
• 9 Best Beaches in Miami
• 7 Best Hotels in Miami
• 8 Best Cheap Hotels in Miami
• 9 Best Miami Beachfront Hotels
• 10 Best Restaurants in Miami
• The Best Cheap Eats in Miami
• Where to Find the Best Cuban Food in Miami
• What to Pack for Miami
• What to Wear in Miami

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Madrid to Malaga: 8-Nt Southern Spain...

Luxe, 12-Night Spain, France, Monaco &...

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Trending on SmarterTravel

22 Best Places to Visit in Miami: Uncover the City’s Gems

Miami, often referred to as the “Magic City,” is a vibrant and diverse city in the heart of South Florida. Known for its beautiful beaches, Art Deco architecture, and lively nightlife, Miami has something to offer for every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking to relax on the sandy shores of South Beach, explore the city’s rich cultural heritage in Little Havana, or discover the natural beauty of the Everglades, Miami is sure to leave you enchanted.

In this blog, we will uncover the 22 best places to visit in Miami, highlighting the city’s gems that make it such a popular destination.

Table of Contents

1. South Beach: Miami’s Iconic Beach Destination

Located on the southern tip of Miami Beach , South Beach is Miami’s most iconic beach destination. With its dazzling turquoise waters, soft white sand, and beautiful Art Deco architecture, South Beach lures visitors from around the world. The beach stretches for miles, providing plenty of room to relax, swim, and soak up the sun.

One of the main attractions of South Beach is Ocean Drive, a palm-lined street that runs parallel to the beach, showcasing the city’s famous Art Deco buildings. The Art Deco District is a designated historic district that features over 800 buildings in the distinctive Art Deco style. Strolling along Ocean Drive, you’ll be immersed in the vibrant energy of Miami, with live music, outdoor cafes, and colorful characters along the way.

In addition to its beautiful beaches and architecture, South Beach is also known for its lively nightlife. The area comes alive after dark, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants offering a wide range of entertainment options. Whether you’re in the mood for a sophisticated cocktail lounge, a trendy rooftop bar, or a dance club, South Beach has it all.

2. Lummus Park Beach: A Serene Getaway

Nestled within the heart of South Beach, Lummus Park Beach offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. This picturesque beach is lined with palm trees, creating a serene and tropical atmosphere.

Lummus Park Beach is a popular spot for sunbathing, with its wide sandy shores and clear blue waters. It’s also a great place for sports enthusiasts, as the beach features beach volleyball courts where you can join a game or simply watch the action unfold.

After enjoying some time in the sun, take a stroll along Ocean Drive, which runs adjacent to Lummus Park Beach. Here, you’ll find a variety of outdoor cafes, restaurants, and shops, as well as plenty of opportunities for people-watching.

For those interested in Miami’s history and culture, don’t miss the Art Deco Welcome Center, located on Ocean Drive. The center offers guided walking tours of the historic Art Deco district, providing insight into the architecture and history of the area.

Overall, Lummus Park Beach is a tranquil oasis in the heart of South Beach, offering a perfect blend of relaxation, recreation, and culture.

3. Haulover Beach: A Unique Experience

Haulover Beach offers a distinctive experience as it is a clothing-optional beach, catering to a wide range of visitors. This beach is renowned for its excellent surfing and kiteboarding opportunities, allowing visitors to enjoy outdoor activities in a unique setting.

It provides amenities such as showers, restrooms, and food vendors to ensure a comfortable visit for everyone. With its natural beauty and water sports activities, Haulover Beach is the ideal place for outdoor activities and an enjoyable day trip. Visitors can explore the area via public transportation and indulge in a beach experience that is truly one-of-a-kind in the magic city.

4. Little Havana: A Taste of Cuba in Miami

Experience the rich history and culture of Little Havana, a Miami neighborhood renowned for its Cuban influence. Discover must-visit spots like Calle Ocho and the iconic Versailles Restaurant. Immerse yourself in the vibrant music and art scene, with live salsa music and captivating murals adorning the streets.

Indulge in authentic Cuban cuisine, savoring cafecito and empanadas at local eateries. For a deeper exploration, join a guided walking tour to fully absorb the sights and sounds of Little Havana, truly embracing the Cuban spirit right in the heart of Miami.

Read Also: 20 Fun Things to Do in Kentucky with Family: A Complete Guide

5. Ocean Drive: The Heartbeat of Miami’s Nightlife

Nestled in the art deco district of Miami Beach, Ocean Drive captivates with its iconic neon lights and historic buildings. As the sun sets, the street transforms into a vibrant nightlife hub, bustling with bars, clubs, and late-night dining options.

The area is also renowned for its distinguished hotels, such as the Versace Mansion and the Colony Hotel. A stroll along the parallel boardwalk offers breathtaking views of the beach and the Atlantic Ocean. Additionally, during the day, Ocean Drive presents an exclusive shopping experience, with upscale boutiques and charming souvenir shops adorning the street.

6. Lincoln Road: Shopper’s Paradise

With over 200 shops, restaurants, and art galleries, Lincoln Road in the heart of Miami Beach is a shopper’s paradise. From high-end designer stores to unique boutiques, visitors can indulge in a wide range of shopping experiences.

The area also offers diverse dining options, including upscale restaurants and casual cafes, making it an ideal place for a day trip with plenty of restaurants to choose from. Additionally, Lincoln Road is a popular destination for people-watching and street performers, providing entertainment for the whole family. Visitors can also take a guided tour to learn about the area’s history and architecture.

Read Also: 23 Top Things to Do in Boston That’ll Blow Your Mind!

7. Espanola Way: A Walk Through History

Espanola Way, nestled in the heart of South Beach, Miami, is a historic street with Mediterranean-style architecture dating back to the 1920s. Strolling through this pedestrian-only street offers a glimpse of the city’s rich history, complemented by unique shops, cafes, and restaurants. The vibrant atmosphere and lively nightlife make Espanola Way a charming destination for visitors.

Throughout the year, the street hosts popular events, including the renowned South Beach Wine and Food Festival, showcasing the area’s cultural vibrancy. It’s the ideal place to immerse yourself in the magic city’s heritage and enjoy a leisurely walk through time.

8. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens: Reliving the Past

A stroll through Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in South Florida allows visitors to step back in time. The main building, a 1916 Italian Renaissance-style villa, offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of its original owner, James Deering, a wealthy industrialist.

Art, furniture, and architecture adorn the villa, while ten acres of European-inspired gardens feature fountains, sculptures, and a wide range of plants. Throughout the year, the museum hosts special events and exhibitions, making it an ideal place for history and architecture enthusiasts, as well as those seeking a peaceful and beautiful escape in Miami.

Read Also: 20 Incredible Free Things to Do in Philadelphia

9. Perez Art Museum: Modern Art at Its Best

Nestled in downtown Miami, the Perez Art Museum showcases a mesmerizing collection of contemporary art from across the globe. As visitors wander through the galleries, they are treated to breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay, adding to the allure of the museum experience. Engaging guided tours, workshops, and educational programs are available for enthusiasts.

The outdoor sculptures and gardens further enhance the artistic ambiance, providing a tranquil retreat within the bustling city. Notably, the museum’s architectural marvel seamlessly integrates with its surroundings, offering an immersive journey into the world of modern art.

10. Phillip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science: Exploring the Universe

Located in downtown Miami, the Phillip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science is easily accessible to tourists and locals. The museum offers a wide range of exhibits, including a planetarium, aquarium, and interactive science exhibits. In addition to its exhibits, the museum provides educational programs and workshops for both children and adults.

Visitors can also enjoy special events such as after-hours parties and mixers, making it an ideal place for a night out in the magic city. Committed to sustainability, the museum has implemented green initiatives throughout the facility, reflecting Miami’s dedication to environmental consciousness.

Read Also: 19 Free Things to Do in Salt Lake City: Explore on a Budget

11. Everglades National Park: Adventure in the Wilderness

Everglades National Park, a unique ecosystem sprawling over 1.5 million acres, offers diverse habitats such as wetlands, prairies, and mangrove forests. It’s home to various wildlife, including alligators, panthers, and manatees.

Visitors can explore the park through hiking, kayaking, airboat tours, and tram rides, immersing themselves in the park’s natural beauty.

Educational programs and ranger-led tours are also available, providing insights into environmental conservation efforts. The park provides a perfect blend of adventure, education, and appreciation for nature, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

12. Jungle Island: A Tropical Oasis

Nestled in the heart of South Florida, Jungle Island stands as an ideal place for immersing yourself in a tropical oasis. Here, visitors can marvel at different species of animals, including lemurs, sloths, and parrots, up close, offering the best way to connect with nature.

The park also provides a wide range of interactive experiences, from feeding flamingos to holding a snake, ensuring an unforgettable day trip for the whole family. Additionally, the captivating winged wonders bird show and the thrilling 40-foot zipline offer the best things to do at this magical place.

Complete with lush botanical gardens and serene waterfalls, Jungle Island guarantees an exceptional outdoor experience in the Magic City.

Read Also: 25 Most Underrated US Cities You Need to Visit

13. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden: A Horticultural Marvel

Nestled in Coral Gables, South Florida, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden spans 83 acres and boasts a mesmerizing collection of tropical flora from around the globe, including rare and endangered species. Visitors are treated to diverse exhibits such as the enchanting butterfly exhibit, the tropical fruit pavilion, and the captivating rainforest exhibit.

Throughout the year, the garden plays host to an array of events, from concerts and lectures to vibrant plant sales, offering something for every nature enthusiast. Whether one is drawn to horticulture or seeking tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of the city, this magical oasis is an ideal retreat.

14. Bayside Marketplace: Shop, Dine, Enjoy

Located in downtown Miami, Bayside Marketplace stands out as an outdoor shopping center, featuring over 120 stores, including major retailers and unique boutiques.

The marketplace offers a wide range of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, catering to every palate. Visitors can also immerse themselves in live music and events held throughout the year while taking in stunning views of the Port of Miami and Biscayne Bay.

This vibrant marketplace is indeed an ideal place for a day trip, offering a whole family plenty of restaurants to choose from and an array of outdoor activities. With its magical setting and diverse offerings, Bayside Marketplace truly embodies the essence of the “Magic City.”

Read Also: 17 Amazing Things to Do in Manchester NH

15. Design District: High-End Shopping and Fine Dining

Explore the vibrant Design District in Miami, renowned for its upscale shopping and dining experiences. From luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Gucci to local boutiques and galleries, visitors can indulge in a wide range of retail therapy.

The district also boasts top-tier dining options such as Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink and Mandolin Aegean Bistro, offering the best of Miami’s culinary scene. Art aficionados will appreciate the unique art installations and public sculptures that adorn the area, providing ample photo opportunities.

Don’t miss the Miami Design District Art Walk and the annual Miami Design District Concours car show for a complete experience of this luxurious neighborhood.

16. Dolphin Mall: A Shopper’s Delight

Dive into the Dolphin Mall, one of Miami’s largest shopping meccas spanning over 240 stores and restaurants. Fashion enthusiasts can scout for steals on high-end labels, while families revel in its entertainment options like a movie theater, bowling alley, and arcade.

Culinary globetrotters can savor diverse world cuisines at the mall’s plethora of restaurants. For added convenience, the Dolphin Mall offers shuttle services to and from various Miami hotels, catering to tourists.

Read Also: 20 Best Beaches in South Carolina: Top Picks for Sun and Surf

17. Wynwood Walls: An Open-Air Art Gallery

Located in the vibrant Wynwood Arts District of Miami, Wynwood Walls stands out as a distinctive open-air art gallery. Renowned artists have transformed its walls into captivating canvases adorned with dynamic and lively murals and street art.

The gallery is in a constant state of evolution, regularly integrating new pieces into its tapestry of creativity. Visitors have the option of embarking on a self-guided tour or joining a guided one to gain deeper insights into the artists and their masterpieces.

The surrounding area encompasses trendy restaurants, bars, and shops, providing a complete experience for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

18. Art Deco Historic District: A Journey through Time

A walk through Miami Beach’s Art Deco Historic District is a journey through time, offering a glimpse of the city’s architectural and historical charm. With over 800 buildings, including Art Deco, Mediterranean Revival, and Streamline Moderne styles, it’s a paradise for history enthusiasts. While exploring the district, visitors can enjoy a self-guided walking tour to learn about its rich heritage and unique architecture.

Additionally, the area boasts an array of restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops, making it an ideal place to immerse oneself in the city’s culture and flavors. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Art Deco Welcome Center, providing valuable insights into the district’s architectural marvels.

Read Also: 25 Things to Do in Carson City Nevada You Won’t Find Anywhere Else

19. Zoo Miami: A Wildlife Adventure

Nestled in South Florida, Zoo Miami stands as one of the largest and oldest zoos in the United States. Boasting over 3,000 animals from across the globe, the zoo offers a wildlife odyssey featuring elephants, lions, tigers, gorillas, and a myriad of other species.

Visitors can engage in enthralling animal encounters, from feeding giraffes to riding camels, while also partaking in educational programs and events suitable for all ages. The zoo provides a captivating experience, making it an ideal place for a day trip with the whole family, offering a wide range of outdoor activities and plenty of restaurants for a memorable visit.

20. Bayfront Park: An Urban Oasis

Nestled in the heart of downtown Miami, Bayfront Park spans 32 acres and offers breathtaking vistas of Biscayne Bay and the iconic Miami skyline. The park is a hub of activity, hosting a myriad of events including concerts, festivals, and outdoor yoga classes.

Notable landmarks within the park include the Torch of Friendship and the Flying Trapeze School, adding to its allure. Additionally, visitors can take delight in the park’s amenities such as a playground, splash pad, and a paved path perfect for strolls, invigorating jogs, or delightful bike rides, making it an urban oasis for relaxation and recreation.

Read Also: 20 Best Things to Do in Spring Hill Florida With Your Friends

21. Crandon Park: Enjoying the Great Outdoors

Nestled on Key Biscayne, Crandon Park is enticed by its pristine beauty and ample recreational offerings. Embraced by a stunning beach, the park invites strolls along its picturesque trails and moments of repose in its charming picnic areas.

Adventure seekers can indulge in kayaking, paddleboarding, and various water sports, while others can tee off at the golf course or engage in friendly matches at the tennis center.

Nature enthusiasts can explore the diverse ecosystems at the nature center, making it an ideal place for families and nature lovers alike. With its remarkable expanse and natural allure, Crandon Park stands as a testament to the best things Miami has to offer.

22. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park: Nature’s Retreat

Located on the southern tip of Key Biscayne, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park provides a serene escape from the bustling city. Visitors can delve into the rich history of the area by exploring the iconic lighthouse.

The park’s two miles of pristine beaches offer ideal spots for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing, while nature trails and bike paths provide an opportunity to immerse in the natural surroundings. Additionally, the park features picnic areas and a restaurant, allowing visitors to relish a meal with a view, making it an ideal place for a nature retreat.

Read Also: 21 Fun Things to Do in California with Kids

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some must-see attractions in Miami?

Best Places to Visit in Miami, Some must-see attractions in Miami include the iconic South Beach and Miami Beach, where you can enjoy the beautiful beaches. For a glimpse of historic architecture and stunning gardens, visit the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Don’t miss the vibrant art scene at the Wynwood Walls. Other notable attractions include Everglades National Park, Little Havana, and the Frost Science Museum.

Are there any hidden gems in Miami that are not as well-known to tourists?

Yes, Miami has many hidden gems that are not as well-known to tourists. Explore the vibrant Wynwood Walls art district or visit Little Havana for an authentic Cuban experience. Don’t miss the Venetian Pool or the Deering Estate for a unique and off-the-beaten-path adventure.

What is the best time of year to visit Miami?

The ideal time to visit Miami is between March and May or from December to February. These months offer pleasant weather, lower humidity, and fewer crowds. If you prefer warmer temperatures, June to August is the peak season, but it can be hot and humid. Keep in mind that hurricane season runs from June to November, so stay updated on weather forecasts if traveling during those months.

Are there any free or low-cost activities to do in Miami?

Best Places to Visit in Miami, Certainly! Miami offers a plethora of free or low-cost activities for visitors to enjoy. From lounging on beautiful beaches like South Beach and Lummus Park Beach to exploring the vibrant Wynwood Walls street art district, there are endless options that won’t break the bank. Additionally, taking a stroll through Little Havana allows you to immerse yourself in Cuban culture without spending a lot of money.

In conclusion, Best Places to Visit in Miami, Miami offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to various interests. From its iconic beaches like South Beach and Lummus Park Beach to the vibrant neighborhoods of Little Havana and the Design District, there is something for everyone in this city.

Explore the rich history and cultural heritage at places like Espanola Way and the Art Deco Historic District, or indulge in retail therapy at Lincoln Road and Bayside Marketplace. For nature enthusiasts, the Everglades National Park and Crandon Park provide opportunities to explore the region’s unique ecosystems. Whether you’re interested in art, history, shopping, or outdoor activities, Miami has it all. Plan your visit to uncover the gems of this vibrant city.

Latest Posts:

28 Fun Things to Do In San Antonio for Every Kind of Traveler

20 Things to Do in Arizona with Kids in 2024

18 Haunted Places in Pennsylvania (Updated List 2024)

Ferona Jose is a passionate travel writer and blogger at Travelistia. She has traveled throughout Europe, Asia and the Americas. Her writing focuses on cheap travel destinations, travel experiences, cultural insights, and travel hacks.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

A beginner's guide to visiting Miami: Everything you need to eat, see and do

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

Editor's Note: As the travel industry reopens following COVID-19 shutdowns, TPG suggests that you talk to your doctor, follow health officials' guidance and research local travel restrictions before booking that next trip. We will be here to help you prepare, whether it is next month or next year.

Any mention of Miami evokes visions of sun-soaked beaches, glamour, international flair, and a buzzing nightlife scene of drinking and dining. No wonder this South Florida city attracts vacationers from around the world to its shores -- there's so much to offer to every kind of traveler.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Before you make your first trip down to "The 305," make sure you're aware of all there is to see, eat, drink and do. Whether you want to relax at a beachfront resort or take in the city's rich cultural and culinary experiences, you won't be disappointed in Miami.

How to get to Miami

Getting to Miami is easy. Although airline route networks have been significantly altered because of the coronavirus pandemic , Miami International Airport (MIA) is one of American Airlines' largest and busiest hubs, offering lots of connecting flights to the Caribbean and Latin America. Most midsize and large cities across the nation have nonstop service to MIA , making a trip to this electric city quick and easy for many.

And, if you strike out on flights into MIA , Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is about 30 miles north of South Beach and is perhaps even better located for reaching resorts like Aventura and Bal Harbour on the northern edges of the Miami metro area.

Related: What's the best way to fly between New York and Miami?

Getting around

Once you're in Miami, you'll want to get around by car. The area is sprawling and although the city has a public-transit system, it isn't extensive or the most convenient option for visitors. A car rental would be a great option for anyone who plans to do extensive exploration of the region, while Uber or other ride-hailing services will be more than sufficient to transport you from your resort to dinner and back.

Where to eat and drink in Miami

Over the years, Miami has gained a reputation for being one of the best places in the U.S. to eat, thanks to the rich combination of restaurants that have become local institutions, the recent trend of buzzy, high-end dining spots, and a strong influence from Latin America -- particularly Cuba .

Best restaurants in Miami

There's no way you'll get around to sampling all the phenomenal food Miami has to offer in one trip, so here are some of the highlights that you can't miss on your first trip.

One of the city's most venerable restaurants, Joe's Stone Crab. Since 1952, it has been attracting flocks of diners eager to taste the restaurant's famous -- you guessed it -- stone crab. They're especially delicious when they're in peak season between October and May. Located in South Beach, this Miami standby doesn't take reservations, so be prepared to arrive early and wait quite a while for a table. And whatever you do, save room for key lime pie.

In Miami's Little Havana neighborhood, on the famous Calle Ocho, Sanguich de Miami serves up traditional Cuban sandwiches with modern twists. For your first trip, though, you should stick to the classic Cubano sandwich, made with pork, spiced ham, Swiss cheese and mustard on toasty Cuban bread. Don't forget to indulge in a batido , a rich milkshake that comes in multiple flavors.

Wynwood is Miami's hippest neighborhood, with tons of restaurants, cafes and bars. One of my favorites in the area is Kyu, a restaurant featuring Asian-inspired dishes cooked on a wood-fired grill and focused on sustainability and green practices. Opt for dishes like the crispy pork belly buns, a whole roasted cauliflower with goat cheese, shishito-herb vinaigrette, myoga and shiso and baby bok choy with toasted garlic, chili and lemon.

Greek cuisine is big in this seaside city, and one of the best options in town is Mandolin Aegean Bistro in the Miami Design District. I've visited this restaurant many times during visits to the city, and I recommend sitting outside and ordering the grilled octopus to share with your group, and then enjoy kebabs of lamb, chicken and beef along with a bottle or two of crisp Mediterranean wine.

Miami is a city in which to see and be seen, and there are perhaps no better places to do that than at any one of the city's high-end and trendy Japanese restaurants. There's no shortage of places to get high-priced sushi in the city, but Makoto, located in the Shops at Bal Harbour, one of the city's most affluent areas, stands out. Expect a full menu of raw fish dishes, but Makoto offers more to diners, too, with its charcoal robata, which churns out Japanese barbecue-style dishes to hungry diners every night.

Best bars in Miami

Miami has a wide range of drinking establishments for every type of vibe you could want on a given night -- or day, from rooftop hangouts to laid-back beachside watering holes, you won't lack for places to get a cold drink. Here are some "greatest hits" for a first trip to Miami.

Just north of Downtown Miami, Esotico is a paradise for anyone who loves tiki bars and Polynesian culture. Covered in tropical flora, this drinking spot serves up rum-based Polynesian cocktails that will instantly transport you to the South Pacific.

The Broken Shaker at the Freehand Hotel in Miami Beach is an ideal place to begin any evening out in Miami, and I make sure to stop by for a drink or two every time I'm in town. Most of the bar is outside in a lushly landscaped courtyard that even features a pool that guests can sit around while they enjoy cocktails. This laid-back spot's outdoor emphasis suits balmy Miami evenings perfectly.

One of the last true dive bars in Miami Beach, Mac's Club Deuce, is a guaranteed good time. Featuring old-time classics like a jukebox, pool tables and terrible lighting, it's a great place to change up the pace from the typical nightclub-heavy nightlife scene in Miami.

What to see and do in Miami

Many people -- including myself on occasion -- choose to spend a Miami vacation by spending the whole day at the pool or beach and only venturing from the hotel to go to dinner in the evening. That's a totally acceptable way to vacation in South Florida. But Miami has other things to do and see.

One of the most culturally vibrant cities in the country, Miami is full of museums, cultural institutions, sporting events and more that can easily fill your days.

One of the hottest spots in the city is what's known as the Wynwood Walls, in the Wynwood district. The Walls are a display of public art created several years ago when this area of the city began its transformation from a zone of derelict warehouses to one of the city's trendiest districts. Today, the Walls and their murals attract artists from all over the world eager to leave their mark on the city.

One of Miami's most iconic attractions is the Art Deco Historic District found in South Beach. The district has the largest concentration of Art Deco buildings in the U.S. — including the famed Versace Mansion — and transports visitors back to the heyday of Miami's glamour. The pastel-colored buildings lining the beach come alive at night with their neon signs beckoning passersby to stop in for a drink or meal.

Another area that you won't want to miss is the city's Little Havana neighborhood, the center of Miami's strong Cuban heritage. Stroll down the famous Calle Ocho and pick up a case of Cuban cigars, enjoy a cafecito which is a very potent -- and sweet -- espresso drink and sample the numerous culinary delights that are abundant in the neighborhood.

If you're looking to escape the city for a day and get out into nature, look no further than Everglades National Park, which is the third-largest national park in the continental United States and the largest tropical wilderness in the nation at over 1.5 million acres. There's plenty to keep you busy on a visit to the park, with miles of trails, campgrounds, waterways for boating and even observation areas for stunning dark skies at night.

Florida is synonymous with golf, and if you're a fan of the sport, you can't go wrong in Miami. The area is home to more than 20 courses ranging from public courses such as the Miami Beach Golf Club to high-end resort courses like the duo at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa. Whichever route you choose, you'll be (likely) blessed with picture-perfect weather and beautifully maintained fairways.

For some fun for the whole family, head to the Miami Seaquarium in Key Biscayne, south of the city. The kids will love meeting and learning about all the marine animals including turtles, seals and dolphins, and it's a perfect activity for a rainy day or to get out of the blazing summer sun. Book your visit online for the best prices.

For a heavy dose of culture, visit the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM), which is the city's preeminent art museum. Set in a stunning building next to Biscayne Bay, the museum was designed by the renowned architecture firm, Herzog & de Meuron. It provides a fitting home for international modern and contemporary art, presented from the viewpoint of U.S. Latino people, as well as those from the African diaspora, Latin America and the Caribbean.

Where to stay in Miami

Budget-friendly.

Located in the heart of South Beach just blocks from the beach, The Gates Hotel South Beach - A DoubleTree Hotel is a great option for travelers on a budget. With rooms from around $170 or 50,000 Hilton Honors points per night, you'll be paying significantly less than other properties in the area -- especially those right on the beach. Expect an outdoor pool, spa services and, of course, the famous DoubleTree cookies to help enhance your Miami vacation.

Great value on points

One of Hyatt's few beachfront hotels in Miami, the Confidante Miami Beach packs a big punch at a great price -- especially when you're paying with points. As a Category 4 property in the World of Hyatt program , an award night will run you just 15,000 points. (Or, you can use a Category 1-4 award-night certificate that you get on the anniversary of the World of Hyatt Credit Card.) And, Hyatt points are easy to earn, since the program is a 1:1 transfer partner with Chase Ultimate Rewards . Once you're there, you'll delight in the 1940s-era property complete with three dining and drinking outposts, two heated pools, a fitness center, spa and, of course, a prime oceanfront location.

For refined oceanfront luxury, look no further than The St. Regis Bal Harbour . Appropriately located in Miami's well-heeled Bal Harbour neighborhood, The St. Regis makes a big impression on the beach. Huge and luxuriously appointed guest rooms and the signature St. Regis butler service makes this five-star property stand out. And with three restaurants, two resort pools, a top-notch Remède spa, expansive private beach and more on offer, you won't even have to leave the property during your stay. This is a top-tier Category 8 Marriott Bonvoy hotel, so a free night will cost you 70,000 points for an off-peak night, 85,000 for a standard night and 100,000 for a peak night.

Related: Full review of The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach

Bottom line

Miami has so much to offer to every type of traveler, so you must prepare for your first trip so you don't waste valuable time once your vacation has started. Use these TPG recommendations and you can feel confident that you'll get a taste of the city, but know that you'll have to schedule several return trips before you can even begin to scratch the surface. After you visit once, there's no doubt you'll want to return.

Best Places To Visit In Miami: 55+ Iconic Bucket List Items

Looking for things to add to your Miami bucket list? Look no further! This top USA bucket list destination is a must visit city in Florida and has some of the best beaches !

From beach to city, Miami is a thriving coastal town with tons of things to do to keep you busy for weeks.

For more bucket list inspiration, you can join our  Travelers Club Facebook Group  and follow us on  Instagram ,  Facebook  and  Pinterest .

Miami Bucket List: Best attractions in Miami not to miss

1. walk and explore ocean drive.

Ocean Drive is one of the most popular and picturesque streets in Miami Beach! This is the perfect place to explore, relax, and find hidden gems.

2. Visit Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is the old home of James Deering, but his home has since turned into a museum with some of the most breathtaking gardens on this Miami bucket list.

3. Shop at Bayside Marketplace

Head to Bayside Marketplace to do some shopping! It’s two stories and is filled with tons of shops and restaurants.

4. Take photos at the Wynwood Walls

The Wynwood Walls is one of the most unique landmarks on this list. They are vibrant graffiti walls filled with beautiful art that makes for the perfect backdrop.

Editorial credit: pio3 / Shutterstock.com

5. Check out the fountain at Bayfront Park

Bayfront Park is a lovely park located right along Biscayne Bay. Be sure to look out for the fountain!

6. Bring the young ones to Miami Children’s Museum

If you’re traveling with little ones, be sure to stop by Miami Children’s Museum. This museum is filled with fun interactive exhibits to keep kids entertained for hours.

7. Pay your respects at Holocaust Memorial Miami Beach

Miami has its own Holocaust Memorial in memory of the lives that were lost during World War II. It’s worth it to stop by, see the memorial, and pay respects.

8. Have a drink or go on a tour at Schnebly Winery

For some excellent wine tasting, go to Schnebly Winery. While it’s technically located slightly outside of Miami, the drinks are incredible!

9. Spend an afternoon at Crandon Park

Crandon Park is the perfect place on this Miami bucket list to have a relaxing afternoon! It’s right next to the water and feels truly tropical.

10. Have fun at Miami Seaquarium

The Miami Seaquarium is located right next to Biscayne Bay and is filled with tons of exhibits about sea life in the area! You can see sea turtles, fish, and even penguins.

11. Shop on Collins Avenue

Collins Avenue is known as the main shopping street in Miami, so if you have some things you have to buy, shop until you drop there!

Editorial credit: Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock.com

12. Go swimming at Lummus Park Beach

This urban park is a great beach to go swimming in when you’re looking to cool off from the Miami sun. There’s also a playground for kids to play on.

13. Soak up the view from South Pointe Park Pier

The view from South Pointe Park Pier is unbeatable. The pier is 450 feet, so it’s pretty long. You can easily find a spot for yourself to situate yourself and enjoy the view!

14. Bike the Old Cutler Trail

This 26-mile trail is one of the most iconic biking trails in the Miami area. You could either bike the whole thing (which might take a full day) or part of it!

15. See fantastic art at Perez Art Museum Miami

The Perez Art Museum Miami is filled with contemporary art, and the building that it’s situated inside of is architecturally gorgeous. All the art is from the 20th and 21st centuries.

16. Swim at the Venetian Pool

Take a dip in the Venetian Pool! This place truly feels like paradise and is a public swimming pool filled with waterfalls and surrounded by tropical palm trees.

Editorial credit: Marco Borghini / Shutterstock.com

17. Explore Little Havana

This neighborhood is a must-visit on this Miami bucket list! It’s filled with Cuban culture, restaurants, shops, and more. Be sure to try Cuban coffee!

Editorial credit: Kamira / Shutterstock.com

18. Take a Stiltsville tour

Stiltsville is an area of Miami in the water that features a few homes built on stilts. The only way to see them closer is to take a boat tour, which is a unique Miami bucket list item!

19. Spend a day at Zoo Miami

Head to Zoo Miami to visit Florida’s biggest zoo! This zoo is filled with gardens, exhibits, and animals galore. Kids will especially love visiting here.

20. See the Cape Florida Lighthouse

Cape Florida Lighthouse is located right on Cape Florida and is one of Miami’s most picturesque spots! The lighthouse is just about 200 years old.

21. Visit the Caribbean Marketplace

The Caribbean Marketplace is a great place to visit and explore. It’s located in Little Haiti and is a recreation of the iron market in Haiti!

22. Discover the exhibits at Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science

This museum is entirely dedicated to educating the public about science. A lot of the exhibits inside are interactive and hands-on. Be sure to find the planetarium!

23. Attend an event at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

For an out-of-this-world experience, stop by the Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden. It covers more than 80 acres and is filled with breathtaking flora and fauna!

24. Play dominos in Domino Park

Domino Park is a public park known for being a meeting place to play either chess or dominos! Stop by to play a game of dominos with a local. Maybe you’ll make a new friend!

25. Find the Freedom Tower

The Freedom Tower is an iconic landmark that is used as an art museum. They feature contemporary art, but the structure itself is pretty eye-catching!

26. Watch the boats at Virginia Key

Virginia Key is an island located in Miami in the middle of Biscayne Bay. This is a great place to relax and watch the boats come in and out of Miami.

27. Explore Little Haiti

Similar to Little Havana, you’ll want to stop by Little Haiti! This neighborhood is filled with Haitian art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

28. Take a tour of the HistoryMiami Museum

Tour the HistoryMiami Museum, Florida’s biggest history museum. In addition to tours, they also host lots of events. See if one is being held during your trip!

29. Visit the Monastery of St. Bernard de Clairvaux

This is one of the more unique things to do on this Miami bucket list! It’s a 12th-century Spanish monastery that was sent to the United States from Segovia.

Editorial credit: Holly Guerrio / Shutterstock.com

30. Check out the masterpieces at the Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami

ICA Miami is another contemporary art museum in Florida, but this one is free no matter what time of year you visit. If it happens to be raining when you visit Miami, or if you love art, be sure to stop by here.

31. Take a trip to Star Island

This man-made island is most well known for its breathtaking beaches along Biscayne Bay. The best way to go here is to take a tour because it’s mostly lived on by celebrities.

32. Shop on Lincoln Road

Another great place to go shopping in Miami is Lincoln Road. It’s often referred to as Lincoln Mall Road, and it’s the perfect spot for outdoor shopping.

33. Relax at Haulover Park

Relax at this massive park filled with beaches and breathtaking views. There’s even a skate park here if you like skateboarding or roller skating!

34. Try the cinnamon rolls at Knaus Berry Farm

In the 1950s, Knaus Berry Farm opened in Miami! They’re known for their amazing cinnamon rolls. You can also handpick strawberries here!

35. Wander around Coral Castle

Coral Castle is a unique landmark made out of limestone. It’s essentially an outdoor sculpture garden filled with pieces made by Edward Leedskalnin.

36. Visit Cauley Square Historic Village

This landmark dates back to the early 20th century and allows you to step back in time to historic Florida. It’s a village filled with gardens and other buildings worth exploring.

37. Explore Coconut Grove

This lovely neighborhood in Miami is located right along the shoreline and is most well known for being trendy. It’s filled with great shopping and cafes!

38. Drive the Tamiami Trail

The Tamiami Trail is a long road just short of 300 miles that leads right into Miami. If you drive it, you’ll be able to explore the Everglades from your car.

39. Swim at Matheson Hammock Park

This urban park is another spot for great swimming in Miami. It’s also an iconic spot to catch the sunrise or the sunset!

40. Attend a horse race at Hialeah Park Racing & Casino

This early 20th-century horse racing park is known as one of the most breathtaking horse racecourses in the world. If you’re traveling in season, be sure to stop by for a race.

41. Learn about street art at the Museum of Graffiti

There’s no better place to learn about street art than at the Museum of Graffiti. This is probably the most unique museum on this Miami bucket list, so don’t miss out!

42. Stroll the Miracle Mile

Take a stroll on the Miracle Mile, which is known as the middle of the central business district. This downtown area is filled with tons of places waiting to be explored and only goes for about .5 miles.

43. Windsurf at Hobie Island Beach Park

If you’ve never been windsurfing before, now’s your chance. There are tons of places right along the beach that you can’t rent equipment from.

44. Wander around Pinecrest Gardens

This breathtaking garden is filled with waterfalls, seating areas, and walking trails. The entire park is pretty tranquil, which is a welcome reprieve from the city.

45. Get soaked at Grapeland Water Park

Have a blast at the Grapeland Water Park! This water park is filled with fun water rides, outdoor sports areas, and restaurants. What better way to cool off in Miami?

46. Take a trip to the Everglades National Park

You can’t visit Miami without heading to Everglades National Park, which covers more than 1 million acres. With a short drive out of the city, you can visit them or even take a tour.

47. Go-kart at Dezerland Park Miami

One of the best indoor activities on this Miami bucket list is go-karting! Head to Dezerland Park Miami to have a fun, go-karting adventure.

48. Walk the trails or bike in Tropical Park

Tropical Park is a vast green space in Miami that has lots of areas for walking or biking. The bike trails are relatively easy (compared to the 26-mile trail listed earlier), so they’re great for all ages.

49. Attend the South Beach Wine and Food Festival

The South Beach Wine and Food Festival is one of Miami’s top events. It’s hosted with The Food Network and usually occurs in May. Eat your heart out and have delicious drinks.

50. Visit Coral Gables Merrick House

Visit the Coral Gables Merrick House, a historical museum built in the early 20th century. You’ll immediately step back into the 1920s when you take a tour.

51. Explore the Miami Design District

Arguably one of the best places to explore on this Miami bucket list is the Miami Design District. This is one of the most architecturally significant urban areas and is filled with high-end shops and boutiques.

52. Try Korean BBQ at KYU

If you’ve never had Korean BBQ before, you’re in for a treat. This top-rated Asian restaurant serves up some of the best in all of Miami, but prices are a bit higher than average.

53. Kayak in Biscayne National Park

For an unforgettable outdoor adventure, head to Biscayne National Park. This is the perfect place to go kayaking, and you can even go on a tour if you want!

Editorial credit: Sandra Foyt / Shutterstock.com

54. Exercise in David T. Kennedy Park

This park located on the waterfront is the top place to exercise while visiting Miami. Locals come here to go on runs, and there’s even a dog park.

55. Have fun at Magic City Casino

Test your luck at Magic City Casino, which is filled with tons of fun slot games and even poker tables. There’s also live music and restaurants in case you get hungry.

56. Check out the interactive exhibits at ARTECHOUSE Miami

This museum and art center is unlike any other museum in Miami. All of the exhibits are video-based, making the entire museum experience super interactive and different!

57. Attend the Miami Book Fair

Whether you’re a fan of books or not, you’ll want to check out the Miami Book Fair. This annual fair is filled with events revolving around literature.

58. Go on a cruise

Take a cruise near Miami to enjoy the weather and explore more of the area! There are many cruises to choose from, including dinner or party cruises.

Editorial credit: Mia2you / Shutterstock.com

Pin for Pinterest

Washington, D.C.

Couples Bucket List – Ultimate List Of Over 100+ Things To Do Together

Usa bucket list: best places to visit in the usa, ultimate europe bucket list: the best places and attractions, looking for something.

Where to stay in Miami

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• where-to-stay-in-miami-usa

written by Aimee White

updated 9.12.2022

In the southeastern corner of Florida, Miami is a world of its own. Renowned for spectacular Art Deco architecture, raucous nightlife and delicious seafood, the city is incredibly diverse. A tropical paradise and an urban hub, it’s a place where you can spot alligators in the wild or knock-back artisanal cocktails.

Little Havana: best place to stay in Miami with a Latino vibe

Coral gables: where to stay in miami for a romantic neighbourhood, biscayne corridor: where to stay in miami for artistic inspiration, south beach: where to stay in miami for bars, downtown miami: best place to stay in miami for shopping, mid beach: a mix of all the best things miami beaches have to offer, bal harbour& north beach: the area of old-fashioned ambience in miami, key biscayne: where to stay in miami for the best nature, coconut grove: an area of unique personality, miami design district: a cluster of art galleries in miami.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Florida , your essential guide for visiting Miami .

There’s a burgeoning art community, growing shopping hotspots and a highly respected international food scene. This large city has so much to offer that it can be difficult to know where to base yourself, so we’ve put together this area-by-area guide on where to stay in Miami to help you get the most out of your trip.

The neighbourhood of Little Havana is every food-lover dream. Cubans make up the largest ethnic group in Miami, and so, west of downtown, Little Havana specialises in Cuban cuisine.

Fresh dishes and zingy flavours – bistec de palomilla (steak with rice, beans and plantains), abuela maria (guava, cream cheese and butter cookie ice cream) and batidos (milkshakes) – are all worth tucking into. You’ll find that rice, kidney beans and fried plantain are common sides serving. A swell of inviting restaurants line Calle Ocho (SW 8th Street), mostly family-run establishments and haunts popular with the locals.

As Miami, and Little Havana in particular, diversifies, with it so does its dishes: there’s a host of delicious Nicaraguan and Dominican places cropping up that are well worth checking out.

Once you’re full, walk off a well-fed stomach with a stroll around the Cuban Memorial Boulevard, which commemorates the fight for Cuban independence.

Where to stay in Little Havana:

• Best for brand-new dining: Life House Little Havana . The leafy terrace, with hammocks a-swinging, is a strong draw at this stylish guesthouse in Little Havana. Dark woods, splashes of colour and green plants bring the rooms and communal areas to life.
• Best for tranquil vibes: Selina Miami River features a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, a bar and a garden in Miami. With free WiFi, this 3-star hotel offers luggage storage space. The hotel has family rooms.

Find more accommodation options to stay in Little Havana

Marinated Cuban pineapple pork chops with traditional black bean rice, grilled red onion and fried plantain chips © Ezume Images/Shutterstock

While Art Deco reigns supreme in Miami, there’s a design rival to check out in Coral Gables, just south of Little Havana.

Technically a separate city but typically classed as a constituent city, this is where you can marvel at the impressive architectural work of George Merrick who designed the neighbourhood in the 1920s. With the help of his artist uncle, Denman Fink, and architect Phineas Paist, he transformed his inherited 3000 acres of citrus groves into a lavish network of palm-lined boulevards and regal buildings, all inspired by Mediterranean architecture.

By far the most popular establishment both then and today is the Biltmore Hotel , built in 1926, where the likes of Judy Garland and Ginger Rogers stayed – this was the ‘It’ hotel during the Roaring Twenties. Modelled on Seville Cathedral's Giralda bell tower, it’s perhaps one oversized chandelier away from being garish.

While you can stay at the hotel, a more budget-friendly option is to take afternoon tea, or simply wander around the communal areas, free of charge. Gaze up at the hand-painted frescoes on barrel-vaulted ceilings, stroke the huge marble columns and take in the splendour of the high domed blue ceilings.

Afterwards, use Coral Gardens' vintage-style trolley service to your advantage: pay a visit to the pastel-pink Elementary School, built in a Spanish Colonial Revival style; the butter-yellow Alhambra Water Tower; the villa-esque Police and Fire Station; and the grandiose Venetian Pool – they’re all reminiscent of Italian- and Spanish-style architecture.

Where to stay in Coral Gables:

• Best for blowing the budget: Biltmore Hotel . A landmark, Mediterranean-style hotel that has been pampering the rich and famous since 1926. The rooms, furnished in peach and cream tones, are reminiscent of a Spanish villa. The massive chevron-shaped pool proves the main draw.
• Best for tranquillity: Hotel St. Michel . A small, romantic hotel just off the Miracle Mile. It has modernized rooms, striped bedding and copious European antiques.

Find more accommodation options to stay in Coral Gables

The Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables, Miami - one of the best places to stay in Miami © Galina Savina/Shutterstock

The area of Biscayne Corridor is named after its main artery, Biscayne Boulevard. On Miami’s north side, it has only recently appeared on visitor itineraries thanks to a transformation of the neighbourhood, including a surge in contemporary art galleries. It’s become somewhat of a haven for artists, and so if you want to envelop yourself in creativity and see a different side to Miami, this is the place to stay.

Wynwood Art District offers some of the most dynamic murals in the city – take a guided art tour to get beneath the surface of the street art. It all started with Wynwood Walls, a small stretch of the wall taken over by graffiti artists. Today it feels like every building in this district is decorated, from car parks to residential houses to sidewalks.

Gallery-wise, head to the Rubell Collection for an interesting array of pieces from the past 40 years, including pieces from the late Purvis Young, as well as some more invigorating experimental work. Meanwhile, the Design District, further north, is slightly more upscale.

There are various designer furniture stores and art galleries to shop in if you have a budget to blow. Locust Projects, an old warehouse-turned-alternative art space, features some quirky avant-garde works.

Where to stay in Biscayne Corridor:

• Best for mid-range comfort: YVE Hotel Miami . A sign of things to come, this contemporary property has a central location just off the waterfront. It enjoys all the perks of a mid-range hotel, plus guestrooms, a fitness centre and a top-notch restaurant.
• Best for street art: Arlo Wynwood has a restaurant, free bikes, an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre in Miami. This 4-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and an ATM. Free WiFi is available and private parking can be arranged at an extra charge.

Find more accommodation options in Biscayne Corridor

Biscayne Boulevard with Freedom tower, Miami © Ramunas Bruzas/Shutterstock

During the day you’ll see rollerbladers and joggers but come evening South Beach is a whole different scene. From petite rooftop bars like The Cape to beachfront hangouts such as Nikki Beach Miami, South Beach offers the best spread of clubs for a night out.

There are dive bars open until 5 am, moody lounges suited to those who like to dress up and hardcore nightclubs with pulsing strobe lights. It’s best to hit the clubs from 10 pm onwards or linger over a mojito at a bar until you’re ready to move on to the next spot.

Needless to say, there’s a wide variety of music to match. Everything from the house and hip hop to techno and EDM, as well as upbeat pop tunes. There are good bars for dancing, although most restaurants have bars attached so you can dance pretty much whenever, wherever.

On the LGBTQ scene, South Beach has some great hangouts ranging from bars with go-go boys to unpretentious hangouts. Most bars stop serving at 5 am, and if you want to keep the party going after this you’ll need to move to another area.

South beach is one of the best beaches in Florida. To find more beach options read our list of the best beaches in Florida .

Where to stay in South Beach:

• Best luxury resort: The Setai, Miami Beach . Condo-tower-cum-hotel that's known for its celeb-heavy clientele and swanky spa as much as for its pricey, vaguely Asian-themed rooms. Splurge for the snob appeal and the best views on the beach.
• Best for beach access: The Betsy Hotel . Located amidst the luxury shopping, dining and entertainment on Ocean Drive, The Betsy Hotel, South Beach offers direct beach access, along with a courtyard and rooftop pool with 360-degree views.

Find more accommodation options to stay in South Beach

Ocean Drive, South Beach, Miami © fotomak/Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

There’s no doubt that downtown Miami is changing. You only have to crane your neck skywards at the flashy offices, swish hotels and edgewater condos going up to understand why this area is undergoing the largest construction boom in the United States. It’s always been a commercial area, but there’s an upmarket residential scene on the increase too.

You'll find shopping malls aplenty here, from expansive complexes to two-floored affairs. The Mary Brickell Village is dwarfed by the surrounding skyscrapers, but, painted in soothing pink and green tones, it's a popular mall with its cute boutiques and exotic jewellery stores, and makes for a sophisticated visit.

Brickell City Centre is more luxe, with over 100 stores – visit on a Sunday for organic produce at the weekly Farmers Market. There’s also the pink-painted Bayside Market Place, which only takes up two floors but, with views of Miani Marina from its terraces, always makes a pleasant shopping experience.

Where to stay in downtown Miami:

• Best for jaw-dropping views: Mandarin Oriental . The pick of the luxury chains downtown for unbeatable service and jaw-dropping views across Biscayne Bay. Modern Asian-themed rooms come with balconies and cherry-wood furnishings. The spa, infinity pool deck, bar and restaurants are all world-class.
• Best for rooftop cocktails: Eurostars Langford . Sleek hotel with all the mod-cons in a historic building.

Find more accommodation options to stay in downtown Miami

If you are wondering where to stay in Miami for shopping - head to the Downtown District © s4svisuals/Shutterstock

Mid Beach combines the best features of its neighbours North Beach and South Beach.

The diverse Mid Beach area is home to everything you could want - luxury hotels, top restaurants, beauty salons, and spas. The area also has its own arts district and of course, a sandy beach that appeals to tourists and locals alike.

There are also plenty of hotels to suit all tastes, from budget hostels to luxury hotels with stunning architecture and swimming pools.

The beaches of Florida are one of the best things to experience in the US. In our guide to the best things to do in the US we've collected various American attractions that might interest you and for more beach destinations read our guide about the best beaches in the US .

Where to stay in Mid-Beach:

• Best for ocean view: Grand Beach Hotel . Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this beachfront hotel features private beach access, a 7th-floor outdoor pool, and spacious suites. Grand Beach Hotel is a 5.9 km drive from South Beach.
• Best for the spa: The Palms . This oceanfront hotel on Miami Beach has an outdoor pool in a tropical garden setting. Rooms feature free Chromecast streaming. Select rooms have separate seating areas.

Find more accommodation options to stay in Mid Beach

The Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami Beach © Shutterstock

North Beach between 63rd Street and 87th Terrace, the latest beachfront enclave to be eyed by preservationists, thanks to its heavy concentration of playful mid-century MiMo buildings.

Eight blocks of the eastern side of Collins Avenue, from 63rd to 71st streets, were designated the North Beach Resort Historic District in 2004: this area includes masterpieces like the Sherry Frontenac hotel at 65th and Collins, with its jazzy neon signs, and the (currently closed) stone-grill-fronted Golden Sands at 69th and Collins. Though neither is particularly noteworthy for its rooms, both make ideal photo ops.

The low-rise buildings of the Surfside neighbourhood retain an appealing old-fashioned ambience; the beach, between 91st and 95th streets, is the main reason to spend an afternoon here.

Directly north, Bal Harbour – its aspirations of “Olde Worlde” elegance reflected in its anglicized name – is similar in size to Surfside but entirely different: an upmarket area filled with the carefully guarded homes of some of the nation’s wealthiest people.

The exclusive Bal Harbour Shops, packed with expensive designer stores, sets the tone for the area; ironically, given its upmarket aspirations, the town’s origins lie in a soldiers’ training camp that once stood here during World War II.

Where to stay in Bal Harbour& North Beach:

• Best for incredible views: Monte Carlo by Miami Vacations . This beachfront property is located in North Miami Beach, Florida, and features access to 2 outdoor pools and 2 saunas. Apartments come equipped with free WiFi.
• Best for contemporary luxury: Sea View Hotel . This European-style hotel is situated on a beautiful Atlantic Coast beach in Bal Harbour Village, experience contemporary luxury in an ideal setting for a soothing and memorable vacation.

The Rough Guides to USA and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find more accommodation options to stay in Bal Harbour& North Beach

Bal Harbour marina with luxury yachts Miami © Shutterstock

Follow the Rickenbacker Causeway (which becomes Crandon Boulevard) past the Miami Seaquarium to enter the upmarket village of Key Biscayne, home to the area’s commercial centre, in addition to an enticing beach and nature preserve.

Not content with living in one of the best natural settings in Miami, the people of Key Biscayne also possess one of the finest landscaped beaches in the city – Crandon Park Beach, a mile along Crandon Boulevard (the main road that continues beyond the causeway from Virginia Key). Three miles of golden beach fringe the park, and you can wade out in knee-deep water to a sandbar far from shore.

Filled with the sounds of boisterous kids and sizzling barbecues on weekends, the park at any other time is disturbed only by the occasional jogger or holiday-maker straying from a posh hotel nearby.

Besides its very green, manicured looks and some excellent places to eat, the residential section of Key Biscayne (known simply to locals as “the village”), beginning with an abrupt wall of apartment buildings at the southern edge of Crandon Park Beach, has little to offer visitors.

• You’ll need to pass through, however, on the way to the rewarding Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Recreation Area (see below), and while doing so should pick up information on the area at the Chamber of Commerce.

Where to stay in Key Biscayne:

• Best for modern style: Beach Haus Key Biscayne . These Modern-style Key Biscayne apartments surround a relaxing pool area, featuring a recreational pool with a glass tile vanishing edge. Each apartment includes free WiFi and a kitchen.
• Best for privacy: The Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne . Featuring separate family and adult outdoor pools, The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami is situated on a five-mile barrier island. Enjoy 11 tennis courts and 4 restaurants during your stay.

Aerial view of boats in Key Biscayne, Miami © Shutterstock

Stomping ground of down-at-heel artists, writers and lefties throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Coconut Grove is better known these days for its sidewalk cafés, two shopping plazas and a slew of condo towers with stunning waterfront views.

Though it may have lost its counter-culture edge, Coconut Grove has retained its vinegary character: many locals still treat it as distinct from the rest of Miami, which annexed it in the late nineteenth century.

It owes its personality in part to the unique mix of settlers who first called it home: Bahamian immigrant labourers lived alongside New England intellectuals who came here searching for spiritual fulfilment and together created a fiercely independent community. Nowadays, the city is just a pleasant, fairly posh enclave, dripping with palms – turn down any side street and you’ll find it thick with gorgeous vegetation.

Central Coconut Grove is compact and walkable, with a movie theatre, shops and restaurants – including two of the city’s best-known malls, CocoWalk and Streets of Mayfair – and plentiful parking. An inviting place for Sunday brunch, the neighbourhood is also a University of Miami hangout.

Where to stay in Coconut Grove:

• Best for location: Mr C Miami . Mr C Miami - Coconut Grove has a restaurant, free bikes, a fitness centre and a bar in Miami. With free WiFi, this 5-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and room service. Private parking can be arranged at an extra charge.
• Best for a tropical garden: Mayfair House Hotel & Garden . Located 4 km from the historical Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, this luxury Coconut Grove boutique hotel features a rooftop pool, bar and lounge, and on-site gourmet dining.

Find more accommodation options to stay in Coconut Grove

Coconut Grove Miami Marina © Shutterstock

Miami’s flourishing Design District was originally a pineapple plantation owned by Theodore Moore, the “Pineapple King of Florida”. On a whim, he opened a furniture showroom on NE 40th Street and soon created what became known as Decorators’ Row. During Miami’s Art Deco building boom of the 1920s and 1930s, this was the centre of the city’s design scene, filled with wholesale interior stores selling furniture and flooring.

The Design District can be an intriguing area for a stroll, though note that the main emphasis (obviously) is on designer furniture and art galleries. Robins’ initial plans have been revamped somewhat, and now the district’s twenty art galleries and around seventy design showrooms have been joined by luxury retailers like Prada, Hermès, and Louboutin, trendy restaurants and jazzy, mid-rise condo towers.

Most of the action takes place on the 39th and 40th streets between NE 2nd Avenue and N Miami Avenue.

Where to stay in Miami Design District:

• Best for modern decor: Nomada Destination Residences . Situated in Miami, 3 km from Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Art and 4.1 km from American Airlines Arena, Nomada Destination Residences - Quadro features accommodation with free WiFi, air conditioning, an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre.
• Best for comfort: Studio Biscayne Blvd . Located in Miami, 2.6 km from Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Art and 3.2 km from American Airlines Arena, Studio Biscayne Blvd Miami provides accommodation with free WiFi, air conditioning and access to a garden.

Find more accommodation options in Miami Design District

Design District - Miami, Florida © AdobeStock

Explore our guide to the most beautiful places in the US to choose your next holiday destination.

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to Miami without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

Ready for a trip to Miami ? Check out the snapshot of The Rough Guide to Florida or The Rough Guide to the USA . If you travel further in the USA , read more about the best time to go and the best places to visit in the USA. For inspiration use the itineraries from The Rough Guide to the USA and our local travel experts . A bit more hands-on, learn about getting there , getting around the country and where to stay once you are there.

We may earn commission from some of the external websites linked in this article, but this does not influence our editorial standards - we only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Top image: Miami, Downtown District © s4svisuals/Shutterstock

Aimee is an in-house Senior Travel Editor at Rough Guides and is the podcast host of The Rough Guide to Everywhere. She is also a freelance travel writer and has written for various online and print publications, including a guidebook to the Isle of Wight. Follow her on Twitter at @aimeefw .

• Where to Stay
• Inspiration
• Where to stay

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

Travel advice for USA

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to USA

• Eating and drinking in USA
• How to get to USA
• Getting around USA: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips USA for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit USA

Find even more inspiration for 76 here

Ready to travel and discover usa, get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Itineraries
• Travel advice

Miami Beach   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Henryk Sadura | Getty Images

15 Fun Things to Do in Miami Beach

Miami Beach caters to the moneyed crowd. At upscale shopping centers like pedestrian-friendly Lincoln Road Mall  and renowned spas (the 70,000-square-foot spa at Carillon Miami Wellness Resort is the largest on the Eastern Seaboard), residents and

• All Things To Do

South Beach South Beach free

With a nickname like the "Art Deco Playground," it's no wonder so many people flock to South Beach. Travelers see South Beach not only as one of the best vacation areas in Florida, but as one of the best in the country. Popular perception has somewhat pigeonholed the area as being reserved exclusively for the 24-hour partiers, but that's not necessarily the case. The truth is that South Beach (or SoBe, for short) welcomes anyone looking for pristine sand, amazing food and yes, a buzzing nightlife.

The options are limitless: you can spend the whole day shopping at boutiques, getting pampered at an opulent spa or just strolling along Ocean Drive . South Beach also hosts numerous festivals and events, including volleyball tournaments, Art Deco Weekend and music and art shows. Families can take the kids over to Watson Island about 4 miles over the McArthur Causeway to see the animals at Jungle Island or to play at the  Miami Children's Museum  for some educational fun.

Ocean Drive Ocean Drive free

One of the most famous thoroughfares in the city, the country, or maybe even the world, Ocean Drive is characterized by its distinct art deco buildings, its constant streams of crowds and its glittering hotel and club fronts in the nighttime. Suffice it to say that if you've booked a hotel  along Ocean Drive, you're guaranteed to be in the thick of things. Shopping, dining, beach activities and more are all right outside your hotel door.

Travelers say the best way to experience Ocean Drive is just by walking down the street, taking in the historic art deco hotels and storefronts and snapping some photos along the way. Day or night, visitors say you'll find something to do along Ocean Drive, whether it's dining outdoors steps from the ocean, grabbing a cocktail at a bar or dancing the night away at one of the clubs. Though, many warn that partaking in the revelry of food and drink along Ocean Drive does come with a high price tag. If you sign up for one of the best parasailing tours in Miami , you'll likely enjoy a bird's-eye view of Ocean Drive from the sky.

Lincoln Road Mall Lincoln Road Mall free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For the best affordable fare, take a slight detour off Lincoln Road to The Lincoln Eatery for a handful of fast-casual food booths or the top-rated Mister 01 Extraordinary Pizza, hidden inside of a South Beach office building on Michigan Avenue. – Lyssa Goldberg

Located on Lincoln Road, between Alton Road and Washington Avenue, the Lincoln Road Mall is a mile-long, can't-miss pedestrian shopping area. Originally envisioned as the "Fifth Avenue of the South," Lincoln Road attracted outposts of Burdines, Saks Fifth Avenue and Cadillac, and was transformed into only the second open-air mall in the United States by famed Miami Modern (MiMo) architect Morris Lapidus in the late 1950s. As artists flocked to Lincoln Road and brought visitors to the area, the pedestrian promenade experienced a resurgence as one of the premier streets in the nation by the late 1990s. The street offers a blend of several architectural styles, including Mediterranean Revival, art deco, midcentury modern, and has been added to the National Register of Historic Places.

Lummus Park Lummus Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Snap a pic with one (or all) of Miami Beach's iconic lifeguard towers, each designed in its own set of funky colors and whimsical shapes to reflect the city's surrounding art deco aesthetic. – Lyssa Goldberg

This is the beach and park area that fulfills all of South Beach 's stereotypes. Fit sunbathers, bikini-loving celebrities, supermodels (often occupied with a photo shoot) – all of the above crash on the beige-colored sand here, which runs along Ocean Drive from about 5th Street to 14th Street. Volleyball nets, beach gear rental kiosks and restrooms dot the area as well. The grassy stretch between Ocean Drive and the beach features plenty of palm trees, playgrounds and a winding paved pathway that attracts runners, bikers and rollerbladers. It's also the home of Muscle Beach, an outdoor fitness area for exercise, weight lifting and gymnastics located on the sand at 9th Street. Spending some time here will put you within walking distance of Ocean Drive's many restaurants and bars and allow you to experience the Art Deco District, in addition to the sun and sand.

South Pointe Park and Pier South Pointe Park and Pier free

Located at the southernmost tip of Miami Beach, South Pointe is a 17-acre park that features walking paths, grassy knolls and sweeping views of the ocean. The area also has a playground with water features, and a dog park. There's plenty of seating throughout the park and a 55-foot art sculpture that lights up and greets visitors like a modern lighthouse. The South Pointe Pier juts out into the Atlantic Ocean and is a popular place to fish. The 450-foot-long pier offers stations for cutting bait and washing fish, recycling bins for fishing line and seating for various vantage points of the ocean.

Overall, recent travelers said a stroll through this park and along the pier is enjoyable, with many noting they loved watching both cruise ships and smaller yachts come and go. Reviewers also commented on the stunning views and raved about the many photo-ops. Families also say South Pointe Park, with its grassy areas and playground, is a great spot for kids.

Art Deco Historic District Art Deco Historic District

Miami Beach is known for its art deco architecture, a design style of the 1920s and '30s that's characterized by bold colors and geometric shapes. It often incorporates styles of cubism, futurism and other varying art movements. You'll spot this architectural style adorning the city's gorgeous  hotels , storefronts, restaurants and buildings that line South Beach . The best way to experience all the art deco architecture Miami Beach has to offer is on a walking tour of the South Beach neighborhood.

Several outfitters offer tours, including the  Miami Design Preservation League  and  Art Deco Tours , and prices start at $32 per person.

Española Way Española Way free

Located between 14th and 15th streets, the pedestrian-only Española Way is a two-block corridor of pastel pink Old World-style buildings known for its restaurants, shopping and entertainment. It's bound by the main Washington Avenue thoroughfare on one side and Pennsylvania Avenue on the other. Modeled after the charming Mediterranean villages of Spain and France, the historic enclave was formed as a bohemian artist colony in the 1920s. It quickly became a popular hangout that attracted the likes of gangster Al Capone, who made one Española Way hotel the site of an underground gambling ring.

Recent travelers called Española Way a hidden gem and recommend seeking out this charming side street for a short stroll, shopping, lunch or dinner. With more than a dozen restaurants, sidewalk cafes and bars in a two-block span, visitors come here for people-watching in a lively atmosphere and al fresco dining under twinkling lights. The area comes alive at night with music from the street's restaurants, and you'll find everything from Cuban food, sushi and coffee shops to Spanish tapas, Mexican and Italian.

New World Symphony Center New World Symphony Center

U.S. News Insider Tip: Check the lineup of free outdoor screenings and plan an evening picnic. Bring a blanket (or hotel towel) and buy sandwiches from a spot nearby like Rosetta Bakery, Crema or La Sandwicherie, which is worth the extra few blocks' walk. – Lyssa Goldberg

You don't have to be a classical music aficionado to appreciate Frank Gehry-designed symphony hall, the New World Center. Home of the New World Symphony, an orchestral academy for young music graduates, the New World Center is both a campus for music education and a state-of-the-art performance center with plenty to offer lovers of the performing arts and live entertainment. Visitors who've attended a concert here praised the excellent acoustics and architectural design of this cultural landmark.

Miami Beach Botanical Garden Miami Beach Botanical Garden free

U.S. News Insider Tip: The plants aren't the only reason to visit – Miami Beach Botanical Garden offers an escape from the South Beach bustle. For some peace and tranquility, attend one of the garden's community events like yoga, tai chi or a meditation sound bath. – Lyssa Goldberg

A subtropical garden in the center of South Beach, Miami Beach Botanical Garden is a 3-acre landscape filled with 100 species of palm trees, orchids and other native plants. This lush garden oasis is an ideal spot to spend an hour strolling under the shade of flowering trees and spotting wildlife, such as native and migratory birds, butterflies, turtles and koi fish. The garden is divided into several sections, including a Japanese garden with water lilies and a red wooden bridge, a gumbo-limbo courtyard, an edible plant garden, wetland mangroves, turtle and koi ponds, water features and more. You can pick up a garden map at the entrance to navigate to self-guided audio tour stops.

The Wolfsonian-Florida International University The Wolfsonian-Florida International University

Located in the Art Deco Historic District and housed in a 1920s Mediterranean Revival building that is a South Beach landmark in its own right, the Wolfsonian-Florida International University is a multistory museum that explores the impact of art and design on world history through a collection of more than 200,000 objects. Focused on a century of transformation from 1850 to 1950, the collection of artifacts includes everything from everyday household appliances and furniture to groundbreaking architectural plans, propaganda posters and more.

Visitors enjoyed learning about 20th century design and seeing the display of art deco objects and political memorabilia. Some noted the museum's relatively small size means you can get a comprehensive look at the collection in about two hours. The indoor, air-conditioned museum is also a great place to escape the inevitable South Florida rain or humidity. At the gift shop, you can find design-oriented souvenirs, jewelry, clocks, kitchenware and books, including Wolfsonian publications. Travelers also recommended ordering a cappuccino or macchiato from the on-site coffee bar.

Holocaust Memorial Holocaust Memorial free

Located near the intersection of Dade Boulevard and Meridian Avenue, the Holocaust Memorial in South Beach is a moving tribute to the victims and survivors of the Holocaust. The idea was conceived by a small group of Holocaust survivors in 1984 and the memorial officially opened to the public in 1990. The site features a series of statues, architectural pieces, a garden of meditation and a memorial wall. The main sculpture features dozens of emaciated people reaching out for help, clinging to one another, that make up an outstretched arm reaching up to the sky.

Recent visitors echo one another, saying that Miami Beach's Holocaust Memorial moved them deeply and caused them to remember the importance of never forgetting the tragedy. Most travelers agree that you should stop by to see this beautiful tribute while you're in the area, citing the informative photo panels as ways to learn even more about this atrocity. There is also a brochure for self-guided tours available for a suggested $2 donation.

The Bass The Bass

Located in Collins Park steps from the beach, The Bass is a contemporary art museum on the northern end of South Beach featuring international contemporary art in a wide range of media, including sculpture, design, fashion and architecture. The small two-floor museum is housed in a 1930s art deco building that was formerly the Miami Beach Public Library and Art Center. While exhibitions within the galleries change every few months, The Bass' permanent collection includes outdoor public art within Collins Park, headlined by artist Ugo Rondinone's Miami Mountain sculpture – five boulders stacked 42 feet high, each painted a different fluorescent color, that have become an iconic photo-op.

Visitors can scan QR codes throughout the museum to follow a self-guided tour from their phone, but guided tours must be reserved in advance for an additional fee. The museum also has a cafe serving coffee and light bites; a boutique bookstore and gift shop selling designer jewelry, accessories, art books and other unique gifts; and an education facility called the Creativity Center for programming and workshops.

Miami Children's Museum Miami Children's Museum

The Miami Children's Museum is located on a little island between downtown Miami and South Beach . Kid-friendly interactive exhibits are the focus of this museum, which caters to young children with things like a 6-foot piggy bank (to learn about financial literacy), the Castle of Dreams (a two-story sand castle with a winding slide designed to inspire imagination) and the Music Makers Studio (where children can learn how musical sounds are made), among several other engaging activities.

Families visiting Miami Beach say this is a great air-conditioned place to spend some time with younger kids, especially since many of the exhibits are so engaging. The museum offers fun activities for all ages, but parents said children ages 3 to 6 seemed to enjoy it more than the older ones. The downsides visitors noted were the high cost of admission (and having to pay for parking, too) and the limited food options available on-site. Recent travelers have also mentioned the museum could benefit from some updates.

Haulover Park Haulover Park

Clothing-optional Haulover has long been a favorite of laissez-faire residents and vacationers, but there's more to do here than nude sunbathing. You can fly kites, go charter fishing and even play volleyball at this shore located just north of Bal Harbour. And you don't have to strip to your birthday suit to enjoy this area, as there are also designated sections for swimsuit-clad beach bathing (the northern area of the beach is where you'll find nude sunbathers).

Most travelers said they enjoyed their time at Haulover Park, noting that it's a far more laid-back option than the busier South Beach . Some recent travelers expressed surprise at how friendly the people at the beach were, whether clothed or unclothed. If you don't bring your own gear, plan to part with at least $10 to $25 for beach and chair rentals, according to past visitors.

Ancient Spanish Monastery Ancient Spanish Monastery

Situated in North Miami Beach, this monastery has a storied past. Officially known as the Monastery of St. Bernard de Clairvaux, construction on the structure began in A.D. 1133 in northern Spain and was completed eight years later. It was inhabited by monks for nearly 700 years, but after a revolution in the 1830s, the monastery was taken over and sold. In 1925, the cloisters and the rest of the monastery were purchased by William Randolph Hearst and dismantled stone by stone to be shipped to the U.S., packed in more than 11,000 crates. After years of sitting in storage, the monastery was rebuilt in Miami over the course of 19 months with plans to turn it into a tourist attraction called the Ancient Spanish Monastery. (Time magazine called it "The Biggest Jigsaw Puzzle in History," as it involved over 35,000 stones.) It didn't do too hot as a tourist attraction alone, so it was sold to a local diocese and was turned into a church. Today, it's an active congregation that welcomes churchgoers and also acts as an attraction highlighting the monastery's beautiful architecture and its surrounding gardens.

If you're looking to escape the hubbub of South Beach , you can venture north to admire this tranquil monastery. Visitors love that its grounds are historic, quiet and serene, and say when the gardens are in full bloom it's truly a sight to see.

Things to Do in Miami Beach FAQs

Explore more of miami beach.

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

44 Cheap Tropical Vacations That Feel Expensive

Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023

Find anything you save across the site in your account

I’ve Been to Miami 20 Times—These Are the Best Places to Stay

By Andrea Navarro

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Looking for the best places to stay in Miami? Whether you're planning a girls trip , eyeing a romantic getaway , or prepping for a babymoon , Miami is a mixtape of neighborhoods, each with its own flavor. From the ocean breeze of South Beach to the chill and secluded vibes of Key Biscayne and the art-filled streets of Wynwood, there's a perfect match for your trip. So, no matter what you're visiting the 305 for, our guide to Magic City will make sure your stay is just as relaxing or as party-filled as you want it to be. Just don't forget your favorite bikini and sunscreen .

Top hotels:

• Best Luxury Hotel in Miami Beach : The Setai Miami Beach
• Best Hotel in Brickell : East Miami
• Best Hotel in Wynwood : Arlo Wynwood Miami
• Best Hotel in Key Biscayne : The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne
• Best Hotel in Coral Gables : The Biltmore Hotel Miami
• Best Hotel in Coconut Grove : Mr. C Coconut Grove
• Best Hotel in South Beach : Loews South Beach

Save when booking your next Miami trip with promo codes from Booking.com , Expedia , Travelocity , and TripAdvisor .

Miami Beach

Photo courtesy of the Setai Miami Beach

If one of your requirements is being beachside, the Setai is a great place to book your stay. Situated in buzzy Miami Beach, it's easily the most luxurious property in the area. There are stunning Art Deco vibes mixed with Asian influence throughout the architecture and decor. It has a gorgeous courtyard perfect for reading and sunbathing and three infinity pools that each have a different temp. Heading to Miami without a car? The Setai's only a few steps away from the sandy beach, where you can rent private chairs and umbrellas. As for the rooms, they're spacious and have oversized windows to let in the Floridian sun, and there are large soaking tubs for late-night bubble baths or a relaxing rainfall shower (seriously, the water pressure is no joke). Hungry? Don't skip the salmon sashimi at Jaya , or if you're looking for a meal with a view, Ocean Grill is a great spot for couples. Looking to unwind after an evening at the clubs? Grab a wellness treatment like the Luminosity of Ice facial, which uses reflexology to help get you back to even.

What it’s ideal for: Folks looking for a high-end beachfront escape with fine dining

South Beach

Photo courtesy of Loews Miami Beach

The ultimate hangout, located steps from the ocean (no car needed!), the Loews Miami Beach is a friendly hotel that offers a great pool scene (you'll want to be there when they roll out the popcorn and snow cone machines), but if you prefer the sand, you can rent pool chairs with umbrellas or splurge on a cabana. Either way, the spots are full service, so you don't have to run to the pool bar to replenish your Miami Vice supply. They also have the Floridian outpost of the NYC-famous Rao's for a truly memorable Italian feast.

What it’s ideal for: Central beach-front location; great for families looking to eat well without having to leave the property

Photo courtesy of EAST Miami

East Miami is located right in the heart of the financial district. This modern and vibrantly decorated property is a stone's throw away from the Brickell City Centre, which has some of the city's best shopping and dining options. This hotel is perfect for business travelers, couples, and young adult vacationers alike. It offers rooms with views of the MIA skyline and a 20,000-square-foot outdoor pool deck, plus a high-energy rooftop bar, Sugar, which has range of tasty Asian dishes like sushi, bao buns, and yakitori. While it's not near the beach, it's only a short drive if hitting the shore is on your itinerary.

What it’s ideal for: A stylish urban retreat and a vibrant nightlife scene

Photo courtesy of Arlo Wynwood

By Emily Tannenbaum

By Jake Henry Smith

Want to capture Wynwood's vibrant art scene? Head over to the Arlo. This hotel, the first to open in Miami's celebrated art district, mirrors the creativity of the surrounding galleries and boutiques. Each room is designed with an artistic touch, featuring murals by local artists, and the communal spaces encourage interaction with other travelers and guests. Its rooftop bar also has a scenic backdrop for evening drinks and relaxation. And because Wynwood is one of the more walkable districts in the city, you can check out neighboring restaurants and bars on foot.

What it’s ideal for: Surrounding yourself with galleries, boutiques, and dining

Key Biscayne

Photo courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne

For those seeking a more secluded stay in Miami, the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne offers just that, with a luxurious spin. Located on a barrier island just a short drive from downtown Miami, this resort is a tranquil retreat with its pristine beaches, tennis facilities, and a world-class spa. The property features rooms and suites with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean or the tropical gardens, and several different dining options that include the renowned Cantina Beach for authentic Mexican cuisine and Dune Burgers on the Beach for a casual outdoor setting.

What it’s ideal for: A tranquil getaway with pristine beaches and family-friendly activities

Coral Gables

Photo courtesy of the Biltmore Hotel Miami

The Biltmore Hotel Miami is a historic luxury hotel located in the exclusive Coral Gables area, known for its classic Mediterranean architecture and lush landscapes. This iconic hotel boasts one of the largest hotel pools in the country, an 18-hole golf course, and a full-service spa. Dining at the Biltmore is an experience in itself, with several restaurants offering everything from its famous Sunday brunch event to fine dining at the Fontana, and there's a bakery, Posto Dolce, on site for those with a sweet tooth.

What it’s ideal for: Enjoying classic luxury, stunning architecture, and a prestigious golf course

Coconut Grove

Photo courtesy of Mr. C Coconut Grove

Mr. C Coconut Grove brings a touch of modern architecture to the otherwise bohemian vibe of Coconut Grove. This boutique hotel, from the fourth generation of the Cipriani family, offers panoramic views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline. The design alone sets it apart from other hotels in the area, with its iconic round windows making it photo-worthy for an Instagram post. The hotel's signature restaurant, Bellini, serves classic Italian dishes with a modern twist, and there's also a Bellini bar, plus beachside access behind the hotel.

What it’s ideal for: Panoramic views of Biscayne Bay and a modern design

Glamour Shopping

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Glamour. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

By Juliet Izon

By Jessica Radloff

Where to Stay in Miami First Time: 11 Best Areas & Safety

In this guide, we will be looking at where to stay in Miami for first-time tourists, best areas to stay in Miami first time (with a map and video), best hotels in Miami for all budgets (including the hotel where I stayed) and the safest places to stay in Miami.

Miami is overall a safe city for tourists. But as in any tourist city, you should stick to popular tourist areas, practice common sense, lock car doors, avoid walking alone at night in the dark, especially in less crowded or poorly lit areas.

All the popular tourist areas are very safe. Miami Beach, downtown Miami, Coral Gables, Coconut Grove are the safest neighborhoods in Miami. You should avoid neighborhoods of Overtown and Liberty City.

Miami Beach is is separate from the city of Miami via a series of causeways. Miami Beach is divided into three areas including the party area of South Beach, the laid-back area of Mid-Beach, and the quiet suburb of North Beach.

The city of Miami is a fascinating urban area include Little Havana, Brickell, and Downtown Miami.

Where to stay in Miami first time?

The best areas to stay in Miami for first-time visitors are Miami Beach, South Beach, Downtown Miami, Bal Harbour, Key Biscayne, Little Havana, Brickell, Coconut Grove, and Coral Gables. These are popular neighborhoods, offering a wide range of tourist attractions and amenities.

South Beach  is the best area for first-timers and travelers seeking for a stay right on the beach and lively nightlife with lots of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants.  Downtown Miami is the best base for visitors seeking for a culture experience, as well as business travelers or a night stay before cruise.

If you can’t make up your mind whether to stay in South Beach or Downtown Miami, then don’t worry. All you need to do is stay a few nights in the South Beach and then move somewhere into the Downtown for the rest of your stay; then, you can enjoy the best of both worlds.

If you’re a first-time visitor or you don’t have your own car, then staying somewhere central with easy access to public transport makes sense. South Beach, Downtown Miami, Coconut Grove are the best areas to stay in Miami without a car .

Some of the best areas to stay in Miami for couples are South Beach, Miami Beach, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Bal Harbour, Coral Gables, Wynwood, and Key Biscayne. They offer a range of accommodations, from luxury beachfront resorts to boutique hotels for a romantic getaway.

Where did I stay in Miami?

When I first visited Miami, I stayed for 5 nights at the Viajero Miami . It was a great value for money 4-star hotel centrally located in South Beach, an easy walk from the beach, restaurants and bars of Ocean Drive. My room was comfortable and the pool was nice.

Below is the Map of best areas and neighborhoods to Stay in Miami. You can scroll down for an interactive map:

Best areas to stay in Miami for first-time tourists:

1. south beach.

South Beach, aka SoBe, is probably America’s most famous beach party town , making it the best area to stay in Miami for the beach and nightlife.

Especially during college holidays, when this part of Miami becomes packed to the brim with hedonistic youth looking for the biggest, baddest all-night party scene.

South Beach is the nine-mile-long thin barrier island, located at the southern part of Miami Beach. SoBe stretches from 23rd Street to the southern tip of Miami Beach at South Pointe Park. The area is connected with the downtown Miami via Venetian Causeway and MacArthur Causeway.

The nightlife scene of South Beach is great even outside of spring break, and there are some classy bars and nightclubs that are popular with wealthy locals. There are also some great restaurants, cocktail bars, and many beach cafes.

The beach is, of course, the biggest attraction in this area, it has pristine, white-sand, and turquoise waters . The beach is well organise with lifeguard, chairs and umbrella for rent.

You can relax at Nikki Beach and at some of its beachfront parks like Miami Beach Botanical Garden, Lummus Park, and South Pointe Park.

In addition to the beach and nightlife scene, South Beach has one of the world’s best collections of modern architecture in art deco buildings. A whole district of several blocks of South Miami is full of gorgeous buildings designed in an art deco style.

There’s an Art Deco Welcome Center that has guided walking tours organized by the Miami Design Preservation League to introduce you to the best buildings in this Art Deco District.

Art Deco Welcome Center can be found on Ocean Drive – an iconic waterside promenade next to Lummus Park. it’s lined with pastel-hued Art Deco buildings and hotels, restaurants, and boutique beach shops.

You can also find numerous of cultural highlights and a good number of museums and galleries, including the Arts Center of South Florida, and the Bass Museum of Art, a large art gallery with a collection of over 3,000 works spanning styles from classical to modern.

Another interesting gallery is the Wolfsonian Florida International University Museum (Wolfsonian–FIU), with an extensive collection of art that focuses on works of the modernist era.

If you are interested in history, take a look at the Holocaust Memorial Miami Beach on the corner of Meridian Avenue and Dade Boulevard. It’s memorial of of the six million Jews that to the victims of Nazi Germany.

South Beach also has lots of good shopping with several shopping malls full of classy designer stores. Lincoln Road Mall and Española Way offer a lot of shopping opportunities.

The pedestrian-friendly promenade of Lincoln Road Mall is a world-famous shopping street, lined with independent boutiques, restaurants, and hotels.

A few blocks to the south next to Washington Avenue, Española Way is another pedestrian-only thoroughfare with a quaint Spanish-inspired village designed in Mediterranean Revival style.

South Beach can easily explore on foot, but there are also public transportations such as metrobus, metrorail, and trolley routes . You can easily reach the Miami International Airport through the Airport Beach Express.

South Beach provides a vast range of accommodation options, from budget lodgings to exclusive resorts. It is home to some of the best hotel in the whole Miami. Due to its popularity, the hotels here are not cheap.

Best places to stay in Miami in South Beach:

luxury ($$$): Kimpton Angler’s Hotel South Beach, an IHG Hotel , great 5-star hotel, located in South Beach, ideal base in Miami for couples and families with children of all age. It has a rooftop pool with bar and lounge, eco-friendly amenities, 24h front desk, and a car parking.

mid-range ($$): Loews Miami Beach Hotel , 4-star beachfront resort has a full-service spa, and outdoor pool and hot tub. You can choose to stay at one of its city view or sea view rooms. This is a also a family-friendly hotel with a state-of-the-art Kids Club and Rec Room.

budget ($): Avalon Hotel , 3-star popular hotel, one of the best places to stay in Miami on a budget, located within walking distance from Miami Beach Convention Center, short drive by car from shops, restaurants, and galleries of Lincoln Road Mall.

If you are already settled with you accommodations in Miami, I suggest checking out my post 44 Best things to do in Miami, Florida to know more about the famous things to do and see in Miami.

2. Mid-Beach

Mid-Beach is the middle section of Miami Beach, located between the vibrant South Beach and the laid-back North Beach. It is the area between 24th and 60th streets that contains Oceanfront, Bayshore, and Nautilus areas.

Mid Beach is best suited those who want quieter atmosphere while still having easy access to the vibrant South Beach. It is a lot calmer than South Beach, but also home to many trendy nightclubs, and fine dining restaurants.

One of the attraction in the neighborhood is the $1.2 billion Faena District on Collins Avenue from 32nd to 36th Streets is an interesting area to visit. It’s sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian Creek.

Founded by Argentine hotelier Alan Faena, it contains the Faena Forum entertainment complex , Faena Hotel Miami Beach, Faena Bazaar, arts venues, and public sculptures. The Art Basel festival in december is great event in this area.

If you enjoy architeture, take stroll around the Collins Waterfront Architectural District where you can find e Mediterranean Revival, Modern and Art Deco styles buildings from the 1920s to 1960s.

Miami Beach itself is an attractive palm-fringed sandy strand , and it is quieter than its neighbor South Beach. Good place to relax under the sun lounger and people-watching.

If you take stroll along the Miami Beach Boardwalk to north you will lead to North Bay Road, also known as Millionaire’s Row. Great for sunset time!

There are plenty of green places in the Mid-beach including Indian Beach Park, Allison Park, 36th Street Park, Pinetree Par, Brittany Bay Park, and Collins Park.

Miami Beach provides classy modern beachside resorts and hotels with famous hotels. Booking hotel here, you will be in a quiet area but still close to the party neighborhood of South Beach.

Best Places to Stay in Miami Beach’s Mid-Beach:

• luxury ($$$): The Miami Beach EDITION
• mid-range ($$): Monte Carlo by Miami Vacations
• budget ($): Generator Miami

3. Downtown Miami

Downtown Miami, as the name suggests, is the most convenient and central part of the city in which to stay. Downtown Miami is one of the best places to stay in Miami for those who want experience cultural attractions and urban lifestyle.

Downtown Miami contains the high-rising skyscrapers, hotels , and expensive condos of the city’s central business district. But there’s so much more to see and do here, and downtown is packed with fascinating historical and cultural attractions, museums, galleries, and activities.

Brickell Avenue and Biscayne Boulevard are the two main thoroughfares in downtown, where you can find attractions and nightlife venues.

The Frost Museum of Science is a fascinating place to visit, as are the Miami Art Museum and the Miami science museum . The Perez Art Museum Miami is a fabulous art gallery with an extensive collection of South American art. 

If you want to learn a little more about the place where you’re staying, then take a visit to History Miami Museum , which is a museum that tracks the growth and development of the state of Miami from the times of native American arrival until the present.

Art lovers can also check what’s on at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts , which has an ever-changing and varied itinerary of shows and plays. it is home to the Florida Grand Opera and Miami City Ballet.

Another great venue is the Guzman Center for The Performing Arts , with a theater that stages regular plays and operas.

The Freedom Tower is the most important historical buildings in Miami and an icon on the Downtown Miami skyline from 1925. From 1962 to 1974, it served as the Cuban Assistance Center to help Cuban refugees escape communism and political persecution.

The downtown hosts American Airlines Arena , a sports and entertainment multi-purpose venue in a vibrant waterfront. it is home to the NBA’s Miami Heat.

If you want to shop, head to the Bayside Marketplace , a two-story open-air shopping center. Nearby, you can visit the 200-foot-high Skyviews Miami observation wheel with stunning views of Biscayne Bay.

Families with kids will want to spend a day out at Jungle Island and the Miami Children’s Museum with pleny of family-friendly activities.

Despite being a built-up neighborhood, there are some excellent open spaces around downtown Miami. If you want a breath of fresh air, you should head down to  Maurice A. Ferré Park and Bayfront Park on Biscayne Boulevard.

These green spaces seems always to have something going on at one of its arenas, and there’s a playground for kids so it’s a nice place for families to visit. 

Another advantage of staying in downtown Miami is transport since you can travel around for free on the Metro Mover , a light rail system with three lines running throughout the downtown area.

And if the Metro Mover doesn’t take you to where you want to go, check the Metro Rail , an urban train system that connects many areas throughout the city. There are also CitiBikes, scooters to get around Downtown Miami’s compact core. Downtown is easy to navigate without a car.

Downtown has plenty of accommodations , many of the city’s finest hotels can be found along Brickell Bay Drive. Luxury hotels facilities can contains a rooftop pool, a hot tub, and a fitness center.

Best Places to Stay in Downtown Miami:

• luxury ($$$): InterContinental Miami, an IHG Hotel
• mid-range ($$): Eurostars Langford
• budget ($): Hyatt Regency Miami

If you travel to Miami as a family, I suggest read this article: Best areas to stay in Miami with family

4. Brickell

Brickell is an under-the-radar and intriguing place to stay in Miami. This central district is the financial heart of the city and lots of banks, and financial institutions have offices here.

While a financial center might not seem at first glance to be the most inviting of holiday destinations, bear with me because there is a lot going for this part of Miami. 

Brickell is just south of downtown but still convenient for all the sights, and South Beach aren’t far away to the east. So if you want to stay in a central location that’s a little bit more relaxed than those places but still within easy reach, then Brickell is a great choice.

If you’re traveling with family, then you will be interested to know that Brickell has a large number of apartment and home rentals . So if you want the freedom offered by self-catering, this could be an excellent base for your stay in Miami.

This doesn’t mean to stay that the area doesn’t have some top-class hotels. On the contrary, there are some very good hotels in the mid to upper price range that cater to business travelers in particular.

Also, if you love top-class dining and restaurants run by gourmet chefs, then you’ll find plenty of those around Brickell. So if your idea of nightlife is more to do with a great meal and a classy bar, then with the wild parties you’ll find elsewhere in Miami, Brickell is an excellent place to stay. 

Best Places to Stay in Miami in Brickell :

• luxury ($$$): EAST Miami
• mid-range ($$): Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Miami Downtown/Brickell
• mid-range ($$): Hotel Indigo – Miami Brickell, an IHG Hotel

5. Bal Harbour and North Beach

Bal Harbour is an enticing enclave and community at the north end of the Miami Beach. This is an exclusive upmarket community next to a delightful beach. If you want to stay in a quiet suburb of Miami, with just one shopping mall full of upscale designer stores and classy restaurants, then Bal Harbour is for you.

North Beach, also known as NoBe, is a popular area for families and couples. North Beach is well-connected with Fort Lauderdale and Downtown through the Golden Glades Interchange. There are also Metrobus and Miami Beach Trolleys for transportation options!

In North Beach you can shop at Bal Harbor Shops and Aventura Mall. There is the North Beach Bandshell, an open-air amphitheater in the heart of charming North Beach and North Beach Oceanside Park to relax!

There are buzzing local culinary scene around the historic Normandy Fountain. You can find Jewish delis, a variety of Latin American cuisines like Italian, Colombian, Peruvian, Argentinian, and Mexican.

Between North Beach and Bal Habour lies the upscale, residential beach community of Surfside . With its white, sandy beaches, Surfside is a favorite destination for families and those looking for a relaxing day in the sun.

The beach is the highlight of the area, and the long walkway that fronts the beach is perfect for a relaxing stroll, passing a few pretty resorts and some excellent restaurants.

If you are considering staying here, you should probably make sure that you have a hire car , since this is a little way out of the city and Bal Harbour isn’t very well connected by the Miami public transport network.

Some of the attractions including Beach Path, and Art Museum Miami, Oleta River State Park – Florida’s largest urban park, ideal for mountain bikers, paddlers, and swimmers; Enchanted Forest Park, Haulover Beach, and Slide Tower.

North Miami Beach and Bal Harbour boast all types of accommodation options, ranging from 2-star guest housed all the way to 5-star luxury. Lodging here is more afforable than South beach.

Best Places to stay in Miami’s North Beach :

• luxury ($$$): Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club
• luxury ($$$): The St Regis Bal Harbour Resort
• luxury ($$$): The Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour, Miami  

6. Key Biscayne

Key Biscayne is a small island of just 3.6 square kilometers to the south of the Miami metropolitan area and the barrier island of Miami Beach and South Beach.

Despite being an island, Key Biscayne is connected to the mainland by a spectacular Rickenbacker Causeway bridge across Biscayne Bay to the nearby Virginia Key and then to the city center. 

Key Biscayne’s population is only about 10,000, which on the scale of Miami is a hole is tiny. This means that if you want to stay somewhere within easy reach of all of the sights and attractions of Miami city center but has a totally different suburban feel, this is the place for you. Key Biscayne is one of Miami’s safest neighborhoods and it is a great place for families to stay since it’s open and green, and there are great beaches. There are also things for kids to see and do here like the Miami Seaquarium , a fabulous sea life center with a wealth of fascinating aquatic life.

Key Biscayne also boasts two beautiful national parks. The family-friendly Crandon Park is a large open space on the North end of the island with a family amusement center with plenty for the kids to do and outdoor sports and activities for all. There’s also a Nature Center where you can learn all about the local ecology.

Key Biscayne’s other national park is Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, with some excellent Beach walks and the distinctive lighthouse. You can climb to the top of 19th-century Cape Florida Lighthouse , kayaking, kite-boarding, or paddleboarding.

Another point of interest is Historic Virginia Key Beach Park , a pefect location for those who enjoy swimming, relaxing in the sun.

At Key Biscayne, Miami’s local authorities have made efforts to control the rampant development seen in other parts of Florida, and these have been quite successful. Consequently, there are just a few hotels and some good apartment rentals here that will suit most budgets.

Best places to stay in Miami Key Biscayne :

• luxury ($$$): The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami
• mid-range ($$): Beach Haus Key Biscayne Contemporary Apartments
• budget ($): Coral Reef at Key Biscayne

7. Little Havana

As you can probably guess from the name, Little Havana – is set in the west of downtown, is a Miami district that first developed as an enclave of Cuban exiles from the Cuban Revolution of 1959.

Over time this area has been populated by many other Latin American people . These arrivals have brought a rich and vibrant social atmosphere to Little Havana, and today it is one of Miami’s go-to areas for top quality and culture.

It’s a lively and exciting place to be, and the streets are filled with stalls selling great food, little markets, and fantastic live music venues. In fact, if you are fortunate enough to be in Miami in March, then you should definitely head to little Havana for the Calle Ocho Music Festival in Calle Ocho (Southwest Eighth Street) to celebrate Carnaval Miami.

If you’re not in Miami then, all is not lost because on the last Friday of each month, little Havana hosts the Viernes Culturales (Cultural Fridays), an event that features open-air concerts, art displays, a food festival, and lots more to see and do.

One of the best ways to experience Cuban culture is to sample its food. You must visit one of the best Cuban restaurants at Versailles and El Rey De Las Fritas . You can sample authentic Cuban food, Cuban coffee, sugarcane guarapo, and Cuban sandwiches.

Don’t miss out the Azucar Ice Cream Company for unique ice cream and sorbet with tropical flavors.

To learn more about the local art and culture, there are several interesting art galleries and museums such as Tower Theater, CubaOcho Museum & Performing Arts Center, Molina Fine Art Gallery, and Futurama 1637 Art Building.

Little Havana is also home to Máximo Gómez Park , known as Domino Park, where locals play a traditional game, dominoes.

If you stay in Little Havana, you should be aware that certain parts of the district can be a little bit dicey, especially late at night. You should keep your wits around you and keep to busy, well-lit areas.

Little Havana offers cheaper accommodations than in other parts of the city, mostly apartment rentals, and motels.

Best places to stay in Miami in Little Havana:

• budget ($): Habitación Céntrica calle 8 Miami
• budget ($): The Wild Rose
• budget ($): Residence Inn by Marriott Miami Airport

8. Coconut Grove

Coconut Grove, also known as The Grove by locals, is a district of Miami that lies to the southwest of downtown. It’s a peaceful and laid-back waterfront location that borders the sparkling waters of Biscayne Bay.

Coconut Grove is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Miami with Bahamian roots dating back to the 1870s. It is one of Miami’s safest places to live with a high presence of police and low crime rates.

Coconut grove is a low-rise, suburban neighborhood that is full of parks and green spaces. Among the largest of these parks is The Kampong, National Tropical Botanical Garden , a vast tropical garden; Vizcaya Museum and Gardens; and the Barnacle Historic State Park, containing the Ralph Middleton Monroe home. This historic building is the oldest house in the Miami area.

You can also find Peacock Park and Kennedy Park which offer plenty of family-friendly outdoor and indoor entertainment opportunities.

Coconut Grove is an excellent suburb to explore on foot . In particular, the waterfront and the large open-air shopping malls, filled with exciting shops, indie boutiques, restaurants, sidewalk cafes, and bars, are great places to spend time.

For a shopping experience, head to CocoWalk outdoor shopping mall , an international shopping, dining, and entertainment marketplace; and Mayfair in the Grove which has many shops, cafes, and fine dining.

Coconut Grove has a thriving community spirit and numerous events such as the weekly Saturday Farmer’s Market and the annual Coconut Grove Art Festival.

The relaxed and pedestrian-friendly nature of Coconut Grove makes it a very inviting place to stay with family. There’s lots of mid-range accommodation here too. Coconut grove is a good out-of-town location that still enjoys a convenient link to the city center via the Metrorail network.

Best Places to Stay in Miami in Coconut Grove :

• luxury ($$$): Mr. C Miami – Coconut Grove
• mid-range ($$): Four Points by Sheraton Coral Gables
• budget ($): Hampton Inn Miami-Coconut Grove/Coral Gables

9. Coral Gables

Coral Gables is a safe and pretty District located to the southwest of Downtown Miani, next to Coconut Grove. It’s a great place to stay if you don’t fancy the hectic central beaches or city center of Miami but want to stay in a place where there’s a great deal to see and do on your doorstep.

Convenientl located close to PortMiami, Miami International Airport, and Miami Beach, Coral Gables is also known as The City Beautiful . It is filled with tree-lined boulevards, historical landmarks, and cultural attractions.

Highlights of the area include the Coral Gables Museum and the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, an expansive Park filled with an enormous variety of tropical plants from all over the world.  You also have The Miracle Theatre to check out.

The Venetian Pool is another highlight of Coral Gables. This is a huge open-air public swimming pool that dates back to 1924. It’s a pretty place and well worth a visit, and of course a dip.

Coral Gables owes its attractive appearance to the fact that it was initially designed and developed as a Mediterranean-themed community back in the early 20th century. 

The central part of coral gables is known as the Miracle Mile . It’s only half a mile long but, whatever. This mini downtown area is where you’ll find the best local restaurants, bars and nightlife.

Plenty is going on here, not least because Coral Gable is home to the University of Miami , and the large student population adds to the vibrancy of the nightlife here.

Coral Gables is on the western side of Miami and is located close to Miami International Airport . It’s an excellent place to book a room if you want to stay close to the airport for the convenience of onward travel. 

Most of the things to see and do in Coral Gables are located within a reasonably compact area, at least by American standards, so it’s quite a pedestrian-friendly part of town . Therefore Coral Gables is an excellent place to stay if you don’t have a rental car.

Best Places to Stay in Coral Gables :

• luxury ($$$): Biltmore Hotel
• mid-range ($): Hyatt Regency Coral Gables in Miami
• budget ($): Hotel St. Michel

10. Wynwood Art Ditrict

This Greater Miami neighborhood north of downtown is known for its art. There are galleries, private art collections, and murals here with the Wynwood Walls the main focal point. It was a planned exercise to change abandoned warehouses and random graffiti into works of art, using local talent. 

Launched in 2009 by Tony Goldman, Wynwood Walls is a plaza, one big mural, and artists from other parts of the world have been involved as well. The Garden here has four murals and works are regularly rotated.

Once a month, the second Saturday, Wynwood is one big, tented party with plenty of vendors, music, and dance as well as entertainment for kids makes it a great day.

If you want to learn more about the graffiti movement, head to the Museum of Graffiti, Bakehouse Art Complex which is a former bakery, and the Margulies Collection at The Warehouse.

Amenities in Wynwood include boutiques, museums, shops, entertainment venues, and cafes. You will see craft breweries like Wynwood Brewing Company and Cerveceria La Tropical.

When it comes to accommodation, your choices are apartments and studios, hotels, and houses for rent. It is so different from other parts of Miami and will not cost a fortune to stay here either.

Best places to stay in Wynwood:

• mid-range ($$): Hyde Suites Midtown
• mid-range ($$): Sentral Wynwood
• budget ($): Wynwood Hostel

11. Miami Design District

Located north of the artsy Wynwood and Midtown neighborhoods, Miami Design District is a mecca of art, design, dining, and shopping. You will find luxury fashion boutiques like Prada, Celine, and Balenciaga; art galleries; and trendy restaurants. 

Art lovers will find numerous public arts scattered around the neighborhood including Sol LeWitt’s sculpture garden, hanging chairs designer by Konstantin Grcic.

There are also art galleries like the Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami (ICA) , De La Cruz Collection, David Castillo , and Locust Projects. If you want to learn more about Haitian culture and history, take some time to visit the Haitian Heritage Museum.

Miami Design District also offers a great dining scene with Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink which is a James Beard Award-winning restaurant. You can also check out restaurants like Harry’s Pizzeria, Cote Miami, and Swan & Bar Bevy.

There are limited accommodations in the Design District but you can choose to stay nearby in Midtown and the Wynwood like Hampton Inn and Suites and Hyde Suites Midtown.

Best places to stay in Miami Design District:

• mid-range ($$): Hyde Suites Midtown Miami
• mid-range ($$): Hampton Inn & Suites Miami Wynwood Design District, FL
• mid-range ($$): AC Hotel Miami Wynwood

Check out my virtual tour about the best places to stay in Miami in this video:

• Best areas To Stay In Fort Lauderdale
• Best areas to stay in Key West
• Best areas to stay in Miami without a car
• Best areas to Stay in New Orleans
• Best areas to Stay in Savannah
• Best areas to Stay in Charleston
• Best areas to Stay in Boston
• Best areas to Stay in Columbus, Ohio
• Best areas to Stay in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
• Best areas to Stay in Tucson, Arizona
• Best areas to Stay in Hawaii

To sum up, South Beach, Downtown/Brickell, Bal Harbour, Key Biscayne, Coconut Grove, and Coral Gables are the best places to stay in Miami for tourists . They are safe central locations with plenty of things to do and see for all travelers.

Overall, South Beach and Downtown are the most popular options for first-timers. If you after the beaches, it is best to book a hotel in South Beach; If you prefer cultural attractions and urban setting, it is recommended to book a hotel in Downtown Miami.

So there’s my detailed guide to the best areas to stay in Miami. It sounds like a pretty exciting place doesn’t it? Now’s your time to find out what part of Miami to stay in. Just pick the part of the city that suits you best, book a room, and off you go. Enjoy your trip!

About Author: Linda Smith

I'm Linda Smith, the Hotel Expert, an experienced travel blogger who passionate about traveling. I'm here to share with you all my travel experiences and tips. I cover a wide range of travel topics, specializing in sharing information about the best areas, neighborhoods, and hotels in each city. I hope all these things will make your travel easier.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Best places to see the April 8 solar eclipse in the totality path

A merica is gearing up for the April 8 total solar eclipse , and in less than a week many will be scrambling to find the best location to watch within the path of totality. Meteorologists are closely monitoring the latest models, and while it won't be until a few days prior to the event that the national forecast will be fully cooked, historical data suggests those hoping to view the corona and see a fully darkened midday sky may find themselves dodging clouds due to April weather patterns.

The last time a total solar eclipse traversed an elongated path across the continental U.S. — on Aug. 21, 2017 — Americans could be caught gazing at the midday dark from Oregon all the way to South Carolina. Most spots along the path of totality enjoyed reasonably clear, summer skies.

Those living or visiting along the path of totality next week may not end up so fortunate, as historical weather maps show the odds of experiencing a cloud-free sky at this time of year are somewhat less than ideal. In fact, finding a totally clear view at any given time is closer to the exception than the rule.

"According to NASA, at any given time, 70% of the earth is covered in clouds," said Mike Augustyniak , CBS Minnesota director of meteorology.

Not only is North America in the middle of the volatility of changing seasons during this year's solar event, but meteorologists note that we're also currently in an El Niño pattern, albeit one that's proven quieter than usual.

"An El Niño pattern tends to increase the chances of cloudy, rainy weather in those areas. Interestingly, though, that is not how this winter and spring have played out," said Augustyniak. "Since the start of 2024, Texas Hill Country and western Texas areas have been markedly drier than average; if that trend holds for the next few weeks, that would be good news for eclipse watchers."

The path of totality is only about 150 miles wide, and in America stretches roughly 2,500 miles from the Texas border to the last few towns in northeastern Maine. That leaves only so many places where you can seek the full show, though the path's width will be significantly wider than it was in 2017, according to NASA , as the moon will to be closer to Earth on this pass than it was then.

So will April showers bring spectator flowers? Here's a breakdown of which places along the path of totality are most likely to give eclipse chasers the best odds.

Viewing the eclipse in Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas

Augustyniak said at this transitional time of year, the further south you can go, the more likely you are to experience clear skies during eclipse totality.

"Of the areas where the total eclipse will be visible on April 8, that includes the Hill Country of Texas, and the Mexican states of Coahuila and Durango," Augustyniak said.

Of course, the further south you get, the more you increase your chances of running into not only clouds, but rain.

"Spring is our storm season of course," said Jeff Ray , chief meteorologist for CBS Texas.

Ray said that you can almost bet on needing to do a little bit of reverse storm-chasing — in other words, doing some last-minute navigation to dart away from the oncoming clouds, rather than toward them — on or around the eclipse in Texas, Arkansas and Oklahoma.

"There will be storms around the day of April 8. I say that because we rarely get through a week in spring without a couple of rounds coming through the area during this time of the year. Will they arrive a day before and be gone? Not start up until later that day? Maybe two days later? We are looking at our long-range model the GFS for the date and it looks like storms on the eighth," Ray said, with a caveat. "Long-range models are notoriously inaccurate for a specific day. But there is a good chance the storms the model sees will materialize, give or take a 36-hour period."

Ray said that Texas sees, on average, a sunny or mostly sunny April day only about 28% of the time. Conversely, the region gets April days with mostly cloudy or fully overcast conditions about 36% of the time.

"High clouds can arrive several days before the storm system, they are overhead in April around 22% of the time. A sky with some kind of cloud cover is likely," said Ray. "A typical April day would have near overcast skies in the morning, then the heating of the day makes for more sunshine. So an afternoon even has better odds of a good view of the eclipse."

The eclipse will reach totality in Texas from about 1:30 p.m. CT near Elm Creek until wrapping up near the Oklahoma border a few minutes before 2 p.m. Some of the most populous areas along the path of totality will be during this leg, from San Antonio and Austin to Dallas-Fort Worth.

One final factor to consider if you're heading to the area — tornadoes. Ray said that the National Weather Office in Fort Worth has tallied all the confirmed tornadoes since 1880, and in April and May, north Texas has seen more than 1,100 twisters, compared with the nearly 900 seen in all other months.

"So more tornadoes in the 61-day window than all of the other days of the year combined," Ray said, "but the tornado count varies greatly from year to year."

Ultimately, Ray said that April is traditionally the third-stormiest month of the year in Texas.

"In short, April is not the best, nor the worst, time of the year to hope for clear or mostly clear skies. The best would be July or August. The worst would be January or February," he said. "We get a decent idea of the expected weather about seven days out. Four days out we get more comfortable talking about the timing of a rain or storm event. But it's the weather, we are trying to throw a lasso around chaos. It is not rare we forecasters look like fools."

Viewing the eclipse in Missouri, southern Illinois and Indiana

While many are likely to head as far south as possible, some of the biggest cities in the Midwest are likely to fuel day-of migration to spots in Missouri and Illinois, many of them likely seeing a total eclipse for the second time in a decade. A small zone centered around Carbondale, Illinois, was along the path of totality in 2017, and will be once again this month.

While those in the St. Louis area seeking areas to watch in southeastern Missouri will find historical odds for cloud-free viewing roughly comparable to Arkansas, and those in the Chicago metro area should find their best bet is to head toward the southern part of Illinois.

"If you're unable to travel (to Texas or Arkansas), then Southern Illinois and Indiana present your best opportunity for a clearer sky, supported by the 43-year average and, of course, weather permitting," said Albert Ramon , chief meteorologist for CBS Chicago.

There will likely be some who decide that 90% or 95% totality is enough for them. But Ramon warns that those in the Chicago metro area could be at a higher risk to find their view obscured by clouds.

"Based on a comprehensive 43-year average , April 8 typically brings cloud cover chances ranging from 60 to 80% across Chicago and its surrounding suburbs, with similar patterns observed in Indianapolis, where cloud cover hovers between 60 to 70%," Ramon said.

Viewing the eclipse near the Great Lakes and Pennsylvania

Ramon said another factor that could make viewing along the path of totality something of a challenge in the Midwest is the lingering influence of an El Niño weather pattern.

"Its presence elevates the chances of clouds across the Midwest and Great Lakes regions," Ramon said. "This year may even be a bit more cloudier than the normal."

The Great Lakes portion of totality's path includes large sections of Ohio, including Cleveland, along with the area of Ontario south of Toronto, Niagara Falls, and Erie, Pennsylvania. CBS Pittsburgh meteorologist Ray Petelin said many of these areas are subject to the wildcard that is the Great Lakes.

"They are known for lake-effect snow, but it is the lake-effect clouds that could hide the eclipse. Erie, which is in the path of totality, averages only six clear days during the month of April. Pittsburgh, which has the potential to see around 97% of totality, only averages four clear days in April," Petelin said.

Petelin says that a southerly breeze and warmer-than-average temperatures would go a long way toward helping the Great Lakes region out on April 8. 

"While the historical data suggests the chances for a clear day are low, this winter and early spring have been exceptionally bright and warmer than usual. Let's keep our fingers crossed that we can get that perfect weather for when it matters most," Petelin said.

As it stands, the areas near the shores of the Great Lakes historically show a higher probability for clearer skies than areas inland.

Viewing the eclipse in New England

The eclipse will wrap up its march across the U.S. when the path of totality cuts across state lines from New York to Vermont just before 3:30 p.m. ET. By this point in the event, the duration of totality along the central line will have already fallen off from its peak — about 4 minutes, 30 seconds near Nazas, Mexico — to just over 3 minutes, 30 seconds, according to NASA.

"The southern edge of the totality line passes right through the towns of Middlebury, Northfield and Barre. You will need to get just north of these areas. Some suggested 'larger' towns include Montpelier, St. Johnsbury, Newport and Burlington," said Terry Eliasen , executive weather producer for CBS Boston.

In New Hampshire, the southern edge of totality will pass just north of the White Mountains. And in Maine, you'll need to get north of major cities like Portland, Augusta and Bangor. Eliasen said the entirety of Baxter State Park will be in the totality path, including Mount Katahdin.

The bad news: Eliasen said that those in the New England area face possibly the stiffest odds in the country for catching clear skies next Monday, based on historical patterns. The data says you're more likely to be negatively impacted by clouds pretty much anywhere in these three states than not.

"Frankly, northern New England is probably the worst place (historically speaking) in the path of totality as far as cloud cover goes," said Eliasen. "Of course, we could get lucky."

No luck? There's always the 2045 total solar eclipse

As a last-ditch hope for those who opt to stay put no matter where they're located, there's one last meteorological ace-in-the-hole that could offer reprieve, one fueled by the astronomical event itself.

"It's worth noting that, as totality approaches and sunlight is reduced, temperatures are likely to fall noticeably. Cooler temperatures can stabilize the atmosphere – like when the sun sets after a hot summer day – leading to a decrease in cloud cover," said Augustyniak. "Still, your best plan is to find an area that has no clouds to begin with."

And if the clouds end up sullying the view for some this month, another chance comes around in August 2045 , when a line of totality will stretch from northern California all the way to Miami Beach. Which, of course, will fall during the height of hurricane season.

Who can see Delta IV Heavy rocket launch? Visibility map shows Jacksonville to Miami to Tampa

How big & powerful is ula's delta iv heavy rocket each of its 3 rocket engines produces up to 702,000 pounds of thrust..

• Delta IV Heavy made its debut during December 2004 demo flight from Florida's Launch Complex 37.
• United Launch Alliance's last Delta IV Heavy triple-core rocket will launch on the NROL-70 national security mission.

When United Launch Alliance launches its Delta IV Heavy rocket − for the final time − people way outside the Space Coast of Florida could possibly see it light up the sky.

Depending on cloud cover, Floridians (and visitors) as far as Jacksonville, Cape Coral and Miami could see ULA's Delta IV Heavy as it roars into the sky from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. Visibility from most of Florida is possible, according to ULA.

Below is information on ULA's powerful rocket, the Delta IV Heavy, how to watch the launch and suggestions on where to watch it if you're in the Space Coast area or close to it.

About the last Delta IV Heavy rocket launch from Cape Canaveral, Florida

It's the final countdown for Delta IV Heavy, United Launch Alliance's powerful rocket.

Florida rocket launch calendar: Bookmark this schedule for SpaceX, NASA, ULA events

Is there a rocket launch in Florida today? On Tuesday, April 9, ULA may launch Delta IV Heavy rocket

At 12:53 p.m. EDT Tuesday, April 9, the Delta IV Heavy rocket , which had been dubbed by ULA as "the most metal of rockets," will deliver NROL-70,  a National Reconnaissance Office  mission, to space from  Space Launch Complex-37 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station .

The mission marks the 389th and last flight of the Delta program, which dates back to 1960. ULA is replacing the retiring rocket with the next-generation Vulcan, which logged a successful maiden flight in January 2024 from Cape Canaveral.

The Delta IV Heavy made its debut during a December 2004 demonstration flight from Launch Complex 37. At that time, it was the most powerful rocket launched from Cape Canaveral save the Saturn V and space shuttles.

• Mission:  United Launch Alliance's last Delta IV Heavy triple-core rocket will launch on the NROL-70 national security mission.
• Launch:  12:53 p.m. EDT Tuesday, April 9
• Location:  Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station
• Local sonic boom:  No
• Booster landing:  None
• Live coverage:  Starts two hours before liftoff at  floridatoday.com/space .
• Info: Visit  ulalaunch.com .

Where to watch Delta IV Heavy rocket launch  live from areas close to the Space Coast of Florida

In Florida, we can best see this historic moment in person if you're  anywhere on the Space Coast (Brevard County ) or certain spots in the  First Coast or Fun Coast (Volusia County ) or the  Treasure Coast (Indian River County, St. Lucie County and Martin County ).  Pro tip:  If you do watch it in person, get to your viewing destination early and prepare to stay later after the launch because of heavy traffic.

Which cities can see Delta IV Heavy rocket launch from Cape Canaveral, Florida?

ULA provided a helpful graphic (see above) that shows Delta IV Heavy's intended flight path and its launch visibility:

• Launch , Space Coast, Orlando, northern part of the Treasure Coast, Indian River County, Sebastian, Vero Beach, parts of northern part of Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Beach and Oak Hill
• 1: Launch + 30 seconds , Space Coast, Orlando, northern part of the Treasure Coast, Indian River County, Sebastian, Vero Beach, parts of northern part of Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Beach and Oak Hill
• 2: Launch + 60 seconds , Space Coast, northern part of Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Beach, Treasure Coast, possibly Martin County, possibly St. Lucie County, parts of East-Central Florida like Orlando, near University of Central Florida, Bithlo
• 3: Launch + 90 seconds , visibility extends to Orlando, Sanford, Kissimmee, Daytona Beach, other parts of Central Florida
• 4: Launch + 120 seconds , visibility extends to Port St. Lucie, Lakeland, Sebring, Winter Haven, Palatka, St. Augustine
• About 130 seconds (Port/Starboard, booster jettison), visibility extends to include most of central and East Coast of Florida
• 5: Launch + 150 seconds , visibility extends to West Palm Beach, Ocala, the Village, Sebring, most of central and East Coast of Florida, Tampa, parts of West Coast of Florida
• 6: Launch + 180 seconds , Jacksonville, Gainesville, Tampa, Arcadia, North Port, West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Pompano Beach, Fort Lauderdale, most of central and East Coast of Florida, parts of West Coast of Florida
• 7:   Launch + 210 seconds , visibility extends to Hollywood, Florida; the Everglades, Hialeah, Miami, most of central and East Coast of Florida, parts of West Coast of Florida
• 8:   Launch + 240 seconds (booster engine cutoff) ; visibility extends to Hollywood, Florida; the Everglades, Hialeah, Miami, most of central and East Coast of Florida, parts of West Coast of Florida. It could include Homestead and possibly Key Largo
• Beyond 240 seconds, Delta IV Heavy should see center booster separation and main engine start, according to the ULA graphic.
• 9: Launch + 270 seconds , most of central and East Coast of Florida, parts of West Coast of Florida
• 10: Launch + 300 seconds , most of central and East Coast of Florida, parts of West Coast of Florida
• Beyond 300 seconds, the graphic shows Delta Heavy payload fairing jettison.
• 11: Launch + 330 seconds , most of central and East Coast of Florida, parts of West Coast of Florida
• Clearwater and St. Petersburg appear to be out of range. Interestingly, the Bahamas and Freeport are in the launch visibility zones.

The above guidelines are estimates based on the graphic provided by ULA.

What is Delta Heavy?

Delta Heavy refers to United Launch Alliance's Delta IV Heavy rocket. The ULA rocket made history for its transportation of the NASA  Parker Solar Probe  in 2018 and the first orbital test flight of the Orion crew capsule in 2014.

It was following the success of this flight that NASA’s Orion crew capsule flew on NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) rocket, successfully demonstrating an uncrewed mission around the moon in 2022. ULA assisted in this flight as well, as the organization designed the upper stage of the SLS rocket.

The Orion spacecraft is set to take  Artemis II astronauts around the Moon in late 2025 .

How big is Delta IV Heavy rocket? What’s the size and power of ULA Delta IV Heavy rocket?

The Delta IV Heavy rocket has three Delta IV core stages together. According to the ULA website, each rocket engine produces up to 702,000 pounds of thrust. With this performance, one can see why ULA dubbed it "the most metal."

These engines are not small either. Just one engine weighs around 14,876 pounds and is 204 inches (17 feet) in length. Powered by liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen, the Delta IV Heavy appears to "set itself on fire" just before liftoff as buoyant hydrogen gas, which is used to cool down the rocket before launch, ignites and burns off. The fiery start may look frightening, yet it's part of the process.

Browse the photo galleries or video attached to this story.

How to watch Delta IV Heavy rocket launch online, from your phone, iPad or tablet with FLORIDA TODAY Space Team coverage

When and where:  Full coverage of the launch, including a live webcast with live tweets and updates, kicks off two hours before liftoff at  floridatoday.com/space  (you can type this on your browser on your phone) and will feature in-depth coverage. Ask our FLORIDA TODAY space team reporters Rick Neale and Brooke Edwards questions and strike up a conversation. You also can watch coverage via the  FLORIDA TODAY app , which is available in the  App Store  or  Google Play . You can download the free app for iPhone or Android or type  floridatoday.com/space  into your browser. FLORIDA TODAY is part of the USA TODAY Network.

• Click here to download FLORIDA TODAY app on App Store
• Click here to download FLORIDA TODAY app on Google Play

Sangalang is a lead digital producer for USA TODAY Network-Florida. Follow her on  Twitter  or Instagram at  @byjensangalang . Support local journalism.  Consider subscribing to a Florida newspaper .

• Where to watch in the US
• How to watch from anywhere 
• How to watch with a VPN

Where to watch Miami Open men's final: Live stream Sinner vs. Dimitrov

When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

The Miami Open men's singles competition is coming to a close, with the final match set for today at 3 p.m. ET. Jannik Sinner and Grigor Dimitrov will duke it out on the court to determine the ultimate champion. If you're looking for a way to watch the match without cable, we've got you covered. Keep reading to learn where to watch the Miami Open men's final.

This year's Australian Open winner, Jannik Sinner, excelled in the semifinals on Friday as he dispatched Daniil Medvedev in a little over an hour. That match reversed the fortunes of last year's Miami Open final, which saw Medvedev beat Sinner. The Italian is undoubtedly the in-form player right now, but Bulgaria's Dimitrov has seriously impressed in Miami, dispatching Carlos Alcaraz and Alex Zverev in the last two rounds, adding even more disruption to the men's game right now - which is needed for a while now.

Whether you've been following the entire competition or you're just here to catch the finals, we'll show you how to tune in to the Miami Open men's singles final from home. We'll also show you how to access your live TV subscriptions from anywhere in the world.

• See also: How to watch March Madness | Free F1 live stream | How to watch MLB live streams

Where to watch Miami Open men's final in the US

The Miami Open is available on the Tennis Channel in the United States. If you don't have cable, you'll need to try a live TV package that offers this channel, like Sling TV or Hulu + Live TV. 

Sling TV will be the more affordable option here, coming in at $51 per month. You'll need to choose the Sling Orange plan for $40 per month and then add Sports Extra for $11 per month. 

For just the essentials without any extra fluff, Sling TV is the streaming service you're looking for. It's more customizable than other plans, with three options you can choose from, so you pay for only what you need. New members get their first month for $10 off.

Hulu + Live TV will cost more, but it includes Disney+, ESPN+, and Hulu's on-demand collection. The service starts at $76.99 per month, but you'll need to also buy the Sports Add-on for $9.99 (making it $86.98 per month in total).

Hulu + Live TV includes over 90 channels, along with Hulu's on-demand library and access to Disney Plus and ESPN Plus. Adding live TV drives up the price significantly, but it's a rolling one-month contract that you're free to cancel at any time. As live TV services go, though, this is one of the best.

How to watch Miami Open men's final from anywhere 

If you will be traveling outside the US during the men's final, you might want to try a VPN (virtual private network). VPNs change your device's location so you can access websites and apps that might be unavailable in certain regions. They're also solid ways to boost your online security and privacy. Since the live TV options we've suggested require US forms of payment, this option is best for Americans who are currently out of the country and hoping to use their existing live TV subscriptions.

Our go-to is ExpressVPN , a tried-and-true option with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Interested in learning more? Check out our ExpressVPN review and see below to learn how to use a VPN.

With its consistent performance, reliable security, and expansive global streaming features, ExpressVPN is the best VPN out there, excelling in every spec and offering many advanced features that makes it exceptional. Better yet, you can save up to 49% and get an extra three months for free today.

How to watch Miami Open men's final with a VPN

• Sign up for a VPN if you don't already have one.
• Install it on the device you're planning to watch on.
• Turn it on and set it to a US location.
• Sign up for one of the live TV streaming packages with a US form of payment.
• Select the Tennis Channel and enjoy the competition.

Note: The use of VPNs is illegal in certain countries, and using VPNs to access region-locked streaming content might constitute a breach of the terms of use for certain services. Insider does not endorse or condone the illegal use of VPNs.

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

• Main content